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BL 1st First Round Mock Draft of 2014

beerlover

Hall of Fame
1) Houston Texans Select - Jadeveon Clowney, OLB, 6-5 258 South Carolina
BPA. Entertain trade down offers. Only downside I see is it could take a little longer to see results we expect (while developing more of a project QB) but next years class does have some good QB prospects as well depending on progress of later draft pick this year. Bill O'Brian & scouts will certainly have option C but barring a trade down to draft QB early, safest route is best player available which Clowney clearly is.

2) St. Louis Rams Select - Greg Robinson, LT, 6-5 320 Auburn
Overtaken Matthews on sheer potential & size as top OT in this class, higher rating than last years #1 overall pick Eric Fisher.

3) Jacksonville Jaguars Select - Teddy Bridgewater, QB, 6-2 204 Louisville
Opposite of Gabbert, a mobile climb in the pocket, accurate, smart passer graded as best QB prospect in 2014 draft.

4) Cleveland Browns Select - Johnny Manziel, QB 6-0 195 Texas A&M
Shannon style, play action signal caller. Intangibles & mobility off the chart.

5} Oakland Raiders Select - Jake Matthews, OT, 6-5 309 Texas A&M
Fits Raider mold of toughness & OL dominance to plug & play QB already on roster.

6) Atlanta Falcons Select - Morgan Moses, LT, 6-6 325 Virginia
Still rising, after Combine & Pro Days Moses could be a top 10 pick? Reach here, maybe but certainly fills dire need with prototypical sized tackle.

7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers Select -Taylor Lewan, LT, 6-7 314 Michigan
Trend of taking franchise tackles continues & last year QB rookie sensation, Mike Glennon needs improved protection or may suffer regression.

8) Minnesota Vikings Select - Blake Bortles, QB, 6-4 228 UCF
Ponder this a QB competition in twin city. Incumbent starter still under contract to prove his worth while young Blake develops.

9) Buffalo Bills Select - Khalil Mack, OLB, 6-2 245 Buffalo
Hometown pressure & BPA too much pressure to deny as weight of Mario Williams salary makes him expendable if Mack produces in near future.

10) Detroit Lions Select - Sammy Watkins, WR, 6-0 205 Clemson
Imagine pairing Watkins with Megatron, certainly gives Stafford a boost for pass happy attack & vertically challenging teams.

11) Tennessee Titans Select - Anthony Barr, DE, 6-4 244 UCLA
OL set & need young pass rusher to get after QB's in AFC South.

12) New York Giants Select - Zach Martin, OT, 6-4 308
Strikes me as a Giant type of OL big, tough & smart. Improved protection for Eli Manning needed.

13) St. Louis Rams Select - Eric Ebron, TE, 6-4 245
Ravens may need to trade up to get their TE, see Eric rising & Fisher/Bradford would love to add a TE with his receiving skills.

14) Chicago Bears Select - Timmy Jernigan, DT, 6-2 298 Florida State
Top DT in a weak class, fills need in traditionally rich Bear front four.

15) Pittsburgh Steelers Select - C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama 6-2 232
Great fit/need for black & gold. One of safest picks in this draft with ability to start & impact from day one.

16) Baltimore Ravens Select - Mike Evans, WR/TE, 6-4 234
Receiver corps get bigger as well to fill in slot or TE sets with Pitta on the mend.

17) Dallas Cowboys select - Louis Nix III, DT, 6-3 330 Notre Dame
Fits in both 4-3 or 3-4 offers flexability. Fits in Dallas everything is bigger in Texas especially the trenches as Ratliff is aging as well as Hatcher.

18) New York Jets Select - Marqise Lee, WR, 6-0 195 USC
Need a productive big play receiver to improve offense that lacks playmaker & help Gino Smith flourish.

19) Miami Dolphins Select - Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, 6-5 310 Alabama
Tannehill OL needs infusion of talent with loss of Jonathan Martin & Richie Incognito affair.

20) Arizona Cardinals Select - Antonio Richardson, OT, Tennessee, 6-5 335
Carson is a pocket QB who needs plus protection & Richardson can deliver.

21) Green Bay Packers Select - Justin Gilbert, CB, 6-0 200 Oklahoma State
Top CB in his class adds much needed secondary help since days of Charles Woodson.

22) Philadelphia Eagles Select - Darqueze Dennard, CB, 5-11 189 Michigan State
Chip Kelly's Eagles need a much improved defense if they are to go farther than first round in the playoffs.

23) Kansas City Chiefs Select - Derek Carr, QB, 6030 215 Fresno State
Never liked Alex Smith, limited game manager only who will never take Chiefs deep in the playoffs. Andy Reid will fall in love with this Carr!

24) Cincinnati Bengals Select - Ha Ha Clinton Dix, S, 6010 208 Alabama
Improved secondary play in a steller young defense & return of Atkins next year should jump start this team finally deeper into the AFC playoffs.

25) San Diego Chargers Select - Jace Amaro, TE, 6-5 255 Texas Tech
Gates is still a fine player but for how much longer? Would help extend his career to add a young protege' in Jace who could be prolific with QB like Rivers.

26) Cleveland Browns Select - Xavier Su'a-Filo, OG, 6030 305
With Maziel in bootleg he will need mobile zone type downfield blockers & Xavier is tops in this draft specifically as his interior pass protector.

27) New Orleans Saints Select - Aaron Donald, DT, 6010 288 Pittsburgh
Undersized pass rushing phenomenon who had stron week @ Senior Bowl, consistent production & motor. Will really help a teams pass rush.

28) Carolina Panthers Select - Kelvin Benjamin, WR, 6-4 233 Florida State
What do you get when you pair an athletic freak (Cam) with another athletic freak (KB) you get a chance to win a Super Bowl (National Championship- both have).

29) New England Patriots Select - Stephon Tuitt, DT, 6060 303 Notre Dame
Could kick out to DE if Wilfork returns giving New England a devastating front three. In time Tuitt will become New England starting nose guard. Solid value.

30) San Francisco 49ers Select - Brandin Cooks, WR, 5-10 185 Oregon State
When you look hard @ the mach-up between Seattle & 49ers (match-up of Sherman vs Crabtree) the only way they beat this coverage is with speed. In & out of breaks Cooks can create separation it takes to beat a big physical secondary. This is a counter punch to overhand, a divisional rival one upping the other to gain an advantage & perfect fit for both Cooks & Kapernick.

31) Denver Broncos Select - Jason Verrett, CB 5-10 178 TCU
The Champ looks finished along with devastating loss of their top CB for season Chris Harris the Broncos should have been in predictable trouble facing a Russell Wilson led ball control offense who just kinda opened up large windows in that depleted secondary.

32) Seattle Seahawks Select - Ka'Deem Carey, RB, 5-10 207 Arizona
Seattle will want to continue to run the ball with Lynch type authority & what better culture to develop. Similar power running back to ageless Lynch but Carroll knows to save his stars legs while developing next franchise back.

33) Houston Texans Select - Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, 6020 225 Eastern Illinois
Sleeper QB for O'Brian to develop under his wing. Snappy release, excellent footwork with quick, athletic back peddle, accurate arm with good strength, can make all the throws including deep ball. Seems a quick leaner, during Senior Bowl week, after earning MVP in Shrine game (Which Romeo coached in) no hesitation in decisions. Better prospect than Matt Cassel coming out of USC & he flourished in New England working with Bill.

Had a lot of fun doing this for first time this year, hope y'all enjoy over a cold one, cause your probably going to need it. :wesmantexanfan:
 

Playoffs

Hall of Fame
Very nicely done overall. :clap: I'm with you on Clowney strategy.

Tough choice for Bills between Mack & Watkins.

I love Evans for Ravens.

I wonder how far the 3rd QB (Bortles,Manziel,Bridgewater) falls if Texans & Browns go for other positions?

Getting our QB at 2-1, not sure if it's Garoppolo or someone else, yet.
 

thunderkyss

Just win baby!!!
Staff member
Contributor's Club
Is this a "What you would do" mock, or a "What you think they will do" mock?

