#but that goes back to LSU game day fits

[sofferaddict]

Another stunning collection of photos collected from multiple social media platforms over the years all highlighting Joe at different phases of his football journey. Credit to anyone who took the photo or made significant edits then originally posted these gems.

[arielburrow]

So It Goes

Your relationship with Joe seems to be a flame that was never put out.

“I just don’t see how this is ever going to work.” You struggle to get the words out through your sobs. Your hands cupped your face as you sat at the edge of your boyfriend's bed, his figure sulking above. “We keep telling ourselves we can push through but Joe we are miserable, and we aren’t anywhere near the end. You're going to Cincinnati in less than a month and I’m working out of Miami for at least the next three years!” Your cries become heavier as you feel his weight beside you as his head falls to your shoulder. You hear his silent cries as well.

“Your right…I hate it, but your right,” he mumbles into your shoulder. You pull him closer to you, grasping the fact that your relationship was inevitably at the end. “I mean really Joe, before I flew out here we shared what? Five texts in the last month? I barely made it to three games this season,” You whisper towards him. “I know, I know but baby you have to understand it won’t always be like that…just right now life is a whirlwind, and I just have to figure some things out but then-”

“Joey,” you cut him off. “You’ve been saying that for two years now…I mean i’ve accepted at this point your entire life is a whirlwind and I just don’t seem to fit into it.” You lift your head and stare blankly out of the window of his apartment. Thinking back to the first day you stepped foot in here and how optimistic you both were for the success of your long-distance relationship. You and Joe had been dating for two years back in Ohio and you’d be lying if you said those weren’t the best two years of your life. It started with innocent study sessions that eventually led to late-night conversations lying next to each other on his rickety dorm mattress. Before you knew it, he swept you off your feet and showed you what love really was. You remember the tears you wept when he first told you he decided on LSU. He immediately embraced you and you promised him they were “happy” tears and you were just so “excited” for his future. That being undoubtedly true, you never imagined how much Joe's life would change in the upcoming years, and how little you would be a part of it.

“y/n…I’m willing to wait, I promise you I don't care how much longer we’re apart for I’ll wait for the days when I get to wake up to you every morning.” he seemingly pleads as his head rises off your shoulder and you both meet each other's eyes. “Joe I am so beyond proud of everything this year has brought you and everything the next years are going to bring you. But, honey you know as well as I do that we are not the same people we were two year ago unpacking in this very apartment. Joe this is not a bad thing i need you to hear me, it’s just not healthy for either of us to keep dragging on a relationship that is fighting to keep its head above water.” You grab his hand and hold it close to you before you reluctantly stand and head for the door, tears streaming down your face as you reach for the handle.

“y/n…it’ll always be you, I promise even if we never see each other again, we both know deep down we were always meant for each other.”

That was four years ago

and as you stood in the mirror applying final touches to your face, it finally hit you. That gut feeling that you’ve had since you opened the invite but couldn’t quite put your finger on.

He’s going to be there.

There was no doubt about it. Sam was one of his best friends and it was the middle of the off-season. Hell he might even be in the wedding you think to yourself as you notice your face turn in the mirror. You both had lived about a million lives since you last saw each other which you know to be a fact due to your “surprising interest” in football whenever the Bengals were playing as your brother would joke. It was unintentional snooping on a life you swore you were putting an end to as soon as you got back to Florida. Of course your life carried on, you started dating again and made a great group of friends. But no matter what every Sunday you found yourself sat watching Joe through his brutal knee injury, Super bowl attempt, and current list of nagging injuries. Every now and then your mom would mention him over the phone but you were always quick to dismiss him, refusing to admit you still kept an eye on him. Besides the pit in your stomach, you were excited to watch your friend Sam marry his childhood best friend Ava and see all your friends you hadn’t gotten a chance to catch up with since moving back to the Ohio area. You moved back a couple of months ago, finding peace working with a new company that promised a more stationary enviorment for you. It was nice to be closer to family and friends and although it wasn’t considered Ohio, Covington was just under two miles from Cincinnati.

“Have you seen the gold hoops i laid out? I cant find them,” rachel comes into the room in a search. She was your best friend and you were so excited to be staying with her for the weekend, given she lived in down town cincy where the wedding was taking place. “here.” You hand her the earrings as she smiles.

“you look extra good,” she smirks bouncing your curls and flatting your dress once more. You roll your eyes knowing where she was going with this. “C'mon y/n, it’s been like a year since you’ve gotten laid, I just know tonight’s the night.” she laughs as she puts on her heels. “Your terrible, I’m not going to this wedding to get some, I’m going to celebrate our friends and-”

“you know he’s in the wedding right? I just wanted to warn you, Sam said he’s his best man,” she says looking up with a sympathetic smile. You sigh, “that’s good for him, glad him and Sam are still just as close.” You smile trying to brush off the conversation.

Arriving at the venue, you took in how beautifully decorated it was. White roses lined the entire isle and fairy lights were strung from each end of the ceiling. You and Rachel greeted familiar faces as you found your seats. You chatted for a bit with others, greeting both Sam and Ava’s parents. Soon after, silence fell as piano chords began to play and heads turned towards the double doors as they began to open. You watched as the party made its way down the aisle, some new faces, but for the most part, you recognized everyone.

Finally, you spotted him. His dirty blonde locks grown out long, framing his face in a way that brought out his features like no other. His frame was just as tall, just much more muscular in comparison to when you last saw him. He made his way down the aisle, arms locked with a pretty blonde with blue eyes. They walked with a sort of synchronicity, capturing every eye in the room even more than before. You couldn’t help but let out a smile at the fact that his eyes remained glued in-front of him, he seemed nervous. You felt Rachel poke your stomach, making you giggle a little. You hated to admit it, but he looked good, so good.

Finally Ava entered as everyone rose, she was such a beautiful bride and watching Sam’s reaction almost brought tears to your eyes. They looked so happy to be taking this step together and it pulled at your heartstrings knowing how far you still were from this step.

The ceremony started as you kept and eye on Joe, he still seemed to be in a trance just watching Sam, not taking note of the crowd. When they finally kissed, everyone stood in applause. You smiled as you scanned your eyes down the groomsmen once more, only to be stopped by a pair of blue eyes locked directly at you. You felt frozen for a moment, but forced yourself to let out a small smile, only met with a continuous face of shock from Joe. You would have probably stood there forever, however a shove from Rachel got you moving with the rest of the row out to the reception area.

Once everyone made their way to the much more open space with even more white roses and lights, you finally had a second to breath and take in what just happened. Everyone found their designated seat once again and watched as the bride and groom made their big entrance and began to make their way around greeting everyone.

You looked up to the wedding party table and immediately spotted him.

Well, not only him.

The same blonde you had assumed was only Ava’s maid of honor had her head rested on Joe’s shoulder and a hand on his chest. You took in her entire appearance. She was undoubtedly gorgeous and very petite compared to your taller figure. As your eyes scanned up you were met in a deadlock with Joe's eyes once again. His face was expressionless, but nonetheless, he had caught you in some sort of trance once again. Only shaking out of it when you heard Ava and Sam approaching your table. You greeted the two and chatted with them for a few minutes, trying to bury a growing feeling inside your stomach.

Before food was served, speeches were started by both sets of parents. All of them were beautifully worded and carefully thought out to honor the couple. As Joe stood to say his, you latched on to every word, secretly admiring the sincerity he had for his best friend. He kept it short but sweet, and of course, claps seemed a little louder after his. Finally, you watched as the blonde stood, introducing herself as Stephanie, she went on about her best friend Ava and you subconsciously tuned her out. You were brought back when Joe’s name was mentioned, specifically how, “thankful” she was for Sam bringing such a “special man” into her life. She smiled looking down at him and placing a hand on his shoulder as he looked up to her with a small smile. You couldn’t tell if you were more shocked at her words or the twisting in your stomach because of her words. The adoring coos from the audience didn’t help the feeling, and neither did the few glances you picked up from individuals who knew well of your past with Joe.

As the reception continued, the dance floor got more crowded and the music got louder as the night continued. Your mind was in a different place than it was an hour ago, you were actually enjoying dancing with your friends and catching up with people you hadn’t seen in years. “You want a drink?” you loudly ask Rachel over the music as she dances next to you. “No thanks! Still working on this one!” she shows you her drink and you nod, letting her know you’d be at the bar. You hopped up on a barstool greeting the bartender with a smile as you rattled off your order. Turning away only for a second to look at the dance floor, you were startled when you turned back, noticing who had joined you.

“vodka soda please.” Joe orders from the man and slowly turns his head towards you with a smile. You can’t help but giggle a little. “How are you still drinking the same thing from college? Some things really never change I guess.” You raise your eyebrows as you take a sip from your drink. “Hello to you too.” He sarcastically replies making you both smile a little. “I honestly had no idea you were going to be here, I mean i can’t believe Sam didn’t mention it,” he states. “Yeah well it was great timing, I moved to the Covington area a few months ago so I was excited to come see everyone again,” you reply trying to make casual conversation. “Wow…I had no idea you were back, I mean i’m just really surprised to see you after all this time.” His eyes softened a bit and you could’ve sworn he had gotten closer. “You look really great, y/n” his words are quieter and you swear you see a shift in his eyes. You blush a bit at his words and fail to hide it. “Thank you, so do you. How have you been doing?” you reply trying to change the path of the conversation. “I’m alright, just making it through the off-season right now after such a shitty season. Looking forward to some trips and stuff,” he reply’s with a shrug. “That’s nice, I’m glad you let yourself relax a little,” You give him a genuine smile. Your eyes both lingered on each other a little too long, leaving you both in a blushed giggle. “So are you still working the same job,” he questions. “No, I mean technically yeah, but for a different company. I wasn’t happy anymore and felt like I couldn’t move up at all. Now I can stay here and feel a lot more productive with what I’m actually doing.” you stop yourself from going on not wanting to bombard him with a vent. “That’s nice you can stay in one place now, wish it could’ve been like that a couple years ago.” He laughs to himself but immediately regrets his word choice seeing your reaction. You felt a ping of guilt. He was right, things would be so different if you hadn’t uprooted your whole life for a job you wouldn’t even end up settling on. “I’m sorry, that came out wrong.” His hand inched toward yours but he stopped himself, seeming to be fighting an internal conflict. “It’s okay” you give him a reassuring smile.

You two continue to catch up and throw back a couple more drinks which you couldn’t even deny you were heavily feeling. You both watched the movement on the dance floor and your eyes fell on Stephanie who you had caught suspiciously watching Joe a few times throughout the night. Your mind honestly no longer had a say in what your words were. “So…” you press on “Stephanie seems nice!” You say with a clearly high octave in your voice making Joe laugh and shake his head. “Yeah..Yeah you know Sam introduced us, and we basically went on a double date and all and you know, it’s all good.” He finishes off his drink and places it on the bar with a hint of aggression. You watch her make her way off the dance floor and towards you and Joe. She pulls him off the barstool, clearly ignoring you and drags him to dance. He was clearly just as drunk as you which you felt partially at fault for, but decided to go find Rachel. You searched around for a bit but couldn’t seem to find her anywhere. You noticed Stephanie taking a selfie with Joe from across the room which he seemed antsy to get away from. You figured maybe Rachel took a step outside so made your way to the lit-up back patio area. You felt a sharp breeze as you stepped outside, regretting not bringing a coat as you held your arms and began to walk in search of her. After a long walk around the venue, you felt less under the influence and took a deep breath before you were stopped in your tracks.

