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Shake_Tiller

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Sorry if this is a repost, but this mock is interesting because Mosely writes in it so much and so confidently about the Cowboys.

Hash Mock: Volume Two

March 21, 2008 9:00 AM


After a week of "constructive" criticism from NFL scouts and my loyal readership, I've decided to release a second mock draft. I've tweaked a few things, which is another way of saying I ripped up the first installment and started completely over.

Yes, I realize that Brian Brohm was an unpopular pick at No. 8, but sometimes you have to smoke teams out. My original guarantee stands: If I don't nail the Ravens' pick, you guys can ridicule me forever. Oh wait. You already do that.

Anyway, now it's time to introduce Hash Mock II, which has Darren "Papa" McFadden jumping two spots and Glenn Dorsey on the rebound. Brohm will go into a free-fall, in part, because I had him going ridiculously high. If you're interested in the Cowboys' picks, I've nailed those five years running.

Now I present to you either the third or fourth most accurate mock draft on this Web site:

1. Dolphins

Chris Long, DE/OLB, Virginia: This is the most tight-lipped organization in football right now. There are reports that Bill Parcells fined one position coach for making extended eye contact with a reporter at the combine. Don't believe the Matt Ryan smoke screen. I'm told that Chris Long's attitude reminds Bill of Jim Burt's, and that's all you need to know.

Previous pick: Chris Long

2. Rams

Jake Long, OT, Michigan: I'm pretty familiar with the folks representing Long (CAA), and this seems like a done deal. If the Rams could trade down and take Ohio State DE/OLB Vernon Gholston, they might do it. But I'm not sure anyone behind them is desperate to land Long. The Dolphins are interested in this Long, too, but I don't think they'll be able to trade down.

Previous pick: Jake Long

3. Falcons

Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College: Like a lot of teams, the Falcons are concerned about those 19 interceptions last season. But not enough to pass on a franchise quarterback. The Ravens probably have a better feel for Ryan than anyone in the draft, but he's not going to slip to No. 8. I know. I know. Some people thought the same thing about Brady Quinn.

Previous pick: Matt Ryan

4. Raiders

Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas: OK, here's our first major change. I've talked to two people inside the organization that say Al Davis has been infatuated with this kid for more than a year. When he ran a 4.27 40-yard dash at the combine, Davis was officially sold. Then he took a long nap.

Previous pick: Sedrick Ellis

5. Chiefs

Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU: The Chiefs sent a large scouting party to watch Matt Ryan in case he's available. But even if Ryan slips past Atlanta, I think Herm Edwards will be inclined to take Dorsey. One veteran AFC scout had this to say about Dorsey on Tuesday: "He's the type of kid who would keep playing if his arm fell off in a game. All this talk about injuries is funny because they've never kept him out. I hope people pass on him, though."

Previous pick: Vernon Gholston

6. Jets

Vernon Gholston, DE/LB, Ohio State: The Rams would love to trade down and select Gholston. He ran a 4.58 at the combine and his 42-inch vertical blew scouts away. Of course, he'll rarely be leaping over offensive linemen. In my mind, he could be this season's Patrick Willis.

Previous pick: Darren McFadden

7. Patriots

Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy: Some of my counterparts in the mock drafting industry are convinced the Patriots are interested in Boise State offensive tackle Ryan Clady here. That's certainly not what I'm hearing. The club has had a strong interest in McKelvin for a long time. They love his speed (4.38), and it's definitely an area of need. And no, the Fernando Bryant signing isn't going to derail my prediction.

Previous selection: Leodis McKelvin

8. Ravens

Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tenn. State: The Ravens will be ready to catch Matt Ryan if he falls, but Rodgers-Cromartie is a solid pick. He's the No. 1 cornerback on a lot of draft boards, but I still think McKelvin will go first because he played well against superior talent. The Cowboys covet this kid at No. 22, but he probably won't be around.

Previous pick: Brian Brohm

9. Bengals

Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC: The scout I talked to last night actually preferred Ellis over Dorsey. "He's just a beast," he said. "I didn't see anyone move him in the couple of games I saw in person." The Bengals need to add players on defense, and Ellis is a good start.

