Tony Gonzalez Out: AFC West Relieved

 

After 12 seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, Tony Gonzalez has been traded to the Atlanta Falcons. Last year Gonzalez caught 96 passes for 1,058 yards and 10 touchdowns.

In a dozen NFL seasons, Gonzalez has caught 916 career passes for 10,940 yards and 76 touchdowns, and holds almost every major NFL record for tight ends. He is arguably the best to ever play the tight end position.

And the best part is: the Denver Broncos don’t have to play against him anymore.

When a guy is that good, you have to account for him on the field, you have to cover him closely or double team him.  Tony was probably KC’s biggest offensive weapon over the past few years and now we don’t need to worry about him.

With empty-jerseys safeties on the field and back-up LB’s attempting to cover Tony, he had eight catches for 120 yards and two touchdowns in two games against Denver last year with Tyler Thigpen throwing to him. 

The Denver Broncos will likely never have to compete against Tony Gonzalez again since he will probably only play one or two more seasons, and Denver just played the NFC South last year, so they will not come up in the rotation for a while.

Gonzo is an amazing player and well respected, and he will be missed by Kansas City Chiefs’ fans everywhere, but the fans of the rest of the teams in the AFC West are breathing a sigh of relief.  We no longer have to play against Tony Gonzalez twice a year.   

Will Broncos Feel Trade Winds Blowing at NFL Draft?

I have two trade proposals that I have been thinking about, and others on this board are starting to realize as well. So, I’m going to take the chance to write about them before they become a common thread.

 

Trade Scenario One

“Ohhh, we’ve got trouble! Right here in Denver City! That’s a capitol ‘T’ that ends with ‘E’ that stands for Scheffler!”

According to last year’s stats, if Scheff stays healthy he is a top-five TE producer in the NFL. He was Jay Cutler’s best friend. He publicly criticized the firing of Mike Shanahan. After Cutler was traded, an “unknown Bronco” publicly criticized this move as well. I speculate that this was also Tony. 

Tony also wants to be a receiving threat in the NFL. The Broncos’ new offense will hamper his production, the same way it did Daniel Graham in New England.

I believe his days are numbered in Denver—about three days left, to be exact. The trading of Scheffler could change the whole outlook of the Broncos’ first day draft. 

Here is my speculation:

The Broncos will trade Tony Scheffler and their fourth round choice (114) to the Detroit Lions for their second round choice (33). 

The Lions are in need of a hefty TE threat. Scheff will give them, and possibly newly acquired QB Matt Stafford, another receiving threat to go along with the incredible Calvin Johnson.

The Broncos will gain another second round pick. This changes a lot in Denver’s draft. With this No. 33 overall pick, the Broncos will shore up their defense in choosing James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State. What an incredible value in the second round! 

Laurinaitis is a team captain on a nationally recognized NCAA team, the second best ILB in the draft (No. 1, IMHO), and the second coming of Brian Urlacher!

At the No. 48 spot, the Broncos will pick Patrick Chung, SS/FS, Oregon, who has great size and tenacity. This guy will learn a lot behind Brian Dawkins and could start in place of Renaldo Hill. “No, Ron Brace,” you say. Hold on, I’m getting to that.

 

Trade Scenario Two

Moving into the third round, the Broncos find themselves with two picks—No. 79 and No. 84. 

Cleveland has an issue on their hands similar to the McJaygate issue—that was so fun to go through here in Denver. Shaun Rogers (NT) wants out—so much so, the Broncos almost got him in the trade for Jay Cutler. 

Due to recent trades, the Browns do not have a third round choice. The Broncos will trade their No. 79 and No. 84 picks to the Browns for Shaun Rogers and their fourth round (104) and sixth round (177) picks. 

The Broncos may get away with trading one third rounder and a fourth rounder as well. Rogers would no doubt solidify the nose tackle position and Denver’s new defensive line. To me, he is well worth the two third round picks because Denver was probably looking at D-line help in this round. 

The Browns won’t be playing Denver in the regular season this year, so they don’t have to worry about seeing Rogers for another year. Plus, the Broncos add another fourth round pick, to find a QB, NT, K, OG, or C.

 

With these new trades, Denver’s draft may change significantly.  Here is what my alternate mock draft looks like.

 

Round One

12. Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU (possibly B.J. Raji if he falls to No. 12)

I think this is the beast we’re looking for in Denver.  He would be a perfect 3-4 defensive end and is a good value here.

18. Brian Cushing, OLB, USC

He can play ILB and OLB in the 3-4 and is a Zach Thomas-type guy. He will bring the Denver defense up a notch just by showing up to practice.

