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Now that draft week is here, it's time for NFLHouse.com to make it's final 2009 Mock Draft of the Season. This mock does not include pick for pick trades, but does include a trade in players for pick (Braylon Edwards to the Giants).
Other Major Updates: Top 100 Prospects---Sleepers---Over/Under Rated---Interviews
All Rankings Have Been Updated
2010 COMING SOON!
Last Updated: April 25th, 2009
Other Draft Pages: Sleepers---Over/Under Rated---Interviews
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1. Detroit Lions
Matt Stafford, Quarterback, Georgia The philosophy of drafting in the Lions shoes has been the debate of many draft conversations. The question that arises stems from the history of a team in shambles drafting at the top is whether to find that franchise-leader, lay the foundation, or make the safe pick. In regular terms, the quarterback, left tackle, or the best player available. There are only 3 guys who warrant this top pick, according to the Lions: Matt Stafford, Jason Smith, and Aaron Curry. In my attempt to discern what the Lions most likely will do (and what makes the most sense), I narrowed down the choices. I threw out Curry first, though not saying he doesn’t have a chance to be the pick, because the Lions’ defense is in disarray and one player, no matter how impressive, can fix that. Second, I tossed out Jason Smith. Grant it, the left tackle position is key to a team’s make-up, and having a bad one leads to a change in everything the offense does, but for a team like the Lions, tackle doesn’t make sense. They drafted Gosder Cherilus a year ago, and he can develop nicely in at right tackle. Jeff Backus can play left tackle if absolutely necessary, and they could probably get a 2nd tier left tackle prospect at pick 20. Finally, that leaves Stafford. I truly believe Stafford is the best quarterback prospect in this draft, and is facing question marks by fans, no NFL teams, because he is the best prospect. Fans love to see the top guy fall. Stafford can learn for a year behind Daunte Culpepper and emerge as a stud in 2010.
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2. St. Louis Rams
Eugene Monroe, Offensive Tackle, Virginia The Rams have done a great job in recent years of replenishing their defensive from four, with their last two draft picks going towards the defensive end and defensive tackle position. However, with Orlando Pace now gone and Alex Barron barely being a legit NFL tackle, they need a future blind-side protector. Monroe, while at Virginia, had the privilege of learning behind former Top 5 pick D’Brickashaw Ferguson, beat out Brandon Albert, current Chiefs left tackle, as a junior, and faced Chris Long and other 3-4 defensive players while in a pro offense at Virginia. Monroe may be the best pass blocker in this draft, and while he may not be as athletically gifted as Jason Smith, Monroe is still more than capable of holding down the left side for 10-15 years.
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3. Kansas City Chiefs
Aaron Curry, Outside Linebacker, Wake Forest Now that Scott Pioli, former Patriots top executive, is running things in Kansas City, we should see a Midwest-Patriots roster field a team in Missouri the coming years. If you look at what Bill Belichek (and probably what Pioli believes in as well), he likes smart, instinctive players who can fill their role nicely and provide some versatility. If you want the best reason for the Chiefs to take Aaron Curry, look at the 2008 draft for the Patriots. They snagged Jerod Mayo, a less-athletic version of Aaron Curry, and he went on to win Defensive Rookie of the Year. Curry can step in right away and be a force in the middle of their new 3-4 defense, instantly providing this team with a respectable front 7. In my last mock, I had the Chiefs selecting Jason Smith (or Eugene Monroe, if he falls) because I don’t feel Brandon Albert is best suited at left tackle, and should be moved to the right side. Jason Smith is still a viable option, but Curry’s lack of bust potential and his immediate projected contribution could be what the Chiefs need to have a chance at competing in their now wide-open division.
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4. Seattle Seahawks
Jason Smith, Offensive Tackle, Baylor The Walter Jones era is now all but over in Seattle. Jones was a rock steady force for the Seahawks in his long career with the team, but it’s time for the near-rebuilding Seattle franchise to find that new cornerstone left tackle. I am not as high on Jason Smith as many people are for the simple fact that he is very raw. He doesn’t use great technique in blocking, from his feet to his hand usage. However, I do understand that part of his rise up the draft boards has to do with his Jason Peters-esque athleticism and All-Pro potential. The Seahawks are rumored to like Mark Sanchez here, but I think this is a very blatant smoke screen attempt, and they will likely be looking to move down. The Seahawks could very well make the playoffs next season with their current roster, so I would imagine they are anxious to trade out of the this spot. A team looking for a left tackle (Cincinnati, Oakland, Jacksonville, Buffalo) or a team trying to get Mark Sanchez (Cleveland, San Francisco, Denver, New York Jets) will likely attempt to trade up to this draft slot for the taking.
