BB/65/BL Post Super Bowl Texan 2012 Mock Draft 1A.

[beerlover]

1A. (With Mario)
In an ideal world, the Texans resign Mario Williams, keeping defense in tact & allowing Kubiak to target offensive & special teams help. This is our (badboy, rmartin65, beerlover) Post Super Bowl Texan Mock Draft for 2012. Enjoy!


1st Round: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor, 5-10 190
If Texans retain Mario we're all in agreement Wright is the Right choice, BPA & biggest Texan Need. Deep threat, avg. 15.4 yards per game, sub 4.4 forty, excellent burst/cutting ability which will showcase in combine shuttles, good route runner, powers thru tackles & creats separation. Plants foot on cuts with blinding change of direction & brings ball down against taller DBs, sledom loses ball. Can adjust body in air and down sideline with good hands. Blocking hard to evaluate as Baylor seldom ran ball. Should not be problem as he attacks defender to increase YAC. 2011 stats: 108/1663 yds 14 TDs.

2nd Round: Alameda Ta'Amu, NT, Washington, 6-3 341
Strong Samoan, with good feet that can press the pocket, disrupt running lanes & even bull rush his man into the QB. What more is there to say about Ta’amu? He went from being a trendy pick for the first round prior to the season, and gradually fell down the draft board during the season, due to a very lackluster performance as a senior & broken hand. Ta’amu, when healthy and motivated, is the prototypical NT- a mountain of a man, nearly impossible to push back off the line, but with the quick feet and athleticism necessary to get past the Oline and make plays in the backfield. Ideally, Ta’amu does not start right away, and works in a rotation with Cody and Mitchell, depending on the down and distance. Ta'amu the big Tonga The man from Tonga, also gives Wade another possible mismatch physical presence in goal-line, 4th & short as well individual match-ups that favor Texans.

3rd. Round: Ryan Lindley, QB, San Diego State, 6-4 230
Big question a lot of you are asking, "QB is not that high of need, there are other more important positions of need which should be addressed first." Depending on your viewpoint of TJ, Lindley has the potential to become an NFL starting caliber QB. & Matt Schaub will be a free agent in 2013. We have all learned the importance of having good QBs throughout the depth chart. What the Texans were able to achieve this season would not have been possible without investing the pick last year in TJ Yates. And with Yates proving his ability, he should be given the #2 spot, and Leinart should be let go. Enter Lindley, a QB with pro size and a pro arm, as well as a long term starter. Now, his footwork needs work (which causes his accuracy to suffer), as does his ability to read the D. He should sit a couple years, but with Schaub and Yates already in the fold, the Texans can afford to groom a QB. Great value if still on the board.

4th Round: Levy Adcock, OT, Oklahoma State, 6-5 322
Addressing OL is also a concern or ours, despite feeling Texan FA players, Myers & Brisel will be resigned. Adcock won't wow you with athletic talent but fits ZBS , work ethic/lunch pale demeanor of underrated, tough hardworking OL unit that could use cheap talent pool of depth to make playoff push. Adcock could actually help save cap space for other linemen to be resigned as Butler could then be released. All Big 12 Football First Team honors. He started as a Guard during his sophomore season, has the size/strength to kick inside, Wade Smith is still starter material but is on back-end of career & FA in 2014. What really intrigues us & why we think he is such a good OL prospect for Texans is attitude, will punch on initial contact and extend after the whistle to show he means business.

5th Round: Tauren Poole, RB, Tennessee, 5-10 206
Arian Foster is RFA. Will Texans be able to match a big RFA offer from another team with more cap room? Probably not, if retaining Mario. Poole, backed up Arian Foster & Montario Hardesty while @ Tennessee. Anybody who watched Vols offense past season know they went away from ground game & went aerial with down year from OL. He is a physical runner who hits the hole with authority, showcases one-cut ability that fits in ZBS. He runs with good pad level, quick feet & good vision. He has solid hands and body control as a reliable pass catcher. He is also a very good special teams player. The other comparable to Arian is character. Won the Pat Tillman Award at East-West Shrine game which is awarded to the player who best exemplifies character, intelligence, sportsmanship and service. The award recognizes a student-athlete's achievements and conduct, both on and off the field. Sounds like a Texan & Derrick Ward is a free agent.

6th Round: Chase Ford, TE, Miami, 6-6 258
Basketball skills, can run after the catch, long frame big hands, playmaker, red zone target w/huge height window. Would add growing trend to Texan roster of a tall red zone target who creates mismatches with basketball type talent in jump ball situations. Very fluid athlete who can also get downfield & stretch the defense opening receivers underneath.

7th - Randy Bullock, K, Texas A&M, 5-9 212
Rackers is a free agent & Texans resign Mario in this mock. Randy Bullock Texas A&M kicker is a solid athlete with plus strength. FG: 29/33 & EP 55/57. A klein Texas boy who enterred his senior season with 120 consecutive extra point successful. As a junior his 3 FGs beat Nebraska 9-6 so nerves do not effect him.

 

[Rey]

I'm not a fan of picks 3 and 5. I'm meh on pick 7 as I think we can find a good kicker as an UDFA...

In RD. 3 I'd rather have Isiah Pead and in Rd. 5 I'd rather have ILB help.

