So whom do we draft?

[houghtam]

Now that we have an idea where we'll draft, it's time to start looking at who we'll be drafting at that position. The highest we can draft is 9, the lowest is 16. The chances that we will trade down are about the same as any other team trading...very small. It's fun to wish we could trade our 1st rounder for 10 more picks like some of you are hoping, but let's be honest. It takes at least two to tango in any trade situation, and in some of your instances it would take 3 or 4 to tango, not to mention a miracle of epic proportions. Let's face it. It's not going to happen.

Taking into considerations reaches and players who fall, here is a list of 10 players that may be available at that time.

DT Sedric Ellis - 6'2, 295
DE Vernon Gholston - 6'4, 260
DE Derrick Harvey - 6'4, 245
DE Calais Campbell - 6'7, 282
LB Dan Connor - 6'2, 233
LB James Laurinaitis - 6'2, 245
FS Kenny Phillips - 6'1, 205
OT Michael Oher - 6'5, 325
OT Sam Baker - 6'4, 310
OT Ryan Clady - 6'5, 320

You may notice some positions missing. It's obvious we won't take a QB that high, and doubtful we'll take a CB, either. No TE's are available that high anyhow, so they're out. That leaves WR and RB the only positions not listed that we could possibly take, and I'm personally doubtful we'd take either position.

IMO, my top three choices would be Sam Baker, Calais Campbell, and Dan Connor, in that order.

[Will Wayfarer]

In logical, if not actual order:

Draft a true MIKE in the first round and splurge the rest of our picks on OL.

Move DJ to WILL, release or trade Ian Gold, sign a SAM through free agency, and keep Webster for depth.

Finally, break the bank for Bob Sanders and the best available OL not named Alan Faneca (wishful thinking I know).

Super Bowl. The End.

[Florida_Bronco]

Get the best LT and DT that fit our schemes, then a hard nosed FB and a SAM to groom behind Webster and/or Holdman.

[listopencil]

I'd still like to go LB in the first but I'd be OK with an OT as the draft class seems to favor it, given what our position looks like it's going to be. We need OT/DT/LB help with our higher picks.

[SpringStein]

I voted for Clady, was awfully tempted by Ellis (probably should have) and Ohrer. But since I'm campaigning for an OT, thought I should remain true to that commitment. ;)

[NFLBRONCO]

I voted for Clady, was awfully tempted by Ellis (probably should have) and Ohrer. But since I'm campaigning for an OT, thought I should remain true to that commitment. ;)

Do you see any decent OT in FA that would be an upgrade?

[lex]

None of the above. And if we draft a linebacker, Ill probably lose it.

[U4EA]

I went with Ellis. I love the tackles for loss he's piled up. I didn't see the classic MLB that I think could be the next Al Wilson - or at least as good as Patrick Willis. I've never been an advocate of wasting a high pick on a O-lineman. Too many Steve Entmans and Robert Gallerys along the way.

[lex]

I went with Ellis. I love the tackles for loss he's piled up. I didn't see the classic MLB that I think could be the next Al Wilson - or at least as good as Patrick Willis. I've never been an advocate of wasting a high pick on a O-lineman. Too many Steve Entmans and Robert Gallerys along the way.
Youre advocating drafting a defensive tackle. Steve Entman was a defensive tackle. Also, Robert Gallery played in a ZBS at Iowa. I think he is doing better since theyve swithed to a ZBS.

[skpac1001]

I went with Ellis. I love the tackles for loss he's piled up. I didn't see the classic MLB that I think could be the next Al Wilson - or at least as good as Patrick Willis. I've never been an advocate of wasting a high pick on a O-lineman. Too many Steve Entmans and Robert Gallerys along the way.

I picked clady, but I like the Ellis choice. A line with Moss, Thomas, Ellis, and Elvis would be pretty damn good against the pass (assuming they play up to potiental). Only thing is, I think its more of a tampa cover 2 d line then a Bates line. I hear what your saying about risky o linemen, but d tackles are just as risky. Besides, I think we need to take the risk, and keep taking the risk, until we find a keeper. Too important of a position (O Tackle) to leave to 2nd rate players anymore.

