Bleacher Report - NFL Draft

Race for the Worst: NFL Teams Poised To Compete for No. 1 Pick

Eric Galko — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 23:54:17 -0500

While most analysts are looking at the undefeated Colts or Saints and how the AFC and NFC Wild Card seeds are shaping up, I'd like to take a look on the opposite side of the spectrum.

Being a huge follower and evaluator of the NFL, my eyes are on the teams who are most definitely out of the playoff hunt and have been for a while.

The old Ricky Bobby saying, "If you ain't first, your last" can go both ways in the NFL. If you don't win the Super Bowl in the playoffs, you are quickly forgotten about in history. However if you don't make the playoffs and barely win any games, "If you are last, your first" is the quote to live by.

So, with that, let's take a look at the worst of the worst as they begin to do their best to gain draft position—and lose.

7. Washington Redskins (3-8)

Remaining Schedule: NO, @OAK, NYG, DAL, @SD

I hope that it can become more and more evident to power hungry owners that "buying" over-priced veterans can't win games.

The Redskins are old across the board along the offensive line, their front seven has only two young, non-injury prone players to build around, and their talented secondary gets beat on big plays nearly every week.

It should be a struggle to put up enough points with the mess that is the Redskins offense to compete with the Saints and Chargers. The Giants and Cowboys are both more talented than Washington, but home games against NFC East opponents is always sketchy at best. I'll say they win one of those two, but still finish with a disappointing record as they try to rebuild once again.

Projected Ending Record: 5-11

Projected Draft Pick: Jimmy Clausen: QB, Notre Dame (JR)

6. Kansas City Chiefs (3-8)

Remaining Schedule: DEN, BUF, CLE, @CIN, @DEN

Kansas City has played some competitive games this year, which should give Chiefs' fans hope for the coming Todd Haley years.

However, their offense's best player arrived two weeks ago, their running game is still shaky— albeit improved since the loss of LJ—and their defense can't stop anybody.

The Broncos are fighting for a playoff spot, so the Chiefs will likely lose both of them. Buffalo has been red hot with Fewell the new coach, and the Bengals have been tough to be all season long. I'll give them a win against the second worse team in football, but they shouldn't be happy with poor record this season.

Projected Ending Record: 4-12

Projected Draft Pick: Dez Bryant: WR, Oklahoma State

5. Detroit Lions (2-9)

Remaining Schedule: @CIN, @BAL, ARI, @SF, CHI

While the Lions had a rough season once again, they did win two more so far than a season ago, so that's a huge step up. And although Stafford has been wildly inconsistent, based on his play two weeks ago in that gutsy performance he looks like the leader they need.

Teams with talent who have rough seasons tend to finish out strong (see 2008 Bengals) as they try to rebound for the coming season. Games at Cincy and at Baltimore will be tough in consecutive weeks, but both have been beatable in recent weeks. Arizona will likely be a loss as they have caught fire against this season. San Fran and Chicago are two very winnable games, and I expect wins in at least one of them.

As I said before, the Lions have the talent to start making steps towards, dare I say, the playoffs next year, so a few more pieces is all they need to be competitive week in and week out.

Projected Ending Record: 4-12

Projected Draft Pick: Gerald McCoy: DT, Oklahoma (JR)

4. Oakland Raiders (3-8)

Remaining Schedule: @PIT, WASH, @DEN, @CLE, BAL

When will that Scrouge of a man finally learn the true meaning of building a team? The Raiders are a mess.

They let Jeff Garcia go early this year, only to replace JaMarcus Russell with a lesser version of him in Bruce Gradkowski. The running game, though loaded with talent, has no where to run to, and the defense is wildly inconsistent.

Playing at Pittsburgh, who needs to win out to make the playoffs, is a shoe-in loss. So is at Denver and, with Baltimore likely still in the playoff hunt by season's end, that's probably an "L" as well. Washington and Cleveland are both winnable games, but Washington is less of a mess than Oakland, and Cleveland may be able to win one more at home.

Projected Ending Record: 4-12

Projected Draft Pick: Taylor Mays: S, USC

3. Tampa Bay Bucs (1-10)

Remaining Schedule: @CAR, NYJ, @SEA, @NO, @ATL

While this may sound like the most unintelligent comment ever, the Bucs are a very competitive, one-loss team.

Now, while I stand by and love the Bill Parcell's quote "You're as good as your record says you are", hear me out. Since their bye week (Week 8), the Bucs are 1-3. They beat the Green Bay Packers, the NFL's top defense, by scoring 38 points. They lost at Miami and at Atlanta by a combined five points, and lost to the undefeated Saints.

Grant it they're not wins, but they aren't 2008 Detroit Lions' bad losses.

Carolina, New York, and Seattle are all very winnable games, as well as Atlanta late in the year if the Falcons are out of the playoff race. They should win two this year, which would give them two more than most experts predicted in the pre-season.

Projected Ending Record: 3-13

Projected Draft Pick: Ndamukong Suh: DT, Nebraska

2. Cleveland Browns (1-10)

Remaining Schedule: SD, PIT, @KC, OAK, JAC

It's disappointing to see how the Browns have fallen back flat on their face.

Just two seasons ago, they were back to being notable with Derek Anderson guiding them to the playoffs. Now, he's a backup to first round bust Brady Quinn, both of which could be out of a job come this off-season.

The Browns play two playoff contenders the next two weeks, so there's 0-2. At Kansas City is a hard place for any team to play, just ask the Steelers two weeks ago, so there's another loss. Oakland and Jacksonville both are winnable, and I'll give Mangini a win against the equally hopeless Raiders to be his last as the Browns coach.

Projected Ending Record: 2-14

Projected Draft Pick: Eric Berry: S, Tennessee (JR)

1. St. Louis Rams (1-10)

Remaining Schedule: @CHI, @TEN, HOU, @ARI, SF

I said it to start the regular season, and I'll stick by it. The Rams have about three or four legit NFL starters on their roster.

Outside of Stephen Jackson, Jamal Brown, Jason Smith, and OJ Atogwe, I don't know if I'd go after any other Rams if they were in free agency to be my starter.

Steve Spagnuolo inherited the bad team that was left for Jim Haslett a season ago, and the Rams may have the least talented team in the past 10 years. That's right, less talented than last years 0-16 Lions.

Playing three road games never spells well for an offense-less dome team, and Houston is likely a playoff contender. San Francisco looks to be their best and is their only chance for another win, but Alex Smith and company understand that they have a chance to compete next season, so they'll finish the season strong.

With the Rams needing help basically everywhere, they probably should start with quarterback. While I don't feel Bradford will be worthy of the top pick, he looks like he'll likely get over-picked in the 2010 draft. With teams like the Rams desperate enough, they might take that shot.

Projected Ending Record: 1-15

Projected Draft Pick: Sam Bradford: QB, Oklahoma

Again, check out www.NFLHouse.com for all great articles, and feel free to email me at EricG@nflhouse.com .

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Feeling a Draft: Toby Gerhart, One of the 2010 Draft's Biggest Mysteries

Chris Maier — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 21:32:23 -0500

Rule No. 1 when evaluating offensive players is to not put too much stock into how they perform against the horrific Notre Dame defense. That said, many people's first notice of Gerhart came in Stanford's prime time victory of Notre Dame in which he rushed for 205 yards and three touchdowns while throwing for a score as well.

From an NFL Draft standpoint Gerhart will be a tough guy to peg. He has carried Stanford on his back through much of the season while arguably putting up the most complete performance in college football this year. He is as tough as nails and his intangibles are off the charts.

On the negative side, he lacks speed, is not a factor in the passing game and has a knee in need of medical attention. Like Tim Tebow, he is a guy coaches will fall in love with but scouts will be wary of the upside. In other words a 4th round grade who could slide into round two.

Other Thoughts from the Weekend:

1. In the Texas A&M—Texas shootout on Thanksgiving Colt McCoy was the star of the game throwing for 304 yards and four TDs to go along with 175 yards rushing. Yet the player who stood out most to me was Aggie QB Jerrod Johnson.

Don't get me wrong: Colt McCoy was fantastic in picking apart a porous A&M defense. Johnson on the other hand threw for 342 yards and four touchdowns against the best defense in the country while showing off tremendous arm strength, touch and poise.

He was also the most improved player I have watched all season. Early in the year he was an athlete with good size and a howitzer. Against Texas he was a quarterback. He needs to work on his consistency, footwork and mechanics but given another season in Mike Sherman's system he could soon be one of the top quarterbacks in the country.

2. In the Texas—Texas A&M's best one-on-one match up, DE/OLB Von Miller demonstrated why he is an exciting 3-4 rush linebacker prospect while exposing OT Adam Ulatoski's limitations. Like many of this year's tackle prospects Ulatoski looks like a right rather than left tackle.

3. Alabama CB/PR Javier Arenas is a tough undersized nickel corner whose punt returning skills could vault him into the 2nd round of a wide open cornerback class behind top rated Joe Haden.

4. Another guy who shined in the Stanford-Notre Dame game was WR Golden Tate whom some are saying is the top wide receiver prospect. Tate may be the best college wide receiver but is he a first round pick talent?

On the plus side is the strength, run after catch ability and the way he catches the ball at the highest point. On the negative is the 5'11" height and speed that is more quick than fast. I doubt he is a sub 4.4 guy making him a bit of risk should he run a 4.5 40. Of course, it is hard to imagine his stock getting any higher next year. He reminds me a lot of Hines Ward or Anquan Boldin. Elite receivers, yes, but neither of them was a first round pick.

5. OT Selvish Capers of West Virginia did a solid job against Pitt's fabulous front line in the Mountaineers upset win.

Who and What to Watch this Week:

Cincinnati at Pittsburgh—Tony Pike and Mardy Gilyard go up against one of the top pass rushes in the country led by Panther DE Greg Romeus.

Alabama vs. Florida—No. 1 vs. No. 2 in the National Title play-in game. There are prospects galore on the defensive side of the ball for both teams.

Houston vs. East Carolina—A prime time showcase for QB Case Keenum.

Georgia Tech vs. Clemson—Dwyer vs. Spiller II in a sequel to the early season thriller.

Texas vs. Nebraska—I might be the only guy in the country crazy enough to pick the Cornhuskers over the Longhorns. It may not be likely but it is much more possible than the experts will make you think. The Nebraska defense, especially the front four, is that good.

Chris Maier is Senior Editor for NFLDraft101.com . He can be reached at cmaier@nfldraft101.com

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Surgeon General Warning: Being a Detroit Lion May Be Hazardous to Health

Dean Holden — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:04:19 -0500

Next year, any players drafted by the Detroit Lions might do well to take out a hefty insurance policy.

The 14 players on the Lions’ injured reserve probably wish they had.

First-round pick Brandon Pettigrew is the latest to hit IR, and he represents only the latest in a sordid history of unfortunate injuries for the Lions.

Though the relationship between the two is arguable, an annual laundry list of injuries is as much a part of the Lions’ identity today as losing is, and this season has proven no different.

The injury list started early when veteran defensive end Jared DeVries went down with a ruptured Achilles tendon in training camp. From there, they started to compile injuries, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.

Daniel Bullocks was an early scratch, and he would later be joined by Marquand Manuel, Eric King, DeMarcus Faggins, Chris Roberson, Ko Simpson, and Jack Williams.

And that’s just the secondary.

Ultimately, many of the Lions’ most influential injuries have not been season-ending.

Matthew Stafford has missed time already this season, and may again if he continues to get his bell rung like he has.

Calvin Johnson has missed games, as has Sammie Hill, Cliff Avril, Ernie Sims, and Grady Jackson.

The defense is so depleted, the Lions are having to scour practice squads for talent everywhere and sign anybody who looks halfway capable. And more often than not, those players end up on IR as well.

And it’s not just this season, either. The Lions have a history of frustrating injuries to key players.

Last year, the reason the Lions had five quarterbacks on their roster is because none of them could stay healthy for more than about three games at a time.

The year before that, Calvin Johnson spent most of his rookie year hobbled with a back injury.

Though he turned out to be a bust, wideout Charles Rogers spent the majority of his first two professional seasons on IR after breaking his collarbone early in the season. In both seasons.

Roy Williams was limited in his rookie season with an ankle injury, before having a breakout season in 2006, then hitting IR late in the 2007 season.

A flurry of promising defensive draft picks from earlier this decade—Barrett Green, Boss Bailey, and Teddy Lehman among them—suffered injuries early in their careers. All showed great promise with their play before injury. None were able to regain that form upon their return.

