Alright, the Season is over, the Combine is done, Free Agency has slowed down, and Pro Days are under way. With all of the analysis of the Draft I have put together, I think it is time for me to actually release a Mock Draft! With all of the thought I have put into this, as long as no other teams make a sudden movement, this should be pretty close. I will be releasing 2 more Mocks. One in the middle of April, and one the day of the first round, April 30th.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State
We have heard this one for awhile. The Bucs do not have a good signal-caller to complement their talented receivers. With the right combination of youth, experience, and leadership, Winston can become the franchise quarterback for the Bucs.
2. Tennessee Titans: Leonard Williams, DT, USC
With so many problems surrounding the Titans, it is hard to say they need a player at a certain position more than another. Their best option is to go with the best available player. With Williams' disruption on the line, he may be able to give some life to the Tennessee Defense.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: Dante Fowler Jr., OLB/DE, Florida
Jacksonville had a very heavy offensive draft last year. This year, it's finding ways to help elevate their 27th Overall ranked defense. Fowler was one of the most feared defenders in the SEC East last year for QBs to face. He, along with some of the other additions to the Jags in Free Agency, should be able to get things going quickly in a very weak AFC South.
4. Oakland Raiders: Kevin White, WR, West Virginia
Kevin White has a size advantage over Amari Cooper, and the Raiders need that. With Derek Carr needing some weapons to use on offense, a Dez Bryant look-a-like would not be a bad addition to a team that still needs some help on the offense.
5. Washington Redskins: Shane Ray, DE, Missouri
The Skins need to improve their pass rush plain and simple. With the loss of Brian Orakpo at the OLB spot, Washington would be quick to put in another edge rusher. Having Ray's speed will be excellent for the two times Washington will have to face the Eagles and their hurry-up offense.
6. New York Jets: Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon
Mariota will find a new home in New York. Things are not panning out with Geno Smith, even with some decent playmakers available to him like Percy Harvin and Eric Decker. Getting some new blood in the Jets locker room will either motivate Geno to do better or they will make Mariota the starter. Plus, with the acquisition of WR Brandon Marshall, more experienced receivers will help whoever that starting QB will be come opening day.
7. Chicago Bears: Randy Gregory, DE, Nebraska
The Bears defense was pitiful last year. Ever since the loss of Jared Allen, they cannot get out of their own way. With a young secondary, they need to address their front four. Getting a pass rusher that also can close off the lateral runs would be key for Chicago in a NFC North that basically belongs to Green Bay.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Vic Beasley, LB, Clemson
Beasley was the commander of the Clemson defense this past year and had them ranked in the top 25 in defense. The Falcons desperately need to get their defense going. Since the loss of John Abraham and Brent Grimes, they have not had a true leader. Beasley has the experience and the athleticism to be that guy.
9. New York Giants: Brandon Scherff, OT, Iowa
Even with Odell Beckham Jr. at their disposal, the Giants need help on offense. With Manning getting sacked 28 times and intercepted 14 times last season, and with their RBs getting injured so often, the offensive line needs to be bolstered, big time. Scherff is the best OT available. The Giants need to make this move to protect their franchise players.
10. St. Louis Rams: Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama
Two years ago, the Rams draft Tavon Austin with the 7th pick. They pick up Kenny Britt. Brian Quick is shown as a decent receiver, but none of them are WR1 material. Cooper can outrun most corners, playing in the toughest conference last season and setting WR records left and right. If Cooper falls this far, there is no excuse not to take him so Nick Foles can have a new friend.
11. Minnesota Vikings: DeVante Parker, WR, Louisville
With the addition of Mike Wallace and their 2013 WR pick, Cordarelle Patterson, not panning out like they had planned, the Vikes need a new receiver. None would be better than getting a top receiver who played 2 years with their top QB. This connection needs to happen.
12. Cleveland Browns: Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford
The Browns used Free Agency to boost their defense and their WR core. This OT will help protect not only the duel RB game the Browns seem to working on with Terrance West and Isaiah Crowell, but also to protect their QB, whether that be Josh McCown or Johnny Manziel.
13. New Orleans Saints: Eric Kendricks, LB, UCLA
The Saints lost Curtis Loften in Free Agency and now need someone to fill that roll. With the New Orleans defense being anything but good, a top LB should help them with not only the pass rush, but also slow down their opponent's passing game.
14. Miami Dolphins: Trae Wayne, CB, Washington
Miami worked Free Agency better than anyone else. They got rid of people that we not doing well or were not good for the team. The loss of Cortland Finnigan will be huge, so why not get a great CB with your first pick? Wayne will help the Miami defense become one of the best in the league with Grimes, Wake, and Suh on his side.
15. San Francisco 49ers: Bernardrick McKinney, LB, Mississippi State
We all know the 49ers will go LB here. With the retiring of Patrick Willis and Chris Borland, they need someone along side Navarro Bowman to help their defense. With all of the people the Niners have lost this offseason, they will be banking hard on this pick.
16. Houston Texans: Jaelen Strong, WR, ASU
Left with only DeAndre Hopkins and Cecil Shorts to help their QB, the Texans need a playmaker. Since Johnson is gone, it's time for a new guy. Strong is that guy. Averaging 7 catches and over 15 yards a catch per game, Strong is quick to get open and attempt to take it to the house. With most of the game heavily relying of Arian Foster, this will help the Texans compete with the Colts.
