Wednesday, April 04, 2012
Last season's fantasy football
Last season was an interesting season as far as fantasy football was concerned. My team, the Fighting Squiggles, who had a squiggle on their logo, finished in a disappointing fourth place. Despite ridiculous strength at QB and RB, with Roethlisberger, Ryan and Tebow at quarterback and Rice, Mendenhall, Lynch and Sproles at running back, I was plagued by inconsistency at other positions, despite having players like Dwayne Bowe and Mike Wallace. I was forced to rely on people like Laurent Robinson. And at tight end and defense, I was hopeless. I actually finished the season with Kellen Winslow and the Redskins defense. I slipped in as the fourth seed, and I still had lofty goals for the playoffs, but I suffered a first-round exit against the top seed "Newton Flames," and I also failed in the third place game.
I only bring this up because I just read a book called Fantasyland by Sam Walker about a sportswriter who tries to win the country's most competitive fantasy baseball league. I highly recommend it. Anyway, this made me look forward to next season while also looking at last year's results.
Monday, April 02, 2012
Last year's NFL Draft Grades
Here are my (very old) grades for LAST YEAR's NFL draft. Some postseason analysis is added.
Perhaps using this, we can help predict what will happen this coming year.
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals had a productive draft. Lucky Arizona picked up CB Patrick Peterson with the No. 5 pick, then proceeded to pick up the talented running backs Ryan Williams, and later Anthony Sherman, to help their inconsistent running game. They also acquired Texas' Sam Acho in the fourth round and stole UNC's Quan Sturdivant in the sixth. These two linebackers will probably replace two of the Cardinals' current linebackers, Clark Haggans and Joey Porter. However, Haggans and Porter still have a good year or two left. The Cardinals didn't draft a quarterback. Perhaps they believe former undrafted free agent Max Hall is the answer. He showed promise last season. Or maybe young John Skelton or Derek Anderson is. Maybe even journeyman Richard Bartel is. At this point, we can't be sure.
(Later analysis: Patrick Peterson has panned out quite well. Despite some coverage errors, he has almost broken a single-season record for punt-return touchdowns. Ryan Williams suffered a tendon injury in the preseason that resulted in him landing on IR. Acho has proved himself to be competent at linebacker. As for the quarterback situation, Anderson was traded to Carolina, and Arizona traded for Kevin Kolb. Kolb started all the games until an injury led to him being temporarily replaced by Skelton. Skelton was benched in one game and replaced by Rich Bartel. The Cardinals need a quarterback.)
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons had an incredible draft, trading up to the sixth pick to select Julio Jones from Alabama. They sent Cleveland a king's ransom in draft picks, though, including next year's first rounder. Still, though, the Falcons managed to pick up more good talent with their remaining four picks, including Jacquizz Rodgers, who will hopefully bring some extra energy to Atlanta's running game. That pick required another trade. The Falcons also drafted one of the two drafted kickers, Matt Bosher from Miami. There was only so much they could do with their remaining picks, but they still achieved a lot and had one of the best drafts.
(Later analysis: The Falcons gave up a lot for him, but Julio Jones has shown flashes of brilliance. So has Jacquizz Rodgers. Matt Bosher is being used as a punter.)
Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore's draft got off to a bad start after the flubbed trade with Chicago, but they still picked Jimmy Smith, who they had wanted all along. They then proceeded to bolster their passing game by picking two great deep threat wide receivers, Torrey Smith of Maryland in the second round and Tandon Doss of Indiana in the fourth. Apparently, Joe Flacco had already requested that Baltimore draft Doss. And so, he got his wish. Anyway, at least according to NFL.com's grading system, Doss was a great value pick late in the fourth round. The Ravens also bolstered their defensive line, offensive line and secondary with the picks of Pernell McPhee, Jah Reid and Chykie Brown. Their last two picks were also quite interesting. They actually drafted a quarterback, agile Tyrod Taylor from Virginia Tech. I questioned this move at first. But then I heard Mike Mayock say, "Their backup QB is Hunter Cantwell," and it made a lot more sense to me. In a similar move, Baltimore drafted Anthony Allen, a RB from Georgia Tech.
(Later analysis: Torrey Smith looks like a good deep threat weapon for Joe Flacco, and has caught a number of touchdown passes.)
Buffalo Bills
Buffalo was probably pretty thankful when Marcell Dareus dropped to them at No. 3. Another Alabama defensive lineman, another great player for the NFL. Early in Round 2, they drafted Aaron Williams, a defensive back from Texas. The rest of the draft was somewhat questionable. Buffalo kept drafting players at the same positions. They drafted two more linebackers, two more defensive backs, and one more defensive lineman. Their other two picks were an O-lineman, Chris Hairston, and a running back, Johnny White, from North Carolina. White enters an already overcrowded and inconsistent backfield.
Carolina Panthers
We all know that the Panthers drafted Cam Newton to start their draft. I think he'll be a good player in the NFL. I question, though, if he will get the starting job right away. He probably will, but maybe he shouldn't. The Panthers shouldn't give up on two of their draftees from last year (Pike and Clausen) immediately. Besides Newton, their draft was pretty decent. It's clear that coach Ron Rivera wants to start anew. Rivera, a defensive coach, acquired two d-linemen on Day 2, to make up for losing Julius Peppers last year. The Panthers only drafted one more skill player in the draft - a fifth round pick, wide receiver Kealoha Pilares. He'll join the young Carolina receiving corps that includes three players, David Gettis, Brandon LaFell, and Armanti Edwards, who have all just completed their rookie seasons.
Chicago Bears
Da Bears had very few draft picks this year, but they did what they could. They drafted lineman Gabe Carimi from Wisconsin in the first round. Hopefully, he'll cut down the sack numbers and prevent Jay Cutler from taking so many hits. They helped their defense by drafting Stephen Paea, who will bring a new strength to that famed Bears defense, a defensive back, Chris Conte, who they hope can help their secondary, and a linebacker, James Thomas. Their fifth round pick was very interesting - they drafted a third quarterback, Nathan Enderle. Theoretically, the Idahoan would back up Cutler and Caleb Hanie.
Cincinnati Bengals
The declining Cincinnati Bengals drafted some big-name players in this draft. With the fourth pick, they drafted top receiver A.J. Green from Georgia, who could fill in instantly now that Chad Ochocinco has been traded to New England. In the second round, they made a controversial move by drafting Andy Dalton, a potential replacement for another key player, Carson Palmer. They then filled needs throughout the draft, taking a d-lineman, an o-lineman, a free safety, another wide receiver (more depth is needed now that Ochocinco has left), a cornerback, and a running back from Baylor, Jay Finley, who could see time if Cedric Benson departs Cincinnati.
(Later analysis: Wow. Dalton and Green led Cincinnati to the playoffs as rookies. The offense revolved around them. They did suffer a first-round exit.)
Cleveland Browns
Mike Holmgren and the Browns had a fantastic draft. It all started with the trade with the Falcons. The Browns moved down many spots, but acquired so many picks from the Falcons that they actually gained quite a lot. They most notably bolstered their offense. Using picks from the Falcons, they drafted fullback/linebacker Owen Marecic, who will definitely help Peyton Hillis' rushing numbers, and wide receiver Greg Little, a powerful weapon in the receiving game. The Browns also drafted a tight end, Jordan Cameron, from USC (another former basketball player.) And they helped out their defensive line by spending their top two picks on linemen. They didn't get the strongest players, by any means, but I think the Browns will be a team to watch next season, with McCoy and Hillis anchoring the offense.