 

[TimeKiller]

I like this one better even though I'm against keeping Mario. Agree on the 7th K pick, just get a F/a and take a flyer on a guy who can burn.

 

[beerlover]

I like this one better even though I'm against keeping Mario. Agree on the 7th K pick, just get a F/a and take a flyer on a guy who can burn.

then you should like 1B (without mario) better? we also expect special teams to be an area of focus for the Texans this off-season.

 

[TimeKiller]

then you should like 1B (without mario) better? we also expect special teams to be an area of focus for the Texans this off-season.

keeping Mario or not has nothing to do with what I think of the players (which are different for either) or the positions/rank you have. I like the players and positions better in this one than the other.

 

[thunderkyss]

I'd like to "target" an OG in the 1st or 2nd rounds. I want someone with a good shot at replacing Wade Smith by the end of training camp.

Unless you guys know of a reason for his drop off in play this season.

 

[rmartin65]

Thanks for posting this BL. It was good to work with you guys again.

Rey- Round 3 became a QB because we decided to put QB in as a need. We all saw the benefit of good, young backups. Leinart is a southpaw, so it makes sense to get rid of him. Lindley has starter potential, but just needs time. He will also push Yates in the future.

Round 5- A strong rushing attack is what the Texans offense is built upon, and since the position is prone to injury, we decided to grab another backup.

 

[Brandon420tx]

If we're going to take an OT late in the draft a guy I'm high on is Jeff Adams from Columbia, He's been a starter at LT his entire collegiate career and according to the coaches from the east west games is very very coachable. Could be a good swing tackle for us, a potential mid level starting LT for someone else (in the future)

 

[Blake]

No mid-round DB? Go fish.

 

[Rey]

Thanks for posting this BL. It was good to work with you guys again.

Rey- Round 3 became a QB because we decided to put QB in as a need. We all saw the benefit of good, young backups. Leinart is a southpaw, so it makes sense to get rid of him. Lindley has starter potential, but just needs time. He will also push Yates in the future.

Round 5- A strong rushing attack is what the Texans offense is built upon, and since the position is prone to injury, we decided to grab another backup.

I disagree with the southpaw thing. I think it changes some things, but not a whole, whole lot.

In the third round I'd rather get a guy that has a better chance of contributing this season either on special teams or in a set package.

Yes, we had unfortunate injuries at QB this year, but that is not the norm. We shouldn't plan on it being like that every year. Plus, I like Yates. If we are going to go QB I'd rather go after one of the top tier ones. Make a serious move up for RGIII...Otherwise I'd rather see a guy like Pead in the third that can return kicks and get some snaps as a running back. RB is the roughest position to play. Arian was banged up this year, Tate was out all of last year.

I'd rather invest a third on a RB/returner this year rather than QB.

I'm hoping for Pead all the way in that third round.

JMO....No offense to you guys, I appreciate the time you guys take.

 

[rmartin65]

I disagree with the southpaw thing. I think it changes some things, but not a whole, whole lot.

In the third round I'd rather get a guy that has a better chance of contributing this season either on special teams or in a set package.

Yes, we had unfortunate injuries at QB this year, but that is not the norm. We shouldn't plan on it being like that every year. Plus, I like Yates. If we are going to go QB I'd rather go after one of the top tier ones. Make a serious move up for RGIII...Otherwise I'd rather see a guy like Pead in the third that can return kicks and get some snaps as a running back. RB is the roughest position to play. Arian was banged up this year, Tate was out all of last year.

I'd rather invest a third on a RB/returner this year rather than QB.

I'm hoping for Pead all the way in that third round.

JMO....No offense to you guys, I appreciate the time you guys take.

It changes protection schemes, which side becomes the primary target, rollouts, ball spin (I heard Jerry Rice demanded that the practice QBs be the same handed as the starter), etc. But I do trust that the FO knows best here. And I do respect your opinion immensely.

If you liked Pead, then what was your problem with the 5th rounder? BL sold us on the guy, maybe he can do the same for the board.

 

[LikeMike]

I really like this mock - adresses basically every need, gets us one or two immediate starters and some potential later on.

I´m not sure I´d go QB in the 3d. Yeah, Schaub will be a RFA, and yes, TJ is still a project. But really, the only way we should draft a QB high right now is, if we don`t believe in TJ and think this guy could carry the franchise.

At the same time we have other issues (a guard would really help, perhaps a C since Myers will be a FA, how about some safety help? Or some more depth at ILB) that we might adress here and maybe even get another starter out of the 3d round. So as much as I like drafting for the future and for all eventuallities, I`d go full win now mode here - especially if we keep Mario.

As for a QB - wait this season out. Let`s see what Schaubs got left in him and if we want to extend his contract - and let`s see (at least in practice) how TJ ist maturing. If we are not confident in our QB situation then, we might as well go QB in the 1st or 2nd in next years draft.

 

[beerlover]

I'd like to "target" an OG in the 1st or 2nd rounds. I want someone with a good shot at replacing Wade Smith by the end of training camp.

Unless you guys know of a reason for his drop off in play this season.

In this version we have Levy Adcock a big athletic guy who could start right away over Wade Smith @ LG. He is starting caliber OL material & great value in the 4th rd. Athletic, big, tough, smart can fill multiple positions as needed, saves cap room. This in our opinion would be an excellent pick & future Texan.

