Pittsburgh Steelers Seven Round 2009 Mock Draft: Pre Pro Day Edition
I'd like to thank Blitz for giving me this opportunity to post this as a "story"; it's an honor, it truly is. I know some people have posted their own mocks, and I apologize for being repetitive but I've been working on this for the last three days.
Ok so believe it or not the draft is just under two months away, and I've already given this topic much thought (surprise, surprise). As a result of my draft craze, which began as early as in September, Blitz has decided to allow me to participate in the holy task of posting a Steelers mock draft, so here goes.
ROUND 1
Selection: Alex Mack, C, University of California
Since September I've sung the praises of Alex Mack, (pictured above) a center from the University of California.
Why I like Mack for this pick: I know picking a Center in the first round is practically unheard of, but at the 32nd overall pick, not many of the top linemen will be left, and Alex Mack is more than deserving of that high a pick. What will hopefully secure this is the fact that he didn't participate at the combine due to injury. Mack is the type of guy we could build an offensive line around. He's a phenomenal competitor with outstanding leadership qualities. Mack is built for the center position, and has outstanding run blocking abilities as well as a knack for clearing out defenders at the second level. He does need to be more consistent in pass protection, but he doesn't have major holes in that part of his game. I think that if added, he would have to battle out a solid veteran in Justin Hartwig, but once he does Mack would add a dynamic ability to both our run offense and passing game.
Video/Audio of Alex Mack:
Alternate Selection: Duke Robinson, OL, Oklahoma
ROUND 2
Selection: Patrick Chung, S, University of Oregon
Why I like Chung for this pick: Patrick Chung the safety out of Oregon, was recently brought to my attention by BTSC user paulamalu, and ever since I actually have been really impressed by what I have seen.
Let's face it, as solid as Ryan Clark has been, he isn't getting any younger. In addtion to that, his contract is soon going to expire (2009 I believe-please correct me if I'm wrong) and I don't know what kind of money he'll be asking for. So, instead of dreaming of a Taylor Mays-Troy Polamalu secondary, I think Patrick Chung will supply a much more realistic option for a lower risk than Mays.
What really stands out to me with Chung is his ability to play safety the Steeler way, in other words physical, smashmouth, knock-your-head-off style. In his career Chung wrapped up the ball carrier 370 times. No that's a real number, you're not dreaming. In addition to his skill at playing run support, Chung also has a more than solid ability of playing the pass coverage as well. His only disadvantages are that he can be beat deep occasionally and that he can be a little too physical and draw interference penalties. Bottom line on this kid is that he'll be 22 come football season, he's a more than effective blitzer/run support defensive back, and plays, tight, physical coverage. Did I mention he's also a returner? Regardless of where he ends up, Chung has a bright future ahead of him, that's why I'd love to see him in black and gold come April.
Video/Audio of Patrick Chung:
Alternate Selection: Herman Johnson, OG, LSU
ROUND 3
Selection: Xavier Fulton, OT, Illinois
Why I like Fulton for this pick: Believe it or not, Xavier Fulton, a guy that I inadvertently left out from my Potential Pittsburgh Steelers Offensive Line Prospects list, has probably seen his stock rise during the pre-Draft activities. was more of a stand-out athletically in the combine than Lydon Murtha. Fulton placed in the top performers in 5 of the workouts he took place in. Despite his athletic ability, Fulton has a big frame, standing at 6'4'' 302 pounds, with room to put on the lbs. Fulton possesses an above average ability to protect the passer, and use his athletic ability to make it into the second level. What sets Fulton back is the fact that he played defensive lineman for the first year of his collegiate career, so he is still developing as an offensive lineman. The best word to summarize him would be "raw" (www.nfl.com), as he is still learning to be more consistent with technique rather than just athletic ability.
Video/Audio of Xavier Fulton:
Highlights vs. Western Michigan this year.
Alternate Pick: Lydon Murtha, OT, Nebraska
ROUND 3 COMPENSATORY PICK
Selection: Mike Thomas, WR, University of Arizona
Why I like Thomas for this pick: The other day, I stated that Arizona WR, Mike Thomas was a major sleeper in this year's draft.At the Combine, Thomas blew away scouts with some ridiculous numbers. He jumped 40" in the vertical, ran a 4.40 in the 40 yard dash, and finished as a top performer in the broad jump, and 3 cone drill. Again, the combine isn't everything (just ask Tom Brady) but sure as hell counts for something.
