May 22 2013
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NFC West, NFL

Don’t hit the panic button yet 49er fans.

crabtreeOn Wednesday morning, news broke that the 49ers Michael Crabtree tore his Achilles tendon in practice on Tuesday. Michael Crabtree took a huge step forward in 2012 including 85 catches and 1,105 yards. Crabtree was a critical piece for the 49ers Super Bowl run 2012. However as the 2013 season approaches, the San Francisco 49ers will remain one of the favorites to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl.

The 49ers brought in Anquan Boldin via trade in the off-season who will shoulder the much of the load in 2013. Boldin will fill Crabtree’s role almost exclusively in the 49ers offense. Anquan Boldin will run the same routes, be a middle of the field presence and give Colin Kaepernick a reliable target on third down.

The 49ers will have to rely on the rest in their wide receiving core in 2013. Mario Manningham is back in 2013 after recovering from a knee injury himself. Manningham tore his ACL and PCL in 2012 but should be ready to go week one. The 49ers took Quinton Patton in the 4th round of the NFL draft. Patton is quickly becoming one of Jim Harbaugh’s favorite players. The 49ers also have second year player AJ Jenkins, who was a first round pick in 2012, Kyle Williams .

The 49ers are a run first team that will rely on heavily on Frank Gore, LaMichael James, and Kendall Hunter. In 2012 the 49ers averaged 155.7 rushing yards per game, which was 4th in the league. The 49ers improved to a league best 218 yards per game in the playoffs. Also with the addition of the read option and pistol offense in 2012, Colin Kaepernick will be a key contributor of the 49ers rushing attack in 2013.

The 49ers defense will also be key in the 49ers return to the Super Bowl in 2013. The 49ers allowed 17.1 points per game, the second fewest in 2012. Willis, Bowman, and the Smith brothers will be heavily relied on in 2013 and will put the 49ers in position to hoist the Vince Lombardi trophy come February.

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Apr 29 2013
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AFC, Draft, NFL

NFL Draft: AFC Winners

You can always tell the teams that have a plan going into the draft. They will address needs and add value round after round. The Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers and Tennessee Titans had 3 of my favorite drafts in the AFC.

ravensThe Baltimore Ravens sat patiently during free agency and let other teams overpay their free agents. Going into the draft they had a couple major holes they needed to fill as well as other spots where they needed to add depth and they did so exceptionally. Adding Matt Elam to go alongside Michael Huff, whom they signed in free agency was their first round selection. Matt Elam was a stud at the University of Florida and will be able to start right away. In the second round the Ravens were able to add Arthur Brown, a first round talent that slipped into the second round. He will play right away, become a tackle machine, and help the Ravens defense. In John Simon, they added a defensive end that quickly became one of Urban Meyers favorite players in his one year with the Buckeyes. Kapron Lewis-Moore will be able to add depth and talent to strong defensive line.

pittsburgh-steelers-logoNot to be left behind the Pittsburgh Steelers a bitter rival of the Baltimore Ravens, added a stable of talented players to add depth and fill needs. Adding Jarvis Jones at outside linebacker made a ton of sense and fills the role vacated by James Harrison, who left in free agency. Adding Shamarko Thomas was taken to help on the defensive side of the ball. He is a talented safety that will add depth in the secondary. The Steelers took Le’veon Bell who can be a workhorse running back that can also be a pass catcher out of the backfield. Adding Markus Wheaton in the third round has the potential to replace some of what Mike Wallace did. Wheaton has the speed and athleticism to be a down field threat while developing as an all round receiver. Taking Landry Jones, a big quarterback that put up huge numbers during his time at the University of Oklahoma. He can be groomed behind Ben Roethlisberger, play in the game or two Big Ben misses every season and either take over be a trade piece for the Steelers down the line.

Tennessee-Titans-logo-psd56766 The Tennessee Titans went into the 2013 off-season with a clear plan in mind and an understanding where the biggest holes were on the both sides of the ball. The offensive line was one of, if not the biggest need going into 2013. The offensive line was atrocious. After adding Andy Levitre via free agency, they continued to upgrade the offensive line with Chance Warmack who will start right away. In the fourth round the Titans added Brian Schwenke a big, nasty center, who is intelligent and will compete for a starting job. In the second round the Titans moved up to select Justin Hunter, a big and physical receiver who the Titans clearly coveted. Between all of Kenny Britt’s off the field issues and his inability to stay healthy, the Titans felt like they had to add to their receiving core. The Titans will put Kendall Wright in the slot with Hunter and Britt on the outside. The Titans are trying to surround Jake Locker talent and give him every opportunity to be successful. After improving the offense, they quickly turned to the defense to add talent. Blidi Wreh-Wilson is corner that will challenge for a starting job and play on nickel packages as well. Zaviar Gooden is a athletic linebacker that will be utilized on passing downs but features a similar skill set to last years draft pick Zach Brown. Upgrading a defense that failed consistently late in games and was blown out in many games.

Having a plan is the difference between executing a excellent draft and making poor draft with questionable decisions and over compensating for previous mistakes

 

 

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Apr 29 2013
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Draft, NFC West, NFL

NFL Draft: NFC West

Two short years after being one of the worst divisions in football, with the 7-9 Seattle Seahawks winning the division, The NFC worst has quickly become the best division in football. They are capitalizing on free agency and making great decision in the draft. 2013 is no different.

 

San Francisco 49ers

san-francisco-49ers-logoThe San Francisco 49ers had a stellar draft. They were able to add depth to important positions as well as add players that will compete and push the players currently on the rosters. Jim Harbaugh has shown he will play whichever player he feels will give them the best chance to win. After adding Eric Reid on day 1 to fill a huge need at safety, the 49ers were able to add much needed depth to a defensive line that was depleted by playoff time last season. Tank Carradine will be able to play opposite Justin Smith as well as provide Smith an opportunity to rest during the game. Corey Lemonier will provide an edge rusher at outside linebacker in the 49ers 3-4 defense. Quinton Patton is a talented receiver who will compete for playing time with Mario Manningham and Kyle Willaims, who are both recovering from ACL/MCL injuries last season. The steal of the draft could turn out to be Marcus Lattimore, who has top 10 talent but because of gruesome knee injuries slipped until the 4th round. He will effectively res shirt this season while he continues to rehabilitate. Frank Gore experienced knee injuries in college and should be provide Lattimore with an example to follow.

 

St Louis Rams

281px-St_Louis_Rams_logo.svgThe St Louis Rams continued their success from Thursday’s round 1 throughout all seven rounds. The Rams got Sam Bradford another weapon, Stedman Bailey, who played opposite Tavon Austin, the Rams first round pick, at West Virgina. Stedman Bailey is good route runner and should play right away. They also added Barret Jones, who won three National Titles at the University of Alabama while playing all three offensive line positions. The Rams will be able to play Jones anywhere along their offensive line. Grabbing Zach Stacey in the 5th round, the Rams added running back depth in their effort to replace Steven Jackson.

