Why does everyone want DeCastro so much?

[dantheman41]

The guy is a great prospect, but their are guys in 2nd and 3rd rounds that can be just as good. The interior offensive line is strength of draft class. I rather have a guy like Cordy Glenn in 2nd or Silatolu. Has anyone everyone seen these guys play? I wouldn't be surprised if either one turned out better then DeCastro. Let's get most dynamic player on defense in 1st

[texbumthelife]

The guy is a great prospect, but their are guys in 2nd and 3rd rounds that can be just as good. The interior offensive line is strength of draft class. I rather have a guy like Cordy Glenn in 2nd or Silatolu. Has anyone everyone seen these guys play? I wouldn't be surprised if either one turned out better then DeCastro. Let's get most dynamic player on defense in 1st

I don't think there is any chance Glenn slips to the second. Most of the people who want Decastro seem to want him because he is in their minds the safest pick and fills a position of need.

[TheCount]

The guy is a great prospect, but their are guys in 2nd and 3rd rounds that can be just as good. The interior offensive line is strength of draft class. I rather have a guy like Cordy Glenn in 2nd or Silatolu. Has anyone everyone seen these guys play? I wouldn't be surprised if either one turned out better then DeCastro. Let's get most dynamic player on defense in 1st

I'm not sure how it's possible to know that at this juncture.

[Sam I Am]

Everyone wants DeCastro because he doesn't have any chinks in his armor. ;)

[Dash28]

I want to build a great Oline and i'm sure Romo agrees.

[TheCount]

Everyone wants DeCastro because he doesn't have any chinks in his armor. ;)

http://dancingczars.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/thats-racist.gif

[BraveHeartFan]

I want him because I feel he'll be the BPA at the time we draft and it just so happens to be a position we're in bad need of.

So, yeah, call me crazy but I really like the idea of how that upgrades the team.

[burmafrd]

I do not get why people would NOT want Decastro.

He is by consensus the best guard in the draft.

Our guard play pretty much stank.

So you have the rare oppurtuinity- like last year- of having the likely BPA at your pick be also in a position of need.

Passing on him would just be DUMB.

[TheCount]

I do not get why people would NOT want Decastro.

He is by consensus the best guard in the draft.

Our guard play pretty much stank.

So you have the rare oppurtuinity- like last year- of having the likely BPA at your pick be also in a position of need.

Passing on him would just be DUMB.


Answer is simple really. Time has passed since we last saw Romo getting his lunch eaten by an opposing defender and offensive line is not a sexy pick.

[ABQcowboyJR]

I've been fighting this battle on the board for a while OP. I agree and think that there is good and perhaps better OG's later in the draft. The picture will be so much more clear after the combine. There will be a defensive player that blows the combine up and might be worth taking at 14. Right now I got my eye and hopes on Brockers or Kirk. Wouldn't be surprised if there is a dark horse corner in the mix either.

[RS12]

From draft scout:


9. OG David DeCastro
Stanford, 6-5, 312 pounds
Stanford's pro-style offense has prepared DeCastro to plug-and-play in somebody's NFL line. He is one reason why Stanford averaged more than 200 yards rushing a game for the last two years and he is easily the top guard prospect in this draft. DeCastro plays with a solid base, necessary aggression and knows how to use his hands to control defenders. His mobility is especially impressive when he pulls and leads through the hole. He also uses those quick feet and great body balance to mirror pass rushers effectively. DeCastro, a finalist for the Outland Trophy as top offensive lineman in the country, is regaled by teammates for his non-stop work ethic both in the weight room and in practice.

[jblaze2004]

I don't think there is any chance Glenn slips to the second. Most of the people who want Decastro seem to want him because he is in their minds the safest pick and fills a position of need.

reminds me of the year we drafted bobby carpenter:bang2:

[RS12]

reminds me of the year we drafted bobby carpenter:bang2:

:lmao: Maybe the worst comparison ever. Barbie hated contact, DeCastro seeks it.

[burmafrd]

I've been fighting this battle on the board for a while OP. I agree and think that there is good and perhaps better OG's later in the draft. The picture will be so much more clear after the combine. There will be a defensive player that blows the combine up and might be worth taking at 14. Right now I got my eye and hopes on Brockers or Kirk. Wouldn't be surprised if there is a dark horse corner in the mix either.

Just about every scout disagrees with you. Or there would be other guards rated as first rd possibles instead the best guard in years.

[burmafrd]

reminds me of the year we drafted bobby carpenter:bang2:

Talk about a reach

[MonsterD]

WOW ppl are seriously saying that Decastro is not the best guard in the draft and that there are dime a dozen guards like him in the 2nd and 3rd rounds every year? WOW just WOW.

[RS12]

WOW ppl are seriously saying that Decastro is not the best guard in the draft and that there are dime a dozen guards like him in the 2nd and 3rd rounds every year? WOW just WOW.

First of all he is the best guard in the draft IMO and alot of others. There are alot of other ancillary benefits to DeCastro like he is a good team mate, high charactor, and most importantly smart enough to learn the play book in no time.

[Doomsday101]

We took the best tackle last year in Smith we have a chance to plug in a G who many feel is a high 1st rd pick a guy who very well could be taken before 14 that is how good many scouts think DeCastro is. Yes there are other G they are not better.

Taking care of the line in my view gives Romo more time, less hits it also allows us to use the weapons we have to their fullest including guys like Murray and Felix.

