2009 Mock Draft ver 5.0 Round 2

Round 2:

33. Detroit Lions – Clay Matthews, LB USC

With the thirty-third selection, the Detroit Lions take the best defensive player available in my opinion in Clay Matthews who has also seen his stock rise tremendously because of a great performance at the Senior Bowl where he showed he can dominate elite OTs and cover, play the run and do pretty much anything else asked of a talented linebacker. Now, considering Detroit needs players everywhere so they may as well go BPA and grab a great LB like Matthews who will start immediately at SLB for the Lions, like I said, he has great ability to get to the QB as he proved when he ran right through Michael Oher at the Senior Bowl, he's deceptively good in pass coverage and he should be stout against the run behind undersized defensive end Cliff Avril. Selecting Matthews should go the extra mile in strengthening that Lions defense that gave up too many points way too quickly and not to mention give them an on the field leader.

Previous selection: William Beatty, OT Connecticut

34. Kansas City Chiefs – Paul Kruger, DE Utah

With the thirty-fifth selection the Kansas City Chiefs select their most pressing need in a defensive end who can get to the QB and that's Paul Kruger from Utah. Kruger has been rising on a lot of boards since he decided to declare and he could very easily end up in the latter half of the first round but luckily for the Chiefs, he's still available at this point in the draft as the Chiefs need to add some pizzazz to their pass rush that was anemic at best. Pairing him up with Dorsey, Tyler and Hali will give the Chiefs a solid defensive line and add Curry with Derrick Johnson and the Chiefs are an ILB away from solid. This pick could also be the Chiefs top rated offensive linemen but since new GM Scott Pioli comes from the Patriot's front office, this is the kind of player the Chiefs should be coveting since he could fit in either a 3-4 or a 4-3 defense, depending on what the new Chiefs head coach will be running.

Previous selection: Greg Hardy, DE Ole Miss

35. St. Louis Rams – Patrick Chung, S Oregon

With the thirty-fifth selection the Rams select one of my favourite players in this years draft in the hard hitting safety, Patrick Chung. The Rams have had two incredibly subpar players at the strong safety position in Todd Johnson and Corey Chavous and the Rams need a young and talented safety that can support against the run and make the plays in coverage so that Atogwe is free to ball hawk and his mistakes won't be so obvious and catastrophic. At this point, Chung might be considered a bit of a reach and the Rams could trade down, but I think he should be the pick here as he can bring some leadership, stability and athleticism to the strong safety position that the Rams haven't had since Adam Archuleta left town.

36. Cleveland Browns – Knowshon Moreno, RB Georgia

With the thirty-sixth selection, the struggling Browns select the versatile back from Georgia, Mr. Knowshon Moreno. In all likelihood, Jamal Lewis has played his last season with the Browns, he's lost all his get up and go and is looking more like a slug coming through the hole than a truck. If the Browns get Moreno they can team him up with Jerome Harrison and have the two-headed beast of a backfield that is becoming the norm with NFL teams nowadays. For the Browns, teaming up the speedy Harrison and bruising Moreno do them some good, not to mention take some of the pressure off whoever is at QB as they pound the rock against division opponents who enjoy milking the clock with their beast running games as well.

Previous selection: Connor Barwin, DE/LB Cincinnati

37. Seattle Seahawks – William Moore, S Missouri

With the thirty-seventh selection, the Seattle Seahawks select the versatile safety from Missouri in William Moore. The Seahawks need some serious retooling in their secondary I think it begins with getting rid of Brian Russell and moving Deon Grant to SS as he is better served as an in the box safety. William Moore has seen his stock plummet after a terrible Senior Bowl outing but he is still too good for the Seahawks to pass up at this point in the draft, during his time at school he was a solid player who was good in coverage and can play on the line and stop the run if need be, he will be an integral part of the Seahawks secondary that seemed to slip last year after usually being a solid and productive unit. However, this selection could also be a tackle like Troy Kropog or a cornerback like Mike Mickens but I think William Moore should be the pick as he has a wealth of potential and the Seahawks have three decent cornerbacks with starting experience and Moore who had the potential to be top 15 falls all the way down to the Seahawks at 37.

Previous selection: Rashad Johnson, S Alabama

38. Cincinnati Bengals – Max Unger, C Oregon

With the thirty-eighth selection, the Cincinnati Bengals select the versatile offensive lineman from Oregon in Max Unger. Unger is a solid offensive lineman who can play any position on the line, so not only being tremendous value at this point in the draft he is a great pick up because he can challenge Ghauicic at C as well as any other offensive linemen for playing time as he is too good to keep off the field and his versatility will save a roster spot on game day as well. Unger can stand to get stronger at the point of attack as he has a tendency to lose control of some of the bigger defensive tackles and get pushed around, and if he wants to play in the AFC North, he's going to be dealing with some big mothers in Haloti Ngata, Casey Hampton and Shaun Rogers. His pass set is fine even though he could stand to play lower, but he really needs to work on his run blocking and making sure he can seal blocks at the second level.

39. Jacksonville Jaguars – Evander Hood, DT Missouri

With the thirty-ninth selection, the Jaguars select the disruptive force from the Missouri Tigers program in Evander "Ziggy" Hood. John Henderson has looked lonely without his buddy Marcus Stroud next to him, not to mention the defense has managed to become a liability as opposed to strength, so they could definitely use a penetrating defensive tackle to put next to the gargantuan Henderson. Hood himself is a big fella at 6'5" and pushing 300 pounds and he knows how to get into the backfield as he had 7 tackles for a loss to go along with 5 sacks from his defensive tackle position. I think pairing him with Henderson will bring the Jags defensive line back to respectability especially if Groves and Harvey come on strong after not producing too much their rookie seasons.

Previous selection: Troy Kropog, OT Tulane

40. Oakland Raiders – Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR Maryland

With the fortieth selection, the Raiders select a guy they could have very well selected in the first round in the speedster from Maryland. But due to his raw talent and lack of experience I think he slides all the way down to the Raiders in the second round and I think we all know how much Al Davis values speed and DHB's potential is too much for him not to make this pick and give the Raiders a young and dynamic trio of cornerstone pieces in DHB, McFadden and Russell, combine that with a new LT and some solid pieces already in place and the Raiders might soon have an incredibly dynamic offense that isn't purely a running game.