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5. Cleveland Browns
Mark Sanchez, Quarterback, USC In what may seem like a surprise pick, Sanchez could end in here in Cleveland. The same town that was jittery about the arrival of Brady Quinn could have to get used to the fact that he probably won’t be the franchise guy they were hoping for. In what I’ve heard, the Browns both really are enthralled with Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn and, especially Eric Mangini, really loves Mark Sanchez. If/when they trade Brady Quinn on draft day, they could take Sanchez, have him sit for a year behind the somewhat proven Derek Anderson (or Brett Favre?) and let him learn what he didn’t in his 16 games at USC. Also, they could opt for a replacement for the likely soon-to-be-departed Braylon Edwards in a guy like Michael Crabtree. I’ve heard they are debating between the two, but the franchise quarterback will likely win out.
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6. Cincinnati Bengals
BJ Raji, Defensive Tackle, Boston College Cincinati has really made it a strong focus to improve their defense in recent drafts. However, even after drafting defense four straight years in round 1, the Bengals still boast one of the worst in the league. They have generally look to defensive backs and linebackers, and have failed to address the front four. BJ Raji, who I have spoken with and really grown to like as a prospect by film and in talking with him, is the perfect fit for the Bengals struggling defense. Pat Sims played well as a nose tackle last year, but he isn’t a consistent starter, and Tank Johnson could be better suited as a 3 technique guy or a power defensive tackle in a running situation. Raji can step in right away and demand double teams along with producing some tackles and sacks. They could look offensive tackle if they view Oher or Andre Smith high enough here, but Raji, in my opinion, isn’t far behind Aaron Curry as the best defensive player in this draft, and is a good value here at 6.
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7. Oakland Raiders
Michael Crabtree, Wide Receiver, Texas Tech This pick is a very difficult one to judge because of the fact that Al Davis is rumored to actually “trust” head coach Tom Cable, to an extent. If he trusts Cable enough, Davis could opt for a left tackle that the Raiders so desperately need. However, classic Al Davis will likely select the player who he would be proudest of saying he drafted. After taking the strongest arm quarterback ever and one of the best running back athletes in the league, Davis can likely say he has the most productive receiver in college football after he selects Crabtree. Crabtree doesn’t have dominating game-breaker speed, which is why some mocks have Maclin going here. However, Crabtree is much more productive and more of a natural number 1 receiver, something the Raiders desperately lack.
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8. Jacksonville Jaguars
Michael Oher, Offensive Tackle, Ole Miss Jacksonville is the second most likely team to trade out of the top 10, next to the Seahawks. The Jaguars already feature a near playoff caliber team, and are only a consistent passing game away from reaching their goal of returning to the playoffs. Now that they have signed Tory Holt, wide receiver is completely not a need, and they can look to upgrading the offensive line. Tra Thomas, recently signed, and Tony Pashos both are not going to be productive for much longer, and both could be in need of upgrades this season. Oher may have a little learning curve, but has the potential of being a great left tackle in the league. Back on the subject of trading the pick, I have heard that since the Senior Bowl, Jack Del Rio really likes the USC linebackers Brian Cushing and Rey Maualuga. The Jags could look to trade down to a team looking for a franchise left tackle or a falling Sanchez, and will likely target one of the two if they trade down.
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9. Green Bay Packers
Brian Orakpo, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Texas Now that Dom Capers is running the defense and will change it to a base 3-4, some new personal is required. From what I can see, the Packers have no natural 3-4 outside linebackers currently on their roster, meaning that should be their focus come draft day. In the film I’ve watched and the people I’ve spoken with, Orakpo is the best pass rusher in this draft and can very well fit outside in a 3-4 defense. He has great moves and quickness, but also has enough strength to hang tough in the run game from the standing position. The Packers could look to Malcolm Jenkins who can replace Charles Woodson in the future as well, but Orakpo fills a big need and is a good value here at the bottom of the Top 10.
