2013 NFL Draft In-Game...
- Thread starter guaranteeed
- Start date
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
@LoriSchmidt: Good stuff. RT @NFL_ATL Matt Barkley gets put on the spot by Steve Mariucci. The results are ... interesting. http://t.co/b8xtQMFu4t …
guaranteeed
Pretty much a regular
that was ugly
Mooch's face was hilarious
Mooch's face was hilarious
twinkie13
In transit, arriving late.
that was weird
twinkie13
In transit, arriving late.
looks like defensive drafting time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
Dee Milliner runs a 4.31 and 4.36. He's a lock for top 5.
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
That's what happens when every game he's ever played has been called by Verne Lundquist.
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Uie-vJ3NyPk?feature=player_detailpage" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
:drooling:
Joe Public
Gabibbo's Finest
That Barkley video is kind of crushing. He obviously wasn't listening, then couldn't even fake his way through drawing up a play.
Maybe a one-off brain lapse, but you can bet every team that meets with him will now be asking him to get up to that board repeatedly.
Maybe a one-off brain lapse, but you can bet every team that meets with him will now be asking him to get up to that board repeatedly.
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
J Galt
Everyone's got a price.....
Felt more like a Funny or Die interview than an NFL.com one
J Galt
Everyone's got a price.....
Fuck no dude. He is not an elite corner at the professional level. In a normal year he's not a top 10 pick, let alone top 5.
Stay on message. It Joeckel or Trade Down.
T
tipyerbartender1
Guest
Please let Milliner slide to 6.
T
tipyerbartender1
Guest
Galtie, you must not have seen a Browns game since 1987.
J Galt
Everyone's got a price.....
Point taken, but still think you can do better at #6. Warmack, Floyd, and Jordan will all still be available at that pick.
cudder
Pretty much a regular
Think it's just something the strength coach uses to motivate players.
CAPital
Pretty much a regular
Just looking at some of the verts year after year at the combine I've never understood why the niffel doesn't host a slam dunk contest of some sort pro bowl wknd. Would be entertaining as hell and would shit all over the nba contest
This dunk alone would have topped just about everything in the nba's version this year
[video=youtube_share;xkc_QFkAqTU]http://youtu.be/xkc_QFkAqTU[/video]
This dunk alone would have topped just about everything in the nba's version this year
[video=youtube_share;xkc_QFkAqTU]http://youtu.be/xkc_QFkAqTU[/video]
twinkie13
In transit, arriving late.
yea Moff doesnt play, but damn. Never seen that
twinkie13
In transit, arriving late.
ya? which one?
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
Shefty taking a stand:
Adam Schefter <s style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(187, 187, 187);">@</s>AdamSchefter
Manti Te'o does not make out of the first round.
Adam Schefter <s style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(187, 187, 187);">@</s>AdamSchefter
Manti Te'o does not make out of the first round.
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
Matt Miller <s style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(187, 187, 187);">@</s>nfldraftscout
Relevant time to note that the <s style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(244, 115, 149);">#</s>Browns reportedly love Geno Smith, but didn't expect him to be available.
Relevant time to note that the <s style="text-decoration: none; color: rgb(244, 115, 149);">#</s>Browns reportedly love Geno Smith, but didn't expect him to be available.
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
lol when don't the Browns love a QB at the top of the draft.
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
[h=1]NFL Combine Fallers[/h]Wednesday, February 27, 2013
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This is a rundown of 10 players who hurt their draft stock with underwhelming or poor testing at the 2013 NFL Scouting Combine.
Bang it here for 15 Combine Risers.
1. Georgia LB Jarvis Jones -- Jones raised immediate red flags by forgoing his entire Combine workout, before the bottom all but fell out during medical exams. Tests confirmed Jones has a narrowing of his spine between the C4 and C5 vertebrae, and numerous teams have now removed him from their draft boards. Much like Da'Quan Bowers two years ago, Jones enters the decision-making portion of "draft season" with off-the-charts college production but major health concerns. It's not out of the question that Jones falls deep into the first round, or out of it entirely.
Realistic Landing Spots: 49ers at No. 31, Ravens at No. 32, Eagles at No. 35.
2. LSU DE Sam Montgomery -- Montgomery turned in a fine workout -- 4.81 forty and 34 1/2-inch vertical jump at 6-foot-3, 262 -- but his media interview was the most ill-advised in recent Combine memory. Not only did he throw teammate Barkevious Mingo under the bus by admitting the two regularly placed pricey bets in college, Montgomery told reporters he used to take off games versus weaker opponents. Not plays off. Entire games. USA Today's Tony Pauline subsequently reported LSU's coaches are "slamming" Montgomery to curious NFL teams.
Realistic Landing Spots: Dolphins at No. 82, Bengals at No. 84, Broncos at No. 90.
3. Ohio State DT Johnathan Hankins -- The arrow was already pointing down on Hankins after a highly disappointing 2012 season. His stock will fall further following a painfully sluggish Combine. After weighing in at 6-foot-3 and a sloppy 320, Hankins ranked 34th-of-37 D-Linemen in both the forty (5.31) and vertical (26"), 33rd in the ten-yard split (1.82), and 25th-of-33 participants in the three-cone drill (7.59). Hankins is carrying 320 pounds, but the numbers suggest he doesn't carry it well. Once a consensus first-rounder, it would be surprising at this point if Hankins cracked the top 32.
Realistic Landing Spots: Packers at No. 55, Texans at No. 57, 49ers at No. 61.
4. Stanford RB Stepfan Taylor -- Taylor's lack of short-area burst is evident on game tape, and he was exposed as a below-average all-around athlete in Indianapolis. In the forty-yard dash, 5-foot-9, 214-pound Taylor ran a fullbackish 4.76 to rank 27th-of-33 running back participants. His 1.64 ten-yard split came in 26th. 32 running backs performed the vertical and broad jumps, and Taylor's marks of 30 inches and 9-foot-2 came in 29th and 30th, respectively. Taylor's 8 5/8-inch hands are also quite small for a ball carrier. He has the measurables of an undrafted free agent.
Realistic Landing Spots: Packers, Chargers, Bucs in the seventh round.
5. Texas A&M DE Damontre Moore -- If Moore had any designs on going in the top-15 picks, his Combine might prove disastrous. Despite weighing in at a relatively undersized 6-foot-4 1/2, 250, Moore ranked 22nd-of-37 defensive linemen in the forty-yard dash, outrunning only DLs who weigh at least 30 pounds more than him. Moore's 1.69 ten-yard split came in 17th. Moore was better in the vertical (35 1/2") and broad jumps (10-foot-2), but his mere 12 bench-press reps hint at suspect work ethic. Moore is shaping up as a late first-round prospect. He lacks athleticism required to play in a 3-4, and 4-3 teams will want him to add weight, slowing him down even more.
Realistic Landing Spots: Falcons at No. 30, Jaguars at No. 33, Lions at No. 36.
6. Texas A&M OT Luke Joeckel -- You'll see more and more mock drafts sending Central Michigan's Eric Fisher to Kansas City at the No. 1 pick. It's not because Joeckel was terrible at the Combine, but his measurable athleticism didn't stand out. At 6-foot-6, 306, Joeckel ranked 30th-of-48 offensive linemen in the forty, 32nd in the ten-yard split (1.81), 15th in broad jump (8-foot-10), and 12th in 20-yard shuttle time (4.68). NFL teams will have to recheck Joeckel's tape to make sure he's a good enough athlete to protect the blindside. He's still a likely top-five pick.
Realistic Landing Spots: Chiefs at No. 1, Eagles at No. 4, Lions at No. 5.
7. Wisconsin RB Montee Ball -- Ball's measurables aren't overwhelmingly bad, but they're not indicative of a top-50 pick, either. Ball's 4.66 ranked 19th-of-33 running back competitors in the forty-yard dash, and 15 bench reps put Ball in a three-way tie for dead last at his position. Ball cleared just 32 inches in the vertical; 20 running backs jumped higher. He came in 17th in the long jump (9-foot-10), 16th in the short shuttle (4.40), and seventh in the three-cone drill. Ball is a reliable, steady ball carrier, but he lacks special qualities. He's entrenched as a day-two prospect.
