Going into the 2009 draft all the scouts and experts believed that the defensive end/ 3-4 rush line backer group had the best potential. What scared most of the experts was that many of the prospect were tweeners, not big enough to be 4-3 ends, not fast enough to be 3-4 backers. In order to get a better picture of what to expect from the rookies I decided to break up the ends and rush linebackers into two seperate groups, so here are my top five defensive end rookies.
1)Brian Orakpo-Redskins-Texas-13th overall
2)Tyson Jackson-Chiefs-LSU-3rd overall
3)Everette Brown-Panthers-FSU-43rd overall
4)Aaron Maybin-Bills-PSU-11th overall
5)Lawrence Sidbury Jr.-Falcons-Richmond-125th overall
Sleeper 1)Jaron Gilbert-Bears-San Diego State-68th overall
Sleeper 2)Michael Johnson-Bengals-Georgia Tech-70th overall
The team who made the biggest headlines this off-season was undoubtly the Washington Redskins. Signing Albert Haynesworth will be the biggest contributing factor to the impact that Orakpo is expected to have. Haynesworth is expected to draw double teams allowing Orakpo to be singled up with left tackles letting him to use his power to get to the quaterback. On draft day Orakpo fell mostly due to questions on his potential in a 3-4 scheme, because he struggled with dropping back in college, letting the Redskins pick up probably the best overall end prospect. Staying home at his area of the field is Orakpo's best quality. He well not bite on play action or end arounds. I expected that he will put up around eight sacks for the Redskins if he can stay healthy. As well as durability issues he needs to work on his change of direction, Orakpo has a bright future in the NFL.
As the only possible 3-4 end on the list Tyson Jackson might not be able to put up the biggest numbers, but he allows the Chiefs to ease into their switch from 4-3 to 3-4 be being able to play both end techniques. Using his high motor Jackson is able to get into the backfield as well as getting downfield to catch ballcarriers. Jackson's impact in passing situations well be batting down balls, and occuping blockers for their rush backers to get to the quaterbacks. The best attribute of Jackson's game is his first step quickness which pushes the pocket and often disrupts plays. The number one area Jackson needs to work on is developing a repertoire pass rushing moves. As well as the pass ruch moves, gainning weigth to be able to take on double teams will benefit him greatly.
Playing on the opposite side of Julius Peppers will allow Everette Brown to use his pass rushing skills to get to the quaterback. When Brown enitred the draft he was predicted as a first round propect, even as high as a top 15 talent. That is what made it even more surprising that he fell all the way to the 43rd overall pick. As pass rushing goes he is arguably the best in the draft, but he lacks the ideal size for an every down end in the NFL. The most athletic end in the draft, with his strength he is able to hold up against the run despite his size. Makes plays in space which is rare for defensive ends, he even contain the skills to unleash devastating hits on ballcarriers causeing turnovers. What scared scouts about Brown, other than his size, was that FSU pass rushers have notoriously struggled in the NFL. I do not believe this willaffect Brown, he will face not face double teams, and will be able to beat tackles with both speed and power.
After the scouting combine many scouts grew fearful of drafting Aaron Maybin, he is smaller than most linebackers, and ran slower than expected. Before the draft experts had no idea where Maybin would end up, some had him in the top ten, some had him in the third round. At the number 11 pick the Bills took a chance on Maybin, hoping to put more pressure on the quaterback, something they struggled to do last season. Coming out as a redshirt sophmore, Maybin falls under the catagory of potential "one year wonders". In his rookie season Maybin will probably only play in pass rushing situations. I expect him to put up about five to seven sacks which is exceptional as a rookie. The Bills are hoping for him to contribute his first season, then for him to add about ten pounds to his frame, giving him the size to play every down. What scres me about Maybin is that most of his success came from just running around tackles, he needs to work on pass rush moves and lower body flexiablility if he wants to have success in the NFL.
Being the lowest drafted player in my top five, some people may be surprised to see Sidbury, some might not know who he is. A star at the division two level many scouts predicted Sidbury as a sixth or seventh round pick. With standout performances at both the Shrine game and the Senior Bowl his stock soared. Like Maybin Sidbury will most likley be a situational pass rusher during his rookie season. He has room to add muscle mass that could make him an every down end. Using his great reconigition skills he can both bull rush and speed rush quaterbacks. Sidbury could dramatically increase his pass rushing by working on his first step quickness and anticipation of snap counts. Sidbury could become a better run stopper if insted of running around blockers, engage them and shed the blocks. I expect him to have four to five sacks this season, maybe even less since the Falcons lack a dominant pass rusher.
Both of my sleepers are cases of tremendous talen and athleticism versus poor work ethic and desire. At the start of the college fottball season Michael Johnson was projected a top five pick. He put up huge numbers at the scouting combine but his play on the field was average. If Marvin Lewis can motivate Johnson some how, he could possiable drafted the best defensive end in this year's draft in the fourth round. In the case of Gilbert he flashed his potential at time while playing at San Diego State, but did not show the consitiancy you want to see especially at that level of competition. Like Johnson, Gilbert also had a great showing at the scouting combine, which boosted his stock. Playing on a team like the Bears will let Gilbert time to refine his skills, and maybe reach some of the limitless potential he has yet to use.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
2009 Offensive Line Impact Rookies
This draft class was stocked with quality tackles but not with a great selection of interior lineman. Due to the lack of overall depth with this group of players we saw teams scramble to get their hands on the top prospects. This caused many of the players to get drafted way higher than they were predicted they would. 13 offensive lineman were drafted in the first two rounds, with three tackles going in the first ten picks. So here are my top five impact rookies for the offensive line, with two sleepers to watch out for.
