Let's talk NFL...

Playing G.M. - Denver Broncos

2009-01-09T14:25:00.016-05:00

Let's play GM a little bit here...

I'd like to know what's going to happen in Denver with a new coach and GM coming in. While I'm certain that the personnel decisions will yield better results, I'm not as certain that a change in coaching or in offensive philosophy would be beneficial. That's why my playing GM will be based on the idea that Denver Offensive Coordinator Rick Dennison (who just signed a three-year contract extension prior to the season) will be retained, which is a very good possibility. Dennison will hopefully be able to continue recently fired Head Coach Mike Shanahan's zone blocking scheme that has led to such a successful running game over the past 10-15 years.

With that in account, as the Broncos GM I'd bring in a fresh, defensive mind. I like the idea of Leslie Frazier coming over from Minnesota, or perhaps Rex Ryan from Baltimore. Both would be considered player's coaches, and both could leave the offensive dealings to Dennison. I'm going to go with Rex Ryan in this instance because I don't believe that there's an assistant coach out there that deserves a head coaching job more than Ryan does.

After that, I'd invest as much money as I can in two marquee free-agents. With a defensive minded coach and a contending team, I would do everything I could to lure Pro Bowl DT Albert Haynesworth to Denver. He's an unrestricted free agent and would provide the defensive line with the strong anchor that it's been lacking for years now. The other top Free Agent I'd bring in is Ravens MLB Bart Scott. Scott's familiar with Rex Ryan and he's a stud in the middle. This would settle a very problematic position for the Broncos and would instantly upgrade the defense. With just these two additions to the front seven, Denver would be a legitimate Super Bowl candidate.

Now what do you do with the draft? The Broncos hold the 12th pick overall in the upcoming draft, and there should be plenty of talent available. With the additions of Haynesworth and Scott, the Broncos' top needs are: S, RB, OLB, OG, DL, CB, in that order. The top safety in the draft is USC's Taylor Mays, but he likely won't make it out of the top ten. If he does, he should be the top choice for the Broncos. A RB should be addressed later in the draft. Value at the other positions of need is a little thin at this point, so I'd be looking to trade down. If I couldn't trade down, I'd be eyeing Illinois CB Vontae Davis. He's got boom-or-bust written all over him, but allowing him to learn for a few years behind Champ Bailey and Dre Bly could be just what he needs to hone his skills and his consistency. His athleticism may even exceed that of his brother Vernon's. However, I'm going to assume that at the 12th pick in the draft one of the QB's will be falling or someone will want to trade up to grab somebody. The teens tend to get some action in trades. Assuming I could pick up an extra third round pick and get down into the mid-twenties of the first round, I'd be looking at one of two guys: USC OLB Brian Cushing and Oklahoma OG Duke Robinson. Both of these players have the ability to start immediately and to be big-time players at their respective positions. In this scenario, I'll assume that Cushing was available.

In the second round, I'd grab Duke Robinson if he's there, and he could be... but I'm going to assume that he isn't. Assuming he's not there, I'm going to grab RB Shonn Greene out of Iowa. He's got a one-cut ability and he's tough to bring down at 233. Deceptively athletic, he should fit in well with the Denver offense and provide some stability at the RB position.

Since I traded down in the first round, I picked up an extra third round pick and with my two third rounders, I'm going to target S Patrick Chung (who may not last that long) from Oregon with the first of the two picks, and Texas A&M's DE Michael Bennett. Chung has the range and the hitting ability to be a solid starter in the NFL, and Bennett has the size and raw ability to fit into the DE rotation with Elvis Dumervil, Ebenezer Ekuban, and John Engleberger.

Late in the game, I'll be targeting a big, strong, guard with upside, a developmental CB, Defensive line depth, and a developmental OT. Additionally, I'll be looking to grab a late round QB, because I believe in drafting a QB in every draft. I'd target a senior with a lot of experience, physical tools, and a competitive spirit. Somebody like Willie Tuitama from Arizona or college senior disappointment Cullen Harper from Clemson.

Additionally, I'd re-sign Patrick Ramsey to backup Jay Cutler. I'd cut ties with RB's Tatum Bell and Selvin Young, LB's Jordan Beck (UFA) and disappointing Niko Koutevides. I'd also look into some lesser known free agents such as: special teams ace Larry Izzo from N.E., OLB Tyjuan Hagler from Indy, and CB Jason Craft from StL. These guys won't command a ton of money, but are valuable contributors.

So with this plan, I'd be heading into 2009 with Rex Ryan as my head coach and the following roster:

QB - Jay Cutler, Patrick Ramsey, Willie Tuitama
RB - Shonn Greene, Michael Pittman, Peyton Hillis
FB - Spencer Larsen, Hillis
WR - Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokely
TE - Tony Scheffler, Daniel Graham
OT - Ryan Clady, Ryan Harris
OG - Chris Kuper, Ben Hamilton
C - Casey Wiegmann

K - Matt Prater
P - Kern
RS - Royal

DT - Albert Haynesworth, Dewayne Robertson, Marcus Thomas
DE - John Engelberger, Elvis Dumervill, Ebenezor Ekuban, Michael Bennett, Jarvis Moss
OLB - D.J. Williams, Brian Cushing, Tyjuan Hagler, Jamie Winborn, Larry Izzo
MLB - Bart Scott, Nate Webster, Larsen
CB - Champ Bailey, Dre Bly, Jason Craft
S - Patrick Chung, Marquand Manuel, Marlon McCree

Denver is definitely a place that I would want to go if I were being considered for a GM position, and it's a great spot for a head coaching candidate as well. It isn't often that you can walk into a situation where QB, LT, and WR are already in position. Consistency and the defense are the only things missing, and I think that with this kind of off-season, the Broncos could be there next year.

Arizona Defense

2009-01-05T10:20:00.010-05:00

I was very impressed watching the defense of the Arizona Cardinals. They contained NFL MVP candidate RB Michael Turner, holding him to a mere 42 yards on 18 carries, and they forced two interceptions out of Offensive Rookie of the Year QB Matt Ryan. Granted he's a rookie starting his first playoff game, on the road, but impressive nonetheless. Everyone knew that Arizona's offense had firepower (though few would've predicted the success of Edgerrin James in the running game on Saturday), but the defensive effort is most certainly what led to the Cardinals 30-24 victory in Glendale, AZ.

Three defensive players had standout games in my mind. While the whole defense played well, rookie CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, LB Karlos Dansby, and most of all DT Darnell Dockett. Others made big plays and were important parts of the defense, but these three were highly impressive in this energetic effort.

Rodgers-Cromartie (or DRC) had 10 total tackles and an interception, but what was most impressive was his handling of Pro Bowl WR Roddy White. 11 catches, 84 yards and a score might not look like he was handled, but anyone watching the game will tell you that the blanket coverage of DRC kept White from turning those 11 catches into significantly more than a sub-par 7.6 yard average per catch. White averaged 15.7 yards per catch during the regular season, but on Saturday was held in check by the up-and-coming rookie. Look for DRC to emerge next year as a star CB.

Dansby is a beast in his own right. Leading the defense, he brought a level of energy to the game that became infectious to the rest of his teammates. Much like Bob Sanders in Indianapolis, when Dansby is fired up, the Cardinals defense is fired up. Dansby finished with a modest eight tackles, but he was flying around to the football and was obviously a contributing factor to the containment of Michael Turner. Dansby is often overlooked when it comes to awards and accolades, but he's a top performer and is capable of leading this defense further into the postseason. A huge challenge awaits, as next week he'll face the two-headed running back monster in Carolina.

Dockett might be the most critical of the three players I'm mentioning in this article. Dockett had only one tackle the entire game (which was a huge stuffing of Michael Turner). However, he was a force the entire game. Granted, much of the success of the Dockett had to do with being able to time the rookie QB's count perfectly (a benefit that will be harder to have against savvy veterans such as Jake Delhomme, Donovan McNabb, and Eli Manning), but it's no doubt that he provided a dominant force for the Arizona defensive line. Dockett found a way to disrupt the continuity of an otherwise very good Falcons offensive line. Play after play he was taking on blockers to free up edge rushers and close out running lanes. He was in Matt Ryan's face and his intensity on the field was unmatched. If he keeps up this dominant style of play, the Cardinals might just have a chance to go far this postseason.

No Matter what's in store next week for the Cardinals in Carolina, if their defense maintains this type of intensity, they have a chance to win the game. I hope that they can keep up this energy, because they're a lot of fun to watch when they do.

Dolphins Win!

2008-12-29T11:10:00.004-05:00

As a lifelong Dolphins fan, I can't help but to be excited about the Dolphins victory over the Jets. While I agree that it's unfortunate to see a team that goes 11-5 (the Patriots) miss the playoffs, I must admit that I'm happy to see Miami as the only AFC East team to make it.

This was a great victory for the team, and a great one for Chad Pennington. I'll be the first to admit that when Pennington was signed just weeks before the start of the regular season, I was skeptical at best. I thought to myself "oh great, another washed up veteran that can't stay healthy!" I was concerned about his arm strength, his durability, whether or not he'd learn the system, etc. I am now very happy to say that I was wrong to disagree, and I was wrong to be skeptical and concerned. Not that Chad Pennington reads my blog, but I would like to officially apologize to him for my doubts. Mr. Pennington, I'm very, very sorry; and thank you for this season. Even if Miami loses to the Ravens next Sunday in the first round of the playoffs, I'll still be ecstatic by the progress this team has made. Looming doubts about the sale of the franchise, the permanence of Bill Parcells, and other issues abound; but today Dolphins fans everywhere can be happy to see our favorite team make the biggest turnaround in NFL history. Congratulations to the Dolphins, and I hope you can beat a very, very tough Baltimore Ravens team next Sunday!

What to do in Detroit...

2008-12-23T12:52:00.004-05:00

The Detroit Lions are on the verge of possibly becoming the first team to ever finish a 16 game regular season without a win. Even if they beat Green Bay this week and go 1-15, it's still obvious that they need to take a step in a new direction. But what exactly should they do? Where should they turn to try and fix this mess?

As we've seen in Miami and Atlanta this season, a quick turnaround is possible. However, we've also seen teams like Oakland struggle for years. What's the difference? Management. Thomas Dimitroff and Bill Parcells have done an impecable job signing and drafting talent in their first years with the Falcons and the Dolphins respectively. Al Davis seems to be making bad decisions left and right. That's the biggest difference in teams. Management. That's the reason why the Colts and Patriots have been good for so long and why the Browns and Bengals have struggled. It's why Pittsburgh is always competitive and why Oakland just can't get over the hump. Detroit needs to bring in a real talent evaluator as a G.M. and a new head coach that will work together and bring stability to the team.

Once a new coach and general manager are in place, then start re-tooling the roster from the inside out. Evaluate who you can build the team around. RB Kevin Smith, WR Calvin Johnson, LB Ernie Simms, RT Gosder Cherilus. These guys need to be the future of the team. Bring in a couple of solid defensive free agents, but nobody high profile like Haynesworth or Asomugha. Consider someone like LB Bart Scott from Baltimore and CB Jabari Greer from the Bills. Scott could pair with Simms to upgrade the LB position and Greer could start at corner, taking pressure of Leigh Bodden on the other side. Then draft the rest of your team.

Start with the number one overall pick. Grab LT Andre Smith from Alabama and have him anchor your line for the next decade. If Cherilus starts to develop, this will leave them with a great pair of bookend tackles. With the other first round pick received from Dallas in the Roy Williams trade, look to secure OG Duke Robinson from Oklahoma. Most don't agree with drafting guards early, but Robinson may be worth it. With he and Smith anchoring the left side of the offensive line, the Lions could finally be dominate up front for a long time. In the second round, look at a DT such as Sen'Derrick Marks from Auburn or Fili Moala from USC. These guys have the potential to be dominant interior forces and should last until the 33rd pick. The Lions have two third round choices and should be thinking about C Max Unger from Oregon, continuing to re-tool their entire offensive line, DE Michael Bennett from Texas A&M, or if he lasts that long, S Patrick Chung from Oregon. All of these guys could help where it matters most. Their second third round pick could be used to pick up a guy like TE Travis Beckum from Wisconsin. Current TE Michael Gaines is a valuable player, but Beckum has much better top end speed and can stretch the seam, giving the Lions another target in the passing game. He's also a decent blocker. In later rounds, look for more depth at OLB and both the offensive and defensive lines. Finally, draft a QB because I believe in always drafting a QB, just in case he's the next overlooked NFL star QB. Somebody like Willie Tuitama from Arizona or Cullen Harper from Clemson should be available in the 6th or 7th round and both have the potential to be solid picks.

At this point, Detroit would have a solid foundation in the trenches, in management, and in some young stars. They can learn to play together in 2009 and then the Lions can worry about a QB next year.

Cable Sucks!

2008-12-16T10:38:00.002-05:00

No this isn't another ranting by me about not being able to get Sunday Ticket on Cable. Nor is this another condemning post toward Time Warner Cable for not carrying the NFL Network. While those two things do indeed anger me to no end, I'm talking about Raiders interim Head Coach Tom Cable.

Former Raiders Head Coach Lane Kiffin, fired earlier this season, is now the newly hired Head Coach of the Tennessee Volunteers. Kiffin recently hired Raiders offensive line coach James Cregg. Now I agree that Cregg should've finished off the last couple weeks of the season with the Raiders. However, in retaliation, Cable fired two other Kiffin associates from the Raiders staff and is verbally lashing out at Cregg and Kiffin. This was the wrong response.

The Raiders are a lost cause this season and many believe that Kiffin was unjustly fired from the team. In light of this, it makes perfect sense for a guy like Cregg to leave the Raiders' screwed up organization to join Kiffin. It's loyal and I don't see anything wrong with it. If the Raiders were still alive for a playoff berth or something to that effect, then I might understand the anger, but Cregg's loyalty obviously lies with Kiffin, the man who hired him. I don't see anything wrong with that and Cable is a moron for thinking otherwise.

Just my rant of the day. Hopefully Raiders fans will have some good news coming out of Oakland sometime in the near future and not any more of this garbage.

Referee Gene Steratore

2008-11-24T14:14:00.003-05:00

I was watching the Colts-Chargers game last night, and they kept mentioning one of the officials by the name of Gene Steratore. Me being who I am, could only think of this.

Week 6 NFL Personnel Secret Identity

2008-10-13T09:25:00.004-05:00

Seriously, Minnesota Vikings Head Coach Brad Childress is bound to show up at a conference any day now in one of those hats, and say "Those wascally Wions, if not for the wefewees giving us turnovers, we would've wost!"

Random Basketball Thought

2008-10-06T13:10:00.002-05:00

Just to pose a query to anyone who cares...

Please see the picture and tell me that these two don't look eerily similar? Let me put it to you this way, have you ever seen NBA Commissioner David Stern and Kermit The Frog in the same place at the same time? Just bringing it up...

Fantasy Start and Sit for Week 5

2008-10-04T13:30:00.003-05:00

Let's do a little fantasy start and sit advice for Week 5:

The obvious... you're going to start the following guys regardless of their matchup, listed in the order that I like them:

QB
Kurt Warner, Peyton Manning, Jay Cutler, Philip Rivers, Drew Brees, Donovan McNabb

RB
Adrian Peterson, LaDainian Tomlinson, Marshawn Lynch, Marion Barber, Joseph Addai, Frank Gore, Matt Forte, Clinton Portis

WR
Reggie Wayne, Terrell Owens, Greg Jennings, Larry Fitzgerald, Brandon Marshall, Andre Johnson, Steve Smith, Randy Moss

TE
Antonio Gates, Jason Witten, Chris Cooley, Dallas Clark

Injury Watch: Aaron Rodger, Carson Palmer, Brian Westbrook, Anquan Boldin

Now here are the guys that I think should be in your lineup beyond the completely obvious due to a trend or due to an excellent matchup:

Starts:

QB
The top QB start this week is Kyle Orton. Orton has been playing remarkably well this season, while flying under the radar. This week he faces one of the worst defenses in the league in Detroit, and will likely find a lot of room to work with. Armed with a potent running game with rookie Matt Forte, Orton should be able to avoid being the focus of the defense and put up pretty good numbers. He's a good start this week.

Other good QB starts this week: Trent Edwards, J.T. O'Sullivan, Gus Frerotte (providing he plays), Brian Griese

RB
The top RB start of this week is Steve Slaton. Slaton has really come on the last couple of weeks and has earned the right to be the primary back in Houston. This week he faces a Colts defense that's been terrible against the run and he should find plenty of room. He should definitely be in your lineup this week, and likely from here on out.

Other good RB starts this week: Earnest Graham, Julius Jones, Ronnie Brown, Matt Forte

WR
The top WR start of this week is Chris Chambers. Chambers has established himself as a huge deep threat in this young season, and he'll likely continue to find success against a struggling Dolphins secondary. Kurt Warner lit up the Dolphins defense in Week 2. Now Philip Rivers and Chris Chambers will have their chance.

Other good WR starts this week: Lee Evans, Robert Meachem and Lance Moore, Antonio Bryant, Amani Toomer, Roddy White

TE
The top TE start of this week is Anthony Fasano. Fasano faces a San Diego defense that's given up touchdowns to TE's a lot this season. In four weeks, Dustin Keller, Tony Scheffler (twice), Zach Miller, and Dante Rosario have all scored touchdowns against the Chargers. Fasano has been showing flashes of why he was such a high draft pick, and expect him to continue his showing this week.

Other good TE starts this week: Greg Olsen, Donald Lee, Owen Daniels, John Carlson, Alex Smith, Robert Royal

K
The top K start of the week is Ryan Longwell. This is purely because it's a dome game that I don't think will be low scoring by any means. Longwell may not match his 5 field goals of earlier this season, but he might come close in this game.

Other good K starts this week: Martin Gramatica, Nick Folk, Matt Bryant, Rian Lindell, Kris Brown, Mason Crosby, John Kasay

Sits:

QB
Look out for Jake Delhomme this week. He might be missing both of his bookend tackles this week. While the Kansas City defense looks ripe for the picking, the holes on the offensive line, coupled with a defense that's still feeling confident from last week's defeat over Denver looks like a moderate day's work by Delhomme. Temper your expectations from him this week.

Other QB sits this week: Matt Hasselbeck, Jason Campbell, Matt Cassell, David Garrard, Kerry Collins, Jo Flacco

RB
Be very careful with Lendale White this week. The Titans play the top ranked Ravens defense this week, and very few teams do a better job of stuffing the inside run game. This spells trouble for White, who does the bulk of his shared work in between the tackles. If you can avoid playing him this week, it might be a good idea.

Other RB sits this week: Deuce McCallister, Fred Taylor, Edgerrin James, Rudi Johnson/Kevin Smith, Willis McGahee/LeRon McClain

WR
Don't expect big things out of Derrick Mason this week. I know he showed up against a tough Pittsburgh defense last Monday night, but this week he goes up against Cortland Finnegan, who's arguably playing better than any other DB in the league right now. Mason may catch 5 or 6 balls, but I don't expect him to gain more than 50 or 60 yards and I don't expect him to score either.

Other WR sits this week: Justin Gage, Kevin Walter, Reggie Brown, Matt Jones, Eddie Royal

TE
I wouldn't start Bo Scaife this week. While he's a very good TE, Baltimore has too good of a pass defense to think that Scaife won't be helping block their aggressive pass rushers. If you don't have anyone else, then obviously you're going to play him, but in a low scoring effort against a top defense, I'd temper expectations.

Other TE sits this week: Todd Heap, Dave Thomas, L.J. Smith, Heath Miller

K
I don't think Matt Stover is going to do much. Again, an extremely low-scoring affair usually doesn't equal a whole lot of kicking points. You can hope for two field goals out of Stover this week, but I think that's you're high-end hopes.

Other K sits this week: Rob Bironas, Josh Scobee, Shaun Suisham, Olindo Mare, Jason Hanson

Good Luck Everyone!

Keep Lane Kiffin

2008-09-29T13:08:00.004-05:00

Let's talk a little about Lane Kiffin in Oakland...

Al Davis is a savvy veteran owner in the NFL. I don't claim to know more about the league than Davis has forgotten, and I recognize that he's a big part of what the NFL is today. It upsets me slightly to hear comments questioning whether or not he is senile and whether or not he knows what he's doing. I don't think this is the case at all. I think that Al Davis loves his team, knows the game of football, and makes decisions based on what he feels is best for the Oakland Raiders. I think that he's always done this, and I think that he continues to do this even today. What I question about Davis however, is his patience.

Lane Kiffin is now heading into the bye week of his second season as Raiders Head Coach. At 31, he was the youngest Head Coach in history. His age leads to the idea that perhaps he's not the most experienced coach ever to roam the sidelines. This means two things in my opinion: He's innovative and fresh, and he's also prone to making some "rookie" mistakes. Davis needs to take the good with the bad and support Kiffin during his time of learning. Kiffin is a good coach and has the team going in the right direction. This post is going to be centered around why Al Davis should support Lane Kiffin and keep him on for at least two more seasons after this one.

Reason #1: Kiffin is Doing a Good Job
There are two things that I look at when I determine whether or not a young coach taking over a very bad football team is doing a good job in his position.
The first thing I look at is the intensity of the players. Essentially, I mean how hard the players are playing every Sunday. How hard do they practice? How hard are they working for their coach? How is the intensity in their eyes, their speed off the snap, the passion they have on the playing field? If the intensity is there with the players, then I can assume that they support their coach, and that they're coming together cohesively as a team. You can tell in the way they play that the Raiders have the right intensity and that they are rallying around their coach, becoming a cohesive unit. And that intensity has actually improved each week.
The second thing I look at is whether or not the team is getting better. Generally speaking, how much better is the team now than it was when the coach took over? Kiffin took over a team that was essentially in shambles. The team was a little short on talent, and extremely short on motivation, particularly on offense. Even last season the team seemed to improve in both categories. This year, they've played two very good teams closely in back-to-back weeks. It takes time to learn how to close out games, but they'll get it eventually. The Raiders definitely improved over Kiffin's first year, and they're monumentally better than they were the year before he took over.

Reason #2: The Alex Smith-Joey Harrington Factor
Remember a couple of years ago when former #1 overall pick Alex Smith showed a great deal of promise under Offensive Coordinator Norv Turner, and then after his third coaching change in three years he took a nose-dive into bust-ville? Remember when Joey Harrington went through system after system until he finally just became an average backup at best, now unemployed? I remember these things. Would Smith or Harrington have been better if they'd been able to grow into the same system with the same coach? Maybe not. I'm betting they'd have stood a better chance though. Al Davis just invested a whole lot of money into QB JaMarcus Russell. After a lengthy holdout essentially made his rookie year a wash, Russell is finally starting to show progress as an NFL quarterback. Does he have a long way to go? A resounding Yes! But he's not going to get there without being afforded the time to learn and grow within the same system and a familiar coaching staff.

Reason #3: Stability
In general, stability is critically important in this league. If you believe that a coach has some good ideas and can be a good coach in this league, then you have to give them the time to let things play out. Create an environment of stability for you coaches, your players, and your fan base. Even in these days of free agency and relative parity in the league, you can't build a championship overnight. The Giants you say? Well, that offensive line built a relationship together, along with the stable growth of Eli Manning, along with his established relationship with Plaxico Burress that allowed for Burress to be effective even after virtually not practicing all year. Let's not forget the working relationship between the defensive linemen also, providing solid leadership and working together after playing together in the same system for quite some time. This cohesion, this stability is what made it look so easy to plug and play rookies into their rotations. You build stability with your overall team in order to sustain stability amongst your team. The Colts, Steelers, Patriots, Seahawks and Broncos among other teams this decade have all remained competitive year in and year out (for the most part) because of many things, but most of all stability. The Raiders are rebuilding. So let them rebuild in a stable environment.

