Final Mock Rds 1 thru 4

[Charles]

If Adrian Peterson gets past the 10th pick. I ‘d hope we’d go up and get the guy. Throw AD into the RB mix going into camp. Julius Jones trade value would go down, but I don’t think the Cowboys will give away a good running back for nothing.

Should AD live up to his draft status, I’d expect Julius Jones responsiblities will extend to Special teams. He and Miles Austin would be an interesting pair. Because he was the primary RB on offense, the coaching staff eliminated his Kick-off return duties.

Julius was an exceptional Kick off return guy at Notre Dame. He trashed Tim Brown’s long standing records. Since he’s coming up on a contract year I’d expect Jujo to be good soldier and showcase all his talents. A lot would have to happen but a RB combination of Julius, Marion and AD would be lethal. Anyway back to reality!!!!

Caveat – I am assuming the Cowboys trade their way into two 2nd RD picks.

1st RD – Brandon Meriweather DB Miami
This is a very good safety draft. The Cowboys should draft to it’s strengths. We do not have a player with Brandon Meriweather skill set on our roster. He is versatile enough to START at all 4 DB (4th being Nickel CB) positions in the secondary. He is Ed Reed with a LB mentality. This is the one strength Meriweather has over the blue chipper Landry. Going into the 2006 collegiate season Meriweather was the best DB in the country and while Landry made up some ground, nothing that happened between the whistle made a Meriweather a lesser prospect.

First 2nd RD Pick – Steve Smith WR USC
There is Calvin Johnson, Dwayne Jarett and the rest of the guys. Steve Smith just reminds me of Hines Ward. At worst I think he’ll be good enough to take Crayton’s role should Patrick move on in 2008.

Second 2nd RD – Justin Blaylock G/T UT or Aaron Sears G/T Ten
Somehow I think the Cowboys will have their pick of the 2nd and 3rd rate guards in the draft. Either is versatile enough to play RT. The Cowboys might have to go up a half a dozen picks to land one of these guys, but I think it’s a price worth paying. If Leonard Davis starts to realize his potential, it will be impossible to leave him at Guard. While Colombo was a great reclamation project (all he had to do was move his feet to surpass Petitti), I think his lack of range severly limited the Cowboys offense. He just couldn’t seem to get on his horse and get out in front.

3rd RD – Troy Smith QB Ohio
We just signed an “undersized” QB why not add one with a Heismann trophy and proven leadership skills. Troy Smith’s presence will make our defensive unit worry about the scout team. Plus it’s a cheap way to hedge our bets if Romo’s play was an anomaly.

4th RD – Doug Datish C Ohio
A legit 6’4” 300lb rookie. Datish can play every spot on the Oline. In todays NFL you’ve got to have utility players. Either you draft them or your stuck giving guys like Kosier huge contracts. Doug was Nick Mangold hip buddy at Ohio State.

 

[CF74]

No NT??? bullocks

 

[theogt]

I think it's almost absolute certainty that we'll be drafting a DE/OLB in the 1st four rounds in '06. For one thing, it's a big need area, and second there are a large amount of prospects from the late 1st to 3rd rounds -- and even a few that might slip to the 4th.

 

[Charles]

I think it's almost absolute certainty that we'll be drafting a DE/OLB in the 1st four rounds in '06. For one thing, it's a big need area, and second there are a large amount of prospects from the late 1st to 3rd rounds -- and even a few that might slip to the 4th.

I'd be in total agreement if Ellis's recovery wasn't getting the rave reviews and if the draft wasn't weak in DE/OLB area after the top 3-4 prospects.

I think we should draft to the DRAFTS strenghts (i.e. WR and Safety). We also have a need for Safeties with the skill set brought by Nelson, Griffin, Meriweather and Weddle.

Considering Ellis's recovery, the notion that Carpenter will be used like a Nike Vrabel and the development of Burnett (a 2nd RD pick) within Wade's 3-4, I think DE/OLB could easily take a back seat to safety on the Cowboys draft board.

 

[theogt]

I'd be in total agreement if Ellis's recovery wasn't getting the rave reviews and if the draft wasn't weak in DE/OLB area after the top 3-4 prospects.

I disagree that this draft is weak. I think it may be weak in the 1st round, but in the 2nd and 3rd rounds it's loaded.

I think we should draft to the DRAFTS strenghts (i.e. WR and Safety). We also have a need for Safeties with the skill set brought by Nelson, Griffin, Meriweather and Weddle.

I do as well. I think you'll see some combination of DE/OLB, Safety, and WR in the 1st three rounds.

