cowboyjoe
Well-Known Member
- Messages
- 28,435
- Reaction score
- 757
NFL Team Needs- Brent Foshee
18
Apr
Longtime TFY scout Brent Foshee breaks down all 32 teams in the league and gives his take on their most pressing needs as well as the players who may fit the bill at the end of the week. Tonight we start with the AFC followed by the NFC tomorrow morning.
AFC East Draft Needs
Buffalo Bills
The Bills have a new head coach in Chan Gailey who will be bringing not only a new offensive system but also a change in defensive philosophies from the 4-3 to the 3-4 defense. As if the Bills didn’t already have enough holes to fill on their roster they will now likely need to add some extra bodies to their linebacker corps as well as replace many of their defensive linemen. The Bills desperately need to settle on a quarterback for the future. They also need to be able to protect said quarterback so left tackle figures to be an area of importance to the team.
Top Needs: LT, QB, OLB
Possible Targets: The Bills pick ninth in the first round which gives them an opportunity to add a solid player at many positions. The team could consider Jimmy Clausen should he be available at 9 or they could look to address their offensive line with a left tackle like Anthony Davis, Trent Williams, or Bryan Bulaga. It might also make sense for the Bills to trade down a few spots should another team be interested in trading up for a quarterback. Should they trade down in the first round players like outside linebacker Sergio Kindle and tackle Bruce Campbell might become attractive targets. The Bill can still add a potential starter with their second round pick as well, 41 overall. Tackle Jason Fox, quarterback Tim Tebow, or linebacker Jerry Hughes are all possibilities at 41.
Miami Dolphins
Miami took a step backward after catching the NFL by surprise in 2008. The team is deeper than they have been and appear ready to release some of their veterans in order to get younger across the board. Entering the off season they were a team that needed a few playmakers to complement Ronnie Brown and help third year quarterback Chad Henne develop further. The Brandon Marshall trade upgrades their offensive potency in and of itself, although the trade of Ted Ginn Jr. to the 49ers means the team could still use a receiver.
Top Needs: DL, LB, OG
Possible Targets: Miami’s mostly has depth needs and finds itself picking 12th overall. It is unlikely that Bill Parcells will select a receiver this early in the draft but if they should Dez Bryant is the most likely target. Linebacker Rolando McClain is a good fit for the Dolphins and would give them an instant playmaker on their front seven. Despite it not being a need position defensive end Derrick Morgan might be too good a player for Parcells to pass up, especially considering his planet theory. Miami has no second round selection due to the Brandon Marshall trade. With their second pick, 73rd overall the Dolphins could look at players like linebacker Sean Lee, guard Jon Asamoah, or defensive tackle Linval Joseph.
New England Patriots
New England is finally starting to age. Bill Belicheck has done a masterful job of trading away many of his veteran players a year or two earlier than he has to in order to gain maximum draft pick compensation. With a defense that is short on leadership and depth at key positions New England enters this year’s draft with 4 selections in the first 2 rounds and a chance to lay the foundation for their future success.
Top Needs: DE, LB, DB
Possible Targets: Picking 22nd in the first round should place the Patriots in a good position to land an impact edge defender for their defensive front seven. Outside linebacker Jerry Hughes would be a bold selection for the team, the type they are unafraid to make. Ends Everson Griffen, Carlos Dunlap, and Jared Odrick could also be intriguing prospects as could linebacker Sergio Kindle and Brandon Graham (who might project to outside linebacker in New England.) Earl Thomas would give New England another top flight ball hawking safety to roam the middle of the field. With three second round picks (42/44, 47/48, and 53) The Patriots are in good shape to move up in the draft should they choose to. With a draft as deep as this year’s class it is more likely that they wait and see who falls to them. Defensive End Corey Wooten would be a nice addition to the Patriots defensive line. Linebackers Navarro Bowman and Sean Weatherspoon would also add much needed speed and athleticism to the linebacker corps.
New York Jets
The Jets surprised everyone but themselves this season making a run for the Superbowl that went all the way into the AFC championship game. With a team built largely on defense and a running game the Jets are looking to add some offensive playmakers to help Mark Sanchez continue to develop.
Top Needs: OG, NT, WR
Possible Targets: The Jets pick 29th after their improbable run in the playoffs. With Thomas Jones likely to be released in the off season the Jets could look to help Shonn Green by upgrading the talent on their offensive line. Mike Iupati and Maurkice Pouncey could both be options as guards. Golden Tate, and Demaryius Thomas each offer the Jets a solid receiving option opposite Braylon Edwards. Jumbo nose Tackle Terrence Cody and will also likely be considered. With their late second round selection the Jets could look at receivers Taylor Price or Mardy Gilyard, running back Joe McKnight, or defensive tackle’s Arthur Jones or Cam Thomas.
