Fantasy Football: » New England Patriots

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Mike Rodriguez — Wed, 23 May 2012 01:37:58 +0000

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NFL Turf War: 5 Year Divisional Record Breakdown

Mike Rodriguez — Mon, 14 May 2012 22:31:44 +0000

Divisional Record	2011	2010	2009	2008	2007	5 Year
NFL Team	W/L	W/L	W/L	W/L	W/L	Total
New England Patriots	5-1	5-1	4-2	4-2	6-0	24-6
Pittsburgh Steelers	4-2	5-1	2-4	6-0	5-1	22-8
Green Bay Packers	6-0	4-2	4-2	4-2	4-2	22-8
San Diego Chargers	3-3	3-3	5-1	5-1	5-1	21-9
Indianapolis Colts	2-4	4-2	6-0	4-2	5-1	21-9
San Francisco 49ers	5-1	4-2	5-1	3-3	3-3	20-10
Baltimore Ravens	6-0	4-2	3-3	4-2	1-5	18-12
New Orleans Saints	5-1	4-2	4-2	2-4	3-3	18-12
Arizona Cardinals	4-2	1-5	4-2	6-0	3-3	18-12
Seattle Seahawks	3-3	4-2	3-3	3-3	5-1	18-12
New York Giants	3-3	3-3	4-2	4-2	3-3	17-13
Philadelphia Eagles	5-1	4-2	4-2	2-4	2-4	17-13
Chicago Bears	3-3	5-1	3-3	4-2	2-4	17-13
Dallas Cowboys	2-4	3-3	4-2	3-3	4-2	16-14
Atlanta Falcons	3-3	5-1	3-3	3-3	1-5	15-15
Tennessee Titans	3-3	2-4	2-4	4-2	4-2	15-15
New York Jets	3-3	4-2	2-4	4-2	2-4	15-15
Oakland Raiders	3-3	6-0	2-4	2-4	2-4	15-15
Tampa Bay Buccaneers	2-4	3-3	1-5	3-3	5-1	14-16
Cincinnati Bengals	2-4	2-4	6-0	1-5	3-3	14-16
Minnesota Vikings	0-6	1-5	5-1	4-2	3-3	13-17
Carolina Panthers	2-4	0-6	4-2	4-2	3-3	13 17
Miami Dolphins	3-3	2-4	4-2	4-2	0-6	13-17
Denver Broncos	3-3	1-5	3-3	3-3	3-3	13-17
Jacksonville Jaguars	3-3	3-3	3-3	2-4	2-4	13-17
Kansas City Chiefs	3-3	2-4	2-4	2-4	2-4	11-19
Houston Texans	4-2	3-3	1-5	2-4	1-5	11-19
Washington Redskins	2-4	2-4	0-6	3-3	3-3	10-20
Buffalo Bills	1-5	1-5	2-4	0-6	4-2	8-22
Detroit Lions	3-3	2-4	0-6	0-6	3-3	8-22
Cleveland Browns	0-6	1-5	1-5	1-5	3-3	6-24
St. Louis Rams	0-6	3-3	0-6	0-6	1-5	4-26

Blue-Super Bowl Winners

Winning the Super Bowl is obviously the ultimate goal each and every year. Although kicking the absolute crap out your division rivals, is a close second.

The five year recap to the right, may not come as much as a surprise to some of you. Teams like the Patriots and Steelers have been a dominate force in their respected divisions for years now. Still, the bottom half of the ranking board does feature a lot of the same teams we do seem atop the NFL draft order every April. A sign that the best way to improve within the league, starts with the battles against the teams you know the most.

Winning your division has always been a top priority with coaches. With each division winner getting a free ticket to the post-season, it would only make sense to game-plan and build your franchise around the ability to exploit a rivals weakness.

The fact that the St. Louis Rams have only won 4 games within their own division in the last 5 years is down right disgusting. Clearly there are some obvious goals that new head coach Jeff Fisher must correct.�The same could be said for the Cleveland Browns, a franchise that has been a doormat in the AFC North.

Surprisingly the Browns along with Rams, Lions, Jaguars, Chiefs and Broncos have all not been able to crack .500 within their own division in the last 5 seasons.

While the recent Super Bowl champs are all near the top of the rankings list, winning the turf war isn’t a absolute must to win the Super Bowl. The Pittsburgh Steelers�did have an impressive 6-0 record in the AFC North�back in 2009, but the Giants have won it twice in the last 5 years with a .500 mark in the NFC East.

Fantasy Football:

2012 NFL Draft Grades

Jody Smith — Tue, 01 May 2012 00:27:46 +0000

2012 NFL Draft Grades

The NFL Draft has come and gone. What remains is the future players that are needed to create big plays, clog up holes, and add depth to the rosters of our favorite teams. There will be superstars among the 2012 Draft Selections, along with many busts, but for now they are the new breed of talent to make each NFL team seem that much better.

If you think about it, one group of youngesters are going to have Super Bowl rings in 9 months, and usually the team that can gain the most out of the NFL draft, has the best shot at winning it all.The following is Gridiron Experts 2012 NFL Draft Grades. Follow us on Twitter

Arizona Cardinals� DRAFT GRADE: B+
The Cardinals were unable to make a significant upgrade to their quarterbacking position and instead moved on to Plan B: surround incumbents John Skelton and Kevin Kolb with a better supporting cast. We mocked Notre Dame WR Michael Floyd to Arizona, and they indeed secured the draft’s second best receiver at 13. Floyd is a big-time talent and his presence will really open up the offense by taking pressure off of Larry Fitzgerald.

