By: Matt Bove
One of the greatest myths about the 2012 Green Bay Packers from the media and fans was that they did not try to run the football.
Over the last 10 games of the season, the Packers averaged 26 rushing attempts per game. It was clear that Mike McCarthy was committing much more to running the ball. However, the issue was that he was getting very little production, as the Packers only averaged 3.9 yards per carry against mostly six man boxes.
The Packers finally got tired of not having a legitimate threat out of the backfield to keep defenses honest and to get them out of the Cover-2 look that the Packers were seeing all season long. Cedric Benson, James Starks, Alex Green or DuJuan Harris were not the answers that the Packers were looking for.
Ted Thompson selected Alabama running back Eddie Lacy with the 61st overall selection of the NFL Draft, which was the highest pick Thompson has ever spent on a running back. He followed that up by trading up in fourth round to select UCLA running back Jonathan Franklin. Both running backs were considered by different people to be the best running back in this years class and I had Lacy #1 and Franklin #3 in my draft running back rankings on Packer Addicts.
Lacy was bypassed by the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Denver Broncos due to concerns about the toe fusion surgery that Lacy had prior to his final season at Alabama. His toe did not hold him back whatsoever last year, as Lacy ran for 1,322 yards on 204 carries (6.5 YPC) and 17 touchdowns for the Crimson Tide. Lacy only had 335 career carries at Alabama, so he has little wear and tear compared to Le'Veon Bell (671 carries) and Montee Ball (924 carries), the two running backs selected ahead of him He looked to be able to push off the toe and cut just fine, and he was as physical of a back as there was in the country.
The Packers have not had a back with Lacy's bruising style in a very long time. He is a bull running through tackles and some defenders may be reluctant to want to take him on in the frigid temperatures at Lambeau Field late in the season. Lacy should be able to solve many of the 3rd-and-short woes that plagued the Packers last season. While Lacy is more of a pounding runner, he does have some elusiveness to him, including his trademark spin move that made some college defenders look silly.
Franklin is a much different runner from Lacy and he should be a great compliment to him. If Lacy's injuries crop up again Franklin should be able to step him in for him just fine. He set a single season UCLA record by running for 1,734 yards last season.
Franklin should be able to step in right away as the third down back and be dangerous catching balls out of the backfield. He is lethal on the edge turning up the sideline and away from defenders. His cutting ability is excellent and he does not lose much speed while cutting. Franklin's cutting is the key to his tackle breaking because he won't be running many people over at his size. Also, Franklin gets to the line and through the holes very quickly. His biggest issues are fumbles and his lack of bulk.
With so much invested in Lacy and Franklin they will be expected to revamp the Packers' run game right away.
"Obviously, with Lacy being a such a big, strong, powerful back, I think he has a lot better feet than people realize," McCarthy told Rob Reischel of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinal."He's obviously an accomplished player. And Franklin now, I don't know how you cannot be excited about his film."
As for the Harris, Starks and Green they will be battling just to keep their roster spots. The potential Harris showed will probably keep him on the roster, so that will probably leave Starks and Green to battle for one roster spot. Green has recently stated that he is finally 100% healthy, but it might be too late for him with the new additions. Starks has had many injury issues himself and is just never healthy enough to be relied upon.
Lacy and Franklin should bring stability to the running back position once and for all. McCarthy should no longer have to change running backs on a weekly basis and not know what to expect. The Packers shouldn't have to rely on a mid season pickup like Harris to save their running game ever again.
The Packers had one of the best offenses in the NFL again last season, but it always seemed like they were not living up to their full potential and something was missing. Also, they seemed to have issues against elite defenses like the San Francisco 49ers. The Packers struggled against Cover-2 looks all season and were not able to hit the deep ball that Aaron Rodgers loves so much. Lacy and Franklin should be able to get teams out of those looks more so that Rodgers will have more opportunities for those deep balls.
The Packers will always be a pass heavy team under Rodgers and McCarthy, as they should be. However, a better running game will only make it easier. They found that out the hard way in 2012 and they appear to be learning from that. The Packers' offense will be even more dynamic with Lacy and Franklin and we will finally be able to see what Rodgers is like when he has a capable running game.
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Friday, May 17, 2013
Friday, May 3, 2013
Packers Shuffling Offensive Line
By: Matt Bove
This offseason Mike McCarthy guaranteed that the Packers would have a better offensive line this upcoming season and he particularly called out the left side of the line.
According to Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinal, McCarthy took the first step in improving that area by moving Bryan Bulaga from right tackle to left tackle and Josh Sitton from right guard to left guard.
Also, T.J. Lang will move from right guard to left guard and Don Barclay, Marshall Newhouse and Derrick Sherrod will compete to start at right tackle. Rookies David Bakhtiari and J.C. Tretter will have their positions decided following next week's rookie mini camp.
"I sat down with Bryan and Josh on Monday and I told them I wanted to make the move to where they're on the left side," McCarthy told Silverstein. Those two are our most accomplished and experienced players. I told them about the responsibilities and my expectations about playing the left side."
Logistically, this move make plenty of sense, as most teams want their best offensive linemen protecting their quarterbacks blind side.
After signing Aaron Rodgers to a five-year contract extension worth $110 million, protecting him from injury is of the utmost importance. Newhouse allowed 11 sacks and 42 1/2 pressures at left tackle last season, which is just way to many hits for Rodgers to take.
Sitton is one of the best pass blocking guards in the NFL and Lang struggled in that area last year in part due to injuries to his arm. Lang is more of a power guard anyways, so he might be better off on the right side.
Bulaga, a first-round pick in 2010, has made all 33 of his regular season starts on the right side. He played left tackle at the University of Iowa, but scouts questioned whether 33 1/4 arms were long enough to play left tackle in the NFL. Bulaga filled in for Mark Taucher in 2010 when he went down with a season-ending injury and has been playing right tackle ever since.
The two veterans should be able to pick up all the nuances of playing the left side quickly and be able to pick up all of the stunts and blitzes teams throw at Rodgers' blindside. As long as Bulaga has physically recovered from bad hip injury that ended his season last year the transition should be smooth.
On the right side, the competition will be fierce between Barclay, Newhouse and Sherrod. I would give a slight edge to Barclay since he is the much better run blocker than Newhouse, which is important on the right side and you do not know how healthy Sherrod is. However, that is just a really early guess.
The Packers wanted to get more physical this season and the play of the offensive line will have a lot to do with whether that happens. Watching rookie running backs Eddie Lacy and Jonathan Franklin run behind this newly shuffled offensive line will be on of the main things to watch for this training camp.
The Packers have certainly been proactive in trying to improve their offensive line, now they just have to wait and see if it pays off.
This offseason Mike McCarthy guaranteed that the Packers would have a better offensive line this upcoming season and he particularly called out the left side of the line.
According to Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinal, McCarthy took the first step in improving that area by moving Bryan Bulaga from right tackle to left tackle and Josh Sitton from right guard to left guard.
Also, T.J. Lang will move from right guard to left guard and Don Barclay, Marshall Newhouse and Derrick Sherrod will compete to start at right tackle. Rookies David Bakhtiari and J.C. Tretter will have their positions decided following next week's rookie mini camp.
"I sat down with Bryan and Josh on Monday and I told them I wanted to make the move to where they're on the left side," McCarthy told Silverstein. Those two are our most accomplished and experienced players. I told them about the responsibilities and my expectations about playing the left side."
Logistically, this move make plenty of sense, as most teams want their best offensive linemen protecting their quarterbacks blind side.
After signing Aaron Rodgers to a five-year contract extension worth $110 million, protecting him from injury is of the utmost importance. Newhouse allowed 11 sacks and 42 1/2 pressures at left tackle last season, which is just way to many hits for Rodgers to take.
Sitton is one of the best pass blocking guards in the NFL and Lang struggled in that area last year in part due to injuries to his arm. Lang is more of a power guard anyways, so he might be better off on the right side.
Bulaga, a first-round pick in 2010, has made all 33 of his regular season starts on the right side. He played left tackle at the University of Iowa, but scouts questioned whether 33 1/4 arms were long enough to play left tackle in the NFL. Bulaga filled in for Mark Taucher in 2010 when he went down with a season-ending injury and has been playing right tackle ever since.
The two veterans should be able to pick up all the nuances of playing the left side quickly and be able to pick up all of the stunts and blitzes teams throw at Rodgers' blindside. As long as Bulaga has physically recovered from bad hip injury that ended his season last year the transition should be smooth.
On the right side, the competition will be fierce between Barclay, Newhouse and Sherrod. I would give a slight edge to Barclay since he is the much better run blocker than Newhouse, which is important on the right side and you do not know how healthy Sherrod is. However, that is just a really early guess.
The Packers wanted to get more physical this season and the play of the offensive line will have a lot to do with whether that happens. Watching rookie running backs Eddie Lacy and Jonathan Franklin run behind this newly shuffled offensive line will be on of the main things to watch for this training camp.
The Packers have certainly been proactive in trying to improve their offensive line, now they just have to wait and see if it pays off.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
2013 Packers Draft Review
The last weekend was pretty crazy with all of the moves that the Packers made moving backward in the draft. Of course the move forward for Johnathan Franklin is always interesting since the Packers rarely move up. Well let's take a look at the players that we drafted this year and see exactly what they were up to in college.
1st Round (Datone Jones)--6'4" 283 lbs DE-UCLA. Will wear 95 for the Packers.
This past season he had 62 tackles, 19 for loss, 6.5 sacks. High for one game in tackles against Arizona State with 9. In the game I watched with him against Nebraska (my favorite college team) he had 3 tackles for a loss, including a safety on Taylor Martinez. He will definitely end up as a 3-4 DE for us, and like many Packer fans have noted, he gives us a lot of flexibility in a zone blitz look, which is really helpful for our defense since we need to be able to throw a lot of complex looks at the QB since we have had trouble getting people off the field in recent years. The last time that the Packers have drafted a DE this high was in 2001 when we took Jamal Reynolds from Florida State at #10 overall. If nothing else then I sure hope that Jones is a lot better than Reynolds was.
2nd Round (Eddie Lacy)--5'11" 231 lbs RB-Alabama. Will wear 27 for the Packers.