Considering Ellis's recovery, the notion that Carpenter will be used like a Nike Vrabel and the development of Burnett (a 2nd RD pick) within Wade's 3-4, I think DE/OLB could easily take a back seat to safety on the Cowboys draft board.

I just don't see it. We've expressed interest at either the Combine, Senior Bowl, or otherwise in just about every 3-4 OLB prospect in this draft. By comparison we've shown very little, if any, interest in OTs. I think it's safe to say we'll be drafting an OLB this year.

 

[Charles]

I disagree that this draft is weak. I think it may be weak in the 1st round, but in the 2nd and 3rd rounds it's loaded.

I just don't see what a 2nd or 3rd RD DE/OLB could bring to the table that we don't already have on the roster, unless we unearth a gem.

I guess we'll agree to disagree

I do as well. I think you'll see some combination of DE/OLB, Safety, and WR in the 1st three rounds.

We agree on 2 positions, I think Olineman takes the place of DE/OLB. For example I think Grubbs is a better football player than any DE/OLB after the top 3 prospects, but because he plays guard chance are guys like Moss and Spencer will get drafted ahead of him.

I think we'll be looking for value in DE/OLB early onthe 2nd Day

I just don't see it. We've expressed interest at either the Combine, Senior Bowl, or otherwise in just about every 3-4 OLB prospect in this draft. By comparison we've shown very little, if any, interest in OTs. I think it's safe to say we'll be drafting an OLB this year.

I think it's fair to say we've expressed interest in almost every position. Most mediots and fans have come to the conclusion that we could go in any direction and not reach for the Draft day pepto Bismol

I also think we'll be drafting OLB but I think it will happen on Day Two. Iwon't be surprised if we drafted a developmental type player from small school.

 

[MichaelWinicki]

I think it's almost absolute certainty that we'll be drafting a DE/OLB in the 1st four rounds in '06. For one thing, it's a big need area, and second there are a large amount of prospects from the late 1st to 3rd rounds -- and even a few that might slip to the 4th.

I agree. No way do we NOT draft someone that can help support the pass rush by the end of round 4.

 

[Charles]

I agree. No way do we NOT draft someone that can help support the pass rush by the end of round 4.

Would you also agree that the way in which Wade will play our Down linemen will help support the pass rush?

The Chargers 3 starting Down linemen added 10 sacks to the teams total as compared to 3 for the Cowboys starters.

 

[theogt]

Would you also agree that the way in which Wade will play our Down linemen will help support the pass rush?

The Chargers 3 starting Down linemen added 10 sacks to the teams total as compared to 3 for the Cowboys starters.

I certainly agree, but there's a major issue with depth. If we move Carpenter inside, our OLB depth will be Ware, Ellis, and Burnett. Burnett's too small and Ellis is a giant question mark. Carpenter could be moved back outside, but that leaves just James and Ayodele inside. I don't want James starting and I really don't think he will. Jerry emphasized that Wade likes speed, and speed is severely lacking in our ILBs. Burnett and/or Carp will probably be inside. With Singleton and Fowler gone, we've got to fill some holes. Both played a significant amount in '06 and we didn't bring in anyone in FA to replace them.

 

[MichaelWinicki]

I agree with what the ogt says... I think it's a depth issue. To have Ellis hurt again or God forbid Ware-- we could be up the creek without a paddle once again. This team is close to being a legit SB contender. If anything I'd drop the idea of drafting a QB in day 1 and take a potential pass-rusher instead. A 3rd string QB won't help up this year but another pass-rusher is likely too.

 

[Charles]

I certainly agree, but there's a major issue with depth. If we move Carpenter inside, our OLB depth will be Ware, Ellis, and Burnett. Burnett's too small and Ellis is a giant question mark. Carpenter could be moved back outside, but that leaves just James and Ayodele inside. I don't want James starting and I really don't think he will. Jerry emphasized that Wade likes speed, and speed is severely lacking in our ILBs. Burnett and/or Carp will probably be inside. With Singleton and Fowler gone, we've got to fill some holes. Both played a significant amount in '06 and we didn't bring in anyone in FA to replace them.

I agree with what the ogt says... I think it's a depth issue. To have Ellis hurt again or God forbid Ware-- we could be up the creek without a paddle once again. This team is close to being a legit SB contender. If anything I'd drop the idea of drafting a QB in day 1 and take a potential pass-rusher instead. A 3rd string QB won't help up this year but another pass-rusher is likely too.

Mike and theogt, both make excellent points. I think the pass rushing depth at OLB Ware, Ellis, Burnett and Bobby coupled with Wade's defensive philosophy is having his downlinemen more active will suffice.

