|
 |
| Saturday, April 26, 2008 |
 For the second round onward, I’ll just provide summaries courtesy ESPN and Scouts, Inc. I’ll break out Dallas Cowboys picks and trades and any major news in separate posts.
32. Miami Dolphins
The pick: Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
What he brings: Merling’s stock dropped because of a sports hernia injury. He’s going to have a harder time turning the corner at the NFL level because he doesn’t have great speed. However, he has good size and some experience lining up at defensive tackle. If he can improve his upper-body strength and learn to play lower, he could be an excellent run-stopper and effective bull-rusher.
How he fits: With Jason Taylor, 33, aging, this pick makes a lot of sense based on Meling’s upside. He will come in and work in the rotation with Taylor and Matt Roth.
33. St. Louis Rams
The pick: Donnie Avery, WR, Houston
What he brings: This is a substantial reach in our opinion. There’s a lot to like about Avery’s speed and he’s a big-play threat whether he’s catching the ball down field, running after the catch or in the return game. However, he’s an undersized receiver who’s going to get pushed around and doesn’t appear comfortable going over the middle. Finally, he has a lot of work to do to improve his route running.
How he fits: He will play the slot in the Rams’ offense. He is quicker than fast and will work in the multi-receiver sets in passing situations. WR Torry Holt is a No. 1, but Drew Bennett has concerns. This is an Al Saunders pick based on how he fits in the offense.
34. Washington Redskins
The pick: Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State
What he brings: Washington couldn’t be happier about Thomas slipping, considering no one would have blinked had the Redskins selected him in the first round. Thomas isn’t as good at stretching the field as his speed would suggest and he needs to improve his route running. But he has the quickness and athletic ability to continue to improve in those areas. He’s also very good creating after catch for a player his size.
How he fits: Thomas provides them with a big receiver who had solid production at Michigan State. He is a good fit in Jim Zorn’s West Coast offense. He is a two-level receiver and a perfect fit in Washington.
35. Kansas City Chiefs
The pick: Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech
What he brings: Flowers doesn’t have elite size or top-end speed. Occasionally, he gets caught out of position trying to make a big play. However, he plays far bigger than his size indicates and faster than his 40 time suggest. He opens his hips very well and has the upper-body strength to deliver a violent punch. There’s also a lot to like about his willingness to play the run.
How he fits: With the loss of Ty Law, the Chiefs had to address the left corner spot opposite Patrick Surtain. Flowers is a physical player who plays bigger than his size indicates, which is a good fit in the Chiefs’ defensive coverage schemes.
36. Green Bay Packers
The pick: Jordy Nelson, WR, Kansas State
What he brings: Nelson isn’t a very sexy pick; he doesn’t have great speed and isn’t elusive. However, this kid knows how to play the game. He is a very good route-runner, has a wide-frame that allows him to shield defenders from the ball and catches the ball very well. He is a high-character player who is going to have a positive influence in the locker room once he establishes himself.
How he fits: He is a big receiver who gives the Packers size and is a solid fit in their West Coast offense. This position wasn’t a major need, but he was a highly-productive player in college. They have Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Koren Robinson and James Jones, but Nelson gives QB Aaron Rodgers another threat in the passing game. He also has added value as a punt returner.
37. Atlanta Falcons
The pick: Curtis Lofton, ILB, Oklahoma
What he brings: Much like Nelson, Lofton isn’t going to wow you with his natural ability; he doesn’t have great speed and lacks the athletic ability to matchup with running backs in man coverage. But he’s a throwback inside linebacker. He’s tough, locates the ball and is a strong tackler who can deliver the big hit. Although he has limitations in coverage, Lofton gets adequate depth when in zone coverage and his ball skills are underrated.
How he fits: Atlanta could have gone a lot of ways with this pick, but with the concerns of aging MLB Keith Brooking, Lofton makes sense. He is an instinctive player who reacts well and should develop into a force on the interior against the run on first and second down. He has a knack for being around the football and the Falcons must continue to strengthen the interior of their defense.
38. Seattle Seahawks
The pick: John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame
What he brings: Carlson had a disappointing showing at the combine and his 4.88 40 time shows that he’s going to have problems working the seam. There are also concerns about the number of passes he dropped last year. However, he has the frame to bulk up and develop into an effective in-line blocker. He also has the wide frame and body control to develop into an effective short-to-intermediate receiver and productive red zone target.
How he fits: One of the key ingredients in Mike Holmgren’s West Coast offense has been the tight end, but the Seahawks have lacked at this position recently. Carlson is a smart and instinctive player who can be a factor in the short- and intermediate-passing game. This will open up other opportunities for WRs Deion Branch, Bobby Engram and Nate Burleson.
39. San Francisco 49ers
The pick: Chilo Rachal, G, USC
What he brings: The biggest knock on Rachal is his lack of athletic ability and has problems redirecting in pass protection. He struggles, at times, to reach blockers in the second level and athletically he has some limitations. However, he’s quick off the ball, jars defenders with a strong punch and gets in position quickly. He also does a good job holding his ground against bull-rushers.
How he fits: It’s obvious the 49ers feel they need to upgrade at guard with the loss of Larry Allen in the offseason. Rachal is a mauler who needs to be in a confined area due to his athletic limitations. However, he has the size and initial quickness to wall off and position while creating inside lanes. He should be able to come in and compete with David Baas at right guard.
40. New Orleans Saints
The pick: Tracy Porter, CB, Indiana
What he brings: Porter doesn’t have elite bulk, so bigger wideouts are going to be able to push him around, and he’s not going to be great in run support. On the flip side, he has good top-end speed and he’s a playmaker who does a good job of getting his head turned while tracking the ball downfield. He also the instincts and quickness to mirror receivers underneath. It’s also worth pointing out that Porter can contribute as a punt returner.
How he fits: Porter addresses a major need on the Saints. Even though they signed Randall Gay to cover up the mistake they made with Jason David, Porter will add even more help on the back end. Plus, the knee injury Mike McKenzie suffered last season is still a major question mark. This team has to find a way to get off the field on third down and force interceptions. He also has value as punt returner, which could take some pressure off RB Reggie Bush on special teams.
41. Buffalo Bills
The pick: James Hardy, WR, Indiana
What he brings: Hardy doesn’t make crisp cuts and needs to work on his route-running. He’s going to have a tough time separating from man coverage. On the other hand, you don’t have to separate from coverage nearly as much when you have the wide frame to shield defenders from the ball and you can make catches in traffic like Hardy can. Also, he’s fast enough to make teams pay when they try to jump the underneath route.
How he fits: This addresses the Bills’ need for a big, athletic receiver the opposite Lee Evans, who is a legitimate No. 1 receiver. Hardy steps in as the No. 2 and allows Josh Reed to move back to the slot. Hardy also gives young QB Trent Edwards another big-play threat on the outside and a big target in the red zone.
42. Denver Broncos
The pick: Eddie Royal, WR, Virgina Tech
What he brings: Royal has had some problems staying healthy, and the fact that he doesn’t have great size only accentuates concerns about his durability. He has to improve his route-running, but he has the quickness and athletic ability to separate from coverage once that happens. He’s fast enough to stretch the field and make an impact as a punt returner.
How he fits: The Broncos aggressively addressed their receiving corps this offseason with the additions of Samie Parker and Keary Colbert to play opposite No. 1 WR Brandon Marshall. Royal gives Mike Shanahan a slot receiver who can be effective in their multiple-spread sets. He gives Cutler another explosive weapon who can play in the slot. He also adds value as a punt returner.
43. Minnesoata Vikings (from CAR through PHI)
The pick: Tyrell Johnson, S, Arkansas State
What he brings: Johnson doesn’t have great man-to-man cover skills and is going to have trouble matching up with slot receivers. Additionally, you would have liked to see him make more big plays against inferior competition. However, he plays bigger than his size would suggest and is a sound tackler who can line up in the box. He has the range to cover the deep half of the field.
How he fits: The Vikings were active at safety in the offseason, adding Madieu Williams and Michael Boulware. Johnson gives them a physical safety who can play near the line of scrimmage or as a two-deep safety. This guy is the eventual replacement to Darren Sharper at strong safety.
44. Chicago Bears
The pick: Matt Forte, RB, Tulane
What he brings: This is a minor reach in our opinion. Forte is an instinctive runner who does a good job locating seams between the tackles and excels at picking up yards after contact. Also, he catches the ball well and is the best pass-blocker of all the running backs in this draft. However, he’s faster than quick, so he’ll have some problems turning the corner and won’t break a lot of long runs in the NFL.
How he fits: With the obvious disappointment in Cedric Benson and Adrian Peterson not being an every-down back, Forte has a chance to play right away. He is a three-down back who can block very well. He is faster than quick, but he may struggle as a pass receiver. Depending on how Benson starts the season, Forte could take reps away from him. He will be on the heels of Benson all year.