1)Jason Smith - Rams - Baylor
2)Andre Smith - Bengals - Alabama
3)Alex Mack - Browns - California
4)Eugene Monroe - Jaguars - Virginia
5)Andy Levitre - Bills - Oregon State
Sleeper 1)Phil Loadholt - Vikings - Oklahoma
Sleeper 2)Eben Britton - Jaguars - Arizona
Jason Smith is ranked number one on my list, not because he is the best run or pass blocker in the group, but because he is going to St. Louis. Drafted to replace Orlando Pace, Smith should be in the starting line-up right away. The rams offensive line was one of the worst in the league, giving up 45 sack last season and ranking 25th in rushing. Smith is a good run blocker that should provide the push for runningback Steven Jackson that he did not get last season. He is a athletic, strong tackle who would fit great in a zone blocking scheme. Smith is also a smart player who reads and picks up blitzes well. Smith a quick tackle with good feet and should be able to get up to the second level easily. One of the biggest knocks on Smith coming out of college was that he was in a two point stance most of the time at Baylor. Scouts worry that he might not be able to fire out of his stance as quickly in a three point stance. Another question on Smith's game is that he is not a great pass blocker, and needs to work on his lower body strength.
At number two is Andre Smith who was drafted number six overall by the Bengals. Marvin Lewis chose Smith because he wanted to get back to having a power running attack, and playing solid defense. He is big, even for tackle standards, which makes it even more surprising how quick he is. Smith shows the potential to be an elite run blocker in the NFL, and the ability to pancake one defender, then move up to the second level. In his three years at Alabama Smith only missed one game due to injury, which shows the durablity he needs at the NFL level. When it comes to pass blocking Smith relies to heavily on his size, often letting defenders into his body rather than using his hands. Smith has also had the handle of being lazy around him since he declared for the draft, showing up to the combine and workouts out of shape. If Smith can develope his pass blocking he can become this best tackle from this draft.
With the number three rookie we have our first interior lineman, Alex Mack of the Cleveland Browns. Mack is a tall, athletic lineman who has the versitility to play both guard and center positions. Probably the best blocker whenit comes to technique in this draft, which maximizes his strength. The best quality in Mack's game is that he plays with great effort and uses his smarts during games, which coaches love. Mack tends to play a little high causing him to get pushed back easily sometimes. His push in short-yardage situations needs to be worked on, as well as his pass blocking.
Jacksonville picked Eugene Monroe with the eigth overall pick to create depth for their offensive line that was ravaged by injuries last year. Experts believe that what caused the Jaguars titanic fall from the elites last year was injuries and not sticking to the run game. Coming out of college Monroe is the best all-around tackle out of the three that went in the top ten, showing great pass blocking skills, and creates a nice push as a run blocker. Monroe is expected to be the started, and should be able to learn alot from veteran Tra' Thomas, a free agent brought in from Philadelphia. He needs to work on using his punch during pass blocking, and needs to be more aware at picking up blitzers. Overall Monroe is already a formidable tackle, but needs to refine his skills to make him great.
When the Buffalo Bills traded pro-bowl left tackle Jason Peters to the Eagles it left a gapping hole in their already depleated offensive line. With needs at several spots in their line, the Bills drafted Andy Levitre who can play both guard and tackle. He shows good vision being able to pick up blitzers, and good quickness off the snap. Combine that with his durability and versitility and you have the makings of a all-pro lineman. However Levitre is short, has short arms, and has a smaller kick step then you would like for a tackle. Levitre is also does not have the strength you want to see in a guard. I see Levitre beginning his career as a guard, then maybe moving outside to be a tackle.
Both Britton and Loadholt have the physical tools to have been first round talents, but they showed glaring weaknesses during their college career. Britton is to slow to play left tackle, luckily the Jaguars already drafted their left tackle in the first round. Moving Britton to right tackle should be a great fit, keeping his strength and above average pass blocking on the starting line. Eben Britton flashed his ability in pass rushing situations, but needs to work on his down field blocking. He might not start right away but Jacksonville could have the best tackle combination for years. As far as Loadholt goes he is very similar to Britton in the way the have every physical tool they need. At 6' 8" 332lbs Loadholt will be one of the largest players in the NFL. During college he relied too much on his natural ability, and was often beaten by pass rushers. Later he was moved to guard as a way of the coaches to keep his run blocking skills in the lineup. Loadholt fits into Minnesota's power running system perfectly, allowing him to use his size to maul his opponents. He is expected to play right tackle because he is to slow to play left tackle, and to tall to play guard or center. Loadholt is a raw talent and if the Vikings coaching staff can tap his potential he could become the best tackle in the league.
1)Jason Smith - Rams - Baylor
2)Andre Smith - Bengals - Alabama
3)Alex Mack - Browns - California
4)Eugene Monroe - Jaguars - Virginia
5)Andy Levitre - Bills - Oregon State
Sleeper 1)Phil Loadholt - Vikings - Oklahoma
Sleeper 2)Eben Britton - Jaguars - Arizona
Jason Smith is ranked number one on my list, not because he is the best run or pass blocker in the group, but because he is going to St. Louis. Drafted to replace Orlando Pace, Smith should be in the starting line-up right away. The rams offensive line was one of the worst in the league, giving up 45 sack last season and ranking 25th in rushing. Smith is a good run blocker that should provide the push for runningback Steven Jackson that he did not get last season. He is a athletic, strong tackle who would fit great in a zone blocking scheme. Smith is also a smart player who reads and picks up blitzes well. Smith a quick tackle with good feet and should be able to get up to the second level easily. One of the biggest knocks on Smith coming out of college was that he was in a two point stance most of the time at Baylor. Scouts worry that he might not be able to fire out of his stance as quickly in a three point stance. Another question on Smith's game is that he is not a great pass blocker, and needs to work on his lower body strength.
