2009 NFL Mock Draft: 7.0

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Updated (April 15, 2009)

We have updated to NFL Mock Draft 8.0 Check it out!

Total Pro Sports – Introducing the Total Pro Sports Mock Draft, version 7.0. Many changes have occurred in the first three rounds as a result of the recent scouting combine, pro days, free agency, and other off-season transactions. With free agency still fully underway, you can expect frequent changes leading up to draft day team needs change.

It is our intention to add more, more, MORE to this section as the draft approaches, making TPS your one stop shop for draft analysis. Changing team needs, player workout results, in-depth film study, character assessments, and all the other “measurables” play significant roles in where players are drafted. As new information becomes available, watch as players move up or down the draft board, possibly landing on your favorite team’s roster.

Leave your comments or questions below and share your thoughts with us, as well as other NFL fans around the globe. I will respond to as many questions and comments as I can, so check back often. Let’s talk talent!

Best Case – Refers to a player’s “up-side”. My view of what a player is likely to become in the NFL, in terms of production or equivalent talent, assuming that he reaches his full potential.

Worst Case – Refers to a player’s “down-side” or “bust” potential. If you find a great NFL player’s name used to describe a draftee’s worst case scenario, then I am not concerned about a bust possibility, as is the case with Knowshon Moreno.

(Best Case/Worst Case are used only in the first round)

Lets take a look at the 2009 Mock NFL Draft: 7.0

Round 1

Pos	Player	Comments	Best Case/Worst Case	Change
1	Matthew Stafford, Georgia, QB	Supposedly, contract negotiations are underway. It now appears that the Lions will take Stafford if they can sign him before draft day…unfortunately.	B- Jay Cutler W- Kyle Boller	7
2	Eugene Monroe, Virginia, OT	A top heavy class of tackles allows the Rams to select the franchise left tackle to replace Orlando Pace.	B- Tony Boselli W- Chris Samuels	-
3	Aaron Curry, Wake Forest, OLB	With Cassel now a Chief, KC is able to take the top defender in the draft. Curry is one of the most talented football players I’ve ever seen–PERIOD.	B- Demarcus Ware W- Julian Peterson	-
4	Jason Smith, Baylor, OT	Smith slides to Seattle, who could go in many different directions here. Crabtree is a strong possibility, as is Sanchez, but if they can’t trade back, I think Smith is their guy.	B- Walter Jones W- D’Brickeshaw Furgeson	3
5	Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech, WR	Brady Quinn, now more than ever, needs a reliable play maker opposite Braylon Edwards to compete in the AFC North. If Crabtree is available, I can’t see them passing.	B- Michael Irvin W- Keyshawn Johnson	1
6	Brian Orakpo, Texas, DE	No value tackles left at this point so the Bengals could opt to take the explosive pass rusher. Cinci managed just 17 sacks as a team in ‘08. Within a few years, this guy could have that many by himself!	B- Dwight Freeny W- Adewale Ogunleye	1
7	Darrius Heyward-Bey, Maryland, WR	I’ve gone back and forth on this one. If no one slides, it’s either OT or WR. DHB is the fastest receiver in the draft. The remaining OT’s would be as big a reach as this. This move brings the “Run it. Run it. Throw it deep” philosophy back to Oakland.	B- Joey Galloway W- Charles Rogers	19
8	Vontae Davis, Illinois, CB	I really see this pick being traded so someone can take Mark Sanchez. If they stay at eight, it’s either Davis or reach on an OT.	B- Nnamdi Asomugha W- Will Allen	6
9	Tyson Jackson, LSU, DT	Jackson’s stock has been on the rise since January. BJ Raji’s recent positive drug test have Green Bay going DE instead of DT with this pick.	B- Richard Seymore W- Philip Merling	3
10	Mark Sanchez, USC, QB	The 49ers need a left tackle and a rush linebacker. None are available that pose the value Sanchez does. The Alex Smith era is officially over. Sanchez is perfect for this offense.	B- Carson Palmer W- Trent Edwards	-
11	Everett Brown, Florida State, DE	Buffalo desperately needs a pass rusher, as they finished near the bottom of the league in sacks. Brown is a gifted athlete with a huge upside.	B- Mario Williams W- Jamaal Anderson	-
12	BJ Raji, Boston College, DT	The ideal 3-4 nose tackle. Raji’s recent positive drug test may have him slide out of the top ten, but not past the Bronco’s who need everything defensively. They may also trade up to select QB Mark Sanchez. We’ll see.	B- Kris Jenkins W- Barry Coefield	3
