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I want this guy playing next to Demeco!
- Thread starter Ole Miss Texan
- Start date
The1ApplePie
Hall of Fame
Rey is the man
Though my Trojans didn't need him to kill the Ducks!
I wouldn;t mind Brian Cushing in a trade down as long as he clears medically.
Though my Trojans didn't need him to kill the Ducks!
I wouldn;t mind Brian Cushing in a trade down as long as he clears medically.
beerlover
Hall of Fame
I'm going to watch the safety play today against the Colts. Brown has been serviceable (now out for the season) & Demps is not the long term solution anyway @ FS so lets pay carefull attention to Barber, Mitchell & Harrison see what they can do, maybe the best guy playing next to DeMeco is an upgrade @ safety first?
threetoedpete
Hall of Fame
I love ya to death old Miss. Where are you going to play Ray in the 4-3 ? Can't play him outside...can't cover. So you put him in the middle and move Demeeco outside...? I don't see it.
Well beerlover I could be reading way too much into what they've done in the past...and I agree one fix would to be draft one of these spectacular safeties...they ain't going to do it. They have their prototype and where they want to take the guy...and it isn't in the first round.
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/den/1985_roster.htm
http://www.drafthistory.com/positions/db.html
Dennis Smith & Steve Foley...Now if Kubiak believes that Mays is his Dennis Smith...he might bite. I won't believe it untill I see it. Both Moore and Mays are big enough to be Wills.
1981 The Broncos took Dennis Smith after Kenny Easly and Ronnie Lott went off the board.
Eight years later.....
In 1989 they took Steve Atwater 1.20.
Detha O'Neil in 2000 1.15
Willie Middle Brooks 1.24 2001
So in twenty eight years the Broncos have taken a Saftey in the first round twice. And in almost thirty drafts they've taken a Db high five times. Yeah, I'd say there's a pattern here.
Well beerlover I could be reading way too much into what they've done in the past...and I agree one fix would to be draft one of these spectacular safeties...they ain't going to do it. They have their prototype and where they want to take the guy...and it isn't in the first round.
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/den/1985_roster.htm
http://www.drafthistory.com/positions/db.html
Dennis Smith & Steve Foley...Now if Kubiak believes that Mays is his Dennis Smith...he might bite. I won't believe it untill I see it. Both Moore and Mays are big enough to be Wills.
1981 The Broncos took Dennis Smith after Kenny Easly and Ronnie Lott went off the board.
Eight years later.....
In 1989 they took Steve Atwater 1.20.
Detha O'Neil in 2000 1.15
Willie Middle Brooks 1.24 2001
So in twenty eight years the Broncos have taken a Saftey in the first round twice. And in almost thirty drafts they've taken a Db high five times. Yeah, I'd say there's a pattern here.
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LonerATO
All Pro
I see Mays, Rolle and Moore going in the first and the rest going in late 2nd to 4th. I am a big fan of Patrick Chung and then kid thinks like a mad man. I cant find the presser but he went on to say that he and the ducks secondary are the marines of the team and they try to hit and destroy people.
Ole Miss Texan
Hall of Fame
Re: threetoedpete
You definitely have some good points. But after seeing what Patrick Willis is doing compared to what our LB's are doing, I'd like to find a guy a close to him as possible. Watching this guy play and hit, I can just feel our team being that much better.
Here's kind of how I got to Rey. I'd love a pass rushing DE and would fully support that pick, but at this point it's hard for me to figure who would be best suited for a 4-3 and not 3-4 de/olb. I like M. Johnson. DT? nope, CB? maybe but we'll see how dunta, bennett, reeves, and molden are all playing. FS/SS? I'd love one- was a huge fan of Landry but I'm just as convinced we'll never choose a safety in the 1st like many feel about RB. so there goes our defense if its not DE.
On to offense: Doubtful we pick QB, WR, TE, T, C... so that leaves RB and G. I'd love to have a pro bowl guard but i'm not so sure we pick one unless we make a trade similar to duane brown's. RB? could be a big help but I think more value would be a another position and shoot for one of these in the 2nd or 3rd.
So that's how I got to LB and Rey would arguably be the BPA. It's very rare for me to find a LB I'd be willing to move Demeco over for but outside of P.Willis, this is it. I want us to finish building our OL and our Defensive front 7 once and for all.
Draft is still a long ways away and plenty can change. But he's definitely someone we need to keep an eye on.
You definitely have some good points. But after seeing what Patrick Willis is doing compared to what our LB's are doing, I'd like to find a guy a close to him as possible. Watching this guy play and hit, I can just feel our team being that much better.