17. San Diego Chargers: Alvin "Bud" Dupree, DE, Kentucky
The Chargers lost some key defensive players, none more important than DE Dwight Freeney. Dupree was the only good player on the Wildcats this season with great speed off the line. Dupree will be a key piece to the Chargers success if he falls here.
18. Kansas City Chiefs: WR Dorial Green-Beckham, WR, Missouri/Oklahoma
Time to get a college boy in there. As most people have heard, the Chiefs' WR did not score a TD this season. With the signing of Jeremy Maclin and his speed, DGB can be a great complement with his 6' 5" frame jumping over defenders for the ball. This addition will put the Chiefs right back in the playoff hunt.
19. Cleveland Browns (via trade with Buffalo) Danny Shelton, NT, Washington
The Browns do not have anyone on the line that will look like a threat to their offense. Jacksonville, who has the worst O-Line, had their RB run for 127 yards on them. The Browns need Shelton to put pressure on RBs up the middle, forcing them outside.
20. Philadelphia Eagles: Landon Collins, S, Alabama
With all of the moving around done by Chip Kelly this offseason, I would think they would try to protect the deep threat. In the last four weeks of the season, the Eagles gave up 5 TDs on passes longer than 20 yards. Three of those were in 1 game with a top fantasy receiver. The others were to has-been receivers. They need someone who can ball hawk like Collins.
21. Cincinnati Bengals: La'el Collins, OT, LSU
The Bengals have been decent all around for the last 5 years, but have had troubles with their QB. By getting a new OL to give him some time, who knows? Dalton could actually win a playoff game for once in his career.
22. Pittsburg Steelers: Malcom Brown, DT, Texas
The retiring of Jason Worilds is hard for the Steelers coming off of an impressive season. To fill this roll, Brown is a perfect fit. His size and athletic abilities are almost a mirror or Worilds. This would be the point of attack for the Steelers
23. Detroit Lions: Arik Armstead, DT, Oregon
How will the Lions cope with the loss of Suh and Farley? They got Ngata and Armstead. The Lions would be smart to go to this position due to Ngata's ability to hit the outside and Armstead on the inside. With Armstead's size of 6' 7" 292 lbs., he can do some real damage on that defense.
24. Arizona Cardinals: Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin
WOW! Yeah, this is my surprise right here. The Cardinals were looking to get AP, but that isn't going to work out. Since their other RBs are sub-par, enter Gordon. He will emulate the year that the Cards had Emmitt Smith, pushing people down and taking names. Him and Marshawn Lynch in the same conference? Good God.
25. Carolina Panthers: Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE, UCLA
With the departure of Greg Hardy, the Panthers need to reinforce their D-Line. Odighizuwa is the guy for this job. His long arms give him the ability to keep opposing tackles away from grabbing onto him so he can get around to sack the QB. The Panthers would basically be getting the Kraken 2.0 (Or we could call him the Leviathan)
26. Baltimore Ravens: Marcus Peters, CB, Michigan State
Baltimore's pass defense was terrible last year. With all of the injuries sustained, and all to no big names, they Ravens were scraping by to get someone good. Drafting Peters would give them a corner with no injury history, and a key piece of the Spartans Defense that won them their Bowl game.
27. Dallas Cowboys: Eddie Goldman, DT, Florida State
Dallas needs a defense, everyone knows this. With he signing of Greg Hardy, they have an edge rusher. Now to work up the middle, they will get Goldman to work with Hardy, Lawrence, and Hayden on completing their front 4. Hopefully for them, Goldman will still be available.
28. Denver Broncos: Jordan Phillips, DT, Oklahoma
With the departure of Travis Knighton, the Broncos are left with a large hole on their defensive line. Phillips will be drafted here due to his large frame of 6' 5" 329 lbs. This guy will make sure no RB goes through the line without seeing him.
29. Indianapolis Colts: Cameron Irving, OG, Florida State
The Colts did very well in Free Agency, getting tons of experience vets to play with very young talent. But with Andrew Luck, throwing the ball 40 times a game, the defense knows what is coming. Getting another big OL will help not only take pressure off of Luck, but more importantly, get a run game going for Frank Gore and the Colts RBs.
30. Green Bay Packers: Eli Harold, LB, Virginia
With the loss of AJ Hawk, and Clay Matthews not wanting to be and OLB, Harold is the guy the Packers need. Harold will fill the slot that Hawk left and will be a potential edge rusher while Matthews commands the secondary.
31. New Orleans Saints (via trade with Seattle) Maxx Williams, TE, Minnesota
Jimmy Graham is gone, Maxx Williams is in. For anyone who watched Williams play this year, he looked like another Graham, ready to go. Running like a WR and big like a TE. I fully expect to see him in the black and gold come opening day.
32. New England Patriots: Devin Furchasse, WR, Michigan
Tom Brady only has so many targets. Gronk is double covered like no one's business and the WR1&2 are both relatively small. Getting a bigger receiver should be a priority for the Pats. Fuchasse stands at 6' 4" while Amendola and Edelman are both under 6 foot. Furchasse is the obvious choice.
Well that's it for the first Mock Draft. Comment on Facebook and Twitter on who your team should draft or why they shouldn't draft who I chose.
Friday, March 20, 2015
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Free Agency Winners and Losers
With the frantic beginning of Free Agency over, we can now look closer at all of the pick-ups that were made by teams. Many teams with lots of cap space did well, while others failed to rise to the challenge or just sat out entirely. I have come up with the teams that won and lost Free Agency.
Who won Free Agency?