(Later analysis: Even Marecic could not stop the downward spiral of Peyton Hillis' season. The Browns were only a team to watch if you liked boredom. Greg Little was decent.)
Dallas Cowboys
There isn't really that much to be said about the Cowboys' draft. They spent their 9th overall draft pick on Tyron Smith from USC, and their 40th pick on Bruce Carter from North Carolina. Not really big name players, but according to NFL.com, they filled needs. They didn't do much good after that. For some reason, the Cowboys drafted two more running backs. DeMarco Murray and Shaun Chapas weren't really necessary as the Cowboys are still struggling to figure out their current situation. The other picks weren't too notable either, but I suppose the Cowboys just didn't make a splash this year, unlike last year (Dez Bryant.)
(Later analysis: I didn't think Murray was necessary, but he certainly was. He replaced Felix Jones and put up outstanding totals. He may start this year.)
Denver Broncos
Controversially, Denver selected Von Miller with the no. 2 overall pick. I don't deny that he is an excellent player, so I don't have a problem myself, but many other people do. They added a speed pass rush element that they couldn't have gotten with Marcell Dareus. The Broncos were quite busy throughout the rest of the draft, with eight more picks. They made several trades along the way. It was questionable that they added two more linebackers later on, but the Broncos do need some youth and upside for their defense. For that reason, they drafted big-name free safety Rahim Moore from UCLA, defensive back Quinton Carter from Oklahoma, and d-lineman Jeremy Beal. The other two picks were spent on tight ends; another b-baller, Julius Thomas, and injury-prone Virgil Green. If they really wanted a tight end, they could have picked an elite one earlier, but nonetheless, they ended up with a lot of promising players.
Detroit Lions
Detroit might have had one of the best drafts in the league, and they did so with only five picks. Miraculously, Nick Fairley fell to them at No. 13. I could just sense Adrian Peterson, Ryan Grant and James Starks, and Matt Forte, the running backs of the division, shuddering when Fairley went off the board. They had a great second round. They selected Titus Young, another great, underrated Boise State wide receiver famous for his incredible speed and catching ability. Then, they added a dynamic running back when they traded up to select running back Mikel Leshoure later in the round. All three of these rookies will make an impact right away, and I wouldn't be incredibly surprised if the young Detroit Lions were in the mix for a wild card spot this year. The other two picks, a linebacker in the fifth round and a tackle in the seventh, weren't quite as notable, but they still provide much-needed depth and youth.
(Later analysis: Leshoure didn't get a chance to shine because of a training camp injury. Fairley didn't do quite as much as I expected him to, but he could improve in his sophomore year.)
Green Bay Packers
Obviously, the Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers didn't really have that many pressing needs, but they had to take advantage of their nine draft picks to stay ahead of the other teams in their division. First, the Packers added some protection for their "franchise quarterback" by drafting Derek Sherrod, an offensive lineman. Then, they nabbed Randall Cobb, former quarterback, wide receiver and return man at Kentucky who could be a secret weapon for Green Bay this year. Green Bay did need a running back, as was very apparent, but I don't think they made the best choice by drafting Alex Green, who came out of a pass-happy Hawaii offense. Next came Davon House, a corner who could replace Charles Woodson, and a tight end, D.J. Williams. With their remaining picks, they added essential depth to their defense and offensive line, and another tight end to help out Aaron Rodgers.
Houston Texans
NFL's draft analysts evidently didn't have much good to say about Houston's draft; "The Texans pick up a highly competitive quarterback in Yates," "Ozougwu is inconsistent and doesn't completely understand football," etc. And truth be told, those picks were not great. But the Texans, with Wade Phillips as their new coordinator, focused on defense this year. Houston took five consecutive defenders: J.J. Watt, Brooks Reed, Brandon Harris, Rashad Carmichael, Shiloh Keo. I do have to question the pick of Taylor "T.J." Yates, quarterback from North Carolina, in the fifth round. Enderle was on the board! Stanzi was on the board! McElroy was on the board! Pat Devlin wasn't even drafted, and he, according to NFL.com, had a higher grade than Yates! It wasn't the best pick. The Texans drafted an offensive lineman with their second offensive pick, and then made a d-lineman, Ozougwu, Mr. Irrelevant. At least the Texans were able to add many potential impact players to their defense.
(Later analysis: I feel dumb reading this. Enderle, Stanzi and McElroy did nothing. (Case in point: McElroy was best known for criticizing the Jets' locker room environment despite suffering a season-ending injury in the preseason.) Yates picked up the slack when Schaub and Leinart were hurt and led them to the playoffs.)
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts were somewhat inactive in this year's draft, but they addressed some needs, picking two offensive linemen right away to help protect Peyton Manning. The o-line has been terrible for the past few years. Then Indy added Drake Nevis to their defensive line. He could provide some energy off the bench or eventually replace the aging Dwight Freeney or Robert Mathis. The Colts next picked up a running back, Delone Carter. The Colts obviously need to improve in the backfield, but what Carter's role will be is not quite clear. Finally, Indianapolis drafted a defensive back, Chris Rucker. In case yet another Colts defensive back is injured, like they always seem to be, he will be there.
(Later analysis: Peyton didn't even play. None of these draft picks could stop the Colts from going 2-14 without him, or stop the Polians and Jim Caldwell from being axed.)
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars made the semi-obvious decision by drafting Blaine Gabbert from Missouri with the 10th overall pick. David Garrard is basically a lame-duck starter at this point now that the Jaguars organization has its new quarterback of the future. William Rackley, a Lehigh lineman, could well be blocking for Gabbert soon. In the fourth round, the Jaguars, who cut Mike Sims-Walker, drafted a new wideout, Cecil Shorts. Not only does he have a bizarre name, but he comes from the same Division III college as Pierre Garçon, Mount Union. He was quite a playmaker there, and could be dangerous for Jacksonville. The Jaguars then drafted two defensive backs to close out their short draft.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs passing offense needs help. It was fitting, then that Jonathan Baldwin was drafted in the first round. Baldwin is a 6'4" wideout from Pitt who is good enough to draw coverage away from the Chiefs' other good wide receiver, Dwayne Bowe. He provides a good target for Matt Cassel, or perhaps for Ricky Stanzi, a fifth-round developmental quarterback. They also picked a lineman to protect the quarterback in the second round. The Chiefs then focused on their defense, picking two linemen, two linebackers and Jalil Brown, a new name in the Chiefs' inconsistent, Brandon-filled defensive backfield (Brandon Carr, Brandon Flowers.) They wrapped up the draft with power fullback Shane Bannon.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins started out by drafting an offensive lineman, Mike Pouncey (older brother Maurkice has been good in Denver) midway through the first round, because the last thing they want to worry about at this point is Henne getting sacked. The Dolphins made their most important selection with the pick of Daniel Thomas, a running back from Kansas State, who is basically the only competent running back for the Dolphins now that Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams are gone. Edmond Gates and Charles Clay, a wideout and tight end, could add some energy to the passing game. The Dolphins also selected a defensive tackle and defensive back in the seventh round.
