The Minnesota Vikings didn't start signing their draft picks until the end of last week. That was about three weeks later than they intended. A typically smooth process was slowed when the NFL Player's Association had some issues with some of the language that the Vikings had in their rookie contracts. Sources said that the team didn't change that language so the rookies have signed the contracts as is. About three weeks late.
Rodney Adams, a fifth-round receiver out of South Florida, was the first to sign when signed last Thursday. He was soon followed by Ifeadi Odenigbo, a seventh-round defensive end out of Northwestern, later that day.
On Friday, the number of signed rookies hit five as Jaleel Johnson, a fourth-round defensive tackle out of Iowa, Ben Gedeon, a fourth-round linebacker out of Michigan, and Danny Isidora, a fifth-round guard out of Miami, all signed The Vikings were on a rookie-signing roll as they headed into the Memorial Day weekend with five of their 11 draft picks signed.
The Vikings got right back to work after the long weekend. On Tuesday, the Vikings announced the signings of Pat Elflein, a third-round center out of Ohio State, Bucky Hodges, a sixth-round tight end out of Virginia Tech, Stacy Coley, a seventh-round receiver out of Miami, Elijah Lee, a seventh-round linebacker out of Kansas State, and Jack Tocho, a seventh-round safety out of North Carolina State. Those signings left only top pick Dalvin Cook, a second-round running back out of Florida State, as the only unsigned Vikings' rookie. A source said that Cook was close to signing his deal. Only the usual dotting of "i's" and crossing of "t's" remain before the signing of the Vikings 2017 rookie class is complete.
In other rookie news, the Vikings announced the signing of former Nebraska quarterback Tommy Armstrong. After going undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft, Armstrong was invited to try out at the Vikings rookie minicamp on May 5-7. He worked with the running backs for the first two days and as a safety on the final day. He got the attention of the Vikings as a safety. There were some reports that he was going to be signed soon after the tryout but there wasn't room on the roster. The Vikings decided yesterday that they had room for another safety. Receiver Mitch Matthews was released so that Armstrong could be signed.
Wednesday, May 31, 2017
Tuesday, May 30, 2017
NFL's Top Players for 2017: 50-41
NFL Network continued it's countdown of the best players in the league entering the 2017 season. Last night's episode revealed the players ranked 50-41.
50. Marcus Mariota, QB
49. Jadeveon Clowney, DE
48. Jordy Nelson, WR
47. Trent Williams, T
46. Michael Bennett, DE
45. Larry Fitzgerald, WR
44. Cam Newton, QB
43. Marshall Yanda, G
42. Jarvis Landry, WR
41. Devonta Freeman, RB
Quarterbacks Marcus Mariota and Jameis Winston will be forever compared/linked since they were taken #2 and #1 respectively in the 2015 NFL Draft. Since Winston made his appearance last week at #57 Mariota gets the edge on this list. Both have been great in their first two years in the league. I'd have Winston ahead of Mariota at this point simply because he's been able to start every game. Mariota has 27 starts. Durability has been the only significant issue in his first two years.
No matter how high Michael Bennett is ranked it always feels too low. The same is true of Marshall Yanda.
The other quarterback on this week's group of ten players took quite a tumble. Cam Newton took home the prestigious #1 spot on this list last year. He fell 43 spots as his team fell from the Super Bowl to 6-10.
It's great to see some old pass-catchers like Jordy Nelson and Larry Fitzgerald keeping pace with youngsters like Jarvis Landry.
Speaking of the youngsters, only two players from this group made the list for the first time. Marcus Mariota and Jadeveon Clowney look like they'll be making this list an annual thing. Clowney finally arrived as he took over the front of the Houston Texans' defense in J.J. Watt's absence. Watt's back. Individually, Clowney and Watt are a handful for offenses. Together, they'll be a nightmare.
Next week, 40-31. It's getting exciting.
50. Marcus Mariota, QB
49. Jadeveon Clowney, DE
48. Jordy Nelson, WR
47. Trent Williams, T
46. Michael Bennett, DE
45. Larry Fitzgerald, WR
44. Cam Newton, QB
43. Marshall Yanda, G
42. Jarvis Landry, WR
41. Devonta Freeman, RB
Quarterbacks Marcus Mariota and Jameis Winston will be forever compared/linked since they were taken #2 and #1 respectively in the 2015 NFL Draft. Since Winston made his appearance last week at #57 Mariota gets the edge on this list. Both have been great in their first two years in the league. I'd have Winston ahead of Mariota at this point simply because he's been able to start every game. Mariota has 27 starts. Durability has been the only significant issue in his first two years.
No matter how high Michael Bennett is ranked it always feels too low. The same is true of Marshall Yanda.
The other quarterback on this week's group of ten players took quite a tumble. Cam Newton took home the prestigious #1 spot on this list last year. He fell 43 spots as his team fell from the Super Bowl to 6-10.
It's great to see some old pass-catchers like Jordy Nelson and Larry Fitzgerald keeping pace with youngsters like Jarvis Landry.
Speaking of the youngsters, only two players from this group made the list for the first time. Marcus Mariota and Jadeveon Clowney look like they'll be making this list an annual thing. Clowney finally arrived as he took over the front of the Houston Texans' defense in J.J. Watt's absence. Watt's back. Individually, Clowney and Watt are a handful for offenses. Together, they'll be a nightmare.
Next week, 40-31. It's getting exciting.
Monday, May 29, 2017
Vikings Free Agent Additions
In recent years the Minnesota Vikings, to the disappointment of many of their fans, have spent more resources on retaining their own free agents than signing those of other teams. The Vikings are rarely big spenders in free agency. They typically keep their own free agents and make modest investments in outside free agents. In total, they usually bring in more players than they lose. This offseason was a little different. They lost more players than they added. That should help a little when compensatory picks are handed out next year but doesn't much matter now. The Vikings made their usual, again to the disappointment of many of their fans, modest investment in outside free agents. As a group, they're under-the-radar free agent additions but they could be very important additions.
Riley Reiff, OT
Mike Remmers, OT
Datone Jones, DL
Latavius Murray, RB
Case Keenum, QB
Michael Floyd, WR
Will Sutton, DT
At a glance, the one thing that the Vikings, and all of their fans, want to see from this group is that Case Keenum never sees a significant snap. Nothing against Keenum, he's a fine young man, but his not seeing a significant snap means that Sam Bradford sees all of them. That's a good thing.
The Vikings biggest need this offseason was to improve the offensive line. Their first two additions were two offensive tackles. They spent heavily to secure Riley Reiff. He's now the starter at left tackle. They spent less heavily, but still significantly, on Mike Remmers. He's the likely starter at right tackle. The offensive line is already improved. That says more about how bad the line was last year than the addition of Riley and Remmers. They added a toughness that was missing, solid run blocking, and improved hope that Bradford can be safer in his second season as the Vikings starting quarterback than he was in his first. He saw way too many free rushers off the edge last season. Way too many. It was incredible, even miraculous, that he survived the season in one piece.
The Vikings gave multi-year contracts to three players. Reiff, Remmers and Latavius Murray. The sad departure of running back Adrian Peterson this offseason left a giant hole at the position. Murray was signed to help fill it. The Vikings running back job will be a committee. A strange concept in Minnesota due to the decade-long domination of the position by Peterson. Along with Jerick McKinnon, rookie Dalvin Cook, Murray will play a part in that rotation. He has one 1,000-yard season on his resume', he's 6'3" and 230 lbs, he's effective as a receiver, and he can contribute significantly in pass protection. He'll have a solid role in the running back committee.
One of the biggest question marks for the Vikings as they inch closer to training camp and the 2017 season is the football future of defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd. When he's on the field he's an explosive, disruptive, difference-maker. Unfortunately, he's missed chunks of time to injury. His most recent injury, a minor knee injury, has turned into a football nightmare. A mishap during routine surgery on his knee last fall resulted in a "nicked" nerve. The nerve has yet to respond and Floyd's football career is in jeopardy. That uncertainty has resulted in uncertainty at the critical 3-technique position of the Vikings defense. Shamar Stephen started in place of Floyd last season. Stephen is solid against the run but he's not the disruptive, penetrating pass rusher that the Vikings need/want from the position. Tom Johnson can do that on a situational basis but can wear down with increased snaps. The Vikings need a defensive tackle like Floyd if he can't return to the field. Datone Jones played that position at UCLA but the Green Bay Packers selected him in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft to play a different position. At first he was an end in their 3-4 defense. Then he was an outside linebacker. Then he was a free agent because neither really worked. Perhaps he can show that first round talent by playing the position that got him drafted there. Will Sutton was a late free agent addition. Like Jones, Sutton may have had his pro career stunted by being moved away from what he does best. At Arizona State he was twice named the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year. He's a short, stout, quick, disruptive, penetrating under tackle/3-technique in the mold of Vikings Hall of Famer John Randle, Geno Atkins of the Cincinnati Bengals, and Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams. Sutton is at his disruptive best when only about 290 lbs are on his 6'1" frame. For some reason he added weight his senior season, playing at about 300 lbs. He was still dominant enough to repeat as the conference defensive player of the year but not quite as dominant as the year before. Perhaps that's why he was still available for the Chicago Bears in the third round of the 2014 NFL Draft. When John Fox was hired as the Bears coach in 2015 he brought along his 3-4 defense. That defensive switch eventually pushed Sutton into a possibly uncomfortable 320 lb-nose tackle role. The Bears released him on May 11. The Vikings signed him six days later. It's a safe bet that they expect him to return to something closer to his 290 lb Arizona State days. If Floyd can return to the football field this summer, the Vikings will have an abundance of players that can rotate into that all-important 3-technique position. If Floyd can't return, the additions of Jones and Sutton won't let the position become the relative weakness that it was last season.
When it came to the backup quarterback position I was hoping that the Vikings would give Taylor Heinicke first crack at it. He was impressive as a rookie in the 2015 preseason. He might've gotten first crack this summer if he hadn't put his foot through a window and severed a tendon last summer. That injury kept him out of training camp and most of last season. He's still an unknown and the Vikings couldn't go into training camp with an unknown backing up Bradford. They had to sign a veteran and they signed Case Keenum. It sounds cold and it may be cold but the hope here is that he never sees a meaningful snap.
Michael Floyd. He was supposed to be a superstar at this point in his NFL career. It looked like he was well on his way in 2013 when he caught 65 passes for 1041 yards in only his second season in the league. He's been one of the game's better deep threats since the Arizona Cardinals selected him with 13th pick of the 2012 NFL Draft. An extreme DUI offense in December forced the Cardinals to release him, the New England Patriots picked him up, he played a little, got a ring, and then no one wanted him. No one wanted him because of his off the field issues, that DUI charge and resulting prison sentence, and a probable suspension by the NFL. The Vikings signed him after the draft and hope that a return to the area in which he was raised, a support system of family and friends, and especially a desire to turn his life (and career) around will result in his immense potential showing itself on the field. At best, this is a dynamite signing by the Vikings because Floyd has the talent to be a dynamite player. At worst, it's a low-risk, low-cost signing. It's all on Michael Floyd right now. If he takes advantage of this opportunity both he and the Vikings win in the end.
There's the Minnesota Vikings free agent additions of 2017. On the surface they aren't earth-shaking additions but each (except, hopefully, Case Keenum) has the opportunity to be difference-makers for the Vikings. Riley Reiff, Datone Jones, and Michael Floyd were each first round draft picks. They are very good, talented football players. So is Will Sutton. So is Latavius Murray. As fans, it's easy to get optimistic your team this time of the year. The weather's getting warmer and training camp's creeping closer. Hopefully the Vikings free agent additions of 2017 fill some of the holes on the team. Perhaps some of them take starring roles.
Riley Reiff, OT
Mike Remmers, OT
Datone Jones, DL
Latavius Murray, RB
Case Keenum, QB
Michael Floyd, WR
Will Sutton, DT
At a glance, the one thing that the Vikings, and all of their fans, want to see from this group is that Case Keenum never sees a significant snap. Nothing against Keenum, he's a fine young man, but his not seeing a significant snap means that Sam Bradford sees all of them. That's a good thing.
The Vikings biggest need this offseason was to improve the offensive line. Their first two additions were two offensive tackles. They spent heavily to secure Riley Reiff. He's now the starter at left tackle. They spent less heavily, but still significantly, on Mike Remmers. He's the likely starter at right tackle. The offensive line is already improved. That says more about how bad the line was last year than the addition of Riley and Remmers. They added a toughness that was missing, solid run blocking, and improved hope that Bradford can be safer in his second season as the Vikings starting quarterback than he was in his first. He saw way too many free rushers off the edge last season. Way too many. It was incredible, even miraculous, that he survived the season in one piece.