[ohiobronco2]

We really won't know who is completely available till Jan 15th. We won't know too much about the athletes and their abilities until after the combine. I hope that Carolina and Chicago both lose this weekend. Assuming that we also lose, I think that Chicago will want to leapfrog Carolina in order to draft one of the big 3 QBs. In order to make the jump Chicago should surrender their 3rd round picks and as of right now that would favor us a little bit as far as the charts are concerned, but that isn't uncommon when attempting to add a potential franchise QB. Somehow I think we need to add another 2nd round pick (Perhaps a trade for foxworth or another player plus our six rounder. Also lets not forget our Oakland pick may bring us a 4th instead of a 5th). BTW it seems like we are alternating years addressing each side of the ball. 2 drafts ago we pretty much went all offense. Last years almost all D. If last nights game should teach us anything it should be that our O-Line is old and not talented enough to play night in and night out in this league.

I would love a draft that looked like this

1) Oher/Otah/Loadholt (T)- Just give me one of the three
2A.) Boone- (T) If he declares
2B.) Dre Moore (DT)
3A.) Goff/Bell (LB)
3B.) Donnie Avery (WR)-Fast return specialist
4A.) Eric Young (G)
4B.) Caulcrick/Schmitt (FB)-One or the other. One is the better block, but the other is more explosive and athletic. Both almost 260, which would be a change for us.
5A.) B Rudd (OLB)
5B.) A Bain (G)
7) D Brooks (P)

[lex]

We really won't know who is completely available till Jan 15th. We won't know too much about the athletes and their abilities until after the combine. I hope that Carolina and Chicago both lose this weekend. Assuming that we also lose, I think that Chicago will want to leapfrog Carolina in order to draft one of the big 3 QBs. In order to make the jump Chicago should surrender their 3rd round picks and as of right now that would favor us a little bit as far as the charts are concerned, but that isn't uncommon when attempting to add a potential franchise QB. Somehow I think we need to add another 2nd round pick (Perhaps a trade for foxworth or another player plus our six rounder. Also lets not forget our Oakland pick may bring us a 4th instead of a 5th). BTW it seems like we are alternating years addressing each side of the ball. 2 drafts ago we pretty much went all offense. Last years almost all D. If last nights game should teach us anything it should be that our O-Line is old and not talented enough to play night in and night out in this league.

I would love a draft that looked like this

1) Oher/Otah/Loadholt (T)- Just give me one of the three
2A.) Boone- (T) If he declares
2B.) Dre Moore (DT)
3A.) Goff/Bell (LB)
3B.) Donnie Avery (WR)-Fast return specialist
4A.) Eric Young (G)
4B.) Caulcrick/Schmitt (FB)-One or the other. One is the better block, but the other is more explosive and athletic. Both almost 260, which would be a change for us.
5A.) B Rudd (OLB)
5B.) A Bain (G)
7) D Brooks (P)

How are we going to get a 2nd? Also, Im not feeling a lot of the picks.

[ohiobronco2]

How are we going to get a 2nd? Also, Im not feeling a lot of the picks.

I said, I'd like to add a 2nd. Many are talking about trading Foxworth, but he's obviously not worth a 2nd round pick. We have lots of options including multiple player packages and future picks in order to acquire that 2nd. Sorry you don't feel the picks, they address all of our major needs with the lone exception being safety. This is all done in good fun anyways since quite a few of those players most likely will not declare because they will make more money waiting for next years draft.

Our O-Line is terrible and that is where this draft begins with a selection of two tackles who can anchor our lines for sometime. Coming out of HS both Boone and Oher were considered elite prospects and nothing has changed. Moore is a workout warrior and was very productive versus West Virginia. He has an excellent motor and was always in the backfield. Bell/Goff, LB is a major need for us and these two have both been very productive throughout their careers, I don't know much about Bell, but I think Goff is one of the best football players on the defensive side of the ball in the SEC. Avery is quick and would be a nice return option. Young will probably go higher, he is very large and athletic, may drop due to surgery in this his senior year. Caulcrick and Schmitt are a major need on this team. We know that Schmitt is well known for his blocking, this is something I don't know about Caulcrick, but he is a great athlete and if an adequate blocker he would be amazing. Same size as Schmitt, but has a much better 40 and is a devastating short yardage runner, reminds me of Jerome Bettis. Rudd has the genes and his brother is playing quite well for Tampa. Bain is more beef for the line and I added a punter since Ernster sucks.