Last year Eddie Lacy ran for 1322 yards and totaled 19 touchdowns. The entire packers team ran for 1702 yards last season and had only 7 touchdowns. The main issue with Lacy of course is that he has injury concerns. Everyone has brought up the toe fusion and the issues with that. The most recent RB we selected near this was Brandon Jackson at pick 63 back in 2007. Jackson was the 6th running back selected. The NFL draft profile shows a NFL comparison to Frank Gore. That would be amazing. Gore, despite some injuries, has been a strong running back and has been durable when under a committee the past few years. If that is the situation that we are in with Lacy, then we would definitely be incredibly happy about that.
4th Round (David Bakhtiari) 6'4" 299 lbs OT-Colorado. Will wear 69 for the Packers.
One thing that I find incredibly interesting is that we used pick 109 in the draft on Bakhtiari (Bock-T-are-E) and our current starting guard, T.J. Lang. They both had played OT in college, because that's where a team should put it's best offensive lineman. But like Lang, Bakhtiari is expected to move inside for the Packers. He only missed one game this past season with a knee sprain, and so we are definitely hopeful that his health stays on the upswing. David does have an older brother Eric who has played linebacker for several teams in the NFL. Another great thing is that he only allowed 5.5 Sacks in all 3 seasons he played at Colorado.
4th Round (J.C. Tretter) 6'4" 307 lbs OT-Cornell. Will wear 73 for the Packers.
Just to bring up another previous draft comparison, we drafted Josh Sitton in the 4th round as well. Tretter has only been an offensive lineman for two years, because he had initially gone to Cornell as a Tight End, but did make 20 starts after quickly learning the tackle position. He had played basketball in high school, where he was the school's all time leader in scoring and rebounding. The main thing that I think of for Tretter is that he is an athlete, who is still learning how to block. Like Lane Johnson, Tretter had played quarterback in high school as well. He had a 3.4 GPA at Cornell, he's crazy smart. He's an athletic, smart kid who I hope is able to do a lot of great things with our offense.
4th Round (Johnathan Franklin) 5'10" 205 lbs RB-UCLA. Will wear 23 for the Packers.
The last running back that we selected in the fourth round was Najeh Davenport, and I think hopes are much higher for Franklin. His senior season was the best season by far at UCLA. He ran 282 times for 1734 yards and 13 touchdowns. He cleared over 200 yards in a game twice last season. Franklin is a great back. He looks to be able to do a lot in our offense. Last year he had been coached by Jim Mora, and that is where he had thrived. Franklin is able to do a lot with the football, and if nothing else he was great value at pick 125, plus he also is insurance for our second round pick Eddie Lacy.
5th Round (Micah Hyde) 6'0" 197 lbs CB-Iowa. Will wear 33 for the Packers.
Hyde could easily be either a CB or a S in our defense. Some of his major strengths are his ball skills and his ability to read zone coverage. He had 8 interceptions in college in 3 years as a starter. He simply seems to make plays. McShay said that he played his best games against his best opponents. There is also a play from the 2011 season where one of his teammates picks off Kirk Cousins, laterals the ball to him, and then he takes it 66 yards and across the field for a touchdown. I would love to put him back on our kick return team while he learns our defense.
6th Round (Nate Palmer) 6'3" 240 lbs OLB-Illinois State. Will wear 51 for the Packers.
I must agree with my dear friends at the Packer Addicts forum, that he should be known as "Napalm" from here on out, as long as he is able to earn the nickname. Palmer is going to be around to try to push Perry and Moses. Also, you can never really have enough depth at OLB, always need to be able to get pressure on the quarterback. The main numbers that I like from him in college are 15 TFL, 7.5 Sacks, 3 FF. Right now he runs a 4.7 40 yard dash, but I think the Packers want him to put some muscle on in order to consistently rush the passer.
7th Round (Charles Johnson) 6'2" 215 lbs WR-Grand Valley State. Will wear 17 for the Packers.
Runs underneath 4.4 40 yard dash, has great size. It looks like his measurables are what makes him with the late round pick. They say that his vertical (39 inches), broad jump (11 feet) would put him among the top performers at the combine, if he had been invited. A lot of good natural ability, and he put up 72 catches for 1199 yards and 16 touchdowns last year. Definitely worth the seventh round pick and could be in position to challenge for a roster spot.
7th Round (Kevin Dorsey) 6'3" 210 lbs WR-Maryland. Will wear 16 for the Packers.
4.47 40 yard dash. Only 18 catches last season, but of course they started 5 different quarterbacks last season. On those 18 catches he had 4 touchdowns and averaged 17.3 ypc. 38 inch vertical and a broad jump of 10'10". Again, another guy who has strong skills as far as how they are tested. He had a former LB throwing him the ball at one point last year, and now he gets to play for arguably the best quarterback in the game. That is what I call an upgrade for him.
7th Round (Sam Barrington) 6'1" 246 lbs. LB-South Florida. Will wear 58 for the Packers.
65, 72, and 80 tackles for him as he started the last 3 years. I'm a little worried about his speed, as he only ran a 4.91 40 yard dash at the combine. Probably needs to lose a little bit of weight in order to truly challenge some of the current ILB that we have in Hawk & Bishop. One thing that I find intriguing is that he had forced 5 fumbles last season. I like someone who can strip the ball, but that's easier said than done.
Obviously it's too early to grade this draft, but I am hopeful for the future and ready for us to have our first game against the San Fransisco 49ers.
1st Round (Datone Jones)--6'4" 283 lbs DE-UCLA. Will wear 95 for the Packers.
This past season he had 62 tackles, 19 for loss, 6.5 sacks. High for one game in tackles against Arizona State with 9. In the game I watched with him against Nebraska (my favorite college team) he had 3 tackles for a loss, including a safety on Taylor Martinez. He will definitely end up as a 3-4 DE for us, and like many Packer fans have noted, he gives us a lot of flexibility in a zone blitz look, which is really helpful for our defense since we need to be able to throw a lot of complex looks at the QB since we have had trouble getting people off the field in recent years. The last time that the Packers have drafted a DE this high was in 2001 when we took Jamal Reynolds from Florida State at #10 overall. If nothing else then I sure hope that Jones is a lot better than Reynolds was.
2nd Round (Eddie Lacy)--5'11" 231 lbs RB-Alabama. Will wear 27 for the Packers.
Last year Eddie Lacy ran for 1322 yards and totaled 19 touchdowns. The entire packers team ran for 1702 yards last season and had only 7 touchdowns. The main issue with Lacy of course is that he has injury concerns. Everyone has brought up the toe fusion and the issues with that. The most recent RB we selected near this was Brandon Jackson at pick 63 back in 2007. Jackson was the 6th running back selected. The NFL draft profile shows a NFL comparison to Frank Gore. That would be amazing. Gore, despite some injuries, has been a strong running back and has been durable when under a committee the past few years. If that is the situation that we are in with Lacy, then we would definitely be incredibly happy about that.
4th Round (David Bakhtiari) 6'4" 299 lbs OT-Colorado. Will wear 69 for the Packers.
One thing that I find incredibly interesting is that we used pick 109 in the draft on Bakhtiari (Bock-T-are-E) and our current starting guard, T.J. Lang. They both had played OT in college, because that's where a team should put it's best offensive lineman. But like Lang, Bakhtiari is expected to move inside for the Packers. He only missed one game this past season with a knee sprain, and so we are definitely hopeful that his health stays on the upswing. David does have an older brother Eric who has played linebacker for several teams in the NFL. Another great thing is that he only allowed 5.5 Sacks in all 3 seasons he played at Colorado.
4th Round (J.C. Tretter) 6'4" 307 lbs OT-Cornell. Will wear 73 for the Packers.
Just to bring up another previous draft comparison, we drafted Josh Sitton in the 4th round as well. Tretter has only been an offensive lineman for two years, because he had initially gone to Cornell as a Tight End, but did make 20 starts after quickly learning the tackle position. He had played basketball in high school, where he was the school's all time leader in scoring and rebounding. The main thing that I think of for Tretter is that he is an athlete, who is still learning how to block. Like Lane Johnson, Tretter had played quarterback in high school as well. He had a 3.4 GPA at Cornell, he's crazy smart. He's an athletic, smart kid who I hope is able to do a lot of great things with our offense.
4th Round (Johnathan Franklin) 5'10" 205 lbs RB-UCLA. Will wear 23 for the Packers.
The last running back that we selected in the fourth round was Najeh Davenport, and I think hopes are much higher for Franklin. His senior season was the best season by far at UCLA. He ran 282 times for 1734 yards and 13 touchdowns. He cleared over 200 yards in a game twice last season. Franklin is a great back. He looks to be able to do a lot in our offense. Last year he had been coached by Jim Mora, and that is where he had thrived. Franklin is able to do a lot with the football, and if nothing else he was great value at pick 125, plus he also is insurance for our second round pick Eddie Lacy.
5th Round (Micah Hyde) 6'0" 197 lbs CB-Iowa. Will wear 33 for the Packers.
Hyde could easily be either a CB or a S in our defense. Some of his major strengths are his ball skills and his ability to read zone coverage. He had 8 interceptions in college in 3 years as a starter. He simply seems to make plays. McShay said that he played his best games against his best opponents. There is also a play from the 2011 season where one of his teammates picks off Kirk Cousins, laterals the ball to him, and then he takes it 66 yards and across the field for a touchdown. I would love to put him back on our kick return team while he learns our defense.
6th Round (Nate Palmer) 6'3" 240 lbs OLB-Illinois State. Will wear 51 for the Packers.
I must agree with my dear friends at the Packer Addicts forum, that he should be known as "Napalm" from here on out, as long as he is able to earn the nickname. Palmer is going to be around to try to push Perry and Moses. Also, you can never really have enough depth at OLB, always need to be able to get pressure on the quarterback. The main numbers that I like from him in college are 15 TFL, 7.5 Sacks, 3 FF. Right now he runs a 4.7 40 yard dash, but I think the Packers want him to put some muscle on in order to consistently rush the passer.
7th Round (Charles Johnson) 6'2" 215 lbs WR-Grand Valley State. Will wear 17 for the Packers.
Runs underneath 4.4 40 yard dash, has great size. It looks like his measurables are what makes him with the late round pick. They say that his vertical (39 inches), broad jump (11 feet) would put him among the top performers at the combine, if he had been invited. A lot of good natural ability, and he put up 72 catches for 1199 yards and 16 touchdowns last year. Definitely worth the seventh round pick and could be in position to challenge for a roster spot.
