The Jags could use a few little things on defense, but if the draft plays out like this they win.
See some say Blaine Gabbert is the draft’s top quarterback-- he has all the tools. He has a nice release, near perfect size (6'5" - 235 pounds), and a big arm. He played in a spread offense in college, which it seems most quarterbacks play in these days, although he is a little more stationary than many.
Gabbert had good games in big games against Iowa and Oklahoma. But (yes, there is always a but) he averaged 6.7 yds per attempt and had 16 touchdowns and nine interceptions on the year. Those stats are comparable to Notre Dame’s Dayne Crist in half a year.
Those statistics don’t come anywhere near Ryan Mallet's, Cam Newton's, or, say, Andy Dalton's. They are closer to Jake Locker's, but Locker is more athletic and arguably had much less to work with in Washington.
You can’t deny the physical tools, so this should be a great pick. It also helps to have another quarterback in David Garrard behind whom they can groom Gabbert. David Garrard gives every indication that he’ll do anything to win.
The tools and hype point to Gabbert, and it would be hard to argue with the Jaguars taking him.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Lashoure Taking His Talents To South Beach?
The Dolphins are an enigmatic team. One was never sure which team would show up-- the team that beat the World Champion Green Bay Packers, or the one that lost to up-and-comers Cleveland, Detroit, and Buffalo?
The biggest need for this team is running back. Mark Ingram is the best back available, but it’s actually a pretty crowded position with Illinois' Mikel Leshoure and Virgina Tech's Ryan Williams leading the rest of the pack.
Let’s not forget the dolphins lost Vernon Carey at right tackle and had a bunch of other injuries on the OL.
They also were fairly thin at wide receiver and had some erratic quarterback play to say the least.
So do you stand with Chad Henne as QB of the future ? Do you go and get him another target at WR after Davonne Bess and Brandon Marshall ? Do you let Rickey Williams and Ronnie Brown go ? Do you try to help the defense with a cornerback or an inside linebacker? Miami’s defensive backs should have gotten to more balls considering the pass rush of Cameron Wake and Kosa Misi and the play of the front 3?
If the Dolphins want to improve the team, the quickest way to do that is by staying home and drafting cornerback Brandon Harris from The U. Harris had trouble against bigger wide receivers like Notre Dame's Michael Floyd, but the Dolphins have 6’3” Sean Smith on the other side. He’d send a strong message to Vontae Davis.
However, the best long term value is running back at this spot. Contrary to popular opinion it’s Leshoure, not Ingram that should go here.
Leshoure is bigger. He’s virtually the same speed and he has one advantage – everyone in Alabama could block right down to the receivers, who kept the safeties playing deep and who were big enough to crackback on a linebacker. Last season (the season on which we should be basing their decision), Trent Richardson was arguably the better back in the Tide backfield (better YPC and a better receiver out of the backfield plus more size). Sure Ingram was keyed on; nobody at Alabama got keyed on with 5 running backs, enough wide receivers to out-class most NFL teams, a tight end combo of two players who will probably see time on Sundays, and an offensive line featuring ten 300 pounders.
Sure Ingram is good. Leshoure is better. He was the best player on his team. Ingram may have not been in the top 5 on his. Plus, he has recent history on his side. Just look at Rashad Mendenhall in Pittsburgh.
The biggest need for this team is running back. Mark Ingram is the best back available, but it’s actually a pretty crowded position with Illinois' Mikel Leshoure and Virgina Tech's Ryan Williams leading the rest of the pack.
Let’s not forget the dolphins lost Vernon Carey at right tackle and had a bunch of other injuries on the OL.
They also were fairly thin at wide receiver and had some erratic quarterback play to say the least.
So do you stand with Chad Henne as QB of the future ? Do you go and get him another target at WR after Davonne Bess and Brandon Marshall ? Do you let Rickey Williams and Ronnie Brown go ? Do you try to help the defense with a cornerback or an inside linebacker? Miami’s defensive backs should have gotten to more balls considering the pass rush of Cameron Wake and Kosa Misi and the play of the front 3?
If the Dolphins want to improve the team, the quickest way to do that is by staying home and drafting cornerback Brandon Harris from The U. Harris had trouble against bigger wide receivers like Notre Dame's Michael Floyd, but the Dolphins have 6’3” Sean Smith on the other side. He’d send a strong message to Vontae Davis.
However, the best long term value is running back at this spot. Contrary to popular opinion it’s Leshoure, not Ingram that should go here.
Leshoure is bigger. He’s virtually the same speed and he has one advantage – everyone in Alabama could block right down to the receivers, who kept the safeties playing deep and who were big enough to crackback on a linebacker. Last season (the season on which we should be basing their decision), Trent Richardson was arguably the better back in the Tide backfield (better YPC and a better receiver out of the backfield plus more size). Sure Ingram was keyed on; nobody at Alabama got keyed on with 5 running backs, enough wide receivers to out-class most NFL teams, a tight end combo of two players who will probably see time on Sundays, and an offensive line featuring ten 300 pounders.
Sure Ingram is good. Leshoure is better. He was the best player on his team. Ingram may have not been in the top 5 on his. Plus, he has recent history on his side. Just look at Rashad Mendenhall in Pittsburgh.
Playoffs? The Rams? Playoffs?
The Rams came within one game of making the playoffs. Like the Lions, with a few more pieces in place, this team could actually win the NFC West with a winning record.
A lot of people are saying the Rams need to find a wide receiver, preferably a big one, for Sam Bradford. It was hard to judge Rams wide receivers Laurent Robinson, Danario Alexander, and Brandon Gibson last year. With Julio Jones gone to the Texans in this mock, it’s too early to go after North Carolina wide receiver Greg Little or Pitt's Jon Baldwin.
Defensive tackles Corey Liuget from Illinois and Temple's Muhammad Wilkerson fit the scheme as tackles who can get after the Quarterback.
Outside linebacker could be a position of need and North Carolina’s Bruce Carter could make a difference.
And sitting there at tight end is Notre Dame's Kyle Rudolph, probably one player who could give Bradford a reliable target and help the blocking for Stephen Jackson.
It comes down to the tackles and the tight end.
Given Spagnola is a defensive coach, Wilkerson is the right pick. He may take a while to develop because he’s stepping up from the MAC but his size, strength, and pass rush ability from the inside is undeniable and a need in the Rams scheme.
A lot of people are saying the Rams need to find a wide receiver, preferably a big one, for Sam Bradford. It was hard to judge Rams wide receivers Laurent Robinson, Danario Alexander, and Brandon Gibson last year. With Julio Jones gone to the Texans in this mock, it’s too early to go after North Carolina wide receiver Greg Little or Pitt's Jon Baldwin.
Defensive tackles Corey Liuget from Illinois and Temple's Muhammad Wilkerson fit the scheme as tackles who can get after the Quarterback.
Outside linebacker could be a position of need and North Carolina’s Bruce Carter could make a difference.