[28 Joker]

I would be just as content with Cordy Glenn in round 1, and I like the guards in round 2. An offensive line pick, in round one, is generally considered a solid, safe investment. (see: Tyron Smith)

Here is why some fans are concerned about the guard position in general and see DeCastro as a huge upgrade:

David Arkin (4th round) couldn't even dress last year, and he is hope and not a plan at this point. He couldn't even beat out Nagy. DeCastro (1st) and Cordy Glenn (1st) and Kelechi Osemele and Silatolu and Brandon Washington are all more talented players and better prospects at guard.

Since when should a re-building team (on the fly) ignore that type of talent due to a developmental player like Arkin? Dallas' QB and RBs need guards now. Why use cheap building materials to build onto your 21 year old, blue-chip cornerstone, Tyron Smith (# 9 pick). Why not go for a dominant offensive line in order to counter the Giants and Eagles and Redskins? This draft is aligning pretty good with Dallas' needs at OG and CB, too.

Bill Nagy (7th round) was really undersized at guard and lacked power in the interior running game. PFF graded him the worst run blocking OG while he was playing. The Cowboys replaced him with Dockery and Holland for a reason. His best position is probably center. Nagy was a backup player at Wisconsin after he was injured off the field.

Kowalski (UDFA) is an undersized center who is unproven and lacks size and power. He did a decent to good job in a limited role as a backup, but his run blocking was not nearly on par with Costa's run blocking.

Montrae Holland was cut and re-signed during the middle of the season. He had a nice little run, but he was hurt against the Eagles and was lost. Holland was a little bit of lighting in a bottle and counting on that again would be foolish. Holland has pretty much been a backup player since leaving Denver.

Everyone wants to run Phil Costa out of town, but he was a decent run blocker. He's undersized, too.

The Cowboys are in a re-building phase, and they have no business ignoring the top guard or center talent in this draft class.

I see a whole lot of hope and not much of a plan.

[28 Joker]

We took the best tackle last year in Smith we have a chance to plug in a G who many feel is a high 1st rd pick a guy who very well could be taken before 14 that is how good many scouts think DeCastro is. Yes there are other G they are not better.

Taking care of the line in my view gives Romo more time, less hits it also allows us to use the weapons we have to their fullest including guys like Murray and Felix.

That was very well stated and very efficient. I'll bump you. :)

[dantheman41]

Your taking my forum out of context. I didn't say DeCastro isn't great or even the best guard in the class. My argument is that if the decline in guard from 1st to 2nd or even 3rd is not that big a difference, then why take a guard in the 1st when you can have a defensive player that is a much bigger difference in talent then a guy in the 2nd or 3rd. Obviously I want a MUCH better offensive line then last year, but I also want where the best value is

[28 Joker]

The Jets drafted D'Brickashaw Ferguson (top 10) and Nick Mangold in the first round, and those two players have been the heart and soul of their team.

Drafting blue-chip offensive linemen is a smart, safe, solid way to build your team. The offensive line is literally the life-blood of your team, imso.

So, I don't want cheap building materials or band-aides when it come to the Cowboys offensive line. I don't want the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th floors of the building to get blown away by the Giants or Eagles or Redskins. Those floors need to be quality and strong, too. It takes more than a foundation to build a solid building.

The foundation is here. Tyron Smith

The building is no where near finished, imo.

[RS12]

The building is no where near finished, imo.

You mean like in 4 out of 5 spots?:laugh2:

[28 Joker]

Your taking my forum out of context. I didn't say DeCastro isn't great or even the best guard in the class. My argument is that if the decline in guard from 1st to 2nd or even 3rd is not that big a difference, then why take a guard in the 1st when you can have a defensive player that is a much bigger difference in talent then a guy in the 2nd or 3rd. Obviously I want a MUCH better offensive line then last year, but I also want where the best value is

My intention wasn't to take your thread out of context. I wasn't attacking you. I understand what you were saying. I was just addressing the need at guard in general. I just expanded the thread. There may be some that don't see the huge need at guard. People see the very significant success of the Tyron pick, and they see the gaping holes in the interior of the offensive line. They see all the skill players on offense, too.

I don't think it's smart to take top rated players like DeCastro or Glenn off the table in the first round when they are solid, safe investments and have tremendous value. Plus, Dallas really needs two guards. Those two guys are not only very talented, but they are immediate plug and play players. Those 2nd round guys are not guaranteed to be ready to plug and play right away.

[28 Joker]

You mean like in 4 out of 5 spots?:laugh2:

Hey. The Cowboys bought Free. Let's hope he gets stronger and settles in at RT. The Cowboys have other bigger fish to fry, and Free just got paid. That ship has sailed.

[JonJon]

reminds me of the year we drafted bobby carpenter:bang2:
Wow blaze, come on man, that's a horrible comparison. DeCastro is considered the best player at his position to come along in many years.

Carpenter wasn't even considered the best LB on his own team.

[Oh_Canada]

The Jets drafted D'Brickashaw Ferguson (top 10) and Nick Mangold in the first round, and those two players have been the heart and soul of their team.

Drafting blue-chip offensive linemen is a smart, safe, solid way to build your team. The offensive line is literally the life-blood of your team, imso.

So, I don't want cheap building materials or band-aides when it come to the Cowboys offensive line. I don't want the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th floors of the building to get blown away by the Giants or Eagles or Redskins. Those floors need to be quality and strong, too. It takes more than a foundation to build a solid building.