Jacksonville Jaguars:
Key Pickups: TE Julius Thomas, RG Jeremy Parnell, DB Davon House
Key Losses: WR Cecil Shorts, DE Red Bryant, CB Will Blackmon
The Jaguars had the most cap room out of any of the NFL teams, having over $70 million to spend on available players. They were not shy about using this money to lure players to the Sunshine State. With so many problems with his 4-12 team, where was one to start? The Jags got it right with getting a big time receiver like Julius Thomas from the Broncos. He alone accounted for 12 TDs last season, even with being injured and playing alongside three of the best wideouts in the league. Next, the Jags addressed the protection of not only the QB, but also their halfbacks. Getting Jeremy Parnell from Dallas was great due to Parnell being part of the best offensive line in the league. This will help the Jags with protection on offense. Finally, Jacksonville needed some help on the defensive side of the ball, being one of the worst in the league in overall yards allowed per game. Going out into Free Agency, the Jags landed a player at each of the key positions. With LB Dan Skuta, DT Jared Odrick, DB Davon House, and DB Sergio Brown, the Jags look like they made all of the right moves this offseason. Looking to the draft though, every analyst is looking towards the pass rush of Jacksonville to be filled by either Dante Fowler Jr. or Leonard Williams.
Indianapolis Colts:
Key Pickups: RB Frank Gore, WR Andre Johnson, OLB Trent Cole
Key Losses: WR Reggie Wayne, RB Trent Richardson, DE Ricky Jean-Francois
The Colts were able to kill it in Free Agency with the signing of some seasoned vets. The addition of a healthy Andre Johnson will help boost the experience of younger receivers like T.Y. Hilton and Donte Moncrief. Having Frank Gore lining up behind Andrew Luck will be huge for the run game as long as Gore can get some blockers. The Colts run game was inconsistent all of last year with the switching between Richardson, Herron, and Bradshaw along with a sub-par offensive line. Gore will bring a veteran mindset to the position, something the Colts have not had for a long time. Adding Trent Cole to the defense was, I think, the best signing for the Colts. With being alone on the Eagles for so long as one of the only playmakers, you will see his stats rise as he will now have some more help along side Robert Mathis and Vonte Davis. Do not think though that the Colts will stop here. In the draft, they will probably address the offensive line trouble first and then move onto the defensive side of the ball. There is one acceptation: even with the addition of Frank Gore, do not be surprised if the Colts draft a RB.
Miami Dolphins:
Key Pickups: DT Ndamukong Suh, TE Jordan Cameron, WR Kenny Stills
Key Losses: WR Mike Wallace, CB Cortland Finnigan, TE Charles Clay
The Fins definitely signed the most big names of the Free Agency period. The key word to describe these past two weeks was passing. With the acquisition of one of the top TEs in the league and a young receiver like Stills, I expect to see a much different passing game from Miami come September. Even with the loss of Wallace, Hartline, and Gibson, Miami will most likely go after one of the top 5 receivers in the draft to fill that WR3 role below Stills and Landry. Defensively, Miami landed the number one Free Agent of the year. Suh has been the most feared man in the NFL since his arrival in 2010. Not just because he will get fined for unsportsmanlike conduct penalties, but he clogs the middle of the field, forcing a RB to move left or right, giving his LBs a chance to catch the runner for a loss. The loss of Cortland Finnigan is difficult due to his presence opposite of Brent Grimes, but this will likely be addressed with the second pick by the Dolphins.
Who Lost Free Agency?
Dallas Cowboys:
Key Pickups: CB Corey White, RB Darren McFadden, LB Jasper Brinkley
Key Losses: RB DeMarco Murray, DT Henry Melton, LB Justin Durant
The Cowboys sat back in Free Agency and watched as their players left for greener pastures. By that, I mean they are getting paid more. With the loss of Melton, Durant, and even Carter to either rush the QB or defend the pass, the Cowboy's defense is looking worse than it did last season. The loss of Murray was huge for Dallas, but not entirely a bust. With Dallas' offensive line, plug any back into that system & they will have at least a 1,200 yard season. The only reason I can still have hope for Dallas is the idea that they will build around young talent through the next two drafts. With the exception of a RB either first or second round, I highly expect the other picks in the draft to be defensive only.
There is one bit of hope for Dallas: signing DE Greg Hardy. Later today (3/18), Hardy will make his decision to either sign with the Cowboys or the Bucs for the upcoming season. Since Dallas has not used a large chunk of cap room on any of their pickups, I would expect to see Hardy to be signed to at least a 3-year deal worth somewhere over $25 million.
San Francisco 49ers:
Key Pickups: CB Sterling Moore, WR Torrey Smith, RB Reggie Bush
Key Losses: LB Patrick Willis, RB Frank Gore, S Perish Cox
The 49ers are in a state of woe right now. Over the past 2 months they've lost a coach, a 7-time Pro Bowl LB, a Veteran RB, and rumors of their star QB on the trading block. This offseason is literally leaving all 49ers fans on suicide watch. With all of the losses sustained by San Francisco, it is hard to think that they could be fourth place in the NFC West come next season. The Niners did the best they could this offseason by adding people at positions where they lost some names. Swapping Gore for Bush, Stevie Johnson for Torrey Smith, but these could all be in vain. Without that star-studded defense we have come to expect out of the Bay area, how do they expect to contend in a conference that now has Nick Foles, Larry Fitzgerald, and Jimmy Graham? To my friends who are 49ers fans, I hope you have a great draft, you'll need it.
Who won Free Agency?