Previous pick: Glenn Dorsey

10. Saints

Keith Rivers, OLB, USC: I think the Saints should take Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie here if he's available, but I'm hearing they love Rivers' motor and leadership qualities. He can play inside or outside linebacker and he even has the athleticism to drop back and play safety. Scott Shanle and Scott Fujita are two of my favorite guys in the league, but they could use some help. Rivers would make an immediate impact. He's falling in other mock drafts. But not on my watch.

Previous pick: Keith Rivers

11. Bills

Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas: Yes, I realize this is a bailout pick, but it's becoming impossible to stick with Malcolm Kelly. No one will see him workout until April 9, and I keep hearing scouts talk about how much trouble he has getting separation. That said, I'm sending Kelly to the Bills if he tears it up in Norman on April 9.

Previous pick: Aqib Talib

12. Broncos

Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State: Denver could use another receiver, but this is too early for one. The retirement of Matt Lepsis leaves a void, and Clady's the right man for the job. He has a nasty temperament on the field and learning how to cut-block shouldn't be a problem.

Previous pick: Ryan Clady

13. Panthers

Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida: Harvey has a chance to be an incredibly dynamic pass-rusher. He just need to stop disappearing at times. The Panthers love Penn State linebacker Dan Connor, but they need someone to complement Julius Peppers.

Previous pick: Derrick Harvey

14. Bears

Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois: No matter what Lovie Smith tries to say, Cedric Benson was awful last season. Mendenhall would make an immediate impact. I sort of have this gut feeling that Jonathan Stewart will have a better pro career, but that toe injury could hurt his status.

Previous pick: Rashard Mendenhall

15. Lions

Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt: Yes, I realize the team could use a running back, but I'm told the Lions love this kid. I had a good visit with him in the Indianapolis airport. I would take him over Clady, but that's just me.

Previous pick: Chris Williams

16. Cardinals

Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson: I've heard about the sports hernia, but I still think he's too talented to pass on. He's an explosive pass-rusher with nice power. Some teams are scared off by the injury, but the Cardinals will be thrilled to have him. The Vikings will snap him up if he's still on the board.

17. Vikings

Calais Campbell, DE, Miami: Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson wants more help at receiver, but the addition of Bernard Berrian in free agency probably means Minnesota heads in a different direction. The Vikings desperately need help rushing the passer. Erasmus James is on the verge of bust status and the other starter, Kenechi Udeze, is battling cancer.

Previous pick: Phillip Merling

18. Texans

Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida: This kid doesn't have a lot of size, but he'll make plays all day. Scouts were concerned about his relatively slow time in the shuttle run and disappointing broad jump. That said, I think Jenkins can come in and beat out Jacques Reeves for the starting position. Reeves is an outstanding special teams player who can help you as a third corner.

Previous pick: Jonathan Stewart

19. Eagles

Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh: The Eagles are getting old at offensive tackle. Otah is the kind of kid Andy Reid loves. He's an absolute mauler who should be able to start for six or seven years at either tackle spot. I know fans would like to see a receiver here, but you'd be better off waiting until the second round.

Previous pick: DeSean Jackson

20. Buccaneers

DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal: A scout told me yesterday that Jackson will be a better pro than Ted Ginn Jr. Much more elusive in the return game, and an absolute burner at receiver. He's only 5-9, 169 pounds, but Jon Gruden covets game-breaking speed. Jackson has it.

Previous pick: Aqib Talib

21. Commanders

Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State: Most scouts think Thomas is probably the best receiver in the draft, but he's not quite as versatile as Jackson. He has the prototypical size and outstanding speed (4.4). I think he'd be the perfect complement to the smaller Santana Moss, who gets lost in some games.

Previous pick: Quentin Groves

22. Cowboys

Limas Sweed, WR, Texas: The Cowboys rarely take receivers in the first round, but it's an obvious area of need. I think Malcolm Kelly is more of a natural receiver, but Sweed can hit the home run. Owner Jerry Jones talks about wanting a "wow" factor, and Sweed is the player who fits that description. I still say Jenkins is the guy if he's available. How's that for hedging?

