It's the AFC's turn. Here are my favorite draft picks of the teams in that other conference. I'll start with the team that started the event one week ago.
Cincinnati Bengals
Logan Wilson, LB, Wyoming
The Cincinnati Bengals had a strong draft. I'll go with one of the players that intrigued me the most. I didn't really know much about Logan Wilson until the draft evaluation process. He played at Wyoming. The more I learned about him the more I thought that he might have been a first round pick if he'd played in the SEC, or Big 10, or Pac 12...
Cleveland Browns
Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
As a Vikings fan, I was curious about the draft's best three-techniques. Jordan Elliott emerged as my favorite after Javon Kinlaw and Derrick Brown.
Baltimore Ravens
Justin Madubuike, DT, Texa A&M
It's always tough to single out one of the draft picks of the Baltimore Ravens. They seem to draft well every year. Jusin Madubuike was right behind Jordan Elliott among my favorite three-techniques.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Kevin Dotson, G, Louisiana-Lafayette
Kevin Dotson was one of my favorite guards. I'd like him even more if the Vikings had drafted him.
New England Patriots
Anfernee Jennings, Edge, Alabama
I've heard many talking heads bash the drafting of the New England Patriots. I wonder if it's really because they hate what the Patriots did or if they just hated that they didn't draft a quarterback. I liked several of their picks. I went with Anfernee Jennings over Kyle Dugger and Josh Uche because the more I learned about him the more he intrigued me.
Buffalo Bills
Zack Moss, RB, Utah
Devin Singletary was great last year as a rookie runner for the Buffalo Bills. Zack Moss and Singletary will be a very good duo. As a Cal alum, Moss is one of the players that I'm happy to see leave the Pac-12.
Miami Dolphins
Malcolm Perry, WR, Navy
Malcolm Perry was so much fun to watch as Navy's running quarterback. It'll be fun to see what he can do in the NFL. He could play all over the Dolphins' offense.
New York Jets
Ashtyn Davis, S, Cal
I gotta go with the Golden Bear. Go Bears!
Indianapolis Colts
Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
Like Zack Moss, I'm thrilled to see Michael Pittman leave the Pac-12. Early in the draft evaluation process I was targeting Pittman as the perfect receiver pick for the Vikings in the second round. It didn't take long for me to realize that he'd never get to the Vikings in the second round.
Tennessee Titans
Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
I was certain that Kristian Fulton would be a first round pick. It's astonishing to me that the Tennessee Titans snagged him at the end of the second round.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Ben Bartch, OT, St. John's
Through the draft evaluation process I grew quite fond of this tackle from itty bitty St. John's.
Houston Texans
Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
Ross Blacklock, Elliott, Madubuike. I wanted them all in Minnesota.
Kansas City Chiefs
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, LSU
The Super Bowl champs didn't have many needs. Adding a talented, versatile running back was one of them. With Clyde Edwards-Helaire, a scary offense got scarier.
Denver Broncos
Jerry Juedy, WR, Alabama
Jerry Juedy was my favorite receiver in the draft. My favorite drafted receiver is now Justin Jefferson. Juedy is still my favorite draft pick of the Denver Broncos.
Las Vegas Raiders
Amik Robertson, CB, Lousiana Tech
Amik Robertson was one of my favorite players in the draft. It only follows that he's my favorite draft pick of the Las Vegas Raiders.
Los Angeles Chargers
Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
Kenneth Murray was another draft favorite. The Los Angeles Chargers are going to have a fun defense. For a team that "earned" the sixth pick in the draft, the Chargers have a talented roster. Especially on defense.
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Favorite Draft Picks: NFC
Here are my favorite draft picks of each of the NFC teams. I start, of course, with the Minnesota Vikings.
Minnesota Vikings
Troy Dye, LB, Oregon
The Minnesota Vikings made an NFL record 15 selections in the 2020 NFL Draft. About half of them might qualify as my favorite new player at any given time. Sometimes Justin Jefferson is that player. Other times it might be Jeff Gladney or Cameron Dantzler. Occasionally, James Lynch is the guy. Presently, Troy Dye is my favorite. When the Vikings made the pick, I wasn't really thinking linebacker at that spot. Then I thought about what I watched Dye do for four years at Oregon. He made plays all over the field. Sideline to sideline. From the offensive backfield to coverage downfield. I'm intrigued to see what the Vikings coaches have in mind for Dye.
Green Bay Packers
Jonathan Garvin, Edge, Miami (Fla)
The Green Bay Packers are catching so much heat for their peculiar draft that I'm beginning to think that each of their selections are destined for Canton. As for my favorite pick of the Packers draft I'll go with their final pick. I was intrigued by Jonathan Garvin. So much so that I was very surprised that he was still available in the seventh round.
Chicago Bears
Kindle Vindor, CB, Georgia Southern
After the Vikings missed on Amik Robertson I was hoping that they could snag Kindle Vindor. I liked him a lot before the draft so he's my favorite pick of the Bears after the draft.
Detroit Lions
D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
The Detroit Lions now have a very interesting running back duo with D'Andre Swift and Kerryon Johnson.
Dallas Cowboys
Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
I feel like the Dallas Cowboys had a charmed draft. They were able to find most of their players several picks, even rounds, later than I expected them to be selected. As for my favorite, I'll go with the brother of one of my favorite Vikings of recent years. Sadly, Stefon Diggs is no longer in Minnesota. But that doesn't keep Trevon Diggs from being my favorite pick of the Cowboys.
Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts, QB, Oklahoma
This is a weird one. Jalen Hurts is my favorite pick of the Philadelphia Eagles but I don't like that the Eagles picked him.
New York Giants
Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
Most draft analysts considered Andrew Thomas the fourth offensive tackle. I eventually came to think that he could be the best NFL offensive tackle of the four.
Washington Redskins
Chase Young, DE, Ohio State
Chase Young was the best player in the draft so he's my favorite pick of the Washington Redskins.
New Orleans Saints
Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
I was surprised that the New Orleans Saints pick Cesar Ruiz in the first round. Their offensive line seemed pretty well set. I guess that the Saints didn't agree. Ruiz is going to cause some shuffling.
Atlanta Falcons
Jaylinn Hawkins, S, Cal
I have to go with a Cal player. It seemed that most draft analysts pegged Jaylinn Hawkins as a late round pick. I don't think that they saw him play. The Atlanta Falcons apparently did.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Antoine Winfield Jr, S, Minnesota
This is an easy one. Antoine Winfield Sr. is one of my favorite all-time football players. He was so much fun to watch. Antoine Winfield Jr. plays a lot like his father. I hoped that the Vikings might take him despite having little need for an early round safety.
Carolina Panthers
Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
Last year, Clemson DT Christian Wilkins was one of my favorite players in the draft. Derrick Brown reminds me of Wilkins. Like Wilkins, Brown is an outstanding player on the field and person off the field.
San Francisco 49ers
Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
Javon Kinlaw and Isaiah Simmons were probably my two favorite players in this draft. So, Kinlaw is my favorite pick of the San Francisco 49ers. The number of top picks that the 49ers have used in recent years to select a defensive lineman is astonishing.
Arizona Cardinals
Isaiah Simmons, S/LB, Clemson
Throughout the draft evaluation of Isaiah Simmons, his versatility often seemed to be mentioned as a negative. Nearly every narrative about him ended with "but where does a team play him?" Amazing. His ability to play all over the defense is a positive thing.
Los Angeles Rams
Van Jefferson, WR, Flroida
If the Vikings hadn't selected a receiver in the first round, Van Jefferson was at the top of my want list in the second or third rounds. I'm just really fond of technically sound receivers with terrific hands.
Seattle Seahawks
Darrell Taylor, DE, Tennessee
Darrell Taylor strikes me as one of those players that will be a first round pick in one of those stupid re-drafts that will be done in a few years.
Minnesota Vikings
Troy Dye, LB, Oregon
The Minnesota Vikings made an NFL record 15 selections in the 2020 NFL Draft. About half of them might qualify as my favorite new player at any given time. Sometimes Justin Jefferson is that player. Other times it might be Jeff Gladney or Cameron Dantzler. Occasionally, James Lynch is the guy. Presently, Troy Dye is my favorite. When the Vikings made the pick, I wasn't really thinking linebacker at that spot. Then I thought about what I watched Dye do for four years at Oregon. He made plays all over the field. Sideline to sideline. From the offensive backfield to coverage downfield. I'm intrigued to see what the Vikings coaches have in mind for Dye.
Green Bay Packers
Jonathan Garvin, Edge, Miami (Fla)
The Green Bay Packers are catching so much heat for their peculiar draft that I'm beginning to think that each of their selections are destined for Canton. As for my favorite pick of the Packers draft I'll go with their final pick. I was intrigued by Jonathan Garvin. So much so that I was very surprised that he was still available in the seventh round.
Chicago Bears
Kindle Vindor, CB, Georgia Southern
After the Vikings missed on Amik Robertson I was hoping that they could snag Kindle Vindor. I liked him a lot before the draft so he's my favorite pick of the Bears after the draft.
Detroit Lions
D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
The Detroit Lions now have a very interesting running back duo with D'Andre Swift and Kerryon Johnson.
Dallas Cowboys
Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
I feel like the Dallas Cowboys had a charmed draft. They were able to find most of their players several picks, even rounds, later than I expected them to be selected. As for my favorite, I'll go with the brother of one of my favorite Vikings of recent years. Sadly, Stefon Diggs is no longer in Minnesota. But that doesn't keep Trevon Diggs from being my favorite pick of the Cowboys.
Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts, QB, Oklahoma
This is a weird one. Jalen Hurts is my favorite pick of the Philadelphia Eagles but I don't like that the Eagles picked him.
New York Giants
Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
Most draft analysts considered Andrew Thomas the fourth offensive tackle. I eventually came to think that he could be the best NFL offensive tackle of the four.
Washington Redskins
Chase Young, DE, Ohio State
Chase Young was the best player in the draft so he's my favorite pick of the Washington Redskins.
New Orleans Saints
Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
I was surprised that the New Orleans Saints pick Cesar Ruiz in the first round. Their offensive line seemed pretty well set. I guess that the Saints didn't agree. Ruiz is going to cause some shuffling.
Atlanta Falcons
Jaylinn Hawkins, S, Cal
I have to go with a Cal player. It seemed that most draft analysts pegged Jaylinn Hawkins as a late round pick. I don't think that they saw him play. The Atlanta Falcons apparently did.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Antoine Winfield Jr, S, Minnesota
This is an easy one. Antoine Winfield Sr. is one of my favorite all-time football players. He was so much fun to watch. Antoine Winfield Jr. plays a lot like his father. I hoped that the Vikings might take him despite having little need for an early round safety.
Carolina Panthers
Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
Last year, Clemson DT Christian Wilkins was one of my favorite players in the draft. Derrick Brown reminds me of Wilkins. Like Wilkins, Brown is an outstanding player on the field and person off the field.
San Francisco 49ers
Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
Javon Kinlaw and Isaiah Simmons were probably my two favorite players in this draft. So, Kinlaw is my favorite pick of the San Francisco 49ers. The number of top picks that the 49ers have used in recent years to select a defensive lineman is astonishing.
Arizona Cardinals
Isaiah Simmons, S/LB, Clemson
Throughout the draft evaluation of Isaiah Simmons, his versatility often seemed to be mentioned as a negative. Nearly every narrative about him ended with "but where does a team play him?" Amazing. His ability to play all over the defense is a positive thing.
Los Angeles Rams
Van Jefferson, WR, Flroida
If the Vikings hadn't selected a receiver in the first round, Van Jefferson was at the top of my want list in the second or third rounds. I'm just really fond of technically sound receivers with terrific hands.
Seattle Seahawks
Darrell Taylor, DE, Tennessee
Darrell Taylor strikes me as one of those players that will be a first round pick in one of those stupid re-drafts that will be done in a few years.
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
Drafts That I Liked
The fun, unusual 2020 NFL Draft is in the books. Here are some the drafts, other than that of the Minnesota Vikings, that I liked.
Arizona Cardinals
1. Isaiah Simmons, LB/S, Clemson
2. DeAndre Hopkins
3. Josh Jones, OT, Houston
4. Leki Fotu, DT, Utah
4. Rashard Lawrence, DT, LSU
6. Evan Weaver, LB, Cal
7. Eno Benjamin, RB, Arizona State
In my book, Isaiah Simmons rivaled Chase Young for best player in the draft. I still can't believe that the Arizona Cardinals were able to snag Josh Jones in the third. Evan Weaver was my favorite Cal player of the past decade. I wouldn't be surprised if he's a first-year starter. He's always around the ball. Eno Benjamin was a steal in the seventh. And the Cardinals added DeAndre Hopkins.
Baltimore Ravens
1. Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
2. J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
3. Justin Madubuike, DT, Texas A&M
3. Devin Duvernay, WR, Texas
3. Malik Harrison, LB, Ohio State
3. Tyre Phillips, G, Mississippi State
4. Ben Bredeson, G, Michigan
5. Calais Campbell
5. Marcus Peters
5. Broderick Washington, DT, Texas Tech
6. James Proche, WR, SMU
7. Geno Stone, S, Iowa
The transition from Ozzie Newsome to Eric DeCosta has been seamless. The Baltimore Ravens always draft well. From first pick to last pick, this draft is strong. I was hoping that James Proche would find his way to Minnesota. The Ravens did select him with a pick that they got from the Vikings. And they added Calais Campbell and Marcus Peters with a couple fifth-round picks.
Cincinnati Bengals
1. Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
3. Logan Wilson, LB, Wyoming
4. Akeem Davis-Gaither, LB, Appalachian State
5. Khalid Kareem, Edge, Notre Dame
6. Hakeem Adeniji, G, Kansas
7. Markus Bailey, LB, Purdue
The Cincinnati Bengals had an interesting draft simply because they took what the draft gave them. They never moved from the first pick of each round. They didn't reach. It was as if they were on auto-draft. I wouldn't be surprised if all seven players contribute right away. Despite having a terrible 2019 season there is talent on the roster. If Joe Burrow adjusts quickly the Bengals could surprise.
Cleveland Browns
1. Jedrick Wills, T, Alabama
2. Grant Delpit, S, LSU
3. Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
3. Jacob Phillips, LB, LSU
4. Harrison Bryant, TE, Florida Atlantic
5. Nick Harris, C, Washington
6. Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR, Michigan
I like every pick. The final two picks were players that I hoped would find their way to Minnesota.
Dallas Cowboys
1, CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
2. Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
3. Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma
4. Reggie Robinson II, CB, Tulsa
4. Tyler Biadasz, C, Wisconsin
5. Bradlee Anae, Edge, Utah
7. Ben DiNucci, QB, James Madison
The Dallas Cowboys had a charmed draft. Other than the late-round quarterback, I didn't expect any of the players to be available where the Cowboys selected them.
Denver Broncos
1. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
2. K.J. Hamler, WR, Penn State
3. Michael Ojemudia, CB, Iowa
3. Lloyd Cushenberry, C, LSU
3. McTelvin Agim, DT, Arkansas
4. Albert Okwuegbunam, TE, Missouri
5. Justin Strnad, LB, Wake Forest
6. Netane Muti, G, Fresno State
7. Tyrie Cleveland, WR, Florida
7. Derrek Tuszka, DE, North Dakota State
The Denver Broncos were determined to get Drew Lock all the help that they could get. I'm probably alone on this but the one player that concerns me is K.J. Hamler. I just have issues with any receiver that has some problems catching the football. If he can get a handle on his hands he can be the Broncos' answer to Tyreek Hill. And, if Lock can get him the ball like Patrick Mahomes routinely gets the ball to Hill.
Indianapolis Colts
1. DeForest Buckner
2. Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
2. Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
3. Julian Blackmon, S, Utah
4. Jacob Eason, QB, Washington
5. Danny Pinter, G, Ball State
6. Rob Windsor, DT, Penn State
6. Isaiah Rodgers, DB, Massachusetts
6. Dezmon Patmon, WR, Washington State
7. Jordan Glasgow, LB, Michigan
I love the second round additions. Jacob Eason has the tools to succeed Philip Rivers. Dezmon Patmon is a late round player to watch. Michael Pittman Jr. and Patmon are terrific, big, pass-catching additions.
Jacksonville Jaguars
1. C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
1. K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
2. Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado
3. Davon Hamilton, DT, Ohio State
4. Ben Bartch, OT, St. John's
5. Josiah Scott, CB, Michigan State
5. Collin Johnson, WR, Texas
6. Jake Luton, QB, Oregon State
6. Tyler Davis, TE, Georgia Tech
7. Chris Claybrooks, CB, Memphis
The Jacksonville Jaguars have routinely added talented players in the draft. Unfortunately, the talent hasn't always translated into wins. This draft looks strong throughout.
Miami Dolphins
1. Tua Tagavailoa, QB, Alabama
1. Austin Jackson, OT, USC
1. Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn
2. Robert Hunt, OT, Louisiana-Lafayette
2. Raekwon Davis, DT, Alabama
3. Brandon Jones, S, Texas
4. Solomon Kindley, G, Georgia
5. Jason Strowbridge, DL, North Carolina
5. Curtis Weaver, Edge, Boise State
6. Blake Ferguson, LS, LSU
7. Malcolm Perry, WR, Navy
Having three picks in the first round and two in the second round should make for an excellent draft. The Miami Dolphins added good football players beyond the early round selections. I'm curious to see how Malcolm Perry does. He sure was fun as Navy's quarterback.