Realistic Landing Spots: Falcons at No. 60, Jaguars at No. 64, Jets at No. 72.
8. Notre Dame LB Manti Te'o -- Te'o (6-foot-1, 241) measured in nearly a full inch and 14 pounds shy of his college listing, but the lighter weight didn't help his workouts. His 4.82 forty time ranked 20th-of-26 linebackers, and Te'o tied for a middling eighth-of-20 in the vertical (33"). Te'o did finish sixth in the 20-yard shuttle (4.27) and fifth in the three-cone drill (7.13), and in fairness to Te'o, Rams MLB James Laurinatis' 2009 Combine was eerily similar. (And he's turned out pretty good.) At 6-foot-1 and change and 244 pounds, Laurinaitis ran an identical 4.82 with a 4.24 short shuttle. Considered a lock first-rounder that season, Laurinaitis "slipped" to the 35th overall pick.
Realistic Landing Spots: Broncos at No. 28, Falcons at No. 30, Ravens at No. 32.
9. Florida State DE Bjoern Werner -- Werner is another prospect who didn't quite bomb in Indy, but didn't help himself, either. And there was already growing buzz that Werner has been overrated in pre-Combine media mocks. Measuring in at 6-foot-3 1/4, 266, Werner ranked 13th among defensive linemen in the forty (4.83), 15th in the ten-yard split (1.66), 22nd in the vertical (31"), and 17th in the three-cone drill (7.30). Perhaps most startlingly, Werner's 9-foot-3 broad jump -- an indicator of lower-body explosion -- tied for 21st in his position group. Werner remains unlikely to get past the early to mid teens, but he isn't the top-five pick he was billed to be. Clubs that run 3-4 defenses are unlikely to give Werner high first-round grades as a rush linebacker.
Realistic Landing Spots: Dolphins at No. 12, Bucs at No. 13, Cowboys at No. 18.
10. Mississippi State CB Johnthan Banks -- Banks was widely regarded as a top-three draft-eligible cornerback entering the Combine. His stock is going to take a hit. Built slightly at 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, Banks clocked a 4.61 to rank a lowly 41st among 54 defensive backs who ran, including the safeties. 49 DBs performed the 225-pound bench press, and Banks' ten reps ranked him 45th. Banks continued to display underwhelming athleticism with a 34-inch vertical, which came in 40th. In the three-cone drill, Banks' 6.97 time ranked 26th-of-38 participants. Banks' odds of landing in the first round now seem remote, though his tape should keep him in the top 50.
Realistic Landing Spots: Dolphins at No. 42, Bucs at No. 43, Panthers at No. 44.
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This is a rundown of 10 players who hurt their draft stock with underwhelming or poor testing at the 2013 NFL Scouting Combine.
Bang it here for 15 Combine Risers.
1. Georgia LB Jarvis Jones -- Jones raised immediate red flags by forgoing his entire Combine workout, before the bottom all but fell out during medical exams. Tests confirmed Jones has a narrowing of his spine between the C4 and C5 vertebrae, and numerous teams have now removed him from their draft boards. Much like Da'Quan Bowers two years ago, Jones enters the decision-making portion of "draft season" with off-the-charts college production but major health concerns. It's not out of the question that Jones falls deep into the first round, or out of it entirely.
Realistic Landing Spots: 49ers at No. 31, Ravens at No. 32, Eagles at No. 35.
2. LSU DE Sam Montgomery -- Montgomery turned in a fine workout -- 4.81 forty and 34 1/2-inch vertical jump at 6-foot-3, 262 -- but his media interview was the most ill-advised in recent Combine memory. Not only did he throw teammate Barkevious Mingo under the bus by admitting the two regularly placed pricey bets in college, Montgomery told reporters he used to take off games versus weaker opponents. Not plays off. Entire games. USA Today's Tony Pauline subsequently reported LSU's coaches are "slamming" Montgomery to curious NFL teams.
Realistic Landing Spots: Dolphins at No. 82, Bengals at No. 84, Broncos at No. 90.
3. Ohio State DT Johnathan Hankins -- The arrow was already pointing down on Hankins after a highly disappointing 2012 season. His stock will fall further following a painfully sluggish Combine. After weighing in at 6-foot-3 and a sloppy 320, Hankins ranked 34th-of-37 D-Linemen in both the forty (5.31) and vertical (26"), 33rd in the ten-yard split (1.82), and 25th-of-33 participants in the three-cone drill (7.59). Hankins is carrying 320 pounds, but the numbers suggest he doesn't carry it well. Once a consensus first-rounder, it would be surprising at this point if Hankins cracked the top 32.
Realistic Landing Spots: Packers at No. 55, Texans at No. 57, 49ers at No. 61.
4. Stanford RB Stepfan Taylor -- Taylor's lack of short-area burst is evident on game tape, and he was exposed as a below-average all-around athlete in Indianapolis. In the forty-yard dash, 5-foot-9, 214-pound Taylor ran a fullbackish 4.76 to rank 27th-of-33 running back participants. His 1.64 ten-yard split came in 26th. 32 running backs performed the vertical and broad jumps, and Taylor's marks of 30 inches and 9-foot-2 came in 29th and 30th, respectively. Taylor's 8 5/8-inch hands are also quite small for a ball carrier. He has the measurables of an undrafted free agent.
Realistic Landing Spots: Packers, Chargers, Bucs in the seventh round.
5. Texas A&M DE Damontre Moore -- If Moore had any designs on going in the top-15 picks, his Combine might prove disastrous. Despite weighing in at a relatively undersized 6-foot-4 1/2, 250, Moore ranked 22nd-of-37 defensive linemen in the forty-yard dash, outrunning only DLs who weigh at least 30 pounds more than him. Moore's 1.69 ten-yard split came in 17th. Moore was better in the vertical (35 1/2") and broad jumps (10-foot-2), but his mere 12 bench-press reps hint at suspect work ethic. Moore is shaping up as a late first-round prospect. He lacks athleticism required to play in a 3-4, and 4-3 teams will want him to add weight, slowing him down even more.
Realistic Landing Spots: Falcons at No. 30, Jaguars at No. 33, Lions at No. 36.
6. Texas A&M OT Luke Joeckel -- You'll see more and more mock drafts sending Central Michigan's Eric Fisher to Kansas City at the No. 1 pick. It's not because Joeckel was terrible at the Combine, but his measurable athleticism didn't stand out. At 6-foot-6, 306, Joeckel ranked 30th-of-48 offensive linemen in the forty, 32nd in the ten-yard split (1.81), 15th in broad jump (8-foot-10), and 12th in 20-yard shuttle time (4.68). NFL teams will have to recheck Joeckel's tape to make sure he's a good enough athlete to protect the blindside. He's still a likely top-five pick.
Realistic Landing Spots: Chiefs at No. 1, Eagles at No. 4, Lions at No. 5.
7. Wisconsin RB Montee Ball -- Ball's measurables aren't overwhelmingly bad, but they're not indicative of a top-50 pick, either. Ball's 4.66 ranked 19th-of-33 running back competitors in the forty-yard dash, and 15 bench reps put Ball in a three-way tie for dead last at his position. Ball cleared just 32 inches in the vertical; 20 running backs jumped higher. He came in 17th in the long jump (9-foot-10), 16th in the short shuttle (4.40), and seventh in the three-cone drill. Ball is a reliable, steady ball carrier, but he lacks special qualities. He's entrenched as a day-two prospect.
Realistic Landing Spots: Falcons at No. 60, Jaguars at No. 64, Jets at No. 72.
8. Notre Dame LB Manti Te'o -- Te'o (6-foot-1, 241) measured in nearly a full inch and 14 pounds shy of his college listing, but the lighter weight didn't help his workouts. His 4.82 forty time ranked 20th-of-26 linebackers, and Te'o tied for a middling eighth-of-20 in the vertical (33"). Te'o did finish sixth in the 20-yard shuttle (4.27) and fifth in the three-cone drill (7.13), and in fairness to Te'o, Rams MLB James Laurinatis' 2009 Combine was eerily similar. (And he's turned out pretty good.) At 6-foot-1 and change and 244 pounds, Laurinaitis ran an identical 4.82 with a 4.24 short shuttle. Considered a lock first-rounder that season, Laurinaitis "slipped" to the 35th overall pick.