AFC West Draft Needs
Denver Broncos
Entering year two of the Josh McDaniels regime the Denver Broncos continue to drastically reshape their roster. A new defensive coordinator has replaced Mike Nolan meaning new opportunities may arise on the defensive side of the ball. The team has already aggressively targeted defensive linemen in free agency. Depth at linebacker, specifically on the inside remains a priority for the team. Restricted Free agent Brandon Marshall, the teams only proven offensive commodity was traded to Miami. The team’s offensive line also needs upgrading and the Bronco’s will look to the draft to strengthen both positions.
Top Needs: WR, ILB, OL
Possible Targets: The Bronco’s have the 11th selection in round 1 as a result of last year’s Jay Cutler trade while their first round pick was sent to Seattle last season in order to draft Alphonso Smith . With the 11th selection Denver could look to upgrade their defense by adding linebacker Rolando McClain. Should receiver Dez Bryant be available he would also be considered although the team may consider him too much of a headache to move forward with following the Brandon Marshall experiment. While an interior lineman like Mike Iupati would be helpful to the team they would want to trade down before selecting him which might not be practical in this year’s draft. Due to the recent trade of Brandon Marshall the Bronco’s hold both the 43rd and the 45th overall selection in the draft’s 2nd round. Center Maurkice Pouncey is unlikely to be available though he would be a good fit if he were. Boston College pivot man Matt Tennant offers the team a nasty blocker that can play either center or guard and would have to be a consideration. Florida linebacker Brandon Spikes is also a good fit for the Bronco’s base defense and would help free up the smaller DJ Williams to make more plays. At receiver the Bronco’s could look for players like Damian Williams or Arrelious Benn to upgrade their passing attack.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs continue to pick in the top 5 and Brad Pioli will continue to stockpile good players. After investing heavily in their defense in the last few drafts look for the Chiefs to stabilize their offense unless a great defensive value falls in their laps.
Top Needs: DS, LB, OT
Possible Targets: With the 5th overall selection in the draft the Chiefs appear to be in a good position to take either the best defensive back or a very good offensive tackle in a deep draft for the position. Eric Berry would be an instant upgrade over their current starters at either safety spot and would add a fundamentally sound playmaking anchor for their defense. Unfortunately Scott Pioli is on record as saying he doesn’t like to take safeties that high in the draft. Still there is a chance that the team is just talking so that other teams don’t try to trade above the Chiefs for Berry. Russell Okung should he fall or Brian Bulaga would also give the Chiefs an anchor on their offensive line and allow Brandon Albert to move into guard full time. The Chiefs have a couple of selections in the second round, 36th and 50th overall. They could choose to add an offensive left tackle like Roger Saffold or Charles Brown early in the second round or perhaps wait until the 50th pick to add a player like Jason Fox. Anthony Davis’s freefall down draft boards could make him available to the team at 36. Sean Weatherspoon would give the Chiefs an athletic playmaker that can play inside in their base defense and stay on the field in passing situations. Assuming the team waits until its 50th pick to address safety or linebacker needs South Florida’s Nate Allen, Oregon’s TJ Ward and Georgia Tech’s Morgan Burnett could all help the team with Brandon Spikes as an option at linebacker.
Oakland Raiders
Anyone with any knowledge of the NFL could write a thesis on the Raiders issues as a team on draft day. The bottom line is AL Davis will add athletes, regardless of their position, as he sees fit. Fortunately the team has so many needs it’s hard to see how that strategy can go wrong for them.
Top Needs: OT, DS, DE
Possible Targets: Picking 8th overall conventional wisdom has Davis taking an offensive tackle like Trent Williams, Bruce Campbell (who would be a reach) or Anthony Davis (also maybe a reach.) Should Eric Berry fall to the Raiders he would be an ideal fit for the team. A selection of the draft’s top defensive end, either Derrick Morgan of Georgia Tech or Jason Pierre-Paul of South Florida would also make sense for the Raiders. With a high second round pick the Raiders could always grab an offensive tackle like Roger Saffold, Charles Brown, or even a more developmental player like Vlad Ducasse. Taylor Mays might be available at 39 and Davis would love to add him to the Raiders defense. A defensive end like Ricky Sapp would also represent good value depending on how the team drafts in round 1.
San Diego Chargers
Despite winning the division again and making the playoffs the Chargers are taking their medicine this season and dismantling an already talented but aging roster. Gone are team stalwarts like Jamal Williams and LaDainian Tomlinson who will both need to be replaced. San Diego’s trade of 3rd string quarterback Charlie Whitehurst for a higher second round pick give the team a second selection in the top 40.