“you just seem to be everywhere tonight.” You Joke, causing Joe's head to turn from where he was leaning on the railing looking out towards the city. “You look absolutely freezing,” his eyebrows raise as you accept the spot next to him. “just a bit” you joke, not expecting what he does next. You feel his suit jacket rest over your shoulders and a feeling of warmth overcomes you, something greater than just the feeling of a jacket. You look up to him with a smile before looking back towards the city. You both stood there, in absolute silence, for what felt like an eternity. The sun was long set by now, and the city glowed as each building outlined its own unique story. Your eyes traced each one, you felt so in touch at this moment, probably partially due to the alcohol, and partially due to something much greater than that.

Joe was the first to break the silence. “y/n…I’m really glad I got to see you, I really thought I’d never see you again.” he admits keeping his eyes ahead. You take a deep breath before speaking. “Yeah me too Joe, i’m glad everything worked out for us you know? We both got what we wanted in the end.” You said trying to convince yourself your words held truth. Joe seemed happy and like he had it all, you on the other hand felt like a lost puppy. He lets out a breath as his head drops before he turns to you. “Are you happy?” he asks. You freeze at the question, such simple words left you so complexed. Your silence seemingly answers his question. “Y/n…I told you a long time ago how much you mean to me, I just want you to know that hasn’t changed.” You both turn to each other at his words. “Joe-” you start but he cuts you off.

“Just listen. You ended things a long time ago with us and I let you. But I shouldn’t have, I should’ve fought harder and you know, I guess I just wanted you to know I’m sorry, for not fighting harder.” he stares into your eyes in a way you knew all too well. A feeling you hadn’t felt in years crept back into your body as you felt yourself gravitate towards him. You feel him pick up your hand as he moves in. His other hand meets your chin as he lifts your head towards his.

Inches away,

You feel your nose graze his, and in a quick second, you are met with the only lips that have ever meant anything to you.

Part two here

[snowyroads]

Hello, I'm about to go on a yapping session about my feelings on different football rpf ships because i'm up and can't sleep! :) grab your popcorn and get ready. I also just want to do this cuz i feel like i haven't given y'all an insight on what goes on in my brain.🧍🏻‍♀️(i started this last night when i was half asleep lol)

joemarr- THIIISSS ONE! okay, clearly this is one of my favorites. (if you couldn't tell from my mass postings about them or amount of fics i have) i feel like a lot of ppl have different opinions on their dynamic and somehow I agree with every single one. i think every since LSU days, Ja'marr has worked on Joe getting out of shell. not to call Joe introverted (because we all know that man could get it) I just think at the beginning with him being new to the team and not knowing where he fitted in, Ja'marr was the one there for him and take him under his wing essentially. THEN, I think Joe did the same thing for Ja'marr when he got drafted to the Bengals. because dude literally told his coach to choose Ja'marr. (some fan behavior right there) and when ppl were starting to doubt Ja'marr's abilities as a WR, Joe was immediately there to back his man up. I also think that little pinky thing they do IS ABSOLUTELY CRAZY. cuz wdym!??? i think i could write a whole essay just about that stupid handshake of theirs. it's something about seeing two grown ass men, join their pinkies together as a sign of 'friendship' and then going on their merry way afterwards like they just didn't interlock their souls together? OH. ALSO, the fact that they don't even call what they have a friendship, they both say relationship when referring to each other. cuz that's totally what normal bros do, yk? GIVE ME A BREAK. WE KNOW WHAT YALL ARE. the clothes buying? the teasing each other? Joe wearing JA’MARR’S JERSEY!? ok im not even done with everything i have to say about them but we'll leave it there for now.

Stefon/Josh- they actually make me want to scream. when i actually first found out about football rpf, they were the first ship i read about and i fell IN LOVE. but i found out about them too late and only got to enjoy two years of them together before the divorce. HAHAHA. (it's actually not even remotely funny) One of the best moments i think i saw between the two of them was when Josh was giving a pre-game speech one time and Stefon was so hyped, he jumped up and helmet bumped Josh's chest. wanna guess what happened next? at the next pre-game speech, Josh put his hand on Stefon's helmet to 'calm' him and stop him from making any unnecessary head bumps. Another moment that was crazy to me was the amount of just touching the two of them would do. like they always had to be connected in some way! AND the hugs after that lions game, the one where Josh literally looked like he couldn't breathe until he got his arms around Stef? WTF. THEY MAKE ME SIIICK. how you go from saying you wanna grow old with someone to giving him a half hug after a game? HUH? i just have to tell myself that they actually text everyday and that the side eye was just for dramatic publicity. Stefon will always be my #1 DIVA! <3.

koc/jj- okay, this one is still kinda new for me BUT it aint hard to tell what's going on with these two. for one, KEVIN IS SO FINE. IDCCC. shit i don't blame you Justin. AND JUSTIN IS JUST SOOO. UGH. he's the definition of babygirl. which is crazy cuz i never thought i would see a WR and go "babygirl?" BUT W JJ I DID. and then i just think Kevin can't help himself when he's around Justin. Always all up on him and in each other's personal space. like damn we get it. we all wanna fuck that old man. and we all think jj deserves to be treated like the princess he is! which makes them perfect for each other. It also just automatically has that tension to it because they are a coach and player relationship, so it gives "we can't get caught" ANYWAYS, ik there is so much more with them too but that's all i can think about right now.

Mike/Tua- ALRIGHT, they don't get the recognition they deserve! and i think that's because they don't have a lot of moments between them but when they do, it's big and they go viral. like the head kiss we got after Tua’s concussion (which i actually hope he thinks about his life before a career in football) and they have that same coach/player dynamic like koc and jj. also, i think Mike McDaniel is too hot for his own good. mhm. especially when he wears those glasses. OMG. anyway, im getting ahead of myself. Tua is literally the sweetest human being ever too and i remember watching hard knocks last season and their relationship and chemistry is just…WOW. (which is also why i can’t wait till this year’s with the Bengals comes out) idk how to explain it.

Brock/Fred- once again, they are both fine AF. ITS INSANE. also, size difference goes crazy. ANYWAYS. (there’s not a lot on them either so this is more just what i feel about them) Brock being Mr. Irrelevant and being the last pick in the draft, going from sitting on the bench as a 3rd string QB to STARTING is so personal to me. and he was scared as hell having to start so randomly in the season but Fred was there to pick him up when he was down and give him all the confidence he needs! Fred being a vet and teaching Brock how to be confident in himself and his abilities to be the best QB for their team. AND THEN, Brock takes them to not just one but two superbowls!? (ik they didn’t win but still it counts for something) i also just find Brock/Fred to be the definition of golden retriever and black cat energy. Brock’s the golden retriever ofc (have yall seen that clip of him saying “hi mom!” to the camera?? OMFG) Then Fred is the black cat because he’s always so nonchalant to me. like when the camera pans to him on the sideline, dudes got a straight face as they’re winning like 34-10 (ik that hasn’t rly happened this season but we move on) BUT YEAH, yall see the vision right??

okay if you’ve made it this far tysm!! <3 these football men make me crazy. i hope yall enjoyed my yapping session and feel free to ask or share anything!! <33

[thesportssoundoff]

3 am late March Mock Draft Madness

Joey

March 21st

Up early, looking for something to do. Decided to do a mock draft! Click inside for the goods;

1) Cleveland Browns- QB Sam Darnold, USC

John Dorsey drafted Pat Mahomes with Alex Smith as a one year short term stopgap solution in KC and faces a similar chance with the top pick Cleveland Browns. With Tyrod Taylor as a "get competitive!" holdover, Darnold is your guy who waits in the wings. In an ideal world/perfect scenario, this is the modern day Kitna to Carson Palmer transition.

2) New York Giants- QB Josh Rosen, UCLA

I don't believe the Giants at this point in time would take a QB at 2 but somebody is going to make a move and give up heaven and Earth to get their QB. Josh Rosen is ready to play now and while I don't see all pro QB, I think he can be a starter for a long time for some team. We've seen other teams amass picks to get value (Tennessee mainly) and the Giants might be best suited to replicate the concept with the #2 pick.

3) New York Jets- QB Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma

The Jets made a move up to 3 which says one of two things; 1) they got desperate/jumpy and jumped up figuring they can grab one of their top 3 QBs or 2) they have some sort of unspoken word about the Giants NOT trading and NOT wanting a QB. In this scenario, they snag Baker Mayfield who really brings everything the Jets haven't had in some time. He's their chance at a swagger induced QB who can completely change the tone of a franchise. It's been rumored they REALLY REALLY like Josh Allen (and the Mike Maccagnan profile QB is normally the prototypical big armed big bodied passer) but I have to believe this is where Mayfield goes. If you're moving up to grab Josh Allen, you're moving up to grab someone else's QB.

4) Cleveland Browns- CB Denzel Ward, Ohio State

Once Cleveland gets their franchise QB (in theory), all bets are off on what they could do next. Bad teams with needs everywhere have the benefit of drafting purely BPA because BPA fills a need no matter where you take it. Quenton Nelson and Sanquan Barkley will be in the discussion for some but it's worth remembering Jon Dorsey has had a ton of success with mid round RBs. Denzel Ward is by far the best DB in this draft class no matter how tall he is or isn't.

5) Denver Broncos- RB Sanquan Barkley, Penn State

The Broncos offense suddenly becomes fun and complex. With locked in WRs Damariyus Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders plus Case Keenum in the midst of what most will hope to be a career long renaissance, the Broncos COULD take a QB here but instead opt to grab "the best player in the draft" according to most. Barkley helps transform and reconfigure a Broncos offense in need of an identity boost.

6) Indianapolis Colts- DE Bradley Chubb, North Carolina State

Easy enough I suppose. Thought about Quenton Nelson here and there's a good chance that Indy will move out of this spot but Matt Eberflus has a profile on DEs, a profile I'm familiar with given his time as the Cowboys linebacker coach. Bradley Chubb was a true combine hero at 6'4 270 lbs and has the ability to transform a talentless Indianapolis defense overnight.

7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers- S Derwin James, Florida State

Speaking of Combine guys, Derwin James! James to Tampa Bay feels like such an easy fit to match up; a star defender who can play a variety of spots right away. James was rusty recovering from ACL surgery but the NFL is going to get the best version of Derwin which could mean Eric Berry-esque potential. If ya don't believe me then check his athletic profile and who it comps to.

8) Chicago Bears- OG Quenton Nelson, Notre Dame

The Bears have their franchise QB and now need to build around him. They spent in free agency to build a team that could help Mitchell Trubinski in his development and Matt Nagy comes from Kansas City where the offense, at its peak, was all about giving your QB time and allowing him to play quick and loose. Quenton Nelson is the "safest prospect in the draft" (the CURSE OF THE SAFEST PROSPECT!) and immediately replaces Josh Sitton. It's not a "sexy" pick but he would immediately make Chicago better and allow for guys like Taylor Gabriel, Allen Robinson, Trey Burton and Chicago's ridiculous RB corps to do work.

9) Miami Dolphins*- QB Lamar Jackson, Louisville

I feel safe in saying that some team will sneak up to 9 or so and grab the last remaining QB of value. John Lynch doesn't mind moving picks or trading around to get the guys he needs and some team (Buffalo/Arizona/Washington?) will come calling to this spot. Lamar Jackson is only not a QB if you're an dull mind when it comes to what a QB should be able to do. I'm going with Maimi to move up a smidge and get Lamar Jackson after Tannehill ended back to back seasons on the shelf.

