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Gosselin has us taking Prince
- Thread starter Spled
- Start date
Playoffs
Hall of Fame
Picked this tidbit up searching around for Gosselin's latest mock:
I can confirm with certainty that the Cowboys have had discussions and laid the groundwork for a deal with the Houston Texans at #11 who Im told are set to move up for either Aldon Smith or Cameron Jordan and the St. Louis Rams at #14 who despite reports are not interested in moving up have contacted 3 of the 4 teams between picks 6 and 10.
Most recently I have also been told the Cowboys have spoken to the Patriots who have been active lately trying to gauge the market value to move up. Interesting enough Im told the Cowboys are the only team the Patriots have contacted in the top 10. Im sorry I dont have many details on what was discussed.
A few days ago I was also told there is a team selecting in the early 20s who made a very attractive proposal and was willing to pull the trigger now but Jerry put it in his back pocket. Im sorry; this source was not from the Cowboys but from another team and asked that I dont share the name of the team. I consider this source VERY reliable otherwise I would not say anything with such limited detail.
In addition to the above possibilities I was told yesterday that the Cowboys have received no less than 8 calls on the #9 selection and may have just as much interest in the #40 pick in Round 2 but Ill touch on that later. First I would like to discuss possible targets in these trade down scenarios.
The first two I want to discuss are the most solid ones with the Texans and Rams.
A trade down with the Texans would only likely net a 4th round pick and perhaps an additional 6th or 7th in return but it might put Dallas in a great spot. At #11 they could very well still have their pick of Smith, Jordan, Watt or Castonzo. It also would present the opportunity to flip the pick once again in a trade down.
A trade down with the Rams would likely net a 3rd round pick. Although It would likely take the Cowboys out of the running for Smith it might put them into a position they favor with Castonzo or Watt while netting a 3rd round pick and giving them flexibility in the 2nd and 3rd rounds to move up or down.
Now Im told Jerry would very much like to add an additional 2nd round pick which might lead me to believe a drop further then the Rams at #14. I cant see a drop much further so I have to believe this would only come via a team willing to pay a little extra to get their man at 9. With that in mind, dont discount the San Diego Chargers. They have been quietly making calls in a effort to move up and Im sure Norvs old Boss Jerry Jones would be more than willing to listen for the right price and the Chargers are 1 of only 2 teams with multiple 2nd round picks.
fwiw
I can confirm with certainty that the Cowboys have had discussions and laid the groundwork for a deal with the Houston Texans at #11 who Im told are set to move up for either Aldon Smith or Cameron Jordan and the St. Louis Rams at #14 who despite reports are not interested in moving up have contacted 3 of the 4 teams between picks 6 and 10.
Most recently I have also been told the Cowboys have spoken to the Patriots who have been active lately trying to gauge the market value to move up. Interesting enough Im told the Cowboys are the only team the Patriots have contacted in the top 10. Im sorry I dont have many details on what was discussed.
A few days ago I was also told there is a team selecting in the early 20s who made a very attractive proposal and was willing to pull the trigger now but Jerry put it in his back pocket. Im sorry; this source was not from the Cowboys but from another team and asked that I dont share the name of the team. I consider this source VERY reliable otherwise I would not say anything with such limited detail.
In addition to the above possibilities I was told yesterday that the Cowboys have received no less than 8 calls on the #9 selection and may have just as much interest in the #40 pick in Round 2 but Ill touch on that later. First I would like to discuss possible targets in these trade down scenarios.
The first two I want to discuss are the most solid ones with the Texans and Rams.
A trade down with the Texans would only likely net a 4th round pick and perhaps an additional 6th or 7th in return but it might put Dallas in a great spot. At #11 they could very well still have their pick of Smith, Jordan, Watt or Castonzo. It also would present the opportunity to flip the pick once again in a trade down.
A trade down with the Rams would likely net a 3rd round pick. Although It would likely take the Cowboys out of the running for Smith it might put them into a position they favor with Castonzo or Watt while netting a 3rd round pick and giving them flexibility in the 2nd and 3rd rounds to move up or down.
Now Im told Jerry would very much like to add an additional 2nd round pick which might lead me to believe a drop further then the Rams at #14. I cant see a drop much further so I have to believe this would only come via a team willing to pay a little extra to get their man at 9. With that in mind, dont discount the San Diego Chargers. They have been quietly making calls in a effort to move up and Im sure Norvs old Boss Jerry Jones would be more than willing to listen for the right price and the Chargers are 1 of only 2 teams with multiple 2nd round picks.
fwiw
digitalswim
Sleepwalker
I don't see a trade with the Cowpies happening. What would be the advantage in giving up picks to move into their spot? It's not like a game changer is gonna slip thru the cracks all the way down to 9 and if one did the Cowpies would take him for themselves. The Texans have multiple guys who could help their squad. No need to give away picks. One of the guys he has listed as the Texans trading up for will be available. I actually believe both will be available but hey, he is the expert.
beerlover
Hall of Fame
It would be nice if the Texans could be preemptive but if the Cowboys in fact are willing to trade back, this hurts Texans chances of getting as much in return, so instead of a possible 2nd rounder it turns into a 3rd round pick & we give up a 4th to move two spots higher? no thanks
I can confirm with certainty that the Cowboys have had discussions and laid the groundwork for a deal with the Houston Texans at #11 who Im told are set to move up for either Aldon Smith or Cameron Jordan
**
I say horse-crap because there's probably no need to move up since expectations are both those players will be on the Board when the 11 pick is made.