At number two is Andre Smith who was drafted number six overall by the Bengals. Marvin Lewis chose Smith because he wanted to get back to having a power running attack, and playing solid defense. He is big, even for tackle standards, which makes it even more surprising how quick he is. Smith shows the potential to be an elite run blocker in the NFL, and the ability to pancake one defender, then move up to the second level. In his three years at Alabama Smith only missed one game due to injury, which shows the durablity he needs at the NFL level. When it comes to pass blocking Smith relies to heavily on his size, often letting defenders into his body rather than using his hands. Smith has also had the handle of being lazy around him since he declared for the draft, showing up to the combine and workouts out of shape. If Smith can develope his pass blocking he can become this best tackle from this draft.
With the number three rookie we have our first interior lineman, Alex Mack of the Cleveland Browns. Mack is a tall, athletic lineman who has the versitility to play both guard and center positions. Probably the best blocker whenit comes to technique in this draft, which maximizes his strength. The best quality in Mack's game is that he plays with great effort and uses his smarts during games, which coaches love. Mack tends to play a little high causing him to get pushed back easily sometimes. His push in short-yardage situations needs to be worked on, as well as his pass blocking.
Jacksonville picked Eugene Monroe with the eigth overall pick to create depth for their offensive line that was ravaged by injuries last year. Experts believe that what caused the Jaguars titanic fall from the elites last year was injuries and not sticking to the run game. Coming out of college Monroe is the best all-around tackle out of the three that went in the top ten, showing great pass blocking skills, and creates a nice push as a run blocker. Monroe is expected to be the started, and should be able to learn alot from veteran Tra' Thomas, a free agent brought in from Philadelphia. He needs to work on using his punch during pass blocking, and needs to be more aware at picking up blitzers. Overall Monroe is already a formidable tackle, but needs to refine his skills to make him great.
When the Buffalo Bills traded pro-bowl left tackle Jason Peters to the Eagles it left a gapping hole in their already depleated offensive line. With needs at several spots in their line, the Bills drafted Andy Levitre who can play both guard and tackle. He shows good vision being able to pick up blitzers, and good quickness off the snap. Combine that with his durability and versitility and you have the makings of a all-pro lineman. However Levitre is short, has short arms, and has a smaller kick step then you would like for a tackle. Levitre is also does not have the strength you want to see in a guard. I see Levitre beginning his career as a guard, then maybe moving outside to be a tackle.
Both Britton and Loadholt have the physical tools to have been first round talents, but they showed glaring weaknesses during their college career. Britton is to slow to play left tackle, luckily the Jaguars already drafted their left tackle in the first round. Moving Britton to right tackle should be a great fit, keeping his strength and above average pass blocking on the starting line. Eben Britton flashed his ability in pass rushing situations, but needs to work on his down field blocking. He might not start right away but Jacksonville could have the best tackle combination for years. As far as Loadholt goes he is very similar to Britton in the way the have every physical tool they need. At 6' 8" 332lbs Loadholt will be one of the largest players in the NFL. During college he relied too much on his natural ability, and was often beaten by pass rushers. Later he was moved to guard as a way of the coaches to keep his run blocking skills in the lineup. Loadholt fits into Minnesota's power running system perfectly, allowing him to use his size to maul his opponents. He is expected to play right tackle because he is to slow to play left tackle, and to tall to play guard or center. Loadholt is a raw talent and if the Vikings coaching staff can tap his potential he could become the best tackle in the league.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
2009 Tight End Impact Rookies
The theme in the NFL regarding tight ends has been moving to the more athletic, pass-catching and away from the large, blocking ends. Many tight ends like Gates, Witten, and Gonzales have showed that ends are more than just blockers, and checkdown targets for quaterbacks. These guys have shown that they can be their team's number one recieving threat and still be considered a big time offense. Unfortunately in this year's class there was not one player that experts believed could create an immiediate impact for their team. You might think that I am skipping right over Brandon Pettigrew when I make a remark like this but Pettigrew's impact, at least in his rookie season, will be as a run blocker. The 2009 draft class was filled with the new wave of athletic ends that can stretch the field and create mismatches for opposing defenses. So here are my top five impact rookies for the 2009 season, plus two sleepers to look out for.
1)Brandon Pettigrew - Detroit Lions - Oklahoma State
2)Cornelius Ingram - Philadelphia Eagles - Florida
3)Travis Beckum - New York Giants - Wisconson
4)Shawn Nelson - Buffalo Bills - Southren Miss
5)Chase Coffman - Cincinnati Bengals - Missouri
Sleeper 1)Richard Quinn - Denver Broncos - North Carolina
Sleeper 2)Jared Cook - Tennesse Titans - South Carolina
If you read the introduction into this post one might think that did not like Pettigrew to have a good rookie season, but that is not true. I factor blocking just as much as I do catching in my rankings. Pettigrew in his rookie season will probably assume the role as the third or fourth option behind Calvin Johnson, Bryant Johnson, and Kevin Jones which will limit his catches. Though if Matt Stafford gets the starting quaterback position, I expect Pettigrew's offensive numbers will spike, because Stafford would most likely utilize Pettigrew as his second read if the first read is not there. Pettigrew should thrive in redzone situations, using his size at 6'4 and 263lbs. Issues that could hold him back are injuries and off the field issues(was arrested for felony assualt and battery).