Third round CB Jamell Fleming filled the team’s next highest priority. GM Rod Graves pulled a major coup by grabbing Ole Miss OT Bobby Massie at pick 112. Massie was thought to be a 2nd-3rd round talent and is likely to start from day one on the Arizona line, which was also reinforced by Washington G Senio Kelemete and Boise State OT Nate Potter. Arizona also added highly-respected San Diego State signal-caller Ryan Lindley as a developmental project.

Atlanta Falcons� DRAFT GRADE: C-
Atlanta lacked a first round pick due to last year’s draft-day deal that became WR Julio Jones. But as luck would have it, the Falcons were still able to add a high quality prospect that filled a huge need. Wisconsin C Peter Konz was expected to be a late first round pick, but fell into Atlanta’s lap at 55. Still focusing on the offensive line, Thomas Dimitroff surprised many by taking Southern Miss OT Lamar Holmes, who was not expected to be chose until the draft’s final day. Konz’s teammate FB Brady Ewing was chosen as insurance for injured FB Ovie Mughelli. Atlanta’s final three selections strengthened the defensive line and secondary.

Baltimore Ravens:� DRAFT GRADE: A-
You have to give credit to Baltimore GM Ozzie Newsome. Year after the year the Ravens are able to add abundant talent and keep their club amongst the short list of championship contenders. 2012 was no different as the Ravens traded down out of the first round altogether but were still able to add key components. Alabama DE/OLB Courtney Upshaw slid out of round one, but will likely enter the Ravens defensive rotation from day one.

Newsome also stayed true to his team’s needs by bolstering the offensive line with the 60th pick, Kelechi Osemele, and 98th pick Gino Gradkowski. Knowing that the Ray Rice could miss part or all of training camp due to a contract dispute, Newsome also traded back up into round three to grab a talented running back, Temple’s Bernard Pierce. On day three, the Ravens added depth to their beleaguered secondary and added Miami WR Tommy Streeter.

Buffalo Bills� DRAFT GRADE: B
There was a lot of buzz coming from Buffalo this off-season, and for a change, most of it was positive. The Bills were big spenders in free agency, bolstering their D-line by adding the top-rated pass rusher DE Mario Williams and DE Mark Anderson. The draft also brought some significant upgrades to important positions of need. First round CB Stephon Gilmore was the second rated cornerback available on most teams’ draft boards.

Georgia OT Cordy Glenn was mocked in a ton of first rounds, so he was an excellent value at 41. The Bills needed to strengthen their receiving corps, but jumped the gun of third rounder TJ Graham, who was thought to be a 4th to 5th round player. GM Buddy Nix salvaged the draft with four straight fantastic picks that netted Florida State OLB Nigel Bradham, LSU CB Ron Brooks, Florida State OT Zebrie Sanders and TCU OLB Tank Carder.

Carolina Panthers� DRAFT GRADE: A-
The rapid transformation from 2-14 to serious contender is nearly complete after a second consecutive excellent draft. Carolina was able to grab the draft’s top linebacker, Boston College OLB Luke Kuechly, and another perceived first round pick, Midwestern State OT/G Amini Silatolu. Oklahoma DE Frank Alexander will strenghten the Panthers pass rush and fourth round WR Joe Adams provides an instant upgrade and legitimate weapon to start opposite of Steve Smith. Round 5 brought a tremendous value in Coastal Carolina CB Josh Norman, who was ranked the 58th best prospect by NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock. Overall another great job by the new regime in Carolina.

Chicago Bears� DRAFT GRADE: C+
A lot of people thought that offensive line was Chicago’s top priority. Judging from their draft-haul, the Bears disagreed. Rather than beef up the o-line, instead they chose to upgrade the defensive front with Boise State DE Shea McClellin. When you take into consideration that the Bears have vaunted offenses from Green Bay and Detroit on the schedule twice a year, you can understand their strategy. Still, Jay Cutler continued to be harassed under Mike Martz’s old offense, and it was surprising to see the front five ignored entirely. Having already acquired WR Brandon Marshall from Miami, Chicago’s second selection was another prospect that was considered one of the biggest risers in perceived value, South Carolina WR Alshon Jeffery. Cutler finally appears to have a viable receiving corps. The second half of the draft was mainly used to fortify the ailing secondary.

Cincinnati Bengals� DRAFT GRADE: A-
Missing out on the top cornerback, Morris Claiborne, the Bengals spent the 17th pick on Alabama CB Dre Kirkpatrick to fill a major need in the Cincinnati secondary. Kirkpatrick had seen his stock sore in recent days and became widely thought of as the second rated corner in this draft. Moving down to 27 cost the Bengals a chance at David DeCastro and they instead took Wisconsin guard Kevin Zeitler over some higher rated offensive lineman. The final eight selections for Marvin Lewis and company stand out as an excellent draft-haul. Penn State DT Devon Still was one time considered a first round talent, and will add quality depth the the Bengals already fearsome d-line. Rutgers WR Mohamed Sanu was seemingly drafted by Cincinnati twice, once as a prank in round one, and for real in round three. Sanu was a solid pick and should start right away. Many experts had Orson Charles as the second ranked tight end in the draft. Solid late round picks boosted the secondary, receiving and backfield depth.

Cleveland Browns� DRAFT GRADE:� C
It was widely known that the Browns would focus on offensive skill position players in this draft. Rumors of the Buccaneers moving up to nab Alabama RB Trent Richardson caused the Browns to panic, and swap with the Vikings to acquire his services. Richardson is a big-time running back prospect, and many consider him a superior option than former teammate Mark Ingram. Reportedly the Browns were set to select Baylor WR Kendall Wright with their second selection in round one, only to have him be off the board. Mike Holmgren then used that spot to effectively end the Colt McCoy era by selecting 28 year old signal-caller Brandon Weeden. Cleveland’s next pick was on a solid tackle, California’s Mitchell Schwartz. Inexplicably, despite having eight selections remaining in this draft, the Browns did next to nothing to improve their awful receiving corps. In round 4, they reached for Miami WR Travis Benjamin, but he isn’t expected to make a huge impact. Credit to Holmgren for some really nice defensive additions late in the draft, including Texas LB Emmanuel Acho, Boise State DT Billy Winn and Arizona CB Trevin Wade. Overall, it doesn’t appear the Browns took advantage of the surplus of extra draft picks they had, and the wide receivers are still woefully inadequate.