**
I say horse-crap because there's probably no need to move up since expectations are both those players will be on the Board when the 11 pick is made.
Playoffs
Hall of Fame
I can see it if it shakes out where the Skins are looking to trade out the 10 to a team looking at front seven or going defense themselves.
Contingency plan if trades start flying ..... but does Smithiak have that capability(foresight)?
Also, do we even know if the Texans "fall in love" with a player in the draft? After 5 years you'd think we'd know the answer to that, but do we?
Contingency plan if trades start flying ..... but does Smithiak have that capability(foresight)?
Also, do we even know if the Texans "fall in love" with a player in the draft? After 5 years you'd think we'd know the answer to that, but do we?
kiwitexansfan
Hall of Fame
Put it this way, with no FA to worry about the whole FO has been working on every possible scenario and would of been on the phone with every other team numerous times to see what could happen if XYZ happened.
I put no stock in these sort of rumours, because after all they are all just rumours.
I put no stock in these sort of rumours, because after all they are all just rumours.
Ole Miss Texan
Hall of Fame
I don't see it out of the question to be honest. Julio Jones is likely gone and I could see Washington going Aldon Smith or Cameron Jordan. In the mock I'm working on right now I actually have Smith mocked to them at #10 with Jordan to us at #11. I read some rumor (and its just that: a rumor) that Shanahan really likes Smith, and apparently Rex Ryan does too.
This is what concerns me as well. Our #11 may not be as "valuable" if #9 is readily available. Makes a ton of sense if Dallas has several guys targeted like a OT or CB. Jerry may be wanting to accumulate some more picks... I still have him toying with moving up for Peterson.
The1ApplePie
Hall of Fame
I guess he beats Aldon "Aaron Maybin 2.0" Smith
Señor Stan
El Guapo
Every time I hear a team is thinking of moving up for "player x", I assume they are really thinking "player y". The rest is smoke and mirrors.
Playoffs
Hall of Fame
Gosselin's Board
The Top 100 is compiled based on conversations with NFL general managers, personnel directors, pro and college coaches and scouts. This is not a mock draft. Teams will skip around the board on draft day to make selections that fit their needs.
No., player Pos. School
1, A.J. Green WR Georgia
2, Von Miller OLB Texas A&M
3, Patrick Peterson CB LSU
4, Marcell Dareus DT Alabama
5, Julio Jones WR Alabama
6, Cam Newton QB Auburn
7, Tyron Smith OT Southern California
8, Nick Fairley DT Auburn
9, Robert Quinn DE North Carolina
10, Blaine Gabbert QB Missouri
11, J.J. Watt DE Wisconsin
12, Cam Jordan DE California
13, Nate Solder OT Colorado
14, Aldon Smith DE Missouri
15, Prince Amukamara CB Nebraska
16, Anthony Castonzo OT Boston College
17, Ryan Kerrigan DE Purdue
18, Mark Ingram RB Alabama
19, Corey Liuget DT Illinois
20, Mike Pouncey C Florida
21, Gabe Carimi OT Wisconsin
22, Da'Quan Bowers DE Clemson
23, Jake Locker QB Washington
24, Phil Taylor DT Baylor
25, Jimmy Smith CB Colorado
26, Marvin Austin DT North Carolina
27, Christian Ponder QB Florida State
28, Danny Watkins G Baylor
29, Adrian Clayborn DE Iowa
30, Cameron Heyward DE Ohio State
31, Aaron Williams CB Texas
32, Derek Sherrod OT Mississippi State
33, Muhammad Wilkerson DT Temple
34, Andy Dalton QB TCU
35, Marcus Cannon G TCU
36, Ryan Williams RB Virginia Tech
37, Jon Baldwin WR Pittsburgh
38, Akeem Ayers S UCLA
39, Kyle Rudolph TE Notre Dame
40, Ryan Mallett QB Arkansas
41, James Carpenter OT Alabama
42, Daniel Thomas RB Kansas State
43, Greg Little WR North Carolina
44, Brooks Reed DE Arizona
45, Kenrick Ellis DT Hampton
46, Ras-I Dowling CB Virginia
47, Rahim Moore S UCLA
48, Torrey Smith WR Maryland
49, Jarvis Jenkins DT Clemson
50, Orlando Franklin OT Miami
51, Mikel Leshoure RB Illinois
52, Titus Young WR Boise State
53, Lance Kendricks TE Wisconsin
54, Stephen Paea DT Oregon State
55, Randall Cobb WR Kentucky
56, Will Rackley G Lehigh
57, Edmond Gates WR Abilene Christian
58, Allen Bailey DE Miami
59, Terrell McClain DT South Florida
60, Martez Wilson OLB Illinois
61, Shareece Wright CB Southern California
62, Taiwan Jones RB Eastern Washington
63, Colin Kaepernick QB Nevada
64, Brandon Harris CB Miami
65, Bruce Carter OLB North Carolina
66, Rodney Hudson C Florida State
67, Dontay Moch DE Nevada
68, Shane Vereen RB California
69, Luke Stocker TE Tennessee
70, Jah Reid OT Central Florida
71, Leonard Hankerson WR Miami
72, Marcus Gilchrist CB Clemson
73, Steve Wisniewski C Penn State
74, Kendall Hunter RB Oklahoma State
75, K.J. Wright OLB Mississippi State
76, John Moffitt G Georgia
77, Tandon Doss WR Indiana
78, Drake Nevis DT LSU
79, Marcus Gilbert OT Florida
80, Pernell McPhee DE Mississippi State
81, Ben Ijalana G Villanova
82, Jabaal Sheard OLB Pittsburgh
83, Jalil Brown CB Colorado
84, DeMarco Murray RB Oklahoma
85, Rashad Carmichael CB Virginia Tech
86, Jerrel Jernigan WR Troy
87, Johnny Patrick CB Louisville
88, Jurrell Casey DT Southern California
89, Clint Boling G Georgia
90, Bilal Powell RB Louisville
91, Ricky Stanzi QB Iowa
92, Jaiquawn Jarrett S Temple
93, Brandon Burton CB Utah
94, Sam Acho DE Texas
95, James Brewer OT Indiana
96, Rob Housler TE Florida Atlantic
97, Quinton Carter S Oklahoma
98, Jerrell Powe NY Mississippi
99, Colin McCarthy OLB Miami
100, David Arkin OT Missouri State
The Top 100 is compiled based on conversations with NFL general managers, personnel directors, pro and college coaches and scouts. This is not a mock draft. Teams will skip around the board on draft day to make selections that fit their needs.