 

Round Two

33. (From Detroit for Tony Scheffler) James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State

48. Patrick Chung, SS/FS, Oregon

Round Three

Denver trades No. 79 and No. 84 for starting NT Shaun Rogers.

Round Four

104. (From Cleveland) Jonathan Luigs, C, Arkansas

He is 6’5″, 315 and can play center and guard. He will dominate after a couple of years of NFL training.

114. Sammy Lee Hill, DT, Stillman

He is a big nose tackle prospect. I think he would be a great value at this pick.

 

Round Five

149. Trevor Canfield, OG, Cincinnati

He measures 6’5″, 295 and has room to bulk up. He will add great depth and could start in a couple of years at guard.

 

Round Six

177. (From Cleveland) Arian Foster, RB, Tennessee

Once a top draft prospect, Foster now may have something to prove. He is a good blocker and receiver.

185. Hunter Cantwell, QB, Louisville

He is a good project player for Mcdoughnut.

Round Seven

225. Patrick Turner, WR, USC

He is 6’5″, 220 and a Mike Williams-type guy. He would have huge upside at this pick.

235. Pierre Walters, LB, Eastern Illinois

He has Lance Briggs-esque size. He could be a freak, could be a bust.

Things To Do in Denver When You Draft

Broncos Seven Round Mock Draft, Updated 4/22: Does Denver Take Knowshon?

This will be a first for me. I’ve learned how to tie my shoes, I’ve learned how to ride a bike, but never have I done a Denver Broncos seven round mock draft.

Did I dramatize that a bit too much?

Mock drafts now come simple to me. I decided to try one out for Denver.

Round One(12)- Tyson Jackson, Defensive End, LSU

Nothing would change my mind about this pick. Tyson Jackson needs to be the pick at No. 12 for the Broncos.

Tyson is a pass-rushing specialist who can get to the quarterback very quickly. He’s a monster in every sense of the word.

Jackson will fit in great in Denver’s 3-4 system. The Broncos should have a fairly talented defensive line come next year.

Round One (18)- Brian Cushing, Outside Linebacker, USC

For those of you who want Rey Maualuga with this pick. I’m sorry. I have him going to the Chargers two picks prior to this.

Denver needs a great tackling linebacker. They often gave up easy runs up the middle due to the fact that they struggled to wrap up the running back.

Brian Cushing is a great football player. He is very strong and quick for his size.

Round Two (48)- D.J. Moore, Cornerback, Vanderbilt

Right off the bat it sounds that D.J. Moore would be going way too late in the draft. In case you didn’t notice, Moore’s stock is slipping.

Josh McDaniels has done a great job at fixing the secondary, but they still need a young and talented cornerback for the future.

D.J. Moore is only 5″10, but he plays like somebody who is much taller. He is a lot like Dre’ Bly though, which could be a problem.

Round Three (79)- Rashad Johnson, Safety, Alabama

Brian Dawkins will do a terrific job at free safety for the next few years until he retires. With that said, who will take over for him when he’s gone?

Rashad Johnson would be a steal in the mid-third round. He’s a good player, and one of the better safeties in this year’s draft.

Round Three (84)- Rashad Jennings, Running Back, Liberty

Denver has six running backs on the roster. That’s fantastic! Wait… Who is your starter? Lamont Jordan? Correll Buckhalter?

The Broncos need to figure out who will be starting for them next season. I do believe it will be somebody on the roster currently, but Jennings could give that player a run for their money. No pun intended.

Rashad is 6″1, 230 pounds. He’s a very physical running back that Denver needs. The future starter for the Broncos remains to be seen, but Rashad Jennings is a legitimate candidate.

Round Four (114)- Sammie Lee Hill, Defensive Tackle, Stillman

In round four the Broncos could get the potential steal of the draft. Call me a homer for saying it, but it could be true.

Denver desperately needs a dominant defensive tackle. They have Ronny Fields, but he might be for depth purposes only for now.

Sammie Lee Hill is a 6″4, 330 pound run-stuffing monster. The Broncos must draft him if he’s on the board.

Round Five (149)- Mike Reilly, Quarterback, Central Washington

Who will be the starter at quarterback for the Denver Broncos in week 1 of the 2009 season? Nobody knows this right now.

Josh McDaniels will look for a late-round gem at quarterback instead of a first to third round pick.

Mike Reilly will be a solid pick in the fifth round. He will be of good value to the Broncos at some point in his career.

Round Six (185)- Vaughn Martin, Defensive Tackle, Western Ontario

My good friend Sayre Bedinger and I are very fond of Vaughn Martin. He is an incredibly talented lineman.

