Req's "Never Going To Happen, Trade Crazy" Draft

[Requiem]

All right, I'm sure we'll never trade down to get more picks then trade a future first to end up getting more talent; but let's just say SoCal broke into Dove Valley and held them hostage in order to do so and we ended up with that scenario. As of right now, Denver holds extra picks in the fourth, fifth and seventh rounds. (Where BPC has reported Oakland's 5th for Warren could escalate to a fourth based on playing time!) We traded our third to Minnesota in the Thomas trade, and do not have a sixth because it went to the Lions in the Bly deal.

So, that means we have a pick stable of: 1, 2, 4, 4, 5, 5, 7, 7,.

I feel that a gab between our second and fourth pick is unacceptable. After day one (just rounds one and two) we can't wait until the fourth round to pick again. The talent will be there to take advantage of in the third round and we need to find a way to get back into it. That's why I propose we trade down and pick up a third rounder, and for fun - let's just say we get a fourth rounder too. (Denver trades down in first round to pick up a third and fourth.)

Then, because of the value available, Denver ends up trading a future first round pick and ends up getting a very high second and third this year. (Nothing more because there's so much value here, and we want to pry it away from teams who might otherwise be unwilling to do the trade.)

So overall Denver trades #12 - to pick up a third and a fourth this year. (Still keeps a first rounder though!)

And Denver trades their '09 first to get a very high second and third round pick this year.

Thus giving us the pick arsenal of: 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 7, 7.

So many players, so many ways to go! Here's just a tentative mock draft based on player value in the rounds off the top of my head. Honestly guys, have fun and do the same and come up with your own guys with these trade scenarios. You really can't lose!

__________________________________________________ _________

#1 - Sam Baker, OT - USC

I have my concerns with Baker because of durability issues and the fact that his toughness and desire has been questioned at USC, but he was regarded as a top ten talent prior to the season began, but some lingering injuries (USC 's line was ravaged this year) and some of those other concerns could cause him to a slide a little on draft day. Where the front office seems to be cool with Pears and Harris (judging from the presser) I feel like the Broncos are still interested in upgrading. I reported a while back that I had heard they were looking at tackles extensively, and Wabbit had said the same not too long ago. A logical pick, solid fit - I know some people probably don't like him - but it's a value selection; and in perspective - a guy Denver probably will like.

#2 - Mario Manningham, WR - Michigan

You could throw Earl Bennett my way somewhere in the draft too; but I agree with BPC on how Manningham projects to the NFL, and the fact that his rare speed is something that we don't have on this team. Can you imagine a Manningham and Marshall duo? How about I just peg them the "M &M's" for the next decade? It'd be nice to have two healthy wide receivers and big play threats who can do their business every time they catch the ball. Sprinkle in a little running game, an emerging Tony Scheffler and options with Graham and Stokley and you have a recipe for disaster for opposing defenses.

#2 - Philip Wheeler, LB - Georgia Tech

With such a deep class at multiple positions, Wheeler will probably get overlooked, but this guy can play MIKE or WILL and has been absolutely fantastic for the wramblin' wreck. I've read numerous posters saying that Slowik loves to blitz and there is probably not a better blitzing linebacker than Wheeler in the draft. I watched about 5 of Tech's games this year and I have to say he was always around the ball; and did pretty well in coverage. MIKE might not be a natural fit for the guy, but he'd give us options pending what we do with DJ. 18.5 sacks and 34.5 TFL the past three years with four interceptions? I know stats can be deceiving, but this kid is a baller, and a high character person and a leader on the field. Denver needs more people like Wheeler.

#3 - James Davis, RB - Clemson

Davis didn't have the year I was expecting for Clemson, but when you see him play he just looks like a Broncos running back. Good vision and tremendous cut back ability; and he's a speed burner as well. Shared the load with Spiller, but he can carry the back 25 times or so in the NFL. He's a decent pass catcher as well and from what I saw he will give an effort as a blocker. He's young and has a lot of upside and potential. I just feel that with all the value available at RB; Denver will grab one. If you don't like Davis, perhaps Charles suits your fancy, or the other zillion juniors that came out. Pick your poison folks, Davis just seems to happen to be mine. Maybe he can pass another Davis as the best back we ever had? Who knows, but he's my guy at the top of round three.

#3 - Dre Moore, DT - Maryland

Another guy I've been talking about for a while, and another prospect who has a pretty raw game, but has some upside. I know some people here are luke warm on him; but Denver needs to improve the interior of their defensive line. He has a unique blend of size and speed and is extremely athletic. I thought he held up well at the POA the times I've saw him, and he can get into the backfield and rush the passer as well. I think that he and Thomas could make for a real solid duo; and he can play either tackle spot. He saved his best for last, and that's usually a good thing.