While I doubt Al Davis or Lane Kiffin will ever read this post, I would say that this is a compelling argument to retain the services of a bright young mind in the NFL. If for no other reason that to watch the immensely talented Russell develop into a star instead of another high-profile QB bust, I hope that Kiffin gets to stay.

Pittsburgh's Draft

2008-05-01T14:12:00.002-05:00

Let's talk a little about the Pittsburgh Steelers draft this past weekend...

I was blown away by the strategy the Steelers used in this draft, and I think that they should be considered the clear winners from a value perspective. I'm a firm believer in balancing need and value in the draft, and I feel as though teams should rarely if ever reach for a need position. The Steelers needed offensive line help in the first round. When that wasn't available, they took the best available player, regardless of position... RB Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois. I actually had Mendenhall as the best RB in this draft, and I feel that he was a steal going to the Steelers at pick 23. He's a top ten talent and his powerful style will complement the speedy Willie Parker for the next several years, creating a very potent rushing attack in Pittsburgh. While RB may not have been the Steelers' top need, I applaud them for taking the best player remaining on the board.
Next, they made another great selection in WR Limas Sweed, Texas in the second round. I think that he too was an absolute steal at pick 53. I had Sweed listed as the best WR in this draft, and he will be an outstanding addition to an already talented group of WR's. Sweed is also a bigger receiver, which the Steelers needed, so this pick wasn't pure value. However, rather than go CB, DL, or OL, the Steelers once again took the best player available on their board.
They wound up with LB Bruce Davis, UCLA in the third round. This was a solid pick, if not spectacular, but in the fourth round they snagged OT Tony Hills, Texas. Hills is a great choice, who I think would've been drafted much higher had he not had a leg injury last season, and had this year's draft not been so deep at OT. Hills has good enough ability to play outside, but he also has the versatility to play inside and help the depth at the two OG positions which will sorely miss the departed Alan Faneca. Hills needs time to heal and develop, but this selection was great value in the fourth round and he very well could develop into a solid starter down the line.
Another great value pick was QB Dennis Dixon, Oregon in the fifth round. Dixon is an immense talent, though he's coming off of an injury he suffered late in the season. I'm not sold on him as a QB, but I think he could fill the Antuan Randle El role, contributing on gadget plays and lining up at WR from time to time. Dixon is a great athlete and will have plenty of time to learn behind Charlie Batch and Ben Roethlisberger. He was a great value in round five.

All in all, I think that more and more teams should take this value approach to the draft. The Pittsburgh Steelers will undoubtedly reap the benefits of this strategy, and they should serve as a reminder that drafting for need lowers the quality of the choices your team makes. In this day and age, that's something a team just can't afford to do.

Darren McFadden: Second Round Prospect

2008-04-07T14:35:00.002-05:00

Let's talk a little about Darren McFadden...

I know, I know, I must be crazy to have a title suggesting that McFadden is a second round prospect, and people are going to chastize me for this. However, I truly think that McFadden is not going to be the next great running back in the NFL. I think that he has a lot of ability, a great deal of speed, and that he's the kind of athlete who's going to have a solid career. I think that he's going to be well-worth a second round pick.

McFadden is a gamebreaker and had an extremely productive career at Arkansas. However, the more highlights and film I watch of him, the less I like him as a franchise back in the NFL. While he does have speed, I don't see him reading his blocks very well, and I don't see him having the vision necessary to find the much smaller holes he'll have to run through at the next level. Additionally, a great deal of his production came from big plays and on those plays, he was hardly touched. True, he outran everyone which is a great skill to have, but he didn't seem to break many tackles, nor did he appear to have any kind of above-average cutback ability. I simply don't see McFadden as a tough enough player with the right vision and intangibles to be an every down player at the running back position; and an every down player is exactly what you're looking for in the first round of the draft.

So if this is the case, why do most experts have McFadden ranked as the top or at least a top five prospect in the upcoming draft? The answer is two-fold in my opinion.
The first answer is simple and obvious; the guy was extremely productive in college and he has great measurables. He's fast, he doesn't have any obvious durability issues, and he did very well against very good competition. Additionally, he has the size and speed combination that scouts salivate over.
The second reason is Adrian Peterson. Peterson took the league by storm last season, and had he carried the full load all year and not been injured, it's very likely he could've shattered many rushing records. Because of this, every team is going to be looking for the next great top-of-the-draft running back to turn their franchises around. It's a copy-cat league and just like Devin Hester made returners significantly more valuable, Peterson has made top running backs in style again.

Speaking of "in style," what kind of situation should McFadden go to you might ask, now that I've criticized his ability to be an every down player. The answer is another copy-cat concept called running back-by-committee. We've seen this concept become successful in New England, Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta, New Orleans, just to name a few, and McFadden would be the ideal compliment to a tough, inside runner. Ideally, he'd wind up with a team like Dallas or Cleveland. These are both teams that could use their incumbants to run up the middle and use McFadden on sweeps or swing routes to get him outside the hashmarks right away. Even then though, I'm not convinced of McFadden's elusiveness at the next level. But if he finds success, it's going to be on the sidelines and not in the trenches.

Updated Mock Draft- 1st Round

2008-03-26T08:04:00.002-05:00

Now that the Combine is over with and most of the primary free agents have moved, I’ve decided to do my follow up mock draft for 2008. My mock drafts are partially what I think teams will actually do, blended with what I think teams should do. I’ll do a three-round mock sometime right before the draft.

So here’s my second, first-round mock of the 2008 NFL Draft:

1 Mia
Chris Long/OT Virginia

Previous:
Same

Even though the Dolphins need a LT like nobody’s business, Chris Long still looks like the pick. I would rather see them take Jake Long, but Chris has the kind of motor that will help stabilize the Dolphins defensive front. Trading down is still the ideal situation for the Fins.

2 StL
Jake Long/OT Michigan

Previous:
Same

The Rams will want either one of the Longs, and they’ll be happy with Jake. Jake Long can learn from Pace until he retires, and work on the inside until then. With all the injuries that St. Louis had up front last year, Long would be a breath of fresh air.

3 Atl
Matt Ryan/QB Boston College

Previous:
D. McFadden

The Falcons need a QB, and with the signing of Michael Turner in free agency, they are free to draft the best one in this class. Ryan will be a great addition to a team that has talent, but is missing a leader.

4 Oak
Darren McFadden/RB Arkansas

Previous:
G. Dorsey

The Raiders gave Tommy Kelly a ton of money to stick around, but they should still probably take a DT. However, I simply don’t believe that Al Davis will pass on McFadden if he’s here. A trade down is very possible as well.

5 KC
Glenn Dorsey/DT LSU

Previous:
S. Ellis

The Chiefs should try to move down to get an offensive lineman, or maybe take Ryan Clady here. However, they’re defensive line could use help, and here they take the best available player in Dorsey. His health status could alter this pick, but for now, he’s still the top defender in this draft.

6 NYJ
Vernon Gholston/DE Ohio State

Previous:
Matt Ryan

I’m actually not a big fan of Gholston, but he does flash outstanding ability and would be a great fit standing up in the Jets’ 3-4. If McFadden falls here, don’t be surprised to see the Jets grab him.

7 NE
Leodis McKelvin/CB Troy

Previous:
D. Jackson

Initially I thought the Pats might pull the trigger on Desean Jackson, a la Miami a year ago with Ginn. However, with the losses of Asante Samuel and Randall Gay, they’d be best suited to take a corner here. McKelvin will be able to help them in the return game as well, so he’s the pick.

8 Bal
Brian Brohm/QB Louisville

Previous:
Same

Brohm has slipped on a lot of draft boards, but I’m still really high on him and the Ravens should draft him here. The other thought would be a Corner or OT.

9 Cin
Keith Rivers/LB USC

Previous:
V. Gholston

Sedrick Ellis would be a great value pick here, but the Bengals need a LB in the worst way. Rivers might be a stretch here, but he’ll instantly improve a very bad defense. Besides, there’s a little uncertainty with Ellis in a 3-4, what Marvin Lewis supposedly wants to run.

10 NO
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie/CB Tennessee State

Previous:
K. Phillips

The Saints need CB, LB, TE, WR, RB, DL in that order. If Rivers was still here, I’d say they take him, but in this mock he’s off the board, so the Saints take the best available corner in DRC. He’s been flying up draft boards and has all the makings of a great NFL corner. I think he’ll wind up being one of the best in this class… along with Charles Godfrey who’ll be a steal in the second or third round.

11 Buf
Malcolm Kelly/WR Oklahoma

Previous:
K. Balmer

The Bills need a WR opposite Lee Evans, and they’ll find one in Kelly. Kelly has the hands and ability that you look for in a possession receiver and second year QB Trent Edwards would like to have an extra target to throw to.

12 Den
Sedrick Ellis/DT USC

Previous:
Ryan Clady

Denver is cursed with the choice between Ellis and Clady here, and while Clady is amazing, you can’t pass on Ellis, who I think is the best DT in this draft and the second best defensive player all together. The Broncos run defense will improve greatly with Ellis in the mix.

13 Car
Ryan Clady/OT Boise State

Previous:
Samuel Baker

This is the best case scenario for Carolina. They need a franchise tackle, and Clady is that all the way. He’ll help the running game and pass protection immediately.

14 Chi
Rashard Mendenhall/RB Illinois

Previous:
M. Kelly

I think that Mendenhall (not Run DMC) is the best RB in this draft (stay tuned for my Run DMC posting). Chicago may not want to invest this much in another RB, and they’ll take a long look at OT Chris Williams, but I think that in the end, they shouldn’t pass on this guy. He reminds me a lot of Steven Jackson coming out of college. Power, speed, vision… he’s the whole package.

15 Det
Mike Jenkins/CB South Florida

Previous:
Same

The Lions would still be crazy not to take Jenkins here. Detroit’s defense was terrible last year, and there wasn’t a single corner who stepped up to take the place of the departed Dre Bly. Jenkins is a great cover guy who will start right away. If Mendenhall is available, Detroit jumps on him here.

16 AZ
Aqib Talib /CB Kansas

Previous:
K. Rivers

Talib Takes a lot of chances, and was lit up by Kansas State’s Jordy Nelson, but he’s a ton of talent and would look awfully good opposite Antrel Rolle. Talib has the look of a starter, but even if he doesn’t work out on the outside, he has the makings of someone who’ll translate well as a top nickel corner, adding security to the pick.

17 Min
Calais Campbell/DE Miami

Previous:
D. Harvey

Before, I had them taking Harvey, but I’ve really grown to like Campbell, and I think he’s the second best DE in this class. The Vikings would definitely gain an outstanding long-term pass rusher here.

18 Hou
Chris Williams/OT Vanderbilt

Previous:
A. Talib

The Texans need OL, CB, RB, DE in that order. If Chris Williams is still here, they’d be crazy not to take him. He’s a great value pick at a position they desperately need. They won’t look back.

19 Phi
Derrick Harvey/DE Florida

Previous:
L. Sweed

I still think that Philly should take Sweed here, but they need a pass rusher also, and history says the Eagles prefer linemen in the first round. Harvey will instantly improve the Eagle’s pass rush.

20 TB
Limas Sweed/WR Texas

Previous:
A. Woodson

Sweed is maintaining his draft status, while Woodson has fallen. After the Senior Bowl and watching him a little more, I’ve moved him way down my list and I wouldn’t touch him until the third round. That long release terrifies me. Jackson might be the sexy pick here, but Sweed is the better one. He’s a great fit in Tampa.

21 Wash
Mario Manningham/WR Michigan

Previous:
Same

The more I look at Manningham, the more I like him. While his Michigan pedigree scares me (Desmond Howard, David Terrell, and Charles Rogers [Michigan State]), I think he’s going to end up as the best WR in this draft. With Harvey off the board, the Redskins take Manningham.

22 Dal
Felix Jones/RB Arkansas

Previous:
Jeff Otah

Resigning Flozell Adams and Ken Hamlin frees up the Cowboys to take the speedy and super talented Jones, who will be the ideal complement to Marion Barber. I actually like Jones better than McFadden as well. He seems to have better vision, and Dallas will be lucky if he falls this far.

23 Pitt
Branden Albert/OG Virginia

Previous:
Felix Jones

Lose an outstanding but aging and declining OG in Alan Faneca; Draft an outstanding young OG in Albert. Makes sense to me.

24 Ten
DeSean Jackson/WR California

Previous:
E. Doucet

No team needs a WR more than the Titans. Period. I don’t buy into Jackson as a great WR and the Titans aren’t known to take receivers this high, but something tells me that if he’s there, they’ll take him.

25 Sea
Gosder Cherilus/OT Boston College

Previous:
J. Stewart

The signings of T.J. Duckett and especially Julius Jones, combined with Stewart's injury will make the Hawks look long and hard at the best remaining OL to help fix their running game. Cherilus is strictly a RT, but he’s good value here, and he’ll anchor that right side for the next decade.

26 Jax
Kentwan Balmer/DT North Carolina

Previous:
C. Campbell

The Jaguars are going to look at the best player they can find along the DL. They’re really going to hope that one of the top four DE’s falls to them, but as this stands, Balmer is the pick. Balmer will help the Jags move on after the loss of Marcus Stroud to Buffalo.

27 SD
Kenny Phillips/S Miami

Previous:
P. Sims

The Chargers will once again go with secondary help. Phillips can play either safety spot and will pair up with Antonio Cromartie to give their backfield a massive big play threat anytime they’re on the field.

28 Dal
Early Doucet/WR LSU

Previous:
R. Mendenhall

A corner like Brandon Flowers is a possibility here as well, but Doucet fills a need position and could develop into a star player for the Dallas Cowboys.

29 SF
James Hardy/WR Indiana

Previous:
Same

Hardy is certainly not a sure thing, but the 49ers’ biggest needs are WR, DL, and OL, and Hardy is the best available of those positions, and a good value pick here. New Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz will no doubt want to upgrade the WR corps, and Hardy will be able to contribute right away in multiple receiver sets, maybe even earning a starting job as a rookie.

30 GB
Dustin Keller/TE Purdue

Previous:
D.R. Cromartie

This is another spot where we might see Brandon Flowers off the board, however, getting new starting QB Aaron Rogers as many weapons as possible should be considered a priority. Donald Lee did a serviceable job last year, but Keller looks explosive and versatile and will add a component to the offense not seen since Keith Jackson played for them in the mid-nineties.

31 NYG
Dan Connor/OLB Penn State

Previous:
Same

Connor is a little undersized, but he’s a playmaker and he’s from Linebacker University. The Giants have been looking for a solid OLB for quite sometime, and with Connor’s quick decisions and intelligent reads, he could be that guy for quite some time if he falls this far.

Atlanta Falcons

2008-03-24T12:02:00.002-05:00

Lets talk a little about the Atlanta Falcons...

The Falcons are in the midst of an extreme overhaul. This is true in their coaching staff, as well as on their roster. Gone are staple players such as Warrick Dunn, Alge Crumpler, DeAngelo Hall, and of course Michael Vick. Now the Falcons are looking for a new face to their franchise, starting with former Jaguars Defensive Coordinator Mike Smith coming in to replace Bobby Petrino as Head Coach. Smith will bring some toughness to the defense, and he's also brought in Mike Mularkey as the team's offensive coordinator. Smith and Mularkey will combine to bring in high character players who can help stabilize a franchise that has seen far too much turmoil over the last year. The theme for the Falcons will be to rebuild, and they've already been fairly active in free agency.

The Falcons brought in top RB free agent Michael Turner from San Diego. Turner has been stashed away behind LaDainian Tomlinson on the Chargers depth chart and now has a chance to be the feature back in an offense that will be built for the running game. He'll be paired with holdover speedster Jerrious Norwood who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. If Turner can prove he's capable of carrying the load, coach Smith might be able to bring some of that one-two punch to Atlanta's offense that was so effective in Jacksonville the last couple of years. The question will be whether or not Turner can provide the toughness that's been lacking at the RB position since T.J. Duckett left.

The Falcons will need to solidify the offensive and defensive lines, and will need to find a replacement for DeAngelo Hall in the secondary if their going to turn this franchise around. Additionally, Joey Harrington and Chris Redman are not the quarterbacks that are going to lead this franchise back to respectability. Atlanta has a long way to go if they want to compete for the NFC South title, and finding a young signal caller should be considered a priority. Because of this, many believe that the best choice for them with the 3rd overall selection in the upcoming draft is Boston College QB Matt Ryan. I disagree. While Ryan is undoubtedly the top QB prospect in the draft, the Falcons need to capitalize on the large quantity of second round QB's this year, and focus on their toughness up front in round one.

With the DeAngelo Hall trade to Oakland and a pick from the Texans via the Matt Schaub trade last year, the Falcons now hold the 3rd, 34th, 37th, and 48th picks in the draft. That's four picks on the first day. Those picks, combined with last year's early draftees CB Chris Houston, OL Justin Blalock, and DE Jamaal Anderson will form the franchise for the next decade. This is why each pick must be made objectively and based on value, rather than simply need.

There are many different opinions as to how many elite prospects there are in the draft this year. I think that there are five. In order, they are OT Jake Long, DT Glenn Dorsey, DE Chris Long, OT Ryan Clady, and DT Sedrick Ellis. Although this is not a popular opinion, I believe that Darren McFadden lacks the vision to be a complete and every down back in the NFL and I believe that Matt Ryan is in the next tier of top prospects. It is almost a certainty that when the Falcons pick 3rd, Chris Long and Jake Long will both be off the board. In this situation, the Falcons must draft the second best prospect in this draft in Glenn Dorsey. Dorsey will help solidify the defensive line, and is an ideal fit in the Falcons' 4-3 scheme. The Falcons must resist the urge to reach for a need position, and must instead take the best player available. In this situation, that player is Glenn Dorsey.

Next, with three picks in the second round, the Falcons are capable of once again taking the best player available with the 34th pick. This could be a QB if Brian Brohm were to fall this far, but more likely it's going to be a CB in this years deep crop of secondary players. Brandon Flowers, Antoine Cason, Charles Godfrey, and even perhaps Aqib Talib could be available. On the off chance that RT Gosder Cherilus from Boston College falls that far, the Falcons would be wise to jump on the opportunity to draft him. More likely, a guy like Flowers will be the pick.

Next, with the 37th pick, it might be wise to take one of the remaining top QB's. Assuming Brohm and Ryan are off the board at this point, the Falcons could be looking at Delaware's Joe Flacco and/or Michigan's Chad Henne. Henne gets the nod in my book after an outstanding Senior Bowl performance. While Flacco has an incredible arm, Henne has the intangibles that lead to an effective NFL quarterback. I view Henne as being similiar to Drew Brees, with a stronger arm and better frame. Unless an elite player falls this far, Henne should be the pick.

Finally, with the 48th pick, the Falcons should take the best available offensive lineman. Taking a top guard is not a reach in the second round when the player is someone who can step in and start immediately. This is why they should take a look at Roy Schuenning from Oregon State. While some tackle prospects may still be available at this point (Sam Baker from USC, Carl Nicks from Nebraska, etc.), Schuenning is the only one almost sure to be capable of starting immediately. Schuenning is a hard-nosed and fierce blocker and will instantly help Michael Turner find openings running up the gut of opposing defenses. With these picks, the Falcons will be on their way to building a solid franchise from the bottom up, and with another great draft, could contend in their division as soon as 2009.

Zach Thomas

2008-02-19T15:55:00.002-05:00

Let's talk a little about Zach Thomas...

I would first like to say that I really hope Zach doesn't go to the Patriots. I don't want to see him pull a Bryan Cox and go to the Jets. I'd be really sad if he ended up a Bill, but more than anything else, I really hope he doesn't go to the Patriots. However, I won't be mad at him if he does. I'll still proudly wear my #54 Dolphins Jersey, and I'll be happy that he's still playing. The game is better with blue-collar players like Zach, and as a Dolphins fan, I appreciate him too much to hold things against him. However, I really hope he doesn't end up a Patriot.

Additionally, I'm so torn about him being cut. I understand the business side of it, but from a personal point of view, you have to believe that the Dolphins could've kept him around another year to see if his head gets any better. I'm going to hope that Jeff Ireland and Bill Parcells took Zach aside and asked him what he wanted. Then I'm going to hope that his release was amicable and that they were happy. He'll be going somewhere with a better chance to win, and he deserves that opportunity.

Now who needs him?

New Orleans- The Saints really need help at LB, and Zach would be a great addition and a great leader for that defense. The Saints aren't that far from being legitimate Super Bowl contenders, and a few impact players on defense could really make that difference. My understanding is that the two sides are interested in eachother, and I think this would be an absolutely perfect fit.

Cincinnati- The Bengals also need a lot of defensive help, but they also need some defensive leadership. If Odell Thurman gets re-instated this year, and if Ahmad Brooks comes back fully healthy with the flashes of ability he's shown, then Zach could really help develop this group into viable starters, especially as they try to move into a true 3-4 defense. Zach is best-suited for a 4-3, but played fine in the hybrid that Miami has run lately.

Dallas- The Cowboys are interested and could use Zach's services. Zach is a much better coverage guy than people take notice of, and most of the Cowboys' issues on defense are coverage based. Letting Zach play zone in the short middle of the field, cover the TE, and/or spy the QB/RB could really help to free up DeMarcus Ware even more to blitz.

Denver- The Broncos haven't been mentioned but maybe they should be. D.J. Williams is an impact player but is much better suited on the outside. However, with Al Wilson out of the picture, D.J. will have to stay inside where he's not as effective. The Broncos got a Pro Bowl season out of the aging John Lynch, why not put Zach in the middle for a couple of years training someone new, while Williams can go back outside and be the playmaker he is? Just saying...

Wherever he does end up, congratulations to Zach, to the city that gets him, and to the fans that will get to cheer for him. Thank you Zach, for 12 great years, and I wish you the very, very best!

The Best Team from 1 to 22

2008-02-15T11:56:00.004-05:00

Let's try something kind of fun...

I was curious the team of 22 starters I could make up if I took the top 22 picks from the last 22 NFL drafts. The results are kind of fun, and I thought I'd post them.

The rules are:
I must fill all 22 starting positions on a football team.
I'm filling a base 4-3 defense and a basic 2-back, 1-tight end offensive formation.
I can only use a certain number draft pick once. i.e. I used the 3rd pick in the 1989 draft on Barry Sanders, so I cannot use the 3rd pick of any other draft.
Fullbacks can be substituted for larger running backs, due to the nature of the position.
Offensive Tackles, Offensive Guards, and other positions will be acceptable as they are. i.e. I don't need to worry about getting a LT and a RT. Two OT's is fine.

So let's see what happened:

Pick #1
Peyton Manning, QB, Colts, 1998
You could just as easily go with Troy Aikman or Orlando Pace here, but I like Manning over Aikman. The stats, the rings, an argument can be made either way, and either way you wouldn't wrong. Other OT's can be found later in the draft

Pick #2
Julius Peppers, DE, Panthers, 2002
Peppers may be coming off a down season, but I think that was more indicative of a bad supporting cast. Line up Peppers next to a couple solid DT's and watch him wreck havoc. Plus, there weren't many other options at number 2 overall. Marshall Faulk is the obvious choice if not for my desire to go with...