And sitting there at tight end is Notre Dame's Kyle Rudolph, probably one player who could give Bradford a reliable target and help the blocking for Stephen Jackson.
It comes down to the tackles and the tight end.
Given Spagnola is a defensive coach, Wilkerson is the right pick. He may take a while to develop because he’s stepping up from the MAC but his size, strength, and pass rush ability from the inside is undeniable and a need in the Rams scheme.
Cowardly Lions No Longer
The Lions made great strides last season, jumping up to 17th in total offense and 21st in total defense. Like the Cleveland Browns, they played in many close games that they could have one. They are certainly a team on the rise, but they need a few more pieces in place to win those close games.
The Lions need linebackers. They could use a tackle on offense too. And Ndamukong Suh’s linemates were less than stellar, except for Cliff Avril, who could leave as a free agent.
So what should they do ?
Given the remaining players on the board the team would be most helped by placing a player in a situation where he can bring the heat up front, while spending their remaining picks of this draft on the back seven.
If you place North Carolina's Robert Quinn up front next to solid citizen Suh, you should raise the sack totals, and the pressure should help the cornerbacks. Then you don’t need a dynamic linebacker behind him; instead you need the sure tackler since teams will run right at Quinn.
Quinn is the best choice if Avril leaves. He may even be the best choice if Avril stays given Avril’s experience at LB.
With all that considered Detroit should take Robert Quinn.
The Lions need linebackers. They could use a tackle on offense too. And Ndamukong Suh’s linemates were less than stellar, except for Cliff Avril, who could leave as a free agent.
So what should they do ?
Given the remaining players on the board the team would be most helped by placing a player in a situation where he can bring the heat up front, while spending their remaining picks of this draft on the back seven.
If you place North Carolina's Robert Quinn up front next to solid citizen Suh, you should raise the sack totals, and the pressure should help the cornerbacks. Then you don’t need a dynamic linebacker behind him; instead you need the sure tackler since teams will run right at Quinn.
Quinn is the best choice if Avril leaves. He may even be the best choice if Avril stays given Avril’s experience at LB.
With all that considered Detroit should take Robert Quinn.
Where Have You Gone, Brett Favre?
The Vikings ran Brad Childress off. They’ll probably let Sidney Rice move on after he opted out of most of last season. They ran Sage Rosensfels off to Denver so they could pull Brett Favre back to the fold. Rosenfels really outplayed both Tavaris Jackson and Favre the past preseason and probably should have won that job.
And now they have next to nothing. Plus, they stand to lose two defensive lineman, and possibly two linebackers to free agency.
So the Vikings, who should have been mighty last year, pick just outside the top ten this year. The first NFC north team to select.
They have no quarterback. Their best wide receiver is possibly leaving. The defensive line is aging rapidly, and key players on their way out. Their best linebacker is a free agent, and their top safety is moving on.
Where do you go with this pick?
If you’re going best player available, it is North Carolina’s Robert Quinn, especially if Julio Jones is gone. But Quinn has had off field issues that may not play well in Minnesota.
At quarterback, there are two who might be worthy building blocks who could learn while handing off to Adrian Peterson.
Missouri's Blaine Gabbert will probably be the choice, but Arkansas' Ryan Mallet should be, as he may be the better QB long term.
And now they have next to nothing. Plus, they stand to lose two defensive lineman, and possibly two linebackers to free agency.
So the Vikings, who should have been mighty last year, pick just outside the top ten this year. The first NFC north team to select.
They have no quarterback. Their best wide receiver is possibly leaving. The defensive line is aging rapidly, and key players on their way out. Their best linebacker is a free agent, and their top safety is moving on.
Where do you go with this pick?
If you’re going best player available, it is North Carolina’s Robert Quinn, especially if Julio Jones is gone. But Quinn has had off field issues that may not play well in Minnesota.
At quarterback, there are two who might be worthy building blocks who could learn while handing off to Adrian Peterson.
Missouri's Blaine Gabbert will probably be the choice, but Arkansas' Ryan Mallet should be, as he may be the better QB long term.
Houston, We Have Some Problems.
The Texans were last in the league in 2010 in guarding against the pass, allowing opposing quarterbacks to compile a gaudy 100.5 quarterback rating. They were tied for 23rd in sacks with 30. Plus, they allowed more big plays (40+ yards) than any other team in the league. So defense would seem like a big need.
The Texans have decided to go the 3-4 route on defense, which makes perfect sense given that they’re absolutely loaded with nose tackle types, and they don’t have any smaller quicker tackles like Amobi Okoye, Shaun Cody, Earl Mitchell, Damione Lewis, and DeMario Pressley. When your best player Mario Williams is a 295-pound defensive end, you want to move him over so he’s covered by a G and a T, where he is completely eliminated but where he frees up others.
Brilliant.
Well it is for the linebacker corps. DeMeco Ryans and Xavier Adibi look like they could flourish in a 3-4 scheme, and Connor Barwin and Brian Cushing could do very well as OLB’s in a zone blitz scheme.
So the big need on defense is a true nose tackle. Don’t expect the Texans to draft one and see him start immediately. It takes a while to learn the leverage, add the weight, and build the strength to step in at the nose tackle position. It takes a special sort of player to give himself up on every play. Ask Albert Haynesworth about playing the nose as opposed to playing defensive tackle. It’s no fun. So let’s hear it for Casey Hampton in Pittsburgh and Kris Jenkins in New York and the few others who really do that job well for long periods.
Defensively, they may want to consider talking to a team switching to a 4-3 from a 3-4 about an established nose tackle. Maybe they could even package a couple of players for a guy that can do the job. Okay – we’ll make it simple. Call Cleveland about Ahtyba Rubin.
Aside from nose tackle, the problems are really in the defensive backfield-- probably more at safety than at corner.
The best safety in this draft is UCLA’s Rahim Moore. He could work here. Cornerback Jimmy Smith from Colorado has good size for a safety. He could work here, but both would be mild stretches at this point in the draft.
On the other side of the ball, it’s hard to argue that the offensive line didn’t run block or pass block well. Houston's offensive line was ranked in the top third in the league, which allowed them to put up big numbers on offense, ranking third in overall offense.
They could lose Jacoby Jones as a free agent, and after Andre Johnson and Kevin Walter, they’d be very thin at the wide receiver spot. Julio Jones is probably the best talent on the board. Maryland’s Torrey Smith would be a reach, but he’d provide a ton of speed in the slot and a game breaking presence in three receiver sets.
And there is no position with a bigger drop off than tight end, with Notre Dame’s Kyle Rudolph head and shoulders above the rest of the class. Owen Daniels has been dinged up in recent years and could be a free agent.
So the smart move depends on who comes back through free agency. If Daniels is allowed to leave and Jones returns, take Rudolph. If both return, take Julio Jones. If only Jacoby Jones leaves, take Torrey Smith.
