Ah yes, another year of quarterback problems with the Jets... first it was Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow in 2012, then in 2013 it was Mark Sanchez and Geno Smith and in 2014 it is Geno Smith and Michael Vick.
Vick has stated he is the backup but then has also said he could help take the Jets to the super bowl all while still being a company man and saying that the starting job is Geno's and Vick is there to help him.
Rex Ryan stated it is an open competition and has added it will be hard to beat Geno out in said competition.
So what is it? Is Vick really just there to be a backup and help Geno or is he there to compete for the starting job.
Geno played well down the final four games last season and helped the Jets to a season ending record of 8-8 which surprised many in the sports world. Now he may have to fight to keep that very job he held onto last season despite some horrific play at times (oh and accounted for 25 of the Jets 29 total turnovers), but again played well down the stretch of the final 4 games.
Vick lost his job last season and has had many injury issues and turnover problems as well in his career, so is he really any better then Geno Smith? I don't think so, sure a fresh start may help him, but he has shown erratic styles of play and has been injured often, so he should be the backup unless he really outshines Geno in the pre-season.
So this is what I think should be done:
Start Geno Smith unless Vick is clearly better than he is in the pre-season and the mini-camps and OTAs. He needs to develop and with added talent he should be just fine, and considering that he is turnover prone like Vick is, I would say let him learn some more because of how he played down the stretch last season. I think he will be confident and come out better with a full season under his belt and some new weapons to help him become a better quarterback.
If he struggles let Vick step in and mentor Geno while trying to help the Jets win games, that makes the most sense, Vick has been through a lot in the NFL so he makes a great backup to a young QB who plays in a big marker that is New York sports.
The reason why I think Rex Ryan wants competition is that he is worried about his job and needs someone who will games, meanwhile I think Vick is stating what he is because the GM is going to want the guy he drafted starting.
Either way Geno should start unless Vick is clearly and by a mile much better then Geno is.
This could be the start of another mess in Jets quarterback history....
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Predicting the Rookie Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year Awards
No rookie has set foot in a real NFL game yet and will not
until September but here are who I think will win the offensive and defensive
rookie of the year awards:
Offense- Sammy Watkins, Buffalo Bills
The Bills traded Stevie Johnson to the 49ers meaning Watkins
will play a bigger role on the Bills, I like his chances to have 1,200 yards
receiving with 11-13 touchdowns. He can
make a lot of big plays and can help EJ Manuel out as well, he can also benefit
from the run game of the Bills as well on play action passes. Being the number one receiver as a rookie for
him will not be a problem, I foresee a great rookie season for Watkins.
Defense- Khalil Mack
Khalil Mack is a great talent who could have gone at number
1 to the Texans over Clowney, but regardless I still feel he will make a major
impact on his team and in the NFL. He
can rush the passer and in that AFC West division they need that help, Philip
Rivers and Peyton Manning are nothing to mess with and Alex Smith can put up
numbers here and there. Also think about
who the Chiefs running back is: Jamal Charles, Mack can help defend against
that rush attack as well. I say Mack
will make an instant impact from his first game on.
Sunday, May 18, 2014
2014 NFL Rookie Quarterbacks: Start or Sit?
START
Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota
Draft experts have called him the "Most NFL Ready QB", so it only makes sense that he starts in 2014, he is better than Ponder and Matt Cassel. He will have Adrian Peterson to take pressure off of him as well as Greg Jennings and Cordarrelle Patterson as his receivers. He may struggle but it will be the growing pains of a rookie, and in a division that is so competitive he can learn a great deal his first year in the league.
Johnny Manziel, Cleveland
I was worried when I heard the news of Josh Gordon and what looks to be a season long suspension for failing yet another drug test. However with the signing of Austin Miles I am feeling a bit better about his weapons. That being said he is also going to be under the Kyle Shannahan offense, he had RGIII run the read-option in Washington which worked well RGIII's rookie season. I feel that Manziel and running back Ben Tate can run that behind a strong line in Cleveland, it will help Manziel win some games in that tough AFC North division.
SIT
Blake Bortles, Jacksonville
Justin Blackmon may not be back in 2014 at all, so that is one big loss for any quarterback to lose a receiver with his talent, and the Jaguars are now in the post Maurice Jones-Drew era who is a top-tier running back in the NFL. It would be best to let Bortles sit behind Chad Henne for the 2014 season while he learns the system in Jacksonville and can take over in 2015 when the Jaguars add more talent. I am a big Bortles fan, but I do not want to see him go to ruin in Jacksonville. While I really like the receivers they picked in the second round they still need to get more help.
Derek Carr, Oakland
The Raiders added pieces in the draft and free agency which gives me the feeling that they are a win now team, and with a veteran like Matt Schaub the Raiders will look to him to win games. Carr is a second round pick which means that the Raiders will not have to commit to Carr right now. It would be better if he backed up Schaub until he needs to go in a game or take over if Schaub struggles or the Raiders have a bad season and need a change at the QB spot. Carr has a lot of talent I think he will be the future QB of this franchise, but there is no need to throw him in right away this season.
Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota
Draft experts have called him the "Most NFL Ready QB", so it only makes sense that he starts in 2014, he is better than Ponder and Matt Cassel. He will have Adrian Peterson to take pressure off of him as well as Greg Jennings and Cordarrelle Patterson as his receivers. He may struggle but it will be the growing pains of a rookie, and in a division that is so competitive he can learn a great deal his first year in the league.