Realistic Landing Spots: Broncos at No. 28, Falcons at No. 30, Ravens at No. 32.
9. Florida State DE Bjoern Werner -- Werner is another prospect who didn't quite bomb in Indy, but didn't help himself, either. And there was already growing buzz that Werner has been overrated in pre-Combine media mocks. Measuring in at 6-foot-3 1/4, 266, Werner ranked 13th among defensive linemen in the forty (4.83), 15th in the ten-yard split (1.66), 22nd in the vertical (31"), and 17th in the three-cone drill (7.30). Perhaps most startlingly, Werner's 9-foot-3 broad jump -- an indicator of lower-body explosion -- tied for 21st in his position group. Werner remains unlikely to get past the early to mid teens, but he isn't the top-five pick he was billed to be. Clubs that run 3-4 defenses are unlikely to give Werner high first-round grades as a rush linebacker.
Realistic Landing Spots: Dolphins at No. 12, Bucs at No. 13, Cowboys at No. 18.
10. Mississippi State CB Johnthan Banks -- Banks was widely regarded as a top-three draft-eligible cornerback entering the Combine. His stock is going to take a hit. Built slightly at 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, Banks clocked a 4.61 to rank a lowly 41st among 54 defensive backs who ran, including the safeties. 49 DBs performed the 225-pound bench press, and Banks' ten reps ranked him 45th. Banks continued to display underwhelming athleticism with a 34-inch vertical, which came in 40th. In the three-cone drill, Banks' 6.97 time ranked 26th-of-38 participants. Banks' odds of landing in the first round now seem remote, though his tape should keep him in the top 50.
Realistic Landing Spots: Dolphins at No. 42, Bucs at No. 43, Panthers at No. 44.
JumpOnBoard
CTG Partner
[h=1]NFL Combine Risers[/h]Tuesday, February 26, 2013
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This is a rundown of 15 players who either helped or solidified their draft stock by testing well at the 2013 Scouting Combine. We'll start off with seven bigger-named prospects before digging a bit deeper on 8-15.
1. BYU DE Ziggy Ansah -- Ansah's stock has been rising since the January 26 Senior Bowl game, which he single-handedly took over. In Indy, Ansah measured 6-foot-5 1/4 and 271 pounds with 35 1/8-inch arms. His 4.63 forty time was sixth fastest among the 37 defensive linemen who ran, and Ansah's 34 1/2-inch vertical leap tied for seventh. When running the forty, only LSU's Barkevious Mingo cleared ten yards at a faster pace than Ansah (1.56). His 9-foot-10 broad jump also ranked in the top ten. Ansah has locked himself in as a single-digit pick.
Realistic Landing Spots: Jaguars at No. 2, Raiders at No. 3, Lions at No. 5.
2. Tennessee WR Justin Hunter -- Hunter weighed in at a relatively slight 6-foot-4, 196 in an effort to improve his workout measurables. It worked. Hunter's 4.44 forty was outdone by only eight of the 35 receivers who ran, and all by wideouts at least an inch and a half shorter than Hunter. Even more impressive were Hunter's vertical (39 1/2") and broad jump (11-foot-4), which each either ranked first or tied Hunter for first in his position group. Despite disappointing 2012 game film coming off an ACL tear, Hunter has vaulted himself back into the first-round discussion.
Realistic Landing Spots: Texans at No. 27, Patriots at No. 29, Jets at No. 39.
3. Notre Dame TE Tyler Eifert -- If there was any doubt about Eifert's athleticism entering the Combine, he erased it in Indy. 19 tight ends worked out, and Eifert ranked fourth in forty time (4.68), third in bench-press reps (22), second in vertical leap (35 1/2"), third in 20-yard shuttle time (4.32), and second in the 60-yard shuttle (11.52). He was also the only tight end to break seven seconds in the three-cone drill (6.92). Ideally built at 6-foot-5 1/2, 250 with 33 1/8-inch arms, Eifert has separated himself from Zach Ertz as the lone surefire first-rounder in this tight end class.
Realistic Landing Spots: Bucs at No. 13, Bears at No. 20, Falcons at No. 30.
4. Oklahoma LT Lane Johnson -- Johnson was considered a possible top-ten pick before the Combine, but he might push for the top seven now. Among the 48 offensive linemen who took part, Johnson ranked second in forty time (4.72), first in the ten-yard split (1.61), second in vertical leap (34"), fifth in the 20-yard shuttle (4.52), and second in the three-cone drill (7.31). He also benched 225 pounds 28 times with vine-like 35 1/4-inch arms. Johnson offers ideal athleticism and build (6-foot-6, 303) for an NFL left tackle. He's giving Luke Joeckel and Eric Fisher a run for their money.
Realistic Landing Spots: Cardinals at No. 7, Chargers at No. 11, Dolphins at No. 12.
5. LSU DE/LB Barkevious Mingo -- Mingo's game has kinks that need refinement -- he tends to play too high and must add strength -- but he is a highly explosive athlete. At 6-foot-4, 241, Mingo ranked first among all defensive linemen in the ten-yard split (1.55) and second in the forty (4.58), demonstrating sensational short-area burst in addition to long speed. Mingo's 10-foot-8 broad jump tied for first, and his 37-inch vertical was second best at his position. Teams that run 3-4 defenses will love Mingo's blend of length (33 3/4-inch arms) and sky-high upside.
Realistic Landing Spots: Jets at No. 9, Saints at No. 15, Steelers at No. 17.
6. Washington CB Desmond Trufant -- Marcus' younger brother is long and lean at 6-foot, 190, and recovery speed isn't going to be a problem. Trufant's 4.38 forty was third fastest among defensive backs at the Combine, and his 3.85 time in the 20-yard shuttle ranked second. His broad jump (10-foot-5) and vertical (37 1/2") were respectable if not elite. On the heels of a standout Senior Bowl, Trufant is making a case to be the draft's No. 2 corner behind Dee Milliner.
Realistic Landing Spots: Dolphins at No. 12, Bucs at No. 13, Panthers at No. 14.
7. Oregon LB Dion Jordan -- Some teams use the Combine to create first impressions, before going back to watch tape until April's draft. Clubs of that mindset will be initially smitten with Jordan. At 6-foot-6 1/4, 248, with 33 7/8-inch arms, he has a freaky size-athleticism combo. His 4.60 forty tied for third among defensive linemen, and Jordan ranked third behind only Mingo and Ansah in the ten-yard split (1.57). His 10-foot-2 broad jump was fourth best at the position. Jordan regularly lined up over the slot receiver in Oregon's defense and might be the most pro-ready cover linebacker in the draft. Rotoworld draft guru Josh Norris has likened him to Julian Peterson.
Realistic Landing Spots: Eagles at No. 4, Browns at No. 6, Jets at No. 9.
8. Arkansas RB Knile Davis -- Davis rushed for just 377 yards on 112 carries (3.37 YPC) coming off a major ankle injury in 2012, but some of his measurables indicate he could be a gem. Weighing in at a rocked-up 5-foot-11 3/8 and 227 pounds, Davis ran the second fastest forty time (4.37) and second best ten-yard split (1.49) among running backs in Indy. He also ranked second in bench reps (31) and ninth in the broad jump (10-foot-1). More sobering were Davis' 20-yard shuttle (4.38) and three-cone times (6.96), which ranked 15th-of-24 and 11th-of-23 participants, respectively. Obvious concerns for Davis are his agility, small hands (8 5/8"), and poor production.
Realistic Landing Spots: Titans, Falcons, Cowboys in the fifth round.
9. Arkansas-Pine Bluff OT Terron Armstead -- Armstead set a new Combine record for offensive linemen with a 4.71 forty, and his 1.64 ten-yard split ranked second behind only Lane Johnson. With lengthy 34-inch arms, 6-foot-4 3/4, 306-pound Armstead also repped 225 pounds 31 times on the bench. His 34 1/2-inch vertical leap again paced the O-Line field, and Armstead tied for third in the broad jump at 9-foot-4. Armstead is considered raw coming out of a small school, but NFL teams will be enamored by his untapped potential and rare athleticism at his size.