No., player Pos. School
1, A.J. Green WR Georgia
2, Von Miller OLB Texas A&M
3, Patrick Peterson CB LSU
4, Marcell Dareus DT Alabama
5, Julio Jones WR Alabama
6, Cam Newton QB Auburn
7, Tyron Smith OT Southern California
8, Nick Fairley DT Auburn
9, Robert Quinn DE North Carolina
10, Blaine Gabbert QB Missouri
11, J.J. Watt DE Wisconsin
12, Cam Jordan DE California
13, Nate Solder OT Colorado
14, Aldon Smith DE Missouri
15, Prince Amukamara CB Nebraska
16, Anthony Castonzo OT Boston College
17, Ryan Kerrigan DE Purdue
18, Mark Ingram RB Alabama
19, Corey Liuget DT Illinois
20, Mike Pouncey C Florida
21, Gabe Carimi OT Wisconsin
22, Da'Quan Bowers DE Clemson
23, Jake Locker QB Washington
24, Phil Taylor DT Baylor
25, Jimmy Smith CB Colorado
26, Marvin Austin DT North Carolina
27, Christian Ponder QB Florida State
28, Danny Watkins G Baylor
29, Adrian Clayborn DE Iowa
30, Cameron Heyward DE Ohio State
31, Aaron Williams CB Texas
32, Derek Sherrod OT Mississippi State
33, Muhammad Wilkerson DT Temple
34, Andy Dalton QB TCU
35, Marcus Cannon G TCU
36, Ryan Williams RB Virginia Tech
37, Jon Baldwin WR Pittsburgh
38, Akeem Ayers S UCLA
39, Kyle Rudolph TE Notre Dame
40, Ryan Mallett QB Arkansas
41, James Carpenter OT Alabama
42, Daniel Thomas RB Kansas State
43, Greg Little WR North Carolina
44, Brooks Reed DE Arizona
45, Kenrick Ellis DT Hampton
46, Ras-I Dowling CB Virginia
47, Rahim Moore S UCLA
48, Torrey Smith WR Maryland
49, Jarvis Jenkins DT Clemson
50, Orlando Franklin OT Miami
51, Mikel Leshoure RB Illinois
52, Titus Young WR Boise State
53, Lance Kendricks TE Wisconsin
54, Stephen Paea DT Oregon State
55, Randall Cobb WR Kentucky
56, Will Rackley G Lehigh
57, Edmond Gates WR Abilene Christian
58, Allen Bailey DE Miami
59, Terrell McClain DT South Florida
60, Martez Wilson OLB Illinois
61, Shareece Wright CB Southern California
62, Taiwan Jones RB Eastern Washington
63, Colin Kaepernick QB Nevada
64, Brandon Harris CB Miami
65, Bruce Carter OLB North Carolina
66, Rodney Hudson C Florida State
67, Dontay Moch DE Nevada
68, Shane Vereen RB California
69, Luke Stocker TE Tennessee
70, Jah Reid OT Central Florida
71, Leonard Hankerson WR Miami
72, Marcus Gilchrist CB Clemson
73, Steve Wisniewski C Penn State
74, Kendall Hunter RB Oklahoma State
75, K.J. Wright OLB Mississippi State
76, John Moffitt G Georgia
77, Tandon Doss WR Indiana
78, Drake Nevis DT LSU
79, Marcus Gilbert OT Florida
80, Pernell McPhee DE Mississippi State
81, Ben Ijalana G Villanova
82, Jabaal Sheard OLB Pittsburgh
83, Jalil Brown CB Colorado
84, DeMarco Murray RB Oklahoma
85, Rashad Carmichael CB Virginia Tech
86, Jerrel Jernigan WR Troy
87, Johnny Patrick CB Louisville
88, Jurrell Casey DT Southern California
89, Clint Boling G Georgia
90, Bilal Powell RB Louisville
91, Ricky Stanzi QB Iowa
92, Jaiquawn Jarrett S Temple
93, Brandon Burton CB Utah
94, Sam Acho DE Texas
95, James Brewer OT Indiana
96, Rob Housler TE Florida Atlantic
97, Quinton Carter S Oklahoma
98, Jerrell Powe NY Mississippi
99, Colin McCarthy OLB Miami
100, David Arkin OT Missouri State
Playoffs
Hall of Fame
Gosselin on PTTD:
- -- Smith slightly over Watt @9
- -- as many as 6 QBs in 1st
- -- "some people think" Petersen slides, Fairley slides
- -- Mallett not top 5 QB
- -- good 2nd Tier group of RBs
- -- one of the worst LB boards in 10 years
- -- Ayers 2nd round value, next best backer
Last edited:
beerlover
Hall of Fame
Rick Smith mentioned the same thing yesterday in his pre-draft press conference
badboy
Hall of Fame
Texans will not trade up with Dallas in first round. Also, Amuk has short arms for a corner & only basic skills although he does have great size/speed. I rate Kareem Jackson as a better CB & most know I did not want him in first last season. We can get a better corner in 2nd with Brandon Harris.