7th Round (Kevin Dorsey) 6'3" 210 lbs WR-Maryland. Will wear 16 for the Packers.
4.47 40 yard dash. Only 18 catches last season, but of course they started 5 different quarterbacks last season. On those 18 catches he had 4 touchdowns and averaged 17.3 ypc. 38 inch vertical and a broad jump of 10'10". Again, another guy who has strong skills as far as how they are tested. He had a former LB throwing him the ball at one point last year, and now he gets to play for arguably the best quarterback in the game. That is what I call an upgrade for him.
7th Round (Sam Barrington) 6'1" 246 lbs. LB-South Florida. Will wear 58 for the Packers.
65, 72, and 80 tackles for him as he started the last 3 years. I'm a little worried about his speed, as he only ran a 4.91 40 yard dash at the combine. Probably needs to lose a little bit of weight in order to truly challenge some of the current ILB that we have in Hawk & Bishop. One thing that I find intriguing is that he had forced 5 fumbles last season. I like someone who can strip the ball, but that's easier said than done.
Obviously it's too early to grade this draft, but I am hopeful for the future and ready for us to have our first game against the San Fransisco 49ers.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
2013 NFL Draft Blog:: First Round Complete
6:51--Minutes until the draft!! I'm so excited to see what exactly is going to happen. I have my wife and son here with me. I'm rocking a CM3 jersey and my son is wearing a football shirt with the number #72 (Garth Gerhart) on it. I will cover what happens on the board with what the Packers are wanting. All Times are central time.
6:53--It's pretty well known that the Chiefs are going to take Eric Fisher with the #1 overall pick. He should fit in with their other #1 overall picks from recent years.
Having some issues with this working properly. Sorry for the delays in posting. Also having some connectivity issues at Buffalo Wild Wings.
7:06--The draft actually starts...not really a surprise that there was a delay.
7:15--Eric Fisher is officially the first pick in the draft. Congrats Eric!!
7:17--Jaguars are on the clock. Last few first round picks include Justin Blackmon (64 catches, 865 yards, 5 TD), Blaine Gabbert, Tyson Alualu, & Eugene Monroe. Top ten picks each of the last four years.
7:21--First Aaron Rodgers commercial of the evening. Pay that man already.
7:24--Here comes Goodell. The Jaguars take Luke Joeckel. Good pick. Like him better than Fisher. Blocked for both Tannehill and Manziel. Completely functional offense.
7:25--I think we are getting ready for our first trade of the draft. Oakland should trade down. Need a 2nd Rounder.
7:26--This is a fun time to point out that NONE of the Raiders first round draft picks from the last 4 years are still on the team.
7:27--Mel Kiper doesn't look like he has aged in years. Also like the synchronized clocks from both the ESPN and NFL networks.
7:29--Just want to take a moment to say that the draft is going over the speakers here at Buffalo Wild Wings, despite playoff basketball being on the tv as well. My guess is the Raiders take Floyd if they can't trade.
7:31--Glad the Raiders got their pick in just in time. That way we can still only make fun of the Vikings on getting skipped.
7:32--Trade with Miami. Dolphins are going to take Johnson. 1-2-3 OT. At least I got the trade part of this correct. I want to see what the Raiders got from the trade.
7:34--Dolphins take Dion Jordan. That's a surprise. They are definitely going to be trading a 2nd rounder for Albert now. Which means they lose a lot of picks from this move.
7:36--Chip Kelly's first pick. This should be Lane Johnson. Almost no production from their last few first round picks (Fletcher Cox, Danny Watkins, and Brandon Graham).
7:37--I do think that this would be a great time for the first QB to go off of the board. Geno Smith in a read option speed offense would be great. Learn for one year under Vick.
7:41--It is no surprise that the Eagles took a tackle here. Lane Johnson can do a lot of different things.
7:43--Lions are probably going to go with Dee Millner or Ezekiel Ansah with the next pick. Both are big needs. Probably a disappointment that the OT's are gone, but not to Clay Matthews & Nick Perry.
7:45--I guess it's important to state that no matter who the Lions take, I hope that he ends up being a bust, pretty much like most of their picks. Maybe they are going to keep Riley Reiff at Tackle instead of guard now. Stafford & Suh have been good lately.
7:47--Hoping that the Packers might have someone trade in front of us for a quarterback or that we can just trade down right now. QB's going early would mean someone falls. Right now, I'm not seeing anyone fall.
7:49--Hurry up and get out there Goodell, the pick has been in for about 4 minutes.
7:50--Ezekiel Ansah goes to the Lions. That means 3 defensive lineman in last 4 years. Suh (2010), Fairley (2011). Ansah is unproven. So we really have no clue exactly what he's going to be able to do.
7:53--Don't really think it's smart for the Browns to draft Geno Smith, but everyone is talking about how it could happen. It just means that the Browns are dumber than you would think. Which is hard to do.
7:55--Mingo goes earlier than expected. 3 OT, and 3 Pass rushers. Not really a surprise from what we've heard about this draft. Deep lineman on both sides of the ball.
7:57--The Cardinals have to upgrade their offense, they were just awful last year. I hope that they take Tyler Eifert, Arians and the Colts took Fleener early last year, they know the importance of a TE to a young QB, and the probably are going to take one later.
7:59--I also would love to see that defense with Patrick Peterson on one side, and Dee Milliner on the other. That would be so sweet.
8:02--Jonathan Cooper to the Cardinals. They do need to block. They go up against Justin Smith & Aldon Smith 2x a year. Probably a safe pick. But I am getting pretty nervous about how this goes down for the Packers, want to see some skill players go off of the board.
8:03--Bills have drafted in the top ten for 4 years running now. Gilmore didn't do much last season, Dareus hasn't been great, but C.J. Spiller was sweet last year, getting over 1700 yards.
8:04--Tavon Austin should be taken now that the Rams are going up to the 8th spot. Bills traded down.
8:06--2 years ago the Rams draft Robert Quinn at 14 overall. He had over 10 Sacks last season. Draft facts are important. Still probably regret getting Bradford year before rookie wage scale.
8:08--2 trades through 8 picks. Shows that very few people actually want to move up. Because tons of people were waiting to try to trade down.
8:09--Rams take Austin, big shocker, only it's not. It does mean Hopkins could be available at 26, someone we are keeping our eye on.
8:10--Can't think of a better draft moment than "We Want Sapp." J-E-T-S fans are the most interesting to watch at the draft. Jets should probably take Dee Milliner.
8:12--Show us what the Rams gave up to move up already. I just saw Bills give 1st and 3rd, Rams give up 16, 46, 78, and 222. That was an expensive trade by the Rams. Great move by the Bills.
8:17--Jets take Milliner. This is going to be the man that tries to fill the Revis shoes. Titans should definitely take Warmack or Fluker here at 10.
8:18--Titans took Britt, Derrick Morgan, Locker & Kendall Wright the last four years. Only one defensive player. Titans are all about making their offense go this upcoming season. They need a lot of help.
8:20--No matter which lineman the Titans take, the Chargers will probably take the other one. They couldn't protect Rivers at all last season.
8:21--Watching a commercial for where you are currently at, is somewhat weird. But way to go Buffalo Wild Wings.
8:23--Manti Te'o is currently #8 on Mel Kiper's list, which if they go by his big board, which they never do, that would place him on the Steelers. That would be weird.
8:25--I think it's really awkward hearing John Gruden state that a team needs to upgrade it's "interior offensive line." They are called Guards & Center, not that complicated.
8:26--Titans take Warmack. Back to back Bama players. There is a major reason they have won the last 2 BCS Titles. Warmack is the best lineman, but hopefully we can get Barrett Jones in round 2 or 3, would love his teammate.
8:29--The pick is in for the Chargers. Why do we have to go to commercials. Props to @RAYROBERT9 for getting 4/10 right in this draft right now. Hits on Fisher, Johnson, Ansah & Mingo.
8:31--D.J. Fluker, just like I had said before. Floyd should be gone next to the Raiders, since that's who they wanted before. Although I had read earlier that they were high on the CB from Houston. My Mock draft from Tuesday night had Dee Milliner right, and that's it. That's sad.
8:34--Raiders added pick 42 from their trade down earlier, meaning they get to pick in round 2. Recovering slightly from that horrible Carson Palmer trade. Maybe one of the worst trades I've ever seen.
8:35--Finally I see that the guy from Houston's name is D. J. Hayden. Only took me 3 minutes to find.
8:36--I don't really eat spicy wings, but I'm trying a wing flavor called spicy garlic. Hoping that it doesn't make me cry. You can't cry during the draft. Also, I'm only on my 11th wing of the night, and we are almost through 12 picks. Feel like tonight is taking quite some time.
8:38--I just mentioned D.J. Hayden, so I want to be clear that I had mentioned it before everyone goes, what? Highlights make it clear that is is nice to play CB in the C-USA.
8:39--Hayden is going to go up against Bowe, Demaryius Thomas, and Malcolm Floyd 2x each year. Seems like a good selection if he is up to the challenge.
8:42--Jets are probably going to go with a defensive lineman. Maybe Tyler Eifert. They need help so many places. Don't think it's Geno Smith even though that's how they are presenting it.
8:43--Sharif Floyd is still on the board. Hard to believe at this moment.
8:47--I think Richardson is a strong pick for the Jets here. Over 100 tackles in the SEC last year. Big guy from Mizzou. Unfortunately won't be able to wear #34 anymore. Also, the Clippers/Grizzlies game should be coming up soon.
8:48--Panthers pick is already in, so of course we go to commercials. Richardson was a DT we had seen for a long time mocked to the Panthers. Floyd or Star would be other strong picks right here. Eifert is a possibility. Still hoping that people take some skill players soon. Packers want a DT or DE. Or at least that's what I want.
8:52--So the pick is finally announced, Panthers take Star (refuse to try to type that last name consistently). Star was rated so high, but those concerns and not being able to play at the combine looks like it sure cost him. Saints probably looking at Vaccaro.
8:54--Picks that would be lopsided. We are going to put Eifert on the other side at TE from Jimmy Graham. Taking a page out of the Patriots playbook. (Please NO!)
8:57--Buffalo trades down and takes Nassib. Seems like it is a real possibility at this point. Would love to see a QB finally come off of the board. Please happen at pick 16.
8:58--One thing about watching the draft eating out at Buffalo Wild Wings, means I don't really hear the commentary. Not bad news, since I already know who all of these people are.