For those readers that have read the entire series on rookies must be thinking I am a Eagles fan because I also have McCoy and Maclin in the top five of their positions as well. Sorry to till you this but I am not an Eagles fan they just drafted that well this years. Ingram will fill the void of perpetual disappointment L.J. Smith. Ingram's draft stock drastically fell after tearing his ACL last August, but had a good combine and left scouts buzzing. Redzone touchdowns is what pushed him up to this spot on my list. Last year the Eagles redzone offense struggled at the best of times. I do not expect Ingram to put up large numbers in the recieving yards catagory because of the trio of Curtis, Jackson, and Maclin will be the main targets with Ingram being targeted mostly in third down situations. Outside of the potential of not fully recovering from his knee surgury, Ingram is part of a group of ends(Matt Schobel and Brent Celek), none of them really seperate themselves from the pack.
Beckum as my number three end might sound high to a couple of the readers, but we must remember that Beckum was considered a first round lock until he fractured his tibula in a game against Illnios. New York got a steal in the third arguably the best value in the round. Beckum has a chance to become the second string tight end by the end of training camp, then maybe eventually maybe even become the starter over Kevin Boss. Scouts often compare Beckum's style of play to Dustin Keller of the Jets, someone who is not a true tight end but creates match-up difficulties for opposinf defenses. No glaring weakness in his game, but Beckum does have alot of things he needs to work on like catching with his hands, cleaning up his routes, and getting stronger.
The Buffalo Bills have lacked a legitimate tight end threat for along time, so this provides a window for Shawn Nelson to put up solid numbers in his rookie campaign. Watching him at the combine Nelson stood out athletically, backing up the numbers he had at Southren Miss. Nelson reminds me of a Tony Scheffler type player. He will not be in on running downs but, like many of the other tight ends on this list create match-up problems for defenses. Next to Pettigrew, Nelson has the most potential in this draft to become a pereninal pro-bowler. He needs to work on becoming a true tight end to reach that potential, it is hard to be a pro-bowler when you are only on the field during passing downs. Potential downside of Nelson is that some scouts think Nelson has already maxed out his talent and will not develope into anything more than a situational offensive player and a special team player. Gainning muscle and developping into a better blocker should be number one on Nelson's "to do list".
Chase Coffman is the most decorated out of all the tight ends in the year's draft. Coffman has the size (6'6" and 263lbs) of a classic tight end with the hands of a modern end. As well as all the physical attributes, he has the genes as well, his father Paul Coffman played in the NFL for ten seasons. Last off-season the Bengals brought in tight end and H-back Ben Utech from the Colts. Utech's season was injury plagued and an overall disappointment prompting the Bengals to draft Coffman. In a couple of years the Bengals could have the best tight end tandem in the league. Holding Coffman from reaching his full potential is he never played in a pro style offensive, he lacks the straightline speed, and we have not seen alot of Coffman as a blocker.
Quinn is a sort of sleeper, (he was a second round pick) I chose him because he is going to suprise people with his catching ability. Jared Cook is my second sleeper, because he could be the Titans' third best recieving option on a team that will have open paassing lanes due to their outstanding run game.
1)Brandon Pettigrew - Detroit Lions - Oklahoma State
2)Cornelius Ingram - Philadelphia Eagles - Florida
3)Travis Beckum - New York Giants - Wisconson
4)Shawn Nelson - Buffalo Bills - Southren Miss
5)Chase Coffman - Cincinnati Bengals - Missouri
Sleeper 1)Richard Quinn - Denver Broncos - North Carolina
Sleeper 2)Jared Cook - Tennesse Titans - South Carolina
If you read the introduction into this post one might think that did not like Pettigrew to have a good rookie season, but that is not true. I factor blocking just as much as I do catching in my rankings. Pettigrew in his rookie season will probably assume the role as the third or fourth option behind Calvin Johnson, Bryant Johnson, and Kevin Jones which will limit his catches. Though if Matt Stafford gets the starting quaterback position, I expect Pettigrew's offensive numbers will spike, because Stafford would most likely utilize Pettigrew as his second read if the first read is not there. Pettigrew should thrive in redzone situations, using his size at 6'4 and 263lbs. Issues that could hold him back are injuries and off the field issues(was arrested for felony assualt and battery).
For those readers that have read the entire series on rookies must be thinking I am a Eagles fan because I also have McCoy and Maclin in the top five of their positions as well. Sorry to till you this but I am not an Eagles fan they just drafted that well this years. Ingram will fill the void of perpetual disappointment L.J. Smith. Ingram's draft stock drastically fell after tearing his ACL last August, but had a good combine and left scouts buzzing. Redzone touchdowns is what pushed him up to this spot on my list. Last year the Eagles redzone offense struggled at the best of times. I do not expect Ingram to put up large numbers in the recieving yards catagory because of the trio of Curtis, Jackson, and Maclin will be the main targets with Ingram being targeted mostly in third down situations. Outside of the potential of not fully recovering from his knee surgury, Ingram is part of a group of ends(Matt Schobel and Brent Celek), none of them really seperate themselves from the pack.
Beckum as my number three end might sound high to a couple of the readers, but we must remember that Beckum was considered a first round lock until he fractured his tibula in a game against Illnios. New York got a steal in the third arguably the best value in the round. Beckum has a chance to become the second string tight end by the end of training camp, then maybe eventually maybe even become the starter over Kevin Boss. Scouts often compare Beckum's style of play to Dustin Keller of the Jets, someone who is not a true tight end but creates match-up difficulties for opposinf defenses. No glaring weakness in his game, but Beckum does have alot of things he needs to work on like catching with his hands, cleaning up his routes, and getting stronger.