Vaughn Martin isn’t recognized by many people because he goes to a small school in Ontario, Canada. He would be a first day pick if he went to a school like USC.

Vaughn Martin could inevitably be the future defensive tackle for the Broncos. He’s the prototype for a defensive tackle.

Round Seven (225)- Jarett Dillard, Wide Receiver, Rice

Jarett Dillard has a very confusing draft status. I’ve seen him as high as a third-round-pick and now as low as a seventh-round-pick.

Denver has two talented receivers in Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal, but they could use another weapon on offense.

Round Seven (235)- Brett Helms, Center, LSU

Brett Helms will get the chance to re-unite with his former teammate, Tyson Jackson.

Casey Wiegmann will likely retire from the Broncos in the next couple of years. It is expected that Kory Lichtensteiger is going to be a guard that replaces the aging Ben Hamilton.

2009 NFL Mock Draft Round One WIth Three Days Until Real Deal

There are exactly four days to go until the 2009 NFL Draft.

It doesn’t seem like to long ago when the Dolphins agreed to a contract with offensive tackle Jake Long.

The draft is on April 25 in case you haven’t heard. I’m guessing you have.

Let’s get my second to last mock draft started!

1. Detroit Lions – Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia

If you didn’t see Matthew Stafford on Jimmy Fallon the other night, here’s a link:
http://www.freep.com/article/20090417/SPORTS01/90417055/1059/SPORTS11
To show his accuracy at throwing the ball, Stafford threw footballs at dinner plates as they were flying through the air. He hit 3 out of 4 plates.

Many question Stafford’s decision-making and accuracy. Often times he throws passes in double-coverage and sometimes even triple-coverage. Matthew must work on his accuracy in the NFL.

With that said, Stafford should be the No. 1 overall pick. This class of quarterback’s is the worst we’ve had in quite some time. Detroit can’t wait until next year to get a signal-caller. They need to take a risk on one this year.

2. St. Louis Rams – Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

Jason Smith a few months ago wasn’t one of the more recognized offensive tackle’s in the draft. Jason needs to thank Andre Smith for being one of the biggest bone-heads ever. If Andre had shown up for the combine, he would likely still be the No. 1 offensive tackle in the draft.

Jason Smith had an impressive career at Baylor. He should have a great NFL career if he can stay healthy. He’s a very mature player. If you look at his senior season photo at Baylor, Jason looks to be about 40 years old.

St. Louis’ run game has taken a down-fall over the past few years. They need a dominant tackle like Smith to anchor the line. Also, if the Rams expect Marc Bulger to be injury-free, St. Louis needs to find some protection.

3. Kansas City Chiefs – Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest

Aaron Curry is an extremely talented linebacker. He was a potential No. 1 overall pick before the Lions traded for Julian Peterson from the Seahawks. Nonetheless, Aaron is still a top 5 pick for sure.

Kansas City filled a need at middle linebacker with the signing of Zach Thomas, and the trade for Mike Vrabel from New England. The Chiefs still need a star outside linebacker.

Aaron Curry is a great tackler and a force to be wreckoned with. He is very strong and a quick linebacker. Curry has all the tools to be a great linebacker in the NFL. My early pick for Defensive Rookie of the Year is Aaron Curry.

4. Seattle Seahawks – Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

Happy belated birthday to Eugene Monroe! The former Virginia Cavalier turned 22 years old on Saturday.

The Seahawks were reported saying that their first round priority is on an offensive tackle. Usually when something like that is said, it happens. It also makes a lot of sense. Seattle’s offensive line is pretty pathetic.

Eugene Monroe is a monster, and a tremendous blocker. He would fit right in Seattle from the very start. He would likely start from day one. Monroe is that good of a player. The Seahawks just need to utilize his abilities in the right way.

5. Cleveland Browns – Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas

Brian Orakpo is an absolute beast. I remember watching in several games this year. He is a tough and a team-first kind of player. I would be scared to go against him.

Cleveland has more defensive problems than they do offensive problems. That’s why I don’t think Michael Crabtree will be the Browns first round selection. If they trade Braylon Edwards, I will likely change my mind. Where we stand, Edwards is still on Cleveland’s roster.

Brian Orakpo is a tremendous hybrid player. He would likely be more suited as an outside linebacker rather than a defensive end. Orakpo is very similar to New York Jets 2008 first round pick, Vernon Gholston.

6. Cincinnati Bengals – Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

Andre Smith may have character issues, but he is still a top ten pick in my mind. No matter the mistakes he’s made, Andre has the chance to fix all of those. He just needs to make the right choices from here on out.

Cincinnati lost Stacy Andrews to the Philadelphia Eagles. Andrews was the last talented offensive lineman on the Bengals roster. Andre Smith is the safe pick at this point. B.J. Raji is a potential option, but I just don’t see it happening.