If I were Cleveland, I wouldn't draft a QB, not in the first anyway. Been there, done that..... not ready to give up on Weeden, then you've got Hoyer there. I think if they continue to add talent on both sides of the ball, they'll be better off than changing coaches & QBs every other year.

I like how you gave them a guard (the only OG in the first round) at 26, But give them Sammy Watkins at 4 to go with Josh Gordon & their once anemic WR corps (Cribs was their best receiver) is among the tops in the league. Then take a RB in the 2nd...

But that's me, that's what I would do.

& Morgan Moses.... I'm really starting to like him. Haven't looked at all the OTs you've got going in the first, but I do like Morgan Moses & would love to have that kind of attitude on our line.
 

WolverineFan

Hall of Fame
As much as I like Bridgewater, I'm starting to come around on Clowney and taking a QB in 2nd round. The more I look at Clowney, the more I think it's foolish to pass on the best prospect in the draft.
 

stingray

Hall of Fame
Do not want clowney. I am almost sure that he will be a five year rental. No way that the Texans are able to keep both watt and Clowney after his rookie contract.
 

thunderkyss

Just win baby!!!
Staff member
Contributor's Club
Not ready to give up on Weeden?

Right.
What the heck do I know?

The Cleveland Browns are expected to cut ties with quarterbacks Jason Campbell and Brandon Weeden this offseason.

Weeden has been a failed attempt by the Browns to draft a strong armed quarterback and jump back into competing for the AFC North title. Instead he’s struggled and even with a $940,000 salary next season theres little reason to keep him around.
 

mussop

Hall of Fame
Very good. The only thing I didn't like was this.

23) Kansas City Chiefs Select - Derek Carr, QB, 6030 215 Fresno State
Never liked Alex Smith, limited game manager only who will never take Chiefs deep in the playoffs. Andy Reid will fall in love with this Carr!

I think Smith has grown out of being game manager.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
Very good. The only thing I didn't like was this.

23) Kansas City Chiefs Select - Derek Carr, QB, 6030 215 Fresno State
Never liked Alex Smith, limited game manager only who will never take Chiefs deep in the playoffs. Andy Reid will fall in love with this Carr!

I think Smith has grown out of being game manager.
well if that's the worst thing I can live with that :)

can't say he specifically cost the Chiefs but 2nd half with a big ass lead on Colts he played very Schaubesque.

However check this out -
Chiefs chairman Alex Hunt reiterated that signing quarterback Alex Smith to a long-term extension is an offseason priority. Smith has one year left on his deal at $7.5 million.

“When we made the trade for him a year ago, that was part of the thinking," Hunt said, per ESPN.com. "I don’t think that thinking has changed. He came in and did a nice job. We’re glad to have him as a part of the Kansas City Chiefs and we hope it’s longer than a two-year stay.
priceless "I don't think that thinking has changed" from experience, been there done that but each his own :toropalm:
 

JRingo

Rookie
1) Houston Texans Select - Jadeveon Clowney, OLB, 6-5 258 South Carolina
BPA. Entertain trade down offers. Only downside I see is it could take a little longer to see results we expect (while developing more of a project QB) but next years class does have some good QB prospects as well depending on progress of later draft pick this year. Bill O'Brian & scouts will certainly have option C but barring a trade down to draft QB early, safest route is best player available which Clowney clearly is.

2) St. Louis Rams Select - Greg Robinson, LT, 6-5 320 Auburn
Overtaken Matthews on sheer potential & size as top OT in this class, higher rating than last years #1 overall pick Eric Fisher.

3) Jacksonville Jaguars Select - Teddy Bridgewater, QB, 6-2 204 Louisville
Opposite of Gabbert, a mobile climb in the pocket, accurate, smart passer graded as best QB prospect in 2014 draft.

4) Cleveland Browns Select - Johnny Manziel, QB 6-0 195 Texas A&M
Shannon style, play action signal caller. Intangibles & mobility off the chart.

5} Oakland Raiders Select - Jake Matthews, OT, 6-5 309 Texas A&M
Fits Raider mold of toughness & OL dominance to plug & play QB already on roster.

6) Atlanta Falcons Select - Morgan Moses, LT, 6-6 325 Virginia
Still rising, after Combine & Pro Days Moses could be a top 10 pick? Reach here, maybe but certainly fills dire need with prototypical sized tackle.

7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers Select -Taylor Lewan, LT, 6-7 314 Michigan
Trend of taking franchise tackles continues & last year QB rookie sensation, Mike Glennon needs improved protection or may suffer regression.

8) Minnesota Vikings Select - Blake Bortles, QB, 6-4 228 UCF
Ponder this a QB competition in twin city. Incumbent starter still under contract to prove his worth while young Blake develops.

9) Buffalo Bills Select - Khalil Mack, OLB, 6-2 245 Buffalo
Hometown pressure & BPA too much pressure to deny as weight of Mario Williams salary makes him expendable if Mack produces in near future.

10) Detroit Lions Select - Sammy Watkins, WR, 6-0 205 Clemson
Imagine pairing Watkins with Megatron, certainly gives Stafford a boost for pass happy attack & vertically challenging teams.

11) Tennessee Titans Select - Anthony Barr, DE, 6-4 244 UCLA
OL set & need young pass rusher to get after QB's in AFC South.

12) New York Giants Select - Zach Martin, OT, 6-4 308
Strikes me as a Giant type of OL big, tough & smart. Improved protection for Eli Manning needed.

13) St. Louis Rams Select - Eric Ebron, TE, 6-4 245
Ravens may need to trade up to get their TE, see Eric rising & Fisher/Bradford would love to add a TE with his receiving skills.

14) Chicago Bears Select - Timmy Jernigan, DT, 6-2 298 Florida State
Top DT in a weak class, fills need in traditionally rich Bear front four.

15) Pittsburgh Steelers Select - C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama 6-2 232
Great fit/need for black & gold. One of safest picks in this draft with ability to start & impact from day one.

16) Baltimore Ravens Select - Mike Evans, WR/TE, 6-4 234
Receiver corps get bigger as well to fill in slot or TE sets with Pitta on the mend.

17) Dallas Cowboys select - Louis Nix III, DT, 6-3 330 Notre Dame
Fits in both 4-3 or 3-4 offers flexability. Fits in Dallas everything is bigger in Texas especially the trenches as Ratliff is aging as well as Hatcher.

18) New York Jets Select - Marqise Lee, WR, 6-0 195 USC
Need a productive big play receiver to improve offense that lacks playmaker & help Gino Smith flourish.

19) Miami Dolphins Select - Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, 6-5 310 Alabama
Tannehill OL needs infusion of talent with loss of Jonathan Martin & Richie Incognito affair.

20) Arizona Cardinals Select - Antonio Richardson, OT, Tennessee, 6-5 335
Carson is a pocket QB who needs plus protection & Richardson can deliver.

21) Green Bay Packers Select - Justin Gilbert, CB, 6-0 200 Oklahoma State
Top CB in his class adds much needed secondary help since days of Charles Woodson.

22) Philadelphia Eagles Select - Darqueze Dennard, CB, 5-11 189 Michigan State
Chip Kelly's Eagles need a much improved defense if they are to go farther than first round in the playoffs.

23) Kansas City Chiefs Select - Derek Carr, QB, 6030 215 Fresno State
Never liked Alex Smith, limited game manager only who will never take Chiefs deep in the playoffs. Andy Reid will fall in love with this Carr!

24) Cincinnati Bengals Select - Ha Ha Clinton Dix, S, 6010 208 Alabama
Improved secondary play in a steller young defense & return of Atkins next year should jump start this team finally deeper into the AFC playoffs.

25) San Diego Chargers Select - Jace Amaro, TE, 6-5 255 Texas Tech
Gates is still a fine player but for how much longer? Would help extend his career to add a young protege' in Jace who could be prolific with QB like Rivers.

26) Cleveland Browns Select - Xavier Su'a-Filo, OG, 6030 305
With Maziel in bootleg he will need mobile zone type downfield blockers & Xavier is tops in this draft specifically as his interior pass protector.