13	Andre Smith, Alabama, OT	Filling a desperate need, the Skins take the troubled Smith to play right tackle. They’d like to trade down some, but will take a right tackle at 13 unless a value DE slides.	B- Jeff Otah W- Tony Mandarich	6
14	Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio State, CB	In a weak draft for DB’s, New Orleans takes arguably the best one in the draft. There is a strong possibility that he will play free safety for the Saints. A need either way.	B- Champ Bailey W- Antoine Winfield	1
15	Clay Matthews, USC, OLB	Recent off-season acquisitions have all but eliminated D-line as a possibility here. With both value corners gone, a versatile OLB, like the fast-rising Trojan, is a likely choice.	B- Kevin Green W- Manny Lawson	28
16	Rey Maualuga, USC, ILB	Rey’s stock has yo-yo’d for much of the evaluation period. If he falls to San Diego, I can’t see them passing.	B- Junior Seau W- Antonio Pierce	-
17	Josh Freeman, Kansas State, QB	Huge arm and huge upside. The Jets QB situation is sad, to say the least. With all the value corners off the board, Freeman is their guy. Maclin is another possibility here.	B- Ben Roethlisburger W- Jim Druckenmiller	-
18	Larry English, Northern Illinois, OLB	Trade From Chicago: The Broncos add the top pass rusher on the board to help form their new 3-4. They’d better be looking to trade up to take Sanchez. This selection should be considered a consolation prize if they cannot.	B- Joey Porter W- Karlos Dansby	5
19	Percy Harvin, Florida, WR	Harvin has impressed even his biggest doubters (like me) during his post-season workouts. His stock has matured and he goes to a team looking to add some firepower.	B- Steve Smith W- Sinorice Moss	-
20	Michael Oher, Ole Miss, OT	Trade From Dallas: Taking Stafford number one demands the selection of a left tackle here. William Beatty could be selected here ahead of Oher, who has had some “technical difficulties”.	B- Orlando Pace W- Levi Brown	14
21	William Beatty, Connecticut, OT	The Eagles have serious issues at both tackle positions. Beatty should be able to start on one side or the other immediately.	B- Matt Light W- Levi Brown	7
22	Eben Britton, Arizona, OT	Minnesota has had a weakness at right tackle for some time. Britton is the solution.	B- Jordan Gross W- Ryan Diem	9
23	Aaron Maybin, Penn State, OLB	The Pats OLB’s aren’t the youngest group in the league. Maybin will bring youth, athleticism, and versatility.	B- Shawn Merriman W- Manny Lawson	2
24	Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State, TE	Pettigrew is perfect for the Falcons offense. He will give Matt Ryan a reliable third down/red-zone target and will improve the running game, if you can imagine that.	B- Jason Witten W- Algae Crumpler	5
25	Darius Butler, Connecticut, CB	Corner has become a top need for the Dolphins. Butler is simply the best one on the board. WR is another possibility here but Parcells is notorious for drafting defense in the first round.	B- Asante Samuel W- Nick Harper	5
26	Jeremy Maclin, Missouri, WR	Baltimore needs a speed receiver badly and are thrilled that Maclin slides to 26. If he’s available here, this is as close to a “lock” as it gets.	B- Chad Johnson W- Devin Hester	8
27	Hakeem Nicks, North Carolina, WR	With Marvin Harrison’s release, the Colts must fill a huge hole. Nicks is perfect for Indy’s system. He is an awesome route runner with very strong hands. Many think a DT will go here. The Colts will fix the offense first, as draft history reveals.	B- Reggie Wayne W- Muhsin Muhammad	-
28	Chris Wells, Ohio State, RB	Trade From Carolina: A power back to compliment aging Brian Westbrook. Yet another formidable two-headed backfield develops in the NFL.	B- Larry Johnson W- Lendale White	3
29	Brian Cushing, USC, OLB	The Giants badly need a number one wideout but will get maximum value by taking Cushing. Cushing has plenty of versatility and could play any of the three LB positions (best at SAM).	B- Keith Brooking W- Scott Fujita	5
30	Peria Jerry, Ole Miss, DT	What a relief for Titans’ fans. Albert Haynesworth’s departure makes this a necessary pick.	B- Asante Samuel W- Nick Harper	10
31	Knowshonn Moreno, Georgia, RB	I just want to go on record as saying this will never happen. Someone will take Moreno much earlier, probably via trade. Moreno is perfect for this wide open offense, however, and would carry the load for AZ in ‘09 were he to fall to 31.	B- Ladainian Tomlinson W- Brian Westbrook	10
32	Alex Mack, California, C	Mack is the logical choice with no value OT on the board. He will upgrade the interior line, improve the running game, and keep Big Ben upright more often.	B- Andre Gurode W- Matt Birk	-

