2011 NFL Draft: Mock Draft Schizophrenia!!

Blaine Gabbert, Cam Newton, Patrick Peterson, Marcell Dareus, Nick Fairley.

While these soon to be NFLers are capable of saving a franchise (according to the fans and bloggers), we can't truly decide who should be the number one pick in the draft.

After reading a plethora of blogs about the draft, enough to make me chose Brooks Reed first because he's supposed to be (or could be) the next Clay Matthews, I've come up with my own:

Patrick Peterson errrrr....Cam Newton, uhhhhh...Blaine Gabbert; ahhhhhhh! A.J. Green!

Whew! Blah!

NFL Network's Brian Baldinger is making a bold choice for the first pick in Patrick Peterson. They say he's a bigger version of Deion Sanders. Really?! I know he's an athlete but, Neon Deion? We're getting beyond ourselves by a lot, are we not? I think if the Carolina Panthers chose Peterson, it would add significant mobility to their defense because he can play zone and defend well. It would be a good start for a organization who desires to return to the greatness of their infancy days of competing.

Now, Cam Newton has made his way back into the top overall pick. He's been dissected technically, judged relationally and he will continually need to clear himself of any character issues linked to his family and college days. Buyer beware.

Oh, Cam Newton has had only one year of significance at Auburn. Historically, one year wonders (at quarterback) rarely excel at the pro level.

Nick Fairley is also a one year wonder, having an amazing year in 2010 before declaring. He is also a risk simply because his body of work is not as comprehensive. Now, there are some issues concerning his maturity while at the combine (missing meetings with teams). Also, buyer beware. 

Blaine Gabbert's stats dipped from one year to the next. And, let's be honest, until he was remotely considered as a top ten pick, had you heard of Blaine Gabbert (outside of Mizzou Fans)? He wasn't considered for the Heisman Trophy! He is now being considered for the number one pick in the NFL?! Even when the college season was at hand, he rarely received nation-wide attention.

It has been difficult to see one player who shines. The Miami Dolphins and Atlanta Falcons are still connected to the draft of 2008 due to the difficult choice: Jake Long? Or Matt Ryan? Truth be told, both teams were significant winners. However, the Miami Dolphins are still looking for their next great quarterback (without using a first round pick). 

The 2011 draft does not offer the same story lines. I think there is more talent for your money towards the end of the first round and on. I think this draft is deep overall, I just don't know if any of them clearly outshine the others. 

The rule of thumb is that (in the first round), consistent collegiate athletes rule the day. There are always exception to that rule. But if an organization is going to invest millions into someone who hasn't played one down of NFL football, you want someone with a complete resume. This group of talent doesn't seem to have that. 

This is the year that each team should draft according to their need. 

I don't think the Carolina Panthers need a quarterback. They need to protect their quarterback and they need defense. I think Patrick Peterson is a solid, solid pick, first overall pick or not. 

I do believe that Marcell Dareus is a perfect fit in Denver. 

I think Cam Newton fits really well with the Buffalo Bills, as does A.J. Green. I believe there is a enough defense in the draft to address their other issues. I know Von Miller is tempting, but he's not someone you build your defense around. Just ask the Aaron Curry and the Seattle Seahawks (he's been a nice addition, but he's not LT). 

A.J. Green also fits well with the Cincinnati Bengals. 

These draft waters are murky. Enter with extreme caution! 

While we look forward to the first round drama, the teams will be established in the other rounds. 

Give me your feedback! I want to know what you think?!