The Buffalo Bills have lacked a legitimate tight end threat for along time, so this provides a window for Shawn Nelson to put up solid numbers in his rookie campaign. Watching him at the combine Nelson stood out athletically, backing up the numbers he had at Southren Miss. Nelson reminds me of a Tony Scheffler type player. He will not be in on running downs but, like many of the other tight ends on this list create match-up problems for defenses. Next to Pettigrew, Nelson has the most potential in this draft to become a pereninal pro-bowler. He needs to work on becoming a true tight end to reach that potential, it is hard to be a pro-bowler when you are only on the field during passing downs. Potential downside of Nelson is that some scouts think Nelson has already maxed out his talent and will not develope into anything more than a situational offensive player and a special team player. Gainning muscle and developping into a better blocker should be number one on Nelson's "to do list".
Chase Coffman is the most decorated out of all the tight ends in the year's draft. Coffman has the size (6'6" and 263lbs) of a classic tight end with the hands of a modern end. As well as all the physical attributes, he has the genes as well, his father Paul Coffman played in the NFL for ten seasons. Last off-season the Bengals brought in tight end and H-back Ben Utech from the Colts. Utech's season was injury plagued and an overall disappointment prompting the Bengals to draft Coffman. In a couple of years the Bengals could have the best tight end tandem in the league. Holding Coffman from reaching his full potential is he never played in a pro style offensive, he lacks the straightline speed, and we have not seen alot of Coffman as a blocker.
Quinn is a sort of sleeper, (he was a second round pick) I chose him because he is going to suprise people with his catching ability. Jared Cook is my second sleeper, because he could be the Titans' third best recieving option on a team that will have open paassing lanes due to their outstanding run game.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Steve McNair
This is a couple days late, but I justed wanted to express my sadness about losing one of the greats in football to such a tragedy. Regardless of what happened why it happened the world lost a good person on July 4, 2009. I send my thoughts and prayers to his wife and four sons, and may his soul rest in peace.
2009 Wide Reciever Impact Rookies
This position in this year's draft was arguably the deepest and most diverse. We had the bigger, more physical wide recievers in Hakeem Nicks, Ramses Barden, Kenny Britt, and Michael Crabtree and we also had the smaller, quicker recievers like Hayward-Bey, Maclin, and Harvin. The six wide recievers taken in the first round made this position the most-picked. This year's class will have a great chance to make a run at the famous 1996 class that had players like Owens, K. Johnson, Glenn, and Harrison. Ranking these players is difficult, because you have to take into account the system that they are going to, their roles, and the other players that they are competing with. So after lots of studying, projections, and estimations here are my top rookie wide recievers for this season, plus two bonus sleepers
1)Kenny Britt - Rutgers - Tennesse Titains
2)Hakeem Nicks - North Carolina - New York Giants
3)Jeremy Maclin - Missouri - Philadelphia Eagles
4)Percy Harvin - Florida - Minnesota Vikings
5) Brian Robiske - Ohio State - Cleveland Browns
Sleeper(1)Patrick Turner - University of Southren California - Miami Dolphins
Sleeper(2)Derrick Williams - Penn State - Jacksonville Jaguars
I have a feeling the first thing my readers are going to notice about the list is that Michael Crabtree's name is conspicuously missing. Crabtree is missing for two reasons.
1) The new offense being ran in San Fransico will be a pound-the-rock, run oriented system that takes advantage of Frank Gore
2)Crabtree's impact is going to be felt in the red zone, but out of all the recievers he will have to make the biggest adjustment, he will not be able to out-muscle all the cornerbacks as he did in college. Crabtree will be a good reciever in the NFL just not in his rookie season.
Kenny Britt is my number one impact rookie at reciever for a couple of reasons. First, he will be "the man" when he steps on the practice field, and arguably the most talented reciever on the Titans roster. Second, Britt is going to benefit greatly from the play action pass from the effectiveness of the running attack. Last, Britt has a supurb combination of size (6'3) and solid speed (4.5), which well help him seperate from cornerbacks by giving him multiple ways to get open down the field. The issues that could hold Britt back are his questionable hands, slow of the snap, and poor downfield blocking, but these are things that can be worked on during his career.
My number two impact rookie reciever is Hakeem Nicks who was 29th overall by the New York Giants. New York hopes that he will fill the big bodied wide reciever void left by Plaxico Burress. He is four inches shorter than Burress, but is a wider-bodied reciever that will be able to use his body to block out defensivebacks to catch the slants that Manning and Burress used successfully which opened up running lanes for their running game. Nicks has arguably the best hands in this years draft, which made me put him in the number two position. He will be in the starting line-up from the beginning, plus he well get tons of chances to catch the balls that Plaxico Burress would have had thrown to him. The negatives about Nicks are his lack of speed (4.63), the depth of the Giants wide reciever corps, and many people believe that his success in college was due to the fact that the Tar Heels had three really good recivers and other teams defenses were spread too thin. The only issue that can really affect Nicks is his speed, because good cornerbacks could undercut the slant routes that makes Nicks so dangerous.
The third and fourth ranked players were really hard to seperate since they are very similar players, but what was the deciding factor was injuries. Jeremy Maclin will not be as injury prone as Percy Harvin, thus he goes third and Harvin fourth. Maclin has a chance to put up the best numbers out of all the recievers in this draft.The precedent has already been set by Desean Jackson for rookie recievers in Philadelphia. Many people agree that Maclin is a better player than Jackson was when he came out of college and entered last year's draft. So that leaves Eagles fans to dream about the possibilites with these similar dynamic playmakers on the field at the same time. Maclin most likely will also assume kick-off return duties along side Jackson to keep his playmaking abilities on the field. Potential negatives for Maclin are his poor route running, and he relied heavily on his atheletic ability in college. Rather than using technique to beat defenses which is scary, because I have a strong belief that college players that relied on out-muscling or out-running opponents for their success never make any extended sustained success in the NFL (ex. Reggie Bush).