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10. San Francisco 49ers
Everette Brown, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Florida St. It’s tough to judge what the 49ers will do come draft day. They really don’t have a huge glaring weakness, yet need help at almost every position. With no Stafford or Sanchez here, quarterback is out. They could look at offensive tackle, but they just signed Marvel Smith and have Joe Staley entrenched at left tackle. Finally, I think they look to upgrade their pass rushing. Everette Brown isn’t far behind Orakpo as far as 3-4 OLBs go, and could be a plan B for any team in need of an impact pass rusher on the outside.
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11. Buffalo Bills
Andre Smith, Offensive Tackle, Alabama With the steal of a trade the Eagles got for Jason Peters, the Bills are left with a gapping hole at left tackle. Luckily for them, one of the Top 4 tackles will likely fall out of the Top 10, leaving the Bills to scoop them up. While they may prefer Monroe, Jason Smith, or Oher, Andre Smith is very capable of filling the role at left tackle. Before the whole character issue about Smith arose late in the season and at the Combine, Smith was touted as a possible Top 3 pick. Character concerns may count for something, but watching film of this guy gives you the feeling he could be great if he gets his head on straight. The Bills could look to package their picks to get a Monroe or Jason Smith, as well as look at Brandon Pettigrew here to give Trent Edwards some better options. However, with this current selection and a glaring need possibly being filled, the Bills will likely take the best left tackle available, in this case, Andre Smith from Alabama.
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12. Denver Broncos
Tyson Jackson, Defensive End, LSU Most people speculate that the Broncos are trying to package their deals to get just high enough to grab Mark Sanchez. However, that doesn’t seem to make a ton of sense because Orton is capable of be a starter in the NFL, and they have much bigger defensive needs. The Broncos wish-list of prospects are all gone in this mock (BJ Raji, Brian Orakpo, and Everette Brown), so they opt for the best 3-4 fit available. It looks as though the Broncos may have a few options to play the 3-4 defensive end slot, but none as talented as Tyson Jackson. The perfect fit for the 3-4, Jackson can be McDaniels version of Richard Seymour from New England, and can be a staple of this defense in the future.
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13. Washington Redskins
Brian Cushing, Outside Linebacker, USC The Redskins roster is a difficult puzzle to assemble. They have invested a ton of money into many players on their roster, yet still don’t have top-notch caliber guys across the board. The Redskins have had an above average defense the past few seasons, and may look to continue that trend in this draft. Cushing is the ideal fit in the Redskins hybrid defense and could solidify that linebacking corps and make it one of the tops in the league. The rumors of Sanchez possibly ending up in Washington is a possibility because Daniel Snyder doesn’t like Jason Campbell, but it seems like a stretch here with few trade assets for Washington and Cushing on the board.
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14. New Orleans Saints
Malcolm Jenkins, Cornerback, Ohio State The Saints haven’t had a legit starting cornerback in some time now, and a number 1-type cornerback is nowhere to be found on their roster. Some have questioned Jenkins ability to be a cornerback in the league because of his lack of great speed and his inconsistent fluidity in his hips. However, because of his long arms and overall athletic ability could allow him to be a mix between Antonio Cromartie and Charles Woodson, both among the best in the league. Jenkins in a worst case scenario is an above average free safety, which is another need for the Saints long-term. Chris Wells is a definite option as Bush needs a complement and Thomas may be better suited getting 5-10 touches a game rather than 15-20. However, Jenkins fills a much bigger need and has the potential to be a shut down-type cornerback.
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15. Houston Texans
Jeremy Maclin, Wide Receiver, Missouri The Texans are in a great spot here in the middle of round 1. They don’t have any glaring needs outside of safety, which they can’t address in round 1 anyways. Plus, odds are a top notch player will fall to them because of the probable runs on offensive tackles and defensive lineman. This pick is not to knock Kevin Walter what such ever. Walter played extremely well this season, but isn’t the type of talent Maclin is. Walter can slide in and be a Welker like slot receiver, allowing Maclin and Johnson to run free on the outside. Also, in Houston, Maclin wouldn’t have to be the top return man, with Jacoby Jones already in the fold as a speed receiver and return man. A defensive end to complement Mario Williams is a viable option as well as a linebacker, but Maclin is the best player on the board and can’t fall much further down than this.