8:59--Goddell cheered at the podium, because a kid comes out on crutches with him. See those New Yorkers have a heart. Great pick taking Vaccarro. Best player Texas had on their defense last year.
9:00--Almost 2 hours in, half of the players haven't been selected tonight. Started to feel tired. This is not good news for my messages here to stay sane.
9:04--Bills fans excited that they took EJ Manuel. Nassib will fall far. Biggest surprise of the night right there. Bills draft like crazy yet again. The fact that Bills fans are excited only shows that they haven't seen good news from their team in years.
9:06--I guess I should be thrilled that the Bills wasted that pick. Maybe I should even send them a thank you card. EJ Manuel top QB taken. WOW!!!
9:07--Jarvis Jones or Ogletree to the Steelers, my guess is Jones, but he'll be on a short leash. Drafted Santonio Holmes after a marijuana arrest, Jones had a DUI, but they'll trade him quick if he does anything dumb. That's just how the Steelers roll.
9:11--This is the first time I noticed that the Town is under the brim of the hat. Not terribly used to seeing that happen. Nicely done New Era. I believe they are in charge of those.
9:12--So we see how a horrible team drafts in the Bills and then a great team at drafting in the Steelers takes an elite talent in Jarvis Jones.
9:13--49ers are on the clock after a trade with the Cowboys. Who are we going to face the first week? Who are you drafting?
9:14--Just seems awful to say that the 49ers & Cowboys have done a trade. Completely horrible. Eric Reid from LSU is now gone. This is their replacement for Dashon Goldson. Left to go to the Bucs.
9:16--Cowboys get 31 & 74 for the 49ers trade up. Some good value, Cowboys have a lot of weaknesses. Have a lot of areas that need to be fixed.
9:18--Less commercials please, the teams are wanting to go quickly. Giants pick is in, waiting for our rivals the Bears. Giants take Ogletree, Bears take Eifert or Te'o. Last minute predictions.
9:21--Justin Pugh. 3 Guards in the first 19 picks. A draft unlike any other, the weird 2013 NFL draft. I don't think that the selection is that strong with the value available. Probably should have traded down.
9:22--I think the Cowboys are hoping for Menelik Watson by trading down. Almost certain of it.
9:23--Bears on the clock, first pick in years without Lovie Smith. I think that they are going to go on offense. Would lean for Eifert over Te'o.
9:27--Still stunned that EJ Manuel was the top QB taken. Waiting for someone to trade up and get another QB. Jaguars & Cardinals both are options there.
9:28--Bears select Kyle Long G-Oregon. Back to back Guards again!!! 4 Guards in the top 20. I think they are aware that that offensive line has been completely miserable for years, but this pick is a reach, and no one wanted to trade up that high.
9:31--Bengals are on the clock. I figure that this pick could be another safety, but Ogletree is a dream fall to them here. Bengals take Ogletree.
9:32--Show Rodgers waiting in the green room. He hated that. He still wants revenge. Put him back up there again. Get him more and more motivated. MVP=Rodgers.
9:34--3 years ago at pick 21. The Bengals selected TE Gresham from Oklahoma. Now they take a top TE from Notre Dame. History repeats itself.
9:35--Falcons trade up and should be going for either Ogletree or Xavier Rhodes. Need to improve both their pass rush and their secondary. They keep trading up and losing valuable picks though. They like to trade up--Julio Jones last year.
9:37--KFC, no one really cares if they ate the bones. Your commercial is abysmal. Or at least that is how it appears to me.
9:40--Desmond Trufant CB Washington. Right position, wrong player. Lots of Defensive lineman available. Hopkins is available. Ogletree, Sly Williams, Datone Jones. We are getting an elite player if we don't trade down. Thank you for drafting extra Guards in this draft. Packers are set at guard with Lang/Sitton. Glad we aren't wasting our pick like that.
9:42--John Gruden. Too many issues and a year OOF for Mathieu means he will fall. Did you not pay attention to Maurice Clarett's talent and off the field issues, when RB were still getting drafted early? Last pick of round 3. Expecting the same from Mathieu.
9:44--Always great respect to those who serve our nation's country. I don't think that I could personally do that. But respect them for serving the USA, and they deserve respect and honor.
9:45--Time to see who the Vikings want. Probably someone that I want. Sharrif Floyd. Man, I almost forgot that he was still available. Floyd is a good pickup. Surprised he fell so far. Many of the "top" players have fallen. But that was expected as the draft was expected to be all sorts of lopsided.
9:47--I miss the times when there were only 5 players at the draft, because then we wouldn't have to have special on stage moments for all the players, and continue through the draft.
9:49--Got all 6 props right tonight on ESPN's "Streak for the Cash." If only there was an award for performance on that tonight.
9:52--Colts select Bjoern Werner, someone we maybe could have used, but don't think we were targeting.
9:54--Xavier Rhodes CB for Vikings also. I feel like all of the picks in the division are being targeted at us. Go at Rodgers with Ansah (Lions), Block Matthews & Raji with Long (Bears), Rush the pass up the middle with Floyd and a cover corner to go after James Jones with Xavier Rhodes (Vikings)
9:56--Our pick is in but we have to wait for commercials to be over. Packers probably take Datone Jones, but would love Ogletree. I'm pretty happy with the overall feel of how the draft fell to us. Hopkins is still on the board, how high do we have him. Our question will be answered soon.
10:01--Packers select Datone Jones. Had a good feeling about this kid. We keep going back to the Pac-12 for our top picks. Thank you for showing him get a safety against Nebraska (my college team). Love this pick. 19 Tackles for loss last year, 62 tackles, 5.5 Sacks. Welcome to the Packers Datone Jones!!!
10:03--Texans probably taken Hopkins to go across from Johnson. Maybe go with Keenan Allen. Hopkins should be better.
10:06--Just want to give the Texans credit for drafting J.J. Watt 11th overall two years ago. 1 pick after Blaine Gabbert. Further proof that the Jaguars are crazy, but a good pick with Joeckel.
10:08--Any reason that the NFL Network and ESPN can't go to commercial at the same time. Hate waiting for them both to be back for any picks. Can't really do anything about that.
10:09--Finally announcing the Texans pick. Hopkins. Not a shocker. Gets a much better team by the Rams trading up to get Austin. Does a good job of getting open.
10:10--Could very well see the Broncos taking Tank Carradine.
10:11--If the Vikings trade back up to get Manti Te'o, then I think that they are completely ridiculous. 3 first rounders?? But if they give up their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, then I would definitely be alright with that. Less picks for them. Crazy Vikings.
10:13--Side note Memphis and the Clippers with a score of 47-39 at the half. That is definitely some Memphis basketball. They play some ugly games.
10:14--So right now the end of the first round is Rams, Cowboys, and Ravens. Just to be clear, the Cowboys were not in the Super Bowl last year.
10:15--So the Broncos take Sylvester Williams. Another UNC player going in the first round. Seems like it happens all of the time, but they are never a successful college team. So much talent, but almost no wins.
10:17--Sly Williams wouldn't have been a bad pick for us. But he is 24. Glad we didn't go with him just because we can get more years from Datone.
10:18--Vikings have officially traded back in with the Patriots. Can't hardly believe it. It isn't a good move. You don't waste that many draft picks, if that is what they did. If you really like Te'o that much, take him at 23 or 25.
10:19--I guess I should be happy the Vikings are doing this, it just goes against my entire draft philosophy as a Packer fan. Trade down and get more picks. Acquire more talent. Vikings give up 52, 83, 102, 229. Just to get Pick number 29. 2, 3, 4, and 7th rounders. See you again in round 5.
10:21--Just want to give a shoutout and some prayers to the people in Boston having gone through that recent tragedy. Patriots are not an organization I like, I don't even like any Boston teams, but no city or people should have to go through anything like that.
10:24--As an OKC resident that had the 18 year bombing anniversary just 6 days ago. I will not complain about seeing #BostonStrong on the television. Even though I have complained about delays with presenting draft picks tonight.
10:26--Joe Andruzzi the former Patriot announces a Vikings pick. This is completely fine with me still. Good presentation. Play some Sweet Caroline. All good. Can't make any complaints about that.
10:29--Cordarrelle Patterson and not Manti Te'o. Vikings need a WR. Still giving up too many picks for one player. If the Vikings bite this year. They will at least get a good QB in next year's draft.
10:33--Only 3 picks left. That is a good sign since my energy level is dropping. Rams get to make their 2nd pick of this round. If safety is a need for them, take Cyprien from FIU. That would be a strong pick.
10:34--Hoping that Arizona trades up with Baltimore to select Geno Smith from under the Jaguars. Would be a fun way to end round 1.
10:35--Ran into some people from Milwaukee tonight. Loads of fun to meet them. They had a little boy just like I did. Talked to me because I'm a Packers fan. That's just how Packer nation rolls.
10:36--Rams take Alec Ogletree. Another player that fell further than expected. I think that the Rams have had a strong draft tonight. Austin and Ogletree are going to do well together. I think this means that the Cowboys select Menelik Watson. Protect Romo.
10:39--I see that Matt Hasslebeck says he played with Andruzzi on the Packers. Packers have to represent all the time. With so many lineman going in round 1. There might not be as much demand in round 2. Projected Packers picks for round 2 are John Jenkins-NT Georgia. Eddie Lacy or Giovanni Bernard RB.
10:41--See Rodgers is tweeting about Geno hanging in there. "Good things come to those who wait." Love having him as our QB. Again, Pay the man.
10:42--Cowboys only get 31 & 74 for 18. Seems like they got ripped off by the 49ers. Travis Frederick Center from Wisconsin. Cowboys had to be thinking Center when they took that trade. Still seems like a reach to me. But that's because I'm not big on drafting Centers early.
10:44--Ravens take Matt Elam-S Florida. Good pick by the Ravens, which is exactly what you would expect.
10:45--It's been fun ya'll, but I'm out of here. Time for me to head out so that I can get up and go to work in the morning. I've had a lot of fun doing this. Hope that you all enjoy reading it.
6:53--It's pretty well known that the Chiefs are going to take Eric Fisher with the #1 overall pick. He should fit in with their other #1 overall picks from recent years.
7:15--Eric Fisher is officially the first pick in the draft. Congrats Eric!!