With the departure of Nate Washington, the Steelers will be down to just 4 WR's and will miss Washington's speed. The solution, or replacement could very well be Thomas. Now I know there are some people reading this who'd prefer to pick up a veteran like Marvin Harrison or Laveranues Coles, but the simple fact is that those guys are just too old, and too expensive. It's not like Thomas would be in the the top 3 receievers depth chart wise, more of a 4th or 5th receiver role would fit his abilities. Despite his speed and vertical, Thomas possesses other skills that receivers must have in order to be successful. Hands, route running, versatility, are all part of his resume. But with every prospect there is a downside. Thomas is small-5'8" 195 lbs, and needs to be more consistent when attempting to grab the jump ball and watching the ball into his hands. Ultimately though, he could end up fitting that deep threat that the Steelers will want to bring back with the departure of Washington.
Video/Audio of Mike Thomas
Bad Quality Footage, Good Return
Audio on Feelings about the upcoming 2008 Season
Alternate Pick: Brian Robiskie, WR, Ohio State
ROUND 4
Selection: Scott McKillop, ILB, PItt.
Why I like McKillop for this pick: Well well well, another native kid, another solid linebacker. McKillop is a guy who flashes real solid talent for playing the linebacker position. In two years starting at Pittsburgh, he wracked up 288 tackles, 7 sacks, 3 Int's, and one defensive touchdown. In addition to his ability to wrap up the ball carrier, McKillop has the natural instincts of always knowing where the ball carrier is going to be and how to make the play on him. A two time All-Big East Linebacker, and the 2008 Big East DPOY, McKillop has proven time and again what a consistent player he is. In addition to the accolades, McKillop turned in a great combine, placing in the top performers in 5 categories. His only downsides are that he isn't the fastest guy around and he needs to play more physically on defense.
Though I'm not expecting to be the next James Farrior, he has similar qualities that the Steelers like to see in a linebacker. Even if he doesn't live up to the hype of his college career, he makes for a solid backup, and a possible special teams, contributor.
Video/Audio of Scott McKillop
Only thing I could find beside a crappy promo-Interview
Alternate Pick: Louis Vasquez, G, Texas Tech.
ROUND 5
Selection: Terrance Taylor, NT, University of Michigan
Why I like Terrance Taylor for this pick: Terrance Taylor is one of those guys you thought last year was gonna be a big day 1 pick in 2009. Wow did things change. Despite his drop off as a senior, Taylor is definitely worth looking at in the 5th round. At the end of 2009, we'll have a wave of unrestricted free agents that have been impact makers; Casey Hampton is included in this group. Now I'm not gonna say that Taylor is the next Big Snack, despite Taylor's need for a bra. No, I'm saving that for Terrence Cody, the enormous NT out of Bama, who will most likely be a first rounder in the 2010 draft. But getting back to Taylor, he is one of those guys that either will be or won't be, there's no in between. At 6' even, and 306 pounds, Taylor is built well for our 3-4 system, and has a lot of positives that make him an attractive prospect. He has a knack for disrupting the line and stuffing insides runs, and can occasionally make a big play in pursuit. He can also put some pressure on a QB when getting off the snap well enough. He has leadership qualities. However, poor conditioning and inconsistencies have been Taylor's major shortcomings which has led to his major drop in stock. Still, if Taylor can right the ship, he has the potential to be a talented 3-4 defensive tackle.
Video/Audio of Terrance Taylor:
Alternate Pick: Bruce Johnson, CB, Miami
ROUND 6
Selection: Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech
Why I like Harrell for this pick: Someone, please explain to me why a guy who threw for 134 career touchdowns, and over 15,000 yards is projected for the 6th round? Someone please explain this to me. Though I find it hard to believe he'll fall to our pick in the 6th round (am I reading the wrong source?), I think that if he's there the Steelers will take him, due to an increasing need for depth at QB. With Charlie Batch and Byron Leftwich most likely on the way out the door, and the current QB FA market pretty void, the Steelers will need to add someone at QB. If Harrell is there why the hell not? The guy has a solid arm, good decision-making, ability to make a play on the run,
On the other hand, Harrell's accuracy can be problematic, along with a inconsistent arm strength. Played in a spread offense. I could easily see Harrell going in the 4th or 5th round, but if in fact he does drop this far, I'd definitely take a shot at him.
Video/Audio of Graham Harrell
Alternate Pick: Best Offensive/Defensive Lineman available.
ROUND 7a -via Sean Mahan Trade
Selection: Jorvorskie Lane, is a FB from Texas A&M that I mentioned in a Big Back post not too long ago.