The foundation is here. Tyron Smith

The building is no where near finished, imo.

...and there offense still sucks.

Defense won them games and when that went away so did the Jets.

I want a pressure player for that horrific front seven so we don't have to watch Eli and Dog killer standing in the pocket clipping their toe nails while there receivers get open.

After that you can take all the guards and centers you want.

[Hostile]

Not everyone. Just the people who watched the OL not measure up last year.

[ABQcowboyJR]

Just about every scout disagrees with you. Or there would be other guards rated as first rd possibles instead the best guard in years.
Wouldn't be the first time, and also wouldn't be the first time I was right about it. And here is this best in years comment again....no where have I seen anyone outside of this board saying this.

[28 Joker]

You mean like in 4 out of 5 spots?:laugh2:


I do have some confidence in Doug Free moving back to RT and being successful, because I've seen him be successful before at RT.

Free is a better player than Colombo ever was, imo.

[cowboy_ron]

Because we have a good start at upgrading the OL with Tyron, we need to keep on until it's finished and not stop now and DeCastro helps us do that

[Bowdown27]

Decastro is definitely one of the guys I would take a hard look at if he's there. We need to sure up our line and he will definitely be a big piece in our line for years to come. But to me we need cb first. If we pick up a good one in free agency I'm all for decastro but if not I'm going with janoris or kirkpatrick

[DFWJC]

reminds me of the year we drafted bobby carpenter:bang2:
What the.....???

They are nothing alike.
Plus, it seemed to me that most of the board would NOT have taken Carp where we took him.


Having said all of that, I would be fine if we took a Guard later in the draft if a real steal fell to us at another position.

[28 Joker]

...and there offense still sucks.

Defense won them games and when that went away so did the Jets.

I want a pressure player for that horrific front seven so we don't have to watch Eli and Dog killer standing in the pocket clipping their toe nails while there receivers get open.

After that you can take all the guards and centers you want.


Under Bill Callahan, the Jets had the best offensive line in football according to some experts, and they had a dominant running game that supported their defense and won games. I saw Callahan's offensive line destroy the Vikings front on the ground. The same Vikings front that destroyed Dallas' offensive line in the playoffs.

In 2009, the Jets averaged 172.2 rushing yards per game. In 2010, the Jets averaged 148.4 yards per game.

I think the Jets' QB play and the loss of an All-Pro guard had something to do with their decline, too.

I see the need for more pressure on the QB. I absolutely do. However, the secondary is a wreck, too. I'd fix the secondary first, especially with the way the draft is looking at CB. (see Janoris Jenkins)

This is a weak pass rush draft. Glenn and DeCastro are safer picks than Ingram or Upshaw or Coples or Brockers at 14, imo. DeCastro and Glenn are solid doubles at 14. Players like Upshaw, Ingram, Coples, and Brockers carry much more risk at 14, imo. It's an offensive league now, too. Are those guys going to be dominant players? Ware was picked at 11.

I do like Ingram, but I don't like him better than DeCastro or Glenn or Jenkins. Ingram may be best used as a DE in a 43. He still needs to test. Brockers is being elevated based on potential. I'd take Glenn over him every time. Coples is talented, but he sure didn't play like a first rounder, as a senior, according to Mayock. Are you going to get the junior version or the senior version of Coples? If he's even around at 14, that should be a big red flag. Upshaw is a pure power player, and Dallas has one of those now. His name is Anthony Spencer. It's probably one reason why you are hearing about the franchise tag on Spencer. I'm tired of big, slow players in Dallas' front 7. I'm not saying Upshaw is a bad player, but I question his value.

[Tex]

...and there offense still sucks.

Defense won them games and when that went away so did the Jets.

I want a pressure player for that horrific front seven so we don't have to watch Eli and Dog killer standing in the pocket clipping their toe nails while there receivers get open.

After that you can take all the guards and centers you want.

What your missing is the guys that are wanting DeCastro at 14 actually would prefer an elite pressure player. We just dont see one that looks to end up being any better then Spencer probably even a few years down the road.

So do you take another JAG defensive pressure oyer or a guard most predict will be elite for a decade. Thats what we are seeing. Way to many guys that may turn out to be JAG's. We have a shelf overflowing with guys on our front 7 that cant get pressure.

I would love an elite pressure player available at 14. A guy that you see as a probable double digit sack guy in the NFL. I am just not seeing any of those guys probably available at 14 and I want a home run at 14. Heck if DeCastro is gone I would take Glenn or Koonz probably over other front 7 guys available. Maybe trade down 5 spots to do it but... The only way I feel forced to pick a front 7 guy is if we lose Spencer this year and I hope we dont.

Cowboy

[RS12]

What your missing is the guys that are wanting DeCastro at 14 actually would prefer an elite pressure player. We just dont see one that looks to end up being any better then Spencer probably even a few years down the road.

So do you take another JAG defensive pressure oyer or a guard most predict will be elite for a decade. Thats what we are seeing. Way to many guys that may turn out to be JAG's. We have a shelf overflowing with guys on our front 7 that cant get pressure.

I would love an elite pressure player available at 14. A guy that you see as a probable double digit sack guy in the NFL. I am just not seeing any of those guys probably available at 14 and I want a home run at 14. Heck if DeCastro is gone I would take Glenn or Koonz probably over other front 7 guys available. Maybe trade down 5 spots to do it but... The only way I feel forced to pick a front 7 guy is if we lose Spencer this year and I hope we dont.