So the defense has its needs, but we believe in taking the best player available. At this point, it is Alabama's Julio Jones barely edging a rising Kyle Rudolph.
The Texans have decided to go the 3-4 route on defense, which makes perfect sense given that they’re absolutely loaded with nose tackle types, and they don’t have any smaller quicker tackles like Amobi Okoye, Shaun Cody, Earl Mitchell, Damione Lewis, and DeMario Pressley. When your best player Mario Williams is a 295-pound defensive end, you want to move him over so he’s covered by a G and a T, where he is completely eliminated but where he frees up others.
Brilliant.
Well it is for the linebacker corps. DeMeco Ryans and Xavier Adibi look like they could flourish in a 3-4 scheme, and Connor Barwin and Brian Cushing could do very well as OLB’s in a zone blitz scheme.
So the big need on defense is a true nose tackle. Don’t expect the Texans to draft one and see him start immediately. It takes a while to learn the leverage, add the weight, and build the strength to step in at the nose tackle position. It takes a special sort of player to give himself up on every play. Ask Albert Haynesworth about playing the nose as opposed to playing defensive tackle. It’s no fun. So let’s hear it for Casey Hampton in Pittsburgh and Kris Jenkins in New York and the few others who really do that job well for long periods.
Defensively, they may want to consider talking to a team switching to a 4-3 from a 3-4 about an established nose tackle. Maybe they could even package a couple of players for a guy that can do the job. Okay – we’ll make it simple. Call Cleveland about Ahtyba Rubin.
Aside from nose tackle, the problems are really in the defensive backfield-- probably more at safety than at corner.
The best safety in this draft is UCLA’s Rahim Moore. He could work here. Cornerback Jimmy Smith from Colorado has good size for a safety. He could work here, but both would be mild stretches at this point in the draft.
On the other side of the ball, it’s hard to argue that the offensive line didn’t run block or pass block well. Houston's offensive line was ranked in the top third in the league, which allowed them to put up big numbers on offense, ranking third in overall offense.
They could lose Jacoby Jones as a free agent, and after Andre Johnson and Kevin Walter, they’d be very thin at the wide receiver spot. Julio Jones is probably the best talent on the board. Maryland’s Torrey Smith would be a reach, but he’d provide a ton of speed in the slot and a game breaking presence in three receiver sets.
And there is no position with a bigger drop off than tight end, with Notre Dame’s Kyle Rudolph head and shoulders above the rest of the class. Owen Daniels has been dinged up in recent years and could be a free agent.
So the smart move depends on who comes back through free agency. If Daniels is allowed to leave and Jones returns, take Rudolph. If both return, take Julio Jones. If only Jacoby Jones leaves, take Torrey Smith.
So the defense has its needs, but we believe in taking the best player available. At this point, it is Alabama's Julio Jones barely edging a rising Kyle Rudolph.
Will the Next John Elway Please Stand Up?
The Redskins are a team with myriad needs. They need offensive line help. They have a bunch of free agents. They need their wide receivers to step up. Plus, they are still transitioning from the 4-3 to the 3-4. They also have an owner in Daniel Snyder and a coach in Mike Shanahan who love high profile quarterbacks, which makes them likely to draft one.
They have two veteran quarterbacks in Donovan McNabb and Rex Grossman, who have taken teams to a Super Bowl. Fans are lukewarm on both men.
If they really want to take a quarterback, they should move the aging McNabb and re-sign Grossman. McNabb showed in Philadelphia he’s not exactly the guy you want to have grooming a young quarterback. The coaching staff certainly seemed to have more faith in Rex than Donovan late last season.
Maybe they could get a team like Cleveland to take McNabb and ask him to groom Colt McCoy. Former Eagles' quarterbacks coach Pat Shurmer is the Browns' new head coach. He has worked with McNabb, Mike Vick, Keven Kolb, and Jeff Garcia to name a few. However, it seems McCoy's clipboard-holding days are over in Cleveland, so McNabb would likely signing on to be a back-up there. So far the Browns have not moved Jake Delhomme or Seneca Wallace, so a lot would have to happen to bring that scenario to light.
While quarterback isn’t really as big of a need as, say, wide receiver, guard, linebacker, running back (although Ryan Torrain looked good for stretches), and possibly even defensive back, with free agency looming it’s a given that the Redskins are looking quarterback.
But which one? Which one is the most Elway-esque ?
Missouri's Blaine Gabbert has the big Arm but isn’t the most mobile in the pocket. Arkansas' Ryan Mallet has the most big game experience to go with his big arm but not a ton of mobility. Then there’s Washington's Jake Locker.
Locker may not be John Elway. Physically he’s very similar to the last quarterback Mike Shanahan wanted badly enough to spend a first round pick on: Jay Cutler.
He is mobile; he’s accurate on the move. He’s the kind of quarterback who has put his team on his shoulders for short periods of time. He’s a Shanahan kind of guy.
Get away from the hype, and if this team decides to go QB it should be Locker.
They have two veteran quarterbacks in Donovan McNabb and Rex Grossman, who have taken teams to a Super Bowl. Fans are lukewarm on both men.
If they really want to take a quarterback, they should move the aging McNabb and re-sign Grossman. McNabb showed in Philadelphia he’s not exactly the guy you want to have grooming a young quarterback. The coaching staff certainly seemed to have more faith in Rex than Donovan late last season.
Maybe they could get a team like Cleveland to take McNabb and ask him to groom Colt McCoy. Former Eagles' quarterbacks coach Pat Shurmer is the Browns' new head coach. He has worked with McNabb, Mike Vick, Keven Kolb, and Jeff Garcia to name a few. However, it seems McCoy's clipboard-holding days are over in Cleveland, so McNabb would likely signing on to be a back-up there. So far the Browns have not moved Jake Delhomme or Seneca Wallace, so a lot would have to happen to bring that scenario to light.
While quarterback isn’t really as big of a need as, say, wide receiver, guard, linebacker, running back (although Ryan Torrain looked good for stretches), and possibly even defensive back, with free agency looming it’s a given that the Redskins are looking quarterback.
But which one? Which one is the most Elway-esque ?
Missouri's Blaine Gabbert has the big Arm but isn’t the most mobile in the pocket. Arkansas' Ryan Mallet has the most big game experience to go with his big arm but not a ton of mobility. Then there’s Washington's Jake Locker.
Locker may not be John Elway. Physically he’s very similar to the last quarterback Mike Shanahan wanted badly enough to spend a first round pick on: Jay Cutler.
He is mobile; he’s accurate on the move. He’s the kind of quarterback who has put his team on his shoulders for short periods of time. He’s a Shanahan kind of guy.
Get away from the hype, and if this team decides to go QB it should be Locker.
How 'bout them Cowboys?
What the heck is this team doing drafting in the top 10 ?