Of course, in some circumstances, injuries to a rebuilding team are not the worst thing in the world. Injuries force a team to explore more of its roster and possibly find a starting-quality talent where there was once a third-stringer.

This is not so when it comes to young players. As Lions fans have seen far too many times, injuries to young players can derail an otherwise-promising career.

When they don’t derail a career, they certainly set them back. Rookies need as much developmental time as they can get, and time spent away from the field while rehabbing an injury is time they’re not getting any better.

So Brandon Pettigrew will join a slew of players spending the rest of the season in the doctor’s office, and his progression will have to wait until next season.

So 2010 draft picks and free agents beware. If the Detroit Lions come calling, then answer the call…but maybe wear some extra padding.

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The Biggest NFL Mock Draft in History (Maybe)!: Picks One-Five

Blake Jensen — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 19:44:22 -0500

With more than half of the 09-10 NFL season in the books, we almost certainly know the contenders and the pretenders.

The Saint, Colts, and Vikings are all having superb seasons, making it look like a Super Bowl matchup between the Colts and either the Saints or Vikes.

But with the way things always end up going, February will commence with a matchup between the Ravens and the Packers, while Roger Goodell will be ripping his hair out and screaming obscenities in his office.

Anyway, being a Seahawks fan, and with their season almost certainly over thanks to Tim Ruskell taking a dump on the fans and the organization, I want to go team by team and point out the weaknesses going into next year's draft.

Each team will be ranked in draft order according to their projected finish.

On to the mock draft!

2010 NFL DRAFT

Note: All records are projected as of the end of Week 12. The Panthers and Broncos do not pick in the first round.

1) Cleveland Browns (1-15; Last AFC North)

Wow. The Browns are like the Nets of the NFL. They have poor management, poor ownership, poor players.

The only thing halfway decent about the Browns are their fans. I have the Browns losing the remainder of their games, and, based on strength of schedule, they get the first pick.

These are some things the Browns need (other than a new coach):

A) RB—At the moment, the Browns are 24th in the league in total rushing yards. They are 30th in yards per attempt and have a total of three rushing touchdowns. Good enough for 31st in the league.

Jamal Lewis is way too old; they need a dynamic running back. The problem is there is no running back worth the first overall pick in this draft, but maybe in the second round.

B) WR—Sure, they don't have spectacular QBs, but that is a result of poor WRs. They don't have one top-50 wide receiver in the YAC category. There isn't a prospect worth the first overall pick.

C) QB—A lot of people say this is their biggest need. I disagree.

I don't think Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn are ever going to be premier QBs in the league, but I think at least one could be a pretty good starter with some decent weapons around him.

D) DL—The Browns use a 3-4 defense and need more of a presence on the DL. Shaun Rogers is getting older and is very injury-prone.

The best rated player in the draft is Ndamukong Suh from Nebraska. He will be good for years to come. He should be their pick.

Pick: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska, Sr., 6'4", 302 lbs.

2) Saint Louis Rams (1-15; Last NFC West)

The Rams used to be the greatest show on turf. They suck now.

Stephen Jackson is by far their best player. They have had the No. 2 overall pick two years in a row.

They used those picks on their defensive line in Chris Long. Then, last year, they picked Jason Smith to solidify their offensive line.

These are the Rams' biggest needs:

A) WR—They do not have any very good receivers at the moment.

Donnie Avery could potentially be OK. But they need a deep threat like they had with Torry Holt. They wont use this pick for a WR, though.

B) Secondary—They are in the NFC West. This division consists of some great receiving talents. Larry Fitzgerald, Steve Breaston, Anquan Boldin, Nate Burleson, Michael Crabtree, T.J. Houshmenzadeh, etc.

They need a big, physical, fast CB. There aren't any who are worth drafting this high; maybe in the second or third round.

C) QB—This is their most glaring need. In all likelihood, the Rams won't be bringing back Marc Bulger.

Kyle Boller is a viable backup but definitely not starting material. I think the correct pick here would be QB.

They need a big arm QB with accuracy. This draft is loaded with QBs, but the name that sticks out the most for this position is Jimmy Clausen.

He would be perfect for the Rams. At Notre Dame this year he has amassed great numbers, including 28 TDs to four interceptions, 68 percent completion, and 3,722 yards. He has a big arm and is accurate.

Pick: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame, Jr., 6'3", 223 lbs.

3) Detroit Lions (2-14; Last NFC North)

Geez, poor Detroit. At least you've got the Red Wings. The Lions are, by my account, on pace to finish 2-14.

Their next three opponents are all playoff-caliber teams (Bengals, Ravens, Cardinals). And they haven't beaten a playoff-caliber team in a few years.

Detroit has pretty decent weapons on offense. Brandon Pettigrew and Kevin Smith are Pro Bowlers in the making; Calvin Johnson already is one.

Matthew Stafford has a huge arm and the heart of a lion. What he did against the Browns was heroic. He will be great one day.

The problem with him is his decision-making, but luckily, he isn't retarded like Jamarcus Russell (seriously, who eats Skittles on the sideline?!?), so he can improve.

It all hinges on the effectiveness of his offensive line, which brings us to our first problem.

A) OL—The offensive line is pretty bad. Stafford has been sacked 21 times so far this year, while the team as a whole has given up 33 sacks—good for a tie for third-worst in the NFL.

No one in their right mind would use the third-overall pick to select an offensive guard. So this pick would go for an offensive tackle, probably a left tackle.

The Lions are still holding out hope that Gosder Cherilus could turn out to be a solid tackle, but won't trust him on Matthew Stafford's blind side because of inconsistency.

Jeff Backus has probably been the most solid Lions player of the decade, but he is getting up there in age (he allowed 6.5 sacks this year!), and they don't want to have Walter Jones Syndrome (noun: for one to be in denial that star offensive tackle is aging and needs replacement; usually leads to no viable replacement and the crumbling of the O-line).

A good solution would be to draft an offensive tackle and have Backus mentor him.

The top two offensive linemen in this year's draft will be Russell Okung from Oklahoma State and Trent Williams from Oklahoma.

Russell Okung has been the best lineman in football this year. In his four years at Oklahoma State, he has blocked for at least one 1,000-yard rusher.

Also, they have led the Big 12 in rushing every year he has been there. On top of that, in those four years, he has had three different 1,000-yard running backs.

Just think of the potential of him blocking for Kevin Smith (who was pretty damn good in college, too), and the Lions could be a fairly big offensive threat three years from now.

B) Secondary—The Lions are dead-last in the league in interceptions and are in the bottom 10 in passes defensed.

Louis Delmas actually might turn out to be a good safety. He is second on the team in tackles and already has a reputation for big hits. But the Lions need help at CB.

Philip Buchannon has been lousy, and William James has never intercepted more than two passes in a season.

Too bad there are no CBs worth taking in the first round for the Lions.

The Lions are giving up a league-worst 70.5 completion percentage on passes. Ko Simpson is an OK strong safety, but they could try to draft Eric Berry, who would help solidify the secondary.

C) Defensive Line—The Lions have a pretty abysmal DL that has only recorded five sacks this whole year.

Grady Jackson is too old and not doing much; this line needs to be revamped.

I believe Suh will already be off the board by the time the Lions select.

Gerald McCoy might be a good selection, but it could be a wee bit too early for him.

Pick: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State, Sr., 6' 5", 300 lbs.

4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-14; Last NFC South)

The Bucs went from being a playoff contender a couple years back to now being in the NFL cellar.

How did it happen? I believe age finally hit them.

They actually aren't too bad at their corner position, and their offense is OK with Josh Freeman under center, but they aren't clicking yet.

It might be bad play-calling, it might be some unlucky breaks, but they keep losing games.

The rest of their season can swing either way. I don't see them beating the Saints or Falcons, but they could beat the Seahawks, Jets, and Panthers.

At the moment, I only have them beating the Panthers. So I think they will go 2-14, but there is a fine line between 2-14 and 5-11.

These are their biggest needs:

A) Secondary—Aqib Talib has been playing pretty well his first two seasons out of Kansas, collecting 62 tackles and nine interceptions for his 26 games.

On the other side, Ronde Barber has been one of the best at his position for the last decade.

Though he hasn't recorded any interceptions and is getting older, he is still a guy who can hold down that corner spot for the next couple of years.

This is where the secondary takes a bad turn.

A couple of interesting stats: The Bucs are in the top 10 to allow the least amount of passing gains over 20 yards. That is a testament to their corners.

But they are in the bottom five when it comes to passing gains over 40 yards.

Coincidence? Probably not.

They have also given up 80-yard passing plays!

On top of that, they have given up 24 TDs, good for third-worst in the league.

Tanard Jackson is a very good safety, but Sabby Piscitelli needs to be replaced.

A perfect fit would be Eric Berry. That would make this one of the top-five passing defenses in the league.

B) Defensive Line—While Stylez White and Jimmy Wilkerson are decent defensive ends (5.5 sacks each, two forced fumbles), they have a piss-poor interior.

They are in the bottom five of just about every run category.

They need a good DT to stuff the run and occasionally get to the QB.

Chris Hovan and Ryans Sims are not the answer. They have a sack-and-a-half between them and constantly get eaten up by the O-line.

A good pick here would be Gerald McCoy, or they could hope Terrence Cody slips into the second round.

I can guarantee, however, that Suh will not slip to this spot.

C) Linebacker—This position has a huge hole in it since the loss of Derrick Brooks. Barrett Ruud is a pretty good MLB, well on his way to a third-straight 100-plus tackle season.

The other linebackers are decent, but not long-term solutions.

The problem is the best linebacker is Rolando McClain, and he is projected to go in the top 10. That would be a waste of a pick here.

Although they do need some help on offense, I think no wide receiver or running back is worth the fourth-overall pick in this year's draft.

They are in desperate need of some run blocking so...

Pick: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma, Jr., 6'4", 297 lbs.

5) Oakland Raiders (4-12; Last AFC West)

Hahahaaha. I'm sorry, but they just suck. Their head coach is a woman-beater.

Their franchise QB enjoys eating Skittles on the bench. Their owner looks like he died five years ago.

Their WRs are fast but have the hands of Megan Fox and Chevy Chase.

They have some of the most blind fans in the NFL. Poor Richard Seymour must feel like he is Dan Akroyd in Trading Places. So their pick is a toss-up.

Pick: The Road Runner, Safety, Jr., Toledo, 2'4", 40 lbs., or

Pick: Taylor Mays, Safety, Sr., USC, 6'3", 235 lbs.

Whoever runs a faster 4-40

NFL Articles Coming Up:

My Week 13 Picks: Friday

Next Week: Picks 5-10

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Suggestions for the Post-Mangini Browns

Richard Baird — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:36:28 -0500

The ownership and new management of the Cleveland Browns are going to have to make a decision on whether or not to move forward with Eric Mangini in 2010.

Based on his track record with the Browns, the attitude of the city toward the coach, and the likelihood that the new management will want to move forward with its own handpicked coach, things don't look good for Mangini.

Below are suggestions and ideas for the Browns moving forward:

1. Focus on Creating a President-GM Relationship that Works

The Browns have struggled since their return to implement a cohesive front office. The president, or "football czar", the Browns are looking to bring to Cleveland should pick a GM with whom he has a good working relationship.

The GM should not be a yes-man, but someone that can constructively criticize and offer opposing viewpoints. This is more important than finding a coach.

The Browns need a lasting infrastructure. I would love to see the Browns get Chris Polian, Bill Polian's son and current GM/Vice President of the Colts, as the team president, especially if none of the big names come to Cleveland.

2. Switch to a 4-3 Defense

I have come to the conclusion that the Browns do not have the personnel or coaches to run a 3-4 defense. Switch to a 4-3 and start building a defense that can make Cleveland proud again.

3. Draft Ndamukong Suh

The stud defensive lineman out of Nebraska should be an immediate impact player for the Browns, and would solidify a front four in a 4-3 defense. Imagine this defensive line: DE Kamerion Wimbley, DT Ndamukong Suh, DT/NT Shaun Rogers, DE Matt Roth. The Giants won a Super Bowl with a great front seven even though they only had a mediocre secondary.

4. Trade for A. J. Hawk

Call it homerism if you want, but Hawk would immediately upgrade the linebacker corp as an OLB in a 4-3 defense. He should be available as he has seen a significant decrease in playing time with the Packers' switch to a 3-4 defense.

The downside is that it might take a second round pick to get him away from Green Bay.

The linebackers would feature D'Qwell Jackson in the middle with Hawk outside. The third linebacker spot would be up in the air.