Johnny Manziel, Cleveland
I was worried when I heard the news of Josh Gordon and what looks to be a season long suspension for failing yet another drug test. However with the signing of Austin Miles I am feeling a bit better about his weapons. That being said he is also going to be under the Kyle Shannahan offense, he had RGIII run the read-option in Washington which worked well RGIII's rookie season. I feel that Manziel and running back Ben Tate can run that behind a strong line in Cleveland, it will help Manziel win some games in that tough AFC North division.
SIT
Blake Bortles, Jacksonville
Justin Blackmon may not be back in 2014 at all, so that is one big loss for any quarterback to lose a receiver with his talent, and the Jaguars are now in the post Maurice Jones-Drew era who is a top-tier running back in the NFL. It would be best to let Bortles sit behind Chad Henne for the 2014 season while he learns the system in Jacksonville and can take over in 2015 when the Jaguars add more talent. I am a big Bortles fan, but I do not want to see him go to ruin in Jacksonville. While I really like the receivers they picked in the second round they still need to get more help.
Derek Carr, Oakland
The Raiders added pieces in the draft and free agency which gives me the feeling that they are a win now team, and with a veteran like Matt Schaub the Raiders will look to him to win games. Carr is a second round pick which means that the Raiders will not have to commit to Carr right now. It would be better if he backed up Schaub until he needs to go in a game or take over if Schaub struggles or the Raiders have a bad season and need a change at the QB spot. Carr has a lot of talent I think he will be the future QB of this franchise, but there is no need to throw him in right away this season.
Monday, May 12, 2014
2014 NFL Draft Recap
Best Draft: St. Louis Rams
The Rams helped solidify their offensive and defensive lines in the first round of the draft and got some other key parts following that round and I loved their selection of Tre Mason to help their offense. I believe that the drafting of Michael Sam will be beneficial as well, he can help the defensive front and I am fan of the picks of corners and safeties as well. In the NFC West you have to protect your QB and get after the opponnets QB.
Worst Draft: Dallas
Sure they got offensive line and defensive help early on in the draft but they waited until the 7th round for secondary help. If they did not wait so long and have picked Ha Ha Clinton-Dix in the first round I would not have them here in this spot. While I understand they had 3 picks in the first 5 rounds it is ridiculous to wait until the last round to fix that woeful secondary.
Team That Surprised Me: New York Jets
When they took Safety Calvin Pryor in the first round instead of a receiver I was concerned because they need to help Geno Smith grow as a player. Then they picked a tight end in the second round and 2 receivers in the 4th round, that is huge for a team that needs offensive help and as mentioned help Geno Smith become a better QB by adding talent around him.
Random Thoughts:
Loved the Patriots selection of Jimmy Garoppolo, I will admit that it surprised me but I do love it because he can sit behind Brady (who is his favorite player) and learn from him and grow in the Patriots system.
When the Browns traded their pick to the Bills to move from 4 to 9 I was pretty surprised, and considering that Josh Gordon may be gone all of 2014 due to suspension I felt Sammy Watkins would have made more sense at 4 then taking Justin Gilbert at 8.
Blake Bortles to the Jaguars shocked me, I had him going at 3 in my first mock draft but then recanted that and said Sammy Watkins would go there, especially because of the Justin Blackmon situation. I do like Bortles and the Jaguars need a franchise QB, which is something they have not had in a while...
The Buccaneers spending all of their picks on offense was great, they want to improve and did so by drafting well. Mike Evans will be big there and will help Vincent Jackson out as well as whoever their quarterback will be in 2014. They took a tight end in the second round, a running back in the third and offensive linemen to follow that, great draft, this team could make some big noise in 2014.
I thought it was odd that the Texans did not take a quarterback until the 4th round, but I will say this, Tom Savage could be a steal, Bill O'Brien will do all he can to help him bring out the most of his ability. May not play much this season, but I think he can be a future star in Houston.
The Carolina Panthers made a great choice by taking receiver Kelvin Benjamin in the first round but I felt they could have drafted another one. Either way loved that pick, though they should have still picked another one at some point in the draft.
The Bengals selection of A.J. McCarron should make for an interesting time if Dalton struggles this season and loses another playoff game to go to 0-4 in the playoffs.
The Eagles picked receivers in the second and third rounds, love it, will help them out and I think Nick Foles will appreciate it.
The Vikings selected whom many consider the most NFL ready QB in Teddy Bridgewater, I feel he will sit for a few weeks to start the season but will be the Vikings QB at the seasons end.
The Rams helped solidify their offensive and defensive lines in the first round of the draft and got some other key parts following that round and I loved their selection of Tre Mason to help their offense. I believe that the drafting of Michael Sam will be beneficial as well, he can help the defensive front and I am fan of the picks of corners and safeties as well. In the NFC West you have to protect your QB and get after the opponnets QB.
Worst Draft: Dallas
Sure they got offensive line and defensive help early on in the draft but they waited until the 7th round for secondary help. If they did not wait so long and have picked Ha Ha Clinton-Dix in the first round I would not have them here in this spot. While I understand they had 3 picks in the first 5 rounds it is ridiculous to wait until the last round to fix that woeful secondary.