Previous selection: Jeremy Maclin, WR Missouri

41. Green Bay Packers – William Beatty, OT Connecticut

With the forty-first selection, the Green Bay Packers use this selection on the athletic UConn tackle William Beatty. The Packers are probably going to let Mark Tauscher test the waters in free agency, he's an older tackle with some serious years on him and the Packers and Ted Thompson seem to be all about getting younger. William Beatty is another talent that has been rocketing up draft boards as of late, especially after the dominating performance in the International Bowl against MAC Champions Buffalo and a stellar performance at the Senior Bowl. He has great pass blocking ability and showed he can also be a dominant run blocker despite his slender build and he is the pick Green Bay needs to make to protect Aaron Rodgers blindside for the next decade as he'll probably start at LT since he's far more athletic and the Packers can move Clifton to RT.

Previous selection: Sen'Derrick Marks, DT Auburn

42. Buffalo Bills – Chase Coffman, TE Missouri

With the forty-second selection the Bills gets incredibly lucky and get the second best TE in the draft at 42, they would have loved to have had Gresham but he has decided to stay at Oklahoma another year but at this point, the Bills are able to draft Chase Coffman from Missouri. Coffman can spread the field and get deep along in between the hashes and allow more opportunities for Evans down the field. Not to mention he can be a great safety blanket for Trent Edwards when things start to get dicey in the pocket, Coffman is a solid pick here. This pick could also be an OLB to replace Angelo Crowell if he's let go.

Previous selection: Jermaine Gresham, TE Oklahoma

43. San Francisco 49ers – Aaron Maybin, DE/LB Penn State

With the forty-third selection, the 49ers select the dangerous and talented defensive end from Penn State in Aaron Maybin. Maybin would play as a down lineman in a cover 2 scheme like Dwight Freeney, I also think he has enough spatial awareness and ability to be the pass rushing OLB that San Francisco has been looking for from Manny Lawson. Maybin is a tad undersized and may need to put on some weight to be stout against the run, but considering his upside and limitless potential, I think he has to be the pick here, he gets to the QB, he wreaks havoc in the backfield and Mike Singletary will love his intensity. This pick is an absolute steal because I had Maybin going to the 49ers at ten in my last update and now with all the other OLB hybrids moving up, Maybin slides all the way down here to the 49ers who are psyched to get him.

Previous selection: Louis Delmas, S Western Michigan

44. Miami Dolphins (from Washington) – Ron Brace, DT Boston College

With the forty-fourth selection, the Miami Dolphins the big bruiser from Boston College in defensive tackle Ron Brace. The Dolphins found some great young talent on the defensive line in last years draft in Philip Merling and Kendall Langford, now they just need young and fresh legs at the NT position where Jason Ferguson is on his last legs despite some success this season. Ron Brace has made it obvious that he nothing else other than a NT in a 3-4, he has one pass rush move and that's a bulrush, but he is a massive human being who is strong enough to anchor and take on multiple blockers giving Akin Ayodele some room in the secondary to roam around. Now, this pick could be a MLB like Rey Maualuga, but I'm not high on him like I used to be and I don't think Parcells and Sporano turn down the opportunity to sure up their defensive front for the next little while.

Previous selection: Larry English, DE/LB Northern Illinois

45. New York Giants (from New Orleans) – Rashad Johnson, S Alabama

With the forty-fifth selection, the Giants select the talented and versatile safety from Alabama in Rashad Johnson. The Giants caught lightning in a bottle last year with being able to land Kenny Phillips at the end of the first and they need someone to play across from him who compliment his style of play, Michael Johnson and James Butler are both good safeties but I think they are more rotation and special teams players than anything and not to mention James Butler is a free agent this offseason and with the wealth of talent at safety in this draft they may not bring him back, so for the Giants, bringing in Johnson to play alongside Phillips will give the Giants an even younger and talented secondary as Johnson is a defensive playmaker with 11 career picks. This pick could also be a defensive end but considering the players available, grabbing Rashad Johnson is definitely the best route to go.

Previous selection: Brian Cushing, LB USC

46. Houston Texans – Connor Barwin, DE Cincinnati

With the forty-sixth selection the Texans select the highly talented but raw DE from Cincinnati in Connor Barwin. He's a high motor player who can be a solid LDE opposite Mario Williams giving the Texans a chance to get some more sacks from a player without a 90 on their jersey. Like I said, he's a tad raw but ultimately has all the skills to be a solid DE in the NFL, the Texans could use a NT opposite Okoye but I think Barwin is too valuable to pass up to reach on a NT at forty-six and I think he would be a great player for the Texans. However, like I said, it is still very possible for the Texans to put tabs on a big defensive tackle like Jarron Gilbert to get some one on one battles on the inside and outside and to keep the offensive lineman off of DeMeco Ryans.

47. New England Patriots (from San Diego) – Percy Harvin, WR Florida

With the forty-seventh selection in the NFL draft the Patriots select WR Percy Harvin. Bill Belichick is a big fan of drafting Florida WRs and Percy Harvin is probably the best one to come out in a long time, more consistent and explosive than Chad Jackson and aims to be a better athlete and receiver then Jabar Gaffney. The Patriots could use another weapon in the slot while Welker and Moss get double covered and considering Gaffney's mental lapses in missing catches and the Patriots offense lacking a pure slot receiver I think they go WR and Percy Harvin fits right into what the Patriots want to do with their offense and provides who ever starts at QB with another weapon.

48. Denver Broncos – Rey Maualuga, LB USC

With the forty-eighth selection the Denver Broncos continue to move towards the 3-4 defense by selecting the big and nasty middle linebacker from SC, Rey Maualuga. If you're going to have a solid 3-4 defense you need an anchor to occupy multiple blockers and they got that in B.J. Raji, now they need an interior linebacker who can play sideline to sideline, blitz the QB and cover in the pass game. With Raji keeping blockers off him, Rey Maualuga should be able to step his game up and become the interior force that Denver has been looking for. They have had a revolving door at MLB and now they'll hopefully have a stalwart there in Rey Maualuga.