(Later analysis: Thomas was in fact not the only competent running back, as the Dolphins later acquired Reggie Bush, who did okay. My best memory of Bush from the season was sliding in for a touchdown in the Buffalo snow and getting called for excessive celebration/unsportsmanlike conduct.)
Minnesota Vikings
The big pick, of course, is eventual starting QB Christian Ponder, from Florida State, who never seemed that notable in college, and was kind of a reach at 12. The Vikings did trade for Donovan McNabb. Nonetheless, he is their franchise quarterback, and they have to build around him. He was given a reliable target with Notre Dame tight end Kyle Rudolph, one of the top prospects in that decision. The focus in this draft was the defense and offensive line, and one can understand these decisions because of the terrible Vikings defense last year, and the beating that Favre took that basically ended his career. Minnesota took a couple of small-school prospects, who were Brandon Fusco from Slippery Rock, and Stephen Burton from West Texas A&M. (who is from the same university as such quarterbacking luminaries as Dalton Bell and Keith Null. Yay!)
(Later analysis: McNabb was cut, of course, and by the way, the former quarterback coach at West Texas A&M: Ryan Leaf.)
New England Patriots
Another smart draft from New England, who picked two linemen, Nate Solder and Marcus Cannon to supplant their current aging linemen. Ras-I Dowling was picked to help the secondary, which is not necessarily a strong point for the Pats. New England also picked Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley, which doesn't bode well for BenJarvus Green-Ellis in the New England backfield. Also, Tom Brady gets a legitimate backup (Brian Hoyer doesn't count) with the addition of Ryan Mallett from Arkansas. The Pats wrapped up the draft with the pick of a No. 3 tight end, a linebacker, and another D-back.
(Later analysis: I guess I was too hard on Hoyer, who is pretty competent. Surprisingly, late-round pick Ridley outshined oft-inactive Vereen.)
New Orleans Saints
The Saints are looking for a return to the glory of Super Bowl XLIV. Their main mission in the offseason is to help their running game and D-line. With two late first-round picks, they handled those two things. Cameron Jordan, a defensive end from Cal, is a great prospect to start on the defensive line soon enough, and the Saints made a very notable pick by taking a top running back and former Heisman winner, Mark Ingram, who may spell the end for Reggie Bush (update: traded to Miami), Pierre Thomas, and Chris Ivory. Undoubtedly, despite the selection of Ingram, the focus was on defense, as another defensive lineman, Greg Romeus from Pitt, was selected. Additionally, linebackers were picked in rounds 3 and 7, and the Saints also bolstered their secondary with the pick of Johnny Patrick FROM Louisville, as Chris Berman and Tom Jackson might say.
New York Giants
The Giants' draft was filled with selections of players with great upside. Cornerback Prince Amukamara will help the secondary immensely, as one of the top cornerback prospects, and defensive lineman Marvin Austin will help replace Barry Cofield and add depth to the line. Jerrel Jernigan is one of my favorite receiving prospects. He is quite versatile and quick, and could replace Domenik Hixon as returner. James Brewer could replace any of the New York linemen who would be lost as cap casualties.. New York also drafted two linebackers and a powerful safety, Tyler Sash from Iowa. Da'Rel Scott, a running back from Maryland, was picked with the 221st pick, although the Giants arguably should have taken a running back earlier.
New York Jets
Rex Ryan, mastermind defensive coordinator, picked, big, powerful D-linemen Muhammad Wilkerson and Kenrick Ellis to open the draft. Bilal Powell could be LaDainian's replacement, while Jeremy Kerley, and Scotty McKnight, who were fantastic at TCU and Colorado, were good picks at wide receiver. The Jets drafted a much-needed quarterback, Greg McElroy. Eric Ainge's retirement made this pick especially important.
Oakland Raiders
Ah, the Raiders. Their draft was not so great, but this could be a breakout year after last season's 8-8 run. O-lineman Stefen Wisniewski was the Raiders' first pick, in the second round, after they traded their first-rounder for Richard Seymour (sigh). Oakland also picked lineman Joseph Barksdale in the next round. Al Davis sure likes his speedsters…NFL.com used the words "speed" or "speedster" in their descriptions of DB Demarcus VanDyke, DB Chimdi Chekwa, RB Taiwan Jones, and WR Denarius Moore (sigh). Predictably, the final two picks in the draft were another wideout and a tight end.
(Later analysis: Denarius Moore seems like the main bright spot in this draft. He was one of the few playmakers as the Raiders managed to miss the playoffs again.)
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles addressed needs with their draft. Danny Watkins will protect notorious scrambler and criminal Michael Vick, while Jaiquawn Jarrett will replace Quentin Mikell at safety. Curtis Marsh, another defensive back, was also drafted. The Eagles then, perhaps figuring that he would be as successful as his brother (eerily similar to the pick of Eli Manning, right?), picked Casey Matthews, little brother of Clay. Kicker Alex Henery will replace not-so-clutch kicker David Akers, and Dion Lewis will once again back up LeSean McCoy, as he did previously in college. The Eagles then drafted two more O-linemen, two more linebackers (evidently those positions are quite important), and third fullback?! Stanley Havili.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh is basically set at the skill positions, so they focused on defense, drafting defensive linemen Cam Heyward in the first round and Chris Carter, who could also be a linebacker, in the fifth round, to perhaps supplant some members of their aging defense. Two defensive backs, Curtis Brown from Texas and Cortez Allen, from the FCS college The Citadel, will, again, provide some youth two the Steelers' defense. Additionally, the Steelers would like to have Ben Roethlisberger full-time this year, and in case any O-linemen go down, they added two more for depth. They also randomly decided to draft Baron Batch, a running back from a passing-centric offense at Texas Tech.
San Diego Chargers
The Chargers did not add many notable players, although they filled their needs quite well. The picks of players like Corey Liuget at defensive tackle, Marcus Gilchrist and Shareece Wright in the defensive backfield, Jonas Mouton at linebacker, and Jordan Todman all help to empower a Chargers team that needs a lot of improvement to be championship-caliber. In a division that is basically up for grabs, adding fresh faces is one of the best things for them to do. Hopefully for them, these players will make an impact.
San Francisco 49ers
While the Niners have a very strong linebacking corps, work must be done for the rest of their defense. And so, they spent their first rounder on Aldon Smith, a defensive end from Missouri, very early in the draft. This will help a defense that could perhaps be elite in the future. They already have a great linebacker in Patrick Willis, and perhaps some of their young players will be stars in time. They also picked up three defensive backs, Chris Culliver, Colin Jones, and Curtis Holcomb in the third, sixth, and seventh rounds. As far as offense was concerned, San Francisco picked up Colin Kaepernick early in the second round. He is Jim Harbaugh's quarterback (new regimes mean new quarterbacks; see walterfootball.com for evidence), although Alex Smith is improving more and more and hopefully will become a consistent starter while Kaepernick is developed. Ronald Johnson, a small wideout from USC, and Kendall Hunter, a power back from Oklahoma State, will provide depth at the skill positions. Two O-linemen were also taken, to back up and eventually replace San Fran's current starters.
