2010 NFL 4 round Mock Draft : Updated 01/25
Ok so I was going to wait until after the Senor Bowl and Super Bowl to expand my mock draft, but without the Steelers in the playoffs I've had to focus my attention on something. As always I look forward to your questions, comments, and conversations.
1. St. Louis Rams: Jimmy Clausen QB, Notre Dame
This pick is not going to change from QB unless the Rams find a QB in free agency like Jason Campbell or trade for one. Their number one priority has to be to find a new Quarterback. In the last two years they have passed on Matt Ryan and Mark Sanchez. Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh is a great player but he’s not going to single-handedly wins games for them. Clausen had a great season despite his teams overall poor play and scouts will love the fact that he plays in a pro-style offense under center. Heading into an uncapped year means the Rams can dump Marc Bulger’s salary without any future consequences.
2. Detroit Lions: Ndamukong Suh DT, Nebraska
What the Lions need most is an impact player. This team needs playmakers everywhere other than QB and TE. They need a cornerstone LT to protect their 40 million dollar man in Matt Stafford but Suh is too great a player to pass on. After watching Suh absolutely dominate Texas’ lineman in the Big12 championship to the tune of 4 & ½ sacks and being the first defensive player since 1997 to be invited to the Heisman ceremony, he looks to be the best defensive lineman prospect since Warren Sapp. At this pick, the only other options I can see them going with are Russell Okung or Eric Berry. But if Suh is available they would be crazy to pass on him.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Gerald McCoy DT, Oklahoma
The Bucs messed themselves up winning just enough games to take them out of the Suh sweepstakes. Unfortunately he is no longer available but getting McCoy is not a bad option. Many consider him to be the most technically sound DT in this draft, even more so than Suh. Not having a need for a QB or LT means that this pick would pretty much only be Eric Berry or perhaps even Derrick Morgan if they decide to not go with McCoy. Trading back with a pick this high isn’t really much of an option as other teams will not want to play the amount of guaranteed money expected to a top 3 pick.
4. Washington Redskins: Sam Bradford QB, Oklahoma
Regardless of whether or not you’re a Jason Campbell fan the fact remains that this team is not winning with him. I know a lot of the problems are because of the injuries to the offensive line but Snyder is going to go with a flashy, big name like Bradford, especially now that Jim Zorn has been fired and Mike Shanahan has been hired as the new head coach. As ESPN has reported, Bradford is having his shoulder operated on by the renowned Dr. James Andrews, who also just happens to be the Redskins team doctor. So Snyder will definitely have the inside track on whether Bradford’s shoulder is going to hold up. If Snyder doesn’t think Bradford’s shoulder will hold up they will target Russell Okung or Bruce Campbell since no other QB is worthy of a pick this high.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Russell Okung OT, Oklahoma State
Matt Cassell needs a LT that will give him enough time to throw the ball down field. KC spent a lot of money on Cassell and it would be nice if they got a return on their investment. It would also allow them to move 2008 1st round pick Brandon Albert to LG, his natural position, since it doesn't seem like he can make it playing on the outside. Okung is the top OT in the draft and would be a great addition to the Chiefs O-line. He's athletic, uses his hands very well, and has quick feet to get out in front of speed rushers. If they are somehow still confident that Albert can play LT then this pick could change to Eric Berry or even Terrence Cody. This would be extremely high for Cody but GM Scott Pioli has shown last year with Tyson Jackson that he isn’t afraid to draft on need over value.
6. Seattle Seahawks: Eric Berry S, Tennessee
I’ve changed this pick to Berry because with two early first round picks, there is plenty of OT talent but Berry is too good to pass on. If Okung were available they would probably go for him, but given Bruce Campbell’s injury history they will elect to go with Berry would many consider an Ed Reed clone. Not only myself but every draft pundit you hear, including Mel Kiper and Todd McShay of ESPN, have said that Berry is an absolute stud and top player of this draft. Berry is a nightmare for opposing QB's. College teams don't even throw in his direction. He's got a nose for the ball and is a serious threat to take a pick back to the house every time.
7. Cleveland Browns: Joe Haden CB, Florida
Cleveland needs help everywhere except for LT where they have Joe Thomas. A lot of draft lovers think they will target a QB, but I’m not sure the franchise is quite ready to give up on Brady Quinn, especially when there is no more 1st round talents QB’s left, although they may target one in the later rounds. Haden is the only elite corner in this draft class and landing him would be a decent consolation prize after missing out on Berry. If they elect to keep the 3-4 defense this pick may turn to Rolando McClain.
8. Oakland Raiders: Taylor Mays S, USC
As many who have read my mock draft before already know, I’m not very high on Mays. He plays without discipline, has stiff hips, takes poor angles, and is usually more worried about laying someone out rather than holding his coverage. He will stumble out of the top 10 to 15 on draft day if he falls past Oakland. Unfortunately with Clausen and Bradford gone Oakland won’t get a replacement for the failed JaMarcus Russell experiment. Don’t be surprised if Davis goes with Florida DE Carlos Dunlap, whose freakish measurables Davis with also love. If Joe Haden can run a sub 4.4 at the combine he would immediately jump to the top of Oakland’s/Al Davis’ list if he’s available.
9. Buffalo Bills: Bruce Campbell OT, Maryland
The Bills will look to fill their biggest need, the gaping hole left by the Jason Peters trade to Philly. Many consider Campbell to be the top OT, ahead of Okung, if not for his injury history. They may also consider McClain to help shore up that horrendous run defense. There’s also an outside chance they may pick Derrick Morgan but it’s unlikely since they selected pass rusher Aaron Maybin in the first round of last years draft.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars: Derrick Morgan DE, Georgia Tech
The Jags young receiving corps has come on this year and as such seems to be no longer a dire position of need. This team needs a DE as the Jags make the transition back to after a woeful attempt at using a 3-4. Morgan has distinguished himself as the top DE for a 4-3 as he is an excellent pass rusher. Florida QB Tim Tebow may become are real option for them, especially since team owner Wayne Weaver had said previously that he would draft him given the opportunity. They could really use a big name to lure fans to the game so they don’t eventually become the L.A. Jaguars. I know he isn’t a first round talent but picking him wouldn’t be about talent, it would be about selecting a local hero who will bring fans to the game.
11. Denver Broncos(via Chicago Bears): Rolando McClain ILB, Alabama
Look for the Broncos to take the best defensive player available. McClain is a natural leader, is continuing to rise up draft boards, and would be a perfect fit considering he already plays in a 3-4 defense at Alabama. The Broncos have very few holes to fill as they have plenty of young talent that will develop over time. But after going 6-0 they have been exposed for their lack of the deep ball. If given the opportunity they may look to go QB with this pick as they really need a strong armed QB that can sling it downfield, especially with a receiving core of Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokley, and Brandon Marshall, but only if Bradford manages to slip this far. Another consideration would be WR Dez Bryant since they make look to trade troubled receiver Brandon Marshall.