Big back? Check. Speed back? Check. Reliable tight end? Check. A bevy of wide receivers? Check. Big defensive ends to keep the outside linebackers free? Check. Combative nose tackle? Check.
So what happened ? Two things: First, guard play – the big bruisers at guard in Dallas weren’t quick enough to get out and lead for speed back Felix Jones and were not quick enough to stop quick pass rushers early in the year.
You aren’t about to take a guard with the ninth pick. But some smaller, quicker, and more combative guards must be brought in at least to give the big guys a challenge. Leonard Davis needs to remember what it is like to want to play.
The second and biggest problem was coaching. When Tony Romo was on the field, the Cowboys never seemed to try to build on the one-two punch of Barber and Jones. That one-two rush game opens up play action. It wears down defenses. It wins football games.
Pretty simple premise.
Instead the Cowboys were simply pretty. Everyone into the pattern and Tony would throw one of them the ball and then pump his fist on camera.
Against the Bears, the Cowboys' leading rusher had 31 yards. Two passes bounced off the hands of receivers and were converted into Chicago points for a seven point Dallas loss. Three interceptions played a factor against Tennessee, a team where the idea is to keep Chris Johnson off the field. Against the Vikings, the Cowboys' leading rusher has a mere 32 yards.
Run the Ball Cowboys.
And as your top 10 pick, take the best player available. Dareus would have been nice.
Prince Amukamara, a 200-pound defensive back from Nebraska adds depth and size to a smallish secondary, and he’s the best fit here.
At this point in the draft, the time is approaching for teams running the 3-4 to start looking at Purdue’s Ryan Kerrigan, who could play inside or outside and provide a pass rush, toughness, and a big-time motor.
But for now – Amukamara is a nice addition to the back line on defense.
Big back? Check. Speed back? Check. Reliable tight end? Check. A bevy of wide receivers? Check. Big defensive ends to keep the outside linebackers free? Check. Combative nose tackle? Check.
So what happened ? Two things: First, guard play – the big bruisers at guard in Dallas weren’t quick enough to get out and lead for speed back Felix Jones and were not quick enough to stop quick pass rushers early in the year.
You aren’t about to take a guard with the ninth pick. But some smaller, quicker, and more combative guards must be brought in at least to give the big guys a challenge. Leonard Davis needs to remember what it is like to want to play.
The second and biggest problem was coaching. When Tony Romo was on the field, the Cowboys never seemed to try to build on the one-two punch of Barber and Jones. That one-two rush game opens up play action. It wears down defenses. It wins football games.
Pretty simple premise.
Instead the Cowboys were simply pretty. Everyone into the pattern and Tony would throw one of them the ball and then pump his fist on camera.
Against the Bears, the Cowboys' leading rusher had 31 yards. Two passes bounced off the hands of receivers and were converted into Chicago points for a seven point Dallas loss. Three interceptions played a factor against Tennessee, a team where the idea is to keep Chris Johnson off the field. Against the Vikings, the Cowboys' leading rusher has a mere 32 yards.
Run the Ball Cowboys.
And as your top 10 pick, take the best player available. Dareus would have been nice.
Prince Amukamara, a 200-pound defensive back from Nebraska adds depth and size to a smallish secondary, and he’s the best fit here.
At this point in the draft, the time is approaching for teams running the 3-4 to start looking at Purdue’s Ryan Kerrigan, who could play inside or outside and provide a pass rush, toughness, and a big-time motor.
But for now – Amukamara is a nice addition to the back line on defense.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
For Some Strange Reason He Guided Me to Tennessee
After Kerry Collins repeatedly came in to clean up after Vince Young for pretty much every season Young was on the team, people are still clamoring for a quarterback. Young's time in Tennessee is over.
There was a time when back-up quarterback Chris Simms showed a lot of promise and toughness in Tampa. He lost his job due in part to injury and in part to an arrogant coach. Tennessee should have learned from its mistake and let some other team groom your quarterback for you before you draft him in the top 10.
There are a number of free agent quarterbacks out there, many of whom would love to throw to Kenny Britt, with Chris Johnson as a check-down, and line up behind bookend tackles like Michael Roos and David Stewart. There’s good depth at wide receiver too.
Then there’s the defense that Jerry Gray will take over.
At linebacker Gerald McRath is an elite athlete still learning. Stephen Tulloch and Will Weatherspoon were elite tacklers last year.
All the cornerbacks tackled pretty well. Alterraun Verner and Jason McCourty could grow into what Cortland Finnegan already is-- a very good NFL corner.
The problem is up front, where the Titans lost several key players early in the season. Defensive end Derrick Morgan will be back in his 2nd year. Jason Jones proved a little light for every down duty in the middle without Tony Brown next to him, and starting ends Jason Babin, Jacob Ford, and Dave Ball are all 260 pounds or lighter. Babin and Ball are both noted motor guys. Ford is more athletic but doesn’t play the run as well. New defensive coordinator Gray has promised to build a disciplined team oriented defense.
So getting stronger up front is where the Titans should go with pick 1. The quarterback slot is a luxury when the team should be built around the Chris Johnson.
As such, the Titans should pick Alabama defensive tackle/end Marcell Dareus.
Dareus gets after the passer well and spends a lot of time in the backfield. He’s a player who could move to end in some schemes, but he’s only 6’3”, and his 310 pounds make him a good sized tackle for a team that didn’t have a defensive starter over 300 lbs last season. It’s possible the Titans could go with a big play end because as a former defensive back, Gray recognizes the idea that a pass rush helps the defense, but getting an interior rush and not asking all of your defensive backs to make 100 tackles is big too.
Dareus could have gone any from 1 to 8 and Tennessee is lucky to find him here.
There was a time when back-up quarterback Chris Simms showed a lot of promise and toughness in Tampa. He lost his job due in part to injury and in part to an arrogant coach. Tennessee should have learned from its mistake and let some other team groom your quarterback for you before you draft him in the top 10.
There are a number of free agent quarterbacks out there, many of whom would love to throw to Kenny Britt, with Chris Johnson as a check-down, and line up behind bookend tackles like Michael Roos and David Stewart. There’s good depth at wide receiver too.
Then there’s the defense that Jerry Gray will take over.
At linebacker Gerald McRath is an elite athlete still learning. Stephen Tulloch and Will Weatherspoon were elite tacklers last year.
All the cornerbacks tackled pretty well. Alterraun Verner and Jason McCourty could grow into what Cortland Finnegan already is-- a very good NFL corner.
The problem is up front, where the Titans lost several key players early in the season. Defensive end Derrick Morgan will be back in his 2nd year. Jason Jones proved a little light for every down duty in the middle without Tony Brown next to him, and starting ends Jason Babin, Jacob Ford, and Dave Ball are all 260 pounds or lighter. Babin and Ball are both noted motor guys. Ford is more athletic but doesn’t play the run as well. New defensive coordinator Gray has promised to build a disciplined team oriented defense.