kiwitexansfan
Hall of Fame
Cam Newton first, Von Miller to Denver, and the Bills select Marcell Dareus. Check out this QB run, it’s insane: Newton to Carolina, Gabbert to the Niners, Locker to the Titans, Ponder to the Redskins, and Dalton to the Vikings. That’s five QBs in the first twelve selections! Aldon Smith goes off the board at 11. Robert Quinn falls to #20. Prince Amukamara falls to #25. Wow. On the board at #21: Carimi, Boston College OT Anthony Castonzo, Wisconsi
http://arrowheadaddict.com/2011/04/28/rick-gosselin-weighs-in-itll-be-carimi/
I don't have access to Gosselins final mock since the Dallas MN is now a fee
site (that's rich, what a joke), but I got some bits and pieces from a Chiefs website who says Gosselin also has us taking A.Smith, but he's got Robert Quinn and the Prince falling all the way to 20 & 25, respectively. Wow !
But what puzzles me the most is his call that Miller goes to Denver at 2 ? I wouldn't be surprised if Denver was a 3-4 team, but it's not ?
http://arrowheadaddict.com/2011/04/28/rick-gosselin-weighs-in-itll-be-carimi/
I don't have access to Gosselins final mock since the Dallas MN is now a fee
site (that's rich, what a joke), but I got some bits and pieces from a Chiefs website who says Gosselin also has us taking A.Smith, but he's got Robert Quinn and the Prince falling all the way to 20 & 25, respectively. Wow !
But what puzzles me the most is his call that Miller goes to Denver at 2 ? I wouldn't be surprised if Denver was a 3-4 team, but it's not ?
kiwitexansfan
Hall of Fame
I would be pi$$ed if we took Smith over Prince or Quin.
I have gotten to the point in my mind where Aldon Smith is worst case scenario.
I have gotten to the point in my mind where Aldon Smith is worst case scenario.
kiwitexansfan
Hall of Fame
1st pick: Carolina Panthers
Cam Newton -- QB, Auburn
The Panthers had the worst quarterbacking in the NFL last season with only nine TD passes in 16 games. Newton gives the Panthers a chance, although his legs are likely to carry him through his rookie season.
(Team needs: QB, WR, CB, DL)
2nd pick: Denver Broncos
Von Miller -- OLB, Texas A&M
New coach John Fox is switching to a 4-3 defense and needs tackles and linebackers. He can get competitive tackles into the third round. But theres only one impact linebacker in this draft. Miller is the value here.
(Team needs: DL, OT, TE, LB)
3rd pick: Buffalo Bills
Marcell Dareus -- DT, Alabama
The Bills finished last in the NFL in run defense in 2010. They need some bigger, nastier players to line up against the Jets and Pats. In Dareus, they land the best run defender in this draft. He also brings an attitude.
(Team needs: QB, DL, OT, LB)
4th pick: Cincinnati Bengals
A.J. Green -- WR, Georgia
This is the only shot the Bengals have of luring Carson Palmer out of retirement. Draft the best receiver in college football, release Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens, and give Palmer a clean canvas to resume his career.
(Team needs: QB, WR, CB, pass rusher)
5th pick: Arizona Cardinals
Patrick Peterson -- CB, LSU
When you finish 31st in offense and 29th in defense like the Cardinals of 2010, anyone you draft is going to be an upgrade. Peterson is a huge upgrade for the secondary. Arizona is surprised to see him still on the board at 5.
(Team needs: QB, LB, pass rusher, OT)
6th pick: Cleveland Browns
Julio Jones -- WR, Alabama
The Browns need a lead receiver to accelerate the development of QB Colt McCoy. Voila Jones was a walk-in starter at Alabama, and hell be a walk-in starter at Cleveland. He averaged almost 15 yards per career catch.
(Team needs: WR, CB, OT, DE)
7th pick: San Francisco 49ers
Blaine Gabbert -- QB, Missouri
Jim Harbaugh is a quarterback maker first Josh Johnson at the University of San Diego and then Andrew Luck at Stanford. In his first year as head coach of the 49ers, Harbaugh wants a quarterback he can build a team around.