45. Detroit Lions
The pick: Jordon Dizon, OLB, Colorado
What he brings: Looking at Dizon in street clothes or watching him run you wouldn’t think that he’d be an NFL linebacker. He lacks ideal size, doesn’t have great range and can be a liability in man coverage. But Dizon is a classic overachiever. He makes up for his lack of burst by reacting quickly. He takes sound pursuit angels and is an excellent open-field tackler. In addition, he rarely gets caught out of position when dropping into zone coverage.
How he fits: Dizon is a blue-collared athlete who plays hard on every down. He is going to play middle linebacker in this defense and that is an area the Lions wanted to address in the draft. He is a Cover 2 linebacker who is clearly a Rod Marinelli type of player.
46. Cincinnati Bengals
The pick: Jerome Simpson, WR, Coastal Carolina
What he brings: We are surprised Simpson came off the board earlier than Limas Sweed, DeSean Jackson and Malcolm Kelly. Simpson isn’t a great route runner and played at a small school, so he faces a steeper learning curve. On the plus side, he has adequate size and the frame to get even bigger. He also has good speed, tracks the ball well and can make a spectacular catch.
How he fits: The Bengals obviously had Simpson rated higher than the other receivers on the board. This team was in a dire need of receiver due to the release of Chris Henry and the uncertainty of Chad Johnson. Depending on what Johnson does, Simpson could come in and play right away. What was once a strength in Cincy is now a serious question mark.
47. Philadelphia Eagles
The pick: Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
What he brings: Laws lacks prototypical size for an interior run-stuffer and doesn’t have the burst to consistently get to the quarterback at the professional level. But he reminds us of the Energize bunny. He works from the snap until the whistle on every play. Also, he plays with excellent leverage and is strong for his size — he’s much stouter than you would think looking at his measurables.
How he fits: Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson loves to stockpile defensive tackles and Laws will be part of the rotation with LaJuan Ramsey and Montae Reagor. The surprising thing is that DTs Mike Patterson and Brodrick Bunkley had good years last year, which allowed DE Trent Cole to dominate outside. This was not a serious need for Philadelphia, but it works within the Eagles’ philosophy.
48. Washington Redskins
The pick: Fred Davis, TE, USC
What he brings: There were concerns about Davis’ ability to stretch the field before the combine, and his slow 40 time backed up what we saw on film. He isn’t an overwhelming in-line blocker, either, but does a good job getting in position and fights to sustain his blocks. In addition, he has the athletic ability, big hands and long arms to emerge as a reliable possession receiver.
How he fits: Based on the offensive scheme Jim Zorn will run, the two-tight end packages will be key. Davis will allow the Redskins to move TE Chris Cooley all over and create mismatches on offense. There were no other quality tight ends on the roster and Davis fills this need for Washington.
50. Arizona Cardinals
The pick: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami (Fla.)
What he brings: Campbell has great size for a defensive end and is a decent tackler, so he has the potential to develop into a run-stopper. He also has long arms to get his hands up and knock passes down when he doesn’t get to the quarterback. That’s important because we don’t see him getting to the quarterback very often. Although he’s an adequate bull-rusher, he doesn’t have great lateral ability or closing speed.
How he fits: He is a true boom-or-bust player, but with the age and injury concerns of Bertrand Berry and Antonio Smith in the final year of his contract, Campbell will fit in nicely. He will be part of the rotation on the left side behind Smith because Travis LaBoy will bring pressure off the edge as a starting right defensive end. This pick gives the Cardinals valuable depth, but we see him as a better player versus the run.
51. Washington Redskins
The pick: Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
What he brings: Campbell has great size for a defensive end and is a decent tackler, so he has the potential to develop into a run-stopper. He also has long arms to get his hands up and knock passes down when he doesn’t get to the quarterback. That’s important because we don’t see him getting to the quarterback very often. Although he’s an adequate bull-rusher, he doesn’t have great lateral ability or closing speed.
How he fits: Obviously the Redskins have taken advantage of the receivers falling on draft day. This team has lacked big and physical receivers who will open up the West Coast attack even more and the addition of Kelly will help them open up Antwaan Randle El and Santana Moss. This pick, along with WR Devin Thomas, helps bolster a questionable receiving corps.
52. Jacksonville Jaguars
The pick: Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn
What he brings: Campbell has great size for a defensive end and is a decent tackler, so he has the potential to develop into a run-stopper. He also has long arms to get his hands up and knock passes down when he doesn’t get to the quarterback. That’s important because we don’t see him getting to the quarterback very often. Although he’s an adequate bull-rusher, he doesn’t have great lateral ability or closing speed.
How he fits: Obviously the Redskins have taken advantage of the receivers falling on draft day. This team has lacked big and physical receivers who will open up the West Coast attack even more and the addition of Kelly will help them open up Antwaan Randle El and Santana Moss. This pick, along with WR Devin Thomas, helps bolster a questionable receiving corps.
53. Pittsburgh Steelers
The pick: Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
What he brings: Sweed is, at best, an average route-runner and can struggle when he gets slowed down at the line of scrimmage because he doesn’t have great quickness. However, he has good size and is smooth changing directions. In addition, he has good speed and does a good job of tracking the ball downfield.
How he fits: He fulfills the need of a big, tall receiver, which QB Ben Roethlisberger so desperately wanted since WR Plaxico Burress went to New York. Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians loves to throw the football and Sweed gives them a receiver who can move around in the formation and create matchup problems with Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward.
54. Tennessee Titans
The pick: Jason Jones, DE, Eastern Michigan
What he brings: Jones is a classic ‘tweener. He doesn’t have great closing speed for a defensive end or the size to consistently hold up against the run and line up at defensive tackle. He has experience lining up at both spots, however. So he can line-up at end, at which he’s big enough to hold his ground on run-heavy down and is athletic enough to rush the passer from the inside on obvious passing downs.
How he fits: Based on the losses of Antwan Odom and Travis LaBoy, the Titans had to address the DE position. He gives them a force against the run and will have to develop as a pass- rusher. He has some versatility to possibly play inside as a defensive tackle.
55. Baltimore Ravens
The pick: Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers
What he brings: Rice is undersized and runs like a power back, so teams are concerned at his ability to take a pounding at the professional level. Also, he needs to improve his route-running ability before making a substantial contribution on passing downs. On the plus side, he reads his blocks well and has excellent lower-body strength, so he’s far more effective between the tackles than his size suggest. He also has the hands to develop into a reliable receiver, and he’s a surprisingly effective pass-blocker.
How he fits: He brings another dimension to the Ravens’ offense with Willis McGahee. They have a good, young offensive line and Rice adds another option in the offense as a playmaker. He will be a change-of-pace back who can take pressure off the quarterback. This was a good pick by Baltimore.
56. Green Bay Packers
The pick: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
What he brings: Brohm, like a lot of other young quarterbacks, can have a hard time beating pressure, doesn’t have great mobility and takes some big hits. He also needs to improve his decision-making. On the flipside, he has excellent mechanics, put great touch on his throws and is good at hitting his receivers in stride. In addition, he has good football smarts and reads defenses well.
How he fits: This is a good value pick by the Packers. Brohm clearly fell because there was a strong possibility of him being a first-rounder. Brohm has already played in a pro-style offense at Louisville, which has some similarities to Green Bay. Aaron Rodgers is still a question mark as a starting quarterback. and this pick puts pressure on him.
57. Miami Dolphins
The pick: Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
What he brings: Henne has good size and very good arm strenghth, so he can find the open receiver and get them the ball anywhere on the field. Much like Brohm, he’s a student of the game; his ability to breakdown defense should improve with time. However, he’s a little statuesque so he has problems buying time in the pocket and is not a threat to scramble. More importantly, he has tendency to lock on to his primary receiver.
How he fits: John Beck is not a Bill Parcells player and Henne fits the mold as a Parcells guy. Beck was very shaky as a starter last year and Henne will compete for the starting job right away. Beck has lots of questions about his size, arm strength and age. The Dolphins needed to take a quarterback and Henne fits this need perfectly.
58. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The pick: Dexter Jackson, WR, Appalachian State
What he brings: Jackson is a small-school prospect who lacks ideal size and played in a read-option offense in college. As a result, there are obvious concerns about his ability to make the jump to the NFL. That said, there’s no denying Jackson has great upside. He’s quick, explodes out of his cuts and is dangerous after the catch. When teams try to take away the underneath he’s fast enough to run by most corners. He does a decent job tracking the ball downfield.
How he fits: This is a great pick by the Bucs. Even though Joey Galloway continues to play at a high level, he is getting up there in age. Jackson gives the Bucs a fast and explosive receiver Jon Gruden can utilize. This team has some decisions to make at receiver because Ike Hilliard is best suited as a No. 3, Michael Clayton has underachieved and the uncertainty of Antonio Bryant. Jackson will also help in the return game.