Cowboy

Wow, sounds like something I would have written, word for word.

[xwalker]

The guy is a great prospect, but their are guys in 2nd and 3rd rounds that can be just as good. The interior offensive line is strength of draft class. I rather have a guy like Cordy Glenn in 2nd or Silatolu. Has anyone everyone seen these guys play? I wouldn't be surprised if either one turned out better then DeCastro. Let's get most dynamic player on defense in 1st

Glenn might have the potential to be better based on his physical talent; however, DeCastro is more ready now and is has no question marks next to his name. The questions marks for Glenn are awareness, work-ethic and ability to keep weight in check. Also, Glenn is probably going to be picked just a few spots after DeCastro, maybe even immediately after if a team sees him as an OT.

The 2nd round type Guards that have high ceilings are:
Osemele - Questions about work-ethic, awareness, and desire.
Washington - Questions about awareness and possible lack of tenacity.
Sitatolu - Questions about level of competition. He played at a really small school.

The other 2nd round type of Guard is Zietler. He, like DeCastro, is probably more ready now than the others. The problem is that he has a lower ceiling due to limited athleticism.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Just about every scout disagrees with you. Or there would be other guards rated as first rd possibles instead the best guard in years.

This is not true. There are scouts who believe that he does not have very good lateral movement, which could mean that he is a RG. This is why the combine is going to be so important for him. If he shows that he does have it, then it's a huge deal for him. He will make a lot of money. If not, it will cost him.

[GloryDaysRBack]

I don't want anything to do w Decastro. I'd rather have Konz if we are going interior oline..but that's not my top choice either

[RS12]

This is not true. There are scouts who believe that he does not have very good lateral movement, which could mean that he is a RG. This is why the combine is going to be so important for him. If he shows that he does have it, then it's a huge deal for him. He will make a lot of money. If not, it will cost him.

Incorrect. He played RG his years at Stanford and the scouts still have him going this high. He has the feet to play either guard spot though. He made his money and rep on three years worth of film.

[GloryDaysRBack]

This is not true. There are scouts who believe that he does not have very good lateral movement, which could mean that he is a RG. This is why the combine is going to be so important for him. If he shows that he does have it, then it's a huge deal for him. He will make a lot of money. If not, it will cost him.

Why the heck did you take Decastro for the panthers in the mock draft?!?

[ABQCOWBOY]

Why the heck did you take Decastro for the panthers in the mock draft?!?

They needed an interior lineman. I can not evaluate on info that I don't have I have to go on what is there and right now then, he was the best interior OL prospect available to me. I mean, it's not rocket science.

Why do you get so defensive about the fact that not all scouts believe he is the best?

That is precisely why you have a combine.

[ABQCOWBOY]

Incorrect. He played RG his years at Stanford and the scouts still have him going this high. He has the feet to play either guard spot though. He made his money and rep on three years worth of film.

Exactly what do you think is incorrect?

I will tell you now, if DeCastro is just a RG, there is no way he will go top 10.

I would think that every person on this board would want all questions on this player answered. Why not be in favor of getting any questions answered? Makes no sense not to.

[RS12]

Exactly what do you think is incorrect?

I will tell you now, if DeCastro is just a RG, there is no way he will go top 10.

I would think that every person on this board would want all questions on this player answered. Why not be in favor of getting any questions answered? Makes no sense not to.

You think the combine has a big impact on his draft status and I dont. Unless he totally falls on his face (highly doubtful) he goes top 15. If he performs and interviews as I think he will, good chance he goes before the Cowboys draft.

[GloryDaysRBack]

They needed an interior lineman. I can not evaluate on info that I don't have I have to go on what is there and right now then, he was the best interior OL prospect available to me. I mean, it's not rocket science.

Why do you get so defensive about the fact that not all scouts believe he is the best?

That is precisely why you have a combine.

You took what I said the wrong way..I agree w you on Decastro..I was literally wondering why you took him..wasnt being sarcastic

[overseas]

I don't want him

[fanfromvirginia]

Your taking my forum out of context. I didn't say DeCastro isn't great or even the best guard in the class. My argument is that if the decline in guard from 1st to 2nd or even 3rd is not that big a difference, then why take a guard in the 1st when you can have a defensive player that is a much bigger difference in talent then a guy in the 2nd or 3rd. Obviously I want a MUCH better offensive line then last year, but I also want where the best value is


This is a deep year for guards but DeCastro is being called a can't miss pick. That's the key. The assumption is that he could/will be the BPA at a position of need. He is the best of a deep class. It's not like deep classes at any certain position make the 2nd and 3rd rounders chosen at that position automatically safe picks. Most draft picks don't work out, deep class or no. It's still basically a crap shoot, even if the the odds are somewhat, or even significantly, better.

[dalboy]

To not see Romo lying down on the field injured

[durrrr]

Yeah, it's a mystery why anyone would want the best guard prospect since Steve Hutchinson.

[durrrr]

...and there offense still sucks.

Mark Sanchez is awful.

[Zaxor]

I do not get why people would NOT want Decastro.

He is by consensus the best guard in the draft.

Our guard play pretty much stank.

So you have the rare oppurtuinity- like last year- of having the likely BPA at your pick be also in a position of need.

Passing on him would just be DUMB.