(Team needs: QB, G, def. playmakers)
8th pick: Tennessee Titans
Jake Locker -- QB, Washington
The Titans want to put the Vince Young era behind them. Locker provides Tennessee a key element Young lacked leadership. Locker was a two-year captain at Washington and a very charismatic player.
(Team needs: QB, DL, LB, S)
9th pick: Dallas Cowboys
Tyron Smith -- OT, Southern Cal
The Cowboys have four starters on the offensive line who turn 32 this season. This group needs to get younger and what better way than to select the youngest player in this draft? Smith turns 21 in December.
(Team needs: OT, G, DE, CB)
10th pick: Washington Redskins
Christian Ponder -- QB, Florida State
Mike Shanahan is not going to enter a second season with Donovan McNabb, so the Redskins spent all day Wednesday trying to move up. Gabbert was the target. Failing there, they take the next best QB on the board.
(Team needs: QB, WR, CB, youth)
11th pick: Houston Texans
Aldon Smith -- DE, Missouri
The Texans are switching to a 3-4 defensive scheme, and Smith can play anywhere in it. He has the frame to bulk up to play end or the speed and athleticism to play linebacker. The NFLs 30th-ranked defense needs help.
(Team needs: DL, LB, DB, WR)
12th pick: Minnesota Vikings
Andy Dalton -- QB, TCU
Like the Titans, the Vikings need to draft a rookie quarterback and play him immediately. Dalton brings a wealth of experience four years as a starter, 42 career victories and more than 1,300 career passes.
(Team needs: QB, DL, OT, CB)
13th pick: Detroit Lions
Nick Fairley -- DT, Auburn
Ndamukong Suh was perhaps the best defensive tackle in the NFL as a rookie in 2011. Adding Fairley makes Suh even better. Fairley is the best inside pass rusher in this draft. The Lions are building a formidable front.
(Team needs: LB, CB, OT, WR)
14th pick: St. Louis Rams
Mark Ingram -- HB, Alabama
The Rams would love to draft a wide receiver for Sam Bradford, but there are none worthy of this selection. St. Louis will continue to give Bradford weapons, though the best running back in this draft.
(Team needs: Pass rusher, CB, WR, S)
15th pick: Miami Dolphins
Mike Pouncey -- C, Florida
The only need the Dolphins can still address here is the offensive line, and Pouncey gives them two-position versatility. Like his brother Maurkice, a first-round pick of the Steelers in 2010, Mike can play guard or center.
(Team needs: OL, OLB, CB, QB)
16th pick: Jacksonville Jaguars
Ryan Kerrigan -- DE, Purdue
You cant expect to survive with a paltry pass rush in a division with Peyton Manning and Matt Schaub. The Jaguars managed only 26 sacks last season. Kerrigan had almost half that (121/2) last fall at Purdue.
(Team needs: DE, S, LB, QB)
17th pick: New England Patriots
Cameron Jordan -- DE, California
The Patriots are likely to trade out of this spot. But Jordan here could be an inducement to stay put. Hes a 3-4 end who fits the size prototype (6-4, 287) Bill Belichick covets. Bigger is always better in New England.
(Team needs: OL, DE, OLB, HB)
18th pick: San Diego Chargers
Corey Liuget -- DT, Illinois
Liuget was a dominant inside player in a 4-3 scheme in the Big Ten. The Chargers envision him playing the edge in their 3-4 scheme. He has excellent hands, a necessity for head-up combat with offensive tackles.
(Team needs: OT, ILB, WR, pass rusher)
19th pick: New York Giants
Nate Solder -- OT, Colorado
Like the Cowboys, the Giants need to get younger on the offensive line. Solder is the best blind-side protector in this draft, and hes going to get better. Hes only played the position for three years.
(Team needs: OT, G, LB, KR)
20th pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Robert Quinn -- DE, North Carolina
The Bucs have the worst pass rush in the NFC just 26 sacks in 521 pass attempts. Quinn is the best edge pass rusher on the board. But his stock slid this draft season because of a bout with cancer in high school.
(Team needs: G, pass rusher, CB, OT)
21st pick: Kansas City Chiefs
Gabe Carimi -- OT, Wisconsin
The Chiefs want to get bigger, tougher and younger up front. KC has one of the NFLs best runners in Jamaal Charles and Carimi has spent a career blocking in one of the best run-oriented offenses in college football.
(Team needs: DT, C, WR, QB)
22nd pick: Indianapolis Colts
Anthony Castonzo -- OT, Boston College
Because of the run of quarterbacks at the top, a lot of quality players slid, including Castonzo, CB Prince Amukamara and DE J.J. Watt. As long as Peyton Manning is in Indy, the priority will be protecting him.
(Team needs: KR, def. size, QB, LB, OL)
23rd pick: Philadelphia Eagles
Jimmy Smith -- CB, Colorado
If the Eagles are to continue their dominance in the NFC East, they must find someone who can cover Dez Byrant. Mission accomplished. Smith is the biggest and perhaps most talented cover corner in this draft.