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16. San Diego Chargers
Rey Maualuga, Inside Linebacker, USC One of the few “match made in heavens” in this draft. The Chargers have only rotational guys fill the inside linebacker spots, and really need to select an impact guy. Maualuga has the instincts and aggressiveness to play in a 3-4 defense, and is a sound tackle, something that is crucial for an oft-blitzing team like the Chargers. Also, don’t rule out Knowshon Moreno quite yet. Tomlinson is still with the team, but this is likely his last season and they obviously realize that Sproles isn’t an every down type guy. However, their interior defense needs a little help, and Maualuga can definitely provide an upgrade that AJ Smith, GM of the Chargers, has desperately been seeking for.
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17. New York Jets
Josh Freeman, Quarterback, Kansas State In previous mock drafts of mine, I had Sanchez falling all the way down here at 17. Now, with his constant media hype and great interviews, Sanchez has skyrocketed into the Top 10, and it should be difficult for the Jets to pull the trigger on a high trade up. Freeman, however, is a very talented quarterback who is getting overlooked as a top flight prospect in this draft. Freeman is very comparable to 2009 Super Bowl winner Ben Rothilisberger in his throwing style, creativity, and mobility. Rex Ryan should understand he’ll have to suffer with Freeman for the majority of the season. But, if he can be almost as good as Big Ben in his rookie year or Joe Flacco just a season ago, the Jets will likely be a playoff contender thanks to the big man running the show.
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18.Denver Broncos
Robert Ayers, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Tennessee In what may seem like a big of a reach, the Broncos, using their 2nd of two first rounders thanks to the Jay Cutler trade, are going to look for that ideal fit in the 3-4 defense. After establishing a very solid threat at the defensive end slot, they next should look at the pass rusher on the edge. Jarvis Miss, Tim Crowder, and Elvis Dumerwil all are slotted to be outside linebackers, none of which are fully capable of filling the roll. Ayers has the athletic ability and quick hands to blitz well off the edge and be a factor in the run game, important in a Mike Nolan-run 3-4 defense. If Maualuga or Jenkins are available, the Broncos will likely opt for them because they have star potential and fill a much more crucial need. However, Ayers has pass rushing potential, and really hasn’t maxed out his ability.
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19. Tampa Bay Bucceneers
Peria Jerry, Defensive Tackle, Ole Miss Jerry is ranked very high on my board because of his natural pass rushing and disruptive play as a 3-technique defensive tackle. Jerry is almost with little debate the best pass running defensive tackle in this draft, and could really help a struggling Buccaneer front 4. Jerry can replace Chris Hovan as the leading defensive tackle in their scheme, and really provide Gaines Adams with some support in the passing game. The Bucs could definitely look to move up in the draft to get Josh Freeman or Mark Sanchez because they don’t have a future NFL starter on their roster. However, Jerry is a good value here inside the Top 20, and could do wonders in being another coming of Warren Sapp, to a lesser extent of course.
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20. Detroit Lions (via Dallas)
William Beatty, Offensive Tackle, Connecticut Part of the Lions logic in passing on a left tackle (at least in this mock) is that they could get an above average tackle prospect here at pick 20. Keep in mind that they did draft Gosder Cherilus in 2008 and he is set as the future on the right side. I have been very high on Beatty since I first started scouting him. Beatty has the great arm length, foot quickness, and technique to be a pass blocking specialist in the pros, a usual starting requirement for a left tackle. He may not be as bulky as teams would like for a starting tackle, but he has the frame to pack on muscle. Beatty is a solid value here at the end of the Top 20, and could be a great help to Stafford in the same mold that Sam Baker assisted Matt Ryan this past season.
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21. Philadelphia Eagles
Chris Wells, Running Back, Ohio State This pick, because the Eagles don’t usually draft receivers high and have relatively few weaknesses, is likely between two players, both running backs. Knowshon Moreno is one option for the simple fact that Brian Westbrook will need a replacement very soon. He is at the 30 year old mark, meaning he is likely on the down slope of his career. Andy Reid could then plug in Moreno, who is also very good in the passing game and can be a lesser version of Westbrook. However, looking at their team this past season, I think Chris “Beanie” Wells makes much more sense in the short term. The Eagles were infamous last season for their struggles down at the goal line, even with Correll Buckhalter. Now Buckhalter is gone to Denver, leaving a gaping whole that will need to be filled sooner rather than later. Wells can step in an be a perfect complement to Westbrook, and can still be a great back, though much different than Westbrook, in the future for the Eagles.