5. Draft a Running Back

We don't know what James Davis can give us, and Jerome Harrison hasn't really gotten the shot that many fans feel he deserves, but I'd rather not wait around to find out with either player.

Besides, it only helps to have more than one option in case of injuries and fatigue.

Look for a running back in the second or third round to help create a running game. Teams should be able to get a first down on the ground and score touchdowns with their running backs.

Of course, all of this is completely speculative and depends on Mangini getting fired, but if the Browns want to compete anytime soon, they need to change the entire atmosphere and environment in Cleveland.

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Why Tim Tebow Should Be a Packer Next Year—if Available

Mark Strotman — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:13:05 -0500

If, for whatever reason, you have never liked Tim Tebow and never given him a shot, don’t read the rest of this article.

If you think the media overplays what he does on and off the field to make him look like a saint, definitely stop reading this article.

Ever since the University of Florida’s all-everything quarterback gave his apology speech to Gator Nation after a loss to Ole Miss last season, he became my role model and also one of my favorite athletes to play the game.

Anyone who watched #15 tearfully enter The Swamp for the last time in a Gator uniform had to feel for him. What a legacy. The Heisman Trophy and two-time National Champ will leave in Florida in about a month. He has received more trophies than he probably knows what to do with, run for more yards as a quarterback than Duke has a team, and scored more touchdowns in his career than anyone to play in the SEC. Yes, that means you Bo Jackson and Herschel Walker.

That’s why in next April’s NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers need to draft Tim Tebow—if he is within reaching distance on Day One. The verdict on Tebow’s draft stock is still out, with some believing he can be a first round starting quarterback, while others believe he will move to running back and work out of the Wildcat formation on most plays as an H-Back.

Whatever position or role that Tebow’s team decides he should take on, at the very least they know they are getting a great leader and even better attitude in the locker room. For as long as he has been in the spotlight, Tebow has done everything right. The son of two missionary parents, he has used God in every part of his life and believes that is the reason for his success.

Whether it is praising Him in post-game press conferences or wearing his favorite Bible verses under his eyes, Tebow’s gestures go a lot further than your typical athlete pointing to the sky after a touchdown or praising God after a big win. Looking for a word that describes Tebow? Legitimate .

In a sports world full of ego-driven athletes who want the biggest paycheck they can find, Tebow finds peace knowing that he is able to play the game he loves and there is no reason to believe that will change when he becomes a pro. He volunteers to talk to inmates in prison and has a 3.77 GPA.

But wait just a minute. There are plenty of nice guys in the NFL who just don’t make it and are not worth a high draft pick. Why should Tebow be the pick for the Packers just because he loves God and has turned a school in Florida upside down into a cult-like obsession?

The truth is that Tim Tebow is going to be just fine in the NFL. Many question whether or not he can be a full-time quarterback in the NFL, citing arm strength concerns as the reason why. Watching Tebow for 3+ years, it’s true that his arm is not good enough right now to play every down in the NFL and might never be strong enough.

But let’s not forget that Tebow has rushed for 56 touchdowns in his illustrious career at Florida—something no one else in the history of the SEC has done. Known for putting his head down and hitting the hole, Tebow would make an excellent H-back who could carry the ball five to seven times a game as well as line up in the Wildcat formation. His arm isn’t Brett Favre’s but it’s no Tim Couch either.

Some might call him a product of Urban Meyer’s triple option offensive system, but Tebow fights for yardage and has had nothing easy come his way on his path to stardom at Florida.

Coming out of high school, Tebow ran a 4.6 forty-yard dash time, meaning his current 40-time is probably somewhere in the 4.5’s, putting him right in the mix of where the bigger running backs in next year’s draft will be. Tebow is too big and not polished enough to run the ball 25 times a game for a team, but even making him a third down back to go with Wildcat responsibilities would make him worth the pick. He has that much talent.

So why the Packers? Why would a team who currently sports the sixth ranked offense in the NFL waste a first-day pick on an offensive mystery? Because Tebow would bring a brand new dimension to the Packers offense that they have lacked for quite some time.

At times, head coach Mike McCarthy’s play-calling has been critiqued for being too predictable and basic. Throw Tebow into the mix and suddenly you have a Wildcat general, a bruising runner in between the tackles, a 6′3″ athletic route runner, or a decent throwing quarterback. Pat White was deemed perfect for the Wildcat coming out of college and was promptly drafted by the Dolphins. On the season, White has rushed 12 times for 50 yards and is 0-3 passing, but then again Ronnie Brown and Rickie Williams have already mastered the Wildcat, meaning his production will take time.

Unlike White and running college quarterbacks like Michael Robinson, the thought of Tebow playing quarterback is not out of the question. Currently the Packers have two active quarterbacks on their roster and, while Matt Flynn is a more than serviceable number two quarterback, they have no emergency quarterback.

He is probably not worth a first round pick if the Packers are not selecting him to play quarterback, but if he slips to the second round and scouts believe he can not play under center, there’s no reason for the Packers not to take a very hard look at Tebow.

My man-crush on Tebow might have something to do with my thinking that he would be perfect in Green and Gold, but he is a true gamer that goes out and plays his game and wins. He does nothing fancy and might end up not having a true position in the NFL, but there will be a spot on the field where Tebow is going to succeed. Combined with his off-the-field, deserved God-like status, Tim Tebow fits Ted Thompson’s definition of “Packer people” and should be a Green Bay Packer next April.

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Turn Around Or Go Down: The Hawks' 2010 Draft

Josh Hileman — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:44:58 -0500

The Seattle Seahawks next few years comes down to one thing: the 2010 NFL Draft. Will the Seahawks finally start drafting for the positions they need and not for what they evaluate as "talent"? Or will the team continue its recent downward spiral?

Hopefully, if the incompetent GM can take care of business while he still has a job, then this team will be right back in the playoff hunt in 2010 or 2011.

Obviously, all the mock drafts are just predictions and opinions by so-called "experts" about why this team should choose this guy and why he fits here and so forth.

In the same spirit, I'll throw my two cents out there for the only team that matters to me—the Hawks. I used to bleed nothing but blue, but there is definitely a lot of green in there, too.

I'll go round by round and "draft a player" who I feel will help the Hawks, maybe not immediately, but someone who will be a solid player on and off the field. In addition, I will explain why I feel each player fits into the scheme and rebuilding of the great Seattle Seahawks.

I will proceed as if the Hawks have the ninth pick overall and Denver gives them the 20th pick, as well as Seattle receives the ninth pick in every other round, as well.

It should be noted that the Seahawks do not have a third-round pick, as it was traded last year for Deon Butler.

Don't look now, but with the ninth pick overall in the 2010 NFL draft the Seattle Seahawks select...

Bryan Bulaga OT (6'6" 312 lbs.) from Iowa.

Not really a big name pick, especially in the top 10 of the draft, but that is not what the Hawks need. Yes, other tackles should be available, such as Trent Williams from Oklahoma and Ciron Black from LSU, but the logic here is that Bulaga is young.

He is only a junior, while the other two are seniors. Bulaga also plays at Iowa, which uses a similar zone blocking scheme like the Hawks. This pick was made more out of need and longevity for the ailing and struggling OL.

Bulaga be able to step in and play either tackle position, which would allow Walter Jones to retire or give the Hawks reason to move Locklear to the right tackle position.

Bulaga started every game his sophomore year, and, besides missing three games this year with the flu, he has started every game this year, too.

In short, he is a possible future Pro Bowler and a cornerstone of an OL to replace one of the all-time greats.

With the 20th overall pick, the Seattle Seahawks select...

George Selvie DE (6'4" 250 lbs.) from South Florida.

This was a difficult pick. Yes, the Hawks have a lot of DE, but pressure on the QB has been an issue all year (except when they play the Rams). That said, Selvie is a monster from the end position.

He started every game in college after he received a redshirt year. Every year, he posted double-digit tackles for loss. Often double-teamed during his junior and senior seasons, Selvie's stats took a hit from the 31.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks his sophomore year, which ranked first and second in the nation, respectively.

For his junior season, Selvie recorded 15 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. They are lower numbers, but how often do rookie DEs get double-teamed? He can come in and automatically make a difference for this Hawks team, who is struggling this year to make plays before the line of scrimmage.

My other choices would be C.J. Spiller from Clemson or Terrence Cody from Alabama, but I feel they will be gone before this pick.

With the 41st pick in the 2010 draft the Seahawks select...

Ras-I Dowling CB/FS (6'2" 200 lbs.) from Virginia.

Though he is an unknown unless you study college football, Dowling is definitely what the Seahawks need—a big, physical cover corner who could also play free safety in the NFL.

He has the speed and the size to cover big receivers, which is Seattle's CBs have struggled with this year. Seattle's "No. 1" CB leads the league in pass interference calls, making this a must-pick, especially with Boldin, Fitzgerald, and now the emergence of Crabtree.

Dowling, also just a junior, still has time to learn and grow into possibly a Charles Woodson type of player. I could also see the Hawks go for a DT, RB, or QB here, but those issues will be addressed later in the draft.

This just in. The Seahawks trade Deion Branch in a crowded WR corps to the San Diego Chargers for the Chargers' third-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Pure hope on my part, but it could happen since San Diego will likely have both their WRs hitting the free agent market at the end of the year.

Branch was traded to the Hawks for a first-round pick, and now I am happy getting a third for him. Wow, what a great trade for the first year he was here, and then a bust due to injury. Anyway, with the Chargers' pick in the third round, the Seattle Seahawks select...

Ryan Mallett (6'6" 250 lbs.) from Arkansas.

He probably won't be available in the third round, but there is always a chance, as you can tell with the Branch trade. Mallett has a cannon for an arm but has limited mobility.

He reminds me a little of Matt Hasselbeck in how he uses his accuracy and smarts to deliver the ball where he wants it, but Mallett has a much stronger arm than Hasselbeck.

Mallett is also only a redshirt sophomore this year, which is the reason I like the thought of the Hawks picking him. He can sit behind Matt for a few years and learn the NFL game, while improving his skills daily.

Another thing Mallett has is height. He can easily see over the top of his OL and even over some of the coverage to look down field. He plays on a team that is not great, but he continues to put up big numbers because of his skill.

Realistically, he will be picked in the second or first round, which would make Case Keenum from Houston a more logical pick, since he has the same skill set except he is more mobile and a few inches shorter.

In the fourth round Seattle selects...

Nate Collins DT (6'3" 295 lbs.) from Virginia.

Though not too well-known, Collins should be for the year he is having. He is getting all the attention from the opposing team and still stepped up with a big season with 76 tackles, 11.5 TFL, and six sacks.

Collins could make a huge difference right away, and he has the talent to be the run stopper the Hawks are lacking right now.

Two other DTs who I could see going are Jay Ross from East Carolina or Corey Peters from Kentucky. But I'm going with two defensive players from Virginia, Dowling and Collins. These players just fit in with what the Hawks need.

In the fifth round, the Seahawks select...

Barry Church S (6'2" 219 lbs.) from Toledo.

This guy is a tackling machine, and he has the size to play in the NFL. The only question is what position does he play? Most "experts" are labeling him as a safety-linebacker tweener.

I don't care what they say he is; I'm saying this guy started every game and ended his college career with 354 tackles, five forced fumbles, nine interceptions, and two sacks.

Church is a finalist for the Thorpe Award (the best DB in the nation). Overall, this pick is made because the Hawks have trouble wrapping up on tackles, and the safeties are getting older.

Church is a solid pick and possibly a steal in the later rounds.

The Seahawks select in the sixth round...

Keith Toston RB (6'1" 205 lbs) from Oklahoma State.

For some reason, Toston is slipping down draft boards because he didn't have a good showing against Oklahoma in the Bedlam game on Saturday, but I have a different view.

Oklahoma came out possessed on defense, and, though Toston only had 10 attempts, he ended with 47 yards. Oklahoma State was trailing the entire game, and the offense was horrible, but 4.7 yards a carry against the eighth-ranked rush defense is not a bad game at all.

Toston finished the regular season with 1,177 rushing yds and 11 TDs, as well as 256 receiving yards and one TD. Toston may be the most complete RB in the Big 12.

He doesn't get near as much publicity as DeMarco Murray from Oklahoma, or any other RB for that matter, mostly because he wasn't a featured back until this year and Oklahoma State is a pass-first offense.

He is a pretty good-sized back who isn't afraid to hit someone, and he has good to average speed. The Hawks don't necessarily need a RB with the emergence of Justin Forsett the last few weeks and Julius Jones being the starter, but Jones is not a starting RB who can handle the whole workload.