12. Miami Dolphins: Dez Bryant WR, Oklahoma State
I know team Architect Bill Parcells typically doesn’t draft WR’s in the first round but none of the talent available that fills a position of need is worthy of this pick. They could trade back to the end of the first round and target Jerry Hughes which would fill their greatest position of need. Previously I’ve had them taking Alabama’s Terrence Cody but Parcells may not look favorably on Cody’s weight issues They may also consider Tenn. NT Dan Williams. The suspension of Bryant for lying about conversations with Deion Sanders will not hurt is draft stock. He’s got all the intangibles you look for in a receiver and looks a lot like Andre Johnson did when he came out of Miami. He’s the type of receiver who would be perfect for the progression of young QB Chad Henne considering their patience has worn thin with supposed no.1 WR Ted Ginn.
13. San Francisco 49ers: Anthony Davis OT, Rutgers
The 49ers biggest need is for a RT and they find a great mauler in Davis, who has continued to shoot up draft boards due to his enormous potential. They may also consider taking a NT like Dan Williams or Terrence Cody considering current nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin will be a free agent. The 49ers also need help in the secondary so Earl Thomas may be an option for them as well.
14. Seattle Seahawks (via Denver Broncos): Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
Neither Walter Jones nor Sean Locklear can seem to stay healthy, with Jones retirement seeming like a certainty at the end of the season. Taking Bulaga, who has had a down season with injuries and a thyroid condition but would be a perfect fit at RT at the pro level with his work ethic and run-blocking ability, would really help rebuild their line for the future. They may also look for a RB, especially since the electrifying Spiller is still on the board, but they should be able to grab either Cal’s Jahvid Best or Georgia Tech’s Jonathan Dwyer in the second round at a greater value.
15. New York Giants: Earl Thomas S, Texas
Selecting Thomas would fill a big need for the G-men. They could also use a replacement for Kareem McKenzie who is over 30 and starting to show his age. They may also follow the trend and continue to stockpile defensive linemen in which case Carlos Dunlap would be an option. MLB Antonio Pierce’s play has dropped of considerably this year but with McClain already off the board they will have to wait as this is too high for Brandon Spikes.
16. Tennessee Titans: Carlos Dunlap DE, Florida
Who would have thought that after an 0-6 start that Vince Young would salvage their season? They have multiple needs but Young’s play means they won’t be looking for a QB. Cornerback is their biggest need but without one worthy of this pick they’ll address their D-line which has been exposed by the loss of Albert Haynesworth to free agency. Anyone who’s read my mock draft before knows I’m not big on Dunlap and I have likened him to Vernon Gholston. But there’s no denying his physical gifts and maybe the Titans can get him to mature.
17. San Francisco 49ers(via Carolina Panthers): C.J. Spiller RB, Clemson
After having taken care of their need for a RT with their first pick in the round, they get the luxury of bolstering their RB corps. What they need is secondary help and rush linebackers, but with none worthy of this pick they will target Spiller who would be an immediate change of pace, impact player to compliment Frank Gore.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dan Williams NT, Tennessee
Without question the Steelers greatest need is in the secondary but with Earl Thomas already of the board this pick has to be Williams. Current NT Casey Hampton is 32 years old and with two Super Bowl rings already on his chubby fingers he may seek a big pay day somewhere else. The Steelers also really need a safety who would eventually replace Ryan Clark given that he’s in the final year of his contract and he’s over 30 years old, and replace Tyrone Carter who played horribly week in and week out in Troy Polamalu’s absence. I’m positive Ryan Clark will take a discount to finish his career in the Burgh which would allow any safety we draft the time to learn the Steelers complex scheme. In the event that they don’t draft a safety in the first round there’s still going to be some talent in round two such as South Florida’s Nate Allen and Georgia Tech’s Morgan Burnett, or in the third with Georgia’s Reshad Jones. Cornerback could also be another option considering none of the rookies from last year have seemed to distinguish themselves, although it’s definitely too early to tell. It wouldn't surprise me to see the Steelers trade up and target Joe Haden. The offensive line for the most part got better with every week during the season and no longer seems like a dire position of need. Idaho’s Mike Iupati could fill the one weak point at RG where Darnell Stapleton and Trai Essex are lacking and rookie Craig Urbik didn’t show much during the off season. He’s a big road grader and could possibly slide over and play RT if Willie Colon leaves via free agency. Although this is a little high to consider any lineman other than tackle. Of course there’s also a chance the Steelers may be able to get him or Alabama OG Mike Johnson in the second or third round. To a lesser extent would be to find an eventual replacement for James Farrior. His play declined dramatically this year, he’s 34 years old, and since it takes a couple years for linebackers to learn the system anyway it would be nice to find his replacement now. Keyarn Fox has filled in admirably at ILB for Lawrence Timmons but is not a permanent solution. Besides, Fox is too valuable as a special teamer. If he’s available we should definitely take Rolando McClain or even try to trade up for him. A lot of people are high on Florida ILB Brandon Spikes, who may be great against the run but is somewhat of a liability in zone coverage. An option in the third round would be TCU ILB Daryl Washington. A player I really like in the later rounds would be Baylor’s ILB Joe Pawelek although I suspect the Steelers would rather target a homer like PSU’s Sean Lee. After watching him in the Orange Bowl, I really like Iowa’s Pat Angerer in the later rounds as well. Clemson RB C.J. Spiller would be a slightly long-shot option if he were available. Willie Parker is most likely not going to be resigned in the off season and Spiller would be a great speedy compliment to Mendenhall’s power for a lot less cost than Parker.
19. Atlanta Falcons: Navarro Bowman OLB, PSU
The Falcons will take the best defensive player available, particularly an OLB or DE. Previously I had them taking Ole’ Miss. DE Greg Hardy but he has some injury issues the last two years and wasn’t even able to finish out this season. Bowman is often overlooked but had an absolute beast of a season and would be a great addition to this defense. They would also consider a DB is one manages to distinguish themselves at the combine.
20. Houston Texans: Damian Williams WR, USC
The Texans need help in multiple areas, specifically on defense if they let the unhappy Dunta Robinson leave via free agency, but without any of the top safeties or Joe Haden available look for them to add to an already potent offense. They also have needs in the interior defensive line after sending former 1st round pick Travis Johnson to the Chargers earlier in the year. Damian Williams would pair nicely with Andre Johnson, and fill a position of need if Kevin Walter isn’t resigned. He’s considered the most polished receiver in the draft and would give an immediate boost in the return game.
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Brandon LaFell WR, LSU
The Bengals only real needs are for WR’s and safeties and with the talent currently available they will opt for LaFell to help make their offense more explosive. Outside of Chad OchoCinco, none of their WR’s has had much of an impact this year. They may also take a hard look at DT Brian Price to replace the aging Tank Johnson and solidify their front seven. If LaFell is off the board at this point they would certainly consider Jermaine Gresham as well.
22. New England Patriots: Sergio Kindle DE/OLB, Texas
The Patriots need more youth and depth in their linebacking corps. Kindle lines up all over the field for Texas and is the sort of versatile player Belichick loves. He had a great showing in the Championship game and solidified himself as a first round pick. It wouldn’t shock me to see them draft Tim Tebow if he slips past Jacksonville. He could be their QB for life after Brady. And yes I know this is high for a QB who could be a back-up for a few years, but he can also serve as an H-back and be put in for trick plays such as the Wildcat. He also has that air of smugness that reminds me of Brady that I hate so much. Given how much the Patriots like to trade back, it would actually surprise me if they keep this pick, especially considering how deep the talent pool is in this draft.