 

[Rey]

It changes protection schemes, which side becomes the primary target, rollouts, ball spin (I heard Jerry Rice demanded that the practice QBs be the same handed as the starter), etc. But I do trust that the FO knows best here. And I do respect your opinion immensely.

If you liked Pead, then what was your problem with the 5th rounder? BL sold us on the guy, maybe he can do the same for the board.

I don't have a problem with the player really...And honestly it's just me nitpicking...If the draft went down exaclty how this one did I wouldn't complain...Hell, I don't do a lot of complaining about any of the Texans drafts as I am just excited about the new players...

But the QB in the third round is what threw it off for me...

For a rookie thrown into the fire like he was I thought Yates did a pretty good job. He was the Texans first ever play-off QB. He has more play-off experience than any QB we've ever had.

Unless we can get a top tier QB like RGIII somehow I'd like to concentrate on grooming Yates. He's mobile, has a good arm and while he showed some poor decision making as far as his throws go, he was going against some pretty good defenses in the play-offs. The experience he got this year was invaluable. A lot of people don't want to see Yates play next year (and as long as Schaub is healthy I don't either), but I don't dread the prospect of seeing him take snaps...

I'm all for picking up a Case Keenum if he's an UDFA and bringing him in, but I'd rather use that third round pick on a RB/LB or another WR and the same for that fifth round pick.

 

[beerlover]

I don't have a problem with the player really...And honestly it's just me nitpicking...If the draft went down exaclty how this one did I wouldn't complain...Hell, I don't do a lot of complaining about any of the Texans drafts as I am just excited about the new players...

But the QB in the third round is what threw it off for me...

For a rookie thrown into the fire like he was I thought Yates did a pretty good job. He was the Texans first ever play-off QB. He has more play-off experience than any QB we've ever had.

Unless we can get a top tier QB like RGIII somehow I'd like to concentrate on grooming Yates. He's mobile, has a good arm and while he showed some poor decision making as far as his throws go, he was going against some pretty good defenses in the play-offs. The experience he got this year was invaluable. A lot of people don't want to see Yates play next year (and as long as Schaub is healthy I don't either), but I don't dread the prospect of seeing him take snaps...

I'm all for picking up a Case Keenum if he's an UDFA and bringing him in, but I'd rather use that third round pick on a RB/LB or another WR and the same for that fifth round pick.

Yates was prone to making mistakes in College. I'm on record, when Texans made the pick I didn't like it. Said similar thing as you, that if they felt QB was a need they should have taken a top tier prospect earlier in the draft. But Kubiak proved he can develop a young QB with some ability & overcome less desirable tendencies with good mechanics, this is key to pick. So why not clean out the bullpen (Leinart, Delhomme, Garcia) with a solid, talented & young QB trio, while saving cap room? This theme is carried foward in both mock 1A & 1B. Let's take advantage of Coach Kubiak's strength, QB development & settle QB position next 10 years. The final draft grade for Lindley is yet to be established but should come in at least on par with that of current starting Texan QB Matt Schaub drafted out of Virginia 3rd rd. 2004. Lindley is legitimate starter material to develop & eventually replace Schaub. It's a bold stroke but if you look at the numbers & play to the strength of this organization it makes a lot of sense. Ryan Lindley's numbers smash those of Schaub in College, he has a strong arm, is athletic (also baseball player) threw for 12,700 yards & 90 TD's.

 

[LikeMike]

Yates was prone to making mistakes in College. I'm on record, when Texans made the pick I didn't like it. Said similar thing as you, that if they felt QB was a need they should have taken a top tier prospect earlier in the draft. But Kubiak proved he can develop a young QB with some ability & overcome less desirable tendencies with good mechanics, this is key to pick. So why not clean out the bullpen (Leinart, Delhomme, Garcia) with a solid, talented & young QB trio, while saving cap room? This theme is carried foward in both mock 1A & 1B. Let's take advantage of Coach Kubiak's strength, QB development & settle QB position next 10 years. The final draft grade for Lindley is yet to be established but should come in at least on par with that of current starting Texan QB Matt Schaub drafted out of Virginia 3rd rd. 2004. Lindley is legitimate starter material to develop & eventually replace Schaub. It's a bold stroke but if you look at the numbers & play to the strength of this organization it makes a lot of sense. Ryan Lindley's numbers smash those of Schaub in College, he has a strong arm, is athletic (also baseball player) threw for 12,700 yards & 90 TD's.

The problem is: a good QB coach can only do so much. Sure he had success to turn a borderline starter into a starter - and sure he got a young QB ready to play. But: he can`t make a good QB an elite QB. For that the QB just needs the talent. Yeah, you can get lucky and find a guy like that in the 3d round or even later - but more often than not you are lucky if you find a borderline starter here.

So either get him a prospect at QB with a huge upside, or go another direction. We don`t need any more middle of the pack QBs - yeah, we can trade them at some time and get something nice back - but to make this team better right now, just draft someone to fill one of our holes (and there are still many of those). Because right now we are set at QB1 and QB2 - and the QB3 never plays anyways, right

 

[drunkcookie]

I of course like the 1st rounder you guys suggested... 2nd rounder I'm okay with...

I really like where you're going with the 3rd round pick... I've never seen any video or anything on the kid, but i understand the value you're shooting for... So my question is: what other QBs may be available come the Texans 3rd rd pick that you think hold good value for that pick? I'd like to look at all of them...