Jones will not last in Seattle much longer, and Toston would be another steal, especially for such a complete offensive player in the sixth round.

In the seventh round, the Seahawks select...

Brandon Carter OG (6'7" 350 lbs.) from Texas Tech.

Brandon Carter is a mountain of a man, and, obviously after this year, the Seahawks can't have enough OL players.

If you've ever seen any Texas Tech games, Carter is the huge man who wears paint all over his face. He is not one of the top OL in this draft nor will he be the next Hutch. But he does have a lot of talent, and, after playing at Texas Tech, he definitely knows how to protect the pass.

The Seahawks are talking about not re-signing Chris Spencer, which would have to move Max Unger over to his natural position of center, creating an opening at guard. He might struggle for a little while with the scheme blocking the Seahawks use, but his upside is huge, and so is he.

The draft is over and the Seahawks filled a lot of holes in their team and drafted some great talent at those spots. I would just like to note that I see the Seahawks getting a QB—obviously the trade for a third-rounder probably won't happen, but I think the Hawks might trade up to draft a QB. If not, then I think they will sign a young free agent QB or wait another year to see how Hasselbeck does with some protection.

Hopefully, this draft will make Seattle a contender again, while also bringing in the youth needed to succeed in the long term.

Please, Tim Ruskell, don't ruin the Seahawks any more than you already have. Just step down, and allow someone with a brain make the decisions.

The 12th Man will forever be in your debt if you do.

Read more NFL Draft news on BleacherReport.com

2010 NFL Mock Draft: Post-Thanksgiving Edition

Chris Maier — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 21:10:24 -0500

The college football season is prepping for its conference championships and bowl game announcements, making it a good time to for a mock draft update. The hardest part of doing a mock this time of year is determining who is and is not coming back, which means we project and could see a larger than usual number of underclassmen declare in light of a possible rookie wage scale in 2011. This number of declarations could especially impact the quarterback position as this mock will show. (Draft order based on records as of 11/24/09)

First Round:

1. Cleveland Browns, QB Jimmy Clausen , Notre Dame - The Browns do not want the No. 1 overall pick, and would prefer to see Brady Quinn blossom during the second half of the season. Unfortunately, the No. 1 pick is a real possibility, and Quinn is unlikely to shine enough to count on moving forward. While a new administration would love to get a veteran QB, drafting a true franchise QB is more likely, which could lead the Browns to yet another Irish signal caller. Clausen is not a surefire franchise QB, but he is the best QB prospect in the draft as long as his size does not become an issue. A reluctant selection on my part.

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, DT Ndamukong Suh , Nebraska - Suh is the best and safest defensive linemen in the draft and fits the Bucs needs to a tee. Easy pick although they would consider a pass rusher if they find one they like. No. 2 overall feels early for a DT, but Suh has played up to the hype this season.

3. St. Louis Rams, QB Sam Bradford , Oklahoma - Bradford is the draft's biggest curveball as he will be able to throw in a limited fashion at best prior to the draft. He fills a definite need and will be a popular pick in the St. Louis market, but he will be a risky selection. Almost as concerning as his injury is how he struggled when faced with a pass rush in limited action this season and in the title game last year.

4. Detroit Lions, OT Russell Okung , Oklahoma State - Gerald McCoy will be tempting for the defensive minded HC Jim Schwartz, but this season has shown 2009 No. 1 pick Matthew Stafford has talent, but they need to vastly improve his protection if they hope to keep him healthy. Okung is the best offensive tackle in the draft by far and the Lions will be able to find a DT in round two.

5. Washington Redskins, QB Jake Locker , Washington - The Redskins would prefer Okung fall to them, but if he does not (and possibly even if he does) they will look to select a franchise signal caller. Locker has the best tools of any quarterback in the draft, but he also is the one who would benefit the most from another year with Steve Sarkisian. He will likely come out in large part due to the pending rookie wage scale. It won't matter who the Redskins quarterback is if they do not improve their offensive line.

6. Buffalo Bills, DT Gerald McCoy , Oklahoma - Like the Redskins, the Bills need a left tackle badly but the drop-off after Okung is a significant one, and passing on a talent like McCoy could be tough considering run defense has been such an issue for the Bills.

7. Kansas City Chiefs, WR Dez Bryant , Oklahoma State - Scott Pioli would prefer to fix his team upfront (on either side of the ball), but knows he needs to give an offensive mind like Todd Haley a true No. 1 wideout. Bryant missed much of the season, but his blend of size and speed should make him an excellent fit at the next level.

8. Seattle Seahawks, S Eric Berry , Tennessee - The broken record of team's hoping to fix their offensive lines but failing to fill it continues as the Seahawks can't afford to pass up an Ed Reed-type playmaking safety to take a chance on one of the second tier tackles. Fortunately, they still have another first round pick thanks to Denver.

9. Oakland Raiders, DE Carlos Dunlap , Florida - Al Davis loves tools guys and Dunlap is the ultimate tools defensive end. Dunlap has rare size and speed for the position, but he has coasted through this season causing his stock to slip.

10. Denver Broncos (from Chicago), ILB Rolando McClain , Alabama - The Broncos defense has exceeded all expectations this season, but it adding a thumper in the middle could be what they need to take it to the next level.

11. San Francisco 49ers, CB Joe Haden , Florida - The early run on quarterbacks takes the Niners out of that market and turns their focus on other needs. Haden is easily the top cornerback prospect who plays with the type of physical style Mike Singletary loves.

12. San Francisco 49ers, OT Bryan Bulaga , Iowa - A big play safety such as Taylor Mays or Earl Clark is tempting but the 49ers need to take advantage of their draft spot to fill a bigger need at right tackle with Bulaga.

13. New York Jets, DT Terrance Cody , Alabama - Cody is a risky prospect based on his weight but after watching how the Jets defense has fizzled since losing Kris Jenkins, Cody fills a major need at a position with few top prospects.

14. Tennessee Titans, DE Derrick Morgan , Georgia Tech - The Titans will also consider linebackers and corners, but the best past defense is a pass rush and Morgan is quickly becoming the top pass rusher in the draft and a hard guy to pass on at 14.

15. Houston Texas, RB Jonathan Dwyer , Georgia Tech - Earl Clark or Taylor Mays would feel a decade long need at safety, but anyone who has watched the Texans struggled in short yardage sees the value a guy like Dwyer could bring to the team. Combine Dwyer with Steve Slaton and they could have one of the best running combos in the league.

16. Miami Dolphins, RB CJ Spiller , Clemson - Ronnie Brown is constantly banged up and Ricky Williams is not getting any younger making Miami a perfect landing spot for the best offensive playmaker in the draft. Spiller lacks the size to be an every down back but the Dolphins offensive creativity will find ways to get him 20 touches per game.

17. Atlanta Falcons, DE Greg Romeus , Pittsburgh - One thing is certain, the Falcons will use this pick to fill a need on defense be it a pass rusher, or pass defender. Romeus is the best prospect on the board to fill one of those needs (as long as he come out).

18. Baltimore Ravens, WR Arrelious Benn , Illinois - Benn has hardly lit up the stat sheet in 2009, but it is hard to deny his talent. His ability to get deep would make him an ideal fit for strong armed Joe Flacco.

19. Green Bay Packers, OT Charles Brown , USC - Brown has the footwork and the upside to be an excellent left tackle, which instantly would make him Aaron Rodgers best friend in Green Bay.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars, S Taylor Mays , USC - This could be Tim Tebow's only shot to be drafted before round three but Mays would fill a more immediate need in the secondary (unless selling tickets counts as a draft need).

21. Pittsburgh Steelers, OT Anthony Davis , Rutgers - Seeing Ben Roethlisberger getting beat up every week has got to be a concern and while Davis is more of a right than a left tackle he still fills a major need for a Steelers offensive line needing multiple upgrades. Davis also has the potential to be an excellent drive blocker in the Steelers mold.

22. Philadelphia Eagles, OLB Sean Weatherspoon , Missouri - Philadelphia has been playing smoke and mirrors with its linebackers all season and needs to make upgrading the position a priority in 2010. Don't be surprised if the Eagle go offensive line though as the Andrews brothers have not worked out as expected.

23. Seattle Seahawks, OT Trent Williams , Oklahoma - Taking a safety with their first pick virtually forces the Seahawks to go offensive line here. Williams stock has fallen mightily this season as he has failed to convert to the left side. He has the ability to be a solid right tackle, however, which would be just fine for the Seahawks who will take the best right or left tackle available given Sean Locklear's ability to play either side.

24. New York Giants, S Earl Thomas , Texas - Seeing how badly the Giants defense has fallen apart after losing Kenny Phillips has shown why the Giants need to improve their secondary depth. Thomas is an excellent ball hawk who would provide the center fielder type they need for their aggressive scheme.

25. Dallas Cowboys, ILB Brandon Spikes , Florida - Spikes does not have ideal measureables, but he is a playmaker who would fit nicely in the middle of the Cowboys defense.

26. Cincinnati Bengals, TE Jermaine Gresham , Oklahoma - Gresham slides due to his knee injury and would be a tremendous value for a Bengals team in dire need of a competent not to mention dangerous tight end.

27. New England Patriots, DE/OLB Jerry Hughes , TCU - Hughes is a tough guy to peg due to his lack of size, but he would be an excellent fit in a Patriots' hybrid scheme in need of a pass rusher. When Tully Banta Cain is considered one of your best pass rushers, its time to upgrade.

28. Arizona Cardinals, OLB Sergio Kindle , Texas - Kindle has some coverage concerns making him pretty much a 3-4 OLB. The Cardinals have been searching for a pass rusher ever since switching to the 3-4.

29. San Diego Chargers, DT Dan Williams , Tennessee - A need pick as Jamal Williams is nearing the end of the line, and without him the Chargers have been extremely vulnerable to the interior run.

30. Minnesota Vikings, QB Tony Pike , Cincinnati - You never know if Brett Favre is going to come back, but it is hard to imagine the organization being comfortable with Tarvaris Jackson or Sage Rosenfels as the quarterback of the future. Pike is the type of high risk/reward pick that only a playoff team can take.

31. New Orleans Saints, OLB Navarro Bowman , Penn State - The Saints could go a variety of directions including RB, O-Line, D-Line, LB, or S making this a best player available type pick. An athletic linebacker like Bowman would add versatility to Gregg Williams aggressive schemes.

32. Indianapolis Colts, DE Greg Hardy , Mississippi - The Colts are going away from the undersized defenders on defense, and grabbing a guy like Hardy provides insurance for the oft-injured Dwight Freeney. A team can never have too many pass rushers.

Round Two:

33. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, WR Golden Tate , Notre Dame

34. St. Louis Rams, DE Jason Pierre-Paul, South Florida

35. Cleveland Browns, RB Jahvid Best , California

36. Detroit Lions, DT Arthur Jones , Syracuse

37. Buffalo Bills, OT Selvish Capers, West Virginia

38. Kansas City Chiefs, DE/OLB Eric Norwood , South Carolina

39. Seattle Seahawks, QB Case Keenum , Houston

40.Oakland Raiders, DT Marvin Austin , North Carolina

41. Washington Redskins, OT Ciron Black , LSU

42. Carolina Panthers, QB Colt McCoy , Texas

43. San Francisco 49ers, S Morgan Burnett , Georgia Tech

44. New York Jets, CB Perrish Cox , Oklahoma State

45. New England Patriots (from Tennessee), WR Demaryious Thomas , Georgia Tech

46. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Chicago), S Nate Allen , South Florida

47. Miami Dolphins, WR Damian Williams , USC

48. Kansas City Chiefs (from Atlanta), OG Mike Iupati, Idaho

49. Baltimore Ravens, CB Trevard Lindley , Kentucky

50. Houston Texans, DT Vince Oghobaase , Duke

51. New England Patriots (from Jacksonville), DE Corey Wootten , Northwestern

52. Green Bay Packers, CB Patrick Robinson , Florida State

53. Philadelphia Eagles, OG Joe Asamoah , Illinois

54. Denver Broncos, WR Brandon LaFell , LSU

55. New York Giants, CB Myron Lewis Vanderbilt

56. Pittsburgh Steelers, DT Jared Odrick , Penn State

57. Cincinnati Bengals, CB Javier Arenas , Alabama

58. New England Patriots, RB Ryan Matthews, Fresno State

59. Arizona Cardinals, OG Sergio Render , Virginia Tech

60. Dallas Cowboys, WR Mardy Gilyard , Cincinnati

61. San Diego Chargers, RB Anthony Dixon, Mississippi State

62. Minnesota Vikings, DE Brandon Graham , Michigan

63. New Orleans Saints, DE Everson Griffin , USC

64. Indianapolis, OT Jason Fox , Miami, FL

Chris Maier is Senior Editor for NFLDraft101.com . He can be reached at cmaier@nfldraft101.com .