Andre Smith is a great blocker because he’s so huge. Whatever you do, don’t look at the picture of him running without his shirt. It’s sure to make you go “Yuuuuck!”

7. Oakland Raiders – Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

The Raiders have potential starts in Johnny Lee Higgins and Chaz Schilens, but can they be stars for the Raiders in 2009? My gut tells me they won’t be impact players for another couple years or so.

I’ve heard many people say that the Raiders need an offensive tackle in the first round. I disagree with that. I think they can get a solid offensive tackle in round No. 2. Jamon Meredith would be a solid fit.

Michael Crabtree is a freak of an athlete. He has it all, speed, size, and toughness. He is easily the best wide receiver in this year’s draft. Crabtree should have a Randy Moss like impact in his rookie season.

8. New England Patriots from Jacksonville – Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB, Penn State

New England trades their 23rd overall pick and their 47th overall pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for their 8th overall pick

The Patriots could use depth in the front seven. They have a big need at left outside linebacker. Pierre Woods would likely be the starter if the Patriots don’t get somebody better.

Jacksonville has been looking to trade down for quite some time now. New England seems like the likely suitor for that. They have three second-round-picks that they can deal out. I doubt they keep every single of them.

Aaron Maybin is a great athlete. He added weight in case he has to play defensive end for some team. If the Patriots draft him, I doubt he starts at defensive end.

9. Green Bay Packers – B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

B.J. Raji is a great athlete, but he must stay out of trouble. Green Bay can not afford to have Raji be a bust. Their defense has started to slip talent-wise.

The Packers run defense was awful during the second-half of the season. Opposing running backs ran all over their pathetic defense. Green Bay needs to draft B.J. in order to fix this problem.

Raji is an incredible run-stuffing athlete. He is the best defensive tackle in the draft by miles. He will be exactly what the Packers need. As a Vikings fan, I’m not going to be looking forward to facing him twice a year.

10. San Francisco 49’ers – Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

I have realized that the 49’ers have crappy quarterbacks. Alex Smith has been a colossal failure since being drafted in 2004. Nobody besides him is even worth starting in the NFL.

I don’t care what the fans think about this pick. I honestly don’t. It’s the smartest pick for San Francisco, and the biggest need to fill. They can get an offensive tackle or pass-rushing defensive end later.

Mark Sanchez is a very talented quarterback. In my opinion, Sanchez is very over-rated. When Tebow and McCoy were expected to come out, Sanchez was a second or third round pick. Now he’s a top 10 pick? Tells you how terrible this QB class is.

11. Buffalo Bills – Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State

Aaron Schobel has lost a step in his once good pass-rushing skills. He is getting up there in age and likely won’t be around for too much longer.

Buffalo needs to start looking towards the future. A pass-rusher is what they desperately need. The Bills need to improve on defense if they want to compete in the AFC East.

Everette Brown needs to add a little weight if he wants to play on the defensive line. With that said, Buffalo still needs to draft him. Brown is the best player available at this point.

12. Denver Broncos – Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

Something the Denver Broncos lacked last season was a strong pass rusher. Now that they have switched to the 3-4, Denver needs a big and strong defensive end.

Josh McDaniels has done an excellent job at fixing up the defense. Just a solid outside linebacker and a pass-rusher are all that is needed.

For those of you who think Denver will trade up to get Mark Sanchez… It’s not going to happen. I’ve said it countless times that it’s not in McDaniels style to draft a quarterback in the early rounds.

Tyson Jackson is a monster and a great run-stuffer and pass-rusher that Denver needs. I’m very fond of him as of late. Jackson is the perfect pick for the Broncos.

13. Washington Redskins – Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss

I really don’t like the idea of this pick. I think it’s way too early for Michael Oher to go off the boards. Washington needs a solid offensive tackle right away.

Washington has a very small chance of winning the NFC East, let alone making the playoffs. They need to draft players that can build for the future.

Michael Oher is a good athlete. I once had him as the No. 1 overall pick for the Detroit Lions. Since then, a lot of things have changed. Oher seems like a “bust” kind of player, though.

14. New Orleans Saints – Malcolm Jenkins, DB, Ohio State

The Saints lost Josh Bullocks to the Chicago Bears. He isn’t a great safety, but he left a big need for New Orleans to fill at safety.

New Orleans brought in former Jaguars defensive coordinator, Gregg Williams to fill the same position on the coaching staff. He has a done a good job thus far at shaping up some of the defense.

Malcolm Jenkins is a great player who has seen his stock plummet after the combine. He ran an average 40 yard dash time. Nonetheless, Jenkins is a top 15 pick.