Previous pick: Mike Jenkins

23. Steelers

Branden Albert, G, Virginia: This is the best guard in the draft, and the Steelers need someone to replace Alan Faneca. Watching film of this 317-pound guy blocking wiping out defensive backs in space is pretty impressive.

Previous pick: Branden Albert

24. Titans

Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma: Vince Young finally has a reliable threat on the outside. If Kelly lights it up at his workout April 9, he might be long gone. The Bills like him at No. 11, but they still have a lot of questions. The Titans would be thrilled to get a potential No. 1 receiver in this slot.

Previous pick: Devin Thomas

25. Seahawks

Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina: If Thomas is still on the board, the Seahawks may go after him. Balmer (6-4, 308) is a solid run defender who should contribute immediately. The Seahawks desperately need help at tight end, but I think they can find someone in the second or third round.

Previous pick: Devin Thomas

26. Jaguars

Kenny Phillips, S, Miami: He's the best player on the board at this point. The Jags would like to grab a defensive lineman, but Phillips has more value. The Cowboys think highly of Phillips, so they may be waiting to grab him at No. 28.

27. Chargers

Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas: That's right. Jonathan Stewart's turf toe injury means he's still alive. San Diego likes Virginia Tech cornerback Brandon Flowers, but they have Jones rated ahead of him.

Previous pick: Jeff Otah

28. Cowboys

Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon: If the toe injury drops him 10 spots, the Cowboys will be there to catch him. If Stewart goes to someone like the Texans, the Cowboys will attempt to trade down. They also like Felix Jones if he's there.

Previous pick: Felix Jones

29. 49ers

Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College: Last time I checked, the 49ers had three offensive tackles under contract. It's hard to go wrong with BC offensive linemen, and Cherilus could be a good one. Under the tutelage of offensive line coach George Warhop, he'll start immediately. Joe Staley and Gosder Cherilus at the tackles. Doesn't sound half bad.

Previous pick: James Hardy

30. Packers

Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech: If Kenny Phillips slips this far, the Packers will take him. Flowers will give the team added depth at a position where they're not getting any younger.

Previous pick: Brandon Flowers

31. Patriots

Pass

32. Giants

Dan Connor, LB, Penn State: I probably have him too low. He's coming off an outstanding pro day. If he's still on the board at No. 32, the Giants are all over it.

And with the first pick in the second round, the Miami Dolphins select...Chad Henne.
 

adamknite

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I wouldn't be disappointed if the draft fell that way for us. I'd really like to get a CB in the first round though, that's my only complaint.
 

Woods

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I'd prefer Cason and Stewart in Round 1.

In Round 2, give me a WR like E Bennett.

I'd be happy.
 

jterrell

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ThreeSportStar80;2006065 said:
I'd be pissed if that were the actual draft! CB is top priority!

I think this is why we are so interested in Pacman. It looks like other teams rate CBs like we do and as many as 4 of them could be gone by when we select.
 

jterrell

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Woods;2006092 said:
I'd prefer Cason and Stewart in Round 1.

In Round 2, give me a WR like E Bennett.

I'd be happy.

No other team is taking Cason before 28 so that would be a bad selection.

I'd think we could move down or take Cason at 28 if we like him there but according to that pic of our draft board I do not suspect we rate him as a round 1 guy.

All that said he looks like a good player and we might find value in him if we can move down into high round 1 from 22 or 28.
 

jdnoyes

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I know a lot of people would be really upset if we didn't take a CB round 1, but you have to look at value based on what is on the board. If Dallas is in the above position, where all the CB's they have rated as round 1 guys are gone by 22 then reaching to pick a guy is not a smart move. Need is important but value is more so. Its looking more and more that teams just don't have a first round grade on Cason for whatever reason. Perhaps we can trade down from 28 or he may even be available at our 2nd.
 

Woods

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jterrell;2006100 said:
No other team is taking Cason before 28 so that would be a bad selection.

I'd think we could move down or take Cason at 28 if we like him there but according to that pic of our draft board I do not suspect we rate him as a round 1 guy.

All that said he looks like a good player and we might find value in him if we can move down into high round 1 from 22 or 28.

I think GB could take Cason after our 28th pick. I have no problems taking Stewart first and then Cason at 28 either.

We can still look to get a WR like E Bennett with our 2nd rounder.