Read more NFL Draft news on BleacherReport.com

Will Tim Tebow Be Running "Wild Horses" With the Denver Broncos In 2010?

Sayre Bedinger — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 22:15:40 -0500

Alright Broncos fans, here's the deal. Obviously many are under the impression that Josh McDaniels' squad does not need a quarterback in the upcoming draft because of the emergence of Kyle Orton, and some with good reason.

Orton has completed over 62 percent of his passes for 2,447 yards, 12 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. He has a decent quarterback rating of 87.9 and has been very effective in the Broncos' offense as a leader.

He has shown great toughness, playing through a devastating ankle injury and leading the Broncos to a gutsy Thanksgiving night victory over the New York Giants.

Personally, I still feel there is a persistent need for a true playmaker at quarterback. To me, it feels like Chester Taylor is playing when Adrian Peterson is somewhere out there.

Is Taylor a good backup? Yes. Is he capable of starting whenever called upon? Yes. Is he smart? Yes. Is he tough? Yes. Is he Adrian Peterson?

No.

Obviously it's a little different with the quarterback position, and I know the Broncos are doing more than just getting by with Orton as they are on top of the AFC wildcard race and just as recently as last week they held sole possession of first place for the first two months of the season.

If the Broncos decide to pursue Kyle Orton in the offseason as a free agent, there will be no major change at quarterback without an injury. He will be the starter, and likely for the foreseeable future.

This year, the Broncos added a new formation to their offense called "Wild Horses” that is essentially the team's version of the "Wildcat". Currently, the player taking the snaps out of this formation is Knowshon Moreno, and while the rookie tailback is one of the team's most versatile players, he is not fit to run the "Wild Horses.”

That is one of many reasons I believe the Broncos will give Tim Tebow a serious look in the NFL Draft. Many people are giving Tebow a hard time when it comes to his NFL prospects, mainly because of his accuracy issues and release point.

Let me go on record as saying that I believe Tebow will be an extremely effective player in the NFL. There are a variety of reasons I believe he is a good fit for the league, and the Denver Broncos in particular.

It is not because he already looks good in orange and blue.

1. Versatility

If there is one thing I took from Josh McDaniels' first crop of draft picks, it is that every single player's main strength is versatility.

    * Knowshon Moreno: Very multi-talented back. Powerful runner, willing blocker, excellent receiver.
    * Robert Ayers: Able to play standing up or with his hand in the ground. Excellent run-stuffer and powerful pass rush capabilities.
    * Alphonso Smith: Good cover corner, solid tackler, and an asset in the return game.
    * Darcel McBath: Willing tackler whose main strength is in coverage. Ball-hawking safety with speed to play cornerback. Also a solid special teams player.
    * Richard Quinn: Blocking tight end specialist with surprisingly reliable hands despite his college numbers.
    * Seth Olsen: Strong, athletic, and quick. Played both tackle and guard in college.
    * David Bruton: Excellent special teams gunner, and strong leader of a defense. Great tackling safety.
    * Kenny McKinley: Good hands at receiver, but maybe more promise as a kick return specialist. Can be a good slot receiver and is deceptively fast.
    * Tom Brandstater: Smart quarterback prospect with a strong arm.

Essentially, my point is the Broncos love and clearly value versatility in players, and I have to ask, is there a more versatile player in the entire draft that Tim Tebow?

Some are saying he could be a tight end or H-back prospect. Some are saying he will be a scrambling quarterback. Heck, I have even heard that he might be a good fit for the linebacker position.

Tebow, statistically is one of the most dominant players in college football history, and may even be the best college player of all time. He is a good passer with great escape ability, and he is a powerful runner who has set numerous rushing records from the quarterback position.

This guy has the chance to be a scrambling star at the next level and is one of the best quarterback prospects on the run.

2. Leadership

Tebow is famous for his ability to lead a team, and people might remember him best for the shot where he is bleeding all over his face, and he has the I’m-going-to-kill-someone look in his eyes.

This guy commands the huddle without getting under his teammates’ skin. He is a fiery competitor and he is willing to do whatever it takes to win a game or to gain an extra yard.

The Broncos clearly value leadership, as nearly every captain from the 2008 squad changed in 2009. Brian Dawkins, the team's main free agent acquisition, was named a defensive captain along with Champ Bailey and Mario Haggan.

On offense, Kyle Orton, Casey Wiegmann, and Daniel Graham were all named captains.

Wesley Woodyard, a second-year player who was undrafted in 2008, was named special teams captain.

Andra Davis was a team captain for the Cleveland Browns for a few years prior to signing with Denver, and D.J. Williams was a defensive captain in 2008.

Kenny Peterson also seems like he could be a strong candidate for a defensive captain.

The point I'm trying to make here is that the Broncos place a high value on leadership, and Tebow brings that to the table. Here is a scouting report from ESPN.com on Tebow's leadership abilities:

“Rare intangibles and work ethic. The ultimate team player. Exceptional mental and physical toughness. Temptations that can accompany NFL money and lifestyle will have zero affect on Tebow.

“Rare mental toughness. Very few are blessed with his natural competitiveness, leadership skills and work ethic. Both a vocal leader and leader by example. However, there are some concerns regarding his mental aptitude in the passing game. He comes from a unique spread-formation offense so it can be difficult at times to differentiate instincts from inexperience. The bottom line is that he's nowhere near ready to make the kind of coverage reads necessary to succeed as a passer in the NFL.”

3. Intelligence

This one is basically self-explanatory, and unless you have been living under a rock for the last four years, you should know that Tebow is one of the most intelligent players in college football today.

For two years in a row, he has been named an ESPN Academic All-American and likely will be named to his third straight after the 2009 season. He is also extremely involved in community events, mainly related to mission works.

Tebow is an extremely mature young individual, and I think the Broncos will be hard-pressed to come away from interviews with him without being impressed. He is an outstanding young man, and it translates onto the football field.

So, if the Broncos are not looking at a quarterback to replace Orton, they most certainly will be looking for a backup as Chris Simms simply is not cutting it. My question is, why not Tebow?

Versatility, intelligence, and leadership are three things that clearly the Broncos value in draft picks, and Tebow possesses all three at an elite level.

He brings the offense another huge weapon, and quite frankly another dimension with the wildcat formation.

So if not Tim Tebow for a replacement at quarterback, what about another offensive weapon?

Read more NFL Draft news on BleacherReport.com

College Football Players Who Would Look Good in a Cleveland Browns Uniform in the 2010 NFL Draft

Daniel Wolf — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 10:49:06 -0500

The Cleveland Browns have had a very bad decade of draft picks since their rebirth in 1999. Notables like Courtney Brown and Gerrard Warren are only a few of the names of the players the Browns have selected over much more productive All-Pro players. Once again in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Browns past over several future All-Pro players the likes of Clay Matthews III and Rey Maualuga. With the college football regular season coming to a close, the following are several players that would look very good in the orange and brown and hopefully Browns management will take a long hard look at these guys so if they have a chance to draft them, then they will not pass them by too. In no particular order, here are this journalist's opinion on one player per each position of need for the Browns.

Begin Slideshow

Rivalry Week: A Scout's Week 13 College Football Viewing Guide

Michael Schottey — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 10:05:14 -0500

Watching football takes many different forms.

If you woke up this morning in Florida State slippers or a scarlet Oklahoma bathrobe, this article probably isn't for you.

There exists a very healthy segment of the population who love college football—the pageantry, the spectacle—but can't help but cast an eye forward. Each game watched begs the question, what becomes of these young men?

For the chosen few, Sundays wait.

A much smaller segment of the population pays closer attention to those future NFL footballers than is probably recommended by your average physician. They keep unhealthy habits like mock drafts, charts and graphs, big boards, scouting notes, etc.

This exercise in prognostication has enormous side effects—have you seen Mel Kiper Jr's hair?

For those poor souls, watching Saturday football is different. The clicker constantly clicking between offensive and defensive series. Who cares who wins? The interest is focused on balance, pad level, hip swivel and closing speed.

Here's a preview into the view habits of those dark souls:

12 PM Eastern

ESPN —18. Clemson V. South Carolina

Who to Watch: CJ Spiller (RB Clemson), Ricky Sapp (OLB/DE Clemson), Eric Norwood (OLB S. Carolina), Jacoby Ford (WR Clemson)

What to Watch: Make sure your TV is tuned to the Clemson offense at all times. CJ Spiller is a Heisman contender and a sure first rounder—he can go off at any moment. Jacoby Ford is another interesting prospect. Watch Ford before the ball is thrown, if he as good before the catch as he is after?

When the teams are on defense, watch the pass rush moves of Norwood and Sapp. Are the moves varied and polished? Sapp is a borderline first rounder and Norwood should go before the end of the third.

When to Flip: At every commercial and/or when CJ Spiller isn't on the field.

ESPN 2 —24. North Carolina V. North Carolina State

Who to Watch: Bruce Carter (OLB North Carolina), Marvin Austin (DT North Carolina), Willie Young (DE North Carolina State)

What to Watch: Watching the North Carolina defense is a scout's dream. In the next three years, at least five or six defensive standouts will be first day picks. Probably many more. When North Carolina State is on D, watch the motor of Willie Young. If he shows heart to match his skills he could easily be a late riser this spring.

When to Flip: Whenever TJ Yates is throwing the ball...blech!

Have the Laptop Ready For: Wake Forest V. Duke (ESPN 360), Mississippi V. Mississippi State (ESPN 360 @ 12:20)

12:30 EST

FOX Sports —Oklahoma V. 12.Oklahoma State

Who to Watch: Who not to watch? 10 or more 2010 Draft Prospects will be playing in this game including Gerald McCoy (DT Oklahoma), Russell Okung (OT Oklahoma State), and Perrish Cox (CB/KR Oklahoma State).

What to Watch: Is Gerald McCoy more polished than Suh from Nebraska? Some scouts think so. Does Trent Williams (OT Oklahoma) have the lateral movement to play tackle at the next level? Is Perrish Cox anything more than a return specialist?

When to Flip: When this game is on, only flip away at commercials—when you're not grabbing snacks.

3:30 EST

CBS —1. Florida V. Florida State

Who to Watch: Tim Tebow will be playing QB at the next level, for better or for worse. The hype is too huge on Tebow to let every NFL team think otherwise. His favorite target, Aaron Hernandez (TE Florida) has a chance to be special. Also watch Joe Haden (CB Florida), Carlos Dunlap and Jermaine Cunningham (DE Florida), Patrick Robinson (CB Florida State) and Brandon Spikes (LB Florida)

What to Watch: Patrick Robinson is an athlete playing cornerback, if he were forced to start as an NFL CB, he would be burned early and often—the question is how far away is he. Hernandez is a solid receiver but what about his blocking?

Dunlap is the best physical defensive line prospect in the draft but scouts have been dropping him because of his motor for two years now.

When to Flip: When you get sick of the CBS announce team. Otherwise, for a scout, this game is a goldmine.

7:00 EST

ESPN U —Kentucky V. Tennessee

Who to Watch: Eric Berry (S/CB Tennessee), Trevard Lindley (CB Kentucky), Dan Morgan (DT Tennessee), Micah Johnson (LB Kentucky), Montario Hardesty (RB Tennesse), Rico McCoy (LB Tennessee)

What to Watch: Lindley has the best cover skills in the draft but some think his is too small to be a NFL impact player. Does the skill make up for the lack of size? Hardesty is one of the top zone blocking rated backs in the draft, his one-cut running style is perfect for a team like the Texans. Does he have the ability to finish the runs he starts.

When to Flip: An hour of play should fill a notebook page, forget this contest when the next slate of games comes on.

8:00 EST

ABC —Notre Dame V. Stanford

Who to Watch: Jimmy Clausen (QB Notre Dame), Golden Tate (WR Notre Dame) Toby Gerhart (RB Stanford), Sam Young (OT Notre Dame), Chris Marinelli (OG Stanford)

What to Watch: Clausen has arm strength to waste but are his mechanics and ball placement crisp on the big stage? Is Toby Gerhart the next Jacob Hester or the next Mike Alstott?

When to Flip: The only other important game on this slot is Georgia/Georgia Tech and its also on ABC. If you have alternates, flip over when you want to see some awesome option football.

Rivalry week is huge for college football fans and draftniks alike. On a normal Saturday, a scout can go through 10 or more notebook pages while never remembering who won a game.