The Vikings gave multi-year contracts to three players. Reiff, Remmers and Latavius Murray. The sad departure of running back Adrian Peterson this offseason left a giant hole at the position. Murray was signed to help fill it. The Vikings running back job will be a committee. A strange concept in Minnesota due to the decade-long domination of the position by Peterson. Along with Jerick McKinnon, rookie Dalvin Cook, Murray will play a part in that rotation. He has one 1,000-yard season on his resume', he's 6'3" and 230 lbs, he's effective as a receiver, and he can contribute significantly in pass protection. He'll have a solid role in the running back committee.
One of the biggest question marks for the Vikings as they inch closer to training camp and the 2017 season is the football future of defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd. When he's on the field he's an explosive, disruptive, difference-maker. Unfortunately, he's missed chunks of time to injury. His most recent injury, a minor knee injury, has turned into a football nightmare. A mishap during routine surgery on his knee last fall resulted in a "nicked" nerve. The nerve has yet to respond and Floyd's football career is in jeopardy. That uncertainty has resulted in uncertainty at the critical 3-technique position of the Vikings defense. Shamar Stephen started in place of Floyd last season. Stephen is solid against the run but he's not the disruptive, penetrating pass rusher that the Vikings need/want from the position. Tom Johnson can do that on a situational basis but can wear down with increased snaps. The Vikings need a defensive tackle like Floyd if he can't return to the field. Datone Jones played that position at UCLA but the Green Bay Packers selected him in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft to play a different position. At first he was an end in their 3-4 defense. Then he was an outside linebacker. Then he was a free agent because neither really worked. Perhaps he can show that first round talent by playing the position that got him drafted there. Will Sutton was a late free agent addition. Like Jones, Sutton may have had his pro career stunted by being moved away from what he does best. At Arizona State he was twice named the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year. He's a short, stout, quick, disruptive, penetrating under tackle/3-technique in the mold of Vikings Hall of Famer John Randle, Geno Atkins of the Cincinnati Bengals, and Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams. Sutton is at his disruptive best when only about 290 lbs are on his 6'1" frame. For some reason he added weight his senior season, playing at about 300 lbs. He was still dominant enough to repeat as the conference defensive player of the year but not quite as dominant as the year before. Perhaps that's why he was still available for the Chicago Bears in the third round of the 2014 NFL Draft. When John Fox was hired as the Bears coach in 2015 he brought along his 3-4 defense. That defensive switch eventually pushed Sutton into a possibly uncomfortable 320 lb-nose tackle role. The Bears released him on May 11. The Vikings signed him six days later. It's a safe bet that they expect him to return to something closer to his 290 lb Arizona State days. If Floyd can return to the football field this summer, the Vikings will have an abundance of players that can rotate into that all-important 3-technique position. If Floyd can't return, the additions of Jones and Sutton won't let the position become the relative weakness that it was last season.
When it came to the backup quarterback position I was hoping that the Vikings would give Taylor Heinicke first crack at it. He was impressive as a rookie in the 2015 preseason. He might've gotten first crack this summer if he hadn't put his foot through a window and severed a tendon last summer. That injury kept him out of training camp and most of last season. He's still an unknown and the Vikings couldn't go into training camp with an unknown backing up Bradford. They had to sign a veteran and they signed Case Keenum. It sounds cold and it may be cold but the hope here is that he never sees a meaningful snap.
Michael Floyd. He was supposed to be a superstar at this point in his NFL career. It looked like he was well on his way in 2013 when he caught 65 passes for 1041 yards in only his second season in the league. He's been one of the game's better deep threats since the Arizona Cardinals selected him with 13th pick of the 2012 NFL Draft. An extreme DUI offense in December forced the Cardinals to release him, the New England Patriots picked him up, he played a little, got a ring, and then no one wanted him. No one wanted him because of his off the field issues, that DUI charge and resulting prison sentence, and a probable suspension by the NFL. The Vikings signed him after the draft and hope that a return to the area in which he was raised, a support system of family and friends, and especially a desire to turn his life (and career) around will result in his immense potential showing itself on the field. At best, this is a dynamite signing by the Vikings because Floyd has the talent to be a dynamite player. At worst, it's a low-risk, low-cost signing. It's all on Michael Floyd right now. If he takes advantage of this opportunity both he and the Vikings win in the end.
There's the Minnesota Vikings free agent additions of 2017. On the surface they aren't earth-shaking additions but each (except, hopefully, Case Keenum) has the opportunity to be difference-makers for the Vikings. Riley Reiff, Datone Jones, and Michael Floyd were each first round draft picks. They are very good, talented football players. So is Will Sutton. So is Latavius Murray. As fans, it's easy to get optimistic your team this time of the year. The weather's getting warmer and training camp's creeping closer. Hopefully the Vikings free agent additions of 2017 fill some of the holes on the team. Perhaps some of them take starring roles.
Sunday, May 28, 2017
The Chargers' Draft
When I'm not thinking about the draft class of the Minnesota Vikings I find myself thinking about the one put together by the Los Angeles Chargers. It sure is a struggle to refer to them as the "Los Angeles" Chargers. At about the time that I finally get used to calling the Rams the Los Angeles Rams I get another shot of this relocation nonsense with the Chargers. And now the Raiders are on deck. Ridiculous. Enough of that, back to the Chargers draft. It's their first three picks that have me so smitten. I can't believe that they were able to select offensive linemen Forrest Lamp and Dan Feeney. They did so after they had already seelcted receiver Mike Williams. The real surprise, for me, was that Lamp was still available on the second day of the draft.
Western Kentucky offensive lineman Forrest Lamp was my favorite player in the draft. My appreciation for Lamp was due in equal parts to his football talent and the Vikings glaring needs on the offensive line. If they had that first round pick that they traded to the Philadelphia Eagles for Sam Bradford, Lamp was my pick for them. He played left tackle in college but nearly every talking head in the business had him pegged as an interior lineman at the next level. His play at left tackle against the NFL-like Alabama defense convinced me that he could handle the position in the NFL. No matter where he was best suited on the line the Vikings could use him there. I pushed aside dreams of Lamp in Minnesota because he was never going to make out of the first round let alone to the 16th pick of the second round. Most draft analysts considered Lamp and Indiana's Dan Feeney the top interior line prospects in the draft. It wasn't a strong offensive line draft class but they were two of the best. They are also two of the most ready to play immediately. The Chargers are a talented football team. As with the Vikings, their offensive line held them back considerably last season. It would do so again if something wasn't done. This team could contend for the division, the conference, and perhaps a game better this year. 35-year old quarterback Philip Rivers has to be kept safe and upright for that to happen. The middle of the Chargers offensive line got a lot better and Rivers a lot safer with Lamp and Feeney.
If the Chargers had added only Forrest Lamp and Dan Feeney in the first two days of the draft the they'd be improved. They added arguably the best receiver in the draft before they even got to those linemen. The thing that Clemson's Mike Williams does best is be 6'4". He has excellent size and he uses that size well. He's ready and able to go up with NFL corners and come down with the ball right now. There aren't a lot of rookie receivers that enter the league already possessing that ability. The crazy thing about the Chargers adding Williams is that they now have six receivers on the roster that are 6'2" or taller. Those six are topped by proven playmakers Keenan Allen, Dontrelle Inman, and Tyrell Williams, and now Mike Williams. Add in little-guy Travis Benjamin and this team has a lot of pass-catchers that can keep defenders and defensive coaches up at night.
The 2017 NFL Draft was nearly a month ago and Philip Rivers is probably still smiling over the players that his team added in the first three rounds of the draft.
While Mike Williams, Forrest Lamp, and Dan Feeney are the main reason I keep coming back to the Chargers draft it hardly stopped there. In nearly every mock draft that popped into my head I had the Chargers taking a safety (usually Ohio State's Malik Hooker) with the seventh pick of the draft. They didn't touch the safety position until the third day and they took two. Miami's Rayshawn Jenkins in the fourth and Iowa's Desmond King in the fifth. Both should compete for playing time early. King also adds terrific punt return ability. The Chargers added an intriguing developmental offensive tackle in Utah's Sam Tevi in the sixth round and Notre Dame defensive tackle Isaac Rochell in the seventh.
I really like the Chargers draft, especially those interior offensive linemen. Hopefully, writing about this draft gets it out of my head and I can get back to only thinking about the Vikings' draft.
Western Kentucky offensive lineman Forrest Lamp was my favorite player in the draft. My appreciation for Lamp was due in equal parts to his football talent and the Vikings glaring needs on the offensive line. If they had that first round pick that they traded to the Philadelphia Eagles for Sam Bradford, Lamp was my pick for them. He played left tackle in college but nearly every talking head in the business had him pegged as an interior lineman at the next level. His play at left tackle against the NFL-like Alabama defense convinced me that he could handle the position in the NFL. No matter where he was best suited on the line the Vikings could use him there. I pushed aside dreams of Lamp in Minnesota because he was never going to make out of the first round let alone to the 16th pick of the second round. Most draft analysts considered Lamp and Indiana's Dan Feeney the top interior line prospects in the draft. It wasn't a strong offensive line draft class but they were two of the best. They are also two of the most ready to play immediately. The Chargers are a talented football team. As with the Vikings, their offensive line held them back considerably last season. It would do so again if something wasn't done. This team could contend for the division, the conference, and perhaps a game better this year. 35-year old quarterback Philip Rivers has to be kept safe and upright for that to happen. The middle of the Chargers offensive line got a lot better and Rivers a lot safer with Lamp and Feeney.
If the Chargers had added only Forrest Lamp and Dan Feeney in the first two days of the draft the they'd be improved. They added arguably the best receiver in the draft before they even got to those linemen. The thing that Clemson's Mike Williams does best is be 6'4". He has excellent size and he uses that size well. He's ready and able to go up with NFL corners and come down with the ball right now. There aren't a lot of rookie receivers that enter the league already possessing that ability. The crazy thing about the Chargers adding Williams is that they now have six receivers on the roster that are 6'2" or taller. Those six are topped by proven playmakers Keenan Allen, Dontrelle Inman, and Tyrell Williams, and now Mike Williams. Add in little-guy Travis Benjamin and this team has a lot of pass-catchers that can keep defenders and defensive coaches up at night.
The 2017 NFL Draft was nearly a month ago and Philip Rivers is probably still smiling over the players that his team added in the first three rounds of the draft.
While Mike Williams, Forrest Lamp, and Dan Feeney are the main reason I keep coming back to the Chargers draft it hardly stopped there. In nearly every mock draft that popped into my head I had the Chargers taking a safety (usually Ohio State's Malik Hooker) with the seventh pick of the draft. They didn't touch the safety position until the third day and they took two. Miami's Rayshawn Jenkins in the fourth and Iowa's Desmond King in the fifth. Both should compete for playing time early. King also adds terrific punt return ability. The Chargers added an intriguing developmental offensive tackle in Utah's Sam Tevi in the sixth round and Notre Dame defensive tackle Isaac Rochell in the seventh.
I really like the Chargers draft, especially those interior offensive linemen. Hopefully, writing about this draft gets it out of my head and I can get back to only thinking about the Vikings' draft.
Saturday, May 27, 2017
Three More Signed
The Minnesota Vikings were slow to start signing their 2017 draft picks. That likely had more to do with the NFL Players Association having some issues with the contacts that the Vikings were offering than general team laziness. The Vikings wanted their rookies signed much earlier. They wanted them signed before the rookie mini camp. That was three weeks ago. The Vikings started signing their rookies on Thursday. It hasn't been reported as to whether the NFLPA's issues have been resolved or the rookies are just signing the contracts anyway. Fifth-round receiver Rodney Adams was the first to sign when he agreed to his rookie deal on Thursday. Seventh-round defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo signed later that day. Three more signed yesterday.
Jaleel Johnson, fourth round (109 overall), DT, Iowa
Ben Gedeon, fourth round (120), LB, Michigan
Danny Isidora, fifth round (180), G, Miami
All three play positions that will be of great interest through workouts and training camp.
The 3-technique defensive tackle position is critical in the Vikings defense. It's also something of an uncertainty right now. Sharrif Floyd would be considered the starter if not for a mishap during "routine" surgery on his knee last fall. A nerve was nicked and it has yet to respond at the level required in an NFL game. Or practice. Jaleel Johnson has the talent and an opportunity to play right away. He'll compete with Tom Johnson, and free agent additions Datone Jones and Will Sutton. No matter how the depth shakes out this summer Johnson should play a significant role in the defensive line rotation. That may include giving nose tackle Linval Joseph a breather on occasion.