Here's kind of how I got to Rey. I'd love a pass rushing DE and would fully support that pick, but at this point it's hard for me to figure who would be best suited for a 4-3 and not 3-4 de/olb. I like M. Johnson. DT? nope, CB? maybe but we'll see how dunta, bennett, reeves, and molden are all playing. FS/SS? I'd love one- was a huge fan of Landry but I'm just as convinced we'll never choose a safety in the 1st like many feel about RB. so there goes our defense if its not DE.
On to offense: Doubtful we pick QB, WR, TE, T, C... so that leaves RB and G. I'd love to have a pro bowl guard but i'm not so sure we pick one unless we make a trade similar to duane brown's. RB? could be a big help but I think more value would be a another position and shoot for one of these in the 2nd or 3rd.
So that's how I got to LB and Rey would arguably be the BPA. It's very rare for me to find a LB I'd be willing to move Demeco over for but outside of P.Willis, this is it. I want us to finish building our OL and our Defensive front 7 once and for all.
Draft is still a long ways away and plenty can change. But he's definitely someone we need to keep an eye on.
beerlover
Hall of Fame
Texans secondary inability to stop anyone has to be addressed with a high priority pick then cover & build around him. Bennett, Reeves, Molden even Dunta when he returns need help over the top, someone to read & react to help the corners in single coverage. the Safetys left on this team just don't have the speed or playmaking skills in pass support. heck look @ Indy without Bob Sanders, their secondary was expoused or Jacksonville without Reggie Nelson these players are critical, the DL & LB can only do so much if the QB has enough time most NFL QB's can just pick apart the Texans secondary even with a cb right in the receivers hip pocket.
If LB is the bpa or you have a choice for this team between Rey Maualuga or James Laurinaitis I'd do with the former if you want more production & can somehow look past the highlight reel footage of Rey doing his Ray Lewis impersonation. Besides better production you could interchange DeMeco with James in different packages to confuse the QB enhancing pressure. James is a very smart player, this is something that needs to be emphasized, not just reading the playbook but understanding it completly & quickly. I understand the temptation is there just based off the charts measureables but it seems often times its the LB thats overlooked who outworks his more imposing counterpart that shines @ the next level.
If LB is the bpa or you have a choice for this team between Rey Maualuga or James Laurinaitis I'd do with the former if you want more production & can somehow look past the highlight reel footage of Rey doing his Ray Lewis impersonation. Besides better production you could interchange DeMeco with James in different packages to confuse the QB enhancing pressure. James is a very smart player, this is something that needs to be emphasized, not just reading the playbook but understanding it completly & quickly. I understand the temptation is there just based off the charts measureables but it seems often times its the LB thats overlooked who outworks his more imposing counterpart that shines @ the next level.
Ole Miss Texan
Hall of Fame
good points on both counts beerlover.
Of any year, this could be a year for safety. Our two starters are injured (1 for the year) another is old, and three are basically rookies in there. If they don't show too much progression it could be a need pick. Safety is one of those positions I really would like fixed to help with coverage.
towards production vs. measurables. Demeco was never really that flashy but he's a true football player. Smart and instinctive- that's what we need more of.
Of any year, this could be a year for safety. Our two starters are injured (1 for the year) another is old, and three are basically rookies in there. If they don't show too much progression it could be a need pick. Safety is one of those positions I really would like fixed to help with coverage.
towards production vs. measurables. Demeco was never really that flashy but he's a true football player. Smart and instinctive- that's what we need more of.
TexansSeminole
Hall of Fame
I'd say our need for a safety is about as high as our need for some linebackers (plural), and our need for another d-end who can pressure the QB.
Our defense is beyond bad. We will need to upgrade more than one position to get this thing on track.
I'd be really happy with either of these guys. I think moving DeMeco to the outside might be a good idea but ONLY if we get someone who can play as well as him or better than him in the middle, which I don't see happening. That MLB is very important.
My question is can these guys play on the outside? How will they fair man to man against TEs in our division? Crumpler and Clark will tear you apart. We need OLBs that are fast and that are exceptional in coverage, see Keith Bulluck.
Our defense is beyond bad. We will need to upgrade more than one position to get this thing on track.
I'd be really happy with either of these guys. I think moving DeMeco to the outside might be a good idea but ONLY if we get someone who can play as well as him or better than him in the middle, which I don't see happening. That MLB is very important.
My question is can these guys play on the outside? How will they fair man to man against TEs in our division? Crumpler and Clark will tear you apart. We need OLBs that are fast and that are exceptional in coverage, see Keith Bulluck.