Round 2

Pos	Player	Comments	Change
33	Robert Ayers, Tennessee, DE	Detroit looks to improve their D-Line again with Ayers, the best run stuffing 4-3 end in the draft with excellent pass rush ability. He could easily go higher, but the “one year wonder” fear may keep him out of round one.	-
34	James Laurinaitis, Ohio State, ILB	Trade From KC: Many believe the Patriots could make this pick in round one. Sitting at 34, there is an excellent chance he’ll still be on the board.	-
35	Max Unger, Oregon, C/G	So many needs, so few draft choices. Unger is the answer to their prayers at center or guard. Newly signed Jason Brown could stay put but will likely kick out to guard. Kenny Britt is a possibility here, but I get the feeling that the Rams are happy with their young group of WR’s.	7
36	Clint Sintim, Virginia, OLB	Rush linebacker is probably the top need for the Browns. Sintim has a track record of success at that position, unlike many of his “conversion guy” counterparts.	5
37	Kenny Britt, Rutgers, WR	Passing on Crabtree in round one paid off big for the Seahawks. They have come away with two starters with their first two picks. Britt should be able to play opposite TJ by mid-season at worst. He is perfect for this system.	8
38	Jamon Meredith, South Carolina, OT	Meredith is a fast riser who had an excellent combine. He can start day one on the right side, and will add depth on the left, protecting an injury-prone quarterback.	7
39	Brian Robiskie, Ohio State, WR	The Jags have serious issues at wide receiver. Robiskie is very NFL ready and should be productive immediately.	4
40	Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech, DE	Johnson fits the Al Davis mold perfectly. He is a freakish athlete with a huge upside. Highly inconsistent performer and fairly weak against the run, but should be explosive rushing the passer.	-
41	Ron Brace, Boston College, DT	Passing on Raji in round one wasn’t such a bad idea if this actually pans out. Brace should eventually anchor this defense.	6
42	Eric Wood, Louisville, C	The Bills fill a glaring hole with this pick. Wood will provide some stability inside for the Bills and can play anywhere between the tackles, upgrading any of those three positions.	43
43	Sean Smith, Utah, S	Smith fills a big need for a team with several. Rush linebacker, tackle, or wide receiver are all possibilities here. Smith is the best player on the board considering all of their needs.	9
44	Duke Robinson, Oklahoma, G	Trade From Washington: It is unlikely that Robinson will slide to 44 but if he does, Parcels will be all over this. They badly need a left guard along side Jake Long. Look no further than the best one in the draft.	-
45	Donald Brown, Connecticut, RB	Trade From New Orleans: Brown will replace departed Derrick Ward, adding even more big play ability. The Giants’ biggest need is WR, but value dictates this as it did in in the first.	-
46	William Moore, Missouri, S	Filling another hole in the secondary, Houston takes Moore to upgrade the strong safety position. Moore will be excellent in the box or in coverage. Huge upside.	-
47	LeSean McCoy, Pittsburg, RB	Trade From San Diego: McCoy will bring youth and speed to the Pats’ backfield. Best case, he eventually shares the load with Lawrence Maroney. Worst case, he eventually replaces Kevin Faulk as the third down back.	-
48	Jarron Gilbert, San Diego St., DE/DT	Gilbert is an amazing physical speciman. He will be converted from DT to DE in the Denver 3-4. He could be as good as Tyson Jackson by the time it’s all said and done.	11
49	Paul Kruger, Utah, DE	Chicago has been extremely active this off-season. With its top pick, it has the luxury of taking the best player available. It just so happens that Chicago finds the best player available at a position that needs to be upgraded. Kruger should compete for playing time immediately.	11
50	Jared Cook, South Carolina, TE	Trade from Tampa Bay: With Winslow now gone, there is a glaring hole at TE. Cleveland nabs the tight end with the biggest upside in the draft. Cook is a blazing fast receiving tight end and should be able to fill Winslow’s shoes quickly.	-
51	Louis Delmas, Western Michigan, S	Dallas has more needs than in recent history to fill. No better place to start than by replacing hard hitting Roy Williams. Delmas is also a hard hitter and excellent in run support. He reminds me a lot of Bob Sanders; another undersized thumper. Hopefully he can stay healthier than Bob has.	13
52	Juaquin Iglesias, Oklahoma, WR	A solid wide receiver who runs precise routes and has consistent hands. Iglesias is an excellent open field runner and should be able to start at WR2 by mid season.	-
53	Herman Johnson, LSU, G	Another o-lineman who could alleviate the very strange Shawn Andrews situation. Johnson can start at either guard spot if needed. This move would allow left guard, Todd Heremans, to move to tackle at worst. Need pick, in any case.	12
54	Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest, CB	The Vikings defense lacks corners with ball skills. Smith is probably the best “ball hawk” in the draft. Undersized at 5′8″, but so is starter Antoine Winfield. Need pick.	-
55	Chris Baker, Hampton, DT	Atlanta’s run defense needs a stout force in the middle. With Ron Brace long gone, Baker is the next best option at 55.	12
56	Louis Murphy, Florida, WR	At 6′2″, Murphy runs a consistent 4.4. He could become the possession receiver the Dolphins badly need accross from Ted Ginn. His speed will be an added bonus.	17
57	Victor Harris, Virginia Tech, CB	A physical corner in press coverage and a sure tackler, ”Macho Harris” improved his stock greatly by running a sub 4.5 at his pro day, moving back into round two.	-
58	Rashad Johnson, Alabama, S	With this pick, NE officially has no more weaknesses! Johnson is a very cerebral player with excellent instincts and ball skills. He will play free safety opposite Brandon Meriweather at strong.	-
59	Sen’Derrick Marks, Auburn, DT	Carolina’s run defense badly needs a solid D-tackle who can contribute immediately. With Jarron Gilbert off the board, Marks is the best fit for their scheme.	3
60	Ramses Bardon, Cal Poly, WR	Bardon’s stock has been rising since the end of the ‘08 season. The Giants need a big-bodied possesion receiver to replace Burress. If they pass on Kenny Britt in round one, Bardon could be their guy at 60.	9
61	Evander Hood, Missouri, DT	The Colts have to get stronger at the point of attack on both sides of the ball. Hood is always in the backfield, and will improve that porous run defense while providing some added pressure on the passer. Gap perpetrator who is perfect for Indy’s scheme.	-
62	DJ Moore, Vanderbilt, CB	Slightly undersized, like Zo Smith, but great ball skills in zone or man. Could go higher, but will not slide past the Titans at 62.	6
63	Connor Barwin, Cincinnati, OLB	Barwin is a highly athletic and versatile player who lit up the scouting combine. A DE in college, Barwin could play both DE and rush linebacker in Arizona’s highly diverse scheme. Perfect fit for this team!	-
64	Phil Loadholt, Oklahoma, OT	A mammoth tackle who protected Sam Bradford’s blind side in college, Loadholt should be able to step in right away at right tackle for the world champs. With the o-line fixed, it should be “best player available” going forward.	15