Dallas Cowboys�DRAFT GRADE: C+
The Cowboys are a part of a fiercely intense division that drafts similar to how they play; cut-throat and aggressive. The team is not afraid to go after what they want, and despite being one the leagues most hated teams, you have to admire them for that. Jerry Jones pulled a coup a traded up for an elite cornerback Morris Claiborne, despite the fact that the Cowboys hadn’t even visited with former LSU defensive back. Claiborne is a fantastic fit in a secondary that was woefully thin last season. The move from 14 to six cost Dallas their second rounder. They used the rest of their selections to fill needs mainly along the defensive line and linebacking corps. Overall we applaud the bold move to acquire one of the six elite targets in this draft.

Denver Broncos�DRAFT GRADE: D
Denver decided to move back out of the first round and load up on mid-round talent this year…a curious strategy for a club that appears to by “all in” now with aging Peyton Manning. A player like DT�Derek Wolfe isn’t flashy, but adds to a serious need on the defensive line. The goal this year seemed to revolve around adding toughness and physicality. The Broncos added meat and potato type talent with the selections of G�Philip Blake and DE�Malik Jackson also grabbing a excellent tacklier in�Danny Trevathan. All were solid value picks that will contribute in one way or another this season.

Yet, the head-scratcher of the day was the�Brock Osweiler pick, with players like Rueben Randle and LaMichael James still on the board, the Broncos looked towards the future drafting a quarterback to learn under Manning. No receiving additions were added in this years draft class, something that will most likely hurt them down the stretch next season.

Continue Reading More 2012 NFL Draft Grades

Fantasy Football:

NFL Draft: Would’a Could’a Should’a Volume I

Brian Jerzak — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 21:28:40 +0000

NFL Draft: Would’a Could’a Should’a�

Every fan of the National Football League is a fan of the NFL Draft. We all look at who were the biggest draft steals, but I think it’s more fun to look at the biggest NFL Draft misses in the first round.

Here is the first of a four part article highlighting each teams low light in the first round. I went back twenty years and picked not the best, but the worst pick each team made in the first round. The reasons for each bust are as varied as the players themselves. Anything from ineffective play, to injuries to drug suspensions derailed this first group of busts. Just to rub some salt in the wound, I also listed the biggest name taken later in the first round that the team could taken. We start with East Coast bias and each week will move west.

AFC East

New England Robert Edwards 1998 Georgia 18th overall

Edwards started out great. He rushed for over 1,000 yards his rookie season. It was all downhill from there. Edwards injured his knee during a Pro Bowl flag football game and didn�t play another game for the Patriots.

Big Miss: Randy Moss

Miami Yatil Green 1997 Miami Fla 15th overall

Green was on the roster for only three seasons for the Dolphins. Only one of those seasons included any receptions. His career stats are a solid stat line for a quarter of a season, not a career. 18 catches, 234 yards and zero touchdowns. Multiple knee injuries doomed Green�s NFL career.

Big Miss: Tarik Glenn

NY Jets Vernon Gholston 2008 Ohio State 6th overall

This was the first really easy pick. In three seasons with team Gholston made just five starts and didn�t record a single sack as a Jet.

Big Miss: Chris Johnson

Buffalo J.P. Losman 2004 Tulane 22nd overall

Because of how important the position is, Losman gets the nod. He started every game in one forgettable season and didn�t make more than eight starts the rest of his time in Buffalo.

Big Miss: Steven Jackson

NFC East

Dallas Shante Carver 1994 Arizona St. 23rd overall

Carver played four seasons and recorded a total of 11.5 sacks during the triplets hay day. It took him 26 starts to get those 11.5 sacks.

Big Miss: William Floyd

NY Giants Cedric Jones 1996 Oklahoma 5th overall�

They didn�t know it when the Giants drafted Jones, but he was blind in one eye and could only play on the left side. Jones played just five seasons in New York. As a top five pick he recorded just fifteen total sacks.

Big miss:� Marvin Harrison

Philadelphia Bernard Williams 1994 Georgia 14th overall

Williams started all 16 games as a rookie and then ran into a ton of drug problems. He was banned from the league for life after failing 15 drug tests.

Big Miss: Wayne Gandy

Washington Heath Shuler 1994 Tennessee 3rd overall

The Redskins have given me another easy pick. Shuler started 13 games in three seasons for the Skins. His final Redskins stat line reads like this: 13 touchdowns and 19 interceptions. He has had more success in D.C. on the House floor than he did in RFK stadium.

Big Miss: Willie McGinest

Check out other Volumes:�NFL Draft: Would’a Could’a Should’a Volume II

Fantasy Football:

Browns Trade Up One Spot Before Draft Begins

Mike Rodriguez — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 23:25:40 +0000

Browns Trade Up One Spot

With about an hour before the NFL draft is to kick off, the Cleveland Browns have traded away a hand full of picks to the Vikings to move up just one spot to lock up Trent Richardson. Value-wise it’s dumb, but with so much on the line and the worries about a team like Tampa�leapfrogging them and taking away their guy..it’s brilliant.

read more about the newest Cleveland Brown Trent Richardson here

Trade Review

To Cleveland: 3rd overall pick
To Minnesota: 4th overall pick, 4th round pick (118 overall) 6th-round pick (139th overall) and 7 round pick (211th overall)

Essentially, the first half an hour of the draft is in the books.