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mexican_texan
Furry Tractors
I don't see anything special. Even Earl Brown can "jack up" recievers.
beerlover
Hall of Fame
I figured you would make the connection
however what about your Ole Miss game this past weekend against South Carolina (Dunta Robinson/Fred Bennett alma-mater). didn't you notice they had the nations #1 ranked defense led by a Safety named Emmanuel Cook? reminded me of Bob Sanders, hey the Texans could use him. by the time this College season is complete I expect a full report in reference to all the best defensive players you watched play against Ole Miss. next up Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn & LSU. :mshadows:
Yeah, we dont need much on offense, maybe a change of pace for Slaton.
If we move Ryans outside, Ill be VERY pissed. Willis wasnt good enough to move him for? Thats just sloppy and a missed evaluation.
Ole Miss Texan
Hall of Fame
Unfortunately I wasn't able to watch the game saturday. I will, however, be glued to the Alabama game. Definitely taking some notes on SEC defensive players, especially Linebacker. Brandon Spikes, LB from florida is a guy that looked really really good to me. He can really rush the passer well.
Agree, Slaton's been playing awesome. Im starting to think a change of pace back for the offense may be a bruiser and that's something they can easily find outside the 1st round.
Not sure what you mean about the second part. Willis was easily someone I would move demeco outside for. I don't fault the Texans one bit going after Amobi though. A penetrating DT with that upside, their #1 defensive player on the board.. you gotta take him. With him its mostly upside and thats a risky move. If it pays off, it will help big time- but i think we still have yet to see. Willis (most linebackers) we would see more immediate affects.
YoungTexanFan
All Pro
Well, talking strictly in terms of the draft, I think your order is a little off. A pass rushing specialist can be found on the second day of the draft because their stock usually falls due to measurables and size. I think we have an impact OLB in Ryans, and it would be easier to upgrade the MLB position with an impact player than it would be to upgrade with an OLB, though we could get an OLB in the second, but not an "impact type" you are probably referring to and certainly not after that. The ball hawking safety will be an early pick. If it is the third priority, there is no point in wasting a pick honestly. It's how we end up with C.C. Brown as a starting FS and we end up with the mess we're in now at the S position. Barber/Harrison/any "flyer" type guy isn't going to be the solution. The game changing safety I would assume you want can only be found early in the draft, and as a high priority.
The1ApplePie
Hall of Fame
BPA is probably the way to go.
The internet talking head have Selvie listed as a top ten pick but every pro scout one like Rivals has him as a second rounder.
A draft netting Maulauga in the first and Selvie in the second could really turn things around
beerlover
Hall of Fame
& you believed them?
Selvie at worst is top 15 material, just look @ the early run on DE last draft
Ole Miss Texan
Hall of Fame
Calais Campbell DE from Miami was a guaranteed Top 5 lock last year... he went mid 2nd round. You never know what's going to happen.
But yea Mauluga and Selvie would be absolutely awesome!!
But yea Mauluga and Selvie would be absolutely awesome!!
YoungTexanFan
All Pro
That was pre-season. During the season, it was clear that Calais wouldn't go in the first, and it caused a top notch S to fall (Phillips). The whole team had a very down year, but you are right, the draft is still a crapshoot, even after the picks are made.
& you believed them?
Selvie at worst is top 15 material, just look @ the early run on DE last draft
The only way he goes top 15 is if he adds some weight 10 or 15 LBS at least and stays healthy the rest of the year. He hasnt exactly lived up to his billing so far. At this point I would give him an early to mid second round grade. Just my opinion.
beerlover
Hall of Fame
thats just not realistic, he has elite motor/speed with natural instinctive athletic ability that translate into QB sacks. He would be the perfect compliment to Mario & Amobi. I'm not basing this on anything but watching him play, which has suffered as of late because of some kind of ankle tweek. does not remind me at all of Calais Campbell (selected #50) who is more of a strong side end. I guess if I had to comp him to someone drafted recently it would be Gaines Adams drafted 4th overall from Clemson. But I think he is quicker, at least as expolosive off the edge & more of a pure pass rusher.
beerlover
Hall of Fame
did you watch the OSU (Oregon State) game?
Blake
MMQB
Sorry, I was under the impression that football was a team game.
beerlover
Hall of Fame
All I'm asking is did you watch that game? Its fine if you didn't heck I don't get a chance to watch every game myself but clearly that game was a reminder that athletic ability alone does not guarantee victory. Obviously more film will be watched & studied but what stands out to me is one their athletic ability is off the charts, two their football skills need to be refined. can they or will they at the next level? thats the 50 million dollar question. Heck I would love one of them to get drafted by the Texans if Smith/Kubiak feel their upside warrents the investment, both would bring a physical presence to the middle of the field.
