***CowboysZone Draft Reminder***

[Avery]

Big thanks to the moderators and for everyone overall getting their picks in.

[robert70x7]

Colts on the clock?

[Risen Star]

We have to wait until the thread is open.

[robert70x7]

IT'S OPEN! And we're off....

[Joe Rod]

Ben Jones is a good pick for Indy, but I can see why Oh_Canada wanted to move back a little last night.

[robert70x7]

Ben Jones is a good pick for Indy, but I can see why Oh_Canada wanted to move back a little last night.

I tried offering him a 6th and 7th next year to move back to 71, he wouldn't do it. And that's why, wanted Charles.

[Hostile]

See how fast it moves when people send us lists?

[robert70x7]

See how fast it moves when people send us lists?

So ya'll made the Charles pick? I messaged each owner about trading up, no response.

[Oh_Canada]

I tried offering him a 6th and 7th next year to move back to 71, he wouldn't do it. And that's why, wanted Charles.

Charles was my second pick.....and I knew he wouldn't last...so I decided to hold on to the pick and help my QB out ;-)
Thanks again for the offer.

[Risen Star]

Waiting on Washington.

[TheCount]

So ya'll made the Charles pick? I messaged each owner about trading up, no response.

I sent a list in last night. I don't think I received a message from you about trading up... there was another player I may have been happy with if I could have gotten picks in return...


Also, how many rounds are we doing? Just the 4?

[robert70x7]

I sent a list in last night. I don't think I received a message from you about trading up... there was another player I may have been happy with if I could have gotten picks in return...

No worries.

[garrett316]

looking to trade down. anyone want 75?

[Risen Star]

I sent a list in last night. I don't think I received a message from you about trading up... there was another player I may have been happy with if I could have gotten picks in return...


Also, how many rounds are we doing? Just the 4?

Yeah 4 rounds.

[robert70x7]

Would love to see Brandon Brooks go to the Cowboys here.

[supercowboy8]

Would love to see Brandon Brooks go to the Cowboys here.

if he doesn't then Philly will take him

[supercowboy8]

wow I don't want to be mean to anyone here but I hate the cowboys draft if this is the way it plays out.

Kirkpatrick
Curry
Brewster

[robert70x7]

wow I don't want to be mean to anyone here but I hate the cowboys draft if this is the way it plays out.

Kirkpatrick
Curry
Brewster

That's what the grading process is for.... :D

[ABQcowboyJR]

I'm not so high on brewster but I love the first two cowboy picks

[supercowboy8]

I'm not so high on brewster but I love the first two cowboy picks

I don't Kirkpatrick is way to slow to play man in the NFL.
Curry is a good DE but I can't see him playing the strong side haing to cover and stuff the run. Curry looks like just a pass rusher. We have Butler for that.
Brewster is just another weak center that can't anchor.

I give it a D so far.

[TheCount]

I don't Kirkpatrick is way to slow to play man in the NFL.
Curry is a good DE but I can't see him playing the strong side haing to cover and stuff the run. Curry looks like just a pass rusher. We have Butler for that.
Brewster is just another weak center that can't anchor.

I give it a D so far.

Who would you have taken at each spot?

[robert70x7]

Who would you have taken at each spot?

1. Jenkins/Kuechly/Upshaw
2. Crick/Boykin/Hosley
3. Brooks/Robinson/Bequette

[supercowboy8]

Who would you have taken at each spot?
If the draft would have played out this way I would have traded back in the first and picked up a 2nd and draft Hightower.

If I couldn't have traded back and the draft played out this way.
1st round give me Upshaw, Gleen, or Jenkins
2nd round if I took Upshaw give me Hosley, Boykin, Silatolu,
2nd round if I took Gleen give me Hosley, Boykin, Branch, Jones I don't hate the Curry pick overall but he's going to take a while and may never develop into a 3-4 SOLB
2nd round if I take Jenkins, I would take Branch, Silatolu, Jones

3rd round Brooks if I haveing take a OG yet, Bruce Irvin if I needed a pass rusher, Dwight Bentley if I was looking for a CB.

Most lekely my three picks if I couldn't trade would be
Upshaw
Boykin
Brooks

I just don't like the Kirkpatrick and Brewster picks. I would hope Kirkpatrick can turn into a good FS.

[supercowboy8]

1. Jenkins/Kuechly/Upshaw
2. Crick/Boykin/Hosley
3. Brooks/Robinson/Bequette

pretty much this

[JonJon]

1. Jenkins/Kuechly/Upshaw
2. Crick/Boykin/Hosley
3. Brooks/Robinson/Bequette
That's what I would have done, but each GM has a different strategy. We will have the grading period to dissect everyone's moves...There are some teams coming away with some very good drafts and some teams that are leaving a lot to be desired, but this is how it is every year in the real nfl.

[robert70x7]

That's what I would have done, but each GM has a different strategy. We will have the grading period to dissect everyone's moves...There are some teams coming away with some very good drafts and some teams that are leaving a lot to be desired, but this is how it is every year in the real nfl.

The main problem that I am running into with the Jaguars is no free agency period to see them getting 1 or 2 WRs coming in. I haven't found value at any picks for WRs, except for maybe Sanu in the 2nd and I wanted to go offensive line.

I think this has to be taken into consideration and it really is subjective. I fully expect to get slammed for not taking any skill players yet for Gabbert, but I like my draft and feel like I've stuck to a Gene Smith type philosophy. Others will feel differently.

[ABQcowboyJR]

It was nice to get the rams cause its pretty much bpa at any position. Just acquire talent.

[robert70x7]

It was nice to get the rams cause its pretty much bpa at any position. Just acquire talent.

What'd you see in Kelemete over Brooks?

[ABQcowboyJR]

What'd you see in Kelemete over Brooks?

Honestly I had them graded pretty equally. Almost a toss up. Lol funny you picked the one pick were I deviated from bpa. If I had stayed bpa I would have drafted alameda.

[ABQcowboyJR]

And I felt brooks struggled a little more than senio.

[robert70x7]

Honestly I had them graded pretty equally. Almost a toss up. Lol funny you picked the one pick were I deviated from bpa. If I had stayed bpa I would have drafted alameda.

And I ended up taking him.

Based on my board, you got value in Brown and equal slot value with Zach Brown. One of my co-workers is a huge Rams fan, so I'll run the picks by him when we're done. The drop off Osemele/Washington/Zeitler is pretty big.

And I felt brooks struggled a little more than senio.

Fair enough. I don't watch a lot of college football until bowl season and leading up to the draft, so I have to take a very objective look at players. Imperfect science.

[JonJon]

The main problem that I am running into with the Jaguars is no free agency period to see them getting 1 or 2 WRs coming in. I haven't found value at any picks for WRs, except for maybe Sanu in the 2nd and I wanted to go offensive line.

I think this has to be taken into consideration and it really is subjective. I fully expect to get slammed for not taking any skill players yet for Gabbert, but I like my draft and feel like I've stuck to a Gene Smith type philosophy. Others will feel differently.

Yeah Jacksonville is in a tough spot. They need a dominant WR, but this class is a little weak outside of Blackmon. The best thing J'ville can do is try to trade back and pick up a WR like Floyd or Wright later in the first. The only problem is finding a trade partner.