(Team needs: DL, OL, CB, LB)
24th pick: New Orleans Saints
Adrian Clayborn -- DE, Iowa
You have to stop the run to survive in a division with DeAngelo Williams, Michael Turner and LaGarrette Blount. So the Saints need some big bodies up front to bolster the NFLs 16th-ranked run defense.
(Team needs: DE, DT, LB, S)
25th pick: Seattle Seahawks
Prince Amukamara -- CB, Nebraska
The Seahawks need help for the NFLs 27th-ranked pass defense, and Amukamara represents sliding value. He has the size (6-0, 206) to line up against physical wideouts Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Crabtree in the NFC West.
(Team needs: OT, G, C, QB)
26th pick: Baltimore Ravens
J.J. Watt -- DE, Wisconsin
Another sliding value. Watt headed into the process touted as the best end for a 3-4 scheme and he falls into the lap of a top-10 defense. Good players tend to find the Ravens wherever they are on the draft board.
(Team needs: CB, WR, pass rusher, OT)
27th pick: Atlanta Falcons
Phil Taylor -- DT, Baylor
Same synopsis as New Orleans above. You need bulk up front to compete in a division that wants to run the football and Taylor is one of the bulkiest players in this draft at 334 pounds.
(Team needs: OL, NT, WR, LB)
28th pick: New England Patriots
Danny Watkins -- G, Baylor
Watkins is the safest pick in the entire draft the one player you can confidently say will be in the Pro Bowl in 2012. Hes the best guard on the board, and some NFL teams were looking at him as both a center and tackle.
(Team needs: OL, DE, OLB, HB)
29th pick: Chicago Bears
Marvin Austin -- DT, North Carolina
The Bears need an elite tackle to replace departed Pro Bowler Tommie Harris . Austin missed the 2010 season because of an NCAA suspension but plays with great power and a great motor. A top-10 defense just got better.
(Team needs: LB, DT, RB, QB)
30th pick: New York Jets
Derrick Sherrod -- OT, Mississippi State
There are only five offensive tackles in this draft who can walk in as starters and Sherrod is the last one. He started three years at left tackle at Mississippi State but projects as a right tackle in the NFL.
(Team needs: CB, OL, WR)
31st pick: Pittsburgh Steelers
Cameron Heyward -- DE, Ohio State
The Steelers need to get younger at end in their 3-4 scheme, and Heyward provides them that opportunity. Hes a high achiever a four-year starter, team captain and MVP of a Big Ten championship team.
(Team needs: 2 CB, DE, OT)
32nd pick: Green Bay Packers
Aaron Williams -- CB, Texas
The Super Bowl champions have one of the youngest teams in the NFL and few needs. They are in a position to draft the best player on their board. Thats Williams, who can play either cornerback or safety.
(Team needs: DL, OL, pass rusher, CB)
Team with no first-round pick
48th pick: Oakland Raiders
Dontay Moch -- DE, Nevada
built the Raiders on power and speed in the 1960s and clings to that philosophy a half-century later. Moch is the fastest pass rusher in this draft with 4.46 speed in the 40.
(Team needs: OL, DL, pass rusher, speed)
Cam Newton -- QB, Auburn
The Panthers had the worst quarterbacking in the NFL last season with only nine TD passes in 16 games. Newton gives the Panthers a chance, although his legs are likely to carry him through his rookie season.
(Team needs: QB, WR, CB, DL)
2nd pick: Denver Broncos
Von Miller -- OLB, Texas A&M
New coach John Fox is switching to a 4-3 defense and needs tackles and linebackers. He can get competitive tackles into the third round. But theres only one impact linebacker in this draft. Miller is the value here.
(Team needs: DL, OT, TE, LB)
3rd pick: Buffalo Bills
Marcell Dareus -- DT, Alabama
The Bills finished last in the NFL in run defense in 2010. They need some bigger, nastier players to line up against the Jets and Pats. In Dareus, they land the best run defender in this draft. He also brings an attitude.
(Team needs: QB, DL, OT, LB)
4th pick: Cincinnati Bengals
A.J. Green -- WR, Georgia
This is the only shot the Bengals have of luring Carson Palmer out of retirement. Draft the best receiver in college football, release Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens, and give Palmer a clean canvas to resume his career.
(Team needs: QB, WR, CB, pass rusher)
5th pick: Arizona Cardinals
Patrick Peterson -- CB, LSU
When you finish 31st in offense and 29th in defense like the Cardinals of 2010, anyone you draft is going to be an upgrade. Peterson is a huge upgrade for the secondary. Arizona is surprised to see him still on the board at 5.
(Team needs: QB, LB, pass rusher, OT)
6th pick: Cleveland Browns
Julio Jones -- WR, Alabama
The Browns need a lead receiver to accelerate the development of QB Colt McCoy. Voila Jones was a walk-in starter at Alabama, and hell be a walk-in starter at Cleveland. He averaged almost 15 yards per career catch.
(Team needs: WR, CB, OT, DE)
7th pick: San Francisco 49ers
Blaine Gabbert -- QB, Missouri
Jim Harbaugh is a quarterback maker first Josh Johnson at the University of San Diego and then Andrew Luck at Stanford. In his first year as head coach of the 49ers, Harbaugh wants a quarterback he can build a team around.
(Team needs: QB, G, def. playmakers)
8th pick: Tennessee Titans
Jake Locker -- QB, Washington
The Titans want to put the Vince Young era behind them. Locker provides Tennessee a key element Young lacked leadership. Locker was a two-year captain at Washington and a very charismatic player.