49. Chicago Bears – Phil Loadholt, OT Oklahoma

With the forty-ninth selection, the Chicago Bears select the towering man beast from Oklahoma in Phil Loadholt. Big Phil has seen his stock rise with some great play at the Senior Bowl and has even proved that he might be able to be a left tackle in the NFL, however, the Bears selected their franchise left tackle in the draft last year with Chris Williams, now it is time to book end him with the massive Loadholt who will take over for the aging John Tait and give the Bears a younger and more dominant offensive line to open holes in the running game for Matt Forte and to protect Kyle Orton so he can get the ball down field to Hester and new weapon Jeremy Maclin. This pick could also be a pass rusher, but the Bears would have to really reach on Ayers at this point.

Previous selection: Philip Hunt, DE Houston

50. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Josh Freeman, QB Kansas State

With the fiftieth selection the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select the big QB from Kansas State, Josh Freeman. Freeman has immense potential, he's 6'6" and 240 pounds and he runs very well and has a great arm, he needs to work on his accuracy, but that's not unlike most rookie QBs coming out of the college ranks. I think he'd be a great talent for Raheem Morris to grab to usher in a new era for the Tampa Bay Bucs as he can be the type of player they need to get the ball to the deep receiver and also wear defenses out with bootlegs and play action. Now, Gruden wasn't a fan of young QBs but Morris may be a different kind of coach and I don't think he'll be able to turn Freeman down considering his potential even with Josh Johnson on the roster as Freeman has all the tools to become an elite QB and give the Bucs some consistency at the franchise position.

51. Dallas Cowboys – Michael Hamlin, S Clemson

With the fifty-first selection, the Cowboys select what seems to be their most pressing need in a game changing safety who can be a presence in the run game and ball hawk in the secondary and Michael Hamlin fills the void where Roy Williams and Michael Hamlin (no relation) are not holding their weight. The Cowboys season can be summed up by their Saturday night late season battle with the Ravens, good until the end. The Cowboys played well until it mattered and then imploded as Willis McGahee and LeRon McClain ran over and through their safeties. Bringing in Michael Hamlin should be able to help them as he is a solid safety who can play the run and is a ball hawk as is evidence by his 14 career picks in the ACC. This pick could potentially be a NT to spell Jay Ratliff or an ILB to replace Zach Thomas.

Previous selection: Ron Brace, DT Boston College

52. Philadelphia Eagles – Shonn Greene, RB Iowa

With the fifty-second selection in the second round, the Eagles select the big, bruising back from Iowa in Shonn Greene. The playoff game against the Giants proved that Westbrook is a solid weapon but when it comes to the goal line he has absolutely no value unless he's catching passes out of the backfield. The Eagles proved to me that they need a big back who can put his head down and move the pile and lucky for them, Greene is still on the board and is too valuable to pass up. He's built sort of in the mould of Jonathan Stewart or even a smaller Brandon Jacobs, he can make the first tackler pay with a well placed shoulder, but he also has enough get up to be able to go the distance when he gets into the second level.

Previous selection: Brandon Pettigrew, TE Oklahoma State

53. New York Jets – Victor Harris, CB Virginia Tech

With the fifty-third selection the Jets select cornerback Victor "Macho" Harris from Virginia Tech. Ty Law, nuff' said.

Previous selection: Mike Mickens, CB Cincinnati



54. Minnesota Vikings – Antoine Caldwell, C Alabama

With the fifty-fourth selection, the Minnesota Vikings select the hard nosed and versatile center from Alabama in Antoine Caldwell. Caldwell is a very good prospect and still projects as a quality center in the NFL. He was a man of many talents for Nick Saban's Crimson Tide squad as he spent time out at tackle as well as center and that kind of versatility provides the Vikings with some great options on game day as it can save a roster spot when their center can kick out to guard or tackle if need be. He's a solid run blocker and pass blocker, he has good feet and a great punch, he could stand to sink his hips more in protection but I think at this point, his versatility and with the Vikings likely to be needing a center when they eventually let Matt Birk test free agency, Caldwell should be the pick.

Previous selection: Phil Loadholt, OT Oklahoma

55. Atlanta Falcons – Marcus Freeman, LB Ohio State

With the fifty-fifth selection, the Atlanta Falcons grab the big and nasty outside linebacker from the Buckeye State in Marcus Freeman. Freeman has seen his stock rise after playing incredibly well in the Senior Bowl and showing he can lay the wood and drop back in coverage as well. The Falcons have some good linebackers, Curtis Lofton will be a stud but Brooking is aging and losing a step, while Boley was unable to beat Coy Wire for a starting spot. Marcus Freeman gives them the ability to lose one of those underachievers and replace em' with a playmaker who can go sideline to sideline as Freeman is big enough to play strongside backer, but he is loose in the hips enough to play weakside as well.

Previous selection: Clay Matthews, LB USC

56. Miami Dolphins – Louis Murphy, WR Florida

With the fifty-sixth selection the Miami Dolphins select the talented but slightly rawer receiver from Florida in Louis Murphy. Murphy is an immense talent and it seems like the Dolphins have become a team that like to take receivers with potential but raw abilities and turn them into big game players. Ginn, Bess and Camarillio come to mind, but the Dolphins need a big target and Murphy provides that with a 6'3", 200+ lb. frame, he'll take a few years to gain the route running ability and awareness to be a big time game breaker, but until then, he can play the slot and is always a threat to take a short slant to the house. This pick could also be a safety, but considering the value and potential of Murphy, they can't pass him up.

Previous selection: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR Maryland

57. Baltimore Ravens – Fili Moala, DE/DT USC

With the fifty-seventh selection the Baltimore Ravens select Fili Moala from USC. Moala is the perfect type of player for Baltimore's multiple defense system. He can be a DE in a 3-4; he can be an UT in a 4-3 and can play NT in the 46. Using his versatility and natural abilities along side Haloti Ngata and Trevor Pryce and being an upgrade over Justin Bannan, the pick of Moala will go a long way to strengthening the Raven's defense even more. Moala improved his stock with a good Senior Bowl performance and has likely put himself into first day talks, I think he can be a solid contributor his first year if he's part of a rotation and that's something the Ravens like to employ.

58. New England Patriots – LeSean McCoy, RB Pittsburgh

With the fifty-eighth selection, the Patriots select the talented running back from Pittsburgh in LeSean "Shady" McCoy. The Patriots are purely picking best available player here as they have a wealth of running backs, but none with the potential of Shady. Jordan, Morris and Green-Ellis are nothing more than a running back by committee, Maroney has had some real durability issues and Evans is more apt to be a fullback. So, they bring in McCoy who has seen his stock drop because of some flip flopping on whether to decide to declare or not, the Patriots are ecstatic to bring him in to spell their current backs and give them a new dynamic on offense once Brady comes back from injury.