[robert70x7]

Yeah Jacksonville is in a tough spot. They need a dominant WR, but this class is a little week outside of Blackmon. The best thing J'ville can do is try to trade back and pick up a WR like Floyd or Wright later in the first. The only problem is finding a trade partner.

I didn't want to badger people with trades. I had Orson Charles one spot ahead of Ta'Amu and I would've loved to pick him up. Didn't work hard enough I guess. I also tried trading back in to get Jeffery. I just don't think a lot of people would have wanted to trade up to get Richardson, and Dallas wouldn't want to trade up to get DeCastro.

I do expect J'Ville to sign one of the top wide receivers in free agency, maybe too. Or at least I have to tell myself that to justify the picks that I am making.

[Joe Rod]

The main problem that I am running into with the Jaguars is no free agency period to see them getting 1 or 2 WRs coming in. I haven't found value at any picks for WRs, except for maybe Sanu in the 2nd and I wanted to go offensive line.

I think this has to be taken into consideration and it really is subjective. I fully expect to get slammed for not taking any skill players yet for Gabbert, but I like my draft and feel like I've stuck to a Gene Smith type philosophy. Others will feel differently.

I had the same problem with OT for the Bears. Since the draft was pretty deep at the WR position in round two, I was going to take Mike Adams with my first pick. Then the Chargers went and nabbed right before my pick. I ended up swinging a trade with the Bills to move back up in the second round to grab Zebrie Sanders. I really didn't want to trade up, but the Bears are really hurting and it seemed pretty realistic given that two draft sites had the Chiefs nabbing Sanders with their number two just a few spots after.

Luckily, Casmith agreed to a pretty reasonable trade and it did not keep me from grabbing the db that I was targeting.

This has actually been a good experience. I would love to stage another one closer to the draft.

[JonJon]

The thing is, you can't really go wrong with a team like Jax because they have so many holes. You can't fix that team in one draft so you did good taking the BPA. I do think they will get a receiver in FA...hopefully they stay away from Robinson and go after someone like Dwayne Bowe.

[Joe Rod]

The thing is, you can't really go wrong with a team like Jax because they have so many holes. You can't fix that team in one draft so you did good taking the BPA. I do think they will get a receiver in FA...hopefully they stay away from Robinson and go after someone like Dwayne Bowe.

They need a lot, that's for sure. They can't count on MJD to repeat last season. That was an unreal performance considering the Jags faced 8-9 man fronts in the box each game. Other teams had no fear of that passing game.

[ABQCOWBOY]

I feel a Texas player coming on here.

[robert70x7]

I'm trying to trade up. Want to go a 7th rounder if anyone is willing before 101.

[BraveHeartFan]

Blame New England. This is the 2nd time he's held us up.

Just send in a list of ten or so players. I wouldn't wait up.


Yeah sorry I don't have the time or ability to just sit on my butt next to a computer for your convience.


I don't do lists cause I like to do things in a certain way. Won't matter either way. I had a good time but I won't bother with something like this again because of this type of attitude.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Yeah sorry I don't have the time or ability to just sit on my butt next to a computer for your convience.


I don't do lists cause I like to do things in a certain way. Won't matter either way. I had a good time but I won't bother with something like this again because of this type of attitude.

Sounds as if that is a wise course of action. Let me just say, having done this kind of thing once or twice, it's not easy to do this. It's not easy to administrate this entire thing. I appreciate the time and effort Risen and Hos. I think you guys have done a great job with this.

Thank you both!

[TheDallasDon]

Sounds as if that is a wise course of action. Let me just say, having done this kind of thing once or twice, it's not easy to do this. It's not easy to administrate this entire thing. I appreciate the time and effort Risen and Hos. I think you guys have done a great job with this.

Thank you both!

Agree

Thanks guys

[Risen Star]

Yeah sorry I don't have the time or ability to just sit on my butt next to a computer for your convience.


I don't do lists cause I like to do things in a certain way. Won't matter either way. I had a good time but I won't bother with something like this again because of this type of attitude.

That's fine. Every year we have one baby such as yourself who thinks the clock doesn't pertain to him.

Hostile gave you that extra time. If it were up to me, I'd have removed you the moment you threatened to quit.

[BraveHeartFan]

Sounds as if that is a wise course of action. Let me just say, having done this kind of thing once or twice, it's not easy to do this. It's not easy to administrate this entire thing. I appreciate the time and effort Risen and Hos. I think you guys have done a great job with this.

Thank you both!

Yeah they've done a fine job.

I'm sure it's very hard. I just don't appreciate comments like that, especially when I went long periods of time between picks and i wasn't on here complaining about that or the fact that I couldn't just be tied down to a computer so that I'd be there when the picks finally rolled in to my turn.

When you do something like this part of the process is simply going to be waiting.

But, hey, it's all good. It was a pretty good time and I enjoyed it.

[BraveHeartFan]

That's fine. Every year we have one baby such as yourself who thinks the clock doesn't pertain to him.

Hostile gave you that extra time. If it were up to me, I'd have removed you the moment you threatened to quit.


Awesome.

Good to know. Thanks.

[ABQcowboyJR]

Either way it went pretty fast. Just had to have my trusty smart phone and a good draft plan.

[Hostile]

Guys, we don't need the bad blood. It's working fine. Let's keep going.

[Risen Star]

I hate making picks for people. But there's really no other option if they aren't around and don't send in a list.

[Risen Star]

Guys, we don't need the bad blood. It's working fine. Let's keep going.

I think most had a good time.

I love to look at where they do end up going in the draft and then, of course, 3 or 4 years later when you really see who did well and who didn't.

[BraveHeartFan]

I've had a great time. There is no bad blood for me on any of it. It is what it is and I've personally enjoyed it.

[robert70x7]

Is this the 2nd time theogt has been out?

[Hostile]

Is this the 2nd time theogt has been out?No. He made the other picks. He may be in trial this morning.

[robert70x7]

No. He made the other picks. He may be in trial this morning.

Oh okay. I'm getting antsy. If my player is there, it'll be the quickest pick as of yet.

[Hostile]

Oh okay. I'm getting antsy. If my player is there, it'll be the quickest pick as of yet.
I love hearing that.

I have to help a friend in a few minutes. He needs some firewood. So everyone please send all picks to Risen Star until I reply here and you know I am back.

[Risen Star]

Is this the 2nd time theogt has been out?

He sent a short list to me but there are no players left on it.

[ABQcowboyJR]

I'm anxious too. Last pick about to start my eval of my own draft.

[MichaelWinicki]

I've had a great time. There is no bad blood for me on any of it. It is what it is and I've personally enjoyed it.

Hey BraveHeat... Yeah doing a list sorta sucks but even if you don't have a list just letting one of the draft admins know that you're looking for say the top-rated CB or DT and they'll take it from there.

[BraveHeartFan]

Hey BraveHeat... Yeah doing a list sorta sucks but even if you don't have a list just letting one of the draft admins know that you're looking for say the top-rated CB or DT and they'll take it from there.


