1. Detroit Lions - Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
This team is a total mess, and may very well be known as the worst team of all time. The best way to fix it is a complete image makeover, and what better way than with a franchise quarterback. Stafford looks to be competing with Mark Sanchez as the top QB in the draft. The Lions received another first round pick with the Roy Williams' trade, and look for them to assess the LT, DE, or LB position with that pick. The NFL is a copycat league. If I were the Lions I would copy exactly what the Falcons did last year: take the QB and then the LT. Critics against Stafford, mention that no quarterback can succeed without an offensive line. I totally agree with that statement, but also agree if you have a need at quarterback and you have a chance to draft a franchise quarterback, you must do it. A solid offensive lineman can be added later in the draft, but there are not too many quarterbacks that are considered "franchise" worthy. OT Jason Smith has been a popular pick at this spot as well, but I believe the Lions can get a solid OT at #20, but not a quarterback. I don't think Stafford, Sanchez, or Josh Freeman will be on the board still. With that, I believe the choice to draft a quarterback here is that much more likely.
2. St. Louis Rams - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
The Rams made it pretty well known that they wanted Jake Long last year, but instead had to settle with Chris Long. The decision will come down to Jason Smith, and Eugene Monroe. With Steve Spagnolo, the new head coach, the Rams could go defensive and draft LB Aaron Curry, the NFL Combine winner, but the Rams add to where for so long they have struggled: the offensive line. Smith actually started his college career as a tight end, which explains his incredible athleticism. His biggest knack against him is he is less than 310 lbs. The release of Orlando Pace has made offensive tackle that much more likely the pick at this spot. Michael Crabtree is a dark horse here as besides Donnie Avery, the Rams lack another go to receiver.
3. Kansas City Chiefs - Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
By trading for Matt Cassel, we can eliminate a QB at this spot. With no need for a QB, the Chiefs can instead draft the top defensive player in the draft in Curry. Curry would team up with Derrick Johnson to help anchor a defense that got absolutely no pass rush. But a defense with those two in addition to Glenn Dorsey, and Tamba Hali does show great promise. I am still waiting official word if the Chiefs will switch to a 3-4. However, Curry can play either defensive scheme, which makes him that much more of a possibility here. The Chiefs could also go with DE/OLB Brian Orakpo who also could play in both a 3-4 and 4-3 defense. I just am wondering how Glenn Dorsey will fit in the 3-4. Michael Crabtree is a wild card, as Coach Haley knows how valuable wide receivers can make from his time at Arizona.
4. Seattle Seahawks - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
The Seahawks could still grab Michael Crabtree even after the signing of T.J. Houshmandzadeh, but rumors continue to mount that the Seahawks have an interest in both Stafford and Sanchez. This could be a ploy to get a team such as Denver to trade up, but it could very well be for real. Matt Hasselbeck is 33 years old and Seneca Wallace does not look to be the quarterback in waiting. The Seahawks have even been quoted as saying they don't think any offensive tackle in this draft is in the class of Walter Jones, thus maybe not too excited about drafting Jones' eventual replacement at this spot. As it stands now, quarterback looks to be the pick.
5. Cleveland Browns - Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas
The Browns have many options they could look at, but I think the decision will come down to three defenders: Orakpo, Everette Brown, and B.J. Raji. With Orakpo, the Browns would get the perfect 3-4 OLB to complement Kamerion Wimbley, and definitely improve that pass rush that Cleveland struggled with last year. Orakpo has the strength and speed you want for your outside pass rusher. Everette Brown seemed to be the favorite a few weeks ago, but with his measuring at under 6-2, and lacking the strength and speed that Orakpo has, I say the Browns take Sackpo. I also think the Browns may be hesitant to draft another FSU DE. Shaun Rogers is participating in offseason workouts with Cleveland so he probably will not be traded, thus making Raji less likely.
6. Cincinnati Bengals - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia Interview
Before the Bengals signed WR Laveranues Coles, I predicted Michael Crabtree would fall to Cincinnati, but with Coles, along with Ocho Cinco, Chris Henry (he hasn't been arrested recently), Andre Caldwell, and Jerome Simpson, I think the Bengals are set at wide receiver. The Bengals would be best to trade this pick if Crabtree is still on the board. If Eugene Monroe is on the board this looks to be a no-brainer as the Bengals are decimated at the line, especially after losing RT Stacy Andrews in free agency. The Bengals are also rumored to be very high on Andre Smith, so if Monroe is off the board, which is very likely, I think the Bengals will stay with an OT and draft Smith. With the recent signing of Tank Johnson, B.J. Raji looks to be unlikely at this spot.