Team That Surprised Me: New York Jets
When they took Safety Calvin Pryor in the first round instead of a receiver I was concerned because they need to help Geno Smith grow as a player. Then they picked a tight end in the second round and 2 receivers in the 4th round, that is huge for a team that needs offensive help and as mentioned help Geno Smith become a better QB by adding talent around him.
Random Thoughts:
Loved the Patriots selection of Jimmy Garoppolo, I will admit that it surprised me but I do love it because he can sit behind Brady (who is his favorite player) and learn from him and grow in the Patriots system.
When the Browns traded their pick to the Bills to move from 4 to 9 I was pretty surprised, and considering that Josh Gordon may be gone all of 2014 due to suspension I felt Sammy Watkins would have made more sense at 4 then taking Justin Gilbert at 8.
Blake Bortles to the Jaguars shocked me, I had him going at 3 in my first mock draft but then recanted that and said Sammy Watkins would go there, especially because of the Justin Blackmon situation. I do like Bortles and the Jaguars need a franchise QB, which is something they have not had in a while...
The Buccaneers spending all of their picks on offense was great, they want to improve and did so by drafting well. Mike Evans will be big there and will help Vincent Jackson out as well as whoever their quarterback will be in 2014. They took a tight end in the second round, a running back in the third and offensive linemen to follow that, great draft, this team could make some big noise in 2014.
I thought it was odd that the Texans did not take a quarterback until the 4th round, but I will say this, Tom Savage could be a steal, Bill O'Brien will do all he can to help him bring out the most of his ability. May not play much this season, but I think he can be a future star in Houston.
The Carolina Panthers made a great choice by taking receiver Kelvin Benjamin in the first round but I felt they could have drafted another one. Either way loved that pick, though they should have still picked another one at some point in the draft.
The Bengals selection of A.J. McCarron should make for an interesting time if Dalton struggles this season and loses another playoff game to go to 0-4 in the playoffs.
The Eagles picked receivers in the second and third rounds, love it, will help them out and I think Nick Foles will appreciate it.
The Vikings selected whom many consider the most NFL ready QB in Teddy Bridgewater, I feel he will sit for a few weeks to start the season but will be the Vikings QB at the seasons end.
Thursday, May 8, 2014
2014 NFL Draft: First Round Reactions
The draft started the way many predicted it would with Jadaveon Clowney going to the Texans, that was a great pickup, no need for them to rush to get a quarterback, and now Carr is available to start of the second round tomorrow.
I liked how the St. Louis Rams drafted Greg Robinson to help protect Sam Bradford and then getting Aaron Donald, they are building both of those lines to help stand up to NFC West defenses and also create one of their own.
The Jets need help on offense and selected safety Calvin Pryor, which is a great choice but this was a bit of a surprise to me. Rex Ryan landed a solid safety who can be an enforcer which is something he wants, I still think the Jets should have selected a receiver here.
The Browns traded 3 times in the 1st round and picked Johnny Manziel with the 22nd pick, that I really like, and I also was a fan of the Justin Gilbert pick. Now Manziel will have a top-tier receiver in Josh Gordon to throw to and Ben Tate to run the ball, oh and Jordan Cameron at tight end who I really like. This team could be a Cinderella team in 2014.
The Jaguars selection of Blake Bortles shocked me even though I did have him at that pick in my first mock draft. Considering how the the Texans are building a ferocious pass rush the Jaguars need a QB who is strong and can take the punishment.
The Bills trading up for Sammy Watkins surprised me as well, I think he will be a nice fit for the Bills and can help E.J. Manuel grow as a player, but they may have gave up a little to much for him.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix falling to the Packers at 21 surprised me as well, but good for the Packers!
The fact that ZERO running backs were taken in the first round was no surprise, I think only one will be selected before the third round.
Derek Carr's fall out of the first round took me by surprise, I think the Texans will take a shot on him to start the second round, if not I would not be shocked if Oakland took him in the second round.
Manziel falling to 22 took my by surprise, however I did say Bridgewater would wait the longest and he did.
The Cowboys selection of Zack Martin made no sense to me, sure they want to protect Romo, but their defense is in the need of the biggest improvement on that team.
I loved that the Bears took Odell Beckham to help fix their defense, should be one of a good chunk of defensive players selected by them in this draft.
I liked how the St. Louis Rams drafted Greg Robinson to help protect Sam Bradford and then getting Aaron Donald, they are building both of those lines to help stand up to NFC West defenses and also create one of their own.
The Jets need help on offense and selected safety Calvin Pryor, which is a great choice but this was a bit of a surprise to me. Rex Ryan landed a solid safety who can be an enforcer which is something he wants, I still think the Jets should have selected a receiver here.
The Browns traded 3 times in the 1st round and picked Johnny Manziel with the 22nd pick, that I really like, and I also was a fan of the Justin Gilbert pick. Now Manziel will have a top-tier receiver in Josh Gordon to throw to and Ben Tate to run the ball, oh and Jordan Cameron at tight end who I really like. This team could be a Cinderella team in 2014.
The Jaguars selection of Blake Bortles shocked me even though I did have him at that pick in my first mock draft. Considering how the the Texans are building a ferocious pass rush the Jaguars need a QB who is strong and can take the punishment.