Yeah. I just suck with the list thing cause I have no idea who is or isnt' going to be there and I didn't know if they wanted a huge list.


It's all good either way. He made one pick last night for me that I had changed, and I wasn't quitting as indicated cause he made a pick, just seemed like he went awful quick from the time I got my reminder from Hos to me seeing he'd picked. He probably had to wait longer on me than I realised at the time so that's my bad.

[Hostile]

Yeah. I just suck with the list thing cause I have no idea who is or isnt' going to be there and I didn't know if they wanted a huge list.


It's all good either way. He made one pick last night for me that I had changed, and I wasn't quitting as indicated cause he made a pick, just seemed like he went awful quick from the time I got my reminder from Hos to me seeing he'd picked. He probably had to wait longer on me than I realised at the time so that's my bad.Blame me for that. I made a mistake on someone else's pick and gave you bad info. I thought you had gone to bed for the night. My suggestion was to make the picks and let you change yours this morning if you so wished.

My fault entirely.

[BraveHeartFan]

Blame me for that. I made a mistake on someone else's pick and gave you bad info. I thought you had gone to bed for the night. My suggestion was to make the picks and let you change yours this morning if you so wished.

My fault entirely.


Nah we're all good man. It's all good. I should have paid a little more attention and guys wouldn't have had to wait quite so long on those two picks yesterday.

I'll take the blame for it cause i dropped the ball on it.

[Risen Star]

Hey BraveHeat... Yeah doing a list sorta sucks but even if you don't have a list just letting one of the draft admins know that you're looking for say the top-rated CB or DT and they'll take it from there.

I hated all your picks, Mike. It's an F- from Kansas City. :)

[robert70x7]

I've been evaluating as I go along. I'm doing a subjective grade and then one based on my BPA from my board. I should have it up pretty soon once the draft is over.

[Risen Star]

I've been evaluating as I go along. I'm doing a subjective grade and then one based on my BPA from my board. I should have it up pretty soon once the draft is over.

You might want to wait on that until everybody's sent in their grades to me.

Your call.

[JonJon]

This is my first time participating (hope it won't be the last) but I've enjoyed everything. It also went faster than I expected, because I know everyone can't be on the computer all day. It just so happens that I work at a computer so it wasn't a big deal for me.

[robert70x7]

You might want to wait on that until everybody's sent in their grades to me.

Your call.

Yeah, I was going to put that disclaimer in. Have people really graded poorly because of comments?

[MichaelWinicki]

I hated all your picks, Mike. It's an F- from Kansas City. :)

Some things never change. :p:

[Risen Star]

Yeah, I was going to put that disclaimer in. Have people really graded poorly because of comments?

Well, you could never prove that but I've seen people argue about picks during the draft and then those same guys give each other horrible grades in the report card.

[ABQcowboyJR]

This is my first time participating (hope it won't be the last) but I've enjoyed everything. It also went faster than I expected, because I know everyone can't be on the computer all day. It just so happens that I work at a computer so it wasn't a big deal for me.
Yeah it was my first draft like this on a board. I really enjoyed it. It also helped that I got a team that had high picks in each round. It made the whole experience more fun I'm sure.

[ABQCOWBOY]

When you are grading, it's also good if you understand what the needs for each GM. It might be that you don't like a pick but that GM may have considered what his team needs and that could have also influenced the picks. It's a lot, I know, but it's not always just BPA. It's sometimes BPA that fits the scheme and a need. For example, you can take a DT but there may be a higher rated DT on the board ahead of the one you took better suited to play in a 43 as opposed to a 34, which might be what you have. There may also be a better player at another position there but if the GM has no NT signed, it becomes a much bigger priority.

I know you guys know this.

[ABQCOWBOY]

How long on SDogo?

[Risen Star]

How long on SDogo?

You're up.

[ABQCOWBOY]

You're up.

I'm done.

[ABQCOWBOY]

You're up.

BTW, that last pick for SDogo was on my board for 103.

[Joe Rod]

When you are grading, it's also good if you understand what the needs for each GM. It might be that you don't like a pick but that GM may have considered what his team needs and that could have also influenced the picks. It's a lot, I know, but it's not always just BPA. It's sometimes BPA that fits the scheme and a need. For example, you can take a DT but there may be a higher rated DT on the board ahead of the one you took better suited to play in a 43 as opposed to a 34, which might be what you have. There may also be a better player at another position there but if the GM has no NT signed, it becomes a much bigger priority.

I know you guys know this.

Hard to figure out BPA this early in the process. This is all pretty speculative.

[JonJon]

Hey Risen, on Trumaine Johnson CB, what was your plans for him at KC with the team still having Flowers and signing Routt? He would have been my first 4th round selection and I would put him at FS and situational CB with the Bengals.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Hard to figure out BPA this early in the process. This is all pretty speculative.

True. Different sites have different lists of top 250 etc.

[ABQcowboyJR]

This draft could have turned out so differently. My original choice was Claiborne. However, looking back it probably worked out better that I took Blackmon. Would have been hard to trade back up to get Wright. That was my initial draft plan.

[Risen Star]

Hey Risen, on Trumaine Johnson CB, what was your plans for him at KC with the team still having Flowers and signing Routt? He would have been my first 4th round selection and I would put him at FS and situational CB with the Bengals.

That's one of the things that appealed to me. He could probably do both but I drafted him to play corner.

[robert70x7]

How has someone not drafted Chris Polk?

[Hostile]

How has someone not drafted Chris Polk?Stay tuned, it was turned in right before you posted this.

[robert70x7]

Stay tuned, it was turned in right before you posted this.

I thought about it instead of McNutt, but I wanted a WR. He's at 62 on my board.

[ABQcowboyJR]

Yeah i'm surprised chris polk lasted so long. Good value IMO.

[JonJon]

If Doug Martin wasn't available, I would have used one of my second rounders on Polk...didn't think he would be available this long.

[JonJon]

last pick coming up

[TheDallasDon]

last pick coming up

Everybody was great thanks guys I enjoyed that

[Risen Star]

Since it's the last pick and we really flew through these round today, we're gonna just leave it open for avery when he logs in today to make his pick.

[dez_for_prez]

Do we send grades to Hos or Risen Star?

[Hostile]

Do we send grades to Hos or Risen Star?
Both of us please. Everyone please give grades for each team. It is part of what makes this all fun.

[BraveHeartFan]

Both of us please. Everyone please give grades for each team. It is part of what makes this all fun.


Are we grading them now or do we wait till the whole draft is over?

[robert70x7]

Both of us please. Everyone please give grades for each team. It is part of what makes this all fun.

How do you want grades? A-F scale or 1-10?

[Hostile]

How do you want grades? A-F scale or 1-10?
Very good question. Per the original thread with all the picks we want a 1-10 scale grade.

[dez_for_prez]

Very good question. Per the original thread with all the picks we want a 1-10 scale grade.

Balls, i just did letters, oh well start again i guess

[Risen Star]

Yeah, you have to do a number grade so we can add them all up and come up with a consensus.

Also, feel free to tell us what was the biggest steal of the draft and who had the biggest reach. Don't include your own picks.

[Zaxor]

is 1 the best and 10 the worse or is it the other way

[Risen Star]

is 1 the best and 10 the worse or is it the other way

10 is the best.

