2009 NFL Mock Draft

Though it is still very early on in the process, here is our 2009 NFL Mock Draft.

Note: Underclassman are included, and are denoted with a "*"
Note: Draft Order is based off of our Record Predictions


1. Detroit Lions  -  Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia*

 

The golden rule when it comes to drafting is if you don't have a franchise quarterback and you're in a position to get one, you don't hesitate. The Lions are going to be under new management next season, and possibly new coaching as well, so it should be a top priority to get a real starter other than Jon Kitna, Dan Orvolesky, Drew Stanton, or the newly acquired Daunte Culpepper. If, however, they think they have or can find another quarterback, they will most likely look at Andre Smith or Michael Oher, as they both are bookend left tackles, another need for this struggling Lions team.

2. Cincinnati Bengals  -  Chris "Beanie"Wells, RB, Ohio State*

 

The Bengals wish there was a defensive player worthy of a top 3 pick. But, in this draft, there are far too many franchise players on offense to pass up. The only defensive player worthy of a top 5 pick is Malcolm Jenkins, but Leon Hall and Jonathan Joseph are decent and still you. It's obvious how poor the Bengal rushing offense is, as they signed Cedric Benson, an outcast and afterthought on the Bears, and started him less than 5 weeks later. Beanie Wells is definitely the most talented back in college, and would provide a consistent ability to pound the rock for this pass heavy team.

3. Kansas City Chiefs  -  Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

 

The drafting of Glenn Dorsey and Brandon Albert for the Chiefs a season ago was a step in the right direction. To win in the NFL, you need to win the battle upfront. But, the rebuilding of this offensive line shouldn't stop there. With a beast like Andre Smith still on the board and your team struggling in pass protection and run blocking, it doesn't matter who you took the year before. The Chiefs have started to look competitive in recent weeks, and the addition to that offensive line will make any quarterback and running back look great. Albert is probably best suited for the right tackle spot, or even guard. Imagine having Smith and Albert on the same side of the offensive line. They'd be the next  Walter Jones and Steve Hutchinson from Seattle. Laurinitis or a game breaker like Crabtree or Maclin may be options, but offensive line is how you win games, and because of their history, the Chiefs should look to rebuild their once great line.

4. Oakland Raiders  -  Micheal Oher, OT, Ole Miss

 

The past few season's, the mock drafters of the world have been screaming at Al Davis for his picks in the last few years. In 2006, it was Michael Huff, not Jay Cutler or Matt Leinert. In 2007, it was Jamarcus Russell, instead of Calvin Johnson, Joe Thomas, or even Brady Quinn. And just this past season, while some would call it a solid pick, with Glenn Dorsey on the board, how can you pass up a gamebreaking D-Tackle in the mold of Warren Sapp? Well, I hope, as well as most Raiders fan, that either Al Davis remembers how to draft, or he stops running the show. If either of that happens, look for this team to start building that offensive line. They have the quarterback and running back of the future, some solid options at receiver, and a young defense a few veterans away from being above average. An addition like Oher who can eliminate a defensive end and cause less stress on the line would be ideal. But, because it is Al Davis, Michael Crabtree and Jeremy Maclin look awfully good, and don't be surprised if he goes that route.

5. San Francisco 49ers  -  Micheal Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech*

 

Let me start by saying that I really feel bad for Alex Smith, disregarding the fact that he already makes millions upon millions. He didn't have a good team around him when he started, had numerous coaches with different offenses, and to top it all off, he played 6-10 games with a shoulder that needed surgery, something that definitely did not help. With that said, I really hope he comes back next season (for less money) and starts over. The 49ers offense does have some nice pieces, with a good balance of youth and experience on the line, a very solid back, a few decent receivers, and hopefully either Alex Smith or some other veteran at the helm. A guy like Crabtree can give this team the deep threat and the consistent play maker that they need. Although he isn't has dominate as Calvin Johnson was coming out of college, his speed, quickness, and great demeanor make him a well-worth it top 10 pick. In Mike Martz's offense, Crabtree could be a better version of Tory Holt.

