I heard on NFL Network tonight that things have cooled off some, and so I need to post a draft that doesn't take the Peppers-to-New England rumor into account.
Here it is:
1--23 Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
2--34 Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
2--47 Jasper Brinkley, ILB, South Carolina
2--58 Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma
3--89 Sammie Stroughter, WR, Oregon State
3--97 James Casey, TE-FB, Rice
4-134 Kyle Bell, RB, Colorado State
5-170 Tom Brandstater, QB, Fresno State
6-199 Dorrell Scott, DT, Georgia
6-207 Raphael Nguti, OT, Albany
7-234 Robert Haynes, CB, Michigan Tech
Full Version: Non-Peppers Pats 7-round mock
It must be nice to have such a great team to root for and they have 6 picks in the first 3 rounds! grrr
QUOTE (PatriotofMaine @ Mar 25 2009, 9:14:06 PM) 
I heard on NFL Network tonight that things have cooled off some, and so I need to post a draft that doesn't take the Peppers-to-New England rumor into account.
Here it is:
1--23 Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
2--34 Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
2--47 Jasper Brinkley, ILB, South Carolina
2--58 Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma
3--89 Sammie Stroughter, WR, Oregon State
3--97 James Casey, TE-FB, Rice
4-134 Kyle Bell, RB, Colorado State
5-170 Tom Brandstater, QB, Fresno State
6-199 Dorrell Scott, DT, Georgia
6-207 Raphael Nguti, OT, Albany
7-234 Robert Haynes, CB, Michigan Tech
Here it is:
1--23 Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
2--34 Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
2--47 Jasper Brinkley, ILB, South Carolina
2--58 Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma
3--89 Sammie Stroughter, WR, Oregon State
3--97 James Casey, TE-FB, Rice
4-134 Kyle Bell, RB, Colorado State
5-170 Tom Brandstater, QB, Fresno State
6-199 Dorrell Scott, DT, Georgia
6-207 Raphael Nguti, OT, Albany
7-234 Robert Haynes, CB, Michigan Tech
I would be very happy with this draft. Britton I think slides into the RT spot from day one same with Duke Robinson at RG. Kazcur and O'Callaghan would then become the primary back ups across the line. I like the Robert Haynes pick at the end from what I've read on this site he could be a good developmental CB. One question though do you see Michael Johnson as a DE or OLB in the Patriots system? I think he has the skills to play both but its whether he could produce at either.
QUOTE (pats4life23 @ Mar 26 2009, 11:24:50 AM)
I would be very happy with this draft. Britton I think slides into the RT spot from day one same with Duke Robinson at RG. Kazcur and O'Callaghan would then become the primary back ups across the line. I like the Robert Haynes pick at the end from what I've read on this site he could be a good developmental CB. One question though do you see Michael Johnson as a DE or OLB in the Patriots system? I think he has the skills to play both but its whether he could produce at either.
I see them using him exactly the way they used to use Willie McGinest, and that is how they will use Peppers if they get him instead of Johnson.
I think we really have to look ahead past 2009 too, not just look at how to improve our 2009 team. We have 31 players who will be free agents after the season that's over half the team!!! We have 8 OL players (Neal, Kaczur, Mankins, Hochstein, O'Callaghan, A. Johnson, Britt and Yates) including 3 starters and 2 solid back-ups scheduled to be free agents after '09. After this season OL will be the biggest need area. Of those I have Mankins as third most important on the team to resign behind Wilfork and Gostkowski. I think it critical that we land a new OT with 23 or 34. Then I think we come back later at 47 or 58 and land another solid OL.
After the 2009 season we could be thin on the DL too. Signing Wilfork is job #1 so I assume this gets done. Keeping Seymour is a 50/50 proposition and Green might get cut before the season but will certainly not be back. LeKevin Smith will also be a F/A so 4 of 6 players are at risk. Kraft let the cat out of the bag that Jason Taylor may be coming and Taylor has stated NE is his first choice. When both sides want something to work, it works. Taylor, TBC and Crable should give us enough depth at OLB for a year. Because of this and looking at cap figures I would do this.
#23 Eben Britton or William Beatty. Kaczur is our worst starter on the line. He also is a F/A after '09. If cut before the season he frees $1.8MM of cap with only a $132K cap hit. There will be a run on OTs again and I can't remember two years where so much talent was at the position. I would start either of these guys at RT and move them to LT after Light is gone. I would not rule out moving Light to RT at some point. If we do this, our top pick actually helps our cap.
#34 Lawrence Sidbury, Connor Barwin, Michael Johnson, or Robert Ayers Taylor and Banta-Cain bring some pass rush but both appear to be on loan for one season. Drafting any one of these players here would give us at worst an heir apparent to Jarvis Green. Johnson and Barwinmay even be able to play standing up in 2010 as strong side OLB. Should Green become expendable he would save $2MM on the cap but cost $3MM in dead cap so chances are he plays out the season. But if he's cut this pick also would actually save cap. It would be a crime not to come out of this draft without an edge rusher who has a chance to play OLB in the future. I wouldn't rule out Larry English as OLB here either since BB called him out.
#47 Patrick Chung, Louis Delmus, or William Moore My choice here would be William Moore. If this was after 2007 he'd be a mid first round pick. Moore played with injuries last year which slowed his production. The Combine showed he is completely healthy and would bring the pop it appears we're losing with Rodney likely retiring. Granted #47 and #58 could be reversed. But this is a 2009 need and Tank Williams will be a F/A after the season so we need a thumper at SS.
#58 Eric Wood or Alex Mack I would love to get Unger at #47 maybe with a slight move up as he can play C, both Guard positions and possibly RT. Wood is listed as a C but he can play both Guard slots too. He could become heir apparent to Neal after the season. If we resign Mankins, draft Woods and Beatty/Britton we've taken our position of biggest exposure for 2010 and turned it into a position that's all set for awhile.
#89 Jasper Brinkley, Javon Ringer, Cedric Peerman, Pat White or Chase Coffman. Now we are getting pretty deep in the draft and we're really picking more for 2010 here. Our RBs are mostly old and we have Watson and Thomas hitting free agency. Brinkley would like be gone but if not, he could add depth at ILB and compete with Guyton/Bruschi. Pat White is just so interesting because he saves a roster spot. Both Aiken and Gutierrez could be cut. Neither really clears any cap but this allows us to add depth at another position. Imagine White running the wildcat if BB decided to use it?
At this point and on we are looking for BPA. I would like to see us get another WR, perhaps Jonny Knox in the 4th or 5th. If we don't take White perhaps a QB in the late rounds.
After the 2009 season we could be thin on the DL too. Signing Wilfork is job #1 so I assume this gets done. Keeping Seymour is a 50/50 proposition and Green might get cut before the season but will certainly not be back. LeKevin Smith will also be a F/A so 4 of 6 players are at risk. Kraft let the cat out of the bag that Jason Taylor may be coming and Taylor has stated NE is his first choice. When both sides want something to work, it works. Taylor, TBC and Crable should give us enough depth at OLB for a year. Because of this and looking at cap figures I would do this.
#23 Eben Britton or William Beatty. Kaczur is our worst starter on the line. He also is a F/A after '09. If cut before the season he frees $1.8MM of cap with only a $132K cap hit. There will be a run on OTs again and I can't remember two years where so much talent was at the position. I would start either of these guys at RT and move them to LT after Light is gone. I would not rule out moving Light to RT at some point. If we do this, our top pick actually helps our cap.
#34 Lawrence Sidbury, Connor Barwin, Michael Johnson, or Robert Ayers Taylor and Banta-Cain bring some pass rush but both appear to be on loan for one season. Drafting any one of these players here would give us at worst an heir apparent to Jarvis Green. Johnson and Barwinmay even be able to play standing up in 2010 as strong side OLB. Should Green become expendable he would save $2MM on the cap but cost $3MM in dead cap so chances are he plays out the season. But if he's cut this pick also would actually save cap. It would be a crime not to come out of this draft without an edge rusher who has a chance to play OLB in the future. I wouldn't rule out Larry English as OLB here either since BB called him out.
#47 Patrick Chung, Louis Delmus, or William Moore My choice here would be William Moore. If this was after 2007 he'd be a mid first round pick. Moore played with injuries last year which slowed his production. The Combine showed he is completely healthy and would bring the pop it appears we're losing with Rodney likely retiring. Granted #47 and #58 could be reversed. But this is a 2009 need and Tank Williams will be a F/A after the season so we need a thumper at SS.
#58 Eric Wood or Alex Mack I would love to get Unger at #47 maybe with a slight move up as he can play C, both Guard positions and possibly RT. Wood is listed as a C but he can play both Guard slots too. He could become heir apparent to Neal after the season. If we resign Mankins, draft Woods and Beatty/Britton we've taken our position of biggest exposure for 2010 and turned it into a position that's all set for awhile.