 

Arizona Cardinalslogocardinals

The Arizona Cardinals took a gamble taking Tyrann Mathieu in the third round. He will get a shot to start at free safety in 2013. Patrick Peterson has been working with Mathieu during the off-season and clearly encouraged the front office to take a gamble on him. It could provide huge rewards if they can keep him focused on football. The Cardinals also added Earl Watford, who along with Jonathan Cooper should help to provide protection to new signal caller Carson Palmer. Stephan Taylor is a big, physical, talented back from Stanford who should have a chance to take snaps in a backfield with no clear starter.

 

Seattle Seahawks

seattle-seahawks-logoWhile the Seattle Seahawks effectively used their 2013 first round pick to take Percy Harvin, whom they acquired in free agency, they used the rest of their draft picks to add depth to team that made tremendous strides in 2012. Jesse Williams and Jordan Hill will add size and depth to middle of their defensive line. They also took Christine Michael in the second round; whom has first round potential if they can keep him focused.

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Apr 26 2013
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Draft, NFL

NFL Draft: Instant Impressions

Teams that impressed me:

 

Minnesota Vikings

Sharrif Floyd

xavierpattersonThe 2013 first round went great for the Minnesota Vikings. They went all in and put all their chips on the table with their 2013 first round selections. Sharrif Floyd plummeted to the 23rd pick in the first round. It seemed like Sharrif Floyd was a sure fire top 10 pick to either the Oakland Raiders, who traded out of the top 10 or the Tennessee Titans. In Floyd the Vikings get an elite level talent that will instantly upgrade their defensive line and help Jared Allen and Brian Robinson. The Vikings then took Xavier Rhodes at pick 25. Xavier Rhodes will improve their secondary. He is a big corner at 6’ 1” and ½ but posses the speed running a 4.43 40 yard dash. The Vikings mortgaged the farm to move into the first round at 29, trading their second, third, fourth, and seventh round pick. With the 29th pick they took Cordarrelle Patterson who is a big, speedy receiver that is full of upside. Having Greg Jennings in the locker room will make a tremendous impact on Patterson, who will primarily be a go route runner who Christian Ponder will look for down the field. Giving up what the Vikings gave, Patterson will need to be a stud and be Julio Jones talent to the value they gave up.

 

 

St Louis Rams

austinThe St Louis Rams had my favorite draft of the first round. The Rams needed a receiver and playmaker on offense, and in Tavon Austin will fill that need. The Rams had to move up to the 8th overall pick to guarantee they could select Austin. The Rams gave up two picks to move up to number 8, but Les Snead and Jeff Fisher then made a move of a savvy front office. The Rams traded back to pick 30 with their other first round pick with the Atlanta Falcons. The Rams used the 30th overall selection to take Alec Ogletree who is an dynamic edge rusher who had top 10 talent but because of off the field issues fell. The Rams showed last year under Fisher they showed an ability to take players with character concerns in Janoris Jenkins and make it work on the field.

 

jarvisjones

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers took the guy that made the most sense going into the draft. Jarvis Jones is an elite level talent, will replace James Harrison who left in free agency and makes a ton of sense in the Steelers defensive scheme. The Steelers are rebuilding their aging defense and if they continue to draft well throughout the rest of the draft, the Steelers should get back to being one of the best teams in the AFC.

 

 

Oakland Raiders

hayden-resizeThe Raiders pulled of a very uncharacteristic move and moved back in the first round to acquire more picks, which was a huge need for a team lacking a multitude of starters. The Raiders were prepared to take DJ Hayden, whom they took at 12 at 3 if they were unable to move back. Hayden has elite level talent and would have been the top corner in many people’s minds if he had played in the SEC and not at Houston. DJ Hayden also had a freak accident during a practice where he took a knee to the chest severing a vein that carries blood from the lower part of his body to his heart. Hayden shot up draft boards and will be an impact player in Oakland.

 

 

 

Teams that left me scratching my head:

 

nfl_g_eman86_cr_400

Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills made the shocking move of the draft. While the Bills made the smart move trading back to 16 and acquired another second round pick in the process. However with that second round pick the Bills took EJ Manuel, who was clearly the top quarterback on their board. Most people assumed they would select Ryan Nassib, who played for the Bills new coach at Syracuse. Scouts and GM’s alike, believed that no quarterback would go in round one, unless it was Geno Smith, and even that was a stretch. The Bills clearly believe EJ Manuel can be “the guy” in Buffalo and felt he would not be there for them in the second round.

 

 

lgo_nfl_chicago_bears

Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears took a Kyle Long, a guard from Oregon. While the Bears needed to address offensive line, taking Kyle Long, who had one year at Oregon after playing baseball at Florida State and having issues off the field was a reach. Kyle Long is a talented player who comes from a family of football players, his dad Howie Long and his brother Chris Long, but he is a project that wont be able to right away.

 

cowboysDallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys were smart enough to trade back with the 49ers to pick 31 and gain a 3rd round pick, however they proceeded to select Travis Fredrick, a center from Wisconsin. The issue with the pick is Fredrick received a third round grade from most scouts and if the Cowboys wanted to assured they got him could have easily with their second round pick, the 47th overall pick and most likely with one of their third round picks.

Apr 25 2013
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Draft, NFL

NFL Draft: Final MOCK

2011 NFL Draft

 

1.      Chiefs – Luke Joeckel (OT | Texas A&M) The Chiefs can go in many directions with this pick. Acquiring Alex Smith from the San Francisco 49ers help solidify the quarterback position in Kansas City. The Chiefs are in the process of trading recently franchised Brandon Albert to the Dolphins. Providing protection for Smith and creating running lanes for Jamaal Charles are crucial to the Chiefs moving out of the AFC cellar in 2013.

 

2.     Jaguars – Eric Fisher (OT | Central Michigan) Eric Fisher has the talent to be an elite left tackle in the NFL. While the Jacksonville Jaguars can go in a multitude of directions with the second overall pick and will dictate the way the rest of the first round goes, Fisher makes a ton of sense and will be the pick at 2. Not only is Fisher a significant upgrade that will help whomever is under center for the Jaguars but will also help Maurice Jones Drew the Jaguars rushing attack. The Jaguars will be able to select a quarterback, maybe even Geno Smith in the top of the second round or trade back into the first round to take a quarterback.

 

3.    Raiders – Sharrif Floyd (DT | Florida) The Raiders go defensive tackle here with the departure of Tommy Kelly and Richard Seymour. Floyd is a very talented defensive tackle that will make an immediate impact in 2013. This might not be a good sign for Floyd as only 1 of the Raiders last 7 first round picks are still with the team.