7:17--Jaguars are on the clock. Last few first round picks include Justin Blackmon (64 catches, 865 yards, 5 TD), Blaine Gabbert, Tyson Alualu, & Eugene Monroe. Top ten picks each of the last four years.
7:21--First Aaron Rodgers commercial of the evening. Pay that man already.
7:24--Here comes Goodell. The Jaguars take Luke Joeckel. Good pick. Like him better than Fisher. Blocked for both Tannehill and Manziel. Completely functional offense.
7:25--I think we are getting ready for our first trade of the draft. Oakland should trade down. Need a 2nd Rounder.
7:26--This is a fun time to point out that NONE of the Raiders first round draft picks from the last 4 years are still on the team.
7:29--Just want to take a moment to say that the draft is going over the speakers here at Buffalo Wild Wings, despite playoff basketball being on the tv as well. My guess is the Raiders take Floyd if they can't trade.
7:31--Glad the Raiders got their pick in just in time. That way we can still only make fun of the Vikings on getting skipped.
7:32--Trade with Miami. Dolphins are going to take Johnson. 1-2-3 OT. At least I got the trade part of this correct. I want to see what the Raiders got from the trade.
7:34--Dolphins take Dion Jordan. That's a surprise. They are definitely going to be trading a 2nd rounder for Albert now. Which means they lose a lot of picks from this move.
7:36--Chip Kelly's first pick. This should be Lane Johnson. Almost no production from their last few first round picks (Fletcher Cox, Danny Watkins, and Brandon Graham).
7:37--I do think that this would be a great time for the first QB to go off of the board. Geno Smith in a read option speed offense would be great. Learn for one year under Vick.
7:41--It is no surprise that the Eagles took a tackle here. Lane Johnson can do a lot of different things.
7:43--Lions are probably going to go with Dee Millner or Ezekiel Ansah with the next pick. Both are big needs. Probably a disappointment that the OT's are gone, but not to Clay Matthews & Nick Perry.
7:45--I guess it's important to state that no matter who the Lions take, I hope that he ends up being a bust, pretty much like most of their picks. Maybe they are going to keep Riley Reiff at Tackle instead of guard now. Stafford & Suh have been good lately.
7:47--Hoping that the Packers might have someone trade in front of us for a quarterback or that we can just trade down right now. QB's going early would mean someone falls. Right now, I'm not seeing anyone fall.
7:49--Hurry up and get out there Goodell, the pick has been in for about 4 minutes.
7:50--Ezekiel Ansah goes to the Lions. That means 3 defensive lineman in last 4 years. Suh (2010), Fairley (2011). Ansah is unproven. So we really have no clue exactly what he's going to be able to do.
7:53--Don't really think it's smart for the Browns to draft Geno Smith, but everyone is talking about how it could happen. It just means that the Browns are dumber than you would think. Which is hard to do.
7:55--Mingo goes earlier than expected. 3 OT, and 3 Pass rushers. Not really a surprise from what we've heard about this draft. Deep lineman on both sides of the ball.
7:57--The Cardinals have to upgrade their offense, they were just awful last year. I hope that they take Tyler Eifert, Arians and the Colts took Fleener early last year, they know the importance of a TE to a young QB, and the probably are going to take one later.
7:59--I also would love to see that defense with Patrick Peterson on one side, and Dee Milliner on the other. That would be so sweet.
8:02--Jonathan Cooper to the Cardinals. They do need to block. They go up against Justin Smith & Aldon Smith 2x a year. Probably a safe pick. But I am getting pretty nervous about how this goes down for the Packers, want to see some skill players go off of the board.
8:03--Bills have drafted in the top ten for 4 years running now. Gilmore didn't do much last season, Dareus hasn't been great, but C.J. Spiller was sweet last year, getting over 1700 yards.
8:04--Tavon Austin should be taken now that the Rams are going up to the 8th spot. Bills traded down.
8:06--2 years ago the Rams draft Robert Quinn at 14 overall. He had over 10 Sacks last season. Draft facts are important. Still probably regret getting Bradford year before rookie wage scale.
8:08--2 trades through 8 picks. Shows that very few people actually want to move up. Because tons of people were waiting to try to trade down.
8:09--Rams take Austin, big shocker, only it's not. It does mean Hopkins could be available at 26, someone we are keeping our eye on.
8:10--Can't think of a better draft moment than "We Want Sapp." J-E-T-S fans are the most interesting to watch at the draft. Jets should probably take Dee Milliner.
8:12--Show us what the Rams gave up to move up already. I just saw Bills give 1st and 3rd, Rams give up 16, 46, 78, and 222. That was an expensive trade by the Rams. Great move by the Bills.
8:17--Jets take Milliner. This is going to be the man that tries to fill the Revis shoes. Titans should definitely take Warmack or Fluker here at 10.
8:18--Titans took Britt, Derrick Morgan, Locker & Kendall Wright the last four years. Only one defensive player. Titans are all about making their offense go this upcoming season. They need a lot of help.
8:20--No matter which lineman the Titans take, the Chargers will probably take the other one. They couldn't protect Rivers at all last season.
8:21--Watching a commercial for where you are currently at, is somewhat weird. But way to go Buffalo Wild Wings.
8:23--Manti Te'o is currently #8 on Mel Kiper's list, which if they go by his big board, which they never do, that would place him on the Steelers. That would be weird.
8:25--I think it's really awkward hearing John Gruden state that a team needs to upgrade it's "interior offensive line." They are called Guards & Center, not that complicated.
8:26--Titans take Warmack. Back to back Bama players. There is a major reason they have won the last 2 BCS Titles. Warmack is the best lineman, but hopefully we can get Barrett Jones in round 2 or 3, would love his teammate.
8:29--The pick is in for the Chargers. Why do we have to go to commercials. Props to @RAYROBERT9 for getting 4/10 right in this draft right now. Hits on Fisher, Johnson, Ansah & Mingo.
8:31--D.J. Fluker, just like I had said before. Floyd should be gone next to the Raiders, since that's who they wanted before. Although I had read earlier that they were high on the CB from Houston. My Mock draft from Tuesday night had Dee Milliner right, and that's it. That's sad.
8:34--Raiders added pick 42 from their trade down earlier, meaning they get to pick in round 2. Recovering slightly from that horrible Carson Palmer trade. Maybe one of the worst trades I've ever seen.
8:35--Finally I see that the guy from Houston's name is D. J. Hayden. Only took me 3 minutes to find.
8:36--I don't really eat spicy wings, but I'm trying a wing flavor called spicy garlic. Hoping that it doesn't make me cry. You can't cry during the draft. Also, I'm only on my 11th wing of the night, and we are almost through 12 picks. Feel like tonight is taking quite some time.
8:38--I just mentioned D.J. Hayden, so I want to be clear that I had mentioned it before everyone goes, what? Highlights make it clear that is is nice to play CB in the C-USA.
8:39--Hayden is going to go up against Bowe, Demaryius Thomas, and Malcolm Floyd 2x each year. Seems like a good selection if he is up to the challenge.
8:42--Jets are probably going to go with a defensive lineman. Maybe Tyler Eifert. They need help so many places. Don't think it's Geno Smith even though that's how they are presenting it.
8:43--Sharif Floyd is still on the board. Hard to believe at this moment.
8:47--I think Richardson is a strong pick for the Jets here. Over 100 tackles in the SEC last year. Big guy from Mizzou. Unfortunately won't be able to wear #34 anymore. Also, the Clippers/Grizzlies game should be coming up soon.
8:48--Panthers pick is already in, so of course we go to commercials. Richardson was a DT we had seen for a long time mocked to the Panthers. Floyd or Star would be other strong picks right here. Eifert is a possibility. Still hoping that people take some skill players soon. Packers want a DT or DE. Or at least that's what I want.
8:52--So the pick is finally announced, Panthers take Star (refuse to try to type that last name consistently). Star was rated so high, but those concerns and not being able to play at the combine looks like it sure cost him. Saints probably looking at Vaccaro.
8:54--Picks that would be lopsided. We are going to put Eifert on the other side at TE from Jimmy Graham. Taking a page out of the Patriots playbook. (Please NO!)
8:57--Buffalo trades down and takes Nassib. Seems like it is a real possibility at this point. Would love to see a QB finally come off of the board. Please happen at pick 16.
8:58--One thing about watching the draft eating out at Buffalo Wild Wings, means I don't really hear the commentary. Not bad news, since I already know who all of these people are.
8:59--Goddell cheered at the podium, because a kid comes out on crutches with him. See those New Yorkers have a heart. Great pick taking Vaccarro. Best player Texas had on their defense last year.
9:00--Almost 2 hours in, half of the players haven't been selected tonight. Started to feel tired. This is not good news for my messages here to stay sane.
9:04--Bills fans excited that they took EJ Manuel. Nassib will fall far. Biggest surprise of the night right there. Bills draft like crazy yet again. The fact that Bills fans are excited only shows that they haven't seen good news from their team in years.
9:06--I guess I should be thrilled that the Bills wasted that pick. Maybe I should even send them a thank you card. EJ Manuel top QB taken. WOW!!!
9:07--Jarvis Jones or Ogletree to the Steelers, my guess is Jones, but he'll be on a short leash. Drafted Santonio Holmes after a marijuana arrest, Jones had a DUI, but they'll trade him quick if he does anything dumb. That's just how the Steelers roll.
9:11--This is the first time I noticed that the Town is under the brim of the hat. Not terribly used to seeing that happen. Nicely done New Era. I believe they are in charge of those.
9:12--So we see how a horrible team drafts in the Bills and then a great team at drafting in the Steelers takes an elite talent in Jarvis Jones.
9:13--49ers are on the clock after a trade with the Cowboys. Who are we going to face the first week? Who are you drafting?
9:14--Just seems awful to say that the 49ers & Cowboys have done a trade. Completely horrible. Eric Reid from LSU is now gone. This is their replacement for Dashon Goldson. Left to go to the Bucs.
9:16--Cowboys get 31 & 74 for the 49ers trade up. Some good value, Cowboys have a lot of weaknesses. Have a lot of areas that need to be fixed.
9:18--Less commercials please, the teams are wanting to go quickly. Giants pick is in, waiting for our rivals the Bears. Giants take Ogletree, Bears take Eifert or Te'o. Last minute predictions.
9:21--Justin Pugh. 3 Guards in the first 19 picks. A draft unlike any other, the weird 2013 NFL draft. I don't think that the selection is that strong with the value available. Probably should have traded down.