The Bills trading up for Sammy Watkins surprised me as well, I think he will be a nice fit for the Bills and can help E.J. Manuel grow as a player, but they may have gave up a little to much for him.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix falling to the Packers at 21 surprised me as well, but good for the Packers!
The fact that ZERO running backs were taken in the first round was no surprise, I think only one will be selected before the third round.
Derek Carr's fall out of the first round took me by surprise, I think the Texans will take a shot on him to start the second round, if not I would not be shocked if Oakland took him in the second round.
Manziel falling to 22 took my by surprise, however I did say Bridgewater would wait the longest and he did.
The Cowboys selection of Zack Martin made no sense to me, sure they want to protect Romo, but their defense is in the need of the biggest improvement on that team.
I loved that the Bears took Odell Beckham to help fix their defense, should be one of a good chunk of defensive players selected by them in this draft.
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
2014 NFL Draft Predictions
Here are my predictions for the 2014 NFL Draft
The Rams will have two possible teams willing to trade up to the number 2 pick:
The Lions will go from 10 to 2 by trading the following:
2014 1st round pick
2015 1st round pick
2014 2nd round pick
And with that pick they select: Sammy Watkins.
The Falcons go from 6 to 2 by trading:
2014 1st round pick
2014 3rd round pick
And with that pick they select: Khalil Mack.
The Jacksonville Jaguars will take offensive players in the first three rounds
Round 1: Sammy Watkins, WR
Round 2: Jimmy Garoppolo, QB
Round 3: Tre Mason, RB
The Texans will take AJ McCarron at the top of the second round
The Jets WILL take a receiver in the first round, and their division rival Patriots could as well.
The Quarterback that will take the biggest fall in the first round and maybe slip into the second round is Teddy Bridgewater, he could end up waiting a long time in the room just like Brady Quinn did.
If the Cardinals do not take Derek Carr at 20 the Bengals could snag him at 24 (Sorry Andy Dalton, but you are struggling in the playoffs).
The Texans will take a tight end at the top of the 3rd round to help AJ McCarron out.
Tajh Boyd will go to the Eagles in the 4th round and will be groomed to be NFL ready in Chip Kelly's offense.
The Denver Broncos will take Zach Mettenberger to develop behind Manning.
Only ONE running back will be selected in the first two rounds, and that by the Titans, they will take Carlos Hyde from Ohio State.
The Browns, Chiefs, Eagles and Panthers will all take a receiver in the first round of the draft.
Look for the Chargers to draft heavily on the defensive side of the ball.
The Cowboys should also draft heavily on the defensive side of the ball, but Jerry Jones will make bone-headed decisions as always....
That is it folks, one more night of sleep and then the NFL DRAFT!!!!!!
The Rams will have two possible teams willing to trade up to the number 2 pick:
The Lions will go from 10 to 2 by trading the following:
2014 1st round pick
2015 1st round pick
2014 2nd round pick
And with that pick they select: Sammy Watkins.
The Falcons go from 6 to 2 by trading:
2014 1st round pick
2014 3rd round pick
And with that pick they select: Khalil Mack.
The Jacksonville Jaguars will take offensive players in the first three rounds
Round 1: Sammy Watkins, WR
Round 2: Jimmy Garoppolo, QB
Round 3: Tre Mason, RB
The Texans will take AJ McCarron at the top of the second round
The Jets WILL take a receiver in the first round, and their division rival Patriots could as well.
The Quarterback that will take the biggest fall in the first round and maybe slip into the second round is Teddy Bridgewater, he could end up waiting a long time in the room just like Brady Quinn did.
If the Cardinals do not take Derek Carr at 20 the Bengals could snag him at 24 (Sorry Andy Dalton, but you are struggling in the playoffs).
The Texans will take a tight end at the top of the 3rd round to help AJ McCarron out.
Tajh Boyd will go to the Eagles in the 4th round and will be groomed to be NFL ready in Chip Kelly's offense.
The Denver Broncos will take Zach Mettenberger to develop behind Manning.
Only ONE running back will be selected in the first two rounds, and that by the Titans, they will take Carlos Hyde from Ohio State.
The Browns, Chiefs, Eagles and Panthers will all take a receiver in the first round of the draft.
Look for the Chargers to draft heavily on the defensive side of the ball.
The Cowboys should also draft heavily on the defensive side of the ball, but Jerry Jones will make bone-headed decisions as always....
That is it folks, one more night of sleep and then the NFL DRAFT!!!!!!
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
2014 NFL First Round Mock Draft 2.0
1. Houston Texans
Pick: Jadeveon Clowney DE, South Carolina
I have said in the past I think the Texans would take Blake Bortles here but I think taking Clowney is a solid choice here, they play Andrew Luck two times a year and they need to get to him and any other QB they play as well. The Texans could easily take a QB at the top of the second round.
2. St. Louis Rams
Pick: Greg Robinson OT, Auburn
The Rams acquired receiver Kenny Britt in free agency so now they can turn their focus on the offensive line to better protect Sam Bradford so they can keep him upright and healthy this season.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick: Sammy Watkins WR, Clemson
With Justin Blackmon's uncertain future in Jacksonville they need to address this issue now in the draft.