59. Indianapolis Colts
The pick: Mike Pollak, C, Arizona State
What he brings: He isn’t an overwhelming drive blocker and is going to have some problems when nose tackles line-up directly over his head. However, he’s the best center available. He gets into position quickly and has the balance to sustain his blocks. He also has the upper-body strength and lateral mobility to hold up in protection.
How he fits: This is a great pick. He was the best center on the board and can eventually replace an aging Jeff Saturday. He may play some guard next year, but his eventual spot is center. He fits the mold as a typical Colts offensive linemen — smart, tough and physical.
60. Green Bay Packers
The pick: Patrick Lee, CB, Auburn
What he brings: The argument can be made that Lee best fits in a Cover 2 scheme as he doesn’t open his hips as well as some of the other corners in this class. However he has enough athletic ability and speed to develop into an effective No. 2 for a team that plays man coverage most of the time. In addition, there’s a lot to like about his toughness, willingness to step up in run support and ability to contribute on special teams.
How he fits: With the aging Al Harris and Charles Woodson in Green Bay, this pick makes a lot of sense. He can also fill a role in the Packers’ nickel and dime packages as a No. 3 or No. 4 corner. He will also have a role on special teams. This is a good pick for a defense that is getting younger and keeps getting better.
61. Dallas Cowboys
The pick: Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M
What he brings: Bennett isn’t an elite run-blocker and doesn’t have great top-end speed. However, he’s a great value. Watching him on film and knowing that he played college basketball for two seasons, it’s hard not to compare him to San Diego tight end Antonio Gates. Much like Gates, Bennett knows how to use his size to box defenders out, and he can make tough catches in traffic. Taking the comparison even further, Bennett is versatile enough to flex out wide.
How he fits: With the trade of Anthony Fasano to the Dolphins, this is a good pick by Dallas. The Cowboys had to get a second tight end. They run a lot of two-tight end sets and Bennett has some functional play speed. His best fit will be as an extra blocker. His presence allows the Cowboys to utilize Jason Witten out in the formation.
62. New England Patriots
The pick: Terrence Wheatley, CB, Colorado
What he brings: Wheatley is another example of a player who teams are concerned about staying healthy. He doesn’t have great size and has a long history of injuries. On the plus side, he has the fluid hips, speed and burst to develop excellent man-to-man cover skills. In addition, he’s a better tackler than his size would suggest; he can make play in run support and covering punts.
How he fits: With the loss of Asante Samuel, the Pats had to address the corner position. The Pats signed a lot of stop-gap corners in the offseason in Jason Webster, Lewis Sanders and Fernando Bryant, but Wheatley has more upside. He is a small corner, but has skills and will contribute in sub packages based on matchups. His upside is somewhat-limited based on his size.
63. New York Giants
The pick: Terrell Thomas, CB, USC
What he brings: Thomas doesn’t open his hips that well, and doesn’t always get his head turned around to locate the ball while running with receivers down field. Consequently, he is vulnerable to getting beat deep when left on an island. He is also another player who has a long history of injuries. However, he has excellent size and good upper-body strength, so he can slow receivers down at the line. There’s also a lot to like about his versatility; he can line up at safety and does a very good job covering kicks.
How he fits: The Giants’ main weakness on defense last season was their secondary. Thomas will help improve this area of the game. Sam Madison is getting up in age and has declining skills. R.W. McQuarters is better suited as a No. 4 or No. 5 corner. Thomas has some versatility, but played corner primarily at USC. He fits in Steve Spagnuolo’s system, who loves to run zone-blitz schemes.
Featured posts:
NFL Draft 2008 – Round 2 #53 – Green Bay Packers – QB Brian Brohm
NFL Draft 2008 – Round 2 #54 – Miami Dolphins – QB Chad Henne
NFL Draft 2008 – Round 2 #61 – Dallas Cowboys – Martellus Bennett
|
| Saturday, April 26, 2008 |
The Eagles are on the clock. The ESPN gang is yapping about quarterbacks but the Eagles just took one in the 2nd round last year. Is a trade in the offing?
We’re two hours, ten minutes into the draft at already 18 guys gone. That’s fantastic for me as a fan of the Cowboys, who have the 22nd pick, but it’s hard to live blog at this speed!
The Eagles have traded the pick to the Carolina Panthers. The speculation is that they’re after Jeff Otah, the last stud offensive linemen, or one of the remaining quarterbacks.
Otah it is!
Scouts, Inc.: 19th
Strengths: Is a massive, mauling right tackle type. Has a huge frame with very long arms (35.3 inches). Not a great athlete but does play with good balance. He has a massive base. Will get low and uproot DL. Does an excellent job of anchoring versus the bull rush. Shows very good overall strength. Rarely loses a battle once he is locked on. Will drive his legs and create a new line of scrimmage as a run blocker. Still learning technique but is intelligent and continues to improve with more experience and coaching.
Weaknesses: Below average athlete. The more space he’s in the less effective he becomes. Lacks ideal initial quickness out of his stance and struggles to get set in time versus speed edge rushers. Struggles to reach the second level as a run blocker. Will have trouble hitting moving targets in space. Hands are smaller than ideal (9.2 inches).
Overall: Otah was born in Nigeria, came to the United States when he was seven years old and did not play organized football until his senior season of high school. He attended Valley Forge (Pa.) Military College in his first two years out of high school (2004-’05), making 17 consecutive starts at left tackle. He also averaged nearly 19 points and 12 rebounds for the Valley Forge basketball team. Otah transferred to Pitt in 2006 and made an immediate impact, starting all 24 games of his junior and senior seasons with the Panthers. He was an All-Big East first team selection in 2007. The Nigerian-born Otah lacks ideal playing experience and is still unpolished. While he is not a great athlete, he is not as slow as his combine workout numbers might indicate, as he participated despite an ankle injury. Otah is a massive mauler with the size, power and short-area quickness to develop into a good starting right tackle in the NFL, which is why we grade him as a mid-to-late first round prospect.
Rick Gosselin: 16th
Mel Kiper: 12th
A great value at the spot, presuming they didn’t give up too much in the trade. But it’s unusual to move up to take a tackle.
|
| Saturday, April 26, 2008 |
The Carolina Panthers are on the clock.
But they’re wasting no time: They took RB Jonathan Stewart of Oregon.
(5’10″, 235, 4.48) | OREGON
Strengths: Is a compactly built back with excellent body control. Shifty and quick; he runs low to the ground and has good change-of-direction skills. Shows very good initial quickness and also displays a second-gear when he gets through the line of scrimmage. Has made significant strides in terms of vision and patience as a runner throughout his career. Displays reliable hands as a receiver. Gets up the field quickly after the catch and can be a huge weapon when he catches the ball on the run in space. Has size and strength to anchor (when in position) versus blitzing linebacker in pass pro. Displays excellent potential as a kick return specialist and was one of the nation’s best when allowed to spend time in that facet of the game.
Weaknesses: Durability is a big concern. Has battled injuries throughout his career. Always seems to be nicked. Has limited experience carrying the full load. He’s compactly built and strong, but he’s not a power back. He doesn’t look to initiate contact much and he will run out of bounds instead of lowering his shoulder for extra yards on occasion. He goes down a bit too easily at times, as well. Not overly physical as a blocker. Still has room to improve in terms of awareness as a pass blocker. Will take some poor angles and doesn’t always appear to be confident in his assignment.
Overall: Even as a freshman reserve in 2005, Stewart was able to make his mark, scoring nine touchdowns on just 72 touches as a runner, receiver and kickoff returner. Despite injuries, he played 13 games in 2006 and ran for 981 yards and 10 TDs. He also had 20 receptions for 144 yards and another score. In 2007, his first season as Oregon’s feature back, Stewart established new school single-season marks in rushing yards (1,722) and all-purpose yards (2,481), leading the Pac-10 in both categories. He finished his junior season with 13 total touchdowns, adding 145 receiving yards on 22 catches. In three seasons, he averaged 28.7 yards and scored two TDs on kickoff returns. Stewart has battled durability issues throughout his career, but he also has shown toughness playing through several injuries. If he can avoid the injury bug at the next level, Stewart has a chance to emerge as one of the premier playmakers at the running back position. He is a compact runner with an outstanding combination of quickness, vision, body control and open-field burst. He also brings versatility to the table with soft hands as a receiver and an outstanding collegiate resume returning kicks. Stewart should be one of the top-three running backs selected in the 2008 NFL draft likely in the mid-to-late portion of the first round.
Scouts, Inc.:
Rick Gosselin: 17th
Mel Kiper: 21st
The numbers are all over the place because Stewart had an injury and is recovering. Presuming he’s healthy, though, this is a solid pick. He’s projected to be an awesome NFL running back.
|
| Friday, January 18, 2008 |
The playoffs aren’t even over yet but fans of 28 of 32 teams are already looking ahead to next year.