 

[Rey]

Yates was prone to making mistakes in College. I'm on record, when Texans made the pick I didn't like it. Said similar thing as you, that if they felt QB was a need they should have taken a top tier prospect earlier in the draft. But Kubiak proved he can develop a young QB with some ability & overcome less desirable tendencies with good mechanics, this is key to pick. So why not clean out the bullpen (Leinart, Delhomme, Garcia) with a solid, talented & young QB trio, while saving cap room? This theme is carried foward in both mock 1A & 1B. Let's take advantage of Coach Kubiak's strength, QB development & settle QB position next 10 years. The final draft grade for Lindley is yet to be established but should come in at least on par with that of current starting Texan QB Matt Schaub drafted out of Virginia 3rd rd. 2004. Lindley is legitimate starter material to develop & eventually replace Schaub. It's a bold stroke but if you look at the numbers & play to the strength of this organization it makes a lot of sense. Ryan Lindley's numbers smash those of Schaub in College, he has a strong arm, is athletic (also baseball player) threw for 12,700 yards & 90 TD's.

I hear you BL, but I can't get past the fact that we'd essentially be spending a third round pick on a third string QB.

 

[beerlover]

I hear you BL, but I can't get past the fact that we'd essentially be spending a third round pick on a third string QB.

Third string QB in the beginning. Taking time to develop the right way & becoming your starter in 3-5 years.

 

[drunkcookie]

I hear you BL, but I can't get past the fact that we'd essentially be spending a third round pick on a third string QB.

Strange, isn't it? Took me a minute to like the idea...

I like the idea of more ILB depth in the 3rd, heck maybe even 2nd (if Mario is gone, OLB depth un 3rd)...but having two very young QBs with promise learning, maturing and competing for the starting job in the future is very tempting to me...

Wouldn't say I'm sold, but I'm liking it...

 

[beerlover]

I of course like the 1st rounder you guys suggested... 2nd rounder I'm okay with...

I really like where you're going with the 3rd round pick... I've never seen any video or anything on the kid, but i understand the value you're shooting for... So my question is: what other QBs may be available come the Texans 3rd rd pick that you think hold good value for that pick? I'd like to look at all of them...

here is a tough match-up for Lindley http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZKHc0FKDsQ vs Louisiana Lafayette who has an outstanding CB named Dwight Bentley who I absolutely love (would consider him in 3rd as well). Notice how athletic he is, that he keeps his eyes down field, even on the run, making progressions, excellent arm strength, good accuracy. In regards to other QB's with 2nd/3rd rd. grades who have the size combined with athletic ability are the two Arizona QB's Foles, Arizona, 6-5 244 & Osweiler, Arizona State, 6-7 240 out of the three we favored Lindley. Also in mock 1A we target Chattanooga, QB BJ Coleman, 6-3 234. Also athletic with strong arm, w/smooth, quick release with good mechanics. TJ for instance had the quickest release of any QB prospect in last years draft, something Texans really like from a mechanics standpoint.

 

[beerlover]

Strange, isn't it? Took me a minute to like the idea...

I like the idea of more ILB depth in the 3rd, heck maybe even 2nd (if Mario is gone, OLB depth un 3rd)...but having two very young QBs with promise learning, maturing and competing for the starting job in the future is very tempting to me...

Wouldn't say I'm sold, but I'm liking it...

good on you, its very important to keep an open mind & show ability to process needs while not overlooking value.

 

[Blake]

Third string QB in the beginning. Taking time to develop the right way & becoming your starter in 3-5 years.

Kubiak has used a single 5th and single 7th round draft selection to take QB's over his tenure. And you guys think he will take one in the 3rd when we have Schaub and Yates?

Not to mention he has selected at least one DB in every single draft since 2007.

Now maybe you are right, and maybe you are wrong. But the evidence suggests that QB is not high on their priority list.

You wouldnt rather have another WR, or OL?

 

[beerlover]

Kubiak has used a single 5th and single 7th round draft selection to take QB's over his tenure. And you guys think he will take one in the 3rd when we have Schaub and Yates?

Not to mention he has selected at least one DB in every single draft since 2007.

Now maybe you are right, and maybe you are wrong. But the evidence suggests that QB is not high on their priority list.

You wouldnt rather have another WR, or OL?

suggests QB position has been overlooked for too long while Texans, as you mentioned, have selected at least one DB in every single draft since 2007 should have a nice stable by now

 

[Blake]

suggests QB position has been overlooked for too long while Texans, as you mentioned, have selected at least one DB in every single draft since 2007 should have a nice stable by now

lol e for effort.

1 QB can start. 5 DB's can start.

 

[beerlover]

lol e for effort.

1 QB can start. 5 DB's can start.

which position is the most coveted & important?

 

[Blake]

which position is the most coveted & important?

The one we have staffed with 2 starting caliber players.

 

[beerlover]

The one we have staffed with 2 starting caliber players.

Can't speak to my draft partners opinion on this but I'm not a big fan of Schaub. His lack of athletic ability kills me. He's also a free agent in 2013. Matt was acquired via trade & Yates the draft. Free agency has been disappointing to me as well. The best route to address QB position is to draft smart & develop talent that fits mold of system, as long as Kubiak is here. Guess we'll agree to disagree, obviously I respect your opinion especially when it comes to the draft.