I guess one of the interesting dynamics is what happens if K Phillips is also there at 28? Who is the better player? And personally, I'm not counting on Hamlin being re-signed at this stage. (Hope I'm wrong.)
 

dalboy

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we have to have a CB in the first no matter what but I dont mind if we get a WR instead of a RB in the first
 

sad_otter

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It would be terrible for us if the draft broke this way -- all of the quality corners going off the board that early really puts us in a bind.

That said, the picks are decent, given what is available.
 

baj1dallas

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i just don't see sweed as a first round value. he's got dontae stallworth potential at best.
 

Biggems

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in the first round.........even if we get Pac-Man

I would be so happy if we got 2 of these 3

DRC
Jenkins
Cason

I don't see DRC falling to 22 though....but the other 2 might....so this draft would suit me just fine

1 - CB Jenkins
1 - CB Cason
2 - RB Charles / Johnson
3 - S Johnson
4 - FB Schmitt
5 - WR Dex Jackson
6 - RB Alridge
7 - QB Smith
 

btcutter

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ThreeSportStar80;2006065 said:
I'd be pissed if that were the actual draft! CB is top priority!

I totally agree.
Why are people fixated on offense when everyone knows we NEED CBs. It's killing me.
 

btcutter

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jdnoyes;2006116 said:
I know a lot of people would be really upset if we didn't take a CB round 1, but you have to look at value based on what is on the board. If Dallas is in the above position, where all the CB's they have rated as round 1 guys are gone by 22 then reaching to pick a guy is not a smart move. Need is important but value is more so. Its looking more and more that teams just don't have a first round grade on Cason for whatever reason. Perhaps we can trade down from 28 or he may even be available at our 2nd.

The problem with your suggestion is that you are HOPING the next "value" CB will fall appropriately to our slot. You NEVER know if that will happen or not. what happens if your "value" CB in the 2nd and 3rd round get taken??? you don't draft a CB then??? and we end up with 5-7 round projects???

Value is relative and in our case it not only a matter of value but NEED. A team that's is soooooo close to SB will draft more for need than value. We got two 1st rounders and can take a chance on a quality CB. BUT we cannot afford to let all the "quality" CB disappear before our eyes because of "value". heck the best value player on our board maybe a left tackle....are you going to draft him so he can sit behind Flo for 4 yrs?
 

jdnoyes

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btcutter;2006463 said:
The problem with your suggestion is that you are HOPING the next "value" CB will fall appropriately to our slot. You NEVER know if that will happen or not. what happens if your "value" CB in the 2nd and 3rd round get taken??? you don't draft a CB then??? and we end up with 5-7 round projects???

Value is relative and in our case it not only a matter of value but NEED. A team that's is soooooo close to SB will draft more for need than value. We got two 1st rounders and can take a chance on a quality CB. BUT we cannot afford to let all the "quality" CB disappear before our eyes because of "value". heck the best value player on our board maybe a left tackle....are you going to draft him so he can sit behind Flo for 4 yrs?

I understand need, and thats why Jerry is making a play for Pac before the draft. You fill in the holes so you don't fall into the need trap. The way to go into the draft is to go in knowing you don't HAVE to draft a starter. Jerry knows all about reaching for need and I think he's learned his lesson.

In this mock, the top corners are gone. I like Cason and would take him there, but like I said before it looks like NFL teams don't have first round grades on him. So...assuming Dallas doesn't like Cason in the first who would you suggest they draft here? Given this scenario I'd take Brandon Albert at 22. Sexy? No Would the majority of fans on this board go nuts? probably. Personally I'd love the pick.

Now if they think a guy like McKelvin or DRC are worth trading up for then I say go for it, but whatever you do don't make a reach pick. Thats exactly what Jerry was doing when he picked Shante Carver, Kavika Pittman, and Ekuban all in a row. Picking a guy 1/2-1 round early because of a glaring pass rush need. Drafting only for need is recipe for disaster.
 

Skinsmaniac

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jdnoyes;2006480 said:
I understand need, and thats why Jerry is making a play for Pac before the draft. You fill in the holes so you don't fall into the need trap. The way to go into the draft is to go in knowing you don't HAVE to draft a starter. Jerry knows all about reaching for need and I think he's learned his lesson.