10) Oakland Raiders- LB Roquan Smith, Georgia

Not since MAGA and the Angry Video Game Nerd has a movement so focused on bringing us back into the past been thrust upon us. Jon Gruden has said he wants to bring football back to 1998 and his big money deals respective to position to a long snapper and a fullback (Keith Smith is a great dude and a fantastic story about triumphing vs adversity so he deserves every penny) have helped us see what that means. Roquan Smith helps us further go back to 1998 with a top 10 pick for a fantastic Tampa-2 esque linebacker at the WLB spot. Smith can do it all despite his lack of elite height and could play weak or middle for Oakland.

11) San Francisco 49ers- CB-FS Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama

Fitzpatrick is my guess for the early round 1 slider although really good corners tend to go early. 9ers can get a guy who can play in their base defense at either corner or S depending on how things shake out in FA with Eric Reid.

12) Buffalo Bills- DE-OLB Harold Landry, Boston College

This is basically who I imagine the 49ers would take at a spot like this. The 9ers had SERIOUS pass rush problems in 2017 and with a young QB and a developing hip offensive scheme under Kyle Shanahan, a key pass rusher would be a great idea. If not? Buffalo could always use pass rush help right? Riiiiiight?

13) Washington Redskins- DT Vita Vea, Washington

I'd reaaaally hate this as a Cowboys fan. Vita Vea in Washington would be scary when you combine DL guru Jim Tomsula with a physical freak like him at the nose.

14) Green Bay Packers- LB Marcus Davenport, UTSA

Pass rushers are a premium, nothing else will be said as often as that statement throughout April. The Packers really need help on defense and a guy like Marcus Davenport who has traditional rushed out of a 2 point stance will be of interest to them for sure. Davenport also did himself plenty of favors with a fantastic combine.

15) Arizona Cardinals- QB Josh Allen, Wyoming

The Cardinals are almost guaranteed to do some moving and shaking come draft time and I'd bet for sure they don't pick here. They lack a lot of the draft capital to move up (just 5 picks) so they could go backwards OR they could use 2019 picks to go FORWARDS and take a QB. Either way, pencil in a QB at this spot if they stick around. Sam Bradford is bound to break something eventually.

16) Baltimore Ravens- WR Calvin Ridley, Alabama

Ozzie Newsome and Alabama. Ridley and Crabtree give you maybe one last gasp with Flacco at the helm of the Ravens offense.

17) San Diego Chargers- LB Tremaine Edmunds, Virginia Tech

So close, Cowboys fans. Edmunds flirts with taking a big drop to 19 but is gone at 17. Can play ILB or OLB in the Chargers 3-4 scheme with elite rushers like Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram around him.

18) Seattle Seahawks- OT Mike McGlinchey, Notre Dame

For the love of God please help Russell Wilson.

19) Dallas Cowboys- WR D.J Moore, Maryland

The Cowboys seemingly will focus their efforts on two spots early; WR and LB. Anybody outside of those two positions will fall under either a best case (elite talent slides) or a worst case (wiped out at the two spots) mentality. The Cowboys might like Ridley more but DJ Moore is the better athlete and flat out better fit in their offense.

20) Detroit Lions- RB Derrius Guice, LSU

The signing of LaGarrette Blount doesn't prevent Detroit from further collecting help for Matt Stafford. The Lions are chasing the Vikings in their division and will have to contend with Minnesota's defense---so why not double up on great running backs? OL and DL help are a priority as well.

21) Cincinnati Bengals- OL Connor Williams, Texas

If you remove the fact that he weighed in under 300 lbs, Connor Williams had himself quite the combine. New Bengals OL coach Frank Pollack values OL who can scoot and jump, two things Williams excelled at at the Combine. The question is whether he's a guard or a tackle BUT I figure Cincy will have to figure that out themselves.

22) Buffalo Bills- WR Courtland Sutton, SMU

Bills need additional help at the WR spot. The Alshon Jeffery comps are apt with Sutton who will need time but can grow to be a #1 WR. Low floor, high ceiling in the case of the 6'3 Sutton.

23) Los Angeles Rams- OLB Arden Key, LSU

The Rams have acquired plenty of back end talent for this defense en flux and also moved on from linebackers. Arden Key, if focused/healthy, is the sort of guy who can transition this defense to the next level. He comes with questions across the board but he can rush the passer and Wade Phillips, having seen him work with Spencer and Ware, knows how to unlock talented edges.

24) Carolina Panthers- TE Hayden Hurst, South Carolina

The best all around TE in the draft for a team that's going to have to come to grips with the end of the Greg Olsen Era.

25) Tennessee Titans- LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama

The general consensus, from my research at least, is that it'll be defense for Tennessee. Torn between Leighton Vander Esch and Rashaan Evans, I opted for the more consistent higher floor thumper MLB type.

26) Atlanta Falcons- DT Da'Ron Payne, Alabama

Back to back Bama Bros! Payne was largely unproductive in college, to an almost laughable degree, but tested out really well at the Combine and might just be a case of the scheme stifling the player. He'll immediately give Grady Jarrett some help on the interior of the Falcons DL plus with Takk McKinley and Vic Beasley on the edge, the Falcons can really give OL hell.

27) New Orleans Saints- LB Leighton Vander Esch, Boise State

A fella with the name and look of a guy who Bruce Willis fights in a Die Hard movie, Leighton Vander Esch reminds me a lot of Jaylon Smith at his time in ND. Big athletic flashes with some passiveness to his game especially in the run. Give him a year or two to bulk up and the Saints could have a stud linebacker to add to their already impressive young crop of defenders.

28) Pittsburgh Steelers- DT Maurice Hurst, Michigan

Really was stuck here. No major QB of note, not gonna be ballsy enough to grab a RB, they just added Morgan Burnett and there's no linebacker I really feel a liking for. The perfect 3-technique, Mo Hurst would give the Steelers some help at the 3-4 DE spot. Just didn't see a really good value spot here.

29) Jacksonville Jaguars- QB Mason Rudolph, Oklahoma State

This would be a great spot for Isaiah Wynn but the Jaguars spent on guards in free agency. A WR would be cool here too but  Mason Rudolph would give the Jaguars a developmental QB behind Blake Bortles who fits some of the rules and models that old school types like Tom Coughlin abide by (look up the BP rules on drafting QBs).

30) Minnesota Vikings- OL Isaiah Wynn, Georgia

This is big time value for the Vikings who get to continue to rebuild their offensive line. Wynn is one of the best technicians in the draft for OL.

31) New England Patriots- CB Jaire Alexander, Louisville

The Patriots traded for Jason McCourty and have Stephen Gilmore but depth doesn't hurt at corner, am I right? Jaire Alexander is a freakishly good corner and insane value at 31 if he can stay healthy and if you can overlook his lack of elite height.

32) Philadelphia Eagles- RB Ronald Jones, USC

The Ronald Jones to Eagles bandwagon has been hot for a minute now. Don't ask ME to change that.

[junker-town]

7 winners and 6 losers from Day 3 of the 2020 NFL Draft

Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images

After the final day of the draft, the Cowboys and Ravens should be smiling. The rest of us shouldn’t, because we’re not Antonio Gandy-Golden.

The 2020 NFL Draft is in the books.

The Miami Dolphins and Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady were among the big winners of the first round. The Baltimore Ravens and Broncos quarterback Drew Lock had a solid second day. But the third day is a little tougher to gauge.

In Rounds 4-7, NFL teams are searching for players who can make the roster and have an impact. Only a handful of players picked in Day 3 will emerge as stars and it’s anyone’s guess who that’ll be. There were still some big winners and losers, though.

Here’s who stood out, both positively and negatively, on the last day of the 2020 NFL Draft:

Winner: The 49ers for getting Trent Williams without a huge extension

Part of the reason it was so difficult for Washington to trade Williams was because he reportedly wanted a contract that averaged at least $20 million per year. While a deal with the Vikings almost got done, Williams’ desire for a massive extension led Minnesota to draft Ezra Cleveland in the second round instead.

But Williams isn’t making the same demand in San Francisco. For the cost of a 2020 fifth-round pick and 2021 third-rounder, the 49ers got a seven-time Pro Bowler who — at least for now — seems fine playing on his current contract.

Williams isn’t exactly cheap with a $12.5 million cap hit, but that’s way more affordable than the alternative. With Joe Staley retiring, the 49ers set themselves up for a smooth 2020 by landing Williams.

Loser: Leonard Fournette

About a week before the draft, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Fournette was on the trading block. It makes sense for the Jaguars, who have already traded away Calais Campbell, A.J. Bouye, and Nick Foles as part of their 2020 teardown.

There doesn’t much of a market for Fournette, though. Jacksonville tried to send him to the Buccaneers, but they drafted Vanderbilt running back Ke’Shawn Vaughn instead. The Jaguars reportedly had discussions with the Dolphins too, before Miami traded for Matt Breida.

Now Fournette is still on the roster of a team that clearly doesn’t really want him. Awkward.

Winner: Eric DeCosta

Baltimore general manager Eric DeCosta was already acing the draft before Day 3. In the first round, the Ravens drafted linebacker Patrick Queen, a perfect fit for their defense and a player who fills a major need. In the second round, they landed the No. 1 RB on their board (J.K. Dobbins) to improve their already scary ground game, and added three more college stars with potential to be big-time contributors in the NFL (Justin Madubuike, Devin Duvernay, and Malik Harrison).

On Saturday, they picked up right where they left off with a couple of late-round steals, including Mississippi State OL Tyre Phillips, SMU wide receiver James Proche, and Iowa safety Geno Stone.

In all, DeCosta took his 14-win roster and added these players:

Ravens 2020 NFL Draft Class: Rd 1: 28- LB P. Queen Rd 2: 55- RB J.K. Dobbins Rd 3: 71- DT J. Madubuike Rd 3: 92- WR D. Duvernay Rd 3: 98- LB M. Harrison Rd 3: 106- OL T. Phillips Rd 4: 143- OL B. Bredeson Rd 5: 170- DT B. Washington Rd 6: 201- WR J Proche Rd. 7: 219- S G. Stone

— Baltimore Beatdown (@BmoreBeatdown) April 25, 2020

Expect to see the Ravens bring home a straight-A report card from draft experts.

Winner: Special teams players

Day 3 was these guys’ time to shine. Look at all these specialists drafted on Saturday:

Marshall K Justin Rohrwasser, taken by the Patriots at No. 159 in the fifth round

LSU long snapper Blake Ferguson taken by the Dolphins at No. 185 overall in the sixth round

Georgia Southern K Tyler Bass, taken by the Bills at No. 188 in the sixth round

Texas A&M P Braden Mann, taken by the Jets at No. 191 in the sixth round

Syracuse P Sterling Hofrichter, taken by the Falcons at No. 228 in the seventh round

Miami (Ohio) K Sam Sloman, taken by the Rams at No. 248 in the seventh round

Somehow, Georgia kicker and Lou Groza winner Rodrigo Blankenship wasn’t drafted, but it didn’t take long for “Hot Rod” to sign a UDFA contract with the Colts:

Rodrigo Blankenship is going to the Colts! The Georgia kicker might be 47-year-old Adam Vinatieri's replacement. Big shoes to fill. pic.twitter.com/WlOq4M4Kza

— SB Nation (@SBNation) April 25, 2020

Loser: Aaron Rodgers, for a third effin’ day

After trading up to draft Jordan Love in the first round and collecting several non-wide receivers after that, surely the Packers would end up with at least one new weapon for Rodgers in the passing game, right?