I read a lot about football and listen to Sirius’ NFL Radio on my daily commute but I’m not a professional scout. I can, however, see what the pros are saying and look for trends. It’s silly at this early stage to go beyond the 1st round, so I won’t; most of those who are linked below do, though, so you can click through if you’re interested.
Note: I’m a (bitterly disappointed) Cowboys fan, so I’ll highlight their picks in bold. I’ll also leave in explanations/discussion about picks that I remove for other teams for sake of brevity, not stealing all the thunder of the pickers.
Mel Kiper is the best known draft guy. Here’s his current Big Board (1/14). It merely ranks players without assigning them to teams, since sometimes teams draft based on need.
1. Darren McFadden Jr. RB Arkansas
2. Glenn Dorsey Sr. DT LSU
3. Jake Long Sr. OT Michigan
4. Chris Long Sr. DE Virginia
5. Sedrick Ellis Sr. DT USC
6. Matt Ryan Sr. QB Boston College
7. Ryan Clady Jr. OT Boise St.
8. Aqib Talib Jr. CB Kansas
9. Vernon Gholston Jr. DE Ohio St.
10. DeSean Jackson Jr. WR California
11. Calais Campbell Jr. DE Miami
12. Sam Baker Sr. OT USC
13. Kentwan Balmer Sr. DT UNC
14. Felix Jones Jr. RB Arkansas
15. Brian Brohm Sr. QB Louisville
16. Jonathan Stewart Jr. RB Oregon
17. Kenny Phillips Jr. S Miami
18. Dan Connor Sr. LB Penn St.
19. Mike Jenkins Sr. CB South Florida
20. Rashard Mendenhall Jr. RB Illinois
21. Reggie Smith Jr. CB Oklahoma
22. Keith Rivers Sr. LB USC
23. Pat Sims Jr. DT Auburn
24. Fred Davis Sr. TE USC
25. Leodis McKelvin Sr. CB Troy
Tony Conty, NFL Draft Blitz (1/15)
1) Miami Dolphins-Glenn Dorsey, DT-LSU
2) St. Louis Rams-Chris Long, DE-Virginia
3) Oakland Raiders-Sedrick Ellis, DT-USC
4) Atlanta Falcons-Matt Ryan, QB-Boston College
5) Kansas City Chiefts-Darren McFadden, RB-Arkansas
6) New York Jets-Jake Long, T-Michigan
7) New England Patriots-Keith Rivers, OLB-USC
8 ) Baltimore Ravens-Brian Brohm, QB-Louisville
9) Cincinnati Bengals-Dan Connor, OLB-PSU
10) New Orleans Saints-Michael Jenkins, CB-South Florida
11) Buffalo Bills-Limas Sweed, WR-Texas
12) Denver Broncos-Early Doucet, WR-LSU
13) Carolina Panthers-Jonathan Stewart, RB-Oregon
14) Chicago Bears-James Laurinaitis, ILB-Ohio State
15) Detroit Lions-Derrick Harvey, DE-Florida
16) Arizona Cardinals-Ryan Clady, T-Boise State
17) Minnesota Vikings-DeSean Jackson, WR-California
18) Houston Texans-Malcolm Kelly, WR-Oklahoma
19) Philadelphia Eagles-Vernon Gholston, DE-Ohio State
20) Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andre Woodson, QB-Kentucky
21) Washington Redskins-Jeff Otah, T-Pittsburgh
22) Dallas Cowboys-Sam Baker, T-USC
23) Pittsburgh Steelers-Michael Oher, T-Ole Miss
24) Tennessee Titans-Kenny Phillips, S-Miami
25) Seattle Seahawks-Felix Jones, RB-Arkansas
26) New York Giants-Malcolm Jenkins, CB-Ohio State
27) San Diego Chargers-Pat Sims, DT-Auburn
28) Jacksonville Jaguars-Calais Campbell, DE-Miami
29) Green Bay Packers-Aqib Talib, CB-Kansas
30) San Francisco 49ers (from Indy)-James Hardy, WR-Indiana
31) Dallas Cowboys-Rashard Mendenhall, RB-Illinois
32) New England Patriots-Forfeited
From a need perspective, I’d much rather see the Cowboys take a CB and WR in the first, as they’d be more likely to see significant playing time than an offensive lineman or RB. But best available is the way to go.
Draft King (1/15)
1. Miami Dolphins – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
2. St. Louis Rams – Jake Long, OT, Michigan
3. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
4. Atlanta Falcons – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
5. Kansas City Chiefs – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
6. New York Jets – Chris Long, DE, Virginia
7. New England Patriots (from 49ers) – Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
8. Baltimore Ravens – Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
9. Cincinnati Bengals – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints – Mike Jenkins, CB, USF
11. Buffalo Bills – Dan Connor, LB, Penn State
12. Denver Broncos – Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
13. Carolina Panthers – Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
14. Chicago Bears – Andre Woodson, QB, Kentucky
15. Detroit Lions – Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State
16. Arizona Cardinals – Keith Rivers, LB, USC
17. Minnesota Vikings – Quentin Groves, DE/OLB, Auburn
18. Houston Texans – Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon °
19. Philadelphia Eagles – Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
21. Washington Redskins – Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
22. Dallas Cowboys (from Cleveland) – DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal
DeSean Jackson is an enigma; trying to predict where he will go is a challenging thing. Jackson had a great performance (after sitting out for the first quarter due to a rule violation) in Cal’s comeback win over Air Force in the Armed Forces Bowl, which should boost his stock. He waited until literally the final day to decide to go pro.
At 6’0″ 180, he has decent height, but not the bulk that some other receivers in the draft bring to the table. What sets Jackson apart is his blazing speed. If he can really run a 4.35ish 40 at the combine, he could end up similar to Ted Ginn, Jr. last year as a surprise top ten pick. If Jerry Jones is looking for a kick return boost, he’d sure land that in Jackson.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers – Sam Baker, OT, USC
24. Tennessee Titans – Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
25. Seattle Seahawks – Fred Davis, TE, USC
26. New York Giants – Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
27. Jacksonville Jaguars – Reggie Smith, CB, Oklahoma
28. San Diego Chargers – Ali Highsmith, OLB, LSU
29. Dallas Cowboys – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
Jones has been overlooked by many due to the presence of Darren McFadden, but should Bobby Petrino be unable to talk him into staying for his senior year, he could end up being a first round pick. He would be a particularly nice fit for the Cowboys, who are likely going to lose Julius Jones to free agency but have Marion Barber, III under contract.
While Barber is a bruiser, Jones would be a great contrast, given that he’s 6’0″, 200 pounds and runs a sub-4.4 40. Felix Jones has feature back ability, and he would be a great pickup by the Cowboys.
While the Cowboys may also look to add depth in the secondary and should have their choice from a number of good RBs in rounds two and three, a talent like Jones (or Rashard Mendenhall) at this spot in the draft may be too much to pass up.
30. San Francisco 49ers (from Indianapolis) – Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
31. Green Bay Packers – Terrell Thomas, CB, USC
32. New England Patriots – FORFEITED
Walter Football (1/16):
1. Miami Dolphins: Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
2.St. Louis Rams: Jake Long, OT, Michigan
3. Atlanta Falcons: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
4. Oakland Raiders: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
6.New York Jets: Chris Long, DE, Virginia
7. New England Patriots: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
8. Baltimore Ravens: Andre’ Woodson, QB, Kentucky
9. Cincinnati Bengals: Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
10. New Orleans Saints: Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
11. Buffalo Bills: Keith Rivers, OLB, USC
12. Denver Broncos: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
13. Carolina Panthers: Sam Baker, OT, USC
14. Chicago Bears: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
15. Detroit Lions: Dan Connor, OLB/MLB, Penn State
16. Arizona Cardinals: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
17. Minnesota Vikings: Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn
18. Houston Texans: Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
19. Philadelphia Eagles: Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DeSean Jackson, WR/PR, California
22. Washington Redskins: Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
22. Dallas Cowboys: Reggie Smith, CB/S, Oklahoma
This pick is from Cleveland. Terence Newman and Anthony Henry aren’t exactly young. Newman will be 30 in September 2008, while Henry doesn’t have many productive seasons remaining in the NFL. Jacques Reeves sucks. [Exactly right. Newman was a first round pick (#5 overall) in 2003 but a CB's career tends to be short. -JHJ]
23. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
24. Tennessee Titans: Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
25. Seattle Seahawks: Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
26. New York Giants: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy State
27. Jacksonville Jaguars: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
28. San Diego Chargers: Frank Okam, NT, Texas
29. Dallas Cowboys: Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
It was rumored that Dallas was interested in Dwayne Jarrett in April, but Jerry Jones apparently liked Anthony Spencer a bit more. With Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn close to the end of their careers, the Cowboys would love to secure a top-notch wide out.
