Tagged with 49ers

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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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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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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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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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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NFC WEST: An arms race is brewing

Percy Harvin over Seattle

via Bleacher Report

The NFC West arms race starts a day ahead of NFL Free Agency. A disgruntled Percy Harvin has been moved to the Seattle Seahawks for their first and seventh-round picks the upcoming 2013 NFL draft. Percy Harvin will be getting the contract he had been craving from Minnesota. In Harvin the Seattle Seahawks, will a get a talented, multipurpose receiver that can line up almost anywhere on the field and is the toy offensive coordinators salivate over. Giving the Seahawks the ability to line up in the backfield as both a receiver and running back will allow the Seahawks to give its offense a new dimension and the ability to spell workhorse back Marshawn Lynch.  Giving Russell Wilson a talented receiver will only help to improve Wilson’s outlook in 2013. Seattle is surrounding its young quarterback with talent and helping him avoid the sophomore slump that faces many quarterbacks as defenses learn their tendencies adjust their coverage schemes.

While the Vikings gave up a dynamic player in Percy Harvin, they moved a guy who made it very clear he did not want to stay in Minnesota and was looking for a long-term contract. This also gives the Vikings the ability to target free agent receivers Mike Wallace or Greg Jennings. They also have the Seahawks first round pick, 25th overall to go with their first round pick, 23rd overall. The Vikings can fill multiple needs or package picks to move up a player they covet.

The 49ers, not to be left out were able to acquire Anquan Boldin from the Baltimore Ravens.

Via Yahoo Sports

Via Yahoo Sports

Giving up only one of their two 6th-round picks in the 2013 NFL draft, the other acquired from the Miami Dolphins. In Boldin they are getting a big, physical receiver who is a proven winner. Boldin has the ability to both stretch the field and make big plays across the middle even against big corners such as Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner in Seattle. With Anquan Boldin and Michael Crabtree the 49ers have two of the best run blocking wide receivers on a very run heavy team. Michael Crabtree on one side and Anquan on the other side will give San Francisco a dynamic duo at the receiver position. Along with Crabtree and Boldin, Mario Manningham will be back to fill the slot role. Combine that with Vernon Davis at tight end, and 49ers a very strong receiving core for the 2013 season.

With 2013 NFL free agency period starting tomorrow the Seahawks and 49ers have gotten out to an early start and are forcing the other teams in the league to play catch up.

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