 

4.    Eagles – Dion Jordan (LB | Oregon) Chip Kelly will bring in his guy from Oregon at pick 4. Dion Jordan is a talented edge rusher that will have a chance to make a impact right away. Jordan is an athletic linebacker that moves well side to side will help support the run and get to the quarterback

 

5.    Lions – Ezekiel Ansah (BYU | DE) While still very raw, Ezekiel Ansah who is new to football after coming to the United States from Ghana but made tremendous strides in his first full season at BYU. Ansah will need to be coached up but can be an elite edge rusher right away. He has been compared to Jason Pierre-Paul for what he could be in the NFL.

 

6.    Browns – Dee Milliner (DB | Alabama) Dee Milliner has medical issues that are causing teams to second-guess drafting him this high. However in Cleveland has the chance to add a talented corner who will start right away. The Browns will pair Milliner with Joe Haden, setting up one of the best cornerback duos in the league. The Browns may look to trade down with teams coveting left tackle taking this spot for Lane Johnson.

 

7.    Cardinals – Lane Johnson (OT | Oklahoma) This is a great pick for Arizona who needs to address their offensive line deficiencies. They are in a division full of talented pass rushers and Johnson can be penciled into the Cardinals starting left tackle for a long time to come. Johnson has a ton of upside and could emerge as the best tackle from the draft. The upside comes with a significant amount of risk as he only started one season at left tackle.

 

8.    Bills – Ryan Nassib (QB | Syracuse) While Ryan Nassib is a reach at number 8, his stock continues to rise and the Bills will be scared off by other teams potentially taking Nassib before they are able to select again in the second round. Doug Marrone made the jump from Syracuse to Buffalo this season to be their head coach. He clearly wants to bring in his guy and make the leap to the next level together. Chance Warmack should be the pick with the Bills going quarterback in the second round but the Bills Love Nassib and wont let him get past them.

 

9.    Jets – Jonathan Cooper (OG | North Carolina) The Jets will use the first of their two first round picks on Jonathan Cooper at number 9. The Jets want to address offensive line with one of their picks and grabbing Cooper here, guarantees they get one of the two guards. Then when they select at 13, they will have flexibility to address the defensive side of the ball or if they are getting aggressive may go quarterback.

 

10. Titans – Star Lotulilei (DT | Utah) Star Lotulilei is a talented defensive tackle that that is high on most NFL teams boards. While defensive tackle isn’t a need for Tennessee, Star Lotulilei is a value at 10 and the Titans can address other needs later in the draft. The Titans were very poor on defense last season and need to improve a multitude of spots.

 

11.  Chargers – DJ Fluker (OT | Alabama) The San Diego Chargers were atrocious on the offensive line and are in desperate need of left tackle especially. Phillip Rivers spent much of 2012 running for his life after receiving the snap. Fluker is a bit of reach at number of 11, but fills a huge need and worth the gamble.

 

12. Dolphins – Chance Warmack (OG | Alabama) The Dolphins are in discussions that will land them Brandon Albert from Kansas City, filling the spot vacated by Jake Long at left tackle. This will give the Dolphins flexibility to address other needs. I think they continue to upgrade offensive line by selecting Chance Warmack. Warmack is a powerful guard that will improve run blocking and provide protection for Ryan Tannehill.

 

13.  Jets (via Buccaneers) – Barkevious Mingo (LB | LSU) The Jets second pick in the top 15, acquired via the Darrell Revis trade, gives the Jets flexibility. They will take the talented line backer from LSU who can be an impact edge rusher in 2013. The Jets are in desperate need of talent and Mingo will provide that. Teams like the 49ers are supposedly targeting this pick, which would give the Jets a chance to acquire picks and move back. This will help the Jets improve for 2013.

 

14. Panthers – Sheldon Richardson (DT | Missouri) A year after adding Luke Kuechly, the Panters will continue to improve their defense. The defensive side of the ball has been vastly underperforming in past years and the Panthers must improve that side of the ball if they want to compete in a division with talented offenses.

 

 15. Saints – Alec Ogletree (LB | Georgia) The Saints continue to prove their solid on the defensive side of the ball. However, a major reason the Saints missed the playoffs last year own the 15th is because of a vastly underperforming defense. Alec Ogletree will make an instant impact as both an edge rusher and run stopper. He also possess the athletic ability to drop into coverage in passing situations and help out the secondary.

 

16. Rams – Tavon Austin (WR | West Virgina) The Rams get a steal at this point in the draft. Tavon Austin is a very talented receiver who can make tremendous plays with the ball in his hand. Not only can the Rams line Austin up at receiver, but will be able to put him in the slot, backfield and let him return kicks and punts. After losing both Danny Amendola and Brandon Gibson via free agency Austin will be a significant help to Sam Bradford and the Rams in 2013.

 

17. Steelers – Jarvis Jones (LB | Georgia) Jarvis Jones is a very talented edge rusher and makes a ton of sense for Pittsburgh. The Steelers are looking to rebuild their aging defense and look to replace James Harrison who left via free agency.  Adding Jones to a talented core of linebackers will help get the Steelers back to where they want to be as a team.

 

18. Cowboys – Kenny Vaccaro After grabbing Morris Claiborne a year ago, Kenny Vaccaro would be a great piece to put next to him. The Cowboys are quietly building a very talented, young, athletic secondary to build their defense around going forward. Vaccaro will make an impact in a division with dynamic offenses.

 

19. Giants – Tyler Eifert (TE | Notre Dame) The Giants will be able to add an athletic tight end that will allow the Giants to attack the middle of the field. He will also provide Eli Manning with a red zone target with great hands. Eifert has the ability to elevate into the Jimmy Graham and Rob Gronkowski level of elite tight end.

 

20. Bears – Arthur Brown (LB | Kansas St) With the departure of Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs now 33, the Bears must look to improve their linebacking core while building it for the future. Arthur Brown will allow both to happen. He is a cerebral, talented, sure tackling linebacker

 

 21. Bengals – Jonathan Cypiren (S | Florida International) The Bengals have a need at safety and Jonathan Cyprien is the player the Bengals covet. Cyprien has been to the Bengals facility for multiple visits amd has made a great impression on the Bengal’s decision makers.

 

22. Rams (via Redskins) – DJ Hayden (CB | Houston) DJ Hayden is shooting up draft boards. Hayden is a very talented corner that had medical concerns in college but seem to be behind him. The Rams putting Hayden opposite Cortland Finnegan who himself is getting long in the tooth will help to solidify the Rams secondary.

 

23. Vikings – Cordarrelle Patterson (WR | Tennesse) The Vikings added Greg Jennings during free agency but are looking to for someone to start opposite Jennings. Patterson is a big physical receiver, while still raw, has tons of upside and the ability to stretch the field.

 

24.  Colts – Xavier Rhodes (DB | Florida St) The Colts grab a big, physical corner that will have the chance to play right away. Xavier Rhodes will improve the Colts secondary add to the stable to talented, young core they are building.