Round 3

Pos	Player	Comments	Change
65	Darry Beckwith, LSU, ILB	Dominant inside backer who slides to Detroit. I personally believe he will be a better pro than Lauranaitis. Second year in a row that Detroit gets a steal at the top of round three.	5
66	Patrick Chung, Oregon, S	The Rams have many defensive needs. A starting strong safety is chief among them. Chung poses excellent value at 66 overall. He should be able to crack the starting lineup right away.	15
67	Jonathan Luigs, Arkansas, C	A very deep center class bears fruit in round three for KC. This has been a need for some time and is a step in the right direction to rebuild that O-line.	27
68	Keenan Lewis, Oregon State, CB	Lewis has excellent size at 6′0″, 208 lbs. Seattle will be targeting a tall physical corner with speed. Lewis pumped out 20 reps on the bench, and ran a sub 4.5 at his pro day. He will fit the bill perfectly.	11
69	Andy Levitre, Oregon State, G	Trade from Cleveland: Dallas’s o-line is aging and guard is a position which needs to be upgraded anyway. Levitre is a steal in round three. Some have him rated ahead of Duke Robinson as the top rated guard in this class. Great pick!	16
70	Shonn Greene, Iowa, RB	There is no way that Cedric Benson miraculously becomes a player. He has never been an effective featured back in the NFL. Greene will compete with Benson for carries and should win that battle outright by mid-season.	-
71	Troy Kropog, Tulane, OT	No need to reach for a tackle in the first two rounds. There are plenty of right tackles to be had all the way through round three. Kropog is the best run blocking tackle on the board and should start during his rookie season.	1
72	Pat White, West Virginia, WR/QB	An excellent pick for a team that badly needs receiver help and could use a developmental quarterback prospect. White is both but should play immediately in the slot.	15
73	Gerald Cadogan, Penn State, OT	The Pack cannot get enough Big Ten smash-mouthers. Cadogan has propelled himself into the third round, and may stil be rising, with impressive post season workouts. Green Bay needs depth and youth at tackle.	24
74	Fenuki Tupou, Oregon, OT	Solid tackle. Decent pass blocker. Excellent run blocker. He is the top tackle on the board. San Francisco needs one badly, simply put.	-
75	Chase Coffman, Missouri, TE	The most underrated of all the TE’s in this draft. I have him rated as a late first round talent. He doesn’t have the most speed in the draft and wasn’t asked to block as much as Pettigrew, but he may have the best hands. Goal line!	-
76	Kevin Barnes, Maryland, CB	Trade from N.O.: Barnes is a fast riser recovering from shoulder surgery. His 6′0″, 190 lb frame and 4.45 speed are just what the Jets are looking for to improve that secondary.	21
77	Rashad Jennings, Liberty, RB	Jennings is a beast, as he demonstrated at the Senior Bowl. This is the power back Houston needs to compliment elusive Steve Slaton. Steal at 77.	19
78	Fili Moala, USC, DE	San Diego takes another USC talent on defense. Moala will convert to 3-4 end permanently in this defense replacing Igor Olshansky.	-
79	Danell Ellerbe, Georgia, ILB	An excellent tackler who will provide athleticism and versatility. Injury concerns have him sliding, but lack of quality inside backers keep him in round three.	3
80	Lawrence Sidbury, Richmond, DE	Raw talent with all the tangibles. Very fast off the edge but will need lots of work on technique. Small school product may take a couple of years to develop. Huge upside.	-
81	Alex Magee, Purdue, DT	Tampa’s D-line needs to get more pressure. Magee is a gap penetrator and will be a good fit for the Bucs system.	16
82	Cornelius Ingram, Florida, TE	Trade from Dallas: Gifted athlete who missed ‘08 with an injury. He was a first round talent before his injury and has been impressive in off-season workouts. Ingram’s upside has no ceiling and Detroit could use another reliable target.	32
83	Mike Mickens, Cincinatti, CB	Trade from NYJ: Mickens is another tall corner, at 6′0″, just like Green Bay likes them. He is a bit of a question mark, having not worked out much for scouts. The one forty time he ran was over 4.5. That shouldn’t be a problem on the “frozen tundra”.	15
84	Jairus Byrd, Oregon, CB	Trade from Chicago: Excellent zone corner with tremendous ball skills. He will be an ideal nickel back in his rookie season and could become the number two corner by season’s end.	18
85	Travis Beckum, Wisconsin, TE	Donovan McNabb needs a reliable third down target outside of Brian Westbrook. Beckum would be an excellent fit if the Eagles pass on Brandon Pettigrew in round one.	4
86	Dorell Scott, Clemson, DT	Excellent height/weight/speed ratio guy. Will add depth to an aging Minnesota defensive front.	-
87	Cody Brown, Connecticut, OLB	Cody Brown was an explosive pass rusher in college. The Fins will develop him to play opposite Joey Porter adding pressure on the QB.	3
88	Tyrone McKenzie, South Florida, OLB	McKenzie is a ferocious and intense player who is very versatile. The Ravens need depth at LB and McKenzie can play three different roles in their scheme.	-
89	James Casey, Rice, TE	Casey has huge upside and could start in 2010. This has been an exceptional draft for the Patriots. Combined with all the moves NE has made in free agency, they should be making a run at 16-0 again!	8
90	Chip Vaughn, Wake Forest, S	A very gifted athlete who was nothing but a play maker in college. At over 220 lbs, Vaughn will replace future HOFer Lawyer Milloy. I actually have Vaughn rated as a second round pick unlike most. Great value here, if you asked me.	-
91	Captain Munnerlyn, South Carolina, CB	The Giants need depth at corner. Munnerlyn could be the nickelback by mid-season.	2
92	Andre Brown, NC State, RB	I think this is a steal at 92, though some have Brown going later. If you watched the Senior Bowl, you know what I’m talking about. He is a 224 lb running back who can catch, block, and run. Had he played at Georgia, he’d easily be a first round back. Colts need a big back to close out games. Brown is that guy.	-
93	Derrick Williams, Penn State, WR	An aging Panthers receiving corps demands the selection of a wideout early in the draft. Williams has plenty of speed and will add value as a return specialist. Could play early in the slot and develop into a number two by years end.	22
94	Mike Wallace, Ole Miss, WR	With legit 4.35 speed, this is the field-stretching weapon that Tennessee needs to keep defenses honest. He will take some time to develop and should be spoon fed the offense slowly. Lookout in 2010.	3
95	Antoine Caldwell, Alabama, C	First team All-American, ahead of Mack, Unger, and the rest. Caldwell is an extremely intelligent technician who will eventually help open holes in a much improved running game.	-
96	Sherrod Martin, Troy State, S	Pittsburgh needs to upgrade the free safety spot. Martin will develop in the complex scheme in ‘09 but could start in 2010. Current 30 year old starter, Ryan Clark, is entering the final year of his contract.	1

Check back often for frequent changes during the free agency period. Leave your questions or comments below. I will respond to as many as I can.

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Posted by Chad Ellis on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Filed under Football, Let's Talk Talent, Mock Drafts, NCAA, TPS NFL Mock Draft · Tagged with 2009, college football, football, mock draft, NCAA, NFL, NFL Mock Draft

Comments

36 Responses to “2009 NFL Mock Draft: 7.0”

Max Barry said on April 14, 2009 at 6:39 pm

Just my opinion but here’s why the Seahawks are going Crabtree over Smith/Monroe (Orakpo then goes to Browns):

I understand Seattle management like to avoid risk but this guy ran every route under the sun in that Texas Tech offense, and his game isn’t speed speed speed which is often exposed at the higher levels. Receivers can get relatively slower when entering the NFL because corners are better,/quicker, but they don’t get smaller, or worse at pure route running, or lose their hands. As far as receivers go Crabtree is towards the bottom for risk (his foot injury is of no concern at all).