Answer is simple really. Time has passed since we last saw Romo getting his lunch eaten by an opposing defender and offensive line is not a sexy pick.

From draft scout:


9. OG David DeCastro
Stanford, 6-5, 312 pounds
Stanford's pro-style offense has prepared DeCastro to plug-and-play in somebody's NFL line. He is one reason why Stanford averaged more than 200 yards rushing a game for the last two years and he is easily the top guard prospect in this draft. DeCastro plays with a solid base, necessary aggression and knows how to use his hands to control defenders. His mobility is especially impressive when he pulls and leads through the hole. He also uses those quick feet and great body balance to mirror pass rushers effectively. DeCastro, a finalist for the Outland Trophy as top offensive lineman in the country, is regaled by teammates for his non-stop work ethic both in the weight room and in practice.

Hmmm just don't see it if you all would be so kind as to point to which game of his he was blocking a pretty sure 1st rnder I would like to watch it...from all I can gather (granted haven't look to hard at it)that the best guy he was suppose to have blocked was the potential 3rd rnd NT from Washington and if that is true than expectations might need to be lowered on this guy.

[BIGDen]

The Jets drafted D'Brickashaw Ferguson (top 10) and Nick Mangold in the first round, and those two players have been the heart and soul of their team.

Drafting blue-chip offensive linemen is a smart, safe, solid way to build your team. The offensive line is literally the life-blood of your team, imso.

So, I don't want cheap building materials or band-aides when it come to the Cowboys offensive line. I don't want the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th floors of the building to get blown away by the Giants or Eagles or Redskins. Those floors need to be quality and strong, too. It takes more than a foundation to build a solid building.

The foundation is here. Tyron Smith

The building is no where near finished, imo.

This! Many of us have been screaming for Dallas to fortify the trenches for years. You don't pass up blue chip talent - especially in an area of need. We didn't get cute and, wisely, picked Tyron last year. If DeCastro is there, it SHOULD be a no-brainer (regardless of who we sign in FA). Unfortunately, I'm not so sure that he'll be there. He is one of the few prospects with essentially no negatives. Those guys usually end up being Pro Bowlers. If DeCastro fell to us, it would be an absolute gift. I will flip out if he is there and we pass him up, much like I did when we didn't take Steven Jackson - a top player (that filled a need) who fell to us.

[burmafrd]

Hmmm just don't see it if you all would be so kind as to point to which game of his he was blocking a pretty sure 1st rnder I would like to watch it...from all I can gather (granted haven't look to hard at it)that the best guy he was suppose to have blocked was the potential 3rd rnd NT from Washington and if that is true than expectations might need to be lowered on this guy.


Really poor analogy. What great Pass Defenses did Cam Newton go up against?

I could find a lot of examples like that.

IF you have serious doubts about a prospect then seeing who he went up against might have validity.

But downrating a guy everyone else is praising as a top pick for THAT means you just want an excuse.

[Ren]

Even if we sign Nicks in FA i'd still want him at 14, i'm tired of watching this offense suck cause of poor OL play

[burmafrd]

This is not true. There are scouts who believe that he does not have very good lateral movement, which could mean that he is a RG. This is why the combine is going to be so important for him. If he shows that he does have it, then it's a huge deal for him. He will make a lot of money. If not, it will cost him.

There were scouts that thought Ryan Leaf would be better then Peyton Manning. Only a few though.

Pretty much the same few you are talking about, I bet.

[Sam I Am]

Sign a Center and draft a guard. Specifically DeCastro. (Now, odds are not good that that is even possible, but more on that later)

btw, to those that say a guard can't go top 10 I think you're wrong. I think a player like DeCastro can go top 10.

Why? If teams are easily willing to sign top guards to $50+ million dollar contracts, I can't see why they wouldn't draft a guard who is as close to a sure thing at guard as you can get in the top 10.

Lets go back to 2001. Knowing what you know today, would you be willing to draft Steve Hutchinson with a top 10 pick? What about other guards. Would you draft Larry Allen, Logan Mankins, Carl Nicks, or Alan Faneca with a top 10 pick?

DeCastro is big and powerful. He is definitely a + to a running game. The guy needs a little work in his pass protection, but he is young and extremely smart. (he plays at Stamford) He doesn't give up on plays even when he makes mistakes. IMO, this guy is going to be the standard by which guards are measured by in a couple of years. He won't be the next Larry Allen, but I do think he will be the next Steve Hutchinson.

Now, if I were the Cowboys I would be all over this kid at 14 as I think the best defensive front guys will be gone. Problem is, I think this kid is gone in the top 10. If for some reason he is not, he definitely won't be there at 14.

[cowboy_ron]

Even if we sign Nicks in FA i'd still want him at 14, i'm tired of watching this offense suck cause of poor OL play
I couldn't agree more..let's finish the job on the OL

[garyv]

Gosselin: DeCastro is the safest, may be the best pick. You look at Tony Romo, he's 32 this fall. He's got probably a window of two years left as an elite quarterback. They've got to maximize Romo in these next two seasons. Last year, he had no confidence with the interior of his line. You plug in a DeCastro, a guard with some size, I think Tony Romo is a better quarterback. And the whole thing hinges on Romo. They think he's the guy whose going to lead them to the promised land. They've got to get him comfortable again. That wouldn't solve the cornerback and the pass-rush issues, but it would make Romo a better player.