(Later analysis: I was pretty much spot-on with these predictions --- Smith helped the defense, Hunter provided much-needed depth behind Frank Gore, and Kaepernick sat while Alex Smith improved.)
Seattle Seahawks
Seattle had a draft that would have been much better overall had they selected a quarterback. Pete Carroll seems to be content with letting Charlie Whitehurst and Tarvaris Jackson duke it out for the starting job. At least they drafted offensive linemen James Carpenter and John Moffitt with their first two picks, in an attempt to help their new QB throw the ball and open holes for Marshawn Lynch. The Seahawks then focused on their defense, after picking Georgia wideout Kris Durham. The D definitely needs some help, as evidenced by the Hawks' ugly playoff elimination by the Bears. Seattle was wise to address their defensive needs through the draft, and not count on free agency, which might not have happened anyway because of the lockout. Not picking a quarterback, though, was the opposite of wise.
St. Louis Rams
The Rams have a good chance of winning the NFC West this year, and their draft definitely helped their chances. They first picked D-lineman Robert Quinn, which was especially good considering that they will be facing the weak O-lines of their division rivals, as well as quarterbacks like John Skelton, Charlie Whitehurst and Alex Smith. The Rams also used their 5th round and three 7th round picks on defensive depth in the backfield and at linebacker. In between those picks, they drafted three good targets for developing Sam Bradford - a consistent tight end in Lance Kendricks, and two good wide receivers in Austin Pettis and Greg Salas, who could make a huge impact in a weak receiving corps.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs found a starting wideout and running back in last year's rookie class, those being Mike Williams and LeGarrette Blount. The latter was actually undrafted, and originally picked up by Tennessee, but the Bucs had good luck last year. Perhaps this year, they will have good results as well. Tampa Bay picked up not one, but two of the top defensive linemen, in Adrian Clayborn and DaQuan Bowers. The Bucs must have been surprised when Bowers fell down to them at pick 51. Luke Stocker and Daniel Hardy are nice prospects at tight end, Ahmad Black and Anthony Gaitor will strengthen the defensive backfield, and Allen Bradford is a running back from USC who may replace Cadillac Williams as a primary backup to Blount.
Tennessee Titans
Jake Locker, Tennessee's new franchise quarterback, was much more highly touted last year. Unfortunately, he performed pretty badly in his senior season, but his upside was irresistible for the Titans, who need solutions quickly to survive against the developing teams of the AFC South. Locker will be tested by the defenses of Indy, Houston, and Jacksonville right away, if he can beat out last year's No. 3, Rusty Smith, for the starting job. Ugh. Most of the draft was focused on upgrading the Titans' defense, who have not done well in the past trying to handle Arian Foster, Andre Johnson, Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, Maurice Jones-Drew, and other AFC South stars. Hopefully, rookies Akeem Ayers, Jurrell Casey, Karl Klug, Zach Clayton, Tommie Campbell, and Colin McCarthy, in no order, will put pressure on the quarterback, stop the run, and add energy to the defense, but that may be too much to expect from a bunch of first-year players. Jamie Harper could play a lot at back if Chris Johnson is injured, and otherwise will provide a good change of pace. The other pick by the Titans was O-lineman Byron Stingily. Nice last name!
(Later analysis: Well, Tennessee brought in Matt Hasselbeck, and he started. Locker actually performed quite well in relief of Hasselbeck, including when the Titans suffered a humiliating loss to Indy.)
Washington Redskins
Washington, who are trapped in the bottom of the NFC East, and hoping that John Beck and Rex Grossman are good enough to start at QB, used their 12 draft picks well. They did not draft at least a developmental QB prospect, but they certainly took care of all other needs. Ryan Kerrigan and Jarvis Jenkins, the top two picks by Washington, may start for the Redskins' no-name defense. Two more D-linemen, Markus White and Chris Neild, were also taken, and Dejon Gomes, Brandyn Thompson fill a need at corner. Washington kind of went overboard by taking three wide receivers in Leonard Hankerson, Niles Paul and Aldrick Robinson, but there has to be a complete overhaul at the position, because Santana Moss is gone, Jabar Gaffney is 30, and the most experienced player past that at the position is Roydell Williams…The group includes the likes of Anthony Armstrong, Taurus Johnson, Maurice Price, Brandon Banks and Terrence Austin. See now why they needed those wideouts? Washington also addressed a need at running back by adding Roy Helu and Evan Royster, who will be added to a young, inexperienced Redskins backfield that is topped by Ryan Torain, and also includes Andre Brown, James Davis, Shaun Draughn, Chad Simpson, Shawnbrey McNeal, and Keiland Williams. See a pattern?
(Later analysis: That backfield was pretty ridiculous, and by the end of the season, most of them were gone, leaving Helu on top. He is the expected starter.)
Thus ends my draft grade list. Credit to NFL.com and some other websites and magazines for a lot of information, ideas, and inspiration.
Now for my picks for undrafted free agents who will make an impact:
Darvin Adams, WR, Auburn - Carolina Panthers
Adams was a favorite target of Cam Newton at Auburn, and now they are together again in Carolina, where depth at wideout is quite important. If Adams makes the roster, and injuries strike, Adams could have an unexpected impact for the team.
Pat Devlin, QB, Delaware - Miami Dolphins
Miami has little depth at quarterback, and Devlin, a transfer from Penn State to Delaware and excellent prospect, was somehow not drafted, and the Dolphins may need him if Chad Henne is injured or plays badly.
Other interesting undrafted free agents:
Kris O'Dowd, C, USC - Arizona Cardinals
Noel Devine, RB, West Virginia - Philadelphia Eagles? Atlanta Falcons? Conflicting sources - Successor to Steve Slaton at WVU, is a great runner.
Josh Nesbitt, QB, Georgia Tech - Buffalo Bills - Played in an option offense, could be good in Wildcat.
Zach Pianalto, TE, North Carolina - Buffalo Bills
Mario Fannin, RB, Auburn - Denver Broncos
Brandon Saine, RB, Ohio State - Green Bay Packers
Jeff Maehl, WR, Oregon - Houston Texans - Was incredible at Oregon, apparently no one liked him enough to draft him.
Marc Schiechl, DL, Colorado School of Mines - Jacksonville Jaguars - What is the Colorado School of Mines!?
Nic Grigsby, RB, Arizona - Miami Dolphins
Mark Herzlich, LB, Boston College - New York Giants - Battled with cancer, great story.
Eddie McGee, WR, Illinois - Oakland Raiders - Of course Al Davis picks up the speedy former quarterback.
Jerrod Johnson, QB, Texas A&M - Philadelphia Eagles
Scott Tolzien, QB, Wisconsin - San Diego Chargers - San Diego needs a developmental backup to replace Billy Volek.
Jeremiah Masoli, QB, Oregon, Mississippi - San Francisco 49ers - Masoli was good at Oregon, but at Mississippi, he was not good at all. He lost to Jacksonville State.
Shaun Draughn, RB, North Carolina - Washington Redskins - Great, another running back!
Patrick Scales, Danny Aiken, Corey Adams, Ryan Coulson, Derek Chard, Aaron Feld, Christian Yount, John Stokes, Harry Flaherty, Tom McCarthy, Andrew Schulz, Various colleges, Various teams -
No one drafted a long snapper this year, or last year, and not many people even seem to acknowledge LS as a real position.