Luck

RG3

T-Rich

Fantasy Football:

NFL Mock Draft 2.0 with Readers Poll

Gridiron Experts Team — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:51:08 +0000

NFL Mock Draft 2.0

The NFL Draft is just around the corner, and Gridiron Experts is zeroing in on who we think each team will take. Of course, one trade on draft day and an entire mock draft is thrown out the window. Odds are that at least one of the teams at the top of the draft will move back, and with rumors flying, we thought a Mock Draft that merged with a readers poll would allow everyone to add their two cents.

Take Our Poll

#1 Indianapolis Colts, Andrew Luck, QB

The Andrew Luck pick is a lock for the Colts first overall. The only vote here should be who will the Colts grab at pick 34 overall? With many team needs, including offensive line help, the Colts better think about getting Luck a new OT to avoid having a “David Carr” NFL rookie season.

But with so many team needs and a lack of offensive line talent, who would you pick at #34?

#2 Washington Redskins, Robert Griffin III, QB

The Redskins will get their franchise quarterback, but only time will tell on whether or not they gave up too much to move up only a couple spots in this year’s NFL draft. I know you’re never supposed to throw games in the NFL, but a couple late season losses last year and the Redskins would have saved a world’s wealth in draft picks.

#3 Minnesota Vikings, Matt Kalil, OT

The Vikings, in my opinion, will select Matt Kalil 3rd overall. This year’s crop of offensive talent is below average when compared to previous draft classes, so it only makes sense to take the cream of the crop if it’s a pressing need.

Still, passing on Kalil or trading down to gain extra picks is very tempting. The Vikings are probably looking at other offensive linemen as we speak. Moving back would essentially allow the team to pick another first round player, while still gaining the offensive talent they so desperately need.

The Vikings have reportedly narrowed their choices to Kalil, Justin Blackmon, or Morris Claiborne. What are your thoughts on a possible trade, or would you rather pick someone else here?

Update: It looks like the Vikings may pull the trigger on Claiborne, or try to get the Bucs to trade up here to get in front of the Browns to select Richardson. As of now, the pick looks like Claiborne

Take Our Poll

#4 Cleveland Browns, Trent Richardson, RB

Trent Richardson is one of the best players of this year’s NFL draft. Cleveland has a huge need at running back after losing Peyton Hillis in free agency, and former teammate Montario Hardesty can’t seem to stay healthy.

I have been preaching all year that the Browns have smart minds in the war-room and that a plan is in place. Gaining a ton of extra draft picks from trading back out of the top of the draft last year has put the team in the prime position they are now. Rumors are that the team would consider doing something again this year, yet eventually you have to make a pick. Having two first round selections is plenty of power in selecting prime talent; if the Browns move back yet again it better be for additional picks this year. No more future picks are needed, elite talent is needed.

I believe the Browns will entertain offers, but remain here at pick 4 and add this years must-have fantasy rookie.

Tell me what you think, vote in the poll and check out Trent Richardson’s Profile Article

#5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Morris Claiborne, CB

Do you really care about the Wonderlic score? Claiborne is an elite corner and is the best available player here. Tampa Bay has a need at cornerback and would love to add this shut down blue-chip talent to start week one.

Aqib Talib is in serious legal troubles and on the trading block, while Ronde Barber will be 37 at the start of the 2012 season. It makes too much sense not to draft Morris Claiborne here. If for some reason the Vikings beat them to the punch, Kalil would also be welcomed with open arms.

Claiborne is the best cover corner in the draft and may be a better all around player than former teammate Patrick Peterson, who was selected with the 5th pick of the 2011 NFL Draft.

Update: If the Vikings do indeed select Claiborne, the Bucs could go in a number of different directions, from Stephon Gilmore to Fletcher Cox or even Justin Blackmon. Don’t be surprised if it’s Gilmore, the red hot #2 ranked corner.

Take Our Poll

#6 St Louis Rams, Justin Blackmon, WR

It gets really interesting here. The Rams have already come away with a jackpot of wealth, courtesy of the reaching Washington Redskins desire to make RG3 their guy. The taste is still in the mouths of the St. Louis war-room, and the team could easily consider making yet another deal to gain more picks.

If you have been living under a rock, the Rams acquired two 1st round picks and a 2012 2nd rounder just for trading back from the 2nd overall pick, and are now in a prime position to draft an elite wide receiver.

Justin Blackmon would give quarterback Sam Bradford a much needed weapon, and would also help out Steven Jackson as teams would no longer be able to sell out on stopping the run.

The most interesting aspect of needing a receiver in this year’s class is who’s on the top of your board? Blackmon is tops on Gridiron Experts Top 200 Prospect Board, yet many have Michael Floyd and even Alshon Jeffery ranked high.

Check out: Justin Blackmon’s Profile Article here.

What would you do if you were making the call? What’s your NFL Draft Strategy for the Rams at pick 6?

UPDATE: If Blackmon is gone, the Rams are likely to look at Fletcher Cox or Melvin Ingram. Don’t be shocked if they find a way to get Richardson either. Good chance the move down to accumulate even more picks.

#7 Jacksonville Jaguars, Melvin Ingram, DE

Trade Alert: There’s a strong possibility that the Jags are going to trade down in hopes of selecting a wide-out at a more appropriate spot. Inside rumors are that they are smitten with Georgia Tech receiver Stephen Hill.

The need for a wide receiver was high on everyone’s boards a couple weeks back. Yet, with the additions of Lee Evans and Laurent Robinson, the panic button to spend a high pick on a wide receiver has been turned off.