23. Green Bay Packers: Charles Brown OT, USC
Fortunately because of such a deep draft class the Packers are lucky enough to get Brown here. They have had to compensate for the lack of talent at OT by adjusting their scheme to keep TE’s in to block. Adding some OT depth would really help open up that potent offense. They may look to add an OLB to replace Aaron Kampman who’s in the final year of his contact and clearly not comfortable after making the switch from DE to OLB. Green Bay also needs to start looking at replacents for their aging secondary but will find better value for the in the next 2 rounds.
24. Philadelphia Eagles: Greg Hardy DE, Ole’ Miss.
Without any tackle prospects left to replace the often injured Shawn Andrews, look for the Eagles to take the top DE or Linebacker prospect available. They need to fill the DE spot opposite of Trent Cole. Hardy has some injury issues but is adept at playing both the run and the pass. They would also consider Sean Weatherspoon and Jared Odrick.
25. Baltimore Ravens: Jermaine Gresham TE, Oklahoma
This is a toss-up between a WR and Oklahoma TE Jermaine Gresham. Todd Heap has been surprisingly healthy this year which is the first time in a long time. They could really use a WR replace the aging Derrick Mason who is giving serious consideration to retirement again. Even though Gresham has been out with a knee injury for the year, he will have plenty of time to rehab before the NFL combine. A lot of people will think that the Ravens will draft a CB, especially considering how badly they have been torched through the air, but the Ravens draft on value and there won’t be any other first round CB’s left which is why they won’t consider a safety here to possibly replace Ed Reed.
26. Arizona Cardinals: Trent Williams OT, Oklahoma
Arizona’s biggest need is for a LT. They drafted Levi Brown a couple years ago to be a RT when they thought Matt Leinart, a lefty, would be the QB of the future. Well he hasn't been so far and Warner is suffering because of it. Williams hasn’t fared so well on the left side this year so they may also consider a rush linebacker like Sean Weatherspoon or Jerry Hughes, especially considering that Haggans, Okeafor, and Berry are all 33 years old or older.
27. Dallas Cowboys: Terrence Cody DT, Alabama
The cowboys find themselves in a bad spot because their needs, ILB’s, Safeties, and OT’s, do not line up with the talent at this point. Their biggest need is an OT to replace the aging Flozell Adams who’s just too old to hack it anymore. Current NT Jay Ratliff is better suited to play DE and Cody would allow him to do so. The word out of the Senior Bowl practices is that Cody showed up grossly out of shape and if he does not show any efforts to shed pounds before the combine he will drop out of the first round.
28. San Diego Chargers: Jared Odrick DE, PSU
Assuming they resign or tag LT Marcus McNeill, what they need most is a NT to replace the aging Jamal Williams who was put on IR at the beginning of the season. Unfortunately the only two DT’s who project to play NT in the NFL have already been taken. Their second need is for DE’s that can play in a 3-4. Odrick would be a perfect fit and slips to the end of the first due to a few minor off the field issues.
29. New York Jets: Arthur Jones DE/DT, Syracuse
Unfortunately the Jets biggest needs, particularly a corner to play opposite Darrell Revis and at DT where Kris Jenkins had the second season-ending injury of his career, do not match up with the talent that is currently available. Their 3rd biggest need gets filled with Jones. They may also consider a WR if one manages to slip a bit.
30. Minnesota Vikings: Sean Weatherspoon OLB, Missouri
The Vikings will look to shore up the few weak points on a very strong defense. Weatherspoon is the top OLB suited to play in a 4-3 defense. They would also consider Idaho OG Mike Iupati to help improve an O line that has faltered recently.
31. New Orleans Saints: Everson Griffen DE, USC
With an already potent offense the Saints will look to upgrade a defense that has been hot and very cold all season long. Their biggest need is probably a DE to replace Charles Grant, although they also have needs for OLB’s and DB’s as well.
32. Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price DT, UCLA
As usual, the weak point of this team is its defense. The Colts could get a real steal with Price at this pick, who had an awesome season where he lead the nation in tackles for losses and would be a great fit in a cover 2 scheme. They could also really use an OT since Tony Ugoh has been a disappointment after a promising rookie year and his replacement Charles Johnson will be a free agent. The Colts will also consider a CB such as Wake Forest’s Brandon Ghee or GT free safety Morgan Burnett.
Round 2:
33. St. Louis Rams: Donovan Warren CB, Michigan
Now that the Rams have their QB of the future in Clausen, it’s time to turn their attentions to Spagnuolo’s specialty, the defense. Warren is a good all-around corner and would’ve probably gone in the 1st round in any other year.
34. Detroit Lions: Mike Iupati OG, Idaho
The Lions are getting a great interior lineman in Iupati. He is a big road grader with solid bulk who moves very quickly for a man who is 6’5”, 330lbs.
35. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Arrelious Benn WR, Illinois
The Bucs need WR’s to help the progression of young QB Josh Freeman. Michael Clayton has been underwhelming so far in his career and Antonio Bryant is well past his prime.
36. Kansas City Chiefs: Jerry Hughes OLB, TCU
This is a great value pick for the Chiefs as Hughes is another player who’s slipped into the second round due a deep draft. Hughes could be groomed to eventually take over for the ageless wonder Mike Vrabel.
37. Washington Redskins: Mike Johnson OG, Alabama
With a new QB in hand, it’s time to rebuild that ancient O line. Instead of reaching for an OT they will opt for Johnson who would go great in Shanahan’s zone blocking scheme.
38. Seattle Seahawks: Jason Pierre-Paul DE, USF
JPP is a one-year wonder who may be a bit of a reach here in my opinion, but he has a lot of upside and could help improve Seattle’s pass rush.
39. Cleveland Browns: Brandon Spikes ILB, Florida
This is a pick of value over need. Spikes has a lot of potential even though the Brownies have a greater need at safety and running back.
40. Oakland Raiders: Jon Asamoah OG, Illinois
He will probably run the fastest 40 time of any O lineman at the combine and that’s all that matters to Al Davis. This is actually a good pick for them as he holds up very well against the pass rush.
41. Buffalo Bills: Jevan Snead QB, Ole’ Miss.
The Bills need someone to come in and challenge Trent Edwards. Snead had an awful season and should have stayed for his senior year but he has a lot of potential and new coach Chan Gailey will want to look for “his guy”.
42. New England Patriots (via Jacksonville Jaguars): Brandon Ghee CB, Wake Forest
The Pats continue to improve on a defense that got old and thin in a hurry.
43. Miami Dolphins: Rickey Sapp DE/OLB, Clemson
Given Porter and Taylor’s age, this pick should be a no-brainer. The Dolphins need rush linebackers.
44. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (via Chicago Bears): Brandon Graham, DE Michigan
With Graham they continue to rebuild the D-line and give some outside help to 1st round pick Gerald McCoy.
45. Denver Broncos: Chad Jones SS, LSU
Drafting Jones would help give some youth to the DB’s as well as give a big boost in run support.
46. New York Giants: Kyle Calloway OT Iowa
They find a replacement for Kareem McKenzie.
47. Carolina Panthers: Golden Tate WR, Notre Dame
Regardless of whether Delhomme or Moore is the staring QB next season, they need someone to throw to besides Steve Smith.
48. New England Patriots (via Tennessee Titans): Aaron Hernandez TE, Florida
A suitable replacement for current TE Ben Watson.