I don't think pass rushing OLB found in the 3rd would have an impact on this roster unless it's a steal and unlike other positions like WR or RB where steals can be found late in the draft Front office personnel do a good job of identiying pass rushers.

A 3rd RD pass rushing OLB would have to contributre significantly on special teams while also finding a role on the defense. I don't like his chances.

 

[theogt]

Mike and theogt, both make excellent points. I think the pass rushing depth at OLB Ware, Ellis, Burnett and Bobby coupled with Wade's defensive philosophy is having his downlinemen more active will suffice.

But if you leave Burnett and Carpenter outside, we're thin inside. If we move them inside, we're thin outside. Something's gotta give.

I don't think pass rushing OLB found in the 3rd would have an impact on this roster unless it's a steal and unlike other positions like WR or RB where steals can be found late in the draft Front office personnel do a good job of identiying pass rushers.

A 3rd RD pass rushing OLB would have to contributre significantly on special teams while also finding a role on the defense. I don't like his chances.

I'm not sure anyone we pick in the 1st round will have a major impact this season, outside of trading up. So, I certainly wouldn't expect a 3rd rounder to have a major impact this season. But it would mean that in the future we wouldn't have to be on this yearly pass-rusher carousel.

 

[MichaelWinicki]

But if you leave Burnett and Carpenter outside, we're thin inside. If we move them inside, we're thin outside. Something's gotta give.

I'm not sure anyone we pick in the 1st round will have a major impact this season, outside of trading up. So, I certainly wouldn't expect a 3rd rounder to have a major impact this season. But it would mean that in the future we wouldn't have to be on this yearly pass-rusher carousel.

Especially with our 2nd best pass rusher (Ellis) nearing the end of the line...

I think it's dangerous to assume that a change in the defensive plan (on its own-- without more players that can rush the passer) is going to increase our sack total by a huge margin.

 

[Charles]

But if you leave Burnett and Carpenter outside, we're thin inside. If we move them inside, we're thin outside. Something's gotta give.

Well logically, you'll know when to use your pass rushing Defense and when not to.

Whose to say you can't rush the passer inside from the LBacking spot. Infact Wade's scheme with having the Down linemen more active in stunting gives the rushing LBers more creases up the middle..........the shortest route to the QB. Infact I wouldn't be surprised if you saw Ware start to take an inside route to the QB more often.

11.5 of Shawne Merrimans 17 sacks came from rushing up the middle.......

8 of Shaun Philips 11.5 sacks came from rushing up the middle........

created by crease formed by the active Down linemen

Thats why our defense was the butt end of jokes from other players. It was so vanilla. Ellis's injury played a big part in our anemic pass rush, but I'd offer Zimmer's lack of imagination and Parcell's old school ways too.

I'm not sure anyone we pick in the 1st round will have a major impact this season, outside of trading up. So, I certainly wouldn't expect a 3rd rounder to have a major impact this season. But it would mean that in the future we wouldn't have to be on this yearly pass-rusher carousel.

Especially with our 2nd best pass rusher (Ellis) nearing the end of the line
..

I think it's dangerous to assume that a change in the defensive plan (on its own-- without more players that can rush the passer) is going to increase our sack total by a huge margin..

Chances of getting a better football player in the 1st RD are much higher than in the 3rd RD regardless of whether they'll have an impact this year or next year.

We shouldn't pigeon hole ourselves into getting an pass rushing OLB on day one when the draft class in weak in pass rushers (4-3 & 3-4) just because we're scared of being in the pass-rusher carousel in the future.

I suggest you take a look at some Charger games. It's fair to argue that we need better cover DBs instead of another pass rushing OLB because our activeness up front will require our DBs to cover for a while.

 

[Sasquatch]

Excellent discussion guys. I'm going to go with Charles on this one. I just think that the talent at S, CB, and WR is better in the first three rounds than at OLB. We could always try to pick up an extra OLB in June if one is on the market.

 

[Charles]

Excellent discussion guys. I'm going to go with Charles on this one. I just think that the talent at S, CB, and WR is better in the first three rounds than at OLB. We could always try to pick up an extra OLB in June if one is on the market.

Agreed that why a guy like Randall Goffrey who knows the scheme would be an excellent addition in June if we were not to draft a 3-4 LB.

 

[theogt]

Well logically, you'll know when to use your pass rushing Defense and when not to.

Whose to say you can't rush the passer inside from the LBacking spot. Infact Wade's scheme with having the Down linemen more active in stunting gives the rushing LBers more creases up the middle..........the shortest route to the QB. Infact I wouldn't be surprised if you saw Ware start to take an inside route to the QB more often.