The team is likely to continue fixing their pass rush problems. As long as I can remember, Jacksonville has needed some kind of monster on their defensive line to draw double teams, and the search may continue this year. 2011 was the first time in 3 years the team cracked the 30 sack mark on defense (31 total). The Jags have been burned by high investment draft picks in the past with players like Derrick Harvey and Quentin Groves, yet Melvin Ingram has been one of the hottest NFL Draft Stocks as of late.

What do you think of Melvin Ingram? Would you draft someone else? Vote right and comment below!

Update: The Jags are reportedly hot to trot for Justin Blackmon.

#8 Miami Dolphins, Ryan Tannehill, QB

Matt Moore or David Garrard? Gimme a break. The Dolphins have been without a franchise signal-caller for over 12 years now, since the great Dan Marino retired. Clearly drafting a quarterback in the second round is also not working for the Phins. Ryan Tannehill will need time to learn how to read NFL defenses, but he is the best option for the team moving forward. Another thing to consider, Miami’s new offensive coordinator is no other than Tannehill’s head coach at Texas A&M, Mike Sherman. The goal has to be getting Tannehill, no vote on this one.

Take Our Poll

#9 Carolina Panthers, Fletcher Cox, DT

The Panthers did a fantastic job building their offense in the 2011 draft. Now they’ll look to improve on the defensive side, where the clubs lack of pass rush and sparse run defense are glaring weaknesses. To be competitive in a division where you play two games each against Drew Brees and Matt Ryan, the Panthers will need stronger play along the front of their 4-3.

Mississippi State’s Fletcher Cox has seen his draft stock soar, and he’s a perfect fit on the inside of the Panthers D-line where his athleticism would allow him to likely occupy the opposing center and guard. Fletcher Cox, Luke Kuechly, and Mike Brockers are all defenders who could make sense to the Panthers brain-trust.

#10 Buffalo Bills, Riley Reiff, OT

Fans of the Buffalo Bills are really excited about this team, for a change. The club’s fast start last year and huge free agency haul have the Bills Mafia in a frenzy and expecting a contender in 2012. With Buffalo’s glaring need at defensive line taken care of thanks to the signing of Mario Williams and Mark Anderson, the team can now concentrate on protection.

Iowa’s Riley Reiff is clearly the second best tackle prospect in this draft, and with the team committing so much money to Ryan Fitzpatrick, protecting him is the top priority for this draft. Reiff should be a starter from day one, protecting Fitzpatrick’s blind side at the left tackle spot. Fan’s will cry for a deep threat wide-out target to help move the chains, but the priority list starts with letting your quarterback drop back into coverage without getting killed. There are plenty of value players that the Bills can add in the later rounds that will help out the offense.

Take Our Poll

#11 Kansas City Chiefs, Dontari Poe, NT

When GM Scott Pioli was in New England, he championed the Patriots selection of monster nose tackle Vince Wilfork. Now Pioli will hope to make the same type of impact pick by grabbing the top nose tackle in the 2012 draft class. Memphis NT Dontari Poe combines massive size, strength, and rare athleticism for a 346 pounder. He also has the versatility to play either in the middle in a 3-4, or inside in a 4-3.

Stanford G David DeCastro is another strong possibility at this spot, but it’s unusual to see an interior offensive lineman selected this high. Boston College ILB Luke Kuechly is also an option.

Update: It’s looking less likely that Poe will be the option here. The Chiefs could use a strong nose tackle, but Pioli might not want to take a chance on the risk that some feel Poe represents. Barron, Brockers or Kuechley are strong options.

#12 Seattle Seahawks, Luke Kuechly, ILB

Rumblings out of Seattle would have you believe that the Seahawks are very interested in Ryan Tannehill and won’t hesitate to pull the trigger if he inexplicably dropped to twelve. Don’t buy it. With Tarvaris Jackson, Charlie Whitehurst, and newly acquired Matt Flynn already taking snaps, there’s no way they add another young signal-caller.

Take Our Poll

Instead they’ll settle for the top inside linebacker of this draft class, Boston College ILB Luke Kuechly. A tremendous athlete and incredible tackler, Kuechly draws favorable comparisons to James Laurinaitis. He’d be an excellent fit at the MLB spot in Seattle’s 4-3 defense. News of Barrett Ruud being expected to start at the middle linebacker position is a great sign the team is getting their defensive depth chart in check. Ruud played with Defensive Coordinator Gus Bradley on the Buccaneers back in 2007-08, he will be a vocal leader moving forward. Adding a player like Kuechly now could be a great way to hit the ground running. Ruud will be 29 in May and will need an understudy.

Other candidates for the spot could be the top rated pass rushers on the board, such as Quinton Coples, Courtney Upshaw, or Fletcher Cox.

If Kuechly is off the board, look for the top remaining DE.

#13 Arizona Cardinals, Michael Floyd, WR

Surprising pick, but as we all saw last year, the Cards offense struggled to consistently move the ball. The team plans on having an open quarterback competition between Kevin Kolb and John Skelton, but they will need to surround their signal-caller with better talent if either of them is to have success. When Anquan Boldin was in his prime in the desert, opposing defenses weren’t so easily able to double-team All-Pro wide-out Larry Fitzgerald. Notre Dame’s Michael Floyd is a big-time talent and huge upgrade over anyone currently on the Cardinal’s roster.

Update: Reily Reiff is a strong candidate if Kalil slides.

Take Our Poll

#14 Dallas Cowboys, Mark Barron, SS

This selection is popular amongst mock drafters because it just makes too much sense, just like when most of us knew the Cowboys would select Tyron Smith last season. Dallas did well to add ILB Dan Connor and CB Brandon Carr to shore-up other defensive weaknesses. Now they can draft the top strong safety prospect in this draft to fill a void that has plagued the franchise for many years.