Realistic Landing Spots: Redskins at No. 51, Dolphins at No. 54, Seahawks at No. 56.
10. SMU DE Margus Hunt -- Hunt is an extremely raw, 26-year-old former track and field junior Olympian. In terms of being a legitimate NFL prospect, he certainly has the workout-wonder part down. A top D-Line performer in essentially every measurable, 6-foot-8, 277-pound Hunt finished third in the forty (4.60), first on the bench (38 reps), seventh in the broad jump (10-foot-1), ninth in the ten-yard split (1.62), and seventh in the vertical leap (34 1/2") among 54 defensive linemen who showed up in Indy. Old, unlikely to contribute as a rookie, and limited to one position (end) in one scheme (3-4) with little to no quality football film, Hunt will likely be targeted as a mid- to late-round project. There was even post-Combine buzz that some clubs prefer Hunt on offense, playing tight end.
Realistic Landing Spots: Chiefs, Browns, 49ers in the sixth round.
11. Mississippi State CB Darius Slay -- Overshadowed by more heralded teammate Johnthan Banks in college, Slay turned heads when he was credited with the fastest forty time among cornerbacks (4.36). Measuring in at 5-foot-11 7/8 and 192 pounds, Slay also produced a 10-foot-4 broad jump, 1.53 ten-yard split, and 6.90 three-cone time. Little known but no slouch, Slay led the Bulldogs in interceptions (5) last season and is a sleeper to be drafted in the top 75.
Realistic Landing Spots: Bucs at No. 73, 49ers at No. 74, Chargers at No. 76.
12. Rice TE Vance McDonald -- McDonald amassed 119 receptions for 1,504 yards and 15 career touchdowns in Rice's spread offense, and he now boasts workout numbers to support his production. At 6-foot-4 1/8 and 267 pounds, McDonald paced his position on the bench with 31 reps despite measuring in with the longest arms (34 3/8") among all tight ends at the Combine. McDonald also ranked fifth in the forty (4.69), sixth in the vertical (33 1/2"), fourth in the broad jump (9-foot-8), and third in the three-cone drill (7.08). McDonald is headed for the second round.
Realistic Landing Spots: Rams at No. 46, Bears at No. 50, Redskins at No. 51.
13. Texas A&M WR Ryan Swope -- Swope was a possession receiver at A&M, averaging 12.4 career yards per catch, but has drawn Eric Decker comparisons during draft season. He helped himself greatly at the Combine with a 4.34 forty, tying Tavon Austin for second fastest by a receiver after weighing in at 6-foot, 205. Swope also showed well with a 37-inch vertical (fifth best among wideouts), 10-foot-5 broad jump (sixth), and 6.76 three-cone time (sixth). Teams will likely recheck Swope's game tape after the performance. He may begin to generate second-day grades.
Realistic Landing Spots: Bills at No. 71, Jets at No. 72, Dolphins at No. 77.
14. Arkansas TE Chris Gragg -- Gragg needed a way to open eyes after an injury-ruined senior year, and he accomplished that in Indy. At 6-foot-2 3/4 and 244 pounds, Gragg paced the tight end field in forty time (4.50), ten-yard split (1.53), and vertical leap (37 1/2"). Only two tight ends were more efficient in the three-cone drill (7.07), and Gragg also showed adequate strength on the bench with 18 reps of 225 with 33 5/8-inch arms. Gragg caught 41 passes as a junior, so he's not entirely without production. The head-turning Combine is very likely to get Gragg drafted.
Realistic Landing Spots: 49ers, Falcons, Redskins in the fifth round.
15. Cal CB Steve Williams -- Not taken especially seriously in draft circles after leaving school a year early, Williams will get noticed off his Combine. The Cal Bears' 2012 Defensive MVP finished tied for first in the vertical leap (40 1/2"), eighth in the broad jump (10-foot-8), and ninth in forty time (4.42) among 54 cornerbacks. Williams was just an honorable mention pick in the Pac 12 as a junior. At a coveted NFL position, he may have vaulted his stock from a UDFA to fourth- or fifth-rounder.
Realistic Landing Spots: Ravens, Steelers, Jaguars in the fifth round.
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This is a rundown of 15 players who either helped or solidified their draft stock by testing well at the 2013 Scouting Combine. We'll start off with seven bigger-named prospects before digging a bit deeper on 8-15.
1. BYU DE Ziggy Ansah -- Ansah's stock has been rising since the January 26 Senior Bowl game, which he single-handedly took over. In Indy, Ansah measured 6-foot-5 1/4 and 271 pounds with 35 1/8-inch arms. His 4.63 forty time was sixth fastest among the 37 defensive linemen who ran, and Ansah's 34 1/2-inch vertical leap tied for seventh. When running the forty, only LSU's Barkevious Mingo cleared ten yards at a faster pace than Ansah (1.56). His 9-foot-10 broad jump also ranked in the top ten. Ansah has locked himself in as a single-digit pick.
Realistic Landing Spots: Jaguars at No. 2, Raiders at No. 3, Lions at No. 5.
2. Tennessee WR Justin Hunter -- Hunter weighed in at a relatively slight 6-foot-4, 196 in an effort to improve his workout measurables. It worked. Hunter's 4.44 forty was outdone by only eight of the 35 receivers who ran, and all by wideouts at least an inch and a half shorter than Hunter. Even more impressive were Hunter's vertical (39 1/2") and broad jump (11-foot-4), which each either ranked first or tied Hunter for first in his position group. Despite disappointing 2012 game film coming off an ACL tear, Hunter has vaulted himself back into the first-round discussion.
Realistic Landing Spots: Texans at No. 27, Patriots at No. 29, Jets at No. 39.
3. Notre Dame TE Tyler Eifert -- If there was any doubt about Eifert's athleticism entering the Combine, he erased it in Indy. 19 tight ends worked out, and Eifert ranked fourth in forty time (4.68), third in bench-press reps (22), second in vertical leap (35 1/2"), third in 20-yard shuttle time (4.32), and second in the 60-yard shuttle (11.52). He was also the only tight end to break seven seconds in the three-cone drill (6.92). Ideally built at 6-foot-5 1/2, 250 with 33 1/8-inch arms, Eifert has separated himself from Zach Ertz as the lone surefire first-rounder in this tight end class.
Realistic Landing Spots: Bucs at No. 13, Bears at No. 20, Falcons at No. 30.
4. Oklahoma LT Lane Johnson -- Johnson was considered a possible top-ten pick before the Combine, but he might push for the top seven now. Among the 48 offensive linemen who took part, Johnson ranked second in forty time (4.72), first in the ten-yard split (1.61), second in vertical leap (34"), fifth in the 20-yard shuttle (4.52), and second in the three-cone drill (7.31). He also benched 225 pounds 28 times with vine-like 35 1/4-inch arms. Johnson offers ideal athleticism and build (6-foot-6, 303) for an NFL left tackle. He's giving Luke Joeckel and Eric Fisher a run for their money.
Realistic Landing Spots: Cardinals at No. 7, Chargers at No. 11, Dolphins at No. 12.
5. LSU DE/LB Barkevious Mingo -- Mingo's game has kinks that need refinement -- he tends to play too high and must add strength -- but he is a highly explosive athlete. At 6-foot-4, 241, Mingo ranked first among all defensive linemen in the ten-yard split (1.55) and second in the forty (4.58), demonstrating sensational short-area burst in addition to long speed. Mingo's 10-foot-8 broad jump tied for first, and his 37-inch vertical was second best at his position. Teams that run 3-4 defenses will love Mingo's blend of length (33 3/4-inch arms) and sky-high upside.
Realistic Landing Spots: Jets at No. 9, Saints at No. 15, Steelers at No. 17.
6. Washington CB Desmond Trufant -- Marcus' younger brother is long and lean at 6-foot, 190, and recovery speed isn't going to be a problem. Trufant's 4.38 forty was third fastest among defensive backs at the Combine, and his 3.85 time in the 20-yard shuttle ranked second. His broad jump (10-foot-5) and vertical (37 1/2") were respectable if not elite. On the heels of a standout Senior Bowl, Trufant is making a case to be the draft's No. 2 corner behind Dee Milliner.