Percy Harvin's versitlity makes me put him on the list no matter how injury prone he is. Harvin can play QB in the wildcat, wide reciever, and also play runningback. He well also benefit from playaction, and single coverage, because defenses will, load up to stop Peterson. Harvin has the potential to lead the NFL in YAC (Yards after Catch) for years with his one of a kind agility and elusiveness. On the downside, Harvin gets injured way to much the season has not even started and he has missed mini camp due to dehydration, and was sent home from the rookie symposium due to an illness. Another problem with Harvin is that he tested positive for marijuana at the scoutiong combine, and now is in the NFL substince abuse policy. The upside to these negatives is that they are of the field issues, and except for being sort of short he has no gapping holes in his game. The scariest problem with Harvin is that many people believe that he was a product of a system, because many players from Meyer's system have struggled in the NFL. I do not think Percy will struggle that much, he is a once in a decade type athlete and it will be up to the coaches to harness his ability.
Brian Robsike is the most polished reciever in this draft. Robiske is not the the most gifted athlete, but I believe that he has the best chance to become the best reciever in this draft. It is well documented about his dad being the recivers coach with Atlanta Falcons, and him being molded into being a techniquely sound reciever. Robiskie will most likely be the safety net for whom ever is the quaterback in Cleveland. Robiskie well excel the most in red zone situations, because of his hieght, and is most likely the best in the draft at seperating from cornerbacks. Holding Brian back is the quaterback situation in Cleveland which is not his fault; and which Braylon Edwards is going to show up? If the 2007 Edwards shows up, Robiskie well have to take a back seat to Edwards. If 2008 Edwards who led the league in drops, I could see the quaterback quickely turning to the more reliable Robiske. Alot of what Robiskie will be expected to do will be based on what Edwards does. It would not be very hard for me to believe that Robiskie could be the Offensive Rookie of the Year.
My first sleeper is Patrick Turner of the Miami Dolphins, he is in the mold of Plaxico Burress, that being tall and maybe even a little bit stronger that Burress was. Turner is my number one sleeper, because the Dolphins did not have that big-body reciever that teams need in third down, and red zone situations. Turner has the chance to put up alot of touchdowns, and also put up alot of catches, because he will be asked to be the down the middle of the field threat. Many people believe that Turner will struggle, because it is very difficult for really tall recievers to florish in the NFL, and that why, except for quaterbacks, you do not see many 6'5" and over players.
Derrick Williams, a third round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars, is my second sleeper pick. We all Williams make big play after big play for four years at Penn State. Williams is small, and at the scouting combine ran alot slower than expected. Never the less I expect him to fill the Jags need for a good reciever. He will have a great mentor in Torry Holt to learn the ins and outs of the league from. The reason that I like Williams is not only will he have a chance to return punts and kicks, but he has the ability to make plays as a wide reciever, something that the Jacksonville Jaguars have not had since the retirement of Jimmy Smith.
1)Kenny Britt - Rutgers - Tennesse Titains
2)Hakeem Nicks - North Carolina - New York Giants
3)Jeremy Maclin - Missouri - Philadelphia Eagles
4)Percy Harvin - Florida - Minnesota Vikings
5) Brian Robiske - Ohio State - Cleveland Browns
Sleeper(1)Patrick Turner - University of Southren California - Miami Dolphins
Sleeper(2)Derrick Williams - Penn State - Jacksonville Jaguars
I have a feeling the first thing my readers are going to notice about the list is that Michael Crabtree's name is conspicuously missing. Crabtree is missing for two reasons.
1) The new offense being ran in San Fransico will be a pound-the-rock, run oriented system that takes advantage of Frank Gore
2)Crabtree's impact is going to be felt in the red zone, but out of all the recievers he will have to make the biggest adjustment, he will not be able to out-muscle all the cornerbacks as he did in college. Crabtree will be a good reciever in the NFL just not in his rookie season.
Kenny Britt is my number one impact rookie at reciever for a couple of reasons. First, he will be "the man" when he steps on the practice field, and arguably the most talented reciever on the Titans roster. Second, Britt is going to benefit greatly from the play action pass from the effectiveness of the running attack. Last, Britt has a supurb combination of size (6'3) and solid speed (4.5), which well help him seperate from cornerbacks by giving him multiple ways to get open down the field. The issues that could hold Britt back are his questionable hands, slow of the snap, and poor downfield blocking, but these are things that can be worked on during his career.
My number two impact rookie reciever is Hakeem Nicks who was 29th overall by the New York Giants. New York hopes that he will fill the big bodied wide reciever void left by Plaxico Burress. He is four inches shorter than Burress, but is a wider-bodied reciever that will be able to use his body to block out defensivebacks to catch the slants that Manning and Burress used successfully which opened up running lanes for their running game. Nicks has arguably the best hands in this years draft, which made me put him in the number two position. He will be in the starting line-up from the beginning, plus he well get tons of chances to catch the balls that Plaxico Burress would have had thrown to him. The negatives about Nicks are his lack of speed (4.63), the depth of the Giants wide reciever corps, and many people believe that his success in college was due to the fact that the Tar Heels had three really good recivers and other teams defenses were spread too thin. The only issue that can really affect Nicks is his speed, because good cornerbacks could undercut the slant routes that makes Nicks so dangerous.