In this mock, the top corners are gone. I like Cason and would take him there, but like I said before it looks like NFL teams don't have first round grades on him. So...assuming Dallas doesn't like Cason in the first who would you suggest they draft here? Given this scenario I'd take Brandon Albert at 22. Sexy? No Would the majority of fans on this board go nuts? probably. Personally I'd love the pick.

Now if they think a guy like McKelvin or DRC are worth trading up for then I say go for it, but whatever you do don't make a reach pick. Thats exactly what Jerry was doing when he picked Shante Carver, Kavika Pittman, and Ekuban all in a row. Picking a guy 1/2-1 round early because of a glaring pass rush need. Drafting only for need is recipe for disaster.

I completely agree with drafting value over need. For my team, lots of experts have us taking a WR which I think would be ridiculous. WR is such a risky pick, especially with this collection, that drafting the best guard on the board makes much more sense. For the Commanders though, G, is a need position too.
 

Woods

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Skinsmaniac;2006505 said:
I completely agree with drafting value over need. For my team, lots of experts have us taking a WR which I think would be ridiculous. WR is such a risky pick, especially with this collection, that drafting the best guard on the board makes much more sense. For the Commanders though, G, is a need position too.

I thought you guys would possbily go either WR or DE . . . .
 

Skinsmaniac

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Woods;2006510 said:
I thought you guys would possbily go either WR or DE . . . .
Seems like WR is the consensus with the experts. I would love to go O-line/D-line with our first two picks - in either order.
 

BHendri5

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shaketiller;2005929 said:
Sorry if this is a repost, but this mock is interesting because Mosely writes in it so much and so confidently about the Cowboys.

Hash Mock: Volume Two

March 21, 2008 9:00 AM


After a week of "constructive" criticism from NFL scouts and my loyal readership, I've decided to release a second mock draft. I've tweaked a few things, which is another way of saying I ripped up the first installment and started completely over.

Yes, I realize that Brian Brohm was an unpopular pick at No. 8, but sometimes you have to smoke teams out. My original guarantee stands: If I don't nail the Ravens' pick, you guys can ridicule me forever. Oh wait. You already do that.

Anyway, now it's time to introduce Hash Mock II, which has Darren "Papa" McFadden jumping two spots and Glenn Dorsey on the rebound. Brohm will go into a free-fall, in part, because I had him going ridiculously high. If you're interested in the Cowboys' picks, I've nailed those five years running.

Now I present to you either the third or fourth most accurate mock draft on this Web site:

1. Dolphins

Chris Long, DE/OLB, Virginia: This is the most tight-lipped organization in football right now. There are reports that Bill Parcells fined one position coach for making extended eye contact with a reporter at the combine. Don't believe the Matt Ryan smoke screen. I'm told that Chris Long's attitude reminds Bill of Jim Burt's, and that's all you need to know.

Previous pick: Chris Long

2. Rams

Jake Long, OT, Michigan: I'm pretty familiar with the folks representing Long (CAA), and this seems like a done deal. If the Rams could trade down and take Ohio State DE/OLB Vernon Gholston, they might do it. But I'm not sure anyone behind them is desperate to land Long. The Dolphins are interested in this Long, too, but I don't think they'll be able to trade down.

Previous pick: Jake Long

3. Falcons

Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College: Like a lot of teams, the Falcons are concerned about those 19 interceptions last season. But not enough to pass on a franchise quarterback. The Ravens probably have a better feel for Ryan than anyone in the draft, but he's not going to slip to No. 8. I know. I know. Some people thought the same thing about Brady Quinn.

Previous pick: Matt Ryan

4. Raiders

Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas: OK, here's our first major change. I've talked to two people inside the organization that say Al Davis has been infatuated with this kid for more than a year. When he ran a 4.27 40-yard dash at the combine, Davis was officially sold. Then he took a long nap.