Previous selection: Brandon Williams, DE/LB Texas Tech

59. Carolina Panthers – Sen'Derrick Marks, DT Auburn

With the fifty-ninth selection the Panthers select the Auburn defensive tackle Sen'Derrick Marks. With Kris Jenkins now stuffing gaps for the Jets and the Panthers basically having only Damione Lewis and Maake Kemoeatu on the roster at DT they sure could use a penetrating defensive tackle that can collapse the pocket, rush the QB and stuff the run. Marks is a solid player at this point in the draft and would be a nice addition to the Carolina defensive line. Marks has seen his stock drop a tad with the rise of other tackles like Hood but Marks is still a first day prospect and will definitely give the Panthers something inside that isn't just a big bodied run stuffer.

Previous selection: Evander Hood, DT Missouri

60. New York Giants – Donald Brown, RB Connecticut

With the sixtieth selection the Giants select the all-purpose running back from UConn in Donald Brown. It is likely that the Giants let Derrick Ward test the market in free agency in order to lock up Brandon Jacobs so they'll need a smaller, speedy back that can catch out of the backfield and be a compliment to Jacobs bruising running style and I think Donald Brown fits that bill perfectly. This pick could also be Javon Ringer from Michigan State or S like Emmanuel Cook from South Carolina.

61. Indianapolis Colts – Jarron Gilbert, DT San Jose State

With the sixty-first selection, the Colts select the disruptive force from the Spartan army in Jarron Gilbert. The Colts have sorely missed Quinn Pitcock and Ed Johnson in the interior of their defensive line where they currently have absolutely no one, the Colts should definitely look to grab the top DT available so that teams aren't double teaming Freeney and Mathis, more so than they already are and this is where Jarron Gilbert comes in. Gilbert himself is a big fella at 6'5" and pushing 300 pounds and he knows how to get into the backfield as he had 22 tackles for a loss to go along with 9.5 sacks from his defensive tackle position. That is production from a defensive tackle and by putting him alongside Freeney and Mathis, someone is definitely going to be harassing the opposing quarterback every time they drop back to pass.

Previous selection: Dorell Scott, DT Clemson

62. Tennessee Titans – Gerald McGrath, LB Southern Mississippi

With the sixty-second pick in the second round, the Tennessee Titans select the middle linebacker from Southern Miss in Gerald McGrath. McGrath is likely to play WLB in the NFL and will probably need to put some weight on but I think he has a tremendous upside. Now, the Tennessee Titans like to groom their own players so I imagine they draft McGrath get him used to the system while using him in the special teams and when Bulluck and/or Thornton is ready to move on, he'll be waiting in the wings to step in and contribute. McGrath is an aggressive defender who knows how to play in opposing teams backfields as he amassed 8 sacks and 32.5 tackles for a loss during his tenure at Southern Miss. I think he'll be a playmaker much in the way Bulluck is currently for the Titans, he has speed, toughness and intensity and can make big plays when it counts.

63. Arizona Cardinals – Coye Francies, CB San Jose State

With the sixty-third selection, the Arizona Cardinals select Coye Francies, the second soldier from the Spartan army to be selected in the 2nd round. The Cardinals magical run to the Super Bowl was improbable but the more you watched them, the more they looked like they belonged. However, the Cardinals could not stop the pass when it counted and considering Roderick Hood may as well change his name to Toast, the Cards could use another young talented corner to pair up with DRC who looked really good even in the big time spotlight. This pick could also be a center like Jonathan Luigs from Arkansas or Eric Wood from Louisville to replace the inconsistent Lyle Sendlein, but considering the depth at center in this draft, they will wait to address it later.

Previous selection: Herman Johnson, OG LSU

64. Pittsburgh Steelers – Troy Kropog, OT Tulane

With the sixty-fourth and final selection in the second round the Steelers select the big body and athletic OT from Tulane in Troy Kropog. Kropog is the kind of player that the Steelers would absolutely love having on their team, he's versatile enough to play guard or tackle and he's the kind of big bodied offensive tackle that has the potential to mow down opposing defensive lineman once he understands the basics of leverage. I also think he's more than athletic enough to pass block for the Steelers considering how Roethlisberger likes to roll around and keep the ball longer than he should, Kropog should be able to use his athleticism that made him a solid tackle at Tulane and he should be able to keep Big Ben upright and out of the hospital.

Previous selection: Fenuki Tupou, OT Oregon

2009 Mock Draft ver 5.0 Round 3

Round 3:

65. Detroit Lions – Dorell Scott, DT Clemson

With the sixty-fifth pick the Detroit Lions select the disruptive Clemson defensive tackle Dorell Scott. Scott didn't have the greatest statistical season this past year but he has all the intangibles and numbers that the Lions should be looking for in a DT, he's a big body who knows how to get into the backfield, his one sack may trouble some scouts but I believe that is more on Clemson and their "rise" to mediocrity than it is on Scott alone. I think considering the Lions have absolutely nothing at the defensive tackle now that Shaun Rogers is a Brown and Corey Redding is coming back from injury, Scott is the best defensive tackle left and could possibly be gone before the Lions select again, so I think he needs to be the pick. But considering the immense needs of the Lions, this pick could be a defensive end, interior offensive lineman or tight end as well.

Previous selection: Victor Harris, CB Virginia Tech

66. St. Louis Rams – Eric Wood, C Louisville

With the sixty-sixth selection, the St. Louis Rams put tabs on the versatile center from Louisville. Eric Wood is a big, nasty and limitless potential prospect and projects as a quality center in the NFL. He was a man of many talents for Louisville and holds the school record for consecutive starts with 49. He spent time mainly at center in college but I think he can also be a guard at the next level as he has the athleticism, mean streak and physical attributes to do so and that kind of versatility provides the Rams with some great options on game day as it can save a roster spot when their center can kick out to guard or tackle if need be. He's a solid run blocker and pass blocker, he has good and very quick feet and a decent initial punch, he could stand to sink his hips more in protection as he tends to get knocked back by defensive linemen who can get lower than him but I think at this point, his versatility and with the Rams needing a center, he should be the pick. However, this pick could very well be Nate Davis from Ball State or even a MLB like Scott McKillop or Jasper Brinkley to play downhill against the run.