15. Philadelphia Eagles from Houston – Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

Philadelphia trades their 21st overall selection and Sheldon Brown to the Houston Texans for their 15th overall pick.

Andy Reid is known for making a lot of trades. It’s likely that the Eagles will try to move up from their pick at No. 21.

Philadelphia could use a deep-threat on offense. DeSean Jackson is a great player, but he’s very small and is suited more for the slot.

Jeremy Maclin is an incredibly talented player. He can provide kick-returning skills as well.

16. San Diego Chargers – Rey Maualuga, MLB, USC, 6″2, 254 lbs, 22 year old Senior

The Chargers defense really struggled without the services of former first-round-pick Shawne Merriman.

San Diego needs to fix their front-seven more than anything. Don’t be surprised if they pass on Maualuga for a pass-rushing defensive end.

Rey Maualuga is without a doubt the best middle linebacker in the draft. He will be a great pro player if he lands with the right team.

17. New York Jets – Chris Wells, Running Back, Ohio State

Percy Harvin is too much of a risk to take on this early in the draft, as well as Kansas State quarterback, Josh Freeman.

Thomas Jones is 31 years old and nearing the end of his career. Typically running backs get more worn down as their career goes on.

The Jets should take Wells and build him up to be the starter for the future. Only god knows if Chris will be any sort of threat in his rookie season.

18. Denver Broncos – Brian Cushing, Outside Linebacker, USC

The focus of the first round is to get as much defensive help as possible. Denver already got their pass-rusher in Tyson Jackson, and now they get their dominant outside linebacker in Brian Cushing.

The Broncos need to address the front-seven. Andra Davis will start at middle linebacker along with D.J. Williams.

Brian Cushing is a strong player. If you’ve seen this guy’s arms, you would gasp. He is a gym-rat.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Michael Johnson, OLB/DE, Georgia Tech

This pick may surprise some people. I had Peria Jerry going at this spot for a few weeks now. I decided that Michael Johnson is the better choice.

The Buccaneers defense has gotten worse compared to last year. They released Cato June and Derrick Brooks, and failed to re-sign Phillip Buchanon.

Michael Johnson is a monster. He will likely play at outside linebacker for the Bucs. He has been compared to Julius Peppers before as well.

20. Detroit Lions from Dallas – Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss

The Lions have a terrible defense. They traded Cory Redding to the Seahawks for Julian Peterson.

Detroit needs to find the future run-stuffing defensive tackle for their franchise. They should go for Eben Britton at this pick, but I doubt that they make that move.

21. Houston Texans from Philadelphia – Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee

The Texans are doing a fantastic job at re-building the defense. They made a great move in signing Cato June at outside linebacker.

Houston doesn’t have many needs to fill, surprisingly. Robert Ayers might not start from day one, but he will be a starter in the future.

Ayers is too good to pass up on. Houston could once again trade down for even more picks or players.

22. Minnesota Vikings – Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

Minnesota’s right tackle situation is one that needs to be fixed. Ryan Cook was a complete failure all year long. Artis Hicks wasn’t the answer either.

The Vikings running game will be even better if they can solidify the offensive line.

Eben Britton is an incredible athlete. He also has a very high I.Q. for the game of football in general.

23. Jacksonville Jaguars from New England – Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State

David Garrard is getting up their in age and the Jaguars don’t have complete confidence in him to lead the team.

I believe that Jacksonville can get the better of their trade with the Patriots if they draft Josh Freeman, a 6’5″ stud.

24. Atlanta Falcons – Clay Matthews, OLB, USC

The Falcons lost Michael Boley to the Giants during this off-season. Atlanta must find a replacement for him.

Atlanta needs to keep the defense young and talented. They had a great season last year, but it could have been a fluke.

Clay Matthews is a great athlete, and a good tackling linebacker.

25. Miami Dolphins – Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

Miami lost it’s former starting cornerback Andre’ Goodman to the Denver Broncos. They must find a replacement in the draft.

The Dolphins weakness last year was on defense. They have two good safeties in Yeremiah Bell and Gibril Wilson who will anchor the secondary.

Vontae Davis’ stock has slipped due to the fact he was benched during his senior season as Illinois.

26. Baltimore Ravens – Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland

The Ravens need a young and talented receiver to start right now. Derrick Mason had a good season, but he is near retirement.

Baltimore needs play-makers on offense. The Ravens were one of the worst teams in the league at passing the ball.

Darrius Heyward-Bey is a quick reciever who has drawn comparisons to former first-round-pick Troy Williamson. That is not good, my friends.