4. Cleveland Browns
Pick: Johnny Manziel QB, Texas A&M
The Browns worked Johnny Manziel out in College Station, Texas, after not seeming to be interested in him much things seemed to have changes. Manziel is exciting and to me makes a lot of sense for this team, they have a running back in Ben Tate and a great number one receiver in Josh Gordon, Manziel could also learn from Brian Hoyer as well.
5.Oakland Raiders
Pick: Khalil Mack OLB, Buffalo
The Raiders are in a win now mode, and they need to draft some players to add some beef to their defense. Mack can be a force on this defense and help win games in 2014.
6. Atlanta Falcons
Pick: Jake Matthews OT, Texas A&M
The Falcons need to help protect Matt Ryan who took a beating last year, if they want to win more games this is a big need and Matthews is the person I think who can help.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick: Mike Evans WR, Texas A&M
Pair him up with Vincent Jackson! It looks like Josh McCown will be the starter this season so adding weapons for him is a must. Evans would be a great complimentary receiver across from Jackson.
8. Minnesota Vikings
Pick: Blake Bortles QB, UCF
The Vikings need a quarterback, I feel Bortles will do well here, he will have Greg Jennings to throw to and Adrian Peterson to help take the load off his back his rookie year.
9. Buffalo Bills
Pick: Eric Ebron Tight End, North Caronlina
The Bills need to help out EJ Manuel by getting him some more weapons on offense.
10. Detroit Lions
Pick: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix FS, Alabama
The Lions play against some of the best quarterbacks and receivers in the NFL all within their own division, the time is now to bolster that secondary. Clinton-Dix makes sense here, he will help his corners with the over the top help to help try and reduce big plays.
11. Tennessee Titans
Pick: Teddy Bridgewater QB, Louisville
The Titans could be looking to add some competition with Jake Locker who I think has one year left to show he should be the future of this team.
12. New York Giants
Pick: Taylor Lewan OT, Michigan
Giants need to help protect Manning, that will of course help reduce turnovers if he has more time in the pocket.
13. St. Louis Rams
Pick: C.J. Mosley ILB, Alabama
The Rams play in the NFC West which features some of the very best defenses in the NFL, they too need to strengthen their defense. This pick makes a lot of sense here.
14. Chicago Bears
Pick: Aaron Donald DT, Pittsburgh
The Bears ranked dead last in the NFL last year in run defense, adding a young tackle on the defensive side will help improve that.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Justin Gilbert CB, Oklahoma State
The Steelers will need some more help in the secondary, their pass defense was ranked 9th last season but the more young talent to help the better. They play AJ Green two times a year and the Ravens just inked Steve Smith this off-season.
16. Dallas Cowboys
Pick: Anthony Barr OLB, UCLA
With the departure of DeMarcus Ware the Cowboys must help fix the issue on defense, this could be the first of many defensive players selected by the Cowboys in the draft.
17. Baltimore Ravens
Pick: Calvin Pryor FS, Louisville
The Ravens need to continue to build that secondary, pairing him with last years first found pick safety Matt Elam will only help this team continue to build.
18. New York Jets
Pick: Kelvin Benjamin WR, Florida State
The Jets need OFFENSE to continue to improve as a ball club and help Geno Smith grow. It is time they take a receiver in the first round in the Rex Ryan era.
19. Miami Dolphins
Pick: Austin Seferian-Jenkins TE, Washington
The Dolphins need to continue to build that offense to help Ryan Tannehill grow in Miami.
20. Arizona Cardinals
Pick: Derek Carr QB, Fresno State
Carson Palmer has stated he would not be bothered if the Cardinals take a quarterback in the draft and the Cardinals should start planning for a post-Palmer team. Carr can sit behind Palmer and learn, of course if Palmer struggles they can yank him for Carr.
21. Green Bay Packers
Pick: Bradley Roby CB, Ohio State
Green Bay needs to continue to improve on their secondary, their passing defense ranked 24th in yards allowed last season.
22. Philadelphia Eagles
Pick: Brandon Cooks WR, Oregon State
Brandon Cooks 4.33 speed in the 40 is perfect for this offensive system that Chip Kelly installed.
23. Kansas City Chiefs
Pick: Odell Beckham JR WR, LSU
The Chiefs need help opening up their passing game, they should take Beckham here to help improve their offense and help Alex Smith.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
Pick: Kyle Fuller CB, Virginia Tech
The Bengals secondary may play well but they are not getting younger back there, this is a great chance to add youth and talent to the secondary.
25. San Diego Chargers
Pick: Darqueze Dennard CB, Michigan State
The Chargers need to work on their secondary, this is a way to do just that.
26. Cleveland Browns
Pick: Davante Adams WR, Fresno State
The Browns need another receiver to pair with Josh Gordon, taking one here makes sense to pair a QB they should take at their number 4 pick.
27. New Orleans Saints
Pick: Louis Nix DT, Notre Dame
The Saints play teams that like to run the ball, this pick can help them to stop their opponents from racking those yards up.
28. Carolina Panthers
Pick: Marqise Lee WR, USC
The Panthers need help at the receiver position badly, Newton would appreciate the help, a receiver in the first round makes a lot of sense.