9:22--I think the Cowboys are hoping for Menelik Watson by trading down. Almost certain of it.
9:23--Bears on the clock, first pick in years without Lovie Smith. I think that they are going to go on offense. Would lean for Eifert over Te'o.
9:27--Still stunned that EJ Manuel was the top QB taken. Waiting for someone to trade up and get another QB. Jaguars & Cardinals both are options there.
9:28--Bears select Kyle Long G-Oregon. Back to back Guards again!!! 4 Guards in the top 20. I think they are aware that that offensive line has been completely miserable for years, but this pick is a reach, and no one wanted to trade up that high.
9:31--Bengals are on the clock. I figure that this pick could be another safety, but Ogletree is a dream fall to them here. Bengals take Ogletree.
9:32--Show Rodgers waiting in the green room. He hated that. He still wants revenge. Put him back up there again. Get him more and more motivated. MVP=Rodgers.
9:34--3 years ago at pick 21. The Bengals selected TE Gresham from Oklahoma. Now they take a top TE from Notre Dame. History repeats itself.
9:35--Falcons trade up and should be going for either Ogletree or Xavier Rhodes. Need to improve both their pass rush and their secondary. They keep trading up and losing valuable picks though. They like to trade up--Julio Jones last year.
9:37--KFC, no one really cares if they ate the bones. Your commercial is abysmal. Or at least that is how it appears to me.
9:40--Desmond Trufant CB Washington. Right position, wrong player. Lots of Defensive lineman available. Hopkins is available. Ogletree, Sly Williams, Datone Jones. We are getting an elite player if we don't trade down. Thank you for drafting extra Guards in this draft. Packers are set at guard with Lang/Sitton. Glad we aren't wasting our pick like that.
9:42--John Gruden. Too many issues and a year OOF for Mathieu means he will fall. Did you not pay attention to Maurice Clarett's talent and off the field issues, when RB were still getting drafted early? Last pick of round 3. Expecting the same from Mathieu.
9:44--Always great respect to those who serve our nation's country. I don't think that I could personally do that. But respect them for serving the USA, and they deserve respect and honor.
9:45--Time to see who the Vikings want. Probably someone that I want. Sharrif Floyd. Man, I almost forgot that he was still available. Floyd is a good pickup. Surprised he fell so far. Many of the "top" players have fallen. But that was expected as the draft was expected to be all sorts of lopsided.
9:47--I miss the times when there were only 5 players at the draft, because then we wouldn't have to have special on stage moments for all the players, and continue through the draft.
9:49--Got all 6 props right tonight on ESPN's "Streak for the Cash." If only there was an award for performance on that tonight.
9:52--Colts select Bjoern Werner, someone we maybe could have used, but don't think we were targeting.
9:54--Xavier Rhodes CB for Vikings also. I feel like all of the picks in the division are being targeted at us. Go at Rodgers with Ansah (Lions), Block Matthews & Raji with Long (Bears), Rush the pass up the middle with Floyd and a cover corner to go after James Jones with Xavier Rhodes (Vikings)
9:56--Our pick is in but we have to wait for commercials to be over. Packers probably take Datone Jones, but would love Ogletree. I'm pretty happy with the overall feel of how the draft fell to us. Hopkins is still on the board, how high do we have him. Our question will be answered soon.
10:01--Packers select Datone Jones. Had a good feeling about this kid. We keep going back to the Pac-12 for our top picks. Thank you for showing him get a safety against Nebraska (my college team). Love this pick. 19 Tackles for loss last year, 62 tackles, 5.5 Sacks. Welcome to the Packers Datone Jones!!!
10:03--Texans probably taken Hopkins to go across from Johnson. Maybe go with Keenan Allen. Hopkins should be better.
10:06--Just want to give the Texans credit for drafting J.J. Watt 11th overall two years ago. 1 pick after Blaine Gabbert. Further proof that the Jaguars are crazy, but a good pick with Joeckel.
10:08--Any reason that the NFL Network and ESPN can't go to commercial at the same time. Hate waiting for them both to be back for any picks. Can't really do anything about that.
10:09--Finally announcing the Texans pick. Hopkins. Not a shocker. Gets a much better team by the Rams trading up to get Austin. Does a good job of getting open.
10:10--Could very well see the Broncos taking Tank Carradine.
10:11--If the Vikings trade back up to get Manti Te'o, then I think that they are completely ridiculous. 3 first rounders?? But if they give up their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, then I would definitely be alright with that. Less picks for them. Crazy Vikings.
10:13--Side note Memphis and the Clippers with a score of 47-39 at the half. That is definitely some Memphis basketball. They play some ugly games.
10:14--So right now the end of the first round is Rams, Cowboys, and Ravens. Just to be clear, the Cowboys were not in the Super Bowl last year.
10:15--So the Broncos take Sylvester Williams. Another UNC player going in the first round. Seems like it happens all of the time, but they are never a successful college team. So much talent, but almost no wins.
10:17--Sly Williams wouldn't have been a bad pick for us. But he is 24. Glad we didn't go with him just because we can get more years from Datone.
10:18--Vikings have officially traded back in with the Patriots. Can't hardly believe it. It isn't a good move. You don't waste that many draft picks, if that is what they did. If you really like Te'o that much, take him at 23 or 25.
10:19--I guess I should be happy the Vikings are doing this, it just goes against my entire draft philosophy as a Packer fan. Trade down and get more picks. Acquire more talent. Vikings give up 52, 83, 102, 229. Just to get Pick number 29. 2, 3, 4, and 7th rounders. See you again in round 5.
10:21--Just want to give a shoutout and some prayers to the people in Boston having gone through that recent tragedy. Patriots are not an organization I like, I don't even like any Boston teams, but no city or people should have to go through anything like that.
10:24--As an OKC resident that had the 18 year bombing anniversary just 6 days ago. I will not complain about seeing #BostonStrong on the television. Even though I have complained about delays with presenting draft picks tonight.
10:26--Joe Andruzzi the former Patriot announces a Vikings pick. This is completely fine with me still. Good presentation. Play some Sweet Caroline. All good. Can't make any complaints about that.
10:29--Cordarrelle Patterson and not Manti Te'o. Vikings need a WR. Still giving up too many picks for one player. If the Vikings bite this year. They will at least get a good QB in next year's draft.
10:33--Only 3 picks left. That is a good sign since my energy level is dropping. Rams get to make their 2nd pick of this round. If safety is a need for them, take Cyprien from FIU. That would be a strong pick.
10:34--Hoping that Arizona trades up with Baltimore to select Geno Smith from under the Jaguars. Would be a fun way to end round 1.
10:35--Ran into some people from Milwaukee tonight. Loads of fun to meet them. They had a little boy just like I did. Talked to me because I'm a Packers fan. That's just how Packer nation rolls.
10:36--Rams take Alec Ogletree. Another player that fell further than expected. I think that the Rams have had a strong draft tonight. Austin and Ogletree are going to do well together. I think this means that the Cowboys select Menelik Watson. Protect Romo.
10:39--I see that Matt Hasslebeck says he played with Andruzzi on the Packers. Packers have to represent all the time. With so many lineman going in round 1. There might not be as much demand in round 2. Projected Packers picks for round 2 are John Jenkins-NT Georgia. Eddie Lacy or Giovanni Bernard RB.
10:41--See Rodgers is tweeting about Geno hanging in there. "Good things come to those who wait." Love having him as our QB. Again, Pay the man.
10:42--Cowboys only get 31 & 74 for 18. Seems like they got ripped off by the 49ers. Travis Frederick Center from Wisconsin. Cowboys had to be thinking Center when they took that trade. Still seems like a reach to me. But that's because I'm not big on drafting Centers early.
10:44--Ravens take Matt Elam-S Florida. Good pick by the Ravens, which is exactly what you would expect.
10:45--It's been fun ya'll, but I'm out of here. Time for me to head out so that I can get up and go to work in the morning. I've had a lot of fun doing this. Hope that you all enjoy reading it.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
2013 First Round NFL Mock Draft
By: Matt Bove
This is one of the hardest mock drafts I have ever had to do. For what it is worth, the mock draft I posted on this site last season won the NFL.com Predict The Pick Contest, so don't expect it to be any good this year :).
1. Chiefs- Eric Fischer OT Central Michigan- Been announced
2. Jaguars- Dion Jordan OLB Oregon- I think the Jaguars taking Fischer here is a smokescreen. Eugene Monroe is one of the few good players they have and it makes no sense to take a RT in the top 5.
3. Raiders- Luke Joeckel OT Texas A&M- Joeckel will be the pick here, what team picks him is the question
4. Eagles- Lane Johnson LT Oklahoma Johnson is the perfect athlete for Chip Kelly's offense.
5. Lions- Ezekiel Ansah DE BYU- Lions get a replacement for Kyle Vanden Bosch
6. Browns- Barkevious Mingo OLB LSU- The Browns are reportedly hot on Mingo.
7. Cardinals-Star Lotulelei DT Utah- Best player available for the Cardinals
8. Bills- Ryan Nassib QB Syracuse- A terrible pick, but it sounds like the Bills are desperate for a QB and want Nassib.
9. Jets- Tavon Austin WR West Virginia- The Jets need playmakers
10. Titans- Sharif Floyd DT Florida- Titans pick up a good value in Floyd
11. Chargers- Chance Warmack- Chargers offensive line was a disaster last season.
12. Dolphins- Jonathan Cooper G North Carolina- Cooper is on the rise and there is talk of him going ahead of Warmack.
13. Jets- Dee Milliner CB Alabama- Milliner falls here because of medical concerns and Rex Ryan loves corners.
14. Panthers- Sheldon Richardson DT Missouri- The Panthers need to improve up the middle and Richardson is a good value.
15. Saints- Kenny Vaccaro S Texas- The Saints need to upgrade their secondary and Vaccaro is the best safety in the draft.
16. Rams- Alec Ogletree ILB Georgia- The Rams need help at LB and Jeff Fischer is not afraid of character risks.
17. Steelers- Jarvis Jones OLB Georgia- The Steelers get a steal in Jones to replace James Harrison.
18. Cowboys- D.J. Fluker OT Alabama- There is talk of Fluker going higher but not a lot of landing spots in the teens for him.
19. Giants- Tank Carradine DE Florida State- The Giants always want pass rushers and Justin Tuck looked like he was getting old last season.