Jacksonville Jaguars:
Key Pickups: TE Julius Thomas, RG Jeremy Parnell, DB Davon House
Key Losses: WR Cecil Shorts, DE Red Bryant, CB Will Blackmon
The Jaguars had the most cap room out of any of the NFL teams, having over $70 million to spend on available players. They were not shy about using this money to lure players to the Sunshine State. With so many problems with his 4-12 team, where was one to start? The Jags got it right with getting a big time receiver like Julius Thomas from the Broncos. He alone accounted for 12 TDs last season, even with being injured and playing alongside three of the best wideouts in the league. Next, the Jags addressed the protection of not only the QB, but also their halfbacks. Getting Jeremy Parnell from Dallas was great due to Parnell being part of the best offensive line in the league. This will help the Jags with protection on offense. Finally, Jacksonville needed some help on the defensive side of the ball, being one of the worst in the league in overall yards allowed per game. Going out into Free Agency, the Jags landed a player at each of the key positions. With LB Dan Skuta, DT Jared Odrick, DB Davon House, and DB Sergio Brown, the Jags look like they made all of the right moves this offseason. Looking to the draft though, every analyst is looking towards the pass rush of Jacksonville to be filled by either Dante Fowler Jr. or Leonard Williams.
Indianapolis Colts:
Key Pickups: RB Frank Gore, WR Andre Johnson, OLB Trent Cole
Key Losses: WR Reggie Wayne, RB Trent Richardson, DE Ricky Jean-Francois
The Colts were able to kill it in Free Agency with the signing of some seasoned vets. The addition of a healthy Andre Johnson will help boost the experience of younger receivers like T.Y. Hilton and Donte Moncrief. Having Frank Gore lining up behind Andrew Luck will be huge for the run game as long as Gore can get some blockers. The Colts run game was inconsistent all of last year with the switching between Richardson, Herron, and Bradshaw along with a sub-par offensive line. Gore will bring a veteran mindset to the position, something the Colts have not had for a long time. Adding Trent Cole to the defense was, I think, the best signing for the Colts. With being alone on the Eagles for so long as one of the only playmakers, you will see his stats rise as he will now have some more help along side Robert Mathis and Vonte Davis. Do not think though that the Colts will stop here. In the draft, they will probably address the offensive line trouble first and then move onto the defensive side of the ball. There is one acceptation: even with the addition of Frank Gore, do not be surprised if the Colts draft a RB.
Miami Dolphins:
Key Pickups: DT Ndamukong Suh, TE Jordan Cameron, WR Kenny Stills
Key Losses: WR Mike Wallace, CB Cortland Finnigan, TE Charles Clay
The Fins definitely signed the most big names of the Free Agency period. The key word to describe these past two weeks was passing. With the acquisition of one of the top TEs in the league and a young receiver like Stills, I expect to see a much different passing game from Miami come September. Even with the loss of Wallace, Hartline, and Gibson, Miami will most likely go after one of the top 5 receivers in the draft to fill that WR3 role below Stills and Landry. Defensively, Miami landed the number one Free Agent of the year. Suh has been the most feared man in the NFL since his arrival in 2010. Not just because he will get fined for unsportsmanlike conduct penalties, but he clogs the middle of the field, forcing a RB to move left or right, giving his LBs a chance to catch the runner for a loss. The loss of Cortland Finnigan is difficult due to his presence opposite of Brent Grimes, but this will likely be addressed with the second pick by the Dolphins.
Who Lost Free Agency?
Dallas Cowboys:
Key Pickups: CB Corey White, RB Darren McFadden, LB Jasper Brinkley
Key Losses: RB DeMarco Murray, DT Henry Melton, LB Justin Durant
The Cowboys sat back in Free Agency and watched as their players left for greener pastures. By that, I mean they are getting paid more. With the loss of Melton, Durant, and even Carter to either rush the QB or defend the pass, the Cowboy's defense is looking worse than it did last season. The loss of Murray was huge for Dallas, but not entirely a bust. With Dallas' offensive line, plug any back into that system & they will have at least a 1,200 yard season. The only reason I can still have hope for Dallas is the idea that they will build around young talent through the next two drafts. With the exception of a RB either first or second round, I highly expect the other picks in the draft to be defensive only.
There is one bit of hope for Dallas: signing DE Greg Hardy. Later today (3/18), Hardy will make his decision to either sign with the Cowboys or the Bucs for the upcoming season. Since Dallas has not used a large chunk of cap room on any of their pickups, I would expect to see Hardy to be signed to at least a 3-year deal worth somewhere over $25 million.
San Francisco 49ers:
Key Pickups: CB Sterling Moore, WR Torrey Smith, RB Reggie Bush
Key Losses: LB Patrick Willis, RB Frank Gore, S Perish Cox
The 49ers are in a state of woe right now. Over the past 2 months they've lost a coach, a 7-time Pro Bowl LB, a Veteran RB, and rumors of their star QB on the trading block. This offseason is literally leaving all 49ers fans on suicide watch. With all of the losses sustained by San Francisco, it is hard to think that they could be fourth place in the NFC West come next season. The Niners did the best they could this offseason by adding people at positions where they lost some names. Swapping Gore for Bush, Stevie Johnson for Torrey Smith, but these could all be in vain. Without that star-studded defense we have come to expect out of the Bay area, how do they expect to contend in a conference that now has Nick Foles, Larry Fitzgerald, and Jimmy Graham? To my friends who are 49ers fans, I hope you have a great draft, you'll need it.