27. Indianapolis Colts – Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina

Marvin Harrison is still looking for a job in the NFL. Indianapolis’ receiving core needs to be fixed.

Reggie Wayne is an excellent No. 1, and Anthony Gonzalez is good in the slot, but the Colts need a No. 2 receiver.

Hakeem Nicks has great hands. He makes the difficult catches that most players don’t even attempt to grab.

28. Buffalo Bills from Philadelphia – Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State

The Bills drafted a good pass-rushing defensive end with their first selection. Now Buffalo must focus on finding a good play-making tight end.

Buffalo brought in Terrell Owens to take some of the pressure off of Lee Evans. They also have James Hardy to play in the slot.

Brandon Pettigrew is without a doubt the best tight end in the draft, but will he go in the first round?

29. New York Giants – Sean Smith, DB, Utah

I don’t think the Giants go for a receiver in the first round. They can get good value with their pick that they traded with New Orleans.

New York needs somebody who can play at both safety at cornerback. Sean Smith might not be a starter right away, but in the future he will be a good starter.

30. Tennessee Titans – Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut

Nick Harper’s contract expires after this coming season. If Tennessee doesn’t re-sign him they will need somebody waiting in line.

The Titans defense will take a turn for the worse because of the loss of Albert Hayneswroth. Somehow Tennessee needs to find a way to fix it.

Darius Butler is a good safety who could be over-looked and might slip into the second round.

31. Arizona Cardinals – Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

Edgerrin James is soon to get his wish granted by being released.

Tim Hightower is not an every-down-back like he would like to be. He dances around far too much. Arizona needs a tough runner.

Knowshon Moreno is a steal this late in the draft. He could go long before this. Denver is targeting him at No. 18.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers – Alex Mack, C, California

The Steelers could go with a cornerback like Alphonso Smith here, but Alex Mack is far too good to pass up on.

Pittsburgh’s offensive line was pathetic last year. Ben Roethlisberger was one of the more sacked quarterbacks in the league.

Alex Mack is without a doubt the best center in the league, and the favorite to be a part of the 2009 super bowl champions.

Ryan’s Final 2009 Mock Draft 1.2 for Denver Broncos fans

A new era! A new Coach! A new QB! Now Denver will draft a new Defense! Hopefully this draft will yield a playoff team. Denver has some of the greatest fan following in the nation, but lately it’s been hard to watch this team play. A #2 offense means nothing, when the defense can’t keep teams from scoring. This is the year that Denver finds it’s defensive identity. This is the year that Denver goes back to the playoffs. This is my final Mock draft, before Saturday. Let the fun begin!!!!

Denver Broncos Can Wait Until Later Rounds To Get Defensive Linemen

The Denver Broncos’ defensive line needs a make over. A defensive stat that parks the Mile High defense at 27th in the league against the rush puts the onerous squarely on the shoulders of the defensive line and the defensive coaching staff.

Amongst the blogosphere and various sports news outlets, one will find mostly the postulations and suppositions that for the Denver Broncos to have even the slightest chance of an improved defense this year, they will need to draft defensive line early and often. A good D-Line shuts down the run.

The consensus among observers is that early picks on “the best players available” and NOT solid defensive line run stoppers is risky and reckless.

Maybe so.

But perhaps a consideration of the best D-Lines around the league is in order. Are they all stocked with former first round draft picks from end to end? Hardly.

In fact, a look at the very best run stopping defense in the NFL, the Minnesota Vikings, can teach us quite a bit about our draft need assumptions when it comes to the Denver Broncos.

The Minnesota Vikings’ defensive line is all about stuffing the run. It’s what they do. They’ve lead the league in run defense over the last three seasons, allowing an average of only 70.8 rushing yards a game over that span.

Last year they did it without two starters in the secondary (due to injuries) for much of the year.

The line finished with 45 sacks in 2008, putting them fourth in the NFL in that category, and overall the defense as a whole notched a sixth place ranking. Quite respectable.

Let’s take a look at the Viking line from last year, and the respective draft positions of each player when originally selected.

The starting defensive end on the right side, Jared Allen, was drafted by Kansas City in the fourth round of the 2004 NFL Draft. His backup, Brian Robinson, was also a fourth round pick.

Kevin Williams, the starting right defensive tackle, was the Vikings’ ninth pick of the first round, and his reliever, Letroy Guion, was a fifth rounder.

At left side DT there’s Pat Williams, an undrafted free agent, and his breather, Fred Evans, a seventh round grab.

Ray Edwards, at left defensive end, was snagged in the fourth Round, while the player under him on the depth chart is Jayme Mitchell, yet another undrafted free agent.