#89 Jasper Brinkley, Javon Ringer, Cedric Peerman, Pat White or Chase Coffman. Now we are getting pretty deep in the draft and we're really picking more for 2010 here. Our RBs are mostly old and we have Watson and Thomas hitting free agency. Brinkley would like be gone but if not, he could add depth at ILB and compete with Guyton/Bruschi. Pat White is just so interesting because he saves a roster spot. Both Aiken and Gutierrez could be cut. Neither really clears any cap but this allows us to add depth at another position. Imagine White running the wildcat if BB decided to use it?
At this point and on we are looking for BPA. I would like to see us get another WR, perhaps Jonny Knox in the 4th or 5th. If we don't take White perhaps a QB in the late rounds.
QUOTE (Faucet @ Mar 28 2009, 12:19:14 PM)
I think we really have to look ahead past 2009 too, not just look at how to improve our 2009 team. We have 31 players who will be free agents after the season that's over half the team!!! We have 8 OL players (Neal, Kaczur, Mankins, Hochstein, O'Callaghan, A. Johnson, Britt and Yates) including 3 starters and 2 solid back-ups scheduled to be free agents after '09. After this season OL will be the biggest need area. Of those I have Mankins as third most important on the team to resign behind Wilfork and Gostkowski. I think it critical that we land a new OT with 23 or 34. Then I think we come back later at 47 or 58 and land another solid OL.
After the 2009 season we could be thin on the DL too. Signing Wilfork is job #1 so I assume this gets done. Keeping Seymour is a 50/50 proposition and Green might get cut before the season but will certainly not be back. LeKevin Smith will also be a F/A so 4 of 6 players are at risk. Kraft let the cat out of the bag that Jason Taylor may be coming and Taylor has stated NE is his first choice. When both sides want something to work, it works. Taylor, TBC and Crable should give us enough depth at OLB for a year. Because of this and looking at cap figures I would do this.
#23 Eben Britton or William Beatty. Kaczur is our worst starter on the line. He also is a F/A after '09. If cut before the season he frees $1.8MM of cap with only a $132K cap hit. There will be a run on OTs again and I can't remember two years where so much talent was at the position. I would start either of these guys at RT and move them to LT after Light is gone. I would not rule out moving Light to RT at some point. If we do this, our top pick actually helps our cap.
#34 Lawrence Sidbury, Connor Barwin, Michael Johnson, or Robert Ayers Taylor and Banta-Cain bring some pass rush but both appear to be on loan for one season. Drafting any one of these players here would give us at worst an heir apparent to Jarvis Green. Johnson and Barwinmay even be able to play standing up in 2010 as strong side OLB. Should Green become expendable he would save $2MM on the cap but cost $3MM in dead cap so chances are he plays out the season. But if he's cut this pick also would actually save cap. It would be a crime not to come out of this draft without an edge rusher who has a chance to play OLB in the future. I wouldn't rule out Larry English as OLB here either since BB called him out.
#47 Patrick Chung, Louis Delmus, or William Moore My choice here would be William Moore. If this was after 2007 he'd be a mid first round pick. Moore played with injuries last year which slowed his production. The Combine showed he is completely healthy and would bring the pop it appears we're losing with Rodney likely retiring. Granted #47 and #58 could be reversed. But this is a 2009 need and Tank Williams will be a F/A after the season so we need a thumper at SS.
#58 Eric Wood or Alex Mack I would love to get Unger at #47 maybe with a slight move up as he can play C, both Guard positions and possibly RT. Wood is listed as a C but he can play both Guard slots too. He could become heir apparent to Neal after the season. If we resign Mankins, draft Woods and Beatty/Britton we've taken our position of biggest exposure for 2010 and turned it into a position that's all set for awhile.
#89 Jasper Brinkley, Javon Ringer, Cedric Peerman, Pat White or Chase Coffman. Now we are getting pretty deep in the draft and we're really picking more for 2010 here. Our RBs are mostly old and we have Watson and Thomas hitting free agency. Brinkley would like be gone but if not, he could add depth at ILB and compete with Guyton/Bruschi. Pat White is just so interesting because he saves a roster spot. Both Aiken and Gutierrez could be cut. Neither really clears any cap but this allows us to add depth at another position. Imagine White running the wildcat if BB decided to use it?
At this point and on we are looking for BPA. I would like to see us get another WR, perhaps Jonny Knox in the 4th or 5th. If we don't take White perhaps a QB in the late rounds.
After the 2009 season we could be thin on the DL too. Signing Wilfork is job #1 so I assume this gets done. Keeping Seymour is a 50/50 proposition and Green might get cut before the season but will certainly not be back. LeKevin Smith will also be a F/A so 4 of 6 players are at risk. Kraft let the cat out of the bag that Jason Taylor may be coming and Taylor has stated NE is his first choice. When both sides want something to work, it works. Taylor, TBC and Crable should give us enough depth at OLB for a year. Because of this and looking at cap figures I would do this.
#23 Eben Britton or William Beatty. Kaczur is our worst starter on the line. He also is a F/A after '09. If cut before the season he frees $1.8MM of cap with only a $132K cap hit. There will be a run on OTs again and I can't remember two years where so much talent was at the position. I would start either of these guys at RT and move them to LT after Light is gone. I would not rule out moving Light to RT at some point. If we do this, our top pick actually helps our cap.
#34 Lawrence Sidbury, Connor Barwin, Michael Johnson, or Robert Ayers Taylor and Banta-Cain bring some pass rush but both appear to be on loan for one season. Drafting any one of these players here would give us at worst an heir apparent to Jarvis Green. Johnson and Barwinmay even be able to play standing up in 2010 as strong side OLB. Should Green become expendable he would save $2MM on the cap but cost $3MM in dead cap so chances are he plays out the season. But if he's cut this pick also would actually save cap. It would be a crime not to come out of this draft without an edge rusher who has a chance to play OLB in the future. I wouldn't rule out Larry English as OLB here either since BB called him out.
#47 Patrick Chung, Louis Delmus, or William Moore My choice here would be William Moore. If this was after 2007 he'd be a mid first round pick. Moore played with injuries last year which slowed his production. The Combine showed he is completely healthy and would bring the pop it appears we're losing with Rodney likely retiring. Granted #47 and #58 could be reversed. But this is a 2009 need and Tank Williams will be a F/A after the season so we need a thumper at SS.
#58 Eric Wood or Alex Mack I would love to get Unger at #47 maybe with a slight move up as he can play C, both Guard positions and possibly RT. Wood is listed as a C but he can play both Guard slots too. He could become heir apparent to Neal after the season. If we resign Mankins, draft Woods and Beatty/Britton we've taken our position of biggest exposure for 2010 and turned it into a position that's all set for awhile.
#89 Jasper Brinkley, Javon Ringer, Cedric Peerman, Pat White or Chase Coffman. Now we are getting pretty deep in the draft and we're really picking more for 2010 here. Our RBs are mostly old and we have Watson and Thomas hitting free agency. Brinkley would like be gone but if not, he could add depth at ILB and compete with Guyton/Bruschi. Pat White is just so interesting because he saves a roster spot. Both Aiken and Gutierrez could be cut. Neither really clears any cap but this allows us to add depth at another position. Imagine White running the wildcat if BB decided to use it?
At this point and on we are looking for BPA. I would like to see us get another WR, perhaps Jonny Knox in the 4th or 5th. If we don't take White perhaps a QB in the late rounds.
I agree totally that Oline must be a priority for the Pats in this draft. I would not even be the least upset if BOTH our first two picks went in that direction--one for a solid LOT candidate, and the other for an interior lineman able to play both guard and center.
Breaking it down further, here's what our 2010 depth chart looks like assuming that none of our free agents are with us after 2009.
Offense
QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell
WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker
LT Matt Light
RG
C Dan Koppen
LG
RT
TE Chris Baker
RB Lawrence Maroney, Sammy Morris, Fred Taylor
Defense
DE Ty Warren
NT Mike Wright
DE
OLB Adalius Thomas
ILB Bo Ruud
ILB Jarod Mayo
OLB Shawn Crable
CB Jonathan Wilhite
SS Brandon Meriweather
FS James Sanders
CB Terrence Wheatley
Special Teams
P
K
KR Matt Slater
Offense
QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell
WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker
LT Matt Light
RG
C Dan Koppen
LG
RT
TE Chris Baker
RB Lawrence Maroney, Sammy Morris, Fred Taylor
Defense
DE Ty Warren
NT Mike Wright
DE
OLB Adalius Thomas
ILB Bo Ruud
ILB Jarod Mayo
OLB Shawn Crable
CB Jonathan Wilhite
SS Brandon Meriweather
FS James Sanders
CB Terrence Wheatley
Special Teams
P
K
KR Matt Slater
QUOTE (Faucet @ Mar 29 2009, 10:40:42 AM)
Breaking it down further, here's what our 2010 depth chart looks like assuming that none of our free agents are with us after 2009.