Nope.

Two kickers and a long snapper now gone before the Packers took a WR. What a wild time to be alive

— Bucs Nation (@Bucs_Nation) April 25, 2020

The Packers’ final count: 1 QB, 1 RB, 1 TE, 1 LB, 3 OL, 1 DB, 1 Edge, zero WR.

Loser: The Jets’ sad QB draft history

It’s not really a surprise the Jets took a quarterback in the draft. The depth chart after Sam Darnold is David Fales and Mike White, who have combined to throw exactly zero passes in New York.

In the fourth round, the Jets selected Florida International’s James Morgan, who has a strong arm but some accuracy issues (he completed just 58 percent of his passes in 2019). Basically, he’s the most Jets pick possible:

James Morgan is the 10th QB taken by the Jets in the last 15 years, most by any team. He's the 2nd FIU QB drafted in the past 3 years (Alex McGough - 7th round, 2018). FIU is now 1 of just 4 schools to have multiple QBs drafted since 2018 (Oklahoma, LSU, Washington St). pic.twitter.com/CYNUyeuWU7

— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) April 25, 2020

Darnold still has a chance to be a high-level starter — especially now that the Jets have spent the offseason getting him protection — but Morgan is not joining elite company here. The other QBs the Jets have drafted in recent years include Christian Hackenberg (never appeared in a game), Bryce Petty (4:10 TD:INT ratio), Geno Smith (punched in the face), and Mark Sanchez (buttfumble).

Morgan will need some time to develop if he’s going to stick in the league, but he’ll probably get thrown into the fire immediately when Darnold adds, like, gout to his list of weird injuries.

Winner: The Raiders, who basically drafted every player from the Clemson-Bama national championship games

Clemson and Alabama faced off in the national championship game three times in four seasons: 2015, 2016, and 2018. Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock must have liked what they saw. The Raiders have selected eight Bama and Clemson players who played in both of the last two title game matchups.

Raiders select another former Clemson Tiger, this time guard John Simpson. Raiders now have eight players on their current roster from the Clemson-Alabama National Title game. https://t.co/1IfEh7wvqU

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 25, 2020

There are obviously more Tigers than Tide players on this list, so it’s pretty fitting that the Raiders garnered the nickname “Clemson West” this draft cycle.

Loser: Joe Brady

Brady, the Panthers’ new OC, spent last season as the architect of LSU’s historically great offense. He saw seven of his former players from that Tigers offense drafted this year. Unfortunately for him, he won’t get a reunion in Carolina because the Panthers didn’t draft any of them. Or any offensive players whatsoever:

The Panthers have used up all their picks in the 2020 draft, so let’s look back at all seven players they drafted and grade the overall draft class. They went 7-for-7 on defensive players, which hasn’t happened in modern NFL history, so that’s neat. https://t.co/F0y7SqGj5l pic.twitter.com/xJAgelonw5

— Cat Scratch Reader (@CatScratchReadr) April 25, 2020

To be fair, the Panthers REALLY needed reinforcements on a defense that ranked just 25th in DVOA last year, allowed 29.4 points per game, AND just lost Luke Kuechly, Gerald McCoy, and Dontari Poe this offseason.

But sheesh, at least throw Brady a bone!

Winner: Jarrett Stidham

The Patriots didn’t trade up in the first round to find a franchise quarterback. They didn’t pick one in Day 2, either. That extended to Day 3, when they chose a kicker instead of Georgia’s Jake Fromm in the fifth round and then opted to take three offensive linemen and one linebacker to close out their draft class.

That means the starting job is still Stidham’s to lose. He’s likely to beat out Brian Hoyer, although there’s still a chance New England goes after a veteran — Cam Newton, Jameis Winston, Jacoby Brissett, and Andy Dalton are all possibilities — to take over.

For now though, Stidham is in position to be the Patriots’ long-term solution at quarterback. At the very least, he’s going to get a shot.

Winner: The Cowboys, who stuck with tradition at center

Travis Frederick was an All-American center at Wisconsin before the Cowboys drafted him to anchor the center of their offensive line in 2013. He retired in 2020 after battling Guillain-Barre Syndrome, so Jerry Jones replaced him with ... an All-American center from Wisconsin.

Tyler Biadasz is roughly as Wisconsin as they come. He came out of the womb eating cheese curds and shunting aside Iowa linemen:

Dallas swung a trade with arch-rival Philadelphia to target Biadasz, who slid from a possible Day 2 pick despite winning the Rimington Award — college football’s top center — in 2019. He’s a player who can immediately step into the Cowboys’ starting lineup and make himself anonymous. That’s exactly what you want from a high-level interior lineman.

Loser: The Eagles (and everyone in the NFC East not named the Cowboys)

The Eagles had weird draft. They went with receiver Jalen Reagor in the first round, which addressed a need but was a little higher than he was expected to go. Then they surprised everyone by grabbing quarterback Jalen Hurts in the second. Linebacker Davion Taylor in the third round was a bit of a reach, and they didn’t draft a cornerback.

But where they’re really screwed is in the NFC East. The Cowboys had an incredible draft, and as their top competition in the division, the Eagles need to keep pace with them. But the Cowboys lucked into top-talent players like CeeDee Lamb and Trevon Diggs, and are building what looks like one of the elite teams. They even replaced their best offensive lineman with one of the draft’s best offensive linemen in the fourth round.

The NFC East has been a division in flux for the better part of a decade, and it’s just been begging for someone to step up and take control. It looked like the Eagles would be that team after they won a Super Bowl two years ago, but since then have only seemed to make lateral moves at best.

Bonus: the Cowboys got rid of Jason Garrett, so they should be firmly favored to be the top team in the NFC East next season.

Loser: All of us who ain’t shit compared to Antonio Gandy-Golden

Gandy-Golden can solve a Rubik’s Cube, juggle, do backflips, once bowled a perfect game, has raised sheep and chickens, and he’s spent his time in quarantine learning guitar while the rest of are proud of ourselves for changing our underwear today.

Meet Antonio Gandy-Golden. The Liberty receiver’s first sport was gymnastics. He bowled a 300 game two months after picking up the sport. He is the most interesting player in this year’s draft, and this Rubik’s Cube never stood a chance. https://t.co/qOUJT4IwtJ pic.twitter.com/kMRUZGhnXv

— Andy Staples (@Andy_Staples) February 25, 2020

Oh, and he’s a really damn good receiver too. Washington selected Gandy-Golden in the fourth round. After three straight years of 1,000+ yards receiving and 10 touchdowns in college (if you even consider Liberty a real college), Gandy-Golden was a popular sleeper pick this draft season. He’ll give Dwayne Haskins another big receiver to target on Sundays, while he learns a new language, composes a symphony, and works toward his PhD in medieval architecture the other days of the week.

Winner: The all-name team

The final day of the draft isn’t just filled with “who the hell is Ben DiNucci?” players and special teamers. It’s also the time for the all-name to step into the spotlight.

This year, we chose one player per position to represent the all-name team. That ended up including three seventh-round picks, almost in rapid succession:

QB Cole McDonald (No. 224, Titans)

G Arlington Hambright (No. 226, Bears)

LB Casey Toohill (No. 233, Eagles)

And several others who just missed the cut:

G Lachavious Simmons (No. 227, Bears)

P Sterling Hofrichter (No. 228, Falcons)

CB Bopete Keyes (No. 237, Chiefs)

That’s quite the run of A+ names. It’s also a good thing Roger Goodell stopped announcing picks after Day 2, because he would’ve butchered every single one of them.

[xlewandowski]

NFL Mock Draft — 2021

Cracks fingers and neck

LET’S GO!!

It’s that time of year again ladies and gentlemen! 

It’s time for my annual mock draft!

Been running this baby for 10 years now(!!!) and have yet to be noticed from the NFL media, except for that one time Charles Davis responded back to me and said to tone it back on the amount of running backs taken in the 1st round (he’s not wrong) and also when Bruce Murray (@brucemurraynfl) said my name flawlessly on the air; you’re a great man Bruce, with even greater hair!

Before I ultimately layout how I believe the first round will unfold (goal is to get 10/32!) I want to share my rankings of the 5 top quarterback prospects for this year, as I feel that after Trevor Lawrence it’s a tossup within the NFL world.

Trevor Lawrence

Justin Fields

Zach Wilson

Trey Lance

Mac Jones

Trevor Lawrence, my man! Is far and a-way the number one quarterback; I know Matt, tell me something I don’t know. This is why I will keep his brief. He has been ranked the best prospect since not just Andrew Luck, but I believe Peyton Manning. There is so much to like about this kid, the size, the arm strength, the leadership, THE HAIR! He’s got everything and then some. Also, I truly believe that if the Jets had the #1 overall pick he would have went back to Clemson for his Senior Year.

Justin Fields I have second as it just makes sense. I ask you, what changed from the end of the college season for him to be rated the second quarterback behind Lawrence to now the third or fourth guy? I’m serious, nothing changed. Zach Wilson threw a cool pass at his Pro Day off balance, k… Fields, for some reason has taken heat and I don’t know what for. He has the leadership and (especially) toughness that teams dream of, and he has the mobility that fits the new age NFL. Though for some reason he has been slandered. I do believe that he will have a bit of a Lamar Jackson tumble in the draft, I hope I’m wrong and I hope he goes in the top 2, yes 2.

I’m going to combine Zach Wilson and Trey Lance here as I believe they are a 3a and 3b ranking for me. Though they may be on similar platforms they are both very different players with a very high risk/high reward feel to them. Wilson I see as a hybrid of Russell Wilson and Baker Mayfield, in that he has a similar build between the two but can also make savvy plays in and outside the pocket. Lance to me would be a hybrid (going green again) of Josh Allen and… can I say his name? I hope it’s ok… Colin Kaepernick. He has the elite size teams want and very good mobility, it’s just he is very raw and may (should) be given time to develop. 

If both these guys are thrown into the fire right off the bat I only think one of them walks out with a great NFL career.

Lastly is Mac Jones, who has all the accolades, a fresh National Championship, but just feels like a guy who was in the right place at the right time, but hey, it worked for Joe Burrow. Since Alabama won the Championship to now, I don’t think there is a player in this draft who has skyrocketed up draft boards more than Jones. Not long ago was viewed as a second rounder to now being viewed as potential top 3 pick. I personally don’t buy it. And please, this is not me hating on Jones, it’s me ranking the quarterbacks and if I was GM and had all these guys on the board he would be locked into my fifth choice.

Now, without any further ado, lets get this baby rolling!

Please note, that I will not be predicting trades.

Trades are inevitable but also impossible to predict; ex: who saw the San Francisco/Miami/Philadelphia trades happening? My prediction is between 5-7 trades on Thursday night.

Jacksonville, you are on the clock!

Jacksonville Jaguars — Trevor Lawrence, Quarterback This pick has been locked in since the end of the 2020 draft, the only thing that needed to be sorted was the team. Jacksonville gets the cornerstone franchise quarterback they have been dreaming of since they came into existence. The fans have bought him gifts from his registry for his wedding. This man is already beyond loved and he hasn’t even crossed the boarder into Florida. Don’t screw this up, Jacksonville!

New York Jets — Zach Wilson, Quarterback I want this pick to be Justin Fields, I really do, but I can’t do it as Wilson to the Jets has felt like a lock for months now. New York looks to be building their franchise right, they have a great GM, one of the best new hires for a head coach in Robert Saleh and they have the draft capital to surround their new Broadway quarterback with talent. Wilson needs to preform right out the gate and not let the headlines get to him, if he can do that, he has a shot.