Previous pick: Sedrick Ellis

5. Chiefs

Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU: The Chiefs sent a large scouting party to watch Matt Ryan in case he's available. But even if Ryan slips past Atlanta, I think Herm Edwards will be inclined to take Dorsey. One veteran AFC scout had this to say about Dorsey on Tuesday: "He's the type of kid who would keep playing if his arm fell off in a game. All this talk about injuries is funny because they've never kept him out. I hope people pass on him, though."

Previous pick: Vernon Gholston

6. Jets

Vernon Gholston, DE/LB, Ohio State: The Rams would love to trade down and select Gholston. He ran a 4.58 at the combine and his 42-inch vertical blew scouts away. Of course, he'll rarely be leaping over offensive linemen. In my mind, he could be this season's Patrick Willis.

Previous pick: Darren McFadden

7. Patriots

Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy: Some of my counterparts in the mock drafting industry are convinced the Patriots are interested in Boise State offensive tackle Ryan Clady here. That's certainly not what I'm hearing. The club has had a strong interest in McKelvin for a long time. They love his speed (4.38), and it's definitely an area of need. And no, the Fernando Bryant signing isn't going to derail my prediction.

Previous selection: Leodis McKelvin

8. Ravens

Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tenn. State: The Ravens will be ready to catch Matt Ryan if he falls, but Rodgers-Cromartie is a solid pick. He's the No. 1 cornerback on a lot of draft boards, but I still think McKelvin will go first because he played well against superior talent. The Cowboys covet this kid at No. 22, but he probably won't be around.

Previous pick: Brian Brohm

9. Bengals

Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC: The scout I talked to last night actually preferred Ellis over Dorsey. "He's just a beast," he said. "I didn't see anyone move him in the couple of games I saw in person." The Bengals need to add players on defense, and Ellis is a good start.

Previous pick: Glenn Dorsey

10. Saints

Keith Rivers, OLB, USC: I think the Saints should take Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie here if he's available, but I'm hearing they love Rivers' motor and leadership qualities. He can play inside or outside linebacker and he even has the athleticism to drop back and play safety. Scott Shanle and Scott Fujita are two of my favorite guys in the league, but they could use some help. Rivers would make an immediate impact. He's falling in other mock drafts. But not on my watch.

Previous pick: Keith Rivers

11. Bills

Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas: Yes, I realize this is a bailout pick, but it's becoming impossible to stick with Malcolm Kelly. No one will see him workout until April 9, and I keep hearing scouts talk about how much trouble he has getting separation. That said, I'm sending Kelly to the Bills if he tears it up in Norman on April 9.

Previous pick: Aqib Talib

12. Broncos

Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State: Denver could use another receiver, but this is too early for one. The retirement of Matt Lepsis leaves a void, and Clady's the right man for the job. He has a nasty temperament on the field and learning how to cut-block shouldn't be a problem.

Previous pick: Ryan Clady

13. Panthers

Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida: Harvey has a chance to be an incredibly dynamic pass-rusher. He just need to stop disappearing at times. The Panthers love Penn State linebacker Dan Connor, but they need someone to complement Julius Peppers.

Previous pick: Derrick Harvey

14. Bears

Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois: No matter what Lovie Smith tries to say, Cedric Benson was awful last season. Mendenhall would make an immediate impact. I sort of have this gut feeling that Jonathan Stewart will have a better pro career, but that toe injury could hurt his status.

Previous pick: Rashard Mendenhall

15. Lions

Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt: Yes, I realize the team could use a running back, but I'm told the Lions love this kid. I had a good visit with him in the Indianapolis airport. I would take him over Clady, but that's just me.

Previous pick: Chris Williams

16. Cardinals

Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson: I've heard about the sports hernia, but I still think he's too talented to pass on. He's an explosive pass-rusher with nice power. Some teams are scared off by the injury, but the Cardinals will be thrilled to have him. The Vikings will snap him up if he's still on the board.

17. Vikings

Calais Campbell, DE, Miami: Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson wants more help at receiver, but the addition of Bernard Berrian in free agency probably means Minnesota heads in a different direction. The Vikings desperately need help rushing the passer. Erasmus James is on the verge of bust status and the other starter, Kenechi Udeze, is battling cancer.

Previous pick: Phillip Merling

18. Texans

Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida: This kid doesn't have a lot of size, but he'll make plays all day. Scouts were concerned about his relatively slow time in the shuttle run and disappointing broad jump. That said, I think Jenkins can come in and beat out Jacques Reeves for the starting position. Reeves is an outstanding special teams player who can help you as a third corner.