Why I like Lane for this pick: Despite Carey Davis' off the field contributions, his on the field contributions are lacking. This could be due to the Bruce Arians offensive scheme, or that the coaching staff doesn't have enough faith in Davis. In any case, adding depth with a 7th round pick can never hurt, and with Jorvorskie Lane, it's a benefit. In 4 years with the Aggies, Lane rushed for over 2,000 yards, and scored 49 rushing touchdowns. Impressive numbers to say the least, especially for a fullback. Think of him as our LeRon McClain. At 6' even, 285 pounds Lane packs a lot of punch. Despite being a good runner, and a sometimes devastating blocker, Lane flashes a lot of inconsistencies especially in the blocking area of his play. It may be a good idea to convert him to a RB, or at least utilize him in that way for most scenarios.
Video/Audio of Javorskie Lane
Alternate Pick: Best DB available.
ROUND 7b - Final Pick Of Draft
Selection: Patrick Turner, WR, USC
Why I like Turner for this pick: A big 6'5" 220 lbs, receiver, Pat Turner is a guy who can get vertical and make athletic catches. I think he could possibly give Dallas Baker a run for his money on the final roster. Turner had a very productive season this year at USC, with 49 catches, 741 yards and 10 touchdowns. Aside that, that's been about it for his career stat wise. His major flaws consist of lack of straight line speed and explosiveness, and the lack of using his size to his advantage. If he can correct his inconsistencies, he may become a surprise player in the NFL. If not he'll be a practice sqaud guy. Final analysis is that he's worth a look.
Video/Audio of Patrick Turner
So that's it for now. When pro days are done, I'll update this. Again, I'd like to thank Blitz for allowing me to post this as a story, and the BTSC users for their feedback.
Sources:
www.espn.com
www.nfl.com
www.walterfootball.com
www.youtube.com
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107 comments
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Comments
Is there any way to purchase this package right now?
I’ll give you my credit card number. I prefer Robiskie as a receiver and a defensive end somewhere instead of a quarterback…But this is one heck of a lot of work. Thanks a ton. Rec City.
Thoughtful discussion with a sense of history
Astute analysis, as usual
But I will dissent as to Chung. I don’t know much about him, but the primary thing the Steelers need from a free safety is a guy who does NOT get beat deep. Clark’s big time hits are just a bonus (I’m always baffled how he doesn’t miss more tackles with his disdain for using his arms/wrapping up). If this guy’s problem is biting on the play action or getting deep, he is not for Pittsburgh.
The answer to your question about Graham Harrell, why wouldn’t anyone take him before the 6th round: Danny Wuerffel and Jason White. Still, I think he’s worth a chance near the bottom of the draft.
by CarlWeathersMustache on Mar 4, 2009 12:32 AM EST reply actions
+1
I would like to see us either get another offensive lineman, or the best DL available. But other than that, the only complaint I have is that I would rather see Murtha in B&G because of his abilities. Great work though
+1
The FO will try and lock-up Ryan, as he has proven to be the best FS to play besided Troy. Chung is exactly how you would have described the now FA Anthony Smith, so I think the Steelers learned their lesson there. Also, FS is not a position that they’ll have as a priority in their minds, but rather CB, DT, DE and OL.
Also, QB would be a waste of a pick, as Dixon was drafted last year and they’ll always bring a UFA for an extra arm in camp.
by The_Nation_in_Mexico on Mar 4, 2009 9:53 AM EST up reply actions
As a die-hard duck, I’ve got to agree.
We’ll miss Chung, but he mostly played Rover/SS. That’s where his strength is. He has great closing speed, and takes great angles on the runner coming out of the backfield. He’s also always had that Polamalu-nack of getting in every play – somehow.
However, he isn’t a great Free Safety option. While he filled that roll at the end of his senior year, it was only because our other Safety didn’t play with the same field awareness, and he got beat far more.
Chung would be a great relief/depth for Polamalu, but if you want him to start and have a Chung+Polamalu safety combination, I would start feeling nervous for the pressure your corners would be under. I also feel very sorry for every running back that would play against Pittsburgh.
Chung can play the pass, and can cover better than most at the college level, but at an NFL caliber, I think he’ll be average at best.
He’s the best in the draft for run support though.
It's spelled "S-H-U-G-A-R-S-U-B-S-T-I-T-U-T-E"
Nice
Selecting Chung in R2 worries me, as Clark has been phenomenal in ‘08 and I’d rather see a CB here, but I think your reasoning is sound. We’ll go BPA, and Chung looks like a good’n’. Hopefully he isn’t a block-head like Anthony Smith. Do we know if Chung is sharp or dull?
Looks like my post is similar to ’stachio’s. Ya beat me to it.