Friday, March 6, 2015
Florida State Prospects in the 2015 NFL Draft
Well, I have pretty much exhausted most topics until we get some crazy signings from the beginning of NFL Free Agency on March 10. Therefore, let's look at some of the other NFL Prospects from FSU that are going to the draft.
Cameron Erving - RS Sr - C/G/T
6' 5" 313 lbs
Cameron Erving has been dominant for the Noles ever since he set foot on the field. He, being a leader on the offensive line, would make sure that the QB got the protection he needed and the RB would get to the proper hole. During his tenure at FSU, Cameron was moved around on the line from Guard and Tackle. I was only this past season that he would move to the middle of the line and play Center due to the injuries sustained by the 2 proceeding Centers. Once that move happened, FSU began to look much more comfortable in closer games where Jameis had the ball for the closing seconds.
Being the top ranked Center, along with years of experience on the line at different positions, Erving is not going to be waiting too long for his name to be called on April 30th.
Projected Teams: Panthers, Patriots, Bucs
My Pick: 1st Round, 25th Overall, Carolina Panthers
Why: The Panthers have not been able to have a dominant run game the past few years with the exception of Cam Newton. Stewart, Williams, and Tolbert are decent, but they need better protection to be able to break off into a second gear. Erving will fit the need at any position on the line.
Rashad Greene - Sr - WR
5' 11" 182 lbs
Rashad Greene has torn up FSU since day one. He broke the FSU receptions record in a career that had stood since the 80's. Rashid is quick, running a 4.53 at the Combine. His size has made it hard for people to tackle. He is elusive, making people miss tackles completely. But more important than anything? He is a leader. He is a quiet leader. He may not be the guy to get the team pumped before the game, but he can be the guy that gives the uplifting speech when you're down 21 at halftime. You cannot duplicate that X-factor he holds.
Unfortunately, Greene's size is a disadvantage in the draft. Many teams look for their big receiver first. The next Megatron or Primetime. But, the small receivers do have their role. Receivers like Wes Welker, T.Y. Hilton, and Cole Beasley are all undersized, but have all played huge parts in their team's success over the years.
Projected Teams: N/A
My Pick: Round 2, 47th Overall, Miami Dolphins
Why: The Dolphins released their WR2&3 earlier this week and may be forced to also drop Mike Wallace. That will leave Jarvis Landry to be a lead WR in his second year. While both Landry and Greene are under 6', their speed makes up for their size. Greene also met with the Dolphins earlier this week. He has met with no other team since then, nor has any scheduled.
Karlos Williams - Sr - RB
6' 1" 230 lbs
Williams was a solid RB for FSU over the past 2 years. We could always trust him for a first down when there were 2 yards to go. What some people forget is that Williams also played Safety for his first 2.5 seasons at FSU before moving to the RB position. As a RB, he made some clutch plays over the past 2 years, including catching a deflected pass by Miami and taking it in for a TD.
While ranked 15th among RB Prospects, Williams is among the deepest pool of RBs in a few years. He did a lot to help himself in the draft by running the second fastest time of all RBs with a 4.48. He will be drafted late by a team that does need a backup, but do not be surprised if we see Williams return to being a Safety.
Projected Teams: N/A
My Pick: 6th Round, Atlanta Falcons
Why: With the release of Steven Jackson, the Falcons lost their veteran at the RB position, living Freeman, Smith, & Rogers to fend for themselves with a terrible O-line. Also, Dan Quinn needs a new defense in order to get something going for the Falcons, which has no playmakers since the release of Brent Grimes 2 seasons ago. Williams can fit either of these needs
Cameron Erving - RS Sr - C/G/T
6' 5" 313 lbs
Cameron Erving has been dominant for the Noles ever since he set foot on the field. He, being a leader on the offensive line, would make sure that the QB got the protection he needed and the RB would get to the proper hole. During his tenure at FSU, Cameron was moved around on the line from Guard and Tackle. I was only this past season that he would move to the middle of the line and play Center due to the injuries sustained by the 2 proceeding Centers. Once that move happened, FSU began to look much more comfortable in closer games where Jameis had the ball for the closing seconds.
Being the top ranked Center, along with years of experience on the line at different positions, Erving is not going to be waiting too long for his name to be called on April 30th.
Projected Teams: Panthers, Patriots, Bucs
My Pick: 1st Round, 25th Overall, Carolina Panthers
Why: The Panthers have not been able to have a dominant run game the past few years with the exception of Cam Newton. Stewart, Williams, and Tolbert are decent, but they need better protection to be able to break off into a second gear. Erving will fit the need at any position on the line.
Rashad Greene - Sr - WR
5' 11" 182 lbs
Rashad Greene has torn up FSU since day one. He broke the FSU receptions record in a career that had stood since the 80's. Rashid is quick, running a 4.53 at the Combine. His size has made it hard for people to tackle. He is elusive, making people miss tackles completely. But more important than anything? He is a leader. He is a quiet leader. He may not be the guy to get the team pumped before the game, but he can be the guy that gives the uplifting speech when you're down 21 at halftime. You cannot duplicate that X-factor he holds.
Unfortunately, Greene's size is a disadvantage in the draft. Many teams look for their big receiver first. The next Megatron or Primetime. But, the small receivers do have their role. Receivers like Wes Welker, T.Y. Hilton, and Cole Beasley are all undersized, but have all played huge parts in their team's success over the years.