#4 - Jonathan Goff, LB - Vanderbilt

Linebacker's such a deep class and players like Goff are probably going to be overlooked because of his lack of speed, but the guy is just a baller. The times I saw Vanderbilt play, he was always around the ball, showed good instincts and blew up the ball carrier. He's not too bad in coverage either, and I think he could play SAM in the NFL. Has the size, but maybe not the speed - but as I said, he looked pretty decent in coverage. Our special teams unit struggles and at the very least he could help us out there. Plays with a fire in his belly and is a team leader, another prospect who is underrated and should go higher than he will. Gives us another option at LB; and with Williams, Wheeler, Goff and company; we have a nice young corps of player. Value is value, and that's what I'm looking for with these Day 2 selections.

#4 - DeMario Pressley, DT - North Carolina State

SoCal and I have talked about him a lot and we both just wonder why he never lived up to the hype he was getting coming out of high school. He had some injury issues, but nothing too major. He's an athletic guy; and the thing most noticeable is how he blows off the snap; which in return helps him because he's not overly strong at the POA. He's not the biggest guy, but has the potential to be a starter and at the very least could help us in nickel packages and passing situations as a guy who can cause some penetration problems and hopefully open some things up on the outside or for other players.

#4 - DaJuan Morgan, FS - North Carolina State

I paid more attention to DeMario whenever I had a chance to see NC State play (only about two full games) - but Morgan was a player whose name always seemed to be called. He has decent size for a safety, but plays the run and the pass both well. Seems like a guy who could work here playing back in a coverage zone, but not afraid to come up and defend the pass. If we don't get a guy like Gibril Wilson in FA; we need to seriously look for a safety. There are a lot of guys on Day 2 who can start, and the track record is there for everyone to see - so I think Denver would be fine getting a guy like Morgan in round four. After all, it's pretty good value.

#5 - Darius Reynaud, WR - West Virginia

He's not going to be more than a sub-package receiver in the NFL, but he's an explosive kick returner who can take it to the house. I don't really think I need to say much more than that, because everyone knows we need a returner; and since I've seen him play - I'll put him down. I'd feel guilty throwing a random name out there.

#5 - DeJuan Tribble, CB - Boston College

This is a quota pick because Denver usually draft someone with character concerns. Well, this guy is no exception since he was charged with assault and battery after getting in a bar fight in 2007. I also threw him in there because he can return punts and kicks, and he was pretty good the times I saw him play. He likes to gamble though, so he'd fit right in with a player like Bly or Williams (RIP) - and if we're looking for a guy who can keep the several year long streak of player arrests going, he'd be a guy to go after.

#7 - Mike Dragosivich, P - North Dakota State University

This is sort of a homer pick, but Denver could really use a punter who can boot the skin off the football. I've had the pleasure of seeing Mike play the past three years and the guy does not disappoint. He's only had two punts blocked, and has kicked a 79 yard monster. He punts in a dome, and has had the luxury of punting in nice weather (Cal Poly, etc.) on road games - but has some experience punting in the cold up here in Fargo (practices). I know several teams (including the Raiders) are really interested in this fellow and he's a nice guy and a team player and actually switched to punter from WR here at NDSU because he wanted to help out the team. Has averaged 46 + a punt the past three years and has had 60+ punts inside the 20. Doesn't get to punt that much because we always score, but yeah - he's a good player!

#7 - Jeremy Zuttah, OG - Rutgers

I thought this guy could be a top three or four round guy, but his pro position might have a little ambiguity and most seem to think he'll move inside rather than play tackle. He definitely is a top ten tackle, and probably isn't a top ten guard. This might be a little too low for him, but who knows, it's the NFL Draft. Like I said, I'd feel guilty throwing in some random Joe's name and I've liked Zuttah - so why not. This pick makes me say, HUZZAH! ZUTTAH!

[Requiem]

If you guys have alternate picks at each selection, toss 'em out there. You pretty much can't go wrong with that many picks and a plethora of value to choose from. I just grinded out my mind for an hour and did that. It's just too bad this would never happen. Or could it. . .