[Avery]

Last pick coming up. Wow, you guys flew through this draft.

[Risen Star]

1(12) Trent Richardson RB Alabama
I certainly didn't go into this draft intending to make this pick. I rarely like to take RBs early unless they're special. I think Richardson is worthy of that description. It was just too much value at 12th overall. You never know how Charles will return from his knee injury. Now you wouldn't have to worry about that. This guy has game changing ability.

Best pick of the round (excluding my own for all of these): Cordy Glenn to Tennessee at 20th overall. IMO, he got the same player there that Carolina got at 8, but with some more versatility.

-

2(64) Kendall Reyes DT Connecticut
With a good combine/personal workout, you could easily be looking at a late first round pick. Brandon Thompson was my target. Reyes was a nice consolation prize. Versatile, scheme flexible player who should be a more productive pro surrounded by better talent.

Best pick of the round: Coby Fleener to Cincinnati at 53. IMO, the best TE in the class in the late 2nd round? Outstanding. I know he's not much of a blocker right now, but he's got the best NFL frame of the top prospects at his position and I'll take his natural receiving skills in today's NFL.

-

3(76) Brock Osweiler QB Arizona St.
When I acquired the extra 3rd I did it with the thinking of getting a QB. Anybody excited about Matt Cassel? Didn't think so. So I had two options, mortgage the rest of this draft and part of next year's to move up for the top two or bring in one of these 2nd tier guys for at least some hope of having a future QB on our hands. I know Weeden is a better player today. I know he'll be a better QB next year. But I just couldn't get myself to draft a 28 year old with a 3rd round pick. Maybe that's a mistake, but I'd do it again if given the chance. Osweiler's got some nice upside. I'm gambling on his physical skills.

3(95) Trumaine Johnson CB Montana
The 12th CB off the board. I was surprised by that. I know he's in some people's top 5 or 6. I figured with his measurables and four years of nice production (15 INTs) he'd be off the board by the middle of round two. Even if they do resign Carr, Johnson's good depth and a S possibility as well.

Best pick of the round: Sean Spence to Tampa Bay at 69. I love the player and love the fit. There may not be a more active sideline to sideline LB in this draft. Back to back 100 plus tackle seasons. Over 30 TFL combined those two years. He can cover. He can get to the QB some. His frame doesn't scare me.

Weeden to the 49ers at 93 obviously could be the talk of the draft a year from now. He's about as plug and go a QB as you'll ever find in the draft and would be going to a playoff ready team.

-

4(106) Mitchell Schwartz T California
I had Bobby Massie in the cross hairs with this pick but saw a trade occur one spot ahead of me for him. Schwartz is actually a better fit for the Chiefs as they are in dire need of a RT and this guy's a beast in the run game. With the huge drop off from the first tier to the next at this position, I was pleased to come away with him at this point. Ryan Broyles was real tempting here. He would have been my target if we went another round.

Best pick of the round: Dwight Bentley to Cleveland at 118. I thought that might have been the steal of the draft, actually. At least one of the contenders. He'll be a late riser as we approach April.

[JonJon]

1(12) Trent Richardson RB Alabama
I certainly didn't go into this draft intending to make this pick. I rarely like to take RBs early unless they're special. I think Richardson is worthy of that description. It was just too much value at 12th overall. You never know how Charles will return from his knee injury. Now you wouldn't have to worry about that. This guy has game changing ability.

Best pick of the round (excluding my own for all of these): Cordy Glenn to Tennessee at 20th overall. IMO, he got the same player there that Carolina got at 8, but with some more versatility.

-

2(64) Kendall Reyes DT Connecticut
With a good combine/personal workout, you could easily be looking at a late first round pick. Brandon Thompson was my target. Reyes was a nice consolation prize. Versatile, scheme flexible player who should be a more productive pro surrounded by better talent.

Best pick of the round: Coby Fleener to Cincinnati at 53. IMO, the best TE in the class in the late 2nd round? Outstanding. I know he's not much of a blocker right now, but he's got the best NFL frame of the top prospects at his position and I'll take his natural receiving skills in today's NFL.

-

3(76) Brock Osweiler QB Arizona St.
When I acquired the extra 3rd I did it with the thinking of getting a QB. Anybody excited about Matt Cassel? Didn't think so. So I had two options, mortgage the rest of this draft and part of next year's to move up for the top two or bring in one of these 2nd tier guys for at least some hope of having a future QB on our hands. I know Weeden is a better player today. I know he'll be a better QB next year. But I just couldn't get myself to draft a 28 year old with a 3rd round pick. Maybe that's a mistake, but I'd do it again if given the chance. Osweiler's got some nice upside. I'm gambling on his physical skills.

3(95) Trumaine Johnson CB Montana
The 12th CB off the board. I was surprised by that. I know he's in some people's top 5 or 6. I figured with his measurables and four years of nice production (15 INTs) he'd be off the board by the middle of round two. Even if they do resign Carr, Johnson's good depth and a S possibility as well.

Best pick of the round: Sean Spence to Tampa Bay at 69. I love the player and love the fit. There may not be a more active sideline to sideline LB in this draft. Back to back 100 plus tackle seasons. Over 30 TFL combined those two years. He can cover. He can get to the QB some. His frame doesn't scare me.

Weeden to the 49ers at 93 obviously could be the talk of the draft a year from now. He's about as plug and go a QB as you'll ever find in the draft and would be going to a playoff ready team.

-

4(106) Mitchell Schwartz T California
I had Bobby Massie in the cross hairs with this pick but saw a trade occur one spot ahead of me for him. Schwartz is actually a better fit for the Chiefs as they are in dire need of a RT and this guy's a beast in the run game. With the huge drop off from the first tier to the next at this position, I was pleased to come away with him at this point. Ryan Broyles was real tempting here. He would have been my target if we went another round.

Best pick of the round: Dwight Bentley to Cleveland at 118. I thought that might have been the steal of the draft, actually. At least one of the contenders. He'll be a late riser as we approach April.

Great analysis Risen. I thought you did very well in the draft. Trumane Johnson is a steal because he is productive and he is versatile. Some scouting reports say he isn't fluid enough to play CB in the NFL, but at the very least, he could make an excellent FS. But KC has the corners in place already so he wouldn't have to be an immediate starter.

[robert70x7]

8) Quiton Coples, DE North Carolina

I went into the draft wanting to take the BPA, but I couldn't pull the trigger with Richardson. I still can't decide if I would've done it in hindsight. Made this pick hoping he would turn into Julius Peppers and Coples has the potential. Reiff was the other option, but a couple years ago they drafted Eugene Monroe and Britton isn't bad if he stays healthy. Coples has the chance to be a great defensive end and that's why I made the pick.

Best Pick: Trent Richardson to Kansas City. I had him 3rd on my board and he went 12th. He is going to be special and hopefully Charles will stay healthy and that would be a great 1-2 punch.

