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Hash makes Mockery of draft: Part 1
March 13, 2008 8:00 AM
Last year's Hashmarks Mock Draft release party took place in the trendy Uptown section of downtown Dallas. This year's event remains in the initial planning stages, but you'll be happy to know we just landed a corporate sponsor.
Since several of you live outside Dallas County, here's a look at the first mock draft of 2008. As always, the information in this mock draft has been independently gathered, so any resemblance to the 17 mock drafts I just reviewed is purely coincidental. Picks 11-20 will be posted by noon ET and 21-31 by 2 p.m. ET. Now, let's get to it:
With the first pick in the NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins select Chris Long, defensive end from Virginia. The Dolphins are doing their due diligence on Matt Ryan, but they believe that Long is much more of a sure thing. Expect for something to "leak" about the Dolphins love for Darren McFadden any day now. They'd still love to trade out of this pick.
2. Rams-Jake Long, OT, Michigan, I know for a fact that the Rams are in love with Ohio State DE/LB Vernon Gholston, but not enough to take him here. Former offensive line coach Tony Sparano might make a strong push for selecting the Michigan Long, and it wouldn't be a bad choice. I just think GM Jeff Ireland and his mentor Bill Parcells think too highly of C. Long to pass on him.
3. Falcons-Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College, At least one prominent writer at ESPN.com is trying to convince me the Falcons will pass on Ryan, but that's hard to believe. He's the best quarterback in the draft and it's an obvious need for the battered franchise. That said, the Ravens are praying for the Falcons to get a wild hair and select USC defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis. Sorry Ozzie, it's not going to happen.
4. Raiders-Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC, The aforementioned Ellis has moved past LSU's Glenn Dorsey on most draft boards. "You can't take your eyes off him on film," an AFC scout told Hashmarks. And don't forget about head coach Lane Kiffin's knowledge of Ellis. We know how much Al Davis loves speed, so don't completely rule out McFadden.
5. Chiefs-Vernon Gholston, DE/LB, Ohio State, He just ran a 4.58 40 at Pro Day and had a ridiculous 42-inch vertical. His stock is hotter than ever right now. Did I mention that the Rams are infatuated with this kid?
6. Jets-Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas, The Jets can't believe he's still here. He and Thomas Jones immediately become one of the most potent duos in the league running behind what should be a much-improved offensive line.
7. Patriots-Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy, This kid will remind Patriots fans of Asante Samuel with his gambling style. The Cardinals would do anything to take him at No. 16, but that's not going to work out. He's the first cornerback off the board because he's a major threat in the return game. Ran a 4.38 at the combine and it doesn't hurt his cause that Troy alums such as DeMarcus Ware and Osi Umenyiora have been so successful.
8. Ravens-Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville, You won't find this on any other mock drafts, but sometimes a man must go it alone. Here's my promise to you: We'll nail this pick. Now, I may change players, but I'm guaranteeing the No. 8 pick.
9. Bengals-Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU, Cincinnati may be so shocked to see him, they accidentally take Keith Rivers. But the Bengals will hopefully realize that Dorsey's a steal here.
10. Saints-Keith Rivers, OLB, USC, I think the Saints should take Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie here, but I'm hearing they've fallen for Rivers' versatility. He can play inside or outside linebacker and he even has the athleticism to drop back and play safety at times.
Remember to drop back by for picks 11-31 (Patriots lost a pick)
Hash Mock: Part 2
March 13, 2008 12:16 PM
In an attempt to create needless drama, Hashmarks is releasing its first mock draft of the offseason in three movements. Part 1 was met with universal praise and affirmation at 8 a.m. ET. Now, brace yourself for Part 2:
11. Bills -- Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma: At 6-foot-4, 224 pounds, this is the big receiver Buffalo needs to complement speedster Lee Evans. Cynics will point to Kelly not being able to get enough separation from defensive backs, but that's not completely fair. I watched him separate from Big 12 South cornerbacks on a regular basis. Those of us in the mock draft business refer to this as a LOCK.