Second, you assume that Seattle bounce back – NFC West is horrible anyone can win – so they aren’t picking top 5 again next year. Say they draft 20 something (totally realistic) and fill whatever hole (LT or WR) that they don’t fill this year. You will not get the playmaking ability receiver at 20 if you go LT this year, you just won’t. The difference between Crabtree and a late first round receiver like a Heywood Bey (presuming Al Davis doesn’t inflate his price to 7) is more that the difference between the Eugene Monroes and William Beattys of next year, especially when…

You have production from Walter Jones for at least 1 more year, so do you slide Monroe (I think Smith is a Ram) to the right where you just paid a whole bundle of money to Sean Locklear or do you sit him? In which case you’ve added nothing in 2009 with a first round pick, and would be better off picking up a developmental tackle talent in the second or third and coaching him for that year. Monroe is NFL ready, Walter Jones is Walter frikkin Jones and you’re paying Locklear a bunch of money: 3 into 2 doesn’t go and if you choose the latter two you get a dynamic receiver as well. Logical move in my mind.

Reply
Chad Ellis said on April 14, 2009 at 10:15 pm

Hey Max…Good to hear from you again! A part of me says you’re absolutely right. I battled with that choice for some time before deciding on Jason Smith. The final decision did come down to risk and value, as you talked about. I just see it differently. Crabtree is coming off surgery, which I don’t think is minutia, and hasn’t run a 40 for scouts (it is unlikely that he would run a 4.4 anyway), but my contention is that they already have quite a bit of money invested in wide receivers. Getting a 6′1″ 210 lb receiver who runs a 4.5 at number four overall and paying him seven to nine million dollars per year when they could get a 6′3″ 215 lb receiver who runs a 4.47 for about a million dollars per season just seems like better value to me. There won’t be any Jason Smith’s or Eugene Monroe’s in round two, regardless of money. I like Crabtree quite a bit. I’ve made that pretty clear throughout the evaluation period and I wouldn’t be surprised if Seattle did take him. I just can’t see passing up a left tackle like the two at the top of this draft, or a quarterback like Sanchez or Stafford to take him. For me, it’s about positional value. Receivers are a dime a dozen, even more so when you already have TJ on your roster. I have to disagree with you on your assessment of receiver talent in the first round. I happen to think that the best receiver in the nation (who will declare early for the draft next year) is Dez Bryant from Oklahoma State. He is probably better than Crabtree and only has a top 15 grade(ish) at this point. Randy Moss was a twenty something selection. Jerry Rice was late teens. Hakeem Nicks, who I think is nearly as good as Crabtree, may not even go until round two this year. The list goes on and on. The three most productive rookie receivers from last year were second, third, and third rounders. The top two rookie left tackles were taken #1 overall and #12 overall. One played in the Pro Bowl and one should have, having surrenderred only 0.5 sacks all year.

As far as Locklear goes, he can move inside or stay on the right. Walter Jones could stay at left, or he may be traded or cut, ala Orlando Pace, with all due respect to how good he has been. Players, especially o-linemen, don’t just grow old gracefully. They fall off a cliff. Jones is losing his footing near the edge. As you pointed out, when will they be drafting this high again? Having said all that, if I were picking for Seattle, I’d take Mark Sanchez, even if Stafford was available. Hasselbeck is done, they just don’t know it yet, and Sanchez is perfect for thier offense. Whether they go QB, WR, or OT, they will get better because of it. You know how it goes though…Now that we’ve had this discussion, they’ll probably take BJ Raji! Thanks for commenting!

Reply
Gotitans said on April 15, 2009 at 4:53 pm

Titans won’t take a DT in the first round, it’s too much of a risk. And plus we’re solid on the d-line even though everyone thinks were not

Reply
Spooky P said on April 15, 2009 at 5:02 pm

I agree totally. Titans won’t take a DT in the first round. We need somebody who can CATCH THE BALL.

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Gina said on April 15, 2009 at 5:07 pm

I think that Orakpo to the Bengals is a horrible pick. Most people say that he is a 3-4 outside linebacker and we run a 4-3. If he plays end in a 4-3 that is still not a good fit. We have our two starting defensive ends signed to big contracts. It does not make sense to have 3 big contacts for 2 positions.

They need an offensive linemen no matter what. Take Andre Smith. We gave up the third most sacks last season. We can’t let Carson Palmer get injured again. He is useless if he is on his back or on the injury report.

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In need of help said on April 15, 2009 at 5:34 pm

ya titnas will prolly pick hakeem nicks or darius butler

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TK said on April 15, 2009 at 5:37 pm

It all depends upon the Lions taking Stafford. If they’re talking contract now, then the decision has been made to take him if he can be signed ahead of draft day. If not, then what happens? The Lions would need to trade down or take the best LT available or sign Sanchez, who I think will be the better QB. If I was the Detroit GM I would be talking to Sanchez and Stafford simultaneously in order to get the best deal for the money.

All the other selections are plausible. I don’t think the Raiders are going to go with a WR with all those athletic defensive ends available and their inability to pressure the QB. I would say the Raiders take a DE with their first pick.

I think you’ll see the Patriots take the best defensive player available whether its Sean Smith or Butler or an OLB. I myself would rather see them take the most physical OL with this pick, Alex mack makes sense since so many teams are switching over to the 3-4 defense, and hope that Laurinatis is there for their first second round pick.But if he isn’t I hope the Pats take another physical offensive lineman.

The Broncos should have an interesting draft especially if they decide to trade up to get Sanchez.

This should be a fascinating draft.

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Blitz said on April 15, 2009 at 6:01 pm

my problem with this. people are saying ziggy will be the colts first pick and you have them going 2nd ( wait wait wait i should like that then lol). with our 1st pick we select laurantias if he’s still there. why would we select hakeem nicks if hes highest potential acc. to this is wayne when we have wayne? nah WR isnt the way to go. otherwise i like this draft for the colts.

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Jay said on April 15, 2009 at 6:02 pm

falcons wont take a TE in the first round every one thinks they will just cause the media keeps feeding the fans crap.but no TE is not a big need the biggest need is strong safety or a pass rusher to help out abraham.also we need a outside line backer and a CB.TE end is the last thing we need last year our TE’s weren’t bad at all

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Shrlckhlms said on April 16, 2009 at 9:21 am

The Jets WON’T let Maclin get past them if he falls that far. They already have 3 rookie or almost rookie QBs on the roster and you think they will take another?? Their biggest need is a WR to stretch the field. With Thomas Jones and Leon Washington running the ball, a great offensive line, and an awesome defense, the glaring need is a WR.