The weak-side linebacker spot in the Vikings' base defense opened when long-starter Chad Greenway retired this offseason. How they intend to fill the spot is a mystery. It very much is "how" rather than "who." With the pass happy nature of today's NFL the Vikings, and most defenses, are in their nickel far more often than their base defense. It may be more accurate to consider their nickel defense their base defense. With Greenway on to more charitable pursuits the Vikings linebackers, and their defense, are at a crossroads. Do they stick with their traditional three linebackers on first and possibly second down? Do they use the big-safety type linebacker that's become a minor rage in the league, a linebacker with the cover skills that allows him to stay on the field in passing situations? Do they move current middle linebacker Eric Kendricks to weak-side linebacker on early downs and plug a run-stuffer in the middle? Filling the open linebacker spot is very much about "how" the Vikings proceed as much as it is "who." All of that brings us to the Vikings signing of fourth round rookie Ben Gedeon. He'll be part of those linebacker plans. He was more of a run-stuffing middle linebacker at Michigan. His modest forty time got him labeled as limited in coverage. His excellent performance in the agility drills at the combine might contradict that label a bit. It's a good bet that he'll fall behind a receiver on a "go" route but if he's ever doing that someone else missed an assignment. Many draft analysts pegged Gedeon as a special teams player and backup linebacker. A fourth round pick is a high price to pay for a player with that sort of future. I think that the Vikings see more in him and a role for him.
The Vikings offensive line was a mess last season. Priority #1 (maybe Priority #'s 2 and 3, as well) this offseason was to fix it. They added tackles Riley Reiff and Mike Remmers in free agency. They added two interior linemen in the draft. Fifth-round guard Danny Isidora was one of those linemen. The Vikings starting offensive line isn't set yet but it'd probably be wise to get it set soon. The five players on the line have to know each other, be comfortable with each, and work as one. The sooner they start working toward that the better. If the last mini camp is an indication of anything it's that right guard might be the least settled of the five line positions. Isidora is in that competition. If he doesn't win the job he'll provide nice depth at both guard positions.
The Vikings have signed five of their 11 draft picks. It's a late start but it's a start. It's still better than the pre-CBA annual negotiation nightmares. Six unsigned Vikings rookies remain.
Dalvin Cook, second round (41), RB, Florida State
Pat Elflein, third round (70), C, Ohio State
Bucky Hodges, sixth round (201), TE, Virginia Tech
Stacy Coley, seventh round (219), WR, Miami
Elijah Lee, seventh round (232), LB, Kansas State
Jack Tocho, seventh round (245), S, North Carolina State
Jaleel Johnson, fourth round (109 overall), DT, Iowa
Ben Gedeon, fourth round (120), LB, Michigan
Danny Isidora, fifth round (180), G, Miami
All three play positions that will be of great interest through workouts and training camp.
The 3-technique defensive tackle position is critical in the Vikings defense. It's also something of an uncertainty right now. Sharrif Floyd would be considered the starter if not for a mishap during "routine" surgery on his knee last fall. A nerve was nicked and it has yet to respond at the level required in an NFL game. Or practice. Jaleel Johnson has the talent and an opportunity to play right away. He'll compete with Tom Johnson, and free agent additions Datone Jones and Will Sutton. No matter how the depth shakes out this summer Johnson should play a significant role in the defensive line rotation. That may include giving nose tackle Linval Joseph a breather on occasion.
The weak-side linebacker spot in the Vikings' base defense opened when long-starter Chad Greenway retired this offseason. How they intend to fill the spot is a mystery. It very much is "how" rather than "who." With the pass happy nature of today's NFL the Vikings, and most defenses, are in their nickel far more often than their base defense. It may be more accurate to consider their nickel defense their base defense. With Greenway on to more charitable pursuits the Vikings linebackers, and their defense, are at a crossroads. Do they stick with their traditional three linebackers on first and possibly second down? Do they use the big-safety type linebacker that's become a minor rage in the league, a linebacker with the cover skills that allows him to stay on the field in passing situations? Do they move current middle linebacker Eric Kendricks to weak-side linebacker on early downs and plug a run-stuffer in the middle? Filling the open linebacker spot is very much about "how" the Vikings proceed as much as it is "who." All of that brings us to the Vikings signing of fourth round rookie Ben Gedeon. He'll be part of those linebacker plans. He was more of a run-stuffing middle linebacker at Michigan. His modest forty time got him labeled as limited in coverage. His excellent performance in the agility drills at the combine might contradict that label a bit. It's a good bet that he'll fall behind a receiver on a "go" route but if he's ever doing that someone else missed an assignment. Many draft analysts pegged Gedeon as a special teams player and backup linebacker. A fourth round pick is a high price to pay for a player with that sort of future. I think that the Vikings see more in him and a role for him.
The Vikings offensive line was a mess last season. Priority #1 (maybe Priority #'s 2 and 3, as well) this offseason was to fix it. They added tackles Riley Reiff and Mike Remmers in free agency. They added two interior linemen in the draft. Fifth-round guard Danny Isidora was one of those linemen. The Vikings starting offensive line isn't set yet but it'd probably be wise to get it set soon. The five players on the line have to know each other, be comfortable with each, and work as one. The sooner they start working toward that the better. If the last mini camp is an indication of anything it's that right guard might be the least settled of the five line positions. Isidora is in that competition. If he doesn't win the job he'll provide nice depth at both guard positions.
The Vikings have signed five of their 11 draft picks. It's a late start but it's a start. It's still better than the pre-CBA annual negotiation nightmares. Six unsigned Vikings rookies remain.
Dalvin Cook, second round (41), RB, Florida State
Pat Elflein, third round (70), C, Ohio State
Bucky Hodges, sixth round (201), TE, Virginia Tech
Stacy Coley, seventh round (219), WR, Miami
Elijah Lee, seventh round (232), LB, Kansas State
Jack Tocho, seventh round (245), S, North Carolina State
Friday, May 26, 2017
Finally!
The Minnesota Vikings finally signed one of their 11 draft picks when they agreed to terms with receiver Rodney Adams. A fifth-round pick out of the University of South Florida, Adams will compete this summer for a spot in the Vikings receiver rotation. His best chance for playing time might be in returning kicks where he be first up to replace the departed Cordarrelle Patterson.
It's been nearly a month since the last pick of the 2017 NFL draft was called. In the past couple years the Vikings had signed all, or nearly all, of their draft picks before the draft was a week old. The scripted rookie pay scale of the new CBA has made these first contracts a breeze. Some teams have had their entire 2017 class signed for weeks. The Vikings used to be one of those teams. This year has been a whole other story. The reason for the signing delay is that the NFL Players Association has some issues with the language of the rookie contracts that the Vikings have been presenting to their rookies and their agents. The NFLPA considers that language as running afoul of the CBA and they have been advising the Vikings rookies to not sign the contracts being presented to them. Hopefully yesterday's signing of Rodney Adams is an indication that these contract issues have been resolved.
And, Rodney Adams wasn't the only Vikings draft pick to sign yesterday. Soon after that signing was exploded across the air waves it was reported that defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo had also signed his rookie contract. A seventh-round pick out of Northwestern, Odenigbo joins a very deep Vikings defensive line group. Nine more rookies signings to go. It's a start.
It's been nearly a month since the last pick of the 2017 NFL draft was called. In the past couple years the Vikings had signed all, or nearly all, of their draft picks before the draft was a week old. The scripted rookie pay scale of the new CBA has made these first contracts a breeze. Some teams have had their entire 2017 class signed for weeks. The Vikings used to be one of those teams. This year has been a whole other story. The reason for the signing delay is that the NFL Players Association has some issues with the language of the rookie contracts that the Vikings have been presenting to their rookies and their agents. The NFLPA considers that language as running afoul of the CBA and they have been advising the Vikings rookies to not sign the contracts being presented to them. Hopefully yesterday's signing of Rodney Adams is an indication that these contract issues have been resolved.
And, Rodney Adams wasn't the only Vikings draft pick to sign yesterday. Soon after that signing was exploded across the air waves it was reported that defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo had also signed his rookie contract. A seventh-round pick out of Northwestern, Odenigbo joins a very deep Vikings defensive line group. Nine more rookies signings to go. It's a start.
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Throwback Thursday: Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore
This topic pops up on occasion. The top four players/figures in a franchise's history. A Mount Rushmore. As with any "best of," "best ever," "best whatever" it's highly subjective and hotly debated. The funny thing about those debates is that no one's right and no one's wrong. It's an opinion. So, here's the Flea Flicker's Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore.
Bud Grant
Alan Page
Cris Carter
Adrian Peterson
I lean to these four because they are the four than meant the most to me in my history with the Vikings. There's really nothing stunning about the four as many long-time fans of the team might come to the same group. Each was pretty great. Bud Grant and Alan Page are probably automatics on nearly every Vikings Mount Rushmore. As a kid just getting to know the team, Grant was the Vikings for me. It wasn't a football Sunday until I saw the coach on the sideline. In an era of great defensive tackles Alan Page was arguably the best. Bob Lilly, Merlin Olsen, Joe Greene, Curley Culp. Page is the only one of the bunch to be named the league's MVP. He was the first defensive player to take home the award. Add to a tremendous NFL career what he's done since he stepped away from the game and Page will always have a spot on my Vikings Mount Rushmore.
I've always been partial to receivers. That was my position. The supposedly simple act of catching a football always fascinated me. In my honest opinion, Cris Carter was the best ever at simply catching the football. He was great at a lot of other aspects of playing the position, route running, body positioning, end zone and sideline catches, getting away with pass interference. It was the act of catching that football that he turned into an art form. Cris Carter and Alan Page are my favorite all-time Vikings players. My appreciation for Carter's play and his place in the league's history led me to Canton in 2013 for his much-deserved Pro Football Hall of Fame induction. An added bonus to that trip was that I met Page while I was there. It was a fantastic weekend.
Adrian Peterson. It's going to be tough to see him in a New Orleans Saints uniform. Just as it was tough to see Page in a Bears uniform and Carter in a Dolphins uniform. It's a damn shame. In the sad days of this offseason when it felt inevitable that Peterson would be playing football for a team other than the Vikings I viewed some of his highlights. My goodness, he was sure fun to watch. 10 years flew way too fast. Especially when two of those years were taken away. Peterson could make a defense look foolish in so many ways. He could run past a defender, run over a defender, or simply make them miss with a drastic cut. Every carry was a thrill. Peterson was one of the best running backs I've ever seen. Still is. He's just going to be doing it with the wrong team. It's a damn shame.
The list of former Vikings that are tough to leave off of this Mount Rushmore starts with Fran Tarkenton, Randall McDaniel and Randy Moss. Moss and McDaniel are in the conversations of the best to ever play their respective positions. Tarkenton is the best quarterback in franchise history. It isn't even close. He held every significant career passing record when he retired. It was nearly 20 years before Dan Marino finally made them his in the mid-1990s, a much different passing era. It feels criminal to not have Tarkenton, Moss, or McDaniel on that mountain but that's what happens when you are limited to only four spots. There are other Vikings worthy of Mount Rushmore acclaim. Jim Marshall. He was the heart of those great Vikings teams of the late 1960s through most of the 1970s. Every Vikings fan loves John Randle. Joey Browner too. Carl Eller, Paul Krause, Chris Doleman, Ron Yary, Mick Tingelhoff, Gary Zimmerman, Chuck Foreman, Ahmad Rashad, Matt Blair, Scott Studwell, Anthony Carter, Antoine Winfield, Kevin Williams, Jared Allen. Damn! Why did Gutzon Borglum have to carve only four?
Bud Grant
Alan Page
Cris Carter
Adrian Peterson
I lean to these four because they are the four than meant the most to me in my history with the Vikings. There's really nothing stunning about the four as many long-time fans of the team might come to the same group. Each was pretty great. Bud Grant and Alan Page are probably automatics on nearly every Vikings Mount Rushmore. As a kid just getting to know the team, Grant was the Vikings for me. It wasn't a football Sunday until I saw the coach on the sideline. In an era of great defensive tackles Alan Page was arguably the best. Bob Lilly, Merlin Olsen, Joe Greene, Curley Culp. Page is the only one of the bunch to be named the league's MVP. He was the first defensive player to take home the award. Add to a tremendous NFL career what he's done since he stepped away from the game and Page will always have a spot on my Vikings Mount Rushmore.
I've always been partial to receivers. That was my position. The supposedly simple act of catching a football always fascinated me. In my honest opinion, Cris Carter was the best ever at simply catching the football. He was great at a lot of other aspects of playing the position, route running, body positioning, end zone and sideline catches, getting away with pass interference. It was the act of catching that football that he turned into an art form. Cris Carter and Alan Page are my favorite all-time Vikings players. My appreciation for Carter's play and his place in the league's history led me to Canton in 2013 for his much-deserved Pro Football Hall of Fame induction. An added bonus to that trip was that I met Page while I was there. It was a fantastic weekend.