Previous selection: Antoine Caldwell, C Alabama

67. Kansas City Chiefs – Trevor Canfield, OG Cincinnati

With the sixty-seventh selection, the Kansas City Chiefs select Guard from Cincy in Trevor Canfield. Canfield is a big framed guard who will likely be the kind of road grating bulldozer the Chiefs would be looking for from their linemen since Willie Roaf and Will Shields retired. Canfield will probably suit up next to last year's number one Branden Albert and give the Chiefs a solid left side to run behind and good pass protection for the emerging Tyler Thigpen's backside. This pick could also be an inside linebacker like Beckwith from LSU or McKillop from Pittsburgh, but neither is as valuable as Canfield at this point in the draft.

68. Seattle Seahawks – Jamon Meredith, OT South Carolina

With the sixty-eighth selection, the Seattle Seahawks select the big tackle from South Carolina in Jamon Meredith. The Seahawks offensive line suffered incredibly this past season with season ending injuries occurring to pretty much every single member of the offensive line. So, having some quality depth that can move into a starting role seems to be beneficial for the Seahawks. Meredith is the kind of tackle who could kick in to play guard as well. I think he projects as a LT but he'll probably start his career as the book end to Walter Jones then when WJ is ready to move on Meredith will probably be ready to take over at LT. Either way, this selection helps out the Seahawk offense immensely.

69. Dallas Cowboys (from Cleveland) – Kyle Moore, DE USC

With the sixty-ninth selection, the Dallas Cowboys select the big defensive end from SoCal in Kyle Moore. Moore looked really good in the Senior Bowl practices and has seen his stock rise from a mid-late 2nd day prospect to an early 2nd day prospect, and considering the lack of production of Marcus Spears and with Chris Canty being a UFA, the Cowboys should look into acquiring a solid 3-4 defensive end in Moore who is probably the best available player to fit that need after Tyson Jackson. He showed good pass rush variety at the Senior Bowl which shows his 5 sacks in his senior campaign wasn't just offenses making a gameplan to slow down the other USC defenders. Moore is a solid player and should contribute early and often. This pick could also be an ILB to replace Zach Thomas, like Brinkley or McKillop.

Previous selection: Emmanuel Cook, S South Carolina

70. Cincinnati Bengals – Robert Ayers, DE Tennessee

With the seventieth selection, the Bengals select Volunteer defensive end in Robert Ayers. Ayers has seen his stock rise exponentially after his great Senior Bowl performance and considering the Bengals could some added pizzazz on their defensive front where Antwan Odom and Robert Geathers just aren't producing like they should be, Ayers seems like the perfect pick. Ayers is a high quality player who can get to the QB, albeit his 9 career sack total is kind of an eye sore for scouts, however, I believe his best football is ahead of him and if he can get the right kind of coaching I think he can be a dangerous defensive end. I believe he'll start his career as a rotational player and eventually he could play the RDE spot and rush the passer but like I said, I think he needs some quality coaching to up his game and make him reach his full potential, but he definitely has a high ceiling.

Previous selection: Matt Shaughnessy, DE Wisconsin

71. Oakland Raiders – Fenuki Tupou, OT Oregon

With the seventy-first selection, the Crypt Keeper selects someone that didn't run a blazing 40 and that's the next top offensive tackle in Oregon's Fenuki Tupou, the Raiders have big money invested in their QB and RB but the guys protecting them are hardly anything to write home about. Kwame Harris? Really? Fenuki Tupou is drafted and I think he probably starts from day one on the left side of the line where Robert Gallery is actually playing pretty well at left guard and gives JaMarcus Russell some time to throw the ball so he can complete his 15-20 passes a game while the running game takes over. However, we all know Al Davis and how he gets all hot and bothered when he sees a fast 40, so this pick could also be one of the speedsters left on the board like Johnson from Domonique Jackson State.

Previous selection: Chris Baker, DT Hampton

72. Jacksonville Jaguars – Juaquin Iglesias, WR Oklahoma

With the seventy-second pick, the Jaguars select the productive wide receiver from Oklahoma in Juaquin Iglesias. Juaquin is another Oklahoma wide receiver in the mould of Mark Clayton, Malcolm Kelly and Mark Bradley, he is a bigger framed wide receiver who can get down field but is exceptional when it comes to blocking. With the likelihood of Reggie Williams leaving to pursue another team looking for a quality wideout, the Jaguars have a spot to fill opposite Matt Jones who's is currently under cocaine charges and the inconsistent Dennis Northcutt and Troy Williamson and I believe Iglesias is the answer to bolstering their pass and even run game, he's not the fastest guy but he runs crisp routes, he sells out when blocking for the run game and he'll be a quality target for David Garrard and either way, the Jaguars need help at WR because alongside the aforementioned, Jerry Porter and Mike Walker are not starters in this league either.

Previous selection: Jarron Gilbert, DT San Jose State

73. Green Bay Packers – Mark Parson, CB Ohio

With the seventy-third selection, the Green Bay Packers select the productive corner from Ohio in Mark Parson. Parson is a great man to man cover corner who will fit nicely into the Green Bay defensive scheme that likes to play their corners man on man with opposing receivers and considering the age of Woodson and Harris and the inability of Blackmon, Williams and Lee to get onto the field, I think the Packers select Parson. He's an elite talent who doesn't have the career production numbers because he suffers from Nnamdi-itis as teams tried to throw to the corner opposite him as he has shown a knack for shutting down the receiver he's covering.

74. San Francisco 49ers – Alex Boone, OT Ohio State

With the seventy-fourth selection the San Francisco 49ers select the mammoth offensive tackle from the Buckeye state in Alex Boone. The 49ers have had a real problem keeping their quarterback upright this season and it is integral for the team to get some consistency from the big men up front. Alex Boone had a bit of a down season, along with the rest of the Buckeyes, but he has all the skills and potential to be a solid RT in the NFL. This pick could also be a RB to compliment Gore as Foster is not worth a roster spot and Robinson is only good if the 49ers install a wildcat formation.