If one more person says QB I’m gonna stick a fork in my eye!

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klungemonger said on April 16, 2009 at 10:47 am

Hey Chad, what’s up. Everybody relax, this is only a mock draft. Chad has not used supreme authority to dictate who your favorite team’s GM must take.

That said, I have one question/quibble with the Lions selections…although I like the players I still have issues with the two first-rounders being offensive selections with 3 of the first 5 overall being offense. Certainly we can always use a solid DE like Ayers but with White and Avril it’s not uber-desperation there. At the DT spot we have questionable starters and no depth.

I’d actually be happy with Ayers at 33, but maybe Jerry at 20 rather than an OT. Becuase I don’t subscribe to the theory that we HAVE to get an LT now if we choose a QB. I’ve resigned myself also to the idea that we will be stuck with Stafford, but he is likely to ride the pine this year so I don’t see the tackle as crucial yet. Other than that I’m alright, if you feel we can get a great MLB in the third after passing in the first/second I hope we can do that.

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klungemonger said on April 16, 2009 at 11:59 am

One more thing…TK, forget about the Lions trading down. Nobody’s going to trade up into that pick so they’re stuck with the “whoever signs first is #1″ draft philosophy. Unfortunately. I’d love to see Denver hand over 12 & 18 for it. That would be a bargain price pick-wise for them to move up to #1 but nobody wants to shell that kind of money for anyone available this year.

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Brownie said on April 17, 2009 at 12:06 am

Browns absolutely need a RB and DB more than another TE. No argument with Crabtree or Sintim, but they have serviceable TEs. Heiden is an average/ok TE, Rucker was drafted last year as a project, and they just signed Royal. No way they go TE in the 2nd, no way.

Think about it. Look at the Browns’ DBs. Look at the RBs – Jamal just had surgery, Wright’s gone. Left with a recovering 30+ RB on the decline of his career and a change of pace back in Harrison. Absolutely will take a DB or RB over yet another TE. The Browns are definitely set at NT, possibly one WR if Braylon stays, K, KR/special team ace (Cribbs), LT, LG. Add in the decent/serviceable or unknowns, you have QB, TE, one LB, a couple DBs. TE is and should be WAY far down the list of Browns’ draft needs.

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Chad Ellis said on April 17, 2009 at 12:21 am

klungemonger…Great to hear from you again! I was beginning to think you bailed on me. My apologies for not being a more active participant lately.

To your Lions comments…Schwartz has made it clear that they will be adopting my favorite draft philosophy of “best player available”. That being said, you could be right about the left tackle at 20. I don’t think that Oher is the absolute best player available there, although you could do worse. Jerry would be a good fit, but I have a hard time believing they pass on a LT if they take Stafford, regardless of what Schwartz said–just not buying it in that specific instance. At 33, I do think Ayers is the best on the board. The truth is, he could go as early as 11 to Buffalo so he will likely not be there anyway. He’s a tough one to get a bead on. Some love him, others are scared of his one year of production and nothing else. We’ll see where he goes. Philip Merling is another first round projected DE that slid down draft boards last year and landed at the top of round two.

I could see them going with Laurinaitis if Ayers is gone, though I wouldn’t do it. I like Beckwith’s dominant physical presence better than J-Lau’s range. I also agree that Detroit is stuck at number one. TAKE THE TACKLE!!! Oh well, I don’t have the energy to go there right now.

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Chad Ellis said on April 17, 2009 at 12:29 am

Brownie…You could be right. The only argument I would have is that the TE is a focal point of their offense. I don’t believe an average one will do. Even if Mangini shakes the offense up and implements his old system, the Jets (Mangini) spent a first round pick last year on a tight end. One way or another, they will need an excellent receiving tight end. Tony Gonzalez? Who knows.

I agree with your RB observation and, if I were picking for them, I’d take Knowshon Moreno at #5 and never look back. He’s one of my favorite prospects in this draft, and will be an awesome pro. He may be slipping down draft boards because of his forty times. I don’t care if he ran a 5.0 forty (he ran a 4.6), he’s going to be great! I just don’t think the Browns will see it that way. They are trying to unload everything and everybody right now. I’ve got to believe that running back will not be as high a priority as you think. For the sake of all Browns fans, I hope I’m wrong.

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Chad Ellis said on April 17, 2009 at 12:33 am

Shrlckhlms…I’m sorry, I just don’t agree. They have three terrible quarterbacks which means they have none. As poor as the receiveing corps is, they have no one to hit Maclin down the field. Freeman is a huge talent with as much upside as Stafford. They should not be tempted in the slightest to take Maclin if Freeman is available. Sorry.

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Chad Ellis said on April 17, 2009 at 12:37 am

Jay…The Falcons first round pick was a tough one for me. I think there is a strong possibility that they take Cushing there, but Pettigrew is perfect for their offense and Ryan desperately needs another third down target. It’s going to get easy to stop the Falcons on third down this year without an excellent tight end, based on the system they run. Roddy White won’t be able to convert them all. As an added attraction, the Falcons are a run-first team and Pettigrew is the best blocking tight end in this class. A healthy Michael Turner could rush for 2000 yards behind that line!

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Chad Ellis said on April 17, 2009 at 12:41 am

Blitz…I too am a huge Colts fan. I agree that if Nicks is gone, Ziggy Hood could be their guy in the first round. He is perfect for THEIR system. I just don’t see him as perfect for anyone else’s. If he doesn’t go to the Colts in round one, he could slide a long way. As a Colts fan, you must be well aware of Bill Polian’s draft philosophy. He always addresses offensive needs first. With Marvin gone, he will take Nicks in round one, if he’s available. Bet on it!

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Chad Ellis said on April 17, 2009 at 12:46 am

Gina…The only way they take a tackle at six is if J. Smith or Monroe are on the board. I know you think they should just pick up any old tackle, but they aren’t going to pay a guy with 20th or 25th overall value 6th overall money. Please understand that! I don’t care what others say about Orakpo, I’ve seen the film. Many said Dwight Freeney was a “tweener” also. He’s only been the most dominant pass rusher in football over the past seven years. Orakpo has the explosive quickness and physicality to be an awesome DE. Anyone drafting him as an OLB should be scared, in fact, considering he’s never played that position.