New York Jets
1. Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
2. Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
3. Ashtyn Davis, S, Cal
3. Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida
4. La'Mical Perine, RB, Florida
4. James Morgan, QB, Florida International
4. Cameron Clarke, G, Charlotte
5. Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia
6. Braden Mann, P, Texas A&M
When a team drafts a player from Cal it grabs my attention and appreciation. I also like the picks before and after the selection of Ashtyn Davis.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
1. Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
2. Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota
3. Ke'Shawn Vaughn, RB, Vanderbilt
4. Rob Gronkowski
5. Tyler Johnson, WR, Minnesota
6. Khalil Davis, DT, Nebraska
7. Chapelle Russell, LB, Temple
7. Raymond Calais, RB, Louisiana-Lafayette
My appreciation for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers draft is anchored by their selections of the Minnesota pair. Despite not having a need at safety, I hoped that the Vikings would still select Antoine Winfield Jr. His father is one of my all-time favorites. He was a special football player and Junior plays a lot like him. The Buccaneers got a keeper. I also hoped that Tyler Johnson would be a part of the Vikings' draft class. I like the potential of Tristan Wirfs and Khalil Davis. And then there's the addition of that big tight end.
Here are a couple drafts that deserve special mention for different reasons.
Carolina Panthers
1. Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
2. Yetur Gross-Matos, DE, Penn State
2. Jeremy Chinn, S, S. Illinois
4. Troy Pride, CB, Notre Dame
5. Kenny Washington, S, West Virginia
6. Bravvion Roy, DT, Baylor
7. Stanley Thomas-Oliver, CB, Florida International
The Panthers made seven selections in the 2020 NFL Draft. Every selection is a defensive football player. The team's decision-makers claim that it wasn't intentional. I believe them because I don't believe any team would intentionally do such a thing. If anything, I think that it proves that the Panthers truly took their best player available at every pick. Each player just happened to play defense.
And I can't conclude my appreciation of some of the draft classes without joining the parade of people ripping the drafting of the Green Bay Packers.
Green Bay Packers
1. Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
2. A.J. Dillon, RB, Boston College
3. Josh Deguara, TE, Cincinnati
5. Kamal Martin, LB, Minnesota
6. Jon Runyan, G, Michigan
6. Jake Hanson, C, Oregon
6. Simon Stepaniak, G, Indiana
7. Vernon Scott, DB, TCU
7. Jonathan Garvin, DE, Florida
There's nothing wrong with preparing for a future without a Hall of Fame quarterback. It worked real well for the Packers the last time that they did it. I just think that the Packers did it a couple years too early this time. Brett Favre was questioning his football mortality when the Packers lucked into Aaron Rodgers in the 2005 NFL Draft. I don't think that Rodgers is anywhere near done. He probably won't be thinking about his retirement until Jordan Love's rookie deal is coming to an end. The Packers might have to make a decision on Love without knowing much about him. Even beyond that, the Packers were in the NFC Championship last season. They are in a Super Bowl window and this draft doesn't seem to add a single player that could get the team closer to a title. This draft was silly with receivers and there isn't a single receiver in this draft class. The Packers, and Rodgers, could've made real nice use of one or two of those receivers. A.J. Dillon is, at best, #2 behind Aaron Jones.
The picks that I like the best are the offensive linemen in the sixth round and Jonathan Garvin in the seventh round. The Packers 2020 Draft is a puzzle. Now watch it become the foundation of a dynasty.
I can't leave a league-wide look at the 2020 NFL Draft without joining the parade of people applauding the three-day event. I've followed the draft in it's various forms since the 1970s. This was a fun one. It may well have been the best one. I loved the streamlined process. I didn't think that I needed to see all of the various outposts of each of the team's decision-makers but I loved it. I wouldn't mind if it became the norm. I thought that Roger Goodell was wonderful. It's been a very long time since I've thought that. This was the goofy guy that I remember from his early days as commissioner. This was the regular guy that I thought that the league desperately needed then and has been missing for about a decade. This wasn't the infuriating suit that cares too much about quantity (money) and too little about quality (football). This was the commissioner that I always hoped that he would be. Nice job NFL and nice job Commissioner Goodell.
Arizona Cardinals
1. Isaiah Simmons, LB/S, Clemson
2. DeAndre Hopkins
3. Josh Jones, OT, Houston
4. Leki Fotu, DT, Utah
4. Rashard Lawrence, DT, LSU
6. Evan Weaver, LB, Cal
7. Eno Benjamin, RB, Arizona State
In my book, Isaiah Simmons rivaled Chase Young for best player in the draft. I still can't believe that the Arizona Cardinals were able to snag Josh Jones in the third. Evan Weaver was my favorite Cal player of the past decade. I wouldn't be surprised if he's a first-year starter. He's always around the ball. Eno Benjamin was a steal in the seventh. And the Cardinals added DeAndre Hopkins.
Baltimore Ravens
1. Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
2. J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
3. Justin Madubuike, DT, Texas A&M
3. Devin Duvernay, WR, Texas
3. Malik Harrison, LB, Ohio State
3. Tyre Phillips, G, Mississippi State
4. Ben Bredeson, G, Michigan
5. Calais Campbell
5. Marcus Peters
5. Broderick Washington, DT, Texas Tech
6. James Proche, WR, SMU
7. Geno Stone, S, Iowa
The transition from Ozzie Newsome to Eric DeCosta has been seamless. The Baltimore Ravens always draft well. From first pick to last pick, this draft is strong. I was hoping that James Proche would find his way to Minnesota. The Ravens did select him with a pick that they got from the Vikings. And they added Calais Campbell and Marcus Peters with a couple fifth-round picks.
Cincinnati Bengals
1. Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
3. Logan Wilson, LB, Wyoming
4. Akeem Davis-Gaither, LB, Appalachian State
5. Khalid Kareem, Edge, Notre Dame
6. Hakeem Adeniji, G, Kansas
7. Markus Bailey, LB, Purdue
The Cincinnati Bengals had an interesting draft simply because they took what the draft gave them. They never moved from the first pick of each round. They didn't reach. It was as if they were on auto-draft. I wouldn't be surprised if all seven players contribute right away. Despite having a terrible 2019 season there is talent on the roster. If Joe Burrow adjusts quickly the Bengals could surprise.
Cleveland Browns
1. Jedrick Wills, T, Alabama
2. Grant Delpit, S, LSU
3. Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
3. Jacob Phillips, LB, LSU
4. Harrison Bryant, TE, Florida Atlantic
5. Nick Harris, C, Washington
6. Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR, Michigan
I like every pick. The final two picks were players that I hoped would find their way to Minnesota.
Dallas Cowboys
1, CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
2. Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
3. Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma
4. Reggie Robinson II, CB, Tulsa
4. Tyler Biadasz, C, Wisconsin
5. Bradlee Anae, Edge, Utah
7. Ben DiNucci, QB, James Madison
The Dallas Cowboys had a charmed draft. Other than the late-round quarterback, I didn't expect any of the players to be available where the Cowboys selected them.
Denver Broncos
1. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
2. K.J. Hamler, WR, Penn State
3. Michael Ojemudia, CB, Iowa
3. Lloyd Cushenberry, C, LSU
3. McTelvin Agim, DT, Arkansas
4. Albert Okwuegbunam, TE, Missouri
5. Justin Strnad, LB, Wake Forest
6. Netane Muti, G, Fresno State
7. Tyrie Cleveland, WR, Florida
7. Derrek Tuszka, DE, North Dakota State
The Denver Broncos were determined to get Drew Lock all the help that they could get. I'm probably alone on this but the one player that concerns me is K.J. Hamler. I just have issues with any receiver that has some problems catching the football. If he can get a handle on his hands he can be the Broncos' answer to Tyreek Hill. And, if Lock can get him the ball like Patrick Mahomes routinely gets the ball to Hill.
Indianapolis Colts
1. DeForest Buckner
2. Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
2. Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
3. Julian Blackmon, S, Utah
4. Jacob Eason, QB, Washington
5. Danny Pinter, G, Ball State
6. Rob Windsor, DT, Penn State
6. Isaiah Rodgers, DB, Massachusetts
6. Dezmon Patmon, WR, Washington State
7. Jordan Glasgow, LB, Michigan
I love the second round additions. Jacob Eason has the tools to succeed Philip Rivers. Dezmon Patmon is a late round player to watch. Michael Pittman Jr. and Patmon are terrific, big, pass-catching additions.
Jacksonville Jaguars
1. C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
1. K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
2. Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado
3. Davon Hamilton, DT, Ohio State
4. Ben Bartch, OT, St. John's
5. Josiah Scott, CB, Michigan State
5. Collin Johnson, WR, Texas
6. Jake Luton, QB, Oregon State
6. Tyler Davis, TE, Georgia Tech
7. Chris Claybrooks, CB, Memphis
The Jacksonville Jaguars have routinely added talented players in the draft. Unfortunately, the talent hasn't always translated into wins. This draft looks strong throughout.
Miami Dolphins
1. Tua Tagavailoa, QB, Alabama
1. Austin Jackson, OT, USC
1. Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn
2. Robert Hunt, OT, Louisiana-Lafayette
2. Raekwon Davis, DT, Alabama
3. Brandon Jones, S, Texas
4. Solomon Kindley, G, Georgia
5. Jason Strowbridge, DL, North Carolina
5. Curtis Weaver, Edge, Boise State
6. Blake Ferguson, LS, LSU
7. Malcolm Perry, WR, Navy
Having three picks in the first round and two in the second round should make for an excellent draft. The Miami Dolphins added good football players beyond the early round selections. I'm curious to see how Malcolm Perry does. He sure was fun as Navy's quarterback.
New York Jets
1. Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
2. Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
3. Ashtyn Davis, S, Cal
3. Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida
4. La'Mical Perine, RB, Florida
4. James Morgan, QB, Florida International
4. Cameron Clarke, G, Charlotte
5. Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia
6. Braden Mann, P, Texas A&M
When a team drafts a player from Cal it grabs my attention and appreciation. I also like the picks before and after the selection of Ashtyn Davis.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
1. Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
2. Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota
3. Ke'Shawn Vaughn, RB, Vanderbilt
4. Rob Gronkowski
5. Tyler Johnson, WR, Minnesota
6. Khalil Davis, DT, Nebraska
7. Chapelle Russell, LB, Temple
7. Raymond Calais, RB, Louisiana-Lafayette
My appreciation for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers draft is anchored by their selections of the Minnesota pair. Despite not having a need at safety, I hoped that the Vikings would still select Antoine Winfield Jr. His father is one of my all-time favorites. He was a special football player and Junior plays a lot like him. The Buccaneers got a keeper. I also hoped that Tyler Johnson would be a part of the Vikings' draft class. I like the potential of Tristan Wirfs and Khalil Davis. And then there's the addition of that big tight end.
Here are a couple drafts that deserve special mention for different reasons.
Carolina Panthers
1. Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
2. Yetur Gross-Matos, DE, Penn State
2. Jeremy Chinn, S, S. Illinois
4. Troy Pride, CB, Notre Dame
5. Kenny Washington, S, West Virginia
6. Bravvion Roy, DT, Baylor
7. Stanley Thomas-Oliver, CB, Florida International
The Panthers made seven selections in the 2020 NFL Draft. Every selection is a defensive football player. The team's decision-makers claim that it wasn't intentional. I believe them because I don't believe any team would intentionally do such a thing. If anything, I think that it proves that the Panthers truly took their best player available at every pick. Each player just happened to play defense.
And I can't conclude my appreciation of some of the draft classes without joining the parade of people ripping the drafting of the Green Bay Packers.
Green Bay Packers
1. Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
2. A.J. Dillon, RB, Boston College
3. Josh Deguara, TE, Cincinnati
5. Kamal Martin, LB, Minnesota
6. Jon Runyan, G, Michigan
6. Jake Hanson, C, Oregon
6. Simon Stepaniak, G, Indiana
7. Vernon Scott, DB, TCU
7. Jonathan Garvin, DE, Florida
There's nothing wrong with preparing for a future without a Hall of Fame quarterback. It worked real well for the Packers the last time that they did it. I just think that the Packers did it a couple years too early this time. Brett Favre was questioning his football mortality when the Packers lucked into Aaron Rodgers in the 2005 NFL Draft. I don't think that Rodgers is anywhere near done. He probably won't be thinking about his retirement until Jordan Love's rookie deal is coming to an end. The Packers might have to make a decision on Love without knowing much about him. Even beyond that, the Packers were in the NFC Championship last season. They are in a Super Bowl window and this draft doesn't seem to add a single player that could get the team closer to a title. This draft was silly with receivers and there isn't a single receiver in this draft class. The Packers, and Rodgers, could've made real nice use of one or two of those receivers. A.J. Dillon is, at best, #2 behind Aaron Jones.
The picks that I like the best are the offensive linemen in the sixth round and Jonathan Garvin in the seventh round. The Packers 2020 Draft is a puzzle. Now watch it become the foundation of a dynasty.
I can't leave a league-wide look at the 2020 NFL Draft without joining the parade of people applauding the three-day event. I've followed the draft in it's various forms since the 1970s. This was a fun one. It may well have been the best one. I loved the streamlined process. I didn't think that I needed to see all of the various outposts of each of the team's decision-makers but I loved it. I wouldn't mind if it became the norm. I thought that Roger Goodell was wonderful. It's been a very long time since I've thought that. This was the goofy guy that I remember from his early days as commissioner. This was the regular guy that I thought that the league desperately needed then and has been missing for about a decade. This wasn't the infuriating suit that cares too much about quantity (money) and too little about quality (football). This was the commissioner that I always hoped that he would be. Nice job NFL and nice job Commissioner Goodell.
Monday, April 27, 2020
Minnesota Vikings Rookies
The Minnesota Vikings set an NFL record for the number of college football players selected in a 7-round draft. Their 2020 Draft Class includes a robust 15 new Vikings. The roster evolution continued after the draft with the signing, so far, of 12 undrafted free agents. Here are the football players that a weekend of drafting and undrafting fun brought to the Vikings roster.
Draft Picks
4. James Lynch, DT, Baylor
4. Troy Dye, LB, Oregon
5. Harrison Hand, CB, Temple
5. K.J. Osborn, WR, Miami (Fla)
6. Blake Brandel, OL, Oregon State
6. Josh Metellus, S, Michigan
7. Kenny Willekes, Edge, Michigan State
7. Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa
7. Brian Cole II, S, Mississippi State
7. Kyle Hinton, G, Washburn
A Breakdown of the Vikings Draft
By position:
Offense: 6
Defense: 9
3 Cornerbacks
3 Offensive linemen
3 Defensive linemen
2 Receivers
2 Safeties
1 Linebacker
1 Quarterback
By college conference:
4 SEC
3 Big Ten
2 Pac-12
2 Big-12
1 ACC
1 Mountain West
1 American
1 Washburn
The rookie influx didn't end with the seventh round of the draft. As soon as the final draft selection is made there's a race to sign the college football players that weren't drafted. Undrafted Free Agents. UDFAs. Here are the undrafted free agents that the Vikings have signed. So far.
Undrafted Free Agents
Brady Aiello, OL, Oregon
Nevelle Clarke, CB, Central Florida
Jake Bargas, TE, North Carolina
Dan Chisena, WR, Penn State
Quartney Davis, WR, Texas A&M
Myles Dorn, CB, North Carolina
Jordan Fehr, LB, Appalachian State
Nakia Griffin-Stewart, TE, Pittsburgh
Tyler Higby, OL, Michigan State
Jake Lacina, OL, Augustana
Blake Lynch, LB, Baylor
David Moa, DT, Boise State
Some undrafted notes:
If judged solely by the amount of cash that it took to secure them, Nevelle Clarke and Quarteney Davis are the big "gets" of the group. Initial reports had Davis signing with the Dallas Cowboys. Apparently, the Vikings were able to sway him away from the Joneses.
Jake Lacina is the son of former Vikings offensive lineman Corbin Lacina.
If the Vikings hadn't drafted Jeff Gladney, Cameron Dantzler, and Harrison Hand and added Nevelle Clarke and Myles Dorn after the draft, I'd highly recommend they sign Cal cornerback Traveon Beck. Actually, I recommend him even after the Vikings added five corners over the weekend. As far as I've been able to find, Beck is still looking for an NFL team to give him a shot. He was one of the best nickel corners in college football and a leader and energizer for a Cal defense that gave a lot of receivers problems.
If my math is correct, the weekend's addition of 27 rookies puts the Vikings roster at 87 players. That leaves three open roster spots.
Draft Picks
1. Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
1. Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
2. Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
3. Cameron Dantzler, CB, Mississippi State
4. D.J. Wonnum, Edge, South Carolina4. James Lynch, DT, Baylor
4. Troy Dye, LB, Oregon
5. Harrison Hand, CB, Temple
5. K.J. Osborn, WR, Miami (Fla)
6. Blake Brandel, OL, Oregon State
6. Josh Metellus, S, Michigan
7. Kenny Willekes, Edge, Michigan State
7. Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa
7. Brian Cole II, S, Mississippi State
7. Kyle Hinton, G, Washburn
A Breakdown of the Vikings Draft
By position:
Offense: 6
Defense: 9
3 Cornerbacks
3 Offensive linemen
3 Defensive linemen
2 Receivers
2 Safeties
1 Linebacker
1 Quarterback
By college conference:
4 SEC
3 Big Ten
2 Pac-12
2 Big-12
1 ACC
1 Mountain West
1 American
1 Washburn
The rookie influx didn't end with the seventh round of the draft. As soon as the final draft selection is made there's a race to sign the college football players that weren't drafted. Undrafted Free Agents. UDFAs. Here are the undrafted free agents that the Vikings have signed. So far.