So getting stronger up front is where the Titans should go with pick 1. The quarterback slot is a luxury when the team should be built around the Chris Johnson.
As such, the Titans should pick Alabama defensive tackle/end Marcell Dareus.
Dareus gets after the passer well and spends a lot of time in the backfield. He’s a player who could move to end in some schemes, but he’s only 6’3”, and his 310 pounds make him a good sized tackle for a team that didn’t have a defensive starter over 300 lbs last season. It’s possible the Titans could go with a big play end because as a former defensive back, Gray recognizes the idea that a pass rush helps the defense, but getting an interior rush and not asking all of your defensive backs to make 100 tackles is big too.
Dareus could have gone any from 1 to 8 and Tennessee is lucky to find him here.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
49ers: Is bigger better?
New 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh has been around football all his life. He played quarterback in the NFL for a number of years. He knows the game. He'll need to learn how to deal with professional players, though. Harbaugh groomed some pretty good quarterbacks. Quarterback will not be a problem for the Niners.
As a former quarterback, Harbaugh seemed to rely on tough, smart offensive linemen. He doesn't have the greatest or smartest at his disposal in San Francisco, who ranked 27th in the league last season, but the team spent top picks on the line last year, and this year's crop doesn't look to have anyone ready as a top ten selection.
The old quarterback also recognizes the importance of defensive backs in shutting down a passing game. San Francisco ranked 24th in the league against the pass last season. This arguably cost Mike Singletary his job.
We believe San Francisco must go with a defensive back with this pick, but who will it be?
LSU's Patrick Peterson has all the athleticism in the world. He seems a little stiff through the hips at times and has had trouble with receivers who get in and out of their cuts quickly.
Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara seems to have more natural jam ability, but less recovery speed than Peterson.
At 6'1" and 222 pounds, it may be strange seeing the biggest player in the secondary line up at the corner, but Peterson is one of the best athletes in the draft, and would be a great addition to special teams and a force against the run. This gives him the edge over Amukamara.
Peterson will be asked to cover the likes of Mike Williams, Larry Fitzgerald, and big-bodied receivers in Brandon Gibson or Denario Alexander. He'll also have to support the run against big backs such as Marshawn Lynch, Stephen Jackson, and Beanie Wells. So in this case, bigger may be better.
Browns Rebuilding Yet Again, But Around Whom?
Browns fans and analysts alike complain that the Browns do not have a true deep threat wide receiver. Current Wide receivers Brian Robiskie, Mohamed Massaquoi, Chancey Stuckey, and Josh Cribbs all seem like Mike Holmgren-style receivers. So for the Browns' 29th ranked offense, the biggest needs are a dependable, accurate quarterback to get them the ball, and a consistent right side of the offensive line, not another wide receiver. The Browns claim to be happy with Colt McCoy at the helm, and he's going to be playing under a head coach in Pat Shurmer with experience grooming Donovan McNabb, Mike Vick, Kevin Kolb, and others. Plus Holmgren has a penchant for grooming quarterbacks not drafted in round one.
Despite his break-out year, running back Peyton Hillis is an awkward fit in new head coach Pat Shurmer's offense. 2010 second round pick Montario Hardesty was unavailable the entire season, as he often was at his alma mater Tennessee. Mike Bell never seemed to get going either. Running back would make more sense with this pick than wide receiver.
This is a team that will be transitioning from a 3-4 to Dick Jauron's 4-3 defense. All the ends are probably too big and slow to transition to defensive tackle in a 4-3. The only remaining defensive tackle is Ahtyba Rubin. Several linebackers may be able to transition to the 4-3 defensive end position, including Matt Roth, Jason Trusnik, Marcus Bernard, and Chris Gocong. A healthy D'Qwell Jackson could play anywhere at linebacker. Scott Fujita looks to play the Sam linebacker, and Kaluka Maiava might have a little Lofa Tatupu in him to man the middle.
With Von Miller gone early on The Contrarians' draft board, and Auburn's Nick Fairley and Alabama's Marcel Dareus still on the board for a team with a gaping hole at defensive tackle, the smart choice is to go for a defensive tackle.
Fairley's motor has been questioned, but at number 6, much of the selection is based on upside. Fairley is quicker than Dareus, who is more adept at taking on blockers.
The best pick for the Browns would be Nick Fairley. If they motivate him, the Browns could have a winner for their new system.
Despite his break-out year, running back Peyton Hillis is an awkward fit in new head coach Pat Shurmer's offense. 2010 second round pick Montario Hardesty was unavailable the entire season, as he often was at his alma mater Tennessee. Mike Bell never seemed to get going either. Running back would make more sense with this pick than wide receiver.
This is a team that will be transitioning from a 3-4 to Dick Jauron's 4-3 defense. All the ends are probably too big and slow to transition to defensive tackle in a 4-3. The only remaining defensive tackle is Ahtyba Rubin. Several linebackers may be able to transition to the 4-3 defensive end position, including Matt Roth, Jason Trusnik, Marcus Bernard, and Chris Gocong. A healthy D'Qwell Jackson could play anywhere at linebacker. Scott Fujita looks to play the Sam linebacker, and Kaluka Maiava might have a little Lofa Tatupu in him to man the middle.
With Von Miller gone early on The Contrarians' draft board, and Auburn's Nick Fairley and Alabama's Marcel Dareus still on the board for a team with a gaping hole at defensive tackle, the smart choice is to go for a defensive tackle.
Fairley's motor has been questioned, but at number 6, much of the selection is based on upside. Fairley is quicker than Dareus, who is more adept at taking on blockers.
The best pick for the Browns would be Nick Fairley. If they motivate him, the Browns could have a winner for their new system.
Arizona Cardinals
Most people will tell you that Arizona desperately needs a quarterback. We Contrarians aren't like most people. Although Arizona is a probable suitor for disgruntled Bengals quarterback Carson Palmers, don't buy into the hype that Max Hall and John Skelton can't play in the NFL. Both Hall and Skelton had a number of factors working against them.
Both men were playing behind a 31st ranked offensive line that was second in the league in most sacks allowed. The departure of Anquan Bolden to Baltimore certainly hurt, as did the lack of a reliable tight end. With capable backs Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower, the Cardinals were dead last in rushing, which allowed teams to put what seemed like 10 or 11 guys on Larry Fitzgerald. So we haven't really seen what their quarterbacks can do given some time and talent around them.
Defensively, the Cardinals ranked 29th in the league, yet they still look to draft 4-3 talent despite playing a 3-4 for a couple of years now. They could use a pick to replace Joey Porter, but it's far too early to draft someone like Purdue's Ryan Kerrigan.
We would like to see the Cardinals trade Fitzgerald for a slew of picks and players.