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Brownie said on April 17, 2009 at 12:53 am

I think best case for the Browns is to hope Curry slips. Then trade down or take Crabtree. The biggest x-factor is just not knowing how Kokinis will draft when it’s ultimately his call on everything. At least the Browns have enough holes to basically take the best player available instead of need, as sad as that is when one year removed from 10 wins.

Here’s how I look at it. Mankok is playing everything extremely close to the vest. The biggest single position need is definitely LB – only D’Qwell would’ve started for a majority of NFL teams last year and having 3 bad starting LBs kills a 3-4. Willie? Gone. Andra Davis? Gone. Wimbley? An athletic freak with exactly one move – run past the O-line and get out of the play. Curry’s a pipe dream but LB is a huge need, and not just one LB. They also need depth on the D-line. Williams was ok, Rodgers was great, and then there are a bunch of average guys.

Mankok has been bringing in, basically, the Jets second string. There’s some vet help now at LB and DB especially but I hope against hope that they’re not counting on these guys. The signing of Royal also points to taking a project or someone not ready to start immediately and make an impact at TE, and it’s one of the biggest reasons I don’t see them picking one that early.

If Braylon’s gone, WR is the other biggest need in a huge way, after LB. There are no starting-quality WRs behind Braylon. I agree about Crabtree, but after filling that, the running game, LB group, and DBs will all need big boosts. Even with Crabtree, the Brownies will have nothing behind him basically if Braylon gets shipped out.

I like MacDonald a lot, but he could really benefit by playing nickel. He’s just not consistent enough to be a starting corner at this point. Wright is good at times but needs help on the other side. The nickel corner last year was Terry Cousin. Terrible.

Best case scenario: some other team is idiotic enough to pony up anything above a 4th-rounder for DA.

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Shrlckhlms said on April 17, 2009 at 1:31 am

Chad Ellis,

I am in Oregon and I have seen Kellen Clemens throw the ball in person! He has a cannon and can make every throw the NFL requires. As a starter with the WORST offensive line he was 3 and 5 when the golden child Chad Pennington was 1 and 7. Keep him off his but and with a running game he has a chance to be productive.

Bring in another QB like Freeman who is a noted work in progress?? That doesn’t make much sense when they have one already (or 3 for that matter!)

Maclin would be the perfect partner to Cotchery. Add Leon Washington’s abilty to break it off at any time and the offense could be potent enough. Trent Dilfer won a Super Bowl with a suspect offense and a good defense. WR is the way to go…

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Mike LeP said on April 17, 2009 at 11:05 am

Eagles fan here.

William Beatty at 1.21? Uh … no.

Beatty is a major reach at that spot, especially with a better tackle (Eben Britton) on the board. Also, the Eagles do not need help at both tackle spots — they need help at LT. They signed Stacy Andrews to a sizeable contract this offseason. Maybe he doesn’t work out, but you can bet he is the starting RT and the Eagles are not drafting competition for their one big free agent signing.

I personally don’t think anyone available at 21 is going to be ready to start at LT from day 1 so the Eagles are either looking to draft a guard to play LG after they move Herramins outside (my preference) or they’re going to trade up and try to land a better prospect. If they can’t trade up they’d be better off drafting Loadholdt in the 2nd than reaching for Beatty in the first.

Also, Wells is not as strong a fit for the Eagles as Moreno, Brown or McCoy.

My two cents.

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Chad Ellis said on April 18, 2009 at 2:34 am

Mike LeP…We have a difference of opinion on our tackles. Based on film, Beatty has better feet, hands, and balance. He’s probably not the run blocker that Britton is, but that’s why Beatty is a left tackle in the NFL (eventually) and Britton is the dreaded RTO (right tackle only). Left tackles typically have more value that RTO’s, unless the RT is someone with the talent of Andre Smith. Hey, I could be wrong. That’s just the way I see it. I know for a fact that my opinion on that particular issue is shared by some NFL talent evaluators. I also know that others would dispute it. It doesn’t matter now anyway since you guys picked up Jason Peters. For McNabb’s sake, I hope he improves on the 7.5 sacks he gave up last year.

I agree with you on the running back comment. However, I’ve heard some chatter that leads me to believe that Andy Reid, having been beaten up by Brandon Jacobs over the last few years, wants a power back to compliment the shifty Westbrook. He’s looking for a two-headed attack at this point, from what I’ve heard. Were he looking for a workhorse replacement for Westbrook, I’d say Moreno would be ideal and Brown would be pretty close. If he doesn’t get a Wells in the first, look for him to take someone like Liberty’s Rashad Jennings in the second or third.

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Chad Ellis said on April 18, 2009 at 2:57 am

Shrlckhlms…I know Clemens has plenty of arm. I wasn’t really referring to arm strength. I’ve never thought that was very important. Some of the worst quarterbacks in the history of football had some of the best arms in the history of football–Ryan Leaf comes to mind. The opposite is also true–Joe Montana, for example. Freeman was a bit of a risk taker in college, I realize, but his numbers are similar to Cutler, Ryan, and others at that level. The thing he shared with those guys is the complete lack of talent around him. Great players want to win and will get frustrated when they don’t. At some point, they will begin pressing to make plays, trying to win the game all by themselves. Freeman will get better in the NFL simply because he will have real coaches and a supporting cast of talent around him. I doubt he plays this year anyway, even if he had Larry Fitzgerald on one side and Calvin Johnson on the other. It takes longer to develop a quarterback than any other position. If they build the team first, then get the quarterback, you waste a lot of time learning when you could be winning, had you selected him earlier. I’m not the one you should be pleading with anyway. This is not what I want for the Jets, its just what they will likely do. On a side note, everyone is in love with Maclin. He is extremely talented and EXTREMELY RAW. In my mind, he is a bigger risk than Freeman. If “Crazy Al” doesn’t take him at seven, he could slide a long way.

By the way, Dilfer was on a Super Bowl team that had arguably the very best defense ever assembled. If the ‘09 Jets defense resembled the 2000 Baltimore Ravens, I’d say let John Madden quarterback. They have a long way to go before comparisons of that nature will be valid.