The only other first round linemen on the DL roster are Jimmy Kennedy, widely considered a bust and positioned third string on the depth chart, and Kenechi Udeze, who was turning out to be a force (and still could be), but is presently battling leukemia.

So of the starters and second string guys, one was a first rounder, three were picked up in the fourth round, one in the the fifth round, one in the seventh, and the other two were undrafted free agents.

This rag-tag bunch has been the dominant run stuffing line in the league for the past three seasons? You bet.

Surprisingly, it’s not an uncommon scenario. Some of the very best defensive lines across the NFL are often a riff n’ raff bunch of tough guys ranging from first round darlings to undrafted blue collar muckers.

If the Denver Broncos do some interesting things in the first couple rounds of the draft, there’s no reason to panic. Gigging a linebacker and cornerback before looking at the line is not out of the question. Picking up some solid linemen later in the draft has precedent.

McDaniels and Xanders aren’t the types to panic. They certainly understand the history of draft picks and the defensive line, and will do the right thing.

That doesn’t necessarily mean going with linemen early. It doesn’t mean passing up on one either. It simply means going for the best defensive player on the boards in the early stages of the draft, regardless of position needs.

Denver Mock v4.22

The Sanchez gambit failed as Denver’s trade with Jacksonville (1-12 + 3-79 for the 1-8) was flanked by DC’s tarde with Oakland for the 1-7. Crazy Al screws Denver, puts DC’s 2009 and 2010 3rds in his pocket and ends up with the guy he loves, athletic freak DE Johnson at 1-13. Raji went to Green Bay. But the day is far from lost as Denver lands the best 5 technique 3-4DE in the draft and a guy who could actually start and contribute as a rookie – which is very far from a certainty with defensive linemen. Tyson Jackson LSU at 1-12 – Grade A+

2009 NFL Draft: Trano’s Dream Scenario—Getting Nolan Help

First Round-12th Pick

NT B.J. Raji, Boston College

The foundation of any great 3-4 defense is a nose tackle.

For anyone who asks, I’ll provide examples, but every time a nose tackle has been drafted as a first round pick, especially early, their respective defense have had a vast improvement.

The Broncos have three new secondary players (including Brian Dawkins—it’s very hard to suck with Dawk on your team), and two new LB’s. They did bring in two NT’s (Ron Fields and J’Vonne Parker) but they didn’t put an emphasis on D-line. This draft should do this.

First Round-18th Pick

DE Tyson Jackson, LSU

This is where many people expect Maualuga to be selected, but currently, Andra Davis, D.J. Williams, Spencer Larsen, Wesley Woodyard, and Boss Bailey are all playing ILB in the 3-4 scheme.

We haven’t addressed the DE position which is a big need. Continuing to build the D-Line is a big need.

Second Round-48th Pick

SS William Moore, MIZZ

Let’s hope we got the 2007 version. If he can be that guy, we won’t have any type of setback as Brian Dawkins leaves two years from now.

Moore is a good developmental player that will make up for the secondary of the future with Jack Williams, Josh Bell, and Josh Barrett.

Third Round-79th Pick

OLB Cody Brown, UCONN

It was a tough pick between he and Lawrence Sidbury, but Brown offers more in coverage and Sidbury isn’t an elite or consistent pass rusher. (Minus four sacks that he had in a championship game, he may be overrated).

Third Round-84th Pick

QB Pat White, WVU

We are the only team that brought White in for a “strictly passing” workout. If he was anything like he has been since his bowl game, he impressed scouts.

He’s the only QB in history with four bowl game wins, there’s no lack of production in any area despite lack of talent around him (RB Steve Slaton is the only WVU offensive player to boast about), he’s made all the throws, was the Senior Bowl MVP, and we all know what he can do in open field.

Give him the ball and he just wins games. With all these accolades, if he was 6′ 3″, 230 lbs, he’d be the No .1 pick. I’ll take that risk.

Fourth Round-114th Pick

DE Kyle Moore, USC

We’re not done fixing that front seven. We better worry about that pass rush and run stopping before we touch the secondary.

The offense is good enough right now. This is another guy who fits the 3-4 scheme, who has good size and holds his own against the run.

Fifth Round-140th Pick

WR Marko Mitchell, Nevada

We’ll need a big guy to replace Brandon Marshall as it seems that his suspension is imminent.

Mitchell has all the comparisons with Marshall you could think of. Comes from a small school, weird offensive system, no team production, 6′ 3″, 220lbs, a terror in open field, and a jump ball specialist. YouTube him, I wouldn’t lie to you.

Fifth Round-149th Pick

OLB Phillip Hunt, UHouston

Another great pass rusher. Phenomenal pass rusher actually.