Short of that happening, The Contrarians would draft another wide receiver. You are probably laughing right now, but there is no left tackle on the board that should go this high to help their moribund offensive line. Steve Breaston is a great number three receiver, but the Cardinals don't have a true number two to play opposite Fitzgerald. A stud receiver paired with Fitzgerald would relieve the stress on him and soften up the defense if the offensive line could give whomever is the quarterback time to throw.
The top two receivers on the board are Georgia's AJ Green and Alabama's Julio Jones. We believe the Cardinals should draft the more dynamic Green over the reliable Julio Jones.
The Draft Board
The Draft Board will be updated as we make our picks.
1. Carolina Panthers - Clemson DE D'Quan Bowers
2. Denver Broncos - Texas A&M DE/OLB Von Miller
3. Buffalo Bills - Missouri DE/OLB Aldon Smith
4. Cincinnati Bengals - Auburn QB Cam Newton
5. Arizona Cardinals - Georgia WR A.J. Green
6. Cleveland Browns - Auburn DT Nick Fairley
7. San Francisco 49ers - LSU CB Patrick Peterson
8. Tennessee Titans - Alabama DE Marcell Dareus
9. Dallas Cowboys - Nebraska DB Prince Amukamara
10. Washington Redskins - Washington QB Jake Locker
11. Houston Texans - Alabama WR Julio Jones
12. Minnesota Vikings - Arkansas QB Ryan Mallet
13. Detroit Lions - North Carolina DE Robert Quinn
14. St. Louis Rams - Temple DT Muhammad Wilkerson
15. Miami Dolphins - Illinois RB Mikel Lashoure
16. Jacksonville Jaguars - Missouri QB Blaine Gabbert
17. New England Patriots - Florida OL Mike Pouncey
18. San Diego Chargers - Colorado OT Nate Solder
19. New York Giants - Illinois LB Martez Wilson
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mississippi State OT Derek Sherrod
21. Kansas City Chiefs - Purdue LB Ryan Kerrigan
22. Indianapolis Colts - Boston College OT Anthony Castonzo
23. Philadelphia Eagles - North Carolina LB Bruce Carter
24. New Orleans Saints - Wisconsin OT Gabe Carimi
25. Seattle Seahawks - Cal DL Cameron Jordan
26. Baltimore Ravens - UCLA FS Rahim Moore
27. Atlanta Falcons - Notre Dame TE Kyle Rudolph
28. New England Patriots - Ohio State DE Cam Heyward
29. Chicago Bears - USC C Kris O'Dowd
30. New York Jets - Hampton DT Kenrick Ellis
31. Pittsburgh Steelers - Colorado CB Jimmy Smith
32. Green Bay Packers - Baylor OL Danny Watkins
1. Carolina Panthers - Clemson DE D'Quan Bowers
2. Denver Broncos - Texas A&M DE/OLB Von Miller
3. Buffalo Bills - Missouri DE/OLB Aldon Smith
4. Cincinnati Bengals - Auburn QB Cam Newton
5. Arizona Cardinals - Georgia WR A.J. Green
6. Cleveland Browns - Auburn DT Nick Fairley
7. San Francisco 49ers - LSU CB Patrick Peterson
8. Tennessee Titans - Alabama DE Marcell Dareus
9. Dallas Cowboys - Nebraska DB Prince Amukamara
10. Washington Redskins - Washington QB Jake Locker
11. Houston Texans - Alabama WR Julio Jones
12. Minnesota Vikings - Arkansas QB Ryan Mallet
13. Detroit Lions - North Carolina DE Robert Quinn
14. St. Louis Rams - Temple DT Muhammad Wilkerson
15. Miami Dolphins - Illinois RB Mikel Lashoure
16. Jacksonville Jaguars - Missouri QB Blaine Gabbert
17. New England Patriots - Florida OL Mike Pouncey
18. San Diego Chargers - Colorado OT Nate Solder
19. New York Giants - Illinois LB Martez Wilson
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mississippi State OT Derek Sherrod
21. Kansas City Chiefs - Purdue LB Ryan Kerrigan
22. Indianapolis Colts - Boston College OT Anthony Castonzo
23. Philadelphia Eagles - North Carolina LB Bruce Carter
24. New Orleans Saints - Wisconsin OT Gabe Carimi
25. Seattle Seahawks - Cal DL Cameron Jordan
26. Baltimore Ravens - UCLA FS Rahim Moore
27. Atlanta Falcons - Notre Dame TE Kyle Rudolph
28. New England Patriots - Ohio State DE Cam Heyward
29. Chicago Bears - USC C Kris O'Dowd
30. New York Jets - Hampton DT Kenrick Ellis
31. Pittsburgh Steelers - Colorado CB Jimmy Smith
32. Green Bay Packers - Baylor OL Danny Watkins
The Same 'Ol Bungles?
With Carson Palmer wanting out of Cincinnati badly, Chad Ochocinco still whining, and and underperforming defense, you know the Bengals will find a way to squander the fourth overall pick.
As we witnessed two years ago, there is talent in the Queen City. The problem has been getting that talent to perform. Two years ago, they swept through the tough AFC North; now they have the fourth pick in the draft. Marvin Lewis found a way to remain with the Bengals, much to the chagrin of some players and fans. With all the drama, the main questions are: Can the Bengals draft a leader and can they move the drama queens out of town? The Bengals probably won't address either option, but there are several directions they can go.
They can move Ochocinco to a team in need of a wide receiver and go-to guy. They can trade Palmer to a team needing a veteran quarterback. They can do nothing and take the best player available in the draft. They can move the players and draft the best player available.
The top two players left on the board would be Auburn defensive tackle Nick Fairley and Georgia wide receiver A.J. Green.
Two seasons ago, defensive tackle seemed like the least need, with Domata Peko and Tank Johnson playing like men instead of whiny Bengals.
At receiver they have Ochocinco and Terrell Owens plus a bevy of receivers with potential (Andre Caldwell, Jordan Shipley, and Jerome Simpson) buried on the depth chart under the two prima donnas.
The ideal situation to us Contrarians is to move both Palmer and Ochocinco and draft a future leader. They had the eighth rated offensive line last season, so we would like to see them add a quarterback. The quarterback to build around is either Missouri's Blaine Gabbert or Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton.
The Contrarians like Newton here. He's more like former War Eagle Jason Campbell than he is like Vince Young. With some talent around him, he's shown he can be a very effective player. His penchant for controversy fits well with the Bengals' reputation.
The Bengals have never been afraid of reaching in the draft on players with potential. If Palmer is serious about moving on, the Bengals should draft a quarterback, lest they end up like the Raiders or Browns, two teams with better records in 2010.
Cam Newton could potentially be a top NFL quarterback. Assuming Palmer moves on, The Contrarians assess that Newton is the best fit for the Bengals, with the caveat that things change if Palmer stays in Cincinnati.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Buffalo Bills: What to do?
The smartest thing the Bills could do with the third pick is trade it to move down on the draft board and spend the pick on an offensive tackle. The interior line of Eric Wood, Kraig Urbik, and Andy Levitre could all be studs in this league. Outside at the tackle positions there is nobody fitting that description. Further, there are not any offensive tackles worthy of being the third pick in the draft.