(Team needs: QB, DL, LB, S)
9th pick: Dallas Cowboys
Tyron Smith -- OT, Southern Cal
The Cowboys have four starters on the offensive line who turn 32 this season. This group needs to get younger and what better way than to select the youngest player in this draft? Smith turns 21 in December.
(Team needs: OT, G, DE, CB)
10th pick: Washington Redskins
Christian Ponder -- QB, Florida State
Mike Shanahan is not going to enter a second season with Donovan McNabb, so the Redskins spent all day Wednesday trying to move up. Gabbert was the target. Failing there, they take the next best QB on the board.
(Team needs: QB, WR, CB, youth)
11th pick: Houston Texans
Aldon Smith -- DE, Missouri
The Texans are switching to a 3-4 defensive scheme, and Smith can play anywhere in it. He has the frame to bulk up to play end or the speed and athleticism to play linebacker. The NFLs 30th-ranked defense needs help.
(Team needs: DL, LB, DB, WR)
12th pick: Minnesota Vikings
Andy Dalton -- QB, TCU
Like the Titans, the Vikings need to draft a rookie quarterback and play him immediately. Dalton brings a wealth of experience four years as a starter, 42 career victories and more than 1,300 career passes.
(Team needs: QB, DL, OT, CB)
13th pick: Detroit Lions
Nick Fairley -- DT, Auburn
Ndamukong Suh was perhaps the best defensive tackle in the NFL as a rookie in 2011. Adding Fairley makes Suh even better. Fairley is the best inside pass rusher in this draft. The Lions are building a formidable front.
(Team needs: LB, CB, OT, WR)
14th pick: St. Louis Rams
Mark Ingram -- HB, Alabama
The Rams would love to draft a wide receiver for Sam Bradford, but there are none worthy of this selection. St. Louis will continue to give Bradford weapons, though the best running back in this draft.
(Team needs: Pass rusher, CB, WR, S)
15th pick: Miami Dolphins
Mike Pouncey -- C, Florida
The only need the Dolphins can still address here is the offensive line, and Pouncey gives them two-position versatility. Like his brother Maurkice, a first-round pick of the Steelers in 2010, Mike can play guard or center.
(Team needs: OL, OLB, CB, QB)
16th pick: Jacksonville Jaguars
Ryan Kerrigan -- DE, Purdue
You cant expect to survive with a paltry pass rush in a division with Peyton Manning and Matt Schaub. The Jaguars managed only 26 sacks last season. Kerrigan had almost half that (121/2) last fall at Purdue.
(Team needs: DE, S, LB, QB)
17th pick: New England Patriots
Cameron Jordan -- DE, California
The Patriots are likely to trade out of this spot. But Jordan here could be an inducement to stay put. Hes a 3-4 end who fits the size prototype (6-4, 287) Bill Belichick covets. Bigger is always better in New England.
(Team needs: OL, DE, OLB, HB)
18th pick: San Diego Chargers
Corey Liuget -- DT, Illinois
Liuget was a dominant inside player in a 4-3 scheme in the Big Ten. The Chargers envision him playing the edge in their 3-4 scheme. He has excellent hands, a necessity for head-up combat with offensive tackles.
(Team needs: OT, ILB, WR, pass rusher)
19th pick: New York Giants
Nate Solder -- OT, Colorado
Like the Cowboys, the Giants need to get younger on the offensive line. Solder is the best blind-side protector in this draft, and hes going to get better. Hes only played the position for three years.
(Team needs: OT, G, LB, KR)
20th pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Robert Quinn -- DE, North Carolina
The Bucs have the worst pass rush in the NFC just 26 sacks in 521 pass attempts. Quinn is the best edge pass rusher on the board. But his stock slid this draft season because of a bout with cancer in high school.
(Team needs: G, pass rusher, CB, OT)
21st pick: Kansas City Chiefs
Gabe Carimi -- OT, Wisconsin
The Chiefs want to get bigger, tougher and younger up front. KC has one of the NFLs best runners in Jamaal Charles and Carimi has spent a career blocking in one of the best run-oriented offenses in college football.
(Team needs: DT, C, WR, QB)
22nd pick: Indianapolis Colts
Anthony Castonzo -- OT, Boston College
Because of the run of quarterbacks at the top, a lot of quality players slid, including Castonzo, CB Prince Amukamara and DE J.J. Watt. As long as Peyton Manning is in Indy, the priority will be protecting him.
(Team needs: KR, def. size, QB, LB, OL)
23rd pick: Philadelphia Eagles
Jimmy Smith -- CB, Colorado
If the Eagles are to continue their dominance in the NFC East, they must find someone who can cover Dez Byrant. Mission accomplished. Smith is the biggest and perhaps most talented cover corner in this draft.
(Team needs: DL, OL, CB, LB)
24th pick: New Orleans Saints
Adrian Clayborn -- DE, Iowa
You have to stop the run to survive in a division with DeAngelo Williams, Michael Turner and LaGarrette Blount. So the Saints need some big bodies up front to bolster the NFLs 16th-ranked run defense.