27) New Orleans Saints Select - Aaron Donald, DT, 6010 288 Pittsburgh
Undersized pass rushing phenomenon who had stron week @ Senior Bowl, consistent production & motor. Will really help a teams pass rush.

28) Carolina Panthers Select - Kelvin Benjamin, WR, 6-4 233 Florida State
What do you get when you pair an athletic freak (Cam) with another athletic freak (KB) you get a chance to win a Super Bowl (National Championship- both have).

29) New England Patriots Select - Stephon Tuitt, DT, 6060 303 Notre Dame
Could kick out to DE if Wilfork returns giving New England a devastating front three. In time Tuitt will become New England starting nose guard. Solid value.

30) San Francisco 49ers Select - Brandin Cooks, WR, 5-10 185 Oregon State
When you look hard @ the mach-up between Seattle & 49ers (match-up of Sherman vs Crabtree) the only way they beat this coverage is with speed. In & out of breaks Cooks can create separation it takes to beat a big physical secondary. This is a counter punch to overhand, a divisional rival one upping the other to gain an advantage & perfect fit for both Cooks & Kapernick.

31) Denver Broncos Select - Jason Verrett, CB 5-10 178 TCU
The Champ looks finished along with devastating loss of their top CB for season Chris Harris the Broncos should have been in predictable trouble facing a Russell Wilson led ball control offense who just kinda opened up large windows in that depleted secondary.

32) Seattle Seahawks Select - Ka'Deem Carey, RB, 5-10 207 Arizona
Seattle will want to continue to run the ball with Lynch type authority & what better culture to develop. Similar power running back to ageless Lynch but Carroll knows to save his stars legs while developing next franchise back.

33) Houston Texans Select - Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, 6020 225 Eastern Illinois
Sleeper QB for O'Brian to develop under his wing. Snappy release, excellent footwork with quick, athletic back peddle, accurate arm with good strength, can make all the throws including deep ball. Seems a quick leaner, during Senior Bowl week, after earning MVP in Shrine game (Which Romeo coached in) no hesitation in decisions. Better prospect than Matt Cassel coming out of USC & he flourished in New England working with Bill.

Had a lot of fun doing this for first time this year, hope y'all enjoy over a cold one, cause your probably going to need it. :wesmantexanfan:
Enjoyed your analysis here and comments. This may happen. Wonder if the Wyoming QB might also be a possibility at 33...
 
Love the mock but I think Clowney will be a huge bust. The only thing that will drive him to play will be money, want no part of him.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
As much as I like Bridgewater, I'm starting to come around on Clowney and taking a QB in 2nd round. The more I look at Clowney, the more I think it's foolish to pass on the best prospect in the draft.
It boils down to O'Brian doesn't it? Just looking at his record of QB development, its impressive. Then you have to balance that with a void in pass rush since departure of former Texan #1 overall pick Mario Williams (besides JJ Watt of course). Now teams can schematically minimize sacks from JJ so there must be a game changer so that cannot continue to happen. What do I know? Cannot pin this on Mario, cannot pin this on Carr (both former #1 picks of Texans). BPA is BPA. Texans need a QB I guess will have to trust O'Brian on this one, but trust will not buy another three months so debate will rage on.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
Very nicely done overall. :clap: I'm with you on Clowney strategy.

Tough choice for Bills between Mack & Watkins.

I love Evans for Ravens.

I wonder how far the 3rd QB (Bortles,Manziel,Bridgewater) falls if Texans & Browns go for other positions?

Getting our QB at 2-1, not sure if it's Garoppolo or someone else, yet.
fair
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
Enjoyed your analysis here and comments. This may happen. Wonder if the Wyoming QB might also be a possibility at 33...
I doubt 2.1 will see maybe if Texans opt to go QB 1st a back-up plan would be smart. thanks for input!
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
Is this a "What you would do" mock, or a "What you think they will do" mock?

If I were Cleveland, I wouldn't draft a QB, not in the first anyway. Been there, done that..... not ready to give up on Weeden, then you've got Hoyer there. I think if they continue to add talent on both sides of the ball, they'll be better off than changing coaches & QBs every other year.

I like how you gave them a guard (the only OG in the first round) at 26, But give them Sammy Watkins at 4 to go with Josh Gordon & their once anemic WR corps (Cribs was their best receiver) is among the tops in the league. Then take a RB in the 2nd...

But that's me, that's what I would do.

& Morgan Moses.... I'm really starting to like him. Haven't looked at all the OTs you've got going in the first, but I do like Morgan Moses & would love to have that kind of attitude on our line.
mine & mine alone. just had some time to kill, so to speak.

first & foremost they need to keep hold of Josh Gordon, he wants a big contract, then so be it.

second, Manziel is tailor made of Shanahan offense. I feel he is equal to RG III in terms of running his scheme. If he was willing to trade up & use multiple picks to do it why not just use own pick to take similar player, see I just don't get that.

third, combination of QB with mobile defender, a leader with a cause that's a dynamic 1-2 that I know a lot of Texans would love to have but them dawgs have paid a price for a long time so its there cum upping. Tried to keep it non judgmental & win win for every team with the best prospect for the selection as presented. That is why Texans should take Clowney #1 unless a trade down offer is too good to resist.

Fourth, Moses will part the red sea, he is a beast & gifted with serious upside, 2nd only to Greg Robinson who reminds me of a young, raw Orlando Pace.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
we'll know in a few weeks if Texans address a particular position to upgrade via free agency. this is only a best guess before the combine, before free agency, before pro-days, before the draft as to how I see these prospects grading out & where they would be successful. no two boards are alike.

this exercise also helps me sleep on taking pass rusher over QB, when there are three possible choices to address franchise QB. buffered somewhat by Bill O'Brian specialty for identifying skill set his QB needs to run offense. the days of looking down Andre Johnson are over. tomorrows QB must spread the ball to multiple targets & show no tendencies. in this sense Bridgewarter is king of ball movement to every target downfield, only question is his deep ball, which will inevitably improve with arm strength as he matures & grows as a Pro.

never know but a team could trade back up into the first to select a QB, it happens all the time. still I see no team, the way this flows who would select Jimmy until Texans next turn #33. currently ranked #57th best overall prospect & #5 QB by NFL Scout he will certainly impress more than others @ combine because he will compete, http://jg-tc.com/sports/college/eiu-s-garoppolo-invited-to-nfl-combine/article_b7ded3ee-3e5a-5010-bd35-e334d4367369.html plus as well as others have his private & pro day workouts.
Eastern Illinois quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo continued the positive momentum he'd gained from the East-West Shrine Game with an impressive initial practice. While he does not possess Carr's howitzer, Garoppolo has a very quick set-up and release and frequently threw led his receivers away from defenders, showing better ball-placement than Carr on several of his throws. - Rob Rang, NFLDraftScout.com]
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
1) Houston Texans Select - Jadeveon Clowney, OLB, 6-5 258 South Carolina
BPA. Entertain trade down offers.
* 1 Clowney, Jadeveon DE South Carolina Junior SEC 1 -- Clowney is at top of Bucky Brook's initial Big Board
**in total agreement

2) St. Louis Rams Select - Greg Robinson, LT, 6-5 320 Auburn
Overtaken Matthews on sheer potential & size as top OT in this class, higher rating than last years #1 overall pick Eric Fisher.
*2 Watkins, Sammy WR Clemson Junior ACC 2 -- Brooks: Watkins is top WR in 2014 draft class
**Watkins may be top of class but its a deep class & that deep in quality which eases teams sense of urgency especially over franchise tackle

3) Jacksonville Jaguars Select - Teddy Bridgewater, QB, 6-2 204 Louisville
Opposite of Gabbert, a mobile climb in the pocket, accurate, smart passer graded as best QB prospect in 2014 draft.
*3 Robinson, Greg OT Auburn * Sophomore SEC Robinson rates at No. 2 on Bucky Brooks' initial Big Board
**Jaguars could go with a franchise tackle, after they traded away their last one on the cheap & go with Gabbert, not the best of ideas.