Anyways, good to see an mid-round OT in there too.
+1
Great post, if the draft works out anything like this, we will be well resourced on the quest for #7
BLITZBURGH IS BACK
Nice work but...
I think that a several of your selections are unrealistic. For example,
- Brian Robiskie would not be available for our 3rd round comp pick. The Steelers would have to take him at 2.32 if they wanted him. Don’t see him making it to 4.32 or 4.34.
- Ditto for Scott Mckillop in round 4. Maybe he makes it into round 4, but not to 4.32.
- I doubt Patrick Turner lasts until 7.32.
Of course, there are surprises every year. So maybe I’ll be proven wrong. But I don’t think so. I would love it though if the draft played out this way, although I wouldn’t draft Harrell and I have reservations about Terrance Taylor.
Excellent Mock Draft. If that is what happens we are in some serious competition for a (sorry Mike Tomlin) repeat. I never heard of Mike Thomas, but he is fast and can get that jump ball. Future Fitzgerald maybe? Harrell I think will be off the board because at one point everyone thought he was the Heisman Trophy winner. He would be a good pick. Terrence Taylor as I commented previously is the NT of the future for the Steelers. I like the 2 o-line picks. Why are we getting a 3rd round compensatory pick?
Awesome post
J Mike
Alan Fanaca is why we are getting that 3rd round pick.
"Damnit mom! You almost ran over Greg Lloyd!"
at an autograph signing back in 95. He walked out in front of our minivan, and my mom almost hit him. He apologized.
by PA ARMY OFFICER on Mar 4, 2009 8:36 AM EST up reply actions
BIG BACK
I love RB J. lane. At 280 lbs He would make a great short yardage back in that Steeler mold. Bettis was about 280 lbs He’s last three years in Pittsburgh and no one could stop him. The greatest big back to ever play in the NFL period. I also think Pittsburgh sould trade for Michael Bush RB Oakland Raiders. He’s 265 lbs with quick feet !
I really don't have any problem with any of these
Just that some of them may not be around in the rounds chosen. Also it depends on the alternatives when each position in the draft comes up. But hey, it’s all speculation anyway huh? All that said, this would be a pretty good draft.
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
Pat White
Anyone else see that Pat White, on the NFL network, commented that he would LOVE to be a Steeler? I doubt he would be available but I would love to have him!
"When he gained control of the ball, the ball was breaking the plane and he fell into the field of play."--referee Walt Coleman
Quit squakin' my little bitter black birds.
If he's around in the 3rd round
He will be a Steeler
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
I don't think I'd do it that early
Though he may truly be the BPA if he’s there at #32
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
I definitely wouldn't go as high as a 3rd rounder for White though.
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 4, 2009 2:44 PM EST up reply actions
It depends
1.) on who we got rounds 1 and 2
2:) who else is out there.
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
I remember an article mid season, maybe the by week, but
can’t remember the source. Mikey T went down to WVU to take a closer look at mr White and came away highly impressed. wouldn’t be surprised at all if we take a shot at him, but i don’t think he lasts through the second round either.
it's on nfl.com now
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 5, 2009 2:46 PM EST up reply actions
That's pretty interesting.
Of course West Virgina is like the extended version of Western Pennsylvania but I like White’s athleticism, and a lot of people think he would make a good WR.
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 4, 2009 2:44 PM EST up reply actions
D-Line
I like this in terms of getting needs filled without reaching, but I’d like to see them grab a true 3-4 Defensive End instead of ILB.
I really don’t think we’ll aim to have 2 developmental QBs on the roster. I see no way that the steelers will draft that guy, though he could work out very well for another team. I concur with Giant Mustache above about Chung. He doesn’t seem like a proper fit here.
Individual guys are obviously hard to target in the later rounds for mockers. Nice job with lots of information to digest about individual guys. For me to like any mock draft for the steelers with 9 picks though it will have to include these numbers. There’s no consensus of course, but it would be interesting to think about what kind of breadown others would like to see:
2 OLs
2 DEs/NTs
1 WR
1 CB
1 LB
This is only 7 positions, by my completely arbitrary assessment, the only thing I’d want more from your draft is another DE, and I’d prefer a higher DE/NT than 5th. I’d rather sacrifice picks to move up than pick QBs and WRs, but I wouldn’t mind a 7th round FB to come in.
Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.
QBs
I agree with that as well. I would also say that everything I’m hearing is that Batch wants to come back and Leftwich might still come back (he hasn’t gotten any real interest in FA, has he?), in which case Batch may retire.