Top Needs: RB, NT, CB
Possible Targets: With the 28th pick in the draft the Chargers will be hoping that running back Ryan Matthews is available for them. Should he be off the board the team will also consider defensive tackles Jared Odrick and Terrence Cody (who might be available for them at 40th overall.) With the 40th overall pick the team could target running backs Jahvid Best or Jonathan Dwyer with Best being a more versatile back but Dwyer a better fit to share carries with Darren Sproles. The Chargers will most likely wait to fill their cornerback depth needs until later when they can add several bodies cheaply.
AFC South Draft Needs
Houston Texans
The Texans are a team that has been on the verge of the playoffs for several seasons now. Though unable to reach the post season yet the team usually wins the games they are supposed to but rarely comes through to beat a superior team. They were 2-4 against playoff teams last season and 1-5 within their division, The Texans will need to improve in both categories in order to reach become a true playoff team. Still the team is only in need of a few starters and better depth. Look for the Texans to be aggressive in targeting playmakers that will help them win now early in this draft.
Top Needs: RB, CB, OG
Possible Targets: The Texans will pick 20th in the first round and need to come away with a player at one of their positions of need. With Steve Slaton on board the team could opt to take a player like Ryan Matthews to give them a ground game that is both punishing and explosive while protecting themselves against injury. While this might be too early to consider taking a cornerback it is the perfect spot to consider taking guard Mike Iupati. A punishing bruiser Iupati could eventually develop into a tackle prospect but should be a dominating guard to start his career. His addition would help the team’s 30th ranked rushing offense. In the second round the Texans will select 51st and could find players at several positions of need offering them good value there. Cornerbacks like Dominique Franks, Chris Cook and Perrish Cox are all upgrades over their current backups and could offer insurance against Dunta Robinson leaving after this season. Jonathan Dwyer could also be considered here if he were to fall
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts had a fantastic season that shouldn’t be marred by their Superbowl loss. A team with incredible leadership and talent at the top of their roster the Colts are in need of upgrades at several positions and are always looking to reload before future free agent defections cripple them.
Top Needs: DT, LB, OT
Possible Targets: Picking at the end of the first round has never been an exact science and the Colts have not fared much better than many of the teams that select there. Should one of the second tier tackles like Charles Brown or Bruce Campbell still be available the team would likely scoop them up quickly. A defensive playmaker like Sean Weatherspoon or Sergio Kindle would add speed and athleticism to their defense. A talented defensive tackle like Jared Odrick or Brian Price would make sense as a defensive tackle. Picking 63rd the Colts will most likely take their best player available. Should the Gods shine on them and have that player be at a position of need, linebackers like Navarro Bowman and Roderick Muckelroy will be considered along with defensive tackles Arthur Jones and Tyson Aluala and offensive tackles Jason Fox and Roger Saffold.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville is a tough team built in the image of its head coach Jack Del Rio. Unfortunately the team has very few playmakers and has been unable to overcome teams with great players that make plays at opportune times as a result. Still the Jaguars are a team built on discipline and toughness and that doesn’t look likely to change any time soon.
Top Needs: DE, LB, QB, WR
Possible Targets: The Jaguars will select 10th in the first round. Should Jimmy Clausen be available they almost have to consider taking. Jacksonville is a good enough team to win 6-8 games a season and may not have a top 5 selection for a few years. Taking their quarterback of the future should be a priority this season if they have the chance. Jason Pierre-Paul, Derrick Morgan, and Dan Williams all offer upgrades along the defensive line and should be considered. Should the team choose to add a skill position playmaker, however, Dez Bryant is the player that makes the most sense. Bryant could offer big play potential opposite Mike Sims-Walker and give the Jaguars an offense that has some dynamic potential at the receiver spots as well as running back. Rolando McClain will also be considered here, although possibly after a trade down. With no second round selection the team will make its second selection at 75th overall. Plenty of receivers will be available in this spot including players like Dezmon Briscoe, Eric Decker, and Jacoby Ford. If the team chooses not to select a quarterback in round 1 of the draft then they should take a look at Tim Tebow, a local favorite, Jevan Snead, and Tony Pike. The Jaguars could also look to add a defensive end like Jason Worlids or Kao Misi.
Tennessee Titans
Coming off of a down year the Titans have a lot to prove. With aging players at key spots the team must look to get younger without sacrificing consistency. A tough team that likes to out physical opponents the Titans will look to strengthen their lines and defense first. Saving their offensive skill positions needs for later in the draft.
Top Needs: DE, LB, WR, C
Possible Targets: Tennessee’s first selection will be 16th overall. At this spot the Titans could look to grab a defensive end like Jason Pierre-Paul or Derrick Morgan should they fall or even take a player like Brandon Graham who is on the rise following an impressive Senior Bowl. Golden Tate might be an intriguing receiver prospect here that will force teams to account for him and thus free up Chris Johnson. With long time unit leader Keith Bullock likely headed elsewhere it is possible that the team could add Rolando McClain as well. With no second round selection the Titans pick again at r 78th overall. At this spot there will be many receiving options available to them, Dezmon Briscoe, Eric Decker, and Jacoby Ford come to mind. Matt Tennant would be a center prospect that fits into the Titans offensive line philosophy should he still be available.