Offense
QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell
WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker
LT Matt Light
RG
C Dan Koppen
LG
RT
TE Chris Baker
RB Lawrence Maroney, Sammy Morris, Fred Taylor
Defense
DE Ty Warren
NT Mike Wright
DE
OLB Adalius Thomas
ILB Bo Ruud
ILB Jarod Mayo
OLB Shawn Crable
CB Jonathan Wilhite
SS Brandon Meriweather
FS James Sanders
CB Terrence Wheatley
Special Teams
P
K
KR Matt Slater
Offense
QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell
WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker
LT Matt Light
RG
C Dan Koppen
LG
RT
TE Chris Baker
RB Lawrence Maroney, Sammy Morris, Fred Taylor
Defense
DE Ty Warren
NT Mike Wright
DE
OLB Adalius Thomas
ILB Bo Ruud
ILB Jarod Mayo
OLB Shawn Crable
CB Jonathan Wilhite
SS Brandon Meriweather
FS James Sanders
CB Terrence Wheatley
Special Teams
P
K
KR Matt Slater
Holy Crap! That does look pretty serious at first blush. Fortunately, winning also breeds desire on the part of a winning team's personnel to WANT to return, even if it might be for slightly less money than they might make elsewhere.
Back to 2009. We currently have 66 players under contract according to Patriots Football Weekly. Here's the count by position and the player(s) I think we'll cut just to get down to 53. Some of these players may be elligible for the practice squad. This doesn't even consider the draft yet.
WR - 6
QB - 3 Matt Gutierrez
TE - 5 Tyson DeVree, Brad Listorti
RB - 5
OL -14 Damane Duckett, Ryan Wendell, Dan Connolly
DE - 5 Titus Adams
NT - 2
OLB - 6 Angelo Craig
ILB - 5 Bo Ruud
CB - 6 Mike Richardson
SS - 3 Antwain Spann
FS - 2 Ray Ventrone
K - 1
P - 2 Tom Malone
LS - 1
WR - 6
QB - 3 Matt Gutierrez
TE - 5 Tyson DeVree, Brad Listorti
RB - 5
OL -14 Damane Duckett, Ryan Wendell, Dan Connolly
DE - 5 Titus Adams
NT - 2
OLB - 6 Angelo Craig
ILB - 5 Bo Ruud
CB - 6 Mike Richardson
SS - 3 Antwain Spann
FS - 2 Ray Ventrone
K - 1
P - 2 Tom Malone
LS - 1
Going under the premise that we use all our picks without trading them and all players picked in first 5 rounds make the team we have 8 more spots to clear on the 53 man roster. Again, I'm not concerned with the Practice Squad at this point. Grading our 53 considering positional depth, I'd give these 8 the lowest grade in no particular order putting them in jeopardy depending on positions we draft.
WR Matthew Slater
ILB Eric Alexander
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis
WR Sam Aiken
OLB Pierre Woods
RT Wesley Britt
DE Le Kevin Smith
SS Tank Williams
WR Matthew Slater
ILB Eric Alexander
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis
WR Sam Aiken
OLB Pierre Woods
RT Wesley Britt
DE Le Kevin Smith
SS Tank Williams
QUOTE (Faucet @ Mar 29 2009, 11:34:07 AM)
Going under the premise that we use all our picks without trading them and all players picked in first 5 rounds make the team we have 8 more spots to clear on the 53 man roster. Again, I'm not concerned with the Practice Squad at this point. Grading our 53 considering positional depth, I'd give these 8 the lowest grade in no particular order putting them in jeopardy depending on positions we draft.
WR Matthew Slater
ILB Eric Alexander
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis
WR Sam Aiken
OLB Pierre Woods
RT Wesley Britt
DE Le Kevin Smith
SS Tank Williams
WR Matthew Slater
ILB Eric Alexander
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis
WR Sam Aiken
OLB Pierre Woods
RT Wesley Britt
DE Le Kevin Smith
SS Tank Williams
Very helpful analysis in these past three posts, Faucet, thanks!
I would only disagree with one thing. I see Green-Ellis as being nearly as fine a UDFA pickup as Myron Guyton.
P.S. Late-breaking news: one sleeper I know the Pats are targeting now is William & Mary CB Derek Cox. Check out his profile.
Here's where we are left. 41 players leaving room for 4 draft picks to suit up plus an emergency QB. Only 45 which suit for games. These players would appear safe unless there are cap cuts. Potential cap cuts along with their savings, who could be replaced in the draft are: Matt Light $3.8MM, Nick Kaczur $1.8MM, Jarvis Green $2.0MM, Ellis Hobbs $2.2MM, Pierre Woods $1.0MM, sam Aiken $300K
Offense 19
2 QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell
4 WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Joey Galloway, Greg Lewis
4 RB Sammy Morris, Lawrence Maroney, Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk
2 LT Matt Light, Mark LeVoir
1 LG Logan Mankins
2 C Dan Koppen, Russ Hochstein
2 RG Stephen Neal, Billy Yates
2 RT Nick Kaczur, Ryan O'Callaghan
Defense 19
1 LDE Ty Warren
2 NT Vince Wilfork, Mike Wright
2 RDE Richard Seymour, Jarvis Green
2 OLB Tully Banta-Cain, Vince Redd
2 ILB Jerod Mayo
1 ILB Tedy Bruschi, Gary Guyton
2 OLB Adalius Thomas, Shawn Crable
3 LCB Shawn Springs, Terrence Wheatley, Jonathan Wilhite
2 RCB Leigh Bodden, Ellis Hobbs
1 SS Brandon Meriweather
1 FS James Sanders
Special Teams 3
1 PK Stephen Gostkowski
1 P Chris Hanson
1 LS Nathan Hodel
Offense 19
2 QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell
4 WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Joey Galloway, Greg Lewis
4 RB Sammy Morris, Lawrence Maroney, Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk
2 LT Matt Light, Mark LeVoir
1 LG Logan Mankins
2 C Dan Koppen, Russ Hochstein
2 RG Stephen Neal, Billy Yates
2 RT Nick Kaczur, Ryan O'Callaghan
Defense 19
1 LDE Ty Warren
2 NT Vince Wilfork, Mike Wright
2 RDE Richard Seymour, Jarvis Green
2 OLB Tully Banta-Cain, Vince Redd
2 ILB Jerod Mayo
1 ILB Tedy Bruschi, Gary Guyton
2 OLB Adalius Thomas, Shawn Crable
3 LCB Shawn Springs, Terrence Wheatley, Jonathan Wilhite
2 RCB Leigh Bodden, Ellis Hobbs
1 SS Brandon Meriweather
1 FS James Sanders
Special Teams 3
1 PK Stephen Gostkowski
1 P Chris Hanson
1 LS Nathan Hodel
Here's how things could look with my mock plus a few other changes. Can only suite 45 but emergency QB doesn't count so you can have 46. I have us signing Jason Taylor and cutting Jarvis Green, Pierre Woods and Nick Kaczur. This frees $4.9MM to go along with the $4.7MM we have now. The savings are used to sign our picks and to extend Wilfork and Gostkowski before the 2009 season. Brandon Meriweather moves to FS. Matt Light moved to RT. Ellis Hobbs is used as kick returner and dime DB.