[lex]

I said, I'd like to add a 2nd. Many are talking about trading Foxworth, but he's obviously not worth a 2nd round pick. We have lots of options including multiple player packages and future picks in order to acquire that 2nd. Sorry you don't feel the picks, they address all of our major needs with the lone exception being safety. This is all done in good fun anyways since quite a few of those players most likely will not declare because they will make more money waiting for next years draft.

Our O-Line is terrible and that is where this draft begins with a selection of two tackles who can anchor our lines for sometime. Coming out of HS both Boone and Oher were considered elite prospects and nothing has changed. Moore is a workout warrior and was very productive versus West Virginia. He has an excellent motor and was always in the backfield. Bell/Goff, LB is a major need for us and these two have both been very productive throughout their careers, I don't know much about Bell, but I think Goff is one of the best football players on the defensive side of the ball in the SEC. Avery is quick and would be a nice return option. Young will probably go higher, he is very large and athletic, may drop due to surgery in this his senior year. Caulcrick and Schmitt are a major need on this team. We know that Schmitt is well known for his blocking, this is something I don't know about Caulcrick, but he is a great athlete and if an adequate blocker he would be amazing. Same size as Schmitt, but has a much better 40 and is a devastating short yardage runner, reminds me of Jerome Bettis. Rudd has the genes and his brother is playing quite well for Tampa. Bain is more beef for the line and I added a punter since Ernster sucks.

1) Oher/Otah/Loadholt (T)- Just give me one of the three-- Im with you here.
2A.) Boone- (T) If he declares-- Another slow plodder.
2B.) Dre Moore (DT)-- Yeah, maybe. Id rather sign a FA though.
3A.) Goff/Bell (LB)-- Goff maybe But Bell is expected to be gone in the 1st/2nd. BTW, Goff and Bell are both Mikes and indications are that DJ will be back at Mike this year
3B.) Donnie Avery (WR)-Fast return specialist-- Ive been seeing him going in the 2nd. It doesnt mean its right though.
4A.) Eric Young (G)--kind of a slow plodder
4B.) Caulcrick/Schmitt (FB)-One or the other. One is the better block, but the other is more explosive and athletic. Both almost 260, which would be a change for us. -- Schmitt has been slotted to go in the 5th
5A.) B Rudd (OLB)-- No way
5B.) A Bain (G)-- kind of a slow plodder
7) D Brooks (P)-- Even though its a 7th, Id rather not waste a pick on a punter. FA punters dont exactly require the kind of expense that brings a team to its knees.

I would do someting like this with your scenario:
1) Otah/Loadholt/Oher OT
2) Erin Henderson OLB
2) Dre Moore/Frank Okam DT
3) Oniel Cousins OT
3) Steltz/Barrett S
4) Jordy Nelson WR
4) Bryan Kehl OLB
5) Jeremy Zuttah G/C/T
5) Owen Schmitt/Carl Stewart FB
7) Brian Witherspoon CB/Ret

[ohiobronco2]

1) Oher/Otah/Loadholt (T)- Just give me one of the three-- Im with you here.
2A.) Boone- (T) If he declares-- Another slow plodder.
2B.) Dre Moore (DT)-- Yeah, maybe. Id rather sign a FA though.
3A.) Goff/Bell (LB)-- Goff maybe But Bell is expected to be gone in the 1st/2nd. BTW, Goff and Bell are both Mikes and indications are that DJ will be back at Mike this year
3B.) Donnie Avery (WR)-Fast return specialist-- Ive been seeing him going in the 2nd. It doesnt mean its right though.
4A.) Eric Young (G)--kind of a slow plodder
4B.) Caulcrick/Schmitt (FB)-One or the other. One is the better block, but the other is more explosive and athletic. Both almost 260, which would be a change for us. -- Schmitt has been slotted to go in the 5th
5A.) B Rudd (OLB)-- No way
5B.) A Bain (G)-- kind of a slow plodder
7) D Brooks (P)-- Even though its a 7th, Id rather not waste a pick on a punter. FA punters dont exactly require the kind of expense that brings a team to its knees.