Interesting tidbits:
Ryan Coulson is part defensive end? What?
Tampa Bay actually signed two long snappers! Wow! So did Atlanta, their division rivals.
The highest-drafted long snapper of all time is Ryan Pontbriand, drafted by Cleveland, unless you count Zak DeOssie, a Giants snapper who was drafted as a linebacker, and Todd Thomas, who was drafted as a tackle.
This concludes my pre-2012 NFL Draft post. I know it's outdated, but maybe looking at last year's draft will help us predict this year's.
Perhaps using this, we can help predict what will happen this coming year.
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals had a productive draft. Lucky Arizona picked up CB Patrick Peterson with the No. 5 pick, then proceeded to pick up the talented running backs Ryan Williams, and later Anthony Sherman, to help their inconsistent running game. They also acquired Texas' Sam Acho in the fourth round and stole UNC's Quan Sturdivant in the sixth. These two linebackers will probably replace two of the Cardinals' current linebackers, Clark Haggans and Joey Porter. However, Haggans and Porter still have a good year or two left. The Cardinals didn't draft a quarterback. Perhaps they believe former undrafted free agent Max Hall is the answer. He showed promise last season. Or maybe young John Skelton or Derek Anderson is. Maybe even journeyman Richard Bartel is. At this point, we can't be sure.
(Later analysis: Patrick Peterson has panned out quite well. Despite some coverage errors, he has almost broken a single-season record for punt-return touchdowns. Ryan Williams suffered a tendon injury in the preseason that resulted in him landing on IR. Acho has proved himself to be competent at linebacker. As for the quarterback situation, Anderson was traded to Carolina, and Arizona traded for Kevin Kolb. Kolb started all the games until an injury led to him being temporarily replaced by Skelton. Skelton was benched in one game and replaced by Rich Bartel. The Cardinals need a quarterback.)
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons had an incredible draft, trading up to the sixth pick to select Julio Jones from Alabama. They sent Cleveland a king's ransom in draft picks, though, including next year's first rounder. Still, though, the Falcons managed to pick up more good talent with their remaining four picks, including Jacquizz Rodgers, who will hopefully bring some extra energy to Atlanta's running game. That pick required another trade. The Falcons also drafted one of the two drafted kickers, Matt Bosher from Miami. There was only so much they could do with their remaining picks, but they still achieved a lot and had one of the best drafts.
(Later analysis: The Falcons gave up a lot for him, but Julio Jones has shown flashes of brilliance. So has Jacquizz Rodgers. Matt Bosher is being used as a punter.)
Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore's draft got off to a bad start after the flubbed trade with Chicago, but they still picked Jimmy Smith, who they had wanted all along. They then proceeded to bolster their passing game by picking two great deep threat wide receivers, Torrey Smith of Maryland in the second round and Tandon Doss of Indiana in the fourth. Apparently, Joe Flacco had already requested that Baltimore draft Doss. And so, he got his wish. Anyway, at least according to NFL.com's grading system, Doss was a great value pick late in the fourth round. The Ravens also bolstered their defensive line, offensive line and secondary with the picks of Pernell McPhee, Jah Reid and Chykie Brown. Their last two picks were also quite interesting. They actually drafted a quarterback, agile Tyrod Taylor from Virginia Tech. I questioned this move at first. But then I heard Mike Mayock say, "Their backup QB is Hunter Cantwell," and it made a lot more sense to me. In a similar move, Baltimore drafted Anthony Allen, a RB from Georgia Tech.
(Later analysis: Torrey Smith looks like a good deep threat weapon for Joe Flacco, and has caught a number of touchdown passes.)
Buffalo Bills
Buffalo was probably pretty thankful when Marcell Dareus dropped to them at No. 3. Another Alabama defensive lineman, another great player for the NFL. Early in Round 2, they drafted Aaron Williams, a defensive back from Texas. The rest of the draft was somewhat questionable. Buffalo kept drafting players at the same positions. They drafted two more linebackers, two more defensive backs, and one more defensive lineman. Their other two picks were an O-lineman, Chris Hairston, and a running back, Johnny White, from North Carolina. White enters an already overcrowded and inconsistent backfield.
Carolina Panthers
We all know that the Panthers drafted Cam Newton to start their draft. I think he'll be a good player in the NFL. I question, though, if he will get the starting job right away. He probably will, but maybe he shouldn't. The Panthers shouldn't give up on two of their draftees from last year (Pike and Clausen) immediately. Besides Newton, their draft was pretty decent. It's clear that coach Ron Rivera wants to start anew. Rivera, a defensive coach, acquired two d-linemen on Day 2, to make up for losing Julius Peppers last year. The Panthers only drafted one more skill player in the draft - a fifth round pick, wide receiver Kealoha Pilares. He'll join the young Carolina receiving corps that includes three players, David Gettis, Brandon LaFell, and Armanti Edwards, who have all just completed their rookie seasons.
Chicago Bears
Da Bears had very few draft picks this year, but they did what they could. They drafted lineman Gabe Carimi from Wisconsin in the first round. Hopefully, he'll cut down the sack numbers and prevent Jay Cutler from taking so many hits. They helped their defense by drafting Stephen Paea, who will bring a new strength to that famed Bears defense, a defensive back, Chris Conte, who they hope can help their secondary, and a linebacker, James Thomas. Their fifth round pick was very interesting - they drafted a third quarterback, Nathan Enderle. Theoretically, the Idahoan would back up Cutler and Caleb Hanie.
Cincinnati Bengals
The declining Cincinnati Bengals drafted some big-name players in this draft. With the fourth pick, they drafted top receiver A.J. Green from Georgia, who could fill in instantly now that Chad Ochocinco has been traded to New England. In the second round, they made a controversial move by drafting Andy Dalton, a potential replacement for another key player, Carson Palmer. They then filled needs throughout the draft, taking a d-lineman, an o-lineman, a free safety, another wide receiver (more depth is needed now that Ochocinco has left), a cornerback, and a running back from Baylor, Jay Finley, who could see time if Cedric Benson departs Cincinnati.
(Later analysis: Wow. Dalton and Green led Cincinnati to the playoffs as rookies. The offense revolved around them. They did suffer a first-round exit.)
Cleveland Browns
Mike Holmgren and the Browns had a fantastic draft. It all started with the trade with the Falcons. The Browns moved down many spots, but acquired so many picks from the Falcons that they actually gained quite a lot. They most notably bolstered their offense. Using picks from the Falcons, they drafted fullback/linebacker Owen Marecic, who will definitely help Peyton Hillis' rushing numbers, and wide receiver Greg Little, a powerful weapon in the receiving game. The Browns also drafted a tight end, Jordan Cameron, from USC (another former basketball player.) And they helped out their defensive line by spending their top two picks on linemen. They didn't get the strongest players, by any means, but I think the Browns will be a team to watch next season, with McCoy and Hillis anchoring the offense.
(Later analysis: Even Marecic could not stop the downward spiral of Peyton Hillis' season. The Browns were only a team to watch if you liked boredom. Greg Little was decent.)