 

25. Vikings (via Seattle) – Manti Teo (LB | Notre Dame) The Vikings are in desperate need of linebacking help, and regardless of what you think about Teo off the field, he has the ability to be a productive NFL linebacker.  The Vikings have shown an affinity for former Notre Dame players including Harrison Smith and Kyle Rudolph.

 

 26.  Packers – Matt Elam (S | Florida) The Packers lost Charles Woodson in the off season and have a gapping hole at safety. Matt Elam will fill a need right away and will be a difference in 2013. The Packers will be able to grab a top level talent and address other needs later in the draft.

 

27. Texans – Justin Hunter (WR | Tennessee) Justin Hunter is a more polished receiver than his former teammate from Tennessee Cordarrelle Patterson. Hunter will be able to improve the receiving core and play opposite Andre Johnson. Devier Posey will be able to slide inside, giving the Texans a solid receiving core going forward.

 

28. Broncos – Bjoern Werner (DE | Florida State) With the issues keeping Elvis Dummerville due to the inability to get the contract faxed in on time, the Broncos find themselves with a need at defensive end. Werner is a talented defensive end that will provide the Broncos talented edge rusher that is not the most physically gifted but plays with great technique.  

 

29. Patriots – Datone Jones (DE | UCLA) Datone Jones will play on the other side of Chandler Jones creating a dynamic edge rush duo. The Patriots are quietly and effectively rebuilding a underperforming defense. The Jones brother’s ability to get to the quarterback will improve their secondary as well, forcing quarterbacks to make faster decisions and the receivers less time to get open.

 

30. Falcons – Cornellius Carradine (DE | Florida State) The Falcons need to improve their pass rush, especially from the defensive line. The departure of Ray Edwards and John Abraham makes defensive end even more of a need. The addition of Osi Umenyiora will make the Falcons defensive line much improved. Carradine makes sense for the Falcons but other defensive ends could be targeted here including Margus Hunt and Damontre Moore. Zach Ertz could be targeted here as suture replacement for Tony Gonzalez.

 

31. 49ers – Margus Hunt (DE | SMU) The 49ers are in a great position with tons of roster flexibility. When Justin Smith went down last season, Depth at defensive end became a glaring need. Margus Hunt will give the 49ers depth at defensive end, allowing Justin Smith to get rest during games to have more energy for later in the season, and can be a possible replacement to Justin Smith if he leaves when his contract expires in after the 2013 season.

 

32. Ravens – Eric Reid (S | LSU) With the departure of Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard, the Ravens need to find replacements at safety. Eric Reid is very talented safety that could play right away. If Jonathan Cyprien or Matt Elam were to fall, they could be in play for Baltimore. This could easily be a position for a team looking to trade back in to the first round to take a quarterback and allow the ravens to get a safety they like later in the draft and acquire picks.

 

 

Round 2

Draft Order

Team

Player

Position

School

33

 Jaguars Geno Smith

QB

West Virgina

34

 49ers Zach Ertz

TE

Stanford

35

 Eagles EJ Manuel

QB

Florida St

36

 Lions Menelik Watson

OT

Florida St

37

 Bengals Keenan Allen

WR

California

38

 Cardinals Matt Barkley

QB

USC

 

 Browns Forfeited 2012 Supplemental

39

 Jets Jonathan Banks

DB

Mississippi St.

40

 Titans Kyle Long

OG

Oregon

41

 Bills Terron Armstead

OT

Arkansas Pine Bluff

42

 Dolphins Sylvester Williams

DT

North Carolina

43

 Buccaneers Kawann Short

DT

Purdue

44

 Panthers Damontre Moore

DE

Texas A&M
Saints Forfeited Bounty Penalty

45

 Chargers Desmond Trufant

DB

Washington

46

 Rams DeAndre Hopkins

WR

Clemson

47

 Cowboys Sylvester Williams

DT

North Carolina

48

 Steelers Jonathan Franklin

RB

UCLA

49

 Giants Jamar Taylor

DB

Boise St.

50

 Bears Kevin Minter

LB

LSU

51

 Redskins Robert Woods

WR

USC

52

 Vikings Blidi Wreh-Wilson

DB

Uconn

53

 Bengals Eddie Lacy

RB

Alabama

54

 Dolphins Justin Pugh

OT

Syracuse

55

 Packers David Amerson

DB

North Carolina St

56

 Seahawks Quinton Patton

WR

Louisianna Tech

57

 Texans Kiko Alonso

LB

Oregon

58

 Broncos Corey Lemonier

LB

Uconn

59

 Patriots Tyrann Mathieu

DB

LSU

60

 Falcons Andre Ellington

RB

Clemson

61

 49ers DJ Swearinger

DB

South Carolina

62

 Ravens Jon Bostic

LB

Florida
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Apr 19 2013
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NFL

2013′s Best NFL Match-Up’s

The 2013 NFL schedule was released at 8 pm (est.) on Thursday August 18th. Many intriguing match-ups are set for this season. Of the games scheduled for the 2013 season, a few of them really stood out.

 

flaccopeyton 9.5 Ravens at Broncos: Opening night has a AFC divisional round rematch scheduled. The Broncos atrocious secondary allowed the Ravens hit a home run and win the game late that propelled them past the Patriots and 49ers on their way to hoisting the Vince Lombardi trophy.

 

9.8 Packers at 49ers: In a NFC divisional round rematch, the Packers will get a chance to atone for the shredding they took in the playoffs against the 49ers.

 

9.15 Broncos at Giants:  In Manning Bowl 3, the first between The Broncos and Giants, Peyton will visit little brother Eli and his Giants. Peyton Manning holds a 2-0 record from his time with the Colts.eli-manning-peyton-manning

 

9.19 Chiefs at Eagles:  Andy Reid will make his return to Philadelphia where he saw so much success to face Chip Kelly and the new look Eagles.

 

10.20 Broncos at Colts: Peyton Manning returns to Indianapolis, where he will have a statue in front of the building and have his number retired, where he matches up with his replacement and future star Andrew Luck.

 

11.3 Titans at Rams: In a rematch of Super Bowl XXXIV, the Titans and Rams will meet in St Louis. This time Jeff Fisher will be on the other sideline wearing a Rams logo.

Seattle-Seahawks-vs-Atlanta-Falcons-13th-Jan

 

11.10 Seahawks at Atlanta: In a rematch of the NFC Divisional round game from 2012, this game will be important for standings in the NFC playoffs as well as best record in the NFC.

 

11.24 Broncos at Pats: The Manning versus Brady match-ups are always must see television. This game will be very important for playoff seeding and best record in the AFC. The intrigue will only be multiplied by the fact that Wes Welker left the Patriots for the Broncos in Free Agency.bos_u_manbrady_cr_600

 

11.28 Steelers at Ravens: In the nightcap of the Thanksgiving Day set of games, The Steelers at Ravens will provide the dessert to a full slate of games. The Ravens and Steelers always provide a hard hitting and compelling game.