49. San Francisco 49ers: Perrish Cox, CB, Oklahoma State
This pick was between Cox and Javier Arenas, who are almost identical in skill, with the nod going to Cox based on the 3 inch height difference.
50. Kansas City Chiefs (via Atlanta Falcons): Javier Arenas CB, Alabama
With Jamaal Charles becoming the top RB on the team, they are going to need someone to handle the return duties full time. Plus, Arenas would be a great addition to a secondary of relative no-names.
51. Houston Texans: Trevard Lindley CB, Kentucky
They need DB help, especially if they let Dunta Robinson go.
52. Pittsburgh Steelers: Morgan Burnett FS, Georgia Tech
The Steelers definitely need safety help so this pick is an almost given, especially since the top 3 guards and Brandon spikes have already been taken.
53. New England Patriots: Tim Tebow QB, Florida
Yes I’m sure I’ll hear a lot about this pick. Keep in mind that Belichick loves versatility. And how many years does Brady have left, probably 3? That's how many years it’s going to take for Tebow to acclimate to the Pros. Plus he would fit in well with the type of spread offense the Patriots run.
54. Cincinnati Bengals: Nate Allen FS, USF
With their second pick, they fill their second biggest need with a good ball-hawking safety.
55. Philadelphia Eagles: Jahvid Best RB, Cal
I know this seems like an unlikely pick with young RB LeSean McCoy already on the team, but with Brian Westbrook seriously considering retirement they have virtually no depth behind the two of them and Best would fit their system nicely.
56. Green Bay Packers: Dominique Franks CB, Oklahoma
Does this pick really need an explanation? They need youth in the secondary, and Franks has a good size/speed combo.
57. Baltimore Ravens: Kareem Jackson CB, Alabama
Their need for a WR is probably more pressing, but taking Marty Gilyard or Eric Decker would a bit of a reach here.
58. Arizona Cardinals: Eric Norwood OLB, South Carolina
The weak spot on their D is the age of their OLB’s. Norwood is a smart, hard-hitting player who is great against the run.
59. Dallas Cowboys: Jordan Shipley WR, Texas
This a bit of a reach but a smart move for Jerry Jones as Shipley is a local favorite and will help sell more tickets. But he’s also a Wes Welker type that could only help Tony Romo.
60. San Diego Chargers: Jonathan Dwyer RB, Georgia Tech
They will probably let Tomlinson go this offseason. Dwyer would be a good compliment to Darren Sproles much like Michael Turner was for Tomlinson.
61. New York Jets: Corey Wootton DE, Northwestern
The Jets fill their need for a 3-4 DE with Wootton.
62. Minnesota Vikings: Jeremy Beal DE, Oklahoma
Would provide an upgrade over Ray Edwards.
63. New Orleans Saints: A.J. Edds OLB, Iowa
Edds is a good strong side linebacker who could eventually replace 30 year old Scott Fujita.
64. Indianapolis Colts: Selvish Capers OT, West Virginia
Considered giving them ILB Daryl Washington given that Gary Brackett is a FA and 30 years old, but he’ll probably resign and they have a pressing need for tackle depth.
Round 3:
65. St. Louis Rams: Vince Oghobaase DT, Duke
Passing on Suh means they need to start upgrading the D line here.
66. Detroit Lions: Anthony Dixon RB, MSU
Kevin Smith suffered a serious injury during the year, and they had no depth behind him.
67. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Reshad Jones SS, Georgia
They continue to build on a young secondary.
68. Kansas City Chiefs: Jeremy Williams WR, Tulane
Another piece to the offense to help Matt Cassell succeed.
69. Oakland Raiders: D’Anthony Smith DT, Louisiana Tech
Fastest 300lbs. tackle in the draft aside from Gerald McCoy.
70. Philadelphia Eagles (via Seattle Seahawks): Maurkice Pouncey OG/OC, Florida
This is a great value pick. Andy Reid loves big linemen and Pouncey would replace the often injured Shawn Andrews.
71. Cleveland Browns: Joe McKnight RB, USC
Jerome Harrison came on at the end of the year but they have no depth behind him.
72. Buffalo Bills: Mike Neal DT, Purdue
Help that awful run defense.
73. Miami Dolphins: Torrell Troup DT, Central Florida
Parcells will continue to focus on the defense. They need depth behind 34 year old Jason Ferguson.
74. Chicago Bears: Ciron Black OT/OG, LSU
Will grade out poorly as a tackle, but would be great as a guard.
75. Jacksonville Jaguars: Patrick Robinson CB, FSU
Their secondary seemed to be lacking this past year.
76. New York Giants: Daryl Washington ILB, TCU
Good replacement for the declining Antonio Pierce.
77. Carolina Panthers: Ron Gronkowski TE, Arizona
Would be a good safety valve for Matt Moore. His draft status is completely dependant on how his surgically repaired back holds up.
78. Tennessee Titans: Akwasi Owusu-Ansah CB, IUP
Nick Harper can’t handle the number 2 corner duties anymore.
79. San Francisco 49ers: Roddrick Muckelroy OLB, Texas
They need an upgrade over the disappointing Manny Lawson.
80. Denver Broncos: J.D. Walton OC, Baylor
Casey Wiegmann is 36 years old.
81. Houston Texans: Toby Gerhart RB, Stanford
This pick should be a given. They desperately need a short-yardage power back.
82. Pittsburgh Steelers: Vladimir Ducasse OG, UMass
He’s a road-grading small school prospect that can also play tackle. His draft stock could boom or bust depending on how he performs at the Senior Bowl.
83. Atlanta Falcons: Darrell Stuckey SS, Kansas
Their secondary needs to be completely revamped.
84. Cincinnati Bengals: Tyson Alualu DT, Cal
He’s a versatile D lineman that would provide depth to a thin Bengals front.
85. Oakland Raiders (via New England Patriots): LeRoy Vann CB/KR Florida A&M
This is incredibly high for him as he is graded as a very late round prospect, but he’ll probably run a 4.3 40 at the combine and he’s returned 11 kicks back for TD’s in the last 2 years.
86. Green Bay Packers: Jerome Murphy CB, USF
Green Bay continues the youth movement in the secondary and grabs a solid corner who reminds me a lot of the Cardinals Bryant McFadden.
87. Philadelphia Eagles: Kyle Wilson CB, Boise State
Ellis Hobbs is a free agent.
88. Baltimore Ravens: Danario Alexander WR, Missouri
He’s a big wide receiving target for Joe Flacco who comes from a spread offense and will need to work on his route running skills. If Ed Reed retires or they trade for Brandon Marshall this would change to safety.
89. Arizona Cardinals: Matt Tennant OC, Boston College
They could use an upgrade at center.
90. Dallas Cowboys: Jason Fox OT, Miami
. This may be a bit of a gamble given Fox’s knee injury, but the Cowboys need to start a youth movement on the O line. If not for the injury Fox would be an early 2nd round selection.
91. San Diego Chargers: Linval Joseph DT, East Carolina
They need depth at NT, especially if Jamaal Williams retires.
92. Cleveland Browns (via New York Jets): Jared Veldheer OT, Hillsdale
Another small school boom or bust prospect, Veldheer is a 6’9” 325lbs. tackle that will get his chance to shine at the NFL combine.