29. New England Patriots
Pick: Stephon Tuitt DE, Notre Dame
The Patriots need to add some youth to their defensive line, sure they have Vince Wilfork but adding youth will help.
30. San Francisco 49ers
Pick: Ra'Shede Hageman DT, Minnesota
Does not hurt the 49ers for adding more talent here at this position, after all they play in the NFC West and play a run happy Seahawks team who has Russell Wilson who is athletic and can make a lot of plays by extending them. Adding a player who can help go after a quarterback helps as well.
31. Denver Broncos
Pick: Xavier Su'a-Filo OG, UCLA
The Broncos lost their left guard in free agency, the Broncos must protect Manning's blindside, their lack of pass protection shown in the Super Bowl will only worsen if they cannot draft someone here to help.
32. Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Joel Bitonio OT, Nevada
The Seahawks can always add more talent and depth to their offensive line to help with the run game and passing game.
Pick: Jadeveon Clowney DE, South Carolina
I have said in the past I think the Texans would take Blake Bortles here but I think taking Clowney is a solid choice here, they play Andrew Luck two times a year and they need to get to him and any other QB they play as well. The Texans could easily take a QB at the top of the second round.
2. St. Louis Rams
Pick: Greg Robinson OT, Auburn
The Rams acquired receiver Kenny Britt in free agency so now they can turn their focus on the offensive line to better protect Sam Bradford so they can keep him upright and healthy this season.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick: Sammy Watkins WR, Clemson
With Justin Blackmon's uncertain future in Jacksonville they need to address this issue now in the draft.
4. Cleveland Browns
Pick: Johnny Manziel QB, Texas A&M
The Browns worked Johnny Manziel out in College Station, Texas, after not seeming to be interested in him much things seemed to have changes. Manziel is exciting and to me makes a lot of sense for this team, they have a running back in Ben Tate and a great number one receiver in Josh Gordon, Manziel could also learn from Brian Hoyer as well.
5.Oakland Raiders
Pick: Khalil Mack OLB, Buffalo
The Raiders are in a win now mode, and they need to draft some players to add some beef to their defense. Mack can be a force on this defense and help win games in 2014.
6. Atlanta Falcons
Pick: Jake Matthews OT, Texas A&M
The Falcons need to help protect Matt Ryan who took a beating last year, if they want to win more games this is a big need and Matthews is the person I think who can help.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick: Mike Evans WR, Texas A&M
Pair him up with Vincent Jackson! It looks like Josh McCown will be the starter this season so adding weapons for him is a must. Evans would be a great complimentary receiver across from Jackson.
8. Minnesota Vikings
Pick: Blake Bortles QB, UCF
The Vikings need a quarterback, I feel Bortles will do well here, he will have Greg Jennings to throw to and Adrian Peterson to help take the load off his back his rookie year.
9. Buffalo Bills
Pick: Eric Ebron Tight End, North Caronlina
The Bills need to help out EJ Manuel by getting him some more weapons on offense.
10. Detroit Lions
Pick: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix FS, Alabama
The Lions play against some of the best quarterbacks and receivers in the NFL all within their own division, the time is now to bolster that secondary. Clinton-Dix makes sense here, he will help his corners with the over the top help to help try and reduce big plays.
11. Tennessee Titans
Pick: Teddy Bridgewater QB, Louisville
The Titans could be looking to add some competition with Jake Locker who I think has one year left to show he should be the future of this team.
12. New York Giants
Pick: Taylor Lewan OT, Michigan
Giants need to help protect Manning, that will of course help reduce turnovers if he has more time in the pocket.
13. St. Louis Rams
Pick: C.J. Mosley ILB, Alabama
The Rams play in the NFC West which features some of the very best defenses in the NFL, they too need to strengthen their defense. This pick makes a lot of sense here.
14. Chicago Bears
Pick: Aaron Donald DT, Pittsburgh
The Bears ranked dead last in the NFL last year in run defense, adding a young tackle on the defensive side will help improve that.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick: Justin Gilbert CB, Oklahoma State
The Steelers will need some more help in the secondary, their pass defense was ranked 9th last season but the more young talent to help the better. They play AJ Green two times a year and the Ravens just inked Steve Smith this off-season.
16. Dallas Cowboys
Pick: Anthony Barr OLB, UCLA
With the departure of DeMarcus Ware the Cowboys must help fix the issue on defense, this could be the first of many defensive players selected by the Cowboys in the draft.
17. Baltimore Ravens
Pick: Calvin Pryor FS, Louisville
The Ravens need to continue to build that secondary, pairing him with last years first found pick safety Matt Elam will only help this team continue to build.
18. New York Jets
Pick: Kelvin Benjamin WR, Florida State
The Jets need OFFENSE to continue to improve as a ball club and help Geno Smith grow. It is time they take a receiver in the first round in the Rex Ryan era.
19. Miami Dolphins
Pick: Austin Seferian-Jenkins TE, Washington
The Dolphins need to continue to build that offense to help Ryan Tannehill grow in Miami.
20. Arizona Cardinals
Pick: Derek Carr QB, Fresno State
Carson Palmer has stated he would not be bothered if the Cardinals take a quarterback in the draft and the Cardinals should start planning for a post-Palmer team. Carr can sit behind Palmer and learn, of course if Palmer struggles they can yank him for Carr.