Offense 22 (K. O'Connell is emergency QB)
3 QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell, Pat White #97
5 WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Joey Galloway, Greg Lewis, Johnny Knox #134
4 RB Sammy Morris, Lawrence Maroney, Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk
1 LT William Beatty #23
2 LG Logan Mankins, Eric Wood #58
2 C Dan Koppen, Russ Hochstein
2 RG Stephen Neal, Billy Yates
2 RT Matt Light, Ryan O'Callaghan
2 TE Ben Watson, Chris Baker
Defense 20
1 LDE Ty Warren
2 NT Vince Wilfork, Mike Wright
2 RDE Richard Seymour, Jason Taylor F/A Signing
2 OLB Michael Johnson #34, Tully Banta-Cain
2 ILB Jerod Mayo, Gary Guyton
2 ILB Tedy Bruschi, Jasper Brinkley #89
2 OLB Adalius Thomas, Shawn Crable
2 LCB Shawn Springs, Terrence Wheatley
2 RCB Leigh Bodden, Jonathan Wilhite
1 SS William Moore #47
2 FS Brandon Meriweather, James Sanders
Special Teams 4
1 PK Stephen Gostkowski
1 P Chris Hanson
1 LS Nathan Hodel
1 KR Ellis Hobbs
Also making the 53 man roster but only suiting in case of injury are:
LT Mark LeVoir
C Al Johnson
TE David Thomas
RB BenJarvis Green-Ellis
OLB Vince Redd
ILB Eric Alexander
DE LeKevin Smith
Offense 22 (K. O'Connell is emergency QB)
3 QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell, Pat White #97
5 WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Joey Galloway, Greg Lewis, Johnny Knox #134
4 RB Sammy Morris, Lawrence Maroney, Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk
1 LT William Beatty #23
2 LG Logan Mankins, Eric Wood #58
2 C Dan Koppen, Russ Hochstein
2 RG Stephen Neal, Billy Yates
2 RT Matt Light, Ryan O'Callaghan
2 TE Ben Watson, Chris Baker
Defense 20
1 LDE Ty Warren
2 NT Vince Wilfork, Mike Wright
2 RDE Richard Seymour, Jason Taylor F/A Signing
2 OLB Michael Johnson #34, Tully Banta-Cain
2 ILB Jerod Mayo, Gary Guyton
2 ILB Tedy Bruschi, Jasper Brinkley #89
2 OLB Adalius Thomas, Shawn Crable
2 LCB Shawn Springs, Terrence Wheatley
2 RCB Leigh Bodden, Jonathan Wilhite
1 SS William Moore #47
2 FS Brandon Meriweather, James Sanders
Special Teams 4
1 PK Stephen Gostkowski
1 P Chris Hanson
1 LS Nathan Hodel
1 KR Ellis Hobbs
Also making the 53 man roster but only suiting in case of injury are:
LT Mark LeVoir
C Al Johnson
TE David Thomas
RB BenJarvis Green-Ellis
OLB Vince Redd
ILB Eric Alexander
DE LeKevin Smith
Cool! You forgot TEs, so I'll add those. Then, let me slug my mock draft into this and see how we look (oh...and I'm adding Jason Taylor, as it looks like it will be he, not Peppers who is our last big signee of FA.):
I predicted two O-line cuts, and I think this is then your 53-man roster...the sub-(your)roster guys who are not roster cuts slide to the practice team. Taylor isn't going to cost us much, so we should have enough to sign all our rookies. I am predicting only Nguti doesn't make the roster and winds up on the practice squad.
QUOTE
Offense 26
3 QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell, Tom Brandstater
4 TE Ben Watson, Chris Brown, Dave Thomas, James Casey
5 WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Joey Galloway, Greg Lewis, Sammy Stroughter
4 RB Sammy Morris, Lawrence Maroney, Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk
1 FB Kyle Bell
2 LT Matt Light, Mark LeVoir
1 LG Logan Mankins
2 C Dan Koppen, Russ Hochstein
2 RG Duke Robinson, Stephen Neal
2 RT Eben Britton, Nick Kaczur
Defense 24
2 LDE Ty Warren, Jason Taylor
3 NT Vince Wilfork, Mike Wright, Dorrell Scott
2 RDE Richard Seymour, Jarvis Green
3 OLB Michael Johnson, Tully Banta-Cain, Vince Redd
2 ILB Jerod Mayo, Jasper Brinkley
2 ILB Tedy Bruschi, Gary Guyton
2 OLB Adalius Thomas, Shawn Crable
3 LCB Shawn Springs, Terrence Wheatley, Jonathan Wilhite
3 RCB Leigh Bodden, Ellis Hobbs, Robert Haynes
1 SS Brandon Meriweather
1 FS James Sanders
Special Teams 3
1 PK Stephen Gostkowski
1 P Chris Hanson
1 LS Nathan Hodel
3 QB Tom Brady, Kevin O'Connell, Tom Brandstater
4 TE Ben Watson, Chris Brown, Dave Thomas, James Casey
5 WR Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Joey Galloway, Greg Lewis, Sammy Stroughter
4 RB Sammy Morris, Lawrence Maroney, Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk
1 FB Kyle Bell
2 LT Matt Light, Mark LeVoir
1 LG Logan Mankins
2 C Dan Koppen, Russ Hochstein
2 RG Duke Robinson, Stephen Neal
2 RT Eben Britton, Nick Kaczur
Defense 24
2 LDE Ty Warren, Jason Taylor
3 NT Vince Wilfork, Mike Wright, Dorrell Scott
2 RDE Richard Seymour, Jarvis Green
3 OLB Michael Johnson, Tully Banta-Cain, Vince Redd
2 ILB Jerod Mayo, Jasper Brinkley
2 ILB Tedy Bruschi, Gary Guyton
2 OLB Adalius Thomas, Shawn Crable
3 LCB Shawn Springs, Terrence Wheatley, Jonathan Wilhite
3 RCB Leigh Bodden, Ellis Hobbs, Robert Haynes
1 SS Brandon Meriweather
1 FS James Sanders
Special Teams 3
1 PK Stephen Gostkowski
1 P Chris Hanson
1 LS Nathan Hodel
I predicted two O-line cuts, and I think this is then your 53-man roster...the sub-(your)roster guys who are not roster cuts slide to the practice team. Taylor isn't going to cost us much, so we should have enough to sign all our rookies. I am predicting only Nguti doesn't make the roster and winds up on the practice squad.
Our posts crossed in time. Eric Wood or Duke Robinson...that's a push as far as I'm concerned.
If Johnson is still there at #34, that would be the theft of the century.
I like Beatty better than Britton too, but not by much, so I say be SURE you get Johnson before worrying about whether you get Beatty or Britton at #34.
Knox is a speed guy but untested and old. Stroughter isn't as fast but he is very shifty and tested in the PAC-10. Can return kicks too.
I like the William Moore pick!
If Johnson is still there at #34, that would be the theft of the century.
I like Beatty better than Britton too, but not by much, so I say be SURE you get Johnson before worrying about whether you get Beatty or Britton at #34.
Knox is a speed guy but untested and old. Stroughter isn't as fast but he is very shifty and tested in the PAC-10. Can return kicks too.
I like the William Moore pick!
Faucet:--We may be thinking alike in terms of the Patriots 2009 draft because BEST PLAYER AVAILABLE just does not seem to cut it anymore with so many one and two year contracts being signed. This draft has to cover immediate needs as well as giving those drafted a chance to learn the system in order to make an impact by the 2010 season. In addition, expiring contracts must be considered with the value and age of the player a determining factor. It is my opinion that after we franchised Matt Cassell, the Patriots needed some cap relief in order to sign Chris Baker, Fred Taylor, and especially Leigh Bodden. This is only my opinion but I feel that the the Patriots asked Mike Vrabel to renegotiate and he refused. Thus, his curious exit from Foxborough. The following is my Mock draft which only includes one trade but it is a trade up into the middle of round one---1) Pick 14 (Patriots trade Pick #23 and Pick #58 to New Orleans for Pick #14 and a 4th round pick in 2010) REY MAUALUGA ilb USC--2) Pick 34--WILLIAM BEATTY ot UCONN--3) Pick 47--RASHAD JOHNSON fs ALABAMA--4) Pick 89--ALEX MAGEE de/dt PURDUE--5) Comp #1 Pick 97--KEVIN OGLETREE wr VIRGINIA--6) Pick 124--LOUIS VASQUEZ og TEXAS TECH--7) Comp #2 Pick 170--ANTHONY HILL te NC STATE--8) Pick 199--IAN JOHNSON rb BOISE STATE--9) Comp#3 Pick 207 BRIAN TOAL ilb/fb BOSTON COLLEGE--10) Pick 234--TODD BOECKMAN qb OHIO STATE I do not have concerns with the number of selections because first year fringe players seem to find a way onto the injured reserve list or developmental squad and a year of learning the system is valuable because of the sheer volume of contracts that expire after this season.--as always enjoy your posts and look forward to more--rich from newport
The best possible scenario might be that we trade the #23 for some middle-of-the-road-team's 2010 #1 and #3.
Hi Rich,
I agree we should try to do anything within reason to get Rey Maualuga. I see him as a 5-6 pro bowl kind of guy. We pair him up with Mayo and we would have the best inside LB tandem of any 3-4 team in football. They are perfect compliments for each other. Mayo has the speed and intelligence and Mauagula brings the big hits, passion and swagger to the middle.
I'm hoping for a bad pro day tomorrow for RM. I'm also hoping that BJ Raji falls to Denver at 12 and Beanie Wells is there at 16 for SD. That would increase our chances of him slipping to 23. Perhaps once he gets past 16 to maybe 19 we would only have to throw in 89 with 23 to get him. Pick 58 is a great spot to be. If this was last year, 58 would be our 2nd pick in the draft 4 spots ahead of where we took Wheatley.