7. Oakland Raiders - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
I know - Al Davis loves fast, speedy players and with Crabtree unable to run a 40 how can Davis draft Crabtree? Because Crabtree has superstar status written all over him. Jeremy Maclin may be the faster receiver, but Crabtree is the one who will sell jerseys and get fans exciting. If there is something Davis loves more than speed, it is hype. I think if this 2008 college football season has taught us anything it is that Michael Crabtree is by far the best college football player, an has easily earned himself a top 10 draft pick. Crabtree is a sure handed receiver, he has shown he is more than just a product of a system. Crabtree would give JaMarcus Russell that go to receiver that he has yet to have. If Crabtree is gone, the Raiders could look at Jeremy Maclin or DT B.J. Raji.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
The Jaguars' signing of veteran Tra Thomas has made OT less of a need. Recent rumors that B.J. Raji possibly failed a drug test really affects this pick, as the Jaguars have had episodes with their players and off the field issues, most notably Matt Jones. With that, I think Jacksonville will stay away and draft its biggest need in wide receiver. With Matt Jones, Reggie Williams, and last year's free agency disappointment, Jerry Porter, no longer with the team, the Jaguars have a desperate need for a top receiving threat. With an expected healthy offensive line this year, David Garrard should have the opportunity to throw the ball to his receivers, assuming he has some talent to throw to. Mark Sanchez would be tempting if he was still on the board, but for now the pick is Maclin, unless Michael Crabtree is still available.
9. Green Bay Packers - B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
B.J. Raji's stock has been in limbo with questions if he failed a drug test or not at the Combine. However, for now the news is just rumors. But even if they are true, I can't see Raji's stock falling too much as he is by far and away the best 3-4 DT in this draft. With so many teams, including the Packers, switching to a 3-4 defense, Raji's stock is in demand. Secretly, teams like Denver probably want those rumors to be true, so Raji falls to them. I always believe the success of a 3-4 defense starts up front at the nosetackle position. A great nose, can make all the differences and that is why I can't see the Packers passing on him.
10. San Francisco 49ers - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Even is Mark Sanchez was available, I doubt the 49ers would draft him. Well he is off the board, so that debate is meaningless. This decision came down between Everette Brown who would play outside linebacker in the 49ers' 3-4 defense and Smith. With so much depth at the 3-4 outside linebacker position, I say the 49ers take the risk and draft at one time the consensus top player in this draft. Before the Combine and Pro Day, Smith was considered the top tackle in this draft. However, the tape is too hard to pass up. Smith could be a premier right tackle in this league, and that is exactly what the 49ers need. Marvel Smith was a great signing, but he has been oft-injured the past few seasons. He may be more as a mentor for Andre Smith. Smith and Joe Staley would make for a solid tackle duo.
This team is a total mess, and may very well be known as the worst team of all time. The best way to fix it is a complete image makeover, and what better way than with a franchise quarterback. Stafford looks to be competing with Mark Sanchez as the top QB in the draft. The Lions received another first round pick with the Roy Williams' trade, and look for them to assess the LT, DE, or LB position with that pick. The NFL is a copycat league. If I were the Lions I would copy exactly what the Falcons did last year: take the QB and then the LT. Critics against Stafford, mention that no quarterback can succeed without an offensive line. I totally agree with that statement, but also agree if you have a need at quarterback and you have a chance to draft a franchise quarterback, you must do it. A solid offensive lineman can be added later in the draft, but there are not too many quarterbacks that are considered "franchise" worthy. OT Jason Smith has been a popular pick at this spot as well, but I believe the Lions can get a solid OT at #20, but not a quarterback. I don't think Stafford, Sanchez, or Josh Freeman will be on the board still. With that, I believe the choice to draft a quarterback here is that much more likely.
2. St. Louis Rams - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
The Rams made it pretty well known that they wanted Jake Long last year, but instead had to settle with Chris Long. The decision will come down to Jason Smith, and Eugene Monroe. With Steve Spagnolo, the new head coach, the Rams could go defensive and draft LB Aaron Curry, the NFL Combine winner, but the Rams add to where for so long they have struggled: the offensive line. Smith actually started his college career as a tight end, which explains his incredible athleticism. His biggest knack against him is he is less than 310 lbs. The release of Orlando Pace has made offensive tackle that much more likely the pick at this spot. Michael Crabtree is a dark horse here as besides Donnie Avery, the Rams lack another go to receiver.
3. Kansas City Chiefs - Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
By trading for Matt Cassel, we can eliminate a QB at this spot. With no need for a QB, the Chiefs can instead draft the top defensive player in the draft in Curry. Curry would team up with Derrick Johnson to help anchor a defense that got absolutely no pass rush. But a defense with those two in addition to Glenn Dorsey, and Tamba Hali does show great promise. I am still waiting official word if the Chiefs will switch to a 3-4. However, Curry can play either defensive scheme, which makes him that much more of a possibility here. The Chiefs could also go with DE/OLB Brian Orakpo who also could play in both a 3-4 and 4-3 defense. I just am wondering how Glenn Dorsey will fit in the 3-4. Michael Crabtree is a wild card, as Coach Haley knows how valuable wide receivers can make from his time at Arizona.