75. Buffalo Bills – Jonathan Luigs, C Arkansas

With the seventy-fifth selection the Buffalo Bills select the stout center from Arkansas in Jonathan Luigs. The Bills had some seriously poor play from their offensive line this year, specifically from their "All Pro" Left Tackle Jason Peters who had the pass protection skills of a turnstile allowing Trent Edwards to take too many unnecessary hits. They need a force in the middle who can call out blocking assignments and make sure that the line knows who to block. Not to mention help open up lanes in the running game so that Marshawn Lynch can gain more than a handful of yards every carry as he was lucky to get over a thousand rush yards this season considering his rush average for nine games this season just barely topped 3 yards per carry.

76. New York Jets (from New Orleans) – Dannell Ellerbe, LB Georgia

With the seventy-sixth selection, the New York Jets select the inside linebacker for Georgia in Dannell Ellerbe. The Jets have a young stud inside backer in Harris and they need to find someone to compliment him since Barton is aging and a free agent. Ellerbe is a tad undersized to be an inside backer in a 3-4 but I believe he is a better fit talent wise than the Jets reaching on McKillop or Brinkley at this point. Ellerbe is a much better block shedder than some of the other second tier inside backers, he always manages to find the ball and can blitz fairly well to boot. I think he will help the Jets defense a lot, especially if Gholston is able to come on strong after a lackluster rookie season, this pick could also be a safety like Cook to play alongside Kerry Rhodes or a RT to replace Damien Woody, but Ellerbe is the pick here.

Previous selection: Brandon LaFell, WR LSU

77. Houston Texans – Rashad Jennings, RB Liberty

With the seventy-seventh selection, the Houston Texans go best player available and select the productive running back from 1-AA Liberty. The Texans offense was an absolute blast to watch this past season, with Schaub throwing bombs to Andre Johnson and Kevin Walter over top, Owen Daniels covering the underneath and Steve Slaton running his heart out, it's hard to find any flaws. They have two good tackles and a solid interior, so the only thing that is missing is a comparable back up tail back to get those tough yards and spell Slaton after his mad dashes to the endzone. This pick could also be a cornerback like Darius Butler should Dunta Robinson hit free agency, but with the first two picks being defense, I think the offensive minded Gary Kubiak goes with a running back to help out his offense even more.

78. San Diego Chargers – Javon Ringer, RB Michigan State

With the seventy-eighth selection, the San Diego Chargers select a back who may become the heir apparent to LaDanian Tomlinson. Javon Ringer is a versatile and capable back from a solid Michigan State program, he's got some wear and tear on him from being the big time bell carrying back for the Spartans, but I think the Chargers will look to sign Sproles long term and potentially deal LaDanian for an early to mid second day pick. So, with that in mind, I think they use this pick on Ringer and give themselves a more youthful backfield and regrets over not keeping Michael Turner.

79. Denver Broncos – Derek Pegues, S Mississippi State

With the seventy-ninth selection, the Denver Broncos select Derek Pegues from Miss. State. The Broncos sure up their defense even more with the selecton of Pegues. He's a bit of an undersized safety but he's got great versatility as he can also play cornerback and he can be a decent return man alongside Eddie Royal. Now, considering Marlon McCree is likely to hit free agency again and with the Broncos having little else at safety, including bringing back Josh Barrett who was cut during training camp so they could definitely use the upgrade and I think Pegues will be a solid addition to McDaniels new 3-4 defense as he'll likely be their starting free safety once drafted.

80. Washington Redskins – Andy Levitre, OG Oregon State

With the eightieth selection, the Washington Redskins select the big guard from Oregon State in Andy Levitre. The Redskins are getting incredibly "long in the tooth" as Jamie Dukes would say and they could use some youth in the interior offensive line as Casey Rabach, Pete Kendall and Randy Thomas could potentially be members of the AARP. Levitre is not as massive as former teammate Roy Schuening who came out last year and was drafted by the Rams, but Levitre should be a welcome addition to an offensive line that is in dire need of a young whipper snapper.

81. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Andre Brown, RB N.C. State

With the eighty-first selection, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select the hard hitting and bruising back from N.C. State in Andre Brown. The Bucs had a heaping big mess in their backfield this year with Graham going down to injury, Cadillac injuring his good leg and Warrick Dunn reaching the end of his career, the Bucs are going to need to introduce some more youth and especially some more health into their backfield. I think Andre Brown is the kind of back that will be able to help the offense even more, he's a solid back who won't break the long run often but his talents will go a long way to setting up good field position, getting crucial first downs, catching passes out of the backfield and punching the ball in at the goal line. His talents will also help out young QBs like Freeman and Johnson in the passing game where I believe Raheem Morris will find his stride because I think after years of watching the west coast offense operate and show a severe lack of explosion I think Morris would like to involve play action and boots and what have you to set up the big play on a more consistent basis.

Previous selection: Mohamed Massaquoi, WR Georgia

82. Detroit Lions (from Dallas) – Herman Johnson, OG LSU

With the eighty-second selection, the Detroit Lions select the absolutely massive and gargantuan guard from LSU in Herman Johsnon. Johnson has seen his stock slip a lot after a poor performance against conference rival Peria Jerry at the Senior Bowl but I think at this point in the third round, he's too much value for the Lions to pass up. They got their premier LT with the first pick and their RT last year. They can slide current LT Jeff Backus in to left guard and then shift the big and bad Johnson to RG where the Lions could be only a center away from a new and improved offensive line, but considering Raiola is a stalwart veteran and center doesn't fit the pick the Lions currently have, Johnson is selected. I think he will be able to shake off a poor Senior Bowl week and make himself into a solid NFL player, but I would be very wary of his bust potential.

Previous selection: Devin Moore, RB Wyoming

83. Philadelphia Eagles – Ramses Barden, WR Cal Poly SLO

With the eighty-third selection, the Philadelphia Eagles select the massive receiver from Cal Poly SLO. The Eagles really have lacked a big red zone threat that can go out and high point the ball and come down with it in a jump ball situation. The Eagles saw first hand what a dangerous and tall receiver is capable of when Larry Fitzgerald and Kurt Warner shredded their defence to the tune of 3 touchdowns. Ramses Barden is absolutely massive at 6'6" and 226 pounds; he is super productive as his numbers this past season were huge including 1250+ yards and 18 touchdowns. I think with the Eagles not being able to get Britt in the first round they grab Barden here and if he runs well at the combine, I think this pick is definitely not a reach and would be a great help to Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb, should they be kept of course.