 

12.8 Seahawks at 49ers:  This game will be a huge game, not only will this likely decide the NFC west’s best team but could also decide the best team in the NFC overall.

 

gore12.23 Falcons at 49ers: Not only is this game a rematch from the NFC championship game in 2012 but will likely be a huge game for playoff seeding. This could also be a playoff preview as well.

 

 

 

 

Other games that are interesting

9.15 49ers v Seahawks:  Setting up to be the best rivalry in the NFC for the next 5 years.

10.13 Redskins at Cowboys:  Always a competitive and enjoyable game, this game will help to determine the NFC east’s best team.

11.17 49ers at Saints:  A Sean Payton led Saints will be a player in the NFC this season. This game will be a competitive and important match-up.

11.25 49ers at Redskins:  In a match-up that will pit two athletic quarterbacks, RG3 v Kaepernick will be a fun game for all NFL fans.

12.15 Bengals at Steelers: The Ravens will take a step back after the off-season departure from their rosters. This game will pit the best two teams in the NFC North and will dictate the division crown.

12.22 Patriots at Ravens:  A rematch of the AFC championship game that will help determine playoff seeding.

11.4 Bears at Packers: An always competitive and compelling game that will impact the NFC North crown.

 

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Apr 12 2013
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Draft, NFL

NFL Draft: Mock 3.0

2013-draft-logo-story

 

1.      Chiefs – Luke Joeckel (OT | Texas A&M) The Chiefs can go in many directions with this pick. Acquiring Alex Smith from the San Francisco 49ers help solidify the quarterback position in Kansas City. The Chiefs can either trade recently franchised Brandon Albert or move him to Guard. Providing protection for Smith and creating running lanes for Jamaal Charles are crucial to the Chiefs moving out of the AFC cellar in 2013.

 

geno2.     Jaguars – Geno Smith (QB | West Virgina) Geno Smith will be a top 10 pick and most likely will be gone before pick number 5. Blaine Gabbert has made it very clear that he is not the answer. The question has become whether or not the Jaguars believe that Geno Smith is. I think Jacksonville will take the risk and draft Smith. He can make the down the field throws and provide athleticism that should help team lacking talent on the offensive side of the ball.

 

3.    Raiders – Sharrif Floyd (DT | Florida) The Raiders go defensive tackle here with the departure of Tommy Kelly and Richard Seymour. Floyd is a very talented defensive tackle that will make an immediate impact in 2013. This might not be a good sign for Floyd as only 1 of the Raiders last 7 first round picks are still with the team.

 

4.    Eagles – Eric Fisher (OT | Central Michigan) The Eagles will get the other elite left tackle in this spot. The Eagles atrocious offensive line will need some serious upgrades. Eric Fisher is an athletic offensive lineman that will fit great with the new scheme Chip Kelly is installing.

 

5.    Lions – Dee Milliner (CB | Alabama) The Lions can in many directions in this spot. With Fisher and Joeckel already off the board and Lane Johnson, while still a possibility is a bit of a reach at 5, Dee Milliner makes a ton of sense. The Lions secondary has continued to struggle the past few seasons and Milliner is an instant upgrade.

 

6.    Browns – Dion Jordan (LB | Oregon) The Browns will get a talented linebacker at number six. Jordan is an athletic linebacker that moves well side to side will help support the run and get to the quarterback. The Browns are building a solid core with Jordan and cornerback Joe Haden.

 

7.    Cardinals – Lane Johnson (OT | Oklahoma) This is a great pick for Arizona who needs to address their offensive line deficiencies. They are in a division full of talented pass rushers and Johnson can be penciled into the Cardinals starting left tackle for a long time to come. Johnson has a ton of upside and could emerge as the best tackle from the draft. The upside comes with a significant amount of risk as he only started one season at left tackle.

 

warmackcooper8.    Bills – Chance Warmack (OG | Alabama) Syracuse’s Ryan Nassib seems like an ideal fit following his college coach Doug Marrone. While I still see that as possibility either in round 2 or if the Bills move back into the late first round. With this pick, the Bills will take Chance Warmack a talented Guard from Alabama. Warmack has received some of the highest grades scouts have given a guard. They need to replace Andy Levitre who left during free agency to Tennessee, as well as provide protection for whomever is taking snaps in Buffalo this season.

 

9.    Jets – Barkevious Mingo (LB | LSU) The Jets can grab an edge rusher with tons of upside. His ability to rush the passer will provide the Jets with tons of value at 9.  Allowing the Jets to fill other needs as the draft goes along.

 

10. Titans – Jonathan Cooper (OG | North Carolina) The addition of Jonathan Cooper will continue to address the needs the Titans started to address during free agency. After signing Andy Levitre, adding Cooper will allow the titans to solidify both guard spots going forward.

 

11.  Chargers – Ezekiel Ansah (DE | BYU) Ezekiel Ansah is a freak athlete with tremendous upside. Ansah is new to football after coming to the United States from Ghana but made tremendous strides in his first full season at BYU. Ansah will need to be coached up but can be an elite edge rusher right away. He has been compared to Jason Pierre-Paul for what he could be in the NFL.

 

12. Dolphins – DJ Fluker (OT | Alabama) While drafting DJ Fluker might be a little bit of a reach for the Dolphins at number 12, it will allow the Dolphins to fill their biggest need and replace Jake Long who signed with Rams during free agency. The Dolphins are in a great position to trade back and acquire more picks. They could also move up if they want to try and acquire Eric Fisher or Lane Johnson if they covet either of them more.

 

13.  Buccaneers – Xavier Rhodes (DB | Florida State) This spot in the draft remains a mystery. It screams trade out as the Buccaneers don’t have a desperate need that can be filled at this spot. Darrell Revis is also linked to the Buccaneers and this should be the Jets pick prior to draft night. If the Bucs were to draft here, Xavier Rhodes makes a ton of sense. He fits great in their scheme and can replace Aquib Talib whom they traded late in 2012.

 

14. Panthers – Star Lotulilei (DT | Utah) Putting Lotulilei in front of 2012 draft stand out Luke Kuechly will not only add another outstanding name to the Panthers defense, but will also create a strength with the Panthers up the middle of their defense. Kuechly should be able to get to the ball carrier with less challenge and both Star and Luke should improve the back end of the Panthers defense by getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

 

15. Saints – Sheldon Richardson (DT | Missouri) After signing Victor Butler to solidify the Saints linebacking core, they will be able to add Sheldon Richardson in the middle of their defense. Richardson will help a Saints defense that struggled to stop the run.   

 

16. Rams – Tavon Austin (WR | West Virgina) The Rams get a steal at this point in the draft. Tavon Austin is a very talented reciever who can make tremendous plays with the ball in his hand. Not only can the Rams line Austin up at receiver, but will be able to put him in the slot, backfield and let him return kicks and punts. After losing both Danny Amendola and Brandon Gibson via free agency Austin will be a significant help to Sam Bradford and the Rams in 2013.