11.5 of Shawne Merrimans 17 sacks came from rushing up the middle.......

8 of Shaun Philips 11.5 sacks came from rushing up the middle........

created by crease formed by the active Down linemen

Thats why our defense was the butt end of jokes from other players. It was so vanilla. Ellis's injury played a big part in our anemic pass rush, but I'd offer Zimmer's lack of imagination and Parcell's old school ways too.

Well, I don't think they're sacks are coming from the "middle" per se. What happens is that Wade will "stunt" his OLBs inside. With the Guard missing them and the End tying up the Tackle. That's just being creative, but it doesn't mean your inside guys are rushing. His ILBs do rush some, but it's not a whole lot.

Chances of getting a better football player in the 1st RD are much higher than in the 3rd RD regardless of whether they'll have an impact this year or next year.

We shouldn't pigeon hole ourselves into getting an pass rushing OLB on day one when the draft class in weak in pass rushers (4-3 & 3-4) just because we're scared of being in the pass-rusher carousel in the future.

Again, I don't think this draft class is weak at OLB/DE types. I think it's absolutely stacked in the 2nd and 3rd rounds. At least there's more value there than usual. We could get anyone of the following in the 2nd or 3rd or even later:

Robison, Brian
Bazuin, Dan
Crowder, Tim
Ford, Jacob
Woodley, LaMarr
Moore, Jay
Ah You, CJ
Abiamiri, Victor
Moses, Quentin

I suggest you take a look at some Charger games. It's fair to argue that we need better cover DBs instead of another pass rushing OLB because our activeness up front will require our DBs to cover for a while.

It's funny you say that because the Chargers had one of the worst secondaries in the league.

 

[MichaelWinicki]

Excellent discussion guys. I'm going to go with Charles on this one. I just think that the talent at S, CB, and WR is better in the first three rounds than at OLB. We could always try to pick up an extra OLB in June if one is on the market.

Oh no question the talent is better at safety... corner and wide receiver. That being said the QB class isn't so hot either so why are we choosing a QB in round 3?

That fact is there are a few... not a lot but a few guys that appear on the surface to be potentially good pass rushers from the LOLB position within a 3-4... Ogt has touched on several like:

Anthony Spencer
Tim Crowder
Lamarr Woodley
Brian Robison
Dan Bazuin

We only need one of these guys. And think of it this way but helping to stabalize the OLB position we also stabablize the ILB position to because then both Burnett and Carp can move inside if necessary-- I like that versatility.

On top of that I don't get the great need to draft another safety the first day-- I think it's potentially a huge waste. Watkins played well the last 3 games of the season after he was inserted back in the lineup. We signed Hamlin... I quite frankly don't understand the first day need of a safety. I think another pass-rusher if far more necessary.

 

[VACowboy]

I think, this year, you pick the guy at the top of your board in each round, and at #22 that could be a corner, safety, Joe Staley, Marshawn Lynch or Anthony Spencer.

I disagree that there are no players in this draft who could have an instant impact. I think Merriweather, Nelson, Weddle, Spencer and Robison would all elevate the level of the defense. Safeties aren't the second citizens they used to be. Rethinking my mock, I'd still take Spencer at #22 but maybe select Weddle instead of Wilson at #53.

There are two schools of thought on the pressure/coverage issue. I come down squarely on the pressure side. I believe that had we put more pressure on QBs last year, our DBs would have played a lot better as well. I would much rather have a disruptive front-seven than a defensive backfield that covers until someone gets to the QB. And I would draft accordingly.

 

[Sasquatch]

That fact is there are a few... not a lot but a few guys that appear on the surface to be potentially good pass rushers from the LOLB position within a 3-4... Ogt has touched on several like:

Anthony Spencer
Tim Crowder
Lamarr Woodley
Brian Robison
Dan Bazuin

We only need one of these guys. And think of it this way but helping to stabalize the OLB position we also stabablize the ILB position to because then both Burnett and Carp can move inside if necessary-- I like that versatility.

On top of that I don't get the great need to draft another safety the first day-- I think it's potentially a huge waste. Watkins played well the last 3 games of the season after he was inserted back in the lineup. We signed Hamlin... I quite frankly don't understand the first day need of a safety. I think another pass-rusher if far more necessary.

I see your point and had Crowder as my second pick in my second mock. I guess it just depends on who is available at the slot regardless of position.

I agree that Watkins played well after a rather bumpy start but I would be willing to draft Nelson or Merriweather on the assumption that they would play much better than well. Unless you prefer "well" to a potentially dynamic and game-changing playmaker.