38) Kelechi Osemele, G Iowa State

Osemele is a combo G/T that can play on the right side if need be. He'll start from day one. Jaguars had a good guard last year in Nwaneri and this pick gives him the ability to move to center or stay at guard and Kelechi Osemele going to tackle. Once again, I went away from BPA. I had Brandon Thompson as best available, but wasn't going to draft him. Coby Fleener and Mohamed Sanu were other options and in hindsight I would've taken one of those guys.

Best Pick: Vontaze Burfict to New York Giants. They traded up, but I was okay with it because it feels a glaring need. This was the "whoaaaa" moment as someone noted earlier and a move like this would send shockwaves through the NFC East.

71) Alameda Ta'Amu, DT Washington

Best player left on my board after trying to move up for Orson Charles. He's a space eater and with a potential d-line of Mincey, Coples, Knighton, AluAlu and Ta'Amu, this could turn into a real strength for the Jaguars. When the Jaguars were great, they had Henderson and Stroud in the middle and I wanted to replicate that. Ta'Amu in the middle would open up some one on ones for Coples and make the whole unit better.

Best Pick: Orson Charles, TE Cleveland. I tried to move up to get him because he was one spot in front of Ta'Amu and I needed a skill player. Could have stretched the field for the Jaguars and is a versatile player that Robert Griffin will love. This was Cleveland's best pick and kind of saved their draft for me after they gave up a lot to move up (although they didn't have to give up their 2nd first rounder, which I was a little surprised by).

101) Marvin McNutt, WR Iowa

I needed to go skill player and didn't want to pull the trigger on Chris Polk. It's no secret that Jacksonville needs receivers and this was the only spot where I saw value at the pick. There are a lot left that didn't get drafted, so in an ideal situation they would get another one in the 5th. This is a position that I feel the Jaguars will upgrade through free agency, but McNutt produced this year at Iowa and he reminds me of Anquan Boldin.

Best Pick: Chris Polk, RB Washington. He is a versatile back that will create a 3 headed monster in Washington. He was the best available player and running back in a class that was severely underdrafted. His game will translate to the NFL as long as he can stay healthy and will be a difference maker for Washington.

Self Evaluation - Overall, I give myself a "B". I second guessed a lot of my choices and don't feel like I maximized the potential picks from this class by missing out on players like Fleener and Sanu. With that said, I feel like I made some good picks and got value. With a team like Jacksonville, they need help in a lot of places and I turned a "good" defensive line into potentially a "great" one, and also created some opportunities for them to be more flexibile on the offensive line and get guys like Whimper and Rackley more time to develop. In rounds 5-7 I would target another WR, CB and maybe a RB.

[JonJon]

Bengals Analysis:
The Bengals are a good team, but are a few pieces away from being serious contenders. I came in with 2 first rounders, but took advantage of an opportunity to trade down with the Eagles and pick up 2 additional round 2 picks, an additional round 4, and a round 4 next year. The eagles got pick 17 overall and my round 3.

1(21) Janoris Jenkins CB Northern Alabama
Leon Hall is coming off injury, Clements is old, and Pacman Jones is a has-been. So the Bengals needed an elite CB to be taken seriously. I took the general consensus 2nd best CB in the draft at pick 21. He should be a day 1 starter.

2(46) Doug Martin RB Boise St.
Rumor has it that Cedric Benson's days are numbered in orange and black, so this was a good time to pick up a franchise RB. With the exception of Richardson, the RB's ahead of Martin didn't impress me, and could be seen as one year wonders. Martin had good production for multiple years, and has a size build and style similar to Ray Rice, though not as fast. However, he is a complete back that can do it all.

2(51) Amini Silatolu G Midwestern St.
The Bengals also need interior help. Much like the Cowboys, their guard play stunk last year. Silatolu is an intriguing pick. He is from a small school, but dominated at that level. Once he participates at the combine, I expect his draft stock to rise higher. On a side note, I'm hoping the Cowboys take notice of this kid.

2(53) Coby Fleener TE Stanford
Word on the street in Cincinnati is that Jerome Simpson may not be back, plus he has a marijuana charge hanging over him. So that created another need for a #2 receiver. Unfortunately, I didn't see a receiver that really stood out at that pick on the board. But one player did catch my eye: Cory Fleener. Fleener is a fast TE with soft hands and gets into his routes very quickly. He was Andrew Luck's main target at Stanford and also considered the teams only deep threat. He is sort of a TE/WR tweener, often lining up on the outside or in the slot in college. If he's not the best TE in the draft, he is definitely top 2. So instead of taking a WR, I went with TE that will pair with previous first round TE Jermaine Gresham to form a deadly duo similar to what the Patriots have in Gronkowski and Hernandez. Did I mention the Bengals also have A.J. Green?


4(99) Travis Lewis OLB Oklahoma
Linebacker was a minor need with Manny Lawson a free agent and last years MLB having an underwhelming performance last season. Travis Lewis is a great LB rated much higher that saw his production drop due to an injury in his senior season. If Lawson doesn't come back, Lewis join the lineup right away. If not, he will provide solid depth and challenge Rey Maualuga to start inside.

4(116) Aaron Henry S Wisconsin
The Bengals got minimal play out of SS Chris Crocker last year and their secondary play was the reason they didn't advance further. Reggie Nelson played well, but his natural position is at SS. With the addition of Henry, this would allow Nelson to move back to SS and Crocker to move on with his career. Henry is a former CB, but made the switch to FS while in college. He is still learning, but has caught on extremely well from what I have read. For the Bengals, this was a good value pick.

[Zaxor]

Pittsburgh Steelers (Zaxor)

The Steelers are getting old on Defense and are in desperate need of new blood at all three levels they also want to return to old style Pittsburg football which will help the oline which are much better run blockers than pass blockers with that in mind I tried to improve all three areas on defense and get them a RB that can carry the rock all game.1(24) Dont'a Hightower ILB Alabama

Can you think of a better Steeler LBer in the draft...I couldn't either..no brainer

(loved the move by Philly in the first rnd to get my boy Luke and also thought KC and TN and SD got perfect fits most picked very well bravo)


2(56) Harrison Smith S Notre Dame

some might wonder why safety and not CB well because it was safety problems that was causing a lot of corner problems sorry about that troy hair but its true.


3(87) Marcus Forston DT Miami

this guy will play DE in the 3-4 and he will be very good at it

4(119) Isaiah Pead RB Cincinnati

rock carrier nuff said.

[TheCount]

Cleveland Browns

My entire method here was adding playmakers to the Browns offense, as they are in a division where defense is king. The decision to trade up for Griffin wasn't an easy one, my instincts told me he'd be there at 4, but with all the extra picks the Browns had from the Falcons for last year, I decided it'd be worth it to eliminate all questions and be aggressive.

1(2) Robert Griffin III QB Baylor

My gut told me he'd be there at 4 but my brain told me it wasn't worth the risk as long as I could hang onto my 2nd 1st round pick, which I did. I gave #37 (2nd round) and #100 (4th round) to swap #4 for #2 overall. The Rams got who they were after and a couple of picks and the Browns come away with a franchise QB, so it worked out well for both teams.