Rivalry week can also be a trap. Some of the games are so exciting and enticing it is hard to flip the channel. Add in local rivalry matchups, Division II or III playoffs and a killer halftime show for Grambling State/Southern and all of a sudden, an interested scout can forget what he's doing.

So watch today, but keep an eye on the young men you'll be watching on football fields for a long time to come.

Michael Schottey is a Detroit Lions Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report and the producer and host of The Average Joe Sports Show on 860AM KNUJ (New Ulm, MN). He is also an NFL Analyst and Senior Writer for DraftTek.com. Follow Him on Twitter.

Read more NFL Draft news on BleacherReport.com

Too Early 2010 NFL Mock Draft: Top 14

Seth Cox — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:18:14 -0500

One week later and we are ready to continue on in the journey towards the NFL draft. This will definitely be rehashed from the last two articles, but there has been some movement on my big board and in the standings.

So who is going where now and what has changed? We will soon find out.

A couple of things to point out—this is what I am projecting now for the teams. As we near the draft I will begin to unveil a different feature which includes what I would do if I was the GM of that team and what the team WILL do.

Also, these picks are as of the standings right now, not where I project they will finish at the end of the year.

Let's get started.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Well, the feel good stuff all went out the window rather quickly. After a complete whooping delivered at the hands of the Saints, there is no denying this team needs help all over the field.

I am a big proponent of starting your franchise on the offensive and defensive line, and with no sure fire things on the offensive line, I think the Bucs get back to their defensive minded approach and go defense.

With the first pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Ndamukong Suh, DT Nebraska

2. St. Louis Rams

The Marc Bulger era is over. They still have Steven Jackson but he needs immediate help. They have some nice weapons that they are developing on both sides of the ball, but need some more.

They are several players away from being a playoff contender. So what is a team to do?

Add a player that can be the face of the franchise for years to come. This is a quarterback driven league, and in my eyes, this guy is the most polished, NFL ready QB in the draft.

With the second pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Jimmy Clausen, QB Notre Dame

3. Cleveland Browns

I have no idea how to project this team. The offense looked like they were finally clicking and the defense gave up what seemed like 4 million points to the Lions.

Seriously, the Lions. So this week, we move the best player in the draft up to the number three slot. A game changer on defense who could be in the Bob Sanders, Ed Reed, Troy Polamalu mold.

With the third pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Eric Berry, SS Tennessee

4. Detroit Lions

The investment into Matthew Stafford will most assuredly have an effect on this pick. How they do not draft someone to protect that investment would be a great question.

While I have been down on the OL prospects this year, one player has been consistent enough over the last couple of years, and has the POTENTIAL to be a corner stone on the left side of the OL for years to come.

With the fourth pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Russell Okung, OT Oklahoma State

5. Oakland Raiders

A quarterback is becoming more and more of an option here. Would they really pull the plug on the former first overall pick JaMarcus Russell? Maybe not yet, but they also have so many needs all over the place that they will likely go best available here.

There are some franchise changers here, but I am not sure this franchise can be changed overnight. I have them taking the most physically impressive player in this draft.

With the fifth pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Taylor Mays, FS USC

6. Washington Redskins

What to do with this team? So many busted draft picks are littering the field. The defense is solid, and I could see someone added there, but as we go forward I think the OL will need to be addressed.

As I have said two or three times already, this draft is not stocked with as much OL talent as there have been in the past drafts, but there is a local kid who looks to be climbing up the draft boards.

With the sixth pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Bruce Campbell, OT Maryland

7. Seattle Seahawks

Could this really be the scenario that plays out for the Seahawks? Could they really have to make a choice between the local kid and the need of a OL?

I have no idea what they would do, but for this version of the Too Early draft I have them taking the local kid with all the talent in the world.

With the seventh pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Jake Locker, QB Washington

8. Kansas City Chiefs

Playing really well as of late they are getting close, at least to me, to being a team on the rise.

Of course when you say that you really never know what could happen.

I have no idea where they need to go, because as I watch them play I see weakness along the interior of the line, but do you really draft an interior lineman in the top 10?

Also, there is no nose guard worth taking. I am at a loss, so I am going on gut, that they are going to address the OL.

With the eighth pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Bryan Bulaga, OT Iowa

9. Buffalo Bills

I think the Trent Edwards era is over. I also don't know if they would take a QB with a bad shoulder, even if it is surgically repaired.

So they take a dominant force along the defensive line, and look to improve on their terrible run defense.

With the ninth pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Gerald McCoy, OT Oklahoma

10. Tennessee Titans

The offense has come along nicely, and the need for another weapon for Vince Young is definitely there.

But, there are no can't miss WR prospects this year, so I think they look to the defense and look to improve the defensive backfield.

With the tenth pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Joe Haden, CB Florida

11. San Francisco 49ers

The OL needs help. I am convinced that the need for an OL is the reason for both Alex Smith and Shaun Hill's poor play at times.

There is another OT that is worthy of being picked this high, and I think they pull the trigger on one that is slowly falling down the draft boards.

With the eleventh pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Trent Williams, OT Oklahoma

12. New York Jets

Well they looked great early, but have struggled mightily of late. What can be done to help? First solution is to get Mark Sanchez some weapons. No RB or WR has been taken yet in my draft, but that ends here, with a speedy, deep threat added to the Jets repertoire.

Also, are they really going to bring back Braylon Edwards? They need a big time WR and I think that this guy is flying up into the top 15 of the draft. Of course, it is still early.

With the twelfth pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Damian Williams, WR USC

13. Denver Broncos (From Chicago)

Looked great early as well, but have struggled as of late, and there is a guy that I think Josh McDaniels would love to work with here.

Of course all that matters is that he shows up and proves to still have the good arm strength and pinpoint accuracy that had many believing he was going to be the number one pick last year.

With the thirteenth pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Sam Bradford, QB Oklahoma

14. San Francisco 49ers (From Carolina)

So with their second pick in the first round, I truly believe the 49ers look to add a pass rusher to their defense.

They are improving greatly along the defensive side of the ball and a pass rusher is really all they lack to take the next step.

So who do they look for? I think they look for someone who can be a tweener pass rusher who may be injured, but he is still a first round lock.

With the fourteenth pick in the 2010 NFL Draft: Greg Hardy, DE Ole Miss

Come back next week as we continue to preview the draft and delve a little deeper into the needs of each team as well.

Read more NFL Draft news on BleacherReport.com

2010 NFL Mock Draft First Round

Ian O'Brien — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 18:25:30 -0500

Here's the latest update for my 2010 Mock NFL Draft.

Draft order is based on season record and playoff finish projections:

1. Cleveland Browns—Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame

With Charlie Weis more than likely getting fired, Clausen will most likely declare for the NFL. Clausen has an excellent arm and accuracy. He has 23 TDs, 4 INTs, and a 67.3 completion percentage. Plus, he plays in a pro-style offense.

Although Brady Quinn had four TDs last week, it was against the Lions, which is not saying much. It's time for the Browns to start with a new QB since Derek Anderson can't produce either.

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers—Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska

Suh is an explosive defensive tackle who can play in either a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme, which will help him at the next level. The Buccaneers, who could use his help, continue to struggle on defense this year.

Their rush defense is their weakest spot, and Gaines Adams was traded away after he turned out to be a bust. Eric Berry is a tempting pick here, but the rush defense is what the Buccaneers need to fix first.

3. St. Louis Rams—Jake Locker, QB, Washington

Marc Bulger suffered a concussion to end his 2009 season, and it will blow my mind if he continues playing in 2010. The Rams need a new QB now, and Locker has shown some great potential such as when he led Washington to its game-winning drive against USC. He's a dual threat, and he is ahead of Sam Bradford as far as draft stock goes.

4. Detroit Lions—Russell Okung, T, Oklahoma State

Matt Stafford played against the Packers yesterday with a dislocated left arm, and he his one tough guy for going through all the pain he has gone through his rookie year.

His offensive line is to blame for the rough season, as they have allowed 33 sacks. Okung can help fix that. He is a four-year starter at Oklahoma State. He has amazing leadership and a strong work ethic. He would definitely be a first day starter.

5. Buffalo Bills—Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma

The Bills' run defense is terrible, allowing over 190 rushing yards a game. McCoy is an elite defensive tackle, and he has great intangibles and is explosive with high stamina.

6. Kansas City Chiefs—Eric Berry, S, Tennessee

The Chiefs are living in Kansas S**tty right now, and they need help at left tackle and defense. Okung is off the board, so we'll go with Berry to fix the secondary. Berry may be the most talented 2010 prospect. He is an interception machine with the ability to return any pick for a TD.

7. Washington Redskins—Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

Daniel Snyder goes for big-name players, and Bradford is as good as it gets. The Redskins need a QB since Jason Campbell is struggling. He has many concerns such as playing in a spread shotgun offense and staying healthy. Campbell’s NFL success is a total mystery.

8. Oakland Raiders—Taylor Mays, S, USC

Al Davis is a really incompetent owner, and he drafts his players based on their 40-yard dash times. He drafted Darrius Heyward-Bey and Darren McFadden, and they are both busts.

They only have speed to show off. Mays is having a bad senior year with USC as their defense struggles, but Davis doesn't care that the Raiders need a QB and an O-line badly. Mays has a 4.59 40-time, and Davis sees a Pro Bowl safety in Mays as a result.

9. Seattle Seahawks—Bruce Campbell, T, Maryland

The Seahawks need a left tackle badly because someone always gets close to Matt Hasselbeck, and the protection needs to improve. Walter Jones is on IR and is too injury-prone to continue playing football. Looks like the Seahawks should have drafted Eugene Monroe when they had the chance.

10. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina)—Joe Haden, CB, Florida

Haden is the best cornerback in the nation and leads Florida's dominant defense. The 49ers would benefit from his services as they need to improve their secondary. Nate Clements gets injured too much and won't be worth resigning

11. Seattle Seahawks (from Chicago)—Jahvid Best, RB, Cal

This is a reach, but the Seahawks need a running back since Julius Jones is no good and Justin Forsett can't handle the duties alone.

12. New York Jets—Donovan Warren, CB, Michigan

The Jets need a wide receiver since Braylon Edwards is a huge failure. He drops way too many passes. However, there is no wide receiver with high enough value to take here, so the Jets can wait until the 2nd round. Warren would form a great CB tandem lining up across the field from Darrelle Revis.

13. San Francisco 49ers—Bryan Bulaga, T, Iowa

The 49ers need an upgrade at right tackle. Adam Snyder has been awful, allowing 7.5 sacks. Bulaga is a strong lineman who will likely skip his senior year.

14. Tennessee Titans—Greg Hardy, DE, Ole Miss

Kyle Vanden Bosch is a free agent at the end of the season, and so are some other defensive ends on the Titans. Hardy would be a great fit for the Titans' rush defense.

15. Miami Dolphins—Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama

The Dolphins have a hole at inside linebacker. McClain is the top inside linebacker in this year's draft, so this is a perfect scenario for the Dolphins.

16. Houston Texans—Earl Thomas, S, Texas

The Texans need help in the secondary, and Thomas is the best available in that area. He and Bernard Pollard would form a good safety duo.

17. Baltimore Ravens—Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State

The Ravens need a receiver badly since Derrick Mason will probably retire, and Mark Clayton is not reliable. Bryant has a lot of talent and should keep his draft stock up despite his NCAA troubles.

18. Atlanta Falcons—Travis Lewis, LB, Oklahoma

The Falcons need an outside linebacker to upgrade over Mike Peterson. He has top-15 pick talent and could start for the Falcons right away.

19. Jacksonville Jaguars—Tim Tebow, QB, Florida

The Jaguars need more publicity, and they haven't sold out any games this season. Drafting a big name like Tim Tebow would bring in a lot more fans just like signing Brett Favre attracted more fans for Vikings games. The Jaguars may need to move on with a new QB too because David Garrard isn't doing that great.

20. New York Giants—Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida

Antonio Pierce is getting old, and he is out for the regular season. He wasn't that great anyway, so the Giants could use a new linebacker. Spikes is a good leader and is on a national championship-contending team in Florida.

21. Denver Broncos—Jerry Hughes, DE, TCU

The Broncos are struggling on defense now that their true colors have been exposed, and they could use some help for their rush defense. They could use a DE to play in a 3-4 scheme across from Robert Ayers who is doing pretty well. Elvis Dumervil has 14 sacks, and the rush defense can only improve with the addition Hughes.