I have high hopes for Roc Carmichael, actually had a 3rd grade for him last year. Too bad he was lost for season in training camp, I expect him to bounce back & make an impact this upcoming season. Brice McCain has turned into an outstanding nickle CB. His short area speed & ability to play the pass has kept 2nd rd. pick Brandon Harris on the sidelines. Of course Jonathan Joseph was one of the best free agent acquisitions in the league last year, proving he is elite @ his position. KJ is a work in progress who shows signs of improvement in ball recognition & body position & has plus physical size. Glover Quin had an outstanding rookie year playing SS I thought & Daniel Manning is excellent run defender & FS over the top. A whole bunch of young talent waiting in the wings to get their reps as well, including Troy Nolan, Sherrick McManis, Quinton Demps, Shilo Keo & Torri Williams stashed on practice squad. That's assuming Texans will not resign Jason Allen or Dominque Barber? I just don't share the same sense of urgency to address DB in the 2012 draft, doesn't mean I'm right, just a feeling.

If we did target a CB it would have to early to make this roster. In the first really the only one around the #26 spot would be Janoris Jenkins, but question how Texans would factor in character aspect. 2nd rd. like Josh Norman, Coastal Carolina. Actually we discussed placing him in one or the other mock draft, because he possess starter talent, but then again there is some off field issues. As mentioned my favorite considered is in the Lindley tape from LA, Lafayette, Dwight Bentley. He is almost a carbon copy of Roc Carmichael, aggressive little corner who doesn't back away from a fight, has no off field issue that I know of either.

 

[rmartin65]

Can't speak to my draft partners opinion on this but I'm not a big fan of Schaub. His lack of athletic ability kills me. He's also a free agent in 2013. Matt was acquired via trade & Yates the draft. Free agency has been disappointing to me as well. The best route to address QB position is to draft smart & develop talent that fits mold of system, as long as Kubiak is here. Guess we'll agree to disagree, obviously I respect your opinion especially when it comes to the draft.

I have high hopes for Roc Carmichael, actually had a 3rd grade for him last year. Too bad he was lost for season in training camp, I expect him to bounce back & make an impact this upcoming season. Brice McCain has turned into an outstanding nickle CB. His short area speed & ability to play the pass has kept 2nd rd. pick Brandon Harris on the sidelines. Of course Jonathan Joseph was one of the best free agent acquisitions in the league last year, proving he is elite @ his position. KJ is a work in progress who shows signs of improvement in ball recognition & body position & has plus physical size. Glover Quin had an outstanding rookie year playing SS I thought & Daniel Manning is excellent run defender & FS over the top. A whole bunch of young talent waiting in the wings to get their reps as well, including Troy Nolan, Sherrick McManis, Quinton Demps, Shilo Keo & Torri Williams stashed on practice squad. That's assuming Texans will not resign Jason Allen or Dominque Barber? I just don't share the same sense of urgency to address DB in the 2012 draft, doesn't mean I'm right, just a feeling.

If we did target a CB it would have to early to make this roster. In the first really the only one around the #26 spot would be Janoris Jenkins, but question how Texans would factor in character aspect. 2nd rd. like Josh Norman, Coastal Carolina. Actually we discussed placing him in one or the other mock draft, because he possess starter talent, but then again there is some off field issues. As mentioned my favorite considered is in the Lindley tape from LA, Lafayette, Dwight Bentley. He is almost a carbon copy of Roc Carmichael, aggressive little corner who doesn't back away from a fight, has no off field issue that I know of either.

I have to agree with just about all of this.

Schaub is older, immobile, and coming off of a serious injury. Yates is a nice insurance policy, but he is far from a sure thing. So is Lindley. By having 2 young QBs in the pipeline, we have a good chance at uncovering a top tier QB. If by some miracle they both pan out, we trade one for draft picks or something.

Now, I do disagree with my partners when it comes to Cliff Harris. I would grab him in the 4th without ever looking back.

 

[b0ng]

I think Wright will be gone by Bears pick. WR is a good choice but I think Jeffrey or Sanu would probably be more available than Kendall Wright unfortunately.

 

[TimeKiller]

I have high hopes for Roc Carmichael, actually had a 3rd grade for him last year. Too bad he was lost for season in training camp, I expect him to bounce back & make an impact this upcoming season. Brice McCain has turned into an outstanding nickle CB. His short area speed & ability to play the pass has kept 2nd rd. pick Brandon Harris on the sidelines. Of course Jonathan Joseph was one of the best free agent acquisitions in the league last year, proving he is elite @ his position. KJ is a work in progress who shows signs of improvement in ball recognition & body position & has plus physical size. Glover Quin had an outstanding rookie year playing SS I thought & Daniel Manning is excellent run defender & FS over the top. A whole bunch of young talent waiting in the wings to get their reps as well, including Troy Nolan, Sherrick McManis, Quinton Demps, Shilo Keo & Torri Williams stashed on practice squad. That's assuming Texans will not resign Jason Allen or Dominque Barber? I just don't share the same sense of urgency to address DB in the 2012 draft, doesn't mean I'm right, just a feeling.

Well put. Harris and Carmicheal are basically rookies who got a little extra experience, not exactly a brand shiny new draft choice but it's not that far of a stretch. If KJ takes the same step forward that he took from his rookie to 2nd years, won't that be a competent level of CB play? He went from not-even-funny bad to an ok rotation player. I think the next step would be average starter.