4) Cleveland Browns Select - Johnny Manziel, QB 6-0 195 Texas A&M
Shannon style, play action signal caller. Intangibles & mobility off the chart.
*4 Barr, Anthony OLB UCLA Senior Pac-12 4 -- Brooks: Barr is top OLB in 2014 draft class

5} Oakland Raiders Select - Jake Matthews, OT, 6-5 309 Texas A&M
Fits Raider mold of toughness & OL dominance to plug & play QB already on roster.
*5 Mack, Khalil OLB Buffalo Senior Mid-American
Brooks: Mack fits as late first-round pick

6) Atlanta Falcons Select - Morgan Moses, LT, 6-6 325 Virginia
Still rising, after Combine & Pro Days Moses could be a top 10 pick? Reach here, maybe but certainly fills dire need with prototypical sized tackle.
*6 Jernigan, Timmy DT Florida St. Junior ACC 6 -- Jeremiah: Jernigan dominates in FSU's BCS title game win
**Matthews is off the board Moses may rival then surpass him as a LT so Matt Ryan stays alive another year.

7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers Select -Taylor Lewan, LT, 6-7 314 Michigan
Trend of taking franchise tackles continues & last year QB rookie sensation, Mike Glennon needs improved protection or may suffer regression.
*7 Manziel, Johnny QB Texas A&M * Sophomore SEC Report: Manziel won't throw at Texas A&M Pro Day
**Glennon is promising, needs better protection as well & Manziel is off the board.

8) Minnesota Vikings Select - Blake Bortles, QB, 6-4 228 UCF
Ponder this a QB competition in twin city. Incumbent starter still under contract to prove his worth while young Blake develops.
*8 Matthews, Jake OT Texas A&M Senior SEC Falcons GM high on Matthews' pro potential
**problem with this - Jake already off the board guys

9) Buffalo Bills Select - Khalil Mack, OLB, 6-2 245 Buffalo
Hometown pressure & BPA too much pressure to deny as weight of Mario Williams salary makes him expendable if Mack produces in near future.
*9 Mosley, C.J. ILB Alabama Senior SEC Brooks: Mosley is top inside 'backer in 2014 draft class
**like this fit, good pickm, Mack or Mosley

10) Detroit Lions Select - Sammy Watkins, WR, 6-0 205 Clemson
Imagine pairing Watkins with Megatron, certainly gives Stafford a boost for pass happy attack & vertically challenging teams.
*10 Bridgewater, Teddy QB Louisville Junior AAC Bridgewater: I should've completed 80 percent of passes
**both outstanding options for 10th pick, no way Bridgewater is here, will revisit Watkins, maybe Moses pick should be switched but a point made is a point taken.

11) Tennessee Titans Select - Anthony Barr, DE, 6-4 244 UCLA
OL set & need young pass rusher to get after QB's in AFC South.
*11 Ebron, Eric TE North Carolina Junior ACC Report: Ebron put on 'significant weight'
**very close in ranking, who would be a solid choice filling need as well, thought I had Ebron higher than I'd seen before.

12) New York Giants Select - Zach Martin, OT, 6-4 308
Strikes me as a Giant type of OL big, tough & smart. Improved protection for Eli Manning needed.
*12 Lewan, Taylor OT Michigan Senior Big Ten 12 -- Falcons GM: '(Lewan) is a tough, tough dude with a lot of upside
**again off the board or should I say higher rated, both solid picks.

13) St. Louis Rams Select - Eric Ebron, TE, 6-4 245
Ravens may need to trade up to get their TE, see Eric rising & Fisher/Bradford would love to add a TE with his receiving skills.
*13 Gilbert, Justin CB Oklahoma St. Senior Big 12
Brooks: Gilbert is top cornerback in 2014 draft class
**do not grade him this high, may fit that bigger CB category plus return skills.

14) Chicago Bears Select - Timmy Jernigan, DT, 6-2 298 Florida State
Top DT in a weak class, fills need in traditionally rich Bear front four.
*14 Evans, Mike WR Texas A&M * Sophomore SEC 13
Brandt: Evans would have benefited from extra year
**would he really without Manziel.

15) Pittsburgh Steelers Select - C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama 6-2 232
Great fit/need for black & gold. One of safest picks in this draft with ability to start & impact from day one.
*15 Pryor, Calvin FS Louisville Junior AAC Brooks: Pryor is No. 2 safety in 2014 draft
**physical safety, good size, pretty high for position, Eric Reid clearly a superior talent he went 18th last draft.

16) Baltimore Ravens Select - Mike Evans, WR/TE, 6-4 234
Receiver corps get bigger as well to fill in slot or TE sets with Pitta on the mend.
*16 Clinton-Dix, Ha Ha FS Alabama Junior SEC Brooks: Clinton-Dix is top safety in 2014 draft class
**closer to Reid & agree with Brooks

17) Dallas Cowboys select - Louis Nix III, DT, 6-3 330 Notre Dame
Fits in both 4-3 or 3-4 offers flexability. Fits in Dallas everything is bigger in Texas especially the trenches as Ratliff is aging as well as Hatcher.
*17 Benjamin, Kelvin WR Florida St. * Sophomore ACC Jeremiah: It's easy to get excited about Benjamin's potential
**wow, really? their WR ratings are way off in my view.

18) New York Jets Select - Marqise Lee, WR, 6-0 195 USC
Need a productive big play receiver to improve offense that lacks playmaker & help Gino Smith flourish.
*18 Bortles, Blake QB Central Florida * Junior AAC Bortles might not throw at the combine
**screams trade back for Texans.

19) Miami Dolphins Select - Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, 6-5 310 Alabama
Tannehill OL needs infusion of talent with loss of Jonathan Martin & Richie Incognito affair.
*19 Dennard, Darqueze CB Michigan St. Senior Big Ten Dennard's speed is an issue with his detractors
**watch the tape, game speed is different animal opposed to track speed.

20) Arizona Cardinals Select - Antonio Richardson, OT, Tennessee, 6-5 335
Carson is a pocket QB who needs plus protection & Richardson can deliver.
*20 Nix III, Louis DT Notre Dame * Junior IA Independents Brooks: Nix is top defensive tackle in 2014 draft class
**really close on rating, there will always be a team who covets top DT in class, if knee checks out could really rise.

21) Green Bay Packers Select - Justin Gilbert, CB, 6-0 200 Oklahoma State
Top CB in his class adds much needed secondary help since days of Charles Woodson.
*21 Lee, Marqise WR USC Junior Pac-12 USC coach: 'Sky is the limit' for Lee
**don't see a big gap between Watkins & Lee check out numbers.

22) Philadelphia Eagles Select - Darqueze Dennard, CB, 5-11 189 Michigan State
Chip Kelly's Eagles need a much improved defense if they are to go farther than first round in the playoffs.
*22 Hyde, Carlos RB Ohio St. Senior Big Ten Davis: Hyde might be better than Packers' Lacy
**doubt Chip would agree with that but whatever, I'll give them that if they give me Moses in top 10, lol

23) Kansas City Chiefs Select - Derek Carr, QB, 6030 215 Fresno State
Never liked Alex Smith, limited game manager only who will never take Chiefs deep in the playoffs. Andy Reid will fall in love with this Carr!
*23 Hageman, Ra'Shede DT Minnesota Senior Big Ten Jeremiah: Hageman among six potential first-rounders at Senior Bowl
**project, plays lost at times but teams do take risks all the time.

24) Cincinnati Bengals Select - Ha Ha Clinton Dix, S, 6010 208 Alabama
Improved secondary play in a steller young defense & return of Atkins next year should jump start this team finally deeper into the AFC playoffs.
*24 Martin, Zack OT Notre Dame Senior IA Independents
Savage: Martin excelled at Senior Bowl
**agreed which is why he will go WAY higher.