Realistic Landing Spots: Dolphins at No. 12, Bucs at No. 13, Panthers at No. 14.
7. Oregon LB Dion Jordan -- Some teams use the Combine to create first impressions, before going back to watch tape until April's draft. Clubs of that mindset will be initially smitten with Jordan. At 6-foot-6 1/4, 248, with 33 7/8-inch arms, he has a freaky size-athleticism combo. His 4.60 forty tied for third among defensive linemen, and Jordan ranked third behind only Mingo and Ansah in the ten-yard split (1.57). His 10-foot-2 broad jump was fourth best at the position. Jordan regularly lined up over the slot receiver in Oregon's defense and might be the most pro-ready cover linebacker in the draft. Rotoworld draft guru Josh Norris has likened him to Julian Peterson.
Realistic Landing Spots: Eagles at No. 4, Browns at No. 6, Jets at No. 9.
8. Arkansas RB Knile Davis -- Davis rushed for just 377 yards on 112 carries (3.37 YPC) coming off a major ankle injury in 2012, but some of his measurables indicate he could be a gem. Weighing in at a rocked-up 5-foot-11 3/8 and 227 pounds, Davis ran the second fastest forty time (4.37) and second best ten-yard split (1.49) among running backs in Indy. He also ranked second in bench reps (31) and ninth in the broad jump (10-foot-1). More sobering were Davis' 20-yard shuttle (4.38) and three-cone times (6.96), which ranked 15th-of-24 and 11th-of-23 participants, respectively. Obvious concerns for Davis are his agility, small hands (8 5/8"), and poor production.
Realistic Landing Spots: Titans, Falcons, Cowboys in the fifth round.
9. Arkansas-Pine Bluff OT Terron Armstead -- Armstead set a new Combine record for offensive linemen with a 4.71 forty, and his 1.64 ten-yard split ranked second behind only Lane Johnson. With lengthy 34-inch arms, 6-foot-4 3/4, 306-pound Armstead also repped 225 pounds 31 times on the bench. His 34 1/2-inch vertical leap again paced the O-Line field, and Armstead tied for third in the broad jump at 9-foot-4. Armstead is considered raw coming out of a small school, but NFL teams will be enamored by his untapped potential and rare athleticism at his size.
Realistic Landing Spots: Redskins at No. 51, Dolphins at No. 54, Seahawks at No. 56.
10. SMU DE Margus Hunt -- Hunt is an extremely raw, 26-year-old former track and field junior Olympian. In terms of being a legitimate NFL prospect, he certainly has the workout-wonder part down. A top D-Line performer in essentially every measurable, 6-foot-8, 277-pound Hunt finished third in the forty (4.60), first on the bench (38 reps), seventh in the broad jump (10-foot-1), ninth in the ten-yard split (1.62), and seventh in the vertical leap (34 1/2") among 54 defensive linemen who showed up in Indy. Old, unlikely to contribute as a rookie, and limited to one position (end) in one scheme (3-4) with little to no quality football film, Hunt will likely be targeted as a mid- to late-round project. There was even post-Combine buzz that some clubs prefer Hunt on offense, playing tight end.
Realistic Landing Spots: Chiefs, Browns, 49ers in the sixth round.
11. Mississippi State CB Darius Slay -- Overshadowed by more heralded teammate Johnthan Banks in college, Slay turned heads when he was credited with the fastest forty time among cornerbacks (4.36). Measuring in at 5-foot-11 7/8 and 192 pounds, Slay also produced a 10-foot-4 broad jump, 1.53 ten-yard split, and 6.90 three-cone time. Little known but no slouch, Slay led the Bulldogs in interceptions (5) last season and is a sleeper to be drafted in the top 75.
Realistic Landing Spots: Bucs at No. 73, 49ers at No. 74, Chargers at No. 76.
12. Rice TE Vance McDonald -- McDonald amassed 119 receptions for 1,504 yards and 15 career touchdowns in Rice's spread offense, and he now boasts workout numbers to support his production. At 6-foot-4 1/8 and 267 pounds, McDonald paced his position on the bench with 31 reps despite measuring in with the longest arms (34 3/8") among all tight ends at the Combine. McDonald also ranked fifth in the forty (4.69), sixth in the vertical (33 1/2"), fourth in the broad jump (9-foot-8), and third in the three-cone drill (7.08). McDonald is headed for the second round.
Realistic Landing Spots: Rams at No. 46, Bears at No. 50, Redskins at No. 51.
13. Texas A&M WR Ryan Swope -- Swope was a possession receiver at A&M, averaging 12.4 career yards per catch, but has drawn Eric Decker comparisons during draft season. He helped himself greatly at the Combine with a 4.34 forty, tying Tavon Austin for second fastest by a receiver after weighing in at 6-foot, 205. Swope also showed well with a 37-inch vertical (fifth best among wideouts), 10-foot-5 broad jump (sixth), and 6.76 three-cone time (sixth). Teams will likely recheck Swope's game tape after the performance. He may begin to generate second-day grades.
Realistic Landing Spots: Bills at No. 71, Jets at No. 72, Dolphins at No. 77.
14. Arkansas TE Chris Gragg -- Gragg needed a way to open eyes after an injury-ruined senior year, and he accomplished that in Indy. At 6-foot-2 3/4 and 244 pounds, Gragg paced the tight end field in forty time (4.50), ten-yard split (1.53), and vertical leap (37 1/2"). Only two tight ends were more efficient in the three-cone drill (7.07), and Gragg also showed adequate strength on the bench with 18 reps of 225 with 33 5/8-inch arms. Gragg caught 41 passes as a junior, so he's not entirely without production. The head-turning Combine is very likely to get Gragg drafted.
Realistic Landing Spots: 49ers, Falcons, Redskins in the fifth round.
15. Cal CB Steve Williams -- Not taken especially seriously in draft circles after leaving school a year early, Williams will get noticed off his Combine. The Cal Bears' 2012 Defensive MVP finished tied for first in the vertical leap (40 1/2"), eighth in the broad jump (10-foot-8), and ninth in forty time (4.42) among 54 cornerbacks. Williams was just an honorable mention pick in the Pac 12 as a junior. At a coveted NFL position, he may have vaulted his stock from a UDFA to fourth- or fifth-rounder.
Realistic Landing Spots: Ravens, Steelers, Jaguars in the fifth round.
guaranteeed
Pretty much a regular
no Manti?
guaranteeed
Pretty much a regular
Kiper has Fisher over Joeckel in his top 5 OL now
http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draf...raft-mel-kiper-top-5-prospects-every-position
http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draf...raft-mel-kiper-top-5-prospects-every-position
reNew Orleans
Clubbin' with Rasual Butler
Lol
ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported on NFL 32 Wednesday that the Raiders have interest in West Virginia QB Geno Smith with the No. 3 overall pick in the draft.
"Word around the NFL is the Raiders have interest in Geno Smith with that third overall pick in the draft," said Mort. "Now I can't get this confirmed by the team, but Geno Smith is a guy that everybody sees as a top-10 pick right now -- not everybody -- but he's got a chance to go in the top ten. And if the Raiders do like him, you better take him at No. 3." Mortensen indicated that Oakland would likely release Carson Palmer if Smith were drafted.
Feb 27 - 5:46 PM
ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported on NFL 32 Wednesday that the Raiders have interest in West Virginia QB Geno Smith with the No. 3 overall pick in the draft.
"Word around the NFL is the Raiders have interest in Geno Smith with that third overall pick in the draft," said Mort. "Now I can't get this confirmed by the team, but Geno Smith is a guy that everybody sees as a top-10 pick right now -- not everybody -- but he's got a chance to go in the top ten. And if the Raiders do like him, you better take him at No. 3." Mortensen indicated that Oakland would likely release Carson Palmer if Smith were drafted.
Feb 27 - 5:46 PM
guaranteeed
Pretty much a regular
would rather have one of the defensive guys and give TP a shot (wait for Teddy next year)
I think Reggie knows what he is doing though coming from GB
I think Reggie knows what he is doing though coming from GB
detroit187
Pretty much a regular
Raidas cant afford to waste a pick on Geno, teed is right, go with a defensive playmaker and go from there or even O line.