22. Arizona Cardinals—Charles Brown, T, USC

Mike Gandy is in his 30s now and will be a free agent, and Levi Brown is a bust. He has allowed six sacks and has committed nine penalties. The Cardinals need to upgrade at tackle, and Brown is doing great at USC.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers—Ras-I Dowling, CB/FS, Virginia

Dowling is a cornerback who can also play free safety, and the Steelers need an upgrade over Ryan Clark at free safety. Troy Polamalu could use a partner while roaming in the secondary.

24. Dallas Cowboys—Trent Williams, T, Oklahoma

Flozell Adams is old, and he has committed a lot of false start penalties. The Cowboys need to get a tackle to upgrade over Adams.

25. Green Bay Packers—Anthony Davis, T, Rutgers

The Packers' offensive line has looked better, but I'm still not convinced because it has only started to look better against the 49ers and Lions.

Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher are both in their 30s and fragile. Tauscher was an emergency signing since Allen Barbre was terrible, and he doesn't have much left in him. Aaron Rodgers will be known as a top-five QB as soon as he gets a line that gives him at least one second to throw the ball.

26. Philadelphia Eagles—Mike Iupati, G, Idaho

The Eagles are somewhat shaky on their offensive line, and it's mostly on the inside. The Andrews brothers aren't the same anymore. It's rare for a guard to go in the first round, but Iupati is a rare first-round talent at guard.

27. San Diego Chargers—Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU

The Chargers have moved on without Chris Chambers, and they need a new No. 2 receiver to play across from Vincent Jackson. LaFell wisely stayed for his senior year due to the deep receiving 2009 draft class, and it will pay off for him.

28. Cincinnati Bengals—Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

Gresham should have declared last year. He has been out the whole season with an injury. The only need for the Bengals is a tight end, and Gresham is the best. He is a threat down the middle of the field who could take the usual double-team off of Chad Ochocinco.

29. Minnesota Vikings—Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas

I heard that Favre will re—sign with the Vikings for one more year, but the Vikings need to draft a successor. Sage Rosenfels is good as a fill-in at best.

Mallett has been doing great at Arkansas since transferring from Michigan. He has 3,194 yards, 28 TDs, and only six interceptions. He isn't the kind of QB to produce right away, but he produces amazing results if you give him time. He'' also benefit just like Aaron Rodgers did by sitting and watching Favre.

30. Indianapolis Colts—Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama

The Colts could use a defensive tackle to take pressure off of Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis. They don't have any needs, and Cody is a top-15 talent, so this pick is a steal.

31. New England Patriots—C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson

Spiller is an explosive RB, and the Patriots could use some help at that position. Fred Taylor is old, and Laurence Maroney is improving but still needs to prove he can be a No. 1 RB.

32. New Orleans Saints—Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri

The Saints are my pick to win the Super Bowl. They could use an upgrade at linebacker, and they never had the chance to take one in 2009 with no 2nd or 3rd round picks.

Tune in next week for another update.

Read more NFL Draft news on BleacherReport.com

2010 Denver Broncos Mock Draft Part Two: Could Denver Trade Down?

Sayre Bedinger — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:06:42 -0500

The Denver Broncos are fresh off of their biggest victory of the season, defeating the New York Giants 26-6 on Thanksgiving night.

In light of that victory, it's time for a new mock draft.

My last draft segment had the Broncos taking Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford, and I have since realized that taking Bradford will be all but impossible unless the Broncos trade up, which is something they simply cannot afford to do.

The Broncos have only five picks going into this draft, and they will likely try to move down on draft day unless a "can't miss" prospect falls into their laps.

Certainly it will be hard to pass on a guy like Rolando McClain, the star middle linebacker from Alabama, but the Broncos have to.

One interesting scenario would be for Josh McDaniels to go back to his New England roots and strike a deal with Bill Belicheck and the Patriots, who are armed with three second round picks.

The Chicago Bears are reeling right now, and the pick that they are sending to the Broncos is likely to be in the top 15 at the very worst. They currently have a record of 4-6, and still have two games left against division leader Minnesota.

In all likelihood, the Bears will finish the season with eight losses or more, putting the Broncos in very good position for a high draft pick.

How does this all come together?

The Broncos could choose to trade down to New England's pick by giving up a prospect like Florida's Carlos Dunlap, who could fill in for the Pats' departed Richard Seymour. New England would be able to move up to, let's say pick number 10, and the Broncos would move down to pick 27.

Moving down 17 picks is a huge discrepancy in the NFL Draft, and the trade value chart is often a good depiction of how much a team is willing to give up.

The 10th overall pick is worth 1,300 points on the trade value chart, and the 27th pick is only worth 680. The Patriots would likely include both of their late second round picks to account for the difference in points.

The Patriots hold Jacksonville's pick, which is currently projected at 22nd and worth 360 points in the second round. New England's pick is worth 300, and the difference would be 40 points—essentially nothing.

Armed with three second round picks, the Broncos really would be in business.

In this projected sequence, they hold the 27th, 54th, 56th, and 60th picks in the first two rounds of the draft.

At this point, Broncos fans are salivating.

Here's how I would spend those picks if I were Josh McDaniels and the rest of the Broncos' brass.

First Round, 27th overall: Colt McCoy, Quarterback, Texas

I love his intangibles and leadership as a quarterback prospect. He has a much better arm than he's given credit for and he is extremely accurate with his throws. If you missed the Texas-Texas A&M game, then you missed out on just how mobile this kid really is. He is a phenomenal athlete.

Second Round, 54th overall: Javier Arenas, Cornerback, Alabama

Extremely versatile player, might not last to this pick. He is an elite-level return man, and is more than just a good cover corner with excellent speed. He has five sacks in his senior season, and is also a phenomenal tackler. If he were a couple inches taller, he would be a top-20 pick.

Second Round, 56th overall: Corey Wootton, Defensive End, Northwestern

Wootton is a versatile defensive lineman, who could potentially be the best five technique available in the draft. He excels in stopping the run, but also gets a solid push in the passing game. He is athletic enough to stand up in the 3-4 or put his hand in the ground.

Second Round, 60th overall: Jerry Hughes, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, TCU

Hughes is an elite pass rusher who has really gone under the radar. He reminds me a lot of current Bronco Elvis Dumervil, though Hughes is a couple of inches taller. He is a phenomenal tackler who would transition well to the 3-4 defensive scheme, and he would add great depth to the Broncos' linebacker core.

Third Round, 88th overall: Jordan Shipley, Wide Receiver, Texas

The Broncos' wide receivers are a fairly elite group as it currently stands, but Brandon Stokley is aging, and why not give first round pick Colt McCoy his favorite college target at the next level? Shipley is an intelligent receiver with deceptive speed, and he is also an asset in the return game.

Fourth Round, 120th overall: Eric Olsen, Offensive Lineman, Notre Dame

Again, here is some more versatility, which the Broncos' coaching staff loves. Olsen started last season as an offensive guard, and has been the center for the Fighting Irish in 2009. He would be an ideal pickup for the Broncos at this point in the draft, as he adds both size and versatility to the interior of the line.

No Fifth Round Selections

Sixth Round, 184th overall: Dexter McCluster, Running Back, Ole Miss

McCluster is Darren Sproles version 2.0. He is a small back with blazing speed who does virtually everything well. He has excellent hands out of the backfield and would be a great weapon in the passing game for the Broncos.

Knowshon Moreno is the Broncos' power back, and Correll Buckhalter has obviously lost a step or two. McCluster would be a nice addition.

Read more NFL Draft news on BleacherReport.com

Forget Mike Holmgren and Give Seattle Seahawks Some New Linemen

Chris Cluff — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:02:29 -0500

The ongoing scuttlebutt about Mike Holmgren possibly returning to Seattle in some Grand Poobah role sure seems like crazy talk.

The Seahawks have already determined their course, and it involves Jim Mora leading this team for at least the next year. It’s almost impossible to envision them altering course so drastically by bringing back Holmgren—whether to replace president Tim Ruskell (pictured left) or to be put in a role above a new general manager, yet below CEO Tod Leiweke (pictured right).

Leiweke aligned himself firmly with Ruskell when he hired him in 2005, so he surely will be hesitant to give up on him unless he decides the team would take too much of a PR hit by keeping him. Owner Paul Allen and Holmgren have a good relationship, but it’s hard to imagine that the ailing Seahawks owner, who has non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, is taking much of a hands-on approach to his football team these days.

Add the fact that Holmgren’s record as a personnel guy is no better than Ruskell’s , and it’s hard to see why so many people want Holmgren back and why the Seahawks might think that would be a good idea.

Mora is going nowhere, and Ruskell is coming off perhaps his best offseason in charge of the team. The best thing to do is to ride it out with them next year and see if they can get the Hawks back to the playoffs in the last year of Matt Hasselbeck’s contract. If the Seahawks aren’t on the way back up next year, Leiweke can blow up the team starting in 2011.

So what do Ruskell and Mora need to do to make this a playoff team in 2010?

Recreate the Offensive Line

Max Unger should replace Chris Spencer at center now so he gets experience for next season. Then Ruskell must find two new starters—a right guard to replace Unger and a left tackle to replace Sean Locklear. The 'Hawks also need better interior depth, so they need to draft a guard who is better than the backups they have, possibly one to replace Rob Sims. That’s three new linemen.

Oklahoma State’s Russell Okung is considered the top tackle in the draft, but unless the Hawks are in the top five again, they probably don’t have a chance at him. But other top-15 tackles include Oklahoma’s Trent Williams, USC’s Charles Brown, and Rutgers junior Anthony Davis. The Seahawks could easily end up with one of them. Iowa’s Bryan Bulaga could be had late in the first round.

Considering the state of the 'Hawks’ offensive line, two first-round tackles wouldn’t be the worst idea. But one is the bare minimum. If Ruskell doesn’t take a tackle in the first round in April, you can fire him on the spot.

However they do it, the line next year should include three new linemen, in addition to Locklear, Unger, Ray Willis and maybe Sims, with Walter Jones and Brandon Frye long shots to return. Mansfield Wrotto and Steve Vallos make it only as deep reserves.

The bottom line, so to speak, is this: The Hawks simply have to stop harboring injury-prone linemen and instead build a sturdy line of talented big men. It’s time to cut the cord with Spencer and maybe even Sims. Locklear should get one more chance—and only one—to stay healthy and be productive.

Ruskell’s strategy of trying to develop fourth-round picks has failed. It’s time to remake Seattle’s line with high draft picks and a good, young free agent.

Find a Playmaking Safety

Many people want the Hawks to take USC’s Taylor Mays in the first round, and Tennessee’s Eric Berry is a stud, too. But they might be gone before Seattle picks. And neither is worth combining both first-round picks (including the one Seattle got from Denver last April) to trade up, especially when the Seahawks also must find a new left tackle and could use help on the defensive line.

The Seahawks might look to free agency for a young safety. A number of young veterans could become free, so the Hawks should see whether they can find upgrades for Deon Grant and Jordan Babineaux that way. However they do it, they must find a playmaking safety.

Replace Patrick Kerney with a Guy Who Can Rush the Passer

Kerney is washed up and should be let go, especially considering he is due to be paid over $5 million next season. It’s ridiculous that the Seahawks are paying him $7 million this year (he’s counting $10 million).

The Seahawks could use that money for someone who can still get to the passer. Odds are they will need to find a pass rusher in the draft, though, because most of the free agents are on the wrong side of 30, and the Hawks have been there, done that with Kerney and Grant Wistrom.

Add a Young Running Back

This is a lower priority than the offensive line, safety, and pass rusher, but the 'Hawks certainly could use a good, young running back. The best guys are Clemson’s C.J. Spiller, Georgia Tech junior Jonathan Dwyer, and California junior Jahvid Best. Spiller and Dwyer are viewed as top-10 talents.

Beyond them, it’s a pretty average RB class, though. The Seahawks’ best shot at one might come in the fourth round.

Ideally, the Seahawks will do their best New England imitation and trade down to acquire picks in the second and third rounds (since they surrendered their 2010 third to get receiver Deon Butler last April). If they can move down, they potentially could end up with five picks in the first two rounds. In a perfect world, that would net two offensive linemen, a safety, a running back and a pass rusher.

That’s what Ruskell has to do to give Mora the kind of team that can get back to the playoffs—and save the jobs of the coach and general manager.

Read more NFL Draft news on BleacherReport.com

In Your Dishonor: 13 Biggest Turkeys Of The NFL Draft Since 2000.