25) San Diego Chargers Select - Jace Amaro, TE, 6-5 255 Texas Tech
Gates is still a fine player but for how much longer? Would help extend his career to add a young protege' in Jace who could be prolific with QB like Rivers.
*25 Amaro, Jace TE Texas Tech Junior Big 12 Brandt: Amaro among top tight ends in 2014 NFL Draft
**Bingo

26) Cleveland Browns Select - Xavier Su'a-Filo, OG, 6030 305
With Maziel in bootleg he will need mobile zone type downfield blockers & Xavier is tops in this draft specifically as his interior pass protector.
*26 Ealy, Kony DE Missouri * Junior SEC Brandt: Ealy boosted draft stock in Missouri's Cotton Bowl win
**no love for big nasty O'lineman?

27) New Orleans Saints Select - Aaron Donald, DT, 6010 288 Pittsburgh
Undersized pass rushing phenomenon who had stron week @ Senior Bowl, consistent production & motor. Will really help a teams pass rush.
*27 Moses, Morgan OT Virginia Senior ACC Jeremiah: Moses among six potential first-rounders at Senior Bowl
**Moses will part seas, you will see as his draft grade ascends. Love Donald too!

28) Carolina Panthers Select - Kelvin Benjamin, WR, 6-4 233 Florida State
What do you get when you pair an athletic freak (Cam) with another athletic freak (KB) you get a chance to win a Super Bowl (National Championship- both have).
*28 Kouandjio, Cyrus OT Alabama Junior SEC Kouandjio struggled in Sugar Bowl loss to Oklahoma
**has look more of a RT, not such a bad thing if he slips just a little farther.

29) New England Patriots Select - Stephon Tuitt, DT, 6060 303 Notre Dame
Could kick out to DE if Wilfork returns giving New England a devastating front three. In time Tuitt will become New England starting nose guard. Solid value.
*29 Tuitt, Stephon DE Notre Dame Junior IA Independents Tuitt dominant in Notre Dame's Pinstripe Bowl win
**Bingo

30) San Francisco 49ers Select - Brandin Cooks, WR, 5-10 185 Oregon State
When you look hard @ the mach-up between Seattle & 49ers (match-up of Sherman vs Crabtree) the only way they beat this coverage is with speed. In & out of breaks Cooks can create separation it takes to beat a big physical secondary. This is a counter punch to overhand, a divisional rival one upping the other to gain an advantage & perfect fit for both Cooks & Kapernick.
*30 Donald, Aaron DT Pittsburgh Senior ACC 30 -- Savage projects Donald as top-50 draft pick
**not really going out on a limb with that one, sure fire productive player.

31) Denver Broncos Select - Jason Verrett, CB 5-10 178 TCU
The Champ looks finished along with devastating loss of their top CB for season Chris Harris the Broncos should have been in predictable trouble facing a Russell Wilson led ball control offense who just kinda opened up large windows in that depleted secondary.
*31 Landry, Jarvis WR LSU Junior SEC Jeremiah: 10 underclassmen WRs could go in first two rounds
**Landry is a great prospect late first early second one I feel strongly Texans should consider?

32) Seattle Seahawks Select - Ka'Deem Carey, RB, 5-10 207 Arizona
Seattle will want to continue to run the ball with Lynch type authority & what better culture to develop. Similar power running back to ageless Lynch but Carroll knows to save his stars legs while developing next franchise back.
*32 Cooks, Brandin WR Oregon St. Junior Pac-12 Oregon State coach Riley high on Cooks' NFL chances
**funny we both have one RB going in first, just different ones. can't wait to find out who is right.

33) Houston Texans Select - Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, 6020 225 Eastern Illinois
Sleeper QB for O'Brian to develop under his wing. Snappy release, excellent footwork with quick, athletic back peddle, accurate arm with good strength, can make all the throws including deep ball. Seems a quick leaner, during Senior Bowl week, after earning MVP in Shrine game (Which Romeo coached in) no hesitation in decisions. Better prospect than Matt Cassel coming out of USC & he flourished in New England working with Bill.
*33 Easley, Dominique DT Florida Senior SEC Easley documents knee rehab ahead of draft
**two QB's, Carr & McCarron in their top 50 no mention of Garoppolo. So is he that big of reach just because Texans need to address QB position?

http://www.nfl.com/top50

Added comments along with now updated draft board from NFL.COM crew.

Thanks guys!!!

two things stand out, either I have the OT & QB class rated too high or they have them rated too low. Manziel #7, Bridewater #10 & Bortles #18 for starters. could this be reason they're no longer real scouts in NFL? (any real scouts out there please chime in) to me its difficult to add enough value into position, so its easy oversight, but we all know too well don't we, importance of franchise LT as well RT protection. Otherwise pretty similar by & large the process is fluid so they will be wrong as will BL when all is said & done. man that was a lot of time & effort, sure hope somebody enjoys this one :cool:
 

Corrosion

Idealist
Staff member
The OT spot is definitely an important one .... but that's an awful lot of tackles going in the first 20 picks .... that would really push some talent down at other positions.

Its not without support historically to have that many go in the first round as D.Brown was the 6th tackle taken @ #26 in 2008. You could be onto something with this.


Sure will leave some strong prospects at other positions @ 33 but really would hurt the Texans ability to fill the RT spot with a draft pick capable of playing early as I probably wouldn't touch the next group of OT's until the late 3rd as they just aren't close to the top 7.
 

Marshall

Not pretty, but ALIVE!
It boils down to O'Brian doesn't it? Just looking at his record of QB development, its impressive. Then you have to balance that with a void in pass rush since departure of former Texan #1 overall pick Mario Williams (besides JJ Watt of course). Now teams can schematically minimize sacks from JJ so there must be a game changer so that cannot continue to happen. What do I know? Cannot pin this on Mario, cannot pin this on Carr (both former #1 picks of Texans). BPA is BPA. Texans need a QB I guess will have to trust O'Brian on this one, but trust will not buy another three months so debate will rage on.
Do you actually think the debate will go away just because we actually draft someone, or because they play an entire career and retire? We're still debating the Mario Williams choice. Why do you think we won't be debating this choice for the next fifty years if the Lord tarries?
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
The OT spot is definitely an important one .... but that's an awful lot of tackles going in the first 20 picks .... that would really push some talent down at other positions.

Its not without support historically to have that many go in the first round as D.Brown was the 6th tackle taken @ #26 in 2008. You could be onto something with this.


Sure will leave some strong prospects at other positions @ 33 but really would hurt the Texans ability to fill the RT spot with a draft pick capable of playing early as I probably wouldn't touch the next group of OT's until the late 3rd as they just aren't close to the top 7.
yes, agreed. that is problem with bypassing OT early, especially with twice as many teams needing tackles (takes two LT/RT) as franchise QB's. Texans sure needed a pair last season didn't they? one just ain't going to cut it unless you want your QB to lose his confidence, his job or suffer injury. only way to avoid this is plus offensive line protection & mobile QB, hence see emphasis on top rated QB's who have mobility in this draft.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
Do you actually think the debate will go away just because we actually draft someone, or because they play an entire career and retire? We're still debating the Mario Williams choice. Why do you think we won't be debating this choice for the next fifty years if the Lord tarries?
Only that we'll have our answer to question, "who will Texans select" :)
 

TexansFTW

Veteran
Lions just cut ties with Burleson. I imagine if Watkins was to somehow fall to them they'd have a very difficult time passing over him.
 

bah007

Hall of Fame
Speaking of which, if you were the Lions, what would you be looking to do with that first pick (tenth overall)?
Greg Robinson - won't be available
Sammy Watkins - can't pass on him if he's there, but I doubt he will be
Justin Gilbert - #1 CB
Darqueze Dennard - #2 CB but less raw than Gilbert
Khalil Mack - they could also use LB help
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
Greg Robinson - won't be available
Sammy Watkins - can't pass on him if he's there, but I doubt he will be
Justin Gilbert - #1 CB
Darqueze Dennard - #2 CB but less raw than Gilbert
Khalil Mack - they could also use LB help
good points. off my mock, take Watkins, never look back. if he's not available & Mack would be there, BPA or if Mosley is your cup of tea he should be there.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
In all team cases my focus was on addressing team need with best possible player. The better teams, already stacked, can just sit back & take value without recourse, high risk/high reward!

You know we get a ton of hits from other boards seeking knowledge, outside opinion, & when it comes to the draft, closer to the truth (at least that's the idea).