The defense is full of potential after spending last season transitioning from a 4-3 to Chan Gailey's 3-4 system. They could use a nose tackle or another defensive end. Some say Nick Fairley has a bit of an attitude problem, and this young team cannot afford to be saddled with an attitude problem.
They could also use a bookend outside linebacker to pair with near-bust Aaron Maybin and motor-guy Arthur Moats. It's funny; the former looks like he should be playing, while the latter actually acts like it.
There are a number of choices, but only one is a true athletic freak-- Missouri's Aldon Smith. He's the perfect physical specimen at 6'5" and 260 pounds to play at outside linebacker. Of course, the experts said the same thing about Aaron Maybin.
The Bills should trade down, but for now, the pick is Smith.
The defense is full of potential after spending last season transitioning from a 4-3 to Chan Gailey's 3-4 system. They could use a nose tackle or another defensive end. Some say Nick Fairley has a bit of an attitude problem, and this young team cannot afford to be saddled with an attitude problem.
They could also use a bookend outside linebacker to pair with near-bust Aaron Maybin and motor-guy Arthur Moats. It's funny; the former looks like he should be playing, while the latter actually acts like it.
There are a number of choices, but only one is a true athletic freak-- Missouri's Aldon Smith. He's the perfect physical specimen at 6'5" and 260 pounds to play at outside linebacker. Of course, the experts said the same thing about Aaron Maybin.
The Bills should trade down, but for now, the pick is Smith.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
With the Second Pick...
The Broncos’ biggest need is continuity. Bad teams change coaches and systems so often they don't get good players in place. And that sums up the state of the Broncos. The Broncos have been hurt by poor drafting and a lack of continuity on defense, which finished dead last in the league in total defense. The offense really wasn’t that bad, ranking 13th in total offense last season.
Pro player development hasn't been an issue; the Cutler for Orton trade actually worked out, and Pro Bowler Brandon Lloyd stepped in to replace Brandon Marshall. But the quest to have interchangeable lineman (like New England) left them short the past couple of years when Ryan Harris went down. Free agent additions in the defensive backfield have panned out well.
On offense, the Cutler trade could have and should have been a boon for Denver. The two quarterbacks were statistically equal. Cutler threw a few more touchdown passes; Orton threw fewer interceptions. Cutler’s quarterback rating of 86.3 was a lukewarm 16th in the league. Orton’s quarterback rating of 87.5 was good enough for 15th place.
Pro player development hasn't been an issue; the Cutler for Orton trade actually worked out, and Pro Bowler Brandon Lloyd stepped in to replace Brandon Marshall. But the quest to have interchangeable lineman (like New England) left them short the past couple of years when Ryan Harris went down. Free agent additions in the defensive backfield have panned out well.
On offense, the Cutler trade could have and should have been a boon for Denver. The two quarterbacks were statistically equal. Cutler threw a few more touchdown passes; Orton threw fewer interceptions. Cutler’s quarterback rating of 86.3 was a lukewarm 16th in the league. Orton’s quarterback rating of 87.5 was good enough for 15th place.
The Broncos have blown it, wasting their windfall of draft picks from the Cutler trade. Chicago traded its 2009 first- and third-round selections, selecting defensive end Robert Ayers in the first, and trading their third pick to the Steelers, who selected Mike Wallace. They swapped their 2010 first-round selection with San Francisco, who chose offensive tackle Anthony Davis, while the Broncos chose wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. The Bears got Cutler and Denver’s fifth round pick, which Chicago used to draft wide receiver Johnny Knox. Robert Ayers, a defensive end from Tennessee, was designated an outside linebacker despite a lack of speed and experience making drops.
They have to do better this year.
They have to do better this year.
On the other side of the ball, the recent decision to run a 4-3 defense was wise because the Broncos drafting on defense had been, well, pathetic. Jarvis Moss is a 4-3 end; Robert Ayers is a 4-3 end, and neither fit in a 3-4 scheme. They used a pick from the Cutler trade to trade up in the second round to grab Alfonso Smith, who didn't fit the system and ended up in Detroit. They do have Elvis Dumervil, a true 3-4 outside linebacker coming back.
On the other side of the ball, the big questions in Denver will be how will Elvis Dumervil fit in the Fox 4-3, and will Champ Bailey return? We’re not convinced the Bailey issue is a huge deal, and Perrish Cox didn’t look awful as a rookie. The conglomerate on the other side has some potential.
A pass rush will help. Denver finished last in total sacks with a paltry 23. That’s only six more sacks than Dumervil logged in 2009. Dumervil’s return will provide that rush, either as a defensive end or from the Will linebacker spot. The Broncos should draft another linebacker who could help the pass rush, moving defensive ends Jason Hunter, David Veikune, and Ayers closer to the ball and asking them not to go backwards could help that. They could also be aided by more athleticism at the safety position, but the Broncos have Darcel McBath and David Bruton to help there.
The question at the linebacker position is: Which system would Fox deploy? Prior to yesterday’s announcement that they would be running a 4-3, we felt the smart choice would have been a 3-4 because of the presence of Dumervil. Now that they’re running a 4-3, we think new head coach John Fox will find creative ways to use him.
So we assess that the Broncos biggest need on defense is at linebacker, followed by defensive back, where we find an aging Champ Bailey asking to be moved to free safety to prolong his career.
Again, this team is transitioning-- they seemed to get to the point where they had former head coach Josh McDaniels’ players on the field when the team decided they weren't McDaniels’ players. Now Fox has to quell the rebellion.
So when you're drafting 2nd overall, do you draft by need ? Nope - you take the best player. The question is, is that the best player potentially or the best player?
So when you're drafting 2nd overall, do you draft by need ? Nope - you take the best player. The question is, is that the best player potentially or the best player?
The player that best fits the 4-3 defense Fox will be using is Texas A&M outside linebacker Von Miller. Miller is a football player with a motor. He has a quick first step and enough strength to take on blockers. He even played on special teams when, as the team’s star defender, he didn’t need to.
The Broncos only played defense a couple of games last year. They just didn’t show up most games. Veteran leader Champ Bailey was part of that crew that didn’t show up so I don’t think he’s a huge loss. Dumervil’s return gives them a player that always goes full speed – that’s one the team needs 10 more like that. Miller gives them a 2nd one. He’s the right fit for Denver.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Denver Defense News
ESPN is reporting that Denver will be running the 4-3 this year. We'll be analyzing the Broncos next, so stay tuned, and, as always, tell your friends about our new site. Thanks.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
And the First Pick of the 2011 Draft is...
Carolina's biggest need? HEALTH. This is not a bad roster; there were worse in the playoffs.