Antwan Fields — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:43:12 -0500

In honor of the resoundingly awful Gerard Warren, who was forced upon the NFL by the equally awful Cleveland Browns, I choose the 13 biggest turkeys of the NFL draft since the year 2000 (FIRST ROUND ONLY). This means no Ryan Leaf, no Tim Couch, no Akili Smith, no easy ones. Except one. Number 13 is:

13: Courtney Brown, Cleveland Browns. 1st overall, 2000 NFL Draft

Players of note taken behind him: Brian Urlacher, Chris Samuels, Thomas Jones.

Synopsis: This pick was regularly derided in the days up to and following the draft. An outcry of rage from Browns fans was muted in his first season, and then the injury bug bit him. Hard. 8 sacks in three seasons meant he was done in Cleveland. But Cleveland's trainers are notorious in their suckitude, as are their coaches and their players and...well, you get the point. The snakebit Browns are known for bad drafting; but the Washington Redskins, the longtime paper champions of the NFL, had the next two picks. They took LaVar Arrington, Brown's teammate, the prototype for many of my created linebackers (well, him and Urlacher) who was on pace to be absolutely excellent until an unfortunate meeting with a motorcycle. And they took Chris Samuels, who is still a top fifteen tackle, injury or no injury. Brown finished with 19.5 sacks, 156 tackles and 6 forced fumbles. Not a first overall performance for a first overall pick.

12:David Terrell, Chicago Bears, 8th pick, 2001 NFL Draft

Players of Note taken behind him: Steve Hutchinson, Nate Clements, Casey Hampton.

Talented. That was the word for Terrell when the Bears were able to snag him at 8th overall. Terrell, however, didn't reckon on being stuck with Jim Miller at QB, and Terrell was unable to turn that into anything worth thinking about. At 6'3, Terrell was supposed to be the big wideout the Bears needed. He turned into something, but not what the Bears needed. In the end, Terrell finished with 128 catches and 9TD's. All because he couldn't make his talent work for him when he most needed it to.

11: Troy Williamson, Minnesota Vikings, 7th Pick, 2005 NFL Draft

Players of Note taken behind him: DeMarcus Ware, Shawne Merriman, Aaron Rodgers

Mr. Hard Hands was the pick from the Oakland Raiders in exchange for Randy Moss. He claimed he had bad vision, which kind of directly indicts the Minnesota Vikings front office for taking him 7th overall, since the Falcons got the awesome Roddy White later in the first round, and San Diego took Vincent Jackson in the second. Currently Mr. Hard Hands is in Jacksonville, which explains why they've gone with MJD and a cloud of dust. Seriously, Chester Bennington could probably be a better NFL WR than Williamson, yet Williamson continues the tradition of blaming everyone but himself for his problems, saying he'd like to fight Brad Childress. Here's a thought: YOU SUCKED! YOU STILL SUCK! 84 catches for barely 1000 yards and four TD's? Marvin Harrison usually had those before week five!

10:Joey Harrington, Detroit Lions, 3rd overall pick, 2002 NFL Draft.

Players of Note taken behind him: Dwight Freeney, Ed Reed, Bryant McKinnie.

Yes, Harrington could be higher. Harrington also SHOULD be higher. But I place him at ten for one reason: it's Detroit. There was never any chance he would succeed. Technically, he was supposed to, but really, it's the franchise that drove Barry Sanders into retirement and went 0-16; was it really surprising that this turned out the way it did?

9:William Green, Cleveland Browns, 16th pick, 2002 NFL Draft

Players of Note taken behind him: Lito Sheppard, Bart Scott, (undrafted) Charles Grant.

William Green had a hard life coming up. I understand that. But you can do one of two things: you can try to beat it back or you can let it consume you. Green took door number two. After an ok rookie season, he then proceeded to send his career down the toilet with the help of a plunger. Numerous off-field incidents and awful performances on the field pretty much turned him into a failed first round pick. Green was not a particularly nice guy; not that many football players are, but his idiocy qualified him for the number nine slot more than anything else. How hard is it to hold on to a starting job with the Cleveland Browns?

8:Alex Smith, San Francisco 49ers, first pick overall, 2005 NFL Draft

Players of Note taken behind him: Ronnie Brown, Jammal Brown, Logan Mankins

Smith is here under protest. No, not because he's played well (he hasn't) but because a 49ers fan friend of mine threatened to kill me and commit harakiri if I didn't find a spot for him. Seriously, Smith deserves this spot, make no mistake. Smith opened his rookie season with one touchdown pass against 11 interceptions. 11 interceptions. Nowhere to go but up, right? Uh, no. Nothing is this bad, you can't blame the coordinators for this one. Or the receivers, they got him Darrell Jackson and Ashley Lelie when Lelie wasn't an empty jersey; and that didn't help. Smith's awfulness is legendary, but when you lose a QB battle with SHAWN HILL you deserve whatever spot you get in this list. And the reason he's not higher has to leave you wondering who's next...you won't be surprised by this one.

7:Mike Williams, Detroit Lions, 10th pick, 2005 NFL Draft.

Players of Note taken behind him: Derrick Johnson, Frank Gore, Justin Tuck

Mike Williams. At USC, he was THE target for Matt Leinart. He was the third leg of the triumvirate of destruction, my unofficial, too long, uncool name for Leinart, Bush and Williams. Then he made a fatal error: following the error of the somewhat insane Maurice Clarett, Williams declared for the draft despite being only two years removed from H.S. (NFL rules state you must be THREE years removed from high school, and the federal judge who told Clarett differently should be ashamed). This wouldn't have been so bad if Williams had not hired an agent. IN ALL SPORTS, once you hire an agent you and the NCAA part ways. Williams did not play football in the interim; instead he was supposedly working out, and was selected by the Detroit Lions. And then he allowed the drudgery of playing, living, and actually knowing that Detroit exists to weigh him down, and he got fat and bad. A sad end, but not one totally unexpected, especially when he left before he was supposed to. Before Pete Carroll could impart how to actually play the game to him.

6:Gerard Warren, Cleveland Browns, 3rd pick overall, 2001 NFL Draft

Players of Note taken after him: LaDanian Tomlinson, Richard Seymour, Chad Johnson-Ochocinco (2nd round)

My god, he's bad. Fat, bad, ridiculously awful. How this goof was the third overall pick is still beyond me. This guy calls himself "Big Money." Would that be the money he stole from the Cleveland Browns? 30 sacks and 260 tackles, and that was worth that much money, huh? And since I can't seem to impart how bad the Cleveland Browns are at drafting, how about the Browns themselves? Since they came back from the dead, Art Modell, and now Steve Bisciotti, have made the Ravens one of the elite teams in the NFL. The Browns seem to fail miserably in the first round, except for Joe Thomas, who I'm sure is questioning his decision to play football. He probably wishes he had done something more productive with his life, like act with Dane Cook or appear in porn movies. If you're the first-round pick of the Browns, retire now. You'll save yourself a world of heartache. Thankfully, we're done with the Browns. Or are we?

5: Mike Williams, Buffalo Bills, 4th pick, 2002 NFL Draft

Players of Note taken after him:Quentin Jammer, Albert Haynesworth, Phillip Buchanon.

The Buffalo Bills have never been able to live down the four consecutive Super Bowl losses. Every opportunity they've gotten to try to rejoin the ranks of the AFC elite has blown up in their faces. (The Drew Bledsoe Era is best forgotten.) So when Mike Williams was drafted by the Bills at 4, they envisioned a franchise tackle, a guy who would protect the blind side of their QB's for years. Williams had protected his QB's for his career at Texas, how much more difficult could it be to do so in the NFL?

Plenty.

See, at 360 pounds, not too many people in college football can get around you to the QB. But in the NFL, in the AFC East in particular, at tackle you're usually matched up with fast D-ends and sometimes powerful ends who drive you back, sometimes right into the guy you're supposed to protect. And when you're 360 pounds, you're not going to catch up with guys like Richard Seymour. Then, you're much more susceptible to injury. And Williams just couldn't get the job done in the end, because his size was an impediment. When was the last time a 350+ pound O-tackle was successful?

4: Erasmus James, Minnesota Vikings, 18th pick, 2005 NFL Draft

Notable Players drafted after him: Roddy White, Nick Collins (2nd round), Marion Barber (4th round)

James' flameout doesn't compare to that of Smith; neither Williams' nor Harrington's. So why is he ranked higher on this list than any of them?

Because James was a defensive end, the first taken in the draft. Not enough of a reason? Then I'll give you another: James was the defensive end the Vikings needed when their defensive front four was beginning to falter. He should have teamed with Kevin Williams and Pat Williams to terrorize and decimate the NFC North's QB's. Instead he got hurt and got in a bar fight. He earned the nickname 'The Eraser' because of his ability to get to the QB. After a 28 tackle, four-sack rookie season, he then got injured. Repeatedly. He finished his career with 37 tackles and five sacks. And so his sad career came to a depressing end; but it did indirectly allow the Vikings to grab Jared Allen three years later, so that's something.

3: Robert Gallery, Oakland Raiders, 2nd Overall Pick, 2004 NFL Draft.

Notable Players taken behind him:Larry Fitzgerald, the late Sean Taylor, Phillip Rivers.

Ugh. A three-letter response is all that is required, but I'll give you more.

Gallery has ideal size. By that, I mean he's in the JonOg (for my money, the best OT in the past twenty years)/Orlando Pace category. The Raiders envisioned him as the cornerstone in a powerful blocking attack that would lead them back into the top of the heap. Something was powerful, and they were at the top of the heap...if the heap was a heap of dung. Gallery, as so many high picks are, was held responsible for the failure of his unit, but think about this: in 2006, at LT, he was part of one of the worst performances by an NFL OL in history: a 9-sack performance by Shawne Merriman and the San Diego Chargers. That year, Gallery gave up an unreal 10.5 sacks in 10 games. In that regard, Gallery is a failure despite his move to LG, which has helped his career and kept him from being referred to as a Hiroshima-level failure. Unlike the next guy.

2: Charles Rogers, Detroit Lions, 2nd overall pick, 2003 NFL Draft.

Rogers had ideal size. He was fast, he was strong, he drew comparisions to Randy Moss. That's a good thing, but, uhhhhhh...as it turned out, he was similar to Moss in more ways than anyone, including the Detroit Lions, would like to admit.

Rogers got off to a roaring start in his rookie season, making 22 catches and scoring three times in his first five games. But when doing a speed drill with Dre Bly, Rogers broke his collarbone, the fourth worst injury a WR can have after a broken hand, arm, or leg. Gone for the season. Rogers tried agan in 2004, but on the third play of the 2004 season Rogers broke his collarbone again. Gone for the season. Then the problems REALLY began when Rogers violated the drug policy for the third time, being suspended for four games. Because of this, the Lions demanded the money he'd been paid in his signing bonus back, eventually getting a judgment of $8 million dollars. Also it came out that Rogers had failed drug tests every year at MSU. More likely to appear on the cover of High Times then on the cover of the Lions Media Guide, Rod Marinelli derricked the wayward WR, and ended what probably should have been a hall of fame career quickly. Summary: Charles Rogers is an idiot.

12 down, one left. And since number 1 isn't Rogers, well, who could it be? (Cue Colin Hay singing "Who Can It Be Now?")

Ready?

1: JaMarcus Russell, Oakland Raiders, 1st overall pick, 2007 NFL Draft.

Notable players drafted after him: Calvin Johnson, Adrian Peterson, Patrick Willis.

There aren't enough curse words in English, Spanish, Portuguese, or Cantonese to express the dismay and contempt I, and other Raiders fans, hold him in.

Russell held out all throughout training camp while the Raiders took it in the shorts throughout the 2007 season. Finally Russell got Al Davis to give him 68 million dollars, 31.5 million of it guaranteed. For this, Russell and his agent should have been jailed for abuse of the elderly. To put it in perspective, Russell's performance resembles that of Akili Smith's. Only worse. His season to date: 96-205, for 1,064 yards, sacked TWENTY-FOUR times for 142 yards of loss, two touchdowns, NINE interceptions, SIX fumbles, FIVE lost. A 47.7 QB rating. I assume I could stick Mike Shinoda out there with the members of koRn and Scott Stapp blocking for him running a triple option on every godforsaken play and they could pull off a 47.7. Benched by the should-never-have-been-hired-Tom Cable, woman beater extrordinaire, for Bruce Gradkowski. Gradkowski had an awful game today and Russell wasn't even a thought for that fat tub of frog slobber. So...lol raiders?

No, it doesn't get to end that way. The sad part is, Russell still has a chance to be average. And that's all. But getting paid Tom Brady/Peyton Manning money for 1/19th of the performance...I may have a stroke just thinking about it. How come I can't root for a GOOD team?

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