This is addressed to PoM, as for trading out for future picks I'd be okay if they are late round picks but the future is now. We have to load up and get one more Vince to put in the trophy case for this dynasty. Brady is entering his 10th season. He's under contract through 2010. After these next two years Brady will be entering his 12th season. Troy Aikman retired after 12 seasons. Dan Marino retired after 13 seasons. Both of these guys were better athletes and played on great teams with solid lines and skill players. Why should we expect Brady to surpass Aikman or Marino? Let's face it Brady may only have 2-3 solid years left then his skills will decline and he could be out of the league. This is likely the last year for Bruschi and could be for Faulk. It could be the last year as a Patriot for Seymour. Light and Brady could be the only two players left from all three SBs after this season. There's something to be said for legacy players and continuity. This is our last best year to win it all. Yes we have to plan ahead but let's not pass on a player that can help us this year and for the future for some unknown 1st round pick and a 3rd this year and give up #23 where we could land a stud to help us now.
I agree we should try to do anything within reason to get Rey Maualuga. I see him as a 5-6 pro bowl kind of guy. We pair him up with Mayo and we would have the best inside LB tandem of any 3-4 team in football. They are perfect compliments for each other. Mayo has the speed and intelligence and Mauagula brings the big hits, passion and swagger to the middle.
I'm hoping for a bad pro day tomorrow for RM. I'm also hoping that BJ Raji falls to Denver at 12 and Beanie Wells is there at 16 for SD. That would increase our chances of him slipping to 23. Perhaps once he gets past 16 to maybe 19 we would only have to throw in 89 with 23 to get him. Pick 58 is a great spot to be. If this was last year, 58 would be our 2nd pick in the draft 4 spots ahead of where we took Wheatley.
This is addressed to PoM, as for trading out for future picks I'd be okay if they are late round picks but the future is now. We have to load up and get one more Vince to put in the trophy case for this dynasty. Brady is entering his 10th season. He's under contract through 2010. After these next two years Brady will be entering his 12th season. Troy Aikman retired after 12 seasons. Dan Marino retired after 13 seasons. Both of these guys were better athletes and played on great teams with solid lines and skill players. Why should we expect Brady to surpass Aikman or Marino? Let's face it Brady may only have 2-3 solid years left then his skills will decline and he could be out of the league. This is likely the last year for Bruschi and could be for Faulk. It could be the last year as a Patriot for Seymour. Light and Brady could be the only two players left from all three SBs after this season. There's something to be said for legacy players and continuity. This is our last best year to win it all. Yes we have to plan ahead but let's not pass on a player that can help us this year and for the future for some unknown 1st round pick and a 3rd this year and give up #23 where we could land a stud to help us now.
QUOTE (Faucet @ Mar 31 2009, 10:37:01 AM)
Hi Rich,
I agree we should try to do anything within reason to get Rey Maualuga. I see him as a 5-6 pro bowl kind of guy. We pair him up with Mayo and we would have the best inside LB tandem of any 3-4 team in football. They are perfect compliments for each other. Mayo has the speed and intelligence and Mauagula brings the big hits, passion and swagger to the middle.
I'm hoping for a bad pro day tomorrow for RM. I'm also hoping that BJ Raji falls to Denver at 12 and Beanie Wells is there at 16 for SD. That would increase our chances of him slipping to 23. Perhaps once he gets past 16 to maybe 19 we would only have to throw in 89 with 23 to get him. Pick 58 is a great spot to be. If this was last year, 58 would be our 2nd pick in the draft 4 spots ahead of where we took Wheatley.
This is addressed to PoM, as for trading out for future picks I'd be okay if they are late round picks but the future is now. We have to load up and get one more Vince to put in the trophy case for this dynasty. Brady is entering his 10th season. He's under contract through 2010. After these next two years Brady will be entering his 12th season. Troy Aikman retired after 12 seasons. Dan Marino retired after 13 seasons. Both of these guys were better athletes and played on great teams with solid lines and skill players. Why should we expect Brady to surpass Aikman or Marino? Let's face it Brady may only have 2-3 solid years left then his skills will decline and he could be out of the league. This is likely the last year for Bruschi and could be for Faulk. It could be the last year as a Patriot for Seymour. Light and Brady could be the only two players left from all three SBs after this season. There's something to be said for legacy players and continuity. This is our last best year to win it all. Yes we have to plan ahead but let's not pass on a player that can help us this year and for the future for some unknown 1st round pick and a 3rd this year and give up #23 where we could land a stud to help us now.
I agree we should try to do anything within reason to get Rey Maualuga. I see him as a 5-6 pro bowl kind of guy. We pair him up with Mayo and we would have the best inside LB tandem of any 3-4 team in football. They are perfect compliments for each other. Mayo has the speed and intelligence and Mauagula brings the big hits, passion and swagger to the middle.
I'm hoping for a bad pro day tomorrow for RM. I'm also hoping that BJ Raji falls to Denver at 12 and Beanie Wells is there at 16 for SD. That would increase our chances of him slipping to 23. Perhaps once he gets past 16 to maybe 19 we would only have to throw in 89 with 23 to get him. Pick 58 is a great spot to be. If this was last year, 58 would be our 2nd pick in the draft 4 spots ahead of where we took Wheatley.
This is addressed to PoM, as for trading out for future picks I'd be okay if they are late round picks but the future is now. We have to load up and get one more Vince to put in the trophy case for this dynasty. Brady is entering his 10th season. He's under contract through 2010. After these next two years Brady will be entering his 12th season. Troy Aikman retired after 12 seasons. Dan Marino retired after 13 seasons. Both of these guys were better athletes and played on great teams with solid lines and skill players. Why should we expect Brady to surpass Aikman or Marino? Let's face it Brady may only have 2-3 solid years left then his skills will decline and he could be out of the league. This is likely the last year for Bruschi and could be for Faulk. It could be the last year as a Patriot for Seymour. Light and Brady could be the only two players left from all three SBs after this season. There's something to be said for legacy players and continuity. This is our last best year to win it all. Yes we have to plan ahead but let's not pass on a player that can help us this year and for the future for some unknown 1st round pick and a 3rd this year and give up #23 where we could land a stud to help us now.
The last time they traded there first round pick for a first the next year was when they got Jerod Mayo I'm fine with that outcome. If we traded pick 23 we still have the 3 second round picks and 2 3rd round picks. That still leaves us in a great draft position. It also would save cap room that we could use to sign Wilfork to an extension before the season starts.
QUOTE (Faucet @ Mar 31 2009, 9:37:01 AM)
This is addressed to PoM, as for trading out for future picks I'd be okay if they are late round picks but the future is now. We have to load up and get one more Vince to put in the trophy case for this dynasty. Brady is entering his 10th season. He's under contract through 2010. After these next two years Brady will be entering his 12th season. Troy Aikman retired after 12 seasons. Dan Marino retired after 13 seasons. Both of these guys were better athletes and played on great teams with solid lines and skill players. Why should we expect Brady to surpass Aikman or Marino? Let's face it Brady may only have 2-3 solid years left then his skills will decline and he could be out of the league. This is likely the last year for Bruschi and could be for Faulk. It could be the last year as a Patriot for Seymour. Light and Brady could be the only two players left from all three SBs after this season. There's something to be said for legacy players and continuity. This is our last best year to win it all. Yes we have to plan ahead but let's not pass on a player that can help us this year and for the future for some unknown 1st round pick and a 3rd this year and give up #23 where we could land a stud to help us now.
I would have agreed with the "future is now" theory more if the expected rush of extra juniors and RS Sophs declaring due to the expiry of the CBA had come to past. But it didn't. Next year's draft will be as strong as this one, and for a team with our kind of talent and reputation, the future is always the future, and the present will be just fine.
Mayo as a #10 overall pick is carrying a $2.7MM cap figure. A #23 pick would be more like $1.4MM. It isn't going to help in 2010 to get a top 10 pick and have to shell out big bucks for him when we can't sign Wilfork, Mankins or Seymour. Besides, we had 2 first round picks when we traded #28 to SF and ended up with #7 which became #10 with another trade. The NFL took one of our 1sts away last year so we ended up with one. This year we only have the 1 first rounded but yes we have 3 2nds. If we address, ILB, OLB and WR I could see trading #58 for a future 2nd to a bad team plus a 2009 5th or something like that.
As Rich suggests I would be happy trading one of those 2nds, preferably 58 along with 23 to move up and get Maualuga.
BB will trade his picks if he likes the value returned as a general rule. I think this year is an exception because this could be our strongest team for awhile and we have 31 F/A after the season so it's good to get as many future stars on board now to learn rather than waiting another year for them.
If we could come out of this draft with; Rey Maualuga, Conner Barwin, Max Unger and a decent WR and/or TE we could trade the rest of the draft away and be stoked.
As Rich suggests I would be happy trading one of those 2nds, preferably 58 along with 23 to move up and get Maualuga.