Projected Teams: N/A
My Pick: Round 2, 47th Overall, Miami Dolphins
Why: The Dolphins released their WR2&3 earlier this week and may be forced to also drop Mike Wallace. That will leave Jarvis Landry to be a lead WR in his second year. While both Landry and Greene are under 6', their speed makes up for their size. Greene also met with the Dolphins earlier this week. He has met with no other team since then, nor has any scheduled.
Karlos Williams - Sr - RB
6' 1" 230 lbs
Williams was a solid RB for FSU over the past 2 years. We could always trust him for a first down when there were 2 yards to go. What some people forget is that Williams also played Safety for his first 2.5 seasons at FSU before moving to the RB position. As a RB, he made some clutch plays over the past 2 years, including catching a deflected pass by Miami and taking it in for a TD.
While ranked 15th among RB Prospects, Williams is among the deepest pool of RBs in a few years. He did a lot to help himself in the draft by running the second fastest time of all RBs with a 4.48. He will be drafted late by a team that does need a backup, but do not be surprised if we see Williams return to being a Safety.
Projected Teams: N/A
My Pick: 6th Round, Atlanta Falcons
Why: With the release of Steven Jackson, the Falcons lost their veteran at the RB position, living Freeman, Smith, & Rogers to fend for themselves with a terrible O-line. Also, Dan Quinn needs a new defense in order to get something going for the Falcons, which has no playmakers since the release of Brent Grimes 2 seasons ago. Williams can fit either of these needs
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
McCoy-Alonso Trade
Wow, no one saw this coming. When I saw this little tidbit pop up on my phone, I was floored. After a short stay with their opposing teams, McCoy and Alonso would trade places to fit glaring needs on both teams. Now how exactly does this trade help some very important parties?
Buffalo Bills
The Bills have a decent set of RBs at their disposal, but none of them know how to stay healthy. With C.J. Spiller getting injured more and more each season, and Fred Jackson about to hit 35, the Bills are looking to strengthen their run game. By adding McCoy to the mix, the Bills get a very versatile back with speed and agility, something the Bills have lacked at that position for quite a few years now. Now the Bills' run was not the worst in the league, but they lacked a serious playmaker at the position. Jackson was more effective in the pass game, having 66 catches for 501 yards. Spiller is coming off of his second worst season (worst being his rookie year) where he only played 9 games. The Bills were right to make a play for McCoy
The better news of this is not just for the team as a whole, but for whoever is awarded the job of starting QB. With the carousel of QBs over the past two years between Kyle Orton, EJ Manuel, and even Kevin Kolb, it's no wonder the Bills cannot make it to the playoffs. The reason was lack of a run game. Last season, there were 7 total rushing TDs. Two of those were by by the QB. With a better back now lining up behind the starting QB, the Bills will effectively run the ball, which will open up the passing game for the young receivers. The only thing Buffalo will have to do now is secure a good left or right tackle in the draft or free agency to give McCoy room.
Philadelphia Eagles
Well it looks like Chip Kelly is getting the band back together in Philly from Oregon. Alonso is now the eight Oregon player on the Philadelphia depth chart. With all of the talk going around that the Eagles are going to try and trade up for Marcus Mariota, it sure looks as though Kelly wants his Ducks to go to the Eagles.
In the 2013 season Kiko Alonso would be named Defensive Rookie of the Year. He had 159 tackles and 4 ints as a LB for the Bills. Before the season started, the reigning DROY would be sidelined for the entire 2014 season with a torn ACL. Now this is a very serious injury. Many players do not come back as strong as they were a player after sustaining this injury. The best case scenario is Adrian Peterson in 2012, rushing for over 2,000 yards after a torn ACL in 2011. Other players, this is not the case. But all signs for Kiko look good. He has had now 6 months to recover and train. Also, being back under the coach you worked with in college can help his game mentality, considering there is already a relationship there.
Overall, the Philly defense looked great last year. The Eagles had 49 sacks and 8 defensive TDs. But this was all due to a powerful line the Eagles had. When it came to defending in the secondary, they were 31st in the league for passing yards. In December, they allowed 6 passing TDs. Two from the Seahawks, a running team. One from the Giants, a team with one healthy receiver. And 3 from the Cowboys, all to Dez Bryant on Bradley Fletcher. Kiko will bring a great presence to the field and become the mike on the defense with Mychal Kendricks by his side.
NFC East
The other teams in the East now have one less playmaker on offense to worry about. Now doubt that when we name the top player on each team's offense in the NFC East, you get the following: Odell Beckham Jr., Dez Bryant, DeSean Jackson, and LeSean McCoy. The Eagles have lost their X-Factor. Being in a group of friends where we have at least one fan of each team in that division, we were ecstatic to hear about the trade. No LeSean McCoy means Darren Sproles will be starting and not be the return man. This can make special teams defense much easier with only having to guard WR Josh Huff.
On the other hand, if the Eagles are trying to recreate the Oregon team, much like how it looks like it is going, than they will have to worry about Mariota running it. Also, with a power player like Alonso in command of the defense, the Eagles can still be as much trouble as they were last year for so many teams.
AFC East
Let's see Malcom Butler intercept this guy. By being added to the Bills roster, LeSean McCoy just became the best RB in his division. With only having to compete against Moreno, Ridley, and Johnson, McCoy will be the back to watch in that group. He is also one of the hardest players to defend in the league due to his ability to move left-to-right without losing speed and make people miss. The Bills, with this move, have become a contender in the AFC East now. With a top 5 defense, a new head coach, and now a 5-star RB lining up on offense, every team facing the Bills should circle their calendar, because they will be a tough team to beat.