4. Seattle Seahawks - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
The Seahawks could still grab Michael Crabtree even after the signing of T.J. Houshmandzadeh, but rumors continue to mount that the Seahawks have an interest in both Stafford and Sanchez. This could be a ploy to get a team such as Denver to trade up, but it could very well be for real. Matt Hasselbeck is 33 years old and Seneca Wallace does not look to be the quarterback in waiting. The Seahawks have even been quoted as saying they don't think any offensive tackle in this draft is in the class of Walter Jones, thus maybe not too excited about drafting Jones' eventual replacement at this spot. As it stands now, quarterback looks to be the pick.
5. Cleveland Browns - Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas
The Browns have many options they could look at, but I think the decision will come down to three defenders: Orakpo, Everette Brown, and B.J. Raji. With Orakpo, the Browns would get the perfect 3-4 OLB to complement Kamerion Wimbley, and definitely improve that pass rush that Cleveland struggled with last year. Orakpo has the strength and speed you want for your outside pass rusher. Everette Brown seemed to be the favorite a few weeks ago, but with his measuring at under 6-2, and lacking the strength and speed that Orakpo has, I say the Browns take Sackpo. I also think the Browns may be hesitant to draft another FSU DE. Shaun Rogers is participating in offseason workouts with Cleveland so he probably will not be traded, thus making Raji less likely.
6. Cincinnati Bengals - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia Interview
Before the Bengals signed WR Laveranues Coles, I predicted Michael Crabtree would fall to Cincinnati, but with Coles, along with Ocho Cinco, Chris Henry (he hasn't been arrested recently), Andre Caldwell, and Jerome Simpson, I think the Bengals are set at wide receiver. The Bengals would be best to trade this pick if Crabtree is still on the board. If Eugene Monroe is on the board this looks to be a no-brainer as the Bengals are decimated at the line, especially after losing RT Stacy Andrews in free agency. The Bengals are also rumored to be very high on Andre Smith, so if Monroe is off the board, which is very likely, I think the Bengals will stay with an OT and draft Smith. With the recent signing of Tank Johnson, B.J. Raji looks to be unlikely at this spot.
7. Oakland Raiders - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
I know - Al Davis loves fast, speedy players and with Crabtree unable to run a 40 how can Davis draft Crabtree? Because Crabtree has superstar status written all over him. Jeremy Maclin may be the faster receiver, but Crabtree is the one who will sell jerseys and get fans exciting. If there is something Davis loves more than speed, it is hype. I think if this 2008 college football season has taught us anything it is that Michael Crabtree is by far the best college football player, an has easily earned himself a top 10 draft pick. Crabtree is a sure handed receiver, he has shown he is more than just a product of a system. Crabtree would give JaMarcus Russell that go to receiver that he has yet to have. If Crabtree is gone, the Raiders could look at Jeremy Maclin or DT B.J. Raji.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
The Jaguars' signing of veteran Tra Thomas has made OT less of a need. Recent rumors that B.J. Raji possibly failed a drug test really affects this pick, as the Jaguars have had episodes with their players and off the field issues, most notably Matt Jones. With that, I think Jacksonville will stay away and draft its biggest need in wide receiver. With Matt Jones, Reggie Williams, and last year's free agency disappointment, Jerry Porter, no longer with the team, the Jaguars have a desperate need for a top receiving threat. With an expected healthy offensive line this year, David Garrard should have the opportunity to throw the ball to his receivers, assuming he has some talent to throw to. Mark Sanchez would be tempting if he was still on the board, but for now the pick is Maclin, unless Michael Crabtree is still available.
9. Green Bay Packers - B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
B.J. Raji's stock has been in limbo with questions if he failed a drug test or not at the Combine. However, for now the news is just rumors. But even if they are true, I can't see Raji's stock falling too much as he is by far and away the best 3-4 DT in this draft. With so many teams, including the Packers, switching to a 3-4 defense, Raji's stock is in demand. Secretly, teams like Denver probably want those rumors to be true, so Raji falls to them. I always believe the success of a 3-4 defense starts up front at the nosetackle position. A great nose, can make all the differences and that is why I can't see the Packers passing on him.
10. San Francisco 49ers - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Even is Mark Sanchez was available, I doubt the 49ers would draft him. Well he is off the board, so that debate is meaningless. This decision came down between Everette Brown who would play outside linebacker in the 49ers' 3-4 defense and Smith. With so much depth at the 3-4 outside linebacker position, I say the 49ers take the risk and draft at one time the consensus top player in this draft. Before the Combine and Pro Day, Smith was considered the top tackle in this draft. However, the tape is too hard to pass up. Smith could be a premier right tackle in this league, and that is exactly what the 49ers need. Marvel Smith was a great signing, but he has been oft-injured the past few seasons. He may be more as a mentor for Andre Smith. Smith and Joe Staley would make for a solid tackle duo.