Would like to open this forum to outside opinion on your teams needs, dreams & coveted prospects as well. We're not here to make excuses for our beloved Texans, **** happens, but this fan base should no longer be considered as novice as results would suggest.

This board has grown & maintained a healthy , active group, comrades, fellow posters who are both passionate & knowledgeable, not just Texans but league wide. Making a intelligent, insightful pick for another team, without compromise is a sacrifice we do in the name of gamesmanship & betterment of our fellow NFL brethren, it's what we do in our pastime, just wanted to get that out there :wesmantexanfan:
 
Enjoyed your analysis here and comments. This may happen. Wonder if the Wyoming QB might also be a possibility at 33...
That throwing motion of his isn't worth the 33rd pick. Makes me sick. :D (Brett Smith)

To the OP, Like the Mock. It's either we go QB or Clowney at #1, I don't see any other way around it.

Want to see more from Garoppolo before drafting him at #33. Played VERY well in the East-West, fell back down to reality in the Senior Bowl. Not a deal-breaker for me, I just don't know if i'm quite ready to make him the #33 pick but he really impressed me at the East-West.

Between the 3 QB's that we might possibly take at #1, (if we don't go Clowney) i've got them rated like this:

1a.) Manziel
1b.) Bridgewater
3.) Bortles

If we take a QB at #1, (I would prefer Manziel but i'd take Bridgewater without blinking an eye) i'd like to take Ra'Shede Hageman NT/DE Minnesota at #33.

1. Manziel
2. Hageman

I really like that right there!

But if Garoppolo tests out well at the Combine and impresses while he's in Indy, i'd take your draft in a heartbeat!
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
That throwing motion of his isn't worth the 33rd pick. Makes me sick. :D (Brett Smith)

To the OP, Like the Mock. It's either we go QB or Clowney at #1, I don't see any other way around it.

Want to see more from Garoppolo before drafting him at #33. Played VERY well in the East-West, fell back down to reality in the Senior Bowl. Not a deal-breaker for me, I just don't know if i'm quite ready to make him the #33 pick but he really impressed me at the East-West.

Between the 3 QB's that we might possibly take at #1, (if we don't go Clowney) i've got them rated like this:

1a.) Manziel
1b.) Bridgewater
3.) Bortles

If we take a QB at #1, (I would prefer Manziel but i'd take Bridgewater without blinking an eye) i'd like to take Ra'Shede Hageman NT/DE Minnesota at #33.

1. Manziel
2. Hageman

I really like that right there!

But if Garoppolo tests out well at the Combine and impresses while he's in Indy, i'd take your draft in a heartbeat!
good stuff, thanks!

Escapability (if that is a real word?) from the pocket is really what I would like to see from next Texan signal caller, which describes Bridewater to a T. Absolutely horrified that a very well respected NFL crew of former scouts would rank him #10th overall prospect (superimposed under original mock draft) really? He possess everything you look for with exception of core strength which transcends to deep ball. Then all one has to do is think back to Brady when he came out of Michigan then you realize Teddy is miles ahead & with the former Patriot QB coach I don't worry as much or fear much downside from taking him.

Garoppolo is a bigger, stronger version of Case, I think they would make a nice tandem to lead this franchise forward with intimidating defense to fall back on (taking Clowney). His 66% Completion is every bit on par with big boys, 53 TD's & over 5,000 yards speaks volumes of productivity. All variables but a lot to like. I'll wager combine measurable will be close, very close in height, Jimmy will get him by 10 lbs weight wise, love to see complete workouts. If they release wonderlic scores, which doubt Teddy will kill it, this is something important to O'Brian. Brady scored something like 33, expect Bridgewater to exceed 40, but if Garoppolo does 33 or more that will help his cause. Russell Wilson had a 28 while Kaepernick scored 37.

In the end I like his footwork, his mechanics & release. Very hard, very difficult to rate QB's worth moving forward, position can sink or swim a franchise, hence the added value. Even I will admit there will be higher rated players available, now, but moving forward that is the question?
 

steelbtexan

King of the W. B. Club
Contributor's Club
Do not want clowney. I am almost sure that he will be a five year rental. No way that the Texans are able to keep both watt and Clowney after his rookie contract.
Wrong

The Cap is going up significantly when the new TV deal kicks in. The CBA as it is right now allows for 5 large contracts.
 

steelbtexan

King of the W. B. Club
Contributor's Club
Speaking of which, if you were the Lions, what would you be looking to do with that first pick (tenth overall)?
I'm picking for the Lions and I like Ebron for them a lot.

Thoughts?

I doubt Watkins will be there at 10. If he is He's the pick.
 
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ObsiWan

Hall of Fame
Contributor's Club
yes, agreed. that is problem with bypassing OT early, especially with twice as many teams needing tackles (takes two LT/RT) as franchise QB's. Texans sure needed a pair last season didn't they? one just ain't going to cut it unless you want your QB to lose his confidence, his job or suffer injury. only way to avoid this is plus offensive line protection & mobile QB, hence see emphasis on top rated QB's who have mobility in this draft.
That is why I would go Jake Matthews.
STRENGTHS: Matthews is quick off the snap and uses his long, strong arms and good mobility to control his opponents when pass blocking. While perhaps not an elite athlete, he plays with the technique and tenacity to make his father proud, controlling opponents with good initial quickness, excellent knee bend and balance and terrific upper-body strength. Matthews is a terrific run blocker. Though athletic enough to surprise defenders with an occasional chop block or slipping out to the second level to nail a linebacker, he's at his best simply driving defensive ends off the ball and creating lanes for A&M's running backs to slice through. Once he gets his hands on his opponent, he exhibits an ability to dictate the matchup. Strong lower-half drive and displays a good understanding of leverage when he can establish low position against thicker defenders.
WEAKNESSES: Matthews can get himself in trouble when he stops moving his feet and his lack of elite foot speed and balance may limit just how high he can go on draft day. At times, he'll bend his arms and lock his knees when opposing a strong bull-rush and appears "light" occasionally in power-on-power situations.
COMPARES TO: Joe Staley, OT, San Francisco 49ers - Though Matthews won't blow anyone away with his athleticism, like Staley he's a sound technician with impressive toughness who exhibits no major weaknesses, and is tough to beat in both facets of the offense.
Clowney has maturity questions.
Any of the QBs we'd take at 1-1 have questions of their own. Is Manziel mature enough and/or big enough?
Is Bridgewater sturdy enough?
Is Bortles really all that good?
Too many questions for my tastes
Given Matthews bloodline, you know he has the work ethic. People keep drooling about what might be with Watt and Clowney on opposite sides of the D-line. I dream about how solid our O-line would be for the next 5-6-7 years with D. Brown and Matthews as bookend tackles and Myers in the middle.
Plus if your original mock is right, all the decent tackle prospects will be gone by the third round.

IMHO, Matthews is the least risky pick in a definite position of need.... dire need.

Edit: I can't believe SteelB isn't singing "please pick Matthews" from the rooftops...
 

thunderkyss

Just win baby!!!
Staff member
Contributor's Club
I'm picking for the Lions and I like Ebron for them a lot.

Thoughts?

I doubt Watkins will be there at 10. If he is He's the pick.
I could see Ebron..... I also think Watkins is the best player in this draft & they'd be silly to pass on him if the first 9 teams did. But I don't think he'll be there.

They've got good talent on both sides of the ball & I really can't see that one piece that they're missing. They're a conundrum to me right now, which is why I asked.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
I could see Ebron..... I also think Watkins is the best player in this draft & they'd be silly to pass on him if the first 9 teams did. But I don't think he'll be there.

They've got good talent on both sides of the ball & I really can't see that one piece that they're missing. They're a conundrum to me right now, which is why I asked.
if Ebron moves higher that will also help pull Jace Amaro up as well. unless a team has a glaring hole @ WR a deep class will always push prospects little further down than expected but once a team selects one there could be serious run on them.
 