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Mar 4, 2009 3:24 PM EST up reply actions
Shocked
no team signed Lefty yet. Though if no team wants Lefty, then no one will want Batch. Maybe the Steelers will go into the season with only Big Ben and Dixon. If something happens to Ben, Batch will only be a phone call away. I know it is a bit risky, but this would free up a roster spot and cap room for a development player and get Dixon some much needed reps.
Leftwich
will be signed either right before or after the draft. Teams are still strategizing.
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
Nice work
I would love to get Thomas there but for some reason I think he will be gone. I also like the McKillop and Tuner picks.
Under NO circumstances will we take Lane though. The guy is a lazy P.O.S. and he would never work here.
The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics
ahh come on
He was around Dennis Fran Pants Franccione. Surely Tomlin could get him to put down the fork and knife and get to work, no?
by Michael Bean on Mar 4, 2009 10:16 AM EST up reply actions
I dont know...
Sherman hardly ran him this year either.
The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics
yea
They decided to air it out when McGoo went down. Wtf, why are we talking Aggies football! Haha, I know we’re both big 12 dudes but come on..hehe.
In all seriousness, I don’t know what kind of future Lane might have in the NFL. He has good feet, which is imperative. He won’t be asked to be a feature back, or even a B Jacobs trype bruising back. BUt he could fill a niche I’d think.
by Michael Bean on Mar 4, 2009 10:39 AM EST up reply actions
Haha
Didn’t mean to hijack the thread… I just wonder if he can ever keep the weight off.
The Ralphie Report - University of Colorado Athletics
no, im jk man
Anything’s game. I had forgotten about him this past year I suppose after he seemingly was a huge part of lots of Aggie games his soph and jr year
by Michael Bean on Mar 4, 2009 11:22 AM EST up reply actions
I hijack them all the time
noone will get on you though. I even misspelled hijack and no one got on me. lol
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
DL and OL will be steeler priorities
You are really out of touch with what the steelers needs are in this upcoming draft. You have them basically drafting alot of “fluff” instead of the basic weaknesses that they will be addressing. The defensive line is aging and in dire need of upgrading and infusing some youth to it. Look for them to address this with one of their first 3 picks. They will address the Offensive line probably with the first pick, but I’m not thinking Alex Mack. Probably the kid out of Arizona(Briton). Safety is definitely not on their list of needs. They will be looking for another good wideout since it isn’t clear if Sweed is a keeper. Look for the steelers to focus on DL and OL, along with a solid wideout. Then the other picks will be “fluff” or just icing to the cake.
Agree with Bigsteeler
Ther is no way we are waiting until the 5th round to address the defensive line. It is a major issue now that our starters are all over 30.I don’t see us drafting 2 WR’s either unless one of them could contribute as a special teamer.
How about I have freaking had it with "mock drafts". I mean, one or two are fine, but I have seen 3,000 versions of mock drafts for each team now. How about we just wait until the real draft and see what happens. Then we can have posts talking about who we ACTUALLY drafted and impacts on the team. All this mock drafting is pretty useless unless someone wants to be able to say: "my mock draft was closest"! Good job!!!!! golf clap for a half second
The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done."
-George Carlin
Can you please provide a list of topics you find acceptable for this blog? We will all make sure to follow it to keep you happy. I promise.
Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.
Sure,
Anything except the 3,000th mock draft. Pretty simple really.
The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done."
-George Carlin
if you hate them so much
why the hell do you click on the post? Just ignore it then. It makes no sense to come on to a post and bitch about the post’s topic. You have the freedom to choose, please respect other’s rights to post what they want.
agreed
Don’t be a dick and hate on someone else’s post where they clearly did a lot of work and did it well. I don’t like reading about NASCAR so I don’t go to any NASCAR blogs. I don’t go to their blogs and tell them I find NASCAR stupid.
by Chicago Steeler on Mar 4, 2009 12:47 PM EST up reply actions
I've ignored the previous 2,999.
it’s just getting to the point where I am sick of seeing “mock draft” in the title. I’m not infringing on others rights to post. Go ahead, mock draft it up! I was just stating aloud an observation!
The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done."
-George Carlin
Actually
If you really read them you can find some things out that will make the draft more interesting. They are doing some research that will save time if you want to see what is available. If it’s not your cup of tea though…..so be it I guess. You can always read silly stuff like my Hump Day post. It gives you a chance to psot your opinion too. Errrr I mean you can post your opinion without being roasted.
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
To the hump day post I go.........
The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done."