Buffalo Bills
The Bills have a decent set of RBs at their disposal, but none of them know how to stay healthy. With C.J. Spiller getting injured more and more each season, and Fred Jackson about to hit 35, the Bills are looking to strengthen their run game. By adding McCoy to the mix, the Bills get a very versatile back with speed and agility, something the Bills have lacked at that position for quite a few years now. Now the Bills' run was not the worst in the league, but they lacked a serious playmaker at the position. Jackson was more effective in the pass game, having 66 catches for 501 yards. Spiller is coming off of his second worst season (worst being his rookie year) where he only played 9 games. The Bills were right to make a play for McCoy
The better news of this is not just for the team as a whole, but for whoever is awarded the job of starting QB. With the carousel of QBs over the past two years between Kyle Orton, EJ Manuel, and even Kevin Kolb, it's no wonder the Bills cannot make it to the playoffs. The reason was lack of a run game. Last season, there were 7 total rushing TDs. Two of those were by by the QB. With a better back now lining up behind the starting QB, the Bills will effectively run the ball, which will open up the passing game for the young receivers. The only thing Buffalo will have to do now is secure a good left or right tackle in the draft or free agency to give McCoy room.
Philadelphia Eagles
Well it looks like Chip Kelly is getting the band back together in Philly from Oregon. Alonso is now the eight Oregon player on the Philadelphia depth chart. With all of the talk going around that the Eagles are going to try and trade up for Marcus Mariota, it sure looks as though Kelly wants his Ducks to go to the Eagles.
In the 2013 season Kiko Alonso would be named Defensive Rookie of the Year. He had 159 tackles and 4 ints as a LB for the Bills. Before the season started, the reigning DROY would be sidelined for the entire 2014 season with a torn ACL. Now this is a very serious injury. Many players do not come back as strong as they were a player after sustaining this injury. The best case scenario is Adrian Peterson in 2012, rushing for over 2,000 yards after a torn ACL in 2011. Other players, this is not the case. But all signs for Kiko look good. He has had now 6 months to recover and train. Also, being back under the coach you worked with in college can help his game mentality, considering there is already a relationship there.
Overall, the Philly defense looked great last year. The Eagles had 49 sacks and 8 defensive TDs. But this was all due to a powerful line the Eagles had. When it came to defending in the secondary, they were 31st in the league for passing yards. In December, they allowed 6 passing TDs. Two from the Seahawks, a running team. One from the Giants, a team with one healthy receiver. And 3 from the Cowboys, all to Dez Bryant on Bradley Fletcher. Kiko will bring a great presence to the field and become the mike on the defense with Mychal Kendricks by his side.
NFC East
The other teams in the East now have one less playmaker on offense to worry about. Now doubt that when we name the top player on each team's offense in the NFC East, you get the following: Odell Beckham Jr., Dez Bryant, DeSean Jackson, and LeSean McCoy. The Eagles have lost their X-Factor. Being in a group of friends where we have at least one fan of each team in that division, we were ecstatic to hear about the trade. No LeSean McCoy means Darren Sproles will be starting and not be the return man. This can make special teams defense much easier with only having to guard WR Josh Huff.
On the other hand, if the Eagles are trying to recreate the Oregon team, much like how it looks like it is going, than they will have to worry about Mariota running it. Also, with a power player like Alonso in command of the defense, the Eagles can still be as much trouble as they were last year for so many teams.
AFC East
Let's see Malcom Butler intercept this guy. By being added to the Bills roster, LeSean McCoy just became the best RB in his division. With only having to compete against Moreno, Ridley, and Johnson, McCoy will be the back to watch in that group. He is also one of the hardest players to defend in the league due to his ability to move left-to-right without losing speed and make people miss. The Bills, with this move, have become a contender in the AFC East now. With a top 5 defense, a new head coach, and now a 5-star RB lining up on offense, every team facing the Bills should circle their calendar, because they will be a tough team to beat.
Monday, March 2, 2015
NFL Releases
Well, the Super Bowl is officially 1 month behind us and the Combine is over, that means it is time for people to get released into free agency. While players due this either of their own free will or due to a cut from a team is of little regard to most readers, but getting cut can be shocking to most. Below are my top 4 players that have recently been cut from their team.
Reggie Bush
The 2005 Heisman Trophy winner was cut last week by the Lions. After 2 season in Detroit, Bush had racked up 1,303 yards and only 6 TDs. Not very impressive stats from a RB who helped the Saints win their first Super Bowl back in 2010. The problem with Bush is that he is constantly injured. The past 2 seasons, Bush has missed 7 games due to his ankle, and he's not getting any younger. His speed is impressive, both running and being a passing threat on the outside, but his injuries are what hold teams back from signing him.
Will he get resigned?
Bush, entering his 10th season as a RB, will not draw much appeal from team as their starting RB. With the draft coming up and the RB pool being as deep as it is, I do not see why a team would want him when they can have a fresh guy, ready to truck people over. If he goes anywhere, it will be for his veteran mindset. He will be there to mentor new RBs or ones that just need some fine tuning. My top 3 slots for Bush to go are the Titans, Jaguars, and Vikings (if they do not sign Peterson back).
Darnell Dockett
Now entering his 12th season, the Cardinals dropped their 3-time Pro-Bowl DT. Only missing 2 games before this past season started, Dockett was a monster. With 459 tackles and 56 stuffs, Dockett could have been signed for another season. This past season changed that when Dockett tore his ACL 2 weeks before the start of the regular season. Not many people can recover fully from an injury like that.
Will he get resigned?