Undrafted Free Agents
Brady Aiello, OL, Oregon
Nevelle Clarke, CB, Central Florida
Jake Bargas, TE, North Carolina
Dan Chisena, WR, Penn State
Quartney Davis, WR, Texas A&M
Myles Dorn, CB, North Carolina
Jordan Fehr, LB, Appalachian State
Nakia Griffin-Stewart, TE, Pittsburgh
Tyler Higby, OL, Michigan State
Jake Lacina, OL, Augustana
Blake Lynch, LB, Baylor
David Moa, DT, Boise State
Some undrafted notes:
If judged solely by the amount of cash that it took to secure them, Nevelle Clarke and Quarteney Davis are the big "gets" of the group. Initial reports had Davis signing with the Dallas Cowboys. Apparently, the Vikings were able to sway him away from the Joneses.
Jake Lacina is the son of former Vikings offensive lineman Corbin Lacina.
If the Vikings hadn't drafted Jeff Gladney, Cameron Dantzler, and Harrison Hand and added Nevelle Clarke and Myles Dorn after the draft, I'd highly recommend they sign Cal cornerback Traveon Beck. Actually, I recommend him even after the Vikings added five corners over the weekend. As far as I've been able to find, Beck is still looking for an NFL team to give him a shot. He was one of the best nickel corners in college football and a leader and energizer for a Cal defense that gave a lot of receivers problems.
If my math is correct, the weekend's addition of 27 rookies puts the Vikings roster at 87 players. That leaves three open roster spots.
Sunday, April 26, 2020
Minnesota Vikings Draft Day 3
The NFL Draft has a way of messing with time. The prospect evaluation process often feels like a process without an end. It felt even longer this year due to the messed-up situation in the world. When the draft finally does arrive it's over in a blink. Yet, when the New York Giants announced Georgia linebacker Tae Crowder as the 255th player selected in the 2020 NFL Draft it felt like it'd been a long haul since Joe Burrow's name was announced. Maybe it's just me. Anyway, the Minnesota Vikings entered the third day of the 2020 NFL Draft with a ridiculous 13 picks. They had already selected four players in the first three rounds. They were on pace to make 17 selections. 17! Vikings general manager Rick Spielman couldn't possibly make that many selections. He had to use some of those picks to trade up a few times. Right? He couldn't possibly trade back. Again. Right? Well, Spielman traded back twice on Day 3. But he added picks to next year's draft instead of this one. The Vikings are now scheduled to have 10 picks in the 2021 NFL Draft. They now have two extra picks in the fourth round and an extra pick in the fifth. Compensatory picks could boost the 2021 to 12. Before Spielman starts trading. But that's next year's draft. This is about this year's draft. On Day 3 of the 2020 NFL Draft, the Vikings added 11 football players to the roster.
Minnesota Vikings Day 3 Selections
4. (117) D.J. Wonnum, Edge, South Carolina
4. (130) James Lynch, DT, Baylor
4. (132) Troy Dye, LB, Oregon
5. (169) Harrison Hand, CB, Temple
5. (176) K.J. Osborn, WR, Miami (Fla)
6. (203) Blake Brandel, OL, Oregon State
6. (205) Josh Metellus, S, Michigan
7. (225) Kenny Willekes, Edge, Michigan State
7. (244) Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa
7. (249) Brian Cole II, S, Mississippi State
7. (253) Kyle Hinton, G, Washburn
Some Day 3 Thoughts
Much of the reaction to the selection of D.J. Wonnum in the fourth is similar to the reaction to the selection of Danielle Hunter in 2015. That's fitting seeing as each entered the league as raw, athletic, long edge defenders. In both situations, fans and media honks were more like "who" rather than "wow." The Vikings targeted Wonnum and I trust the team's defensive teachers. No one is saying that Wonnum will follow Hunter's great development but sure would be nice if he does.
I'm not sure if the Vikings were seriously eyeing some of the top 3-techniques of the draft (Ross Blacklock, Justin Madubuike, and Neville Gallimore). If the Vikings were eyeing those players and missed on them, James Lynch was behind them in name recognition only. He exceeded those taken before him in college production. Perhaps it's his ginger hair but he's triggered memories of Chris Hovan. I can't wait to see Lynch on the field.
As a Cal alum and fan, Troy Dye is a player that I'm truly happy to see leave the Pac-12. Some might find it a ludicrous comparison but Dye did a lot of the same things in Oregon's defense that Isaiah Simmons did in Clemson's defense.
Louisiana Tech corner Amik Robertson was one of my favorite players in the draft. His size, grit, and play reminded me of Antoine Winfield. Despite needing a few corners, I figured that after selecting Jeff Gladney in the first and Cameron Dantzler in the third it was unlikely that the Vikings would spend a fourth on another corner. After sadly seeing Robertson go to the Raiders in the fourth round, Harrison Hand was the next corner up in my book. I'm glad that he was added to the roster.
Speaking of corners, I feel better about the current position group than I would've if any one of Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes, or Mackensie Alexander were re-signed. I really like the potential of a young group of corners topped by the following:
Mike Hughes
Jeff Gladney
Holton Hill
Cameron Dantzler
Kris Boyd
Harrison Hand
I was surprised that the Vikings selected a single receiver after selecting Justin Jefferson in the first. With so many promising receivers in this draft I assumed that a second receiver would be selected before the fifth round and perhaps a third as a late-round flier. I'm not sure what K.J. Osborn will add as a receiver but I'm intrigued by his potential as a punt returner.
I like the developmental potential of late-round offensive linemen Blake Brandel and Kyle Hinton. Especially Hinton.
I really like the late-round safeties Josh Metellus and Brian Cole II. Harrison Smith and Anthony Harris were the only safeties on the roster. From a purely numbers perspective, Metellus and Cole have roster spots right there for them. It's up to them to secure those spots. I've seen some mentions that Hand could transition to safety as well.
I really liked Kenny Willekes as a possible fourth round pick. So much so, that I neglected to look at some of the edge rushers that projected in the middle rounds. Including Wonnum. Getting Willekes in the seventh-round feels like a steal.
I think that I really like the name "Wonnum"
The Vikings drafted a quarterback! Nate Stanley is the first quarterback drafted by the Vikings since Teddy Bridgewater was drafted in 2014. The battle for the backup QB jobs should be interesting.
Wonnum! The 2020 NFL Draft is done.
Minnesota Vikings Day 3 Selections
4. (117) D.J. Wonnum, Edge, South Carolina
4. (130) James Lynch, DT, Baylor
4. (132) Troy Dye, LB, Oregon
5. (169) Harrison Hand, CB, Temple
5. (176) K.J. Osborn, WR, Miami (Fla)
6. (203) Blake Brandel, OL, Oregon State
6. (205) Josh Metellus, S, Michigan
7. (225) Kenny Willekes, Edge, Michigan State
7. (244) Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa
7. (249) Brian Cole II, S, Mississippi State
7. (253) Kyle Hinton, G, Washburn
Some Day 3 Thoughts
Much of the reaction to the selection of D.J. Wonnum in the fourth is similar to the reaction to the selection of Danielle Hunter in 2015. That's fitting seeing as each entered the league as raw, athletic, long edge defenders. In both situations, fans and media honks were more like "who" rather than "wow." The Vikings targeted Wonnum and I trust the team's defensive teachers. No one is saying that Wonnum will follow Hunter's great development but sure would be nice if he does.
I'm not sure if the Vikings were seriously eyeing some of the top 3-techniques of the draft (Ross Blacklock, Justin Madubuike, and Neville Gallimore). If the Vikings were eyeing those players and missed on them, James Lynch was behind them in name recognition only. He exceeded those taken before him in college production. Perhaps it's his ginger hair but he's triggered memories of Chris Hovan. I can't wait to see Lynch on the field.
As a Cal alum and fan, Troy Dye is a player that I'm truly happy to see leave the Pac-12. Some might find it a ludicrous comparison but Dye did a lot of the same things in Oregon's defense that Isaiah Simmons did in Clemson's defense.
Louisiana Tech corner Amik Robertson was one of my favorite players in the draft. His size, grit, and play reminded me of Antoine Winfield. Despite needing a few corners, I figured that after selecting Jeff Gladney in the first and Cameron Dantzler in the third it was unlikely that the Vikings would spend a fourth on another corner. After sadly seeing Robertson go to the Raiders in the fourth round, Harrison Hand was the next corner up in my book. I'm glad that he was added to the roster.
Speaking of corners, I feel better about the current position group than I would've if any one of Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes, or Mackensie Alexander were re-signed. I really like the potential of a young group of corners topped by the following:
Mike Hughes
Jeff Gladney
Holton Hill
Cameron Dantzler
Kris Boyd
Harrison Hand
I was surprised that the Vikings selected a single receiver after selecting Justin Jefferson in the first. With so many promising receivers in this draft I assumed that a second receiver would be selected before the fifth round and perhaps a third as a late-round flier. I'm not sure what K.J. Osborn will add as a receiver but I'm intrigued by his potential as a punt returner.
I like the developmental potential of late-round offensive linemen Blake Brandel and Kyle Hinton. Especially Hinton.
I really like the late-round safeties Josh Metellus and Brian Cole II. Harrison Smith and Anthony Harris were the only safeties on the roster. From a purely numbers perspective, Metellus and Cole have roster spots right there for them. It's up to them to secure those spots. I've seen some mentions that Hand could transition to safety as well.
I really liked Kenny Willekes as a possible fourth round pick. So much so, that I neglected to look at some of the edge rushers that projected in the middle rounds. Including Wonnum. Getting Willekes in the seventh-round feels like a steal.
I think that I really like the name "Wonnum"
The Vikings drafted a quarterback! Nate Stanley is the first quarterback drafted by the Vikings since Teddy Bridgewater was drafted in 2014. The battle for the backup QB jobs should be interesting.
Wonnum! The 2020 NFL Draft is done.
Saturday, April 25, 2020
Minnesota Vikings Draft Day 2
The Minnesota Vikings entered Day 2 of the 2020 NFL Draft armed with a load of draft picks. They had a pick in the second, two in the third, and nine on Day 3. If they wanted to trade up in the second or third round they had the picks to do so. Fans and most talking heads expected trades. Instead of trading up, the Vikings decision-makers chose to let the draft come to them. They needed an offensive tackle. They let Boise State offensive tackle Ezra Cleveland fall to them in the second. There was a time in the draft evaluation process during which I thought that Cleveland could be a first round pick of the Vikings. I assumed that they would have to trade up to secure him or Houston's Josh Jones in the second round. Perhaps they tried to trade up but could find a partner. It didn't really matter as both Cleveland and Jones were available at #58. They chose Cleveland. The Vikings selected TCU cornerback Jeff Gladney in the first round. Seeing as they lost their top three corners in free agency the Vikings still needed more at the position. Instead of trading up to secure one, they let Mississippi State's Cameron Dantzler drop to them in the third round. Early in the draft evaluation process I had visions of Dantzler as a potential first round pick of the Vikings. Then he ran a 4.6 at the Scouting Combine and everyone hated him. He was still one of the best cover corners in college football last season. Just ask LSU's Ja'Marr Chase. Or his new teammate, Justin Jefferson. Through nearly three rounds the Vikings drafted four players that I considered to be sound first round picks at various times during the draft evaluation process. And they didn't have to spend draft picks to secure any of them. The Vikings simply let the draft come to them. They still had one final pick in the third. The second to last pick in the third. #105. Instead of making that selection the Vikings decided to deplete the New Orleans Saints of their Day 3 picks. The Saints traded four Day 3 picks for the Vikings #105 pick in the third round. The Vikings were clearly letting the draft fall to them.
Through three rounds the Vikings have added the following football players:
1. Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
1. Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
2. Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
3. Cameron Dantzler, CB, Mississippi State
After acquiring the remainder of the Saints' 2020 picks, the Vikings have a ridiculous 13 picks today.
4. (117)
4. (130)
4. (132)
5. (155)
5. (169)
5. (176)
6. (201)
6. (203)
6. (205)
7. (219)
7. (244)
7. (249)
7. (253)
That's ridiculous. I have to think that Rick Spielman will move up a time or two today. But I was certain of that yesterday. I really don't think that the Vikings come away from the draft with 17 draft picks.
Where do the Vikings go today? A pass rusher or two, more receivers, safety depth, an interior offesnsive lineman, a quarterback? Louisiana Tech corner Amik Robertson is a personal favorite. I'm not sure that they select a corner in the fourth round after having added Gladney and Dantzler. I like the mix of defensive tackles currently on the roster but the national media consider it a position a need. 13 picks over four rounds is a crazy number. It's difficult to imagine Spielman using them all. Perhaps there's a method to this madness. Perhaps the Vikings are hoping to get a jump on the undrafted free agent signing spree. Who knows? I don't. I'm just dizzy over the 13 remaining picks. But I love the four players that the Vikings have added when they've actually made selections.
Friday, April 24, 2020
2020 NFL Draft Round 1
The first round of the 2020 NFL Draft took place across the country last night. Doing the event during these difficult times seemed to go well. It fell more streamlined. It even felt a little homey seeing all the players, team decision-makers, and Roger Goodell in their respective homes.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
5. Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
7. Carolina Panthers-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
8. Arizona Cardinals-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
10. Cleveland Browns-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
11. New York Jets-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
12. Las Vegas Raiders-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
14. San Francisco 49ers-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
15. Denver Broncos-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
17. Dallas Cowboys-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
18. Miami Dolphins-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
19. Las Vegas Raiders-Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State
20. Jacksonville Jaguars-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
22. Minnesota Vikings-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
23. Los Angeles Chargers-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
24. New Orleans Saints-Ceasar Ruiz, C, Michigan
25. San Francisco 49ers-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
26. Green Bay Packers-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
27. Seattle Seahawks-Jordyn Brooks, LB, Texas Tech
28. Baltimore Ravens-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
29. Tennessee Titans-Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
30. Miami Dolphins-Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn
31. Minnesota Vikings-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
32. Kansas City Chiefs-D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
Four Trades
1. Buccaneers trade with the 49ers to jump a single spot. #14 to #13. Buccaneers grab a Brady-protector in Tristan Wirfs.
2. Chargers trade back into the first round. Patriots trade out of the first round. Chargers pick Oklahoma linebacker Kenneth Murray at #23.
3. 49ers trade up six spots with the Vikings to select Arizona State receiver Brandon Aiyuk at #25.
4. Packers trade up four spots with the Dolphins to select Utah State quarterback Jordan Love at #26. So, Aaron Rodgers and the Packers get no first round help this year. Interesting strategy.
New Minnesota Vikings
1 (22) Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
1 (31) Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
The Vikings entered the draft with the pick (#22) that they acquired in the sad trade of Stefon Diggs and their own pick (#25). Towards the end of the draft evaluation process I landed on offensive line and cornerback as my preferred positions for those picks. It's good to be flexible. Justin Jefferson was one of the receivers that could pull me from my pre-draft preferences. I didn't expect him to get past the Philadelphia Eagles at #21. We'll never know the draft plans of the Vikings but it's obvious that they preferred Jefferson over the cornerbacks and offensive linemen still on the board. During the post-first round press conference, I think that it was Mike Zimmer that said that they even looked into trading up a few spots in order to secure Jefferson. They didn't have to do that. The receiver that they liked fell to them. Jeff Gladney was the top cornerback that I liked at #22 or #25. They found a team that needed that pick more than they did and traded back six spots, picked up some extra draft picks and selected Gladney at #31. That's a nice win.
So, the Vikings added one of the top receivers in the draft, a receiver that most didn't expect to be available to them at #22. They added a cornerback at #31 that they probably would've selected at #25 and added a fourth- and fifth-round pick in the process.
There are two more days and six rounds of drafting. The Vikings still have many needs. Offensive line and defensive line top those needs. They probably aren't done at corner and receiver. The Vikings entered the draft with 12 picks. Thanks to the first round trade-back they still have 12 picks.
2. (58)
3. (89)
3. (105)-compensatory
4. (117)-from 49ers
4. (132)
5. (155)-from Buffalo
5. (176)-from 49ers
6. (201)-from Buffalo
6. (205)
7. (219)
7. (249)-compensatory
7. (253)-compensatory
That's a lot of draft cash. It's going to be a fun two days.
Here are a few first round thoughts.
Non-Vikings picks that I liked:
8. Arizona Cardinals-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
I thought that Isaiah Simmons was one of the top three players in the draft. I wasn't surprised that he was still available at #8. Quarterbacks have a tendency to push the best players down the draft a bit.
10. Cleveland Browns-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
I expected Jedrick Wills to be the first of the offensive tackles to be drafted. The Browns were smart/lucky to get him at #10.
17. Dallas Cowboys-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
It was a much bigger surprise that CeeDee Lamb was available at #17 than Justin Jefferson being available at #22. Lamb is a Top 10 pick in most drafts.
23. Los Angeles Chargers-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
Kenneth Murray is one of my favorite players in this draft. He's simply a great kid. The Chargers made a terrific move to trade up for him.
25. San Francisco 49ers-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
It helps that the 49ers gave the Vikings a few picks to secure Brandon Aiyuk. The addition of Aiyuk gives the 49ers a really unique stable of receivers.
Deebo Samuel
Brandon Aiyuk
Jalen Hurd
I love receivers. I especially love technically sound, terrific route-running receivers with outstanding hands. Receivers like Justin Jefferson. I also love tough, physical receivers with special running skills. That love got a real boost when the Vikings had Percy Harvin. The 49ers now have three receivers like that. They're going to be fun to watch.