 

130410_wrs_cp(Tavon Austin, Cordarrelle Patterson, Keenan Allen)

17. Steelers – Cordarrelle Patterson (WR | Tennessee) With the departure Mike Wallace, the Steelers will need to find a receiver to play on the opposite side of Antonio Brown. Patterson is full of upside and talent. He can be an elite receiver in the NFL and gives Ben Roethlisberger a big, physical target down the field. Lack luster workouts and poor interviews have hurt Patterson’s stock, but the Steelers have found ways to get players to play up to their potential under Mike Tomlin.

 

18. Cowboys – Kenny Vaccaro After grabbing Morris Claiborne a year ago, Kenny Vaccaro would be a great piece to put next to him. The Cowboys are quietly building a very talented, young, athletic secondary to build their defense around going forward. Vaccaro will make an impact in a division with dynamic offenses.

 

19. Giants – Alec Ogletree (LB | Georgia) The New York Giants are in need of help on the defensive side of the ball especially in the back 7. Ogletree will provide great value to the Giants this late in the draft and will impact right away as an edge rusher and improve the linebacking core of the Giants.

 

20. Bears – Arthur Brown (LB | Kansas St) With the departure of Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs now 33, the Bears must look to improve their linebacking core while building it for the future. Arthur Brown will allow both to happen. He is a cerebral, talented, sure tackling linebacker

 

 21. Bengals – Menelik Watson (OT | Florida State) Andre Smith is still having contract disputes, his second since joining the team. Smith held out after the draft and came to camp late. Watson is a tackle that can improve the Bengals offensive line and help plug in the departure of Smith. Watson could swing inside to guard if Smith stays in Cincinnati.

 

22. Rams (via Redskins) – DJ Hayden (CB | Houston) DJ Hayden is shooting up draft boards. Hayden is a very talented corner that had medical concerns in college but seem to be behind him. The Rams putting Hayden opposite Cortland Finnegan who himself is getting long in the tooth will help to solidify the Rams secondary.

 

23. Vikings – Manti Teo (LB | Notre Dame) The Vikings are in desperate need of linebacking help, and regardless of what you think about Teo off the field, he has the ability to be a productive NFL linebacker.  The Vikings have shown an affinity for former Notre Dame players including Harrison Smith and Kyle Rudolph.

 

24.  Colts – Jarvis Jones (LB | Georgia) The Colts will add a talented edge rusher at 24 in Jones. He will provide an instant impact right away. Jones is a very athletic line backer that has tremendous upside. Jones has fell this far due to medical concerns he has had since transferring from USC, who would not clear him medically with his spinal stenosis

 

25. Vikings (via Seattle) – Sylvester Williams (DT | North Carolina) The Vikings are in need of some defensive line improvement and get a good one at 25.  Williams will be play as a rookie and should help Jared Allen and Brian Robinson see less double teams along with Kevin Williams.

 

 26.  Packers – Kyle Long (OT | Oregon) Kyle Long has shot up draft boards and is a great fit in Green Bay. Aaron Rodgers spent much of 2012 running from opposing defensive lineman. Long should allow Rodgers to be more comfortable in the pocket and help the running game in 2013. Running Back is a need for Green Bay but between free agents Ahmad Bradshaw and Michael Turner or the ability to find talent later in the draft I think the Packers will pass on selecting one in the first round.

 

27. Texans – DeAndre Hopkins (WR | Clemson) The Texans need to find a receiver to play opposite of Andre Johnson. While the Texans took DeVier Posey in the draft in 2012, Hopkins provides size and athletic ability. Posey will play in the slot and allowing Hopkins the outside, adding another target for Matt Schaub. Robert Woods or Justin Hunter could be the pick here if Houston favors them more.

 

28. Broncos – Bjoern Werner (DE | Florida State) With the issues keeping Elvis Dummerville due to the inability to get the contract faxed in on time, the Broncos find themselves with a need at defensive end. Werner is a talented defensive end that will provide the Broncos talented edge rusher that is not the most physically gifted but plays with great technique.  

 

29. Patriots – Desmond Trufant (DB | Washington) The Patriots have brought back Julian Edleman and signed Emmanuel Sanders to add to their receiving core. While Keenan Allen or Robert Woods would make a ton of sense, the Patriots have shown they don’t value receivers this early and are always willing to plug in guys without name value around Tom Brady. Desmond Trufant would upgrade a underperforming Patriot secondary and makes a ton of sense at this spot in the draft. Defensive end on the other side of Chandler Jones could be a pick that makes sense as well.

 

30. Falcons – Cornellius Carradine (DE | Florida State) The Falcons need to improve their pass rush, especially from the defensive line. The departure of Ray Edwards and John Abraham makes defensive end even more of a need. The addition of Osi Umenyiora will make the Falcons defensive line much improved. Carradine makes sense for the Falcons but other defensive ends could be targeted here including Margus Hunt and Damontre Moore. Zach Ertz could be targeted here as suture replacement for Tony Gonzalez.

 

31. 49ers – Tyler Eifert (TE | Notre Dame) If Tyler Eifert were to fall to the 49ers at 31, this would be a slam-dunk, no brainer. The way Trent Baalke and Jim Harbaugh have been going it makes sense they would get this draft steal. Eifert is an extremely talented pass catcher that will provide an instant impact. The 49ers could use a two tight end set and help with eh departure of Delanie Walker. Harbaugh would also go crazy with the options of lining up both tight ends in different spots.

 

32. Ravens – Jonathan Cyprien (S | Florida International) With the departure of Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard, the Ravens need to find replacements at safety. Cyprien is very talented safety that could play right away. He has been shooting up draft boards and quickly become a coveted safety. Matt Elam could be the safety for Baltimore. This could easily be a position for a team looking to trade back in to the first round to take a quarterback and allow the ravens to get a safety they like later in the draft and acquire picks.

 

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Apr 06 2013
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NFL Draft 2013: The Movers

joke_crop_exactMiami Dolphins

At number 12 the Dolphins are in a predicament. With Jake Long moving on to the St Louis Rams in free agency, offensive line  and especially offensive tackle is a big need for the revamped Dolphins offense. The likelihood of one of the three offensive tackles, Luke Joeckel, Eric Fisher or Lane Johnson being available when the Dolphins pick at 12 is not high. The Dolphins should either need to move up to grab one of the tackles or move back and acquire picks.

New England Patriots

Bill Belichick loves to trade back and acquire more picks. However with Tom Brady likely done in 3 years, this might be a year he actually makes a move up in the draft to get a defensive stud or a receiver they covet.

 

San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens

After meeting in the Super Bowl last season, they once again are linked this time in the 2013 NFL Draft. Both Trent Baalke and Ozzie Newsome are smart General Managers who look to add talent and picks.