As far as setting up Kubiak with a QB of the future.....what would you say to drafting Tannehill in the 1st? There aren't going to be any elite guys, even getting a WR like most want is probably going to be by way of reaching for one. There are a couple decent DL choices, maybe Peter Konz slips but right now that 26th pick is looking ugly, especially for a team makings gains on the depth chart.

 

[steelbtexan]

Well put. Harris and Carmicheal are basically rookies who got a little extra experience, not exactly a brand shiny new draft choice but it's not that far of a stretch. If KJ takes the same step forward that he took from his rookie to 2nd years, won't that be a competent level of CB play? He went from not-even-funny bad to an ok rotation player. I think the next step would be average starter.

As far as setting up Kubiak with a QB of the future.....what would you say to drafting Tannehill in the 1st? There aren't going to be any elite guys, even getting a WR like most want is probably going to be by way of reaching for one. There are a couple decent DL choices, maybe Peter Konz slips but right now that 26th pick is looking ugly, especially for a team makings gains on the depth chart.

I dont think KJ will improve. (Lack of awareness) They need to move on from KJ.

In this scenario trading up for one of the top WR's would be they way to go.

If Tannehill falls I would hope that a team like Seattle would give up their 2nd/3rd rd picks to move up and take Tannehill. If that didn't materialize I would have no problem with the Gary taking Tannehill. I'm not as optimistic about Schaub making it back to 100%. Lisfranc is usually a career killer.

 

[gary]

I hope Allen stays here unless they find someone better than him.

 

[TimeKiller]

I dont think KJ will improve. (Lack of awareness) They need to move on from KJ.

In this scenario trading up for one of the top WR's would be they way to go.

If Tannehill falls I would hope that a team like Seattle would give up their 2nd/3rd rd picks to move up and take Tannehill. If that didn't materialize I would have no problem with the Gary taking Tannehill. I'm not as optimistic about Schaub making it back to 100%. Lisfranc is usually a career killer.

Explain.


I think it's possible. It's entirely possible with the way QB's are drafted that he will be gone by the 10th pick. Hopefully the league is learning it's lesson from hella reaching on QBs. He seems like he's been propped up a bit by other guys going back to school but he's got a lot of skills and from what I can read, needs to sit and learn to be effective. Who better to learn from than fellow Aggie and Qb magician Gary Kubiak?

You and I share the same view of lisfranc injuries. Not that Schaub's game relied on mobility but can he be ANOTHER mental step ahead of the action to compensate for having absolutely nothing in terms of movement? I think we've already seen the best of Schaub. Lisfranc I believe is what ended Glenn Earl's time in the NFL. Tannehill could definitely be a Texan, Schaub could be tagged next year if he needed more time to learn and in case of emergency (break glass) Tannehill is likely a better option than Delhomme.

 

[thunderkyss]

Third string QB in the beginning. Taking time to develop the right way & becoming your starter in 3-5 years.

does that actually ever happen?

 

[beerlover]

does that actually ever happen?

Matt Schaub ~

 

[badboy]

Yates was prone to making mistakes in College. I'm on record, when Texans made the pick I didn't like it. Said similar thing as you, that if they felt QB was a need they should have taken a top tier prospect earlier in the draft. But Kubiak proved he can develop a young QB with some ability & overcome less desirable tendencies with good mechanics, this is key to pick. So why not clean out the bullpen (Leinart, Delhomme, Garcia) with a solid, talented & young QB trio, while saving cap room? This theme is carried foward in both mock 1A & 1B. Let's take advantage of Coach Kubiak's strength, QB development & settle QB position next 10 years. The final draft grade for Lindley is yet to be established but should come in at least on par with that of current starting Texan QB Matt Schaub drafted out of Virginia 3rd rd. 2004. Lindley is legitimate starter material to develop & eventually replace Schaub. It's a bold stroke but if you look at the numbers & play to the strength of this organization it makes a lot of sense. Ryan Lindley's numbers smash those of Schaub in College, he has a strong arm, is athletic (also baseball player) threw for 12,700 yards & 90 TD's.

Folks as Beerlover says above Lindley is starter material and should prove to be a steal in 3rd. I am high on Yates but expect Lindley to beat him out for back up. Also, our thinking as BL says is clean out the left overs and go with Schaub/ Lindley/ Yates. I fully support Schuab but we would be foolish to expect him to get better & I for one will be happy if he maintains stats from 2 seasons ago. As another poster mentioned 2012 is Matt's final contract year & Lindley & Yates will give us opportunity to see if we have to re-sign Matt to a long high $ deal. You do not want to draft 2013 QB to replace Matt. Also, trading up cost Falcons a lot to get Julio Jones, can you imagine what RG3 would take?

 

[badboy]

Well put. Harris and Carmicheal are basically rookies who got a little extra experience, not exactly a brand shiny new draft choice but it's not that far of a stretch. If KJ takes the same step forward that he took from his rookie to 2nd years, won't that be a competent level of CB play? He went from not-even-funny bad to an ok rotation player. I think the next step would be average starter.