His production and senior bowl workouts speak for themselves. Has the potential to do a lot in this league but he should be a Mark Anderson sack guy off the back.

Sixth Round-185th Pick

ILB Lee Robinson, Alcorn St.

Upside is unlimited. Another big guy to put in at ILB. The position is already crowded, but adding another guy won’t hurt the depth.

He’s projected as a nice special teams player and with his athleticism, leadership, and size, who knows what he could be down the line?

Seventh Round-225th Pick

PK Louie Sakoda, Utah

It was horrendous watching Matt Prater kick extra points last year. Sakoda may not be a kickoff specialist, but anything under 50 is automatic for him.

We can keep Prater for long distance kicks (53 and longer) and kickoffs. The two of them would make a great combo.

Seventh Round-235th Pick

CB Londen Fryar, West. Mich.

An underrated prospect with big time potential.

Had a great sophomore year and was first team All-Mac in 2006 and 2007. Second team All-Mac in 2008 but the upside is there.

The defense wasn’t that good and the offense ended up scoring a lot of points, so he got exposed as more teams passed the ball to catch up. He might turn out to be something big with due time on the bench.

 

So yeah, that’s my mock draft.

Two picks in in the secondary and six picks within the front seven. You can never have enough front seven players and the more we have, the more potential we have to be a great team overall. If not, it’s at least good depth.

By round four, we have a brand new D-Line that would make a great rotation with Marcus Thomas, Kenny Peterson, and Ronald Fields already there. Let’s not forget that Dumervil and Darrell Reid will be ends in the 4-3 lineups along with Crowder/Moss. These six new players will keep the rotation fresh with nice talent.

The secondary can be fixed later. We signed three new people and we have young talent behind them. If we can get the pass rush and run stopping figured out, we won’t have to worry about the pass as much.

Thoughts?

Broncos’ Quarterback Situation

The Broncos trading away Jay Cutler will determine the future of this franchise.

McDaniels made his team much worse by trading Cutler for Kyle Orton, but in a few years from now, once he cashes in from the draft, maybe this will prove itself to be a good deal.

There is no need to select a QB in the first round. If we use one of our first-round picks on a QB, then the team would be the same except without Cutler.

Orton will be the starter for Denver this year. He is still young and can play. He does not have a big arm, but he also didn’t have anyone to throw to. (Matt Forte is greatly overrated considering his rushing numbers.)

He worked with a mediocre, if not bad, defense and offensive lines. Denver is a dream come true for him: a solid, if not spectacular, young receiving corps along with a solid running game and young tackles.

McDaniels’ spread offense will get guys open for Orton to throw to. He won’t have to squeeze in those tight throws and won’t turn it over much. I feel he will have a good year, though he may not throw many touchdowns.

Many of us have doubts about Orton, and McDaniels will most likely select a QB on the second day just like Tom Brady and Matt Cassel.

Here are some of the QB prospects who can be groomed into starters three to four years from now.

 

Pat White

One word sums him up: winner. He can’t make the throws I’m sure McDaniels would want him to.

If he is chosen he can be used in the backfield for purposes other than being the signal caller. He does give the offense some room to maneuver with him though.

Maybe he can be used to relief Royal from the return game. He is a probable third-round pick.

 

Rhett Bomar

He was ineligible to play football in 2006 in Oklahoma, but he blew it. He’s a good athlete and has Cutler-like arm strength. He’s a talented player, but his talent makes him cocky and overconfident. Bomar forces a lot of throws.

The talent is there. If he is chosen, in two years he can be a good backup to Orton, and in another two to three years he can be an NFL starter. He is a probable fifth-round choice.

 

Nate Davis

Davis is another good athlete with NFL starter potential. Physically he can be a starter with very good arm strength and accuracy.

He’s pretty fluid in the pocket and can move around to buy time. Namely with good receivers he can be great given time. The key is not to force him to start and make throws from day one.

He will be there in the fifth or possibly the sixth round.

 

John Parker Wilson

He is a pedestrian player and his bowl performances dropped him, but he does have some desirable traits. He is another good athlete, though a little undersized. He throws very good passes on short and intermediate routes. He played with very tough competition in the SEC.

Wilson is intelligent and has some nice late-game comebacks. He would be a nice pickup in the seventh round.

 

These are the quarterbacks I’m familiar with. I’ve seen Texas Tech QB Harrell play, but I don’t think he can translate into a good NFL QB. He played in a pass happy system and played with Michael Crabtree, so his numbers don’t impress me all that much.

There are a lot of quarterbacks that can be made into NFL starters after Orton in a few years. It’s best to prepare sooner rather than later.

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