San Francisco 49ers — Trey Lance, Quarterback Surprise! But is it though? Look, when the 49ers sold the farm for this pick it’s not for Mac Jones, who would have been there for them at #12. San Francisco is going for the highest ceiling pick here; you knew when those comparisons to Patrick Mahomes came up that some team was going to get infatuated. Lance can be brought in slowly with the team keeping Jimmy Garoppolo and having him start the season. If Lance can develop into the star San Francisco believes he is, the draft capital they gave up will feel like a bargain.

Atlanta Falcons — Penei Sewell, Offensive Tackle Atlanta is in a very interesting situations their team doesn’t feel like they should be drafting in the top 5 with the talent on their roster. They have a former MVP in Matt Ryan who is beyond underrated who is in his only in his mid-30s and an offence that can still put up points. The issue with Atlanta is they can’t run the ball that well, and the hire of Arthur Smith who had the back-to-back rushing champion Derrick Henry in Tennessee, Smith knows that the best way to win is to take pressure off the quarterback and and hammer the defense with a running game. Sewell is by far and away this years best offensive tackle and getting him at 4 feels like an absolute win for the Falcons.

Cincinnati Bengals — Ja’Marr Chase, Wideout I mean, a bengal is essentially a tiger, is it not? Joe Burrow needs protection, and if Sewell was on the board that would be the pick, but with the fifth pick being a bit rich for Rashawn Slater, Zac Taylor and the gang take Chase and reunite him with his college quarterback. Some may have Kyle Pitts and his upside here, however, I believe Cincinnati makes the smart choice and go with familiarity (at least for Burrow) here and try to recapture that LSU magic.

Miami Dolphins — Micah Parsons, Linebacker This may be my boldest pick of this draft. The narrative right now for Miami is to surround Tagovailoa with as much talent as they can so he can be successful, right? Though I argue, did he not have success? Now it may not be to the insane statistical standards, but as just a pure quarterback, he preformed well in spurts. One of the biggest needs for Miami, before offensive playmakers, is a defensive playmaker. People tend to forget that defence is what takes you over the top, just look as recently as the Super Bowl, and within that Super Bowl what did Tampa have that completely floored Kansas City? Playmakers at the linebacker position. Parsons is an elite linebacker with range and pass rushing ability. Flores had great players at the linebacker position in New England, now it’s time for him to start building that in South Beach.

Detroit Lions — Jaylen Waddle, Wideout Detroit is in need of outside talent for the offence. With newly acquired quarterback, Jared Goff, the best way to maximize his skillset is to surround him with talent. Goff’s best season came when he had a deep threat in Brandin Cooks at his disposal, enter Jaylen Waddle. Waddle has drawn comparisons to Tyreek Hill minus the off-field issues. With his playmaking ability and top gear speed, this is a pick worth investing in.

Carolina Panthers — Kyle Pitts, Tight End With newly acquired Sam Darnold, Carolina opts to help out their young quarterback (crazy that he is still just 23) than give him competition. Pitts is the pick here as the tight end is the quarterbacks best friend, and with how Darnold played the last couple of years, he’ll need all the friends he can get. Pitts is by far and wide the best tight end in this years class, but count me out as one of the believers that think he is one of the best players in this years draft. He has the size, wingspan and ability to be a great tight end, I’m just not ready to say he is the best non-quarterback in this years class, and I am especially not ready to call him the next Megatron. But hey, I’ve been wrong before!

Denver Broncos — Kwity Paye, EDGE Probably one of my more shocking picks here as Denver elects to pass on both Fields and Jones here. The reasoning, Denver has gone pretty heavy on the offensive side as of late, which is a bit shocking considering Vic Fangio is an old school defensive minded coach, well, with John Elway relinquishing some of his power and pulling a back a bit on player personnel, the pick here is Kwity Paye, arguably the top edge rusher in the draft. With Von Miller and Bradley Chubb already in place, Paye has the ability to perfect his craft, learn and contribute to a Denver defense that has reloaded quite quickly.

Dallas Cowboys — Jaelan Phillips, EDGE I know the infatuation Jerry Jones has with making splashy picks on offense and that we’ve heard him say how Kyle Pitts would be great to have on his team, but Dallas needs to go back to those unflashy, bland, boring picks. Tyron Smith wasn’t flashy but was the best left tackle for years, Travis Frederick wasn’t flashy, but was arguably the best centre before injury, Zach Martin wasn’t flashy….look, you see my point. Dallas got cute last year with drafting Ceedee Lamb when they should have been rebuilding their defense. In drafting Phillips they get a player who is just scratching the surface of his potential. Teaming him up with Demarcus Lawrence gives Dallas the pass rush that will severely help out a secondary that has been one of the worst, statistically.

New York Giants — Caleb Farley, Cornerback Farley is in the conversation as the top corner in this years draft with his blend of speed and size, the main factor holding him back is his lengthy injury history, having dealt with an ACL tear and herniated disk. If he can find away to stay out of the trainers office and remain on the field, New York will be set in the secondary for years to come – just imagine if Deandre Baker had worked out…

Philadelphia Eagles — DeVonta Smith, Wideout Raise your hand if you’ve heard this one before, but the Philadelphia Eagles needs playmakers at the wideout position. This is a team that has blown it multiple times in successive years at the wideout position. I mean, could you image if this team had drafted DK Metcalf AND Justin Jefferson?! Could have been unreal, but instead, it’s back to the drawing board for Philadelphia. Some can argue that DeVonta Smith is the best wideout in this years class, and with the year he just put up at Alabama I wouldn’t blame you, but since winning the Heisman concerns over his size have grown, and to be fair, yes, he is bit too small (weight wise), but to quote (paraphrase) Kyler Murray a couple of years ago, “I have always played at this size, it’s nothing new to me”, can be used for Smith. Will he sacrifice a few yards if it means staying healthy? It worked for Marvin Harrison..

Los Angeles Chargers — Rashawn Slater, Offensive Tackle The Chargers have shown their hand a bit too much in this years draft process with them being vocal that they need an upgrade at the tackle position, and you know what, it’s not hard to see why, they absolutely hit a grand slam in Justin Herbert last year, and the best way for them to finally make it back into the playoffs is to protect that young man, I mean, also not blow late game leads, all their defensive stars getting injured, all their offensive stars (sans Herbert) getting injured, etc., etc.. Slater is this years second best offensive tackle after Sewell. Slater can be an absolute mauler in the trenches and immediate contribute at the left tackle position.

Minnesota Vikings — Justin Fields, Quarterback Minnesota hits the absolute jackpot with Justin Fields inexplicably falling. Though the Vikings may have Kirk Cousins under contract they need to start thinking about the future and building around their already young stars in Justin Jefferson and Dalvin Cook. Cousins is an average quarterback at best, with Fields they could be catching lightning in a bottle twice with similarities to what they had in the early 2000s with Daunte Culpepper, Randy Moss and Michael Bennett. Fields is the second best quarterback in this years draft, and the only quarterback in this years draft who has beaten the unquestioned number one quarterback in Trevor Lawrence. Fields offers the arm strength, the mobility and the toughness that you want in todays NFL.

New England Patriots — Christian Barmore, Defensive Line There may be some reading this that are scratching their heads with New England passing on Mac Jones, but I just don’t see it. I feel Cam Newton will have a much better year this year, especially being in the McDaniels system for a second consecutive season, plus New England needs to get better on the defensive side of the ball to be in the closer games they will now be accustomed to. Belichick trusts Nick Saban, and Alabama doesn’t mess around when it comes to defense. Barmore is the top defensive tackle in this years draft, and getting him in the middle of the first round seems like a dream scenario for the former powerhouse that is New England.

Arizona Cardinals — Patrick Surtain II, Cornerback Surtain II to me is the best corner in this years draft, not only does he have NFL bloodline, but put simply, he just passes the eye test. He has the size, height and speed to play along any wideout in todays NFL, he can also play any scheme a defensive coordinator will throw at him. Arizona had a great run with Patrick Peterson, and with the Surtain II pick, they can hopefully transition without skipping a beat.

Las Vegas Raiders — Mac Jones, Quarterback Some may view this too low for the former Alabama quarterback, but midway through the first round just seems right. Jones is an average quarterback that made the absolute best out of his situation in Alabama; he has great adaptability, which is something NFL teams should be ecstatic about. Las Vegas has always seemed like they are flirting with Derek Carr, they like him enough but aren’t in love with him. Gruden and Mayock ultimately want to groom their own quarterback from the start, with Jones they (finally) get THEIR quarterback of the future.

Miami Dolphins — Kadarius Toney, Wideout After getting their playmaker on the defensive side, it’s time to address the offensive side. Miami currently has an offense that is middle of the pack, but doesn’t have the one player that defenses have to plan around. Kadarius Toney is that game changer the Dolphins have been searching for. He doesn’t have the prototypical size but he does have the ability to break games wide open. Think of him as a hybrid between Percy Harvin and Deebo Samuel minus the always being broken part.

Washington Football Team — Zaven Collins, Linebacker If anyone knows the importance of having a leader at the linebacker position it’s Ron Rivera. In being a linebacker himself and having one the best at the position at Carolina in Luke Keuchly, Washington cements another defensive cornerstone in Collins. Collins has the skillset to be a sideline-to-sideline linebacker, plus he has the size be a real difference maker. The biggest challenge for Collins will be honing in these challenges and realizing his full potential.

Chicago Bears — Jaycee Horn, Cornerback Chicago is at their best when their defense can say the same. Chicago wasn’t able to retain the very hot and cold Kyle Fuller, which leaves them with a need at the cornerback position. Jaycee Horn gives the Bears the perfect running mate alongside Jaylon Johnson. The knock on Horn is that he can be a touch aggressive, but with Chicago having the elite safety help in the backfield, those aggressive plays will look more like positives than negatives.

Indianapolis Colts — Christian Darrisaw, Offensive Tackle With Indianapolis banking on getting 2017 Carson Wentz and not 2020 Carson Wentz, the Colts realize they need to keep him upright and a strong run game. Darrisaw provides both those and can be slotted immediately in to the left tackle position with Anthony Castonzo recent retiring.

Tennessee Titans — Rashod Bateman, Wideout Bateman is one of the more under-the-radar wideouts in this years class. He has natural catching and playmaking ability, and though he may lack the elite size at the position, only 6ft, that didn’t stop AJ Brown from being the game breaker he is. Wideout became more of a position of need for Tennessee as Corey Davis left in free agency, but with teams keying in on Derrick Henry, now is the time to break in a new receiver to hopefully take off the pressure of Henry.

New York Jets — Greg Newsome II, Cornerback The Jets have a plethora of needs but have slowly chipped away at it in free agency. With their quarterback of the future already in tack they start to address the defense. Saleh is a master at getting the most out of his defensive line, but to further the development you need a strong secondary. Enter Newsome II who can play any style of coverage; will fit perfectly into whatever scheme the Jets roll out.

Pittsburgh Steelers — Travis Etienne, Running Back There are some that believe that the running back position doesn’t belong in the first round, I am not one of those believers. Though they may have one of the shortest shelf life of any position, they also provide the most immediate impact, which is a perfect segue into the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh is in win now mode, and for however long Ben Roethlisberger is under centre. Etienne can excel at every level a running back needs to excel in; he can run, he can catch, he can block. Aside from that one year from James Connor Pittsburgh severely misses Le’Veon Bell, with Etienne they gain a player that’s fits the new motto for Pittsburgh, speed.