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Chad Ellis said on April 18, 2009 at 3:02 am

Brownie…I agree with you. Curry would be perfect for them! Don’t give up hope. He could very easily slide. It is HIGHLY plausible that two QB’s and two LT’s go in the top five. The Browns are not in the market for either position. They may be in the enviable (though painful) position of choosing between Crabtree and Curry. Good luck with that one!

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klungemonger said on April 19, 2009 at 12:10 am

I, for one, hope the Lions don’t give the Browns the option of selecting Curry! haha, I’m at it again with my low-positional-value selections!

I have not abandoned you Chad, just busy lately and since it appeared you were visiting less frequently, I followed suit.

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Joe Jenson said on April 19, 2009 at 10:33 pm

Could somebody please inform somebody at this site that the Pate signed Fred Taylor & have Morris as well. (Maroney & Faulf aren’t the only RB’s onthe team)

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Dave Menzel said on April 20, 2009 at 6:23 pm

Look for my Steelers to bypass on a certain OL need and possibly trade up to get into the mix with LSU, Tyson Jackson. Jackson, Southern California’s Fili Moala, San Jose State’s Jarron Gilbert are all possible picks.

Moala and Gilbert were among a group of defensive linemen invited to visit the Steelers over the past four weeks.

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Chad Ellis said on April 20, 2009 at 7:04 pm

klungemonger…If the Lions were picking number one next year (which we hope they are not) Curry would be great at that point. Too many other needs, man. I will be updating this draft one more time before Saturday. Can’t wait for the draft!

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Chad Ellis said on April 20, 2009 at 7:13 pm

Dave Menzel…Not a bad idea. In one mock, I had them taking Jackson at 32. That was, of course, before his pro day and before some others began to slide. At this point, I don’t think the Steelers have enough to trade up that high (9-16). Moala might be available at 64 (not certain, but possible). Gilbert is rising fast. If they want him, he should be there at 32, but won’t be there shortly thereafter. As much as you Pitt guys love your defense (and I don’t blame you), you’ve got to deal with that o-line at some point. I’d expect a good mix on draft day. At least one of your first two picks will be o-line and probably two of the first four. Pitt is in a great position, coming off a Super Bowl victory, to be able to take the best player available at any position. There should be some talented DE’s and DL’s fitting that bill in the top three rounds.

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Chad Ellis said on April 20, 2009 at 7:21 pm

Joe Jensen…Will somebody please inform Pats fans that the Taylor is 33, Morris is 32, and Faulk is nearly 33. Translated in human years, that’s like 65 years old per player. The smallest market in the NFL is for running backs over the age of 30. I wouldn’t be surprised if all three of those guys were out of NE by 2010. You need a young back who can catch the football to pair with Moroney. Considering the number of draft picks NE has this year, I’m betting that player is selected this year rather than next. The Pats are one of only a couple teams who have more draft picks than needs, in the first four rounds. There are some good backs who should go from round two through round four. You’re getting one of them!

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Joe Jenson said on April 21, 2009 at 6:04 pm

“Best case, he eventually shares the load with Lawrence Maroney. “……..Point is, Chad, Maroney isn’t even ahead of Morris and Taylor in my opinion, why no mention of those guys? How many RB’s do you think Bill’s going to carry? Secondly, can you name the starting RB’s for the Patriots 3 Superbowls? (Hint; Veterans. Bill has no problem picking up quality, used RB’s & winning SB’s with them)

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Joe Jenson said on April 21, 2009 at 6:15 pm

From Boston.com, they recently took a look at each position in regards to “needs” in the upcoming draft. Here’s their take;
Personnel: Fred Taylor, Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk, Laurence Maroney, BenJarvus Green-Ellis
Short-term need: Lead blocker. The Patriots didn’t run many two-back sets with a standard fullback in 2008 — they’re more of a one-back team — but had Heath Evans in that role when needed (e.g. Denver game). The late-season emergence by Russ Hochstein in that role could lead them to not directly fill Evans’ void.
Quick hit: The Patriots seem well stocked in the short-term and figure to employ a back-by-committee approach once again. They have strong layers of depth in the event of injuries.

Time will tell, Chad. That’s what makes the draft so fun!

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Chad Ellis said on April 21, 2009 at 7:41 pm

Joe Jenson…Considering the age of most of the Pats backfield, I’m betting they’ll keep four (Moroney, Draft Pick, Taylor, and either Faulk, Morris, or Ellis). Personally, I think it’s time to let Faulk and Morris go. Keep in mind that Faulk was a second round pick back in ‘99. I think 11 years is sufficient time to go ahead and invest in a young, talented, receiving running back again.

I think you’re missing my point a little in this argument, so let me rephrase…I don’t think they “need” a quality young runner as much as they would benefit from having one to develop for the future, and are in a good position to do just that. Again, there are only so many needs on this team. A team in the Pats position has the luxury to invest in talent, not so much in need. There will be some good runners in rounds two and three. Kevin Faulk has been THE third down back for years, and has played a key role in their success. The Fred Taylor signing was a temporary fix (insurance policy) to protect an injury prone starter (Moroney). I think they draft the permanent replacement to K. Faulk this year and develop him while the last bit of productivity is squeezed from Taylor in ‘09. If they don’t draft a good running back this year, they’ll be “hoping” they can get one next year. Somehow, I just don’t see Bill as much of a hoper. He’s a calculator. Again, I’d be shocked if they don’t spend a second or third rounder on one in this draft.

All that being said, you’re absolutely right: time will tell. This should be one of the most exciting drafts in recent memory. Thanks for your comments!

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klungemonger said on April 22, 2009 at 9:16 am

Just to poke a stick in your cage a bit more Chad, reports are going around this morning that Curry said he’ll accept less money than last year’s #1 in order to get selected in that spot. Detroit needs a guy with that kind of drive to be considered the best and willing to make sacrifices to get there!

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Author, Editor said on April 25, 2009 at 3:32 am

check out the latest update just in time for the Draft

http://www.totalprosports.com/blog/index.php/2009/04/2009-nfl-mock-draft-8/

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