That said, if someone of Felix Jones’ caliber is available – which is plausible, given the depth at the running back position in this class – Dallas won’t be able to resist. Julius Jones likely won’t be back next year, and the Cowboys clearly don’t think Marion Barber can carry the load on his own; otherwise he’d be doing so already instead of starting his first game in the playoffs. [They should definitely draft best available and we need a second stud RB. All things equal, though, I'd like a corner and a wideout in this round. - JHJ]
30. San Francisco 49ers: Adarius Bowman, WR, Oklahoma State
31. Green Bay Packers: Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
[32. New England: No pick. They're cheaters. - JHJ]
« Hide it
|
 |
Permalink
| Send TrackBack
-
Planck's Constant linked with If Muslims wanted to rule the World...
-
Rhymes With Right linked with If Ever We Needed A Special Prosecutor...
-
Rhymes With Right linked with Chronicle Wastes Ink, Electrons, On Non-Story...
-
Mark My Words linked with John McCain and illegal immigration...
-
Mark My Words linked with Mike Huckabee, his feet are definitely smaller than his mouth...
-
Mark My Words linked with Fred Thompson - South Carolina round up...
-
The World According To Carl
-
Leaning Straight Up linked with Out of the Mouths of Babes: The MLK rally at a local High School
-
No time like the present linked with Fault Tolerance...
-
Rhymes With Right linked with Edwards The Kingmaker?...
-
The Virtuous Republic linked with UAE Offers the French Permanent Naval Base...
-
Leaning Straight Up linked with Nevada Shocker: Voter fraud alleged by Democrats- against Democrats
-
Right Voices linked with Super Delegates: The DNC’s Insurance Policy Against The Stupid Voters
-
Right Truth linked with Conspiracy Theories Meet Reality - Dennis Kucinich...
-
The few « nuke gingrich
-
Conservative Cat linked with Pay Attention to the Unconscious Cat...
-
Mark My Words linked with Fred Thompson - announcement tomorrow?...
-
Leaning Straight Up linked with Obama Vs Hillary: The gloves are coming off
-
Mark My Words linked with Michael Medved - rather stuck on himself...
-
the so called me linked with The New Mom Blog Network On The Block...
-
Mark My Words linked with Fred Thompson is out of the race...
-
Leaning Straight Up linked with Fred! drops out
-
A Few Shiny Pebbles linked with For a Moment There, Fred, My Heart Broke...
-
2008 Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft linked with OTB Sports
|
| Saturday, December 29, 2007 |
 Vinny Testaverde has finally had enough, calling it quits after a 21-year NFL career.
The 44-year-old quarterback said Saturday that he’ll retire after Carolina’s season finale at Tampa Bay on Sunday.
“I just feel like it’s time,” Testaverde told The Associated Press before boarding the team bus for the airport. “Obviously at 44 it does get a little bit tougher as the weeks go by. I’m glad I’m able to do it on my own terms and walk away from the game not only healthy, but to experience some of the things I’ve been through.”
Testaverde was out of the league until the Panthers, desperate for quarterback help after injuries to Jake Delhomme and David Carr, signed him on Oct. 10. Four days and only three practices later, Testaverde became the oldest starting QB to win a game when he led the Panthers to a victory at Arizona.
“It’s going to be, for me, one of my special moments in the NFL,” Testaverde said. “To come in with three days of preparation and go out and help a team win a football game and contribute, I’m proud of the fact I was able to do that.”
Testaverde started five more games for Carolina and completed 94 of 172 passes for 952 yards, five touchdowns and six interceptions. But his body wore down late in the season, and he was sidelined by back pain and a right Achilles tendon injury that kept him out of games and practices the past month.
Testaverde said he started contemplating retirement several weeks ago. “You want to be able to go out there and perform the way you think you can,” Testaverde said. “When you have some things that hinder you from doing that, it makes it tougher.”
Testaverde’s final game will come where his pro career started. The 1986 Heisman Trophy winner at Miami, Testaverde was the No. 1 overall pick by Tampa Bay in the 1987 draft. He got off to rocky start, throwing 13 touchdown passes and 35 interceptions in his second season with the Buccaneers, his first as the full-time starter.
Testaverde weathered the criticism for three more seasons before moving to Cleveland. After the franchise moved to Baltimore, Testaverde made his first Pro Bowl in 1996. Testaverde made the Pro Bowl two years later with the New York Jets, when he had 29 touchdown passes and only seven interceptions. Late in his career he played with Dallas and New England.
Testaverde ranks sixth in the league for career attempts (6,701), completions (3,787) and yards passing (45,233). Testaverde has thrown 275 touchdown passes and 267 interceptions. Testaverde also holds the NFL record by throwing at least one touchdown pass in 21 straight seasons.
“I think my years in Tampa Bay have taught me a lot, not only about football, but about life,” Testaverde said. “It kind of helped me grow a tough skin. I went through some tough times as a professional athlete there, but it’s a great place, a great town. It’s come full circle.”
I don’t think he’s quite a Hall of Famer but he had a heck of a career and was a class act.
|
| Wednesday, November 28, 2007 |
ESPN has released their Power Rankings for Week 13 of the 2007 NFL season and, despite the AFC hype, two NFC teams are in the top three. The voting was done by ESPN writers John Clayton, Len Pasquarelli, Matt Mosley, Jeffri Chadiha and Mike Sando; Scouts Inc. Insiders Jeremy Green and Keith Kidd; and ESPN.com NFL senior editor Mike McAllister.
| 2007 Power Rankings: Week 13 |
| |
RK (LW) |
TEAM |
REC |
COMMENT |
 |
1 (1) |
Patriots |
11-0-0 |
Twenty different Patriots players have scored TDs this season. That equals or is more than the touchdown totals for 11 other teams this season. We know you never get tired of those kinds of comparisons, right? |
 |
2 (2) |
Cowboys |
10-1-0 |
Home-field advantage in the NFC likely is at stake Thursday, and the last thing the Cowboys want to do is play the NFC title game at Lambeau in January. But Wade Phillips has won a playoff game at Green Bay — as Atlanta’s D-coordinator in 2002. |
 |
3 (3) |
Packers |
10-1-0 |
Brett Favre has played five or more regular-season games against 18 different NFL teams — and his .286 winning percentage (2-5 record) vs. Dallas is his lowest. Add his 0-3 playoff record and Favre is batting .200 against the Cowboys. |
 |
4 (4) |
Colts |
9-2-0 |
The Colts, according to the Indy Star, have led or shared the lead in the AFC South for 90 of the 97 weeks since the division was formed in 2002. Beating the Jags on Sunday would likely add the rest of 2007 to that total. |
 |
5 (5) |
Jaguars |
8-3-0 |
The Jags are rolling into Sunday’s division showdown against Indy with a ton of confidence. "The guys are hungry," QB David Garrard told the Times-Union. "I’m sure everybody can feel this season is different." |
 |
6 (7) |
Steelers |
8-3-0 |
Shame on the Steelers organization for allowing their MNF game to be played on such poor field conditions. It wasn’t fair to the players, or the fans who invested time and money to watch the game. Either get it right or start using the artificial stuff. |
 |
7 (8) |
Browns |
7-4-0 |
The Browns are plus-2 in the giveaway/takeaway category. That may not mean much to you, but the Browns have finished on the plus side of turnover differential just once since 1993. |
 |
8 (9) |
Seahawks |
7-4-0 |
In three previous meetings against the Eagles, QB Matt Hasselbeck has been sacked 11 times (including a career-high seven back in 2001) and has a 58.8 passer rating, his lowest against any NFC team. So what’s the over/under for sacks this Sunday? |
 |
9 (10) |
Buccaneers |
7-4-0 |
You’ve heard of QB controversies, but with the backups? Jon Gruden isn’t revealing his hand on who will start against the Saints if No. 1 guy Jeff Garcia can’t play due to a back injury. The fans of Bruce Gradkowski and Luke McCown eagerly await. |
 |
10 (13) |
Chargers |
6-5-0 |
Of the eight division leaders, none has a worse road record this season than the Chargers’ 1-4 mark. With their next two games at KC and Tennessee, LT knows what must be done: "We’re going to have to find a way to win on the road." |
 |
11 (6) |
Giants |
7-4-0 |
Go ahead, blame Eli (and he deserves it). But don’t forget to blame the rest of the Giants for a wretched performance against the Vikings. After all, the defense allowed Minny QB Tarvaris Jackson to post a 139.2 passer rating. |
 |
12 (11) |
Titans |
6-5-0 |
On five drives against the Bengals, the Titans entered the red zone. Three times they had goal-to-go situations. And yet they couldn’t find the end zone. It’ll be one of their many regrets if they don’t make the playoffs. |