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22. Minnesota Vikings
Percy Harvin, Wide Receiver, Florida The Vikings don’t really need a receiver this high in their draft. They also don’t need a speed running back with arguably the best back in the game right now in Adrian Peterson. However, they do need depth at both positions as all-around playmaker for that offense. Harvin, in my opinion, isn’t a first round receiver or a first round running back, but is similar in the idea that, if used properly, can be a first round talent. He can be a speed back to help lessen the load for Peterson, as well as be a slot and gadget receiver for the passing game that does need upgrades past the top two guys. The Vikings could also look at right tackle here with no real solid starter currently on their roster, but Harvin is a great talent that Brad Childress will love to play with and can help this team in more ways than one.
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23. New England Patriots
Clay Mathews, Outside Linebacker, USC The Patriots, first off, have done a great job in drafting in recent years, and there is no reason to doubt their ability to draft. It isn’t an easy thing to do in the NFL, as many teams like the Raiders and Lions are trying to figure out now. The Patriots are very smart in their ability to draft guys that help them both in the now and down the road. Look at Brandon Meriweather; stepped in as a nickel back and rotational safety in year one, and now could take the reigns as a starter. Also, look at Jerod Mayo. Drafted to be the starting inside linebacker, Mayo now looks like a future All-Pro for the Patriots, and could be a cornerstone for many years. Now, in this years draft, this is where the draft starts to drop off a little in talent. The Patriots likely will understand that and take a safe pick or, ideally, trade down. Clay Mathews, from what I’ve seen on tape, has a great motor and doesn’t give up on a play, ever. He also looks like a perfect fit for the Patriots 3-4 scheme which relies on smarts rather than aggressiveness. Mathews likely won’t be a Pro Bowler, but could be a less athletic version of Mike Vrabel: a consistent starter who can hold down the fort for many years to come.
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24. Atlanta Falcons
Evander Hood, Defensive Tackle, Missouri With Tony Gonzalez in the fold now with the recent trade, the Falcons can address a much bigger need. While Jordan Babineaux has exceeded expectations at defensive tackle, he isn't the long term answer and is nothing better than the avearge rotational player. Hood won't keep offensive coordinators up at night, but he does a great job of taking advantage of mistakes and is very pro ready. They could target any defensive position, especially outside linebacker, but outside of defensive backs, there isn't great values and guys worthy of a Top 25 pick outside of Darry Beckwith. Hood seems like the safe pick, if the Falcons do keep it (Big question mark there).
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25. Miami Dolphins
Darius Butler, Cornerback, Connecticut In looking at the Dolphins depth chart, because of free agency, they have 2 legitimate NFL cornerbacks on their roster, Will Allen who is a very capable starter, and Eric Green, who is best served as a back-up. In what may be their biggest need, the Dolphins will likely address cornerback early and often in this draft. After Malcolm Jenkins, the cornerback rankings are somewhat debatable, from Vontae Davis to Alphonso Smith to my next favorite, Darius Butler. Butler was a little inconsistent in his play at UConn, sometimes dominating games, and sometimes being torn apart, most notably against Kenny Britt and Rutgers. However, I feel that most of his issues lie in technique errors, which is correctable in the pro level. He has the speed, quickness, and coverage ability to be a great cornerback in the league, and reminds me a little of Terrence Newman, former Parcells-type guy. The Dolphins could look at Hakeem Nicks, Darius Heyward-Bey, or Brian Robiskie here in their search for a consistent receiver, but they could likely get one in the middle of the second round or sign a guy like Marvin Harrison. Butler fills their most glaring need, and could solve a lot of problems in Miami.
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26. Baltimore Ravens
Hakeem Nicks, Wide Receiver, North Carolina In my pre-draft day mock a few days ago, I posted that this pick would be traded for Anquan Boldin. However, the Ravens called the Cardinals bluff on Boldin's value, and now could get him in the 2nd or even later rounds. If they feel that Boldin isn't worth the pick and Hakeem Nicks is on the board, they could jump for him. Nicks is very high on my board, but falls because teams have question marks about every reciever in this draft, especially Nicks. The Ravens have shown strong interest in Nicks and Heyward-Bey, so if both are available, it's a toss up. I'll go with Nicks because he is more of an all-around threat and Michael Clayton can be the speed guy opposite him.