20. Bears- Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame- Eifert would cause huge matchup problems up the seam with teams focusing on Brandon Marshall.
21. Bengals- Eric Reid S LSU- The Bengals like big school prospects so they go with Reid over Jonathan Cyprien.
22. Rams- DeAndre Hopkins WR Clemson- Sam Bradford needs playmakers to help him.
23. Vikings- Sylvester Williams DT North Carolina- All key contributors to the Vikins defensive line are free agents next year.
24. Colts- D.J. Hayden CB Houston- Hayden is one of the big risers of the draft right now.
25. Vikings- Manti Te'o MLB Notre Dame- The Vikings' interest in Te'o has been one of the worst kept secrets of the draft.
26. Packers- Datone Jones DE UCLA- The Packers are thrilled to have Jones fall in their laps to help their defensive line.
27. Texans- Justin Hunter WR Tennessee- The Texans need a wide receiver opposite Andre Johnson and Hunter has had a lot of first round buzz surrounding him.
28. Broncos- Bjoern Werner DE Florida St.- With Elvis Dumervill gone the Broncos need somebody opposite Von Miller.
29. Patriots- Xavier Rhodes CB Florida St.- Rhodes falls all the way to the Patriots and they need secondary help.
30. Falcons- Desmond Trufant CB Washington- The Falcons need a CB in a big way and Trufant is good value.
31. 49ers- Jonathan Cyprien S FIU- A replacement for Dashon Goldson.
32. Ravens- Arthur Brown ILB Kansas State- A replacement for Ray Lewis.
This is one of the hardest mock drafts I have ever had to do. For what it is worth, the mock draft I posted on this site last season won the NFL.com Predict The Pick Contest, so don't expect it to be any good this year :).
1. Chiefs- Eric Fischer OT Central Michigan- Been announced
2. Jaguars- Dion Jordan OLB Oregon- I think the Jaguars taking Fischer here is a smokescreen. Eugene Monroe is one of the few good players they have and it makes no sense to take a RT in the top 5.
3. Raiders- Luke Joeckel OT Texas A&M- Joeckel will be the pick here, what team picks him is the question
4. Eagles- Lane Johnson LT Oklahoma Johnson is the perfect athlete for Chip Kelly's offense.
5. Lions- Ezekiel Ansah DE BYU- Lions get a replacement for Kyle Vanden Bosch
6. Browns- Barkevious Mingo OLB LSU- The Browns are reportedly hot on Mingo.
7. Cardinals-Star Lotulelei DT Utah- Best player available for the Cardinals
8. Bills- Ryan Nassib QB Syracuse- A terrible pick, but it sounds like the Bills are desperate for a QB and want Nassib.
9. Jets- Tavon Austin WR West Virginia- The Jets need playmakers
10. Titans- Sharif Floyd DT Florida- Titans pick up a good value in Floyd
11. Chargers- Chance Warmack- Chargers offensive line was a disaster last season.
12. Dolphins- Jonathan Cooper G North Carolina- Cooper is on the rise and there is talk of him going ahead of Warmack.
13. Jets- Dee Milliner CB Alabama- Milliner falls here because of medical concerns and Rex Ryan loves corners.
14. Panthers- Sheldon Richardson DT Missouri- The Panthers need to improve up the middle and Richardson is a good value.
15. Saints- Kenny Vaccaro S Texas- The Saints need to upgrade their secondary and Vaccaro is the best safety in the draft.
16. Rams- Alec Ogletree ILB Georgia- The Rams need help at LB and Jeff Fischer is not afraid of character risks.
17. Steelers- Jarvis Jones OLB Georgia- The Steelers get a steal in Jones to replace James Harrison.
18. Cowboys- D.J. Fluker OT Alabama- There is talk of Fluker going higher but not a lot of landing spots in the teens for him.
19. Giants- Tank Carradine DE Florida State- The Giants always want pass rushers and Justin Tuck looked like he was getting old last season.
20. Bears- Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame- Eifert would cause huge matchup problems up the seam with teams focusing on Brandon Marshall.
21. Bengals- Eric Reid S LSU- The Bengals like big school prospects so they go with Reid over Jonathan Cyprien.
22. Rams- DeAndre Hopkins WR Clemson- Sam Bradford needs playmakers to help him.
23. Vikings- Sylvester Williams DT North Carolina- All key contributors to the Vikins defensive line are free agents next year.
24. Colts- D.J. Hayden CB Houston- Hayden is one of the big risers of the draft right now.
25. Vikings- Manti Te'o MLB Notre Dame- The Vikings' interest in Te'o has been one of the worst kept secrets of the draft.
26. Packers- Datone Jones DE UCLA- The Packers are thrilled to have Jones fall in their laps to help their defensive line.
27. Texans- Justin Hunter WR Tennessee- The Texans need a wide receiver opposite Andre Johnson and Hunter has had a lot of first round buzz surrounding him.
28. Broncos- Bjoern Werner DE Florida St.- With Elvis Dumervill gone the Broncos need somebody opposite Von Miller.
29. Patriots- Xavier Rhodes CB Florida St.- Rhodes falls all the way to the Patriots and they need secondary help.
30. Falcons- Desmond Trufant CB Washington- The Falcons need a CB in a big way and Trufant is good value.
31. 49ers- Jonathan Cyprien S FIU- A replacement for Dashon Goldson.
32. Ravens- Arthur Brown ILB Kansas State- A replacement for Ray Lewis.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Packers Draft Pick Possibilities at #26
By: Matt Bove
It will be really hard to nail the Packers pick this year, as this draft will be so unpredictable and the Packers have many needs, but not a huge glaring one. These are the players I think have the best chance of being selected by the Packers at #26 if they do not trade the pick. I would imagine that the Packers would loved to trade down in this draft, although the majority of teams would like to as well, which will make it hard.
1. Datone Jones DE UCLA- The Packers biggest need is the defensive line and Jones would provide immediate help there. He is a powerful five-technique player who played in the 3-4 at UCLA. Jones had a stellar season last year notching six sacks and 17.5 tackles for losses, while earning all-conference honors. His strengths are his long arms and his bulk. He is great at using his hands when pass rushing and has shown an array of pass rushing moves, along with an impressive bull rush. Also, Jones is quick for his size. At only 284 pounds, Jones will need to bulk up a little to handle base 3-4 defensive end responsibilities, but that should not be a big issue. The big question is whether Jones will be there at #26 for the Packers or not. The Colts at #24 might present a problem there.
2. Matt Elam S Florida- The Packers want to get more physical and Elam, despite being only 5'10", would certainly help that. Elam is a violent and explosive wrecking ball at safety. He is at his best around the line of scrimmage making plays against the run, blitzing and packing a punch with his hits. Showed a good ability to cover slot wide receivers, but covering big tight ends might be an issue for him due to his size. Elam also played some deep single high safety to show his versatility at Florida and has the speed to be able to do that. Sometimes, he is overaggressive and gets burned deep. He would be a perfect compliment to Morgan Burnett, who would be able to handle the deep coverage at free safety, giving Elam the ability to make plays at the line of scrimmage.
3. Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame- I would not expect Eifert to be available at #26 for the Packers, but if he is Ted Thompson would have a tough time passing him up, as he is far and away the best tight end prospect in this class. Eifert fits the mold of what the position is becoming in the NFL perfectly. He can line up as an outside receiver slot receiver or tight end, so he is extremely versatile. Eifert is just a beast at 6'6" and 250 pounds, and he ran a 4.65 40 yard dash and had a 35.50" vertical leap. Possess extremely strong hands and made amazing catches in traffic at Notre Dame. Very fluid and smooth as a route runner and will stretch the field vertically with his great speed for a tight end. Great at jump balls and will just go up and snatch the ball out of the air with those strong hands. He is great at a gaining position for those passes and making adjustments in mid-air. Eifert is a willing blocker and improved greatly in that area during his senior season at Notre Dame, even though he still has room to grow in that area.
4. Eric Reid S LSU- Reid has elite size at 6'1" and 213 pounds. Just a prototype frame for a safety. He has elite athleticism and is another hard hitting safety that would add physicality to the Packers defense. Has great read-and-react ability and great closing speed. Reid can play in the box or deep in center field. Plays downhill and will lay huge hits on receivers. Reid's aggressiveness is great, but it will need to be toned down in the NFL, as it often burned him at LSU. He had a few too many coverage breakdown and can be a little stiff in coverage.
5. Jonathan Cyprien S FIU- Ted Thompson has not been afraid to pick small school safeties in the past, and
Cyprien certainly fits that bill. He has been rising up draft boards ever since the Senior Bowl with good reason. He has great versatility, as Cyprien has a great combination of physicality and athleticism, so he can play at either strong or free safety. The Packers should like that because they like to use both safety positions interchangeably. Has sideline to sideline range and is aggressive in hitting people at line of scrimmage. Like Elam and Reid, Cyprien loves to hit people and would bring some much needed physicality to the defense. He is a very vocal player on the field and brings great passion to the game. Concerns are about his level of competition and his straight line speed.
6. D.J. Fluker OT Alabama- Fluker is projected at right tackle in the NFL so Bryan Bulaga would have to move over to the left side if Fluker were drafted. However, I would be pretty surprised if Fluker was still around at #26. A massive human at 6'5" 339 pounds, he would immediately upgrade the Packers run game. His size and power make him an outstanding run blocker, but there are questions about whether Fluker will be able to handle the athletic speed rushers in the NFL, which is why him having to play guard is not out of the question. Fluker would be a different kind of lineman than the Packers have right now, and if he can hold up in pass protection he would be great for them. However, considering how much the Packers pass the ball, Fluker would be a big risk for them.
7. Eddie Lacy RB Alabama- Lacy is falling down draft boards due to an awful workout, but he still has great film. Lacy is a player who the Packers probably would not take at #26, but only if they traded down into the second round, which is a distinct possibility. Lacy would bring the physicality that the Packers have been lacking at running back for awhile now. He is a great between the tackles runner and would solve a lot of Green Bay's 3rd-and-short woes. Certainly not one of the more elusive running backs you will ever see, but he is a bull running through tackles and has enough elusiveness to get by with that. His one trademark elusive move is his spin move, which he made tacklers in college look foolish on. Lacy will always fall forward and has great balance. Also, he has only 355 career carries in college, while a lot of the other running backs in this draft were way overworked in college.