-George Carlin
A suggestion Cdsumm: Why don’t you create a fanpost about a very very interesting topic that the rest of us won’t be able to resist responding to. Since it will be so much more important than this mock draft, you will have effectively subverted all attention away from such a useless service as a mock draft. Once you post this incredibly intriguing piece of literature, maybe you can garner golf claps for half a second.
Maybe you can talk about the score of last weeks game? Oh, that’s right, there was no game last week. That’s because it’s the off-season. Guess what happens in the off-season? The draft, FA, training camp.
I would also like to inform you about a news flash: We will be talking about the upcoming season before it starts. I expect that’s not quite kosher with you, but I just thought I’d forewarn you in case it blindsides you. We will probably even predict the outcome of the season and which players will make what impact. Scary stuff to be sure and that is why I thought I would caution you against reading about the upcoming season elsewhere and then coming onto BTSC and seeing people talking about the upcoming season for the 3,000th time.
Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.
let it go brotha
He just said he didnt like the Draft. Prefer Cdsumm and others in future to at least fit that sentiment in around something more constructive. Hell, I wish we were talking about the games too, but we must wait for now. And some love the draft.
But let’s move on.
Yeah, I’ve been hating too much lately. Need to drink some herbal tea in the afternoon. Will work on that.
Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.
herbal tea, or “herbal” tea?
I'll drink your Milkshake, I'll drink it up!
by Frank Mineo (DYMS) on Mar 4, 2009 1:09 PM EST up reply actions
its all good
Im the one who threw the ‘flag’ that made his comment red. Didnt much like it either but I think we all get the point of when and where to say we’re tired of the draft it that’s indeed what we think.
Onward :)
Wow,
You spent entirely too much energy on that reply. I don’t want to write a post "about a very very interesting topic that the rest of you won’t be able to resist responding to". Look, I’m sure it’s a brilliant piece. Perhaps I shouldn’t have been so sarcastic in my wording, that it got your panties in a bunch. Let me try again.
Boy oh boy there are a lot of posts out there on the mock drafts. As I surf around, that’s all there seem to be on other blogs as well. It seems like I have seen thousands of them. Sometimes I don’t understand why people do them? Perhaps it’s the satisfaction of being right after the draft?
The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done."
-George Carlin
somehow that seemed even more sarcastic...hahaha
I'll drink your Milkshake, I'll drink it up!
by Frank Mineo (DYMS) on Mar 4, 2009 2:16 PM EST up reply actions
I think Inigo Montoya might dispute your definition of the term sarcasm, but I am not the masked one.
Don't worry about the haters. Haters only hate.
Perhaps it was more the tone I was saying it with as I wrote.
I see your point though. However, the word does mean what I think it does.
The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done."
-George Carlin
What's inconceivable?
The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done."
-George Carlin
+1
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 5, 2009 2:47 PM EST up reply actions
Did someone force you to read this one?
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Mar 4, 2009 3:27 PM EST up reply actions
I did
I put a gun to his head. It’s my fault. Here’s the gun shoot me. (gun)
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
Great write up HSS
Always love your stuff. It amazes me how you are able to break down so many unheard of guys. One thing I’m curious about? While I can see your line of reasoning, why didn’t you address corner or dline earlier? I just don’t see us taking two WRs and a QB and a RB when we have other more pressing needs. You make a compelling case though.
Thanks
and yea, I know a lot of people are nervous about depth at CB and on the Defensive Line. I’m confident in William Gay to fill in for Bmac and behind him we’ve got a couple of guys who by no means are starters, but I don’t see us having much of a drop off in production in our secondary play. Of course there will be growing pains with Gay, but the payoff, I think will be a very solid DB. If the Steelers do draft a corner early that’s fine with me too; I was so angry when the Jets (the one team I prayed wouldn’t trade up in front of us) stole Revis in 2007 but Timmons is just fine.
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 4, 2009 2:53 PM EST up reply actions
congrats, HSS...
…they linked you to the steelers page at si.com
by cliff harris is still a punk! on Mar 4, 2009 12:46 PM EST reply actions
Oh Really?
I’ll have to check that out. Thanks for the heads up
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 4, 2009 2:53 PM EST up reply actions
Damn that's awsome
I guess that was what “Post for distribution” was
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 4, 2009 3:48 PM EST up reply actions
yes, hence our brief email exchange last night about little things getting done before posting
worked out all the way around. good job.
nice that was definitely worth it
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 4, 2009 6:23 PM EST up reply actions
Good stuff HSS
But a few things.
I don’t think Chung falls to us in round 2, nor do I think Taylor falls to us in round 5.
Excellent post as usual, though.