AFC North Draft Needs
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens are coming off of a playoff season that might not be considered a disappointment, but can’t be considered a success. With age creeping up on a talented defensive roster and an offense that lacks explosive playmakers the Ravens need to use this draft to restock the shelves while they are still competitive in order to stave off a full blown rebuilding process.
Top Needs: WR, CB, TE
Possible Targets: The Ravens are still in good shape roster wise but adding a few playmakers on offense as well as upgrading the depth of their defensive backfield are certainly areas that need to be addressed. Look for the Ravens to address their offensive needs in the first round, where they hold the 25th overall selection. Several receivers will be available in this area and the Ravens should be able to choose between receivers such as Arrelious Benn, Demaryius Thomas, and Damian Williams should they really prefer one to the others. Although Todd Heap and L.J. Smith are both still productive the Ravens might not be able to pass on a player like Jermaine Gresham should he be available. If not for a season ending injury Gresham would likely be a top 15 selection. Should the Ravens decide to look at adding a young cornerback Brandon Ghee, Patrick Robinson, and Kareem Jackson should all be available as well. In the second round the team could target receivers like Eric Decker, Brandon Lafell or Taylor Price or cornerbacks like Dominique Franks, Chris Cook, or Perrish Cox with their 57th overall selection.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals were a surprise winner of the division last year doing so with a strong defense and solid ground game. The team would like to add some more athleticism to its offense and a few more talented players would turn a good defense into an elite one.
Top Needs: WR, LB, S
Possible Targets: Laverneous Coles, while productive, was not an adequate replacement for TJ Houshmandzadeh. The Bengals have the 21st selection of the draft and while that might be considered early for many of the available receivers the team might get aggressive and trade up should Dez Bryant start to fall within their reach. Earl Thomas is an attractive option for the team should they decide to take a safety. Thomas is a ball hawk free safety that could transform the team into one of the league’s best at generating interceptions. Brandon Spikes could be an attractive option as a middle linebacker in the second round wherethe Bengals could also opt to spend the 54th pick on receivers like Carlton Mitchell, Eric Decker, or Taylor Price, linebackers like Roderick Muckelroy and Navarro Bowman. Chad Jones would be an option at safety as would T.J. Ward.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns are among the least talented teams in the league and are in the unique position of having ruined 2 promising young quarterbacks within 3 years of one another. With Mike Holmgren now in charge look for the Bengals to finally get their quarterback position situated.
Top Needs: WR, DB, QB
Possible Targets: The Browns again hold a top 10 pick this season. They select 7th overall. With as many needs as the team has they will almost certainly take the best available player that isn’t a left tackle. Cornerback Joe Haden and safety Eric Berry would both be excellent value for the Browns and would help stabilize a very unbalanced defensive backfield. Receiver Dez Bryant would offer the team a playmaker at receiver, but the team might not consider him worth the risk of a top 10 contract. Jimmy Clausen could be considered by the team here if they think the players can settle into the west coast system that Holmgren will eventually see implemented in Cleveland. With the 38th selection the team could again look to defensive backs like Nate Allen, Patrick Robinson, and Kareem Jackson should they be available. If Arrelious Benn or Brandon Lafell was still on the board they might be too good to pass up. Tim Tebow and Colt McCoy will also get looks as a possible quarterback of the future but 38 might be too high for them.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers followed a Superbowl winning season with a forgettable one. Playing soft and being frequently out muscled is not the Steelers way. Look for the team to address their lines in order to regain physical supremacy within their division while also upgrading their talent at cornerback following a year in which they gave up far too many big plays in the passing game.
Top Needs: OL, NT, CB, RB
Casey Hampton is going to get the franchise tag placed on him but a long term extension might be tricky so adding a developmental player for the future is a must. Max Starks looks like a RT playing on the left side while Willie Colon looks like a guard playing on the outside. At 18 the Steelers figure to be able to land an offensive tackle like Bruce Campbell, Charles Brown, or Anthony Davis to shore up their offensive line. Jared Odrick or Brian Price could be groomed to take over for Hampton down the line, though both would need to be groomed for that position. The Steelers could look to add a complimentary back to split time with Rashad Mendenhall as Willie Parker does not appear to be a priority. CJ Spiller or Jonathan Dwyer offer potential in two very different ways. With their second round selection 52nd overall the Steelers should have several cornerbacks available to them. Dominique Franks, Alterraun Verner, or Chris Cook could all be good options for the team. Jason Fox might also be a player the team considers if it does not take a tackle in the first round. Cam Thomas who is similarly sized to Casey Hampton when he was drafted could be an option at defensive tackle.