21. Green Bay Packers
Pick: Bradley Roby CB, Ohio State
Green Bay needs to continue to improve on their secondary, their passing defense ranked 24th in yards allowed last season.
22. Philadelphia Eagles
Pick: Brandon Cooks WR, Oregon State
Brandon Cooks 4.33 speed in the 40 is perfect for this offensive system that Chip Kelly installed.
23. Kansas City Chiefs
Pick: Odell Beckham JR WR, LSU
The Chiefs need help opening up their passing game, they should take Beckham here to help improve their offense and help Alex Smith.
24. Cincinnati Bengals
Pick: Kyle Fuller CB, Virginia Tech
The Bengals secondary may play well but they are not getting younger back there, this is a great chance to add youth and talent to the secondary.
25. San Diego Chargers
Pick: Darqueze Dennard CB, Michigan State
The Chargers need to work on their secondary, this is a way to do just that.
26. Cleveland Browns
Pick: Davante Adams WR, Fresno State
The Browns need another receiver to pair with Josh Gordon, taking one here makes sense to pair a QB they should take at their number 4 pick.
27. New Orleans Saints
Pick: Louis Nix DT, Notre Dame
The Saints play teams that like to run the ball, this pick can help them to stop their opponents from racking those yards up.
28. Carolina Panthers
Pick: Marqise Lee WR, USC
The Panthers need help at the receiver position badly, Newton would appreciate the help, a receiver in the first round makes a lot of sense.
29. New England Patriots
Pick: Stephon Tuitt DE, Notre Dame
The Patriots need to add some youth to their defensive line, sure they have Vince Wilfork but adding youth will help.
30. San Francisco 49ers
Pick: Ra'Shede Hageman DT, Minnesota
Does not hurt the 49ers for adding more talent here at this position, after all they play in the NFC West and play a run happy Seahawks team who has Russell Wilson who is athletic and can make a lot of plays by extending them. Adding a player who can help go after a quarterback helps as well.
31. Denver Broncos
Pick: Xavier Su'a-Filo OG, UCLA
The Broncos lost their left guard in free agency, the Broncos must protect Manning's blindside, their lack of pass protection shown in the Super Bowl will only worsen if they cannot draft someone here to help.
32. Seattle Seahawks
Pick: Joel Bitonio OT, Nevada
The Seahawks can always add more talent and depth to their offensive line to help with the run game and passing game.
Players I would Trade up for in the 2014 NFL Draft
Jadeveon Clowney
The Texans could trade out of this spot, and if I am a GM looking for some help on the defensive line I would make a trade for this guy. He is the best player in the draft and can help make an impact on defense as well. Could be a hefty price tag to move up to get him.
Sammy Watkins
Great receiver, and the best one in the draft in my mind, the Lions have reportedly shown interest in moving up to get him and I would not be surprised if other teams are looking to move up to get him as well. He is quick and has hands, something any team wants in a receiver, the Rams could be getting some nice offers to move down in the draft from the two spot.
Mike Evans
I really like Mike Evans, he is a "throw it up and watch him catch it" type player, that is someone I would definitely trade up for. I think anyone picking past number 5 would be taking him, he is a top 10 pick in my opinion.
Khalil Mack
Another solid defensive player, I think past the Texans pick to start the draft that anyone could be willing to move up to the Rams spot or just a few slots down (I think the Raiders pick at 5 is the lowest a team would trade up to). While I have him going at 9 to the Bills in my mock draft I think the Falcons could snag him at number 6, so look for trades to get him before that selection.
Derek Carr
The more I learn about Carr the more I like about him, I said he would go at number 20 to the Cardinals but do not be surprised if a team trades up ahead of the Cardinals to take him.
The Texans could trade out of this spot, and if I am a GM looking for some help on the defensive line I would make a trade for this guy. He is the best player in the draft and can help make an impact on defense as well. Could be a hefty price tag to move up to get him.
Sammy Watkins
Great receiver, and the best one in the draft in my mind, the Lions have reportedly shown interest in moving up to get him and I would not be surprised if other teams are looking to move up to get him as well. He is quick and has hands, something any team wants in a receiver, the Rams could be getting some nice offers to move down in the draft from the two spot.
Mike Evans
I really like Mike Evans, he is a "throw it up and watch him catch it" type player, that is someone I would definitely trade up for. I think anyone picking past number 5 would be taking him, he is a top 10 pick in my opinion.
Khalil Mack
Another solid defensive player, I think past the Texans pick to start the draft that anyone could be willing to move up to the Rams spot or just a few slots down (I think the Raiders pick at 5 is the lowest a team would trade up to). While I have him going at 9 to the Bills in my mock draft I think the Falcons could snag him at number 6, so look for trades to get him before that selection.
Derek Carr
The more I learn about Carr the more I like about him, I said he would go at number 20 to the Cardinals but do not be surprised if a team trades up ahead of the Cardinals to take him.
Monday, May 5, 2014
Players That I think Can Be The 2014 NFL Draft Diamonds In The Rough
One of my favorite things about the NFL is the players who are drafted in the middle to low rounds of the NFL draft that become big players for their teams. I call them "Diamonds in the Rough" and here are the players I think that can be just that.