Jerry Jones and company are very likely to draft a defender in the first round. Other candidates that could make some sense are defensive lineman Dontari Poe, Michael Brockers or Quinton Coples. The only realistic offensive candidates for the ‘Boys would be along the line, so don’t rule out Stanford guard David DeCastro or Georgia tackle Cordy Glenn.

Update: Brockers and David DeCastro also very likely here.

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#15 Philadelphia Eagles, Quinton Coples, DE

The rumors about going after a quarterback are not rumors, the team is looking towards the future. If Matt Barkley had declared, I’m sure the Birds would have had a great shot at a guy like Ryan Tannehill 15th overall, but with such a high demand, Tannehill will be snatched up much earlier. The price to move up into the top 7 to 10 range on the draft board is too much for a team that is accustomed to picking further back. The Eagles have been aggressive in the past and may move up at the right price, but odds are it will be for a player like Fletcher Cox. Fortunately, there is a high number of big uglies to choose from.

One of Andy Reid’s trademarks is depth along the lines, and Coples fits the Philly defensive scheme well. He has the versatility to play outside run-stopper and to move inside to rush the passer on third downs.

#16 New York Jets, Whitney Mercilus, DE

The Jets are a dark horse team, they’re solid throughout much of their depth chart and have no pressing needs. Adding depth to the offensive line would be nice, some more receiving talent would also be a great addition, but in this mock draft I feel the Jets take the best player available, and Whitney Mercilus at 16 is a solid bargain.

Reportedly the Jets love Ingram and are willing to consider moving up to acquire his services. In this scenario, he’s not available, so they take the next best fit for their defense.

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#17 Cincinnati Bengals, Stephon Gilmore, CB

Easily could be drafted in the top 10, but Mock Drafts aren’t always about best player available, sometimes you have to evaluate the teams needs while making assumptions for what best suits a club. The Bengals had to hear all season how losing�Johnathan Joseph made the Texans season and how bad of a decision it was to let him walk. Stephon Gilmore fixes everything with his impressive height and toughness. A three-year starter for the Gamecocks, Gilmore has also gained some deep experience against top competition and should excel in the pros.

Who would you select with the Bengals 17th overall draft pick?

#18 San Diego Chargers, David DeCastro, OG

Kris Dielman’s unfortunate early retirement will cause the interior line to be a major off-season focus for the Chargers. Stanford’s David DeCastro is the top guard prospect we’ve seen in the draft in quite some time, and appears to be about as safe a pick as there is in the draft. He has the look of a perennial Pro-Bowler who could anchor the San Diego line for the next decade.

Other needs that the Chargers could consider here include a pass rusher or in the secondary. Michael Brockers or Courtney Upshaw make some sense, and there’s been some talk of cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick being considered as well.

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#19 Chicago Bears, Kendall Wright, WR

From a perpetual area of weakness to strength in one off-season. The trade for Brandon Marshall and this selection of the electric Baylor wide-out will finally give Jay Cutler some formidable receivers to throw to, much to the lament of recently departed offensive coordinator Mike Martz. Both Marshall and Wright are huge upgrades over any receiver on the Chicago roster, and their arrival gives the Bears the offensive firepower to hang with division powers Green Bay and Detroit.

Offensive line is also a major concern for the Bears, so they could select David DeCastro should he fall this far, or take a tackle such as DeCastro’s teammate Jonathan Martin, or Georgia’s Cody Glenn.

#20 Tennessee Titans, Courtney Upshaw, DE

The Titans don’t have a lot of glaring holes, so they’ll be open-minded in their draft approach. Here they get the chance to grab the best available pass-rusher to fortify their defensive line. Upshaw would be an upgrade over Derrick Morgan and would likely start opposite of the newly acquired Kamerion Wimbley.

Other candidates for the Titans to consider include cornerback, where Dre Kirkpatrick is the top available option, or along the offensive line where Cordy Glenn or Jonathan Martin could make some sense.

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#21 Cincinnati Bengals, Chandler Jones, DE

Having already drafted to fortify their defensive backs, the Bengals would be ecstatic to also be able to add a talented defensive tackle to their formidable defense. Jones is one of the hottest names out there and he’s a good fit for what the Bengals like to do with their defensive line.

Should the Bengals pass on a corner at #17, they’ll grab Dre Kirkpatrick here. Other positions they could consider are offensive line and wide receiver.

#22 Cleveland Browns, Jonathan Martin, OT

Having committed at least one more season to trying to win with QB Colt McCoy, the Browns will now have to surround him with better talent (see Richardson, Trent) and do a better job of protecting him. Stanford’s Jonathan Martin is the consensus top offensive lineman on the board, and his addition (along with Richardson’s) means the Browns walk away from the 2012 first round with a much improved running game.

The Browns are also paper thin at wide receiver and it’s entirely likely that they could really consider one of the hottest commodities in this draft, Georgia Tech’s Stephen Hill.

#23 Detroit Lions , Dre Kirkpatrick, CB

In a perfect blend of fit and need, the Lions end their long cornerback drought and select the top player on their draft board. Kirkpatrick is an excellent fit for the Lions scheme and fills a huge need. He had some off the field issues in college, but the charges were eventually dropped. That sort of stuff doesn’t seem to worry the Lions too much, anyway.

#24 Pittsburgh Steelers, Dont’a Hightower, ILB

Alabama ILB Dont’a Hightower is a perfect Dick LeBeau player: big, mean, and fast. The Steelers parted ways with longtime ‘backer James Farrior this offseason, so Hightower fills an immediate void. Hightower has the versatility to play inside or outside and projects to be a premium gap-plugger and pass rusher.