Quarterbacks
Quarterbacks get too damn much draft day attention. So, here's some more. With the influx of the new throwers I couldn't help but think of the near future of some of the AFC divisions.
AFC East
New England Patriots-?
Buffalo Bills-Josh Allen
New York Jets-Sam Darnold
Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagavailoa
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens-Lamar Jackson
Pittsburgh Steelers-Ben Roethlisberger
Cleveland Browns-Baker Mayfield
Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow
AFC West
Kansas City Chiefs-Patrick Mahomes
Denver Broncos-Drew Lock
Las Vegas Raiders-Derek Carr
Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert
It's still strange to see the Patriots QB job as undecided. Joe Burrow, Tua Tagavailoa, and Justin Herbert still have to win the starting job for their respective teams. Burrow should start immediately. Tagavailoa probably sits behind Ryan Fitzpatrick while he heals completely. Herbert could sit and learn for a while behind Tyrod Taylor. But all three of the AFC Divisions look like they could be interesting real soon. The old-timer Ben Rosthlisberger sure sticks out
Round 2 is next!
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
5. Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
7. Carolina Panthers-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
8. Arizona Cardinals-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
10. Cleveland Browns-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
11. New York Jets-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
12. Las Vegas Raiders-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
14. San Francisco 49ers-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
15. Denver Broncos-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
17. Dallas Cowboys-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
18. Miami Dolphins-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
19. Las Vegas Raiders-Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State
20. Jacksonville Jaguars-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
22. Minnesota Vikings-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
23. Los Angeles Chargers-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
24. New Orleans Saints-Ceasar Ruiz, C, Michigan
25. San Francisco 49ers-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
26. Green Bay Packers-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
27. Seattle Seahawks-Jordyn Brooks, LB, Texas Tech
28. Baltimore Ravens-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
29. Tennessee Titans-Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
30. Miami Dolphins-Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn
31. Minnesota Vikings-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
32. Kansas City Chiefs-D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
Four Trades
1. Buccaneers trade with the 49ers to jump a single spot. #14 to #13. Buccaneers grab a Brady-protector in Tristan Wirfs.
2. Chargers trade back into the first round. Patriots trade out of the first round. Chargers pick Oklahoma linebacker Kenneth Murray at #23.
3. 49ers trade up six spots with the Vikings to select Arizona State receiver Brandon Aiyuk at #25.
4. Packers trade up four spots with the Dolphins to select Utah State quarterback Jordan Love at #26. So, Aaron Rodgers and the Packers get no first round help this year. Interesting strategy.
New Minnesota Vikings
1 (22) Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
1 (31) Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
The Vikings entered the draft with the pick (#22) that they acquired in the sad trade of Stefon Diggs and their own pick (#25). Towards the end of the draft evaluation process I landed on offensive line and cornerback as my preferred positions for those picks. It's good to be flexible. Justin Jefferson was one of the receivers that could pull me from my pre-draft preferences. I didn't expect him to get past the Philadelphia Eagles at #21. We'll never know the draft plans of the Vikings but it's obvious that they preferred Jefferson over the cornerbacks and offensive linemen still on the board. During the post-first round press conference, I think that it was Mike Zimmer that said that they even looked into trading up a few spots in order to secure Jefferson. They didn't have to do that. The receiver that they liked fell to them. Jeff Gladney was the top cornerback that I liked at #22 or #25. They found a team that needed that pick more than they did and traded back six spots, picked up some extra draft picks and selected Gladney at #31. That's a nice win.
So, the Vikings added one of the top receivers in the draft, a receiver that most didn't expect to be available to them at #22. They added a cornerback at #31 that they probably would've selected at #25 and added a fourth- and fifth-round pick in the process.
There are two more days and six rounds of drafting. The Vikings still have many needs. Offensive line and defensive line top those needs. They probably aren't done at corner and receiver. The Vikings entered the draft with 12 picks. Thanks to the first round trade-back they still have 12 picks.
2. (58)
3. (89)
3. (105)-compensatory
4. (117)-from 49ers
4. (132)
5. (155)-from Buffalo
5. (176)-from 49ers
6. (201)-from Buffalo
6. (205)
7. (219)
7. (249)-compensatory
7. (253)-compensatory
That's a lot of draft cash. It's going to be a fun two days.
Here are a few first round thoughts.
Non-Vikings picks that I liked:
8. Arizona Cardinals-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
I thought that Isaiah Simmons was one of the top three players in the draft. I wasn't surprised that he was still available at #8. Quarterbacks have a tendency to push the best players down the draft a bit.
10. Cleveland Browns-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
I expected Jedrick Wills to be the first of the offensive tackles to be drafted. The Browns were smart/lucky to get him at #10.
17. Dallas Cowboys-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
It was a much bigger surprise that CeeDee Lamb was available at #17 than Justin Jefferson being available at #22. Lamb is a Top 10 pick in most drafts.
23. Los Angeles Chargers-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
Kenneth Murray is one of my favorite players in this draft. He's simply a great kid. The Chargers made a terrific move to trade up for him.
25. San Francisco 49ers-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
It helps that the 49ers gave the Vikings a few picks to secure Brandon Aiyuk. The addition of Aiyuk gives the 49ers a really unique stable of receivers.
Deebo Samuel
Brandon Aiyuk
Jalen Hurd
I love receivers. I especially love technically sound, terrific route-running receivers with outstanding hands. Receivers like Justin Jefferson. I also love tough, physical receivers with special running skills. That love got a real boost when the Vikings had Percy Harvin. The 49ers now have three receivers like that. They're going to be fun to watch.
Quarterbacks
Quarterbacks get too damn much draft day attention. So, here's some more. With the influx of the new throwers I couldn't help but think of the near future of some of the AFC divisions.
AFC East
New England Patriots-?
Buffalo Bills-Josh Allen
New York Jets-Sam Darnold
Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagavailoa
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens-Lamar Jackson
Pittsburgh Steelers-Ben Roethlisberger
Cleveland Browns-Baker Mayfield
Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow
AFC West
Kansas City Chiefs-Patrick Mahomes
Denver Broncos-Drew Lock
Las Vegas Raiders-Derek Carr
Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert
It's still strange to see the Patriots QB job as undecided. Joe Burrow, Tua Tagavailoa, and Justin Herbert still have to win the starting job for their respective teams. Burrow should start immediately. Tagavailoa probably sits behind Ryan Fitzpatrick while he heals completely. Herbert could sit and learn for a while behind Tyrod Taylor. But all three of the AFC Divisions look like they could be interesting real soon. The old-timer Ben Rosthlisberger sure sticks out
Round 2 is next!
Thursday, April 23, 2020
Final Flea Flicker Mock Draft
Today we finally get the real 2020 NFL Draft. It's probably not going to look a bit like this one. The Final Flea Flicker Mock Draft of 2020.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
4. New York Giants-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
5. Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
7. Carolina Panthers-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
8. Arizona Cardinals-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
10. Cleveland Browns-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
11. New York Jets-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
12. Las Vegas Raiders-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
13. San Francisco 49ers-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
17. Dallas Cowboys-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
22. Minnesota Vikings-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
23. New England Patriots-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Josh Jones, OT, Houston
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
27. Seattle Seahawks-Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
28. Baltimore Ravens-Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin
29. Tennessee Titans-Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
30. Green Bay Packers-Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
31. San Francisco 49ers-Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
32. Kansas City Chiefs-D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
Until the real one.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
4. New York Giants-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
5. Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
7. Carolina Panthers-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
8. Arizona Cardinals-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
10. Cleveland Browns-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
11. New York Jets-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
12. Las Vegas Raiders-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
13. San Francisco 49ers-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
17. Dallas Cowboys-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
22. Minnesota Vikings-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
23. New England Patriots-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Josh Jones, OT, Houston
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
27. Seattle Seahawks-Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
28. Baltimore Ravens-Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin
29. Tennessee Titans-Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
30. Green Bay Packers-Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
31. San Francisco 49ers-Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
32. Kansas City Chiefs-D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
Until the real one.
Wednesday, April 22, 2020
Minnesota Vikings Seven-Round Mock Draft
The 2020 NFL Draft kicks off tomorrow. Due to the hacked-up situation in the world the draft is going to be done a little differently. Many are calling it a "virtual" draft. There's nothing virtual about it. The draft will actually happen. Hopefully there will be no technical glitches. Anyway, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune cooked up a Minnesota Vikings seven-round mock draft for the paper yesterday. The Vikings are currently scheduled to have 12 picks in the draft. Goessling threw three trades into his mock. The Vikings still have 12 picks but it's a different 12. Here's his projection.
1. (24)-from Saints-Josh Jones, OT, Houston
1. (25)-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
2. (58)-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
3. (78)-from Falcons-Julian Okwara, Edge, Notre Dame
3. (89)-Matt Hennessy, C/G, Temple
5. (164)-from Cowboys-McTelvin Agim, DT, Arkansas
6. (201)-J.R. Reed, S, Georgia
6. (205)-Dane Jackson, CB, Pittsburgh
7. (219)-Trevis Gipson, Edge, Tulsa
7. (231)-from Cowboys-Sewo Olinilua, RB, TCU
7. (249)-Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa
7. (253)-Jeff Thomas, WR, Miami
That's some fine work by Goessling. Josh Jones and Jeff Gladney have become my first round preference. It'd be a beautiful thing if Brandon Aiyuk is still available at #89. The same is true for Julian Okwara and Matt Hennessy in the third. When it comes to the real draft, I'm hoping that the Vikings can somehow land a defensive tackle like Missouri's Jordan Elliott or Texas A&M's Justin Madubuike. That would probably have to be at the expense of Aiyuk in the second round. Goessling does help the defensive tackle position with McTelvin Agim in the fifth. Jeff Thomas has a lot of talent but I've been leery of him since watching a docu-series a few years ago that profiled his high school football team. Perhaps he's grown up some since those days. Overall, I'd be happy with Goessling's seven-round mock for the Vikings if it were the real thing.
Reading through Ben Goessling's seven-round mock got me thinking about my own. Actually, I've been thinking about this without prompting from anyone. The draft is tomorrow. This stuff has been on my mind for so long. Too long. Unlike Goessling, I won't project trades. I've found that projecting trades in a mock draft is even more ridiculous than doing a mock draft.
Minnesota Vikings Seven-Round Mock Draft
1. (22)-Josh Jones, OT, Houston
1. (25)-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
2. (58)-Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
3. (89)-Van Jefferson, WR, Florida
3. (105)-Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
4. (132)-Kenny Willekes, Edge, Michigan State
5. (155)-Isaiah Coulter, WR, Rhode Island
6. (201)-J.R. Reed, S, Georgia
6. (205)-Kevin Dotson, OG, Louisiana
7. (219)-Omar Bayless, WR, Arkansas State
7. (249)-Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa
7. (253)-Jaylinn Hawkins, S, California
The first issue with this mock is probably the lack of a receiver in the first two rounds. Personally, I'd feel pretty good about a receiver draft haul of Van Jefferson, Isaiah Coulter, and Omar Bayliss. They might be lacking a bit in speed but each can get open. And catch. They can catch the football. Not all speedsters can. Jeff Gladney and Amik Robertson are two of my favorite corners in the draft. Mike Zimmer might not like their respective heights but they are feisty, physical football players. He'll like that. Josh Jones, Gladney, and Jefferson would project as starters. Jordan Elliott, Robertson, and Kenny Willekes would likely factor into the respective defensive rotations. Coulter/Bayliss, J.R. Reed, and Kevin Dotson could eventually contend for starting positions. Maybe I'm a little biased but I like my my seven-round mock more than Goessling's mock.
1. (24)-from Saints-Josh Jones, OT, Houston
1. (25)-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
2. (58)-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
3. (78)-from Falcons-Julian Okwara, Edge, Notre Dame
3. (89)-Matt Hennessy, C/G, Temple
5. (164)-from Cowboys-McTelvin Agim, DT, Arkansas
6. (201)-J.R. Reed, S, Georgia
6. (205)-Dane Jackson, CB, Pittsburgh
7. (219)-Trevis Gipson, Edge, Tulsa
7. (231)-from Cowboys-Sewo Olinilua, RB, TCU
7. (249)-Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa
7. (253)-Jeff Thomas, WR, Miami
That's some fine work by Goessling. Josh Jones and Jeff Gladney have become my first round preference. It'd be a beautiful thing if Brandon Aiyuk is still available at #89. The same is true for Julian Okwara and Matt Hennessy in the third. When it comes to the real draft, I'm hoping that the Vikings can somehow land a defensive tackle like Missouri's Jordan Elliott or Texas A&M's Justin Madubuike. That would probably have to be at the expense of Aiyuk in the second round. Goessling does help the defensive tackle position with McTelvin Agim in the fifth. Jeff Thomas has a lot of talent but I've been leery of him since watching a docu-series a few years ago that profiled his high school football team. Perhaps he's grown up some since those days. Overall, I'd be happy with Goessling's seven-round mock for the Vikings if it were the real thing.
Reading through Ben Goessling's seven-round mock got me thinking about my own. Actually, I've been thinking about this without prompting from anyone. The draft is tomorrow. This stuff has been on my mind for so long. Too long. Unlike Goessling, I won't project trades. I've found that projecting trades in a mock draft is even more ridiculous than doing a mock draft.
Minnesota Vikings Seven-Round Mock Draft
1. (22)-Josh Jones, OT, Houston
1. (25)-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
2. (58)-Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
3. (89)-Van Jefferson, WR, Florida
3. (105)-Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
4. (132)-Kenny Willekes, Edge, Michigan State
5. (155)-Isaiah Coulter, WR, Rhode Island
6. (201)-J.R. Reed, S, Georgia
6. (205)-Kevin Dotson, OG, Louisiana
7. (219)-Omar Bayless, WR, Arkansas State
7. (249)-Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa
7. (253)-Jaylinn Hawkins, S, California
The first issue with this mock is probably the lack of a receiver in the first two rounds. Personally, I'd feel pretty good about a receiver draft haul of Van Jefferson, Isaiah Coulter, and Omar Bayliss. They might be lacking a bit in speed but each can get open. And catch. They can catch the football. Not all speedsters can. Jeff Gladney and Amik Robertson are two of my favorite corners in the draft. Mike Zimmer might not like their respective heights but they are feisty, physical football players. He'll like that. Josh Jones, Gladney, and Jefferson would project as starters. Jordan Elliott, Robertson, and Kenny Willekes would likely factor into the respective defensive rotations. Coulter/Bayliss, J.R. Reed, and Kevin Dotson could eventually contend for starting positions. Maybe I'm a little biased but I like my my seven-round mock more than Goessling's mock.
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
Jeff Legwold's Top 100 Draft Prospects
Jeff Legwold has been covering football and analyzing draft prospects for a long time. His rankings of each draft's prospects is much anticipated. I like his work partly because it doesn't always look like every other ranking. I mean, who ranks Clemson's Isaiah Simmons #1? We don't even know what position the kid is going to play! Some analysts knock Simmons for his versatility. Legwold doesn't. Here's his ranking of the this year's Top 100 Draft Prospects.
1. Isaiah Simmons, S/LB, Clemson
2. Chase Young, DE, Ohio State
3. Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
4. Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
5. Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
6. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
7. Jedrick Wills, T, Alabama
8. Mekhi Becton, T, Louisville
9. Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
10. K'Lavon Chaisson, OLB/DE, LSU
11. CJ Henderson, CB, Florida,
12. Tristan Wirfs, T, Iowa
13. CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
14. Andrew Thomas, T, Georgia
15. Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
16. Kenneth Murray, LB Oklahoma
17. Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
18. Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
19. Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
20. D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
21. Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
22. Yetur Gross-Matos, DE, Penn State
23. A.J. Epenesa, DE, Iowa
24. Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
25. Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
26. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, LSU
27. Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
28. A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
29. Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin
30. Austin Jackson, T, USC
31. Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
32. Jalen Hurts, QB, Oklahoma
33. Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
34. Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado
35. Marlon Davidson, DE, Auburn
36. Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
37. Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
38. Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
39. Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
40. Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
41. Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
42. J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
43. Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
44. Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota
45. Josh Jones, T, Houston
46. Justin Madubuike, DT
47. Lloyd Cushenberry III, C, LSU
48. Grant Delpit, S, LSU
49. Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn
50. Jeremy Chinn, S, Southern Illinois
51. Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
52. Chase Claypool, WR, Notre Dame
53. Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
54. KJ Hamler, WR, Penn State
55. Isaiah Wilson, T, Georgia
56. Zack Moss, RB, Utah
57. Van Jefferson, WR, Florida
58. Robert Hunt, G, Louisiana
59. Malik Harrison, OLB, Ohio State
60. Julian Okwara, DE, Notre Dame
61. Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia
62. Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State
63. Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma
64. Cole Kmet, TE, Notre Dame
65. Ezra Cleveland, T, Boise State
66. Logan Wilson, LB, Wyoming
67. Kyle Dugger, S, Lenoir-Rhyne
68. Raekwon Davis, DT, Alabama
69. Terrell Lewis, OLB, Alabama
70. Curtis Weaver, DE/OLB, Boise State
71. Cam Akers, RB, Florida State
72. Adam Trautman, TE, Dayton
73. Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
74. Jonathan Greenard, DE, Florida
75. Darrell Taylor, DE, Tennessee
76. Jake Fromm, QB, Georgia
77. Harrison Bryant, TE, Florida Atlantic
78. Matt Hennessy, C, Temple
79. Ashtyn Davis, S, California
80. Prince Tega Wanogho, T, Auburn
81. Cameron Dantzler, CB, Mississippi State
82. Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida
83. Devin Duvernay, WR, Texas
84. Josh Uche, DE, Michigan
85. Terrell Burgess, S, Utah
86. Bryan Edwards, WR, South Carolina
87. Tyler Biadasz, C, Wisconsin
88. Akeem Davis-Gaither, OLB, Appalachian State
89. James Lynch, DE, Baylor
90. Bradlee Anae, OLB/DE, Utah
91. Lucas Niang, T, TCU
92. Jacob Eason, QB, Washington
93. Jordyn Brooks, OLB, Texas Tech
94. Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
95. John Simpson, G, Clemson
96. Lynn Bowden, WR, Kentucky
97. Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR, Liberty
98. McTelvin Agim, DT/DE, Arkansas
99. Antonio Gibson, WR, Memphis
100. Davion Taylor, OLB, Colorado
The Minnesota Vikings have five picks among the first 105 selections. If the actual 2020 NFL Draft went straight of Jeff Legwold's rankings here's a two-day draft haul that the Vikings could bring to Minnesota.