BB will trade his picks if he likes the value returned as a general rule. I think this year is an exception because this could be our strongest team for awhile and we have 31 F/A after the season so it's good to get as many future stars on board now to learn rather than waiting another year for them.
If we could come out of this draft with; Rey Maualuga, Conner Barwin, Max Unger and a decent WR and/or TE we could trade the rest of the draft away and be stoked.
QUOTE (Faucet @ Mar 31 2009, 10:37:01 AM)
Hi Rich,
I agree we should try to do anything within reason to get Rey Maualuga. I see him as a 5-6 pro bowl kind of guy. We pair him up with Mayo and we would have the best inside LB tandem of any 3-4 team in football. They are perfect compliments for each other. Mayo has the speed and intelligence and Mauagula brings the big hits, passion and swagger to the middle.
I'm hoping for a bad pro day tomorrow for RM. I'm also hoping that BJ Raji falls to Denver at 12 and Beanie Wells is there at 16 for SD. That would increase our chances of him slipping to 23. Perhaps once he gets past 16 to maybe 19 we would only have to throw in 89 with 23 to get him. Pick 58 is a great spot to be. If this was last year, 58 would be our 2nd pick in the draft 4 spots ahead of where we took Wheatley.
This is addressed to PoM, as for trading out for future picks I'd be okay if they are late round picks but the future is now. We have to load up and get one more Vince to put in the trophy case for this dynasty. Brady is entering his 10th season. He's under contract through 2010. After these next two years Brady will be entering his 12th season. Troy Aikman retired after 12 seasons. Dan Marino retired after 13 seasons. Both of these guys were better athletes and played on great teams with solid lines and skill players. Why should we expect Brady to surpass Aikman or Marino? Let's face it Brady may only have 2-3 solid years left then his skills will decline and he could be out of the league. This is likely the last year for Bruschi and could be for Faulk. It could be the last year as a Patriot for Seymour. Light and Brady could be the only two players left from all three SBs after this season. There's something to be said for legacy players and continuity. This is our last best year to win it all. Yes we have to plan ahead but let's not pass on a player that can help us this year and for the future for some unknown 1st round pick and a 3rd this year and give up #23 where we could land a stud to help us now.
I agree we should try to do anything within reason to get Rey Maualuga. I see him as a 5-6 pro bowl kind of guy. We pair him up with Mayo and we would have the best inside LB tandem of any 3-4 team in football. They are perfect compliments for each other. Mayo has the speed and intelligence and Mauagula brings the big hits, passion and swagger to the middle.
I'm hoping for a bad pro day tomorrow for RM. I'm also hoping that BJ Raji falls to Denver at 12 and Beanie Wells is there at 16 for SD. That would increase our chances of him slipping to 23. Perhaps once he gets past 16 to maybe 19 we would only have to throw in 89 with 23 to get him. Pick 58 is a great spot to be. If this was last year, 58 would be our 2nd pick in the draft 4 spots ahead of where we took Wheatley.
This is addressed to PoM, as for trading out for future picks I'd be okay if they are late round picks but the future is now. We have to load up and get one more Vince to put in the trophy case for this dynasty. Brady is entering his 10th season. He's under contract through 2010. After these next two years Brady will be entering his 12th season. Troy Aikman retired after 12 seasons. Dan Marino retired after 13 seasons. Both of these guys were better athletes and played on great teams with solid lines and skill players. Why should we expect Brady to surpass Aikman or Marino? Let's face it Brady may only have 2-3 solid years left then his skills will decline and he could be out of the league. This is likely the last year for Bruschi and could be for Faulk. It could be the last year as a Patriot for Seymour. Light and Brady could be the only two players left from all three SBs after this season. There's something to be said for legacy players and continuity. This is our last best year to win it all. Yes we have to plan ahead but let's not pass on a player that can help us this year and for the future for some unknown 1st round pick and a 3rd this year and give up #23 where we could land a stud to help us now.
FAUCETMAN--For those of you who do not know him--He is the most knowledgeable guy about the Patriots that I have known in the past few years--Last Year Faucetman correctly projected Mayo in the first round and in the previous year also projected Meriweather in the first round. FAUCETMAN--I think that the Maualuga feelings are on target but I think that the Patriots want a WILDCAT offensive player on their roster as well. Most people think that is either Percy Harvin from Florida or Pat White from West Virginia. I am here to say that Rhett Bomar is the guy and the Patriots will select him in the third round. Check out his performance at the combine and it is comparable to Pat White--at a lower draft position--My mock draft also must foresee another pro day conclusion--Bill Belichick went to see Cody at UCONN and Dante S went to see Jamon Meredith at South Carolina--therefore, I think that Meredith might be pick #34 instead of Beatty who might actually be a first round pick. In addition, Cody might be the de/olb that they are looking for in about the first COMP pick. I may adjust my mock to represent this after I have had further analysis--thanks for listening--rich from newport
This is one place where Maualuga has NEVER been out of our Top 10...not since 2006 anyway. I've been targeting him as a perfect fit for the Pats for over two years.
That having been said, I really believe he will got Top 10, and for us to move up to get him would cost us at least our #23 pick PLUS two other picks among the first 97 picks in the draft.
Should we do that? Maybe....
But, given the choice between doing that, and the very real prospect of being able to draft Michael Johnson at #23 (or by trading up--or maybe even down--just a very few slots at low cost to get him) my vote has to go with Johnson.
That having been said, I really believe he will got Top 10, and for us to move up to get him would cost us at least our #23 pick PLUS two other picks among the first 97 picks in the draft.
Should we do that? Maybe....
But, given the choice between doing that, and the very real prospect of being able to draft Michael Johnson at #23 (or by trading up--or maybe even down--just a very few slots at low cost to get him) my vote has to go with Johnson.
Rich,
Thanks for the kudos. It's hard to read the tea leaves with BB. We can bring 30 prospects to Foxboro for private workouts. BB is not just bringing in 1st or 2nd round talents. As reported in the Globe today, the Pats are hosting QB Stephen McGee, OG Rich Ohrnberger and DT Adrian Grady. Those guys are late round prospects at best. I have McGee at #106 but the other two didn't crack my top 300. So, it could be that showing them attention would make us front runners in getting them as undrafted free agents.
Besides Meridith who I have ranked at 60, Dante Scarnecchia is also working out in Florida today OL Jason Watkins and Phil Trautwein. I have Watkins at 139 and Trautwein is not on my radar. So, we can't read too much into these visits and private workouts. DS worked out Eric Wood yesterday. I absolutely would love this pick. Wood is an incredible athlete. He's a ripped 6-4, 310 and threw back 225 - 30 times. He's listed as a center but played both tackle and guard some as a junior. Wood has been called the most prepared player in college. Wood has been known to be found in the wee hours of the morning still examining game tapes in the film room, preparing for his upcoming opponent. He has been compared to Mike Webster. I have him ranked at 46 so he is likely a target at 47.
The Pats are also hosting Ziggy Hood which I find interesting since I think he is a true NT. He probably can play 3-4 end but I wonder if we aren't feeling good about our chances to sign Wilfork and are looking at Ziggy as a possible replacement. That would be upsetting.
It does seem like we are working out a lot of OL types at different draft locations. Wood at #47, Meridith at #58, etc. We know BB went to UCONN so perhaps Beatty at #23 or #34. If one of these guys mentioned is there at one of those spots where we have them rated, I would not be surprised if we pull the trigger.
Reports were that we're bringing in Connor Barwin. I'd be excited about that pick. Also being hosted are the top 3 safeties, W. Moore, Delmus and Chung. So, it looks like we are all seeing the players we are tracking for the most part as players BB has also shown interest. Safety, OLB, OL etc. I'm a little surprised that it doesn't appear we are interested in any of the top ILBs like Maualuga or Laurinaitis at least that has been reported.
Thanks for the kudos. It's hard to read the tea leaves with BB. We can bring 30 prospects to Foxboro for private workouts. BB is not just bringing in 1st or 2nd round talents. As reported in the Globe today, the Pats are hosting QB Stephen McGee, OG Rich Ohrnberger and DT Adrian Grady. Those guys are late round prospects at best. I have McGee at #106 but the other two didn't crack my top 300. So, it could be that showing them attention would make us front runners in getting them as undrafted free agents.
Besides Meridith who I have ranked at 60, Dante Scarnecchia is also working out in Florida today OL Jason Watkins and Phil Trautwein. I have Watkins at 139 and Trautwein is not on my radar. So, we can't read too much into these visits and private workouts. DS worked out Eric Wood yesterday. I absolutely would love this pick. Wood is an incredible athlete. He's a ripped 6-4, 310 and threw back 225 - 30 times. He's listed as a center but played both tackle and guard some as a junior. Wood has been called the most prepared player in college. Wood has been known to be found in the wee hours of the morning still examining game tapes in the film room, preparing for his upcoming opponent. He has been compared to Mike Webster. I have him ranked at 46 so he is likely a target at 47.