93. Minnesota Vikings: Robert Johnson FS, Utah
He would be an upgrade over Madieu Williams.
94. New Orleans Saints: LaMarr Houston DT, Texas
The Saints could use a solid DT to pair with Sedrick Ellis.
95. Indianapolis Colts: George Selvie DE, USF
Selvie was double-teamed all year which caused his stats to drop from the year before. He’s undersized for a 4-3 defensive end but will fit in perfectly for the Colts cover-2 system.
Round 4:
96. St. Louis Rams: Eric Decker WR, Minnesota
The Rams need weapons for 1st round pick Jimmy Clausen.
97. Detroit Lions: Pat Angerer ILB, Iowa
Current starting MLB Larry Foote will be 30 before next season and is on the down side of his career.
98. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Marshawn Gilyard WR, Cincinnati
Another weapon for their young QB.
99. Kansas City Chiefs: Micah Johnson ILB, Kentucky
Derrick Johnson was not on Coach Haley’s good side all year. Even if he is retained they still need ILB depth.
100. Washington Redskins: Ryan Mathews RB, Fresno State
They need depth behind an aging Clinton Portis.
101. Seattle Seahawks: Devin McCourty CB, Rutgers
They need young corners to push their current starters.
102. Cleveland Browns: Myron Lewis FS, Vanderbilt
The Brownies need safeties.
103. Oakland Raiders: Trindon Holliday WR, LSU
Holliday is pure speed, running a sub-4.3 40. In the pros he’ll be purely a kick returner, but his blazing speed is going to put Al Davis in a trance.
104. Buffalo Bills: Sean Lee ILB, PSU
Why not grab another Penn State LB with injury problems? If he can stay healthy, Lee could be the steal of the draft at this point.
105. Chicago Bears: Eric Olsen OC, Notre Dame
How long can Olin Kreutz play?
106. Jacksonville Jaguars: Dennis Pita TE, BYU
Lewis and Wilford are not getting it done for Garrard.
107. Miami Dolphins: Myron Rolle SS, FSU
Parcells likes smart football players, and they don’t come any smarter than Rolle.
108. Carolina Panthers: Larry Asante SS, Nebraska
The Panthers need safety help.
109. Tennessee Titans: Dekota Watson OLB, FSU
They need LB depth as they continue to rebuild their defense.
110. San Francisco 49ers: Major Wright FS, Florida
They need depth in the secondary.
111. Denver Broncos: Mitch Petrus OG, Arkansas
They need to continue to inject some youth into the interior of their offensive line.
112. New York Giants: Earl Mitchell DT, Arizona
They continue to stockpile defensive linemen.
113. Pittsburgh Steelers: Joe Pawelek ILB, Baylor
It’s time the Steelers found someone to groom behind James Farrior.
114. Atlanta Falcons: Willie Young DE, N.C. State
The Falcons fill their second biggest need.
115. Houston Texans: John Jerry, Ole’ Miss.
They need large interior linemen to help an anemic running game. Jerry is 6’6”, 335lbs. and can certainly help with that.
116. New England Patriots: Zane Beadles OT, Utah
Tackle depth behind 31 year old Matt Light.
117. Cincinnati Bengals: Harry Coleman SS, LSU
They got a FS in the 2nd, now they take care of the other safety spot here.
118. Philadelphia Eagles: Van Eskridge FS, East Carolina
They need safety help. Eskridge was named defensive MVP of the East-West Shrine Bowl.
119. Green Bay Packers: Jermaine Cunningham OLB, Florida
They need someone to play opposite of Clay Matthews.
120. Baltimore Ravens: Sergio Render OG, Virginia Tech.
Good value pick. Render is a mauler that would be a good fit for the Ravens run game.
121. Arizona Cardinals: Tony Pike QB, Cincinnati
If Kurt Warner retires, they will need someone to push Matt Leinart.
122. Dallas Cowboys: Jamar Chaney ILB, Miss. State
Keith Brooking is 34 years old.
123. San Diego Chargers: Blair White WR, MSU
If Malcom Floyd leave in free agency, they will need to add to their WR depth.
124. Philadelphia Eagles (via New York Jets): Perry Riley OLB, LSU
The Eagles fill their second biggest need.
125. Minnesota Vikings: Jay Ross, DT East Carolina
Pat Williams is 37 years old.
126. New Orleans Saints: Dexter McCluster RB/WR Ole’ Miss.
They will probably cut Reggie Bush to save the 8 million he’s due. McCluster is a RB/WR tweener that would work much the same way Reggie did.
127. Indianapolis Colts: Rennie Curran OLB, Georgia
If Curran were just a little bit bigger he would be a 1st round pick, as it stands now he’s a perfect fit for the Colts cover-2.
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Good draft, however...
I would swap our 3rd and 4th rounders. I don’t think Angerer will be there by the 4th, and I think he would be a great addition to our squad. Although, I haven’t seen anything about him declaring this year. Nor have I seen anything about him staying in school…odd that…
I love Morgan Burnett in the second, as I have said before.
Were I to say anything about the 1st rounder, it would just be repeating myself for the umpteenth time, so I’ll leave it alone.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
Wait...I'm an idiot...Dammit!
I mean, I believe we should grab Angerer in the 3rd, and address O-line in the first.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
Depending on what they do with Hampton and Colon, I may change that pick. If they resign Hampton and Colon, this pick will change to Iupati. If they don’t resign Colon, it will change to Trent Williams. But if they don’t resign Hampton, our number 1 need is going to be Dan Williams.
We are going to be "arguing" over this untill the draft
I still say Ra’shon Harris will be our future NT. Even if they don’t retain Snack, there’s Hoke for Sunny to learn under.
Lupati or Bulaga would be a dream come true in the 1st.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
I'm sure we will be
I like Hoke but I don’t think he’ll hold up for an entire season. I’m not sold on Harris yet. After watching Bulaga handle Derrick Morgan during the Orange Bowl I think he’ll go before we pick, and 18 is a little high for a guard.
Alright, since I'm not a big fan of repeating myself over and over
I’m just going to stop commenting on any draft threads. Unless it’s only to say “Very nice”, or something to that effect.
Colbert will draft who he thinks the Steelers need to maintain their competitive streak, and get to the SB. This is pure speculation on our part, since none of us (aside from Dr. Del) have any kind of “connections” in the Steelers front office. These are asll just guesses, albeit educated ones, but still guesses.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
Yeah, but it’s still fun to think/talk about. I mean, nothing anybody says on here actually has an effect on the organization, we’re just a bunch of Steelers fans playing around.
Doing Mock Drafts is the same as talking about who the Steelers should pick up in FA or talking about offensive philosophies or which young guys could make it big – it’s just about discussing ideas.
by BluegrassSteeler on Jan 25, 2010 10:09 PM EST up reply actions
And it was fun for a while
but everything gets old after a time, and there’s only so many ways to say “I don’t think we’ll draft a NT in the first round, we should try to get Bulaga or Lupati”, or “We should draft Morgan Burnett in the second”.
Just gets tiresome defending my opinions in every thread the draft is brought up.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
by Steel Spike on Jan 25, 2010 10:17 PM EST up reply actions
Hoke
Held up during the 15-1 season and hasn’t played much since. he should be good.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jan 27, 2010 2:12 PM EST up reply actions
Where R the CB's?