I would do someting like this with your scenario:
1) Otah/Loadholt/Oher OT
2) Erin Henderson OLB
2) Dre Moore/Frank Okam DT
3) Oniel Cousins OT
3) Steltz/Barrett S
4) Jordy Nelson WR
4) Bryan Kehl OLB
5) Jeremy Zuttah G/C/T
5) Owen Schmitt/Carl Stewart FB
7) Brian Witherspoon CB/Ret

What is your definition of a slow plodder. From all of the profiles I've seen Boone for hist size runs around a five sec forty and Young in HS while 30-40 lbs lighter ran a 4.7 40. I don't know their side to side quickness, but I bet they are every bit as fast as the guys going in the first pick in the mock above. This is why I'm waiting for the day of declaration and combine, because we won't know too much till then. Relying a lot on what I've seen in games, but I really consistently only watch big ten football. BTW I know that fullbacks go in rounds 5-7, but I feel that Schmitt is as good of a prospect if not better than McClain and he went in the 4th last year.

[SpringStein]

lex - where are you getting information that says Beau Bell is now a first/early second rounder? I haven't seen any site (other than here where there is a love fest for Beau) that rates him higher than a round later.

[ayjackson]

If we stay at #10, I'd go with Laurenaitis and start him at SAM. He's good in coverage and good at the point of attack.

My preference would be to trade back to #20-25, adding a 2nd rounder, and pick up the best tackle available (who should still be very good).

Then I'd pick a couple of LBs in the second (if there's still any available).

I'd use the 4th rounders to pick up a couple of 6' 4.75", 320 lb tackles who may make good coversions to guard - Greco (Toledo) and Nicks (Nebraska).

I'd use the 5th rounders to draft a couple of safety prospects to have a look at.

*note: I wouldn't draft for position if the talent isn't there - this is just a dream scenario.

I'd address the DT position in free agency (no JAGs).

[socalorado]

lex - where are you getting information that says Beau Bell is now a first/early second rounder? I haven't seen any site (other than here where there is a love fest for Beau) that rates him higher than a round later.

http://nfldraftblitz.com/08insidelinebackers.htm
They have him 3rd of all MLB's
3. Beau Bell | UNLV
Player Information:
Height: 6'3" Weight: 245 40: 4.69
Misc.
Pro: Possesses a number of rush moves Con: Doesn't push blockers back
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/profile.php?pyid=33379
Name: Beau Bell
College: UNLV Number: 2
Height: 6-2 Weight: 248
Position: ILB Pos2: OLB
Class/Draft Year: Sr/2008
40 Time: 4.63 40 Low: 4.57 40 High: 4.72
Projected Round: 1-2 Stock:
Rated number 2 out of 112 ILB's

Dude, Bell is easily gone in the top 40 picks. Hes a player many teams will simply covet and take regardless of their needs. He is able to legitimately play both inside and outside, and no i dont mean like the horrible experiment that is DJ at MLB. He is simply a tackling/hit machine.

[socalorado]

ALSO, for a lot of the posters here, many sites have 30 LBs with 1st and 2nd round grades!
Thats how deep the draft is with talented LBs. Alot of players for DEN to aquire.
Obviously many of those projected to go in the high rounds simply wont, because of team needs. This is good news for DEN, but dont be fooled or lulled into thinking that this means DEN can wait for a player in the 4th.
Bad idea! Theres a reason Jordan Dizon is a 6th-7th round projection.

[houghtam]

Just to add a correction, Jehuu Caulcrick of Michigan State is NOT a FB, nor will he play one in the NFL. He's never played that position in college. He's a bigger, faster, more explosive TJ Duckett. I won't be surprised if he goes on Day 1, and I will be surprised if he doesn't make a good #2 running back, or challenge for a #1 spot if he's taken by a team with poor talent.