18
Apr
Longtime TFY scout Brent Foshee breaks down all 32 teams in the league and gives his take on their most pressing needs as well as the players who may fit the bill at the end of the week. Tonight we start with the AFC followed by the NFC tomorrow morning.
AFC East Draft Needs
Buffalo Bills
The Bills have a new head coach in Chan Gailey who will be bringing not only a new offensive system but also a change in defensive philosophies from the 4-3 to the 3-4 defense. As if the Bills didn’t already have enough holes to fill on their roster they will now likely need to add some extra bodies to their linebacker corps as well as replace many of their defensive linemen. The Bills desperately need to settle on a quarterback for the future. They also need to be able to protect said quarterback so left tackle figures to be an area of importance to the team.
Top Needs: LT, QB, OLB
Possible Targets: The Bills pick ninth in the first round which gives them an opportunity to add a solid player at many positions. The team could consider Jimmy Clausen should he be available at 9 or they could look to address their offensive line with a left tackle like Anthony Davis, Trent Williams, or Bryan Bulaga. It might also make sense for the Bills to trade down a few spots should another team be interested in trading up for a quarterback. Should they trade down in the first round players like outside linebacker Sergio Kindle and tackle Bruce Campbell might become attractive targets. The Bill can still add a potential starter with their second round pick as well, 41 overall. Tackle Jason Fox, quarterback Tim Tebow, or linebacker Jerry Hughes are all possibilities at 41.
Miami Dolphins
Miami took a step backward after catching the NFL by surprise in 2008. The team is deeper than they have been and appear ready to release some of their veterans in order to get younger across the board. Entering the off season they were a team that needed a few playmakers to complement Ronnie Brown and help third year quarterback Chad Henne develop further. The Brandon Marshall trade upgrades their offensive potency in and of itself, although the trade of Ted Ginn Jr. to the 49ers means the team could still use a receiver.
Top Needs: DL, LB, OG
Possible Targets: Miami’s mostly has depth needs and finds itself picking 12th overall. It is unlikely that Bill Parcells will select a receiver this early in the draft but if they should Dez Bryant is the most likely target. Linebacker Rolando McClain is a good fit for the Dolphins and would give them an instant playmaker on their front seven. Despite it not being a need position defensive end Derrick Morgan might be too good a player for Parcells to pass up, especially considering his planet theory. Miami has no second round selection due to the Brandon Marshall trade. With their second pick, 73rd overall the Dolphins could look at players like linebacker Sean Lee, guard Jon Asamoah, or defensive tackle Linval Joseph.
New England Patriots
New England is finally starting to age. Bill Belicheck has done a masterful job of trading away many of his veteran players a year or two earlier than he has to in order to gain maximum draft pick compensation. With a defense that is short on leadership and depth at key positions New England enters this year’s draft with 4 selections in the first 2 rounds and a chance to lay the foundation for their future success.
Top Needs: DE, LB, DB
Possible Targets: Picking 22nd in the first round should place the Patriots in a good position to land an impact edge defender for their defensive front seven. Outside linebacker Jerry Hughes would be a bold selection for the team, the type they are unafraid to make. Ends Everson Griffen, Carlos Dunlap, and Jared Odrick could also be intriguing prospects as could linebacker Sergio Kindle and Brandon Graham (who might project to outside linebacker in New England.) Earl Thomas would give New England another top flight ball hawking safety to roam the middle of the field. With three second round picks (42/44, 47/48, and 53) The Patriots are in good shape to move up in the draft should they choose to. With a draft as deep as this year’s class it is more likely that they wait and see who falls to them. Defensive End Corey Wooten would be a nice addition to the Patriots defensive line. Linebackers Navarro Bowman and Sean Weatherspoon would also add much needed speed and athleticism to the linebacker corps.
New York Jets
The Jets surprised everyone but themselves this season making a run for the Superbowl that went all the way into the AFC championship game. With a team built largely on defense and a running game the Jets are looking to add some offensive playmakers to help Mark Sanchez continue to develop.
Top Needs: OG, NT, WR
Possible Targets: The Jets pick 29th after their improbable run in the playoffs. With Thomas Jones likely to be released in the off season the Jets could look to help Shonn Green by upgrading the talent on their offensive line. Mike Iupati and Maurkice Pouncey could both be options as guards. Golden Tate, and Demaryius Thomas each offer the Jets a solid receiving option opposite Braylon Edwards. Jumbo nose Tackle Terrence Cody and will also likely be considered. With their late second round selection the Jets could look at receivers Taylor Price or Mardy Gilyard, running back Joe McKnight, or defensive tackle’s Arthur Jones or Cam Thomas.