The Steelers have to come out of this offseason with a starter and a starter in waiting at the CB position.
They drafted Burnett and Lewis last year. It’s too early to say they won’t pan out. If by some chance that Joe Haden is available at 18 then yeah we should go after him. But we have bigger needs that will be addressed by our first four picks.
Don't know if we have bigger needs elsewhere than CB ...
if U watched the same 16 games I watched last year where the no CB on the Steelers roster intercepted a pass until the final game of the season. That was beyond embarrasing.
by datruth4life on Jan 25, 2010 3:27 PM EST up reply actions
Safety is a much bigger need. The Steelers will give Burnett and Lewis a couple years to pan out. Burnett will probably start opposite of Taylor next year, with Gay being the nickel corner. If we don’t resign Clark or Carter, that only leaves us with 2 true safeties on the roster in Troy and Ryan Mundy. I hope we don’t sign Carter, and even if we do resign Clark we still need someone to develop behind him.
How can you say that Burnett will probably start next year over Gay? We haven’t seen Burnett do anything, other than drop a game-clinching INT against Oakland. He barely played at all this season. To say that a completely unproven 23 yr old, 5th round corner will start next year over anyone is a little bit of a stretch.
I’m with Truth on this one…I think that CB and OL must be addressed with our 1st 2 picks. Maybe we can pick up a FA that can step up and get significant playreps at CB next season, and if so, then I have no problem giving Lewis/Burnett another yr to develop. But, right now this team is in very good shape to make a postseason run if we can add a starting CB and a reliable RG/RT.
breathe in deep feel your heart beat, just to know that life's worth livin'. feel your feet on the earth, better love it while it's still here spinnin'.
by NoCal-SteelCity on Jan 25, 2010 7:30 PM EST up reply actions
Agree with big_jay
This years CB class consist of one player – Joe Haden. And people aren’t sure that he is a shut down corner on the NFL level. Also Steelers NEVER pick CB in the first round, Rod Woodson was the last one. There are no Rod Woodsons in this draft. They will either pick S/ILB/OT in the first round depending on what happens to W. Colon. I’d personally love to see them trade up and get McClain.
When troy is back you won’t even notice we need a CB. Also we have no idea what we got in Burnett or K. Lewis. If they have a shred of confidence in those guys I doubt you see them go CB.
Also the DLine coach says that S.Harris is a NT, if thats the case I can see them happy with Hoke and Harris in the event that Hampton walks.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jan 27, 2010 2:19 PM EST up reply actions
That's exactly what I've been saying!
the DLine coach says that S.Harris is a NT
Sunny is just a bit light in the ass, IMO. He needs to gain about 20-25 pounds, and at 6’ 5", he’s a monster.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
Jay Ratliff is barely two biscuits over 300 pounds
by barnerburner on Jan 28, 2010 2:34 PM EST up reply actions
How do you know that?
Listed weights are hardly ever correct. You think they weigh the same at the start of training camp as they do in week 10? Just by looking at him I bet he’s well over 300.
by StoneColdSteel on Jan 28, 2010 3:18 PM EST up reply actions

This was from their playoff game against the Vikings, and I’m still not so sure about him being well over 300 pounds. He’s got practically no gut and I can’t see much extra weight on him anywhere, in any pictures I find of him. Just by looking at him I’d guess that he’s maybe 300 if he is pretty much pure muscle. He has a very similar build to Darnell Docket.
by barnerburner on Jan 30, 2010 5:17 PM EST up reply actions
Weren’t Deon Figures and Chad Scott cornerbacks? Weren’t both of them drafted in the first round?
by pghnorthside on Jan 27, 2010 4:19 PM EST up reply actions
NT
I think Casey Hampton wants to finish his carrer in Steelers uniform, and could play a good level for two more years and in the meantime can get someone to replace him in the 1st or 2nd round.
The OL can get new blood in the 3rd round
I agree about Farrior that he is losing a step and can find someone to fit his shoes but also think that Farrior can play a good level next season
Steeler forever
Top 4 picks
1. Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee
2. C/G Maurkice Pouncey, Florida (trade up)
3. Jerome Murphy, CB, South Florida
4. Nate Allen, S, South Florida
Allen won't be there in 4th
Though I get what you’re thinking.
Something makes me think they’ll draft safety depth high but not CB… they just drafted two and will want to see how they can develop, whether gay and taylor will rebound, etc. Unless Keenan Lewis is really a safety.
I’d resign Casey then go OL, CB, OL, S in the first 4
by syrsteelerfan on Jan 25, 2010 3:52 PM EST up reply actions
I think they need to go CB high ...
Lewis and Burnett showed next to nothing this past year, so if they both show something this year, then great, but I’m not leaving myself high and dry if they don’t. Murphy is a big corner with speed that excels on special teams. Safeties always drop in the draft. I think you can get a good one in this group in the 3rd or 4th round.
If the Steelers truly want to pound the ball next year, they need to get a another back from somewhere to help Mendy carry the load. You can pick up a good RB in the mid-rounds as well. However, everytime I watch ILB Rolando McClain, I believe he could be manning Farrior’s spot sooner than later. That guy is going to be all-pro and I wouldn’t mind it happening in our system and on our team.
by datruth4life on Jan 25, 2010 5:11 PM EST up reply actions
not to completely give him a pass
but lewis battled injury pretty much all year and couldnt get healthy enough to be on the active roster. burnett showed a bit but nothing special. presumably, since lewis was drafted higher than burnett he should be a better corner… i know this is highly unlikely but im hoping lewis can get healthy and make a significant contribution next year.
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 25, 2010 11:20 PM EST up reply actions
Jay, this just struck me...
If anyone can get a read on Williams, it is going to be Tomlin, who just happened to coach under Monty Kiffin, who just happened to coach Dan Williams at Tennesee. The answer to that prospect is just a phone call away.
Damn... now that seems so obvious
I can’t believe it took until now for someone to finally make that connection.
by barnerburner on Jan 26, 2010 4:00 AM EST up reply actions
Hey Big Jay
Is that true that if the NFL has an uncapped year that teams can cut players without future consequences? You noted that up at the Rams pick. I have never read that before.
If this coming year is uncapped, which it very well may be, then you’re going to see a lot of teams dump players with large salaries because they won’t have to worry about the dead money counting against the cap in future years. Which is why Bulger, Reggie Bush, and perhaps even Jamarcus Russell will all potentially be cut. There will be a lot of 1st round busts and aging veterans on the free agent market this offseason.
Thanks
that is very interesting. Does that include guaranteed money? I find it hard to believe an uncapped year can break a contract. I am sorry. I really am not getting this uncapped year. Say Dallas pays 200 million for it’s next near roster, but in 2011 we have a CBA and the cap is 175 million. Then what happens? …ug, but if what you say is right then there could be a number of unexpected FA’s this year. That can really changes the draft
I really don’t like this. A lot of poorly managed teams are getting a reboot. They get to cut their dead weight, and start fresh with cash.
by SteelBuckeye on Jan 25, 2010 8:46 PM EST up reply actions
There’s a lot of weird rules for next year. However I could see teams getting themselves into a lot of cap trouble if the cap comes back.