Pick #3
Barry Sanders, RB, Lions, 1989
It's hard to argue this pick. With this little exercise, in my opinion you can go with Sanders, Emmitt Smith, Faulk, LaDainian Tomlinson, or perhaps even Adrian Peterson. I wouldn't argue with any of those choices, but I like Sanders the most. I always have, and I always will.

Pick #4
Derrick Thomas, OLB, Chiefs, 1989
Thomas was one of the most complete and effective outside backers that I've had the pleasure to see play. This selection came down to Thomas, Willie McGinest, or Jonathan Ogden. To me, Thomas is the best for my team, as there's still value at OT later in the draft.

Pick #5
Junior Seau, OLB, Chargers, 1990
I know that Seau isn't just an OLB, but I think he still counts as one. It's hard to say that there was a better LB in the 90's than Seau. I could've gone with Deion Sanders here, but after looking at the quality of LB's vs. the quality of CB's later in the draft, I opted to go with Seau. The obvious pick here is Tomlinson, but I already decided to go with Barry Sanders.

Pick #6
Walter Jones, OT, Seahawks, 1997
Jones has been dominant at his position for years, so I thought now would be the best time to grab my first O-Lineman. Barry Sanders never had a line in Detroit, but for me he will thanks to Jones. Other possibilities here are Tim Brown and Torry Holt, but I have my eye on a couple other WR's later in the draft.

Pick #7
Champ Bailey, CB, Redskins, 1999
Some think that Bailey is overrated. I think that he's the most complete CB I've seen since a certain other CB who shows up later on this list. Troy Vincent and Sterling Sharper were considerations here, but in the end I sided with Champ.

Pick #8
Leslie O'Neal, DE, Chargers, 1986
O'Neal was a dominant DE in the late 80's and well into the 90's. He was an All-Pro, complete end who could be effective against the run as well as rush the passer. He'd be an outstanding player to have opposite Peppers on my D-Line. He was an easy pick for me, but the runners up included Willie Roaf and DeAngelo Hall.

Pick #9
Brian Urlacher, MLB, Bears, 2000
Hard to argue with this pick. The best MLB's are often drafted later in the draft than pick 22 (i.e. Zach Thomas). Urlacher is arguably the best MLB in the league and will lead my stars on D. He beat out Richmond Webb and Kyle Brady to be pick number nine.

Pick #10
Rod Woodson, CB, Steelers, 1987
I always thought that Woodson was the best CB of his day, up until he was injured. Even after the injury, he lost a step and ultimately moved to Safety, where he was still dynamite. Woodson was a complete corner, and would be a force opposite Bailey. Other considerations included, Jerome Bettis, Willie Anderson, and Terrell Suggs.

Pick #11
Michael Irvin, WR, Cowboys, 1989
Off-field issues aside, Irvin was dominant in his day. He's a Hall of Famer, and he has explosive abilities combined with everything you look for in a physical, possession WR. Other considerations could have been Patrick Willis, Leon Searcy, and Dwight Freeney. However, I already have LB's and DE's. Irvin gets the nod.

Pick #12
Warren Sapp, DT, Bucs, 1995
Sapp was dominant and is a certain Hall of Famer. While his personality sometimes came up wanting, he was colorful, enigmatic, and helped create a positive reputation for a Tampa Bay franchise that had been the laughing stock of the league since it's birth. He's perfect for a 4-3 (or as a 3-4 DE if you like) and he wins out here over Shawn Merriman, Haloti Ngata, and Keith Brooking.

Pick #13
Tony Gonzales, TE, Chiefs, 1997
I remember finding it really odd to see a TE go this high in the draft. I certainly don't find it odd now. Teams have been searching for the next Tony Gonzales ever since he was drafted, and the results have been mixed. No TE has been more consistent than Tony over his career, and he's easily the pick at 13. Other considerations include Takeo Spikes, Keith Jackson, Mark Fields, Ty Warren, and Marcus Stroud.

Pick #14
Ruben Brown, OG, Bills, 1995
Browns been one of the best guards in the league for over a decade now. Up until last year, he was still playing at an All-Pro level and should be a lock for the Hall of Fame. Other considerations here were John Tait and Eddie George.

Pick #15
Albert Haynesworth, DT, Titans, 2002
Jeff Fisher runs a tight ship, as Pacman will likely not be welcomed back. If Fisher can forgive Haynesworth for the horrible incident with Andre Gurode, then I can get past it too. Haynesworth may not be the real deal, but I'm convinced. All I know is that the Titans were an exceptional defense with him in 2007, and a very poor defense without him. I also thought about going with Anthony McFarland here, and you could certainly make a case for doing that.

Pick #16
Troy Polamalu, SS, Steelers, 2003
Polamalu is one of the more exciting defensive players in the league. He's a ballhawk, but not quite like Ed Reed. He's a hitter, but not quite like Roy Williams. What he does better than any other safety in the league, is fly to the ball and just simply do anything it takes to make or disrupt plays. Barring the injury problems he's had lately, I want Polamalu in my secondary. If I wasn't solid on my outside backers, I could've gone with Julian Peterson here.

Pick #17
Steve Hutchinson, OG, Seahawks, 2001
Might be the best guard I've ever seen, period. Nobody else mattered at this pick. Emmitt Smith might be someone else's pick here, but not mine. I'd rather take one of the other stud backs and secure Hutchinson.

Pick #18
T.J. Duckett, RB/FB, Falcons, 2002
I needed a fullback and wasn't willing to sacrifice Rod Woodson for Jerome Bettis or Keith Byars. And those were pretty much the options there. Fullbacks aren't typically taken this early in the draft, which is why I'm just taking a big, bruising RB that could play FB. On the bright side, there's really not much else at #18. Leon Hall and Alfred Williams actually headline that pick.

Pick #19
Marvin Harrison, WR, Colts, 1996
I couldn't help but to put Harrison and Manning together again. Why mess up a good thing? Harrison is definitely a top ten, and more likely a top five all-time WR, and is a sure first ballot hall of famer. The other most viable options here were Randall McDaniel, Tarik Glenn, and of course Kyle Boller (just kidding).

Pick #20
Steve Atwater, DB/FS, Broncos, 1989
Atwater wasn't strictly a Free Safety, but that's where I'm putting him. I liked Atwater when he was playing and I think he'd measure up very well next to Polamalu. I would really like Ed Reed at FS, but he was the 24th pick in the 2002 draft. Atwater is an excellent find here though and would be a great completion to a dominant defense. Other thoughts here could include Daryl Gardener, Tim Bowens, Kelvin Pritchett, or Will Wolford.

Pick #21
Jeff Faine, C, Browns, 2003
Faine is the best of a very, very limited number of Centers selected this early in the last 22 years. Faine is a very good player, but I wouldn't call him dominant. He's been great for the Saints the last two years though, and he'd be great lined up with Walter Jones, Steve Hutchinson, Ruben Brown, and my pick for number 22. I had to make this pick to stay under the rules, but other options could be Vince Wilfork or Nate Clements. The obvious pick here would be Randy Moss.

Pick #22
Harris Barton, OT, 49ers, 1987
Barton was reliably consistent in protecting Joe Montana and Steve Young for a long time, and he helped open holes for guys like Roger Craig. Barton would be a welcome additionat RT on my line and would help to create time for Peyton Manning, and openings for Barry Sanders.

So let's see what my starting lineup ended up being:

Offense
QB- Peyton Manning
RB- Barry Sanders
FB- T.J. Duckett
WR- Michael Irvin, Marvin Harrison
TE- Tony Gonzales
OT- Walter Jones, Harris Barton
OG- Ruben Brown, Steve Hutchinson
C- Jeff Faine

Defense
DT- Warren Sapp, Albert Haynesworth
DE- Julius Peppers, Leslie O'Neal
OLB- Derrick Thomas, Junior Seau
MLB- Brian Urlacher
CB- Champ Bailey, Rod Woodson
FS- Steve Atwater
SS- Troy Polamalu

The Dolphins Off-Season

2008-02-12T08:38:00.001-05:00

Let's talk a little about what the Dolphins should do this offseason...

The Dolphins are bad, and I mean really bad. An overhaul is critical to the future success of this franchise. I'll take a look at moves they've already made, moves they should make, and moves that are going to be very interesting in the upcoming months.

The Nine Cuts

On Monday, the Dolphins cut nine players. QB Trent Green should retire anyway to keep his brains from being further scrambled. He's too old and his concussion problems are a liability. He will not be missed on this team and his departure was the correct call. Marty Booker was a bit of a surprise, but he too is aging, and Miami is looking to cut any weight they can. This certainly puts to rest the question of whether or not Bill Parcells considers WR to be a need position. Expect Miami to go after someone in the draft, free agency or trade to complement last year's first round pick Ted Ginn Jr. who is speedy and showed promise, but is best suited in a number two role. Keith Traylor also has lost a couple of steps and wasn't his dominant self in 2007 as he clashed with Coach Cameron and seemed to run out of gas. He needs to be replaced, and DT should be a high priority this offseason, but his release was likely a necessary move. OT L.J. Shelton has underachieved, and the Dolphins releasing him was likely the same type of move as the release of Booker. I suspect that Parcells has someone in mind to fill that LT position, freeing incumbant OT Vernon Carey to move permanently to RT where he is best suited. Expect Cowboys free agent LT Flozell Adams to be a target for the Dolphins. The rest of the cuts were minor players who hardly even provide depth and won't be missed. The release of youngster Joe Toledo stands as a reminder that poor draft decisions have been a catalyst for Miami's demise.

Free Agency and Trades

Flozell Adams, OT, Dallas- This is a very likely scenario. Adams is a free agent, a Parcells favorite, and still has three or four years of solid football left in him. He made the Pro Bowl this year and would instantly help the offense start to turn things around.

Asante Samuel, CB, New England- While current starters Michael Lehan and Will Allen played fairly well last season considering the overall poor play of the Dolphins defense, their liabilities were hidden a little by Miami's inability to stop the run. Simply put, teams didn't have to test the perimeter, making them look better than they are. Samuel hasn't even been reported as being on the Dolphins radar, but he's one of the better players at his position, the Dolphins need him, and they have the cap room to sign him to that 10 year, $100 million contract he'll likely command.

Ken Hamlin, FS, Dallas- Hamlin made the Pro Bowl and will be wanting more money that Dallas will likely want to pay him. He's an unrestricted free agent and could upgrade a Dolphins secondary that was decimated last season by injuries and currently only has one viable starter at either safety position (Yeremiah Bell) who is coming off a season-ending injury. With the Dallas ties, expect Miami to pursue Hamlin.

Chad Johnson, WR, Bengals- This probably won't happen, but Johnson would fill a huge need for the Dolphins, and they might be able to get him for the late second round pick that they received from San Diego for Chris Chambers. It remains to be seen if Parcells would be willing to bring in an enigmatic WR like Ocho-Cinco, but if he did, the Dolphins would have some flexiblility with that first pick in the second round.

There are other subtle free agents out there that the Dolphins may pursue, such as CB J. Reeves of Dallas, but these are the most notable moves that I feel the Dolphins should make.

The Draft

First Round- Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College- Providing the Dolphins make the moves that I've mentioned above, the best thing for them to do is to quit playing around with the QB position and take the best QB prospect in this year's draft. Ryan has the smarts of Peyton Manning, the size, feet, and strength of Ben Roethlisberger, and the image to be the face of the franchise for the next 15 years. Sure, there are a lot of busts at this position, but Ryan looks to be as solid a choice as you can expect. The Dolphins should take this opportunity, unless they can accumulate more picks by moving down, but they must remain in the top ten to ensure getting a top defensive player. My pick is Ryan.

Second Round- Fred Davis, TE, USC- Davis is the best TE prospect in the draft this year, and the Dolphins need a reliable pass-catcher to go with Matt Ryan. If they can't get a WR in trades or Free Agency, the Dolphins will hope that James Hardy of Indiana falls that far (possible but not likely). The Dolphins have so many needs, that they will inevitably be ignoring needs at multiple positions. However, if they do what I've said here, and re-sign Rex Hadnot, their offense will at least be in place. Especially if they use their third round pick on an OG such as...

Third Round- Roy Schuening, OG, Oregon State- Schuening looks like a player and should be a good pick in round three. It's possible he'll slide to round four, but the Dolphins need more help on the interior line. Schuening has the right blend of strength and technique to be a solid starter in the league, and would challenge for a starting position right away.

Once again, I realize that this scenario ignores an aging defense with lots of holes at LB, and all along the DL. However, with so many holes, the Dolphins would be wise to get a nice core together on offense. The Dolphins can use the 2008 season to let the offense build and develop. Then next offseason can begin the defensive overhaul.

With this scenario, the Dolphins secondary will be vastly improved with the starters looking like:
Safety- Yeremiah Bell, Ken Hamlin Backups- Jason Allen, Traveris Tillman
Cornerback- Asante Samuel, Will Allen Nickel- Michael Lehan Dime- Jason Allen

And their offense will be set to develop, looking like:

QB- Matt Ryan (Bringing in a veteran for Ryan to learn from wouldn't be a bad idea)
RB- Ronnie Brown, Lorenzo Booker
WR- Chad Johnson, Ted Ginn Jr., Derrick Hagan (slot)
TE- Fred Davis
OT- Flozell Adams, Vernon Carey
OG- Rex Hadnot, Roy Schuening
C- Samson Satelle

This could develop...

Last Thing

What do you do with Zach Thomas and Jason Taylor? As a Dolphins fan, I love these two guys. If I am in charge of the Dolphins, the first thing I do is sit down with both players and find out what they want. If they want to go to a contendor, then I trade them for draft picks (Taylor could still warrant a first rounder). Although Thomas may have to just be released due to his health problems. If they want to stay, I draft developmental LB's late in the draft and ask Thomas to teach. Then I hire Thomas as my LB's coach after he retires. They deserve what they want. If Taylor wants to stick around, let him know what the intentions of the organization are. I hope that they're both in a Miami uniform next season, but I'll understand if they're not, and if they're treated with respect.

Next year... defense.

What's Best for Chad?

2008-02-06T12:13:00.000-05:00

Let's talk a little about the on-going situation with Chad Johnson...

NFL.com and ESPN.com, along with several other news sources, not to mention a certain interview with Ocho-Cinco himself have led us all to believe that Chad wants out of a Bengals uniform. Whether or not the Bengals will be willing to part with the enigmatic WR remains to be seen, and reports suggest that they'd be better off financially by letting Chad sit out all year, rather than trade or release him and absorb a huge 8 million plus cap hit. Still, ;with the right offer and Johnson undoubtedly probing management, we could very well see him in a new uniform come next season.

I'm curious as to where Chad might go...

Who Wants Him?

New England- Bill Belichik has spoken highly of Johnson throughout his career, as has Chad of Bill. If the Patriots succeed at resigning Randy Moss, then there's no way a trade for Johnson occurs. However, if Moss goes elsewhere seeking bigger dollars, then it's very possible that the Patriots try to work out a draft day deal for Johnson in the form of a second or third round pick. The Patriots have the 49ers first rounder, which they will likely try to deal for more picks. If that happens and Moss leaves, the Pats will be well-armed for a run at trading for Chad.

Baltimore- The Ravens don't shy away from high-profile WR's as they attempted to get Owens before he ended up with Philly. Even with Harbaugh (whose Philly roots probably remembers all too well the Owens fiasco) in charge, it's unlikely that they'll be scared off by Johnson's off-field antics. The Ravens need a big-play WR. If they draft one of the top QB's in the draft this year, they'll need to provide a big-play target, especially with Todd Heap and Mark Clayton coming off of injury-plagued seasons, and Derrick Mason getting older. Baltimore could offer the same kind of draft picks. However, it is unlikely that the Bengals will deal Johnson to a division rival like Baltimore.

Who Needs Him?

Miami- The Dolphins need a number one WR to pair up with electrifying speedster Ted Ginn Jr. Chad would provide the Dolphins with an instant upgrade at the position, and a reliable target for young QB John Beck or any other signal caller that the Fins decide to bring in. The Dolphins have San Diego's late second round pick in the draft, and that would be a great offer for Chad's services. A Chad-to-Miami trade may not be likely however with Bill Parcells' memory of Terrell Owens fresh in his mind. It's possible that Parcells looks past that, and sees Chad for the different WR that he is, but he also may choose not to risk bringing in someone who likely can't be one of "his guys."

Oakland- If Al Davis isn't soured by the Randy Moss experience, than I'm sure he'll be all ears in regard to the prospect of acquiring the super-talented Johnson. The Raiders have a high-third round pick to offer, and are in desperate need of a number one WR. Ronald Curry and Jerry Porter played well sparingly and last year's rookie Johnnie Higgins could still develop, however they all look like number two's, while Johnson would give them a legitimate star at WR that they've been lacking since Tim Brown's prime (no, Randy Moss and even an aging Jerry Rice didn't count). If Chad starts to really be shopped around, look for the Raiders to be a team with some interest.

Jacksonville- The Jaguars need a WR in the worst way. While some of their hodge-podge group looked okay at times this season, they lacked any kind of consistency at the position. Jack Del Rio should do something about this by offering a second round pick for Chad's services. A team that's really very close to contending for a title, and has a young, promising quarterback could benefit greatly from the addition of a top-notch player like Johnson. I haven't heard anything about the Jaguars expressing interest, but don't be surprised to see them on the short list if and when the time comes.

Washington- The Redskins need a top WR just as bad as anyone else. Gone is Al Saunders' complicated playbook, and hopefully with it Jason Campbell's struggles. Campbell is no doubt a player on the rise however, and would benefit greatly from the addition of a player of Chad's caliber. Additionally Daniel Snyder has proven time and time again that he's not afraid to overpay players, or trade draft picks for veterans. Sending over a pick or two for Chad's services could help to erase a few of Snyder's past errors.

Until the time comes, I guess we'll just have to wait and see, but I think that we may see something occur on Draft Day or before.

Mock 2008 NFL Draft 1

2008-01-30T12:14:00.000-05:00

Now that the Senior Bowl is over with, I’ve decided to do my first mock draft for 2008. My mock drafts are partially what I think teams will actually do, blended with what I think teams should do. I’ll do another mock after the combine, and then a three-round mock sometime right before the draft. The order is not official yet, and won’t be until coin flips are done, the Super Bowl is played, and other such events, but this is pretty close to how the order will actually be.

So here’s my first, first-round mock of the 2008 NFL Draft:

1 Miami
Chris Long/DE
Virginia
Most think the Dolphins will take DT Glenn Dorsey out of LSU, but Dorsey doesn’t fit a Parcells 3-4 defense. It can be argued that Long is an even better prospect, and is capable of playing End in either type of defensive system. If the Dolphins can’t trade down, Long is the best pick for them.

2 St. Louis
Jake Long/OT
Michigan
The Rams offense died after the offensive line suffered serious injuries, including one to top Left Tackle Orlando Pace. With Pace near retirement, the Rams need a guy like Long who can step in and anchor the line for the next decade.

3 Atlanta
Darren McFadden/RB
Arkansas
The Falcons need a QB, but with decent second and third round QB’s available in this draft, McFadden is just simply too good to pass up. Atlanta gets the best player in the draft, at a need position.

4 Oakland
Glenn Dorsey/DT
LSU
The Raiders get to replace Warren Sapp with the player that many believe should go number one overall. Dorsey would be great in the Raiders system, and should be a force on their line for the next 10 years.

5 Kansas City
Sedrick Ellis/DT
USC
The Chiefs should try to move down to get an offensive lineman, and they could go for a QB if they’re not sold on Brodie Croyle, but they’ve been searching for help at DT for ages, and after a strong Senior Bowl, Ellis showed he’s worthy of a top-5 pick.

6 N.Y. Jets
Matt Ryan/QB
Boston College
If I’m the Jets, I’m on the phone with the Bears, dangling Matt Ryan at this point. If they stay though, I think they’ll take him. They weren’t happy with Clemmons last year, and Ryan’s the top QB in this class.

7 New England
Desean Jackson/WR
California
Surprise pick! Jackson would be perfect for the Pats. Great return game, and everything Donte Stallworth isn’t. He’s still raw, but the Pats can afford the luxury pick. I think they trade out, but if they stay, don’t be surprised if they take a gamble on Jackson.

8 Baltimore
Brian Brohm/QB
Louisville
OT Ryan Clady is a possibility here too, but they’re grooming Marshall Yanda at OT, so the Ravens take the second best QB in the class and fill their biggest need.

9 Cincinnatti
Vernon Gholston/DE
Ohio State
Gholston seems versatile enough to play for the Bengals, and they need defensive help badly. The best scenario for them is to trade down a few spots and draft Keith Rivers. If they stay put though, they simply draft the best defensive player available. They need help almost everywhere on that side of the ball.

10 New Orleans
Kenny Phillips/S
Miami
Phillips is the best secondary player available at this juncture, and though the Saints need a Corner really bad, Phillips will make things happen in ways that nobody in the Saints secondary is currently capable of. Phillips will upgrade the entire secondary and will be a great pick at 10.

11 Buffalo
Kentwan Balmer/DT
North Carolina
The Bills need a big man in the middle and Balmer appears to be a guy who can be a devastating run-stuffer at the next level. He can play in either system, but seems best suited to go to a 4-3, which the Bills use. This may be a little high for Balmer, but I believe it’s a great fit.

12 Denver
Ryan Clady/OT
Boise State
The Broncos would’ve liked to see one of the top three DT’s fall to them, but they’ll happily take the second best OT in the draft. Denver needs help on their O-Line, and Clady looks like he could be a good one. He’d be a great value pick for Mike Shanahan if he falls this far.

13 Carolina
Samuel Baker/OT
USC
Want to know how to stifle the production of two good RB’s? Don’t open holes for them. The Panthers O-Line is really bad, and Baker could improve it almost immediately. He needs to bulk up, but his technique should allow him to contribute immediately and his potential is sky high.

14 Chicago
Marcus Kelly/WR
Oklahoma
Kelly isn’t a sure thing by any means, and the Bears have a lot of needs, but Muhsin Muhammad isn’t near the WR he used to be, and Bernard Berrian appears to be pretty one-dimensional. Kelly is a big guy who could start on day one. Andre Woodson is a possibility here, as is Mike Jenkins, but I think the Bears will take the ultra talented Kelly.

15 Detroit
Mike Jenkins/CB
South Florida
This is an ideal situation for the Lions. If Jenkins falls this far, they’d be crazy not to take him. Detroit’s defense was terrible last year, and there wasn’t a single corner who stepped up to take the place of the departed Dre Bly. Jenkins is a great cover guy who will start right away.

16 Arizona
Keith Rivers/OLB
USC
Arizona has a lot of needs, especially on defense, so it makes sense for them to take the best remaining player on that side of the ball. Rivers can start immediately and is the best LB prospect in this year’s draft.

17 Minnesota
Derrick Harvey/DE
Florida
Unbelievably, the Vikings still need a pass-rushing DE. Harvey is a little undersized, but is quick and could develop into a Dwight Freeney style pass-rusher for a Minnesota defense that badly needs one.

18 Houston
Aqib Talib/CB
Kansas
The Texans need a corner opposite Dunta Robinson, and Aqib Talib seems to be the kind of player who can provide that consistency on the other side of the field. The Texans need help on the O-Line, but there really isn’t value there at this point, and the RB class is too deep this year to pass up a talent like Talib.