[ohiobronco2]

Just to add a correction, Jehuu Caulcrick of Michigan State is NOT a FB, nor will he play one in the NFL. He's never played that position in college. He's a bigger, faster, more explosive TJ Duckett. I won't be surprised if he goes on Day 1, and I will be surprised if he doesn't make a good #2 running back, or challenge for a #1 spot if he's taken by a team with poor talent.

Yeah, I know he played running back in college and was the thunder to Ringer's lightning. Draft sights have him listed as a FB, that's why there is the discussion out there. Either way, I think he'll be an excellent short yardage back.

[27atwater]

Kenny Phillips

[U4EA]

Youre advocating drafting a defensive tackle. Steve Entman was a defensive tackle. Also, Robert Gallery played in a ZBS at Iowa. I think he is doing better since theyve swithed to a ZBS.

You're absolutely right. I meant to say Tony Mandarich. If I have a top ten pick, I want to swing for the fences on a potential great not just a face in the crowd O-lineman who is a likely to bust as anyone. The pick of Ellis stands.

[lex]

What is your definition of a slow plodder. From all of the profiles I've seen Boone for hist size runs around a five sec forty and Young in HS while 30-40 lbs lighter ran a 4.7 40. I don't know their side to side quickness, but I bet they are every bit as fast as the guys going in the first pick in the mock above. This is why I'm waiting for the day of declaration and combine, because we won't know too much till then. Relying a lot on what I've seen in games, but I really consistently only watch big ten football. BTW I know that fullbacks go in rounds 5-7, but I feel that Schmitt is as good of a prospect if not better than McClain and he went in the 4th last year.

From what Ive read theyre not that mobile.

From PFW:
Barton: "Plays too straight-legged and stiff. Is not very quick-footed or quick-handed and spends more time on the ground than he should." Besides that, I remember him going against UF in the NC game last year. It wasnt pretty. Also, PFW estimates his 40 at 5.3, FWIW.

And FPW rips Young apart. Basically, it says he is easily beaten to the punch because he lacks balance and quickness.

It could be wrong and its not a bad thought to address guard but Im not sure how well it will work with Bain or Young.

And if someone wants Schmitt in the 4th, let them take him. Theres also Carl Stewart who is a very good fullback.

[lex]

You're absolutely right. I meant to say Tony Mandarich. If I have a top ten pick, I want to swing for the fences on a potential great not just a face in the crowd O-lineman who is a likely to bust as anyone. The pick of Ellis stands.
That makes no sense.

[U4EA]

That makes no sense.

While it is important to have a good offensive line, no game in the history of the NFL has been changed by one offensive lineman. Look at how much better the Jets have become with D'Brickashaw Ferguson and how Joe Staley put the Niners over the top, When you're looking at a top pick, I would always go for an impact player and get my O-linemen later. The difference between the top left tackle in the draft and the 10th best is not even on a scale with the top middle linebacker and the 10th best or the top defensive run-stopper and the 10th best.

[Rohirrim]

We've got a franchise QB. Get a franchise LT. Sam Baker.

[houghtam]

While it is important to have a good offensive line, no game in the history of the NFL has been changed by one offensive lineman. Look at how much better the Jets have become with D'Brickashaw Ferguson and how Joe Staley put the Niners over the top, When you're looking at a top pick, I would always go for an impact player and get my O-linemen later. The difference between the top left tackle in the draft and the 10th best is not even on a scale with the top middle linebacker and the 10th best or the top defensive run-stopper and the 10th best.

I kind of take issue with this statement, simply because both NY and SF have much poorer talent on offense than we do. An Olineman would make a bigger difference on a team with great skill position players than a middle linebacker or D lineman on a defense full of holes. How much more of a difference one player will make than another, unfortunately, is left up to the talent evaluators.

The more I think about it, on the other hand, the less I think we need to go with a lineman that high, unless one of them can convert to RT. Can anyone honestly say they would feel better with a rook and Pears on the bookends than a rook and Lepsis?

[houghtam]

I'd also like to take this time to ask why no one has voted for Calais Campbell. He's a big guy, built kind of like Matthias Kiwanuka, and I think he would do much to help us against the run and the pass. Is it just because we need more help inside than outside? What's up, dudes? Word.