The other interesting side is the flip where teams will cut a bunch of players to drop below 60-70 million and then need to boost it back to the minimum (again assuming it comes back).
by Chicago Steeler on Jan 26, 2010 12:45 PM EST up reply actions
The uncapped year
SteelBuckeye, an uncapped year doesn’t allow a team to break a contract. For example, if the Raiders cut Jamarcus Russell, they will still owe him $3M in guaranteed salary in 2010. But the important thing is that the remaining portion of his signing bonus ($18M) will be accelerated into 2010 and thus will be off the books if the cap returns in 2011. BTW, the NFL may institute some new accounting rules to prevent massing cap dumping in 2010.
Regarding your Cowboys example, if you assume that 2010 is uncapped and 2011 is capped, the trick is to sign new players with a big salary for 2010 but keep their salary low for the 2011 season. The problem is that there are rules for 2010 that prevent the top 8 teams (which includes the Cowboys) from signing more free agents than they lose, and the ones they sign cannot have a higher 2010 salary than the salary of the player lost.
In any case, teams that go over the “cap” in an uncapped season must cut players or restructure contracts to get under the cap in 2011 (assuming there is one), just as at the start of any other capped season. Because of several special rules for the uncapped year in 2010, however, it is unlikely that the salary structure of the league will change significantly. If 2011 is played as an uncapped, unrestricted season, some teams could go wild, but the NFL owners are much more likely to shut down the 2011 season that play with no salary restrictions.
Thanks Steelin
Very informative and helpful.
by SteelBuckeye on Jan 26, 2010 7:40 PM EST up reply actions
I agree with you big jay, safety has to be targeted before corner. Sure, the corner play this year was poor, but the safety play was downright abysmal. Troy needs someone to have his back while he’s roaming around doing his thing. Troy healthy makes those corners look great. I’d take Burnett in the second in a heartbeat, and let Burnett start opposite Ike next year
big jay one thing:
i was looking up the draft order a couple weeks ago and i read somewhere that in the later rounds teams with the same record rotate picks. so in the second round all the 9-7 teams (pitt, atlanta, and houston) will switch so that houston will have the first pick of the 3 and pitt will have the last pick of the three. then i think in the third round it will go back to pitt having the first pick of the 3 and houston having the last. just trying to help… although i doubt in the second round at least it will make much difference
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 25, 2010 11:25 PM EST reply actions
Four round mock?!...
That’s some dedication Jay, thanks. I like the general theme of the Steelers draft as you predict it. I would kind of like to see Trindon Holliday as a Steeler, but not in the top four rounds odviously. I bet he runs a 4.27 forty, pure guess though, he’s an all world burner (Olympic alternate? I thought I heard that somewhere, could be wrong).
One very minor error I noticed though. You have Arthur Jones as a DE/ OLB, he’d be a 3-4 end at around 300 lbs. or so.
'I’ve learned to become a flat-liner. There’s a lot out there that’ll make your heart jump if you allow it."
-Coach Tomlin
sorry Al Davis is scheduled
to pick him up in the first round.
I getting tired of saying this: Dick LeBeau’s system is so complex very few rookies can make an impact.
Great work, but, with 3 months to go til the draft
is this really going to be posted and discussed every week ad nauseam?
The only managing Ben does is he manages to WIN games
You got something better to do?
I’m tired of all this downtime before the draft
by barnerburner on Jan 26, 2010 2:13 PM EST up reply actions
OK, I hear ya
Funny though how the NFL has us all hook line and sinker with all this DRAFT hype. I suppose that’s by design. Without the hype, the NFL would not nearly be what it is today. It certainly is everyone’s prerogative to post if they wish and my prerogative to not read if I so choose.
Bad day at the office I guess. Keep on postin’ .. .. ..
The only managing Ben does is he manages to WIN games
by chewiesteeler on Jan 26, 2010 5:44 PM EST up reply actions
I agree with you
This draft stuff is going to get real old, real fast. However, there are draftniks that don’t do anything but talk about it. These threads give them an outlet to discuss this to their hearts content. Therefore, these threads are good.
Do like I do, if you don’t like a certain thread, don’t read or participate in them. Quite simple.
On the other hand, why don’t you mosey on over to my movie thread, if you’re bored and need a different outlet. :)
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
Good idea
The only managing Ben does is he manages to WIN games
by chewiesteeler on Jan 27, 2010 10:20 AM EST up reply actions
personally id like to see us switch our positions in the 2nd and 3rd rounds. maybe get Maurkice Pouncey in the second (might be a bit of a reach according to this mock, trade down maybe?) and then Myron Rolle in the third. i wont hide my bias toward Rolle, I’ve said it before and i’ll say it again. He’s a Rhodes Scholar! I dont care how complex Lebeau’s system is it shouldnt take him too long to comprehend it, and he’s already got the physical tools to succeed in the league. plus, i think the fact that he spent a year away from football will be a good thing because he wont be so set in any bad habits he might have, and the coaches could therefore mold him exactly how they want.
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 26, 2010 4:50 PM EST reply actions
Problem with that scenario is
Rolle won’t be there in the 3rd.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
Mock drafts are for losers!
I believe the average correct first round picks in all mock drafts is 5. Yes, 5 out of 32! So come on guys, say who you want inthe draft but doubt it will happen. The Steelers have traded up 2 times in the past 6 years and got Troy and Holmes. This year has trading up or down in the first round written all over it! The Steelers aren’t your typical NFL team when it comes to player development. They are just like a college team. Bring a guy in and basically red-shirt him the first year. Get some production out of him in year 2 and then hope he can start in year 3. With that mentality—-there is no one player who is a must get at the 18th pick. Better to trade down and get an extra third round pick. The Steelers are also due at least 2 compensatory picks for Washington and McFadden. Both may bring an extra third round pick, depending on how the NFL handles those picks this year. So for the sake of argument let’s say they both are third round picks. If the Steelers trade down as I predict—-they will have 6 of the first 106 picks in the draft. They can parley those picks into a lot of depth, which this current team really lacks. I see only one player that I would really want to get if I had anything to do with the Steeler’s draft. And that is Mardy Gilyard out of Cincinnati. He’d be an excellent 4th receiver and he can return both punts and kick-offs. Did anybody watch the Pitt/Cinny game on Dec. 5th? Instead of having Logan take up a roster spot just to return kicks—-you now have an offensive weapon who could do wonders for the team in several areas. Further, if you want to improve the special teams in a heartbeat—-sign a free agent kick-off specialist who can boom the ball in the end zone on kick-offs. I rather see a roster spot being used on that kind of a weapon than on Logan. Yes, the Steelers have many needs but if they play their cards right in the draft—-they can restock the cupboard with a lot of good players. Not great but good! And that is what you need in the NFL to be successful.
A few things
1. Granted mock drafts are speculation and most end up being pretty inaccurate, but you still gotta acknowledge the time, dedication and knowledge it takes to write them up. I for one don’t know a whole lot about college players, and get useful information out of these. “Mock drafts are for losers” is a bit much don’t you think?
2. Logan did not take up a spot just to return kicks. He was on coverage units as well – and held his own. Seemed to improve (on both sides) as the year wore on as well. I disagree on using a roster spot on someone that just booms kicks. I say fix the problem at the source…ie better ST coaching/execution.
3. What round do you recommend drafting this guy Gilyard? I don’t think we need another one of those types…all WR’s coming out of college “can” return punts and kickoffs.