6. St. Louis Rams  -  Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

 

The Rams may be the 2nd worst built team in the league, only better than the Raiders. The Rams have an older quarterback and no future, no offensive line and little youth, and an injury prone back. Then on defense, they really don't have a strong area, especially along the D-Line. The easiest way to start winning immediately is to build up the line with as much talent as possible. The best player along the line at this point is Eugene Monroe. Monroe does suffer some mental lapses, but he has great size and strength, solid technique, and played against the likes of Chris Long (last year's 2nd overall pick) and Clint Sinitm, another possible Day 1 pick pass rusher. The Rams could take a hard look at Malcolm Jenkins, who would provide them with the type of corner support they have lacked for a long time, but building back up that once great offense should be top priority, especially with ugly offenses like the 49ers and Seahawks in the division.

7. Houston Texans  -  William Moore, S, Wake Forest

 

Since the dawn of their franchise, the Texans have not had a solid safety on their roster. They have had opportunities, but they correctly took talent over need. This year, however, they can satisfy both. With their offensive line and corner back positions covered (the two strongest groups in the draft class) they can afford to reach a little bit to get the player they want and need. Moore goes a little unnoticed at Missouri, but he has the play making ability and consistency that this budding Texans unit needs. They could look to further improve their offense by taking a Jeremy Maclin or Darius Heyward-Bey, but with their need at safety and William Moore and Taylor Mays on the board (I think they go with Moore) they should look in that direction.

 

8. Cleveland Browns  -  Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State

 

It's safe to say the Browns have one of the most underachieving defensive units in the league, with talent at every part of the defense (D-Line, Linebacker, Corner, and Safety). That being said, they are only a few dominate players away from being very good. Eric Wright, their top corner, has played well this season, and could be a solid starter for years to come. The same can't be said for fellow starter Brandon McDonald. He isn't a lock down corner by any means, and needs safety help on most plays. Plug in a lock down guy like Jenkins, who can eliminate one side of the field, and allow Eric Wright to make even more plays on the ball. Another receiver like Heyward-Bey is a good option, or a Knowshon Moreno to replace Jamal Lewis for the future, but with the best defensive player still on the board, the Browns need to take Malcolm Jenkins.

9. Seattle Seahawks  -  Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma

 

I understand that the first thing most people will think when they see this is, "A guard in the top ten? That's crazy!" All I have to say is watch the film. Most guard prospects are guys who just can't play tackle at the next level, or who were in great systems where the inside running flourished. Robinson is a different story. He seems to have a consistent mean streak, great push up front, and opens holes on almost every play. The Seahawks running game has tailed off since the loss of Steve Hutchinson, and it's no wonder why. Robinson can come in, and bring a revived dimension to this Seahawk offensive line, which desperately needs it.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars  -  Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri*

 

The Jaguars have lacked a true game changing receiver since Jimmy Smith retired. Insert Jeremy Maclin. Maclin has quickness and speed that rival Reggie Bush and Steve Smith, as well as great hands to make all the catches and take it to the house. Matt Jones, Reggie Williams, and Jerry Porter are all viable options, but adding a game breaker like Maclin will make everyone better. Some defensive line help may be an option (such as Sen"Derrick Marks), but Maclin is a perfect fit for this lacking offense.

11. Chicago Bears  -  Darius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland*

 

Last year, the Bears drafted to rebuild their offensive line. They also drafted a running back who is a legit rookie of the year candidate. And finally, Kyle Orton has shown he has the ability to lead this team and make the smart throws. The only thing left is a solid receiver corps. Rashaed Davis, Brandon Lloyd and Marty Booker are all decent backups in the NFL, but none are legit NFL starters. Earl Bennett, one of my favorites from a season ago, is a year away from being very good, and adding another deep weapon like Heyward-Bey would give this offense an elite target for Orton, and hopefully start to turn around the annually bad offense.

12. New Orleans Saints  -  Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois*

 

The Saints have one of the worst defenses in the league, especially in the secondary. Mike McKenzie is getting too old, Jason David has been a free agent bust, and Usama Young is still a year away from consistently contributing. Vontae Davis, brother of Vernon Davis, tight end for the 49ers, is athletic like his brother, and is an extremely physical corner. There are some questions on whether he can play corner (because he more than average size and may lack speed to play at the NFL level at corner), but that shouldn't concern the Saints too much, as they need both corner and safety help bad. Davis can either be an Antonio Cromartie corner or Ed Reed safety, both Pro Bowlers. They could look for a linebacker, maybe a Brian Cushing or even James Laurinitis if they want to bump Vilma outside, but Davis is a superior athlete and would help these struggling DBs.