After the combine I see these guys for the Lions. Have heard rumors they may trade down from 5 to BUF at 8 if Geno is there for the Bills. That would be too smart for this organization to do.
Lions 1. Milliner 2. Ansah 3. Warmack 4. Fisher/Joeckel 6. Werner
Demontre Moore completely lost it at the combine, epic fail.
Mel Kiper really pissing me off and left questioning if the guy has a clue, still has Jarvis Jones #1 after half the teams say they wont draft him due to neck issues, then he puts them with Lions who dont run a 3-4, which is imo the only system the kid can play in. Seriously?
After the combine I see these guys for the Lions. Have heard rumors they may trade down from 5 to BUF at 8 if Geno is there for the Bills. That would be too smart for this organization to do.
Lions 1. Milliner 2. Ansah 3. Warmack 4. Fisher/Joeckel 6. Werner
Demontre Moore completely lost it at the combine, epic fail.
Mel Kiper really pissing me off and left questioning if the guy has a clue, still has Jarvis Jones #1 after half the teams say they wont draft him due to neck issues, then he puts them with Lions who dont run a 3-4, which is imo the only system the kid can play in. Seriously?
detroit187
Pretty much a regular
Grandstanding
detroit187
Pretty much a regular
- Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M
It's now official that the Chiefs will not be picking Geno Smith. They acquired Alex Smith from the 49ers on Wednesday afternoon. Go here for the grades I've given both the 49ers and Chiefs in the Alex Smith trade.
This selection is now a no-brainer in terms of which position the front office will address. The pick will come down to Luke Joeckel and Eric Fisher. The latter had a better Combine, but there have been reports that the Chiefs love the Texas A&M product. Thus, he's the favorite to be the first play off the board on April 25. Of course, this all depends on what happens with Branden Albert, but he's apparently asking for too much money, so Kansas City will probably let him walk.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Eric Fisher, OT - As discussed, the other left tackle possibility.
2. Sharrif Floyd, DE/DT - If the Chiefs re-sign Albert, they'll likely go with Sharrif Floyd as a big upgrade at defensive end.
By the way, I'm doing this live because I thought it'd be fun to get instant feedback. I'm going to post my mock anyway, so why not do it this way? Follow @walterfootball for updates. - Jacksonville Jaguars: Dion Jordan, DE/OLB, Oregon
I've been hesitant to place Dion Jordan in my top 10 because of his shoulder issue. That's why I previously mocked him in the 15-19 range. Apparently it's not that big of a deal, as he's widely considered a top-six prospect. Most expect him to go to Philadelphia or Dallas, but I think Jacksonville is the most likely destination.
New head coach Gus Bradley met with the NFL Network crew during the Senior Bowl. He told them that one of the things he learned under Pete Carroll was to build the team on speed. Dion Jordan certainly fits the bill there, as he was one of the most explosive athletes at the Combine.
Jordan, who is definitely one of the top players available, fits Bradley's defense perfectly. Given that he's drawn comparisons to Aldon Smith, Jordan would improve the team's last-ranked pass rush. He would also be able to drop into coverage and defend tight ends - and that is key because the Texans and Colts both use multi-tight end sets.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Sharrif Floyd, DT - The Jaguars could stand to upgrade the interior of their defensive line as well.
Pick change; previously Star Lotulelei, DT - Oakland Raiders: Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida
Mike Mayock rated Sharrif Floyd above Star Lotulelei prior to the Combine, and he wasn't the first to do so. There's a ton of buzz about Floyd, with some of the ESPN and Scouts Inc. analysts ranking him in the top 10 of their big boards. He has so much upside and versatility that he could end up being a top-five pick. It's possible that the Raiders would view him as the best player available. Of course, this is much more of an obvious pick in the wake of Lotulelei's heart condition.
Floyd makes a ton of sense from a needs staindpoint. Richard Seymour's contract has been voided. Meanwhile, Tommy Kelly is a bum who doesn't care about winning. He's a thug who has played so sluggishly this year in the rare instances when he wasn't trying to injure the opposing quarterback, so there's no chance he's going to see a penny of his $6.5 million salary in 2013. He's as good as gone, and 15-year-old head coach Dennis Allen lost all respect in the locker room for not cutting him after the opener.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Dion Jordan/Ezekiel Ansah, DE - Only the Jaguars had fewer sacks than the Raiders this past year. The pass rush must improve.
2. Geno Smith, QB - There's been speculation that the Raiders have taken a liking to Geno Smith. If the Chiefs pass on him, another AFC West team could draft him. - Philadelphia Eagles: Sheldon Richardson, DE/DT, Missouri
The Eagles are switching to the 3-4 even though they don't have the personnel to run that style of defense. They'll obviously have to do something about that.
One of the positions Philadelphia has to address is defensive end. The front office dumped both Cullen Jenkins (too expensive) and Mike Patterson (didn't fit the 3-4) on Monday, so it'll have to find someone to play across from Fletcher Cox. That someone could be Sheldon Richardson, who makes a ton of sense. He's one of the top players available and would fit perfectly into a 3-4 scheme.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Luke Joeckel or Eric Fisher, OT - The Eagles have to upgrade their offensive line. Jason Peters is coming off an Achilles. He and Todd Herremans are both in their 30s.
2. DeMarcus Milliner, CB - A cornerback hasn't been chosen in the top four since Charles Woodson in 1998, but that trend could be broken this year because of the lack of talent atop the class. The Eagles need corner help with Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie hitting free agency and Nnamdi Asomugha likely to be released.
Pick change; previously Eric Fisher, OT
<center> </center> - Detroit Lions: DeMarcus Milliner, CB, Alabama
The Lions' M.O. is to take the top player available. That would be DeMarcus Milliner in this situation. Cornerbacks usually don't go in the top five unless they are top-notch elite prospects, but this draft class is so horrendous at the top that Milliner could easily go No. 4 or 5.
It seems like Detroit has needed cornerback help for ages; general manager Martin Mayhew even admitted that he's looking for one. He could finally put an end to that by selecting Milliner.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Ezekiel Ansah, DE - The Lions cut Kyle Vanden Bosch and could be losing Cliff Avril in free agency. The coaching staff got a close look at Ezekiel Ansah at the Senior Bowl.
2. Eric Fisher, OT - Gosder Cherilus is a free agent, so a right tackle (and future left tackle) is needed if Riley Reiff moves inside.
Pick change; previously Ezekiel Ansah, DE - Cleveland Browns: Ezekiel Ansah, DE/OLB, BYU
The Browns need to improve their pass rush. Jabaal Sheard led the team in sacks with only seven. Juqua Parker-Thomas was next with six, and he's a 35-year-old free agent.
Ezekiel Ansah, who is a top-10 pick according to NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah, makes sense from a scheme perspective. Michael Lombardi learned from Bill Parcells and Bill Belichick, who both prefer larger rush linebackers. Ansah (271 pounds) dwarfs most of the other pass-rushers. He also possesses unbelievable upside, which will intrigue the Browns.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Dion Jordan, DE/OLB - Another pass-rushing possibility, should Dion Jordan fall to No. 6. Lombardi will likely want to bolster this group.
2. DeMarcus Milliner, CB - The Browns need cornerback help across from Joe Haden with Sheldon Brown hitting free agency.
Pick change; previously Damontre Moore, DE - Arizona Cardinals: Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan
Eric Fisher has soared up big boards with his impressive performances at the Senior Bowl and the Combine. Mike Mayock stated that Fisher could challenge Luke Joeckel to be the first tackle off the board. I wouldn't be surprised if he even went No. 1, so this has to be considered a steal for the Cardinals.
It doesn't matter who the quarterback is; if the Cardinals can't pass protect, that signal-caller will struggle. I can't imagine Arizona passing on Fisher if he's available. He's one of the top prospects remaining, so unless the Cardinals really don't like him, they'll select him to be the cornerstone of their new offensive front.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Chance Warmack, G - Guards don't go in the top 10, but this year is different, as previously stated.
2. Ezekiel Ansah, DE/OLB - The Cardinals will likely go offense at No. 7 overall, but if they do opt to address the defense, they'll likely want to fix their poor pass rush.