 |
13 (20) |
Saints |
5-6-0 |
The Saints have underachieved, but at least they have a meaningful December, starting with a key home game against NFC South leader Tampa Bay. "It doesn’t get any better than it’s about to get," QB Drew Brees told the Times-Picayune. |
 |
14 (12) |
Lions |
6-5-0 |
Reports have surfaced that owner William Clay Ford Sr. wants the coaching staff to increase the workload of rookie WR Calvin Johnson. On the flip side, head coach Rod Marinelli is demanding that Ford build a better-looking SUV. |
 |
15 (15) |
Eagles |
5-6-0 |
The question in Philly: Would Donovan McNabb had played better than A.J. Feeley did in nearly beating the Patriots? When healthy, McNabb’s still the main guy, but Andy Reid is adamant that nothing less than a fully healed McNabb will play. |
 |
16 (22) |
Bears |
5-6-0 |
So is running back Cedric Benson’s season-ending ankle injury a plus or minus for the rest of the season? Benson’s an underachiever, but it’s not like Adrian Peterson (Bears’ version) has run like Adrian Peterson (Vikes’ version) this season. |
 |
17 (14) |
Broncos |
5-6-0 |
Until Sunday, the Broncos’ special-teams play — after a dismal start — had recently been among the league’s best. Perhaps that improvement resulted in overconfidence. Ultimately, it just led to a harsh lesson: Don’t kick to Devin Hester. |
 |
18 (23) |
Vikings |
5-6-0 |
Earlier this month, the Vikings were blanked by Green Bay, 34-0, and dropped to 3-6. Hard to imagine now that they’re in the playoff race. A win on Sunday vs. Detroit (Adrian Peterson may be back) puts them in good shape. |
 |
19 (16) |
Cardinals |
5-6-0 |
Kurt Warner triggered the Greatest Show on Turf, yet he never threw for as many yards with those Rams offenses as he did Sunday against the 49ers. But his career-high 484 yards was overshadowed in the shocking way the Cards lost. |
 |
20 (18) |
Redskins |
5-6-0 |
FedEx Field will be an emotional place the next two games, as the Redskins and their fans deal with the tragic loss of Sean Taylor. Joe Gibbs will need to draw on all of his coaching experience to get his team prepared for the rest of this season. |
 |
21 (17) |
Texans |
5-6-0 |
No team has committed more turnovers; in fact, opponents have converted Houston’s 29 turnovers into 108 points. "There are a lot of things we can do to win, but turning the ball over ain’t one of them," OT Ephraim Salaam told the Chronicle. |
 |
22 (19) |
Bills |
5-6-0 |
The Bills’ offense is not one for steady drives, as just four TD drives this season have been 10 plays or longer. J.P. Losman just doesn’t seem like a good fit, which explains why the Bills are going back to Trent Edwards this week. |
 |
23 (26) |
Bengals |
4-7-0 |
Admit it — you’ve missed Ocho Cinco’s TD celebrations. Chad Johnson’s TV cameraman act opens up a whole new genre. Next time, let’s see him take a sideline reporter’s microphone and interview himself about his TD. Watch out, Rachel Nichols! |
 |
24 (21) |
Chiefs |
4-7-0 |
It has been 30 years since the Chiefs lost six home games in a single season at Arrowhead Stadium, but with a 2-4 home record, it could happen this year if they can’t beat the Chargers and Titans in December. |
 |
25 (24) |
Ravens |
4-7-0 |
The five-game losing streak is the longest in franchise history, and it figures to reach seven with games against the Patriots and Colts the next two weeks. Right now, not even the Dec. 16 game at Miami seems like a sure win. |
 |
26 (25) |
Panthers |
4-7-0 |
Panthers fans, frustrated by their team’s inability to win at home, are starting to stay away from Bank of America Stadium. That’s not good for the job security of coach John Fox and GM Marty Hurney, who are both on the hot seat. |
 |
27 (30) |
Raiders |
3-8-0 |
After beating the Chiefs in the season finale of 1999, the Raiders went 33-15 the next three years, culminating in a Super Bowl appearance. Will Sunday’s win at KC have the same impact? "Maybe this is our roll," DT Warren Sapp told the Tribune. |
 |
28 (31) |
49ers |
3-8-0 |
Let’s see … Ted Tollner arrives to assist with the offense. The 49ers then produce a season-high 374 yards in beating the Cards. Does A+B=C? Seems that way, but maybe not. "Ted was very uninvolved in the play-calling," QB Trent Dilfer said. |
 |
29 (28) |
Rams |
2-9-0 |
Gus Frerotte’s fumbled snap was a heartbreaker, but the Rams should never have let it come to that in losing to Seattle. The offense went into a shell after taking a 19-7 lead, failing to produce points on their final nine possessions. |
 |
30 (27) |
Falcons |
3-8-0 |
TE Alge Crumpler tells the J-C that "it just puzzles me that we can’t score points." But is it really puzzling that Atlanta’s averaging four points less than last season? Mike Vick’s absence accounts for at least that much, if not more. |
 |
31 (29) |
Jets |
2-9-0 |
If the Jets can’t beat the winless Dolphins this week, this season will likely end up as the team’s worst since the Rich Kotite days. And QB Kellen Clemens isn’t making much of a statement in his audition as the starter. |
 |
32 (32) |
Dolphins |
0-11-0 |
Hypothetical question: Could the Dolphins beat the Saskatchewan Roughriders, who won the Grey Cup on Sunday? It’d be tough, especially using those funky CFL rules. Of course, that wouldn’t faze Ricky Williams (2006 Argonauts). |
It’s hard to argue much with these rankings, even if they’re a bit too closely related to teams’ overall records. Presumably, some teams that had hot starts but have since faded (Giants, Steelers) and teams that have started poorly but have gotten better of late (Rams) should have rankings weighted to reflect the recent performance. There might also be a strength of schedule component, as some teams play in much more competitive divisions.
|
| Wednesday, October 10, 2007 |
There are still three undefeated teams going into Week 6 of the NFL season: the New England Patriots, defending champion Indianapolis Colts, and the surprising young Dallas Cowboys. They top this week’s Power Rankings as determined by the analysts at ESPN.
| 2007 Power Rankings: Week 6 |
| |
RK (LW) |
TEAM |
REC |
COMMENT |
|
1 (1) |
Patriots |
5-0-0 |
The Pats and Cowboys have met just nine times, so history doesn’t figure to influence Sunday’s game. But if it means anything (OK, it really doesn’t), Bill Belichick is just 1-3 vs. Wade Phillips. |
|
2 (2) |
Colts |
5-0-0 |
Raise your hand if you figured Kenton Keith and Craphonso Thorpe (hey, no snickering!) would be integral parts of the Colts’ pummeling of the Bucs. Indy has made a habit of these 5-0 starts. |
|
3 (3) |
Cowboys |
5-0-0 |
Can a kicker be rookie of the year? Not only did Nick Folk nail the 53-yarder (twice) to beat Buffalo but his execution of the onside kick was flawless. His only missed FG this season was a block by the Bears. |
|
4 (6) |
Steelers |
4-1-0 |
Want to see a textbook example of how to protect a lead? Check out what the Steelers did Sunday, holding the ball for nearly 25 of the 30 second-half minutes in their 21-0 win over the Seahawks. |
|
5 (4) |
Packers |
4-1-0 |
The Packers, like most teams, aren’t good enough to turn the ball over five times, commit 12 penalties and still win. ‘We’re not a bad football team, but we’re not great either,’ said Brett Favre after the loss to the Bears. |
|
6 (8) |
Jaguars |
3-1-0 |
QB David Garrard is doing the things that make coaches sleep easier — basically, he’s not screwing up. Garrard has yet to throw an interception this season, which helps explain why he ranks 4th in QB ratings. |
|
7 (7) |
Titans |
3-1-0 |
For the fourth time since Jeff Fisher became head coach, the Titans have started 3-1. Good news for Tennessee: On those three previous occasions, they made the playoffs. |
|
8 (13) |
Redskins |
3-1-0 |
The 144 yards allowed to Detroit was the lowest total given up by a Redskins defense in 15 years. It helped that Washington enjoyed a nearly 10-minute edge in time of possession. |
|
9 (11) |
Ravens |
3-2-0 |
For the first time since their 2000 Super Bowl season, the Ravens won a game despite scoring only field goals. Injuries to the offensive line might force Baltimore to keep relying on Matt Stover for all its points. |
|
10 (5) |
Seahawks |
3-2-0 |
Will having a new lead blocker get Shaun Alexander untracked? Leonard Weaver will be the new lead blocker for Alexander now that 15-year vet Mack Strong is retiring after suffering a herniated disc in his neck. |
|
11 (9) |
Buccaneers |
3-2-0 |
If the Bucs are going to be playoff contenders in the second half, they must find a solution (re: trade) to their RB injury woes. Names being mentioned by the Tampa Bay media: Vikings’ Mewelde Moore, Chargers’ Michael Turner, Broncos’ Mike Bell. |
|
12 (16) |
Chargers |
2-3-0 |
There are confidence boosters. And then there are CONFIDENCE BOOSTERS. The Chargers got the latter in routing the Broncos and can now move into at least a tie for the AFC West lead by beating the Raiders on Sunday. |
|
13 (15) |
Cardinals |
3-2-0 |