13. Buffalo Bills  -  Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

 

The Bills have been arguably the best drafting franchise in the league the past 5 or so years, finding talent at every level and really building through the draft successfully. Most may think that the Bills have no weakness at all at defensive end, as Aaron Schobel and Chris Kelsey just signed long term extensions, but the success of the Giants' pass rush should have an effect. Both Schobel and Kelsey have played well, but the pass rushing ability of Orakpo is superb, and could add another dimension to this defense. Some offensive line help is an option, and if Duke Robinson or Eugene Monroe are here, or they feel Ciron Black or Eben Britton are worthy of this pick, they could go that route. However, Orakpo would give this defense another outstanding talent to use and improve this already solid defense.

14. Washington Redskins  -  Taylor Mays, S, USC*

 

The dramatic and unexpected loss of Sean Taylor really has hindered the lives of the team, as well as the safety production. Taylor was a great athlete on the field, making interceptions and great tackles to lead this team. While it will be extremely hard to replace him, Taylor Mays has the talent to try and maintain the production. Mays is a great athlete, and falls somewhere between Adrian Wilson and Roy Williams as an all around safety in the league, which could be a good or bad thing. The Redskins love athletes on defense, especially the secondary, and with Mays still available, it would be a wise pick. Sen'Derrick Marks for defensive tackle is a viable option, as well as a George Selvie or Brian Orakpo if they wish to rebuild their defense line, but Mays can revive that 2006 Redskins secondary, which was one of the best in the league.

15. Detroit Lions (via Dallas)  -  George Selvie, DE, South Florida*

 

When rebuilding teams have two 1st rounders, I am a firm believer that quarterback and offensive tackle is the way to go. And, with Ciron Black and Eben Britton on the board, that could definitely happen. But, the defense is equally as bad, and a play maker on that side of the ball would also be a smart pick. George Selvie, by some, is thought of as too small to play defensive end in the pros, and absolutely needs a 3-4. While he would fit well in that system, I feel that with 2 or 3 months, he can put on enough weight and muscle to maintain his amazing college production. In college, he consistently disrupted the quarterback and running backs plan on most plays, creating havoc that opposing offensive coordinators could not stop. I can't see that slowing down too much in the pros.

16. Atlanta Falcons  -  Sen'Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn*

 

The Falcons have been an amazing surprise this season, and the rest of the NFC should be scared, maybe not this year but for the future. The Falcons are already 2 years ahead of schedule in their rebuilding, and only lack a few positions and depth. Their defensive line has two solid defensive ends, but Grady Jackson is getting old and Jordan Babineaux is only average. Marks is a great athlete, and the best defensive lineman in the SEC, which in the past two years has mean a top 20 pick. While they would rather a nose tackle, Marks can provide a consistent pass rush and stuff the run, opening up more play opportunities for the talented ends. Some offensive line help could be an option, as well as defensive backs, but Marks is a great find at this point in the draft.

17. Tampa Bay Bucs  -  Brian Cushing, OLB, USC

 

Since the dawn of the Rick McKay era in Tampa Bay, the Bucs have had a feared defense, one of the best in the league. That defense was lead by Derrick Brooks and solid players around him. Brooks is almost 36, meaning he only has a few years left. Brian Cushing, maybe the best of the USC linebackers, has great pass rushing ability of Cushing somewhat mimics the ability of Brooks, and has the talent to adapt to the Cover 2. A defensive tackle like Marks could be an option, as well as a gamebreaking receiver, but none may not be available here. Cushing has great talent, and if given time, can be a Derrick Brooks replacement for years to come.

18. Baltimore Ravens  -  James Laurinitis, ILB, Ohio State

 

Ray Lewis is a free agent this upcoming off-season, and I have a feeling that he doesn't want to stick around for the Ravens' rebuilding. That means they need a linebacker to play inside and make plays. Sounds like James Laurinitis to me. While I feel he is very over rated and not a top 5 pick, if he has a great defensive line in front of him, he can make a lot of plays and be a star in this league. Some receiver help or corner youth is also an option, but Laurinitis would be a good fit for the Ravens scheme.