AFC West Draft Needs
Denver Broncos
Entering year two of the Josh McDaniels regime the Denver Broncos continue to drastically reshape their roster. A new defensive coordinator has replaced Mike Nolan meaning new opportunities may arise on the defensive side of the ball. The team has already aggressively targeted defensive linemen in free agency. Depth at linebacker, specifically on the inside remains a priority for the team. Restricted Free agent Brandon Marshall, the teams only proven offensive commodity was traded to Miami. The team’s offensive line also needs upgrading and the Bronco’s will look to the draft to strengthen both positions.
Top Needs: WR, ILB, OL
Possible Targets: The Bronco’s have the 11th selection in round 1 as a result of last year’s Jay Cutler trade while their first round pick was sent to Seattle last season in order to draft Alphonso Smith . With the 11th selection Denver could look to upgrade their defense by adding linebacker Rolando McClain. Should receiver Dez Bryant be available he would also be considered although the team may consider him too much of a headache to move forward with following the Brandon Marshall experiment. While an interior lineman like Mike Iupati would be helpful to the team they would want to trade down before selecting him which might not be practical in this year’s draft. Due to the recent trade of Brandon Marshall the Bronco’s hold both the 43rd and the 45th overall selection in the draft’s 2nd round. Center Maurkice Pouncey is unlikely to be available though he would be a good fit if he were. Boston College pivot man Matt Tennant offers the team a nasty blocker that can play either center or guard and would have to be a consideration. Florida linebacker Brandon Spikes is also a good fit for the Bronco’s base defense and would help free up the smaller DJ Williams to make more plays. At receiver the Bronco’s could look for players like Damian Williams or Arrelious Benn to upgrade their passing attack.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs continue to pick in the top 5 and Brad Pioli will continue to stockpile good players. After investing heavily in their defense in the last few drafts look for the Chiefs to stabilize their offense unless a great defensive value falls in their laps.
Top Needs: DS, LB, OT
Possible Targets: With the 5th overall selection in the draft the Chiefs appear to be in a good position to take either the best defensive back or a very good offensive tackle in a deep draft for the position. Eric Berry would be an instant upgrade over their current starters at either safety spot and would add a fundamentally sound playmaking anchor for their defense. Unfortunately Scott Pioli is on record as saying he doesn’t like to take safeties that high in the draft. Still there is a chance that the team is just talking so that other teams don’t try to trade above the Chiefs for Berry. Russell Okung should he fall or Brian Bulaga would also give the Chiefs an anchor on their offensive line and allow Brandon Albert to move into guard full time. The Chiefs have a couple of selections in the second round, 36th and 50th overall. They could choose to add an offensive left tackle like Roger Saffold or Charles Brown early in the second round or perhaps wait until the 50th pick to add a player like Jason Fox. Anthony Davis’s freefall down draft boards could make him available to the team at 36. Sean Weatherspoon would give the Chiefs an athletic playmaker that can play inside in their base defense and stay on the field in passing situations. Assuming the team waits until its 50th pick to address safety or linebacker needs South Florida’s Nate Allen, Oregon’s TJ Ward and Georgia Tech’s Morgan Burnett could all help the team with Brandon Spikes as an option at linebacker.
Oakland Raiders
Anyone with any knowledge of the NFL could write a thesis on the Raiders issues as a team on draft day. The bottom line is AL Davis will add athletes, regardless of their position, as he sees fit. Fortunately the team has so many needs it’s hard to see how that strategy can go wrong for them.
Top Needs: OT, DS, DE
Possible Targets: Picking 8th overall conventional wisdom has Davis taking an offensive tackle like Trent Williams, Bruce Campbell (who would be a reach) or Anthony Davis (also maybe a reach.) Should Eric Berry fall to the Raiders he would be an ideal fit for the team. A selection of the draft’s top defensive end, either Derrick Morgan of Georgia Tech or Jason Pierre-Paul of South Florida would also make sense for the Raiders. With a high second round pick the Raiders could always grab an offensive tackle like Roger Saffold, Charles Brown, or even a more developmental player like Vlad Ducasse. Taylor Mays might be available at 39 and Davis would love to add him to the Raiders defense. A defensive end like Ricky Sapp would also represent good value depending on how the team drafts in round 1.
San Diego Chargers
Despite winning the division again and making the playoffs the Chargers are taking their medicine this season and dismantling an already talented but aging roster. Gone are team stalwarts like Jamal Williams and LaDainian Tomlinson who will both need to be replaced. San Diego’s trade of 3rd string quarterback Charlie Whitehurst for a higher second round pick give the team a second selection in the top 40.
Top Needs: RB, NT, CB
Possible Targets: With the 28th pick in the draft the Chargers will be hoping that running back Ryan Matthews is available for them. Should he be off the board the team will also consider defensive tackles Jared Odrick and Terrence Cody (who might be available for them at 40th overall.) With the 40th overall pick the team could target running backs Jahvid Best or Jonathan Dwyer with Best being a more versatile back but Dwyer a better fit to share carries with Darren Sproles. The Chargers will most likely wait to fill their cornerback depth needs until later when they can add several bodies cheaply.