ACL + 12th season = <1% interest. This injury could possibly sideline Dockett enough for him to call it a career. The only way I could see Dockett being resigned is if someone wants to give him a shot while they have a desperate need at DT. Many teams have this need, but will likely fill it in the draft with young blood. If, by some chance, he were to get resigned, I believe it would only be for the preseason, so that the team can make an accurate assessment of his ability after the injury. Interested teams could be the Jaguars, Cowboys, and Saints.
Jacoby Jones
Now entering his 9th season, the Ravens have decided to part ways with their explosive WR/KR. Jones, who was originally drafted by the Texans, never really took off as a reliable WR in either Houston or Baltimore. What Jones is known for is 2 plays in the 2013 playoffs: the long bomb TD to tie the game against the Broncos and the 108 yard kick return for a TD to start the second half of the Super Bowl. Since then, Jones has found the end zone 4 times, 2 of them on kickoffs, in 2 seasons. This past season, Jones had a limited role due to the signing of Steve Smith. Jones would have only 9 catches for 131 yards this season as a WR.
Will he get resigned?
Yes. Someone will signed Jones for a season. He has some moments when he looks go for a return man, but not on offense. Jones will be a Special Teams guy and maybe a WR4. Look for a team with a problem with Special Teams and would also like some depth at receiver. Teams like the Giants, Patriots, and Vikings.
Chris Canty
DE Chris Canty was released by the Ravens over the past weekend. There had been some speculation that this would happen to the 11 year veteran, but now it's hard to see as a reality. Canty was always a solid DE, but due to missing 6 games in 2 years due to injury, Canty's production does not match what his need is to the team right now. This last season, Canty had a total of 33 tackles and 0.5 sacks. While he did not have the stats to be seen as a great DE, he contributed to the DL unit as a whole with other play makers like Haloti Ngata and Courtney Upshaw.
Will he get resigned?
Yes, but no. He will get resigned, but Canty will not be a starter. His value would be better suited to a line that needs some depth, but not on the front lines. Look for a team that needs help with developing their pass rushers on the outside. Teams like the Titans, Cowboys, and Colts.
Reggie Bush
The 2005 Heisman Trophy winner was cut last week by the Lions. After 2 season in Detroit, Bush had racked up 1,303 yards and only 6 TDs. Not very impressive stats from a RB who helped the Saints win their first Super Bowl back in 2010. The problem with Bush is that he is constantly injured. The past 2 seasons, Bush has missed 7 games due to his ankle, and he's not getting any younger. His speed is impressive, both running and being a passing threat on the outside, but his injuries are what hold teams back from signing him.
Will he get resigned?
Bush, entering his 10th season as a RB, will not draw much appeal from team as their starting RB. With the draft coming up and the RB pool being as deep as it is, I do not see why a team would want him when they can have a fresh guy, ready to truck people over. If he goes anywhere, it will be for his veteran mindset. He will be there to mentor new RBs or ones that just need some fine tuning. My top 3 slots for Bush to go are the Titans, Jaguars, and Vikings (if they do not sign Peterson back).
Darnell Dockett
Now entering his 12th season, the Cardinals dropped their 3-time Pro-Bowl DT. Only missing 2 games before this past season started, Dockett was a monster. With 459 tackles and 56 stuffs, Dockett could have been signed for another season. This past season changed that when Dockett tore his ACL 2 weeks before the start of the regular season. Not many people can recover fully from an injury like that.
Will he get resigned?
ACL + 12th season = <1% interest. This injury could possibly sideline Dockett enough for him to call it a career. The only way I could see Dockett being resigned is if someone wants to give him a shot while they have a desperate need at DT. Many teams have this need, but will likely fill it in the draft with young blood. If, by some chance, he were to get resigned, I believe it would only be for the preseason, so that the team can make an accurate assessment of his ability after the injury. Interested teams could be the Jaguars, Cowboys, and Saints.
Jacoby Jones
Now entering his 9th season, the Ravens have decided to part ways with their explosive WR/KR. Jones, who was originally drafted by the Texans, never really took off as a reliable WR in either Houston or Baltimore. What Jones is known for is 2 plays in the 2013 playoffs: the long bomb TD to tie the game against the Broncos and the 108 yard kick return for a TD to start the second half of the Super Bowl. Since then, Jones has found the end zone 4 times, 2 of them on kickoffs, in 2 seasons. This past season, Jones had a limited role due to the signing of Steve Smith. Jones would have only 9 catches for 131 yards this season as a WR.
Will he get resigned?
Yes. Someone will signed Jones for a season. He has some moments when he looks go for a return man, but not on offense. Jones will be a Special Teams guy and maybe a WR4. Look for a team with a problem with Special Teams and would also like some depth at receiver. Teams like the Giants, Patriots, and Vikings.
Chris Canty
DE Chris Canty was released by the Ravens over the past weekend. There had been some speculation that this would happen to the 11 year veteran, but now it's hard to see as a reality. Canty was always a solid DE, but due to missing 6 games in 2 years due to injury, Canty's production does not match what his need is to the team right now. This last season, Canty had a total of 33 tackles and 0.5 sacks. While he did not have the stats to be seen as a great DE, he contributed to the DL unit as a whole with other play makers like Haloti Ngata and Courtney Upshaw.
Will he get resigned?
Yes, but no. He will get resigned, but Canty will not be a starter. His value would be better suited to a line that needs some depth, but not on the front lines. Look for a team that needs help with developing their pass rushers on the outside. Teams like the Titans, Cowboys, and Colts.
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