I picked players for the respective positions, safety, offensive line and defensive line I picked just one player that a liked, each from a random position
OFFENSE
I picked players for the respective positions, safety, offensive line and defensive line I picked just one player that a liked, each from a random position
OFFENSE
Running Back Tre Mason, Auburn
Tre Mason was huge for Auburn last year, and I think he will be a solid back in the NFL, I like his play and thought he looked great in college. I understand playing well in college does not always translate in the NFL, and that he is also a third round projection but I think he can be a big help to teams in 2014. I like him going to the Jaguars or the Vikings to add depth and more punch to the backfield.
Quarterback Tajh Boyd, Clemson
Predicted to go in the 4th-5th rounds I think he can have a future in the NFL, he is mobile, he can make the throws and can put some heat on his passes. He will probably end up being a project, and with the new splash of mobile quarterbacks in the NFL I think he can being one of those QBs who can continue that trend. A team with needs for a better backup or a team that is willing to help develop a young QB is a great fit for Boyd.
Tight End Troy Niklas, Notre Dame
Big bodied tight end, he can become a good red zone target for whoever takes him in the draft. A team like the Texans who are trying to better themselves could take him in the draft to help whoever their quarterback will be in 2014. I can also see him going to the Jaguars, the Browns and Raiders.
Wide Receiver Josh Gordon, Pittsburgh State
Predicted to go in the later rounds of the draft he does offer great speed which can help in the special teams aspect of the game and the screen game as well. He can do that and learn to be a better receiver, I would not be surprised if he gets a handful of deep balls thrown his way in 2014.
Center Weston Richburg, Colorado State
I like Weston because he is a leader and he played basketball at Texas Prep so I think that shows he has agility. A center should be the leader of an offensive line, and while he may need development I feel he can contribute to an offensive line. A team such as the Dolphins could call his name.
DEFENSE
Corner Back Phillip Gaines, Rice
Another speedster I like, could be a help in the zone defense on whoever picks him, and while he could possibly use development he can help in special teams. He could help with the return game because of his speed, and if he can get better at corner he can help by covering the quicker receivers on opponents teams. Seattle is a fit for him, they have the top secondary in my mind in the NFL, he can learn from them and Pete Carroll loves competitive players!
Defensive End Ed Stinson, Alabama
If Alabama is known for something aside from national titles it is their defense, can be a help on the line in the NFL. His stats his senior year are as follows: 13 starts, 42 tackles, 2 for loss, 1.5 sacks and blocked a pass. I would not be surprised to see an NFC West team take him or a AFC East team as well.
Linebacker Jonathan Brown, Illinois
Projected to go as late as the 7th round or even a free agent, according to a profile on www.cbssports.com he: "Tends to freeze in space at times when asked to drop into zone, as he'll lock onto the quarterback and lose a feel for what's going on around him. Zones in on his target when charging to fill running lanes and will take unanticipated shots from second level blockers, knocking him off course" (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/12248/jonathan-brown).
I like that he will go after a target, and I feel that he could harness that while learning to focus when entering the NFL to help be disruptive in the passing game. Could come in and contribute as a special team player right away.
Safety Jonathan Dowling, Western Kentucky
He is 6 foot 3 inches and had a solid senior season, he forced 6 fumbles (lead the NCAA) and had 3 interceptions, he is a player who I feel can be an enforcer in a secondary if he is offered the opportunity. I think he will see a fair amount of action his rookie year.
Research done on:
www.nfl.com
www.cbssports.com
Center Weston Richburg, Colorado State
I like Weston because he is a leader and he played basketball at Texas Prep so I think that shows he has agility. A center should be the leader of an offensive line, and while he may need development I feel he can contribute to an offensive line. A team such as the Dolphins could call his name.
DEFENSE
Corner Back Phillip Gaines, Rice
Another speedster I like, could be a help in the zone defense on whoever picks him, and while he could possibly use development he can help in special teams. He could help with the return game because of his speed, and if he can get better at corner he can help by covering the quicker receivers on opponents teams. Seattle is a fit for him, they have the top secondary in my mind in the NFL, he can learn from them and Pete Carroll loves competitive players!
Defensive End Ed Stinson, Alabama
If Alabama is known for something aside from national titles it is their defense, can be a help on the line in the NFL. His stats his senior year are as follows: 13 starts, 42 tackles, 2 for loss, 1.5 sacks and blocked a pass. I would not be surprised to see an NFC West team take him or a AFC East team as well.
Linebacker Jonathan Brown, Illinois
Projected to go as late as the 7th round or even a free agent, according to a profile on www.cbssports.com he: "Tends to freeze in space at times when asked to drop into zone, as he'll lock onto the quarterback and lose a feel for what's going on around him. Zones in on his target when charging to fill running lanes and will take unanticipated shots from second level blockers, knocking him off course" (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/12248/jonathan-brown).
I like that he will go after a target, and I feel that he could harness that while learning to focus when entering the NFL to help be disruptive in the passing game. Could come in and contribute as a special team player right away.
Safety Jonathan Dowling, Western Kentucky
He is 6 foot 3 inches and had a solid senior season, he forced 6 fumbles (lead the NCAA) and had 3 interceptions, he is a player who I feel can be an enforcer in a secondary if he is offered the opportunity. I think he will see a fair amount of action his rookie year.
Research done on:
www.nfl.com
www.cbssports.com
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