1. (22)-Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
1. (25)-Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
2. (58)-Ezra Cleveland, T, Boise State
3. (89)-Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
3. (105)-Reggie Robinson II, CB, Tulsa
That could work. I'd like a first round corner (Jeff Gladney?). Amik Robertson is as talented as any corner in the draft. He's just 5'8". I've settled on cornerback/offensive tackle as my preferred first round for the Vikings but it's always best to be flexible. No draft ever goes as planned. If the Vikings can get Ezra Cleveland in the second round I'm more than fine with them missing on an offensive tackle in the first. Overall, I'd be happy if the Rounds 1-3 fell this way for the Vikings. Perhaps an edge rusher in the fourth (Kenny Willekes/Jabari Zuniga).
1. Isaiah Simmons, S/LB, Clemson
2. Chase Young, DE, Ohio State
3. Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
4. Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
5. Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
6. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
7. Jedrick Wills, T, Alabama
8. Mekhi Becton, T, Louisville
9. Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
10. K'Lavon Chaisson, OLB/DE, LSU
11. CJ Henderson, CB, Florida,
12. Tristan Wirfs, T, Iowa
13. CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
14. Andrew Thomas, T, Georgia
15. Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
16. Kenneth Murray, LB Oklahoma
17. Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
18. Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
19. Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
20. D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
21. Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
22. Yetur Gross-Matos, DE, Penn State
23. A.J. Epenesa, DE, Iowa
24. Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
25. Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
26. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, LSU
27. Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
28. A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
29. Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin
30. Austin Jackson, T, USC
31. Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
32. Jalen Hurts, QB, Oklahoma
33. Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
34. Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado
35. Marlon Davidson, DE, Auburn
36. Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
37. Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
38. Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
39. Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
40. Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
41. Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
42. J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
43. Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
44. Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota
45. Josh Jones, T, Houston
46. Justin Madubuike, DT
47. Lloyd Cushenberry III, C, LSU
48. Grant Delpit, S, LSU
49. Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn
50. Jeremy Chinn, S, Southern Illinois
51. Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
52. Chase Claypool, WR, Notre Dame
53. Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
54. KJ Hamler, WR, Penn State
55. Isaiah Wilson, T, Georgia
56. Zack Moss, RB, Utah
57. Van Jefferson, WR, Florida
58. Robert Hunt, G, Louisiana
59. Malik Harrison, OLB, Ohio State
60. Julian Okwara, DE, Notre Dame
61. Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia
62. Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State
63. Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma
64. Cole Kmet, TE, Notre Dame
65. Ezra Cleveland, T, Boise State
66. Logan Wilson, LB, Wyoming
67. Kyle Dugger, S, Lenoir-Rhyne
68. Raekwon Davis, DT, Alabama
69. Terrell Lewis, OLB, Alabama
70. Curtis Weaver, DE/OLB, Boise State
71. Cam Akers, RB, Florida State
72. Adam Trautman, TE, Dayton
73. Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
74. Jonathan Greenard, DE, Florida
75. Darrell Taylor, DE, Tennessee
76. Jake Fromm, QB, Georgia
77. Harrison Bryant, TE, Florida Atlantic
78. Matt Hennessy, C, Temple
79. Ashtyn Davis, S, California
80. Prince Tega Wanogho, T, Auburn
81. Cameron Dantzler, CB, Mississippi State
82. Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida
83. Devin Duvernay, WR, Texas
84. Josh Uche, DE, Michigan
85. Terrell Burgess, S, Utah
86. Bryan Edwards, WR, South Carolina
87. Tyler Biadasz, C, Wisconsin
88. Akeem Davis-Gaither, OLB, Appalachian State
89. James Lynch, DE, Baylor
90. Bradlee Anae, OLB/DE, Utah
91. Lucas Niang, T, TCU
92. Jacob Eason, QB, Washington
93. Jordyn Brooks, OLB, Texas Tech
94. Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
95. John Simpson, G, Clemson
96. Lynn Bowden, WR, Kentucky
97. Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR, Liberty
98. McTelvin Agim, DT/DE, Arkansas
99. Antonio Gibson, WR, Memphis
100. Davion Taylor, OLB, Colorado
***
The Minnesota Vikings have five picks among the first 105 selections. If the actual 2020 NFL Draft went straight of Jeff Legwold's rankings here's a two-day draft haul that the Vikings could bring to Minnesota.
1. (22)-Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
1. (25)-Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
2. (58)-Ezra Cleveland, T, Boise State
3. (89)-Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
3. (105)-Reggie Robinson II, CB, Tulsa
That could work. I'd like a first round corner (Jeff Gladney?). Amik Robertson is as talented as any corner in the draft. He's just 5'8". I've settled on cornerback/offensive tackle as my preferred first round for the Vikings but it's always best to be flexible. No draft ever goes as planned. If the Vikings can get Ezra Cleveland in the second round I'm more than fine with them missing on an offensive tackle in the first. Overall, I'd be happy if the Rounds 1-3 fell this way for the Vikings. Perhaps an edge rusher in the fourth (Kenny Willekes/Jabari Zuniga).
Monday, April 20, 2020
Flea Flicker Top 50: 2020 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings
Draft Week! The 2020 NFL Draft three days away. It's time for the final Flea Flicker Top 50.
1. Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
2. Isaiah Simmons, LB/S, Clemson
3. Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
4. Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
5. Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
6. Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
7. Tua Tagavailoa, QB, Alabama
8. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
9. Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
10. CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
11. Trsitan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
12. Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
13. Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
15. Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
16. Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
17. Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
18. K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
19. Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
20. D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
21. C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
22. Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
23. Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
24. Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
25. Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
26. Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
27. A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
28. Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota
29. Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
30. Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
31. Austin Jackson, OT, USC
32. Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
33. Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
34. A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
35. Grant Delpit, S, LSU
36. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, LSU
37. Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
38. Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
39. Marlon Davidson, Edge, Auburn
40. Cam Akers, RB, Florida State
41. Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
42. Josh Jones, OT, Houston
43. Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
44. Laviska Shenault, WR, Colorado
45. Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma
46. Michael Pittman, Jr., WR, USC
47. Akeem Davis-Gaither, LB, Appalachian State
48. J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
49. Jalen Hurts, QB, Oklahoma
50. Evan Weaver, LB, Cal
1. Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
2. Isaiah Simmons, LB/S, Clemson
3. Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
4. Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
5. Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
6. Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
7. Tua Tagavailoa, QB, Alabama
8. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
9. Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
10. CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
11. Trsitan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
12. Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
13. Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
15. Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
16. Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
17. Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
18. K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
19. Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
20. D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
21. C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
22. Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
23. Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
24. Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
25. Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
26. Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
27. A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
28. Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota
29. Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
30. Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
31. Austin Jackson, OT, USC
32. Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
33. Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
34. A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
35. Grant Delpit, S, LSU
36. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, LSU
37. Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
38. Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
39. Marlon Davidson, Edge, Auburn
40. Cam Akers, RB, Florida State
41. Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
42. Josh Jones, OT, Houston
43. Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
44. Laviska Shenault, WR, Colorado
45. Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma
46. Michael Pittman, Jr., WR, USC
47. Akeem Davis-Gaither, LB, Appalachian State
48. J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
49. Jalen Hurts, QB, Oklahoma
50. Evan Weaver, LB, Cal
Sunday, April 19, 2020
Minnesota Vikings Trade Targets?
Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman reportedly targets 10 selections in each NFL Draft. He enters the 2020 NFL Draft with 12 picks.
1. (22)-from Buffalo
1. (25)
2. (58)
3. (89)
3. (105)-compensatory
4. (132)
5. (155)-from Buffalo
6. (201)-from Buffalo
6. (205)
7. (219)
7. (249)-compensatory
7. (253)-compensatory
Already possessing more picks than he targets, I've come to think that this could be a draft in which Spielman moves up early in the draft. The Vikings wouldn't move up in the first round for the sheer thrill of it. That would be silly. There would have to be a player that they really like. Who could that player be? It's best to start with the team's needs.
offensive line improvement
receiver
cornerback
defensive end
defensive tackle
Obviously, the Vikings would be trading up for players that aren't expected to make it to their next pick. Their first pick in this draft is #22. I don't think that the Vikings can afford to spend the necessary picks to trade into the Top 10. So, I'm guessing that their supposed trade targets will be players that slip out of the Top 10. This is a very strong draft. There will be players selected in the early- to mid-teens that would be Top 5 picks in many other drafts. Here are a few of those players that fit the Vikings' needs.
First Round
Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
Andrew Thomas is projected by most to be the last of the top four tackles to be selected. That's due more to the unique traits of the other three than any real knock on Thomas. Alabama's Jedrick Wills is the technician. Iowa's Tristan Wirfs is freakishly athletic. Mekhi Becton is mammoth-sized. All three should be selected before the 11th pick. Thomas might be best seen as a blend of the three tackles expected to be selected before him. He doesn't stand out in any one category like the other three but ranks well in all three categories. He might become the best NFL tackle of the group. Who knows? I do know that he'd be the top offensive tackle in some of the recent drafts. The Vikings have reportedly spent some time with Wirfs. Perhaps he's more of a trade target than Thomas. I presently don't see Wirfs dropping far enough for the Vikings to afford. But then Randy Moss was never supposed to fall all the way to #21.
Then we get to a ridiculous group of receivers.
Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
The 2020 NFL Draft will be loaded with receivers. 30, or more, could be selected before the fourth round is done. As great as this class is at the position there are three that truly stand out over the rest. Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb, and Henry Ruggs III would each be Top 5 picks in most drafts. Three quarterbacks, three offensive tackles, and some defensive players will probably force these terrific pass-catchers out of the Top 10 of this draft. There are many draft projections in which all three are selected with picks 11-13. However, the impressive receiver talent behind them might cause the teams with those picks to go another direction in the first round. That would allow one or more of Jeudy, Lamb, and Ruggs to fall a little further. They could fall into the "Vikings Trade Zone!"
There's a couple defensive players that could intrigue the Vikings.
Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
Of the two, I see Javon Kinlaw as the trade target. As with Andrew Thomas, Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb, and Henry Ruggs III, Kinlaw would easily be a Top 10 pick in any other draft. He might be a Top 10 pick in this draft. This freakishly athletic, long, raw football player just feels like Mike Zimmer's ideal defensive tackle. Kinlaw is far from a finished product but with his raw talent he should disrupt offenses immediately. It's fun to imagine (if he's in Vikings purple) what he'll be when he gets a handle on what he's doing. At the start of the draft evaluation process, Kinlaw was the first player that I targeted for the Vikings. He wasn't being considered with the draft's elite players by most of the talking heads. In his first mock, Daniel Jeremiah had him going to the Vikings at #25. It didn't take Jeremiah, and others, long to realize that it was unlikely that Kinlaw would get that far.
I'm not sold on C.J. Henderson as a trade target. He's widely considered the second cornerback in the draft. It's been assumed for a while that Ohio State's Jeff Okudah is the consensus #1 at the position. Until this week. Peter King reported in his weekly column that 40 percent of the team's have Henderson as the #1 corner. For that reason, I've included him as a potential trade target. There are too many talented corners (corners that I consider comparable to Henderson) that should be available when the Vikings are slated to pick. I just don't think that they'd spend the necessary picks to trade up for Henderson.
If the Vikings trade up in the first round, I think that it would be for either Andrew Thomas or Javon Kinlaw. It's fun to think that it would be for one of the pass-catching playmakers but there are simply too many talented receivers in this draft. Jeudy, Lamb, and Ruggs wouldn't impact the team as much as Thomas or Kinlaw could. For me the two targets rank as targets in the following order:
1. Andrew Thomas
2. Javon Kinlaw
Offensive line has been a problem for far too long. Adding Thomas to current building blocks Brian O'Neil and Garrett Bradbury would be a bold step in the right direction. Mike Zimmer might see things differently but I think that improving the offensive line is more important than adding a potentially elite player to the interior of the defensive line. I'm not going to guess what it'd take to trade up far enough to get either player. I don't buy into the draft pick value charts that pop up on the internet. In my opinion, teams trade up for a particular player, not a particular pick. Players hold different values to different teams so how can anyone put a set price on that player. If I had to guess at a cost, it would take #22 and either their second round pick or both thirds to trade up 10-12 picks. The ideal cost would #22 and one third. That would still leave the Vikings with at least one pick in every round. If I had to guess a team to target as a trading partner, it would be the San Francisco 49ers at #13. I'd target them partly because of the location of their pick but mostly because the 49ers' greatest team need is more draft picks. Other than that, the Vikings just have to hope that their trade target gets to #13.
When a fan dreams of their team trading up in the draft that trade usually occurs in the first round. As the Vikings did in 2017 to secure Dalvin Cook a trade up for a unique player could occur in the second, or any, round. Here are some of the players that I could see the Vikings targeting in the second and third rounds. Each goes with the assumption that the team didn't select those positions earlier in the draft.
Second Round
Austin Jackson, OT, USC
Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
Justin Madubuike, DT, Texas A&M
Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
For some of the above players (Ross Blacklock and Austin Jackson in particular) it might take a trade into the bottom of the first round to get them.
Third Round
Amik Roberston, CB, Louisiana Tech
Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State
Van Jefferson, WR, Florida
Darrell Taylor, DE, Tennessee
Amik Robertson is one of my favorite players in the entire draft. He'd easily be an early first round pick if he was 6'1" and not 5'8". He plays much bigger than his itty bitty size. He's effectively covered receivers that are nearly a foot taller than himself. I have no idea where Robertson will be drafted. I've heard Mel Kiper Jr. say that he's a fourth- or fifth-round pick. I think that he'll go much earlier. He's too talented. I'd be thrilled if the Vikings didn't even monkey around and just took him in the second round. For this exercise, I include Robertson as a trade up target in the third round.
I hate the thought of the Vikings using their second or both third round picks to secure an elite player in the first round. It sucks to go through an entire Day 2 round without a pick. However, I love the thought of the Vikings adding a player like Andrew Thomas or Javon Kinlaw. There's always a price to pay in order to improve the team.
1. (22)-from Buffalo
1. (25)
2. (58)
3. (89)
3. (105)-compensatory
4. (132)
5. (155)-from Buffalo
6. (201)-from Buffalo
6. (205)
7. (219)
7. (249)-compensatory
7. (253)-compensatory
Already possessing more picks than he targets, I've come to think that this could be a draft in which Spielman moves up early in the draft. The Vikings wouldn't move up in the first round for the sheer thrill of it. That would be silly. There would have to be a player that they really like. Who could that player be? It's best to start with the team's needs.
offensive line improvement
receiver
cornerback
defensive end
defensive tackle
Obviously, the Vikings would be trading up for players that aren't expected to make it to their next pick. Their first pick in this draft is #22. I don't think that the Vikings can afford to spend the necessary picks to trade into the Top 10. So, I'm guessing that their supposed trade targets will be players that slip out of the Top 10. This is a very strong draft. There will be players selected in the early- to mid-teens that would be Top 5 picks in many other drafts. Here are a few of those players that fit the Vikings' needs.
First Round
Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
Andrew Thomas is projected by most to be the last of the top four tackles to be selected. That's due more to the unique traits of the other three than any real knock on Thomas. Alabama's Jedrick Wills is the technician. Iowa's Tristan Wirfs is freakishly athletic. Mekhi Becton is mammoth-sized. All three should be selected before the 11th pick. Thomas might be best seen as a blend of the three tackles expected to be selected before him. He doesn't stand out in any one category like the other three but ranks well in all three categories. He might become the best NFL tackle of the group. Who knows? I do know that he'd be the top offensive tackle in some of the recent drafts. The Vikings have reportedly spent some time with Wirfs. Perhaps he's more of a trade target than Thomas. I presently don't see Wirfs dropping far enough for the Vikings to afford. But then Randy Moss was never supposed to fall all the way to #21.
Then we get to a ridiculous group of receivers.
Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
The 2020 NFL Draft will be loaded with receivers. 30, or more, could be selected before the fourth round is done. As great as this class is at the position there are three that truly stand out over the rest. Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb, and Henry Ruggs III would each be Top 5 picks in most drafts. Three quarterbacks, three offensive tackles, and some defensive players will probably force these terrific pass-catchers out of the Top 10 of this draft. There are many draft projections in which all three are selected with picks 11-13. However, the impressive receiver talent behind them might cause the teams with those picks to go another direction in the first round. That would allow one or more of Jeudy, Lamb, and Ruggs to fall a little further. They could fall into the "Vikings Trade Zone!"
There's a couple defensive players that could intrigue the Vikings.
Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
Of the two, I see Javon Kinlaw as the trade target. As with Andrew Thomas, Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb, and Henry Ruggs III, Kinlaw would easily be a Top 10 pick in any other draft. He might be a Top 10 pick in this draft. This freakishly athletic, long, raw football player just feels like Mike Zimmer's ideal defensive tackle. Kinlaw is far from a finished product but with his raw talent he should disrupt offenses immediately. It's fun to imagine (if he's in Vikings purple) what he'll be when he gets a handle on what he's doing. At the start of the draft evaluation process, Kinlaw was the first player that I targeted for the Vikings. He wasn't being considered with the draft's elite players by most of the talking heads. In his first mock, Daniel Jeremiah had him going to the Vikings at #25. It didn't take Jeremiah, and others, long to realize that it was unlikely that Kinlaw would get that far.
I'm not sold on C.J. Henderson as a trade target. He's widely considered the second cornerback in the draft. It's been assumed for a while that Ohio State's Jeff Okudah is the consensus #1 at the position. Until this week. Peter King reported in his weekly column that 40 percent of the team's have Henderson as the #1 corner. For that reason, I've included him as a potential trade target. There are too many talented corners (corners that I consider comparable to Henderson) that should be available when the Vikings are slated to pick. I just don't think that they'd spend the necessary picks to trade up for Henderson.
If the Vikings trade up in the first round, I think that it would be for either Andrew Thomas or Javon Kinlaw. It's fun to think that it would be for one of the pass-catching playmakers but there are simply too many talented receivers in this draft. Jeudy, Lamb, and Ruggs wouldn't impact the team as much as Thomas or Kinlaw could. For me the two targets rank as targets in the following order:
1. Andrew Thomas
2. Javon Kinlaw
Offensive line has been a problem for far too long. Adding Thomas to current building blocks Brian O'Neil and Garrett Bradbury would be a bold step in the right direction. Mike Zimmer might see things differently but I think that improving the offensive line is more important than adding a potentially elite player to the interior of the defensive line. I'm not going to guess what it'd take to trade up far enough to get either player. I don't buy into the draft pick value charts that pop up on the internet. In my opinion, teams trade up for a particular player, not a particular pick. Players hold different values to different teams so how can anyone put a set price on that player. If I had to guess at a cost, it would take #22 and either their second round pick or both thirds to trade up 10-12 picks. The ideal cost would #22 and one third. That would still leave the Vikings with at least one pick in every round. If I had to guess a team to target as a trading partner, it would be the San Francisco 49ers at #13. I'd target them partly because of the location of their pick but mostly because the 49ers' greatest team need is more draft picks. Other than that, the Vikings just have to hope that their trade target gets to #13.
When a fan dreams of their team trading up in the draft that trade usually occurs in the first round. As the Vikings did in 2017 to secure Dalvin Cook a trade up for a unique player could occur in the second, or any, round. Here are some of the players that I could see the Vikings targeting in the second and third rounds. Each goes with the assumption that the team didn't select those positions earlier in the draft.
Second Round
Austin Jackson, OT, USC
Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
Justin Madubuike, DT, Texas A&M
Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
For some of the above players (Ross Blacklock and Austin Jackson in particular) it might take a trade into the bottom of the first round to get them.
Third Round
Amik Roberston, CB, Louisiana Tech
Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State
Van Jefferson, WR, Florida
Darrell Taylor, DE, Tennessee
Amik Robertson is one of my favorite players in the entire draft. He'd easily be an early first round pick if he was 6'1" and not 5'8". He plays much bigger than his itty bitty size. He's effectively covered receivers that are nearly a foot taller than himself. I have no idea where Robertson will be drafted. I've heard Mel Kiper Jr. say that he's a fourth- or fifth-round pick. I think that he'll go much earlier. He's too talented. I'd be thrilled if the Vikings didn't even monkey around and just took him in the second round. For this exercise, I include Robertson as a trade up target in the third round.
I hate the thought of the Vikings using their second or both third round picks to secure an elite player in the first round. It sucks to go through an entire Day 2 round without a pick. However, I love the thought of the Vikings adding a player like Andrew Thomas or Javon Kinlaw. There's always a price to pay in order to improve the team.
Saturday, April 18, 2020
Top 25 College Quarterbacks Of 2020
I stumbled across a ranking by 247Sports' Brad Crawford of the Top 25 College Quarterbacks for the 2020 College Football Season. It stood out for a couple reasons. One reason was the top quarterbacks. The other reason for a quarterback that isn't included among the 25.
Top 25 College Quarterbacks of 2020
1. Justin Fields, Ohio State
2. Trevor Lawrence, Clemson
3. Sam Ehlinger, Texas
4. Sam Howell, North Carolina
5. Jayden Daniels, Arizona State
6. Kedon Slovis, USC
7. Tanner Morgan, Minnesota
8. Ian Book, Notre Dame
9. Brock Purdy, Iowa State
10. Shane Buechele
11. D'eriq King, Miami
12. Spencer Rattler, Oklahoma
13. Kyle Trask, Florida
14. KJ Costello, Mississippi State
15. Spencer Sanders, Oklahoma State
16. Brady White, Memphis
17. Kellen Mond, Texas A&M
18. Jamie Newman, Georgia
19. Davis Mills, Stanford
20. Mac Jones, Alabama
21. Charlie Brewer, Baylor
22. Michael Penix Jr., Indiana
23. Dillon Gabriel, UCF
24. Adrian Martinez, Nebraska
25. Myles Brennan, LSU
Trevor Lawrence has played two seasons of college football. He won a title in his first season. He played for the title in his second season. Most supposed experts have been saying for the past two years that he'd be the #1 pick in any NFL Draft that he graces with his presence. Despite not being able to take the Georgia quarterback role from Jake Fromm, Justin Fields is a fine football player. He was terrific in his first season as the starter for Ohio State. Fields with the usual Buckeye talent should be even more terrific this season. I still don't see how any quarterback can top Lawrence. He's played too well and done too much.
Jayden Daniels and Kedon Slovis were starting quarterbacks as true freshmen last season. Neither played like a true freshman. Daniels was so impressive that I was immediately dreaming about his departure from the Pac-12. As a Cal fan and alum, I don't ever need to see a repeat of what he did to the Golden Bears last season. Slovis was good but Daniels was ridiculous.
KJ Costello! It's a struggle to imagine the game manager in David Shaw's offense becoming the throwing madman in Mike Leach's offense.
The quarterback that isn't included that I thought could be is Cal's Chase Garbers. He was inconsistent as a redshirt freshman starter in 2018. In 2019, it looked like he was starting to click in the fourth game against Mississippi. Just when it looked like he and Cal were starting to roll, Garbers broke his collar bone against Arizona State. The injury kept him out of five games. When he finally returned he led Cal to a win over Stanford in the Big Game (finally!). Cal was 7-0 in 2019 in games in which Garbers played at least a half. He's led the Golden Bears to consecutive bowl games, winning one. There hasn't been this much optimism over football in Berkeley since the best of the Jeff Tedford years. A lot of that optimism is due to Chase Garbers. He should be on this list of the Top 25 College Quarterbacks. LSU's Joe Burrow is expected to be the first pick of Thursday's 2020 NFL Draft. He might not have been on last year's projected Top 25 Quarterbacks of 2019 season.
Top 25 College Quarterbacks of 2020
1. Justin Fields, Ohio State
2. Trevor Lawrence, Clemson
3. Sam Ehlinger, Texas
4. Sam Howell, North Carolina
5. Jayden Daniels, Arizona State
6. Kedon Slovis, USC
7. Tanner Morgan, Minnesota
8. Ian Book, Notre Dame
9. Brock Purdy, Iowa State
10. Shane Buechele
11. D'eriq King, Miami
12. Spencer Rattler, Oklahoma
13. Kyle Trask, Florida
14. KJ Costello, Mississippi State
15. Spencer Sanders, Oklahoma State
16. Brady White, Memphis
17. Kellen Mond, Texas A&M
18. Jamie Newman, Georgia
19. Davis Mills, Stanford
20. Mac Jones, Alabama
21. Charlie Brewer, Baylor
22. Michael Penix Jr., Indiana
23. Dillon Gabriel, UCF
24. Adrian Martinez, Nebraska
25. Myles Brennan, LSU
Trevor Lawrence has played two seasons of college football. He won a title in his first season. He played for the title in his second season. Most supposed experts have been saying for the past two years that he'd be the #1 pick in any NFL Draft that he graces with his presence. Despite not being able to take the Georgia quarterback role from Jake Fromm, Justin Fields is a fine football player. He was terrific in his first season as the starter for Ohio State. Fields with the usual Buckeye talent should be even more terrific this season. I still don't see how any quarterback can top Lawrence. He's played too well and done too much.
Jayden Daniels and Kedon Slovis were starting quarterbacks as true freshmen last season. Neither played like a true freshman. Daniels was so impressive that I was immediately dreaming about his departure from the Pac-12. As a Cal fan and alum, I don't ever need to see a repeat of what he did to the Golden Bears last season. Slovis was good but Daniels was ridiculous.
KJ Costello! It's a struggle to imagine the game manager in David Shaw's offense becoming the throwing madman in Mike Leach's offense.
The quarterback that isn't included that I thought could be is Cal's Chase Garbers. He was inconsistent as a redshirt freshman starter in 2018. In 2019, it looked like he was starting to click in the fourth game against Mississippi. Just when it looked like he and Cal were starting to roll, Garbers broke his collar bone against Arizona State. The injury kept him out of five games. When he finally returned he led Cal to a win over Stanford in the Big Game (finally!). Cal was 7-0 in 2019 in games in which Garbers played at least a half. He's led the Golden Bears to consecutive bowl games, winning one. There hasn't been this much optimism over football in Berkeley since the best of the Jeff Tedford years. A lot of that optimism is due to Chase Garbers. He should be on this list of the Top 25 College Quarterbacks. LSU's Joe Burrow is expected to be the first pick of Thursday's 2020 NFL Draft. He might not have been on last year's projected Top 25 Quarterbacks of 2019 season.
Friday, April 17, 2020
Daniel Jeremiah/Peter Schrager 2020 NFL Mock Draft
NFL Network analysts Daniel Jeremiah and Peter Schrager recently got together for a joint mock draft. I like multi-people mocks. The more people the better. So, two is better than one. The variety of opinions adds a little something to the mock. Here's the Daniel Jeremiah/Peter Schrager 2020 NFL Mock Draft.
Jeremiah made the odd-numbered picks. Schrager made the even-numbered picks.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
5. Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
7. Carolina Panthers-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
8. Arizona Cardinals-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
10. Cleveland Browns-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
11. New York Jets-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
12. Las Vegas Raiders-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
13. San Francisco 49ers-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons-A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
17. Dallas Cowboys-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
22. Minnesota Vikings (from Bills)-Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
23. New England Patriots-Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
27. Seattle Seahawks-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
28. Baltimore Ravens-Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
29. Tennessee Titans-Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
30. Green Bay Packers-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
31. San Francisco 49ers-Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
32. Kansas City Chiefs-Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
Jeremiah has been fairly insistent that one of the Minnesota Vikings' two first round picks has to be a receiver. He was trying to lean Schrager in that direction at 22. He made the receiver decision at 25. Jeremiah isn't alone. Nearly all of the mocks out there have receiver as one of the picks. The consensus of the talking heads is that the Vikings simply have to pick a receiver to replace Stefon Diggs. Receiver is certainly one of the team's biggest needs and I can easily see receiver being a first round pick. There are a lot of good pass-catchers out there. I can more easily see offensive tackle and cornerback being the direction that the Vikings go with those two first round picks.
Jeremiah made the odd-numbered picks. Schrager made the even-numbered picks.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
5. Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
7. Carolina Panthers-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
8. Arizona Cardinals-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
10. Cleveland Browns-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
11. New York Jets-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
12. Las Vegas Raiders-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
13. San Francisco 49ers-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons-A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
17. Dallas Cowboys-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
22. Minnesota Vikings (from Bills)-Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
23. New England Patriots-Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
27. Seattle Seahawks-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
28. Baltimore Ravens-Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
29. Tennessee Titans-Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
30. Green Bay Packers-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
31. San Francisco 49ers-Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
32. Kansas City Chiefs-Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
Jeremiah has been fairly insistent that one of the Minnesota Vikings' two first round picks has to be a receiver. He was trying to lean Schrager in that direction at 22. He made the receiver decision at 25. Jeremiah isn't alone. Nearly all of the mocks out there have receiver as one of the picks. The consensus of the talking heads is that the Vikings simply have to pick a receiver to replace Stefon Diggs. Receiver is certainly one of the team's biggest needs and I can easily see receiver being a first round pick. There are a lot of good pass-catchers out there. I can more easily see offensive tackle and cornerback being the direction that the Vikings go with those two first round picks.
Thursday, April 16, 2020
Throwback Thursday: Final Flea Flicker 2019 Mock Draft
Despite the unrelenting flood of mock drafts throughout the draft evaluation process they are never the slightest bit close to the real thing. If a mock drafter correctly matches six or seven players and teams in the first round, it's a great success. It's rare that a success rate of less than 25%, on anything, can be considered a success. NFL mock drafts are unlike anything. They are incredibly pointless yet many football fans love them. We are a week away from the 2020 NFL Draft. Here's a look back at the success rate of my final mock draft from a year ago.
Here's the Final Flea Flicker 2019 Mock Draft.
1. Arizona Cardinals-Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
2. San Francisco 49ers-Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
3. New York Jets-Josh Allen, LB, Kentucky
4. Oakland Raiders-Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Devin White, LB, LSU
6. New York Giants-Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
7. Jacksonville Jaguars-Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
8. Detroit Lions-T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
9. Buffalo Bills-Rashan Gary, Edge, Michigan
10. Denver Broncos-Devin Bush, LB, Michigan
11. Cincinnati Bengals-Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
12. Green Bay Packers-Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
13. Miami Dolphins-Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
14. Atlanta Falcons-Andre Dillard, OT, Washington State
15. Washington Redskins-Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
16. Carolina Panthers-Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
17. New York Giants-Brian Burns, Edge, Florida State
18. Minnesota Vikings-Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
19. Tennessee Titans-Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
20. Pittsburgh Steelers-Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
21. Seattle Seahawks-Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
22. Baltimore Ravens-Garrett Bradbury, C, North Carolina State
23. Houston Texans-Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington
24. Oakland Raiders (from Bears)-Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
25. Philadelphia Eagles-Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia
26. Indianapolis Colts-Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
27. Oakland Raiders (from Cowboys)-Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
28. Los Angeles Chargers-Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Temple
29. Seattle Seahawks (from Chiefs)-D.K. Metcalf, WR, Mississippi
30. Green Bay Packers (from Saints)-A.J. Brown, Mississippi
31. Los Angeles Rams-Erik McCoy, C, Texas A&M
32. New England Patriots-Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State
Here's the real first round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
1. Arizona Cardinals-Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
2. San Francisco 49ers-Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
3. New York Jets-Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
4. Oakland Raiders-Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Devin White, LB, LSU
6. New York Giants-Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
7. Jacksonville Jaguars-Josh Allen, LB, Kentucky
8. Detroit Lions-T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
9. Buffalo Bills-Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
10. Pittsburgh Steelers-Devin Bush, LB, Michigan
11. Cincinnati Bengals-Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
12. Green Bay Packers-Rashan Gary, Edge, Michigan
13. Miami Dolphins-Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
14. Atlanta Falcons-Chris Lindstron, G, Boston College
15. Washington Redskins-Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
16. Carolina Panthers-Brian Burns, Edge, Florida State
17. New York Giants-Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
18. Minnesota Vikings-Garrett Bradbury, C, North Carolina State
19. Tennessee Titans-Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State
20. Denver Broncos-Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
21. Green Bay Packers-Darnell Savage, S, Maryland
22. Philadelphia Eagles-Andre Dillard, OT, Washington State
23. Houston Texans-Tytus Howard, OT, Alabama State
24. Oakland Raiders-Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
25. Baltimore Ravens-Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
26. Washington Redskins-Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
27. Oakland Raiders-Johnathan Abram, S, Mississippi State
28. Los Angeles Chargers-Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame
29. Seattle Seahawks-L.J. Collier, DE, TCU
30. New York Giants-Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia
31. Atlanta Falcons-Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington
32. New England Patriots-N'Keal Harry, WR, Arizona State
I believed that the Arizona Cardinals would select Kyler Murray with the first pick. I just didn't agree with it. My mock drafts are always more projections of what I would do rather than what I think that a team will do. As a result, my projections are wrong far more than right.
I'm glad that I was wrong and the Green Bay Packers did not draft Mississippi receiver A.J. Brown.
So, how'd I do with my first round projections?
Correct
2. San Francisco 49ers-Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Devin White, LB, LSU
8. Detroit Lions-T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
24. Oakland Raiders-Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
Four right.
For what it's worth, if I didn't have Jonah Williams falling I would've had the Minnesota Vikings selecting Garrett Bradbury.
Somewhat Correct
6. New York Giants-Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State-Right position. Wrong player.
10. Denver Broncos-Devin Bush, LB, Michigan-Right spot. Wrong team.
15. Washington Redskins-Daniel Jones, QB, Duke-Right position. Wrong player.
16. Carolina Panthers-Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State-Right position. Wrong player.
19. Tennessee Titans-Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson-Right position. Wrong player.
23. Houston Texans-Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington-Right position. Wrong player.
29. Seattle Seahawks-D.K. Metcalf, WR, Mississippi-Right player and team. Wrong round.
4 right!
One more week until this year's real draft.
Here's the Final Flea Flicker 2019 Mock Draft.