[mattob14]

I don't know if Shanahan would ever be happy with 12 rookies on the squad, but I wouldn't mind if we could get talent like this! The great thing about this year's draft is the depth. Instead of Baker, you could easily slide Chris Williams or (depending on how far we trade back) Jeff Otah into that spot. Manningham could be replaced by Bennett, Kelly, Hardy, or a speedster like Donnie Avery. At LB, Wheeler, Bell, Lofton, Mayo, Henderson, etc. could all be available in round 2. I wouldn't mind any of Kevin Smith, Charles, Chris Johnson, or Ray Rice instead of Davis in round 3. The list just goes on and on and that depth is what will make this draft so much fun.

The only thing I'd change is I'd try to pick up Pat Sims at the end of round 1 or beginning of round 2. He's a big, athletic DT that would look good next to Thomas. You can't get everything though! Good job Req!

[Broncoman13]

I don't care for Baker... attall!!! I'd take Clady, Oher, Otah, and the BC stud possibly even the tackle from UT before I'd take Baker. He's just not that special IMO.

Manningham will not last until the 2nd. I like the player, just don't think he'll last. I'd think strongly about either Hardy, Sweed, or Bowman (who I prefer the most b/c of his solid blocking). He's not a guy that will stretch the field though. I think, with your multiple picks in the 2nd, we could go with Jamaal Charles at 2a and then Bowman/Hardy/Sweed later in the round.

[Broncoman13]

Originally Posted by mattob14

I don't know if Shanahan would ever be happy with 12 rookies on the squad, but I wouldn't mind if we could get talent like this! The great thing about this year's draft is the depth. Instead of Baker, you could easily slide Chris Williams or (depending on how far we trade back) Jeff Otah into that spot. Manningham could be replaced by Bennett, Kelly, Hardy, or a speedster like Donnie Avery. At LB, Wheeler, Bell, Lofton, Mayo, Henderson, etc. could all be available in round 2. I wouldn't mind any of Kevin Smith, Charles, Chris Johnson, or Ray Rice instead of Davis in round 3. The list just goes on and on and that depth is what will make this draft so much fun.

The only thing I'd change is I'd try to pick up Pat Sims at the end of round 1 or beginning of round 2. He's a big, athletic DT that would look good next to Thomas. You can't get everything though! Good job Req!

Tell me more about Sims. What kind of year did he have this year. I normally watch a good bit of Auburn football, but they just don't show many SEC games here in Colorado. He looks/sounds like a guy that could shoot up the draft boards with a solid workout(s).

[lex]

Originally Posted by Requiem

All right, I'm sure we'll never trade down to get more picks then trade a future first to end up getting more talent; but let's just say SoCal broke into Dove Valley and held them hostage in order to do so and we ended up with that scenario. As of right now, Denver holds extra picks in the fourth, fifth and seventh rounds. (Where BPC has reported Oakland's 5th for Warren could escalate to a fourth based on playing time!) We traded our third to Minnesota in the Thomas trade, and do not have a sixth because it went to the Lions in the Bly deal.

So, that means we have a pick stable of: 1, 2, 4, 4, 5, 5, 7, 7,.

I feel that a gab between our second and fourth pick is unacceptable. After day one (just rounds one and two) we can't wait until the fourth round to pick again. The talent will be there to take advantage of in the third round and we need to find a way to get back into it. That's why I propose we trade down and pick up a third rounder, and for fun - let's just say we get a fourth rounder too. (Denver trades down in first round to pick up a third and fourth.)

Then, because of the value available, Denver ends up trading a future first round pick and ends up getting a very high second and third this year. (Nothing more because there's so much value here, and we want to pry it away from teams who might otherwise be unwilling to do the trade.)

So overall Denver trades #12 - to pick up a third and a fourth this year. (Still keeps a first rounder though!)

And Denver trades their '09 first to get a very high second and third round pick this year.

Thus giving us the pick arsenal of: 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 7, 7.

So many players, so many ways to go! Here's just a tentative mock draft based on player value in the rounds off the top of my head. Honestly guys, have fun and do the same and come up with your own guys with these trade scenarios. You really can't lose!

__________________________________________________ _________

#1 - Sam Baker, OT - USC

I have my concerns with Baker because of durability issues and the fact that his toughness and desire has been questioned at USC, but he was regarded as a top ten talent prior to the season began, but some lingering injuries (USC 's line was ravaged this year) and some of those other concerns could cause him to a slide a little on draft day. Where the front office seems to be cool with Pears and Harris (judging from the presser) I feel like the Broncos are still interested in upgrading. I reported a while back that I had heard they were looking at tackles extensively, and Wabbit had said the same not too long ago. A logical pick, solid fit - I know some people probably don't like him - but it's a value selection; and in perspective - a guy Denver probably will like.