19. Miami Dolphins  -  Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC

 

Bill Parcells has displayed to the league what a genius he really is. In one year, he turned a near 0-16 team to a possible playoff team. That said, he still has a lot of work to do. He has some talent on offense, with Pennington, Ronnie Brown, Ricky Williams, Ted Ginn, and some offensive line youth. But on defense, he has way too many stop gap guys starting. With Joey Porter on the edge and Channing Crowder able to start at one inside backer, a play maker like Maualuga can really shut down the run. A pass rusher like Everette Brown, Brian Cushing or ideally George Selvie are options, but Rey Maualuga can really be the impact player at this point in the draft.

20. New York Jets -  Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia*

 

Thomas Jones has been quietly one of the better running backs in the AFC, putting together consistent 70+ yard games and pilling on the TDs. That being said, he is on the wrong side of 30, and may not have many years left. The Jets have a chance to take a Thomas Jones clone in Moreno, who runs hard behind his pads and has enough speed to go the distance when a hole is open. A receiver could be an option as well, and possibly a quarterback of the future, but Moreno is a safe bet and can maintain the Jets running performance.

21. Minnesota Vikings  -  Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State*

 

Although I think he still has NFL potential, maybe not starting potential now but could be a David Garrard down the road, Tavaris Jackson's run as Minnesota QB is over. He had a chance or two, but the administration changed it's mind on him, and they would rather Gus Frerrote. While I think he is very similar to Jamarcus Russell, Freeman still has the chance to be a solid starter in the NFL. He reminds me of Jamarcus Russell and Daunte Culpepper, hopefully being the latter. Some offensive line youth as well as defensive back help could be an option, but if you don't have a franchise quarterback, you should take one, and the Vikings probably will.

22. Indianapolis Colts-  Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest

 

The Colts have gone quite a while without investing a 1st round pick on a linebacker, even though they lack a lot of talent. They play a basic defense, and don't require a lot of elite talent. Aaron Curry can change that. He flies around the field to make plays, and lays a great hit on the ball carrier. He also can make some plays in coverage, something the Colts stress. A new elite receiver is not out of the question, as well as some more defensive back help, but Curry is the best player available at this time.

23. San Diego Chargers  -  BJ Raji, DT, Boston College

 

San Diego is the most disappointing teams in the league this year, having more talent than most AFC teams, yet starting off with a losing record. That being said, it's tough to say what they need, because they really don't need much at all. Jamal Williams has been the staple of the Charger defense for a while now, but he is 32 and in his 11th season with the team. Finding his replacement should be a high priority, and BJ Raji could fill that void. Raji is probably the best nose tackle in the country, with the potential to be a Casey Hampton or Jamal Williams at the next level. Another top receiver may help a little, as well as some more offensive line help, but need-wise, Raji is the smartest pick.

24. Philadelphia Eagles  -  Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State

 

The Eagles have had a decent season so far, regardless of their record. They played a brutal schedule so far, and lost Westbrook for part of it. Their offense is still very good, but it's time to continue to retool it. LJ Smith has not been effective the past seasons, and they are in need of another play maker. Brandon Pettigrew is one of the best tight ends to come out in recent years, and has more talent that Jeremy Shockey does. He could go much higher, but the Eagles would be more than happy if he dropped to them this low.

26. Denver Broncos  -  Patrick Chung, S, Oregon

 

The Broncos have one of the best offenses in the NFL, but also one of the worst defenses. Other than DJ Williams and Champ Bailey, most of their guys are not playing like NFL starters. John Lynch used to be there to contain the running game and allow corners Dre' Bly and Champ Bailey to make their plays. With Lynch retiring, they need some safety help. While he may not be an ideal 1st round pick, Chung has great vision when looking for the ball carrier and can really help this struggling run stopping unit. More linebacker help or even a running back like Moreno are options, but Chung is a great fit and can help this team quicker than most prospects.