1. Arizona Cardinals-Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
2. San Francisco 49ers-Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
3. New York Jets-Josh Allen, LB, Kentucky
4. Oakland Raiders-Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Devin White, LB, LSU
6. New York Giants-Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
7. Jacksonville Jaguars-Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
8. Detroit Lions-T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
9. Buffalo Bills-Rashan Gary, Edge, Michigan
10. Denver Broncos-Devin Bush, LB, Michigan
11. Cincinnati Bengals-Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
12. Green Bay Packers-Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
13. Miami Dolphins-Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
14. Atlanta Falcons-Andre Dillard, OT, Washington State
15. Washington Redskins-Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
16. Carolina Panthers-Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
17. New York Giants-Brian Burns, Edge, Florida State
18. Minnesota Vikings-Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
19. Tennessee Titans-Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
20. Pittsburgh Steelers-Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
21. Seattle Seahawks-Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
22. Baltimore Ravens-Garrett Bradbury, C, North Carolina State
23. Houston Texans-Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington
24. Oakland Raiders (from Bears)-Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
25. Philadelphia Eagles-Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia
26. Indianapolis Colts-Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
27. Oakland Raiders (from Cowboys)-Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
28. Los Angeles Chargers-Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Temple
29. Seattle Seahawks (from Chiefs)-D.K. Metcalf, WR, Mississippi
30. Green Bay Packers (from Saints)-A.J. Brown, Mississippi
31. Los Angeles Rams-Erik McCoy, C, Texas A&M
32. New England Patriots-Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State
Here's the real first round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
1. Arizona Cardinals-Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
2. San Francisco 49ers-Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
3. New York Jets-Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
4. Oakland Raiders-Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Devin White, LB, LSU
6. New York Giants-Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
7. Jacksonville Jaguars-Josh Allen, LB, Kentucky
8. Detroit Lions-T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
9. Buffalo Bills-Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
10. Pittsburgh Steelers-Devin Bush, LB, Michigan
11. Cincinnati Bengals-Jonah Williams, OT, Alabama
12. Green Bay Packers-Rashan Gary, Edge, Michigan
13. Miami Dolphins-Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
14. Atlanta Falcons-Chris Lindstron, G, Boston College
15. Washington Redskins-Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
16. Carolina Panthers-Brian Burns, Edge, Florida State
17. New York Giants-Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
18. Minnesota Vikings-Garrett Bradbury, C, North Carolina State
19. Tennessee Titans-Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State
20. Denver Broncos-Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
21. Green Bay Packers-Darnell Savage, S, Maryland
22. Philadelphia Eagles-Andre Dillard, OT, Washington State
23. Houston Texans-Tytus Howard, OT, Alabama State
24. Oakland Raiders-Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
25. Baltimore Ravens-Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
26. Washington Redskins-Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
27. Oakland Raiders-Johnathan Abram, S, Mississippi State
28. Los Angeles Chargers-Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame
29. Seattle Seahawks-L.J. Collier, DE, TCU
30. New York Giants-Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia
31. Atlanta Falcons-Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington
32. New England Patriots-N'Keal Harry, WR, Arizona State
I believed that the Arizona Cardinals would select Kyler Murray with the first pick. I just didn't agree with it. My mock drafts are always more projections of what I would do rather than what I think that a team will do. As a result, my projections are wrong far more than right.
I'm glad that I was wrong and the Green Bay Packers did not draft Mississippi receiver A.J. Brown.
So, how'd I do with my first round projections?
Correct
2. San Francisco 49ers-Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Devin White, LB, LSU
8. Detroit Lions-T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
24. Oakland Raiders-Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama
Four right.
For what it's worth, if I didn't have Jonah Williams falling I would've had the Minnesota Vikings selecting Garrett Bradbury.
Somewhat Correct
6. New York Giants-Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State-Right position. Wrong player.
10. Denver Broncos-Devin Bush, LB, Michigan-Right spot. Wrong team.
15. Washington Redskins-Daniel Jones, QB, Duke-Right position. Wrong player.
16. Carolina Panthers-Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State-Right position. Wrong player.
19. Tennessee Titans-Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson-Right position. Wrong player.
23. Houston Texans-Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington-Right position. Wrong player.
29. Seattle Seahawks-D.K. Metcalf, WR, Mississippi-Right player and team. Wrong round.
4 right!
One more week until this year's real draft.
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Dane Bugler's 2020 NFL Mock Draft
Dane Bugler is fast becoming a personal favorite of the currently reigning draft analysts. He does his work for the Athletic and his beast of an annual Draft Guide is terrific. He kicked off this week with his fifth mock draft. It's a seven-round mock. Here's the first round.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
5. Miami Dolphins-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
7. Carolina Panthers-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
8. Arizona Cardinals-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
10. Cleveland Browns-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
11. New York Jets-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
12. Las Vegas Raiders-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
13. San Francisco 49ers-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
17. Dallas Cowboys-Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
22. Minnesota Vikings-Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
23. New England Patriots-Marlon Davidson, DL, Auburn
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
27. Seattle Seahawks-Josh Uche, Edge, Michigan
28. Baltimore Ravens-Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin
29. Tennessee Titans-Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
30. Green Bay Packers-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
31. San Francisco 49ers-Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
32. Kansas City Chiefs-Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
Bugler has South Carolina defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw falling so close to the Minnesota Vikings' first first-round pick. A trade up is so damn tempting.
It's a mild surprise to see only one of the "Big 4" offensive tackles taken among the first nine picks. They don't last much longer. All four are selected by the 14th pick.
Florida cornerback C.J. Henderson sure is flying up draft boards. Bugler isn't the only draft "insider" that seems to be hearing it. In his FMIA column, Peter King notes that one GM thinks about 40 percent of the teams in the league have Henderson higher on their boards than Jeff Okudah.
Bugler's Complete Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft
1. (22) Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
1. (25) Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
2. (58) Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota
3. (89) Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma
3. (105) Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia
4. (132) Khalid Kareem, Edge, Notre Dame
5. (155) Cameron Clark, OL, Charlotte
6. (201) Shaquille Quarterman, LB, Miami (Fla)
6. (205) Michael Onwenu, OG, Michigan
7. (219) Jauan Jennings, WR, Tennessee
7. (249) DeMarkus Acy, CB, Missouri
7. (253) Kyahva Tezino, LB, San Diego State
Early in the draft evaluation process I was dismissing Baylor receiver Denzel Mims. I couldn't help thinking of him as an unfortunate combination of former Baylor speedster Corey Coleman and Laquon Treadwell. That wasn't fair to Mims. I've since come to appreciate his pass-catching talents. Unlike Coleman, Mims has pass-catching talents. Unlike Treadwell, Mims has explosion. If the Vikings do select a receiver in the first, I'm fine with Mims. However, I prefer cornerback over receiver in the first round.
Bugler somewhat makes up for the lack of a corner in the first with the selection of Minnesota safety Antoine Winfield Jr. in the second. I wouldn't want Winfield covering receivers one-on-one outside the numbers but I love his ability to play all over the defensive backfield. He could play a lot like Tyrann Mathieu plays. Or as his father played. If drafted by the Vikings, the younger Winfield could spend some of his time as the team's nickel corner.
If the Vikings select two corners, and I expect that they'll select at least two corners, I'd prefer that two of them are selected before the fifth round. Presently, I like any of the following in the first round (assuming that Okudah and Henderson are long gone):
Jeff Gladney, TCU
Kristian Fulton, LSU
Jaylon Johnson, Utah
A.J. Terrell, Clemson
After that, I like Louisiana Tech's Amik Robertson anywhere they can get him.
I do like the offensive linemen that Bugler has the Vikings selecting.
Eight more days.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
5. Miami Dolphins-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
7. Carolina Panthers-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
8. Arizona Cardinals-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
10. Cleveland Browns-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
11. New York Jets-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
12. Las Vegas Raiders-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
13. San Francisco 49ers-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
16. Atlanta Falcons-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
17. Dallas Cowboys-Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
22. Minnesota Vikings-Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
23. New England Patriots-Marlon Davidson, DL, Auburn
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
27. Seattle Seahawks-Josh Uche, Edge, Michigan
28. Baltimore Ravens-Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin
29. Tennessee Titans-Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
30. Green Bay Packers-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
31. San Francisco 49ers-Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
32. Kansas City Chiefs-Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
Bugler has South Carolina defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw falling so close to the Minnesota Vikings' first first-round pick. A trade up is so damn tempting.
It's a mild surprise to see only one of the "Big 4" offensive tackles taken among the first nine picks. They don't last much longer. All four are selected by the 14th pick.
Florida cornerback C.J. Henderson sure is flying up draft boards. Bugler isn't the only draft "insider" that seems to be hearing it. In his FMIA column, Peter King notes that one GM thinks about 40 percent of the teams in the league have Henderson higher on their boards than Jeff Okudah.
Bugler's Complete Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft
1. (22) Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
1. (25) Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
2. (58) Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota
3. (89) Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma
3. (105) Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia
4. (132) Khalid Kareem, Edge, Notre Dame
5. (155) Cameron Clark, OL, Charlotte
6. (201) Shaquille Quarterman, LB, Miami (Fla)
6. (205) Michael Onwenu, OG, Michigan
7. (219) Jauan Jennings, WR, Tennessee
7. (249) DeMarkus Acy, CB, Missouri
7. (253) Kyahva Tezino, LB, San Diego State
Early in the draft evaluation process I was dismissing Baylor receiver Denzel Mims. I couldn't help thinking of him as an unfortunate combination of former Baylor speedster Corey Coleman and Laquon Treadwell. That wasn't fair to Mims. I've since come to appreciate his pass-catching talents. Unlike Coleman, Mims has pass-catching talents. Unlike Treadwell, Mims has explosion. If the Vikings do select a receiver in the first, I'm fine with Mims. However, I prefer cornerback over receiver in the first round.
Bugler somewhat makes up for the lack of a corner in the first with the selection of Minnesota safety Antoine Winfield Jr. in the second. I wouldn't want Winfield covering receivers one-on-one outside the numbers but I love his ability to play all over the defensive backfield. He could play a lot like Tyrann Mathieu plays. Or as his father played. If drafted by the Vikings, the younger Winfield could spend some of his time as the team's nickel corner.
If the Vikings select two corners, and I expect that they'll select at least two corners, I'd prefer that two of them are selected before the fifth round. Presently, I like any of the following in the first round (assuming that Okudah and Henderson are long gone):
Jeff Gladney, TCU
Kristian Fulton, LSU
Jaylon Johnson, Utah
A.J. Terrell, Clemson
After that, I like Louisiana Tech's Amik Robertson anywhere they can get him.
I do like the offensive linemen that Bugler has the Vikings selecting.
Eight more days.
Tuesday, April 14, 2020
Some Football Thoughts
It's been an unusual NFL offseason. It will be an unusual NFL Draft. We will get back to something usual. Here are some of my football thoughts during this unusual time.
1. Since the start of this unusual NFL offseason, many talking heads (Pro Football Talk) have been bitching about the league proceeding with free agency and the draft. Some people just like to bitch. The world will get back to some sort of normalcy. The NFL will start doing football things again. What's wrong with being as prepared as possible for when that happens? Imagine jamming free agency and the draft into a week or two time frame once the nation's supposed leaders and Roger Goodell say "go." Things would be exponentially more messed up than they'll already be. Free agency and the draft aren't football. Both can be done without direct contact. There once was a time when teams and players had zero contact during the offseason. The team sent out contracts. Players signed those contracts and sent them back. See ya at training camp. That was it. The NFL created it's offseason to entertain the fans. This offseason is simply a throwback to a simpler, perhaps more efficient, time.
2. It was fortunate that the Scouting Combine took place before everything shut down. It's the one offseason event that does require direct contact.
3. One positive to a "Virtual Draft" is that we don't have to endure about two dozen prospects taking about two dozen boat rides through a fountain.
4. I'm really looking forward to a more streamlined NFL Draft. A lot of what Goodell and his peeps have jammed into the event over the years has done nothing but slow everything down.
5. From Peter King's FMIA column on some of the mechanics of the 2020 NFL Draft:
• Making picks will happen like this: Each team’s designated drafter will be connected to the league’s official Microsoft Teams private and encrypted draft channel, and will make the pick through that channel. There are two fail-safes: A GM can call NFL VP of player personnel Ken Fiore or a member of his team directly by landline or cell with the pick. Also, there will be a conference call for the length of the draft with club officials muted; the club official designated to make the pick can unmute his/her line and announce the pick. If the pick is made through Microsoft Teams, Fiore or his representative will announce on the conference call that a pick has been made and the next team is on the clock.
Perhaps due to an ignorance of finer technology, I don't think that this will be as drastic of a change as King, Pro Football Talk, and others are making it. Teams have been making their picks remotely for decades. The only big change is that all of the decision-makers won't be together. Technology has been bringing people from all over the world into one room for years. There might be a greater potential for issues but, as Bill Belichick often says, "Do your job."
6. It will not be a "Virtual Draft." It will actually happen.
7. The Los Angeles Rams traded receiver Brandin Cooks to the Houston Texans last week. The amazing thing to me about this trade is that it's the third time that he's been traded. He's only 26.
-The New Orleans Saints drafted him in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
-The New England Patriots traded a 1st and a 3rd-round pick for him.
-The Rams traded a 1st- and a 6th-round pick for him.
-The Texans traded a 2nd-round pick for him.
Three teams had already invested at least a 1st-round pick in Cooks. The Texans are investing a 2nd-round pick in him. In his six years in the league, Cooks has gained 1,000 yards receiving when he's played in 16 games. That's why the trading teams keep getting top picks in return. It's remarkable that three teams have traded him. It's even more remarkable that he's been productive for each team and has still been traded three times. Before his 27th birthday!
It's interesting that a 4th-round pick has come along with Cooks in each of the three trades. Hopefully, he can avoid further concussions.
8. I miss Mike Mayock as a draft analyst.
9. I'm still leaning offensive line/cornerback as the best options for the Minnesota Vikings' two first round picks. I also know that it's always a mistake to force any pre-draft leanings. If the players they like aren't there don't force it.
10. The debate as to whether Bill Belichick or Tom Brady is most responsible for the success of the New England Patriots is ludicrous. The answer is, there is no answer. The same question isn't asked of Paul Brown/Otto Graham, Vince Lombardi/Bart Starr, Chcuk Noll/Terry Bradshaw, Bill Walsh/Joe Montana, Jimmy Johnson/Troy Aikman. Belichick and Brady are responsible for the success of the Patriots. Both. They did it together. We'll never know whether one could do it without the other because they did it together. There so many more interesting things that people can waste their time debating.
11. Something that I can do without. The media asking anyone whether the 2020 football season will start on time. No one knows. No one can possibly know. Especially the people that are routinely being asked.
RIP Tarvaris Jackson. Gone way, way too soon.
1. Since the start of this unusual NFL offseason, many talking heads (Pro Football Talk) have been bitching about the league proceeding with free agency and the draft. Some people just like to bitch. The world will get back to some sort of normalcy. The NFL will start doing football things again. What's wrong with being as prepared as possible for when that happens? Imagine jamming free agency and the draft into a week or two time frame once the nation's supposed leaders and Roger Goodell say "go." Things would be exponentially more messed up than they'll already be. Free agency and the draft aren't football. Both can be done without direct contact. There once was a time when teams and players had zero contact during the offseason. The team sent out contracts. Players signed those contracts and sent them back. See ya at training camp. That was it. The NFL created it's offseason to entertain the fans. This offseason is simply a throwback to a simpler, perhaps more efficient, time.
2. It was fortunate that the Scouting Combine took place before everything shut down. It's the one offseason event that does require direct contact.
3. One positive to a "Virtual Draft" is that we don't have to endure about two dozen prospects taking about two dozen boat rides through a fountain.
4. I'm really looking forward to a more streamlined NFL Draft. A lot of what Goodell and his peeps have jammed into the event over the years has done nothing but slow everything down.
5. From Peter King's FMIA column on some of the mechanics of the 2020 NFL Draft:
• Making picks will happen like this: Each team’s designated drafter will be connected to the league’s official Microsoft Teams private and encrypted draft channel, and will make the pick through that channel. There are two fail-safes: A GM can call NFL VP of player personnel Ken Fiore or a member of his team directly by landline or cell with the pick. Also, there will be a conference call for the length of the draft with club officials muted; the club official designated to make the pick can unmute his/her line and announce the pick. If the pick is made through Microsoft Teams, Fiore or his representative will announce on the conference call that a pick has been made and the next team is on the clock.
Perhaps due to an ignorance of finer technology, I don't think that this will be as drastic of a change as King, Pro Football Talk, and others are making it. Teams have been making their picks remotely for decades. The only big change is that all of the decision-makers won't be together. Technology has been bringing people from all over the world into one room for years. There might be a greater potential for issues but, as Bill Belichick often says, "Do your job."
6. It will not be a "Virtual Draft." It will actually happen.
7. The Los Angeles Rams traded receiver Brandin Cooks to the Houston Texans last week. The amazing thing to me about this trade is that it's the third time that he's been traded. He's only 26.
-The New Orleans Saints drafted him in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
-The New England Patriots traded a 1st and a 3rd-round pick for him.
-The Rams traded a 1st- and a 6th-round pick for him.
-The Texans traded a 2nd-round pick for him.
Three teams had already invested at least a 1st-round pick in Cooks. The Texans are investing a 2nd-round pick in him. In his six years in the league, Cooks has gained 1,000 yards receiving when he's played in 16 games. That's why the trading teams keep getting top picks in return. It's remarkable that three teams have traded him. It's even more remarkable that he's been productive for each team and has still been traded three times. Before his 27th birthday!