#2 - Mario Manningham, WR - Michigan

You could throw Earl Bennett my way somewhere in the draft too; but I agree with BPC on how Manningham projects to the NFL, and the fact that his rare speed is something that we don't have on this team. Can you imagine a Manningham and Marshall duo? How about I just peg them the "M &M's" for the next decade? It'd be nice to have two healthy wide receivers and big play threats who can do their business every time they catch the ball. Sprinkle in a little running game, an emerging Tony Scheffler and options with Graham and Stokley and you have a recipe for disaster for opposing defenses.

#2 - Philip Wheeler, LB - Georgia Tech

With such a deep class at multiple positions, Wheeler will probably get overlooked, but this guy can play MIKE or WILL and has been absolutely fantastic for the wramblin' wreck. I've read numerous posters saying that Slowik loves to blitz and there is probably not a better blitzing linebacker than Wheeler in the draft. I watched about 5 of Tech's games this year and I have to say he was always around the ball; and did pretty well in coverage. MIKE might not be a natural fit for the guy, but he'd give us options pending what we do with DJ. 18.5 sacks and 34.5 TFL the past three years with four interceptions? I know stats can be deceiving, but this kid is a baller, and a high character person and a leader on the field. Denver needs more people like Wheeler.

#3 - James Davis, RB - Clemson

Davis didn't have the year I was expecting for Clemson, but when you see him play he just looks like a Broncos running back. Good vision and tremendous cut back ability; and he's a speed burner as well. Shared the load with Spiller, but he can carry the back 25 times or so in the NFL. He's a decent pass catcher as well and from what I saw he will give an effort as a blocker. He's young and has a lot of upside and potential. I just feel that with all the value available at RB; Denver will grab one. If you don't like Davis, perhaps Charles suits your fancy, or the other zillion juniors that came out. Pick your poison folks, Davis just seems to happen to be mine. Maybe he can pass another Davis as the best back we ever had? Who knows, but he's my guy at the top of round three.

#3 - Dre Moore, DT - Maryland

Another guy I've been talking about for a while, and another prospect who has a pretty raw game, but has some upside. I know some people here are luke warm on him; but Denver needs to improve the interior of their defensive line. He has a unique blend of size and speed and is extremely athletic. I thought he held up well at the POA the times I've saw him, and he can get into the backfield and rush the passer as well. I think that he and Thomas could make for a real solid duo; and he can play either tackle spot. He saved his best for last, and that's usually a good thing.

#4 - Jonathan Goff, LB - Vanderbilt

Linebacker's such a deep class and players like Goff are probably going to be overlooked because of his lack of speed, but the guy is just a baller. The times I saw Vanderbilt play, he was always around the ball, showed good instincts and blew up the ball carrier. He's not too bad in coverage either, and I think he could play SAM in the NFL. Has the size, but maybe not the speed - but as I said, he looked pretty decent in coverage. Our special teams unit struggles and at the very least he could help us out there. Plays with a fire in his belly and is a team leader, another prospect who is underrated and should go higher than he will. Gives us another option at LB; and with Williams, Wheeler, Goff and company; we have a nice young corps of player. Value is value, and that's what I'm looking for with these Day 2 selections.

#4 - DeMario Pressley, DT - North Carolina State

SoCal and I have talked about him a lot and we both just wonder why he never lived up to the hype he was getting coming out of high school. He had some injury issues, but nothing too major. He's an athletic guy; and the thing most noticeable is how he blows off the snap; which in return helps him because he's not overly strong at the POA. He's not the biggest guy, but has the potential to be a starter and at the very least could help us in nickel packages and passing situations as a guy who can cause some penetration problems and hopefully open some things up on the outside or for other players.

#4 - DaJuan Morgan, FS - North Carolina State

I paid more attention to DeMario whenever I had a chance to see NC State play (only about two full games) - but Morgan was a player whose name always seemed to be called. He has decent size for a safety, but plays the run and the pass both well. Seems like a guy who could work here playing back in a coverage zone, but not afraid to come up and defend the pass. If we don't get a guy like Gibril Wilson in FA; we need to seriously look for a safety. There are a lot of guys on Day 2 who can start, and the track record is there for everyone to see - so I think Denver would be fine getting a guy like Morgan in round four. After all, it's pretty good value.

#5 - Darius Reynaud, WR - West Virginia

He's not going to be more than a sub-package receiver in the NFL, but he's an explosive kick returner who can take it to the house. I don't really think I need to say much more than that, because everyone knows we need a returner; and since I've seen him play - I'll put him down. I'd feel guilty throwing a random name out there.