8. Jesse Williams DL Alabama- At 6'4" 323 pounds Williams is another massive player from Alabama. He is as strong as an ox, as his 600 pound bench press would indicate. Williams, Raji, and Pickett would give the Packers a gigantic line to play against the run, and they could matchup up well against huge offensive lines like San Francisco for example. His game is build around his power and he will be able take on double teams with ease. Will battle and hustle on every play. The problem with Williams is that he provides next to nothing against the pass, and in today's NFL he might not be worth a first round pick because of it.
9. Alec Ogletree ILB Georgia- Inside linebacker is not a huge need for the Packers, but injury concerns with Desmond Bishop and D.J. Smith make it not impossible for the Packers to use a first round pick on one, although that player would have to be rated well above everybody else available. Ogletree is an extremely talented player who comes with major off the field issues. A former safety, Ogletree has outstanding athleticism and the ability to make plays sideline to sideline. Very good in coverage and does not shy away from making the big hit. Struggles to take on and get off of blocks, which might make him a better 4-3 OLB than a 3-4 ILB, although he is a very good blitzer from the inside spot.
10. Arthur Brown ILB Kansas State- Like Ogletree, Brown would have to be by far the best player available for the Packers to take him at #26 with their depth at ILB. Brown is on the small side at 6'1" and 241 pounds, but he makes up for it with his instincts. Is great at diagnosing plays quickly and not taking false steps. Has great athleticism and fluidity in coverage. Also, Brown is very adept at timing his blitzes. Might have a tough time playing inside in the NFL due to his lack of size.
It will be really hard to nail the Packers pick this year, as this draft will be so unpredictable and the Packers have many needs, but not a huge glaring one. These are the players I think have the best chance of being selected by the Packers at #26 if they do not trade the pick. I would imagine that the Packers would loved to trade down in this draft, although the majority of teams would like to as well, which will make it hard.
1. Datone Jones DE UCLA- The Packers biggest need is the defensive line and Jones would provide immediate help there. He is a powerful five-technique player who played in the 3-4 at UCLA. Jones had a stellar season last year notching six sacks and 17.5 tackles for losses, while earning all-conference honors. His strengths are his long arms and his bulk. He is great at using his hands when pass rushing and has shown an array of pass rushing moves, along with an impressive bull rush. Also, Jones is quick for his size. At only 284 pounds, Jones will need to bulk up a little to handle base 3-4 defensive end responsibilities, but that should not be a big issue. The big question is whether Jones will be there at #26 for the Packers or not. The Colts at #24 might present a problem there.
2. Matt Elam S Florida- The Packers want to get more physical and Elam, despite being only 5'10", would certainly help that. Elam is a violent and explosive wrecking ball at safety. He is at his best around the line of scrimmage making plays against the run, blitzing and packing a punch with his hits. Showed a good ability to cover slot wide receivers, but covering big tight ends might be an issue for him due to his size. Elam also played some deep single high safety to show his versatility at Florida and has the speed to be able to do that. Sometimes, he is overaggressive and gets burned deep. He would be a perfect compliment to Morgan Burnett, who would be able to handle the deep coverage at free safety, giving Elam the ability to make plays at the line of scrimmage.
3. Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame- I would not expect Eifert to be available at #26 for the Packers, but if he is Ted Thompson would have a tough time passing him up, as he is far and away the best tight end prospect in this class. Eifert fits the mold of what the position is becoming in the NFL perfectly. He can line up as an outside receiver slot receiver or tight end, so he is extremely versatile. Eifert is just a beast at 6'6" and 250 pounds, and he ran a 4.65 40 yard dash and had a 35.50" vertical leap. Possess extremely strong hands and made amazing catches in traffic at Notre Dame. Very fluid and smooth as a route runner and will stretch the field vertically with his great speed for a tight end. Great at jump balls and will just go up and snatch the ball out of the air with those strong hands. He is great at a gaining position for those passes and making adjustments in mid-air. Eifert is a willing blocker and improved greatly in that area during his senior season at Notre Dame, even though he still has room to grow in that area.
4. Eric Reid S LSU- Reid has elite size at 6'1" and 213 pounds. Just a prototype frame for a safety. He has elite athleticism and is another hard hitting safety that would add physicality to the Packers defense. Has great read-and-react ability and great closing speed. Reid can play in the box or deep in center field. Plays downhill and will lay huge hits on receivers. Reid's aggressiveness is great, but it will need to be toned down in the NFL, as it often burned him at LSU. He had a few too many coverage breakdown and can be a little stiff in coverage.
5. Jonathan Cyprien S FIU- Ted Thompson has not been afraid to pick small school safeties in the past, and
Cyprien certainly fits that bill. He has been rising up draft boards ever since the Senior Bowl with good reason. He has great versatility, as Cyprien has a great combination of physicality and athleticism, so he can play at either strong or free safety. The Packers should like that because they like to use both safety positions interchangeably. Has sideline to sideline range and is aggressive in hitting people at line of scrimmage. Like Elam and Reid, Cyprien loves to hit people and would bring some much needed physicality to the defense. He is a very vocal player on the field and brings great passion to the game. Concerns are about his level of competition and his straight line speed.
6. D.J. Fluker OT Alabama- Fluker is projected at right tackle in the NFL so Bryan Bulaga would have to move over to the left side if Fluker were drafted. However, I would be pretty surprised if Fluker was still around at #26. A massive human at 6'5" 339 pounds, he would immediately upgrade the Packers run game. His size and power make him an outstanding run blocker, but there are questions about whether Fluker will be able to handle the athletic speed rushers in the NFL, which is why him having to play guard is not out of the question. Fluker would be a different kind of lineman than the Packers have right now, and if he can hold up in pass protection he would be great for them. However, considering how much the Packers pass the ball, Fluker would be a big risk for them.
7. Eddie Lacy RB Alabama- Lacy is falling down draft boards due to an awful workout, but he still has great film. Lacy is a player who the Packers probably would not take at #26, but only if they traded down into the second round, which is a distinct possibility. Lacy would bring the physicality that the Packers have been lacking at running back for awhile now. He is a great between the tackles runner and would solve a lot of Green Bay's 3rd-and-short woes. Certainly not one of the more elusive running backs you will ever see, but he is a bull running through tackles and has enough elusiveness to get by with that. His one trademark elusive move is his spin move, which he made tacklers in college look foolish on. Lacy will always fall forward and has great balance. Also, he has only 355 career carries in college, while a lot of the other running backs in this draft were way overworked in college.
8. Jesse Williams DL Alabama- At 6'4" 323 pounds Williams is another massive player from Alabama. He is as strong as an ox, as his 600 pound bench press would indicate. Williams, Raji, and Pickett would give the Packers a gigantic line to play against the run, and they could matchup up well against huge offensive lines like San Francisco for example. His game is build around his power and he will be able take on double teams with ease. Will battle and hustle on every play. The problem with Williams is that he provides next to nothing against the pass, and in today's NFL he might not be worth a first round pick because of it.
9. Alec Ogletree ILB Georgia- Inside linebacker is not a huge need for the Packers, but injury concerns with Desmond Bishop and D.J. Smith make it not impossible for the Packers to use a first round pick on one, although that player would have to be rated well above everybody else available. Ogletree is an extremely talented player who comes with major off the field issues. A former safety, Ogletree has outstanding athleticism and the ability to make plays sideline to sideline. Very good in coverage and does not shy away from making the big hit. Struggles to take on and get off of blocks, which might make him a better 4-3 OLB than a 3-4 ILB, although he is a very good blitzer from the inside spot.
10. Arthur Brown ILB Kansas State- Like Ogletree, Brown would have to be by far the best player available for the Packers to take him at #26 with their depth at ILB. Brown is on the small side at 6'1" and 241 pounds, but he makes up for it with his instincts. Is great at diagnosing plays quickly and not taking false steps. Has great athleticism and fluidity in coverage. Also, Brown is very adept at timing his blitzes. Might have a tough time playing inside in the NFL due to his lack of size.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Packers and Clay Matthew Agree On Extension
By: Matt Bove
After weeks of speculation, the Packers have signed one of their two superstars to a mega contract.
According to The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Tom Silverstein, the Packers and linebacker Clay Matthews have reached an agreement on a five-year extension worth $66 million, which will make Matthews the highest paid linebacker in the league, surpassing Demarcus Ware. Matthews tweeted out a photo of himself signing the contract extension with the team.
"Trivial amongst the most recent trivial news, but happy to continue my career in Green Bay." Matthews wrote.
The Packers traded up to the 26th overall pick to select Matthews out of Southern California in the 2009 NFL Draft. In four seasons with the Packers, Matthews has 42.5 sacks, seven forced fumbles and four interceptions.
"Clay has been a productive member of our team and we are pleased to be able to come to an agreement that will extend his Packers career," Packers GM Ted Thompson told Tom Silverstein.
Matthews was heading into the final year of his rookie deal and was scheduled to make $.373 million, so the Packers urgently needed to sign him long term to avoid having him hit the open market. Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers will likely be next to sign a mega deal that makes him the highest paid player in NFL history.
This five-year extension is in addition to the year remaining on Matthews' original deal, which means that Matthews is now signed through the 2018 season.
After weeks of speculation, the Packers have signed one of their two superstars to a mega contract.
According to The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Tom Silverstein, the Packers and linebacker Clay Matthews have reached an agreement on a five-year extension worth $66 million, which will make Matthews the highest paid linebacker in the league, surpassing Demarcus Ware. Matthews tweeted out a photo of himself signing the contract extension with the team.
"Trivial amongst the most recent trivial news, but happy to continue my career in Green Bay." Matthews wrote.
The Packers traded up to the 26th overall pick to select Matthews out of Southern California in the 2009 NFL Draft. In four seasons with the Packers, Matthews has 42.5 sacks, seven forced fumbles and four interceptions.
"Clay has been a productive member of our team and we are pleased to be able to come to an agreement that will extend his Packers career," Packers GM Ted Thompson told Tom Silverstein.
Matthews was heading into the final year of his rookie deal and was scheduled to make $.373 million, so the Packers urgently needed to sign him long term to avoid having him hit the open market. Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers will likely be next to sign a mega deal that makes him the highest paid player in NFL history.
This five-year extension is in addition to the year remaining on Matthews' original deal, which means that Matthews is now signed through the 2018 season.
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