Good stuff HSS
While I’m not on the Mack bandwagon (or Mack truck?) quite as much as you are, this is a pretty good look at some guys we could draft.
One issue, though. I think we’re going to go a different direction with DL than Taylor. We usually don’t pick big, fat, later round DT’s. Last year we had a shot at Ahtyba Rubin, Red Bryant, and Frank Okam at various points in the draft but passed on them for guys like Hills, Humpal, and Dixon. Even when we have drafted DT’s late (Harris, McBean, Nua), it’s typically been 3-4 DE types instead of NT’s. If we draft a big nose tackle, it could be Ron Brace if he fell to us in the second, but much more likely would be Dorell Scott in the third. He’s a very under tha radar guy, he has a good DT frame, and I think he could take a big step forward with some good Stillers DL coaching.
There are also a number of interesting 3-4 DE prospects scattered all over the draft, and I think it’s more likely that we’ll target that position than NT after the first couple guys are gone. Evander Hood or Fili Moala would be decent options in the first day. After that, Alex Magee, Vance Walker, or Nader Abdallah would be good picks, especially for the running game. Some guys who are better pass rushers and closer to a Keisel type are Ricky Jean-Francois, John Faletoese, Khalif Mitchell, Terrance Knighton, Zach Potter, and Rulon Davis. Those guys are all plus athletes at 3-4 DE, and most should be available deeper in the draft or even as FA’s. We could make good use of our two 7th rounders ther if we wanted to.
charity standing orders
good stuff
Bad, you should do one of these :)
I’d even do the formatting and pictures like i did here mostly.
heh
I’d like to, but I’ve actually been really busy. For the most part I just know about the bigger names at positions we need that we’ve been following for most of the year with few of the recent dramatic risers and notes from the college All-Star games sprinkled in. Most meaningful thoughts and knowledge I have are posted in various comments around here (ie not a big Maualuga fan, think Mack isn’t a great zone fit, I still heart Andre Smith). The one area I have looked a little closer at is the DL, which, as usual, is filled with overweight sloths and underperformers.
charity standing orders
get on that!
to be honest, i been waiting for one from you as well. This is an adequate fix until then, though HSS.
You Mel Kiper Sr. or something?
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
Yea Mack has been my pick for round one since that post.
I’m glad someone remembers the cheesy nickname I gave him too.
Yea in terms of the future at DT, I want to wait for Terrence Taylor out of Bama in next year’s draft. That is unless he has a monster senior year and skyrockets up to the top 5 picks, but I’m getting ahead of myself.
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 4, 2009 2:56 PM EST up reply actions
As I said in another post somewhere
The thing I like about Mack is his wrestling background. He was an awesome high school wrestler. Wrestlers usually have the technique down to be successful making him anything but a reach.
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
Carlton Haselrig
this type worked out before for us and Mack has way more football experience. lets just hope Mack doesn’t like the sauce as much
Another was Leon Searcy
"The team that scores the most points wins."
John Madden
(Master of the obvious)
Trading up?
This is great work, and I either agree with or am intrigued by your projections. A few new names I was not familiar with. Here’s a question – do you think if one of these guys is on the board as we get close that the Steelers might seek to move up and get the player they want? This may not be a 1st round move, but a 2nd or 3rd round. IF so, what’s the thinking on who they’d really love to get if they had a shot?
They will move up if they have a player they really want....
Santonio & Troy P. are prime examples of recent moves up in the draft.
I'll drink your Milkshake, I'll drink it up!
by Frank Mineo (DYMS) on Mar 4, 2009 3:11 PM EST up reply actions
What I was contemplating adding on to the end of this post
was a surprise pick for the first round. In other words a guy that will be this year’s Rashard Mendenhall (just more production). As far as trading up goes, I could see us making an effort to nab Rey Maualuga, the ILB fro USC if he falls past the 20th overall pick.
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 4, 2009 3:24 PM EST up reply actions
I haven’t heard anyone that they are super high on so far, so I am struggeling to find a trade-up worthy player
I'll drink your Milkshake, I'll drink it up!
by Frank Mineo (DYMS) on Mar 4, 2009 3:40 PM EST up reply actions
I would think
it would only be an OT who slipped, and Oher is the only one projected to drop (well Andre Smith, but I don’t think the Steelers will want him).
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Mar 4, 2009 3:41 PM EST up reply actions
Enjoyed the Analysis
But I think it’s unrealistic in a few places.
No way Chung lasts that long, I’m not even sure he makes it half way through the second much less all the way to you guys. Same thing with McKillop and Taylor. The reason you’re probably high on them is the same reason everyone else is; they all have done really well in the Senior Bowl and other post-college scouting events. Just my opinion.