12. Broncos -- Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State: Denver is putting out some smoke signals about taking Cal receiver DeSean Jackson, but I don't think it will happen. The retirement of Matt Lepsis leaves a big void and Clady's the right man for the job. One of those nasty blockers who will embrace cut-blocking. Oh wait. The Broncos would never do that.
13. Panthers -- Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida: Harvey has a chance to be an incredibly dynamic pass-rusher and that's something this team could use. The Panthers really like Penn State linebacker Dan Connor, but probably not at this pick.
14. Bears -- Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois: If this team really thinks Cedric Benson is the answer, it's more delusional than we thought. Mendenhall would make an immediate impact. I sort of have this gut feeling that Jonathan Stewart will have a better pro career, but the Bears think Mendenhall's the better player.
15. Lions -- Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt: Yes, I realize the team could use a running back, but I'm told the club has fallen for the Vanderbilt left tackle. I had a good visit with him in Indianapolis. Just a wonderful kid who has a ton of ability. Don't be surprised if the Bears take him at No. 14. Then the Lions would have to think seriously about taking Mendenhall.
16. Cardinals -- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State: The Cardinals are thrilled that he's still here. And the more I think about it, he probably won't be. I know Arizona likes Leodis McKelvin from Troy, but Cromartie may actually have more upside. He caused a huge buzz at the Senior Bowl and then backed it up with a strong combine.
17. Vikings -- Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson: Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson wants help on the outside, but the addition of WR Bernard Berrian probably means Minnesota heads in a different direction. The Vikings desperately need help at defensive end, and they're very fortunate that Merling slips to 17.
18. Texans -- Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon: I've never been this sure of a pick. This organization has trouble hiding its excitement for players, and running back is a major need. If you watched any Ducks games, you know how explosive this guy can be. Update: This is not good.
19. Eagles -- DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal: This is one of the thinnest drafts for wide receivers in years. This pick is about appeasing a fan base and a franchise quarterback. Oh and the kid can play a little bit. He's not a big guy, but he reminds the Eagles' scouts of Steve Smith. Pittsburgh offensive tackle Jeff Otah is another strong possibility, but the Steelers are praying the Eagles leave him on the board.
20. Buccaneers -- Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas: The Bucs are hoping Jackson slips to them, but Talib is a nice consolation prize. He'll function well in Monte Kiffin's Tampa 2 defense. Little bit of a gambler, but I think he has the potential to be a star.
OK, check back at about 2 p.m. ET for picks 21-30. Cowboys fans might be interested in knowing that I've nailed their first-round picks five consecutive years. Thanks for your continued support.
Hash Mock: Part 3
March 13, 2008 2:23 PM
In our third and final installment, the world renown Hashmarks Mock Draft makes some ridiculously bold and perhaps misguided projections. The Cowboys will desperately try to pull the trigger on a trade with the No. 22 pick, but unlike my pal Don Banks, I'm not going to try to identify the trading partner this early.
In case you're just now joining us, make sure and read Parts 1 and 2 of our mock draft, which is currently being printed in personnel offices across the league. OK, let's get to it:
21. Commanders -- Quentin Groves, OLB, Auburn: I struggled mightily here because Washington really likes Miami safety Kenny Phillips, and that's obviously a need for the time. In the end, Groves has too much talent to pass up. But this pick could change several times leading up to the draft.
22. Cowboys -- Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida: Some of you guys are convinced that Tampa Bay will take Jenkins, but don't be fooled by the whole proximity angle. Yes, they like the kid, but I don't think they're going to draft him. A lot of people connected with the Cowboys love Arkansas running back Felix Jones, including Jerry Jones. That said, the Cowboys think they can find a running back later in the draft. The same can't be said for an elite corner. Of course, the Cowboys will try to trade down with this pick, but if they can't, Jenkins is their man.
23. Steelers -- Branden Albert, G, Virginia: This is by far the best guard in the draft, and the Steelers need someone to replace Alan Faneca. Yes, I talked about their love for Pitt offensive tackle Jeff Otah earlier in the mock, but I'm now convinced Albert is the pick. Watching film of this 317-pound guy blocking cornerbacks in space is pretty amazing.