19 Philadelphia
Limas Sweed/WR
Texas
Philly will be entertaining offers from teams that want to move ahead of Tampa Bay to get Andre Woodson, but if they stay at 19, Sweed would be the best option. Kevin Curtis and Reggie Brown are both number 2 receivers, and Philly needs a number one. Sweed could be that guy.

20 Tampa Bay
Andre Woodson/QB
Kentucky
Woodson has a live arm, and Jon Gruden likely will know how to use it. WR is a possibility here as well, with Joey Galloway and Ike Hilliard aging. If that’s the case, then the pick could be…

21 Washington
Mario Manningham/WR
Michigan
I’m not sold on Manningham yet, but he certainly seems worthy of a first round pick, based on potential. The Redskins need a WR, and Manningham has shown more than the other available players, including Early Doucet. Other possibilities include Pat Simms, Leodis McKelvin, and Reggie Smith, as help in the secondary and along the DL is needed.

22 Dallas
Jeff Otah/OT
Pittsburgh
Flozell Adams isn’t getting any younger, and may leave via free agency. Otah has the potential to be a very good starter in this league, and Dallas needs to think about the long-term protection of their golden boy, Tony Romo. They could go WR here, or even take one of the talented RB’s, but I think they do the conservative thing and take the next best OL in the draft.

23 Pittsburgh
Felix Jones/RB
Arkansas
Nothing against Willie Parker, but can you imagine the ultra-talented duo of Parker and Felix Jones in the Steeler backfield? The Steelers would benefit greatly by a RBBC approach, and Jones would be a great compliment to Parker. He’s explosive, but also has what it takes to run hard between the tackles.

24 Tennessee
Early Doucet/WR
LSU
No team needs a WR more than the Titans. Period. Doucet may not be any kind of sure thing, but he’s got the potential to be a Hall of Famer in the NFL. The Titans should view the risk/reward and decide to grab him in this back-end of the first.

25 Seattle
Jonathan Stewart/RB
Oregon
Stewart is fast, powerful, and explosive. Shaun Alexander is beat up and out of gas. Maurice Morris is best suited in a third down role. This couldn’t be a better fit, and the Seahawks will gladly take Stewart if he falls this far down the draft board.

26 Jacksonville
Calais Campbell/DE
Miami
The Jaguars can afford to take the best available player. In my eyes, that’s Campbell and Rashard Mendenhall. With Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew in the backfield, Campbell is the pick. Campbell is tall and powerful and he will be an instant role player. He’ll keep the rotation fresh, and apply a consistent pass-rush.

27 San Diego
Pat Simms/DT
Auburn
The Chargers need some depth on the interior of their very stout DL. Simms will help keep the rotation fresh and will develop into a very solid starter. San Diego could also go with a receiver, a corner, or a middle linebacker, but Simms seems to be the best value here.

28 Dallas
Rashard Mendenhall/RB
Illinois
Dallas will be thrilled to see Mendenhall fall this far. They could be thinking secondary help or receiver, but with Julius Jones likely to leave as a free agent this off-season, the Cowboys will be happy to let Mendenhall pair up with Marion Barber to make an even more formidable duo.

29 San Francisco
James Hardy/WR
Indiana
Hardy is certainly not a sure thing, but the 49ers’ biggest needs are WR, DL, and OL, and Hardy is the best available of those positions, and a good value pick here. New Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz will no doubt want to upgrade the WR corps, and Hardy will be able to contribute right away in multiple receiver sets, maybe even earning a starting job as a rookie.

30 Green Bay
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie/CB
Tennessee State
Cromartie had an outstanding Senior Bowl, he’s got great size, he’s a ball hawk, and he’s aggressive. He seems like a perfect fit to succeed Al Harris in a couple of years. Green Bay would be wise to draft a corner to groom behind their aging veterans, and Cromartie could become scary good as he develops into a complete player.

31 N.Y. Giants
Dan Connor/OLB
Penn State
Connor is a little undersized, but he’s a playmaker and he’s from Linebacker University. The Giants have been looking for a solid OLB for quite sometime, and with Connor’s quick decisions and intelligent reads, he could be that guy for quite some time if he falls this far.

Cameron to Ravens

2008-01-23T15:46:00.000-05:00

Let's talk a little about the probable hire of former Dolphins Head Coach Cam Cameron as the likely Offensive Coordinator and/or Assistant Head Coach of the Baltimore Ravens...

Cameron bombed in his first year as an NFL head coach. The Dolphins won only one game and played just as bad as their record suggests. But this isn't what got Cameron fired from the Dolphins. The team was plagued by injuries and the lack of depth hurt them badly. The defense also suddenly looked old, and former Head Coach Nick Saban left the secondary in complete disarray, complete with an aging and only adequate corner (Will Allen), a probable first round bust (Jason Allen), a slow corner coming off a sophmore slump (Travis Daniels), a revolving door at safety and only one solid starter (Yeremiah Bell) who tore his achilles and was put on IR after the first game of the season. The injuries to RB Ronnie Brown in the midst of a breakout season and stop-gap QB Trent Green didn't help either.

It also wasn't just the hiring of Bill Parcells, who likely didn't see the dull Cameron as one of "his guys." While this probably played a role in the firing, it wasn't the only reason. Parcells can co-exist with people if he sees the ability for players/coaches to develop into a system that can win. To be a true "Parcells guy" all you really need to do is love football, which Cameron does. When Parcells took over the Patriots, he was known as someone who believed in a strong defense and ground game. Then he drafted a strong-armed QB out of Washington named Drew Bledsoe and took the Pats to the Super Bowl while setting then single-season records for passing attempts. He saw a way to win with a player that wasn't the prototype of one of "his guys" and he went with it. Parcells could've gotten past the dull persona of Cameron in the spirit of winning football games.

The thing that got Cameron fired after only one season was the highly questionable personnel calls that he made during his brief tenure. The drafting of Ted Ginn Jr. could work out, and he showed a lot of promise, but he's yet to be the difference maker that you expect from the ninth overall selection. John Beck doesn't look good yet and has Dolphins fans still wishing that Brady Quinn was in a Miami uniform. The trading of Chris Chambers, cutting Culpepper after only one season, bringing in aging veterans Trent Green and Joey Porter (Porter wasn't cheap either), and then cutting Keith Traylor at the end of the season over a confrontation all contributed to a year of questionable calls that eventually resulted in Cameron and GM Randy Mueller getting the axe, and rightfully so in most people's opinion.

So what's the point of this? The Dolphins offense did improve under Cameron, they just simply didn't have the personnel to keep it going, particularly after Brown and Green went down and Chambers was traded. The Dolphins lack talent on offense and youth on defense. Cameron is a great offensive mind, he just shouldn't have any say in personnel decisions.

What the Ravens get, is a very good offensive coordinator, coming in to work with a talented core of players. Willis McGahee doesn't have the soft hands that Cameron would surely like him to, but Musa Smith does. McGahee does run hard though, and he has enough speed, elusiveness, and vision to excel greatly in a Cameron system. Troy Smith is an undersized quarterback with an erratic arm and questionable decision-making. It'll be interesting to see if Cameron can bring him along like he did another undersized QB named Drew Brees. However, it's more likely that the Ravens will bring in another rookie for Cameron to work with. Brian Brohm is a possibility in the first round, but don't rule out some of the second and third round prospects like Chad Henne, Colt Brennan, and Joe Flacco, among others. The Ravens have some talented young WR's in Devard Darling, Mark Clayton, and Demetrius Williams... all just looking for someone to coach them up to their potential. Additionally, Cameron will try to get Todd Heap back in shape, to provide whoever starts at quarterback with a reliable pass catcher. Cameron will put all these pieces together and create some excitement that has been poorly lacking from the Baltimore Ravens offense since Vinny Testaverde was there about a decade ago. Basically, the point is that this is a good hire for the Ravens. If they bring back Defensive Coordinator Rex Ryan, then they will have two of the most talented assistant coaches in the league and will undoubtedly show improvement. Cameron should stay out of free agency, trading, and the draft room, but that has nothing to do with his ability to coach players and create an effective offense. Leave the personnel decisions up to the man in charge, Ozzie Newsome, and Cameron will prove to be successful in purple and black.

100 Predictions

2008-01-18T15:16:00.001-05:00

Every Year I make 100 Predictions and then I see how I did. My goal in the unpredictable NFL is 65%, so let's see how I did for 2007:

1) Edgerrin James will eclipse 1,300 total yards and be a valuable part of an improved Cardinals offense. James had 1,426 total yards. “right”
2) Anquan Boldin will outproduce Larry Fitzgerald Fitz did great, Boldin was hurt. It can be argued that Boldin might have done it, had he been healthy, but I’ll still call this a “wrong.”
3) Arizona’s defense will be greatly improved this season. AZ finished 29th in the league in 2006 and 17th in 2007. “right”
4) Joey Harrington will play better than people expected. I was half-right on this one. Harrington won a few games for them, but Petrino just quit on him and the team. I still think that he’d have done better if given more of a shot, but I’ll still call this one a “wrong.”
5) Roddy White will have a breakout season. 1,202 yards and 6 touchdowns.“right”
6) Steve McNair is washed up and will show it this season. Got hurt and was dreadful when he was healthy. “right”
7) This is Brian Billick’s last year as HC of the Ravens. Bingo! “right”
8) Troy Smith will not start a single game this season, regardless of how bad Steve McNair plays. Whoops! And I was doing so well with the Ravens. “wrong.”
9) Willis McGahee will be an improvement over Jamal Lewis. McGahee this year= 1,207 Rushing Yards. Lewis in 2006= 1,132 rushing yards. Good enough. “right”
10) Lee Evans will be a top-10 WR. I cry every time I think of the numbers: Evans-1 catch, 3 yards. This year, it seems like I heard that a lot. “wrong.”
11) J.P. Losman will have a breakout year. Did I say breakout? I meant broken… “wrong.”
12) Marshawn Lynch will rush for over 1,000 yards. 1,115 to be exact. “right”
13) DeAngelo Williams will be more productive than DeShaun Foster. Williams- 892 Total yards and 5 touchdowns. Foster- 1,058 total yards and 4 TD’s. “wrong.”
14) Jake Delhomme will not start more than half the season. This one is incorrect because I thought he’d be ineffective, but he got hurt. He was playing very well prior to his injury, and there’s no reason to think he’d have been benched. “wrong.”
15) Cedric Benson will suck. Not the most elegant statement, but bingo! “right”
16) The Bears will miss the playoffs. Here I was just playing the odds. “right”
17) Grossman will start less than half the season. He started 7 games. At least he’s reliable for something I guess. “right”
18) There’s no way Devin Hester does anything close to what he did last year. Another monumental blunder by The Niles! “wrong.”
19) T.J. Houshmandzadeh will build upon his breakout season. 112 catches, 1,143 yards, 12 TD’s. Just because it’s obvious doesn’t make it any less true. “right”
20) Carson Palmer will lead the league in passing. Whoops! He looked a little lost sometimes, and that’s very worrisome. “wrong.”
21) Rudi Johnson will continue to be one of the most consistent players in the league, with over 1,200 yards and double-digit touchdowns. Even when he was healthy, he didn’t look capable of that. “wrong.”
22) Braylon Edwards will have a breakout year. Bingo! “right”
23) Jamal Lewis will surprise people and bring some balance to the Browns running game. It’s hard to argue this one. Jamal looked like he still had some life left in him. “right”
24) Romeo Crennell will be looking for work next offseason. Couldn’t be more wrong on this one. “wrong.”
25) Leigh Bodden will establish himself as one of the premier shutdown corners. Not exactly. 6 picks was nice, but he made a lot of mistakes and struggled badly with consistency. “wrong.”
26) Dallas will win the NFC East. Didn’t see the Giants knocking them off in the playoffs though. “right”
27) Julius Jones will outproduce Marion Barber. Yeah, I’m embarrassed to be reading this too. “wrong.”
28) Tony Romo will have a breakout season. I was right about him… “right”
29) Jason Witten will see his role slowly taken over by second year player Anthony Fasano. …but wrong about him “wrong.”
30) Ken Hamlin will not help to solve Dallas’ coverage issues. 13th in the league this year and 24th last year. I still don’t think Hamlin helped as much as the improved pass rush and the improved play of Anthony Henry… but I admit when I’m wrong. “wrong.”
31) Travis Henry will have a huge season! Oh how foolish I can be. “wrong.”
32) Brandon Marshall will establish himself as a solid number 2 in the league. I’m counting this one correct… even though he did a lot better than that. “right”
33) D.J. Williams shouldn’t play MLB. While it’s apparent that Williams is better suited on the outside, he played well enough this season in the middle to prove me wrong. I do think that the Broncos would be better keeping him outside though. “wrong.”
34) The Lions will win the NFC North. Do I get credit for the first half of the season? “wrong.”
35) Calvin Johnson is still just a rookie WR. That’s exactly what he was. A rookie who looks to develop. “right”
36) The Packers will be competitive, but not enough to make the playoffs without any kind of running game. I was wrong twice on this one, but I’m only counting once! “wrong.”
37) Greg Jennings will outproduce Donald Driver, as another Green Bay WR passes the torch. Sharpe-Brooks-Freeman-Driver-Jennings. Good to see him play so well. Fantasy-Wise, he was the steal of many drafts. “right”
38) Brett Favre should’ve retired two or three years ago. The rest of the NFC North agrees with me anyway! “wrong.”
39) The Texans will make the playoffs. So close on this one! “wrong.”
40) Andre Johnson will take another step toward being an elite WR. Even though he was hurt for a large part of the season, I still think I was right on this one.“right”
41) Ahman Green will rejuvenate his career under Gary Kubiak and provide stability to the Texans’ running game. Wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong, wrong, “wrong.”
42) The Colts will win the AFC South again. Just because it’s obvious doesn’t mean it didn’t happen. “right”
43) Peyton Manning will notch another 4,000 yard season. 4,040 to be exact. “right”
44) Joseph Addai will not miss Dominic Rhodes and have a breakout season. The prediction everybody made. “right”
45) Reggie Wayne will out-produce Marvin Harrison this season. I didn’t think it’d go down the way it did though. “right”
46) Dallas Clark will be one of the top TE’s this season now that he’s healthy. Anyone who watched the playoffs last year saw this one coming. “right”
47) Byron Leftwich will not start for long in Jacksonville. Or at all! “right”
48) David Garrard is not the answer. If the question is, how do the Jaguars fail? “wrong.”
49) Maurice Jones-Drew will push Fred Taylor out of the way this year. How is it that Taylor stays healthy now that he’s older when he never used to last more than 8 games a year? “wrong.”
50) The Jaguars will continue to suffer at the WR position. Again, just because it’s obvious doesn’t mean I was wrong. “right”
51) Brodie Croyle is not the answer. He still could prove me wrong, but I doubt it. “right”
52) Larry Johnson will win the rushing title this year. Yup, rushing into early retirement! “wrong.”
53) Dwayne Bowe will give Kansas City a look at what a real number one WR is, as he contends for rookie of the year honors. I had a feeling about this guy. “right”
54) This is Herman Edwards’ last year with the Chiefs. It doesn’t look like I got this one right so far. “wrong.”
55) Miami sucks. Not poetic, but you don’t need to be with this kind of awful. “right”
56) Trent Green won’t make it through half a season. I really hope he retires. “right”
57) Ted Ginn will be a complete bust. He showed a lot of promise. Maybe not ninth overall pick promise, but promise nonetheless. “wrong.”
58) Lorenzo Booker will be everything Travis Minor wasn’t. He sure looked it late in the season to me. “right”
59) No matter how bad Miami sucks, they’ll still beat the Jets this year. “wrong.”
60) Tarvarius Jackson has a long way to go. I think that’s accurate. “right”
61) Sydney Rice will show that he will be everything that Troy Williamson wasn’t. I think that the jury is still out on this one, but signs are pointing to me being correct on it. I could understand throwing this question out though. “right”
62) The Vikings will once again be near the top in Rushing Defense. 1st to be exact. “right”
63) Randy Moss won’t finish with more than 1,100 yards and 8 touchdowns. Words do not express how wrong I truly was on this one. “wrong.”
64) The Patriots will win the AFC East, but not the Super Bowl. We’ll see…but probably “wrong.”
65) Reggie Bush will build upon his late season accomplishments. Nope, Nope, Nope, Nope, Nope! “wrong.”
66) Devery Henderson will emerge as a big time WR. Big time dropper is more appropriate it seems. “wrong.”
67) Jason David is a Tampa-2 Corner, and won’t be worth the money the Saints gave him in their system. Another one that was pretty easy to call. “right”
68) Eli will just get from bad to worse. Looked right until a few weeks ago. “wrong.”
69) Michael Strahan should’ve retired. Tony Romo thinks I was right.. “wrong.”
70) Brandon Jacobs will be just fine replacing Tiki Barber. Even though he was hurt, I think I can call this one a “right”
71) The Jets are a bad team that luckily made the playoffs last season. “right”
72) Thomas Jones will break 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns. 1,119 and 1… only 1 freakin’ TD! Darn! “wrong.”
73) Jerricho Cotchery is better than Lavernous Coles. Cotchery- 1,130, 2 TD; Coles- 646, 6 TD. More TD’s and less games, but I still think I’m right. “right”
74) The Raiders will have a top ten defense and a bottom ten offense. 22nd and 25th, right on offense… “wrong.”
75) Lamont Jordan will have a great year. Or maybe just a great start. “wrong.”
76) JaMarcuss Russell will be a non-factor this year. Bingo! “right”
77) The Eagles will not repeat as NFC East Champs. “right”
78) McNabb will never be the same again. Sure doesn’t look like it. “right”
79) Big Ben is ready to make the next step. Sure did look like it. “right”
80) Santonio Holmes will out-produce Hines Ward with another WR passing of the torch. Holmes- 942, 8 TD; Ward- 732, 7 TD whew! “right”
81) Tomlinson will not eclipse 16 touchdowns this year. 18… only 15 rushing though… “wrong.”
82) The Chargers will miss the playoffs. Whoops! “wrong.”
83) Vincent Jackson will have a breakout season. Not quite yet, but I think maybe next year. “wrong.”
84) The 49ers offense will miss Norv Turner. This was a big-time accurate prediction. “right”
85) Darrell Jackson will be no better than Antonio Bryant was in 2006. I don’t even need to look at the stats. “right”
86) Shaun Alexander will return to Pro Bowl form. Only if he’s 50th on the alternate list. “wrong.”
87) D.J. Hackett will be the Seahawks’ leading WR. Whoops again! “wrong.”
88) The Seahawks will win a very competitive NFC West. Even though I said competitive, I’m still right! “right”
89) Steven Jackson will be the top fantasy running back in 2007. Who knows if he and most of his offensive line hadn’t fought injuries all year “wrong.”
90) Adam Carriker will contend for Defensive Rookie of the Year. He had 2 sacks and he showed flashes. He could be great down the line, but he wasn’t great this year. “wrong.”
91) Tampa Bay will win the NFC South. Oh yeah, I called it! “right”
92) Cadillac Williams will contend for comeback player of the year. Maybe next year I guess… “wrong.”
93) Maurice Stovall will prove to be a solid number two WR. Oops! “wrong.”
94) Vince Young will regress. I think he did. “right”
95) The Titans will miss the playoffs. They barely squeezed in. “wrong.”
96) Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts will finish with very similar numbers. So wrong that it hurts… “wrong.”
97) The Redskins will at least contend for a playoff spot. This was kind of a shot in the dark, thinking the Giants and Eagles would suck, but right all the same. “right”
98) The Super Bowl will be Indy over Dallas. Wrong, but not extremely far off. “wrong.”
99) Bill Parcells will return to the NFL after one year off. I called this one! “right”
100) The MVP of the league will be Peyton Manning. Not a bad pick, even if it didn’t turn out to be right. “wrong.”

Total Right: 50
Total Wrong: 50
Percentage: 50%

Unbelievable that I was a perfect 50%!
My goal is always 65%, but there’s always next year!

Who's Out?

2007-12-28T08:55:00.001-05:00

Let's talk a little about the coaches that will probably be fired following the final week of the season...

Every year, the final whistle of week 17 signals the final whistle on a number of NFL coaches around the league with their respective teams. In today's NFL, development and rebuilding are only acceptable for two to three years at the most in the minds of owners, and if the team isn't winning, the coach gets the blame. Let's take a look at some of the coaches who just might be looking for work after the regular season ends this weekend.

John Fox, Carolina Panthers- Fox has been a great coach for the Panthers over the years, leading them to a Super Bowl loss against the Patriots in 2004. However, his team consistently underachieves. It seems as though every season, they're considered one of the contenders prior to week one, and then finish as one of the disappointments. It's true that few coaches have had to deal with the same injury issues as Fox has over the years (this year it's been a QB carousel due to injuries), but eventually that excuse only goes so far. At this point, it may be time for a change in Carolina, and I think Fox will be out. Fox, a Parcells disciple, might find himself with Miami in some role next season if he is let go, and will no doubt help the team. The one thing that might save his job in Carolina is the impressive development of undrafted rookie QB Matt Moore, who is showing signs that he could turn into something very special.

Marvin Lewis, Cincinnati Bengals- Lewis is a defensive genius who has yet to create an adequate defense with the Bengals to match their potent offense. The Bengals team was wildly underwhelming this season, and is now looking to try and beat a hapless Dolphins team just to save face. While Lewis is a very good coach and has done wonderful things for the franchise, it's hard to imagine the team keeping him around for another season. Lewis is sure to find a job elsewhere as a defensive coordinator, and possible as a head coach.

Cam Cameron, Miami Dolphins- No coach has had a rougher season than first year head coach Cam Cameron. While generally speaking, a coach gets a pass in his first season, Cameron may wind up being an exception. The Dolphins have made one questionable call after another since Cameron and GM Randy Mueller teamed up last year, and now their about to finish the worst season in franchise history. On top of all that, new executive Bill Parcells has been hired, and will have control of personnel. Parcells has no ties to Cameron, and will not hesitate to pull the axe out if he doesn't seem to be one of "his guys." It'll be very interesting to see what Parcells does come next week. The question remains, could a win over the disappointing Bengals in week 17 provide just enough hope for Cameron to keep his job? We'll see...

Scott Linehan, St. Louis Rams- Linehan is only in his second year, so he has some room for error, but it's hard to ignore the fact that his super talented Rams have been super disappointing since he took over. While he has suffered big injuries to key players this season, the results even when the marquee players are active have been a little underwhelming. Linehan will probably have another year to try and make things work, but I wouldn't be surprised to see his head on the chopping block come next week.

Brian Billick, Baltimore Ravens- Billick was assured by the Ravens that he would be back next year, so he probably won't lose his job next week. However, I think that of all the teams in the league, the Ravens need a new head coach the most. Billick hasn't been able to put together any kind of offense in Baltimore, and the vaunted defense should mostly be credited to ace defensive coordinator Rex Ryan. The Ravens should fire Billick, promote Ryan, and bring in a stud offensive coordinator. Even though Billick got the word he was staying a few weeks ago, I still wouldn't be surprised to see him go next week, as the Ravens have just gotten worse since he was given that assurance.

Herman Edwards, Kansas City Chiefs- Edwards might stick around, as aspects of the Chiefs have improved under him (defense namely) and they are in a rebuilding phase, trying to find stability at the QB position. If Edwards and the organization see eye-to-eye on the development of QB Brodie Croyle, then Edwards might be able to stick around. However, if the team feels as though they aren't moving in the right direction, Edwards may very well find himself searching for work elsewhere.