 

San Diego Chargers

The Chargers are in an interesting position in the draft. They seem to covet offensive line help, specifically offensive tackle. Phillip Rivers spent much of 2012 running for his life and forcing throws that weren’t there.

Screen Shot 2013-04-04 at 9.10.47 AM

(www.profootballfocus.com)

Arizona Cardinals and Buffalo Bills

If the Arizona Cardinals or Buffalo Bills covet a quarterback like Matt Barkley and Ryan Nassib, moving back could be an option for them. Moving back would allow these two teams to acquire they player they want while acquiring more picks, saving money, and make a stronger draft day decision.

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Apr 05 2013
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NFL Draft: Mock 2.0

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In my second mock, I feel more confident in some of my picks than i did in the first one. I took a few gambles between reaching for players as well as taking some value picks late in the first round. I will be doing at least one more mock between now and the draft with 21 days left. Geno Smith remains the wild card that will shift the rest of the draft.

 

1.      Chiefs – Luke Joeckel (OT | Texas A&M) The Chiefs can go in many directions with this pick. Acquiring Alex Smith from the San Francisco 49ers help solidify the quarterback position in Kansas City. The Chiefs can either trade recently franchised Brandon Albert or move him to Guard. Providing protection for Smith and creating running lanes for Jamaal Charles are crucial to the Chiefs moving out of the AFC cellar in 2013.

 

2.     Jaguars – Ezekiel Ansah (DE | BYU) Ezekiel Ansah is a very athletic defensive end that is full of upside. This pick makes a lot of sense for Jacksonville who has struggled on the defensive side of the ball. Jaguar fans will need to be patient but Ansahs ability is through the roof.

 

3.    Raiders – Sharrif Floyd (DT | Florida) The Raiders go defensive tackle here with the departure of Tommy Kelly and Richard Seymour. They recently acquired Matt Flynn and will go into 2013 with him or Pryor under center. Floyd is very talented and powerful tackle that will be an impact guy. This pick will improve a defensive line that struggled in 2012.

 

4.    Eagles – Geno Smith (QB | West Virgina) This selection was a hard one for me to pinpoint. While the Eagles have Michael Vick coming back and Nick Foles still in the picture, Chip Kelly has taken over as the Eagles coach and is not married to anyone on the team. If Kelly and the Eagles brass believe Geno Smith can be the guy and run the offense Kelly envisions it makes a ton of sense. Nick Foles can be traded elsewhere. Geno can sit in the short term and play relatively quickly especially if Michael Vick who is not the picture of health.

 

5.    Lions – Dee Milliner (CB | Alabama) This is one of the biggest slam-dunks in the draft. Dee Milliner makes a ton of sense for a secondary that has continued to struggle in recent season. Milliner is talented and athletic corner that can be a number one corner in the league.

 

6.    Browns – Dion Jordan (LB | Oregon) The Browns will get a talented linebacker at number six. Jordan is an athletic linebacker that moves well side to side will help support the run and get to the quarterback. The Browns are building a solid core with Jordan and cornerback Joe Haden.

 

7.    Cardinals – Eric Fisher (OT | Central Michigan) This is a great pick for Arizona who needs to address their offensive line deficiencies. They are in a division full of talented pass rushers and Fisher can be penciled into the Cardinals starting left tackle for a long time to come.

 

8.    Bills – Chance Warmack (OG | Alabama) Syracuse’s Ryan Nassib seems like an ideal fit following his college coach Doug Marrone. While I still see that as possibility either in round 2 or if the Bills move back into the late first round. With this pick, the Bills will take Chance Warmack a talented Guard from Alabama. Warmack has received some of the highest grades scouts have given a guard. They need to replace Andy Levitre who left during free agency to Tennessee, as well as provide protection for whomever is taking snaps in Buffalo this season.

 

9.    Jets – Barkevious Mingo (LB | LSU) The Jets can grab an edge rusher with tons of upside. His ability to rush the passer will provide the Jets with tons of value at 9.  Allowing the Jets to fill other needs as the draft goes along.

 

10. Titans – Jonathan Cooper (OG | North Carolina) The addition of Jonathan Cooper will continue to address the needs the Titans started to address during free agency. After signing Andy Levitre, adding Cooper will allow the titans to solidify both guard spots going forward.

 

11.  Chargers – Lane Johnson (OT | Oklahoma) Phillip Rivers spent much of 2013 running for his life or on his back. Johnson will improve an atrocious offensive line. The Chargers will be able to pencil Johnson in at left tackle for 10 plus years and give Rivers the ability to focus down the field and avoid the costly turnovers that plagued his 2013.

 

12. Dolphins – DJ Fluker (OT | Alabama) While drafting DJ Fluker might be a little bit of a reach for the Dolphins at number 12, it will allow the Dolphins to fill their biggest need and replace Jake Long who signed with Rams during free agency. The Dolphins are in a great position to trade back and acquire more picks. They could also move up if they want to try and acquire Eric Fisher or Lane Johnson if they covet either of them more.

 

13.  Buccaneers – Alec Ogletree (LB | Georgia) Alec Ogletree will continue the Buccaneers draft successes from 2012. Ogletree can be penciled in at outside linebacker, provide a talented edge rusher that can put pressure on the quarterback.

 

14. Panthers – Star Lotulilei (DT | Utah) Putting Lotulilei in front of 2012 draft stand out Luke Kuechly will not only add another outstanding name to the Panthers defense, but will also create a strength with the Panthers up the middle of their defense. Kuechly should be able to get to the ball carrier with less challenge and both Star and Luke should improve the back end of the Panthers defense by getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

 

15. Saints – Sheldon Richardson (DT | Missouri) After signing Victor Butler to solidify the Saints linebacking core, they will be able to add Sheldon Richardson in the middle of their defense. Richardson will help a Saints defense that struggled to stop the run.   

 

16. Rams – Tavon Austin (WR | West Virgina) The Rams get a steal at this point in the draft. Tavon Austin is a very talented reciver who can make tremendous plays with the ball in his hand. Not only can the Rams line Austin up at receiver, but will be able to put him in the slot, backfield and let him return kicks and punts. After losing both Danny Amendola and Brandon Gibson via free agency Austin will be a significant help to Sam Bradford and the Rams in 2013.

 

17. Steelers – Cordarrelle Patterson (WR | Tennessee) With the departure Mike Wallace, the Steelers will need to find a receiver to play on the opposite side of Antonio Brown. Patterson is full of upside and talent. He can be an elite receiver in the NFL and gives Ben Roethlisberger a big, physical target down the field.

 

18. Cowboys – Kenny Vaccaro After grabbing Morris Claiborne a year ago, Kenny Vaccaro would be a great piece to put next to him. The Cowboys are quietly building a very talented, young, athletic secondary to build their defense around going forward.