Jacksonville Jaguars — Teven Jenkins, Offensive Tackle Jacksonville has done a great job building a respectable offense since their near Super Bowl berth a few seasons ago. Though it may not show in the win column, the Jags could have a sneaky good offense this season with Lawrence at the helm. To ensure that, potential success Jacksonville invests into their offensive line, enter Teven Jenkins who has the raw power to hold up in this league. Only issue may be his footwork, but with Lawrence’s savvy and quick realize, that can be fixed on the fly.

Cleveland Browns — Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Linebacker Would you believe that Cleveland doesn’t really have a true weakness on their team? I know that it’s hard to believe, but with how their roster has been built since their 0-16 season there hasn’t been that many questionable draft decisions. Owusu-Koramoah gives them the range at the linebacker position that would put them over the top. With the ability to cover backs, tight ends and even the odd receiver, Owusu-Koramoah has the potential to be something special, in Cleveland of all places.

Baltimore Ravens — Trevon Moehrig, Safety It feels like every since Ed Reed retired Baltimore has been looking to fill the void at safety; they tried Matt Elam (bust), Eric Weddle (short term fix), and most recently Earl Thomas (still blocking for Derrick Henry). Nothing has stuck, until Trevon Moehrig. Moehrig is at the top of a very shallow safety class, after him there is a sharp drop off. With him Baltimore gains a do-it-all safety that can support against the run and have the deep coverage skills that have severely been missing in the Ravens backfield.

New Orleans Saints — Azeez Ojulari, EDGE With it looking more and more like a questionable pick in Marcus Davenport, New Orleans quickly reloads in drafting Ojulari who has had a bit of a fall in this mock. Average height for the position, but terrific burst will help in getting to the quarterback quickly, though he may need to add a bit more to his frame to hold up in the run game. New Orleans is in a bit of transition on the offensive side, so if the defense can make more strides to make sure the fall in the wins column may not be as great as some may be predicting.

Green Bay Packers — Jamin Davis, Linebacker I know, I know, everyone was hoping for a skill position, more specifically a wideout for Green Bay, and to be honest I did have Rondale Moore in initially but ultimately, the Packers don’t love Aaron Rodgers like the rest of us do. Jamin Davis is the pick here as the Packers defence is still weak against the run and he is a tackling machine. With Davis in the middle and the Smith brothers on the edge, the defense will start to win the Packers games, meaning Rodgers doesn’t always have to play hero ball.

Buffalo Bills — Joseph Ossai, EDGE Buffalo continues to bolster their defensive line; with players like Ed Olivier, Harrison Phillips and others, Ossai joins in the rotation in giving Buffalo more and more pass rush. This will be beneficial for Ossai as he hasn’t been around football as long as his fellow draftees. With the physical tools to be a great pass rusher, Buffalo needs to bring him along slowly to reap the rewards.

Baltimore Ravens — Levi Onwuzurike, Defensive Line With the trading of Orlando Brown netting Baltimore an additional first round pick, the Ravens look to continue their infusion of youth on the defensive side. Though wideout would make sense here, Baltimore is hoping some of the prospects still left on the board fall to them in the later rounds. Onwuzurike gives them more depth along the defensive line as well as a player who can learn alongside Calais Campbell. Onwuzurike has the explosive first step you want in a man his size, but needs to improve on his pass rushing ability, a feat that has been learned by many in the Baltimore system.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Asante Samuel Jr., Cornerback Tampa hit on a second generation defensive back in Antonie Winfield Jr. why not go to the well one more time with Asante Samuel Jr.? Samuel Jr. has a lot of similar traits to his father, he’s an undersized scrappy player that jumps breaks to make game changing plays. With this pick, Tampa continues its steps in becoming an elite defense.

And there you have it!

Thank you everyone who has made it to the end!

Can’t believe that I have been writing these mocks for a decade – the world was a very difference place 10 years ago, I mean, we could go outside freely, malls, sporting events, shake people’s hands, not wait in massive lines, oh wait… that was just 14 months ago…

I hope that your teams gets the player you want or fills the position of need, unless you’re an Eagles fan like me, then prepare to be disappointed and look at your screen in disbelief when Howie Roseman drafts a late second rounder with the 12th pick because new head coach Nick Sirianni liked the competitiveness they brought to their rock/paper/scissors bout. I’m not bitter, just confused!

Enjoy the 2021 Draft everyone!

[paulbenedictblog]

%news%

New Post has been published on %http://paulbenedictsgeneralstore.com%

Fox news Mock draft with a twist! What teams SHOULD do - NFL.com

Fox news

Welcome to my third annual mock draft ... with a twist! Here's no longer to be a predictive part by any stretch, nevertheless as a substitute I will exercise my consulting companies to lend a hand nudge teams within the honest direction and describe them what they must make on April 23. If all these teams had listened to me in present years, Derwin James might maybe well perchance be on the Bucs, D.J. Moore might maybe well perchance be on the Packers (gaze I'm unbiased) and Josh Allen might maybe well perchance be a member of the Bills. Oh wait, the Bills did hear. You are welcome, Buffalo.

With out extra ado, let's secure rocking on the 2020 NFL Draft.

College: LSU | 365 days: Senior (RS)

I've seen the argument for the Bengals to grab Chase Young right here, and I appreciate it. The theorem is sound. Honest correct leer at what Nick Bosa did for the 49ers last 365 days. But, as I'm obvious you accumulate realized, the 49ers already had their franchise quarterback on the roster when they develop to be within the cardboard for Bosa. And as noteworthy as I take care of Andy Dalton, it looks take care of you guys are bright to head your separate ways. He's the 2011 Toyota Corolla you would maybe perchance perchance easy accumulate an emotional attachment to because he took you to five straight playoff appearances -- so what if the hubcap fell off every fifth mile? On the replacement hand, if you happen to're being upright at the side of your self, you comprehend it's miles time to upgrade to that decked-out Tesla you accumulate had your watch on. So clutch Burrow, blueprint him your franchise QB and let's kick this turnaround into equipment.

College: Ohio Teach | 365 days: Junior

Washington, I do know you are hearing a lot of chatter, too. Focus on of pulling a Josh Rosen/ Kyler Murray (presumably you bought Jimmy Clausen/ Cam Newton better) form maneuver at No. 2 total has been simmering for weeks. And but again, I secure why Tua Tagovailoa is an appealing likelihood right here. In particular if you happen to deem Tua goes to be a generational QB. I take care of it. Tall thought. I for my piece contemplate he'll. But right here is why you could grab Young right here: Your roster is a entire lot of gamers away honest now. And so if the 2020 season would no longer turn out so sizzling for you guys, and Dwayne Haskins struggles, you would maybe perchance perchance totally be within the mix for Trevor Lawrence next 365 days. Getting Young and Lawrence in back-to-back years is something they would discuss in A Soccer Existence: The Redskins Dynasty of the 2020s.

College: Clemson | 365 days: Junior (RS)

You are in a reasonably simply spot right here, Lions. You might maybe perchance either clutch the cornerback everybody wants you to grab. Otherwise you can clutch the correct defender on the board. But what you if truth be told must make is to secure the Dolphins or Chargers to movement up right here for Tua. On myth of you are easy going to stop up with one among those stud defenders regardless, and also you can capture some extra picks, too. And for the yarn, I am going with Simmons because, wisely, make you even see college football, brah?

College: Ohio Teach | 365 days: Junior

Hear, I do know you ethical gave James Bradberry $32 million guaranteed and are handiest one 365 days eliminated from taking Deandre Baker 30th total, and every are ravishing gamers, nevertheless they're take care of the (noteworthy-foremost) Taco Bell you scarf down on your capability to a cocktail party so that you simply no longer no longer as a lot as accumulate a wicked on your machine in case the host is no longer serving food. (BTW, endure in mind cocktail occasions that weren't online?) Okudah's the bacon-wrapped runt you simply cannot cross up. Now, you would maybe perchance perchance strive and alternate down just a few spots to a QB-needy crew and reach away with an offensive kind out take care of Tristan Wirfs. But if Okudah is on the board at 4, and also you cease keep, then capture the corner who will enable you to keep a ways from rating 31st in touchdowns allowed to receivers (22) but again.

College: Utah Teach | 365 days: Junior (RS)

You would play it stable right here and wander along with Justin Herbert, who has if truth be told acquitted himself quite wisely going back to the Pac-12 Championship Game and on thru the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Mix. Herbert is in point of fact a solid NFL quarterback. But you ethical got rid of a solid NFL quarterback. It's main to blueprint a splash. You are going in a brand unique stadium, you are going to possible be better than your neighbors, so that is a time to capture any other. Southern California is the house of legends. Mike Trout. LeBron James. Anthony Rendon. Anthony Davis. Some hockey guys, I'm obvious. You moreover play in a division with Mahomes. Chargers, you if truth be told must clutch a shot right here with a guy who might maybe well perchance stop up being the most celebrated (or ridiculed) elevate within the draft. But leer, you accumulate performed it stable for 50 years and what's it gotten you? Capture a gamble right here.

College: Iowa | 365 days: Junior

You made your movement for Kyler Murray last season. You steadily won the offseason if you happen to fleeced the Texans for DeAndre Hopkins. I have not seen a crew clutch the offseason take care of that for the reason that Browns traded for OBJ to head with their second-365 days Oklahoma quarterback. ... So, if you happen to're trying to keep a ways from the issues Cleveland had last season, make certain you address the offensive line. Capture the correct kind out on the board honest now. I'd wander along with Wirfs, nevertheless I belief your scouting division to raise the honest dude. Honest correct please, please don't ignore the offensive line.

College: Alabama | 365 days: Junior

My guests down in Duval, you accumulate a lot of draft capital and I take care of it. Here is my thing, even though. You are more or less stuck right here at No. 9. You might maybe perchance hope Simmons falls to you right here. But I'd no longer depend on that. You moreover accumulate a large need for an exterior cornerback, with the total Darqueze Dennard deal falling thru and D.J. Hayden being more of a slot guy. On the replacement hand, it looks to be take care of Simmons and Okudah will be handed by the time you are on the clock. And if you happen to cease in this spot, I'd if truth be told address the offensive line because you perceive Doug Marrone goes to are trying to hotfoot the football. It's take care of having grilled chicken pretty than a pizza for dinner. Most steadily you could blueprint the finest replacement, even supposing it's no longer the most thrilling.

College: Louisville | 365 days: Junior

That has to danger, seeing two dudes you if truth be told can accumulate feeble secure picked back-to-back honest in entrance of you. But it's frigid. Whereas you can wander in a substantial amount of a substantial amount of instructions right here, I'm easy leaning O-line. You ethical signed Jack Conklin to bookend the honest aspect. Unimaginable. Now, you draft Becton to line up on the left aspect, and all straight away, you accumulate a solid offensive line. And if you happen to'll enable one quick yarn clutch (ethical one), I'd wander all-in on Nick Chubb if this occurs. In particular with Kevin Stefanski as head coach.

College: Oklahoma | 365 days: Junior

Capture the receiver of your replacement right here, Jets. I feel take care of the controversy between who's more fit, Lamb or Jerry Jeudy, goes to last thru the decade. I'm favoring Lamb at this point. He's no longer the fastest guy on the board, nevertheless he's an absolute beast once he has the ball in his fingers. He's the more or less guy who will change into an rapid well-liked in Unusual York. Discontinue the honest thing for my guy, Sam Darnold.