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27. Indianapolis Colts
Darius Heyward-Bey, Wide Receiver, Maryland The Colts will likely make it a top priority to find a suitable replacement for Marvin Harrison in this draft. And, with three very capable receivers at the bottom of the first round, they will likely have their pickings. I feel that Heyward-Bey best fits their system of athletic receivers who have the deep speed as well as the quickness to make the deep posts and deep outs in the end zone. Heyward-Bey is one of the fasts players in this draft, and can really provide a deep threat complement to Wayne’s intimidate game and Gonzalez’s and Clark’s short game. The Colts could also look to upgrade the linebackers with a guy like James Laurinaitis, but they really need a new receiver to replace Harrison, and Heyward-Bey is a Top 20 talent.
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28. Buffalo Bills (via Philadeliphia)
Aaron Maybin, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Penn State Some mocks have him going Top 15 or even Top 10, but I just don't see it. He looks like a classic draft day faller, with only one year of meaningful playing time, very raw, and doesn't have an intial natural position. The Bills do a great job in drafting, and usually get an ideal fit for their defense, and Maybin would fit that criteria. Maybin can be a great pass rusher if given time to bulk up and fine tune his technique. The Bills are in the present looking for a spot pass rusher, Maybin's specialty, and a future star, also tied with Maybin. Great value, great pick, great draft so far for the Bills.
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TRADE: Braylon Edwards to Giants
29. Cleveland Browns
Kenny Britt, Wide Receiver, North Carolina The second of two first round trades projected in this round, I have the Giants trading this pick along with a 4th and 6th rounder in exchange for Braylon Edwards from the Browns. With this pick, I think the Browns waste no time and draft Edwards replacement in Kenny Britt. Britt isn't viewed highly by some, and for good reason. He has inconsistent hands and hasn't fully strengthen his frame enough to be a legit, red-zone receiver. However, that was also the case with Braylon Edwards to an extent, and he turned out pretty decent as well. If the Giants hang on to this pick, they could opt for a strong safety, as that appears to be their only real need. They could look at Patrick Chung or ideally Louis Delmas, who is a much better value for most teams in this draft and is a fringe first rounder.
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30. Tennessee Titans
Sean Smith, Cornerback, Utah Nick Harper and Cortland Finnegan have been two of the most impressive cornerbacks in the league this past season, frustrating receivers at the line and being extremely influential in the teams great defense in 2008. However, past those two great starters, there really is no depth. Also, Nick Harper is 34 years old and might only have a year (if that) left in the tank of great play. Insert Sean Smith. Smith is a very physical cornerback with great athletic ability and natural coverage skills. Under the radar to most fans because he played and Utah, Smith and the rest of his team received little hype until the Alabama trouncing in the BCS game. Smith isn’t a reach here and could even go higher than this if a team really falls in love with his potential.
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31. Arizona Cardinals
Knowshon Moreno, Running Back, Georgia If Maualuga to the Chargers is the best fit in round 1, then Moreno is 1b. The Cardinals are likely going to trade or release Edgerin James very soon after the draft because he doesn’t want to be there and they don’t want to pay him. Tim Hightower was very strong last season, and emerged as a legit running back at the pro level. However, he isn’t an every down back, and will need a complement if the Cardinals hope to continue their offensive success. Knowshon Moreno can do everything Hightower has trouble with. Moreno is a better receiver out of the backfield, he is sound in pass blocking, and has good explosion on the outside. Moreno and Hightower is almost as good as James and Hightower, except this is at a cheaper price and provides more youth. A receiver like Kenny Britt is an option, but Early Doucet could be a number 2 guy if they really need one, and they could still add a physical receiver in round 2 such as Brian Robiskie, though they will probably need (and have the picks to do so) to trade up into the upper part of round 2.
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32. Pittsburgh Steelers
Alex Mack, Center, California At first thought, I assumed the Steelers would look for a replacement for the departed Marvel Smith. But, according to many league sources, they are comfortable letting Trai Essex and Willie Colon fight for the right tackle job. However, that could leave a hole at right guard. Justin Hartwig has been very effective as a center for this team, but is versatile enough to play out at guard and allow for a more natural center like Alex Mack to take over. Mack is one of the more NFL ready centers to come out in some time, and could step in and lead the Steelers line in week one. They could go with Eric Wood or Duke Robinson if they wanted a guy who can play both inside and outside on the offensive line if they were unsure. However, Mack is a decent value and has the instincts and toughness of a Steelers lineman.
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Round 2
33. Detriot Lions---James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State After drafting two cornerstones on offense, the Lions need to rebuild the defense.
34. New England Patriots---Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest Since Astante Samuel left, the Patriots are still looking for that impact cornerback.