[Doomsday101]

Gosselin: DeCastro is the safest, may be the best pick. You look at Tony Romo, he's 32 this fall. He's got probably a window of two years left as an elite quarterback. They've got to maximize Romo in these next two seasons. Last year, he had no confidence with the interior of his line. You plug in a DeCastro, a guard with some size, I think Tony Romo is a better quarterback. And the whole thing hinges on Romo. They think he's the guy whose going to lead them to the promised land. They've got to get him comfortable again. That wouldn't solve the cornerback and the pass-rush issues, but it would make Romo a better player.

Hell it would make Felix and Murray better players and clearly give Romo more time to make his 2nd and 3rd reads instead of having to take off on the run and trying to find a target on the move.

I know there are some other good G out there but there is a concensus that DeCastro is the best enough so that most have him going early to mid 1st rd. I don't see any other G being thought of that highly. Not to say they are not good players but they are not to the level of DeCastro.

[NeonDeion21]

Why do I want DeCastro? Did you see what the Giants defensive line did to us? Did you see what the Eagles pass rush did to Romo?

That is exactly why I want him.

[Chocolate Lab]

Really poor analogy. What great Pass Defenses did Cam Newton go up against?
You don't think SEC defenses are very good?

Zax asked a good question. Maybe Decastro didn't play against any really good DT/NTs, and you can't fault him for that, but it would be nice to see how he did against top competition.

A couple of people who have really studied it have said that Decastro doesn't have elite strength and power, which would be a concern for me. (I know I'll get tarred and feathered for questioning him at all, but so be it.)

[Zaxor]

Really poor analogy. What great Pass Defenses did Cam Newton go up against?

I could find a lot of examples like that.

IF you have serious doubts about a prospect then seeing who he went up against might have validity.

But downrating a guy everyone else is praising as a top pick for THAT means you just want an excuse.

no actually not

I see it differently I see a guy who can move but lacks power and pop...see if that doesn't prove to be the case when whoever drafts him gets him in camp...

some guys I don't/didn't like has nothing to do with what others like or dislikes... I didn't like Mcfadden (look it up) the whole world seem to like him

I loved the Kyle Kosier pickup most of this board hated it (look it up)

that list goes on and on some I got right some I got wrong


but it was my opinion...and you do not seem to like that I have one of them if it doesn't agree with you or someone else....well sorry about that but I am gonna keep having them my friend and time alone will tell if I was right or wrong.

[Zaxor]

You don't think SEC defenses are very good?

Zax asked a good question. Maybe Decastro didn't play against any really good DT/NTs, and you can't fault him for that, but it would be nice to see how he did against top competition.

A couple of people who have really studied it have said that Decastro doesn't have elite strength and power, which would be a concern for me. (I know I'll get tarred and feathered for questioning him at all, but so be it.)


whoa had I seen this first I wouldn't have replied as this said what I wanted to much better than I could say it.

[fortdick]

You don't think SEC defenses are very good?

Zax asked a good question. Maybe Decastro didn't play against any really good DT/NTs, and you can't fault him for that, but it would be nice to see how he did against top competition.

A couple of people who have really studied it have said that Decastro doesn't have elite strength and power, which would be a concern for me. (I know I'll get tarred and feathered for questioning him at all, but so be it.)

Everything I have read says that he is a road grader and over powers people.

[Sam I Am]

Everything I have read says that he is a road grader and over powers people.

Same here. His run blocking is his best strength. He isn't getting all this hype due to his pass blocking as it is decent, but not near as good as his run blocking.

[Doomsday101]

Same here. His run blocking is his best strength. He isn't getting all this hype due to his pass blocking as it is decent, but not near as good as his run blocking.

They did not let Luck get hit very often. I saw some plays where it looked like DeCastro was beat only to pivot around and nail the defender away from Luck. No doubt the Stanford team loved to run the ball and were great doing it but they also gave Luck the time

[Chocolate Lab]

Same here. His run blocking is his best strength. He isn't getting all this hype due to his pass blocking as it is decent, but not near as good as his run blocking.

From what I've heard, his run blocking is very good when he's on the move, but he's not that great at rooting out big DTs.

I know Broaddus said this after watching some tape specifically of him. Someone else who actually watches film said the same thing but I honestly can't recall who it was. :confused:

[burmafrd]

You don't think SEC defenses are very good?

Zax asked a good question. Maybe Decastro didn't play against any really good DT/NTs, and you can't fault him for that, but it would be nice to see how he did against top competition.

A couple of people who have really studied it have said that Decastro doesn't have elite strength and power, which would be a concern for me. (I know I'll get tarred and feathered for questioning him at all, but so be it.)

Not very good as regards passing attacks.

[burmafrd]

From what I've heard, his run blocking is very good when he's on the move, but he's not that great at rooting out big DTs.

I know Broaddus said this after watching some tape specifically of him. Someone else who actually watches film said the same thing but I honestly can't recall who it was. :confused:


I used to have a lot of respect for Broaddus; but in the last year or so he has become more of a mediot, sadly.

I can find 10 others especially former coaches and O line players that say differently.

Ross Tucker on Sirius a couple of weeks ago said he was the best college guard he has seen in years. So I will take his word over Broaddus.

[Sam I Am]

Broaddus has said a lot of stuff that was way off. It's like the guy is throwing darts sometimes and hopes something sticks sometimes.

I pay very little attention to what he says these days.