Adrian Peterson. It's going to be tough to see him in a New Orleans Saints uniform. Just as it was tough to see Page in a Bears uniform and Carter in a Dolphins uniform. It's a damn shame. In the sad days of this offseason when it felt inevitable that Peterson would be playing football for a team other than the Vikings I viewed some of his highlights. My goodness, he was sure fun to watch. 10 years flew way too fast. Especially when two of those years were taken away. Peterson could make a defense look foolish in so many ways. He could run past a defender, run over a defender, or simply make them miss with a drastic cut. Every carry was a thrill. Peterson was one of the best running backs I've ever seen. Still is. He's just going to be doing it with the wrong team. It's a damn shame.
The list of former Vikings that are tough to leave off of this Mount Rushmore starts with Fran Tarkenton, Randall McDaniel and Randy Moss. Moss and McDaniel are in the conversations of the best to ever play their respective positions. Tarkenton is the best quarterback in franchise history. It isn't even close. He held every significant career passing record when he retired. It was nearly 20 years before Dan Marino finally made them his in the mid-1990s, a much different passing era. It feels criminal to not have Tarkenton, Moss, or McDaniel on that mountain but that's what happens when you are limited to only four spots. There are other Vikings worthy of Mount Rushmore acclaim. Jim Marshall. He was the heart of those great Vikings teams of the late 1960s through most of the 1970s. Every Vikings fan loves John Randle. Joey Browner too. Carl Eller, Paul Krause, Chris Doleman, Ron Yary, Mick Tingelhoff, Gary Zimmerman, Chuck Foreman, Ahmad Rashad, Matt Blair, Scott Studwell, Anthony Carter, Antoine Winfield, Kevin Williams, Jared Allen. Damn! Why did Gutzon Borglum have to carve only four?
Wednesday, May 24, 2017
NFL Rule Changes
NFL team owners made some changes to their game at the Spring League Meetings in Chicago.
1. Shortening overtime in preseason and regular season games from 10 to 15 minutes.
2. "Relaxing" rules on player celebrations.
3. There will now only be one roster cut-down deadline. Teams will have to trim their rosters from 90 to 53 players in one swift slice.
4. Two players are now allowed to return off injured reserve.
The owners tabled discussion on whether coaches can reach agreements in principle with new teams while their current team is still alive in the playoffs.
I'll handle the overtime change last.
Celebrations
Players will once again be able to celebrate their great deeds on the football field. In a letter to fans, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell wrote that the league is "relaxing rules on celebrations to allow players more room to have fun after they make big plays." I always preferred a Barry Sanders-like reaction to a big play. Sanders had a lot of big plays to celebrate but he always let the plays be his celebration. That being said I always felt that it was silly that there was a long list of things that a player couldn't do after doing something great. There are still some things that players can't do such as taunting or simulating weaponry. I do think that it should be illegal for players to break into an elaborate performance for doing something routine.
Roster Cut Down
Until this roster-cut down rule change teams had to trim their rosters from 90 to 75 players before the fourth preseason game. The final cut down to 53 players followed that game. With this rule change the players at the bottom of the roster will have one final game to show teams what they can do. It makes for a very busy roster-rimming day but it can benefit the players and the teams.
Injured Reserve Return
Each team will be able to activate two players from injured reserve during the season. Prior to the rule change one player could return to the active roster. Injured players can return to practice if they had been on IR for at least six weeks. They can return to games eight weeks after being put on injured reserve. This gives teams greater roster flexibility late in the season.
Overtime
The new overtime rule. This is one of the most ridiculous moves that the league has made in recent years. And this is from a league that pays Roger Goodell about a quarter of a team's salary cap and gives him the power to punish randomly and inconsistently. According to NFL research, there have been 83 overtime games over the last five seasons. 22 of those games have lasted at least 10 minutes into overtime. There have been five games that ended in a tie during those five years. If overtime had ended at 10 minutes, there would have been 16 tie games. Over three times as many. That's too many ties. The league says that they made this move in the name of player safety. Or, at least they made it to show that safety is a concern. It's been stated that the league was concerned with the additional plays that teams undergo when playing a full 15-minute overtime period, especially when one of the teams might be playing its next game on a short week. Seriously? Only 3% of games have gone to overtime over the last five seasons. 0.6% of games have gone past 10 minutes of overtime. The percentage of games with that overtime criteria that also included a team that was about to play on a short week? Who knows? It's small. It's so small that it's just sad that the NFL decision-makers thought enough of it to actually discuss it and vote on it. How can these people be so concerned about a handful of plays in overtime and so unconcerned about the risks of adding two games to the NFL schedule?
The NFL's decision-makers never sit idle. They are always tinkering with their game. They made three decent changes and one that makes little sense. If I was a betting fella I'd like the odds that the new overtime rule doesn't impact a single game next season.
1. Shortening overtime in preseason and regular season games from 10 to 15 minutes.
2. "Relaxing" rules on player celebrations.
3. There will now only be one roster cut-down deadline. Teams will have to trim their rosters from 90 to 53 players in one swift slice.
4. Two players are now allowed to return off injured reserve.
The owners tabled discussion on whether coaches can reach agreements in principle with new teams while their current team is still alive in the playoffs.
I'll handle the overtime change last.
Celebrations
Players will once again be able to celebrate their great deeds on the football field. In a letter to fans, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell wrote that the league is "relaxing rules on celebrations to allow players more room to have fun after they make big plays." I always preferred a Barry Sanders-like reaction to a big play. Sanders had a lot of big plays to celebrate but he always let the plays be his celebration. That being said I always felt that it was silly that there was a long list of things that a player couldn't do after doing something great. There are still some things that players can't do such as taunting or simulating weaponry. I do think that it should be illegal for players to break into an elaborate performance for doing something routine.
Roster Cut Down
Until this roster-cut down rule change teams had to trim their rosters from 90 to 75 players before the fourth preseason game. The final cut down to 53 players followed that game. With this rule change the players at the bottom of the roster will have one final game to show teams what they can do. It makes for a very busy roster-rimming day but it can benefit the players and the teams.
Injured Reserve Return
Each team will be able to activate two players from injured reserve during the season. Prior to the rule change one player could return to the active roster. Injured players can return to practice if they had been on IR for at least six weeks. They can return to games eight weeks after being put on injured reserve. This gives teams greater roster flexibility late in the season.
Overtime
The new overtime rule. This is one of the most ridiculous moves that the league has made in recent years. And this is from a league that pays Roger Goodell about a quarter of a team's salary cap and gives him the power to punish randomly and inconsistently. According to NFL research, there have been 83 overtime games over the last five seasons. 22 of those games have lasted at least 10 minutes into overtime. There have been five games that ended in a tie during those five years. If overtime had ended at 10 minutes, there would have been 16 tie games. Over three times as many. That's too many ties. The league says that they made this move in the name of player safety. Or, at least they made it to show that safety is a concern. It's been stated that the league was concerned with the additional plays that teams undergo when playing a full 15-minute overtime period, especially when one of the teams might be playing its next game on a short week. Seriously? Only 3% of games have gone to overtime over the last five seasons. 0.6% of games have gone past 10 minutes of overtime. The percentage of games with that overtime criteria that also included a team that was about to play on a short week? Who knows? It's small. It's so small that it's just sad that the NFL decision-makers thought enough of it to actually discuss it and vote on it. How can these people be so concerned about a handful of plays in overtime and so unconcerned about the risks of adding two games to the NFL schedule?
The NFL's decision-makers never sit idle. They are always tinkering with their game. They made three decent changes and one that makes little sense. If I was a betting fella I'd like the odds that the new overtime rule doesn't impact a single game next season.
Tuesday, May 23, 2017
NFL's Top 100 Players For 2017: 60-51
NFL Network continued their countdown of the NFL's Top 100 Players for 2017, as voted by the players. With last night's reveal we arrived at the midpoint. Here are the players ranked 60-51 on the list.
60. Dez Bryant, WR
59. Josh Norman, CB
58. Zack Martin, G
57. Jameis Winston, QB
56. Cliff Avril, DE
55. Ndamukong Suh, DT
54. Janoris Jenkins, CB
53. Amari Cooper, WR
52. Gerald McCoy, DT
51. Andrew Luck, QB
Jameis Winston at #57 was an initial surprise but he's definitely an ascending quarterback. His ranking is going to be elevated simply because of the position that he plays. I'd rank Winston ahead of fellow throwers Kirk Cousins and Alex Smith. Cousins made his appearance on the list last week at #70. Alex Smith was #81. Maybe Jameis Winston's place on the list shouldn't be so surprising after all.
Zack Martin, Jameis Winston, Cliff Avril, Janoris Jenkins, and Amari Cooper made the Top 100 for the first time. The thing that I find most striking about the list so far is the fairly high number of first-timers on it. 27 of the first 50 players are new to the list. Joey Bosa (#100) made it as a rookie. It's a good bet that Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott will pop up somewhere in the Top 50 and join Bosa as rookies on this list. It feels like the NFL is in the process of turning over it's talent. This Top 100 list is showing that.
Next week we get the first ten players of the Top 50.
60. Dez Bryant, WR
59. Josh Norman, CB
58. Zack Martin, G
57. Jameis Winston, QB
56. Cliff Avril, DE
55. Ndamukong Suh, DT
54. Janoris Jenkins, CB
53. Amari Cooper, WR
52. Gerald McCoy, DT
51. Andrew Luck, QB
Jameis Winston at #57 was an initial surprise but he's definitely an ascending quarterback. His ranking is going to be elevated simply because of the position that he plays. I'd rank Winston ahead of fellow throwers Kirk Cousins and Alex Smith. Cousins made his appearance on the list last week at #70. Alex Smith was #81. Maybe Jameis Winston's place on the list shouldn't be so surprising after all.
Zack Martin, Jameis Winston, Cliff Avril, Janoris Jenkins, and Amari Cooper made the Top 100 for the first time. The thing that I find most striking about the list so far is the fairly high number of first-timers on it. 27 of the first 50 players are new to the list. Joey Bosa (#100) made it as a rookie. It's a good bet that Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott will pop up somewhere in the Top 50 and join Bosa as rookies on this list. It feels like the NFL is in the process of turning over it's talent. This Top 100 list is showing that.
Next week we get the first ten players of the Top 50.
Monday, May 22, 2017
NFLPA Rookie Premiere
For the 23rd year the NFL Players Association brought together 40 freshly drafted football players in Los Angeles for their Rookie Premiere, presented by the trading card company Panini America. It was held last Thursday-Saturday and is designed to educate the young professional football players on the business side of the game, to create and promote their unique brand content, and perhaps secure endorsement deals. The event culminates with a photo shoot of the players in the uniforms of their new teams with the NFLPA's exclusive trading card licensee, Panini America. It's a potential win for the players and a definite win for Panini. Plus, it looks like a fun event for the players to better get to know their rookie peers. 40 rookies were invited to the event.
C.J. Beathard, QB, San Francisco 49ers
James Conner, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Dalvin Cook, RB, Minnesota Vikings
Amara Darboh, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Corey Davis, WR, Tennessee Titans
Joshua Dobbs, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Evan Engram. TE, New York Giants
D'Onta Foreman, RB, Houston Texans
Leonard Fournette, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Wayne Gallman, RB, New York Giants
Chris Godwin, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Kenny Golladay, WR, Detroit Lions
Carlos Henderson, WR, Denver Broncos
Mack Hollins, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
O.J. Howard, TE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Kareem Hunt, RB, Kansas City Chiefs
Zay Jones, WR, Buffalo Bills
Alvin Kamara, RB, New Orleans Saints
DeShone Kizer, QB, Cleveland Browns
Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Marlon Mack, RB, Indianapolis Colts
Pat Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
Christian McCaffrey, RB, Carolina Panthers
Jeremy McNichols, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Joe Mixon, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
Samaje Perine, RB, Washington Redskins
Nathan Peterman, QB, Buffalo Bills
Josh Reynolds, WR, Los Angeles Rams
John Ross, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
Curtis Samuel, WR, Carolina Panthers
JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
ArDarius Sterwart, WR, New York Jets
Taywan Taylor, WR, Tennessee Titans
Mitchell Trubisky, QB, Chicago Bears
DeShaun Watson. QB, Houston Texans
Davis Webb, QB, New York Giants
DeDe Westbrook, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Jamaal Williams, RB, Green Bay Packers
Joe Williams, RB, San Francisco 49ers
Mike Williams, WR, Los Angeles Chargers
Crossing off the players in the group photo taken during shoot revealed that Bills receiver Zay Jones and Panthers' playmakers Christian McCaffrey and Curtis Samuel didn't show. At least they didn't show for the photo shoot.