#5 - DeJuan Tribble, CB - Boston College

This is a quota pick because Denver usually draft someone with character concerns. Well, this guy is no exception since he was charged with assault and battery after getting in a bar fight in 2007. I also threw him in there because he can return punts and kicks, and he was pretty good the times I saw him play. He likes to gamble though, so he'd fit right in with a player like Bly or Williams (RIP) - and if we're looking for a guy who can keep the several year long streak of player arrests going, he'd be a guy to go after.

#7 - Mike Dragosivich, P - North Dakota State University

This is sort of a homer pick, but Denver could really use a punter who can boot the skin off the football. I've had the pleasure of seeing Mike play the past three years and the guy does not disappoint. He's only had two punts blocked, and has kicked a 79 yard monster. He punts in a dome, and has had the luxury of punting in nice weather (Cal Poly, etc.) on road games - but has some experience punting in the cold up here in Fargo (practices). I know several teams (including the Raiders) are really interested in this fellow and he's a nice guy and a team player and actually switched to punter from WR here at NDSU because he wanted to help out the team. Has averaged 46 + a punt the past three years and has had 60+ punts inside the 20. Doesn't get to punt that much because we always score, but yeah - he's a good player!

#7 - Jeremy Zuttah, OG - Rutgers

I thought this guy could be a top three or four round guy, but his pro position might have a little ambiguity and most seem to think he'll move inside rather than play tackle. He definitely is a top ten tackle, and probably isn't a top ten guard. This might be a little too low for him, but who knows, it's the NFL Draft. Like I said, I'd feel guilty throwing in some random Joe's name and I've liked Zuttah - so why not. This pick makes me say, HUZZAH! ZUTTAH!

The team who is the biggest candidate to pull of that first trade with is SF but they pick too low in the 1st for my liking. I dont like Baker or Wheeler. And I dont think Zuttah lasts until the 7th.

[lex]

Originally Posted by OSKIE!!!

Tell me more about Sims. What kind of year did he have this year. I normally watch a good bit of Auburn football, but they just don't show many SEC games here in Colorado. He looks/sounds like a guy that could shoot up the draft boards with a solid workout(s).

The guy was a beast both against Florida and Arkansas. He really gave Floridas and Auburns interior linemen fits and was a huge part of Auburns success on defense. Sims, effectively, neutralize the middle of the field in the games I mentioned. Under this scenario, Id rather take Sims instead of Baker and then Chris Williams over Wheeler.

Wheeler played out of position this year and so its an assumption that he is worth a high pick as an OLB based on what we saw this year. He was really eaten alive this year. I saw Wheeler a few times and he really struggled.

[mattob14]

Originally Posted by lex

The guy was a beast both against Florida and Arkansas. He really gave Floridas and Auburns interior linemen fits and was a huge part of Auburns success on defense. Sims, effectively, neutralize the middle of the field in the games I mentioned. Under this scenario, Id rather take Sims instead of Baker and then Chris Williams over Wheeler.

Wheeler played out of position this year and so its an assumption that he is worth a high pick as an OLB based on what we saw this year. He was really eaten alive this year. I saw Wheeler a few times and he really struggled.

I'd prefer the Sims/Williams combination if we could get them too. It's not so much that I don't like Wheeler, but I just think there's so much depth at LB, we could find a very good player in the 3rd or 4th. DT is a little more top-heavy this year.

[iforgotmypassword]

just curious.... only cause its true on Madden.... can we not have more then 10 draft picks?

[mattob14]

Originally Posted by iforgotmypassword

just curious.... only cause its true on Madden.... can we not have more then 10 draft picks?

It's only true on Madden.

[eddie mac]

What's with all this crap about trading next year's 1st rounder. The way we played this year it could be top 5 ffs.

[ayjackson]

Originally Posted by eddie mac

What's with all this crap about trading next year's 1st rounder. The way we played this year it could be top 5 ffs.

When you make a mock, you have to trade next year's picks so you can get all the guys you want this year. It's Mock 101. Also in Mock 101, we learn that Javon Walker and Dominique Foxworth will each garner a low second or high third round draft pick.

[Northman]

Very nice Req. But these are some other options in certain rounds.

Round 4: If your going to go linebacker these would be some other candidates i would like. Jordan Dizon- Colorado, Bryan kehl- BYU, Bo Ruud- Nebraska.


Other options at safety for round 4: Jamie Silva- Boston College

But for the most part i really like what you have up there.

[SoCalBronco]

Originally Posted by Requiem

Thus giving us the pick arsenal of: 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 7, 7.