[RS12]

Broaddus has said a lot of stuff that was way off. It's like the guy is throwing darts sometimes and hopes something sticks sometimes.

I pay very little attention to what he says these days.

I like Broaddus but the team uses him to put out disinformation these days. Like last year about how they liked Costanzo over Smith.:laugh2: Come on man.

[MrPhil]

I will flip out if he is there and we pass him up, much like I did when we didn't take Steven Jackson - a top player (that filled a need) who fell to us.

That forever changed my personal approach to following the draft.

[fanfromvirginia]

This isn't just about maximizing Romo's remaining years, although that is a big part of it. It's about taking a guy who has as good a chance as anybody else at #14 to be a multi-year all-pro. It's about improving the OL *for the next decade*.

[Sam I Am]

This isn't just about maximizing Romo's remaining years, although that is a big part of it. It's about taking a guy who has as good a chance as anybody else at #14 to be a multi-year all-pro. It's about improving the OL *for the next decade*.

If you can't get a top pass rusher, then I go offensive line here with him. (though as I noted before. I seriously doubt he is on the board at 14)

[cowboy_ron]

This isn't just about maximizing Romo's remaining years, although that is a big part of it. It's about taking a guy who has as good a chance as anybody else at #14 to be a multi-year all-pro. It's about improving the OL *for the next decade*.
Actually this is one of those situations where one would improve the other,,sort of a double win

[fortdick]

Zax asked a good question. Maybe Decastro didn't play against any really good DT/NTs, and you can't fault him for that, but it would be nice to see how he did against top competition.





From what I've heard, his run blocking is very good when he's on the move, but he's not that great at rooting out big DTs.

I know Broaddus said this after watching some tape specifically of him. Someone else who actually watches film said the same thing but I honestly can't recall who it was. :confused:

So, he didn't play anyone that was very good, but he did poorly against big DTs? This kind of argument is refered to as "begging the question".

[fortdick]

http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2012ddecastro.php

notable quotes:


Strengths:
Elite run blocker
Powerful drive blocker
Great at pulling
Hits blocks on second level of defense
Mobile and athletic
Intelligent
Great technique with hand placement
Textbook knee bend
Rock-solid pass protector
Proven leader; passion for the game
Winner at collegiate level
Durable, experienced 3-year starter

DeCastro only had a few reps this year against Washington's massive defensive tackle Alameda Ta'amu, but DeCastro won all of the reps. Stanford ran for 446 yards in the game.

[Chocolate Lab]

So when the source doesn't agree with you, he's no good. Got it. :thumbup:

Really, though, Broaddus showed he can be a bit of an emotional nutcase a couple years ago when he went PM crazy on there. But you have to admit that when it comes to scouting players, he's at least actually done it in the pros, and done it for Ron Wolf and Bill Parcells. So I trust him way more than some guy named Walter with a website.

[burmafrd]

So when the source doesn't agree with you, he's no good. Got it. :thumbup:

Really, though, Broaddus showed he can be a bit of an emotional nutcase a couple years ago when he went PM crazy on there. But you have to admit that when it comes to scouting players, he's at least actually done it in the pros, and done it for Ron Wolf and Bill Parcells. So I trust him way more than some guy named Walter with a website.

And I trust Ross Tucker who actually played O line in the pros over someone who never did.

[reddyuta]

First of all he is the best guard in the draft IMO and alot of others. There are alot of other ancillary benefits to DeCastro like he is a good team mate, high charactor, and most importantly smart enough to learn the play book in no time.

Smarts are very important,i think we should not draft dumb players early in the draft at all.

[Zaxor]

http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2012ddecastro.php

notable quotes:


Strengths:
Elite run blocker
Powerful drive blocker
Great at pulling
Hits blocks on second level of defense
Mobile and athletic
Intelligent
Great technique with hand placement
Textbook knee bend
Rock-solid pass protector
Proven leader; passion for the game
Winner at collegiate level
Durable, experienced 3-year starter

DeCastro only had a few reps this year against Washington's massive defensive tackle Alameda Ta'amu, but DeCastro won all of the reps. Stanford ran for 446 yards in the game.

who did he block that is (likely 1st/2nd rnd pick) all I can find is the guy from Washington who is slated to go in the 3rd thats all I am asking so I can look at the game...make up my own mind like I said I watched 2 games of his and he moves well but when he wasn't pulling he didn't look that impressive in those two games...atleast not to spend so high of a first rnd pick on..

If you do not think it is a big concern if he blocked a first rnd talent or not let me ask another question what NFL caliber player of any round outside of that NT from washington did he block so I can atleast go look at that.

[dallasfaniac]

...like I said I watched 2 games of his and he moves well but when he wasn't pulling he didn't look that impressive in those two games.....

Out of curriosity, which two games?

[Zaxor]

Out of curriosity, which two games?

I honestly don't recall at the moment.


We get 12-15 college games a week (not all live) on ESPN America <---name of the channel.... they show games from other networks (NFL) but mostly (college) theirs so what ever games were on ESPN you can pretty much bet I got to see it or had the chance to see it...and every game they do... they have their players to watch list so those are the ones I watch as those are most likely going to be playing Sundays if a other player outside of that list sticks out I try to make a mental note of that but I usually am so intent on watching the players that I couldn't tell you the score sometimes at the end of the game let alone which team was playing what team. I started watching College ball like that for over 20 years now...unless the match up is so intriguing that I have to watch the game...like the LSU-ALA game last year (1st one)

[xwalker]

In 2006, Nick Mangold was widely considered to be a "safe" pick similiar to DeCastro.