Mike Nolan, San Francisco 49ers- Nolan's 49ers have really taken a step back this season. It could be because of the departure of Norv Turner, the injury to QB Alex Smith, or th inconsistency of the pass catchers, but the bottom line is that the 49ers played like a lesser team in 2007 than they did in 2006. Also, Nolan had a public feud of sorts with the young QB Smith, whom the team invested a lot of money into by drafting him first overall in 2005. Nolan will probably get another chance with the improved play of the defense and the "rebuilding" label still on the team, but it wouldn't surprise me to see the 49ers move in a new direction.

Andy Reid, Philadelphia Eagles- Reid probably won't be fired, but perhaps he should be. The Eagles have underachieved, and there always seems to be some sort of off-field issues brewing. Reid is a fine coach, but it may be time for him to move on to somewhere else, and it may be time for the Eagles to move on with someone else. This isn't going to happen I'm sure, but if I were the owner...

The Dolphins Could've Been...

2007-12-26T08:48:00.000-05:00

Let's talk a little about what the Dolphins could have been...

The Dolphins have done a terrible job in the NFL draft over the past five or six years. Really, they've drafted poorly for longer than that, including notable first round busts Yatil Green and John Avery, but the last five or six years are the root cause of why the team is so bad now. Wannstedt and Saban both preferred to trade their picks away for veterans in an effort to try to keep the team competitive, and the team got old as a result. Those valuable lost (and poor) draft picks over that time span should be the backbone of the team right now. However, they are instead represented by misses and retirees, not to mention a certain traded second round draft pick that was cut after only one injury-ridden season (Daunte Culpepper). I thought it would be interesting to see what the Dolphins could have been. Going back to 2001, I will be re-drafting for the Dolphins to see where they could've been had they drafted wisely, and not traded away so many picks. I won't re-draft every pick since then, but I will redo the questionable calls they've made throughout the years.

Let's start with the first two picks of 2001. Ignoring WR and QB (two big needs at the time) Miami took risky DB Jamar Fletcher at pick 26 in the first round. Fletcher was a questionable call at the time, and many experts felt they had made an error. Fletcher was a backup for a little while, and has since bounced around other teams, never making a significant impact. Four picks later, the Colts drafted the player the Dolphins should've drafted: a talented young WR out of Miami by the name of Reggie Wayne. So re-doing history, with the 26th pick in the 2001 draft, the Dolphins draft WR Reggie Wayne.

In the second round, they still needed to pick a WR, so they took Chris Chambers who has been fine, but not exceptional. This was an adequate second round pick. However, with Wayne coming to them in the first round, this pick has to be changed. With needed depth along the DL, OL, and the underwhelming Jay Fiedler at QB, these positions deserved the most attention. So, with the 52nd selection in the 2001 draft, the Dolphins select DT Shaun Rogers in order to groom a replacement for the aging Daryl Gardner and Tim Bowens.

On to 2002. Ricky Williams was an outstanding back, but few players are worth two first round picks. The Dolphins should've used a little research to see the personality issues Williams has, and should've known to never give up two number ones for any player short of Peyton Manning or Tom Brady. So in my re-drafting, the Dolphins offered a first round pick and were rejected. For added fun, Williams went to the Patriots instead and single-handedly kept them from winning any more Super Bowls, ever.

So, with the Dolphins first round pick in 2002, they select Cornerback Lito Sheppard, to improve an aging secondary and to groom behind veterans Sam Madison and Patrick Surtain.

In the 3rd round in 2002, Miami selected Seth McKinney, who was questionable at the time. They ignored a player due to obtaining Ricky Williams, who I believe they would've taken had they not done that trade. Therefore, with the 90th selection in the 2002 draft, the Dolphins select RB Brian Westbrook out of Villanova. Westbrook would've been everything that Travis Minor never showed he could be, and it's realistic to assume that had there been a talent evaluator with the Dolphins during that time, and had Ricky Williams not been a part of the team, Westbrook would've been the pick.

In 2003, the Dolphins didn't have their first round pick, again due to the Ricky Williams fiasco. Also, without taking Seth McKinney, the Dolphins don't have a center to build on. So with the Dolphins 1st round pick in 2003, they select the most polished offensive lineman available, Jeff Faine out of Notre Dame to provide some steady play in the middle of their shaky OL.

In the second round of the 2003 draft, the Dolphins made a questionable call on LB Eddie Moore. This call was questionable from the get-go, therefore, it will be re-drafted. With the 49th overall selection in 2003, the Dolphins select physical WR Anquan Boldin to put opposite stellar Reggie Wayne in their increasingly potent offense.

In 2004, the Dolphins took Vernon Carey in the first round. He hasn't been the force that he should've been yet, but he was the right pick at the time and still is. However, the rest of this draft was a trading mess! They traded pick after pick for other picks and wound up without a pick again until the fourth round. This was a mistake. It was viewed as one then, and it's viewed as one now. In the re-draft, the Dolphins did the right thing and just kept the picks they had. So in the second round, they took RB Greg Jones, a bruiser who can carry the ball at the goal line, and in the third round, they took Matt Schaub, a talented developmental QB out of Virginia.

In the fourth round, the gambled when they shouldn't have on CB Will Poole. He was a questionable call at the time and has battled injuries ever since. I remember liking a guy out of Texas much better during that time than Poole, so I'm changing this pick. Had I been in charge, I would've made sure that the Miami Dolphins used their 4th round pick on CB Nathan Vasher.

The development of Vasher and Sheppard has made Patrick Surtain expendable, so now it is acceptable for them to trade him to KC in 2005. It is not acceptable for them to trade Adewale Ogunleye for Marty Booker and a 3rd round pick, or for them to trade away their 2005 draft picks. Therefore, we are left with Miami having an extra 2nd and 3rd rounder in the 2005 draft, and otherwise all of their other picks, which were priorly used to get a bunch of garbage running backs after the Ricky Williams retirement debacle.

So with the Dolphins first round pick in the 2005 draft, no longer needing RB Ronnie Brown and probably not having the second overall selection now that they have a better team than they did, they select OT Jamaal Brown to anchor the left side of the line. With their two second round selections, they still select Matt Roth, who was a good fit at the time, but they also now get MLB Lofa Tatupu to pair along with Zach Thomas in their 3-4 scheme. In the third round, they still select OLB Channing Crowder to give the LB position a complete overhaul.

In 2006, Nick Saban made a huge blunder in selecting Safety Jason Allen with the Dolphins first round pick. While he may still turn into a decent pick, Allen was a huge reach at the time causing Miami fans to scratch their heads. Instead, the Dolphins select OG Davin Joseph to further help with the OL.

They also traded their second round pick for Daunte Culpepper, which is not the case with Matt Schaub in place. Instead they use that pick to draft CB Devin Hester to help in the return game and to provide depth in the secondary.

In 2007, new Head Coach Cam Cameron and GM Randy Mueller stunned the football world by selecting Ted Ginn Jr. and John Beck in the first two rounds. Prior to the draft, the Texans are looking for a QB and would like Matt Schaub. His value is higher and the Dolphins get an extra first round pick out of the deal. Jeff Garcia is a free agent, so the Dolphins are quick to sign him and draft with the pick gained from the Texans, QB Brady Quinn out of Notre Dame. This is what should've happened to begin with. The other first round choice is used on Safety Reggie Nelson out of Florida. Then the second round pick that was originally used on Beck, is now used on DE Ikaika Alama-Francis out of Hawaii to develop behind Jason Taylor, Vonnie Holliday, and Matt Roth.

So here's the Dolphins depth chart, as it could've been in the 2007 season:

QB: Jeff Garcia, Brady Quinn

RB: Brian Westbrook, Lorenzo Booker

FB: Greg Jones

WR: Reggie Wayne, Anquan Boldin, Derek Hagan

TE: Randy McMichael, Justin Peele

OT: Jamaal Brown, Vernon Carey, L.J. Shelton

OG: Davin Joseph, Samson Satele, Rex Hadnot

C: Jeff Faine

K: Jay Feeley

P: Brandon Fields

DE: Jason Taylor, Matt Roth, Ikaika Alama-Francis

DT: Shaun Rogers, Vonnie Holliday, Rodrique Wright

OLB: Channing Crowder, Joey Porter, Derek Pope

MLB: Zach Thomas, Lofa Tatupu

CB: Lito Sheppard, Nathan Vasher, Sam Madison, Travis Daniels

FS: Reggie Nelson, Yeremiah Bell

SS: Travares Tillman

KR/PR: Devin Hester

Oh, what could've been...

Top Ten Fantasy Quarterbacks

2007-07-31T13:09:00.000-05:00

Let's talk a little fantasy football...

Here are my top ten fantasy quarterbacks for the upcoming 2007 season:

1. Peyton Manning, Indianapolis Colts

No surprise here. Manning has been the most consistent fantasy quarterback over the last several seasons. He’s durable, talented, and has a great supporting cast. He’s also one of the most cerebral quarterbacks in the league, thriving on making adjustments and finding holes in the defense. With the addition of first round draft pick WR Anthony Gonzales from Ohio State, Manning has a third receiver in the mold of Brandon Stokely. Reggie Wayne and Marvin Harrison are still arguably the best WR tandem in the league. The only concern is at Left Tackle, where long-time starter Tarik Glenn has retired. Filling in will likely be rookie Tony Ugoh, who still has a lot to learn. Still, with plenty of weapons at his disposal and his immense talent and dependability, Manning is the top QB on my board. He should be taken late in the first or early in the second round of most fantasy drafts.

2. Carson Palmer, Cincinnati Bengals

Palmer was coming off a devastating knee injury last season, and still wound up throwing 28 touchdowns and over 4,000 yards. He has a great tandem of receivers at his disposal and should come out strong this year. Palmer is one of the few quarterbacks in the league who is very likely to top 30 touchdown passes, and he should be the only other quarterback worth drafting as early as the second round. He has the fewest question marks, and could very well be the top player at his position in fantasy points in 2007.

3. Tom Brady, New England Patriots

Brady may not finish in the top five quarterbacks this year, but he’s almost a lock to finish in the top ten. He also has the potential to finish first. Brady holds down the number three spot because outside of Manning, he is the quarterback with the least question marks. He is durable, extremely talented, and for the first time in his career he has a plethora of talented pass catchers to work with. He is almost sure to start all 16 games and has the ability to put up huge number in any game. Additionally, nobody is better at adding 60 yards and a touchdown in the last two minutes of a game.

4. Marc Bulger, St. Louis Rams

Equiped with a new contract, a versatile rookie fullback (Brian Leonard) and a new reliable WR in Drew Bennett, Bulger is poised to have another huge season. Scott Linehan’s offense will allow Bulger to make a lot of plays, and Stephen Jackson and newly acquired TE Randy McMichael give him a pair of excellent check-down options. Bulger quietly threw for over 4,300 yards and 24 touchdowns last year, and could easily expand on that this season. Don’t be surprised to see him toss close to 30 touchdowns and match last year’s yardage total in 2007. His biggest drawback is durability, as he missed games in the three seasons prior to last year, including 8 games in 2005.

5. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

Brees is coming off a shoulder injury which he sustained in the Pro Bowl, but he should be perfectly healthy when the season starts. Last season, he shocked and amazed the city of New Orleans by tossing over 4,400 yards and 26 touchdowns. This year, he could be even better. With Reggie Bush developing, he’ll continue to make dazzling plays after the catch, adding to Brees’ stat line. Additionally, WR’s Terrence Copper and Marques Colston have some experience under their belt and should form a reliable tandem. Brees even has valuable backup receivers and options in spread formations with deep threat Devery Henderson and talented rookie Robert Meachem. Throw in newly acquired, sure-handed Eric Johnson at TE and that’s a whole lot of receiving weapons at Brees’ disposal. Durability is the largest concern as he’s finished each of the last two seasons with shoulder injuries.

6. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

Romo will be looking to forget his bobbled hold which knocked Dallas out of the playoffs last season. He might do just that. With a talented trio of receivers in Terrell Owens, Terry Glenn, and Patrick Crayton, coupled with reliable TE Jason Witten, Romo has the tools he needs to find success in his first full year as a starter. Romo is a scrambler also, so he may run in a couple of touchdowns. Additionally, new head coach Wade Phillips will open the offense up a lot more and let Romo sling it. Romo carries with him some risk though. At times he was inconsistent and he could fall on his face with defenses having an entire off-season to prepare for him. However, his tremendous upside makes him worth a gamble as the number six quarterback on my list.

7. Phillip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

Norv Turner gets the opportunity to work with one of the most talented young quarterbacks in football right now as he inherits a Chargers team that finished fourth in offense last season. Turner is an offensive genius and will no doubt have a large impact on Rivers’ progression. Rivers was held back last year, but he still managed to toss 22 touchdowns. This year, the training wheels are off. Rivers should benefit greatly from the leagues most versatile and amazing running back, LaDainian Tomlinson. Also, Rivers has the best TE in the league in Antonio Gates. With huge WR Vincent Jackson improving, the clutch play of Erik Parker, and the addition of first round draft pick Craig Davis out of LSU, Rivers looks to have some potent weapons to work with. It is very likely that Rivers will throw for 3,500 yards and 25+ touchdowns under Turner. Choosing Rivers is not with an element of risk however. He’s still learning, has a new scheme, and Tomlinson will likely steal away a few touchdown passes. Still he has the ability to thrive and is well deserving of the number seven slot on my list.

8. Donovan McNabb, Philadelphia Eagles

Until he was injured last season, McNabb was the best fantasy quarterback in the league last season, helping owners to a fast start. If he’s healed enough, he should enjoy similar production this year. The Eagles lost WR Donte Stallworth, but he is arguable the most overrated WR in football, and the addition of Kevin Curtis provides an upgrade in consistency. Also, TE L.J. Smith still has a year or two left in him as a reliable check down option, and RB Brian Westbrook is one of the best pass catching backs in the league. Reggie Brown is a good WR who could develop into a solid number one this season. There are many risks to drafting McNabb however. He likely will not be as mobile after multiple leg injuries, and he probably won’t play all sixteen games. He’s missed seven or more games with injuries in three out of the last five seasons. Still, as long as you get a reliable backup later in the draft, McNabb may be worth the risk.

9. Jon Kitna, Detroit Lions

Mike Martz is as pass-happy as any coach since Don “Air” Coryell. This spells huge statistics for Kitna. Last season, Kitna threw over 4,000 yards and 21 touchdowns and could be even better this year. Kitna already had a sure number one receiver in Roy Williams and a sure-handed number two in Mike Furrey, but now they’ve added arguably the best prospect in this year’s draft in WR Calvin Johnson out of Georgia Tech. Where he fits in remains to be seen, but you can bet that Martz will incorporate a lot of three-receiver sets to get all of these talented players on the field. This will create mismatches that provide excellent options for Kitna. Kitna could lead the league in passing and could toss 25+ touchdowns on a slowly improving Lions team. The problem with Kitna is that he very well could lose his starting job if he doesn’t cut down on the turnovers. He threw 22 interceptions and fumbled 11 times last season, and those numbers could scare fantasy owners away. Draft Kitna at your own risk, but if you do, you might ride him all the way to fantasy league victory.

10. Eli Manning, New York Giants

Next to Kitna, Manning is the riskiest pick on this list. Will he be the confident, stat-producing quarterback he was in September last year, or will he be the up-and-down, unreliable player from the rest of the season. My guess is he’ll rebound and be a solid fantasy performer. The Giants couldn’t keep focused last season, and that should improve this year with coach Tom Coughlin’s new approach to discipline this off-season. While Tiki Barber may be gone, Brandon Jacobs and Reuben Droughns will carry the load adequately enough to keep defenses from all out blitzing Manning on every down. WR’s Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer are above average starters, and Sinorice Moss could prove to be a deep threat in the slot after a disappointing rookie season. The Giants also still have Jeremy Shockey who is a top five TE, and they drafted WR Steve Smith in the second round out of USC, who might be one of the more polished receivers in this year’s draft. Smith could challenge Toomer’s job as soon as 2008 and will provide good depth this season. Manning should benefit from all of this. One thing is for sure, this year is a pivotal one for Manning’s career. He needs to step up and be a leader. He certainly carries heavy risk, but his reward potential makes him the number ten QB on my list.

Honorable Mention:

Matt Hasselbeck, Seattle; Brett Favre, Green Bay; Jay Cutler, Denver

Good talking NFL!

Brandon

The Non-Vick Post

2007-07-18T14:34:00.001-05:00

Let's not talk about Michael Vick...

While this does technically classify as a Vick post, I'm calling it the Non-Vick post because very few things need to be said about it. If he's not convicted then this is no longer an issue of suspension or legal ramifications. If he is convicted, his fame will save him. If he is convicted, hopefully the legal process will maximize the fine, put him in jail, the league suspend him, and the Falcons cut him. If he's convicted though, it's more likely that he'll serve a small term like Jamal Lewis did, during the off-season with maybe a four game suspension. If he's convicted, I hope I'm wrong in that last statement.

No more talking about Michael Vick... for now, he's an embarrassment and he's let down football fans everywhere.

Sad talking football...

Brandon

Coaches in Trouble

2007-07-13T11:22:00.000-05:00

Let's talk potential coaching changes after 2007:

Brian Billick- Billick needs his offense to show up this year, and needs to win the division title again, or he may find himself out of a job. The Ravens have been patient with him, trying to build a solid offense, but that patience may run out. Rex Ryan signed a big extension, and may be the head coach in 2008 if the offense doesn't show some life.

Romeo Crennell- Crennell needs to show massive improvement on the rebuilding Browns to keep his job. If Brady Quinn shows development, and if the defense keeps improving, Crennell could possibly be around in 2008, but it's not likely. It seems as though the Browns have soured on him, and it may take a very unlikely playoff appearance to restore their faith. Bill Cowher has an outside chance of returning to the league as the Browns coach in 2008.

Tom Coughlin- Coughlin realistically should've been fired after last year. He virtually lost control of his team, Manning seemed to take a step back, and they were absolutely horrible in the second half of the season. They were not a playoff team, even though they made it into a wild card. Coughlin may need to win the division in order to be around in 2008, and he's lucky to be given another chance. The Giants would be wise to bring in a new head coach with a track record of developing quarterbacks. Norm Chow might be a darkhorse candidate.

Jon Gruden- Gruden needs to make the playoffs to keep his job. This is very unlikely, but may the only thing that can save him. After winning a super bowl, the coach has done very little to keep this team competitive, and after such a disappointing season last year, the Bucs are expecting vast improvement from the offense. I'd love to see the Bucs bring in a good college coach such as Chris Peterson from Boise State.

Joe Gibbs- Gibbs may be forced to re-retire after this season if the Redskins don't seriously contend for an NFC East title. Right now, they have an offensive coordinator calling all the plays and a struggling defense. I could see Ron Rivera coming in and becoming an excellent head coach for the Skins.

Less pressure, but still needing to step it up:

John Fox- Fox needs to elevate the running game and play his style of football this season. He needs to contend for a playoff spot and get solid play out of his quarterback (whether that be with Delhomme or Carr). Fox is a good coach, but the Panthers have not lived up to expectations as of late and may be looking for a change if they don't improve this season. I could see them going after someone like Russ Grimm should they be looking for a coach next season.

Marvin Lewis- Lewis needs to finish at least in the top-ten in the league in defense. The defense has been horrible throughout his entire tenure, and the poor conduct of his players is reflecting badly upon him. Lewis is a great coach though and deserves to keep his job. However, more off-field incidents and another horrible season for the defense could cost him his job. If that happens, expect the Bengals to look for a solid defensive coordinator in the league such as one of the Ryan brothers (Rex or Rob), or a promotion of their offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski.

Good Talking NFL!

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Team Analysis

2007-07-13T10:02:00.000-05:00

Let's talk Bucs...

Free Agency:

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Matt Lehr (Atl)	OG	Blue Adams	DB
Patrick Chukwurah (Den)	OLB	Dewayne White	DE
Cato June (Ind)	OLB	Cornell Green	OT
Jake Plummer (Den)	QB	Sean Mahan	OG
Ryan Simms (KC)	DT	Tim Rattay	QB
Kevin Carter (Mia)	DE	Juran Bolden	CB
Luke Petitgout (NYG)	OT	Shelton Quarles	MLB
B.J. Askew (NYJ)	FB	Kenyatta Walker	OT
Jeff Garcia (Phi)	QB
Jerramy Stevens (Sea)	TE
Sammy Davis (SF)	CB

Grade: B

Blue Adams has potential but has yet to make an impact and Juran Bolden was far too inconsistent. Tim Rattay didn’t pan out as the savvy veteran that John Gruden likes, so Jeff Garcia will take over and provide the Bucs with a solid starter for a couple of years. The only question is whether the Bucs got the Philly Garcia, or the Browns/Lions Garcia. Tampa Bay will miss Dewayne White, and Shelton Quarles who had over 100 tackles the last three seasons. Green was a depth guy, but Mahan was a starter who will be missed. Losing underachieving Kenyatta Walker rounds out an overhaul of the O-Line, which was pretty bad last year, helping the Bucs to finish 28^th in rushing and 26^th in passing. True, the QB play was porous last season, but it all starts up front.

Stepping into contributing roles along the O-Line are veterans Matt Lehr and Luke Petitgout. They provide veteran leadership and upgrades along the line. Kevin Carter should provide depth at DE, but he turns 34 this year and may only have a year or two left. B.J. Askew is interchangeable in the league, and will sit behind Mike Alstott this season. Ryan Simms was a bust with Kansas City, but the Bucs will see if they can channel his talent into a productive season. Jake Plummer may retire before the start of the season, and is just another body in the logjam at QB. Patrick Chukwurah provides solid depth. Jerramy Stevens will contend for playing time but has been a disappointment thus far in his career. Sammy Davis is a bust and likely will not make a difference. The biggest addition for the Bucs is OLB Cato June coming over from the Colts. June is immensely talented, though some say he is a product of the Colts’ defensive system. If that is the case, he should fit right into Defensive Coordinator Monte Kiffin’s system and provides an upgrade at the LB spot.

Overall, the Bucs lost some contributors and gained some as well. It appears as though the additions of Lehr, Petitgout, Garcia, June, and Carter make for a very productive off-season though, as all will likely start on opening day.

Draft:

Round	Pick	Player	College	Position
1	4	Gaines Adams	Clemson	DE
2	35	Aaron Sears	Tennessee	OT
2	64	Sabby Piscitelli	Oregon State	S
3	68	Quincy Black	New Mexico	OLB
4	106	Tanard Jackson	Syracuse	CB
5	141	Greg Peterson	North Carolina Central	DE
6	182	Adam Hayward	Portland State	OLB
7	214	Chris Denman	Fresno State	OT
7	245	Marcus Hamilton	Virginia	CB
7	246	Kenneth Darby	Alabama	RB

Grade: A

The Bucs got the second best defensive player in the draft in Gaines Adams. His job will be to learn behind Simeon Rice and be the heir apparent to the DE position. He has great reach, good speed, and sound fundamentals, and he should be a force on the D-Line for years. Aaron Sears will likely be tried at RT, but could also contribute at OG. He’s a good talent with the potential to start as early as this year. Sabby Piscitelli is a hard-hitter, but sometimes takes too many risks. He’s adequate in coverage but will need to improve in order to earn a starting role. Tanard Jackson might be a steal. What he lacks in speed, he makes up for in experience and technique. Learning behind Ronde Barber and under Monte Kiffin, he could develop into a solid starter. Black could play SS or OLB, but either way he’ll need to improve his tackling. Peterson looks like a potential sack specialist, but lacks the strength and technique to play full-time at the DE position. Hayward is a small school prospect with speed, but lacks the size to make an impact. He’ll struggle to make the team. Darby was productive at Alabama and has a slight chance to contribute as a third down back. He’ll have to show he can make an impact on special teams to make the roster though. Hamilton and Denman are both overachieving types who should be viewed only as developmental projects. Overall, the Bucs did a good job in finding five players who could develop into starters, and two that could start as soon as this season (Adams, Sears). The development of their three secondary position choices may be a determining factor when evaluating this draft a couple years from now.