84. Green Bay Packers (from New York) – Brandon Williams, DE/LB Texas Tech

With the eighty-fourth pick, the Packers select the defensive end from Texas Tech in Brandon Williams. I think he fits the mould of a player Ted Thompson would covet, he's a high motor defensive lineman who can stand up and has all the natural tools to rush the passer as Williams was a dominant force this year tallying 15.5 tackles for a loss and an astounding 13 sacks. Not to mention, when you consider the current crop of linebackers the Packers have, none really stand out as a rushing outside linebacker and I think they would be well served to select Williams who has a high ceiling and could flourish in their new 3-4 system. Although Williams may seem like a reach at this point in the draft and considering the Packers and Ted Thompson are known for going with the best player available, I feel they may be inclined to select Williams regardless because I think they need to spice up their pass rush first and I believe Williams may be the key as he would be able to compliment Aaron Kampman who will standing up as a player who has experience getting to the quarterback on a regular basis.

Previous selection: Augustus Parrish, OT Kent State

85. Chicago Bears – Philip Hunt, DE Houston

With the eighty-fifth selection the Chicago Bears select the tad undersized but super aggressive pass rusher Philip Hunt. The Bears have really suffered from injuries and poor play in the secondary this season and is one of the main causes as to why they didn't win the division as they couldn't contain Andre Johnson in the final game of the season in order to make the playoffs, but it is not because they don't have the talent but because they couldn't pressure the QB and opposing teams could shred them. Philip Hunt was able to get to and bring down the QB 14 times this season and was second in the nation behind Hughes from TCU, which is more than the Bears defensive ends can say about getting to the QB. He's a bit of a reach but I think he'll probably be a situational rusher to start his career until he can pack on some pounds as I think he has a solid frame at 6'2" 260 pounds to carry an extra 10 pounds without losing a step so that he can play the run better and contribute more as an every down player.

Previous selection: Rich Ohrnberger, OG Penn State

86. Minnesota Vikings – Darius Butler, CB Connecticut

With the eighty-sixth pick, the Minnesota Vikings select UConn cornerback Darius Butler. Butler has all the potential to be middle to late first day selection but because of a knee injury he falls all the way to the Vikings here. Butler is a bit of an undersized cornerback at 5'11" and 186 pounds but he plays bigger than he is. The Vikings have had some inconsistencies from cornerback Cedric Griffin who sometimes shines in coverage and other times is a liability. Bringing in Butler gives the Vikings an immediate upgrade at the nickel corner and a potential starter as well.

87. Miami Dolphins – Emmanuel Cook, S South Carolina

With the eighty-seventh selection, the Miami Dolphins select the Gamecock safety in Emmanuel Cook. When Bill Parcells came Miami, he was looking to establish an identity for the defense, well he got half of it this season, he just needs his defensive backfield to step up and play some solid ball for him. Yeremiah Bell proved to be more than just a stop-gap solution as he was a tackling machine and a defensive playmaker causing quite a few turnovers so I believe the Dolphins need to find a free safety to play opposite him and Emmanuel Cook is currently the best on the board and probably a bit of a steal at this point in the draft considering his versatility and upside. This pick could also be an inside linebacker should the Dolphins let Crowder test free agency, like McKillop or Brinkley.

Previous selection: Sherrod Martin, S Troy State

88. Baltimore Ravens – Sherrod Martin, CB/S Troy State

With the eighty-eighth selection, the Baltimore Ravens select CB/S from Troy in Sherrod Martin. The Ravens have some serious age at the cornerback position in Samari Rolle, Chris McAllister and Frank Walker so they could use some added youth in the secondary as Fabian Washington is proving to be a valuable pick up and he needs a solid corner across from him. Martin has great triangle numbers, he's fairly tall at 6'0" and has a good frame to play the run at 191 pounds, but most importantly, he runs a very good forty yard dash for someone who has experience mainly playing deep center field. Putting him across from Washington with the veterans mentoring them would give them an incredibly quick and ball hawking secondary, however, he would need to take lessons from the great corners already on the roster to make his transition from safety to corner easier as I believe his position in the NFL is corner so long as he can learn to move his hips with more fluidity.

Previous selection: Domonique Johnson. CB Jackson State

89. New England Patriots – Nic Harris, S/LB Oklahoma

With the eighty-ninth selection, the New England Patriots select the strong safety linebacker hybrid from Oklahoma in Nic Harris. The Patriots need to find a replacement for Rodney Harrison who I believe has played his last downs in the NFL, Nic Harris is a bigger safety who would probably play WLB in a 4-3 and the Patriots would covet his versatility. He's a big hitter and will be that dominating presence in the secondary that the Patriots lacked this season. This pick could also be an OT but considering the talent available at this pick they would have to reach on one, so they select Nic Harris to pair with the current safeties and give them a youthful and dynamic safety unit.

90. Atlanta Falcons – Jared Cook, TE South Carolina

With the ninetieth selection, the Atlanta Falcons select the pass catching TE from Steve Spurrier's Gamecocks in Jared Cook. Cook is a solid TE prospect who could stand to put on some weight as he can still be considered a "rocked-up" wide receiver at 6'5", 240+, he has the frame to add some weight to better produce in the run game as a blocker, but as a pass catcher, he is definitely qualified to become a new weapon for Matt Ryan. Giving the Falcons something underneath as a safety blanket would go towards helping the Falcons even more as it'll give Roddy White more opportunities over top as someone will have to keep an eye on Cook. This pick could also be a strong safety like Michael Hamlin to be groomed as a replacement for Lawyer Milloy.

91. New York Giants – Lawrence Sidbury, DE Richmond

With the ninety-first selection, the New York Giants select the productive defensive end from the GD Richmond Spiders, Lawrence Sidbury! The Giants can never have too many defensive ends as they love to rush the passer from every angle possible, and considering Kiwanuka may move back to strong side backer when Osi Umenyiora comes back from injury, it is highly possible that the Giants grab another DE to fill the void as Jerry Reese, who studied under Ernie Accorsi knows that you can never have enough pass rushers and considering Sidbury's 20 career sacks and 11.5 in his senior season alone, the Giants would be well served to grab him even if he is a bit of a reach, but after his Senior Bowl practices and showing real speed and athleticism coming around the corner, I wouldn't be surprised to see him go higher.