Dallas drafted Bobby Carpenter at #18.

The Jets drafted Mangold at #29.

[dallasfaniac]

We get 12-15 college games a week (not all live) on ESPN America <---name of the channel.... they show games from other networks (NFL) but mostly (college) theirs so what ever games were on ESPN you can pretty much bet I got to see it or had the chance to see it...and every game they do... they have their players to watch list so those are the ones I watch as those are most likely going to be playing Sundays if a other player outside of that list sticks out I try to make a mental note of that but I usually am so intent on watching the players that I couldn't tell you the score sometimes at the end of the game let alone which team was playing what team. I started watching College ball like that for over 20 years now...unless the match up is so intriguing that I have to watch the game...like the LSU-ALA game last year (1st one)

Fair enough. Personally, if I were going to grade the play of someone, I would keep note of who they faced for future reference. Perhaps some of the people he faced are dark horse players we haven't heard of yet but will soon enough.

[realtick]

This is what happens prior to every draft. You start looking at one of the consensus top prospects and folks start scrutinizing the supposed "weaknesses" they've read on JoeBobsDraftBlog.com and making mountains out of mole hills.

It happened last year to Tyron Smith. We actually had threads in which people were arguing how intelligent the kid was for only eating once a day and questioning if a 6'5" 300 lbs kid could ever gain weight. They also criticized him for playing on the right side instead of LT. They said "if he's so good, why are we just hearing about him now?"

Anyways, here's a clip I found on YouTube that shows both good & bad with DeCastro.

_8I56-rnbZ8

[fanfromvirginia]

This is what happens prior to every draft. You start looking at one of the consensus top prospects and folks start scrutinizing the supposed "weaknesses" they've read on JoeBobsDraftBlog.com and making mountains out of mole hills.

It happened last year to Tyron Smith. We actually had threads in which people were arguing how intelligent the kid was for only eating once a day and questioning if a 6'5" 300 lbs kid could ever gain weight. They also criticized him for playing on the right side instead of LT. They said "if he's so good, why are we just hearing about him now?"

Anyways, here's a clip I found on YouTube that shows both good & bad with DeCastro.

_8I56-rnbZ8

Great clip. Thanks!

[fortdick]

Anyways, here's a clip I found on YouTube that shows both good & bad with DeCastro.

_8I56-rnbZ8

Nice clip. Not much to complain about there. I was really impressed with his lateral movement when pulling left. Stayed square and made some great blocks.

[Biggems]

I wish we had more draft choices so we could adequately address our putrid OL

I wish we could get DeCastro, Konz, Zeitler, and Jeff Adams

Imagine having Smith, DeCastro, Konz, Zeitler, and Free protecting Romo.....with Parnell, Arkin, Killer, Nagy, and Adams as backups.

I am sure Tony would have a ton less sleepless nights during the season.

[burmafrd]

that clip was from the 2010 season as well and most think he got better this year

[burmafrd]

watched Decastro this last season in three games very carefully
USC
ND
Oregon State/Oregon (get those two mixed up-whichever one has the weird uniforms)

And he was impressive in all three; and they were all in the second half of the season

[Marktui]

The guy is a great prospect, but their are guys in 2nd and 3rd rounds that can be just as good. The interior offensive line is strength of draft class. I rather have a guy like Cordy Glenn in 2nd or Silatolu. Has anyone everyone seen these guys play? I wouldn't be surprised if either one turned out better then DeCastro. Let's get most dynamic player on defense in 1st

All depends on how the draft falls to us. Cordy Glenn will most likely be gone by the time we pick at number 46. He could be a mid to late 1st round pick. Silatolu might be there.

[TheCount]

Why the heck did you take Decastro for the panthers in the mock draft?!?

Because he wanted to make sure the Cowboys wouldn't draft him, obviously. :D

He's spent post after post, before the mock, essentially saying his was overhyped and that a guard at 14 was a poor decision... then he goes and drafts him higher than I've seen him mocked in any draft.

So either he did it play spoiler or he's down talking DeCastro because he truely loves him as a prospect and wants to avoid disappointment if he's not the pick. You can't have it both ways.

[Gaede]

I'm really excited to Silatolu this weekend. Should be interesting to see how he moves compared to Decastro.

[burmafrd]

why is a player forecasted to go in the first half of the first rd?
Talent and the general feeling that he is more of a sure thing.

As they are rated lower they are less of a sure thing.

NOW NOTHING is a sure thing in the draft.

What you have are degrees of the factor.

True there could be very well guards that could turn out better than Decastro later in the draft.

BUT they are more of a gamble and more of a chance to BUST.

You have a player with multiple years of being considered among the best at his position in the college ranks. He does exactly what our coaches are looking for.

So once again the better question is WHY NOT?

[DFWJC]

Exactly what do you think is incorrect?

I will tell you now, if DeCastro is just a RG, there is no way he will go top 10.

I would think that every person on this board would want all questions on this player answered. Why not be in favor of getting any questions answered? Makes no sense not to.
I agree.
Have to confess that I dropped you r grade some in the mock b/c you spent the 8th overall pick on him.

Maybe at 14, but 8th...that's very rich. You would have to add a late second rounder to make up the difference between 14th and 8th. Huge value change.