The third and fourth ranked players were really hard to seperate since they are very similar players, but what was the deciding factor was injuries. Jeremy Maclin will not be as injury prone as Percy Harvin, thus he goes third and Harvin fourth. Maclin has a chance to put up the best numbers out of all the recievers in this draft.The precedent has already been set by Desean Jackson for rookie recievers in Philadelphia. Many people agree that Maclin is a better player than Jackson was when he came out of college and entered last year's draft. So that leaves Eagles fans to dream about the possibilites with these similar dynamic playmakers on the field at the same time. Maclin most likely will also assume kick-off return duties along side Jackson to keep his playmaking abilities on the field. Potential negatives for Maclin are his poor route running, and he relied heavily on his atheletic ability in college. Rather than using technique to beat defenses which is scary, because I have a strong belief that college players that relied on out-muscling or out-running opponents for their success never make any extended sustained success in the NFL (ex. Reggie Bush).
Percy Harvin's versitlity makes me put him on the list no matter how injury prone he is. Harvin can play QB in the wildcat, wide reciever, and also play runningback. He well also benefit from playaction, and single coverage, because defenses will, load up to stop Peterson. Harvin has the potential to lead the NFL in YAC (Yards after Catch) for years with his one of a kind agility and elusiveness. On the downside, Harvin gets injured way to much the season has not even started and he has missed mini camp due to dehydration, and was sent home from the rookie symposium due to an illness. Another problem with Harvin is that he tested positive for marijuana at the scoutiong combine, and now is in the NFL substince abuse policy. The upside to these negatives is that they are of the field issues, and except for being sort of short he has no gapping holes in his game. The scariest problem with Harvin is that many people believe that he was a product of a system, because many players from Meyer's system have struggled in the NFL. I do not think Percy will struggle that much, he is a once in a decade type athlete and it will be up to the coaches to harness his ability.
Brian Robsike is the most polished reciever in this draft. Robiske is not the the most gifted athlete, but I believe that he has the best chance to become the best reciever in this draft. It is well documented about his dad being the recivers coach with Atlanta Falcons, and him being molded into being a techniquely sound reciever. Robiskie will most likely be the safety net for whom ever is the quaterback in Cleveland. Robiskie well excel the most in red zone situations, because of his hieght, and is most likely the best in the draft at seperating from cornerbacks. Holding Brian back is the quaterback situation in Cleveland which is not his fault; and which Braylon Edwards is going to show up? If the 2007 Edwards shows up, Robiskie well have to take a back seat to Edwards. If 2008 Edwards who led the league in drops, I could see the quaterback quickely turning to the more reliable Robiske. Alot of what Robiskie will be expected to do will be based on what Edwards does. It would not be very hard for me to believe that Robiskie could be the Offensive Rookie of the Year.
My first sleeper is Patrick Turner of the Miami Dolphins, he is in the mold of Plaxico Burress, that being tall and maybe even a little bit stronger that Burress was. Turner is my number one sleeper, because the Dolphins did not have that big-body reciever that teams need in third down, and red zone situations. Turner has the chance to put up alot of touchdowns, and also put up alot of catches, because he will be asked to be the down the middle of the field threat. Many people believe that Turner will struggle, because it is very difficult for really tall recievers to florish in the NFL, and that why, except for quaterbacks, you do not see many 6'5" and over players.
Derrick Williams, a third round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars, is my second sleeper pick. We all Williams make big play after big play for four years at Penn State. Williams is small, and at the scouting combine ran alot slower than expected. Never the less I expect him to fill the Jags need for a good reciever. He will have a great mentor in Torry Holt to learn the ins and outs of the league from. The reason that I like Williams is not only will he have a chance to return punts and kicks, but he has the ability to make plays as a wide reciever, something that the Jacksonville Jaguars have not had since the retirement of Jimmy Smith.
Friday, July 3, 2009
2009 Runningback Impact Rookies
This years draft was a deep, big named players who hope to put their team over the edge. Offensively this year is going to be one of the harder years toread which rookies are going to standout. The latest trend in the NFL is that teams are leaning more and more on younger runningbacks with less "wear on the tires", which is why I am leaning towards a handful of runningbacks that will have the biggest impact on their teams.
1)Chris "Beanie" Wells - Arizona Cardinals
2)LeShon "Shady" McCoy - Phidelphia Eagels
3)Donald Brown -Indianapolis Colts
4)Knowshon Moreano - Denver Broncos
5)Shonn Greene - New York Jets
Super Sleeper - Rashard Jennings - Jacksonville Jaguars
The reason why I put Wells first is he will be given every oppurtunity from the Cardinals to be the rushing attack to take pressure off of that dynamic passing attack. Arizona's rushing struggles have been well documented and with the release off James, Wells will walk in the door with the starting job. Wells might not score as many touch downs as the others, because second year runningback Tim Hightower showed his goalline effectiveness last season.
The resst of the runningback list was difficult to seperate from each other. All the other backs, with maybe exception Moreano, are not expected to be the "go to guy" for their teams. McCoy has the most potential to put up the most all - purpose yards out of the group, and that likelihood increased with Westbrook's offseason ankle surgery. Two things that could hold McCoy back is, 1) Reids war against the running game. Philadelphia runs the ball less than any other team, which means less carries for McCoy and Westbrook to split. 2)Philadelphia already has a back in the mold of McCoy in Lorenzo Booker who has not showed any sustained success. Westbrook has have to dominate the snaps at runningback for the Eagles since the days of Duce Staley. Yet I ranked McCoy as the second best rookie back, because I believe in Andy Reid's offensive genius, Reid will find a way to get him the ball.