Pick change; previously Chance Warmack, G - Buffalo Bills: Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia
General manager Buddy Nix, who is generally forthcoming about his offseason plans, told the media that he plans on drafting a franchise quarterback. He even said he'll trade up for one in the 2013 NFL Draft. He may have been talking about Geno Smith if the Chiefs pass on him, so I wouldn't be surprised if he moves up to No. 5 in order to leapfrog the Browns and Cardinals.
Many will criticize this move, but Nix is desperate. If he wants to keep his job, he'll have to find a franchise quarterback quickly. I think he'll swing for the fences with Smith, who undoubtedly has first-round talent; he just needs to put it all together. I'm pretty convinced that Nix will talk himself into taking Smith or another quarterback at No. 8 overall. Don't look for it to be Ryan Nassib though; it's been reported that Buffalo doesn't like him very much.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Cordarrelle Patterson, WR - Buffalo could go with a wideout here and then a quarterback in Round 2. Patterson's the big type of receiver Buddy Nix is looking for.
<center> </center> - New York Jets: Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee
Mike Tannenbaum was recently fired because he put the Jets in an awful cap position, but given that he's a recent, former employee, he almost definitely has some inside information about the team. He mocked Cordarrelle Patterson to New York in a 10-team mock draft a few days ago, and the other NFL Network panelists followed suit.
Cordarrelle Patterson is very raw, and he normally wouldn't be a top-10 prospect. However, this draft class is awful at the very top, so Patterson has a legitimate shot to be picked eighth or ninth. Patterson doesn't have much collegiate experience, but he's a dynamic athlete who has drawn comparisons to Julio Jones. Patterson would give the Jets a much-needed No. 1 wideout option.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Ezekiel Ansah or Bjoern Werner, DE/OLB - The Jets need a lot of things, including a top-notch pass-rusher.
2. DeMarcus Milliner, CB - If the Jets trade either Darrelle Revis or Antonio Cromartie, they'll definitely consider Milliner if he's available.
Pick change; previously Bjoern Werner, DE - Tennessee Titans: Chance Warmack, G, Alabama
The Titans desperately want DeMarcus Milliner, but they'll probably have to trade up to get him. However, they're unlikely to move up because they feel like they have too many needs. Thus, they're a bit stuck if Milliner goes in the top nine.
I normally wouldn't mock a guard in the top 10, but three things: 1) Chance Warmack is a rare talent who is regarded by some to be the top prospect in this class. 2) General manager Ruston Webster said he has no reservations about taking a guard this high. He also declared that he wants to upgrade the interior of his offensive line. 3) Again, this draft class stinks at the top, so if there were ever a year in which a guard could finally break thet top 10 again, this would be it.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. DeMarcus Milliner, CB - I guarantee that Milliner will not make it past the Titans, should he fall for some unexpected reason.
2. Desmond Trufant, CB - Another cornerback option. As Charlie mentioned to me, general manager Ruston Webster is familiar with Washington's program, having drafted Jake Locker recently. Trufant had an awesome Combine.
Pick change; previously DeMarcus Milliner, CB - San Diego Chargers: Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma
I usually don't have teams reach for need unless it involves the quarterback position. However, Lane Johnson had a terrific Senior Bowl and followed that up with a great Combine, so this isn't really considered a reach anymore.
The Chargers could be forced into making this selection anyway. Philip Rivers appears to be regressing, but it's impossible to tell if that's the case because he's getting slaughtered behind a pathetic offensive line. San Diego cannot, under any circumstances, enter the 2013 season with Jared Gaither as its starting left tackle. He's just way too injury-prone and unreliable.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB - San Diego may deem Barkevious Mingo to be the best player available. He'd make a ton of sense as a replacement for free agent Shaun Phillips.
2. Chance Warmack or Jonathan Cooper, G - The Chargers also have to upgrade the interior of their offensive line. - Miami Dolphins: Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State
Stud defensive tackle Randy Starks will be a free agent in March. If the Dolphins can't retain him, they'll have to find a replacement this offseason. They'd have the option of moving Jared Odrick inside, which is what they'll do in this scenario. But even if they franchise Starks, defensive end will be an option because Odrick isn't a very good fit there in Miami's 4-3. The Dolphins could use a dynamic pass-rusher across from Cameron Wake.
Bjoern Werner has drawn comparisons to Chris Long. He's not as athletic, but he's still the best pure 4-3 defensive end in this class. His draft range starts at No. 12. *** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Lane Johnson, OT - It's looking less likely that Jake Long will be back in Miami. If he leaves, the Dolphins will have to find a bookend for Jake Long.
2. Desmond Trufant, CB - The Dolphins look to be losing Sean Smith, so they need a new No. 1 cornerback.
Pick change; previously Sheldon Richardson, DT
<center></center>
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The Buccaneers decided they didn't like Morris Claiborne very much, so they traded out of the No. 5 spot in the 2012 NFL Draft and selected Mark Barron two picks later. They really need cornerback help, especially in the wake of the Aqib Talib trade, so they'll almost have to remedy that need at this juncture.
Desmond Trufant had an awesome Combine on top of his excellent Senior Bowl. Like Stephon Gilmore last year, Trufant will be the cornerback to rise. He could go as high as No. 10.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Lane Johnson, OT - The Buccaneers have shown interest in Lane Johnson. Right tackle Demar Dotson is entering his contract year, while left tackle Donald Penn, who struggled down the stretch, is owed about $18 million over the next three years.
2. Xavier Rhodes, CB - The other cornerback option. - Carolina Panthers: Star Lotulelei, NT, Utah
I don't know what to do with Star Lotulelei. He wasn't allowed to work at the Combine because of a heart condition. It could be something serious, but it could also be insignificant. Hopefully it's the latter. I think I'll slot Lotulelei here until I have more information.
I was told by a reliable source not to mock Fletcher Cox to the Panthers because they were satisfied with their current group of defensive tackles. Based on the rushing yardage they surrendered to Bryce Brown and Jamaal Charles at the end of the year, I highly doubt they'll feel the same way in April.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Desmond Trufant or Xavier Rhodes, CB - The Panthers will be cutting Chris Gamble sometime soon. They'll need a new No. 1 cornerback.
2. Kenny Vaccaro, S - More safety help is needed.
Pick change; previously Kenny Vaccaro, S - New Orleans Saints: Barkevious Mingo, DE/OLB, LSU
The Saints fired Steve Spagnuolo and announced that they are moving to a 3-4 defense. A new scheme doesn't mean they'll be able to fix their old problems, however. They still need to find a top pass-rusher to make things easier for an overmatched secondary. Barkevious Mingo makes a ton of sense here as one of the top prospects available.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Damontre Moore or Jarvis Jones, DE/OLB - More pass-rushing options for the Saints' new 3-4.
2. Star Lotulelei, NT - Brodrick Bunkley is currently slated to be the team's nose tackle. New Orleans may not view him as a viable option for the position. If that's the case, Star Lotulelei will be considered if he checks out medically.
Pick change; previously Dion Jordan, DE/OLB - St. Louis Rams: Jonathan Cooper, G/C, North Carolina
The Rams desperately need to upgrade their offensive front. Jeff Fisher said it as much - he defended Sam Bradford recently by saying the blocking needs to get better up front. Expect St. Louis to make multiple upgrades to the offensive line this offseason.
I'd hate the idea of slotting two guards in the top 20, but Jonathan Cooper is capable of playing all three interior positions. Fisher will love his versatility.
*** OTHER 2013 NFL DRAFT POSSIBILITIES: ***
1. Chance Warmack, G or Lane Johnson, OT - It'll be tough for the Rams to pass on Chance Warmack or Lane Johnson if they're available.
2. Kenny Vaccaro, S - St. Louis' front office has stated that it wants to improve the safety position.
Pick change; previously Cordarrelle Patterson, WR
detroit187
Pretty much a regular
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Jarvis Jones, DE/OLB, Georgia
As in my pre-Combine mock draft, Jarvis Jones drops to No. 17 overall. I had Jones going No. 2 overall back in January, but check out Charlie's rumor mill entry on why Jones is expected to slide. On top of that, at least a dozen teams have red flags on Jones because of his spinal issue.