As it relates specificly to this thread "I want this guy playing next to DeMeco" I've thought about Rey inside & moving DeMeco outside or adding an elite SS over the back like Mays but the more likely scenero is a new OLB to replace Greenwood, if your sticking to USC then its gotta be Brian Cushing who is both athletic & skilled but has injury issues that need to be sorted out. I would prefer to wait until the 2nd rd. to address OLB someone who slides a little, like DeMeco did right into the Texans selection like Aaron Curry, Wake Forrest better value here & in the end possibly the better NFL player
I smell a problem with Rey Rey from USC. He IS under indictment for striking a student. There is a thin line between playing smashmouth football, and playing out of control. I think Maualuga will have to work on it. The safer bet, and one who can play on 3rd down, is Laurinitis. He is my personal favorite if we go Mike in the draft. Then DE, and then another CB. Why? CBs can play FS, not always the other way around.
P
Polo
Guest
I seriously doubt they move Demeco out of the middle
beerlover
Hall of Fame
was just watching replay of Cowboys/Bengals & could not help but notice the play of former USC LB Keith Rivers (#9th overall in 08). I remember alot of support here on this board to draft him addressing this very need, in hindsight y'all we're right. the Texans need that type of OLB who is athletic, plays long/extends into coverage & compliments DeMeco.
P
Polo
Guest
Thanks!
YoungTexanFan
All Pro
Thanks. What's scary is that Cushing is a better athlete/talent/player. Scary good. It's just that injury list.
beerlover
Hall of Fame
Cushing should be available when the Texans select. do they pull the trigger this time?
TexansSeminole
Hall of Fame
Aaron Curry impressed me last night, pretty much like always. Wouldn't mind having him on the roster.
YoungTexanFan
All Pro
Truth!
If the Texans want to have a good defense next year, they are gonna have to make at least one impact FA move for a big name(crazy idea for our FO). I'm thinking we need to get a ballhawking veteran at the OLB position(not sure if there is gonna be one of those this offseason). Greenwood has gotta go, and bringing in a rook will only give Greenwood too much PT. I think we can find a good pass rusher opposite Mario in the 2nd or 3rd round, and we need to address the S position in the 1st, and get another ballhawking DB in the 2nd or 3rd round as well.
Playoffs '09 if this can happen.
Playoffs '09 if this can happen.
LORK 88
Wreck'em Ŧech!
Agree with most so far, big fan of Curry out of all those at the top. Cushing has the talent, but the injury bug scares me. A sleeper to keep an eye on is Maurice Crum Jr out of Notre Dame. He's not the biggest LB at 6'0" 235, but he plays sideline to sideline and does a lot. He blitzes constantly and has made plays in coverage. He reminds me a lot of DeMorrio Williams from Nebraska where size is the only thing really stopping him from being a top LB.
Actually its very realistic. He's a great pass rusher but you don't spend a high first round pick on a player who can only help you on third downs. Were not talking about a 260 pound player but someone who struggles keeping weight on in the 235 range. He will get absolutely killed on running downs and thats why he won't go that high.
I like curry alot more then cushing. Cushing has injury problems and isn't as explosive or as good in coverage as curry.
threetoedpete
Hall of Fame
Agreed: The only way they take Ray high is if Demeeco wrecks his leg like Robinson wrecked his. I.E. severe and with a high probability that Ryans wouldn't be back by the start of the '09 season. They are not moving Ryans and they love Dilles. And Ray isn't fast enough, quick enough, smart enough to play the Will backer...sorry. Taking an inside backer in the first round when you already have Demeeco, or believing Kubiack is going to redraft a Sam when they already have Dilles is a bit of a pipe dream. I don't see it.
Beerlover's DE guy is a possibility, if they are going to move Weaver down the line. He seams hurt an awful lot though. Every game he appears to be nursing a bobo when the team needs him. The Georgia Tech Guy Johnson looks like a grey hound to me. Somebody's got to hold the edge on that side. I'm not sure what kind of an anchor you're getting with Johnson.
threetoedpete
Hall of Fame
Saw that too. I'm watching # 8 for OU tomorrow. I heard a show talking about he was the first LB ever to hit a perfect score at OU...like ever. Made all his plays. Read every assignment. Perfect. I'm looking for Derrick Brooks with a bad attitude who enjoys inflicting mass quantities of pain and suffering. What I know for a fact is Marlon Greenwood, no matter how hard we pull for him, no matter how many seasons he is given, he is never going to be that guy.
The1ApplePie
Hall of Fame
Maulauga and Orakpo might be a more realistic 1st/2nd combo