24. Titans -- Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State: The Titans would like to add depth on the defensive line after losing Antwan Odom and Travis LaBoy in free agency, but the club is desperate for help at receiver. Vince Young will make a passionate argument for UT receiver Limas Sweed, but it's not going to happen. I'll find out the goods on Sweed later this afternoon and get back to you guys tomorrow. This wrist injury isn't helping his cause at all.
25. Seahawks -- Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina: If Thomas is still on the board, the Seahawks may go after him. I know a lot of Seattle fans like Sweed, but I don't think it's going to happen. Balmer (6-4, 308) is a solid run defender who should contribute immediately. A decent tight end would be nice, but it would be a reach here.
26. Jaguars -- Calais Campbell, DE, Miami: If Balmer's gone, the Jags will grab Campbell. Still a raw player, but his tremendous upside is too much to pass up.
27. Chargers -- Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt: Shane Olivea is gone, and Otah is the best tackle on the board. The Steelers and Eagles both love him, so we'll see if he's still around.
28. Cowboys -- Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas: If he slides this far, Jerry Jones will be waiting to catch him. This will cause columnists such as Randy Galloway to flip out, but I'm afraid the Cowboys aren't going to take a wide receiver in the first round. Limas Sweed is a possibility, but he needs to have a strong pro day.
29. 49ers -- James Hardy, WR, Indiana: The 49ers need a big-play threat at receiver and Hardy's just the man for the job. Don't rule out my man Gosder Cheilus, though. By my count, the club had only three offensive tackles under contract right now. George Warhop's a fantastic offensive line coach, but he's not a miracle worker.
30. Packers -- Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech: Yes, I know Green Bay has a couple of Pro Bowl cornerbacks, but they won't be around forever. Kenny Phillips is a possibility here, but Flowers is the better player.
31. Patriots -- Sitting this one out
32. Giants -- Dan Connor, OLB, Penn State: It will be hard to look past Mr. Phillips, but Connor's a great fit. If Mike Jenkins somehow slips in the draft, the Giants will be waiting with open arms.
I'll be updating the mock on a weekly basis. Feel free to provide positive feedback in the comments section. I read every single one. Seriously.
March 13, 2008 8:00 AM
Last year's Hashmarks Mock Draft release party took place in the trendy Uptown section of downtown Dallas. This year's event remains in the initial planning stages, but you'll be happy to know we just landed a corporate sponsor.
Since several of you live outside Dallas County, here's a look at the first mock draft of 2008. As always, the information in this mock draft has been independently gathered, so any resemblance to the 17 mock drafts I just reviewed is purely coincidental. Picks 11-20 will be posted by noon ET and 21-31 by 2 p.m. ET. Now, let's get to it:
With the first pick in the NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins select Chris Long, defensive end from Virginia. The Dolphins are doing their due diligence on Matt Ryan, but they believe that Long is much more of a sure thing. Expect for something to "leak" about the Dolphins love for Darren McFadden any day now. They'd still love to trade out of this pick.
2. Rams-Jake Long, OT, Michigan, I know for a fact that the Rams are in love with Ohio State DE/LB Vernon Gholston, but not enough to take him here. Former offensive line coach Tony Sparano might make a strong push for selecting the Michigan Long, and it wouldn't be a bad choice. I just think GM Jeff Ireland and his mentor Bill Parcells think too highly of C. Long to pass on him.
3. Falcons-Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College, At least one prominent writer at ESPN.com is trying to convince me the Falcons will pass on Ryan, but that's hard to believe. He's the best quarterback in the draft and it's an obvious need for the battered franchise. That said, the Ravens are praying for the Falcons to get a wild hair and select USC defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis. Sorry Ozzie, it's not going to happen.
4. Raiders-Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC, The aforementioned Ellis has moved past LSU's Glenn Dorsey on most draft boards. "You can't take your eyes off him on film," an AFC scout told Hashmarks. And don't forget about head coach Lane Kiffin's knowledge of Ellis. We know how much Al Davis loves speed, so don't completely rule out McFadden.
5. Chiefs-Vernon Gholston, DE/LB, Ohio State, He just ran a 4.58 40 at Pro Day and had a ridiculous 42-inch vertical. His stock is hotter than ever right now. Did I mention that the Rams are infatuated with this kid?