1(22) Kendall Wright WR Baylor

This is who I was targeting all along for #22, and I was thrilled to grab him. I got nervous at the end there with Chicago on the board and it took them a while to make the pick. I almost traded up again to ensure I'd get Wright, but after moving for Griffin, I didn't want to compromise the rest of my draft. Wright and Griffin get the very rare opportunity to take their college chemistry into the pros, and since the Browns already have two larger receivers, adding the smaller Wright didn't bother me a bit.

3(68) Orson Charles TE Georgia

The theme of offense playmakers continues. Last year the Browns selected TE, Jordan Cameron in the 4th round, a converted WR that is still learning the position. Charles really should have gone in the 2nd round, so I was happy to take him in the 3rd. He's a guy you can move around, and in a copycat league, I pictured him as an Aaron Hernandez type as he is just 6'3" to Cameron's 6'6". Size aside, CBS refers to him as "the toughest pound for pound blocker among the 2012 crop of tight ends". I like the scrappiness.

4(118) Dwight Bentley CB Louisiana-Lafayette

In all honesty, CB is probably a position I'd expect the Browns to address in FA if they want to focus on the offense in the draft. I decided to roll the dice on a fast riser in Dwight Bentley here anyway, although I almost selected RB Cyrus Gray instead. The Browns spent a 2nd on Hardesty last year and Hillis isn't technically out of the question yet, I could afford to gamble on the CB.

----------

If we had done more rounds, I would have targeted Chris Rainey/Cyrus gray in the 5th and some project offensive linemen in the 6th, where the Browns had a pair of picks left.

Overall, I'm happy with it. The only pick I missed was the 37th, where I probably would have taken a guard or RT. At #100, I might have gone after Bruce Irvin, but I'm not sure how good of a fit that would have been anyway.

This was a lot of fun. If it wasn't so much work for the mods, I'd love to do one every couple of weeks.

[Joe Rod]

This was a good idea whoever started it
Bears Draft:

1(19) Michael Floyd WR Notre Dame
After Adams was taken by the Chargers I picked the logical choice. The Bears have a monstrous need at wide-receiver and Floyd was the best value on the board.

2(41) Zebrie Sanders T Florida St.
The Bears gave Gabe Carimi some work at Left Tackle last offseason and I suspect that they will do so again unless they get a Free Agent. J'Marcus Webb was horrifying at LT last season, so this move would allow Sanders and Webb to battle for the starting RT spot.

Several mock drafts had him going to the Chiefs a few picks later (a team with a real need at the spot), so I went ahead and pulled the trigger to get a replacement that was considered a first rounder until the Senior Bowl. I got a fair trade with casmith, so that helped.

3(72) Casey Hayward CB Vanderbilt
Man this guy is all over the board with the mocks and values (anywhere from the second to the fifth), but I think the combine will prove that he is a good value in round three. He diagnoses plays well, very willing tackler and he has had a knack for getting the football. The Bears currently have three of their top four dbs possibly going out on the FA market, so the need should be there.

4(108) Antonio Allen S South Carolina
The Bears have two FA Safeties and Major Wright is pretty bad at SS. I wasn't exactly targeting a Safety in this round, but the value was there for Allen. he has carried a third round value in most of the boards and mocks I researched. Excellent in run support and he could also see time as the nickle LB. Urlacher is getting older (33), so getting some breaks would keep him fresh during the season.

4(111) Lucas Nix G Pittsburgh
I had him right where I drafted him, with a fourth round grade. He also fills a need for the Bears. Chris Spencer was terrible at Guard last season and Nix could compete for the Right Guard spot in Training Camp.

[Picksix]

Miami Dolphins


1(9) Riley Reiff T Iowa
I have to be honest, I didn't make this pick. Another poster was set to have Miami, but was a no-show, so I was awarded this team after the pick. Most likely, I would have made this pick anyway. The two biggest needs as I saw it for Miami, were OT and DE. With Coples off the board to JAX at 7, this was a no-brainer.

2(40) Brandon Washington G Miami
Miami needs OL help, period. Yes, I went OT in the first, but there's nothing wrong with doubling up when BPA(s) meet need. On my board (at least the one I was using primarily), Washington was rated at 32. I also considered Jared Crick, but I wonder if he is more of a 34 DE. Plus the injury thing worried me. There were a couple other guards ranked in this area, but I liked what I saw of Washington on tape, and he played at Miami, which helped.

3(74) Joe Adams WR Arkansas
Miami needs a quick, versatile, Mike Wallace type WR to compliment Brandon Marshall, and to give Moore (or IMO, Flynn) another weapon to throw to. His stock has flown up the boards with his tape and Senior Bowl week performance. He's a great KR/PR as well. I'll admit, I love the kid, and felt I got good value here.

4(104) Tyrone Crawford DE Boise St.
This was another needs-meet-value pick. Rated at 102, he's reported to be a good fit for a 34 or 43. I think the Dolphins will break the bank for Matt Flynn, so I don't see them going after Williams. That thinking also kept me from going with someone like BJ Coleman (QB, Chatt). With the switch to the 43, DE became a huge hole. I think this kid can fill it well.


Overall, there's nothing really sexy about this draft, except for maybe Adams. But it's a solid draft, with players picked at or below where they're ranked, that all fill big needs.

[Risen Star]

My grades are in. I haven't even looked at anyone's grades yet. I like to do my own grading before I do.

I gave the highest grades to: St. Louis, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. Those teams got 9s from me. Several others got 8s.

If I had to pick a winner, I'd give the nod to St. Louis over Cleveland based on their trade. I don't think it was necessary to move up for Griffin and it cost them a 2nd and a 4th.

My biggest steal was Coby Fleener to Cincinnati at 53. My biggest reach was Ryan Tannehill to Washington at 6. I know that could actually happen, but it will be a reach if it does. Just a classic case of supply and demand forcing QBs up the draft board.

[Oh_Canada]

Here is my reasoning for Indy's picks:

1.Andrew Luck-thought about moving down for a second to get RGIII, than I thought about it for another second.

2.Lamar Miller-I am going to get flamed for this, but I didn't make the pick unfortunately because this rookie GM didn't realize you all would be such keeners. Oh well, Miller is an explosive player and will replace Addai. Hope he can be a Jamal Charles type.

3.Ben Jones-I had two guys I really wanted at this spot-Jones and Charles...both of them were there but I didn't see them dropping much further. Being a proponent of supporting a young QB with a quality oline, I went with my highest rated on the board.

4.Josh Chapman-Sadly I was forced to wait to round four to address the Colts atrocious "d". They are moving to a 3-4, so I figure the best route to go is to anchor the line with a horse. None are better at this than Chapman.

[robert70x7]

My grades are in. I haven't even looked at anyone's grades yet. I like to do my own grading before I do.


When will the consensus be posted? I may go back and tweak my grades, I'm not sure they way I originally did it was best. I'll send you a PM if I decide to or not.

[jterrell]

49ers media release

1(30) Whitney Mercilus DE Illinois
We were ecstatic to see the NCAA's leading pass rusher still available. Expect him to fit nicely into role Aldon Smith had last season as a rookie pass rusher. Relentless guy who reminded us a lot of Aldon and we couldn't be happier.

2(62) Nick Toon WR Wisconsin
Toon gives us size on the edge and NFL know-how. WR is an area where we can use some help and Toon should give us that. We are excited about the challenge this WR corps with our TE can present for opponents next season.