My number three back is Donald Brown, because of the offense he is going to. Personally I thought that the Colts over reacted to their poor rushing performance during the 2008 season, but none the less they drafted a great player. Brown put up over 2000 all - purpose yards at Connecticut last season. Brown's skill set matches up perfectly with the Colts offensive philosophy, and Manning will help his progression. Holding Brown back from creating a huge splash in his rookie season is his backfieldmate in Joseph Addai who had a down year last season which prompted the drafting of Brown.
Moreano might end up being the best back in this class, but right now is stuck in a crowded backfield in Denver. I believe he is going to win the starting job, but the precedent has been set in Josh McDaniels system that a couple of backs will share the load which may keep Moreano's numbers down.
I put Shonn Greene on this list for one reason, touchdowns. Even though Thomas Jones led the NFL in rushing touchdowns last season, and was spelled very well by Leon Washington, the Jets did not have a quality powerback to help Thomas out in short yardage situations. Greene will not put up the biggest numbers, but I believe that Greene impact will be felt throughout the league.
My sleeper might even count as a supersleeper if based on where he was drafted. Rashard Jennings dropped far in the draft, he was projected as a fourth round pick, but he fell to the Jaguars in the seventh round. The reason why I pick Jennings is that Jacksonville's offensive line could be the best in the league, and if he can prove himself in training camp be the lightning to Jones-Drew's thunder.
1)Chris "Beanie" Wells - Arizona Cardinals
2)LeShon "Shady" McCoy - Phidelphia Eagels
3)Donald Brown -Indianapolis Colts
4)Knowshon Moreano - Denver Broncos
5)Shonn Greene - New York Jets
Super Sleeper - Rashard Jennings - Jacksonville Jaguars
The reason why I put Wells first is he will be given every oppurtunity from the Cardinals to be the rushing attack to take pressure off of that dynamic passing attack. Arizona's rushing struggles have been well documented and with the release off James, Wells will walk in the door with the starting job. Wells might not score as many touch downs as the others, because second year runningback Tim Hightower showed his goalline effectiveness last season.
The resst of the runningback list was difficult to seperate from each other. All the other backs, with maybe exception Moreano, are not expected to be the "go to guy" for their teams. McCoy has the most potential to put up the most all - purpose yards out of the group, and that likelihood increased with Westbrook's offseason ankle surgery. Two things that could hold McCoy back is, 1) Reids war against the running game. Philadelphia runs the ball less than any other team, which means less carries for McCoy and Westbrook to split. 2)Philadelphia already has a back in the mold of McCoy in Lorenzo Booker who has not showed any sustained success. Westbrook has have to dominate the snaps at runningback for the Eagles since the days of Duce Staley. Yet I ranked McCoy as the second best rookie back, because I believe in Andy Reid's offensive genius, Reid will find a way to get him the ball.
My number three back is Donald Brown, because of the offense he is going to. Personally I thought that the Colts over reacted to their poor rushing performance during the 2008 season, but none the less they drafted a great player. Brown put up over 2000 all - purpose yards at Connecticut last season. Brown's skill set matches up perfectly with the Colts offensive philosophy, and Manning will help his progression. Holding Brown back from creating a huge splash in his rookie season is his backfieldmate in Joseph Addai who had a down year last season which prompted the drafting of Brown.
Moreano might end up being the best back in this class, but right now is stuck in a crowded backfield in Denver. I believe he is going to win the starting job, but the precedent has been set in Josh McDaniels system that a couple of backs will share the load which may keep Moreano's numbers down.
I put Shonn Greene on this list for one reason, touchdowns. Even though Thomas Jones led the NFL in rushing touchdowns last season, and was spelled very well by Leon Washington, the Jets did not have a quality powerback to help Thomas out in short yardage situations. Greene will not put up the biggest numbers, but I believe that Greene impact will be felt throughout the league.
My sleeper might even count as a supersleeper if based on where he was drafted. Rashard Jennings dropped far in the draft, he was projected as a fourth round pick, but he fell to the Jaguars in the seventh round. The reason why I pick Jennings is that Jacksonville's offensive line could be the best in the league, and if he can prove himself in training camp be the lightning to Jones-Drew's thunder.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
My First Post
Welcome to my first blog, and my first post on it. While sitting in my room typing this post with the NFL Network on in the background a theme on the show came to me, they love talking about players and teams who are running around breaking laws, bashing teamates, and the key connecting factor between these teams is that none of them have won championships. It is a sad day that when we turn on our TVs we are not seeing stories about players and coaches helping with charities, we are seeing clowns like Terrel Owens, Chad Johnson errrrrr Chad Ochocinco (a.k.a the man that does not know when he should end a joke), and the entire Dallas Cowboys and Cincinnatti Bengals. Why do we as a nation put these people up into the limelight? These are the players that our nation's youth look at, when really should be looking up to players like Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, or Kurt Warner who are positive role models, and with the exception of Johnson have had post season success. What is even worse is that for some reason the clowns who are getting arrested("Pac-Man" Jones and Chris Henry) their play on the field is being glorified. Before his year-long suspension Jones was an average corner on a losing team, then after he got suspended he was getting compared to Champ Bailey's cover skills, and Devin Hester's return ability. His skills were so over -hyped that the Titans were able rob the Cowboys for a fourth round pick, only to release him after a 12 games, in which he lost his corner back job and averaging less than 10 yards per punt return. Another problem with today's TV coverage is that when players get their act together we do not give them coverage for changing. A perfect example is Randy Moss who we all know for his pitfalls in Minnesota and Oakland, but has stayed in line and become a team player. I do not know why Americans love such dysfunction in their NFL,but all I know is I hope we can get back to analysis, and as far as possible from the gossip that networks are using to appeal to the drama junkies.
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