The Pats are also hosting Ziggy Hood which I find interesting since I think he is a true NT. He probably can play 3-4 end but I wonder if we aren't feeling good about our chances to sign Wilfork and are looking at Ziggy as a possible replacement. That would be upsetting.
It does seem like we are working out a lot of OL types at different draft locations. Wood at #47, Meridith at #58, etc. We know BB went to UCONN so perhaps Beatty at #23 or #34. If one of these guys mentioned is there at one of those spots where we have them rated, I would not be surprised if we pull the trigger.
Reports were that we're bringing in Connor Barwin. I'd be excited about that pick. Also being hosted are the top 3 safeties, W. Moore, Delmus and Chung. So, it looks like we are all seeing the players we are tracking for the most part as players BB has also shown interest. Safety, OLB, OL etc. I'm a little surprised that it doesn't appear we are interested in any of the top ILBs like Maualuga or Laurinaitis at least that has been reported.
PoM,
I give you guys a lot of credit for not jumping on the bandwagon with a lot of those so called experts in dropping Maualuga like a rock. The guy pulls up with a hammy and turns in a slow Combine 40 and all a sudden he can't play football? I do think RM will be a top 15 pick, top 10 maybe. The Saints are now rumored to be very interested in him at 14. I don't think we should pay more than 23/58 for him. I like some of the other choices out there.
Any one hear how the USC Pro Day is going?
I give you guys a lot of credit for not jumping on the bandwagon with a lot of those so called experts in dropping Maualuga like a rock. The guy pulls up with a hammy and turns in a slow Combine 40 and all a sudden he can't play football? I do think RM will be a top 15 pick, top 10 maybe. The Saints are now rumored to be very interested in him at 14. I don't think we should pay more than 23/58 for him. I like some of the other choices out there.
Any one hear how the USC Pro Day is going?
The below are players ranked by a different board, no offense CDS +/- 4 spots from our draft location. If we could have any of these players, who would you take? I underlined my choices but there are so many ways you could go and still come up big.
19 Harvin
20 Maualuga
21 V. Davis
22 Matthews
23 Freeman
24 Jerry
25 Butler
26 Hood
27 Laurinaitis
30 D. Brown
31 Pettigrew
32 Barwin
33 DJ Moore
34 Nicks
35 Mack
36 M. Johnson
37 Robiski
38 Maybin
43 Unger
44 Beatty
45 Cook
46 Wood
47 Brace
48 Sintim
49 Chung
50 Delmas
51 S. Smith
54 A. Brown
55 Byrd
56 Greene
57 W. Moore
58 Iglesias
59 M. Freeman
60 Gilbert
61 Meredith
62 Beckwith
85 Sidbury
86 Lewis
87 Beckum
88 D. Wiliams
89 P. Kruger
90 Bomar
91 Cadogan
92 Ringer
93 D. Scott
93 D. Scott
94 Vaughn
95 Ellerbe
96 J. Williams
97 T. Kropog
98 Bruton
99 Ogletree
100 Magee
101 Caldwell
19 Harvin
20 Maualuga
21 V. Davis
22 Matthews
23 Freeman
24 Jerry
25 Butler
26 Hood
27 Laurinaitis
30 D. Brown
31 Pettigrew
32 Barwin
33 DJ Moore
34 Nicks
35 Mack
36 M. Johnson
37 Robiski
38 Maybin
43 Unger
44 Beatty
45 Cook
46 Wood
47 Brace
48 Sintim
49 Chung
50 Delmas
51 S. Smith
54 A. Brown
55 Byrd
56 Greene
57 W. Moore
58 Iglesias
59 M. Freeman
60 Gilbert
61 Meredith
62 Beckwith
85 Sidbury
86 Lewis
87 Beckum
88 D. Wiliams
89 P. Kruger
90 Bomar
91 Cadogan
92 Ringer
93 D. Scott
93 D. Scott
94 Vaughn
95 Ellerbe
96 J. Williams
97 T. Kropog
98 Bruton
99 Ogletree
100 Magee
101 Caldwell
Faucet--I have taken Rhett Bomar completely off my board. He had three strikes against him at Oklahoma before he was kicked off the football team. 1) Underage drinking 2) Underage drinking and 3) Getting paid as a no show at a car dealership of a Sooner Booster. Tonight, in doing some research on Bomar, I came across an alleged picture of him at a St. Patricks day celebration using an alley way as a port- a- john. If this is the case, this young man has RED FLAGS all over him and I will have taken his name off of my list completely. I did adjust my mock to include both Jamon Meredith at pick #34 and Cody Brown at pick #97 (first comp pick). As much as I would love to have a strong safety in the draft, my firm belief is that Bill Belichick will once again go back to the Nick Saban connection for a safety in Rashad Johnson--just my opinion--rich from newport
Hey Rich,
I'm not a Bomar fan either. My thought on drafting one is if we're going to do it draft a kid like Pat White since he can help as a 6th receiver, on special teams and as a wild cat, or draft a QB in the 6th round and hope to find another gem there like Brady. I think O'Connell will develop into a decent back-up but still would not be against bringing in a veteran and not drafting a QB at all.
You could be right in thinking Meredith at 34 as a value spot because every thinks there will be a run on OTs again. I think Meredith is a mid to late 2nd round grade and BB doesn't usually reach. I think at 47 or with a slight trade up throwing in our 4th we could get Unger, Wood or possibly Mack. We really need a new OT and a G because if Neal goes down we don't have a decent back-up.
I'm not a Bomar fan either. My thought on drafting one is if we're going to do it draft a kid like Pat White since he can help as a 6th receiver, on special teams and as a wild cat, or draft a QB in the 6th round and hope to find another gem there like Brady. I think O'Connell will develop into a decent back-up but still would not be against bringing in a veteran and not drafting a QB at all.
You could be right in thinking Meredith at 34 as a value spot because every thinks there will be a run on OTs again. I think Meredith is a mid to late 2nd round grade and BB doesn't usually reach. I think at 47 or with a slight trade up throwing in our 4th we could get Unger, Wood or possibly Mack. We really need a new OT and a G because if Neal goes down we don't have a decent back-up.
I think we can pretty safely assume the Pats are targeting O-Line with at least one of those first two of three 2nd round picks. I hope they emerge from the first three rounds with a new heir apparent at LOT and a solid swing man who can play at least 3 line positions.
I think they may very well be thinking BPA with the first pick though...Percy Harvin, Michael Johnson, Brandon Pettigrew, Knowshon....almost anybody who slips, but especially a slipping CB or ILB...i.e. just whoever the best guy is on their board.
We have enough picks before the first 100 guys are gone to fill any slight needs (outside the o-line) any time we please!
I LOVE IT....
I think they may very well be thinking BPA with the first pick though...Percy Harvin, Michael Johnson, Brandon Pettigrew, Knowshon....almost anybody who slips, but especially a slipping CB or ILB...i.e. just whoever the best guy is on their board.
We have enough picks before the first 100 guys are gone to fill any slight needs (outside the o-line) any time we please!
I LOVE IT....
Faucet--It is being reported that BJ Raji tested positive at the combine--Does this take him out of the top 10 and put him in the 12-18 range or is it a non factor for his draft status--I am of the opinion that it will be a non factor for his draft status but a factor in the language of his contract. Any thoughts and if he is in the 12-18 range are the Patriots now players in the BJ Raji sweepstakes--rich from newport
QUOTE (rich @ Apr 2 2009, 4:18:58 PM)
Faucet--It is being reported that BJ Raji tested positive at the combine--Does this take him out of the top 10 and put him in the 12-18 range or is it a non factor for his draft status--I am of the opinion that it will be a non factor for his draft status but a factor in the language of his contract. Any thoughts and if he is in the 12-18 range are the Patriots now players in the BJ Raji sweepstakes--rich from newport
It's going to depend on what he tested positive for. Every team knows he tested positive for Marijuana while at BC. If it's Marijuana again he's stays in the Top 10.
QUOTE (Faucet @ Mar 31 2009, 10:37:01 AM)
Hi Rich,
I agree we should try to do anything within reason to get Rey Maualuga. I see him as a 5-6 pro bowl kind of guy. We pair him up with Mayo and we would have the best inside LB tandem of any 3-4 team in football. They are perfect compliments for each other. Mayo has the speed and intelligence and Mauagula brings the big hits, passion and swagger to the middle.
I'm hoping for a bad pro day tomorrow for RM. I'm also hoping that BJ Raji falls to Denver at 12 and Beanie Wells is there at 16 for SD. That would increase our chances of him slipping to 23. Perhaps once he gets past 16 to maybe 19 we would only have to throw in 89 with 23 to get him. Pick 58 is a great spot to be. If this was last year, 58 would be our 2nd pick in the draft 4 spots ahead of where we took Wheatley.