 

19. Giants – Tyler Eifert (TE | Notre Dame) The Giants had a very disappointing end to their 2012 season. They are rebuilding the offense around Eli Manning after letting Ahmad Bradshaw walk this off-season. Eifert is a very talented and athletic pass catcher that will add another dimension to the G-Men’s offense. He should help Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks avoid seeing all the attention on the outside.

 

20. Bears – Arthur Brown (LB | Kansas St) With the departure of Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs now 33, the Bears must look to improve their linebacking core while building it for the future. Arthur Brown will allow both to happen. He is a cerebral, talented, sure tackling linebacker

 

 21. Bengals – Jarvis Jones (LB | Georgia) The Cincinnati Bengals are adding another talented linebacker who can pressure the quarterback from the edge. With Jones, Malaluga and Vontaze Burfict the Bengals put together a solid linebacking core.

 

22. Rams (via Redskins) – DJ Hayden (CB | Houston) DJ Hayden is shooting up draft boards. Hayden is a very talented corner that had medical concerns in college but seem to be behind him. The Rams putting Hayden opposite Cortland Finnegan who himself is getting long in the tooth will help to solidify the Rams secondary.

 

23. Vikings – Manti Teo (LB | Notre Dame) The Vikings are in desperate need of linebacking help, and regardless of what you think about Teo off the field, he has the ability to be a productive NFL linebacker.  The Vikings have shown an affinity for former Notre Dame players including Harrison Smith and Kyle Rudolph.

 

24.  Colts – Xavier Rhodes (CB | Florida State) Xavier Rhodes is a not a desperate need for the Colts, but is a great value in this spot. The Colts secondary will be upgraded by Rhodes, and will still have the ability to address needs in later rounds.

 

25. Vikings (via Seattle) – Menelik Watson (OT | Florida State) The Vikings are in continuing to improve their offensive line after adding Matt Kalil with the fourth overall pick. Watson will help create more rushing lanes for Adrian Peterson, not that he needs it, as well as protect whomever is taking the snaps in Minnesota next season.

 

 26.  Packers – Eddie Lacy (RB | Alabama) While Eddie Lacy is not sure fire first rounder, he makes a ton of sense for the Packers in this spot and fills a huge need. Lacy is a big, physical back that can provide instant impact on the Packers 2013 season. The packers could still sign Ahmad Bradshaw or Michael Turner and allow the Packers to look elsewhere. Talented running backs can be found later in the draft including Gio Bernard, Montee Ball, and Le’veon Bell. Menelik Watson and Kyle Long are also options to help the offensive line that had a difficult time protecting Aaron Rodgers.

 

27. Texans – DeAndre Hopkins (WR | Clemson) The Texans need to find a receiver to play opposite of Andre Johnson. While the Texans took DeVier Posey in the draft in 2012, Hopkins provides size and athletic ability. Posey will play in the slot and allowing Hopkins the outside, adding another target for Matt Schaub. Robert Woods or Justin Hunter could be the pick here if Houston favors them more.

 

28. Broncos – Bjoern Werner (DE | Florida State) With the issues keeping Elvis Dummerville due to the inability to get the contract faxed in on time, the Broncos find themselves with a need at defensive end. Werner is a talented defensive end that will provide the Broncos talented edge rusher that is not the most physically gifted but plays with great technique.  

 

29. Patriots – Keenan Allen (WR | California) The Patriots lost both Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd in the off-season. Keenan Allen is a talented receiver that will provide Tom Brady with a weapon on the outside. Put him alongside Gronkowski, Hernandez, and Danny Amendola, who was signed in the off-season, Allen should have a chance to be successful without all the pressure falling on his shoulders.

 

30. Falcons – Damontre Moore (DE | Texas A&M) The Falcons need to improve their pass rush, especially from the defensive line. The departure of Ray Edwards and John Abraham makes defensive end even more of a need. The addition of Osi Umenyiora will make the Falcons defensive line much improved. Zach Ertz could be targeted here as suture replacement for Tony Gonzalez.

 

31. 49ers –Margus Hunt (DE | SMU) Margus Hunt makes a ton of sense for the 49ers at 31. Hunt can help Justin Smith not have to play every down, as well as a future replacement for Justin Smith. This could also be a spot for teams looking to get back into the first round to take a quarterback (Bills, Raiders, Browns).

 

32. Ravens – Matt Elam (S | Florida) With the departure of Ed Reed, the Ravens need to find his replacement. Elam is not a first rounder but as the last pick to fill a team need it makes a ton of sense. Jonathan Cyprien could be the safety for Baltimore here as he is moving up the This could easily be a position for a team looking to trade back in to the first round.

 

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Apr 04 2013
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2013 NFL Draft: Quarterbacks

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 1996 is the last time a quarterback was not selected in the first round and 2013 could end that streak. The 2013 class of quarterbacks is the weakest quarterback class in many years. Most scouts view this class as 2 round talents at best and see most of this quarterback crop being solid back up options. However if the 2010 NFL draft showed anything, teams often talk themselves into taking a quarterback earlier then they should based upon need. In 2010, four quarterbacks were taken in the first 12 picks.

This year teams in need of a quarterback decided to address the quarterback position via free agency. Kansas City acquired Alex Smith to take their snaps in 2013. Arizona, Buffalo and Oakland also jumped on the quarterback carousel acquiring Carson Palmer, Kevin Kolb and Matt Flynn respectively. Philadelphia is another team that could think about quarterback with a new coach taking over, but Michael Vick restructured to stay in Philadelphia and Nick Foles is still on their roster.

Five teams (Oakland, Philadelphia, Cleveland, Arizona, Buffalo) seem like viable targets to take a quarterback in the first round of the draft. Geno Smith is the name that has the most first round buzz. Oakland, Philadelphia and Arizona seem like probable landing spots if he goes in the top 10 picks. If he were to fall past the Jets at number 9, who along with the Jacksonville Jaguars are not set at quarterback but are likely to avoid drafting a quarterback in the first round, would put Smith in a free fall. Geno Smith will still most likely be a first round pick but it would be because a team traded back into the late first round to take him, much like Cleveland did in 2012 to take Brandon Weeden. EJ Manuel, Matt Barkley, and Ryan Nassib are the other names teams would target late in round one. If a team were to make a move to get back into the bottom of round, like Buffalo who would likely do so to take Ryan Nassib from Syracuse, who would be reunited with his former coach Doug Marrone, other teams could become nervous the quarterback they covet would be selected and look to do the same thing.

The 2013 NFL Draft also has many teams at the bottom of the first round who are in a great position to acquire picks and move out of round 1 this season. Bill Belichek and the New England Patriots are notorious for doing it. Trent Baalke and the San Francisco 49ers are quickly getting the same label. The Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, and Green Bay Packers are also perfect fits to move out of round 1 in 2013 and collect picks for later in the draft or future drafts. Trying to figure out which teams will get back into the bottom of round 1 is more guess than fact, but Thursday April 25 should provide fans with intrigue and excitement.

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