One thing that all 40 of the invited players have in common is that they all play on offense. Actually they all play the so-called "offensive skill positions." They all touch the football. They all score touchdowns. No offensive linemen or defensive players are invited to this annual event. This is ridiculous. I guess that the grunts on the line and the monsters on defense need not worry themselves over endorsement deals and the business side of football. These poor football players are people too. They have dreams beyond the game. I thought that the NFLPA represented all football players and not just the ones that pop up in fantasy football stat sheets. Come on people, open your arms to all rookies. Players from both sides of the line, and on the line, should be welcome to this event.
C.J. Beathard, QB, San Francisco 49ers
James Conner, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Dalvin Cook, RB, Minnesota Vikings
Amara Darboh, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Corey Davis, WR, Tennessee Titans
Joshua Dobbs, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Evan Engram. TE, New York Giants
D'Onta Foreman, RB, Houston Texans
Leonard Fournette, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Wayne Gallman, RB, New York Giants
Chris Godwin, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Kenny Golladay, WR, Detroit Lions
Carlos Henderson, WR, Denver Broncos
Mack Hollins, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
O.J. Howard, TE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Kareem Hunt, RB, Kansas City Chiefs
Zay Jones, WR, Buffalo Bills
Alvin Kamara, RB, New Orleans Saints
DeShone Kizer, QB, Cleveland Browns
Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Marlon Mack, RB, Indianapolis Colts
Pat Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
Christian McCaffrey, RB, Carolina Panthers
Jeremy McNichols, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Joe Mixon, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
Samaje Perine, RB, Washington Redskins
Nathan Peterman, QB, Buffalo Bills
Josh Reynolds, WR, Los Angeles Rams
John Ross, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
Curtis Samuel, WR, Carolina Panthers
JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
ArDarius Sterwart, WR, New York Jets
Taywan Taylor, WR, Tennessee Titans
Mitchell Trubisky, QB, Chicago Bears
DeShaun Watson. QB, Houston Texans
Davis Webb, QB, New York Giants
DeDe Westbrook, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Jamaal Williams, RB, Green Bay Packers
Joe Williams, RB, San Francisco 49ers
Mike Williams, WR, Los Angeles Chargers
Crossing off the players in the group photo taken during shoot revealed that Bills receiver Zay Jones and Panthers' playmakers Christian McCaffrey and Curtis Samuel didn't show. At least they didn't show for the photo shoot.
One thing that all 40 of the invited players have in common is that they all play on offense. Actually they all play the so-called "offensive skill positions." They all touch the football. They all score touchdowns. No offensive linemen or defensive players are invited to this annual event. This is ridiculous. I guess that the grunts on the line and the monsters on defense need not worry themselves over endorsement deals and the business side of football. These poor football players are people too. They have dreams beyond the game. I thought that the NFLPA represented all football players and not just the ones that pop up in fantasy football stat sheets. Come on people, open your arms to all rookies. Players from both sides of the line, and on the line, should be welcome to this event.
Sunday, May 21, 2017
A Too Early Minnesota Vikings 53-Man Roster Projection
With Mini-camps on the way and training camp over two months away It's way too early to be doing this. But it's May. It's what fans do. It's a part of the hope and pondering of possibilities that comes with an upcoming NFL season. Here's a Flea Flicker look at a potential 53-Man Roster of the 2017 Minnesota Vikings.
Quarterbacks
Sam Bradford
Teddy Bridgewater-PUP
Case Keenum
Taylor Heinicke
Whether Teddy Bridgewater will be ready to play this season will be an ever-present storyline throughout training camp and into the season.
Running backs
Latavius Murray
Jerick McKinnon
Dalvin Cook
C.J. Ham-fullback
Receivers
Stefon Diggs
Adam Thielen
Laquon Treadwell
Michael Floyd
Jarius Wright
Rodney Adams
Tight ends
Kyle Rudolph
David Morgan
Bucky Hodges
Offensive line
Riley Reiff
Alex Boone
Pat Elflein
Joe Berger
Mike Remmers
Jeremiah Sirles
Danny Isidora
T.J. Clemmings
Nick Easton
Rashod Hill
Defensive line
Everson Griffen
Sharrif Floyd-PUP
Linval Joseph
Danielle Hunter
Brian Robison
Datone Jones
Jaleel Johnson
Shamar Stephen
Stephen Weatherly
Defensive line will be the most difficult group to trim. If the injured nerve in Sharrif Floyd's knee responds in time to get ready for the season he's in the starting lineup. When he's healthy he simply disrupts the intentions of an offense. If the nerve doesn't respond his career could be in jeopardy. Tom Johnson and/or Will Sutton have the talent to contribute but the numbers ahead of them make it tough. If the Vikings keep nine defensive linemen one should make it. Johnson has the edge. Unless Sutton's age trumps Johnson's production.
Linebackers
Anthony Barr
Eric Kendricks
Emmanuel Lamur
Kentrell Brothers
Ben Gedeon
Eijah Lee
Cornerbacks
Xavier Rhodes
Trae Waynes
Mackensie Alexander
Terence Newman
Marcus Sherels
Tre Roberson
Safeties
Harrison Smith
Andrew Sendejo
Jayron Kearse
Jack Tocho
Kicker
Kai Forbath
Punter
Taylor Symmank
Long snapper
Kevin McDermott
Quarterbacks
Sam Bradford
Teddy Bridgewater-PUP
Case Keenum
Taylor Heinicke
Whether Teddy Bridgewater will be ready to play this season will be an ever-present storyline throughout training camp and into the season.
Running backs
Latavius Murray
Jerick McKinnon
Dalvin Cook
C.J. Ham-fullback
Receivers
Stefon Diggs
Adam Thielen
Laquon Treadwell
Michael Floyd
Jarius Wright
Rodney Adams
Tight ends
Kyle Rudolph
David Morgan
Bucky Hodges
Offensive line
Riley Reiff
Alex Boone
Pat Elflein
Joe Berger
Mike Remmers
Jeremiah Sirles
Danny Isidora
T.J. Clemmings
Nick Easton
Rashod Hill
Defensive line
Everson Griffen
Sharrif Floyd-PUP
Linval Joseph
Danielle Hunter
Brian Robison
Datone Jones
Jaleel Johnson
Shamar Stephen
Stephen Weatherly
Defensive line will be the most difficult group to trim. If the injured nerve in Sharrif Floyd's knee responds in time to get ready for the season he's in the starting lineup. When he's healthy he simply disrupts the intentions of an offense. If the nerve doesn't respond his career could be in jeopardy. Tom Johnson and/or Will Sutton have the talent to contribute but the numbers ahead of them make it tough. If the Vikings keep nine defensive linemen one should make it. Johnson has the edge. Unless Sutton's age trumps Johnson's production.
Linebackers
Anthony Barr
Eric Kendricks
Emmanuel Lamur
Kentrell Brothers
Ben Gedeon
Eijah Lee
Cornerbacks
Xavier Rhodes
Trae Waynes
Mackensie Alexander
Terence Newman
Marcus Sherels
Tre Roberson
Safeties
Harrison Smith
Andrew Sendejo
Jayron Kearse
Jack Tocho
Kicker
Kai Forbath
Punter
Taylor Symmank
Long snapper
Kevin McDermott
Saturday, May 20, 2017
Minnesota Vikings 90 Man Roster. Again.
The addition of free agent receiver Michael Floyd, defensive tackle Will Sutton, and the signing of undrafted guard Freddie Tagaloa forced another viewing of the Minnesota Vikings 90-Man Roster.
Quarterbacks
Sam Bradford
Teddy Bridgewater
Case Keenum
Taylor Heinicke
Wes Lunt
Bridgewater will most likely start training camp and season on the PUP list.
Running backs
Latavius Murray
Jerick McKinnon
Dalvin Cook
C.J. Ham-fullback
Bishop Sankey
Terrell Newby
C.J. Ham's chances of making the final roster improved greatly with his move to fullback. He's the only one on the roster.
Receivers
Stefon Diggs
Adam Thielen
Laquon Treadwell
Michael Floyd
Jarius Wright
Moritz Boehringer
Isaac Fruechte
Rodney Adams
Stacy Coley
R.J. Shelton
Cayleb Jones
Mitch Matthews
This group looks much different with Michael Floyd's addition to it.
Tight ends
Kyle Rudolph
David Morgan
Bucky Hodges
Kyle Carter
Josiah Price
Nick Truesdell
If the Vikings keep four tight ends I wouldn't be surprised if the fourth is Josiah Price. For his blocking more than his catching.
Offensive line
Riley Reiff
Alex Boone
Pat Elflein
Joe Berger
Mike Remmers
Jeremiah Sirles
Danny Isidora
T.J. Clemmings
Nick Easton
Willie Beavers
Rashod Hill
Zac Kerin
Austin Shepherd
Aviante Collins
Freddie Tagaloa
Reid Fragel
This group has to improve. The offensive line saw a thorough overhaul this offseason. The Vikings might not sport one of the more physically gifted lines but if they can work well as a unit they can be very effective. It's a tough group and Sam Bradford shouldn't see as many unblocked pass rushers as he saw last year. Rashod Hill and Aviante Collins are youngsters with intriguing potential.
Defensive line
Everson Griffen
Sharrif Floyd
Linval Joseph
Danielle Hunter
Brian Robison
Datone Jones
Jaleel Johnson
Tom Johnson
Shamar Stephen
Stephen Weatherly
Ifeadi Odenigbo
Will Sutton
Dylan Bradley
Tashawn Bower
Caleb Kidder
Sam McCaskill
The health/availability of Sharrif Floyd is the biggest question with the line group. The competition for the final 3-4 spots on the roster is going to be fierce. This is the Vikings' deepest, most talented position group.
Linebackers
Anthony Barr
Eric Kendricks
Emmanuel Lamur
Kentrell Brothers
Edmond Robinson
Ben Gedeon
Eijah Lee
Shaan Washington
Eric Wilson
Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks are the only certainties at linebacker.
Cornerbacks
Xavier Rhodes
Trae Waynes
Mackensie Alexander
Terence Newman
Marcus Sherels
Tre Roberson
Jabari Price
Horace Richardson
Terrell Sinkfield
Trae Waynes finally gets his shot to start. Mackensie Alexander gets a shot at nickel. The ageless Terence Newman, 39 years young before the season starts, is still around if the youngsters struggle. Tre Roberson is a wildcard here.
Safeties
Harrison Smith
Andrew Sendejo
Anthony Harris
Jayron Kearse
Antone Exum, Jr.
Jack Tocho
Andrew Sendejo has been a reliable, if limited, starter for the last couple years. He'll have to fend off younger, perhaps more talented, contenders again.
Kicker
Kai Forbath
Marshall Koehn
Punter
Taylor Symmank
Ryan Quigley
Long snapper
Kevin McDermott
Quarterbacks
Sam Bradford
Teddy Bridgewater
Case Keenum
Taylor Heinicke
Wes Lunt
Bridgewater will most likely start training camp and season on the PUP list.
Running backs
Latavius Murray
Jerick McKinnon
Dalvin Cook
C.J. Ham-fullback
Bishop Sankey
Terrell Newby
C.J. Ham's chances of making the final roster improved greatly with his move to fullback. He's the only one on the roster.
Receivers
Stefon Diggs
Adam Thielen
Laquon Treadwell
Michael Floyd
Jarius Wright
Moritz Boehringer
Isaac Fruechte
Rodney Adams
Stacy Coley
R.J. Shelton
Cayleb Jones
Mitch Matthews
This group looks much different with Michael Floyd's addition to it.
Tight ends
Kyle Rudolph
David Morgan
Bucky Hodges
Kyle Carter
Josiah Price
Nick Truesdell
If the Vikings keep four tight ends I wouldn't be surprised if the fourth is Josiah Price. For his blocking more than his catching.
Offensive line
Riley Reiff
Alex Boone
Pat Elflein
Joe Berger
Mike Remmers
Jeremiah Sirles
Danny Isidora
T.J. Clemmings
Nick Easton
Willie Beavers
Rashod Hill
Zac Kerin
Austin Shepherd
Aviante Collins
Freddie Tagaloa
Reid Fragel
This group has to improve. The offensive line saw a thorough overhaul this offseason. The Vikings might not sport one of the more physically gifted lines but if they can work well as a unit they can be very effective. It's a tough group and Sam Bradford shouldn't see as many unblocked pass rushers as he saw last year. Rashod Hill and Aviante Collins are youngsters with intriguing potential.