6. Jets-Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas, The Jets can't believe he's still here. He and Thomas Jones immediately become one of the most potent duos in the league running behind what should be a much-improved offensive line.
7. Patriots-Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy, This kid will remind Patriots fans of Asante Samuel with his gambling style. The Cardinals would do anything to take him at No. 16, but that's not going to work out. He's the first cornerback off the board because he's a major threat in the return game. Ran a 4.38 at the combine and it doesn't hurt his cause that Troy alums such as DeMarcus Ware and Osi Umenyiora have been so successful.
8. Ravens-Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville, You won't find this on any other mock drafts, but sometimes a man must go it alone. Here's my promise to you: We'll nail this pick. Now, I may change players, but I'm guaranteeing the No. 8 pick.
9. Bengals-Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU, Cincinnati may be so shocked to see him, they accidentally take Keith Rivers. But the Bengals will hopefully realize that Dorsey's a steal here.
10. Saints-Keith Rivers, OLB, USC, I think the Saints should take Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie here, but I'm hearing they've fallen for Rivers' versatility. He can play inside or outside linebacker and he even has the athleticism to drop back and play safety at times.
Remember to drop back by for picks 11-31 (Patriots lost a pick)
Hash Mock: Part 2
March 13, 2008 12:16 PM
In an attempt to create needless drama, Hashmarks is releasing its first mock draft of the offseason in three movements. Part 1 was met with universal praise and affirmation at 8 a.m. ET. Now, brace yourself for Part 2:
11. Bills -- Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma: At 6-foot-4, 224 pounds, this is the big receiver Buffalo needs to complement speedster Lee Evans. Cynics will point to Kelly not being able to get enough separation from defensive backs, but that's not completely fair. I watched him separate from Big 12 South cornerbacks on a regular basis. Those of us in the mock draft business refer to this as a LOCK.
12. Broncos -- Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State: Denver is putting out some smoke signals about taking Cal receiver DeSean Jackson, but I don't think it will happen. The retirement of Matt Lepsis leaves a big void and Clady's the right man for the job. One of those nasty blockers who will embrace cut-blocking. Oh wait. The Broncos would never do that.
13. Panthers -- Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida: Harvey has a chance to be an incredibly dynamic pass-rusher and that's something this team could use. The Panthers really like Penn State linebacker Dan Connor, but probably not at this pick.
14. Bears -- Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois: If this team really thinks Cedric Benson is the answer, it's more delusional than we thought. Mendenhall would make an immediate impact. I sort of have this gut feeling that Jonathan Stewart will have a better pro career, but the Bears think Mendenhall's the better player.
15. Lions -- Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt: Yes, I realize the team could use a running back, but I'm told the club has fallen for the Vanderbilt left tackle. I had a good visit with him in Indianapolis. Just a wonderful kid who has a ton of ability. Don't be surprised if the Bears take him at No. 14. Then the Lions would have to think seriously about taking Mendenhall.
16. Cardinals -- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State: The Cardinals are thrilled that he's still here. And the more I think about it, he probably won't be. I know Arizona likes Leodis McKelvin from Troy, but Cromartie may actually have more upside. He caused a huge buzz at the Senior Bowl and then backed it up with a strong combine.
17. Vikings -- Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson: Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson wants help on the outside, but the addition of WR Bernard Berrian probably means Minnesota heads in a different direction. The Vikings desperately need help at defensive end, and they're very fortunate that Merling slips to 17.
18. Texans -- Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon: I've never been this sure of a pick. This organization has trouble hiding its excitement for players, and running back is a major need. If you watched any Ducks games, you know how explosive this guy can be. Update: This is not good.
19. Eagles -- DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal: This is one of the thinnest drafts for wide receivers in years. This pick is about appeasing a fan base and a franchise quarterback. Oh and the kid can play a little bit. He's not a big guy, but he reminds the Eagles' scouts of Steve Smith. Pittsburgh offensive tackle Jeff Otah is another strong possibility, but the Steelers are praying the Eagles leave him on the board.