3(93) Brandon Weeden QB Oklahoma St.
Easiest pick of the draft for us. Highest guy on our board by a quite a bit. Brandon is well developed and mature. Displayed great accuracy and decision-making and accuracy which is the criterion by which we grade QBs. Can step right in for us if Alex gets injured.

4(125) Shaun Prater CB Iowa
Shaun is a tough, physical corner who will compete for playing time right away. No one has enough talent at CB and we felt we needed and infusion of youth at the position; Shaun will deliver that for us.

[ABQcowboyJR]

St.Louis Rams

Was glad I was able to work out a trade with Count to move down from #2 to #4 and pick up #37 and #100. This was a great move cause it still allowed me to take the two players I had target with the first pick.

#4 Justin Blackmon, WR Oklahoma St.
He is a big physical WR that has good hands and will be nice big target for Bradford. This team desperately needs some play makers on offense and he provides that.

This was not my pick (I was a little late for the draft). I had originally targeted Morris Claiborne. This pick would have shaken up the draft a lot I think. However, I'm glad I ended up with Blackmon. I was planning on trying to trade back up into the first round and get Kendall Wright. I'm not sure I would have been able to pull this off.

#33 Zach Brown, OLB North Carolina
I had him ranked as the best OLB for a 4-3. If he runs like we expect him to at the combine, 4.3-4.4 range, we will have added a ton of speed to the LB corps. He is a play maker on defense and is possibly my favorite pick of this draft.

I had a few options here but was glad that he slid to me. I almost traded up with GB to grab him. I'm glad I stayed pat and let the draft come to me.

#37 David Wilson, RB Virginia Tech
I that getting a high caliber RB in this draft was a top priority for the Rams. I understand that most might disagree with this, but Steven Jackson isn't getting any younger. He is putting some tuff yards on his body as well. My hope is to prolong Jacksons career and add a more speedy dynamic player into the mix. I think he can be the next starting back for the Rams and they wont miss a beat at RB.

To be honest, I wanted Miller over this kid. I had them both ranked close to each other but had a preference to Miller. I think they both can be starting backs in the NFL. The other player I had right there was Minnifield. The backfield had a terrible season last year. I had Minnifield ranked as the third best corner and probably would have jumped on him if he had fallen to me here.

#66 Senio Kelemete, G Washington
As everyone knows the O-line was a problem last year. Bradford ended up spending a lot of time on his back. I had the O-line as a priority going in and felt that it was time to try and help it out. I went with the highest G I had left on the board. I'm not entirely sold that the tackles on this team already can't play. I guess only time will tell.

I seriously thought about taking Alameda Ta'amu with this pick. He would have helped refuel the aging DT's and free up Laurinaitis. As we all know very well, teams ran all over these guys.

#96 Cliff Harris, CB Oregon
When he was still left on the board it was a no brainer. I know that he comes with a ton of baggage. However, the risk reward was something that the Rams just can't turn down at this point. To score this kind of first round talent in the 4th is a steal for them. I also wanted to make it a point of emphasis in this draft to get some explosive Kick/punt return guys. I felt they would be able to have the biggest immediate impact on the team. One of the reasons I was very high on Miller and Wilson(who I believe can be a dangerous return man).

#100 Kheeston Randall, DT Texas
While he had an underwhelming Senior season, the physical talent is there. Lets face it, the whole Texas D was underwhelming this season. I believe that given some time in a NFL organization he can prove to be a good 4-3 DT. He has some natural pass rushing skills and doesn't get pushed around. Was happy to take him in the 4th.

I had also considered taking Chris Rainey with this pick. He fits the explosive return man that I had put such an emphasis on going into this draft. But since I had already taken Harris and Wilson I elected to try and strengthen the front 7. Given the opportunity I would take him in the fifth.

All in all I felt I did a good job acquiring explosive talent for a team that needs it badly. I recognize that some of the talent also comes with problems, but like I mentioned before it was a risk the Rams have to take. It was a good draft for all and I had a great time. Thanks to Hos and Risen for putting this whole thing on. I hope we can do it again.

[Risen Star]

When will the consensus be posted? I may go back and tweak my grades, I'm not sure they way I originally did it was best. I'll send you a PM if I decide to or not.

We'll take grades up to Friday and post this year's report card over the weekend.

[Risen Star]

Thanks to Hos and Risen for putting this whole thing on. I hope we can do it again.

Hostile was like a beast behind the scenes working to keep the pace brisk. We intended to swap who was running it back and forth but it worked so well the way we started that we just decided to stick with it.

I told him we could have done a full 7 rounds it worked so well. Probably got it done in 3 days.

[Zaxor]

Hostile was like a beast behind the scenes working to keep the pace brisk. We intended to swap who was running it back and forth but it worked so well the way we started that we just decided to stick with it.

I told him we could have done a full 7 rounds it worked so well. Probably got it done in 3 days.

It might not be popular but I think the time between picks were entirely too long...20 minutes should be the maximum allowed by law

[MichaelWinicki]

It might not be popular but I think the time between picks were entirely too long...20 minutes should be the maximum allowed by law

LOL!

I would like to see a full 7-round draft.

BUT I would like to see it after the combine... End of March kind of thing.

[JonJon]

I'm loving all the team evaluations. Its fun seeing how each GM orchestrated their drafts.

[Risen Star]

LOL!

I would like to see a full 7-round draft.

BUT I would like to see it after the combine... End of March kind of thing.

I like it before because it makes it more challenging. You're gonna see a lot of movement the next week and it will be really interesting to see who could project the proper value.

[BraveHeartFan]

I like it before because it makes it more challenging. You're gonna see a lot of movement the next week and it will be really interesting to see who could project the proper value.


I agree. I think where you did it at was perfect and I do agree that I believe you guys could have gotten 7 rounds in very easily.

[Risen Star]

I agree. I think where you did it at was perfect and I do agree that I believe you guys could have gotten 7 rounds in very easily.

This mock started here years ago when it was thecowboys.net and has been going ever since at various other boards. We've always done 4 rounds because usually by that time everybody's had enough of it.

Maybe next year we'll do 5 rounds. See how that works.

[Risen Star]

I'd be in favor of returning everyone that did this one for next year if they're interested. Minus the few no shows we had.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Carolina Panthers - 2012 Draft Profile


Needs:

In Carolina, Cam is the Franchise, everybody knows that. Sure, they need to improve their Defense but at this stage, there best chance to win is to keep Cam upright and give him weapons with which to work. If you can do that, you have a chance to get into the playoffs and we all know that anything can happen if you can get into the tournament. In a Division where you have to beat New Orleans, it's unlikely that you can build a defense strong enough to stop that offense quickly. That means you have to hang in and score with them. With only three picks in the 1st four rounds, It's impossible to address all needs adequately. Below are Carolina's needs, listed according to priority as I see it.

Wide Receiver - The Panthers struggle because they really only have Steve Smith. It's been that way for a few years now and it is imperative that they get him some help. We have all seen what Smith can do if he has a big over the middle possession WR to work opposite him. Just look at when they had Mushin Muhammad. But not only do you need a guy who has those kinds of skills but you need a guy that Smith is going to get along with. Smith is a guy that needs to have a WR that works just as hard as he does an that is pretty hard. He has to have the right temperament. It a delicate balance.