Dallas Cowboys
There isn't really that much to be said about the Cowboys' draft. They spent their 9th overall draft pick on Tyron Smith from USC, and their 40th pick on Bruce Carter from North Carolina. Not really big name players, but according to NFL.com, they filled needs. They didn't do much good after that. For some reason, the Cowboys drafted two more running backs. DeMarco Murray and Shaun Chapas weren't really necessary as the Cowboys are still struggling to figure out their current situation. The other picks weren't too notable either, but I suppose the Cowboys just didn't make a splash this year, unlike last year (Dez Bryant.)
(Later analysis: I didn't think Murray was necessary, but he certainly was. He replaced Felix Jones and put up outstanding totals. He may start this year.)
Denver Broncos
Controversially, Denver selected Von Miller with the no. 2 overall pick. I don't deny that he is an excellent player, so I don't have a problem myself, but many other people do. They added a speed pass rush element that they couldn't have gotten with Marcell Dareus. The Broncos were quite busy throughout the rest of the draft, with eight more picks. They made several trades along the way. It was questionable that they added two more linebackers later on, but the Broncos do need some youth and upside for their defense. For that reason, they drafted big-name free safety Rahim Moore from UCLA, defensive back Quinton Carter from Oklahoma, and d-lineman Jeremy Beal. The other two picks were spent on tight ends; another b-baller, Julius Thomas, and injury-prone Virgil Green. If they really wanted a tight end, they could have picked an elite one earlier, but nonetheless, they ended up with a lot of promising players.
Detroit Lions
Detroit might have had one of the best drafts in the league, and they did so with only five picks. Miraculously, Nick Fairley fell to them at No. 13. I could just sense Adrian Peterson, Ryan Grant and James Starks, and Matt Forte, the running backs of the division, shuddering when Fairley went off the board. They had a great second round. They selected Titus Young, another great, underrated Boise State wide receiver famous for his incredible speed and catching ability. Then, they added a dynamic running back when they traded up to select running back Mikel Leshoure later in the round. All three of these rookies will make an impact right away, and I wouldn't be incredibly surprised if the young Detroit Lions were in the mix for a wild card spot this year. The other two picks, a linebacker in the fifth round and a tackle in the seventh, weren't quite as notable, but they still provide much-needed depth and youth.
(Later analysis: Leshoure didn't get a chance to shine because of a training camp injury. Fairley didn't do quite as much as I expected him to, but he could improve in his sophomore year.)
Green Bay Packers
Obviously, the Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers didn't really have that many pressing needs, but they had to take advantage of their nine draft picks to stay ahead of the other teams in their division. First, the Packers added some protection for their "franchise quarterback" by drafting Derek Sherrod, an offensive lineman. Then, they nabbed Randall Cobb, former quarterback, wide receiver and return man at Kentucky who could be a secret weapon for Green Bay this year. Green Bay did need a running back, as was very apparent, but I don't think they made the best choice by drafting Alex Green, who came out of a pass-happy Hawaii offense. Next came Davon House, a corner who could replace Charles Woodson, and a tight end, D.J. Williams. With their remaining picks, they added essential depth to their defense and offensive line, and another tight end to help out Aaron Rodgers.
Houston Texans
NFL's draft analysts evidently didn't have much good to say about Houston's draft; "The Texans pick up a highly competitive quarterback in Yates," "Ozougwu is inconsistent and doesn't completely understand football," etc. And truth be told, those picks were not great. But the Texans, with Wade Phillips as their new coordinator, focused on defense this year. Houston took five consecutive defenders: J.J. Watt, Brooks Reed, Brandon Harris, Rashad Carmichael, Shiloh Keo. I do have to question the pick of Taylor "T.J." Yates, quarterback from North Carolina, in the fifth round. Enderle was on the board! Stanzi was on the board! McElroy was on the board! Pat Devlin wasn't even drafted, and he, according to NFL.com, had a higher grade than Yates! It wasn't the best pick. The Texans drafted an offensive lineman with their second offensive pick, and then made a d-lineman, Ozougwu, Mr. Irrelevant. At least the Texans were able to add many potential impact players to their defense.
(Later analysis: I feel dumb reading this. Enderle, Stanzi and McElroy did nothing. (Case in point: McElroy was best known for criticizing the Jets' locker room environment despite suffering a season-ending injury in the preseason.) Yates picked up the slack when Schaub and Leinart were hurt and led them to the playoffs.)
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts were somewhat inactive in this year's draft, but they addressed some needs, picking two offensive linemen right away to help protect Peyton Manning. The o-line has been terrible for the past few years. Then Indy added Drake Nevis to their defensive line. He could provide some energy off the bench or eventually replace the aging Dwight Freeney or Robert Mathis. The Colts next picked up a running back, Delone Carter. The Colts obviously need to improve in the backfield, but what Carter's role will be is not quite clear. Finally, Indianapolis drafted a defensive back, Chris Rucker. In case yet another Colts defensive back is injured, like they always seem to be, he will be there.
(Later analysis: Peyton didn't even play. None of these draft picks could stop the Colts from going 2-14 without him, or stop the Polians and Jim Caldwell from being axed.)
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars made the semi-obvious decision by drafting Blaine Gabbert from Missouri with the 10th overall pick. David Garrard is basically a lame-duck starter at this point now that the Jaguars organization has its new quarterback of the future. William Rackley, a Lehigh lineman, could well be blocking for Gabbert soon. In the fourth round, the Jaguars, who cut Mike Sims-Walker, drafted a new wideout, Cecil Shorts. Not only does he have a bizarre name, but he comes from the same Division III college as Pierre Garçon, Mount Union. He was quite a playmaker there, and could be dangerous for Jacksonville. The Jaguars then drafted two defensive backs to close out their short draft.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs passing offense needs help. It was fitting, then that Jonathan Baldwin was drafted in the first round. Baldwin is a 6'4" wideout from Pitt who is good enough to draw coverage away from the Chiefs' other good wide receiver, Dwayne Bowe. He provides a good target for Matt Cassel, or perhaps for Ricky Stanzi, a fifth-round developmental quarterback. They also picked a lineman to protect the quarterback in the second round. The Chiefs then focused on their defense, picking two linemen, two linebackers and Jalil Brown, a new name in the Chiefs' inconsistent, Brandon-filled defensive backfield (Brandon Carr, Brandon Flowers.) They wrapped up the draft with power fullback Shane Bannon.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins started out by drafting an offensive lineman, Mike Pouncey (older brother Maurkice has been good in Denver) midway through the first round, because the last thing they want to worry about at this point is Henne getting sacked. The Dolphins made their most important selection with the pick of Daniel Thomas, a running back from Kansas State, who is basically the only competent running back for the Dolphins now that Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams are gone. Edmond Gates and Charles Clay, a wideout and tight end, could add some energy to the passing game. The Dolphins also selected a defensive tackle and defensive back in the seventh round.
(Later analysis: Thomas was in fact not the only competent running back, as the Dolphins later acquired Reggie Bush, who did okay. My best memory of Bush from the season was sliding in for a touchdown in the Buffalo snow and getting called for excessive celebration/unsportsmanlike conduct.)