20. Buccaneers -- Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas: The Bucs are hoping Jackson slips to them, but Talib is a nice consolation prize. He'll function well in Monte Kiffin's Tampa 2 defense. Little bit of a gambler, but I think he has the potential to be a star.
OK, check back at about 2 p.m. ET for picks 21-30. Cowboys fans might be interested in knowing that I've nailed their first-round picks five consecutive years. Thanks for your continued support.
Hash Mock: Part 3
March 13, 2008 2:23 PM
In our third and final installment, the world renown Hashmarks Mock Draft makes some ridiculously bold and perhaps misguided projections. The Cowboys will desperately try to pull the trigger on a trade with the No. 22 pick, but unlike my pal Don Banks, I'm not going to try to identify the trading partner this early.
In case you're just now joining us, make sure and read Parts 1 and 2 of our mock draft, which is currently being printed in personnel offices across the league. OK, let's get to it:
21. Commanders -- Quentin Groves, OLB, Auburn: I struggled mightily here because Washington really likes Miami safety Kenny Phillips, and that's obviously a need for the time. In the end, Groves has too much talent to pass up. But this pick could change several times leading up to the draft.
22. Cowboys -- Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida: Some of you guys are convinced that Tampa Bay will take Jenkins, but don't be fooled by the whole proximity angle. Yes, they like the kid, but I don't think they're going to draft him. A lot of people connected with the Cowboys love Arkansas running back Felix Jones, including Jerry Jones. That said, the Cowboys think they can find a running back later in the draft. The same can't be said for an elite corner. Of course, the Cowboys will try to trade down with this pick, but if they can't, Jenkins is their man.
23. Steelers -- Branden Albert, G, Virginia: This is by far the best guard in the draft, and the Steelers need someone to replace Alan Faneca. Yes, I talked about their love for Pitt offensive tackle Jeff Otah earlier in the mock, but I'm now convinced Albert is the pick. Watching film of this 317-pound guy blocking cornerbacks in space is pretty amazing.
24. Titans -- Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State: The Titans would like to add depth on the defensive line after losing Antwan Odom and Travis LaBoy in free agency, but the club is desperate for help at receiver. Vince Young will make a passionate argument for UT receiver Limas Sweed, but it's not going to happen. I'll find out the goods on Sweed later this afternoon and get back to you guys tomorrow. This wrist injury isn't helping his cause at all.
25. Seahawks -- Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina: If Thomas is still on the board, the Seahawks may go after him. I know a lot of Seattle fans like Sweed, but I don't think it's going to happen. Balmer (6-4, 308) is a solid run defender who should contribute immediately. A decent tight end would be nice, but it would be a reach here.
26. Jaguars -- Calais Campbell, DE, Miami: If Balmer's gone, the Jags will grab Campbell. Still a raw player, but his tremendous upside is too much to pass up.
27. Chargers -- Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt: Shane Olivea is gone, and Otah is the best tackle on the board. The Steelers and Eagles both love him, so we'll see if he's still around.
28. Cowboys -- Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas: If he slides this far, Jerry Jones will be waiting to catch him. This will cause columnists such as Randy Galloway to flip out, but I'm afraid the Cowboys aren't going to take a wide receiver in the first round. Limas Sweed is a possibility, but he needs to have a strong pro day.
29. 49ers -- James Hardy, WR, Indiana: The 49ers need a big-play threat at receiver and Hardy's just the man for the job. Don't rule out my man Gosder Cheilus, though. By my count, the club had only three offensive tackles under contract right now. George Warhop's a fantastic offensive line coach, but he's not a miracle worker.
30. Packers -- Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech: Yes, I know Green Bay has a couple of Pro Bowl cornerbacks, but they won't be around forever. Kenny Phillips is a possibility here, but Flowers is the better player.
31. Patriots -- Sitting this one out
32. Giants -- Dan Connor, OLB, Penn State: It will be hard to look past Mr. Phillips, but Connor's a great fit. If Mike Jenkins somehow slips in the draft, the Giants will be waiting with open arms.
I'll be updating the mock on a weekly basis. Feel free to provide positive feedback in the comments section. I read every single one. Seriously.