AFC South Draft Needs
Houston Texans
The Texans are a team that has been on the verge of the playoffs for several seasons now. Though unable to reach the post season yet the team usually wins the games they are supposed to but rarely comes through to beat a superior team. They were 2-4 against playoff teams last season and 1-5 within their division, The Texans will need to improve in both categories in order to reach become a true playoff team. Still the team is only in need of a few starters and better depth. Look for the Texans to be aggressive in targeting playmakers that will help them win now early in this draft.
Top Needs: RB, CB, OG
Possible Targets: The Texans will pick 20th in the first round and need to come away with a player at one of their positions of need. With Steve Slaton on board the team could opt to take a player like Ryan Matthews to give them a ground game that is both punishing and explosive while protecting themselves against injury. While this might be too early to consider taking a cornerback it is the perfect spot to consider taking guard Mike Iupati. A punishing bruiser Iupati could eventually develop into a tackle prospect but should be a dominating guard to start his career. His addition would help the team’s 30th ranked rushing offense. In the second round the Texans will select 51st and could find players at several positions of need offering them good value there. Cornerbacks like Dominique Franks, Chris Cook and Perrish Cox are all upgrades over their current backups and could offer insurance against Dunta Robinson leaving after this season. Jonathan Dwyer could also be considered here if he were to fall
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts had a fantastic season that shouldn’t be marred by their Superbowl loss. A team with incredible leadership and talent at the top of their roster the Colts are in need of upgrades at several positions and are always looking to reload before future free agent defections cripple them.
Top Needs: DT, LB, OT
Possible Targets: Picking at the end of the first round has never been an exact science and the Colts have not fared much better than many of the teams that select there. Should one of the second tier tackles like Charles Brown or Bruce Campbell still be available the team would likely scoop them up quickly. A defensive playmaker like Sean Weatherspoon or Sergio Kindle would add speed and athleticism to their defense. A talented defensive tackle like Jared Odrick or Brian Price would make sense as a defensive tackle. Picking 63rd the Colts will most likely take their best player available. Should the Gods shine on them and have that player be at a position of need, linebackers like Navarro Bowman and Roderick Muckelroy will be considered along with defensive tackles Arthur Jones and Tyson Aluala and offensive tackles Jason Fox and Roger Saffold.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville is a tough team built in the image of its head coach Jack Del Rio. Unfortunately the team has very few playmakers and has been unable to overcome teams with great players that make plays at opportune times as a result. Still the Jaguars are a team built on discipline and toughness and that doesn’t look likely to change any time soon.
Top Needs: DE, LB, QB, WR
Possible Targets: The Jaguars will select 10th in the first round. Should Jimmy Clausen be available they almost have to consider taking. Jacksonville is a good enough team to win 6-8 games a season and may not have a top 5 selection for a few years. Taking their quarterback of the future should be a priority this season if they have the chance. Jason Pierre-Paul, Derrick Morgan, and Dan Williams all offer upgrades along the defensive line and should be considered. Should the team choose to add a skill position playmaker, however, Dez Bryant is the player that makes the most sense. Bryant could offer big play potential opposite Mike Sims-Walker and give the Jaguars an offense that has some dynamic potential at the receiver spots as well as running back. Rolando McClain will also be considered here, although possibly after a trade down. With no second round selection the team will make its second selection at 75th overall. Plenty of receivers will be available in this spot including players like Dezmon Briscoe, Eric Decker, and Jacoby Ford. If the team chooses not to select a quarterback in round 1 of the draft then they should take a look at Tim Tebow, a local favorite, Jevan Snead, and Tony Pike. The Jaguars could also look to add a defensive end like Jason Worlids or Kao Misi.
Tennessee Titans
Coming off of a down year the Titans have a lot to prove. With aging players at key spots the team must look to get younger without sacrificing consistency. A tough team that likes to out physical opponents the Titans will look to strengthen their lines and defense first. Saving their offensive skill positions needs for later in the draft.
Top Needs: DE, LB, WR, C
Possible Targets: Tennessee’s first selection will be 16th overall. At this spot the Titans could look to grab a defensive end like Jason Pierre-Paul or Derrick Morgan should they fall or even take a player like Brandon Graham who is on the rise following an impressive Senior Bowl. Golden Tate might be an intriguing receiver prospect here that will force teams to account for him and thus free up Chris Johnson. With long time unit leader Keith Bullock likely headed elsewhere it is possible that the team could add Rolando McClain as well. With no second round selection the Titans pick again at r 78th overall. At this spot there will be many receiving options available to them, Dezmon Briscoe, Eric Decker, and Jacoby Ford come to mind. Matt Tennant would be a center prospect that fits into the Titans offensive line philosophy should he still be available.