Offensive Line - Panthers have some pieces on the OL. Gross is one of the best LT in the NFL, Kalil is one of the best young Centers in the game and Otah may or may not return to RT. My guess is that Otah moves to RG, Byron Bell had a great rookie season at RT and Cam praises him publicly so I don't see him moving. Guard is where you need to upgrade.

Defensive Line - Carolina is flat not getting it done in the DLine. Charles Johnson, by himself, had 9 Sacks last season. The rest of the defensive line, and I'm talking the entire defensive line, starters and backups had a total of 8 combined. That will not win you games. Was hard to know where to go here because the DTs could have played much better but they are young. Carolina drafted both of their starting DTs last year and both are starting for them. You have to give them time to develop so you look at the entire defensive front and you identify Greg Hardy, LDE, as a weak ling in that line. That is a position that must be improved. You can certainly make a case for DT as a bigger need but I don't think bringing in another Rookie is going to help that situation much unless he is Suh type DT and there isn't one of those in this draft.

Linebacker - Other then Conner, the LBs are nothing to write home about. They do their job but they are not spectacular and they do not generate a great deal of pressure. 2.5 sacks between the entire starting and backup LBers. In a 43, you don't expect the LBs to get a lot of sacks but you have to do better then 2.5 in an entire season. Yep, that's 9 for Johnson and 10.5 for all of the starting and backup front seven combined. That's the problem in Carolina, on the defensive side of the ball.

Defensive Backs - Carolina got decent play out of their CBs last year. Gamble has skills and Munnerlyn is well, average. They could use an upgrade there but they do have two young CBs that they like in Josh Thomas (Former Cowboy) and RJ Stanford. The Safety play in Carolina was not as bad as you may think. They simply had to cover way too long and eventually, got hung out to dry. It's hard to know just how good this Defensive backfield is until you get better play out of the front Seven.

Draft Picks:

1st Round 8th Pick Overall - David DeCastro G Stanford 6'5" 310 lbs widely considered the best Guard in this Class and one of the best prospects to come out in recent years. DeCastro is consider the 3rd best OL prospect and probably the most ready of any OL to start immediately. I had some concerns over this pick. I did not want to take DeCastro at 8 but the top DL, CB and WR were off the board and I could not get a trade down worked out so I took DeCastro. By no means do I feel this was a bad pick. I think he will turn out to be a solid Pro Bowl player for Carolina for year to come. He very well could be the final piece of the puzzle for them in their OL and that is certainly a value for Cam. He was the only logical pick for Carolina in that spot.


2nd Round, 42nd Pick Overall - Mohamed Sanu WR Rutgers 6'2" 215 lbs., he is the ideal complement to Smith. A lot of people may not love this kid but I do. The book on him is Mohamed's size, natural strength, speed and excellent attitude on the field. Strong hands long arms very hard to defend, excellent in bump and run. Strong route runner and will overpower smaller DB's. He runs good routes, is an excellent blocker. Mohamed has the speed to get deep and the strength to catch short passes and break them for Serious YAC. He shows leadership through his play, not a rah-rah type of guy. Does not complain if he is not seeing the ball, will find ways to contribute in other areas. Hard worker and will put in the time learn his craft and get better. Very smart player who can play all three WR positions. Mohamed is one of the best WR's in this draft. 115 catches, 1206 yds, 10.5 avg, 7 TDs in 13 games last season. Catches everything, great over the middle and the perfect match to Smith.

3rd Round Pick - No 3rd Round Pick

4th Round Pick, 103rd Pick Overall - Jonathan Massaquoi DE Troy 6'2" 250 lbs., can play OLB or DE. If played at DE in a 43, he's going to struggle a bit until he gains a bit of strength in his lower body. He may actually be a better fit at RDE in a 43. He can play LB in the NFL. His agility is that good. He can drop into coverage, run sideline to sideline and is excellent in the passing game. The best thing about this guy is that he can bring it. In only two seasons at Troy, 25 games, he put up 125 tackles, 31 TFL and 19.5 sacks. I don't care if you put him in as an OLB or put some weight on him and play him at DE, the guy is going to contribute in the most important are this team needs. He's going to generate pressure and that will help all other aspects of the defense.

[DFWJC]

Has a guard ever been taken 8th or higher....in the entire history of the NFL draft?
Otherwise, nice draft

[robert70x7]

Has a guard ever been taken 8th or higher....in the entire history of the NFL draft?
Otherwise, nice draft

Yes.

http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draft/history?year=-1&round=1&team=-1&college=-1&position=47&procoach=-1&highschoolstate=-1&award=-1&collegecoach=-1&highschool=-1&x=26&y=7

[DFWJC]

Yes.

http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draft/history?year=-1&round=1&team=-1&college=-1&position=47&procoach=-1&highschoolstate=-1&award=-1&collegecoach=-1&highschool=-1&x=26&y=7
Nice resource.

So...yes, the last time a Guard was taken at #8 or higher was 26 years ago.

But, yes, it has happened before...
:laugh2:

[robert70x7]

:umm:

Has a guard ever been taken 8th or higher....in the entire history of the NFL draft?
Otherwise, nice draft

Confused by the laughter? I answered your question.

[DFWJC]

:umm:



Confused by the laughter? I answered your question.
No worries.
I find myself laughing when nobody else is often. Just found it funny (not you, it) that I had to go so far down the list to find the answer.

[BraveHeartFan]

I'd be in favor of returning everyone that did this one for next year if they're interested. Minus the few no shows we had.


I'd like to. I'll do my best to be less late next year if I'm back in. :)


My bad on holding things up and getting crappy about anything else that came about because of that.

I'd also definately love to see you guys move it to 5 rounds.

[JonJon]

What happened to the draft ratings?

[TheCount]

1st Round 8th Pick Overall - David DeCastro G Stanford 6'5" 310 lbs widely considered the best Guard in this Class and one of the best prospects to come out in recent years. DeCastro is consider the 3rd best OL prospect and probably the most ready of any OL to start immediately. I had some concerns over this pick. I did not want to take DeCastro at 8 but the top DL, CB and WR were off the board and I could not get a trade down worked out so I took DeCastro. By no means do I feel this was a bad pick. I think he will turn out to be a solid Pro Bowl player for Carolina for year to come. He very well could be the final piece of the puzzle for them in their OL and that is certainly a value for Cam. He was the only logical pick for Carolina in that spot.

Well damn, if he's there at 14 then the Cowboys have to draft him. Glad we're agreed. :laugh2:

[ABQCOWBOY]

Well damn, if he's there at 14 then the Cowboys have to draft him. Glad we're agreed. :laugh2:

You can dress em up, buy em books, take em to school but it don't mean they are ever going to learn I guess.

;)

[jterrell]

What happened to the draft ratings?

was stated somewhere they'd be accepted through today and released over the weekend.

[Risen Star]

A lot of the grades I've looked at so far did not include the biggest reach of the draft and the biggest steal. If you want to vote on that, send it to me today.