Bad Andy, Good Pizza.
by count'em_six on Jan 26, 2010 7:24 PM EST up reply actions
Disagree on Logan on ST coverage....
There were too many times where the 150-ponder was tossed around like a rag doll.
That’s what opened some of the big lanes for some of the big returns. He got up and hustled, and there were times he was tossed around more than once on the same return.
It wasn’t a lack of effort or hustle. He was simply manhandled by bigger guys.
He had some hits and some tackles, but it was the hits he didn’t make that cost the Steelers, and it cost them dearly.
I would kill everyone in this room for a drop of sweet beer.
- Homer J. Simpson
Then Logan shouldn't be on the coverage squad.
We got Madison back, and he immediately made our kick coverage better. He didn’t always make the tackles himself, but he made one at least once a game. Difference maker, plain and simple.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
Not sure
Logan is as responsible for ST woes as you seem to infer. I saw plenty of guys leaving their lanes and making lazy tackles. Logan was one of the few running his ass all over the place at least making people block him.
Bad Andy, Good Pizza.
by count'em_six on Jan 27, 2010 2:26 PM EST up reply actions
You could fart on Logan and block him...
I’m just kidding, but he is a very small individual…Yes, he does take up a blocker/s, which is good.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
and his speed was disruptive deep into the return blocking
"Now that I'm here, I don't want to just be here, I want to be here for a long time." Hines Ward, 1998 4th round draft pick.
by kick him in the head on Jan 28, 2010 1:26 PM EST up reply actions
Did anybody else notice
how when they brought Madison back, the impact he made on the coverage units? Every time the coverage unit was on the field, he was around the play, and there wasn’t a single game there where he didn’t make a ST tackle.
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
i doubt we'll get 2 3rd round compensatory picks
im hoping we can get 2 4th rounders for mcfadden and washington… and even that seems unlikely
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 26, 2010 7:46 PM EST up reply actions
yep
Didn’t we get royally screwed and only got a 4th round pick for Alan Faneca?!
well that was a little different
theres some clause in the compensatory pick system that you cant get more than a 4th round pick for a player who was over the age of 30 when they left.
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 27, 2010 9:51 PM EST up reply actions
You realize that
Pretty much all football analysis is speculation?
"When my time on earth is gone, and my activities here are passed, I want they bury me upside down, and my critics can kiss my a**!"
-Bobby Knight
by John Stephens on Jan 28, 2010 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
Except for Monday morning then much of it's emotion
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
by PixburghArn on Jan 28, 2010 12:27 PM EST up reply actions
We've all been a Monday morning QB
"When my time on earth is gone, and my activities here are passed, I want they bury me upside down, and my critics can kiss my a**!"
-Bobby Knight
by John Stephens on Jan 28, 2010 12:32 PM EST up reply actions
I prefer to be a Monday morning DB
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
by PixburghArn on Jan 28, 2010 12:38 PM EST up reply actions
Oh
I thought most us preferred being a Monday morning OC
"When my time on earth is gone, and my activities here are passed, I want they bury me upside down, and my critics can kiss my a**!"
-Bobby Knight
by John Stephens on Jan 28, 2010 1:41 PM EST up reply actions
Naw that's boring
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." - Winston Churchill
Maybe we should run the triple option.
That way everybody is happy.
by StoneColdSteel on Jan 28, 2010 3:22 PM EST up reply actions
just read something on nfl.com
that said Alabama NT Terrence Cody weighed in at 370 at the senior bowl today. too much for me, especially knowing that he has to come off on 3rd down
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 26, 2010 7:52 PM EST reply actions
370 is light for him
I read on another blog, so take it with a grain of salt, that he was over 410 when he went to Alabama but could still slam dunk a basketball.
That said, if he could get down to 350, he might be dangerous.
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jan 27, 2010 4:58 PM EST up reply actions
Your draft order is a little off...
Saints will beat the Peyton Manning Colts!
Iupati
The Steelers should trade back for him, just because he will still be available. He is worth the 18th pick, guards are underrated right now. People think that no matter how good a guard is, he is worth nothing compared to a tackle.
Yet, when push came to shove, the whole league knew that Faneca was worth spending big bucks. I’m not saying Iupati is Faneca, but a slam-dunk guard could do the Steelers a world of good without a taking a major gamble.
Lupati or Bulaga
@ 18 sound really nice, if they are there for the pick, that is…
"OOH! A piece of candy. OOH! A piece of candy."
-James Woods
yea id rather have the best Guard than the 4th or 5th best Tackle
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 27, 2010 6:22 PM EST up reply actions
Agree with Iupati
Would be a GREAT pick to go with Colon and Kemo. Move up in the 3rd round and get a decent center, and the OL should be set for years.
Could also see them taking Jared Odrick.
by SteelerMessican on Jan 28, 2010 11:43 AM EST up reply actions
im not sure odrick is a NT
probably more of a 4-3 DT
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 28, 2010 8:16 PM EST up reply actions
maybe a 3-4 DE
I getting tired of saying this: Dick LeBeau’s system is so complex very few rookies can make an impact.
I want to Mt. Cody in Black and Gold
He has been dumped on all off-season, and the Senior Bowl is hurting his stock even more. I would love to get him in Round 2. Is that a possibility?
He's being ...
..dumped on for a very good reason.
by Marvin, The Paranoid Android on Jan 28, 2010 7:42 PM EST up reply actions
just looked at USC RB Stafon Johnson
i really liked what i saw. you’ll probably remember him as the guy who was in a tragic weightroom accident at the beginning of the season that injured his neck. but he looks like he’ll be able to play again. he seemed to have a great feel for the running game. he showed the ability to hit the cutback lane, vertical and lateral speed, elusiveness and the ability to take a hit and keep running. something i really liked is that he used his speed to get vertical, which is great because i noticed especially recently (08 and 09) that parker tried to bounce outside too much. i think he could be a great complement to mendenhall. we might be able to grab him in the later rounds due to his injury
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 28, 2010 10:36 PM EST reply actions
oh. and he can field punts too
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 28, 2010 10:38 PM EST up reply actions
Mike Mayock thought Lupati was the best tackle at senior bowl practice and he was there playing guard .I think this guy is gonna shoot up draft boards.I really hope we get him.
by MAN_OF_STEEL_86 on Jan 29, 2010 6:08 PM EST reply actions
Agreed
I think by the time the draft rolls around no one will scoff at us for taking him at 18, depending of course on who else is on the board. If it’s between him, Bulaga, and Earl Thomas, I say Iupati.
by TomlinsPuffyJacket on Jan 29, 2010 7:25 PM EST up reply actions
i'll be pretty upset if they take thomas in the first.
with such a deep safety class we could get just as good a safety in the second or third round and get a different position in the first. if we dont resign big snack i say do whatever we can to get dan williams to replace him. if we can resign him i say do whatever we can to get Iupati
by steel.curtain.number2 on Jan 30, 2010 9:47 PM EST up reply actions
Draft
Raise your hand if you had the Steeler’s taking Ziggy Hood last year. My point is it is a crap shoot and right now it is anybody’s guess.
Me I like the Nose tackle from Tennessee, Williams and Myron Rolle in that order. Gilyard would be great but he is going to go high
DagoDan
I don't think anyone expected Hood to slip so far
or the huge run on OL?

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