As far as setting up Kubiak with a QB of the future.....what would you say to drafting Tannehill in the 1st? There aren't going to be any elite guys, even getting a WR like most want is probably going to be by way of reaching for one. There are a couple decent DL choices, maybe Peter Konz slips but right now that 26th pick is looking ugly, especially for a team makings gains on the depth chart.

TK, I watched almost all A&M games and Tannehill is no one I want especially @ round he will be drafted. Several Aggies were on my early radar from last season including Fuller and Judie but I was disappointed.
We are swamped with very good defensive backs and should select one only if value supercedes round. Concerning Peter Konz, we debated long on hard as he is a terrific center who should be a great OG and prob beat out Smith. I thought he would be gone top 20 but now think possible he could be there. I am slowly re-thinking my mandate of Kendall Wright who looks more like he will be gone #26. Like you I'm thinking 26 is ugly step child that we might be abe to trade down.

 

[beerlover]

I dont think KJ will improve. (Lack of awareness) They need to move on from KJ.

In this scenario trading up for one of the top WR's would be they way to go.

If Tannehill falls I would hope that a team like Seattle would give up their 2nd/3rd rd picks to move up and take Tannehill. If that didn't materialize I would have no problem with the Gary taking Tannehill. I'm not as optimistic about Schaub making it back to 100%. Lisfranc is usually a career killer.

Tannehill is not part of our equation, not sure why some big time mock drafts have him so high? I would take a chance on Weeden before Tannehill, at least I know that he could be an adequate back-up. my QB ranking would look something like this: (doesn't mean where I expect them to be selected because it never does)

• Luck -1st
• Griffin - 1st
• Foles - 2nd
• Lindley - 2nd/3rd
• Weeden - 3rd
• Osweiler - 3rd
• Tannehill - 3rd
• Coleman - 4th/5th
• Cousins -5th

 

[Blake]

Tannehill is not part of our equation, not sure why some big time mock drafts have him so high? I would take a chance on Weeden before Tannehill, at least I know that he could be an adequate back-up. my QB ranking would look something like this: (doesn't mean where I expect them to be selected because it never does)

• Luck -1st
• Griffin - 1st
• Foles - 2nd
• Lindley - 2nd/3rd
• Weeden - 3rd
• Osweiler - 3rd
• Tannehill - 3rd
• Coleman - 4th/5th
• Cousins -5th

I will be honest, I really like Foles. I watched a few of his games the past couple seasons and he looks the part.

 

[Rey]

Tannehill is not part of our equation, not sure why some big time mock drafts have him so high? I would take a chance on Weeden before Tannehill, at least I know that he could be an adequate back-up. my QB ranking would look something like this: (doesn't mean where I expect them to be selected because it never does)

• Luck -1st
• Griffin - 1st
• Foles - 2nd
• Lindley - 2nd/3rd
• Weeden - 3rd
• Osweiler - 3rd
• Tannehill - 3rd
• Coleman - 4th/5th
• Cousins -5th

I haven't seen a whole lot of Foles or Lindley, but I like what I saw out of Weeden better than Tannehill.

I really like Weeden. The zip on his passes is really, really nice.

 

[steelbtexan]

Tannehill is not part of our equation, not sure why some big time mock drafts have him so high? I would take a chance on Weeden before Tannehill, at least I know that he could be an adequate back-up. my QB ranking would look something like this: (doesn't mean where I expect them to be selected because it never does)

• Luck -1st
• Griffin - 1st
• Foles - 2nd
• Lindley - 2nd/3rd
• Weeden - 3rd
• Osweiler - 3rd
• Tannehill - 3rd
• Coleman - 4th/5th
• Cousins -5th

Agreed, good list, you guys rate Lindley much higher than I do. 4th/5th. The sleeper on your list to me is Coleman. He impressed me at the East/West game. He's got an above avg arm, touch and some pocket presence. I've read he just needs to improve his accuracy. (Same with Lindley)

The one advantage Tannehill has over the other QB's listed is that he has already basically run Garys offense for the last yr and a half under Sherman.

I've got Tannehill rated as a late 2nd rd pick. (Just about where the Texans will be picking.) He probably will be long gone by then, taken by one of the QB needy teams.

 

[steelbtexan]

Explain.


I think it's possible. It's entirely possible with the way QB's are drafted that he will be gone by the 10th pick. Hopefully the league is learning it's lesson from hella reaching on QBs. He seems like he's been propped up a bit by other guys going back to school but he's got a lot of skills and from what I can read, needs to sit and learn to be effective. Who better to learn from than fellow Aggie and Qb magician Gary Kubiak?

You and I share the same view of lisfranc injuries. Not that Schaub's game relied on mobility but can he be ANOTHER mental step ahead of the action to compensate for having absolutely nothing in terms of movement? I think we've already seen the best of Schaub. Lisfranc I believe is what ended Glenn Earl's time in the NFL. Tannehill could definitely be a Texan, Schaub could be tagged next year if he needed more time to learn and in case of emergency (break glass) Tannehill is likely a better option than Delhomme.

KJ is still very vunerable to double moves. He still got burned alot even though he was only playing 50% of the snaps last yr. His lack of ints is also another sign of lack of where/when the ball is coming his way. IMHO

God, please dont let this turn into another KJ debate.