35. St. Louis Rams---Brian Robiskie, WR, Ohio State Torry Holt is now with the Jags, and Donnie Avery needs a bigger complement opposite him.
36. Cleveland Browns---Larry English, DE/OLB, Northern Illinois The pass rushing of the Browns hasn’t been sufficent, and English can make Wimbley better.
37. Seattle Seahawks---Vontae Davis, CB/S, Illinois Marcus Trufant is an adequate corner, but Kelly Jennings has busted and needs a replacement.
38. Cincinnati Bengals---Eben Britton, OT, Arizona With Stacy Andrews gone, the Bengals are desperte for tackle help, and Britton is a safe pick.
39. Jacksonville Jaguars---DJ Moore, CB, Vanderbilt Rasheem Mathis and Brian Williams are too old to be effective, and Drayton Florence was cut.
40. Oakland Raiders---Coye Francis, CB, San Jose State Nnamdi Asomugha is great on one side, but the opposite side is a huge liability.
41. Green Bay Packers---Ron Brace, DT, Boston College The key to the 3-4 is the nose tackle, and Ryan Pickett doesn’t look like a fit for the system.
42. Buffalo Bills---Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State Royal isn’t a great pass catcher, and Pettigrew is the steal of the draft so far.
43. San Francisco 49ers---Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut Frank Gore is an established back, but Singletary has expressed his interest in pounding the ball.
44. Miami Dolphins---Ramses Barden, WR, Cal Poly Brandon London isn’t a legit NFL receiver, and Barden has 1st round potential.
45. New York Giants---Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma With few needs in this draft, the Giants should try to further bolster their already great O-Line.
46. Houston Texans---Evander Hood, DT, Missouri Okoye hasn’t developed fully yet and past him, they don’t have a great 3-tech tackle.
47. New England Patriots---Jarron Gilbert, DE, San Jose State Ty Warren might not be re-signed next off-season and Richard Seymour is pushing 30.
48. Denver Broncos---Patrick Chung, S, Oregon Comparable to a quicker version of John Lynch, former Bronco, Chung can help this safety unit.
49. Chicago Bears---Lawerence Sidbury, DE, Richmond They are rumored to be searching for a defensive end, and Sidbury is a great value with no WR here.
50. Cleveland Browns---Darry Beckwith, LB, LSU With the offense and outside already addressed, another inside playmaker is needed.
51. Dallas Cowboys---Louis Delmas, S, Western Michigan A quicker version of Roy Williams, Delmas will likely be his replacement at SS.
52. New York Jets---Brandon Tate, WR, North Carolina Coles is gone, and Tate can be a game-breaking threat for this rebuilding offense.
53. Philadelphia Eagles---Clint Sintim, OLB, Virginia They love to stock pile linebackers, and Sintim can provide versatility and is a great value here.
54. Minnesota Vikings---Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma Cook isn’t a natural right tackle, and Loadholt could end up being similar to Marcus McNeil.
55. Atlanta Falcons---Marcus Freeman, OLB, Ohio State With Brooking and Boley gone, the Falcons will likely look to replenish the linebackers.
56. Miami Dolphins---Michael Johnson, DE/OLB, Georgia Very similar to Jason Taylor, former Dolphin great, and can be an impact playmaker at OLB.
57. Baltimore Ravens---Jarius Byrd, CB, Oregon Chris McCallister and Samari Rolle are out, and Fabian Washington will need help.
58. New England Patriots---Demetrius Byrd, WR, LSU With no real needs, they opt to continue their offensive success, and Byrd is a good value here.
59. Carolina Panthers---Paul Krugar, DE, Utah Peppers wants out and Tyler Brayton is not a great fit as a starter.
60. New York Giants---William Moore, S, Missouri James Sanders is a capable starter at safety, but Moore could represent an upgrade.
61. Indianapolis Colts---Jonathan Casillas, OLB, Wisconsin The Colts are always looking for a perfect fit for LB in their system, and Casillas fits that mold.
62. Tennessee Titans---Brooks Foster, WR, North Carolina Titans love looking for receivers past the 1st round, and Foster can be a physical, red-zone guy.
63. Arizona Cardinals---Louis Murphy, WR, Florida After trading Boldin, they need an upgrade at receiver. Murphy is NFL ready and talented.
64. Pittsburgh Steelers---Victor Harris, CB, Virgnia Tech The Steelers have had success drafting every position but CB. Harris is physical and a good fit.
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