Let's get the Texans a better fight song.
IMHO U have done a very good work, mostly agree but...
We may try in the 2º round Jarron Gilbert DE if he still is available, that I doubt; in the 3º round depending how this draft is moving I take Chris Baker NT or Pat White QB/WR/KR for abilities, so it make us probably changing to an OL player in the 3º compensatory.
By the way is very weird that We may choose in the 1º round a very similar player as Saturday that make noise probably coming to town, and a better second level blocker
O sales tickets,...and let D rest a little, and D Win Championships.
And also changing that 6º round pick toward OL or DL
O sales tickets,...and let D rest a little, and D Win Championships.
My $.02
Good Article lots of good research, Why didn’t Jorvorskie Lane play alot in his senior year? He did real good his sophmore and Junior years. I really hope we can pick up Alex Mack in the films I seen of him he don’t quit till the whistle.
changed offenses
Went from running the option to running the spread. Senior Option QB got hurt and young phenom QB took over and they aired it out tons. PLus they were behind tons; playing catch up = to the air the Fighting Farmers go.
by Michael Bean on Mar 5, 2009 12:57 AM EST up reply actions
Great job kid
It’s always tough being the first one out of the gate with an extensive seven-round projected draft but I think you’ve done an outstanding job. Well-researched and you had a game-plan for what we needed and stuck with it.
I agree with about half your picks: Mack, Fulton, Thomas, McKillop are all good picks and it’s quite possible they will be available where you have them slotted. Chung is a good player and actually I agree with you that safety is more of a need than most people say. Clark is going into his last year, both our starters play a physical game and have been injured at times, and we just cut a recent high draft pick at safety. Adds up to a safety being picked at some point in this draft. But in the second round, I think a CB will be a bigger priority.The other picks you’ve made I’m not high on but hey, it’s your call. Overall, I think your draft is missing a CB and a DE. If you had CB Jairus Byrd in the second round and DE Everette Pedescleaux in the fifth, I’d love it. Guys who can’t get in shape for their draft season (Taylor, Lane) are not my cup of tea. Harrell will be an NFL backup for someone, probably not us. Good value for someone late in the draft where you have him.
One thing you will find over the next six weeks is that some of the better mock drafts and scouting services out there will be revising their lists as they get more accurate information from sources close to NFL teams. Keep it going HSS!!!!
thanks
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 5, 2009 2:53 PM EST up reply actions
oh and nice job on the research,
I appreciate the work done here.
Great job HHS
This is good stuff. I don’t agree with all your pick, but it was a fun read. You brought up a number of players I will have to do some research on. I find your safety pick in round 2 very interesting. Over the last week, I have started to get a feeling that the Steelers may draft a FS in round 2 or 3. I am hoping no earlier than 3.
In you research, how many of the WR’s have also been kick returners? If
Well
I’ve seen Maclin, Thomas, and Harvin (even though he wasn’t used much in college) as potential great ones. Heyward-Bey will probably get a shot with his speed, Mike Wallace ran a 4.33 in his 40, but those are the only guys I’ve seen so far. I’m sure I’m missing a couple but those are the stand outs
To the tune of the classic children's song "This Old Man" (the part with nick nack patty whack)
Big Snack, Silverback, take the Dawg Pound's Bone, the Black and Gold sent the Brownies crying home.
by HighSchoolSteeler on Mar 5, 2009 2:52 PM EST up reply actions
We need offensive linemen...
I think the Steelers will draft more than just two offensive linemen. I do like the second round pick though.
more OL draft picks?
Doubt if we’ll use more than 2 picks on the OL. Depth at all positions is needed in this league to win a Lombardi. We proved that this year and quite nicely i may add. We’ll also start thinking about possible FA losses in the next 2 years and at this point it looks like next year’s list could be crucial. We just spent a nice chunk on 3 OL in the first week of FA and we may still bring back Essex. We have our starting line back (no matter how bad or good any of us think they are). Hills and Legursky on deck. Not sure if Capizzi or Parquet will amount to anything. Are those two even still with us? Possibly not after camp this year. So i don’t see more than 2 picks for the OL, one to come in and play if needed and one for depth.
Turner
I liked the coverage, don’t agree with all the picks, but good job. I really liked your Turner pick. I was surprised that he was in the draft this year because I’ve heard nothing about him draft-wise, meanwhile he’ll probably be the best WR drafted on the second IMO. The guy has the size, speed, route running ability, and that was before I saw those WRs of USC tear up the PSU secondary in Rose Bowl

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