[SpringStein]

While it is important to have a good offensive line, no game in the history of the NFL has been changed by one offensive lineman.

The 4 highest paid poditions in the NFL? On defense:
CB
DE

On offense:
QB
LT

I'm sure teams recognize what are the key positions and pay accordingly.

By the way, how did Derek Anderson and even 'ol Jamal Lewis do in Cleveland this year? A franchise LT is a precious commodity,

[SpringStein]

I'd also like to take this time to ask why no one has voted for Calais Campbell. He's a big guy, built kind of like Matthias Kiwanuka, and I think he would do much to help us against the run and the pass. Is it just because we need more help inside than outside? What's up, dudes? Word.

A. He did not have a good season - and unltimately you are judged by the film of what you did on the field.
B. Elvis, Crowder, Moss (maybe Ekuban returning) vs let's say Thomas and ??, ?? at DT. Vs. Lepsis, Pears and (to be kind) and unknown quantity with Harris at OT. Vs. DJ, and ?? and ?? at LB.

[socalorado]

We've got a franchise QB. Get a franchise LT. Sam Baker.

Sam Baker, USC
Height: 6-5. Weight: 305.
40 Time: 5.18.
Projected Round: Top 15 Pick.
Sam Baker could have been first on this list if he didn't suffer a knee injury late last season. He had surgery in January but seems to be recovering on schedule.

I dont like his injury issues, but if not Baker then,
Ryan Clady*, Boise State
Height: 6-6. Weight: 319.
40 Time: 5.20.
Projected Round: Top 20 Pick.
Like Eric VandenHeuvel, Ryan Clady should wait until 2009. He paved the way for Ian Johnson, who ran on everyone last year.
I am pretty sure he declared.

[lex]

We've got a franchise QB. Get a franchise LT. Sam Baker.

No thanks. With his injury history what makes you think he'll hold up? And keep in mind that we already have an injury risk in Harris on the roster.

[lex]

While it is important to have a good offensive line, no game in the history of the NFL has been changed by one offensive lineman. Look at how much better the Jets have become with D'Brickashaw Ferguson and how Joe Staley put the Niners over the top, When you're looking at a top pick, I would always go for an impact player and get my O-linemen later. The difference between the top left tackle in the draft and the 10th best is not even on a scale with the top middle linebacker and the 10th best or the top defensive run-stopper and the 10th best.

No, I was addressing the fact that the poster was saying there is too high of a bust factor with OT but the same could be said for DT and he mentioned the perfect example in Emtman. So, in spite of citing the perfect example they insisted that its better to take a DT than an OT based on the premise of the bust factor.

[Drek]

While it is important to have a good offensive line, no game in the history of the NFL has been changed by one offensive lineman. Look at how much better the Jets have become with D'Brickashaw Ferguson and how Joe Staley put the Niners over the top, When you're looking at a top pick, I would always go for an impact player and get my O-linemen later. The difference between the top left tackle in the draft and the 10th best is not even on a scale with the top middle linebacker and the 10th best or the top defensive run-stopper and the 10th best.

Depends on the system you're running for each respective unit though.

For years we've gotten by with undersized OLs who can move well. That doesn't suffice against the beefy lines and super athletic LBs of 3-4 schemes, their linemen can push our guys around while their linebackers match up evenly in strength and mobility, giving them seven guys who can all take on our 5 guys.

The solution to this problem is to get big powerful OLs who can still move. The talent pool coming into the draft now have those kinds of OTs, but they all go very early. If you take the 1st or 2nd OT in a draft you can get a 310-320 pound mauler who can still move like a 290 pounder and work well in the ZBS. You wait until the 3rd round or later and you're picking an either/or type of player.

As for MLB, same thing goes there. To get a truly great athlete who knows how to play the game you have to pick them early. But you can get workhorse students of the game later as well as athletes with little fundamentals. Thats where we got Dumervil (the former) and Marshall (the later). But those guys often don't pan out (view our recent draft history for a dozen washouts). But if you look at the history of Bates' system you'll see that second tier MLBs who have a football player's mentality and know the game can succeed there (see Zac Thomas). We don't need an amazing athlete for the position, we need a student of the game who can keep up athletically, nothing more.