With Matt Leinart out and 36-year-old Kurt Warner now the full-time QB, the Cards need a solid backup. But The Arizona Republic reports that it won’t be ex-Cardinal Jake Plummer, who has retired. |
|
14 (18) |
Giants |
3-2-0 |
The Giants go into Monday night’s game at Atlanta having won three straight. Inconsistent play is still a troubling sign, though. Eli Manning on Sunday: 22 yards passing in first half, 164 in second half. |
|
15 (20) |
Bears |
2-3-0 |
Although the Bears knocked the Packers from the ranks of the unbeatens, just how impressive was the win? The Chicago defense was steamrolled in the first half, and the rushing game produced only 82 yards on 33 attempts. |
|
16 (17) |
Texans |
3-2-0 |
Will Kris Brown’s 5-FG performance go down as the greatest kicking day in NFL history? It should. He nailed three from 50-plus yards, including the winner from 57 with one second left to beat the Dolphins. |
|
17 (14) |
Panthers |
3-2-0 |
The Panthers are in a precarious state at quarterback. Jake Delhomme is out for the rest of the season. David Carr is banged-up. Undrafted rookie Matt Moore is now the backup. The phone lines will be heating up in Charlotte. |
|
18 (12) |
Lions |
3-2-0 |
Take away the fourth-quarter, 34-point explosion against the Bears, and this much-ballyhooed Lions offense has been held out of the end zone in its past 10 quarters. But hey, it can’t be Mike Martz’s fault. After all, he’s an offensive genius. |
|
19 (10) |
Broncos |
2-3-0 |
Life figures to get worse before it gets better for the Broncos. They’ve been humiliated at home, have lost three straight and will come out of the bye week with games against Pittsburgh, Green Bay and Detroit. |
|
20 (24) |
Raiders |
2-2-0 |
Don’t look now, but your AFC West leaders are … the Raiders, the only team without a losing record. The next two games (San Diego, Kansas City) should provide a better picture of just how seriously we should take Oakland. |
|
21 (19) |
49ers |
2-3-0 |
The 49ers rank last in the league in time of possession, and with QB Alex Smith hurt, it doesn’t figure to get better. RB Frank Gore ranks 36th in the league in yards per carry (3.6). |
|
22 (22) |
Eagles |
1-3-0 |
Only Detroit (27) has allowed more sacks than the Eagles’ 19, but despite facing intense pressure, quarterback Donovan McNabb has thrown just one interception this season. |
|
23 (23) |
Bengals |
1-3-0 |
The Bengals hope to repeat their post-bye-week success of 2003 (when they won six of seven after going into the bye 1-4) and 2004 (when they won five of eight after going into the bye 1-3). |
|
24 (25) |
Browns |
2-3-0 |
The last time the Browns won two consecutive games was 2003, and they sure weren’t going to do it Sunday at New England. But give the Browns credit for putting up a fight, even though, as 16-1/2 point underdogs, they still failed to beat the spread. |
|
25 (21) |
Chiefs |
2-3-0 |
How bad has it gotten in K.C.? Tight end Tony Gonzalez is hoping the final-play TD the Chiefs scored to avoid being shut out by the Jags is ‘something we can build from.’ Well, might be easier if the Chiefs had a running game. |
|
26 (30) |
Bills |
1-4-0 |
The Bills fortunately have a bye week to deal with the anguish of losing a game they should’ve won. But as many big plays as Buffalo made against the Cowboys, Dick Jauron correctly pointed out that it needed just one more. |
|
27 (27) |
Vikings |
1-3-0 |
A tough stretch awaits the Vikings coming out of their bye week. They face four consecutive playoff teams from 2006, starting with Sunday’s game at Chicago, then must travel to Green Bay in Week 10. Minnesota needs to improve in a hurry. |
|
28 (26) |
Jets |
1-4-0 |
Is Chad Pennington on a short leash? The Jets quarterback has thrown five interceptions in the past two weeks, prompting some discussion that backup Kellen Clemens should start warming up. The Jets need a turnaround. Quick. |
|
29 (28) |
Falcons |
1-4-0 |
Warrick Dunn is expected to reach the 10,000-yard career rushing mark this season. But at this rate, it won’t be anytime soon. He gained just 27 yards in the loss to Tennessee, giving him 9,710 for his career. |
|
30 (29) |
Saints |
0-4-0 |
Odds are against the Saints’ returning to the playoffs this season. Since the NFL increased the playoff teams to 12 in 1990, just one team — the ’92 Chargers — has made the playoffs after an 0-4 start. |
|
31 (32) |
Rams |
0-5-0 |
If St. Louis loses at Baltimore on Sunday, this squad will tie the ’62 Rams for the worst start (0-6) in franchise history. And 0-7 is a distinct possibility, given that the Rams must travel to Seattle in Week 7. |
|
32 (31) |
Dolphins |
0-5-0 |
How soon will the John Beck era begin Miami? Trent Green is out, and his career might be over. Cleo Lemon is now the starter, but it’s Beck, the second-round draft pick from BYU, who’s pegged as Miami’s future QB. The future might be now. |
After injurying his elbow two weeks ago, Delhomme will need season ending surgery.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Jake Delhomme last week called surgery on his strained right elbow “a last resort.” After experiencing pain trying to throw on Monday, the Carolina Panthers quarterback decided the worst-case scenario couldn’t be avoided.
Delhomme will have season-ending ligament-replacement surgery on his elbow next week, leaving the Panthers without their leader on offense and scrambling to find another quarterback.
“Anytime you lose your starting quarterback it’s a blow,” coach John Fox said.
Originally injured two weeks ago, Delhomme didn’t show any improvement when trying to throw Monday. A day earlier he threw briefly on the side while sitting out Carolina’s win over the Saints.
Carolina acquired former Houston Texan QB David Carr during the off season. The Panthers would appear in able hands except.
David Carr, is also banged up.
Carr, signed in the offseason after being a five-year starter in Houston, sustained a back injury against the Saints and his status for Sunday’s game at Arizona is uncertain.
“David is definitely sore,” Fox said. “He’s still being evaluated.”
The only other QB on the roster is undrafted rookie Matt Moore, who completed a 43-yard pass against the Saints while briefly subbing for Carr in the first half. Quinton Porter was signed two weeks ago to the practice squad.
Is it time to call Shane Matthews out of retirement or sign Jeff George? How about Quincy Carter? Desperate times call for desperate measures.
|
| Wednesday, July 11, 2007 |
Coaching is a tough business and, aside from the crazy NHL, no league is tougher on them than the NFL. Clark Judge thinks these five guys may be done if they don’t turn it around this year:
Romeo Crennel, Cleveland
Yeah, I like the guy, too, and he might be a good head coach, but it’s not happening here. The Browns have accomplished little since Crennel’s arrival except to turn the quarterback position into a weekly audition for “Where’s My Line?” I know Crennel has been beset by injuries, and, yes, it’s a problem when you lose people like Braylon Edwards, Kellen Winslow and LeCharles Bentley. But everyone suffers injuries, and you don’t have to remind Crennel. He was the defensive coordinator in New England when the Patriots went to the Super Bowl with a secondary that looked more like a casting call for the ER of Grey’s Anatomy.
The point is this: Cleveland deserves a winner, and the Browns haven’t won much more than high draft picks since returning to the NFL in 1999. Only once did they reach the playoffs, and that was as a wild card in 2002. Predictably, they lost their only game. Crennel was supposed to be the answer, but the Browns are 10-22 under him, with two last-place finishes. I don’t care if a coach suffers a losing season here or there. But you want to see improvement. The Browns lost two more last season than they did in 2005. They scored six more points and allowed 55 more. They ranked 31st in offense and 27th in defense. And they committed a whopping 42 turnovers — worse than anyone except the Raiders. That is not what you’d call an improvement. It’s what you’d call grounds for a divorce.
Tom Coughlin, N.Y. Giants
This is how the Giants made the playoffs last season: They lost six of their last eight, including a game where they blew a 21-0 fourth-quarter lead. Then they lost their playoff game. Then they lost their star player. Then the star player torched the head coach. That, folks, is not how you earn a contract extension, but the the Giants retained Coughlin anyway after he and his club self-destructed down the stretch.
Now Coughlin is trying to win without Tiki Barber, a bona fide left tackle and a fullback. Oh, and did I mention the inconsistent quarterback under fire? Eli Manning’s not the man on the spot here; Kevin Gilbride is. He’s the new offensive coordinator charged with saving his head coach, and maybe he does it by cutting down on Manning’s mistakes and finding room for Brandon Jacobs to run. All I know is that he has one year to come up with a solution.