Defensive line
Everson Griffen
Sharrif Floyd
Linval Joseph
Danielle Hunter
Brian Robison
Datone Jones
Jaleel Johnson
Tom Johnson
Shamar Stephen
Stephen Weatherly
Ifeadi Odenigbo
Will Sutton
Dylan Bradley
Tashawn Bower
Caleb Kidder
Sam McCaskill
The health/availability of Sharrif Floyd is the biggest question with the line group. The competition for the final 3-4 spots on the roster is going to be fierce. This is the Vikings' deepest, most talented position group.
Linebackers
Anthony Barr
Eric Kendricks
Emmanuel Lamur
Kentrell Brothers
Edmond Robinson
Ben Gedeon
Eijah Lee
Shaan Washington
Eric Wilson
Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks are the only certainties at linebacker.
Cornerbacks
Xavier Rhodes
Trae Waynes
Mackensie Alexander
Terence Newman
Marcus Sherels
Tre Roberson
Jabari Price
Horace Richardson
Terrell Sinkfield
Trae Waynes finally gets his shot to start. Mackensie Alexander gets a shot at nickel. The ageless Terence Newman, 39 years young before the season starts, is still around if the youngsters struggle. Tre Roberson is a wildcard here.
Safeties
Harrison Smith
Andrew Sendejo
Anthony Harris
Jayron Kearse
Antone Exum, Jr.
Jack Tocho
Andrew Sendejo has been a reliable, if limited, starter for the last couple years. He'll have to fend off younger, perhaps more talented, contenders again.
Kicker
Kai Forbath
Marshall Koehn
Punter
Taylor Symmank
Ryan Quigley
Long snapper
Kevin McDermott
Friday, May 19, 2017
TCO Performance Center
The Minnesota Vikings opened their spectacular new stadium last season. One would think that would be the end of the new team facilities for a while. One would be wrong. As soon as the doors to the new stadium were opening last summer the Vikings were breaking ground on the construction of a new training facility in Eagan. The team had outgrown their Winter Park facilities long ago. The Vikings were even forced into holding their team meetings in a curtained off corner of their indoor field. None of it was ideal. The Eagan facilities will be one of the best in the NFL when they open next March. Not long after ground was broken the Vikings had a partner in Twin Cities Orthopedics and a name for their new facilities. TCO Performance Center. Here's a comparison between old and new.
Vikings trainer Eric Sugarman and his staff will be thrilled with their new facility. The increased size of the training area is startling. The training room alone more than triples in size. That's more than enough room for the Vikings' weekly Donut Club. Twice as many training tables, more tubs. Hopefully the extra tables won't be necessary. They will even have a Cardio Mezzanine!
One of the more ridiculous aspects of the Vikings current situation is the team meeting room. When Mike Zimmer was hired he wanted the entire team to to be able to gather in one room. Auditorium style. Winter Park only had smaller rooms for individual position group meetings. The only option for Zimmer and his team was to curtain off a corner of the endzone of the indoor practice facility. It wasn't ideal. And it looked silly.
The opening of the TCO Performance Center early next year has raised speculation that this summer's training camp will be the last one held on the campus of Minnesota State-Mankato. The Vikings are one of the few teams that still gets away for their hot summer workouts. While most of the rest of the NFL have been spending training camps in the comforts of their own home or something cozy near it the Vikings have been stuffing big men into tiny dorm rooms. Mankato has been their summer home away from home for over 50 years. It's a tradition that may be coming to an end. It only takes a quick scan of the above numbers to see a facility that's made to hold a training camp. At least the football part of it. They still need to find/build something that has about 150 beds.
New stadium, new practice facility, now the Vikings need one of those shiny new Lombardi Trophies.
|
Vikings trainer Eric Sugarman and his staff will be thrilled with their new facility. The increased size of the training area is startling. The training room alone more than triples in size. That's more than enough room for the Vikings' weekly Donut Club. Twice as many training tables, more tubs. Hopefully the extra tables won't be necessary. They will even have a Cardio Mezzanine!
One of the more ridiculous aspects of the Vikings current situation is the team meeting room. When Mike Zimmer was hired he wanted the entire team to to be able to gather in one room. Auditorium style. Winter Park only had smaller rooms for individual position group meetings. The only option for Zimmer and his team was to curtain off a corner of the endzone of the indoor practice facility. It wasn't ideal. And it looked silly.
The opening of the TCO Performance Center early next year has raised speculation that this summer's training camp will be the last one held on the campus of Minnesota State-Mankato. The Vikings are one of the few teams that still gets away for their hot summer workouts. While most of the rest of the NFL have been spending training camps in the comforts of their own home or something cozy near it the Vikings have been stuffing big men into tiny dorm rooms. Mankato has been their summer home away from home for over 50 years. It's a tradition that may be coming to an end. It only takes a quick scan of the above numbers to see a facility that's made to hold a training camp. At least the football part of it. They still need to find/build something that has about 150 beds.
New stadium, new practice facility, now the Vikings need one of those shiny new Lombardi Trophies.
Thursday, May 18, 2017
Throwback Thursday: All-Time University of California NFL Team
The Talk of Fame Network has been picking all-time NFL teams for the colleges that have sent the most players to the NFL. Notre Dame, USC, Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and other football talent factories. It's been a long time since Cal was a factor on the national football scene. I don't think that the Talk of Fame Network is going to visit Berkeley any time soon. So, here's a Flea Flicker look at an All-Time Cal NFL Team.
Offense
QB - Aaron Rodgers
RB - Marshawn Lynch
RB - Chuck Muncie
WR - DeSean Jackson
WR - Wesley Walker
TE - Tony Gonzalez
T - Tarik Glenn
T - Mitchell Schwartz
G - Ed White
G - Harvey Salem
C- Alex Mack
Defense
DE - Andre Carter
DE - Sherman White
DT - Brandon Mebane
DT- Chidi Ahanotu
LB - Ken Harvey
LB - Les Richter
LB - Hardy Nickerson
CB - Nnambi Asomugha
CB - Deltha O'Neal
S - Herm Edwards
S - Thomas DeCoud
Special Teams
K - Ryan Longwell
P - Bryan Anger
Ret - DeSean Jackson
For a team with the sort of college football footprint that Cal has they have sent a solid number of players to the NFL. A few of those players have found NFL success. Linebacker Les Richter is the only Cal player that has been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Tony Gonzalez should join him in a few years. Aaron Rodgers will be inducted five years after he retires. A Hall of Fame argument can, and will, be made for Marshawn Lynch. Especially if his return to the league amounts to something.
Cal has supplied the NFL with some nice offensive talent over the years. Quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers, Joe Kapp, Craig Morton, and Vince Feragamo have led their teams to Super Bowls. Only Rodgers has won a title. Steve Bartkowski did lead his team to a Super Bowl but his passing career is probably second to that of Rodgers of the Cal's NFL quarterbacks. Joe Roth might have been the best of them all but he sadly never got the chance. As for running backs, Cal has sent a bunch to the NFL in recent years. Lynch and Muncie have had the most productive NFL careers but it was still tough to leave Johnny Olszewski off of this team. If current San Diego Chargers receiver Keenan Allen can stay healthy he should make this team in a couple of years. Linemen that just missed the cut include Bob Reinhard, Ted Albrecht, and Todd Steussie.
Linebacker might be Cal's top position when it comes to supplying the NFL with talent. Richter is honored in Canton. Ken Harvey and Hardy Nickerson were offense-wrecking teammates at Cal and Pro Bowl regulars in the 1990s. Harvey was a pass rushing force and Nickerson was a team leader on an outstanding Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense. Gary Plummer and Matt Hazeltine were tough to cut from this team. If linebacker is a Cal strength, safety isn't. Selecting a complete defensive backfield was a struggle. Actually, I couldn't complete it. Cornerback wasn't a problem. Nnambi Asomugha and Deltha O'Neal had solid, sometimes great, NFL careers. Herm Edwards could've/should've been one of the corners but I moved him to safety to make a complete team. He could handle the move. Thomas DeCoud had some nice moments (a Pro Bowl nod in 2012) but had a mostly modest seven-year NFL career.
When I think about the players that Cal has sent to the NFL it's a bit surprising that they haven't had more football success. They've had some terrific players. I guess that they haven't had enough of them at any one time. One of their best teams in my lifetime wasn't littered with NFL talent. In 1991 Cal thrashed Clemson in the Citrus Bowl, finished the season 10-2, and was ranked #8 in the final AP poll. Only linemen Troy Auzenne and Todd Steussie, receiver Sean Dawkins, and defensive tackle Chidi Ahanatou had much more than a few cups of coffee in the NFL. But that 1991 Cal football season sure was a fun one. Their game against #1 Washington is the best college game I've ever attended.
Go Bears!
Offense
QB - Aaron Rodgers
RB - Marshawn Lynch
RB - Chuck Muncie
WR - DeSean Jackson
WR - Wesley Walker
TE - Tony Gonzalez
T - Tarik Glenn
T - Mitchell Schwartz
G - Ed White
G - Harvey Salem
C- Alex Mack
Defense
DE - Andre Carter
DE - Sherman White
DT - Brandon Mebane
DT- Chidi Ahanotu
LB - Ken Harvey
LB - Les Richter
LB - Hardy Nickerson
CB - Nnambi Asomugha
CB - Deltha O'Neal
S - Herm Edwards
S - Thomas DeCoud
Special Teams
K - Ryan Longwell
P - Bryan Anger
Ret - DeSean Jackson
For a team with the sort of college football footprint that Cal has they have sent a solid number of players to the NFL. A few of those players have found NFL success. Linebacker Les Richter is the only Cal player that has been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Tony Gonzalez should join him in a few years. Aaron Rodgers will be inducted five years after he retires. A Hall of Fame argument can, and will, be made for Marshawn Lynch. Especially if his return to the league amounts to something.
Cal has supplied the NFL with some nice offensive talent over the years. Quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers, Joe Kapp, Craig Morton, and Vince Feragamo have led their teams to Super Bowls. Only Rodgers has won a title. Steve Bartkowski did lead his team to a Super Bowl but his passing career is probably second to that of Rodgers of the Cal's NFL quarterbacks. Joe Roth might have been the best of them all but he sadly never got the chance. As for running backs, Cal has sent a bunch to the NFL in recent years. Lynch and Muncie have had the most productive NFL careers but it was still tough to leave Johnny Olszewski off of this team. If current San Diego Chargers receiver Keenan Allen can stay healthy he should make this team in a couple of years. Linemen that just missed the cut include Bob Reinhard, Ted Albrecht, and Todd Steussie.
Linebacker might be Cal's top position when it comes to supplying the NFL with talent. Richter is honored in Canton. Ken Harvey and Hardy Nickerson were offense-wrecking teammates at Cal and Pro Bowl regulars in the 1990s. Harvey was a pass rushing force and Nickerson was a team leader on an outstanding Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense. Gary Plummer and Matt Hazeltine were tough to cut from this team. If linebacker is a Cal strength, safety isn't. Selecting a complete defensive backfield was a struggle. Actually, I couldn't complete it. Cornerback wasn't a problem. Nnambi Asomugha and Deltha O'Neal had solid, sometimes great, NFL careers. Herm Edwards could've/should've been one of the corners but I moved him to safety to make a complete team. He could handle the move. Thomas DeCoud had some nice moments (a Pro Bowl nod in 2012) but had a mostly modest seven-year NFL career.
When I think about the players that Cal has sent to the NFL it's a bit surprising that they haven't had more football success. They've had some terrific players. I guess that they haven't had enough of them at any one time. One of their best teams in my lifetime wasn't littered with NFL talent. In 1991 Cal thrashed Clemson in the Citrus Bowl, finished the season 10-2, and was ranked #8 in the final AP poll. Only linemen Troy Auzenne and Todd Steussie, receiver Sean Dawkins, and defensive tackle Chidi Ahanatou had much more than a few cups of coffee in the NFL. But that 1991 Cal football season sure was a fun one. Their game against #1 Washington is the best college game I've ever attended.
Go Bears!
Wednesday, May 17, 2017
Then And Now
Every team in the NFL changes from season to season. Even the good ones. There's a constant roster churn for a variety of reasons. Free agency, retirements, competence. The Minnesota Vikings completely overhauled their entire offense this offseason. Coaches included. New offensive coordinator. New coaches for the quarterbacks, running backs, receivers, and tight ends. Very little will be the same on offense. That's a good thing. The defense returns mostly the same starters but the offense is a whole other story. Here's a comparison of this year's possible starting lineup and the lineup that took the field against the Tennessee Titans to open the 2016 season.