Previous selection: Michael Hamlin, S Clemson

92. Indianapolis Colts – Nate Davis, QB Ball State

With the ninety-second selection, the Indianapolis Colts select the talented QB from Ball State in Nate Davis. Nate Davis could have been second round pick but based on his performance in the MAC championship and in his bowl game he slips all the way down here. Now, considering what the Patriots did last year and the fact that Peyton looked off the first few games this season having a capable back up on the roster is definitely a plus for the Colts considering Jim Sorgi is not capable of leading a team to victory while Nate Davis was part of the turn around that put Ball State into the top 25 this past season. This pick could also be a WR like Robiskie considering the Colts president Bill Polian is a fan of Big 10 players and the pick would reunite Robiskie with college teammate Anthony Gonzalez.

93. Carolina Panthers – Matt Shaughnessy, DE Wisconsin

With the ninety-third selection the Carolina Panthers select Wisconsin defender Matt Shaughnessy. With the potential release of Julius Peppers on the horizon, the Panthers will need a defensive end to fill the void and Shaughnessy is the best available. He's not in the same league in terms of pass rush but he knows how to get into the backfield and is good against the run as well. He may have only had 4 sacks this season but he has caused havoc in the backfield to the tune of 41.5 tackles for a loss and 15.5 sacks in his career, if he has a good combine workout and runs a decent forty then I think the Panthers will be glad to nab him as the Panthers have some of the best medical staff in the league and if they say Mr. Shaughnessy is ready to go, then he is ready to go and provide some pass rush ability should Julius Peppers see his way to the free agent market. This pick could also be Cody Brown from UConn but considering he's only a situational pass rusher I think they go with Shaughnessy instead.

Previous selection: Robert Ayers, DE Tennessee

94. Tennessee Titans – Brian Robiskie, WR Ohio State

With the ninety-fourth selection the Tennessee Titans select the polished Ohio State receiver in Brian Robiskie. The Titans found a playmaker in the passing game in Justin Gage who became Kerry Collins go to guy down the stretch but they need someone opposite him to take off some of the pressure and make the clutch catches as he runs fantastic routes and is deceptively fast for someone at 6'3". The Titans are usually not a fan of drafting wide receivers early but they have too much of a need not to grab someone as talented as Robiskie. However, this selection could also be a tight end since Scaife is an unrestricted free agent and Alge Crumpler is slow, out of shape and past his prime.

95. Arizona Cardinals – A.Q. Shipley, C Penn State

With the ninety-fifth selection, the Cardinals select the Penn State technician in A.Q. Shipley. The Cardinals are proving to have very few weaknesses on offense, but establishing the running game is definitely one, if the Cardinals can balance their offense, dominate the clock and keep their defense off the field it will do wonders for them and I think Shipley may be the key component in doing that and in most cases he'll start from day one as well as he has a tremendous amount of upside and football IQ. He has the versatility to play center or guard for many years; he finishes blocks and is great in space, not to mention he anchors well in pass protection. He is without a doubt the next center on the board and even though Lyle Sendlein has played well in the playoffs, Shipley is an upgrade at any interior position save for maybe Reggie Wells.

Previous selection: Zack Follett, LB Cal

96. Pittsburgh Steelers – Jairus Byrd, CB Oregon

With the ninety-sixth selection in the draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers select the big cornerback from Oregon in Jairus Byrd. The Steelers could definitely add some youth to the cornerback position, Ike Taylor is a solid player but with Deshea Townsend on the other side and Bryant McFadden potentially moving on, the Steelers could use a cornerback who could come in right away and play the nickel package and eventually move into a starting role when the Steelers let Townsend go. Jairus Byrd has all the talent to play for the Steelers, he had an amazing 14 pass break ups and 4 interceptions in his junior campaign and he has the size to play the run, he however may need to work on his speed and should he knock a couple tenths of a second off his forty time then he is an amazing pick up here and he could potentially go earlier but as it currently stands. The Steelers grab him and improve their already top ranked defense even more.

Matty's Big Board Prospect Countdown: 25!

Hey folks, the Super Bowl is behind us and it's time to focus on the next big event and that is the all powerful and mighty draft, which has the ability to take a team from the bottom of the barrel and turn them into a playoff caliber team (ex. Dolphins and Falcons). What I plan on doing is twice a week until draft weekend, I'll be counting down my top 25 prospects, discuss their strengths, weaknesses, overall impact in the NFL and potential landing spot. So, without further delay, I bring you the player who ranked number 25...

25. Hakeem Nicks, WR North Carolina Tar Heels

2008 Season Stats:
66 receptions, 1222 yards and 12 TDs

Career Stats:
181 receptions, 2840 yards and 21 TDs

Personal stats:
6'1", 215 lbs. JR.

Strengths:

Hakeem Nicks has a lot of strengths in his style of play. For one, he is an incredible route runner and likely the most polished of all the receivers save for maybe Crabtree in this draft. He runs them precise and sells them so that corners have little or no time to react once he's made his break. He has incredible hands and amazing poise to bring in even the toughest catches. He has strong hands and a good work ethic, he can break tackles and get good yards after contact. He also makes for a good red zone weapon and even at 6'1" he still has the frame and skills to box out a corner and high point the ball. Not to mention, he is also a willing blocker in the run game and can bully smaller defensive backs at the line of scrimmage because of his size.

Weaknesses:

The one weakness that really limits Nicks is his long speed, he's good in short bursts coming in and out of quick passing routes but he will never be the vertical deep ball threat that teams will surely be looking for and will find in other players like Heyward-Bey and Maclin. He also doesn't add any value as a return man or special teams player, so when he comes into the league he won't be able to contribute anywhere else unless it's on offense.

Overall:

I love Hakeem Nicks as a prospect and think he has definite first round potential despite the hype behind Maclin, Heyward-Bey and Britt. I think he will come into the league and be a good slot receiver who can make the tough catches coming over the middle and open up things down the field. I think he'll be a good red zone threat as well and I feel he will add a lot to a teams passing offense because he'll be able to do so much for them.



Projected NFL destination:

With the 17th selection, the New York Jets select...










There you have it folks, be sure to tune in later this week for Prospect #24!