College: Alabama | 365 days: Junior

Here's what I'd make. I'd secure on the cell phone with the Packers and gaze if they'd be within the 12th and 80th total picks for Davante Adams. I do know that sounds fair a minute loopy. But we accumulate seen other principal receivers -- Antonio Brown, Odell Beckham, DeAndre Hopkins, Stefon Diggs -- secure traded in exactly the past 13 months. You all once upon a time within the past even traded Amari Cooper. So back off, Packers marks. The compensation is if truth be told better than what the Vikings bought for Diggs. If you would maybe perchance perchance pull this off, you would maybe perchance accumulate Derek Carr and DA reunited. At the very worst (and in all probability), you elevate out this stud out of Alabama.

College: South Carolina | 365 days: Senior

You would need an real replacement to capture a noteworthy-foremost receiver in this spot. But I'd no longer overspend on Henry Ruggs III with Lamb and Jeudy long past. (You would must leap before the Jets if you happen to need an real shot at getting one among those guys). If we're being originate right here, I comprehend it wasn't easy trading away DeForest Buckner. However the correct capability to secure over that loss is to straight away occupy the void with the 6-foot-5, 324-pound Kinlaw. Establish him in there with Bosa and Co. and mark him flourish. He might maybe well perchance change correct into a Expert Bowler very quick. Besides, this draft is dreary deep at receiver and also you continue to accumulate the 31st total elevate. So, you are simply.

College: Georgia | 365 days: Junior

First off, cherish the unique uniforms. These leer wonderful. 2nd, you will desire a working back. But I make no longer point out that you simply clutch one right here. Address that within the second round, when your choices at No. 45 might maybe well perchance contain J.K. Dobbins, Clyde Edwards-Helaire and even possible a surprise slider take care of Jonathan Taylor. Capture Thomas to guard your most well-known asset for the crew, Tom Brady. Smartly, second-most next to that large pirate ship that Kevin Owens didn't secure to leap off for WrestleMania. And having that kind out will enable you to hotfoot the ball, too.

College: Florida | 365 days: Junior

Take a look at up on, as an particular individual that plays a ton of yarn football and repeatedly likes to match up gamers in opposition to the Falcons protection on myth of their struggles within the secondary, I hate to describe you guys to repair that. In particular if I accumulate shares of Michael Thomas, Chris Godwin and D.J. Moore. But simply lord, Atlanta. It's a ways well-known to repair that. All honest. Maybe I'm being quick. You weren't fallacious on the stop of last season. But you accumulate a evident need now that top corner Desmond Trufant used to be released. Henderson might maybe well perchance be a large lend a hand. He's no longer a huge tackler, nevertheless he's a simply defender whereas the ball is within the air.

College: LSU | 365 days: Sophomore (RS)

I accumulate something for you, Cowboys. You are going to take care of this one. Now, cornerback is an obvious need, nevertheless Henderson ethical went off the board. Journey rusher is moreover a need for this protection, now that my guy Bobby Quinn flipped a coin and left for the Chicago Bears (welcome!). Chaisson would reach in and blueprint a straight away influence on this protection. And if I'm taking pictures you straight right here, the Cowboys accumulate low-key made some huge picks on D within the draft in present years. No, no longer Taco Charlton. But guys take care of Leighton Vander Esch, Xavier Woods and Chidobe Awuzie. Chaisson would slot in quite wisely.

College: Alabama | 365 days: Junior

I used to be ethical about to describe you guys to head capture USC OT Austin Jackson to guard Tua down the road. And if you happen to if truth be told are trying to make that, I'm no longer going to stop you (there might maybe be clearly a need for O-line lend a hand). But your crew is shut to competing within the AFC East. If truth be told, even even though you completed with fewer wins than the Jets, who used to be the upper crew on the stop of the 365 days? Exactly. And with Tom Brady long past, the division is large originate. I if truth be told deem McKinney is the lacking part to plan for a protection that made some nice upgrades within the offseason. So, wander all-in for the Alabama security.

College: Utah | 365 days: Junior

You already accumulate your receiver, whether or no longer you overjoyed the Packers to grab the deal for Adams or you chosen Jeudy. Now is the time to leer at your secondary. Johnson is the correct corner on the board honest now. I noticed him a lot at Utah, and he's very simply. He can play exterior or within the slot. But he's going to be a starter from Day 1, and that is the reason exactly what you will need. If you wanted to head secure Patrick Queen or Kenneth Murray right here, that is frigid. But you like my guy Nick Kwiatkoski and Cory Littleton this offseason, so that you simply would maybe perchance perchance be simply at linebacker.

College: LSU | 365 days: Junior

Help but again, Duval. Tall to gaze you. I believed you can stop up with a quality cornerback at this place of abode. And shoot, I used to be incorrect. I believed Johnson might maybe well perchance be right here for you. And he might maybe well perchance be if I will return and convince the Raiders to grab a linebacker or even any other receiver at No. 19. But I'm a huge fan of Queen in this spot. Here's a spot of abode of need without Telvin Smith. And if I'm being upright, after staring at Queen at LSU, this guy goes to be an absolute clutch in this spot.

College: LSU | 365 days: Junior

I will prefer to query you to keep a ways from the temptation to leap up when some of those receivers originate up flying off the board earlier within the draft. You are going to be ravishing ethical sitting back and trying out forward to your guy. Jefferson is a participant I if truth be told take care of. And why him over a guy take care of, enlighten, Tee Higgins? That's an outstanding depend on. Jefferson is an ace route-runner. Being in that LSU offense with Burrow and OC Joe Brady has him NFL-bright. I'd no longer be bowled over to gaze him stop up as the head rookie receiver given the circumstances he might maybe well perchance be strolling into right here.

College: Clemson | 365 days: Junior

I notify it used to be time to piece ways with Diggs. Most steadily those relationships hotfoot their route, Vikings. No must dwell on danger emotions, even though. Higgins might maybe well perchance be a ideal fit for you. He works wisely down the realm and a pairing with Adam Thielen might maybe well perchance blueprint it seem take care of nothing has modified. You are going to be honest back to dropping huge games but again very quick. Sorry, I needed to make it. Bask in you, Vikings.

College: Oregon | 365 days: Senior

So, you are if truth be told going to let the correct quarterback in NFL history stroll away and stop up with a reasonably simply replacement? Now, I educated the Chargers to keep a ways from Herbert earlier in this draft, nevertheless for simply reason. History tells me the Chargers are no longer the more or less crew that can perchance perchance lend a hand him overcome his inconsistencies. The Patriots completely might maybe well perchance. So many occasions, the success of quarterbacks comes down to their area. Herbert might maybe well perchance be ravishing if the Chargers chosen him. He has a gamble to be higher echelon if he goes to the Patriots. I'd cherish to gaze it.

College: Colorado | 365 days: Junior

Shenault has been described by my colleague Daniel Jeremiah as "arguably the correct athlete within the draft" because he does fair a minute little bit of all the pieces. Masses of his success will rely on the place he goes within the draft. There are three or four teams that I deem might maybe well perchance if truth be told secure the correct of him. Saints, you are one among them. Originate no longer query him to make a lot in his first 365 days (it's no longer take care of you could with Alvin Kamara, Michael Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders already within the mix). But given the prospect to ethical flit down the realm and hotfoot some jet-sweeps, I deem Shenault would change into an rapid fan well-liked in Unusual Orleans.

College: Clemson | 365 days: Junior

The protection feeble to be the energy of this crew, Vikings. But now you are rolling into the draft hoping guys take care of Mike Hughes, Holton Hill and Kris Boyd can step up at corner. Solid NFL gamers for obvious, nevertheless you would maybe perchance perchance exercise some lend a hand. You took a receiver at the side of your first elevate. It behooves you to grab the correct cornerback left on the board in this spot.

College: USC | 365 days: Junior

You know what? I'm nearly regretting having you cross on Jackson at the side of your old elevate. I if truth be told am. But wager what? Dude is easy right here! How about that noise? Here's take care of the correct of every worlds. Take a look at up on, Dolphins. I've tried to enable you to within the past. But if you happen to dash out of right here with Tua, McKinney and now Jackson, this might maybe occasionally perchance perchance be a draft for the yarn books. It if truth be told might maybe well perchance be. On myth of all drafts are recorded. But I point out in a simply capability.

College: TCU | 365 days: Junior (RS)

There might maybe be a need on the offensive line. But I make no longer take care of noteworthy of what's left there in this spot. Blacklock is capability too talented to cross over right here. He has the abilities to form correct into a excessive cross rusher from the interior of the defensive position. He looks take care of the more or less participant that Seattle finds and turns correct into a stud. And if you happen to one way or the other convince Jadeveon Clowney to reach (I do know, a protracted shot at this point), this line goes to be wonderful.

College: Georgia | 365 days: Junior

I take care of Label Ingram. He's huge. His hype movies are the correct. But he's moreover 30. And I make no longer are trying to head all Barney Stinson on you, nevertheless you do no longer are trying to flirt with working backs over the age of 30. Swift makes too noteworthy sense right here in this spot. The roster already involves Ingram, Gus Edwards and Justice Hill. But if teams are going to enable the correct back within the draft to topple to No. 28, you could make it. And for the yarn, I'd clutch Jonathan Taylor right here if Swift goes earlier.

College: Penn Teach | 365 days: Junior

I'd like to gaze you add some receiver lend a hand, too. Or presumably wander after some offensive linemen. But you moreover must leer at your cross-speeding area, which Inappropriate-Matos must correct now lend a hand within the wake of Cameron Wake. And yes, even with Vic Beasley on board, you continue to cannot accumulate sufficient quality cross rushers, especially in a convention that has Mahomes, Jackson and Deshaun Watson.

College: Arizona Teach | 365 days: Senior

Take a look at up on, if Aaron Rodgers is so huge, why don't you ethical skip your draft elevate? Stunning, ravishing. You would need spent so noteworthy draft capital over the years on protection, how about you if truth be told strive and secure some gamers for Rodgers to work with? You owe it to him to grab the correct receiver available. I realize I'm telling the Packers to raise the fellow who ethical lately underwent core-muscle surgical treatment. Certain. But he's the most talented receiver closing on the board. And for when you mustn't no longer as a lot as strive and lend a hand your quarterback pretty than taking any other defender (which I fully know you would maybe perchance).

College: Baylor | 365 days: Senior

Take a look at up on right here, you waited on a receiver and also you accumulate been rewarded with a reasonably entirely one. I take care of him. Mims excels at going out and a success those 50/50 battles. He'll be an ethical gamer. One drawback for him is that I'm no longer obvious his route tree is the most intensive. But that is ravishing. We heard linked issues about DK Metcalf last 365 days and he used to be ravishing. Mims might maybe well perchance be ideal to position in an offense with Deebo Samuel and George Kittle. Let him wander down the realm and make his thing. Mims might maybe well perchance be a large clutch for you.

College: Oklahoma | 365 days: Junior

I have not any idea how Murray ended up falling the total capability down right here. He's a simply participant, nevertheless howdy, in most cases surprises take care of this happen when matching up fits and needs. He might maybe well perchance stop up going capability earlier within the draft, and we ethical couldn't let this guy topple out of the first round. He's ethical capability too simply. So, congratulations, Chiefs. Things keep coming up roses for you. For certain, if you happen to ethical wanted to reach out for one among the correct closing working backs, I'm no longer going to be angry about that, either.