#25 Denver Broncos, Michael Brockers, DT

Denver doesn’t have the best track record at selecting defensive tackles, but after a significant addition to their offense in Peyton Manning, they’ll look to fill the biggest need they have on the defensive line. John Fox will be making a big push to improve his defense, and the big tackle from LSU is a huge step in that direction.

Should The Broncos bypass their most glaring need, it’s entirely possible that they could go in a number of different directions. Offensive line is also a big need, as are tight end, secondary, and even receiver.

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#26 Houston Texans, Nick Perry, OLB

What a difference a year can make. The Texans nearly went from worst to first in total defense, thanks to some solid 2011 draft selections, and true team MVP, defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. In this scenario, the rich get richer. Houston lost Mario Williams to Buffalo, so grabbing an elite 3-4 outside linebacker like USC’s Nick Perry gives Houston arguably the top linebacking corps in the league. Not to mention the devastating Trojans 1-2 punch of Perry and Brian Cushing.

Gary Kubiak likes to utilize a lot of two tight end sets. It would not be a surprise to see the Texans nab the top tight end prospect in this draft, Stanford’s Coby Fleener. They also lost the entire starting right side of their offensive line, so an elite tackle or guard are also priorities. Other areas of concern in Houston include nose tackle and depth in the linebacking corps. Jacoby Jones and Kevin Walter both remain sub-par receiving options, so Stephen Hill would also be a fantastic fit.

#27 New England Patriots, Shea McClellin, DE

The Pats’ defensive front continues to be an area of concern. Bill Belichick loves versatile pass-rushers, who are capable of playing in the complex New England scheme that incorporates elements of the 3-4 and the 4-3. Boise State’s Shea McClellin has the intelligence and versatility that make him an excellent fit for the Patriots.

There’s always the possibility that the Pats could trade out of this spot, but the most likely scenario is they stay here and move out of their own pick (#31).

#28 Green Bay Packers, Kendall Reyes, OLB/DE

The Packers have one of the best 3-4 outside linebackers in Clay Matthews, but they are a little thin on the other side. The Green Bay defense went from a strength to a major concern in 2011. They had problems in the secondary and their pass rush ranked fifth from the bottom. Reyes would be an excellent fit in the Green Bay system, and would help restore some balance to a team that was far too one sided last year, as we saw in the playoffs.

Ted Thompson subscribes to the “best player available” approach to the draft. If they feel a defensive lineman fits their system, they’ll likely select him, regardless of needs. Other areas that could be options are along the offensive line and in the secondary. Running back is also a need, but unlikely in round one.

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#29 Baltimore Ravens, Peter Konz, C

Offensive line is the biggest need for the Ravens, and it just happens to turn out that the top center prospect in this draft falls into their laps. Baltimore re-signed long-time center Matt Birk, but lost guard Ben Grubbs to free agency. Birk is nearing the end of the line, so Konz could be an immediate upgrade at both center or guard.

The Ravens are always in the market for more pass rushers, and they do an excellent job selecting them in the draft. Should a lineman or linebacker that fits their system slide to this spot, Ozzie Newsome won’t hesitate to pull the trigger. Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith or an offensive tackle could also both be candidates for this selection.

Drafting Peter Konz makes the most sense for the Ravens, but who do you really want?

#30 San Francisco 49ers, Amini Silatolu, OG

Silatolu is the classic Division II “diamond in the rough” type of NFL prospect. He’s favorably compared to other small school lineman like Larry Allen, Mike Iupati and Jahri Evans. Silatolu measured out well and had a good performance at the NFL combine. He’s a mauler who projects to be the type of mean and tough guard that fits well with what the 49ers like to do on offense.

Should the Niners bypass their line, they have been linked to Stanford tight-end Coby Fleener, a player that head coach Jim Harbaugh recruited and coached in college.

#31 New England Patriots, Stephen Hill, WR

The most likely scenario for this pick is for the New England Patriots to trade down. With Bill Belichick and company already acquiring a pass rusher at� 27, they could easily trade down with a receiver-hungry team and stockpile future draft picks- a now common ploy of the Patriots draft manifesto.

Stephen Hill is one of the hottest commodities on the market and he’s not expected to make it out of round 1. It wouldn’t be inconceivable for the Patriots to actually draft Hill. Other candidates for this pick include DE Jerel Worthy and Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith.

#32 New York Giants, Coby Fleener, TE

Late last season, both Travis Beckum and Jake Ballard suffered ACL injuries. With the recovery times of both of them possibly leading into the regular season, the Giants are rather thin at the position. They’ll jump at the chance to grab the draft’s top tight end prospect, Stanford’s Coby Fleener. Fleener is a light-blocking, dependable receiver who would make a nice addition to New York’s high flying pass attack.

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Patriots Host Veteran Runners

Jody Smith — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 12:50:19 +0000

Having lost their leading rusher Benjarvus Green-Ellis to Cincinnati, the New England Patriots have brought in a handful of veteran free agents for a try-out. Ryan Grant, Tim Hightower and Joseph Addai all worked out for the club this week and hope to join an already crowded, but inexperienced backfield.

Stevan Ridley and Shane Vereen, both drafted last season, are expected to be in contention to replace Green-Ellis as the main runner and short yardage option in the Patriots high-octane offense. Danny Woodhead‘s role as a versatile, third-down specialist and change-of-pace ball carrier should remain unchanged.

Soon to be 36 year old Kevin Faulk is also in the mix to make the team due to his familiarity with Bill Belichick and the New England scheme. Faulk has played his entire career for the Pats, and though retirement remains a more likely option, it wouldn’t be a total surprise to see his veteran presence be a deciding factor landing a role in a young backfield.

Joseph Addai is still only 28, but has a lot of mileage. He’s taken a significant amount of punishment during his stint with Indianapolis and the hits are starting to catch up. He’s lost a lot of speed and has begun to have problems staying healthy. Still, his superb pass-blocking and trusty hands make him a good match for what the Law Firm provided the offense.