Linebacker could be a need, but it's hard to say with so many players at that spot injured; however, defensive line is a real need. Teams ran the ball often on the Panthers-- only four teams had more rushing attempts against. Carolina was ranked 21st against the run, giving up an average of 123.8 yards/game, and their 20 rushing touchdowns allowed was second only to the Denver Broncos. They sacked opposing quarterbacks 31 times, good enough for 20th in the league.
Looking into the defensive backfield, the Panthers were 11th in the league with 17 interceptions. This is not a big need for Carolina, especially if management makes a fair offer to corner Richard Marshall.
The best football player available is Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller. Depending what happens with Thomas Davis, Dan Connor, and Jamar Williams, linebacker could be a need for the Panthers. But do they need a 3-4 linebacker or a 4-3 linebacker? New Panthers' head coach Ron Rivera has coached both (right now a 4-3 makes more sense) . If they move to a 3-4, the Panthers would have Everette Brown, Eric Norwood, and Greg Hardy, who are more linebackers in the 3-4 than they are defensive ends in that scheme.
Looking into the defensive backfield, the Panthers were 11th in the league with 17 interceptions. This is not a big need for Carolina, especially if management makes a fair offer to corner Richard Marshall.
The best football player available is Texas A&M linebacker Von Miller. Depending what happens with Thomas Davis, Dan Connor, and Jamar Williams, linebacker could be a need for the Panthers. But do they need a 3-4 linebacker or a 4-3 linebacker? New Panthers' head coach Ron Rivera has coached both (right now a 4-3 makes more sense) . If they move to a 3-4, the Panthers would have Everette Brown, Eric Norwood, and Greg Hardy, who are more linebackers in the 3-4 than they are defensive ends in that scheme.
Turning to the offense, the Panthers certainly need work, but they also need to be more creative on offense and defense. Everyone knew where every run and pass would go. You can't play like that and win in today's NFL.
The Panthers could use another wide receiver, although rookies Brandon LaFell (38 receptions, 468 yards for a 12.3 average, and four touchdowns) and David Gettis (37 receptions, 508 yards for a 13.7 average, and 3 touchdowns) started to come on late, and they have the size to play opposite of Steve Smith.
Given the public knowledge that Andrew Luck would have been the Panthers first choice had he entered the draft, some would say Carolina needs a quarterback. Jimmy Claussen has been through the growth process before and did pretty well with it. It takes time for quarterbacks to feel comfortable in a system, and we're not certain any of the quarterbacks out there would be any better than the former Golden Domer.
The consensus number one pick on offense is Georgia’s AJ Green. He’s the best receiver out there, with a nice combination of size and speed. But Carolina has a speedster in the aging Steve Smith, and Brandon LaFell showed some promise late. Julio Jones might be a better fit for Carolina as a true possession type.
The consensus number one pick on offense is Georgia’s AJ Green. He’s the best receiver out there, with a nice combination of size and speed. But Carolina has a speedster in the aging Steve Smith, and Brandon LaFell showed some promise late. Julio Jones might be a better fit for Carolina as a true possession type.
So it looks like the Panthers should go defense. The consensus number one on defense is Auburn’s Nick Fairley, a 6’4” 298 lb defensive tackle reminiscent of Chicago Bear DT Tommie Harris. Harris is good but not first pick good. Is there enough separation between Fairley and the rest of the DT class to make him worth this pick like Ndamakong Suh or B.J. Raji would have been? We don't think so, though he does fit nicely in Carolina
So who should the Carolina Panthers select? We estimate that Carolina should take D’Quan Bowers , a defensive end out of Clemson.
Bowers has enough size to grow into a job as a 3-4 end. He keeps a stout base and often plays lower than Fairley, and he fills a need. There will be defensive tackle choices available later. Bowers could team with Charles Johnson or step in on that side if Johnson moves on as a free agent. Some experts do view Bowers as the number 1. We agree with them. Others list him as number 2, so he’s not much of a reach, but he’s the right pick for Carolina.
Bowers has enough size to grow into a job as a 3-4 end. He keeps a stout base and often plays lower than Fairley, and he fills a need. There will be defensive tackle choices available later. Bowers could team with Charles Johnson or step in on that side if Johnson moves on as a free agent. Some experts do view Bowers as the number 1. We agree with them. Others list him as number 2, so he’s not much of a reach, but he’s the right pick for Carolina.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Timeframe
The Contrarians plan on posting the needs of each team in draft order. We'll do one team each day, starting with Carolina. Expect the next post to come online later today. Hey! We have to keep our days jobs. Don't fret; it'll get done.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Welcome to the Contrarian's NFL Draft Report
Are you sick of national football analysts and reporters giving you bum scoop in their mock drafts? Does it bother you that other draft sites have hundreds of different players as first round draft picks? Or are you just fed up with those commentators and prognosticators who act like they know what they are talking about but really know little more than the average fan? We thought so.
We here at Contrarian do things a little differently. We are professional analysts by trade who love football and who hate everything about the "inside" information from the national media. What we are about here at the Contrarian is quite simple-- solid analysis of player abilities paired with teams' needs to come up with the best fit for the club. We'll disclaim this right up front: our draft picks will be wrong, not because of bad analysis, but because we value different attributes than the hyped professional commentators. We value hustle. We adore discipline. We love intelligent athletes. We love players who will sacrifice themselves for their teams, players who treat every play as if it were their last. We certainly look at physical attributes and combine and pro day results, but we look at the whole person.
You will look at our rankings and say, "Those guys are bonkers. That guy is a first rounder and they have him going in the third round." You'll bang your head at the things we say. We strive for alternative analysis. We're not contrarians for the sake of it. If a nationally hyped player is a legitimate number one pick, we'll say so. If we see him as being over-hyped we'll say so too.
So sit back, read, and enjoy. You'll have more than a few laughs at our expense, but in the long run, you'll see that we weren't so stupid after all.
Welcome to the Contrarian experience.
We here at Contrarian do things a little differently. We are professional analysts by trade who love football and who hate everything about the "inside" information from the national media. What we are about here at the Contrarian is quite simple-- solid analysis of player abilities paired with teams' needs to come up with the best fit for the club. We'll disclaim this right up front: our draft picks will be wrong, not because of bad analysis, but because we value different attributes than the hyped professional commentators. We value hustle. We adore discipline. We love intelligent athletes. We love players who will sacrifice themselves for their teams, players who treat every play as if it were their last. We certainly look at physical attributes and combine and pro day results, but we look at the whole person.
You will look at our rankings and say, "Those guys are bonkers. That guy is a first rounder and they have him going in the third round." You'll bang your head at the things we say. We strive for alternative analysis. We're not contrarians for the sake of it. If a nationally hyped player is a legitimate number one pick, we'll say so. If we see him as being over-hyped we'll say so too.
So sit back, read, and enjoy. You'll have more than a few laughs at our expense, but in the long run, you'll see that we weren't so stupid after all.
Welcome to the Contrarian experience.
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