27. New England Patriots  -  Maurice Evans, DE, Penn State*

 

The Patriots have been decimated by injuries this season, losing everything from Tom Brady to Adalius Thomas to Rodney Harrison and most of their running backs. Still, however, they have managed. The Patriots do, however, need to finish their youth movement. Adalius Thomas is still young, Jerod Mayo is up for defensive rookie of the year, Shawn Crable has looked decent in practice and games. They now only lack that final outside linebacker, to replace Mike Vrabel. Maurice Evans has great vision when pass rushing, and has the physical skills to be a perfect 3-4 OLB. Some defensive line youth is an option, as well as corner, but Evans is a great value here and fills a growing need.

28. Arizona Cardinals  -  Micheal Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech

 

Surprise, surprise. The Cardinals are not only in the playoffs, but could be looking at a possible NFC title game. Still, however, they need to really establish a substantial defense. They are alright at safety and corner, and their linebackers haven't hurt them alot, but they really don't get much of a pass rush. Antonio Smith is nothing special on one side, and Bert Berry is getting too old to be a consistent factor. Michael Johnson has not shown he can be an every down D-End yet, but his pass rush ability and his willingness to play special teams should rub coach Ken Whisenhunt the right way. Again, some linebacker help or even another offensive lineman are other options, but Johnson is definitely the best talent on the board.

29. Green Bay Packers  -  DJ Moore, CB, Vanderbilt*

 

Ever since the Ahmad Carroll drafting and busting a few years back, the Packers have not had a solid corner back unit and really no youth at all. And, with Al Harris and Charles Woodson getting up there in age, it's time to start grooming a future replacement. DJ Moore is one of the best corners in the country as of now, and has the talent to be a lock down corner in the NFL. Also, his ability to return could be a major boost to his stock. Some youth along the offensive line and linebacker help could be options as well, but Moore is a great value here.

29. Philadelphia Eagles (via CAR)  -  Ciron Black, OT, LSU*

 

This is the Eagles second of two first rounders, this one courtesy of the Panthers trade a draft day ago. After taking a tight end to bolster the offensive production, it's time to start thinking about building, not for the current McNabb era, but the Kevin Kolb era, which could be coming closer than most may think. Black, in my opinion, is slightly better than Eben Britton from Arizona, because of his great size and run blocking ability and decent pass blocking technique. Some linebacker help could also be a smart move, but offensive line looks as though it is the best route for the Eagles.

30. Pittsburgh Steelers  -  Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma

 

The Steelers have always boasted two things. Great offensive line and physical, no-nonsense defense. The defense is still intact, but the offensive line has fallen on hard times. The departure of Alan Fanaca caused guys to be forced to move around, and has resulted in Big Ben getting sacked and running plays getting stopped at the line. Insert Phil Loadholt, key word there, "Load". He is a big, physical tackle, and while he may not be able to take over the left side, he can dominate in the run game and really get this line back on track. Some defensive back help could be an option to, especially safety, but Loadholt can improve this offensive line very much, and get them back on track.

31. Tennessee Titans  -  Percy Harvin, WR, Florida*

 

The Titans have shocked the NFL, going undefeated to start the season and boasting one of the best defenses of our time. That being said, their offense relies a little too much on the running game. White and upstart rookie Chris Johnson have been spectacular this season, but Justin Gage and Paul Williams don't do it for me as receivers. I always say, the best way to complement a speed running back or a speed quarterback is a speed receiver. With Chris Johnson having teams so worried about containing him, giving Percy Harvin the ball on a screen or deep pass would really expand this offense. His injury concerns should push him down draft boards, but he could be something special for the Titans.

32. New York Giants  -  Darry Beckwith, OLB, LSU

 

As of right now, I have the New York Giants repeating as NFC champs and Super Bowl victors. That being said, they still have some holes to fill. Gerald Wilkerson and Danny Clark are not what you would call solid NFL linebackers, and they need to be replaced by some youth and energy. Darry Beckwith is a little under the radar as of now because of the way LSU has allowed points, but he still has the talent to be a great linebacker in the NFL. He roams the field well, fills holes well-enough, and can even play back in coverage. Don't be surprised to see the Giants look at D-Line help again, as well as look for another running back, as Jacobs or Ward will probably be moving on after this season. But, as for now, Beckwith is a good value and a great fit.

 

 

 

 

 

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