Hightower started the 2011 season as the Washington Redskins starter before a torn ACL ended his year. Should he return fully healthy, he is also a solid blocker and receiver with a nose for the endzone. At 25, he’s also the youngest of the three veterans the Pats are kicking the tires on.

At 29, Ryan Grant is the oldest of the three free agents to try out. His role faded last season when the Packers began to give more carries to rookie James Starks and short yardage looks to fullback John Kuhn. Despite the age, Grant has 270 less career touches than Addai, so there could be a little more left in the tank.

Fantasy Factor: This is certainly a situation for all fantasy football fans to monitor. BenJarvus Green-Ellis is widely considered a mediocre-at-best running back, yet he produced 24 rushing touchdowns as the New England goal-line option over the last two seasons. With an offense that’s as productive as this, whoever has that short-yardage role is a potential fantasy gold mine.

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NFL Draft Rumors & Smoke Screens

Mike Rodriguez — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 01:43:50 +0000

The calm before the NFL Draft is usually filled with rumors and decoys that should be all taken with a grain of salt. Teams hint they’re interested in prospects only to create a panic for those beneath them on the draft board. The gain in picks to simply move back 2 or 3 spots is really unbelievable, and for those worried about not getting their guy can be a nightmare in the press and NFL Draft warroom.

Never the less, here are a few rumors making their rounds.

Greg Bedard of the Boston Globe would be “shocked” if the New England Patriots used a 1st-round pick on North Alabama CB Janoris Jenkins. Sources from multiple NFL teams tell NFL Network’s Albert Breer that Janoris Jenkins will fall out of the first round due to events following the former Florida star’s exit from Gainesville.

Philly.com’s Sheil Kapadia believes Eagles DL coach Jim Washburn will be “drooling” over Mississippi State DT Fletcher Cox with the No. 15 pick.

Oklahoma WR Ryan Broyles (ACL surgery) ran forty times of 4.57 and 4.59 at his personal Pro Day Thursday. Broyles comes with mixed reviews, if healthy the former Sooner could be a solid sleeper in the NFL, but injury concerns are an obvious worry from NFL clubs.

Sources tell ESPN Florida that the Jaguars “aren’t completely sold” on Quinton Coples and Justin Blackmon as being worthy of the No. 7 overall pick. This could be a smokescreen tactic, the Jags are desperate at the receiver and defensive end position
Pro Football Weekly’s Nolan Nawrocki expects Stanford OT Jonathan Martin to be “considerably overdrafted” in two weeks. The is a lack of offensive tackle talent after a few years of being spoiled at the position will cause teams to reach this year.

Adam Schefter wrote in an ESPN Insider Q & A that he believes the Vikings will pass on USC LT Matt Kalil with the No. 3 pick. According to Pro Football Weekly’s Nolan Nawrocki, some NFL general managers have second-round grades on Oklahoma State WR Justin Blackmon.

Despite the rumors CBS Sports’ Rob Rang confirms that the Cowboys have not scheduled pre-draft visits with Stanford OG David DeCastro or Memphis NT Dontari Poe.

Rams coach Jeff Fisher insists he has not devalued running backs despite a league wide perception that one can gain full time starters in the later rounds. Steven Jackson is no spring chicken and if Trent Richardson falls the St.Louis at 6, it would be hard to pass on such a elite talent.

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Pre NFL Draft Super Bowl Odds

DC — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 20:52:39 +0000

Super Bowl Odds
Green Bay Packers 13/2
New England Patriots 8/1
San Francisco 49ers 10/1
Denver Broncos 12/1
Houston Texans 12/1
New Orleans Saints 14/1
Philadelphia Eagles 14/1
Baltimore Ravens 16/1
New York Giants 16/1
Chicago Bears 20/1
Pittsburgh Steelers 20/1
Dallas Cowboys 22/1
San Diego Chargers 22/1
Atlanta Falcons 25/1
Detroit Lions 25/1
New York Jets 25/1
Carolina Panthers 35/1
Cincinnati Bengals 40/1
Seattle Seahawks 40/1
Arizona Cardinals 50/1
Kansas City Chiefs 50/1
Miami Dolphins 50/1
Tennessee Titans 50/1
Washington Redskins 50/1
Buffalo Bills 60/1
Oakland Raiders 60/1
St. Louis Rams 75/1
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 75/1
Indianapolis Colts 100/1
Jacksonville Jaguars 100/1
Minnesota Vikings 100/1
Cleveland Browns 150/1

Pre NFL Draft Super Bowl Odds

Everyone knows the NFL draft is the fastest way to improve a franchise. All it takes is some clever wheeling & dealing before a .500 team is stronger and better prepared for the upcoming season.

Every year there are teams that have a complete flip flop in the NFL standings, and usually a major factor in such a quick recovery is thanks to an excellent NFL draft.

The list to the right are the latest odds to win the Super Bowl XLVII in New Orleans. Notice that the Saints are still high at 14 to 1, a bet I’m sure gets zero action these days.

Although getting in Pre-NFL Draft is not a bad idea. These odds will change within a week or two after the dust has settled from the Draft. I’m guessing sportsbooks evaluate the NFL draft as well, and research what additions were gained through adding talent that can play right away.

Teams like the Falcons, Cowboys and Jets are all 25 to 1. A great return on teams that either just missed the playoffs or made it and put up 2 points on the score board. Yeah you heard me Atlanta, I had a couple bucks on you and I’m holding a little grudge.

Still no love for the Browns at 150 to one, even the Colts are given better odds and their future QB has never thrown a pass in the NFL -Damn

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Pre NFL Draft Super Bowl Odds

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