Defense
Defense
Offense
2017
Offense
|
Defense
|
2016
Offense
|
Defense
|
Offense
I took some liberties and made some assumptions with this year's offense. The starting offensive lineup in any game is obviously dependent upon the first play. The Vikings have been leaning on the running of Adrian Peterson pretty much since the midpoint of the 2007 season. It's a different Vikings offense now. There'll be fewer two-back and more multiple-receiver sets. No matter the schematic reason, the personnel differences between the expected offense this year and last is striking. Only Stefon Diggs, Kyle Rudolph, and Alex Boone return as starters this year at the same position as last year. The right guard position will probably be the most contested offensive position in training camp. Joe Berger might top the depth chart but he'll see competition from Jeremiah Sirles and rookie Danny Isidora. The other line positions could be up for grabs as well but I'd be surprised if Riley Reiff, Alex Boone, Pat Elflein, and Mike Remmers aren't four of the starting five.
Defense
The defense shouldn't change much. It was usually stout last year and should be better this year. Danielle Hunter is on the verge of stardom. Brain Robison should still play a lot of snaps but it's Hunter's time. Defensive tackle is a question spot. If Sharrif Floyd can return from a career-threatening nerve issue in his knee he's the likely starter. When he's on the field he's an explosive, disruptive force. Datone Jones was added in free agency and is likely first up if Floyd can't return. Rookie Jaleel Johnson should be in the mix as well. Replacing Chad Greenway at weakside linebacker should also be a well-populated competition. Emmanuel Lamur might penciled in at the top of the depth chart entering training camp but Edmond Robinson and rookies Ben Gedeon and Elijah Lee should all get a shot. It's been assumed by the media and fans that the Vikings have been trying to find an alternative for Andrew Sendejo at strong safety for a couple of seasons. The ideal strong safety would be one that is nearly as versatile as the ultra-versatile Harrison Smith. There aren't many of those. Sendejo is a solid but limited starter. He'll face competition from Anthony Harris, Jayron Kearse, and rookie Jack Tocho in camp.
If the Vikings were only moving on from the Adrian Peterson years it would be a significant change. He was one of the best, most productive, explosive, game-breaking, entertaining football players to ever play for the Vikings. It was an era that was over way too soon. It feels as though it was just the other day that he cut loose for 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers. There won't be much that's recognizable about the Vikings offense this season. I'm not sure how I feel about that mostly because the Peterson years were so damn fun. But the Vikings offense wasn't much fun, or productive, last season. It had to change. That change started with the offensive line. The 2017 line might not be the most physically gifted line in the league but it should be a tougher, more cohesive line than has been seen in Minnesota for a while. Sam Bradford shouldn't see the ridiculous number of free rushers that he saw last season. It's a minor miracle that he made it through the 2016 season in one piece. On paper, the Vikings offense looks vastly different and improved. That doesn't mean much if it doesn't translate into improved play on the field. The defense should be great.
The defense shouldn't change much. It was usually stout last year and should be better this year. Danielle Hunter is on the verge of stardom. Brain Robison should still play a lot of snaps but it's Hunter's time. Defensive tackle is a question spot. If Sharrif Floyd can return from a career-threatening nerve issue in his knee he's the likely starter. When he's on the field he's an explosive, disruptive force. Datone Jones was added in free agency and is likely first up if Floyd can't return. Rookie Jaleel Johnson should be in the mix as well. Replacing Chad Greenway at weakside linebacker should also be a well-populated competition. Emmanuel Lamur might penciled in at the top of the depth chart entering training camp but Edmond Robinson and rookies Ben Gedeon and Elijah Lee should all get a shot. It's been assumed by the media and fans that the Vikings have been trying to find an alternative for Andrew Sendejo at strong safety for a couple of seasons. The ideal strong safety would be one that is nearly as versatile as the ultra-versatile Harrison Smith. There aren't many of those. Sendejo is a solid but limited starter. He'll face competition from Anthony Harris, Jayron Kearse, and rookie Jack Tocho in camp.
If the Vikings were only moving on from the Adrian Peterson years it would be a significant change. He was one of the best, most productive, explosive, game-breaking, entertaining football players to ever play for the Vikings. It was an era that was over way too soon. It feels as though it was just the other day that he cut loose for 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers. There won't be much that's recognizable about the Vikings offense this season. I'm not sure how I feel about that mostly because the Peterson years were so damn fun. But the Vikings offense wasn't much fun, or productive, last season. It had to change. That change started with the offensive line. The 2017 line might not be the most physically gifted line in the league but it should be a tougher, more cohesive line than has been seen in Minnesota for a while. Sam Bradford shouldn't see the ridiculous number of free rushers that he saw last season. It's a minor miracle that he made it through the 2016 season in one piece. On paper, the Vikings offense looks vastly different and improved. That doesn't mean much if it doesn't translate into improved play on the field. The defense should be great.
Tuesday, May 16, 2017
NFL's Top 100 Players for 2017: 70-61
NFL Network continued it's march to the league's top player of 2017. The players ranked 70-61 were announced last night.
70. Kirk Cousins, QB
69. Jay Ajayi, RB
68. Geno Atkins, DT
67. Greg Olsen, TE
66. Xavier Rhodes, CB
65. Jordan Reed, TE
64. Casey Hayward, CB
63. Chris Harris, Jr.
62. Cameron Wake. DE
61. TY Hilton, WR
Jay Ajayi, Xavier Rhodes, Casey Hayward, and TY Hilton made the list for the first time. Cameron Wake returned after missing last year due to injury.
Geno Atkins' drop of 39 spots from last year is a surprise as he's always great. For some reason Greg Olsen dropped 29 spots. He's one of the top three tight ends in the game and easily a top-50 player. It was also a surprise to see him a couple spots behind fellow tight end Jordan Reed. As with Harrison Smith's reveal last week, Xavier Rhodes is ranked way too low. But, that's just me.
It's been said many times here that the best thing about the NFL Network's Top-100 list reveal is the player commentary. The use of teammate duos in these commentary bits seems to be making a more prominent presence. Sam Acho and Pernell McPhee of the Chicago Bears, Vontaze Burfict and Vincent Rey of the Cincinnati Bengals, and Doug Baldwin and Richard Sherman of the Seattle Seahawks were great. It was amusing/embarrassing when Acho had to help his teammate with the name of the Dolphins' running back. McPhee didn't seem to know that the back was named Jay Ajayi.
Next week we get to the middle of the list.
70. Kirk Cousins, QB
69. Jay Ajayi, RB
68. Geno Atkins, DT
67. Greg Olsen, TE
66. Xavier Rhodes, CB
65. Jordan Reed, TE
64. Casey Hayward, CB
63. Chris Harris, Jr.
62. Cameron Wake. DE
61. TY Hilton, WR
Jay Ajayi, Xavier Rhodes, Casey Hayward, and TY Hilton made the list for the first time. Cameron Wake returned after missing last year due to injury.
Geno Atkins' drop of 39 spots from last year is a surprise as he's always great. For some reason Greg Olsen dropped 29 spots. He's one of the top three tight ends in the game and easily a top-50 player. It was also a surprise to see him a couple spots behind fellow tight end Jordan Reed. As with Harrison Smith's reveal last week, Xavier Rhodes is ranked way too low. But, that's just me.
It's been said many times here that the best thing about the NFL Network's Top-100 list reveal is the player commentary. The use of teammate duos in these commentary bits seems to be making a more prominent presence. Sam Acho and Pernell McPhee of the Chicago Bears, Vontaze Burfict and Vincent Rey of the Cincinnati Bengals, and Doug Baldwin and Richard Sherman of the Seattle Seahawks were great. It was amusing/embarrassing when Acho had to help his teammate with the name of the Dolphins' running back. McPhee didn't seem to know that the back was named Jay Ajayi.
Next week we get to the middle of the list.
Monday, May 15, 2017
Top 50 College Football Players For 2017
As a college football primer, NFL.com Draft Analyst Chad Reuter ranked the Top-50 College Football Players in advance of the 2017 season. Here are those players.
1. Ed Oliver, DT, Houston: Oliver was the most impressive freshman defender in recent college football history. He'll be a constant thorn in the side of offenses for the foreseeable future.
2. Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville: Jackson did not end the year on a high note, but his talent as a thrower and runner gives him a great chance to be the first repeat Heisman winner since Archie Griffin.
3. Sam Darnold, QB, USC: Darnold is considered the nation's top young quarterback in NFL scouting circles due to his physical attributes and mental aptitude. He'll carry his young receiving corps in 2017.
4. Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma: The former walk-on and Texas Tech transfer could be a Heisman Trophy finalist for the second year in a row. His mobility, toughness and ability to stretch the field help him overcome a lack of size to be a dangerous offensive threat.
5. Derwin James, S, Florida State: James was injured two games into last season, but will be full throttle in 2017. The tall, long safety is a secure tackler against the run and has the ball skills to create turnovers in coverage.
6. Connor Williams, OT, Texas: Athletic, physically imposing, well-balanced, stout ... there's not much negative to say about Williams. He's the top offensive lineman in college football.
7. Arden Key, DE, LSU: Key, yet another tall and lean LSU pass rusher, came into the national spotlight last year as a sophomore. Key has the potential to be a Pro Bowler. He took a leave of absence from the team for personal reasons in February, but coach Ed Orgeron expects him to return next month.
8. Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State: Barkley is an elusive and strong back. He's able to carry the mail and break off the big play. He figures large in Penn State's return to national prominence.
9. Rashan Gary, DT, Michigan: Michigan got everything it expected last season from the five-star recruit. His size and athleticism on the edge makes him a tough ask outside and an excellent pass rusher inside.
10. Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming: It's fitting for the Cowboys to have a gunslinger at quarterback. Allen's arm strength, mobility, and willingness to throw all over the field make him an intriguing prospect.
11. Bo Scarbrough, RB, Alabama: When Alabama gave Scarbrough carries in 2016, he used his huge frame to run through and past defenders, much like Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry. He'll be a force for the Tide as they try to get back to the national-title game.
12. Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: Leonard Fournette's ankle injury gave Guice a chance to show his wares last season. His power and foot quickness allow him to blast through tackles in a Jerome Bettis-like fashion.
13. Malik Jefferson, LB, Texas: There will be plenty of Derrick Johnson comparisons coming for Jefferson, who could play outside and inside at the next level. He'll become well known on a national scale with consistency in his playmaking as a junior.
14. Cameron Smith, LB, USC: Like former Trojans linebacker Brian Cushing, Smith's size, speed, and instincts allow him to always be around the ball.
15. Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA: Shoulder surgery sidelined Rosen last November, so his star isn't on the rise like it was at this time last year. By the end of this season, I won't be surprised if Rosen is in the running for a trip to New York City for the Heisman Trophy presentation.
16. Iman Marshall, CB, USC: Marshall has been impressive in coverage since his freshman year, and NFL scouts will tell you he's a better pure corner prospect than 2017 first-round pick Adoree' Jackson because of his strength and agility on the sideline.
17. Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson: Tall with wiry strength, McFadden catches the ball if it's anywhere near his hands; his eight interceptions tied for the FBS lead last season.
18. Tarvarus McFadden, CB, Florida State: This tall, bullish tackle proved in his first year on campus that the recruiting hype was deserved. He'll anchor Clemson's line as they try to repeat as champions.
19. Mike Weber, RB, Ohio State: Many will compare Weber to former OSU back Ezekiel Elliott. Weber's cut-back ability, speed, and compact build make him tough to stop.
20. Minkah Fitzpatrick, CB, Alabama: A versatile defender who can play every position in the secondary, Fitzpatrick will be a leader for Nick Saban's defensive group in 2017.
21. Harold Landry, LB, Boston College: It was a bit surprising that Landry didn't leave school after 2016 because he likely would have been one of the top pass rushers in this year's draft. He's a long, strong edge rusher who will push around college tackles for another year.
22. Mason Rudolph, QB, Oklahoma State: The sturdy pocket passer is able to move his offense effectively, whether throwing short, intermediate, or deep passes to put up big numbers.
23. Antonio Callaway, WR, Florida: Callaway has been an impact performer for the Gators as a receiver and punt returner, using his elite speed and quickness to turn short gains into long ones.
24. Mark Andrews, TE, Oklahoma: The Sooners have a phenomenal junior tight end at their disposal this season. Andrews looks and runs like a wide receiver, but can win inside and in the red zone with his 6-foot-5, 253-pound frame.
25. Ronnie Harrison, S, Alabama: Ball carriers have to know where Harrison is at all times, as he will pop them when coming downhill. He can also create turnovers.
26. Trace McSorley, QB, Penn State: Look for McSorley to build off a strong sophomore year to join the Heisman conversation. He's a playmaker for head coach James Franklin and works well in the clutch.
27. Mitch Hyatt, OT, Clemson: Hyatt must perform at an All-American level if the Tigers are going to have any chance to return to the College Football Playoff without Deshaun Watson at the helm. The junior has the ability to deliver.