Coaching:

Jon Gruden needs to rebound greatly from a horrible 4-12 season in 2006. With better quarterback play and an improved offensive line this year, Gruden has a very good chance of bringing this team back in contention. However, expectations are going to be high for the coach, and anything short of a playoff berth could result in the Bucs making a coaching change. He’s a great offensive mind though, and will need to maximize the talent he has on offense, while compensating for holes on the interior line and at wide receiver. Bill Muir is the offensive line coach and also serves as offensive coordinator, though Gruden is no doubt in charge.

Monte Kiffin is the defensive coordinator for the Bucs. He’s one of the best in the business and has held the position since 1996. His version of the Cover 2 defense (labeled the Tampa 2) has been one of the most successful defensive schemes over the past decade and he continuously gets the most out of his defensive units. This season, the defense will need to be improved from last year, and Kiffin’s job will be to get the most out of free agent acquisitions Cato June and Kevin Carter, and to try and get value from former first round busts Ryan Simms and Sammy Davis. He’ll also have some new tools from the draft and will no doubt be pivotal in their development.

Grade: B+

Quarterbacks:

Jeff Garcia will likely win the starting job over Chris Simms, who is coming off a ruptured spleen injury that left him on IR for most of last season. While Simms is a prospect and could still rebound and have a solid NFL career, Garcia is more of a Gruden-type of quarterback. Simms provides the Bucs with an above-average backup though. Garcia is an aging, mobile quarterback who scrambles well, makes good decisions, and makes excellent throws on the run. He definitely fits the Rich Gannon mold from Gruden’s offensive powerhouse in Oakland and should find similar success for a season or two. There is the risk that the Bucs will be getting the Garcia from Detroit or Cleveland rather than the one from San Francisco or Philadelphia last year, but it’s more likely that he’ll fit very well into Gruden’s system. With the experience gained last year, Bruce Gradkowski will contend for the backup job, but will likely remain a solid third-stringer. Gruden is still trying to lure Jake Plummer out of retirement, but Plummer would only create a logjam at the position. The Bucs are better off with Garcia behind center, and allowing Simms and Gradkowski to be the backups.

Grade: D+

Running Backs

Carnell “Cadillac” Williams is coming off a very down year, in which he rushed for only 798 yards and one lonely touchdown. Additionally, his rushing average was a paltry 3.5 yards per carry. This was a huge drop-off after winning rookie of the year in 2005. Last season, there were O-Line issues, and a rookie quarterback leading the Bucs offense. This created eight and nine defensive players in the box on almost every down, so indications are that this drop-off was not all Williams’ fault. Expect Williams to breach a thousand yards again this year and show numbers more similar to those of his rookie season. With an improved line and a veteran quarterback, it’s likely that Williams will find more room to run.

The Bucs have a very capable backup in Michael Pittman. He returns kicks, he’s a valuable change of pace runner and he’s also capable of filling in should Williams miss any significant time. Rookie Kenneth Darby and fourth year player Earnest Graham will vie for a roster spot, with one likely relegated to the practice squad, and neither finding much playing time.

Mike Alstott returns for another season at fullback. He has always been a great starter and is a fan favorite, but is not the player he once was. He will likely share time with free agent acquisition B.J. Askew, but he'll continue to get some short yardage carries.

Grade: B+

Receivers

The Bucs have one very good receiver in Joey Galloway. He’s 35 years old, but he still seems to have excellent speed and he’s been very reliable the last two years. It is reasonable to believe that he still has at least one or two good seasons left in him. The Bucs need a second receiver to fill a possession role. After a very promising rookie season in 2004, Michael Clayton now looks like a bust. He’s struggled with injuries over the past two seasons, but even when he’s been on the field, he’s struggled greatly. He hasn’t been able to overcome his lack of speed, struggles against press coverage, and lacks any kind of explosiveness. Huge second year player Maurice Stovall out of Notre Dame could potentially move into the starting lineup. He has questionable speed, but at 6-4, 220 he’s a massive target across the middle and in the red zone. If he can fine-tune his route running and prove to have consistent hands, he could become a reliable second option for the Bucs. Ike Hilliard is still on the roster, but is little more than a slot receiver. All in all, the Bucs have a serious hole at wide receiver opposite Galloway. It’s surprising that they ignored the position in the draft and in free agency.

Anthony Becht will start at tight end, but Alex Smith will see plenty of playing time. Becht is one of the best blocking tight ends in the game, but isn’t much of a threat as a receiver. Smith has softer hands and runs better routes. If Smith continues to develop, then the TE position becomes a strong one for the Bucs offense.

Grade: D+

Offensive Line

The Bucs offensive line was dismal last year and Cadillac Williams suffered because of it. Gone is disappointing Kenyatta Walker, and in steps Luke Petitgout who will start immediately at LT. Petitgout is a consistent starter and a huge upgrade. Newcomer Matt Lehr will provide depth along the interior line.. John Wade is the returning starter at Center, and is adequate, but will be pushed by Lehr. Jeremy Trueblood starts at RT and is a massive young player who should continue to build upon a solid rookie season last year. Rookie Aaron Sears should win the job at LG and he has the potential to be a star in this league. Davin Joseph begins his second year at RG and looks like a budding young star in the league. With his continued progression, the line looks like one that will greatly improve overall. The Bucs have a young group of starters who will continue to get better as they learn to play together as a unit. Anthony Davis started at OT last year and will provide depth, but the rest of the line is pretty thin (after Lehr). Depth could be an issue, but overall look for the Bucs offensive line to be much improved over last season and continue to get better.

Grade: B-

Defensive Line

Simeon Rice is still valuable as a pass rusher, even though he was limited to just two sacks in eight games last year. He will be pushed by rookie Gaines Adams, and may be in his last season as a Buc. Greg Spires will likely start on the left side, with free agent pickup Kevin Carter being an active part of the rotation. Carter is up there in age, but will be a great fit as a situational player. He provides excellent depth and will also aid in the development of Adams. Chris Hovan and Ellis Wyms look to start on the inside. Hovan is a little undersized, but has had a very good career overall. He’s a reliable player inside and he plays hard. Wyms is also undersized and isn’t suited for an every down role. The Bucs will try to get the most out of former first round bust Ryan Simms, who has great potential but hasn’t been able to utilize it. The Bucs would love for Simms to move into a starting position or at least become a consistent part of the line rotation. Depth is thin, and the Bucs will need their young players to develop into contributors for the interior line to hold up.

Grade: C+

Linebackers:

Derrick Brooks is still a dominant force in the league. He recorded 100+ tackles last year for the tenth consecutive season. He is a leader on and off the field, and though he’s 34, he still has a few good years left in him. Cato June will start on the opposite side. June was very productive for the Colts in a similar defensive scheme. He is sometimes called a “system” player, but since he’s moving from the Cover-2 to the Tampa-2, it is reasonable to assume he will continue to be a great defensive player and provide an upgrade for the Bucs. The Bucs believe that third year player Barrett Ruud is ready to take over in the middle, so they let Shelton Quarles go. Ruud has a load of potential and has gained valuable experience as a fill-in player over the last two seasons. Ruud is a high effort guy, versatile, and is wraps up the ball carrier very well. To succeed in the middle though, he’ll have to improve his coverage skills and learn how to shed blocks. Rookie Quincy Black figures to win the backup job behind Ruud and the Bucs hope he can prove to be excellent depth. Jamie Winborn, Patrick Chukwurah, and Ryan Nece provide adequate depth on the outside. Overall, if the starters stay healthy, and if Ruud can develop well in the middle, the Bucs will have an excellent linebacking corps.

Grade: B+

Secondary

Ronde Barber is one of the more consistent corners in the league. He’s a very good tackler, and plays excellent zone coverage in the Tampa-2 scheme. He rarely allows the receiver to get behind him, and is capable of man and press coverage when needed. Brian Kelly likely will start opposite Barber and is a very good cornerback for the Bucs defensive scheme. His zone coverage is solid, and he’s a sure tackler. Providing depth is Philip Buchanon and Torrie Cox. Cox is a solid nickel corner and would be fine filling in should one of the starters miss any time. Buchanon has loads of potential, but hasn’t shown it in recent years. If Gruden and Kiffin can maximize Buchanon’s talent, then the Bucs will have one of the deeper cornerback groups in the league. Also in the mix is rookie Tanard Jackson. Jackson looks ideal for the Tampa-2 scheme. What he lacks in speed, he makes up for with his awareness and tackling ability. He could contribute on special teams and in dime packages this season, and even develop into a reliable starter down the road.

Starting SS Jermaine Phillips is underrated. He’s versatile enough to blitz and is a great tackler. His coverage skills could use some work, but in the Tampa-2 scheme, his hard-hitting style makes him a great fit. Will Allen starts at FS, but could be pushed by Kelvin Pearson for playing time. Also in the mix is Sabby Piscitelli, who could vie for playing time at either position. Piscitelli is a classic overachiever, but he hits hard and has the potential to be a very good starter at the NFL level. He’ll need to improve his coverage though, and Kiffin will definitely try to help him develop that aspect of his game.

Grade: B

Special Teams:

Matt Bryant kicked a game-winning 62 yard field goal last year against the Eagles in a dramatic win. Outside of that though, he’s been too inconsistent to be considered a solid starting kicker. His powerful leg opens up opportunities for the Bucs though, and it’ll be up to special teams coach Richard Bisaccia to improve upon the 77.3 percent that he kicked last season. Josh Bidwell is one of the better punters in the game. His 43.5 yard gross and 36.8 yard net averages are solid, and he dropped 20 kicks inside the 20 last year. The Bucs would like for him to work a little less in 2007. He tied for second in the league in the number of punts (93) last season.

Ike Hilliard is not the answer as a punt returner, and Michael Pittman is only adequate returning kicks. This is an aspect that the Bucs need to improve upon. They failed to score a touchdown last season, and their return yardage averages were modest at best. The Bucs would like for someone to step up and add some explosiveness to the return game, but for now they’ll probably have to suffer with poor field position again.

Grade: D

Overall Analysis:

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers certainly are not a dominant force in the league right now. Their record last year was dismal, and they have several holes on the team. They should however be greatly improved over last season and could potentially finish second or third in their division. The playoffs seem an unlikely hope for them, though they do benefit from playing in the NFC. Still, it’s hard to see them doing any better than .500. With the development of the offensive line, and a few young stars on defense though, the Bucs could be heading in the right direction for the future; if only they could secure a franchise quarterback.

Good Talking NFL!

Seattle Seahawks Team Analysis

2007-07-10T09:35:00.000-05:00

Ken in Oregon would like to hear about the Seahawks, so I figured the Hawks would be a great team to do my second in-depth overall team analysis.

So let's talk Seahawks...

Seattle Seahawks Team Analysis

Free Agency:

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Patrick Kerney (Atl)	DE	Ken Hamlin	FS
Brian Russell (Cleve)	FS	Kelly Herndon	CB
Deon Grant (Jax)	S	Robbie Tobeck	C
Marcus Pollard (Det)	TE	Grant Wistrom	DE
		Darrell Jackson	WR
		Jerramy Stevens	TE

Grade: B

Ken Hamlin will be replaced by Deon Grant. This was a great move by Seattle. After losing Hamlin to the Cowboys, they went out and got Deon Grant. Grant will fill in nicely, and is even a bit of an upgrade in coverage, where Hamlin was a little sub-par. Kelly Herndon was surprisingly let go. He provided solid depth, though was not consistent enough to be a starter. Robbie Tobeck will be missed. He retired and leaves the interior line with little depth. Darrell Jackson will be missed, though Deon Branch and D.J. Hackett are more than capable starters. Grant Wistrom caught the injury bug and will be replaced by Patrick Kerney, a great addition who significantly upgrades the D-Line and the pass rush. Jerramy Stevens talked more than he played and will easily be replaced by blue-collar Marcus Pollard, who is more sure-handed and less fowl-mouthed. Brian Russell provides secondary depth.

Overall, the Seahawks got rid of some older players to make room for the younger talent on their roster. They made good moves to upgrade and fill holes, and didn’t lose anyone they didn’t really want to. Tobeck will be missed, but Chris Spencer seems poised to take over that starting position after filling in last year.

Draft:

Round	Pick	Player	College	Position
2	55	Josh Wilson	Maryland	CB
3	85	Brandon Mebane	California	DT
4	120	Baraka Atkins	Miami	DE
4	124	Mansfield Wrotto	Georgia Tech	OG
5	161	Will Herring	Auburn	OLB
6	197	Courtney Taylor	Auburn	WR
6	210	Jordan Kent	Oregon	WR
7	232	Steve Vallos	Wake Forrest	OG

Grade: C

The Seahawks did not pick until the later half of the second round. They’re hoping that Josh Wilson will be worth the wait. He is lightning fast, but at 5’9 will have a hard time against bigger receivers. He has good technique, but he’s very raw and has a tendency to play a little too physical for his own good. He will need time to develop, but has a great chance to contribute in nickel packages as early as this year. Mebane could be a steal in the third. He has tremendous talent, was productive at Cal, and plays with a surprising burst that helps him get off the line quickly. He will have every chance to compete for playing time in 2007. Atkins has work ethic concerns, but may be versatile enough to provide depth all along the D-Line. Wrotto has good size but is very raw and will need to be coached if he’s to become a factor. Herring and Taylor were both productive at Auburn last season, but Herring looks like an overachiever, and Taylor may not have the technique to overcome his lack of speed. Jordan Kent has quickness, but he needs to bulk up. He has a chance to develop and the potential to help out in the return game. Vallos looks like a project. He looks like a run-blocker who needs to learn the techniques of pass-blocking. He has the size and quickness to develop, but will take a lot of coaching. Overall, without a first round pick the Hawks had a decent draft. If Wilson develops into a great nickel corner, if Mebane can turn into a consistent starter, and if Kent can help in the return game, Seattle will be very pleased with this draft.

Coaching:

Mike Holmgren has been the head coach of the Seahawks since 1999. He has done a good job of developing a team that has been in contention over the past several seasons, and coached them to a Super Bowl XL defeat. He’s long been considered a guru at developing quarterbacks and running a balanced offense. Last year, the team was devastated by injuries, but still won the division, largely in part to Holmgren’s coaching. Still, there seems to be something missing in Seattle, and the coach is going to have to figure it out fast as the NFC West becomes more competitive every year.

Ray Rhodes coaches the defense, and has done a good job of it since he joined the team in 2003. Rhodes has had some health issues though, and his role has been relinquished a little bit to coordinator John Marshall. The defense seemed to underachieve last season, ranking 19^th in the league. They did however finish 6^th in turnovers and will look to be more consistent in 2007.

Gil Haskell is the offensive coordinator. He’s been with the team since 2000 and knows how the West Coast offense operates. He’s a seasoned vet, an old friend of Holmgren’s, and does a great job coming up with a gameplan each week. The Hawks do lack explosiveness on the offensive side of the ball though. Haskell and Holmgren will likely look to improve upon that in the upcoming season.

Grade: A-

Quarterbacks:

Matt Hasselbeck is a gutsy, confident, slinger with talent and leadership to waste. He’s also a little inconsistent and takes a few too many risks. The last couple of years he’s been a little better with his decision-making though, and he’s the clear starter in Seattle. Hasselbeck missed four games last year with an injury, but returned in time for the playoffs. He should be full-strength this season and ready to play. He did struggle at times last season though without All-Pro RB Shaun Alexander for six games. Additionally, the offensive line really missed Steve Hutchinson last season and will continue to be a work in progress. How the line performs will directly impact how well Hasselbeck performs this season.

Seneca Wallace is the backup quarterback. He’s ideal for that role. He may be a little too small and a little too erratic to be a full-time starter in this league, but he showed last season that he can step in when needed and perform fairly well. So long as Hasselbeck doesn’t miss more than a few weeks, Wallace will be just fine as the backup. Third year player David Greene is third string. He’s yet to take a regular season snap at the NFL level, but he’s big and has a strong arm. Ideally, the Hawks won’t have to resort to plugging the inexperienced Greene into the lineup.

Grade: B

Running Backs

The Seahawks have one of the best running backs in the league in Shaun Alexander. Alexander didn’t look like himself early last year, even before a foot injury knocked him out of six games. Late in the season, he started looking more like the back that rushed for 1,880 yards and 27 touchdowns in 2005. He’ll be thirty when the season starts, but he still has some tread left in him and should be back to his pro-bowl form this season (barring injury). Just like Hasselbeck, the play of the offensive line will have a tremendous impact on Alexander’s season.

Maurice Morris is one of the best change-of-pace backs in the league, but doesn’t have the consistency to be an every down starter. Still, his value to the team on third downs and as a complement to Alexander is tremendous. Mack Strong returns as the starting fullback. He’s been one of the more underrated players at his position over the past 12 years, and should continue to be a fairly reliable blocker. Backup fullback Josh Parry, who came over last year from the Eagles may see an increase in playing time, but Strong should remain the blue collar consistent blocker he’s always been for the Hawks.

Grade: A-

Receivers

Unloading Jerramy Stevens for Marcus Pollard was an excellent move for the Hawks this off-season. Stevens is one of the most overrated tight ends in the league and he usually does more talking than anything else. Even though Pollard is 35 years old, he still has soft hands and can be a reliable check-down option. Unfortunately, Pollard and backup tight end Will Heller are both pass-catching tight ends with limited blocking ability. If the line doesn’t improve this season, then Seattle may wish they’d brought in a blocking tight end who can help out in run-blocking and pass protection. Still, with Pollard in the lineup, the Hawks get a blue-collar player with great work ethic and sure hands.

The Hawks lost long-time starter Darrell Jackson this off-season in a draft day trade with the 49ers. They won’t enjoy lining up against him twice a year. Though he’s declined recently, he’s still a reliable target and will be missed. Deion Branch started to play better toward the end of last season but needs to show that he’s a true number one in order to justify the first round pick the Hawks gave up for him. Incidentally, Robert Meachem, Anthony Gonzalez, Sydney Rice, Steve Smith, and Dwayne Jarrett were all available at the 24^th spot they gave up in the draft this year. Nate Burleson was given a lot of money to come in and make an impact on this team. He didn’t. While he may continue returning kicks and is currently considered a starter, expect D.J. Hackett to take that starting job away from him. Hackett has natural ability, adequate size, and showed a lot of promise last season. Bobby Engram is a great slot receiver, capable of making clutch catches on third down. Rookies Jordan Kent and Courtney Taylor will fight for playing time, but watch Kent. He has playmaking ability and deceptive quickness. Overall, the Hawks need a legitimate number one receiver and a complete tight end. Maybe Branch will be that number one, but he seems more likely to be a very good number two.

Grade: C-

Offensive Line

Walter Jones remains one of the premier left tackles in the game. However, the Seahawks still haven’t replaced Steve Hutchinson, and it showed last year. Sean Locklear and Tom Ashworth will contend for the spot at right tackle and both are capable, if not great starters. Chris Gray is a valuable starter at right guard, but the combination of Rob Simms and Floyd “Porkchop” Womack was not consistent enough to plug the whole at left guard vacated by Hutchinson. Womack has size and ability, but there just seems to be something missing. Center Robbie Tobeck retired and will be missed, though Chris Spencer started 13 games last year and will continue to get better. Overall, the Seahawks line needs a consistent right tackle and a dominant left guard. On the bright side, their key starters are returning which could go a long way toward building cohesiveness up front.

Grade: C

Defensive Line

The addition of Patrick Kerney is monumental in helping the defensive line. He replaces Grant Wistrom, who has struggled with injuries and hardly played last season. Kerney is a force at rushing the passer, and he’s got good technique when it comes to wrapping up the ball carrier. He’s a potential pro bowler and one of the better free agency pickups this off-season. If he can stay healthy (he missed 7 games last year), the Seahawks will be very happy with this signing. Bryce Fisher will likely start on the other side and is fairly reliable. He’s not a playmaker however, and the Seahawks will likely rotate him with Darryl Tapp, Brandon Green, and possibly rookie Baraka Atkins, who all provide adequate depth. Tapp is capable of starting should Kerney go down with an injury.

Chartric Darby and Rocky Bernard are the big men in the middle. Both weigh less than 300 lbs but still provide decent run support. They need to become more adept and clogging holes and eating up space to allow the all-pro linebacking corps the opportunity to fly to the ball. Russell Davis and Craig Terrill provide adequate depth and likely will be fixtures in the rotation. Rookie Brandon Mebane will be given every opportunity to work his way into the rotation. The Hawks would love to develop him into a consistent starter, and he has the potential to be that. Overall, the Hawks have good depth, but outside of Kerney, there are no consistent playmakers along the defensive line. While their pass rush should be improved this season, their run defense needs dramatic improvement (22^nd in the league last season). That improvement all starts up front.

Grade: D+

Linebackers:

Lofa Tatupa and Julian Peterson both made the pro bowl last year and rightfully so. They form one of the most exciting linebacker tandems in the league right now. Peterson is fast and can fly to the ball. He’s also very adept at blitzing; he had 10 sacks last year. Tatupa is a reliable force in the middle. He’s a great tackler and has playmaking ability. Additionally, he’s only in his third year, so he may just get better and better. Leroy Hill is the other OLB. He is underrated compared to the other two. He finished last season with 92 tackles and is a reliable starter. Depth is a concern however, as Kevin Bentley and Niko Koutouvides are questionable if thrusted into starting positions. With a little more depth at the position, the Hawks would receive and A+.

Grade: A

Secondary

Marcus Trufant is one of the better cornerbacks in the league. With an increased pass rush this year, he may continue his development. While he didn’t have a very good year last season (he struggled a lot on press routes, and allowed too much separation), his mistakes are coachable and he has loads of talent. Jordan Babineaux will likely be the other starter. He’s big and has fairly good technique, but he lacks speed and isn’t fluid coming out of his backpedal. He’s still young and he could develop into a reliable starter, but he needs to be productive early this season to avoid losing playing time to Kelly Jennings. Jennings figures to be the nickel back now, but the former first rounder continues to improve and the Seahawks would like him to develop into the starter opposite Trufant. The secondary last year was devastated by injuries, so Seattle used their first pick in the draft (which was in the second round) on very fast but very raw cornerback Josh Wilson out of Maryland. Wilson will need time to develop but looks like a nickel back who may contribute as soon as this season.