Previous pick: Jonathan Stewart

19. Eagles

Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh: The Eagles are getting old at offensive tackle. Otah is the kind of kid Andy Reid loves. He's an absolute mauler who should be able to start for six or seven years at either tackle spot. I know fans would like to see a receiver here, but you'd be better off waiting until the second round.

Previous pick: DeSean Jackson

20. Buccaneers

DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal: A scout told me yesterday that Jackson will be a better pro than Ted Ginn Jr. Much more elusive in the return game, and an absolute burner at receiver. He's only 5-9, 169 pounds, but Jon Gruden covets game-breaking speed. Jackson has it.

Previous pick: Aqib Talib

21. Commanders

Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State: Most scouts think Thomas is probably the best receiver in the draft, but he's not quite as versatile as Jackson. He has the prototypical size and outstanding speed (4.4). I think he'd be the perfect complement to the smaller Santana Moss, who gets lost in some games.

Previous pick: Quentin Groves

22. Cowboys

Limas Sweed, WR, Texas: The Cowboys rarely take receivers in the first round, but it's an obvious area of need. I think Malcolm Kelly is more of a natural receiver, but Sweed can hit the home run. Owner Jerry Jones talks about wanting a "wow" factor, and Sweed is the player who fits that description. I still say Jenkins is the guy if he's available. How's that for hedging?

Previous pick: Mike Jenkins

23. Steelers

Branden Albert, G, Virginia: This is the best guard in the draft, and the Steelers need someone to replace Alan Faneca. Watching film of this 317-pound guy blocking wiping out defensive backs in space is pretty impressive.

Previous pick: Branden Albert

24. Titans

Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma: Vince Young finally has a reliable threat on the outside. If Kelly lights it up at his workout April 9, he might be long gone. The Bills like him at No. 11, but they still have a lot of questions. The Titans would be thrilled to get a potential No. 1 receiver in this slot.

Previous pick: Devin Thomas

25. Seahawks

Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina: If Thomas is still on the board, the Seahawks may go after him. Balmer (6-4, 308) is a solid run defender who should contribute immediately. The Seahawks desperately need help at tight end, but I think they can find someone in the second or third round.

Previous pick: Devin Thomas

26. Jaguars

Kenny Phillips, S, Miami: He's the best player on the board at this point. The Jags would like to grab a defensive lineman, but Phillips has more value. The Cowboys think highly of Phillips, so they may be waiting to grab him at No. 28.

27. Chargers

Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas: That's right. Jonathan Stewart's turf toe injury means he's still alive. San Diego likes Virginia Tech cornerback Brandon Flowers, but they have Jones rated ahead of him.

Previous pick: Jeff Otah

28. Cowboys

Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon: If the toe injury drops him 10 spots, the Cowboys will be there to catch him. If Stewart goes to someone like the Texans, the Cowboys will attempt to trade down. They also like Felix Jones if he's there.

Previous pick: Felix Jones

29. 49ers

Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College: Last time I checked, the 49ers had three offensive tackles under contract. It's hard to go wrong with BC offensive linemen, and Cherilus could be a good one. Under the tutelage of offensive line coach George Warhop, he'll start immediately. Joe Staley and Gosder Cherilus at the tackles. Doesn't sound half bad.

Previous pick: James Hardy

30. Packers

Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech: If Kenny Phillips slips this far, the Packers will take him. Flowers will give the team added depth at a position where they're not getting any younger.

Previous pick: Brandon Flowers

31. Patriots

Pass

32. Giants

Dan Connor, LB, Penn State: I probably have him too low. He's coming off an outstanding pro day. If he's still on the board at No. 32, the Giants are all over it.

And with the first pick in the second round, the Miami Dolphins select...Chad Henne.



One thing, you have got to be a UT Homer. Only a UT homer would say that Limas Sweed fits the WOW player description. I'll say this, he has the potential, but right now he is a player that talks the talk, but he does not walk the walk, I am positive we will not be taking him unless he is still there in the 5 or 6th rounds.
 
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