From that standpoint it seems pretty clear that we need a top tier OT much worse than a top tier linebacker. In fact, I think DJ could turn out to be a pretty solid MLB in this system (he's been steadily improving down the stretch), but our OTs need a serious talent infusion if we're ever going to stop getting bullied by every 3-4 we face.

[U4EA]

No, I was addressing the fact that the poster was saying there is too high of a bust factor with OT but the same could be said for DT and he mentioned the perfect example in Emtman. So, in spite of citing the perfect example they insisted that its better to take a DT than an OT based on the premise of the bust factor.

I only meant that O-Lineman can bust as spectacularly as any other position but their success ceilings are also a lot lower. Hence with the 9th or 10th pick, I'd go after a game-changer than an O-lineman. Then in the 2nd and later rounds, bulk up the offensive line. If we trade down out of the top 10 for more picks, I'd definitely look O-line in the early-to-mid 20s.

[want2bAbronco2]

I voted Phillips, because he can play FS/SS/CB. Can learn from Lynch for a year. But I would be really happy with Long LT Mich or maybe Clady. I think we need to address int this order LT/DT/MLB/SLB/RT/S/RB. (phillips is just to good to pass ie, better then Laundry)
RT/SAM/DT I think we can address in FA. Rest in draft.

[backup qb]

Youre advocating drafting a defensive tackle. Steve Entman was a defensive tackle. Also, Robert Gallery played in a ZBS at Iowa. I think he is doing better since theyve swithed to a ZBS.

Offensive tackle is acually the safest position to draft in the first round basedon history. I wish I could remember where I read that so I could post the link.

[houghtam]

I voted Phillips, because he can play FS/SS/CB. Can learn from Lynch for a year. But I would be really happy with Long LT Mich or maybe Clady. I think we need to address int this order LT/DT/MLB/SLB/RT/S/RB. (phillips is just to good to pass ie, better then Laundry)
RT/SAM/DT I think we can address in FA. Rest in draft.

Long won't last past pick #5.

[want2bAbronco2]

Long won't last past pick #5.

Maybe. With McFadden, Dorsey, and teams needing 2-3 QBs he could fall 6-9. I don't think so, but someone always falls and I would jump all over him.

[ohiobronco2]

Maybe. With McFadden, Dorsey, and teams needing 2-3 QBs he could fall 6-9. I don't think so, but someone always falls and I would jump all over him.

I don't think he will get past the Chiefs

[27atwater]

The 4 highest paid poditions in the NFL? On defense:
CB
DE

On offense:
QB
LT

I'm sure teams recognize what are the key positions and pay accordingly.

By the way, how did Derek Anderson and even 'ol Jamal Lewis do in Cleveland this year? A franchise LT is a precious commodity,

Their OLine had a number of upgrades including their top FA in Eric Steinbach. The Badger alone was not the difference.

[SpringStein]

But he was a HUGE part of that success. Many thought he should have been selected as a probowler.

OTOH - I don't see anyone in this class as ready as he was last year.

[ohiobronco2]

Anybody watching Dre Moore tonight? I think he looks impressive thus far.

[lex]

Anybody watching Dre Moore tonight? I think he looks impressive thus far.

Yeah but dont say that around Billy Claude Pucker.

[27atwater]

Since we're watching the Emerald Bowl, what about Bernard at RB w/ a mid/late round pick? Dude isn't a blazer, but he runs hard and has enough speed to play in the NFL. He's kinda short, but stout for his height...not quite like Jones-Drew, but still solid.

[lex]

Since we're watching the Emerald Bowl, what about Bernard at RB w/ a mid/late round pick? Dude isn't a blazer, but he runs hard and has enough speed to play in the NFL. He's kinda short, but stout for his height...not quite like Jones-Drew, but still solid.

Honestly, there should be no middle of the road with running back. That is, there are two schools of thought and theres no half pregnant. Some think we can get by with anyone at running back, in which case we shouldnt draft anyone except maybe the 7th if at all. The other school of thought is, if those scrubs can do this well, imagine how well an elite RB would do, in which case we should select a RB with a high pick.