Brian Russell and incumbent starter Michael Boulware will vie for the starting SS position. Russell is an underrated player and Boulware is an overachiever. Whoever wins the battle (and give Boulware the nod) the Seahawks will have an adequate starter with valuable depth. At Free Safety, the departed Ken Hamlin will be replaced by Deon Grant. Grant and Hamlin are similar in style and there shouldn’t be much of a fall off there. Grant is a little better in coverage than Hamlin was, but isn’t as explosive. Still, he’s a reliable starter and a great pickup for the Hawks, filling a need. Overall, Seattle’s secondary has loads of potential but really needs to step it up this year. This grade could jump up very quickly if Ray Rhodes and John Marshall get these youngsters on track. On the other hand, it could also drop monumentally if they don’t show improvement soon.

Grade: B-

Special Teams:

The Seahawks resigned Kicker Josh Brown which is a little puzzling. Brown wasn’t as consistent as you’d think last year, hitting only 80.6% of his field goal attempts. He was even worse the year before. Chances are if Brown doesn’t improve this season, the Hawks will move on in 2008. Ryan Plackemeier was the fourth best punter in the league last year with 45 yard gross punting average, and he did fairly well in dropping 25 kicks inside the 20. He’s a solid young player and will likely have a long career in Seattle. Nate Burleson will likely be on return duty this year. He was 13^th in the league returning kicks and 12^th returning punts with one touchdown; fairly reliable, though overpriced until he contributes as a receiver. Bobby Engram and Maurice Morris also handle return duties at times, but don’t be surprised if Seattle tries rookie Jordan Kent in that role. Kent is a former track star at Oregon and is known for his shifty quickness. Overall, the Hawks are about average on special teams.

Grade: C+

Overall Analysis:

The Seattle Seahawks are a talented team, but something seems to be missing. They’re still the favorites to repeat as NFC West champions, but with the division looking to become more and more competitive, the Hawks need to continue to improve. They need one of their receivers to step up, they need their offensive line to gel, and they need to improve their run defense and secondary play. The good news is, they have the talent and potential for all those things to happen. Expect the Hawks to be contenders this year in a weak conference. If they can win their division again, they could be headed to their second super bowl in three years.

Baltimore Ravens Team Analysis

2007-06-27T23:31:00.000-05:00

Patrick in Maryland asked me to write a little something about the Baltimore Ravens.

So let's talk Ravens...
I planned on doing an in-depth analysis on each team anyway, so I figured I'd just kick-start it with the Ravens. Check back often for more postings and more teams.

Free Agency:

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Willis McGahee (Buf)	RB	Ovie Mughelli	FB
		Jamal Lewis	RB
		Edwin Mulitalo	OG
		Tony Pashos	OT
		Adalius Thomas	OLB
		Aubrayo Franklin	DT

Grade: D-

Ovie Mughelli is a loss and it’ll be up to third year player Justin Green to replace him. Willis McGahee is a game-breaker and a significant upgrade over Jamal Lewis, who hasn’t been the same since his amazing 2003 season. Adalius Thomas is a huge loss who will not be replaced easily. His versatility and knack for making plays was a huge reason why the Ravens’ defense was so dominant last year. The loss of Aubrayo Franklin hurts the depth on the defensive line, and he will need to be replaced in order to keep the outstanding trio of Ngata, Gregg, and Pryce fresh.

The loss of two starters on the offensive line, Mulitalo and Pashos, will undoubtedly hurt the team, if for no other reason than simple continuity.

Overall, Baltimore had a rough off-season. While the addition of McGahee is huge and will bring back the strong running game and provide some big plays for the Ravens’ offense, the losses outweigh the one gain. Baltimore will be hard-pressed to find another Thomas, and depth along the offensive line has to be a legitimate concern.

Draft:

Round	Pick	Player	College	Position
1	29	Ben Grubbs	Auburn	OG
3	74	Yamon Figurs	Kansas State	WR/RS
3	86	Marshal Yanda	Iowa	OG
4	134	Antwan Barnes	Florida International	OLB
4	137	Le’Ron McClain	Alabama	FB
5	174	Troy Smith	Ohio State	QB
6	207	Prescott Burgess	Michigan	OLB

Grade: B+

The Ravens drafted one of the most sure-fire picks in the draft in OG Ben Grubbs. If guards were held at a higher premium in this league, I would’ve projected him as a top-ten prospect. Things as they are, the Ravens got lucky and were wise to select him with the 29^th overall pick. He can step in and start immediately and will replace the departed Edwin Mulitalo. Yanda in the 3^rd was a great pickup as well. Yanda can play OG or OT and will likely be groomed to replace Tony Pashos or to eventually take over for Jonathan Ogden who may only have one or two seasons left before he retires. For now, expect Yanda to provide depth at both positions while he learns from some of the best. The Chicago Bears found a gem last year in RS Devin Hester and every team in the league watched him make a profound effect on the success of that franchise. The Ravens have attempted to find this year’s version in the speedy but extremely raw Figurs. There’s no doubting his potential as a return man, but he’ll need a lot of coaching to get his game to the next level. Still, it’s hard to question the choice after the Ravens’ return game suffered so greatly last year after the injury to B.J. Sams. The idea is for Figurs to take over eventually and to provide insurance in the event that Sams can’t return to form. Prescott Burgess was a steal in the sixth, and he and Barnes have a chance to learn behind some of the best backers in the league, along with one of the best defensive coordinators in Rex Ryan. McClain may compete for the position vacated by Ovie Mughelli, but he’ll likely be stuck behind Justin Green, struggling for a roster spot. I’m a firm believer in drafting a QB in every draft. You never know when the next Tom Brady will come your way in the later rounds. Drafting Troy Smith was a value pick in the fifth and makes sense. He is undersized and has an erratic arm, but no one doubts his athletic ability. Getting the chance to learn behind Steve McNair may prove to be a valuable step for Smith. Overall, the Ravens had a very good draft, as they usually do, with two or three players likely to have some sort of impact this season, and Grubbs likely a ten year starter at the guard position from day one.

Coaching:

Brian Billick is in his eight season as the head coach and has had a very up-and-down tenure. He’s won a Super Bowl, drafted one of the best defenses I’ve ever seen, and groomed a 2,000 yard rusher. He’s also drafted a first round bust at QB, turned over his play-calling to an OC and then taken control back. He’s had up-and-down playoff seasons, and he’s at times been outshined by the Bengals and the Steelers in the competitive AFC North division. This season, he comes off a year in which his defense carried the team to a division winning 13-3 record, followed by a first round bye in the playoffs, and then a bitter loss at home to the Colts. The offense did just enough to get by, and will need to be greatly improved this season or else Billick will once again find wavering fan support. For a former “offensive guru,” Billick has failed to create offensive excitement throughout his time in Baltimore. Billick also serves as the Ravens offensive coordinator, though he gets help from O-Line/Assistant HC Chris Foerster.

Defensive Coordinator Rex Ryan probably should be a head coach right now. Resigning him should be considered just as big an off-season move as the signing of Willis McGahee. Ryan’s aggressive schemes and ability to maximize the skills of his players have earned him the right to be ranked as one of the top defensive minds in the game. With Ryan running the defense, the Ravens will likely provide the same headaches as usual to opposing offenses, even with the loss of Adalius Thomas.

Grade: B

Quarterbacks:

Starter Steve McNair did just enough in his first season as the Raven’s quarterback. However, at times he looked uncomfortable and his throws were a little off. He’s been a great player for over a decade, but after all the injuries over the years, it may be nearing the end for him. He does however still have some juice left. If he gets protection and can make just a few more big plays, then there’s no reason he can’t have a pro bowl type of season. The Ravens are fine with McNair for the time being, though they seriously need to consider their long-term situation at quarterback… especially if Troy Smith doesn’t show some great signs of development in his rookie year. Kyle Boller is a former first round bust but has settled nicely into a backup role. Coming off the bench, he showed that he’s learned a little bit about how to use his big-time arm, and with a little luck, helped the Ravens when called upon. However, Boller is entering the final season of his contract and it is unlikely the Ravens will resign him. Troy Smith is a prospect, but definitely one that needs development. Time will tell whether or not he’s a Heisman Trophy QB likened to Vinny Testaverde and Carson Palmer, or whether he’s closer to Tommy Frazier and Jason White.

Grade: C+

Running Backs

Last year, the Ravens had Jamal Lewis as the starting tailback and Ovie Mughelli at fullback. Both of them are gone. Mughelli was a good young player and will be missed. It’ll be up to Justin Green and rookie Le’Ron McClain to replace him. This is likely going to be a downgrade. Jamal Lewis however has declined rapidly over the last few years and doesn’t seem to have any of the burst that he used to. The Ravens brought in Willis McGahee to replace him. McGahee is a very good running back with excellent vision, better than average speed, and great cutting ability. He’s a tough runner who plays through injuries and he instantly upgrades the running game. Additionally, defenses are going to have to key in on him a lot more which could mean good things for QB Steve McNair. Mike Anderson and Musa Smith are both very good backups and create excellent depth. Anderson is a good between-the-tackles kind of runner while Smith has the big play potential to serve as a valuable change of pace back. Overall, the Ravens have one of the deepest sets of running backs in the league.

Grade: A-

Receivers

Todd Heap is a top five Tight End. He’s an adequate blocker when needed, but his true value lies in his hands. He’s catches the ball fluidly and plays with a high level of consistency. He’s quicker than expected and has just enough speed to stretch the seam. Heap fills the role of the check-down option as well as anyone in the league and is a perennial pro bowler at the position. Dan Wilcox and Quinn Sypniewski provide depth. The Ravens lack a true blocking TE though, as they rely upon their consistently productive offensive line to protect the QB.

Derrick Mason has lost a step and is now a number two option for the team. He still has good hands though and is a valuable starter. Mark Clayton is a budding young star though, and the Ravens would be wise to get him the ball as much as possible. He’s a blue-collar kind of guy who’s got just enough speed to go deep and isn’t afraid to go across the middle. Where his true value lies is his run-after-the-catch ability. Once he has the ball in his hands, he runs hard and tough and is elusive in the open field. Demetrius Williams showed that he has a future in this league making some tough catches and showing deceptive speed. He’s ideal for the slot, and may start in place of Mason eventually. Clarence Moore is a big target who’s effective going after jump balls. Blazing fast rookie Yamon Figurs is likely too raw to make an impact at WR, and was drafted primarily to help in the return game.

Grade: B

Offensive Line

Jonathan Ogden has been a staple of the offensive line at LT since the team made him their first draft choice in 1996. Though his career may be drawing near an end, he is still one of the best in the game. Adam Terry figures to start on the other side after logging a couple of starts last season, though it remains to be seen if he’ll make the transition from reliable depth guy to solid starter. The team will miss Tony Pashos who emerged last year after he took over at RT before mid-season. Mulitalo will be missed at OG, but 1^st round choice Ben Grubbs should actually provide an upgrade and will help form one of the most formidable left sides in the league. Keydrick Vincent and Chris Chester provide adequate work at RG, with Vincent the likely starter. Grubbs could also fit in there, leaving Jason Brown on the left side, who is an adequate starter. Mike Flynn is a solid center who has been with the team for about a decade. The versatile Yanda provides depth and could be Ogden’s eventual replacement. Depth at OT could be an issue, but the Ravens overall look solid up front.

Grade: B+

Defensive Line

Kelly Gregg is one of the most underrated players in the league. He’s a consistent competitor at the DT position and does an excellent job of both stuffing the run and occupying blockers in order to free up the Baltimore LB corps. Last year’s 1^st round pick Haloti Ngata justified his selection by also occupying blockers and showing a knack for big plays. He even returned an interception last year for 60 yards before being run down from behind. He’ll likely be a staple on the line for years. Trevor Pryce is still solid, but he’s in the twilight of his career. He’s still a valuable starter though and helps to form one of the best defensive lines in football. Dwan Edwards and Atiyyah Ellison provide a little depth, though the Ravens need another solid player to put into the rotation and to groom behind Pryce.

Grade: A

Linebackers:

The loss of Adalius Thomas is a key one indeed, but the Ravens have enough talent at the LB position to remain one of the better units in the league. Ray Lewis is declining but will still be a force in the middle for another couple of years. He is also a locker room leader at the defensive general of that team. Bart Scott has the playmaking ability to make a difference, and is a sure enough tackler to play at a pro bowl level in any game. Terrell Suggs is the kind of versatile, hard-hitting, pass rushing OLB that has to have Rex Ryan drooling and QB’s up all night. Year after year he proves himself to be a great player off the edge. Resigning Jarrett Johnson provides depth as do rookie backers Barnes and Burgess. Johnson is one of the better backups in the league and has the talent to start on the outside or in the middle if needed. Gary Stills will plugged in on the outside where Thomas was. This is one of the few potential holes on a great defense.

Grade: A-

Secondary

The most glaring hole on this incredible defense is arguably at the number two cornerback position. Samari Rolle has always been serviceable, but has declined and gets burned way too often. This position definitely needs an upgrade. Corey Ivy is better suited as a nickel guy, and Evan Oglesby and Derrick Martin provide little more than depth. Ronnie Prude could develop but at this point is still just an adequate backup. Chris McAllister is their number one corner and is one of the best in the league. While he often takes a few too many risks, he is scary good and causes more than one nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Ed Reed is arguably the best Safety in the league. Positioned at the Free Safety spot, Reed is a hard hitter who also has excellent cover skills. Dawan Landry showed last year why the draft is so important. As a late round choice, he came in as a starter and played extremely well. Lining up along side Reed and under Ryan’s tutelage, Landry has a very bright future ahead of him. Reed and Landry make up arguably the best Safety tandem in the league. This grade would be an A+ with a solid number two corner.

Grade: A-

Special Teams:

Sam Koch is a solid punter. His gross punting average last year was about on par with the rest of the league and his net average was actually higher than most. His kicks inside the 20 are impressive, as he finished with 30 (fifth best in the league). Matt Stover has been a mainstay with the franchise for what seems like forever, and he is the only remaining player on the Raven’s roster who moved with the team from Cleveland in 1996. He kicked over 93 percent last season, but you have to wonder how much longer he can perform at a high level. He’s currently 39, but he’s one of the most beloved players in Baltimore. The return game is solid with B.J. Sams in the lineup, but it fell short after his injury last year. The Ravens are hoping that can change with Figurs, and if he can learn quickly, they may have a very dangerous return game.

Grade: B

Overall Analysis:

The Baltimore Ravens have to be considered the favorites to win the AFC North, even though it’ll likely be highly competitive. They seem to be as close to a complete team as there is in the league right now. They’re biggest drawback has simply been a lack of explosiveness on offense. If they can even draw a small spark on a consistent basis, then there may not be any team that can beat them. The addition of Willis McGahee may end up improving the effectiveness of not only the running game, but the entire offense. Defenses just weren’t very scared of Jamal Lewis last year. McGahee will bring some of the fear back to Baltimore. This is a team with something to prove, and they have the talent to do so.

Good talking NFL!

Brandon

Tank Busters

2007-06-25T15:12:00.000-05:00

Let's talk about Tank Johnson for a minute...
I'd like to say congratulations to the Chicago Bears for waiving goodbye to DT Tank Johnson. I read an article today that says the troubled lineman was waived after getting pulled over by police for a possible DUI in Arizona last Friday at 3:30 a.m. The article quotes general manager Jerry Angelo as saying "We are upset and embarrassed by Tank's actions last week." It says that Angelo also said "(Johnson) compromised the credibility of (the Bears) organization." This article can be found at the following URL: http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3549.
I don't know if this action was because of league commissioner Roger Goodell's stern policy on player conduct, if it was to honor the legacy and integrity of a proud franchise, if it was to send a message of good conduct and morality to the fans, or a combination of reasons. I don't care what the reasons are. I'm happy to see a harsh punishment for a player who obviously didn't have much respect for the team, the sport, or for all the young people out there who look up to NFL players. In a day where fame can get you out of just about anything, and celebrity status brings with it a more flexible interpretation of crime and punishment, it makes me proud to see my favorite sport trying to do something about it. So Tank Johnson, goodbye and good riddance! May you forever envision Mr. Angelo and Mr. Goodell throwing Hawkins (anti-"tank") grenades in your direction. Hopefully this will wake you up and you'll be able to mature enough to use the talents that you have. Hopefully you can use this experience to mentor those who you've thus far failed in your status as a role model. Hopefully others will learn from your mistake and will accept the responsibilities given to them. Hopefully the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines can forgive you for making a mockery of the favorite past time of the country they protect. They follow a lot of rules too, and they do it for a lot less money.
And to Mr. Angelo, thank you. From a Dolphins fan, a die-hard football fan, and from the bottom of my heart... thank you. Today I yell at the top of my cyber lungs... Go Bears!

Good talking NFL!

Brandon

NFC South Free Agency Grades

2007-06-21T11:02:00.000-05:00

Let's talk about the free agents and trades this off-season for the NFC South. Check back soon for the AFC grading!

Key:

A Team significantly improved from off-season moves
B Team improved from off-season moves
C Team relatively unchanged by off-season moves
D Team took a step back due to off-season moves
F Team drastically hurt by off-season moves

Atlanta Falcons

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Ovie Mughelli (Bal)	FB	Edgerton Hartwell	MLB
Joey Harrington (Mia)	QB	Matt Schaub	QB
Toniu Fonoti (Mia)	OG	Justin Griffith	FB
Joe Horn (NO)	WR	Patrick Kerney	DE
Billy Cundiff	K	Ashley Lelie	SF
Chris Redman	QB	Matt Lehr	OG
		Kevin Mathis	CB
		Jason Webster	CB

Grade: D+

Joey Harrington is certainly a downgrade from Matt Schaub at the backup QB position. The Falcons may regret that move down the line. Toniu Fonoti has the ability to be a great player, but may never be completely healthy after missing most of the last two years. He may not be capable of starting for the departed Matt Lehr, though the draft may have solved that problem. Losing Justin Griffith hurts, though Ovie Mughelli is an up-and-comer who will fit just nicely into new Head Coach Bobby Petrino’s system. Billy Cundiff provides the leg strength that ageless Morten Anderson has lost. Ashley Lelie won’t be missed. Edgerton Hartwell was a good player isn’t the same player he was when he played in Baltimore, so the Falcons were wise to unload him. Kevin Mathis and Jason Webster were both expendable after the draft and have underachieved anyway. The loss of Patrick Kerney looked monumental until draft day.

The Falcon’s biggest off-season addition may be outspoken WR Joe Horn. Not only is he still talented (when he’s healthy) but he’s a born leader who may be just the ticket for Atlanta’s talented, but still very raw, young receivers Roddy White and Michael Jenkins.

Overall, not considering the draft, the Falcons took a step back. The success of their first three 2007 draft picks and Michael Vick’s progression (and playing availability) will be the things that define exactly how much of an effect this off-season has had on the franchise’s future.

Carolina Panthers

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
David Carr (Hou)	QB	Kris Mangum	TE
		Chris Weinke	QB
		Al Wallace	DE
		Chris Draft	OLB
		Keyshawn Johnson	WR

Grade: C-

The Panthers unloaded some older players to make room for some youth. Johnson can still be a valuable number two possession receiver, but is no more than that at this stage in his career. Kris Mangum and Michael Gaines were similar players, so unloading one of them made sense. Cutting the aging Al Wallace affects the depth along the defensive line, but also was a sensible move. The only move that may come back to haunt the Panthers is letting Chris Draft go. One of the more underrated LB’s, Draft will be the second starting Carolina LB to take his talents to the Rams in as many years. Eventually, the Panthers are going to have to start looking toward keeping their LB’s and perhaps letting go of the extremely talent, but oft-injured Dan Morgan. David Carr is an instant upgrade over Weinke at the backup QB position. Additionally, if Delhomme starts to struggle, don’t be surprised to see Carr taking over that starting position. Maybe he can excel with some sort of offensive line protection.

Overall, the Panthers did well to sign Carr, and didn’t lose anyone substantial outside of Draft. The team may miss Draft quite a bit. Hopefully John Fox will continue to plug-and-play the LB position.

New Orleans Saints

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Brian Simmons (Cin)	MLB	Joe Horn	WR
Kevin Kaesviharn (Cin)	FS	Danny Clark	MLB
Jason David (Ind)	CB	Michael Haynes	DE
Olindo Mare (Mia)	K	Omar Stoutmire	SS
Eric Johnson (SF)	TE	Ernie Conwell	TE
David Patten (Wash)	WR	John Carney	K

Grade: B

The Saints did a good job of filling holes and making subtle improvements to a squad that made it to the NFC Championship game last season. Joe Horn has battled injuries recently and the Saints have a good core of young receivers who can step up. Danny Clark was a backup. Michael Haynes underachieved with the Bears and didn’t even play last year so he won’t be missed. John Carney will be replaced by Olindo Mare, who is an upgrade even though he’s been inconsistent the last couple of years. Omar Stoutmire was a starter who will be missed, but Roman Harper may be ready to step into that starting spot, and Kevin Kaesviharn will be in the mix too, as he adds depth and experience to the secondary. Eric Johnson (when healthy) is an upgrade over Ernie Conwell, and should provide Drew Brees with yet another reliable target.

Jason David is an immediate upgrade at cornerback. Fred Thomas was burned too often and David is a great addition to start opposite veteran Mike McKenzie. Brian Simmons should challenge incumbent Mark Simoneau at middle linebacker and will at the very least provide depth. David Patten was a disappointment with Washington, and will fight for playing time with the talented corps of receivers in New Orleans.

Overall, the Saints did a good job of doing just enough to fill some holes and make minor upgrades to an already emerging team. They added some guys who will be able to contribute right away and didn’t really lose anyone of significance.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Matt Lehr (Atl)	OG	Blue Adams	DB
Patrick Chukwurah (Den)	OLB	Dewayne White	DE
Cato June (Ind)	OLB	Cornell Green	OT
Jake Plummer (Den)	QB	Sean Mahan	OG
Ryan Simms (KC)	DT	Tim Rattay	QB
Kevin Carter (Mia)	DE	Juran Bolden	CB
Luke Petitgout (NYG)	OT	Shelton Quarles	MLB
B.J. Askew (NYJ)	FB	Kenyatta Walker	OT
Jeff Garcia (Phi)	QB
Jerramy Stevens (Sea)	TE
Sammy Davis (SF)	CB

Grade: B

Stepping into likely starting positions along the O-Line are veterans Matt Lehr and Luke Petitgout. They provide veteran leadership and upgrades along the line. Kevin Carter should replace White at DE, but he turns 34 this year and is a temporary fix. B.J. Askew is interchangeable in the league, and will sit behind Mike Alstott this season. Ryan Simms was a bust with Kansas City, but the Bucs will see if they can channel his talent into a productive season. Jake Plummer may retire before the start of the season, and is just another body in the logjam at QB. Patrick Chukwurah provides solid depth. Jerramy Stevens will contend for playing time but has been a disappointment thus far in his career. Sammy Davis is a bust and likely will not make a difference. The biggest addition for the Bucs is OLB Cato June coming over from the Colts. June is immensely talented, though some say he is a product of the Colts’ defensive system. If that is the case, he should fit right into Defensive Coordinator Monte Kiffin’s system and provides an upgrade at the LB spot.

The NFC South should be pretty competitive. The division is however riddled with bang-or-bust type of teams. Each one of them could really blow up this season or wind up 5-11. The interesting thing about this division, is that with the exception of Carolina, all the teams were very, very active this off-season. It'll be interesting to see how that activity translates on the field.

Good talking NFL!