This is addressed to PoM, as for trading out for future picks I'd be okay if they are late round picks but the future is now. We have to load up and get one more Vince to put in the trophy case for this dynasty. Brady is entering his 10th season. He's under contract through 2010. After these next two years Brady will be entering his 12th season. Troy Aikman retired after 12 seasons. Dan Marino retired after 13 seasons. Both of these guys were better athletes and played on great teams with solid lines and skill players. Why should we expect Brady to surpass Aikman or Marino? Let's face it Brady may only have 2-3 solid years left then his skills will decline and he could be out of the league. This is likely the last year for Bruschi and could be for Faulk. It could be the last year as a Patriot for Seymour. Light and Brady could be the only two players left from all three SBs after this season. There's something to be said for legacy players and continuity. This is our last best year to win it all. Yes we have to plan ahead but let's not pass on a player that can help us this year and for the future for some unknown 1st round pick and a 3rd this year and give up #23 where we could land a stud to help us now.
I agree we should try to do anything within reason to get Rey Maualuga. I see him as a 5-6 pro bowl kind of guy. We pair him up with Mayo and we would have the best inside LB tandem of any 3-4 team in football. They are perfect compliments for each other. Mayo has the speed and intelligence and Mauagula brings the big hits, passion and swagger to the middle.
I'm hoping for a bad pro day tomorrow for RM. I'm also hoping that BJ Raji falls to Denver at 12 and Beanie Wells is there at 16 for SD. That would increase our chances of him slipping to 23. Perhaps once he gets past 16 to maybe 19 we would only have to throw in 89 with 23 to get him. Pick 58 is a great spot to be. If this was last year, 58 would be our 2nd pick in the draft 4 spots ahead of where we took Wheatley.
This is addressed to PoM, as for trading out for future picks I'd be okay if they are late round picks but the future is now. We have to load up and get one more Vince to put in the trophy case for this dynasty. Brady is entering his 10th season. He's under contract through 2010. After these next two years Brady will be entering his 12th season. Troy Aikman retired after 12 seasons. Dan Marino retired after 13 seasons. Both of these guys were better athletes and played on great teams with solid lines and skill players. Why should we expect Brady to surpass Aikman or Marino? Let's face it Brady may only have 2-3 solid years left then his skills will decline and he could be out of the league. This is likely the last year for Bruschi and could be for Faulk. It could be the last year as a Patriot for Seymour. Light and Brady could be the only two players left from all three SBs after this season. There's something to be said for legacy players and continuity. This is our last best year to win it all. Yes we have to plan ahead but let's not pass on a player that can help us this year and for the future for some unknown 1st round pick and a 3rd this year and give up #23 where we could land a stud to help us now.
I really don't see the Chargers taking a RB in the 1st...later perhaps, but not the 1st. It will be either a DL, OL, or ILB in the 1st...and likely the BPA sitting there...and that might be a surprise player nobody's thinking of in this spot at this moment. Now, I do not put the idea of them trading down out of the picture, especially this year when they are without a 2nd and do have a few holes they want to fill, or/and create competition for to bring up the intensity from those positions. On the other hand, with a few extra comp picks in hand, I wouldn't rule out a move up either, and with Raji's likely drop out of the top 5 with his testing positive at the combine he could be a target for them although I think that's much less likely than a move down...especially since AJ stresses character. Already Vincent Jackson is paying the price as AJ was all set to give him a new contract before his DUI, so I'm not sure he would take Raji if he fell to him at 16.
QUOTE (rich @ Apr 2 2009, 4:18:58 PM)
Faucet--It is being reported that BJ Raji tested positive at the combine--Does this take him out of the top 10 and put him in the 12-18 range or is it a non factor for his draft status--I am of the opinion that it will be a non factor for his draft status but a factor in the language of his contract. Any thoughts and if he is in the 12-18 range are the Patriots now players in the BJ Raji sweepstakes--rich from newport
Rich,
Charley Casserly was asked this same question on Path to the Draft and he said if he was still a GM, he'd take him off his board. I thought that was a pretty serious thing to do given it's just pot. It's not like it was coke or steroids. But the point Casserly made was every player invited to the Combine knows they are going to be tested for drugs. If Raji can't stay off marijuana for a week leading up to the Combine knowing he's going to be tested then he must have a serious problem that he can't control. Or at least he isn't taking his profession seriously.
I don't know how many GMs share Casserly's view of this but I think there is a chance now that he falls out of the top 10. I don't think he gets past Denver at 12 since they really need a big NT in their new 3-4.
I don't see the Pats moving up to get Raji. They don't really have a need for him unless it's thought the Wilfork situation is hopeless. The Pats worked out Ziggy Hood so perhaps if they do think they need a new NT they can take Hood at 23.
QUOTE (nyyjones @ Apr 3 2009, 1:07:04 AM)
I really don't see the Chargers taking a RB in the 1st...later perhaps, but not the 1st. It will be either a DL, OL, or ILB in the 1st...and likely the BPA sitting there...and that might be a surprise player nobody's thinking of in this spot at this moment. Now, I do not put the idea of them trading down out of the picture, especially this year when they are without a 2nd and do have a few holes they want to fill, or/and create competition for to bring up the intensity from those positions. On the other hand, with a few extra comp picks in hand, I wouldn't rule out a move up either, and with Raji's likely drop out of the top 5 with his testing positive at the combine he could be a target for them although I think that's much less likely than a move down...especially since AJ stresses character. Already Vincent Jackson is paying the price as AJ was all set to give him a new contract before his DUI, so I'm not sure he would take Raji if he fell to him at 16.
I was surprised by the idea of the Chargers taking a back at 16 too. It wasn't my idea. The SD beat reporter on Path to the Draft suggested it. He said the Chargers are crazy about Beanie Wells and said if he's there they'd be all over him. The Chargers put a pretty big premium on quality running backs. Tagging Sproiles should tell us that. The word is this will be LT's last season as a Charger and they don't have anyone who can carry the ball 20-25 times a game. LT has been injury prone recently so the need is really now. Rivers needs a solid running game or he isn't very effective. Those are the things I heard. I'm not disputing they have bigger needs on defense.
QUOTE (PatriotofMaine @ Apr 2 2009, 12:20:20 PM)
I think we can pretty safely assume the Pats are targeting O-Line with at least one of those first two of three 2nd round picks. I hope they emerge from the first three rounds with a new heir apparent at LOT and a solid swing man who can play at least 3 line positions.
I think they may very well be thinking BPA with the first pick though...Percy Harvin, Michael Johnson, Brandon Pettigrew, Knowshon....almost anybody who slips, but especially a slipping CB or ILB...i.e. just whoever the best guy is on their board.
We have enough picks before the first 100 guys are gone to fill any slight needs (outside the o-line) any time we please!
I LOVE IT....
I think they may very well be thinking BPA with the first pick though...Percy Harvin, Michael Johnson, Brandon Pettigrew, Knowshon....almost anybody who slips, but especially a slipping CB or ILB...i.e. just whoever the best guy is on their board.
We have enough picks before the first 100 guys are gone to fill any slight needs (outside the o-line) any time we please!
I LOVE IT....
I agree in that I think we'll see at least one OL added in the 2nd round. I'm not sure it will be an OT though. If you look purely at need and who is likely to be where in the draft I think interior line will be the one taken. The only OT likely available at or after 34 is Meredith. Loadholt is an early 3rd. Even at 58, he'd be a reach but he won't be there at 89. It's possible but unlikely that Beatty or Britton make it to 34. If one of them does, then I agree we should take one of them. However there are a bunch of interior linesmen with solid 2nd round grades available in each spot we're drafting. You have Unger, Mack, Robinson and Wood to chose from.
Looking at need we have Mankins and Neal set to become free agents after the season. Neal is getting up there and has been injury prone. I love Unger. This kid can play anywhere except LT. I like Wood too. I think Wood could be had right at 47 and Unger maybe a slight move up to 40-42 depending on who you like.
The biggest need and deepest area of the early part of the draft is OLB. I'd be shocked if we don't take one with 23 or 34. I keep hearing the Pats are working out and bringing in a bunch of no name players. They recently brought LB like Jason Williams in. While he's listed as an OLB he's more of a ILB I'd think in our scheme. He's small 6-1, 240ish but fast. Maybe they are looking for another Mayo, a guy with speed who can cover vs a big thumper to stuff the run; speed instead of strength to get to the ball carrier. This makes me think they are not interested or don't think they can get the bigger Maualuga or Laurinaitis or that they don't value ILB as highly as other positions. I would also not rule out CB and pure pass rushing DE like Ayers and Johnson with either top pick.
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