Texian

Hall of Fame
In a Quarterback driven league, where the QB is the most important player on every team, where 7 teams in the top 11 picks are in desperate need of a QB, I think (3) QBs in the first 3-4 picks and (4) QBs in the Top 11 picks will be closer to reality.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
It's very possible that Greg Robinson will be the highest rated player on the Texans board as well majority of NFL teams when all is said & done. Raw talent with huge upside who demonstrated exceptional growth as player in one short season. He is a devastating power blocker, with long arms, massive lower body strength, in all the tape I watched was beaten only once & had no impact on the game or play. If Texans stay true to their draft board he in fact should be at the top. He would start on the right side, learn the ropes, develop then eventually replace Duane Brown left tackle. In the meantime OL woes are solved. Rams are just hoping Texans don't trade down so a team could move up & take him. Everybody is talking Clowney & the QB's, some Watkins but this kid makes the most sense, he is just such a riser & late bloomer.

Would like some feedback in regards to proposition of selecting Greg Robinson 1st overall. His draft grade #2 rated overall on most boards suggests at least from BPA standpoint he will be in discussion. The gap between him & Matthews will probably widen, post combine in the ALL underwear competition, but also expect him to look really fluid in drills & larger in measurements. If Clowney cannot interview well or questions remain about his health, he could slide just enough that Robinson could overtake him as consensus #1 overall prospect. I know this he will be rated higher than last years #1 overall draft pick, Eric Fisher as Joeckel was rated higher than his teammate Jake Matthews as a LT prospect.
 
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Lucky

Ride, Captain, Ride!
Staff member
Would like some feedback in regards to proposition of selecting Greg Robinson 1st overall.
I don't think the Texans would take a OT at 1-1. But, it would be good to show interest, because you never know who might like the guy enough to trade up.

The way I'm looking at the draft right now is that I like all of the top QBs and I like Clowney. But, everyone of the QBs has cons, and Clowney does, too. So, I would like to see a trade down anywhere in the top 5. I'm OK with any of them, so the best thing is to maximize the pick and bring in as much talent as possible.

Of course, that's easier said than done. But the Texans should at least attempt to work the draft.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
I don't think the Texans would take a OT at 1-1. But, it would be good to show interest, because you never know who might like the guy enough to trade up.

The way I'm looking at the draft right now is that I like all of the top QBs and I like Clowney. But, everyone of the QBs has cons, and Clowney does, too. So, I would like to see a trade down anywhere in the top 5. I'm OK with any of them, so the best thing is to maximize the pick and bring in as much talent as possible.

Of course, that's easier said than done. But the Texans should at least attempt to work the draft.
thanks!

It's a good discussion. Greg Robinson could just be the highest graded player in this draft when all is said & done. Texans biggest hole was actually OT. It's not a terrible idea or pick. Robinson with Brooks would be elite & right side could go from worst to best in one year :evil:
 

thunderkyss

Just win baby!!!
Staff member
Contributor's Club
thanks!

It's a good discussion. Greg Robinson could just be the highest graded player in this draft when all is said & done. Texans biggest hole was actually OT. It's not a terrible idea or pick. Robinson with Brooks would be elite & right side could go from worst to best in one year :evil:
I originally wanted an OT with the first pick. Some thought it was because Matthews was from A&M.... I couldn't care less. If Robinson is the best OT, I'd take him. Well... right now I'm thinking Watkins is going to be the best player in this draft...

But I wouldn't have a problem taking Robinson. We play two offensive tackles, pushing Duane Brown can't hurt us, & if something were to happen to the big guy, we're still covered. With the new CBA, it's not going to hurt us cap wise, 4~5 years from now, we'll make a business decision.

I'd love to dominate on the OL. I'd love to have a league leading run game, & T.O.P. allowing our defense to sell out whenever they get on the field, get us the ball back.

Robinson in the first, Amaro in the second, Garopollo/Murray/McCarron in the third.
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
I originally wanted an OT with the first pick. Some thought it was because Matthews was from A&M.... I couldn't care less. If Robinson is the best OT, I'd take him. Well... right now I'm thinking Watkins is going to be the best player in this draft...

But I wouldn't have a problem taking Robinson. We play two offensive tackles, pushing Duane Brown can't hurt us, & if something were to happen to the big guy, we're still covered. With the new CBA, it's not going to hurt us cap wise, 4~5 years from now, we'll make a business decision.

I'd love to dominate on the OL. I'd love to have a league leading run game, & T.O.P. allowing our defense to sell out whenever they get on the field, get us the ball back.

Robinson in the first, Amaro in the second, Garopollo/Murray/McCarron in the third.
I keep catching myself starting to explain how Rick Smith must earn his keep & find a trading partner but need to stay focused on discussing prospects as they lie. Let's put it another way, Texans cannot afford to miss with 1st overall pick, it's worth a lot either way. Robinson is a safe pick with a huge upside that fills priority need. doubt Amaro will still be there #33? they can probably get CJ Fiedorowicz in 3rd, he's a better blocker anyway just more of a plugger but still has excellent hands, pair these two picks together & Texans can completely repair their maligned OL. The 2nd round selection if we're still talking BPA could very well be WR, that doesn't hurt next QB chances for success either. Have some real good ones here, Allen Robinson, Penn State who O'Brian knows very well, the LSU law firm of Beckham & Landry, all three worthy & great NFL prospects. Can Texans wait until the 4th rd. to select a QB? If they address this need in free agency they just might. So based off tape, very Bradyesque coming out of Michigan, is Jeff Mathews, Cornell, 6030 225. Very impressed with his mechanics, intelligence & feel he is just the type of young developmental QB O'Brain can mold into a franchise player.

That's first four picks plus free agent signing to ignite Texan offense. Texans should also gain a couple compensatory (non-trade-able picks) that's five picks for the defense. NT, OLB, ILB, DB, DE. I could make those selections as well but won't bore you, feel like I'm getting long winded & beer is talking to me again :wesmantexanfan:
 

thunderkyss

Just win baby!!!
Staff member
Contributor's Club
Can Texans wait until the 4th rd. to select a QB? If they address this need in free agency they just might.

Texans should also gain a couple compensatory (non-trade-able picks) that's five picks for the defense. NT, OLB, ILB, DB, DE. I could make those selections as well but won't bore you, feel like I'm getting long winded & beer is talking to me again :wesmantexanfan:
I can't wait 'till free agency. If we can get a decent stop-gap/starting QB, Brian Orakpo, & even a Ryan Harris type OT... heck, I'd be happy with Ryan Harris.... then Rick Smith & OB can act like Belichick & start moving in the draft to get "their" players. Move up, move down, move back up again. Start stockpiling draftpicks in future years to do what you want when you want.
 

Corrosion

Idealist
Staff member
Can Texans wait until the 4th rd. to select a QB? If they address this need in free agency they just might.
Have you seen the list of FA QB's ?! Its .... really lacking talent. Michael Vick is probably the best player available on the FA list.


Here's the list from Rotoworld.

1. Michael Vick
2. Josh McCown
3. Matt Cassel
4. Josh Freeman
5. Shaun Hill
6. Chad Henne
7. Tarvaris Jackson
8. Colt McCoy
9. Matt Flynn
10. Kellen Clemens
11. Luke McCown
12. Derek Anderson
13. David Garrard
14. Dan Orlovsky
15. Rex Grossman
16. Curtis Painter
17. Tim Tebow
18. Jimmy Clausen
19. Charlie Whitehurst
20. Brady Quinn

Any of these guy's really excite you , make you feel like the team has a chance to make a playoff appearance with them at the helm ?!
 

beerlover

Hall of Fame
Have you seen the list of FA QB's ?! Its .... really lacking talent. Michael Vick is probably the best player available on the FA list.


Here's the list from Rotoworld.