Minnesota Vikings
The big pick, of course, is eventual starting QB Christian Ponder, from Florida State, who never seemed that notable in college, and was kind of a reach at 12. The Vikings did trade for Donovan McNabb. Nonetheless, he is their franchise quarterback, and they have to build around him. He was given a reliable target with Notre Dame tight end Kyle Rudolph, one of the top prospects in that decision. The focus in this draft was the defense and offensive line, and one can understand these decisions because of the terrible Vikings defense last year, and the beating that Favre took that basically ended his career. Minnesota took a couple of small-school prospects, who were Brandon Fusco from Slippery Rock, and Stephen Burton from West Texas A&M. (who is from the same university as such quarterbacking luminaries as Dalton Bell and Keith Null. Yay!)
(Later analysis: McNabb was cut, of course, and by the way, the former quarterback coach at West Texas A&M: Ryan Leaf.)
New England Patriots
Another smart draft from New England, who picked two linemen, Nate Solder and Marcus Cannon to supplant their current aging linemen. Ras-I Dowling was picked to help the secondary, which is not necessarily a strong point for the Pats. New England also picked Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley, which doesn't bode well for BenJarvus Green-Ellis in the New England backfield. Also, Tom Brady gets a legitimate backup (Brian Hoyer doesn't count) with the addition of Ryan Mallett from Arkansas. The Pats wrapped up the draft with the pick of a No. 3 tight end, a linebacker, and another D-back.
(Later analysis: I guess I was too hard on Hoyer, who is pretty competent. Surprisingly, late-round pick Ridley outshined oft-inactive Vereen.)
New Orleans Saints
The Saints are looking for a return to the glory of Super Bowl XLIV. Their main mission in the offseason is to help their running game and D-line. With two late first-round picks, they handled those two things. Cameron Jordan, a defensive end from Cal, is a great prospect to start on the defensive line soon enough, and the Saints made a very notable pick by taking a top running back and former Heisman winner, Mark Ingram, who may spell the end for Reggie Bush (update: traded to Miami), Pierre Thomas, and Chris Ivory. Undoubtedly, despite the selection of Ingram, the focus was on defense, as another defensive lineman, Greg Romeus from Pitt, was selected. Additionally, linebackers were picked in rounds 3 and 7, and the Saints also bolstered their secondary with the pick of Johnny Patrick FROM Louisville, as Chris Berman and Tom Jackson might say.
New York Giants
The Giants' draft was filled with selections of players with great upside. Cornerback Prince Amukamara will help the secondary immensely, as one of the top cornerback prospects, and defensive lineman Marvin Austin will help replace Barry Cofield and add depth to the line. Jerrel Jernigan is one of my favorite receiving prospects. He is quite versatile and quick, and could replace Domenik Hixon as returner. James Brewer could replace any of the New York linemen who would be lost as cap casualties.. New York also drafted two linebackers and a powerful safety, Tyler Sash from Iowa. Da'Rel Scott, a running back from Maryland, was picked with the 221st pick, although the Giants arguably should have taken a running back earlier.
New York Jets
Rex Ryan, mastermind defensive coordinator, picked, big, powerful D-linemen Muhammad Wilkerson and Kenrick Ellis to open the draft. Bilal Powell could be LaDainian's replacement, while Jeremy Kerley, and Scotty McKnight, who were fantastic at TCU and Colorado, were good picks at wide receiver. The Jets drafted a much-needed quarterback, Greg McElroy. Eric Ainge's retirement made this pick especially important.
Oakland Raiders
Ah, the Raiders. Their draft was not so great, but this could be a breakout year after last season's 8-8 run. O-lineman Stefen Wisniewski was the Raiders' first pick, in the second round, after they traded their first-rounder for Richard Seymour (sigh). Oakland also picked lineman Joseph Barksdale in the next round. Al Davis sure likes his speedsters…NFL.com used the words "speed" or "speedster" in their descriptions of DB Demarcus VanDyke, DB Chimdi Chekwa, RB Taiwan Jones, and WR Denarius Moore (sigh). Predictably, the final two picks in the draft were another wideout and a tight end.
(Later analysis: Denarius Moore seems like the main bright spot in this draft. He was one of the few playmakers as the Raiders managed to miss the playoffs again.)
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles addressed needs with their draft. Danny Watkins will protect notorious scrambler and criminal Michael Vick, while Jaiquawn Jarrett will replace Quentin Mikell at safety. Curtis Marsh, another defensive back, was also drafted. The Eagles then, perhaps figuring that he would be as successful as his brother (eerily similar to the pick of Eli Manning, right?), picked Casey Matthews, little brother of Clay. Kicker Alex Henery will replace not-so-clutch kicker David Akers, and Dion Lewis will once again back up LeSean McCoy, as he did previously in college. The Eagles then drafted two more O-linemen, two more linebackers (evidently those positions are quite important), and third fullback?! Stanley Havili.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh is basically set at the skill positions, so they focused on defense, drafting defensive linemen Cam Heyward in the first round and Chris Carter, who could also be a linebacker, in the fifth round, to perhaps supplant some members of their aging defense. Two defensive backs, Curtis Brown from Texas and Cortez Allen, from the FCS college The Citadel, will, again, provide some youth two the Steelers' defense. Additionally, the Steelers would like to have Ben Roethlisberger full-time this year, and in case any O-linemen go down, they added two more for depth. They also randomly decided to draft Baron Batch, a running back from a passing-centric offense at Texas Tech.
San Diego Chargers
The Chargers did not add many notable players, although they filled their needs quite well. The picks of players like Corey Liuget at defensive tackle, Marcus Gilchrist and Shareece Wright in the defensive backfield, Jonas Mouton at linebacker, and Jordan Todman all help to empower a Chargers team that needs a lot of improvement to be championship-caliber. In a division that is basically up for grabs, adding fresh faces is one of the best things for them to do. Hopefully for them, these players will make an impact.
San Francisco 49ers
While the Niners have a very strong linebacking corps, work must be done for the rest of their defense. And so, they spent their first rounder on Aldon Smith, a defensive end from Missouri, very early in the draft. This will help a defense that could perhaps be elite in the future. They already have a great linebacker in Patrick Willis, and perhaps some of their young players will be stars in time. They also picked up three defensive backs, Chris Culliver, Colin Jones, and Curtis Holcomb in the third, sixth, and seventh rounds. As far as offense was concerned, San Francisco picked up Colin Kaepernick early in the second round. He is Jim Harbaugh's quarterback (new regimes mean new quarterbacks; see walterfootball.com for evidence), although Alex Smith is improving more and more and hopefully will become a consistent starter while Kaepernick is developed. Ronald Johnson, a small wideout from USC, and Kendall Hunter, a power back from Oklahoma State, will provide depth at the skill positions. Two O-linemen were also taken, to back up and eventually replace San Fran's current starters.
(Later analysis: I was pretty much spot-on with these predictions --- Smith helped the defense, Hunter provided much-needed depth behind Frank Gore, and Kaepernick sat while Alex Smith improved.)
Seattle Seahawks
Seattle had a draft that would have been much better overall had they selected a quarterback. Pete Carroll seems to be content with letting Charlie Whitehurst and Tarvaris Jackson duke it out for the starting job. At least they drafted offensive linemen James Carpenter and John Moffitt with their first two picks, in an attempt to help their new QB throw the ball and open holes for Marshawn Lynch. The Seahawks then focused on their defense, after picking Georgia wideout Kris Durham. The D definitely needs some help, as evidenced by the Hawks' ugly playoff elimination by the Bears. Seattle was wise to address their defensive needs through the draft, and not count on free agency, which might not have happened anyway because of the lockout. Not picking a quarterback, though, was the opposite of wise.