It's interesting that a 4th-round pick has come along with Cooks in each of the three trades. Hopefully, he can avoid further concussions.
8. I miss Mike Mayock as a draft analyst.
9. I'm still leaning offensive line/cornerback as the best options for the Minnesota Vikings' two first round picks. I also know that it's always a mistake to force any pre-draft leanings. If the players they like aren't there don't force it.
10. The debate as to whether Bill Belichick or Tom Brady is most responsible for the success of the New England Patriots is ludicrous. The answer is, there is no answer. The same question isn't asked of Paul Brown/Otto Graham, Vince Lombardi/Bart Starr, Chcuk Noll/Terry Bradshaw, Bill Walsh/Joe Montana, Jimmy Johnson/Troy Aikman. Belichick and Brady are responsible for the success of the Patriots. Both. They did it together. We'll never know whether one could do it without the other because they did it together. There so many more interesting things that people can waste their time debating.
11. Something that I can do without. The media asking anyone whether the 2020 football season will start on time. No one knows. No one can possibly know. Especially the people that are routinely being asked.
RIP Tarvaris Jackson. Gone way, way too soon.
Monday, April 13, 2020
Another Flea Flicker Mock Draft
It's time for another Flea Flicker Mock Draft. If South Carolina defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw actually does get near the 19th pick in the real draft, it might be time for the Minnesota Vikings to use a couple of their 12 draft picks to move up.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
5. Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
7. Carolina Panthers-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
8. Arizona Cardinals-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
10. Cleveland Browns-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
11. New York Jets-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
12. Las Vegas Raiders-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
13. San Francisco 49ers-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
16. Atlanta Falcons-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
17. Dallas Cowboys-Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
22. Minnesota Vikings-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
23. New England Patriots-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-Joshua Jones, OT, Houston
27. Seattle Seahawks-Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
28. Baltimore Ravens-Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
29. Tennessee Titans-Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
30. Green Bay Packers-Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
31. San Francisco 49ers-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
32. Kansas City Chiefs-A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
Until the next one.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
5. Miami Dolphins-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
7. Carolina Panthers-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
8. Arizona Cardinals-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
10. Cleveland Browns-Tristan Wirfs, OG, Iowa
11. New York Jets-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
12. Las Vegas Raiders-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
13. San Francisco 49ers-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
16. Atlanta Falcons-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
17. Dallas Cowboys-Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
22. Minnesota Vikings-Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
23. New England Patriots-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-Joshua Jones, OT, Houston
27. Seattle Seahawks-Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
28. Baltimore Ravens-Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
29. Tennessee Titans-Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
30. Green Bay Packers-Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
31. San Francisco 49ers-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
32. Kansas City Chiefs-A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
Until the next one.
Sunday, April 12, 2020
Some Minnesota Vikings Draft Thoughts
The Minnesota Vikings are scheduled to enter the 2020 NFL Draft with 12 selections.
1. (22)-from Buffalo
1. (25)
2. (58)
3. (89)
3. (105)-compensatory
4. (132)
5. (155)-from Buffalo
6. (201)-from Buffalo
6. (205)
7. (219)
7. (249)-compensatory
7. (253)-compensatory
Considering the draft day dealing ways of general manager Rick Spielman it's a good bet that about half of the players that the Vikings do select will not be with the above picks. He'll move around the draft. Spielman has often targeted making 10 selections in a given draft. With 12 picks to start, he has the pre-draft capital to move up if there's a player that the team really likes.
The Vikings enter the 2020 NFL Draft with the following needs:
overall offensive line improvement
cornerbacks
receivers
defensive end
defensive tackle-three technique
safety
Offensive line improvement has been a need in Minnesota for far too long. Far. Too. Long. The starters for 2020 are pretty wide open after Brian O'Neill at right tackle and Garrett Bradbury at center. If the Vikings were to add a left tackle early in the draft (first round) the remaining three positions might fall into place. A rookie starting at left tackle, incumbent left tackle Riley Reiff slides to left guard, and 2019 4th round pick Dru Samia competes with returning players and/or potential rookies at right guard. In that scenario, the Vikings might finally have the building blocks for a solid offensive line. Reiff isn't a long term solution at left guard but he's the best solution now. This line of thinking has led me to believing that one of the two first round picks has to be an offensive tackle and it has to be an offensive tackle that can start immediately. No projects needed.
Offseason roster departures have created significant needs at cornerback and receiver. It's a good thing that this will be an excellent draft for both positions. Both positions are strong at the top with good depth into later rounds. Receiver is a little stronger and a little deeper. I also like the potential of several corners that should be available at #22 and #25. For that reason, I'm currently favoring cornerback with the first round pick that isn't an offensive tackle.
The realistic offensive linemen and corners that I like in the first currently look like this:
Offensive Tackles
Josh Jones, Houston
Austin Jackson, USC
Isaiah Wilson, Georgia
Ezra Cleveland, Boise State
Corners
Jeff Gladney, TCU
Kristian Fulton, LSU
Noah Igbinoghene, Auburn
A.J. Terrell, Clemson
Jaylon Johnson, Utah
For the past month, my internal tackle debate has been between Josh Jones and Austin Jackson. In recent days, Isaiah Wilson has stormed into that debate. So much so, that I'm really liking the thought of the big guy on the left side of the Vikings line.
With that in mind, I like the following start to the Vikings' 2020 NFL Draft:
22. Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
25. Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
Throughout the draft evaluation process, everyone eventually lands on some favorites. With the Vikings' needs in mind, the following have become my favorites among the players that could/should be drafted in rounds 2-5.
Receivers
Michael Pittman Jr., USC
Van Jefferson, Florida
Tyler Johnson, Minnesota
Isaiah Coulter, Rhode Island
Conerbacks
Amik Robertson, Louisiana Tech
Cameron Dantzler, Clemson
Damon Arnette, Ohio State
Darnay Holmes, UCLA
Defensive Tackles
Jordan Elliott, Missouri
Justin Madubuike, Texas A&M
Davon Hamilton, Ohio State
Raekwon Davis, Alabama
Defensive Ends
Terrell Lewis, Alabama
Bradlee Anae, Utah
Jabari Zuniga, Florida
Julian Okwara, Notre Dame
Darrell Taylor, Tennessee
Of the above, I've grown especially fond of the following:
Van Jefferson
Amik Robertson
Jordan Elliott
Jabari Zuniga
I'm not sure that the Vikings can get all four in the picks that they have in rounds 2-4. But one can dream.
1 (22) Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
1 (25) Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
2 (58) Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
3 (89) Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
3 (105) Van Jefferson, WR, Florida
4 (132) Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida
5 (155) Isaiah Coulter, WR, Rhode Island
The following is probably less dreamy and slightly more realistic.
1 (22) Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
1 (25) Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
2 (58) Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
3 (89) Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
3 (105) Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida
4 (132) Tyler Johnson, WR, Minnesota
5 (155) McTelvin Agim, DT, Arkansas
The second five-round mock might hold more potential than the first but I sure do like Jordan Elliott.
The final two rounds (currently five picks) will likely be peppered with safeties, more offensive linemen (perhaps Louisiana guard Kevin Dotson), a speedy little running back or receiver that can return kicks, and the usual long, raw, freakish defensive end.
Those are a few of the Minnesota Vikings draft thoughts that have been banging through my head. Most, if not all, will evolve over the remaining days before the 2020 NFL Draft.
1. (22)-from Buffalo
1. (25)
2. (58)
3. (89)
3. (105)-compensatory
4. (132)
5. (155)-from Buffalo
6. (201)-from Buffalo
6. (205)
7. (219)
7. (249)-compensatory
7. (253)-compensatory
Considering the draft day dealing ways of general manager Rick Spielman it's a good bet that about half of the players that the Vikings do select will not be with the above picks. He'll move around the draft. Spielman has often targeted making 10 selections in a given draft. With 12 picks to start, he has the pre-draft capital to move up if there's a player that the team really likes.
The Vikings enter the 2020 NFL Draft with the following needs:
overall offensive line improvement
cornerbacks
receivers
defensive end
defensive tackle-three technique
safety
Offensive line improvement has been a need in Minnesota for far too long. Far. Too. Long. The starters for 2020 are pretty wide open after Brian O'Neill at right tackle and Garrett Bradbury at center. If the Vikings were to add a left tackle early in the draft (first round) the remaining three positions might fall into place. A rookie starting at left tackle, incumbent left tackle Riley Reiff slides to left guard, and 2019 4th round pick Dru Samia competes with returning players and/or potential rookies at right guard. In that scenario, the Vikings might finally have the building blocks for a solid offensive line. Reiff isn't a long term solution at left guard but he's the best solution now. This line of thinking has led me to believing that one of the two first round picks has to be an offensive tackle and it has to be an offensive tackle that can start immediately. No projects needed.
Offseason roster departures have created significant needs at cornerback and receiver. It's a good thing that this will be an excellent draft for both positions. Both positions are strong at the top with good depth into later rounds. Receiver is a little stronger and a little deeper. I also like the potential of several corners that should be available at #22 and #25. For that reason, I'm currently favoring cornerback with the first round pick that isn't an offensive tackle.
The realistic offensive linemen and corners that I like in the first currently look like this:
Offensive Tackles
Josh Jones, Houston
Austin Jackson, USC
Isaiah Wilson, Georgia
Ezra Cleveland, Boise State
Corners
Jeff Gladney, TCU
Kristian Fulton, LSU
Noah Igbinoghene, Auburn
A.J. Terrell, Clemson
Jaylon Johnson, Utah
For the past month, my internal tackle debate has been between Josh Jones and Austin Jackson. In recent days, Isaiah Wilson has stormed into that debate. So much so, that I'm really liking the thought of the big guy on the left side of the Vikings line.
With that in mind, I like the following start to the Vikings' 2020 NFL Draft:
22. Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
25. Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
Throughout the draft evaluation process, everyone eventually lands on some favorites. With the Vikings' needs in mind, the following have become my favorites among the players that could/should be drafted in rounds 2-5.
Receivers
Michael Pittman Jr., USC
Van Jefferson, Florida
Tyler Johnson, Minnesota
Isaiah Coulter, Rhode Island
Conerbacks
Amik Robertson, Louisiana Tech
Cameron Dantzler, Clemson
Damon Arnette, Ohio State
Darnay Holmes, UCLA
Defensive Tackles
Jordan Elliott, Missouri
Justin Madubuike, Texas A&M
Davon Hamilton, Ohio State
Raekwon Davis, Alabama
Defensive Ends
Terrell Lewis, Alabama
Bradlee Anae, Utah
Jabari Zuniga, Florida
Julian Okwara, Notre Dame
Darrell Taylor, Tennessee
Of the above, I've grown especially fond of the following:
Van Jefferson
Amik Robertson
Jordan Elliott
Jabari Zuniga
I'm not sure that the Vikings can get all four in the picks that they have in rounds 2-4. But one can dream.
1 (22) Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
1 (25) Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
2 (58) Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
3 (89) Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
3 (105) Van Jefferson, WR, Florida
4 (132) Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida
5 (155) Isaiah Coulter, WR, Rhode Island
The following is probably less dreamy and slightly more realistic.
1 (22) Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
1 (25) Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
2 (58) Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
3 (89) Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
3 (105) Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida
4 (132) Tyler Johnson, WR, Minnesota
5 (155) McTelvin Agim, DT, Arkansas
The second five-round mock might hold more potential than the first but I sure do like Jordan Elliott.
The final two rounds (currently five picks) will likely be peppered with safeties, more offensive linemen (perhaps Louisiana guard Kevin Dotson), a speedy little running back or receiver that can return kicks, and the usual long, raw, freakish defensive end.
Those are a few of the Minnesota Vikings draft thoughts that have been banging through my head. Most, if not all, will evolve over the remaining days before the 2020 NFL Draft.
Saturday, April 11, 2020
Daniel Jeremiah's 2020 NFL Mock Draft 3.0
NFL.com/NFL Network/Move the Sticks draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah posted his second mock draft about a month ago. He posted his third this past week. There's a giant change between the two mock drafts. In his second, Jeremiah had Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert plummeting to the New England Patriots at pick 24. In his third, he has Herbert going to the Miami Dolphins at pick 5. Other than that giant change there are a lot of other changes. It's been a month. Things change. Here's Daniel Jeremiah's 2020 NFL Mock Draft 3.0.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
5. Miami Dolphins-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
7. Carolina Panthers-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
8. Arizona Cardinals-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
10. Cleveland Browns-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
11. New York Jets-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
12. Las Vegas Raiders-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
13. San Francisco 49ers-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
16. Atlanta Falcons-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
17. Dallas Cowboys-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
22. Minnesota Vikings-Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
23. New England Patriots-A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-Joshua Jones, OT, Houston
27. Seattle Seahawks-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
28. Baltimore Ravens-Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin
29. Houston Texans-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
30. Green Bay Packers-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
31. San Francisco 49ers-Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
32. Kansas City Chiefs-Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
Other Justin Herbert's giant climb, it's Daniel Jeremiah's projection of the Green Bay Packers picking Utah State quarterback Jordan Love at #30 that has the football-loving world all a'titter. Just like 2005, the Packers find their next quarterback when they aren't supposed to be looking for him. Well, the Packers find him in the mock-draft mind of Daniel Jeremiah.
As a Minnesota Vikings fan, I've developed the draft day preference that they select an offensive tackle and a corner with their two first round picks. Due to the unpredictability of drafts t's rarely a good thing to put pre-draft constraints on picks but the Vikings could really use a talented left tackle to improve the offensive line. That position group has held the team back for far too long. They need a receiver, or two, or three, but this is a draft that's very deep at receiver. The Vikings have a better chance at finding a talented receiver in later rounds than finding an offensive tackle. They need one of those as well and they'd be better off, in my opinion, finding one in the first round. At least, that's how I feel at the moment. If the Vikings were to select a corner and a receiver with their two first round picks, I wouldn't be disappointed with Jeremiah's choices of Jaylon Johnson and Tee Higgins.
I've seen several mock drafts with the San Francisco 49ers selecting a defensive tackle. Whether it's Javon Kinlaw at #13 or Ross Blacklock at #31, I don't see it. Why did they trade away one of the best in DeForest Buckner only to replace him with a player that might be years away from being nearly as good? I felt at the time of the trade, and feel now, that the 49ers had confidence in their defensive line talent and rotation that they were better off using the return on Buckner to improve their team elsewhere. Otherwise, they're basically swapping Buckner for a gamble on a player that may never be Buckner. That's why I think that it's much more likely that the 49ers select a receiver or corner at #13 and trade away #31 for more picks. The 49ers greatest weakness right now is a lack of draft picks.
12 more days of mock-drafting fun.
1. Cincinnati Bengals-Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
2. Washington Redskins-Chase Young, Edge, Ohio State
3. Detroit Lions-Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
4. New York Giants-Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
5. Miami Dolphins-Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
6. Los Angeles Chargers-Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
7. Carolina Panthers-Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
8. Arizona Cardinals-Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
9. Jacksonville Jaguars-Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
10. Cleveland Browns-Isaiah Simmons, S, Clemson
11. New York Jets-CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
12. Las Vegas Raiders-Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
13. San Francisco 49ers-Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
15. Denver Broncos-Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
16. Atlanta Falcons-C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
17. Dallas Cowboys-K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU
18. Miami Dolphins (from Steelers)-Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State
19. Las Vegas Raiders (from Bears)-A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from Rams)-Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
21. Philadelphia Eagles-Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
22. Minnesota Vikings-Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
23. New England Patriots-A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa
24. New Orleans Saints-Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
25. Minnesota Vikings-Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
26. Miami Dolphins (from Texans)-Joshua Jones, OT, Houston
27. Seattle Seahawks-Austin Jackson, OT, USC
28. Baltimore Ravens-Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin
29. Houston Texans-Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
30. Green Bay Packers-Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
31. San Francisco 49ers-Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
32. Kansas City Chiefs-Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan
Other Justin Herbert's giant climb, it's Daniel Jeremiah's projection of the Green Bay Packers picking Utah State quarterback Jordan Love at #30 that has the football-loving world all a'titter. Just like 2005, the Packers find their next quarterback when they aren't supposed to be looking for him. Well, the Packers find him in the mock-draft mind of Daniel Jeremiah.
As a Minnesota Vikings fan, I've developed the draft day preference that they select an offensive tackle and a corner with their two first round picks. Due to the unpredictability of drafts t's rarely a good thing to put pre-draft constraints on picks but the Vikings could really use a talented left tackle to improve the offensive line. That position group has held the team back for far too long. They need a receiver, or two, or three, but this is a draft that's very deep at receiver. The Vikings have a better chance at finding a talented receiver in later rounds than finding an offensive tackle. They need one of those as well and they'd be better off, in my opinion, finding one in the first round. At least, that's how I feel at the moment. If the Vikings were to select a corner and a receiver with their two first round picks, I wouldn't be disappointed with Jeremiah's choices of Jaylon Johnson and Tee Higgins.
I've seen several mock drafts with the San Francisco 49ers selecting a defensive tackle. Whether it's Javon Kinlaw at #13 or Ross Blacklock at #31, I don't see it. Why did they trade away one of the best in DeForest Buckner only to replace him with a player that might be years away from being nearly as good? I felt at the time of the trade, and feel now, that the 49ers had confidence in their defensive line talent and rotation that they were better off using the return on Buckner to improve their team elsewhere. Otherwise, they're basically swapping Buckner for a gamble on a player that may never be Buckner. That's why I think that it's much more likely that the 49ers select a receiver or corner at #13 and trade away #31 for more picks. The 49ers greatest weakness right now is a lack of draft picks.
12 more days of mock-drafting fun.
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