 

[beerlover]

Agreed, good list, you guys rate Lindley much higher than I do. 4th/5th. The sleeper on your list to me is Coleman. He impressed me at the East/West game. He's got an above avg arm, touch and some pocket presence. I've read he just needs to improve his accuracy. (Same with Lindley)

The one advantage Tannehill has over the other QB's listed is that he has already basically run Garys offense for the last yr and a half under Sherman.

I've got Tannehill rated as a late 2nd rd pick. (Just about where the Texans will be picking.) He probably will be long gone by then, taken by one of the QB needy teams.

Agree on Coleman, see mock 1B.

Another angle is player trade value. Yates has curb appeal as a trade target to other teams needing QB help. Where on this list would you place him?

What is his trade value to another NFL team? Heck no I don't want to trade him but there will be some calls to inquire about his services come draft day so when do they listen, a mid/early 2nd? Seems like pretty good return out of a player selected middle of the 5th rd. one year earlier. This process needs to be executed when opportunity presents itself, with fewer & fewer pressing needs Kubiak & Smith can leverage their strengths.

Texans will rate QB's value in upcoming draft just like any other position. From combine fast forward to draft I fully expect both these prospects stock to rise, it's a fluid process. Texans are probably in depth evaluations right this minute over current roster players, which should be completed along with coaching hires before the combine (maybe in early stages of a Draft Big Board construction as well).

 

[steelbtexan]

Agree on Coleman, see mock 1B.

Another angle is player trade value. Yates has curb appeal as a trade target to other teams needing QB help. Where on this list would you place him?

What is his trade value to another NFL team? Heck no I don't want to trade him but there will be some calls to inquire about his services come draft day so when do they listen, a mid/early 2nd? Seems like pretty good return out of a player selected middle of the 5th rd. one year earlier. This process needs to be executed when opportunity presents itself, with fewer & fewer pressing needs Kubiak & Smith can leverage their strengths.

Texans will rate QB's value in upcoming draft just like any other position. From combine fast forward to draft I fully expect both these prospects stock to rise, it's a fluid process. Texans are probably in depth evaluations right this minute over current roster players, which should be completed along with coaching hires before the combine (maybe in early stages of a Draft Big Board construction as well).

Depending on if Rick really sees somebody he likes

Say if Josh Norman fell late 2nd/early 3rd or Josh Chapman for instance.

Would you trade Yates? I would.

Rd.1 Randle
Rd.2 Norman
Rd.2 Chapman
Rd.3 White
Rd.4 Bequette
Rd.5 Coleman

Looks pretty good to me. What do you think about this?

 

[beerlover]

Depending on if Rick really sees somebody he likes

Say if Josh Norman fell late 2nd/early 3rd or Josh Chapman for instance.

Would you trade Yates? I would.

Rd.1 Randle
Rd.2 Norman
Rd.2 Chapman
Rd.3 White
Rd.4 Bequette
Rd.5 Coleman

Looks pretty good to me. What do you think about this?

Shoot us another WR, Randle was not on our board.

 

[Dutchrudder]

Depending on if Rick really sees somebody he likes

Say if Josh Norman fell late 2nd/early 3rd or Josh Chapman for instance.

Would you trade Yates? I would.

Rd.1 Randle
Rd.2 Norman
Rd.2 Chapman
Rd.3 White
Rd.4 Bequette
Rd.5 Coleman

Looks pretty good to me. What do you think about this?

If Schaub wasn't hurt last year, I would do it, but I'm leery of moving Yates given that Schaub may not be ready week 1. I'm also leaning towards keeping Lienart next year and not drafting a QB at all this time around. I'm not worried about losing Schaub in free agency next year, I think he will stick with Kubiak, especially given his age and injury history at that point. 2012 will be the year for us to draft a QB if we don't see a good one fall to a late round.

 

[rmartin65]

Depending on if Rick really sees somebody he likes

Say if Josh Norman fell late 2nd/early 3rd or Josh Chapman for instance.

Would you trade Yates? I would.

Rd.1 Randle
Rd.2 Norman
Rd.2 Chapman
Rd.3 White
Rd.4 Bequette
Rd.5 Coleman

Looks pretty good to me. What do you think about this?

Ugh, no to Randle. Dude just does not seem to be a pro receiver- a lot of hype, no substance. If we are looking first, one of the big 4 will drop- Blackmon, Wright, Jeffery, or Floyd. I would take any of those in a heart beat.

And then I would much rather take Criner, Toon, etc in the second, if one of the 4 were not available in the first.

 

[TimeKiller]

KJ is still very vunerable to double moves. He still got burned alot even though he was only playing 50% of the snaps last yr. His lack of ints is also another sign of lack of where/when the ball is coming his way. IMHO

God, please dont let this turn into another KJ debate.

You don't think he made a pretty significant stride towards competency this year? I'm not saying he was good but....come on, he was A LOT better.

 

[Dutchrudder]

You don't think he made a pretty significant stride towards competency this year? I'm not saying he was good but....come on, he was A LOT better.

Absolutely he got better, I don't think anyone would dispute that. Not falling down makes him a million times better than he was last year. The problem is, we could do better, so if a CB/return guy is available in the 3rd like Boykin, I'd take him and let Jason Allen leave. Boykin would be a great ST gunner too, so I think he would be valuable. Gives KJ competition and incentive to improve, and makes the team deeper at a key position. Still have Roc Carmichael and Brandon Harris coming back in 2012 to compete too, so CB#2 should be pretty young either way.