St. Louis Rams
The Rams have a good chance of winning the NFC West this year, and their draft definitely helped their chances. They first picked D-lineman Robert Quinn, which was especially good considering that they will be facing the weak O-lines of their division rivals, as well as quarterbacks like John Skelton, Charlie Whitehurst and Alex Smith. The Rams also used their 5th round and three 7th round picks on defensive depth in the backfield and at linebacker. In between those picks, they drafted three good targets for developing Sam Bradford - a consistent tight end in Lance Kendricks, and two good wide receivers in Austin Pettis and Greg Salas, who could make a huge impact in a weak receiving corps.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs found a starting wideout and running back in last year's rookie class, those being Mike Williams and LeGarrette Blount. The latter was actually undrafted, and originally picked up by Tennessee, but the Bucs had good luck last year. Perhaps this year, they will have good results as well. Tampa Bay picked up not one, but two of the top defensive linemen, in Adrian Clayborn and DaQuan Bowers. The Bucs must have been surprised when Bowers fell down to them at pick 51. Luke Stocker and Daniel Hardy are nice prospects at tight end, Ahmad Black and Anthony Gaitor will strengthen the defensive backfield, and Allen Bradford is a running back from USC who may replace Cadillac Williams as a primary backup to Blount.
Tennessee Titans
Jake Locker, Tennessee's new franchise quarterback, was much more highly touted last year. Unfortunately, he performed pretty badly in his senior season, but his upside was irresistible for the Titans, who need solutions quickly to survive against the developing teams of the AFC South. Locker will be tested by the defenses of Indy, Houston, and Jacksonville right away, if he can beat out last year's No. 3, Rusty Smith, for the starting job. Ugh. Most of the draft was focused on upgrading the Titans' defense, who have not done well in the past trying to handle Arian Foster, Andre Johnson, Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, Maurice Jones-Drew, and other AFC South stars. Hopefully, rookies Akeem Ayers, Jurrell Casey, Karl Klug, Zach Clayton, Tommie Campbell, and Colin McCarthy, in no order, will put pressure on the quarterback, stop the run, and add energy to the defense, but that may be too much to expect from a bunch of first-year players. Jamie Harper could play a lot at back if Chris Johnson is injured, and otherwise will provide a good change of pace. The other pick by the Titans was O-lineman Byron Stingily. Nice last name!
(Later analysis: Well, Tennessee brought in Matt Hasselbeck, and he started. Locker actually performed quite well in relief of Hasselbeck, including when the Titans suffered a humiliating loss to Indy.)
Washington Redskins
Washington, who are trapped in the bottom of the NFC East, and hoping that John Beck and Rex Grossman are good enough to start at QB, used their 12 draft picks well. They did not draft at least a developmental QB prospect, but they certainly took care of all other needs. Ryan Kerrigan and Jarvis Jenkins, the top two picks by Washington, may start for the Redskins' no-name defense. Two more D-linemen, Markus White and Chris Neild, were also taken, and Dejon Gomes, Brandyn Thompson fill a need at corner. Washington kind of went overboard by taking three wide receivers in Leonard Hankerson, Niles Paul and Aldrick Robinson, but there has to be a complete overhaul at the position, because Santana Moss is gone, Jabar Gaffney is 30, and the most experienced player past that at the position is Roydell Williams…The group includes the likes of Anthony Armstrong, Taurus Johnson, Maurice Price, Brandon Banks and Terrence Austin. See now why they needed those wideouts? Washington also addressed a need at running back by adding Roy Helu and Evan Royster, who will be added to a young, inexperienced Redskins backfield that is topped by Ryan Torain, and also includes Andre Brown, James Davis, Shaun Draughn, Chad Simpson, Shawnbrey McNeal, and Keiland Williams. See a pattern?
(Later analysis: That backfield was pretty ridiculous, and by the end of the season, most of them were gone, leaving Helu on top. He is the expected starter.)
Thus ends my draft grade list. Credit to NFL.com and some other websites and magazines for a lot of information, ideas, and inspiration.
Now for my picks for undrafted free agents who will make an impact:
Darvin Adams, WR, Auburn - Carolina Panthers
Adams was a favorite target of Cam Newton at Auburn, and now they are together again in Carolina, where depth at wideout is quite important. If Adams makes the roster, and injuries strike, Adams could have an unexpected impact for the team.
Pat Devlin, QB, Delaware - Miami Dolphins
Miami has little depth at quarterback, and Devlin, a transfer from Penn State to Delaware and excellent prospect, was somehow not drafted, and the Dolphins may need him if Chad Henne is injured or plays badly.
Other interesting undrafted free agents:
Kris O'Dowd, C, USC - Arizona Cardinals
Noel Devine, RB, West Virginia - Philadelphia Eagles? Atlanta Falcons? Conflicting sources - Successor to Steve Slaton at WVU, is a great runner.
Josh Nesbitt, QB, Georgia Tech - Buffalo Bills - Played in an option offense, could be good in Wildcat.
Zach Pianalto, TE, North Carolina - Buffalo Bills
Mario Fannin, RB, Auburn - Denver Broncos
Brandon Saine, RB, Ohio State - Green Bay Packers
Jeff Maehl, WR, Oregon - Houston Texans - Was incredible at Oregon, apparently no one liked him enough to draft him.
Marc Schiechl, DL, Colorado School of Mines - Jacksonville Jaguars - What is the Colorado School of Mines!?
Nic Grigsby, RB, Arizona - Miami Dolphins
Mark Herzlich, LB, Boston College - New York Giants - Battled with cancer, great story.
Eddie McGee, WR, Illinois - Oakland Raiders - Of course Al Davis picks up the speedy former quarterback.
Jerrod Johnson, QB, Texas A&M - Philadelphia Eagles
Scott Tolzien, QB, Wisconsin - San Diego Chargers - San Diego needs a developmental backup to replace Billy Volek.
Jeremiah Masoli, QB, Oregon, Mississippi - San Francisco 49ers - Masoli was good at Oregon, but at Mississippi, he was not good at all. He lost to Jacksonville State.
Shaun Draughn, RB, North Carolina - Washington Redskins - Great, another running back!
Patrick Scales, Danny Aiken, Corey Adams, Ryan Coulson, Derek Chard, Aaron Feld, Christian Yount, John Stokes, Harry Flaherty, Tom McCarthy, Andrew Schulz, Various colleges, Various teams -
No one drafted a long snapper this year, or last year, and not many people even seem to acknowledge LS as a real position.
Interesting tidbits:
Ryan Coulson is part defensive end? What?
Tampa Bay actually signed two long snappers! Wow! So did Atlanta, their division rivals.
The highest-drafted long snapper of all time is Ryan Pontbriand, drafted by Cleveland, unless you count Zak DeOssie, a Giants snapper who was drafted as a linebacker, and Todd Thomas, who was drafted as a tackle.
This concludes my pre-2012 NFL Draft post. I know it's outdated, but maybe looking at last year's draft will help us predict this year's.
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