1. Michael Vick
2. Josh McCown
3. Matt Cassel
4. Josh Freeman
5. Shaun Hill
6. Chad Henne
7. Tarvaris Jackson
8. Colt McCoy
9. Matt Flynn
10. Kellen Clemens
11. Luke McCown
12. Derek Anderson
13. David Garrard
14. Dan Orlovsky
15. Rex Grossman
16. Curtis Painter
17. Tim Tebow
18. Jimmy Clausen
19. Charlie Whitehurst
20. Brady Quinn

Any of these guy's really excite you , make you feel like the team has a chance to make a playoff appearance with them at the helm ?!
key word, stop-gap. Matt Cassel will be high on Bill O'Brian list. Would rather see someone competent now while developing franchise QB rather than forcing a QB too soon to be that franchise QB. Next year it's expectant that Mariota & Hundley, possibly Winston declare.
 

Corrosion

Idealist
Staff member
key word, stop-gap. Matt Cassel will be high on Bill O'Brian list. Would rather see someone competent now while developing franchise QB rather than forcing a QB too soon to be that franchise QB. Next year it's expectant that Mariota & Hundley, possibly Winston declare.
Cassel was horrible .... I'd rather stick with Keenum & Yates over anyone on that list.
 

ObsiWan

Hall of Fame
Contributor's Club
It's very possible that Greg Robinson will be the highest rated player on the Texans board as well majority of NFL teams when all is said & done. Raw talent with huge upside who demonstrated exceptional growth as player in one short season. He is a devastating power blocker, with long arms, massive lower body strength, in all the tape I watched was beaten only once & had no impact on the game or play. If Texans stay true to their draft board he in fact should be at the top. He would start on the right side, learn the ropes, develop then eventually replace Duane Brown left tackle. In the meantime OL woes are solved. Rams are just hoping Texans don't trade down so a team could move up & take him. Everybody is talking Clowney & the QB's, some Watkins but this kid makes the most sense, he is just such a riser & late bloomer.

Would like some feedback in regards to proposition of selecting Greg Robinson 1st overall.
His draft grade #2 rated overall on most boards suggests at least from BPA standpoint he will be in discussion. The gap between him & Matthews will probably widen, post combine in the ALL underwear competition, but also expect him to look really fluid in drills & larger in measurements. If Clowney cannot interview well or questions remain about his health, he could slide just enough that Robinson could overtake him as consensus #1 overall prospect. I know this he will be rated higher than last years #1 overall draft pick, Eric Fisher as Joeckel was rated higher than his teammate Jake Matthews as a LT prospect.
If he's the highest ranked player on their board and he definitely fills a need, why would they pass him up? And I like the idea of him taking over for Duane Brown if/when necessary. I'd only pass on him for Matthews or Clowney. ...and Clowney's a maybe because DE isn't as big a need as RT is IMHO.
 

Marshall

Not pretty, but ALIVE!
Cassel was horrible .... I'd rather stick with Keenum & Yates over anyone on that list.
Cassel would not be the STARTER, but would compete with the other two who are left. If he wins the job, so be it.

I wouldn't mind bringing Schaub back as the veteran at near the veteran minimum, but we need to get his future cap issue resolved and this is best done by cutting him and resigning him. I think he is much better than he showed last year, but he needs an improved OL.

Duane Brown LT
Chris Meyer C
Derek Newton RT
Jon Weeks LS
Brandon Brooks G
Ben Jones C
Brennan Williams RT
Cody White G
Alex Kupper G
David Quessenberry LT

These are under contract.

Wade Smith RG FA
Ryan Harris OT FA

White and Kupper were the last men on a team struggling at protection. I wouldn't make long term plans if I were them.

Newton might go due to a combination of on field and cap considerations.

D Brown and J Weeks seem secure and C Meyers probably is as well.

It will be interesting to see if this group impresses the staff enough to avoid help in the draft or if they will upgrade. I'd really like to know how the IR players (Williams and Quessenberry) from last year are doing right now. Suggestions are all over the board and it's hard to tell what's spin (a palatable lie and not to be confused with mere perspective) and what is the truth.
 

Corrosion

Idealist
Staff member
Cassel would not be the STARTER, but would compete with the other two who are left. If he wins the job, so be it.

If Cassel wins the starter spot .... You are in trouble and will likely be picking very high again next season. Yeah , I know everyone is hyped over next years possible QB choices but , we were hyped about this years until recently .... but that means throwing away another year with a scrub QB.

I wouldn't mind bringing Schaub back as the veteran at near the veteran minimum, but we need to get his future cap issue resolved and this is best done by cutting him and resigning him. I think he is much better than he showed last year, but he needs an improved OL.
I wouldn't mind him being brought back as a backup / mentor to a young guy but that's about it. That line was bad ..... but it wasn't the cause of Schaub's issues , that had more to do with his body breaking down than anything else. He couldn't plant to throw and couldn't evade .... a pop warner defense. Top that off with making poor decisions and what we saw was what we got.

He is .... no longer a starter in this league.
Duane Brown LT
Chris Meyer C
Derek Newton RT
Jon Weeks LS
Brandon Brooks G
Ben Jones C
Brennan Williams RT
Cody White G
Alex Kupper G
David Quessenberry LT

These are under contract.

Wade Smith RG FA
Ryan Harris OT FA

White and Kupper were the last men on a team struggling at protection. I wouldn't make long term plans if I were them.

Newton might go due to a combination of on field and cap considerations.

D Brown and J Weeks seem secure and C Meyers probably is as well.


Doubt Wade Smith or Ryan Harris return.

It will be interesting to see if this group impresses the staff enough to avoid help in the draft or if they will upgrade. I'd really like to know how the IR players (Williams and Quessenberry) from last year are doing right now. Suggestions are all over the board and it's hard to tell what's spin (a palatable lie and not to be confused with mere perspective) and what is the truth.
I could see Kupper , White & Newton gone , two of the three are highly likely to be gone. Could see Newton retained as depth as he makes very little and does have NFL ability .... just doesn't play like it all that often.


Doubt Ryan Harris is brought back unless its for a vet min deal.

Wade Smith was very poor last year , is he washed up or was he hurt ? Hard to see him coming back unless its at a significant discount. Probably time to move on.

Brennan Williams , I wouldn't count on ever playing a down. I'd cover my losses .... if he makes a liar outa me .... good for him and for the team.


Brown , Myers & Brooks have the makings of a solid OL. Jones sticks because he can play multiple positions. Quessenberry is a guard who can play tackle in a pinch , maybe he takes over that LG spot .... but Im not counting on him at any tackle position.

Brown starts at LT
Myers starts at C
Brooks at RG
Jones backs up at both G spots and C.
Quessenberry could be the starter at LG or just further depth.
RT is a black hole.

That leaves 4-5 OL roster spots up for grabs with a definite need at RT under the best conditions.


No to any of the following starting at QB for the Texans next year - Schaub , Keenum , Any of the FA QB's. Give me one of Manziel or Bridgewater. You likely get one of them even if you move back to #4.
 

thunderkyss

Just win baby!!!
Staff member
Contributor's Club
If Cassel wins the starter spot .... You are in trouble and will likely be picking very high again next season. Yeah , I know everyone is hyped over next years possible QB choices but , we were hyped about this years until recently .... but that means throwing away another year with a scrub QB.
.
I think we were all excited about this crop of QB because we were looking for Matt's eventual replacement around 29 or so. There's a bunch of QBs in this draft we would love to take at 29.

Now we're talking about an instant starter & I was never high on this draft for an instant starter... good prospects for a starting QB... That's what we saw last year. Now, with the #1 overall, the guy needs to be a possible elite type.


Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk
 

infantrycak

Hall of Fame
I think we were all excited about this crop of QB because we were looking for Matt's eventual replacement around 29 or so. There's a bunch of QBs in this draft we would love to take at 29.
The we he is talking about is people analyzing the draft. The whole country, not just Texans fans, were evaluating this as a great QB class to be waited for in comparison to last year's.
 

steelbtexan

King of the W. B. Club
Contributor's Club
thanks!

It's a good discussion. Greg Robinson could just be the highest graded player in this draft when all is said & done. Texans biggest hole was actually OT. It's not a terrible idea or pick. Robinson with Brooks would be elite & right side could go from worst to best in one year :evil:
Yep,

Which is why I've got

1. Clowney
2. Robinson
3. Mack
4. Matthews

Brooks/Robinson = solving short ydge /Goal line problems that have plagued the Texans for yrs.
 
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