Coughlin must know he’s walking the plank. How else do you explain his reaching out to beat reporters in the offseason to make peace? That’s not Coughlin’s style. It is, however, the sign of someone who knows he’s in trouble and is desperate for support. Maybe that’s why Coughlin put the gag order on players, hoping to eliminate the criticism that helped sabotage the Giants last season. But that lasts only as long as the team wins, which must happen for Coughlin to make it through to 2008 … the last year of his contract.
Jon Gruden, Tampa Bay
Yes, he’s the only coach to take Tampa Bay to the Super Bowl. What’s more, he won it. But that was almost five years ago, and this is a league where it’s what you’ve done lately that matters. And what the Bucs have done lately isn’t much.
Since Super Bowl XXXVII, they produced one winning season and an overall record of 27-37. Worse, the offense that worked so well in 2002 has been reduced to a bunch of guys playing three-and-out. Really, now, are you going to tell me that Jon Gruden can’t figure out how to score more than 15 points a game? That was the average last year, and it can’t happen again. Injuries were a factor, but enough already. You either win or you don’t, which is why the Bucs signed 37-year-old Jeff Garcia to play quarterback. Gruden doesn’t have time to wait on Bruce Gradkowski or Chris Simms. He doesn’t have time to wait on Brady Quinn, either. The Bucs passed on him in the draft and chose defensive end Gaines Adams because Adams can step in and help now. That tells you something. It tells you the clock is ticking on the head coach, and he knows it.
John Fox, Carolina
Listen, I think this guy is sharp, too, but when the Panthers let go trusted offensive coordinator Dan Henning, they turned up the heat on the head coach. Fox and Henning were close, and the move indicated management wasn’t happy with last season (understandable) and wanted — no, demanded — a change. So, it got one: Henning was canned. Now, it’s Fox who’s on the front burner, mainly because the Panthers didn’t win in two of the past three seasons and were dreadful last year when it mattered most — losing five times when they blew fourth-quarter leads.
Management can argue that it gave Fox the players to win; Fox can argue that injuries, particularly to the offensive line, handicapped his chances in 2006, but that won’t cut it. Remember what I said about injuries: Everyone has them, and good coaches find ways to overcome them. Fox did just that in 2005 when he somehow fought through the losses of his top four backs to reach the NFC Championship Game. John Fox knows what he’s doing. He just has to prove it. Again.
Jack Del Rio, Jacksonville
Let’s see, the Jags’ next quarterback is Byron Leftwich. No, it’s David Garrard. No, it’s Daunte Culpepper. Nope, it’s Leftwich. We think.
The Jags haven’t been bad under Del Rio, but they haven’t been real good, either. And that’s a problem. Under Del Rio they’re 34-31 (including the playoffs), a record similar to the 34-32 mark that convinced Bill Parcells to quit in Dallas.
There’s no question the Jags could be good. Very good. But a couple of things must happen first: 1) They must learn to find the end zone without a sherpa, and 2) they must figure out how to beat Houston. That’s the thing that confounds me about Del Rio’s team. It can beat any given team on any given Sunday, except if that team is Houston. You can look it up: Houston beats the Jags at home; it beats them in Jacksonville. Only one team last year knocked off the Jags twice, and it wasn’t Super Bowl champion Indianapolis. It was those mighty Texans, who the past four years are 5-3 against Del Rio and 15-41 against the rest of the league.
Oh, yeah, one more thing: It would help if Jacksonville shows up on the road. The Jags were 2-6 there last season, surrendering an average of 23.25 points a game. They were 6-2 at home, holding opponents to an average of 11 per start. The club that produced back-to-back shutouts of Pittsburgh and the Jets at home also hemorrhaged 36 points at Washington and 35 at K.C. So how do you explain that? Del Rio has one season to find an answer.
While I can’t see Carolina firing Fox, the others seem right to me. Coughlin probably deserved to have been fired already and Del Rio has had major ups and downs. And Gruden won that Super Bowl with Tony Dungy’s team against a poorly coached team that was his the year before; he’s overrated.
Another coach who’s likely on the heat seat even though he shouldn’t be is Dallas’ Wade Phillips. It’s his first year on the job and he has two first-time coordinators and a quarterback who will be in his first full season as the starter, so it’s unfair to expect greatness. There’s not much doubt, though, that Jerry Jones expects the Cowboys to make it to the Super Bowl this year.
If that doesn’t happen, it wouldn’t surprise me in the least if he didn’t make a phone call to Bill Cowher, would will be tanned, rested, and ready for 2008.
|
| Thursday, June 28, 2007 |
Who are the best wide receivers in the NFL? ESPN’s Bucky Brooks ranks his top 25.
The top 10:
1. Steve Smith, Carolina Panthers: The ultimate offensive weapon has almost single-handedly carried the Panthers’ offense the past two seasons. Smith’s outstanding speed, quickness and leaping ability enable him to take over a game, which sets him apart from the rest of the receivers. With a league-best 13 100-yard performances in the past two seasons, Smith has proven to be a dominant force despite lacking a complementary playmaker on the offense. His dominance will continue as he and two-time Pro Bowl QB Jake Delhomme form the foundation of the Panthers’ new offensive attack.
2. Chad Johnson, Cincinnati Bengals: The flamboyant playmaker has led the AFC in receiving yards for four consecutive seasons. As a polished receiver with excellent speed and hands, he has thrived as the favorite target of Carson Palmer in the Bengals wide open offense. Still showing a penchant for getting deep, Johnson led the league with eight receptions over 40 yards last season. With Palmer rounding back to Pro Bowl form, expect Johnson to continue to post big numbers.
3. Roy Williams, Detroit Lions: As the “go-to guy” in Mike Martz’s high octane offense, Williams had a breakout season in 2006 with over 1,300 receiving yards and a league-leading 24 receptions over 20 yards. A big, physical receiver with outstanding athleticism and hands, he finally showed the dominant ability that everyone expected when he entered the league. Teaming with Mike Furrey and rookie Calvin Johnson, in the Lions’ version of “The Greatest Show On Turf”, Williams will see more single coverage this season, which spells big trouble for defenses.
4. Marvin Harrison, Indianapolis Colts: A polished route runner with excellent quickness and burst, he sets the standard for consistency at the position. As the lead receiver in one of the league’s most dynamic offenses, he has posted eight consecutive seasons with over 1,000 yards and double-digit touchdowns. Even with the emergence of Reggie Wayne, there’s no reason to think Harrison won’t continue to be as effective in 2007.
5. Terrell Owens, Dallas Cowboys: The controversial superstar led the league in touchdown receptions in 2006, but suffered a down year by his standards. Though his season totals should have earned him Pro Bowl accolades, his high number of drops diverted attention away from his positive impact on the Dallas offense. Fully recovered from a wrist injury and playing in an offense that will accentuate his strengths, he will have a big season as Tony Romo’s favorite target in 2007.
6. Andre Johnson, Houston Texans: The Texans’ "one-man show" hauled in 103 receptions without a legitimate threat on the other side. With an outstanding combination of size, speed and strength, Johnson overpowers smaller defenders in one-on-one match-ups. Though he is sure to see a lot of double coverage, he should see his production rise with new quarterback Matt Schaub under center.
7. Donald Driver, Green Bay Packers: Brett Favre‘s No. 1 target is one of the most underrated receivers in the league. An outstanding playmaker, Driver has posted over 1,200 receiving yards in three consecutive seasons. After earning his first Pro Bowl nomination, he is finally beginning to get the recognition he deserves. With limited weapons in the backfield, Driver may shatter his career highs in receptions and yards in 2007.
8. Javon Walker, Denver Broncos: After posting a 1,000-yard season in his first season as a Bronco, Walker has established himself as Jay Cutler‘s favorite target. A vertical playmaker, he excels at double moves and deep routes off play action. With Travis Henry commanding attention in the backfield, Walker and Cutler should hook up for several big plays in 2007.
9. Anquan Boldin, Arizona Cardinals: This two-time Pro Bowler has been a dominant force since stepping into the league. Boldin has two 100-catch seasons and three seasons with over 1,200 receiving yards in his four-year career, and few defenders have found a way to slow him down. Using his outstanding athleticism to make up for unpolished route running skills, he does most of his damage as a runner after the catch. With promising Matt Leinart directing a new wide open attack, Boldin will continue to be a force in 2007.
10. Randy Moss, New England Patriots: Once viewed as the best receiver in the league, Moss has fallen from his perch at the top. After displaying lackluster effort and sloppy route running last season, his reputation as one of the premier deep threats has been tarnished. But he is poised to bounce back with a strong season in 2007, when he’ll team with Tom Brady to form a lethal big-play combination.
It’s hard to deny any of these guys are elite receivers, although I’m hard pressed to put a Detroit Lion ahead of Marvin Freakin’ Harrison. And I’m not sure Randy Moss deserves to be considered a top 10 guy until he puts together another good year; it’s been awhile.
|
|