28. Porter Gustin, LB, USC: Gustin's long, blonde locks will earn comps to Trojan football alum Clay Matthews III. Gustin's an excellent run defender, as well, making him an all-around talent worth watching anytime you get the chance.
29. Ahmmon Richards, WR, Miami (Fla.): An amazing talent, Richards is as smooth off the line as any receiver I've seen in recent years. He's not only a fast strider, but has great hands and can make defenders miss with stop-start action.
30. Sam Hubbard, DE, Ohio State: Hubbard's an excellent all-around defender, able to hold his ground in the run game and chase the quarterback.
31. Greg Little, OT, Ole Miss: Little will make his way up this list if he blossoms in his sophomore year. When given a chance last season, the top recruit in the 2016 class looked quick and strong at left tackle.
32. Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State: Expectations are high for the younger brother of Joey Bosa. Nick showed glimpses of great talent in 2016, and should be stronger this year without losing his agility or passion for the game.
33. Orlando Brown, OT, Oklahoma: The son of the late Orlando "Zeus" Brown, who started at left tackle during his 11-year NFL career, is also a mountain of a man. While his lateral agility could improve, his pure size and length make him nearly impossible to get around.
34. Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama: Ridley doesn't get a chance to touch the ball as often as he should in Alabama's offense, but he's electric when the pigskin hits his hands.
35. Luke Falk, QB, Washington State: Coach Mike Leach is having Falk work his magic in the Air Raid scheme, distributing the ball all over the field. He loses some of his top targets from last year, though; scouts will be interested to see how he adjusts.
36. Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson: Despite weighing 300 pounds, Wilkins played strong-side defensive end for the Tigers last season. The junior could play inside or outside in the pros, depending on the system.
37. Jalen Hurts, QB, Alabama: Hurts is still learning how to be a pocket passer, but he's certainly able to make plays with his arm on the run -- and Alabama used him as a runner regularly due to his athleticism and toughness.
38. Jake Browning, QB, Washington: Browning doesn't wow with great physical characteristics. He throws a tight ball, though, and is always in control of the offense. He has the weapons around him (and the defense) to get the Huskies back to the College Football Playoff this fall.
39. Vita Vea, DT, Washington: You don't see many 330-pound players move as well as Vea. His combination of strength at the point of attack and quickness in the backfield has scouts' attention.
40. Bradley Chubb, DE, N.C. State: Chubb is a similar player to former Kansas State star end Jordan Willis. He's thick and relentless, and should be an All-ACC pick for the Wolfpack in 2017.
41. Mark Walton, RB, Miami (Fla.): He's been a factor for the 'Canes as a rusher and receiver in his first two seasons with the team. Walton runs with a lean and has excellent balance in the open field.
42. Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M: Kirk has a running back's build, and cut-back ability. He uses those attributes as an effective receiver (led team with 928 yards in 2017) and returner (three punt return scores last year).
43. Ronald Jones II, RB, USC: A dynamic ball carrier who's speedy and elusive. Jones is not afraid of contact. Jones and QB Sam Darnold should help USC score a lot of points this fall.
44. Da'Ron Payne, DT, Alabama: With Jonathan Allen and Ryan Anderson departing for the NFL, Payne is the new leader of Alabama's vaunted defensive line. He will make life difficult for running backs and quarterbacks alike this season.
45. James Washington, WR, Oklahoma State:Washington and quarterback Mason Rudolph returned for their senior years to lead the Cowboys to a Big 12 title. He's tough fighting for the ball in the air and quick enough to separate downfield.
46. Troy Fumagalli, TE, Wisconsin: The Badgers' passing game uses Fumagalli as a crutch because of his size, reliable routes, and strong hands. He'll be an excellent pro.
47. Deondre Francois, QB, Florida State: As a redshirt freshman, Francois had his ups and downs. The Seminoles are banking on his ability to smooth out the ride in 2017, using his mobility and live arm to challenge for an ACC title.
48. Anthony Averett, CB, Alabama: Tested throughout 2016, Averett stepped up his game as the season progressed. He'll continue to make plays if quarterbacks avoid Alabama's other talented cover men.
49. Lowell Lotulelei, DT, Utah: Need a run stopper? Lotulelei fills that need, as he eats space inside and uses his quick feet to put interior pressure on quarterbacks.
50. Billy Price, OG, Ohio State: Price is nasty, and that's a compliment. He possesses the short-area quickness and anchor to be an All-American pass protector and run blocker.
Quarterbacks get way too much love. There's no way that three of the top four and four of the top 10 college football players are quarterbacks.
Sunday, May 14, 2017
A Return To The Vikings Draft
It's been two weeks since the Minnesota Vikings kicked off their 2017 Draft with the surprising selection of Florida State running back Dalvin Cook in the second round. The pick was only a surprise because Cook wasn't supposed to be there. With two weeks of pondering, theorizing, analyzing, debating, and many other such things here's a better than knee-jerk look at the Vikings' picks.
The 11 players that the Vikings selected in the 2017 NFL Draft.
2. Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
3. Pat Elflein, C, Ohio State
4. Jaleel Johnson, DT, Iowa
4. Ben Gedeon, LB, Michigan
5. Rodney Adams, WR, South Florida
5. Danny Isidora, G, Miami
6. Bucky Hodges, TE, Virginia Tech
7. Stacy Coley, WR, Miami
7. Ifeadi Odenigbo, DE, Northwestern
7. Elijah Lee, LB, Kansas State
7. Jack Tocho, S, North Carolina State
NFL Media Draft Analyst Lance Zierlein recently posted his best and worst picks for each team. He chose Pat Elflein as the Vikings best pick and Ben Gedeon as the worst pick. With the tremendous need on the offensive line, it's not wrong at all to tap Elflein as the the top pick. Even over Cook. The He has the talent, smarts, and work ethic to be a decade-long starter. The Vikings have been looking for a lineman like that for too long. Even if he's a safe pick he's an easy pick. The choice of Ben Gedeon as the worst pick wasn't a surprise either. Many fans weren't too fond of the pick either. In Zierlein's words, "Gedeon has decent quickness but might lack the speed necessary to play in the NFL. If the Vikings were just looking for a backup with special teams ability, I might have waited another round." I tend to look at the Vikings' drafts more optimistically than most. Mostly because their decision-makers know these players better than me. There's no way for me to know whether any of the players that I like best truly fit into the schemes and plans of the Vikings. That being said, I had become a big fan of Utah guard Isaac Asiata through the draft process. I would've been elated if the Vikings had selected Asiata with the second of their two fourth round picks. He ended up being selected by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round. Asiata, by the way, was Zierlein's choice for the Dolphins' best pick. The Vikings did address the guard position in the fifth when they chose Danny Isidora. If Asiata had been the pick in the fourth, the second fifth round pick could've been used for a safety such as Nebraska's Nate Gerry. While I really like Asiata, I was fine with Isidora. As the long draft evaluation process shook out I began to really like the guards that were projected to go in the 4th- and 5th-rounds. It was a group led by Asiata, Isidora, and Nico Siragusa and a group that I actually liked better than those that were projected to be drafted earlier.
As I think more about the Vikings' draft I like it more. Cook and Elflein could/should be Day 1 starters. Jaleel Johnson should play a prominent role in the interior defensive line rotation. With the uncertainty surrounding the knee of defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd, he might even end up as a starter. Isidora will compete for the right guard job. Rodney Adams is probably first up for kick return duties. Stacy Coley will compete with Adams for return and receiver opportunities. Bucky Hodges will probably have an immediate role in the red zone. His length and speed could be a nightmare matchup for defenses. Ifaedi Odenigbo is a developmental defensive end. Jack Tocho will be part of a very crowded competition for safety duties next to Harrison Smith. A very optimistic look at the Vikings draft can find starters/eventual starters in Cook, Elflein, Johnson, Isidora, perhaps even Tocho and prominent situational players in Adams and Hodges.
Then there's the two linebackers. My own view of the perfect linebacker to replace the retired Chad Greenway is a speedy, sideline-to-sideline playmaking, big safety, smallish linebacker sort of player. Actually, a player much like seventh-round pick Elijah Lee. In fact, Lee was a part of nearly every one of my Vikings mock drafts in the final weeks before the draft. It's difficult to accept but the Vikings might not be looking for that sort of linebacker for their base defense. They might be looking for a linebacker like Ben Gedeon. A player that packs a wallop against the run in the team's base defense. NFL defenses are becoming more situation-based with each passing season and Gedeon, with his "limited speed," has the tools to be effective in certain situations. Imagine that, a team picking the sort of player that can play a role in their defense. I do think that the perfect Vikings weak-side linebacker is some combination of Gedeon and Lee. That sounds like the singer for Rush.
I liked this draft immediately. I like it even more with a couple of weeks to ponder it. But that's only on paper. All of the 11 players will get their NFL shot this spring and summer.
The 11 players that the Vikings selected in the 2017 NFL Draft.
2. Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
3. Pat Elflein, C, Ohio State
4. Jaleel Johnson, DT, Iowa
4. Ben Gedeon, LB, Michigan
5. Rodney Adams, WR, South Florida
5. Danny Isidora, G, Miami
6. Bucky Hodges, TE, Virginia Tech
7. Stacy Coley, WR, Miami
7. Ifeadi Odenigbo, DE, Northwestern
7. Elijah Lee, LB, Kansas State
7. Jack Tocho, S, North Carolina State
NFL Media Draft Analyst Lance Zierlein recently posted his best and worst picks for each team. He chose Pat Elflein as the Vikings best pick and Ben Gedeon as the worst pick. With the tremendous need on the offensive line, it's not wrong at all to tap Elflein as the the top pick. Even over Cook. The He has the talent, smarts, and work ethic to be a decade-long starter. The Vikings have been looking for a lineman like that for too long. Even if he's a safe pick he's an easy pick. The choice of Ben Gedeon as the worst pick wasn't a surprise either. Many fans weren't too fond of the pick either. In Zierlein's words, "Gedeon has decent quickness but might lack the speed necessary to play in the NFL. If the Vikings were just looking for a backup with special teams ability, I might have waited another round." I tend to look at the Vikings' drafts more optimistically than most. Mostly because their decision-makers know these players better than me. There's no way for me to know whether any of the players that I like best truly fit into the schemes and plans of the Vikings. That being said, I had become a big fan of Utah guard Isaac Asiata through the draft process. I would've been elated if the Vikings had selected Asiata with the second of their two fourth round picks. He ended up being selected by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round. Asiata, by the way, was Zierlein's choice for the Dolphins' best pick. The Vikings did address the guard position in the fifth when they chose Danny Isidora. If Asiata had been the pick in the fourth, the second fifth round pick could've been used for a safety such as Nebraska's Nate Gerry. While I really like Asiata, I was fine with Isidora. As the long draft evaluation process shook out I began to really like the guards that were projected to go in the 4th- and 5th-rounds. It was a group led by Asiata, Isidora, and Nico Siragusa and a group that I actually liked better than those that were projected to be drafted earlier.
As I think more about the Vikings' draft I like it more. Cook and Elflein could/should be Day 1 starters. Jaleel Johnson should play a prominent role in the interior defensive line rotation. With the uncertainty surrounding the knee of defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd, he might even end up as a starter. Isidora will compete for the right guard job. Rodney Adams is probably first up for kick return duties. Stacy Coley will compete with Adams for return and receiver opportunities. Bucky Hodges will probably have an immediate role in the red zone. His length and speed could be a nightmare matchup for defenses. Ifaedi Odenigbo is a developmental defensive end. Jack Tocho will be part of a very crowded competition for safety duties next to Harrison Smith. A very optimistic look at the Vikings draft can find starters/eventual starters in Cook, Elflein, Johnson, Isidora, perhaps even Tocho and prominent situational players in Adams and Hodges.
Then there's the two linebackers. My own view of the perfect linebacker to replace the retired Chad Greenway is a speedy, sideline-to-sideline playmaking, big safety, smallish linebacker sort of player. Actually, a player much like seventh-round pick Elijah Lee. In fact, Lee was a part of nearly every one of my Vikings mock drafts in the final weeks before the draft. It's difficult to accept but the Vikings might not be looking for that sort of linebacker for their base defense. They might be looking for a linebacker like Ben Gedeon. A player that packs a wallop against the run in the team's base defense. NFL defenses are becoming more situation-based with each passing season and Gedeon, with his "limited speed," has the tools to be effective in certain situations. Imagine that, a team picking the sort of player that can play a role in their defense. I do think that the perfect Vikings weak-side linebacker is some combination of Gedeon and Lee. That sounds like the singer for Rush.
I liked this draft immediately. I like it even more with a couple of weeks to ponder it. But that's only on paper. All of the 11 players will get their NFL shot this spring and summer.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)