I believe dumb groupthink will cause Jones to fall on Draft Day. General managers will be petrified of his medical. But, as smart teams like the Steelers, Giants, Ravens, etc. often do, they'll snatch up a plummeting draft prospect and laugh at all of the dumb organizations constantly picking in the top 10 as they field yet another Pro Bowler.
Jones isn't just the best player available; he fills a big need as well. James Harrison may not be back next year. He'll be due $6.6 million as a 35-year-old who is having trouble staying healthy. The Steelers may spend an early pick on a rush linebacker.
Follow @walterfootball for updates. - Dallas Cowboys: Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas
The safety position was a major weak point for the Cowboys this past season after Barry Church tore his Achilles' tendon. Church was extended prior to the injury, but he's owed less than $1 million next year, so that won't prevent Dallas from picking a safety early. Kenny Vaccaro is the top player available at this juncture.
Pick change; previously Jonathan Cooper, G/C - New York Giants: Damontre Moore, DE/OLB, Texas A&M
Smart teams like the Giants, Steelers and Ravens always end up getting a prospect who falls during the draft. Teams constantly selecting in the top 15 are stupid, so intelligent front offices take advantage of their dumb decisions on Draft Day. One player who's probably going to drop is Damontre Moore. He did not perform well at the Combine, posting just 12 bench press reps and running an ugly 40 before getting hurt.
Giant fans know that general manager Jerry Reese loves drafting pass-rushers. With Osi Umenyiora entering free agency this March and Justin Tuck having a down year, Reese may select a defensive end early this April.
Pick change; previously Alec Ogletree, LB - Chicago Bears: Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia
The Bears have revealed that they will be searching for a speed element to their passing game this offseason. If that's the case, they won't hesitate selecting Tavon Austin if he's available at this juncture. Chicago cannot have Devin Hester on the field as a receiver any longer.
Austin has jumped into top-20 consideration after a sterling Combine. He had one of the fastest 40s and was terrific in the drills. He has drawn comparisons to Percy Harvin and Wes Welker.
Pick change; previously D.J. Fluker, OT
<center> </center> - Cincinnati Bengals: Xavier Rhodes, CB/S, Florida State
The Bengals want Kenny Vaccaro, but he didn't make it to them in this addition. If he's not on the board, they'll go with the best player available, and that happens to be Xavier Rhodes.
Cincinnati just drafted Dre Kirkpatrick in the first round last year, but Rhodes is still in play because he can easily move to safety. Also, the team has zero cornerback depth, which is a problem because Mike Zimmer loves having three corners on the field.
Pick change; previously Manti Te'o, LB - St. Louis Rams: Alec Ogletree, LB, Georgia
James Laurinaitis and JoLonn Dunbar played pretty well this past season, but no one the team tried at strongside linebacker did very well. Alec Ogletree makes sense as one of the top prospects available.
Ogletree was recently arrested for a DUI. He's also had some other off-the-field issues. However, this won't deter the Rams, who have taken chances on character guys in this regime. It's worked out so far. - Minnesota Vikings: Keenan Allen, WR, California
The front office has to add more talent to complement a very inconsistent Christian Ponder. The Vikings need an upgrade across from Percy Harvin, as Jerome Simpson is way too inconsistent to be a No. 2 receiver. Harvin may not even be back with the Vikings next year, so Minnesota may target two wideout upgrades this offseason.
Pick change; previously Johnathan Hankins, NT - Indianapolis Colts: D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama
If you've watched the Colts at all in the final couple of weeks to close out the season, you know that their offensive line must be upgraded because Andrew Luck constantly had defenders in his face. Winston Justice was always hobbling on and off the field with various injuries.
Pick change; previously Johnathan Banks, CB
<center> </center> - Seattle Seahawks: Kawann Short, DT, Purdue
Seattle's defense is dominant, but one thing the unit is lacking is a consistent interior pass-rushing presence. Perhaps Kawann Short can fix that. He's one of the top players available.
The Combine didn't provide any answers, partly because some guys didn't run, but the Pro Day could dictate this pick for me. Pete "Bazuzu" Carroll is all about building his team on speed.
Pick change; previously Bennie Logan, DT - Green Bay Packers: Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame
Jermichael Finley recently said that his chances of staying with the Packers is 50/50. Jason La Canfora reported that Finley won't return. If that's the case, the Packers will be searching for a tight end early in the 2013 NFL Draft. Tyler Eifert distanced himself from Zach Ertz at the Combine.
Pick change; previously Keenan Allen, WR - Houston Texans: Kevin Minter, ILB, LSU
There's a ton of uncertainty at inside linebacker for Houston. Brian Cushing is coming off a torn ACL, Bradie James is an impending free agent who isn't very good, while neither Tim Dobbins nor Darryl Sharpton is worthy of starting. - Denver Broncos: Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama
There's a chance a running back won't be chosen in the first round this year, but Eddie Lacy has a shot of being picked toward the end of Thursday night. He had a terrific showing in the national championship and has earned fringe first-round status.
John Fox is not shy about using early selections on running backs. He needs one. Willis McGahee is old, Knowshon Moreno can't be trusted, and Ronnie Hillman's just a chance-of-pace back.
<center> </center> - New England Patriots: Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina
The Patriots don't have much of an interior pass rush. They may spend an early draft choice on a complement for Vince Wilfork.
Sylvester Williams, who had a solid Senior Bowl, has the size and scheme versatility that Bill Belichick likes in his defensive linemen.
Pick change; previously Kawann Short, DT - Atlanta Falcons: Datone Jones, DE, UCLA
The overpaid Ray Edwards was cut during the season. Meanwhile, John Abraham will turn 35 a week after the 2013 NFL Draft. Defensive end will be a priority early in the 2013 NFL Draft, and the Falcons may even double dip at the position in the first few rounds.
Pick change; previously Alex Okafor, DE/OLB - San Francisco 49ers: Jonathan Cyprien, S, Florida International
Despite making the Pro Bowl, Donte Whitner hasn't been very good this year (he surrendered more touchdowns than any safety). Dashon Goldson, meanwhile, was slapped with a franchise tag this prior offseason. The 49ers, who might want to upgrade the secondary after Joe Flacco torched them in the Super Bowl, will need a replacement if they can't sign him to a long-term deal.
Jonathan Cyprien made this big leap recently. There's so much buzz about him recently, and there are multiple reports indicating that several teams have him ranked as the No. 2 safety in this class. - Baltimore Ravens: Johnathan Hankins, NT, Ohio State
This pick is all about figuring out which player will fall to the Ravens. Ozzie Newsome frequently scoops up plummeting prospects, and there's no reason to believe that this year will be any different. The tumbling prospect could easily be Johnathan Hankins because he looked sluggish at the Combine and consequently ran slowly.
Terrence Cody is a bust. He was playing behind Ma'ake Kemoeatu in his third season. Kemoeatu is a 34-year-old free agent, so the Ravens may want to bring in a new nose tackle this offseason.
Pick change; previously John Jenkins, NT
detroit187
Pretty much a regular
1 should be 17 and so on
twinkie13
In transit, arriving late.
Thanks for posting but I would argue whoever projected the landing spots for those 1st 3 is on crack.
guaranteeed
Pretty much a regular
No I like him, I just would rather he not be taken at 3
if he's 10-15 than definitely but no way he lasts
T
tipyerbartender1
Guest
Agree. I think Jarvis Jones is in play for Cleveland at #6.
T
tipyerbartender1
Guest
Browns are going defense. Dee Milliner, Ziggy, Jarv Jones.
twinkie13
In transit, arriving late.
shit if he got to 15(miracle) Id love the Saints to take him
Smokedawg
Eagles Fan
This is such a good year to tank.....
Evan Silva <s>@</s>evansilva ESPN's Tom Rinaldi reported that <s>#</s>SouthCarolina DE Jadeveon Clowney ran a 4.5 40 at 270 pounds during the Gamecocks' recent winter workouts.
Evan Silva <s>@</s>evansilva ESPN's Tom Rinaldi reported that <s>#</s>SouthCarolina DE Jadeveon Clowney ran a 4.5 40 at 270 pounds during the Gamecocks' recent winter workouts.