Be aware Adam Heinous on Twitter @AdamRank.

[clubsocial-india]

New on Sports Illustrated: NFL Draft 2020 Grades: Analyzing All 32 Teams’ Picks

Which teams had successful NFL drafts, and who could be struggling next season? Handing out grades for every team’s draft.

The 2020 NFL draft was like no other, with the commissioner and team evaluators (and their kids, and their dogs) checking in from their homes to make the 255 picks from Joe Burrow to Mr. Irrelevant, Tae Crowder.

Which teams fared the best over the past three days? Our draft grades below:

ARIZONA CARDINALS

1 (8). Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson 3 (72). Josh Jones, T, Houston 4 (114). Leki Fotu, DT, Utah 4 (131). Rashard Lawrence, DT, LSU 6 (202). Evan Weaver, LB, California 7 (222). Eno Benjamin, RB, Arizona State

The Isaiah Simmons pick does not address a major need for Arizona, but it was a chance to add supreme, diverse talent. The question is, Where will he play? We know the uber-versatile Clemson star can operate at almost any position—that’s why he was drafted as high as he was. But in Arizona’s 3-4, one-gap-based scheme, will he be seen more as a cover linebacker or as a hard-hitting safety? The Cardinals themselves may not yet fully know (though they wouldn’t have drafted Simmons No. 8 overall if they didn’t at least have a hunch). Pairing him with Budda Baker gives Arizona two dynamic movable chess pieces, which will help a defense that has struggled mightily on third down.

Offensively, if we treat DeAndre Hopkins as Arizona’s second-round pick, that boosts their draft by a whole letter grade. And it shouldn’t be a bad grade to begin with considering they found a new right tackle in Josh Jones. The third round is much later than many expected the Houston product to go. With Marcus Gilbert being 32, having some injury history and entering the final year of his contract, Jones was a no-brainer selection for Cardinals GM Steve Keim.

It was also a no-brainer to restock Arizona’s defensive line depth, which Keim did in the fourth round, taking Leki Fotu and Rashard Lawrence.

Grade: B+

* * *

ATLANTA FALCONS

1 (16). A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson 2 (47). Marlon Davidson, DE, Auburn 3 (78). Matt Hennessy, C, Temple 4 (119). Mykal Walker, LB, Fresno State 4 (134). Jaylinn Hawkins, S, California 7 (228). Sterling Hofrichter, P, Syracuse

A.J. Terrell fits the long-bodied, rangy athletic profile of a cornerback in Dan Quinn’s Seahawks-style Cover 3 scheme. He changes directions soundly and can win through physicality or finesse. (In Atlanta, he’ll likely be encouraged to go with physicality.)

This selection could be viewed as a mild admission of underachievement from 2018 second-rounder Isaiah Oliver, who likely will now be cemented into the nickel outside corner role that he was demoted to down the stretch last season. Second-year pro Kendall Sheffield becomes the likely full-time slot defender. If all goes well, Atlanta will have three quality corners, which would allow them to maximize those Cover 3 zone concepts and continue to quietly dabble in more man-to-man than people realize.

Atlanta’s biggest need entering this draft was pass rusher—preferably an edge guy to align opposite free agent pickup Dante Fowler, which would enable Takk McKinley to slide inside. But this draft is light on ready-made first-round caliber pass rushers, and so Quinn and GM Thomas Dimitroff took the fuller value player. But they managed to find a defensive end they liked in the next round.

In some ways, Marlon Davidson—who played in Derrick Brown’s shadow at Auburn and was somewhat underappreciated—gives the Falcons another, more innately versatile version of Takk McKinley. He is a defensive end who has the tools to work off the edge or slide inside and play defensive tackle. That’s for 2020. For 2021 and beyond, Davidson potentially fills the role that the 2017 first-rounder McKinley, whose fifth-year option has not been picked up, has yet to fully maximize. After quietly going 6-2 in the second half of this season, this talented team is in “win now” mode. It needed more defensive line depth. A versatile player like Davidson can potentially solve multiple problems.

The other defensive picks—fourth-rounders Mykal Walker and Jaylinn Hawkins are here to add depth.

So is the first offensive choice, center Matt Hennessy, but just for now. Stud center Alex Mack has shown flickers of decline. He’ll be 35 at the end of this season and no longer under contract. And so Hennessy steps into an ideal scenario: a starting job waiting in the wings, with a chance first to learn as an understudy to one of the game’s great veterans.

Grade: B+

* * *

BALTIMORE RAVENS

1 (28). Patrick Queen, LB, LSU 2 (55). J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State 3 (71). Justin Madubuike, DT, Texas A&M 3 (92). Devin Duvernay, WR, Texas 3 (98). Malik Harrison, LB, Ohio State 3 (106). Tyre Phillips, G, Mississippi State 4 (143). Ben Bredeson, G, Michigan 5 (170). Broderick Washington Jr., DT, Texas Tech 6 (201). James Proche, WR, Southern Methodist 7 (219). Geno Stone, S, Iowa

The Ravens entered the draft with no starting-caliber linebackers on their roster. Now they found one who has the athleticism to play on passing downs. Problem solved. Or, at least, potentially solved. Patrick Queen only started one season at LSU and the Ravens have a complex matchup-zone scheme that requires middle-of-the-field players to make reads and adjustments on the fly. The Ravens are also a proudly physical team and some scouts don’t regard Queen as that style of player.

It’s an incredibly tall order for this particular linebacker to step in and contribute right away on a Super Bowl-ready team. But Queen is gifted, he improved noticeably over the course of 2019 and the Ravens have one of the best young assistant coaches in the league in linebackers coach Mike Macdonald. And because the Ravens so often play with dime personnel—meaning six defensive backs and just one linebacker—Macdonald can focus solely on Queen when he’s on the field in dime (which, this team hopes, will be on a majority of snaps).

It’s not out of the question that Baltimore will trot out two rookie linebackers on base downs in Week 1. Malik Harrison plays with more physicality than fellow rookie Queen but might not quite be an NFL cover linebacker.

Helping keep blockers off these two will be Justin Madubuike, though he’ll likely do so out of a backup role for at least the first few years. Baltimore is loaded along the D-line after acquiring ex-Bronco Derek Wolfe and ex-Jaguar Calais Campbell, but they needed more run-stuffing depth to pair with (and push) Justin Ellis.

On offense, the Ravens absolutely love incumbent veteran tailback Mark Ingram because he is a highly professional runner. He goes exactly where the play is designed to go, he gets there with just the right tempo and he consistently finishes with enough power and tenacity to muster an extra yard or two. When you have one of the best-designed ground games in football, that’s all you could want from a back. Almost certainly, the Ravens see J.K. Dobbins in a similar light as Ingram.

It’s a little surprising the Ravens did not address the wide receiver position earlier considering that their top target, Hollywood Brown, would be fantastic as a dynamic No. 2 option. As it stands, they don’t have a proven big-bodied X-receiver to align opposite Brown. Devin Duvernay will likely be lining up inside of Brown, as a slot weapon who possesses run-after-catch ability. It’s possible the plan is to let Willie Snead walk in free agency next year.

Grade: A-

* * *

BUFFALO BILLS

2 (54). A.J. Epenesa, DE, Iowa 3 (86). Zack Moss, RB, Utah 4 (128). Gabriel Davis, WR, UCF 5 (167). Jake Fromm, QB, Georgia 6 (188). Tyler Bass, K, Georgia Southern 6 (207). Isaiah Hodgins, WR, Oregon State 7 (239). Dane Jackson, CB, Pittsburgh

It was a deep wide receiver class, yes, but trading a first-rounder for Stefon Diggs was still shrewd. The Bills were one quality receiver away from having an offense with no weakness. They’re coming off a playoff season and their division’s big bad monster might finally be weakened for the first time in two decades. Now is the time to go all-in. What you know for sure about Diggs that you can’t truly know for sure about any rookie wide receiver is that Diggs can be productive in the NFL.

So as not to ignore this draft’s talented receiver glass altogether, the Bills spent fourth-and sixth-round picks on Gabriel Davis and Isaiah Hodgins. Both give Buffalo’s receiving corps the one thing it was grossly lacking: size.

In the second round, the Bills went defense. You wonder if they might run into the same problem with A.J. Epenesa that they had with former first-rounder Shaq Lawson: a lack of top-flight explosiveness. Like Lawson, Epenesa does not quite wow you with his flexibility or second- and third-step burst. But Lawson’s downfall was he never became technically savvy enough to fully overcome his pass rushing limitations. Epenesa, on the other hand, has drawn praise for his technique. Still, with Buffalo’s one-gap attacking 4-3 scheme, this doesn’t appear to be an ideal player and scheme fit. But if anyone deserves the benefit of the doubt, it’s Bills GM Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott. Their defense performed like one of the best-coached and constructed units in football last season.

The third-round selection of Zack Moss likely means the end for future Hall of Famer Frank Gore in Buffalo. Moss was a steady, workmanlike back at Utah and has even draw some comparisons to Gore (stylistically). He’s a smart investment by the Bills because their top running back, Devin Singletary, does not quite have the build to play more than 50 snaps week in and week out.

Grade: B

* * *

Everything You Need to Know About the NFL Draft: Sign up for Sports Illustrated’s newsletters and get complete NFL Draft coverage and analysis—delivered right to your inbox.

* * *

CAROLINA PANTHERS

1 (7). Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn 2 (38). Yetur Gross-Matos, DE, Penn State 2 (64). Jeremy Chinn, S, Southern Illinois 4 (113). Troy Pride Jr., CB, Notre Dame 5 (152). Kenny Robinson Jr., S, West Virginia 6 (184). Bravvion Roy, DT, Baylor 7 (221). Stantley Thomas-Oliver III, CB, Florida International

The nice part about a full-scale rebuilding project is it gives you a lot of options in the draft. (Though it appears the Panthers may have only been aware of half of theirs, as they became the first team in modern history to take only defensive players in an entire draft.) Like in previous years, the Panthers, whose front office is still headed by GM Marty Hurney, laid their foundational blocks in the defensive trenches.

Derrick Brown has superb athleticism, given his thundering size. The question is if that athleticism extends far enough to make him a consistently high-level pass rusher. No matter how dominant he might be as a run defender, it’s hard to justify taking any defensive lineman in the top 10 in today’s NFL if he can’t get to the quarterback. But pairing Brown with Kawann Short will, at the very least, make the Panthers dominant inside and make life easier on Luke Kuechly’s replacement at middle linebacker.

They got physically stronger at the spot next to Brown, too, finding in Yetur Gross-Matos a classic, imposingly built 4-3 style defensive end who, thanks to the departure of veterans Mario Addison and Bruce Irvin, will likely assume a significant rotational role right away.

Behind them, at safety, free agent pickup Juston Burris quietly did some very nice things for Cleveland last year and deserves a chance to start alongside free safety Tre Boston, but it was wise of Carolina to invest in a third option, especially given that Burris is versatile and may wind up playing multiple positions in a “big nickel” or dime sub-package anyway. Of note: Jeremy Chinn played a lot of Quarters coverage at Southern Illinois. That matchup-zone coverage is one this Panthers secondary has played in recent years and one new defensive coordinator Phil Snow may put in the arsenal.

Grade: B

* * *

CHICAGO BEARS

2 (43). Cole Kmet, TE, Notre Dame 2 (50). Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah 5 (155). Trevis Gipson, DE, Tulsa 5 (163). Kindle Vildor, CB, Georgia Southern 5 (173). