Saturday, April 30, 2016

Nice Drafts Through Two Days

Through two days, here are a few drafts of teams that I like. They aren't necessarily the best drafts. They are simply drafts that I like. After all, how can one really judge the quality of a draft when not a single drafted player has taken an NFL snap?

Jacksonville Jaguars
1. Jalen Ramsey, DB, Florida State
2. Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
3. Yannick Ngakoue, DE, Matyland

It just doesn't seem possible that a team could come out of this draft with Jalen Ramsey AND Myles Jack. That was before all the terrible news that Jack's knee injury was a little more serious than expected. The feeling here is that the Jaguars were wise to gamble on Jack. Great player. Great kid. Ramsey is no gamble. Ngakoue is a nice pass rusher. The Jaguars have added some promising offensive talent in recent years. This draft brought some talent to the defensive side of the ball. Plus they get last year's top pick Dante Fowler back from a knee injury.

Dallas Cowboys
1. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
2. Jaylon Smith, LB, Notre Dame
3. Maliek Collins, DT, Nebraska

I like this draft for pretty much the same reason that I like the Jaguars draft. They are giving a chance to a great player with an injury concern. Barring some sort of miracle Jaylon Smith won't play in 2016 due to the knee injury that he suffered in the Fiesta Bowl. In 2017, it's hoped that he'll regain the brilliant form that he showed throughout his college days. He's an explosive, explosive football player. Like the Jaguars, the Cowboys landed two top-5 players in a single draft. Collins is a pretty darn good player too.

Cleveland Browns
1. Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
2. Emmanuel Ogbah, DE, Oklahoma State
3. Carl Nassib, DE, Penn State
3. Shon Coleman, T, Auburn
3. Cody Kessler, QB, USC

For more than a decade the Browns have been a dumpster fire on the field and in the draft room. They are doing things a bit differently these days and the whole league is likely watching. The early returns are promising. The Browns have done far more trading than picking. When they finally did get to picking they did some good picking. Coleman, Ogbah, Nassib, and Coleman should all make early and significant impacts. That's a lot but they needed a lot. Kessler is the only pick that's getting some criticism. New head coach Hue Jackson says that we should trust him. I say that we should. Jackson knows quite a bit about the quarterback position and Kessler did have some nice moments at USC. Hell, he had more nice moments at USC than Mark Sanchez did. And Sanchez was the fifth pick in his draft.

Tennessee Titans
1. Jack Conklin, T, Michigan State
2. Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
2. Austin Johnson, DT, Penn State
2. Derrick Henry, RB, Alabama
3. Kevin Byard, S, Middle Tennessee State

Former Titans pass-rushing freak Jevon Kearse announced his former team's picks in the second round. He seemed like he was racing to the podium so much that he should have just stayed there. It felt like 10 picks rather than 3. I really like all of the picks. I might even like the Byard pick best.

New Orleans Saints
1. Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
2. Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State
3. Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State

Those are three solid picks. The Saints needed a lot of help on defense. Rankins and Bell will help a lot. Quarterback Drew Brees has had a fantastic career in New Orleans. He's thrown a bunch passes for a lot of yards and a loads of touchdowns. Thomas and 2014 top pick Brandin Cooks might be the most talented pass catchers that Brees has ever had.

Baltimore Ravens
1. Ronnie Stanley, T, Notre Dame
2. Kamalei Correa, LB, Boise State
3. Bronson Kaufusi, DE, BYU

I can't recall the last time that I didn't like a Ravens draft. The offensive line got stronger with Stanley. The front seven got a lot better with Kaufusi and Correa. Kaufusi might have been my favorite defensive end in this draft.

Denver Broncos
1. Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
2. Adam Gotsis, DT, Georgia Tech
3. Justin Simmons, S, Boston College

This draft will ultimately be judged by how Lynch performs when he gets his chance. That's how it is when a quarterback is selected in the first round. All three players have terrific potential. That's pretty good returns for a Super Bowl champ picking at the end of each round.

Seattle Seahawks
1. Germain Ifedi, T, Texas A&M
2. Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama
3. C.J. Prosise, RB, Notre Dame
3. Nick Vannett, TE, Ohio State
3. Rees Odhiambo, G, Boise State

I hate it when I like the Seahawks draft. The less than stellar recent play of their line has forced Russell Wilson to scramble/run far more often than is advisable. The line had to improve and Ifedi and Odhiambo should improve it. Those two linemen are the main reasons that I like this draft. The other three players are very good too. Reed should be a nice replacement for Brandon Mebane.

Minnesota Vikings 
1. Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi
2. Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson

In the coming days I will spend far too much time on this draft. Treadwell and Alexander were a terrific start. Both are top-15 talents that the Vikings were able to land at #23 and #54. Treadwell should be a day one starter. Alexander joins Xavier Rhodes and Trae Waynes to form a talented young corner core in Minnesota. The Vikings traded their third round pick to Miami. They received the Dolphins 6th this year and next year's 3rd and 4th. I don't like this trade this year but I'm going to love it next year. They'll need the picks more next year as a lot of players are in the final year of their contracts.

Day 3 is up.




Friday, April 29, 2016

Draft Day 1

The first round of the 2016 NFL Draft is in the books. Here's an initial look at it.

1.   Los Angeles Rams-Jared Goff, QB, Cal
No surprise here. The Rams have been sitting in this spot since they traded up to it. And they still took nearly all of the 10 minutes to make the pick. Come on!

2.   Philadelphia Eagles-Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota St.
No surprise here. The Eagles also traded into this spot. They also took nearly all of their time. What is wrong with these people? We could have been down to about the Jaguars pick in the time that these two teams took to reveal a decision that they made weeks ago. They traded up for these players!

3.   San Diego Chargers-Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Bosa was one of the top players in the draft so this was hardly a surprise. But it was still sort of surprise. The Chargers had to be taking a linemen or Ramsey! Right? That's what all of the mocks said.

4.   Dallas Cowboys-Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
Cowboys found themselves a running back. And a good one. It should be fun to watch Elliott run behind the Cowboys offensive line.

5.   Jacksonville Jaguars-Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida State
I thought that Ramsey was the top player in this draft. The Jaguars got him at #5. Nice. The Jaguars have been collecting a lot of very offensive playmakers in recent drafts. Now they add a possible star on the defensive side of the ball. Plus, they should get last year's top pick Dante Fowler, Jr. back after a preseason knee injury. It's like getting two top defensive picks this year.

6.   Baltimore Ravens-Ronnie Stanley, T, Notre Dame
The Ravens needed to improve their line. They did.

7.   San Francisco 49ers-DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
Terrific player. Terrific pick.

8.   Tennessee Titans-Jack Conklin, T, Michigan St
The Titans traded from #1 to #15 a couple of weeks ago. They traded from #15 to this spot last night. Conklin will help keep Marcus Mariota upright and safe.

9.   Chicago Bears-Leonard Floyd, LB, Georgia
The Bears traded with the Buccaneers to jump ahead of the Giants and take Floyd. Smart move. Foyd has excellent pass rushing skills.

10. New York Giants-Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
I suppose that we'll never know if the Giants really wanted Leonard Floyd. The Bears clearly felt that they did. The Giants did get a big, talented corner in Apple.

11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Vernon Hargreaves, CB, Florida
The Buccaneers traded back two spots with the Bears and probably still got the player that they wanted. That's always a nice move.

12. New Orleans Saints-Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
The Saints need some impact defensive players. Rankins is an impact defensive player.

13. Miami Dolphins-Laremy Tunsil, T, Mississippi
Tunsil suffered through this year's draft day slide. #13 isn't much of a slide but Tunsil was at one time the likely top pick. He's a great talent. He just has to stay clean off the field.

14. Oakland Raiders-Karl Joseph, S, West Viriginia
Joseph was my guy. He was supposed to make it to #23. Damn dirty Raiders. Joseph is a talented football player. The Raiders are putting talented football players all over their roster.

15. Cleveland Browns-Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
The Browns traded down from #2 to #8 to this spot. They landed the most explosive receiver in the draft. Their hoping that fellow Baylor player Robert Griffin III can get the ball to Coleman often.

16. Detroit Lions-Taylor Decker, T, Ohio State
The Lions were the first team to make their pick in a quick, efficient manner. I thank them for that. The Lions have needed to improve their line for a few years now. Decker should help them do that.

17. Atlanta Falcons-Keanu Neal, S, Florida
This pick was a mild surprise but Neal was a player on the rise. He has the size and talent to play some linebacker as well.

18. Indianapolis Colts-Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama
Great player. Great pick. He should control the middle of the Colts line for a long time.

19. Buffalo Bills-Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
Lawson replaces Mario Williams on a very good Bills line. He should fit in well on Rex Ryan's defense.

20. New York Jets-Darron Lee, LB, Ohio State
Lee is super fast. The Jets defense got a lot faster. Head coach Todd Bowles likes that.

21. Houston Texans-Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame
The Texans traded up a single spot with the Redskins to insure that get the receiver that they liked. Fuller is really fast but catching the ball is sometimes a challenge. A fast receiver like Fuller opposite DeAndre Hopkins will be a real challenge for defenses. Even if he lets a few passes hit the ground.

22. Washington Redskins-Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
If Coleman wasn't the most explosive receiver in the draft Doctson was. He's tall and can jump. He's going to be a good one.

23. Minnesota Vikings-Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi
The Vikings have to improve their passing game. They have to improve the offense in general. Treadwell provides the big, physical receiver that's been missing. He's also a terrific downfield blocker. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater should be smiling right about now.

24. Cincinnati Bengals-William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Jackson had been a rapid-riser in recent weeks. So much so that it seemed like #24 was a little late for him. Nice pick. The Bengals might have been burned most by the three team receiver that came right before their pick.

25. Pittsburgh Steelers-Artie Burns, CB, Miami
The Steelers offense is dynamite. When everyone is healthy and not suspended. They needed some players on defense. Burns should help at corner.

26. Denver Broncos-Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
The Broncos traded up with the Seahawks to get their quarterback. Paxton Lynch. Most first round rookie quarterbacks go to shitty teams. Lynch goes to the Super Bowl champs. 

27. Green Bay Packers-Kenny Clark, DT, UCLA
This draft is loaded with talented defensive tackles. Clark was the second to come off the board. There were supposed to be at least four defensive tackles selected by this point. Clark is a very disruptive football player.

28. San Francisco 49ers-Joshua Garnett, G, Stanford
The 49ers traded back into the first round to grab Garnett. Perhaps a bit of a surprise but Garnett, is a smart, talented, and nasty football player.

29. Arizona Cardinals-Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi
Perhaps the draft's biggest wildcard. When Nkemdiche is engaged in the game he's one of the best football players that can be found. It's those times when he's not engaged that kept him from being at the top of the draft.

30. Carolina Panthers-Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech
Oh my, the Panthers are now ridiculously stacked at the interior of their defensive line. Star Lotulelei and Kawann Short are at the top of their game. Now they add another talented big guy in Butler. Crazy talent.

31. Seattle Seahawks-Germain Ifedi, T, Texas A&M
The Seahawks have been at the top of the NFL food chain for a few seasons. Offensive line has been one of their very few holes. The remarkable scrambling ability of quarterback Russell Wilson often masks the issues with the line. Ifedi's best years are ahead of him and he might already be the Seahawks most talented lineman. 

***

Ohio State made a run at Miami's 2004 record of six players taken in the first round. They came up one short with five. Still impressive.

It was very disappointing to see UCLA linebacker Myles Jack drop out of the first round due to questions about his injured knee. A drop like this isn't like those of Tunsil and Nkemdiche. Those players dropped due to their own stupid acts off the field. Jack's fall was through no fault of his own. Just bad luck with an unfortunate injury. Some team will give the supremely talented Jack a shot. Hopefully today. 

Thursday, April 28, 2016

Final Mock Draft

Here's the final one. Finally.

1.   Los Angeles Rams-Jared Goff, QB, Cal
2.   Philadelphia Eagles-Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota St.
3.   San Diego Chargers-Laremy Tunsil, T, Mississippi
4.   Dallas Cowboys-Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida St.
5.   Jacksonville Jaguars-Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
6.   Baltimore Ravens-Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio St.
7.   San Francisco 49ers-DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
8.   Cleveland Browns-Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio St.
9.   Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Vernon Hargreaves, CB, Florida
10. New York Giants-Ronnie Stanley, T, Notre Dame
11. Chicago Bears-Leonard Floyd, LB, Georgia
12. New Orleans Saints-Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
13. Miami Dolphins-William Jackson III, Houston
14. Oakland Raiders-Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
15. Tennessee Titans-Jack Conklin, T, Michigan St.
16. Detroit Lions-Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi
17. Atlanta Falcons-Darron Lee, LB, Ohio St.
18. Indianapolis Colts-Taylor Decker, T, Ohio St.
19. Buffalo Bills-Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama
20. New York Jets-Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
21. Washington Redskins-A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
22. Houston Texans-Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
23. Minnesota Vikings-Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia
24. Cincinnati Bengals-Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
25. Pittsburgh Steelers-Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson
26. Seattle Seahawks-Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi
27. Green Bay Packers-Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor
28. Kansas City Chiefs-Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
29. Arizona Cardinals-Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
30. Carolina Panthers-Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
31. Denver Broncos-Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi St.

Today is the real thing. 

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Flea Flicker Final Position Rankings

The draft really needs to get here.

Quarterback
1. Jared Goff, Cal
2. Carson Wentz North Dakota State
3. Connor Cook, Michigan State
4. Paxton Lynch, Memphis
5. Dak Prescott, Mississippi State

Running back
1. Ezekiel Elliott
2. Derrick Henry, Alabama
3. Devontae Booker, Utah
4. C.J. Prosise, Notre Dame
5. Jonathan Williams, Arkansas

Receiver
1. Laquon Treadwell, Mississippi
2. Josh Doctson, TCU
3. Tyler Boyd, Pittsburgh
4. Michael Thomas, Ohio State
5. Corey Coleman, Baylor

Tight end
1. Hunter Henry, Arkansas
2. Austin Hooper, Stanford
3. Nick Vannett, Ohio State
4. Ben Braunecker, Harvard
5. Stephen Anderson, Cal

Tackle
1. Laremy Tunsil, Mississippi
2. Ronnie Stanley, Notre Dame
3. Jack Conklin, Michigan State
4. Taylor Decker, Ohio State
5. Germain Ifedi, Texas A&M
5. Shon Coleman, Auburn

Guard
1. Cody Whitehair, Kansas State
2. Joshua Garnett, Stanford
3. Vadal Alexander, LSU
4. Christian Westerman, Arizona State
5. Connor McGovern, Missouri

Center
1. Ryan Kelly, Alabama
2. Nick Martin, Notre Dame
3. Jack Allen, Michigan State
4. Evan Boehm, Missouri
5. Max Tuerk, USC

Defensive tackle
1. DeForrest Buckner, Oregon
2. Sheldon Rankins, Louisville
3. Jarran Reed, Alabama
4. A'Shawn Robertson, Alabama
5. Chris Jones, Mississippi State

Defensive end
1. Joey Bosa, Ohio State
2. Shaq Lawson, Clemson
3. Noah Spence, Eastern Kentucky
4. Kevin Dodd, Clemson
5. Emmanuel Ogbah, Oklahoma State

Linebacker
1. Myles Jack, UCLA
2. Darron Lee, Ohio State
3. Reggie Ragland
4. Leonard Floyd, Georgia
5. Deion Jones, LSU
-The team that selects Notre Dame's Jaylon Smith will get an absolute steal in the 2017 season.

Cornerback
1. Jalen Ramsey, Florida State
2. Vernon Hargreaves, Florida
3. Eli Apple, Ohio State
4. William Jackson III, Houston
5. Artie Burns, Miami
-Jalen Ramsey might double as the top safety as well

Safety
1. Karl Joseph
2. Vonn Bell, Ohio State
3. Darian Thompson, Boise State
4. K.J. Dillon, West Virginia
5. Jeremy Cash, Duke
5. T.J. Green, Clemson

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

32 War Rooms

It doesn't seem appropriate to call an NFL team's room of draft day decision-makers a "war room" but that hasn't slowed anyone from doing so. Starting Thursday the people in those 32 War Rooms will be making decisions on college football players. Decisions that they hope will turn their teams into Super Bowl champions. Here's a look at some of the people making those decisions.

Minnesota Vikings 
Rick Spielman-General Manager
George Paton-Assistant General Manager
Mike Zimmer-Head Coach
Jamaal Stephenson-Director of College Scouting

Spielman has final say on all draft day but this is very much a collaborative process. The past couple of drafts have shown this to be a successful, collaborative process.

Arizona Cardinals
Steve Keim-General Manager
Bruce Arians-Head Caoch

Atlanta Falcons
Thomas Dimitroff-General Manager
Dan Quinn-Head Coach
Scott Pioli-Assistant General Manager

Dinitroff is still listed as General Manager but he's been put on notice. Pioli was brought in to assist and may have as much, perhaps more, say as Dimitroff.

Baltimore Ravens
Ozzie Newsome-General Manager
Eric DeCosta-Assistant General Manager
John Harbaugh-Head Coach

Newsome has been terrific and has always been open to input. DeCosta has been a hot candidate for pretty much every GM opening for a couple of years. Perhaps he's being groomed as Newsome's replacement.

Buffalo Bills
Doug Whaley-General Manager
Rex Ryan-Head Coach
Kelvin Fisher-Director of College Scouting

Carolina Panthers
Dave Gettleman-General Manager
Ron Rivera-Head Coach

Chicago Bears
Ryan Pace-General Manager
John Fox-Head Coach
Joe Douglas-Director of College Scouting

Cincinnati Bengals
Mike Brown-Owner/President/General Manager
Pete Brown-Senior VP of Player Personnel
Duke Tobin-Director of Player Personnel

The Bengals are truly a family operation. Mike and Pete are sons of team founder, and coaching legend, Paul Brown. Executive VP Katie Blackburn and VP of Player Personnel Paul Brown are Mike's kids. VP Troy Blackburn is Katie's husband. It should be mentioned that Katie Blackburn might be the most prominent and influential female executive in the NFL. Duke Tobin is the one non-Brown family member that has a strong voice on draft day decisions. The improved quality of recent Bengals drafts is an indication that his voice is getting stronger.

Cleveland Browns
Sashi Brown-VP of Football Operations
Paul DePodesta-Chief Strategy Officer
Andrew Berry-VP of Player Personnel
Ken Kovash-VP of Player Personnel
Kevin Meers-Director of Research and Strategy
Hue Jackson-Head Coach

The Browns are a petri dish for the rest of the league. They are doing things a bit differently. Why not? Not much else has been working in Cleveland. Jackson is the only "football guy." The others are "analytics guys."

Dallas Cowboys
Jerry Jones-Owner/General Manager
Stephen Jones-Director of Player Personnel

Denver Broncos
John Elway-Executive VP of Football Operations/GM
Matt Russell-Director of Player Personnel
Mike Sullivan-Director of Football Administration
Tom Heckert-Director of Pro Personnel
Gary Kubiak-Head Coach

Detroit Lions
Bob Quinn-General Manager
Jack Del Rio-Head Coach

Green Bay Packers
Ted Thompson-General Manager
Mike McCarthy-Head Coach

Houston Texans
Rick Smith-General Manager
Bill O'Brien-Head Coach

Indianapolis Colts
Ryan Grigson-General Manager
Chuck Pagano-Head Coach

If rumors are true that these two don't get along they have to get it together. If they don't neither will be in Indianapolis much longer.

Jacksonville Jaguars
Dave Caldwell-General Manager
Gus Bradley-Head Coach

Kansas City Chiefs
John Dorsey-General Manager
Andy Reid-Head Coach

Los Angeles Rams
Les Snead-General Manager
Jeff Fisher-Head Coach

Miami Dolphins
Chris Grier-General Manager
Adam Gase-Head Coach
Mike Tannenbaum-Executive VP of Football Operation

Considering the inexperience of Grier and Gase it would surprise no one if Tannenbaum is running this show.

New England Patriots
Bill Belichick-Head Coach
Nick Caserio-Director of Player Personnel
Michael Lombardi-Assistant to Coaching Staff
Monti Ossenfort-Director of College Scouting
Ernie Adams-Director of Football Research

A Belichick-run operation is never the one-man show that a lot of people think that it is. He may have final say but he's as collaborative as any decision-maker in the league. Just ask the legion of GMs and VPs around the league that have worked with him. The most interesting, and least known, man in the league might be Belichick's long-time friend, and secret football weapon, Ernie Adams. Robert Kraft might not even know what he pays Adams to do.

New Orleans Saints
Mickey Loomis-General Manager
Sean Payton-Head Coach

New York Giants
Jerry Reese-General Manager

New York Jets
Michael Maccagnan-General Manager
Todd Bowles-Head Coach
Brian Heimerdinger-Director of Player Personnel

Oakland Raiders
Reggie McKenzie-General Manager
Jack Del Rio-Head Coach

Philadelphia Eagles
Howard Roseman

Pittsburgh Steelers
Kevin Colbert-General Manager
Mike Tomlin-Head Coach

San Diego Chargers
Tom Telesco-General Manager
Mike McCoy-Head Coach

Telesco is the youngest GM in the league. He looks even younger than that.

San Francisco 49ers
Trent Baalke-General Manager

Seattle Seahawks
John Schneider-General Manager
Pete Carroll-Head Coach

Maybe it only looks this way but the Schneider-Carroll relationship looks like the best GM-coach relationship in the league. But the Vikings' Spielman-Zimmer is gaining.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jason Licht-Head Coach
Dirk Koetter-Head Coach

Tennessee Titans
Jon Robisnon-General Manager

Washington Redskins
Scot McCloughan-General Manager
Jay Gruden-Head Coach

There are many more that play a role in the big decisions that will be made later this week. So many people doing so much work play an important role in every draft day decision. The above are simply some of the biggest voices on draft day in 32 rooms across the league.




















Monday, April 25, 2016

Brandt's Rankings

Gil Brandt has been in and around the NFL for about 60 years  If the 1960s Dallas Cowboys, with Tex Schramm as general manager and Brandt as a scout, didn't invent the player evaluation process they certainly got it pointed in it's current direction. He's no longer building football teams but he's still in the game. He's still evaluating football talent. Here's a look at his "Top 100" players for the 2016 NFL Draft.

****

This is the 56th year that I have done rankings of NFL draft prospects. In the early years, from 1960-66, we put together a pre-fall rankings because from 1960 until the first common draft in 1967, the draft took place on the first Monday after Thanksgiving Day (for example, the 1966 draft took place on Nov. 27, 1965).
In those days, we had about one percent of the information on prospects that we have today. Back then, there were not a lot of confirmed heights, weights and speed times that we have access to today.
Prior to 1960, interest in the draft was almost nonexistent. At the 1964 draft, which was held on Dec. 2, 1963, we had less than 10 media personnel attend. This year, according to Greg Aiello of NFL PR, the league will issue around 1,700 credentials to media from around the world.
Here are my Hot 100 prospects for the 2016 NFL Draft.
1. Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss
Tunsil (6-foot-6, 310 pounds, no 40 time) missed seven games during the 2015 season. In the six games that Tunsil did start, he didn't allow a sack, was called for one holding penalty and three false starts. Tunsil will play in the NFL for many years at a high level.
2. Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida State
Ramsey (6-1 1/4, 209, 4.41 40) was a three-year starter for the Seminoles, and started 14 games as a true freshman (three at cornerback and 11 at safety). He was the first true freshman since Deion Sanders in 1985 to start at cornerback for FSU.
3. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
Elliott (5-11 3/4, 4.47 40) rushed for 1,800-plus yards the previous two seasons. In the national championship win over Oregon, Elliott rushed for 246 yards and four touchdowns. He's a very good blocker with plus-type hands. Elliott is durable, very competitive and smart. He will be a very strong candidate to be the NFL's offensive rookie of the year in 2016.
4. Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Bosa (6-5 5/8, 274, 4.75 40) worked out better at Ohio State's pro day than he did at the NFL Scouting Combine. He father -- John Bosa -- and uncle -- Eric Kumerow -- were both first-round draft picks of the Miami Dolphins. Bosa had 26 sacks over three seasons at Ohio State.
5. Myles Jack, OLB, UCLA
Jack (6-1, 243, no 40 time) has not yet run the 40-yard dash for scouts, but had a good pro-day workout on March 15 (40-inch vertical and 10-foot-4 broad jump). Jack played just 140 snaps before going down with an injury early in the 2015 season. Jack is an outstanding athlete who could also play safety or all three linebacker positions. Jack will be a Week 1 starter in the NFL.
6. DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
Buckner (6-7 1/4, 286, 5.05 40) was the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2015 after finishing the season with 10.5 sacks. He was a two-time team captain at Oregon. Buckner has big hands (11 3/4 inches), long arms (34 3/8 inches) and performed 21 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press at Oregon's pro day. Buckner has a tendency to play too high at times.
7. Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
Wentz (6-5 1/4, 237, 4.77 40) didn't start at NDSU until 2014. He missed eight games in 2015 with an injury, but returned for the FCS Championship Game and was voted its most outstanding player. Wentz is very smart and has a lot of upside.
8. Jared Goff, QB, California
Goff (6-4, 215, 4.82 40) started 37 games in three seasons at Cal, and had 96 touchdown passes. He didn't have a good team around him, and was often plagued by poor offensive line play (he was sacked 86 times in his college career). He had a poor game against Utah last season, throwing five interceptions. Goff threw 43 touchdown passes in 2015, which were good for third in FBS.
9. Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame
Stanley (6-5 3/4, 312, 5.2 40) has 35 5/8-inch arms. He made 39 starts over three seasons, including two games as a true freshman in 2012 before getting injured. He allowed just two sacks, three holding calls and four false starts on 750 plays during the 2015 season.
10. Jack Conklin, OT, Michigan State
Conklin (6-5 3/4, 308, 5.0 40) was a walk-on and redshirted at Michigan State. He went on to make 38 starts for the Spartans. Conklin has played both left and right tackle, but his best position might be at guard. He's very tough and competitive. Conklin should be a starter in the NFL for a long time.
11. Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
Rankins (6-1 1/8, 299, 5.03 40) made 26 starts over the past two years. Rankins is a very athletic and active player, but not very big; he has everything but size. Rankins has good short-area quickness and burst, and looked good in one-on-one drills at the Senior Bowl.
12. Leonard Floyd, OLB, Georgia
Floyd (6-5 5/8, 248, 4.6 40) is a very good athlete. He had 4 1/2 sacks and 69 tackles in 2015 for the Bulldogs. Floyd looks better than he plays, but has great upside and some team will get that talent out of him. Floyd might play defensive end because of his speed and burst.
13. A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
Robinson (6-3 5/8, 307, 5.2 40) is a big man with power who also moves well. Robinson played both tackle and end at Alabama, and also played 139 snaps on special teams. As a five-star recruit in high school, Robinson excelled on both sides of the ball.
14. Vernon Hargreaves, CB, Florida
Hargreaves (5-10 1/2, 204, 4.50 40) made 37 starts at cornerback for the Gators. In 2015, Hargreaves was targeted 48 times, and he allowed one touchdown and had four interceptions. Hargreaves will be an NFL starter and play for a long time.
15. Darron Lee, OLB, Ohio State
Lee (6-0 3/4, 232, 4.47 40) was a high school quarterback who played just two seasons at Ohio State. He is very athletic and can play in space. Some team might draft Lee and try to make him into a safety.
16. Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
Dodd (6-5, 277, 4.86 40) has a breakout season in 2015 and was outstanding in the national championship game against Alabama, registering three sacks and five tackles for loss. Dodd has good quickness to be a productive pass rusher. He plays hard and has a good bend.
17. Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
Coleman (5-10 3/4, 194, 4.38 40) has outstanding physical tools. In 2015, he had 74 receptions and 20 touchdowns. Coleman can also return kickoffs. He lacks big hands. Also, Baylor does not run a lot of pass routes, so it might take Coleman some time to excel.
18. Reggie Ragland, ILB, Alabama
Ragland (6-1 1/4, 242, 4.72 40) stayed in school for a fourth season and it shows. He's a very competitive middle 'backer, but did play some snaps with his hand in the ground.
19. Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State
Decker (6-7, 310, 5.15 40) made 42 starts at Ohio State, including 14 at right tackle and 28 at left tackle. In 2015, Decker had allowed just one sack, had one holding call and allowed four quarterback pressures in 606 snaps. Decker was also a very good high school basketball player and could have gone to a MAC school to play the sport. He should be able to play left tackle in the NFL.
20. Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
Lynch (6-6 5/8, 244, 4.86 40) started 38 games and finished with a 22-16 record. Watch Memphis' upset of Ole Miss for the best of Lynch; watch the game against Auburn in the Birmingham Bowl for his worst. Lynch did well at Memphis' pro day. He has a strong arm, is a good athlete, and might need some time to develop. Lynch does have a chance to be special.
21. Jarran Reed, DT, Alabama
Reed (6-2 7/8, 307, 5.2 40) is very strong and competitive. He played very well against the run, and had 53 tackles last season. Reed is a never-give-up type of player. He can play both defensive end and tackle.
22. Vernon Butler, DT, Louisiana Tech
Butler (6-3 5/8, 323, 5.17 40) had a very good week at the Senior Bowl. He's a young player (just 21 years old), but is very strong and can push the pocket. He competes on every play. Butler will start on Day 1 in the NFL.
23. Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Ole Miss
Nkemdiche (6-3 1/2, 294, 4.87 40) was a three-year player for the Rebels who started 10 games as a true freshman. He has Warren Sapp-like ability. Nkemdiche has great power. If he can stay out of trouble, he will be a very good player.

24. Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
Lawson (6-2 5/8, 269, 4.7 40) has not yet lifted due to a left shoulder problem. He recorded 12.5 sacks last season.
25. Ryan Kelly, C, Alabama
Kelly (6-4, 311, 4.93 40) is a very good and smart player who made 36 starts at Alabama. He didn't allow a sack or get called for holding in 2015. Kelly will be a first-game starter in the NFL and play in the league for a long time.
26. Keanu Neal, S, Florida
Neal (6-0 1/2, 211, 4.62 40) was very good against the run and will be average against the pass. His brother, Clinton Hart, played seven seasons in the NFL. Neal will be a great special teams player, and I think he will be a surprise with his play.
27. Will Fuller, WR, Notre Dame
Fuller (6-0 1/8, 186, 4.32 40) had the fastest 40 time among receivers at the combine. He's a straight-line runner who needs to work on his route-running. Fuller is thinly built and had a lot of dropped passes. You can coach him to be a better route-runner and pass-catcher, but you can't coach speed.
28. Laquon Treadwell, WR, Ole Miss
Treadwell (6-2, 221, 4.63 40) has the size you want and is a lot like former Dallas Cowboys receiver and Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Irvin. Treadwell plays faster than his timed speed. He has very strong hands and toughness for the position; he will block. Treadwell will fight for the ball. He wants to be good, but will he work as hard as Irvin did as a player?

29. Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
Doctson (6-2, 202, 4.5 40) ran a faster 10-yard time than world-class sprinter and teammate Kolby Listenbee. Doctson has excellent ball skills. He was also an excellent basketball player in high school. Doctson missed the final three games of the 2015 season with a wrist injury. He's fine now, and will catch a lot of passes for some NFL team.

30. Kamalei Correa, DE, Boise State
Correa (6-2 5/8, 243, 4.69 40) is a very good athlete who plays hard on every down. Correa's best position might be outside linebacker in a 3-4 base defense. He is a lot like formerSeattle Seahawks and current Oakland Raiders defensive end Bruce Irvin.

31. William Jackson III, CB, Houston
Jackson (6-0 3/8, 189, 4.37 40) has man coverage skills, as well as the size and speed you'd want. He is very good in press coverage. He had 24 passes defensed in 2015, which was the best in FBS last year.
32. Derrick Henry, RB, Alabama
Henry (6-2 5/8, 247, 4.54 40) is a power runner with good hands. He had 2,219 yards and 28 touchdowns rushing in his Heisman Trophy season of 2015, including four 200-yard-plus rushing games (only Herschel Walker and Bo Jackson had previously done that in the SEC).
33. Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas
Henry (6-4 7/8, 250, 4.66 40) is a very good athlete who needs to get stronger and become a better blocker. He ran very well at Arkansas' pro day, and has good hands. Henry had no drops last season and has an ability to get open.
34. Jason Spriggs, OT, Indiana
Spriggs (6-6 5/8, 301, 4.94 40) has 34-inch arms and athletic ability. He started 47 games for the Hoosiers. Spriggs has very good feet, but needs to be tougher.
35. Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia
Joseph (5-9 5/8, 205, no 40 time) was a four-year starter for the Mountaineers, but suffered a knee injury during his final season. That will prevent Joseph from working out before the draft, but he expects to be ready in time for training camp. Joseph is a hitter who also has coverage ability.
36. Emmanuel Ogbah, DE, Oklahoma State
Ogbah (6-4 1/4, 273, 4.63 40) has the speed needed to be a special pass rusher. He posted 13 sacks in 2015. He also has very long arms (35 1/2 inches). Ogbah needs to be better against the run.
37. Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
Apple (6-0 5/8, 199, 4.37 40) has the size needed for the position, but is not the best against the run. He was the defensive MVP in Ohio State's win over Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl. Apple has very good quickness and catches the ball well.
38. Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson
Alexander (5-10 3/8, 190, 4.47 40) has the speed and quickness needed for the position. He does a lot of trash talking, and has not had an interception in two years. However, he has not given up a touchdown pass in two years as a starter.
39. Sterling Shepard, WR, Oklahoma
Shepard (5-10 1/4, 194, 4.48 40) will be an excellent slot receiver in the NFL. He was a three-year starter for the Sooners, and also can be a punt returner. Whoever drafts Shepard will be very glad that they did.
40. Jihad Ward, DE, Illinois
Ward (6-5 1/8, 297, 5.11 40) was a high school wide receiver and safety. He's very raw, but has great upside. He will be a starter by his second NFL season and he'll play well.
41. Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi State
Jones (6-5 3/4, 310, 5.03 40) has very good athletic ability. He has the ability to dominate, but does not always play hard. If Jones can play hard on every play, he has a chance to be special.
42. Austin Johnson, DT, Penn State
Johnson (6-4 3/8, 314, 5.32 40) is very good against the run because of his lower-body strength. Johnson was also a very good high school basketball player. He plays faster than his timed speed.
43. Cody Whitehair, OG, Kansas State
Whitehair (6-3 3/4, 301, 5.08 40) has started 51 games, playing left and right tackle, and left and right guard. Whitehair could also play center. He will play well and for a long time in the NFL.
44. Kenny Clark, DT, UCLA
Clark (6-2 5/8, 314, 5.06 40) plays with good leverage and body control. He plays with power, but his production fell off late last season.
45. T.J. Green, S, Clemson
Green (6-2 1/2, 209, 4.34 40) was a wide receiver before moving to safety; he didn't have good enough hands for the receiver position. He's very athletic, but needs to get stronger and lacks instincts for the position. Green is a very good special teams player.
46. Germain Ifedi, OG, Texas A&M
Ifedi (6-5 7/8, 324, 5.27 40) has 36-inch arms and is a very big man who has played both right guard and right tackle. Ifedi has a lot of upside, but needs to cut down on his penalties.
47. Jonathan Bullard, DT, Florida
Bullard (603, 285, 4.93 40) has played both defensive end and tackle. His best position is at end. He's an athletic player with good strength.
48. Vonn Bell, S, Ohio State
Bell (5-10 3/4, 199, 4.5 40) is a very good athlete who is good against the run and in pass coverage. Bell plays fast and has the ability to start in his first NFL season.
49. Su'a Cravens, OLB, USC
Cravens (6-0 3/4, 226, 4.64 40) is this draft class' version of Shaq Thompson, who was a first-round selection of theCarolina Panthers in 2015. Cravens is a very competitive player, but he is a prospect without a true position.
50. Tyler Boyd, WR, Pittsburgh
Boyd (6-1 1/2, 197, 4.5 40) ran better at Pittsburgh's pro day than at the NFLScouting Combine. He is a very good route-runner, and made 254 catches in three seasons. Boyd also brings an ability to return kickoffs and punts. He has outstanding hands.
51. Darian Thompson, S, Boise State (6-1 7/8, 206, 4.69 40)
52. Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor (6-0 5/8, 311, 5.05 40)
53. Devontae Booker, RB, Utah (5-10 3/4, 219, no 40 time)
54. Maliek Collins, DT, Nebraska (6-1 7/8, 311, 5.03 40)
55. Kendall Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech (5-11 1/2, 187, no 40 time)
56. Connor Cook, QB, Michigan State (6-4, 217, 4.79 40)
57. Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio State (6-2, 212, 4.57 40)
58. Sean Davis, CB, Maryland (6-1, 201, 4.46 40)
59. Jordan Jenkins, OLB, Georgia (6-2 5/8, 259, 4.8 40)
60. Austin Hooper, TE, Stanford (6-3 5/8, 254, 4.71 40)
61. Joshua Garnett, OG, Stanford (6-4 3/8, 312, 5.32 40)
62. Evan Boehm, C, Missouri (6-2 1/8, 302, 5.33 40)
63. C.J. Prosise, RB, Notre Dame (6-0 5/8, 220, 4.48 40)
64. Jacoby Brissett, QB, North Carolina State (6-3 1/2, 230, 4.93 40)
65. Deion Jones, OLB, LSU (6-0 7/8, 221, 4.41 40)
66. Noah Spence, DE, Eastern Kentucky (6-2 1/2, 251, 4.8 40)
67. Zack Sanchez, CB, Oklahoma (5-10 7/8, 181, 4.49 40)
68. Le'Raven Clark, OT, Texas Tech (6-5 1/4, 316, 5.16 40)
69. Nick Vannett, TE, Ohio State (6-6 1/8, 255, 4.87 40)
70. Roberto Aguayo, K, Florida State (6-0, 207, no 40 time)
71. Jordan Howard, RB, Indiana (6-0 1/8, 223, 4.59 40)
72. Max Tuerk, C, USC (6-5, 298, no 40 time)
73. Shilique Calhoun, DE, Michigan State (6-4 3/8, 251, 4.82 40)
74. Christian Westerman, OG, Arizona State (6-3 1/8, 298, 5.17 40)
75. Braxton Miller, WR, Ohio State (6-1 3/8, 201, 4.5 40)
76. Hassan Ridgeway, DT, Texas (6-3 3/8, 303, 5.02 40)
77. Kyler Fackrell, OLB, Utah State (6-5, 245, 4.72 40)
78. Shon Coleman, OT, Auburn (6-5 1/2, 307, no 40 time)
79. Yannick Ngakoue, DE, Maryland (6-2, 252, 4.75 40)
80. Kenneth Dixon, RB, Louisiana Tech (5-10 1/8, 215, 4.58 40)
81. Dak Prescott, QB, Mississippi State (6-2 1/4, 226, 4.79 40)
82. Miles Killebrew, S, Southern Utah (6-1 7/8, 217, 4.65 40)
83. DeAndre Houston-Carson, S, William & Mary (6-0 3/4, 201, 4.54 40)
84. Isaac Seumalo, OG, Oregon State (6-3 7/8, 303, 5.19 40)
85. Willie Beavers, OT, Western Michigan (6-4 1/2, 321, 5.28 40)
86. Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State (6-4 3/8, 223, 4.78 40)
87. Xavien Howard, CB, Baylor (6-0 1/8, 201, 4.43 40)
88. Will Redmond, CB, Mississippi State (5-10 3/4, 182, no 40 time)
89. Joshua Perry, ILB, Ohio State (6-3 3/4, 254, 4.68 40)
90. Nick Kwiatkoski, ILB, West Virginia (6-2, 243, 4.73 40)
91. Nick Martin, OG, Notre Dame (6-4 1/8, 299, 5.02 40)
92. Cyrus Jones, CB, Alabama (5-9 7/8, 197, 4.47 40)
93. Jerald Hawkins, OT, LSU (6-5 5/8, 305, 5.23 40)
94. Vadal Alexander, OG, LSU (6-5 1/4, 326, 5.57 40)
95. Adam Gotsis, DT, Georgia Tech (6-4 1/2, 293, no 40 time)
96. Blake Martinez, ILB, Stanford (6-1 5/8, 237, 4.71 40)
97. Joe Dahl, OG, Washington State (6-4 1/8, 304, 5.18 40)
98. Sheldon Day, DT, Notre Dame (6-0 1/2, 293, 5.07 40)
99. Artie Burns, CB, Miami (Fla.) (5-11 7/8, 193, 4.4 40)
100. Kolby Listenbee, WR, TCU (6-0, 197, 4.37 40)

Sunday, April 24, 2016

5th-Year Option Tracker

Team's have had a 5th-year option on first round picks since the 2011 Collective Bargaining Agreement. Those options are are now up for the players selected in the 2013 NFL Draft and teams have to decide whether to use them by May 2. Some teams have already announced their decisions. Most haven't. With about a week to go here's a look a who has and who hasn't.


Pick  Player                        Pos    Salary    Team        5th Year Option
----  ---------------------           ---     -------   ----------  ----------------------
  1   Eric Fisher                   OT   $11.9M   Chiefs      
  2   Luke Joeckel                OT   $11.9M   Jaguars     
  3   Dion Jordan                 DE        -         Dolphins    Ineligible (Suspended)
  4   Lane Johnson              OT        -         Eagles       Signed Extension
  5   Ezekiel Ansah              DE   $12.7M   Lions       
  6   Barkevious Mingo        LB    $11.9M   Browns      
  7   Jonathan Cooper          G    $11.9M   Cardinals   
  8   Tavon Austin               WR   $12.2M   Rams        
  9   Dee Milliner                 CB    $11.9M   Jets        
 10   Chance Warmack        G     $11.9M  Titans      
 11   D.J. Fluker                  OT    $8.8M    Chargers    
 12   D.J. Hayden               CB    $8.0M    Raiders     
 13   Sheldon Richardson   DE    $8.0M    Jets           Option Exercised
 14   Star Lotulelei              DT    $6.7M    Panthers    
 15   Kenny Vaccaro            S     $5.6M     Saints        Option Exercised
 16   EJ Manuel                  QB   $11.3M   Bills       
 17   Jarvis Jones               LB    $8.3M     Steelers    
 18   Eric Reid                     S     $5.6M     49ers       
 19   Justin Pugh                OT    $8.8M    Giants      
 20   Kyle Long                    G     $8.8M    Bears         Option Exercised
 21   Tyler Eifert                  TE    $4.7M    Bengals      Option Exercised
 22   Desmond Trufant        CB    $8.0M    Falcons     Option Exercised
 23   Sharrif Floyd               DT    $6.7M    Vikings       
 24   Bjoern Werner             DE        -        Colts          Ineligible (Released)
 25   Xavier Rhodes            CB     $8.0M   Vikings       Option Exercised
 26   Datone Jones              DE     $8.0M   Packers     
 27   DeAndre Hopkins       WR    $7.9M   Texans       Option Exercised
 28   Sylvester Williams       DT     $6.7M   Broncos     
 29   Cordarrelle Patterson WR    $7.9M   Vikings     
 30   Alec Ogletree              LB     $8.3M   Rams        
 31   Travis Frederick           C      $8.8M   Cowboys    
 32   Matt Elam                     S      $5.6M   Ravens      

Saturday, April 23, 2016

Official Moves

I thought that this little nugget from the NFL offices was interesting.



NFL-CFL Officiating Development Program Announced

FOOTBALL INFORMATION REGULAR ENGLISH
NFL-CFL OFFICIATING DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM ANNOUNCED
The National Football League and Canadian Football League today announced the formation of the NFL-CFL Officiating Development Program.
Beginning this season, a group of NFL officials will have the opportunity to work as part of CFL crews during preseason and regular-season games in June and July, prior to starting their NFL season at the league's annual officiating clinic in late July.
Several CFL officials will then join the NFL's Officiating Development Program, which is designed to train top officials in all aspects of NFL officiating.  Elements of the program include attending NFL minicamps and training camps, officiating preseason games, studying position-specific film with veteran NFL officials, reviewing mechanics and analyzing rules differences between the NFL and other leagues, including the CFL and college football.
"Any time our newer officials can get more reps on the field, during practices or games, that will make them better officials," said NFL Senior Vice President of Officiating DEAN BLANDINO.  "The collaboration with the CFL will certainly benefit us as we prepare for the 2016 season and we look forward to welcoming our CFL officiating counterparts to our development program later this spring."
The NFL officials working in the CFL will be primarily deep wing officials – side judges and field judges – to minimize the impact of some of the rules differences between the two leagues.
"This historic partnership gives officials in both leagues an opportunity to hone their craft and get better through shared development activities and more snaps at the pro level," said CFL Senior Vice-President, Football GLEN JOHNSON. "We're excited that a group of our officials will actively participate in the NFL Development Program and now have a formal path forward to be considered as prospects in their league."


Repetition is critical in just about everything. The more live repetitions that the officials can get the better. Plus, expanding the pool of officials can only be a good thing. It's always nice to see the NFL and the CFL playing together.

Friday, April 22, 2016

A Changing Mock

Wednesday's trade that put the Philadelphia Eagles at #2 forced another mock draft. Now the top two picks are in the hands of teams other than the ones that earned them.

1.   Los Angeles Rams-Jared Goff, QB, Cal
2.   Philadelphia Eagles-Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota St.
3.   San Diego Chargers-Laremy Tunsil, T, Mississippi
4.   Dallas Cowboys-Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida St.
5.   Jacksonville Jaguars-Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
6.   Baltimore Ravens-Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio St.
7.   San Francisco 49ers-DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
8.   Cleveland Browns-Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio St.
9.   Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Vernon Hargreaves, CB, Florida
10. New York Giants-Ronnie Stanley, T, Notre Dame
11. Chicago Bears-Taylor Decker, T, Ohio St.
12. New Orleans Saints-Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
13. Miami Dolphins-William Jackson III, Houston
14. Oakland Raiders-Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
15. Tennessee Titans-Leonard Floyd, LB, Georgia
16. Detroit Lions-Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi
17. Atlanta Falcons-Darron Lee, LB, Ohio St.
18. Indianapolis Colts-Jack Conklin, T, Michigan St.
19. Buffalo Bills-Jerran Reed, DT, Alabama
20. New York Jets-Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
21. Washington Redskins-A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
22. Houston Texans-Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
23. Minnesota Vikings-Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia
24. Cincinnati Bengals-Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
25. Pittsburgh Steelers-Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson
26. Seattle Seahawks-Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi
27. Green Bay Packers-Andrew Billings, DT, Baylor
28. Kansas City Chiefs-Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
29. Arizona Cardinals-Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
30. Carolina Panthers-Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
31. Denver Broncos-Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi St.

Less than a week until the real thing.



Thursday, April 21, 2016

Throwback Thursday: All-Time #2 Team

Last week I presented an All-Time Team made up of players taken with the top pick of their respective drafts. It's only fair that I present an All-Time Team made up of players taken with the second pick of their respective drafts.

Quarterback
Sid Luckman (1939)
Luckman edges out Y.A. Tittle.

Running back
Eric Dickerson (1983)
Tony Dorsett (1977)
Ollie Matson and George McAfee received strong consideration.

Receivers
Calvin Johnson (2007)
Johnny "Lam" Jones (1980)
Well, it was either Jones or Charles Rogers.

Tackles
Bob Brown (1964)
Tony Boselli (1995)
Brown was drafted as a guard but played tackle during his Hall of Fame career

Guards
Tom Mack (1966)
Walt Sweeney (1963)
Mack was drafted as a tackle but played guard during his Hall of Fame career.

Center
Dan Currie (1958)

Defensive ends
Julius Peppers (2002)
Neil Smith (1988)

Defensive tackles
Merlin Olsen (1962)
Randy White (1975)
Outstanding!

Linebackers
Lawrence Taylor (1981)
Cornelius Bennett (1987)
Von Miller (2011)
I guess that we'll just send all three after the quarterback.

Defensive back
Eric Turner (1991)
Defensive back isn't a popular pick at #1 or #2. Turner is the only one taken at either spot in the history of the draft.

The front seven of this defense will spend a lot of time around the opposing quarterback. It will be a race every snap to see who gets there first. They will have to get there fast seeing as there's no secondary.





Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Vikings Dream Draft

Mock drafts are fun and all but sometimes it's interesting to go a little deeper into this fantasy world of NFL Draft projections. All seven rounds. Not the entire draft. That's just crazy. All seven rounds for a particular team. The Minnesota Vikings in this case.

The Vikings currently have eight picks in the 2016 NFL Draft. They have their own picks in rounds 1-5 and round 7. They traded traded their sixth-round pick to the San Diego Chargers for offensive lineman Jeremiah Sirles. They acquired the San Francisco 49ers sixth-round pick and center Nick Easton for linebacker Gerald Hodges. They acquired the Buffalo Bills seventh-round pick for quarterback Matt Cassel. Those transactions resulted in the Vikings having one pick in rounds 1-6 and two picks in round 7. Here's my current dream for how they use those picks.

1. Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia
2. Tyler Boyd, WR, Pittsburgh
3. Connor McGovern, G, Missouri
4. Matt Judon, DE, Grand Valley State
5. James Bradberry, CB, Samford
6. Caleb Benenoch, T, UCLA
7. Drew Kaser, P, Texas A&M
7. Jake Rudock, QB, Michigan

Karl Joseph has been at the top of my first round dream scenarios for a couple of weeks. If he hadn't torn up his knee after four games last season he might have been a cinch to go in the top-15 of the draft. The only good thing about his tearing up his knee early in the 2015 college season is that he should be good to go for training camp. Hopefully earlier. There was a time when I thought that the Vikings could get him in the second round. I no longer think that's the case. Some team will likely grab him before the first night of the draft wraps. My current hope is that the Vikings are that team. Tyler Boyd has been one of my favorite receivers since I saw the way that he fights for every contested pass. He's a first round pass catcher but he's not a first round athlete. For that reason I hope that he's still on the board when the Vikings pick in second round. One of the problems that I have with this current dream draft is the absence of a defensive tackle. This draft is incredibly deep at the position. There will be defensive tackles taken in the third round that might have been late first round picks in any other year. For that reason I'm tempted to replace Connor McGovern with a player like South Carolina State defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. But the Vikings need much more help on the offensive line than they do on the defensive line. And McGovern has the strength and aggressiveness to be a beast in the interior of an offensive line. Besides they are getting some defensive line help with Matt Judon. He's a player that reminds me a lot of current Vikings end Everson Griffen. A ridiculous athlete in a somewhat compact 6'3" 270 lb body. Judon seems to live in the opponents backfield. I'd like to see a corner taken earlier than the fifth round but there's just not enough picks. James Bradberry might have been a higher pick if he hadn't played at itty-bitty Samford. The Vikings would be fortunate if he's still on the board in the fifth. I keep hearing more talk about Caleb Benenoch so he might be long gone by the time the Vikings pick in the sixth round. This is a dream draft so he's still there. I don't think that Vikings current punter Jeff Locke has been as bad as his statistics suggests. Since coordinator Mike Priefer has been running the special teams show the Vikings have been more directional-based than distance-based with their punting. The statistics that really matter are punts downed inside the 20-yard line and return average. All that being said, Locke shouldn't be too comfortable. It wouldn't surprise anyone if the Vikings bring in some punting competition. In fact, most fans are demanding it. And Drew Kaser is a potent punter. As for the final pick. Why not draft a late-round Michigan quarterback.

Until the next dream, there it is.

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Playoff Droughts

I stumbled across these interesting figures recently. Here are the NFL teams with the longest droughts between playoff wins.

50 years-Chi/Stl/Pho/Ari Cardinals: 1948-97
37 years-Pittsburgh Pirates/Steelers: 1933-71
33 years-New Orleans Saints: 1967-99
33 years-Detroit Lions: 1958-90
28 years-Washington Redskins: 1944-71
25 years-Cincinnati Bengals: 1991-2015

One thing that should be pointed out when pondering these numbers is that playoff opportunities were very hard to come by prior to the AFL-NFL merger of 1967 and complete merger of 1970. There weren't multiple divisions and the resulting multiple division champs. There wasn't even a wildcard team, or two. Outside of some tiebreaker playoff games there was only the NFL Championship game from 1933-66. Obviously, a team can't win a playoff game if they aren't in the playoffs. With only two spots available simply getting a shot at a playoff win was quite an accomplishment. That little aspect of NFL history played a part in the postseason futility of the Cardinals, Steelers, Lions, and Redskins. But, not being very good played an even bigger part. The not being very good part of the Steelers past is actually the most interesting thing about this list. The Steelers have been so successful over the last 40+ years that it's really hard to imagine that they were ever terrible. In the 36 years before Chuck Noll was hired the Steelers more closely resembled the current Cleveland Browns. Owner Art Rooney is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame but it isn't for how he ran his club during the first four decades. He hired Walt Kiesling, with a .353 career winning percentage, three times. Rooney even hired the less than dependable Johnny "Blood" McNally to coach his team. The Steelers were a mess for the first half of their existence. They have been a model of success and consistency ever since. They have hired three coaches since 1969 (Chuck Noll, Bill Cowher, Mike Tomlin). Each has won at least one Super Bowl.

The presence of the Bengals on this list is likely the reason that it recently surfaced in the social media world. It became a talking-point within the media because of the recent contract extension given to head coach Marvin Lewis. The Bengals have been one of the more talented teams in the league for a few seasons now. That talent and the coaching of Lewis and his staff has earned the team a playoff spot in each of the last five seasons. The unfortunate thing about those playoff appearances is that each has ended on the first weekend. Most of the teams on this list are on it because of their inability to make the playoffs. The Bengals are the only team on this list with an active streak because they haven't been able to in the playoffs in the last five years.

Monday, April 18, 2016

And Still Another One

You can thank the Los Angeles Rams for this mock draft. They traded a few picks to the Tennessee Titans for the right to pick in the top spot. The 2016 NFL Draft is under two weeks away. So, here's another mock draft with a new draft order.


1.   Los Angeles Rams-Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota St.
2.   Cleveland Browns-Jared Goff, QB, Cal
3.   San Diego Chargers-Laremy Tunsil, T, Mississippi
4.   Dallas Cowboys-Jalen Ramsey, CB, Florida St.
5.   Jacksonville Jaguars-Myles Jack, LB, UCLA
6.   Baltimore Ravens-DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon
7.   San Francisco 49ers-Vernon Hargreaves, CB, Florida
8.   Philadelphia Eagles-Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio St.
9.   Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio St.
10. New York Giants-Kevin Dodd, DE, Clemson
11. Chicago Bears-Ronnie Stanley, T, Notre Dame
12. New Orleans Saints-Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi
13. Miami Dolphins-Taylor Decker, T, Ohio St.
14. Oakland Raiders-William Jackson III, Houston
15. Tennessee Titans-Leonard Floyd, LB, Georgia
16. Detroit Lions-Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
17. Atlanta Falcons-Reggie Ragland, LB, Alabama
18. Indianapolis Colts-Jack Conklin, T, Michigan St.
19. Buffalo Bills-Jerran Reed, DT, Alabama
20. New York Jets-Paxton Lynch, QB, Memphis
21. Washington Redskins-A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Alabama
22. Houston Texans-Corey Coleman, WR, Baylor
23. Minnesota Vikings-Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia
24. Cincinnati Bengals-Josh Doctson, WR, TCU
25. Pittsburgh Steelers-Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson
26. Seattle Seahawks-Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Mississippi
27. Green Bay Packers-Darron Lee, LB, Ohio St.
28. Kansas City Chiefs-Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
29. Arizona Cardinals-Noah Spence, DE, Eastern Kentucky
30. Carolina Panthers-Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
31. Denver Broncos-Chris Jones, DT, Mississippi St.



Sunday, April 17, 2016

All-Late Round Team

Here's a team made up of players taken late in their respective drafts, fifth round or later. A few of them weren't even drafted at all. Players that perform beyond the spot in which they were selected in the draft are often used as criticism of the draft evaluation process and of those doing the evaluating. It might be better seen as a player taking full advantage of the opportunity given to him. This team might be a little lacking on the offensive line but it might win some games.

Quarterback
Tom Brady, New England Patriots (6th round)

Running back
Latavius Murray, Oakland Raiders (6)

Fullback
Patrick DiMarco, Atlanta Falcons (undrafted)

Receiver
Antonio Brown, Pittsburgh Steelers (6)
Julian Edelman, New England Patriots (7)

Tight end
Charles Clay, Buffalo Bills (6)

Tackles
Seantrel Henderson, Buffalo Bills (7)
Kelvin Beachum, Jacksonville Jaguars (7)

Guards
J.R. Sweezy, Jacksonville Jaguars (7)
Bandon Fusco, Minnesota Vikings (6)

Center
Jason Kelce, Philadelphia Eagles (6)


Defensive ends
Cameron Wake, Miami Dolphins (undrafted)
Michael Bennett, Seattle Seahawks (undrafted)

Defensive tackles
Kyle Williams, Buffalo Bills (5)
Damon Harrison, New York Giants (undrafted)

Linebackers
Vontaze Burfict, Cincinnati Bengals (undrafted)
Brandon Marshall, Denver Broncos (5)
Aaron Lynch, San Francisco 49ers (5)

Cornerbacks
Richard Sherman, Seattle Seahawks (5)
Josh Norman, Carolina Panthers (5)

Nickel
Chris Harris Jr., Denver Broncos (undrafted)

Safeties
Kam Chancellor, Seattle Seahawks (5)
George Iloka, Cincinnati Bengals (5)

Perhaps it interests only me but it's interesting that the offense is made up entirely of 6th-, 7th-round and undrafted players. The defense is made up entirely of 5th-round and undrafted players. It wasn't intentional.

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Vikings 2016 Schedule

The 2016 NFL schedules were released on Thursday. A Super Bowl rematch of the Carolina Panthers at Denver Broncos kicks off the season. But no one cares about that. Here's a look at the Minnesota Vikings first season in the sparkling, new US Bank Stadium.

Week 1: Sunday Sept 11-@Tennessee Titans
Week 2: Sunday Sept 18-Green Bay Packers-Sunday Night Football
Week 3: Sunday Sept 25-@Carolina Panthers
Week 4: Monday Oct 3-New York Giants-Monday Night Football
Week 5: Sunday Oct 9-Houston Texans
Week 6: Bye
Week 7: Sunday Oct 23-@Philadelphia Eagles
Week 8: Monday Oct 31-@Chicago Bears-Monday Night Football
Week 9: Sunday Nov 6-Detroit Lions
Week 10: Sunday Nov 13-@Washington Redskins
Week 11: Sunday Nov 20-Arizona Cardinals
Week 12: Thursday Nov 24-@Detroit Lions-Thanksgiving
Week 13: Thursday Dec 1-Dallas Cowboys-Thursday Night Football
Week 14: Sunday Dec 11-@Jacksonville Jaguars
Week 15: Sunday Dec 18-Indianapolis Colts
Week 16: Saturday Dec 24-@Green Bay Packers
Week 17: Sunday Jan 1-Chicago Bears

This should be an exciting year for the Minnesota Vikings. Coming off of a NFC North title they are a young team on the rise. They are also playing in a new home. They will host division rival, and previously annual division champ Green Bay Packers in the first regular season game at US Bank Stadium in Week 2.

The Vikings haven't made many national appearances in recent years. That's about to change as it looks like the league sees them as a marquee team this year. The Vikings will play in four prime time games this year. Three of them at home. The fourth will be in Chicago on Halloween Night. The Vikings will play a fifth nationally televised game when they travel to Detroit on Thanksgiving.

This is a favorable schedule. After crisscrossing the country last year with three west coast trips the Vikings will stay much closer to home this year. The closest that they get to the west coast is their home games. They are paired with the AFC South and NFC East. Both divisions needed late season surges to boost a team over .500 last year. A lot can change in an offseason but those two division aren't considered among the strongest in the league. But every game in the NFL is a challenge. A bye week close to the midpoint of the season is preferred so week 6 isn't bad. They play two consecutive home games before that bye week. They have two consecutive road games after the bye week. Other than those games the home and away games alternate throughout the schedule. In recent years the Vikings have had both games with division rival Packers and/or Bears jammed into the second half of the season. This year those games are spread out a little better. The only complaint would be the Thanksgiving morning game at Detroit following a likely rough Sunday game against the Arizona Cardinals. At least the Cardinals game is at home and the trip to Detroit isn't a long one. It's a fine schedule.

The schedule release is another step closer to another NFL season. Next step: the draft.

Friday, April 15, 2016

Jared's Back!

If only for one day.

"I can now say that I'm a Viking for the remainder of my time here on earth."
        -Jared Allen

Jared Allen is back with the Minnesota Vikings. For one more day. Allen signed a one day contract
yesterday so that he could officially retire as a Vikings. It was a nice move by a terrific football player. He was a fan favorite from the moment the Vikings landed him in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2008 to the day that he sadly left as a free agent in 2014. He won over fans with his humor, enthusiasm, hustle, and pass-rushing talent.

“We are incredibly proud to have Jared retire as a member of the Vikings franchise,” said Vikings Owner/Chairman Zygi Wilf. “Jared was not only a phenomenal player on the field, but he was also a favorite among the fans and within the organization. He will always be a member of the Minnesota Vikings family.”

Allen was named one of the 50 Greatest Vikings after only a handful of seasons in Minnesota. That was a testament to his popularity as well as his great play on the field. He ranks third on the Vikings all-time sack list with 83.5 sacks. In 2011 he recorded a franchise record 22 sacks, finishing a measly half sack short of Michael Strahan's NFL record of 22.5. Allen's four career safeties is tied for the most in NFL history.

As a member of the Carolina Panthers, Allen's last game was the Super Bowl. That's a great way to end an NFL career. He didn't win. And it wasn't with the Vikings. But it has to be great that his last game was THE game.

The terrific statistics tell only a partial story of Jared Allen's six years in Minnesota. He brought personality to game that's often lacking one. He was a big goof. He poked fun at himself. He was simply a fun football player to watch. And he sacked the quarterback a lot. His one day signing is purely ceremonial but it's a fantastic gesture to all of the people that loved watching that crazy man play football. Now he can ride off into the sunset as a Minnesota Viking.