Brandon

Raising Arizona- The Impact of Ken Whisenhunt

2007-06-19T13:46:00.000-05:00

Barry in Oregon wrote to me:
"I'd like you to discuss the Arizona Cardinal's coming season with their new coach"

So let's talk about Ken Whisenhunt and what kind of impact he'll have on the Arizona Cardinals in 2007.
Note: A complete team evaluation of each team will be posted at a later date

The Arizona Cardinals have been considered a potential contender each off-season over the last few years. However, for some reason the team just continues to pump out sub-par seasons. While nobody can question the talent that exists on this team, somehow they just can't seem to win football games. Dennis Green is in my opinion a very good coach, but you can't argue that his tenure with the Cards was a bit of a disappointment. So in steps Ken Whisenhunt, former Offensive Coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Whisenhunt took over the Steelers offense in 2004, which was also Ben Roethlisberger's rookie season. So first of all, this bodes well for second year Cardinals QB Matt Leinart. Leinart showed a great deal of promise last season, and will likely continue to improve. With Whisenhunt coaching, Leinart can be sure that he won't be expected to carry the team on his back. Whisenhunt brings an old-school mentality to the game, which is to run the football and to play tough defense. Instead of being asked to constantly air it out, Leinart will likely be asked to simply control the clock, make some clutch first downs, and perform the play-action (which incidentally, Leinart is pretty darn good at). This will alleviate some of the pressure off the second year QB and will help him to grow as a player and as a leader. So the first major impact that the new coach will have is on the development of his players. Bringing his hard-nosed offensive system to the organization will likely be good for the entire offense. It will also help maximize Anquan Boldin. Boldin thrives on making tough catches and then running with it. He's a strong WR who's not afraid to go over the middle. Whisenhunt will also help to perfect Boldin's blocking skills which will help on screens and in the running game. Boldin (barring injury) will basically be the Hines Ward of the Cardinals offense, and he has the skill-sets to thrive in that role.
The second thing that Whisenhunt does for the Cardinals, is bring team unity and cohesion. I've heard that when the coach arrived, he sat down with some of the veterans and tried to determine what some of the biggest issues are on the team. Apparently, it was identified that members of the team, in spite of their immense talent, do not know how to work together and lack cohesiveness. This is an important aspect in football, which some refer to as "the ultimate team sport." In no place is this more important than along the offensive line, where five teammates must unite to form a wall in front of the backfield and the pocket. Not coincidentally, the offensive line has been arguably the Cardinals' biggest flaw for a long time. Whisenhunt aims to fix this problem, and I've heard that he's spent a lot of the off-season organizing team-building activities and promoting unity with the entire team... offensive line included. I believe that because of these two things, system and unity, Whisenhunt has a great chance of getting the Cardinals to finally live up to their talent base.

Additionally, Whisenhunt brought with him Steelers offensive line/assistant head coach Russ Grimm, and gave him the same job with the Cardinals. Grimm is a large reason why the Steelers have had such a good offensive line and running game, and he is likely to have a huge impact on improving the Cardinals' offense. Coupled with the first round pick of OT Levi Brown from Penn State (number five overall in the 2007 draft), Edgerrin James should have something to smile about. I figure that Grimm's presence, Leinart's progression, and Whisenhunt's system and coaching style should have James back on the fast track to over 1,300 yards rushing.

Good talking NFL, and thanks for the e-mail Barry!

Brandon

NFC North Free Agency Grades

2007-06-16T05:22:00.000-05:00

Let's talk about how the NFC North has done thus far in Free Agency and trades. Last week, I discussed the NFC East, and I'll be posting the rest of the divisions soon.

Key:

A - Team significantly improved from off-season moves
B - Team improved from off-season moves
C - Team relatively unchanged by off-season moves
D - Team took a step back due to off-season moves
F - Team drastically hurt by off-season moves

Chicago Bears

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Anthony Adams (SF)	DT	Alfonso Boone	DT
Adam Archuleta (Wash)	SS	Cameron Worrell	FS
Obafemi Ayanbadejo (AZ)	FB	Thomas Jones	RB
		Justin Gage	WR
		Todd Johnson	SS

Grade: C-*

The loss of Thomas Jones means that 2005 4^th overall pick Cedric Benson is finally going to have to live up to his billing. Benson has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to show he can handle the workload of an every down back. If Benson can stay healthy and be the back everyone thinks he can be, the loss of Jones will not be felt by the team. However, if the Bears lose Benson to injury or if he doesn’t respond well to being the main guy, then the loss of Jones will hurt that offense as bad as a Rex Grossman interception. Worrell and Johnson were decent backups, but are not significant losses. Adam Archuleta will rebound working with Lovie Smith and be a nice addition to an already stellar defense. Justin Gage is a minimal loss and would’ve likely been buried on the depth chart anyway. Anthony Adams makes up for the depth lost with the departure of Alfonso Boone. Ayanbadejo will play a little at fullback, but will likely help most on special teams.

Overall, Chicago is not considerably worse or better than they were last year, not factoring in the eight game suspension of Tank Johnson, which certainly hurts the D-Line. However, the asterisk next to the C- grade is indicative of two factors that could change that grade to an F real quick. If Lance Briggs sits out the entire season, the Bears will need to replace one of their best defenders. Also, with the rumors of Alex Brown seeking a trade, the Bears will need some depth at the DE position as well as inside.

Detroit Lions

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Tatum Bell (Den)	RB	Dre Bly	CB
Edwin Mulitalo (Bal)	OG	Josh McCown	QB
George Foster (Den)	OT	Mike Williams	WR
Marcus Robinson (Minn)	WR	Terrence Holt	DB
Travis Fisher (StL)	CB	Jamar Fletcher	CB
Shaun McDonald (StL)	WR	Rick DeMulling	OG
Dewayne White (TB)	DE	Cory Schlesinger	FB
T.J. Duckett (Wash)	RB	Marcus Bell	DT
		Ross Verba	OG
		Marcus Pollard	TE
		James Hall	DE

Grade: B-

The loss of Dre Bly leaves a significant hole in the secondary, and Travis Fisher is not going to fill it. He’s better suited to fill Jamar Fletcher’s role of depth. Josh McCown wasn’t needed after the Lions drafted heir apparent Drew Stanton in the second round, and unloading the disappointing Mike Williams was good riddance. Terrence Holt was adequate but won’t be missed. Marcus Bell was good in the rotation, but James Hall was a backup type. Ross Verba was disappointing and Edwin Mulitalo is a big upgrade at the Guard position. Rick DeMulling’s versatility will be missed, though he was not a very reliable starter. Schlesinger’s time had passed in Detroit, and Marcus Pollard didn’t do much in Mike Martz’s “ignore the tight end” system.

Tatum Bell adds some insurance in case Kevin Jones isn’t ready to play when the regular season opens. Shaun McDonald and Marcus Robinson are now two of the better backup wide receivers in the league. T.J. Duckett gives the team a decent short yardage runner. George Foster should start right away and Dewayne White will vie for a starting spot along with Jared Devries and rookie Ikaika Alama-Francis.

Overall, Detroit had a decent off-season. The loss of Dre Bly hurts, but some of his critics say he takes too many risks and makes too many mistakes because of it anyway. Outside of that, the Lions added a couple starters and a couple of capable backups who will all contribute this season.

Green Bay Packers

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Frank Walker (NYG)	CB	David Martin	TE
		Ahman Green	RB
		William Henderson	FB

Grade: D

Frank Walker was a backup on a team that finished in the bottom five in the league in pass defense. David Martin has promise, and is a better pass catcher than incumbent starter Bubba Franks. However, Donald Lee makes three a crowd at the tight end position, so Martin was expendable. Ahman Green has very little tread left on his tires, but strung together a few good games last year. William Henderson will be missed, as he’s been a great blocking FB for the team for a very long time.

The Packers didn’t do much at all in Free Agency. The good news is, they didn’t really lose a whole lot either. The problems lie more in that they did very little to fill holes or to replace the players they did lose. Of course, the Packers have been rebuilding, and many believe the best way to rebuild is through the draft, and not free agency.

Minnesota Vikings

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Mike Doss (Ind)	SS	Jermaine Wiggins	TE
Bobby Wade (Tenn)	WR	Jason Whittle	OG
		Brad Johnson	QB
		Marcus Robinson	WR
		Napoleon Harris	MLB
		Mike Rosenthal	OT
		Travis Taylor	WR
		Bethel Johnson	WR
		Fred Smoot	CB
		Tank Williams	SS
		Mike McMahon	QB

Grade: C-

Fred Smoot and Tank Williams were disappointments and won’t be missed. Mike McMahon was cut before the end of the season. Brad Johnson’s tutelage will be missed as the Vikings try to grow Travaris Jackson into a franchise quarterback. Minnesota’s wide receivers were awful last year, so getting rid of Johnson, Taylor, and Robinson were part of an influx of young talent at the position. Jason Whittle and Mike Rosenthal both had starting experience and their loss hurts the depth of the offensive line. Jermaine Wiggins is an acceptable loss, though the Vikings need to address the tight end position soon. They’re in need of a tight end with good hands that can stretch the seam. Napoleon Harris was a backup with the team anyway and has never lived up to his potential as a former first round pick.

The only notable additions to the Vikins were Mike Doss and Bobby Wade. Doss will backup ageless Darren Sharper and may eventually succeed him. He’s a hard hitting safety, though he needs to work on his coverage skills. Bobby Wade has never been much of an impact player but may fit well in the slot as third option.

Overall, the Vikings really didn’t lose anyone that they didn’t want to lose. The backup quarterback situation should be addressed though, and expect them to sign a veteran before the regular season starts.

The NFC North had a bit of a rough off-season in some ways. Chicago is to be expected as they made it to the Super Bowl and teams are trying to pick them apart. In other ways however, the division is basically just continuing to rebuild. The Vikings and the Lions made minor improvements while getting rid of a lot of underachievers and high-contract veterans who don't fit into their plans for the future. Green Bay just simply didn't do much at all, and they hardly warrant a grade. Overall, the division will continue to be dominated by the Bears, with the Packers and the Lions slowly improving... very slowly for the Lions...

Good talking NFL...

Brandon

Darwin Walker... Please go to work!

2007-06-12T13:31:00.000-05:00

Let's talk about DT Darwin Walker and his contract situation. Walker was part of a trade earlier this off-season that sent him from the Philadelphia Eagles to the Buffalo Bills. Apparently, there was a clause in the contract that stated if he doesn't show up to camp by August 5th, he'd go back to the Eagles. Part of the trade was that a new contract would be negotiated.
Well, here it is mid-June and Walker doesn't have a contract yet, so he hasn't reported to any of the team's activities. Granted, thus far he's only missed voluntary workout sessions, but it doesn't look good for him to attend the mandatory ones coming up (including a three-day camp this week). NFL.com reports that he was the only Bills player not to attend the camp yesterday on the 11th. Walker has been a very solid player over the last several years, and is a great fit in the Bills' defensive system. He's a great pickup for the Bills and I'm hoping that he reports soon. Even as a Dolphins fan, I empathize with the Bills in this situation.
So is this "sitting out" a justifiable choice? The Bills and Walker's agent have yet to come up with a new contract, which was a part of the trade. I say that if your job is to play football, then you should play football. Contract squabbles are a horrible part of the game. They damage the integrity of the sport and all they accomplish is bitter disappointment in the fan base. I believe that I have a solution to this issue:
If a player is traded to a team, and a contract is not in place by opening day of the regular season, then a one-year incentives-laden contract is then automatically enacted for the player. The player is responsible for attending all mandatory team functions, or they forfeit all pay and are subject to heavy fines. Basically, the player will be expected to do their job. This is essentially punishment for the player for not being able to get a deal done and for having a contract squabble. This contract could be based on the number of starts, statistics, or any other incentives. It could also be based upon past success. Walker's contract obviously would be on the higher-end of the scale because he's one of the better players at his position.
This leaves the team open to take advantage of the player, therefore checks and balances must be put into place in order to protect the player's rights. First of all, every penny of this one-year automatic contract will go against the team's salary cap. Second, at the completion of the season, the player automatically becomes an unrestricted free-agent. This allows the player to find a contract with any team, rather than having an on-going stalemate with one organization. Essentially, it gives leverage back to the player. I believe that this will be incentive enough for a team to do everything they can to ensure that they sign their players to a fair contract.
I believe that this kind of scenario is a lose-lose situation for both the player and the team and it should be. Neither one should gain from contract squabbles, and there should be plenty of incentives for both sides to get a deal done in a timely fashion.
So I'll leave this post with one plea: Mr. Walker, please go back to work. Please just play football and contribute to this sport which so many of us love so much. Let the team and the agents worry about dollars and cents. Just play football, and I'll enjoy just watching you play.

Good talking NFL...

NFC East Free Agency Grades

2007-06-10T12:01:00.000-05:00

Let's talk about how the NFC East has done thus far in Free Agency and trades. Last week, I discussed the NFC West, and I'll be posting the rest of the divisions soon.

Key:

Dallas Cowboys

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Leonard Davis (AZ)	OT	Al Johnson	C
Ken Hamlin (Sea)	FS	Drew Bledsoe	QB
Brad Johnson (Minn)	QB	Jason Fabini	OT
		Marco Rivera	OG

Grade: B

Jason Fabini was a depth guy, and Al Johnson was a backup to consistent starter Andre Gurode. However, cutting Marco Rivera leaves a big hole at right guard. His extensive starting experience will be missed. Drew Bledsoe was a standup guy and great Quarterback for a long time, but the Cowboys made it clear that they were headed in a different direction. The signing of Brad Johnson bodes very well for Tony Romo, who will undoubtedly learn the art of the check-down from a reliable vet. Additionally, Johnson provides Dallas with stop-gap insurance, should Romo not have the success he showed mid-season. The signing of Ken Hamlin was an upgrade, and Hamlin is a very good Safety, though it’s puzzling. Hamlin has not been known to excel in coverage and the Cowboys already had that same issue with SS Roy Williams. As good as Hamlin is, Dallas likely would’ve been better served signing a good coverage guy to put alongside the hard-hitting Williams. Davis has not lived up to his high billing thus far in his career, but he’s a mammoth and should be an upgrade. Additionally, he’ll likely start at Right Tackle instead of Left, which should take some of the pressure off of him.

Overall, Dallas did a good job filling needs and upgrading a couple of positions. They didn’t make a huge splash in free agency, but they got three quality players who will start or contribute greatly on opening day this upcoming season. The only concern is along the offensive line, where they lost three contributors.

New York Giants

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Anthony Wright (Cin)	QB	Tim Carter	WR
Reuben Droughns (Cleve)	RB	Frank Walker	CB
Marcus Bell (Det)	DT	Tiki Barber	RB
Lawrence Tynes (KC)	K	Bob Whitfield	OT
Kawika Mitchell (KC)	MLB	Will James	CB
Zach Piller (Tenn)	OG	Jay Feely	K
		Luke Petitgout	OT
		Lavar Arrington	OLB
		Carlos Emmons	OLB
		Chad Morton	RS

Grade: D

The Giants will have to recover from the retirement of Tiki Barber. Barber’s been one of the better backs in the league over the past several seasons, and he will be missed greatly. Bob Whitfield also retired, but though he started seven games last year, his glory days ended in Atlanta back in 2003. Still, the loss of Whitfield and also Petitgout means a total of 16 starts from last season that will need to be replaced at the OT position. Experience and depth have to be concerns on an already shaky O-Line. Lawrence Tynes replacing Jay Feely is a push. Feely was more accurate last year, but Tynes has been a little better from beyond 50 yards the last two years. Tim Carter was a speed guy who won’t be missed, and Chad Morton was barely adequate as a RS last year. Frank Walker couldn’t break the depth chart in an underwhelming secondary. Lavar Arrington showed promise before an injury ended his season early, and Carlos Emmons was part of a very underachieving corps of linebackers. Will James (formerly Will Peterson) is still trying to rejuvenate his career with little success thus far. He won’t be missed.

Anthony Wright is one of the better back-up quarterbacks in the league and will do well if called upon. Kawika Mitchell is a great addition at MLB, but will either battle Antonio Pierce for the job, or be moved outside. Either way, he brings his 104 tackles over to a very weak LB squad. Reuben Droughns is a straight-line runner who can be little more than a goal-line back, which the Giants already have in Brandon Jacobs. Picking up Droughns had to have been for depth purposes, but is a questionable move all the same. Marcus Bell provides some experience to the D-Line rotation, but is little more than depth, as he’s never proven himself to be a solid starter. Piller is a good depth guy and may challenge for a starting position at OG.

Overall, the Giants brought in a very good LB and a great backup QB, while failing to address issues on the O-Line (with the exception of Piller) and at RB. Even if Brandon Jacobs is able to be something special, the Giants will miss having a shifty, speed back with game-breaking ability. The Giants would be wise to look into finding a good third down back as soon as possible, though it may be too late for this season.

Philadelphia Eagles

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
Takeo Spikes (Buf)	OLB	Roderick Hood	CB
Will James (NYG)	CB	Darwin Walker	DT
Montae Reagor (Ind)	DT	Jeff Garcia	QB
Bethel Johnson (Minn)	WR	Shawn Barber	OLB
Kelly Holcomb (Cleve)	QB	Donte Stallworth	WR
Kevin Curtis (StL)	WR	Michael Lewis	S
		Dhani Jones	OLB

Grade: C+

Montae Reagor is a significant downgrade from Darwin Walker at DT, but if last year’s first round pick Broderick Bunkley can step up, then Reagor becomes excellent depth and the loss of Walker won’t be felt. Garcia did a great job filling in for McNabb, but was bound to leave. Kelly Holcomb is a good backup, but may be the odd man out behind A.J. Feeley and second round pick Kevin Kolb. Shawn Barber is replaced by Spikes, who (when healthy) is one of the better backers in the game. Donte Stallworth was hurt most of last season and is overrated. Kevin Curtis and Reggie Brown will be solid starters and the loss of Stallworth won’t be felt. Michael Lewis lost a step last season and lost his starting job to Sean Considine. Dhani Jones is in the twilight of his career. Hood was a decent contributor but not a significant loss.

Will James is trying to rejuvenate his career and will get that chance with the Eagles. Bethel Johnson has been disappointing but he’s very fast and has a legitimate shot at handling returns.

Overall, the Eagles made some decent upgrades this off-season. The additions of Curtis and Spikes are positive moves toward helping a couple of need areas. The biggest loss is Walker, and if Bunkley doesn’t step up, the Eagles may regret letting him go.

Washington Redskins

Notable Gains		Notable Losses
David Macklin (AZ)	CB	David Patten	WR
London Fletcher-Baker (Buf)	MLB	Kenny Wright	CB
Jason Fabini (Dal)	OT	T.J. Duckett	RB
Fred Smoot (Minn)	CB	Derrick Dockery	OG
Omar Stoutmire (NO)	SS	Adam Archuleta	SS
Jerametrius Butler (StL)	DB	Troy Vincent	SS
		John Hall	K
		Christian Fauria	TE

Grade: B

David Patten, T.J. Duckett, and Adam Archuleta were all very disappointing and will not be missed. The Redskins are better off without them. Fauria was a decent blocker, but was expendable with Chris Cooley and journeyman Todd Yoder, who’s similar in style. Troy Vincent still has gas in the tank but wasn’t needed with the addition of Omar Stoutmire (who has starting experience and provides good depth) and with the addition of top ten draft choice LaRon Landry, arguably the best defensive prospect in this year’s draft. Kenny Wright will be replaced by David Macklin who is an upgrade. John Hall was let go in favor of the younger Shaun Suisham. If Suisham shows he can be consistent, then this will be an upgrade. The biggest loss was Derrick Dockery, who has been a reliable starter on the interior line. However, the Bills overpaid to get him and the Redskins were wise not to match the offer.

Fred Smoot will be on his second stint with the team after failing to live up to his hype in Minnesota. If he can regain his form from when he was here the first time, then the Redskins may be one of the deepest teams at the CB position. Butler will just add to that depth, and will likely help out in Nickel and Dime situations. Jason Fabini is a solid addition and will provide excellent depth along the offensive line. The Redskin’s greatest addition was London Fletcher-Baker. Fletcher-Baker has recorded triple-digit tackles every year since 2000, and is one of the most reliable and consistent middle linebackers in the league. Finally, the Redskins signed a highly touted free agent who may just live up to his billing. His signing ranks as a top five move this off-season.

The Redskins are notorious for overspending in free-agency. This year, they may have got it right. They unloaded some players that were very underwhelming (Archuleta, Duckett, Patten), and brought in one of the best free-agents at a need position (Fletcher-Baker) as well as some other contributors. Overall, the Redskins deserve good marks for their off-season. They have made some legitimate improvements, while incurring only one real noticeable loss (Dockery).

Overall, it was an average off-season for the NFC East. None of the teams appear to be dramatically changed by their off-season moves, and this division should remain one of the more competitive in the league. The most impressive team in this division is the Redskins, who went away from their usual spending spree and only brought in valuable contributors. They also unloaded some baggage. We'll see, after further research, where my predictions (coming closer to the beginning of the season) will place the Redskins and the rest of the NFC East. One thing's for certain, this division almost always presents at least a few surprises, one way or another.

Good talking NFL!

Brandon

Miami's Quarterback Situation

2007-06-07T12:42:00.001-05:00

Let's talk about the Miami Dolphins' QB situation...

The Dolphins recently completed a trade for veteran QB Trent Green of the Chiefs. They send a conditional 5th round pick in 2008, which from what I understand goes to a fourth rounder, should Green take 70% or more of the snaps. This is not a good move for the Dolphins franchise.
First of all, Trent Green has been one of the most underrated quarterbacks in the league since he became a Chief in 2001. He's got a 61.1% completion percentage for his career and he's passed for over 4,000 yards three times. His career TD/Int ratio is also 157/101. Trent Green is a very good quarterback and a valuable addition to any team.
The reason this is not a good move for the Dolphins lies in investment, and in Green's health and age. Green will be 37 at the start of the season, and he's coming off of a severe concussion which kept him out of 8 games last year. This does not bode well for the Dolphins. True, the Dolphins just drafted John Beck out of BYU and are looking to Green to simply bridge the gap until Beck is ready to take over, but this leads to the investment part of it. Last year, the Dolphins gave up a second round pick for Daunte Culpepper, who was limited last year trying to come back early from a devastating knee injury he suffered in 2005. Now it seems as though Green's arrival will lead directly to Culpepper's departure, via either trade or release. Culpepper may or may not ever come back from that injury, and it's certainly feasible that that trade could be considered a blunder. However, why confirm it now before he's given a legitimate and healthy chance? Why make sure that the second round pick (which incidentally would've likely been used to pick Deuce Lutui, Devin Hester, or Marcus McNeil) was a complete waste? This season, the Dolphins will likely struggle on offense, with or without Green at the helm. Likely, Beck will end up needing to step in by mid-season and go through the learning curve that most rookie quarterbacks have to endure. In the wake of promising medical reports on Culpepper's rehab, why not give him a legitimate chance to live up to his billing? Cam Cameron has certainly made his imprint on the Dolphins franchise thus far with some dramatic and surprising moves. Cutting long-time favorite TE Randy McMichael, passing on Brady Quinn, Leon Hall, or Adam Carriker for arguably the riskiest player in the first round (Ted Ginn Jr.), and now bringing in an aging veteran coming off an injury plagued season to replace a not-as-aging veteran coming off an injury plagued season. Cameron might be a genius and these moves might make the team better. However, it's just as possible that these moves set the franchise back, and ensure top ten draft choices for the next several years.

Good talking NFL,

Brandon