AFC North Draft Needs
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens are coming off of a playoff season that might not be considered a disappointment, but can’t be considered a success. With age creeping up on a talented defensive roster and an offense that lacks explosive playmakers the Ravens need to use this draft to restock the shelves while they are still competitive in order to stave off a full blown rebuilding process.
Top Needs: WR, CB, TE
Possible Targets: The Ravens are still in good shape roster wise but adding a few playmakers on offense as well as upgrading the depth of their defensive backfield are certainly areas that need to be addressed. Look for the Ravens to address their offensive needs in the first round, where they hold the 25th overall selection. Several receivers will be available in this area and the Ravens should be able to choose between receivers such as Arrelious Benn, Demaryius Thomas, and Damian Williams should they really prefer one to the others. Although Todd Heap and L.J. Smith are both still productive the Ravens might not be able to pass on a player like Jermaine Gresham should he be available. If not for a season ending injury Gresham would likely be a top 15 selection. Should the Ravens decide to look at adding a young cornerback Brandon Ghee, Patrick Robinson, and Kareem Jackson should all be available as well. In the second round the team could target receivers like Eric Decker, Brandon Lafell or Taylor Price or cornerbacks like Dominique Franks, Chris Cook, or Perrish Cox with their 57th overall selection.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals were a surprise winner of the division last year doing so with a strong defense and solid ground game. The team would like to add some more athleticism to its offense and a few more talented players would turn a good defense into an elite one.
Top Needs: WR, LB, S
Possible Targets: Laverneous Coles, while productive, was not an adequate replacement for TJ Houshmandzadeh. The Bengals have the 21st selection of the draft and while that might be considered early for many of the available receivers the team might get aggressive and trade up should Dez Bryant start to fall within their reach. Earl Thomas is an attractive option for the team should they decide to take a safety. Thomas is a ball hawk free safety that could transform the team into one of the league’s best at generating interceptions. Brandon Spikes could be an attractive option as a middle linebacker in the second round wherethe Bengals could also opt to spend the 54th pick on receivers like Carlton Mitchell, Eric Decker, or Taylor Price, linebackers like Roderick Muckelroy and Navarro Bowman. Chad Jones would be an option at safety as would T.J. Ward.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns are among the least talented teams in the league and are in the unique position of having ruined 2 promising young quarterbacks within 3 years of one another. With Mike Holmgren now in charge look for the Bengals to finally get their quarterback position situated.
Top Needs: WR, DB, QB
Possible Targets: The Browns again hold a top 10 pick this season. They select 7th overall. With as many needs as the team has they will almost certainly take the best available player that isn’t a left tackle. Cornerback Joe Haden and safety Eric Berry would both be excellent value for the Browns and would help stabilize a very unbalanced defensive backfield. Receiver Dez Bryant would offer the team a playmaker at receiver, but the team might not consider him worth the risk of a top 10 contract. Jimmy Clausen could be considered by the team here if they think the players can settle into the west coast system that Holmgren will eventually see implemented in Cleveland. With the 38th selection the team could again look to defensive backs like Nate Allen, Patrick Robinson, and Kareem Jackson should they be available. If Arrelious Benn or Brandon Lafell was still on the board they might be too good to pass up. Tim Tebow and Colt McCoy will also get looks as a possible quarterback of the future but 38 might be too high for them.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers followed a Superbowl winning season with a forgettable one. Playing soft and being frequently out muscled is not the Steelers way. Look for the team to address their lines in order to regain physical supremacy within their division while also upgrading their talent at cornerback following a year in which they gave up far too many big plays in the passing game.
Top Needs: OL, NT, CB, RB
Casey Hampton is going to get the franchise tag placed on him but a long term extension might be tricky so adding a developmental player for the future is a must. Max Starks looks like a RT playing on the left side while Willie Colon looks like a guard playing on the outside. At 18 the Steelers figure to be able to land an offensive tackle like Bruce Campbell, Charles Brown, or Anthony Davis to shore up their offensive line. Jared Odrick or Brian Price could be groomed to take over for Hampton down the line, though both would need to be groomed for that position. The Steelers could look to add a complimentary back to split time with Rashad Mendenhall as Willie Parker does not appear to be a priority. CJ Spiller or Jonathan Dwyer offer potential in two very different ways. With their second round selection 52nd overall the Steelers should have several cornerbacks available to them. Dominique Franks, Alterraun Verner, or Chris Cook could all be good options for the team. Jason Fox might also be a player the team considers if it does not take a tackle in the first round. Cam Thomas who is similarly sized to Casey Hampton when he was drafted could be an option at defensive tackle.
DAL @ GB