(Team needs: DE, DT, LB, S)
25th pick: Seattle Seahawks
Prince Amukamara -- CB, Nebraska
The Seahawks need help for the NFLs 27th-ranked pass defense, and Amukamara represents sliding value. He has the size (6-0, 206) to line up against physical wideouts Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Crabtree in the NFC West.
(Team needs: OT, G, C, QB)
26th pick: Baltimore Ravens
J.J. Watt -- DE, Wisconsin
Another sliding value. Watt headed into the process touted as the best end for a 3-4 scheme and he falls into the lap of a top-10 defense. Good players tend to find the Ravens wherever they are on the draft board.
(Team needs: CB, WR, pass rusher, OT)
27th pick: Atlanta Falcons
Phil Taylor -- DT, Baylor
Same synopsis as New Orleans above. You need bulk up front to compete in a division that wants to run the football and Taylor is one of the bulkiest players in this draft at 334 pounds.
(Team needs: OL, NT, WR, LB)
28th pick: New England Patriots
Danny Watkins -- G, Baylor
Watkins is the safest pick in the entire draft the one player you can confidently say will be in the Pro Bowl in 2012. Hes the best guard on the board, and some NFL teams were looking at him as both a center and tackle.
(Team needs: OL, DE, OLB, HB)
29th pick: Chicago Bears
Marvin Austin -- DT, North Carolina
The Bears need an elite tackle to replace departed Pro Bowler Tommie Harris . Austin missed the 2010 season because of an NCAA suspension but plays with great power and a great motor. A top-10 defense just got better.
(Team needs: LB, DT, RB, QB)
30th pick: New York Jets
Derrick Sherrod -- OT, Mississippi State
There are only five offensive tackles in this draft who can walk in as starters and Sherrod is the last one. He started three years at left tackle at Mississippi State but projects as a right tackle in the NFL.
(Team needs: CB, OL, WR)
31st pick: Pittsburgh Steelers
Cameron Heyward -- DE, Ohio State
The Steelers need to get younger at end in their 3-4 scheme, and Heyward provides them that opportunity. Hes a high achiever a four-year starter, team captain and MVP of a Big Ten championship team.
(Team needs: 2 CB, DE, OT)
32nd pick: Green Bay Packers
Aaron Williams -- CB, Texas
The Super Bowl champions have one of the youngest teams in the NFL and few needs. They are in a position to draft the best player on their board. Thats Williams, who can play either cornerback or safety.
(Team needs: DL, OL, pass rusher, CB)
Team with no first-round pick
48th pick: Oakland Raiders
Dontay Moch -- DE, Nevada
built the Raiders on power and speed in the 1960s and clings to that philosophy a half-century later. Moch is the fastest pass rusher in this draft with 4.46 speed in the 40.
(Team needs: OL, DL, pass rusher, speed)
Errant Hothy
Hypermediocrity
You're not the only one.
Ole Miss Texan
Hall of Fame
And I'd be pi$$ed if we took Prince over anybody. Quinn I'm indifferent about and I don't dislike Smith as much as everybody here.
ChampionTexan
Hall of Fame
Yeah, for some reason - of the most often discussed candidates, Prince excites me the least (and fwiw, this is coming from an Omaha born, big time Cornhusker fan). I think there's actually a decent chance we trade up (Arizona's 5th spot would be my guess) and take Peterson, and I like that idea a lot. Prince at the 11th spot, not so much.
If we stay at 11, there's several I'd be okay with. Smith, Quinn, Watt, even Cam Jordan or Julio Jones would be fine. It's nothing more than a gut feeling and the collection of opinions from sources I respect, but Prince is definitely my "Do not want" pick for 2011.
Playoffs
Hall of Fame
Condensed:
#1 - Newton
#2 - Miller
#3 - Dareus
#4 - Green
#5 - Peterson
#6 - Jones
#7 - Gabbert
#8 - Locker
#9 - Tyron Smith
#10 - Ponder
#11 - Aldon Smith
#12 - Dalton
#13 - Fairley
#14 - Ingram
#15 - Pouncey
#16 - Kerrigan
#17 - Jordan
#18 - Liuget
#19 - Solder
#20 - Quinn
#21 - Carimi
#22 - Castonzo
#23 - Smith
#24 - Clayborn
#25 - Amukamara
#26 - Watt
#27 - Taylor
#28 - Watkins
#29 - Austin
#30 - Sherrod
#31 - Heyward
#32 - Williams
#1 - Newton
#2 - Miller
#3 - Dareus
#4 - Green
#5 - Peterson
#6 - Jones
#7 - Gabbert
#8 - Locker
#9 - Tyron Smith
#10 - Ponder
#11 - Aldon Smith
#12 - Dalton
#13 - Fairley
#14 - Ingram
#15 - Pouncey
#16 - Kerrigan
#17 - Jordan
#18 - Liuget
#19 - Solder
#20 - Quinn
#21 - Carimi
#22 - Castonzo
#23 - Smith
#24 - Clayborn
#25 - Amukamara
#26 - Watt
#27 - Taylor
#28 - Watkins
#29 - Austin
#30 - Sherrod
#31 - Heyward
#32 - Williams
Ole Miss Texan
Hall of Fame
I think one of OLB's would have more immediate and longterm impact than Prince and that's who I would target in a trade up to late 1st round. This also assumes we don't go Quinn/Smith at 11.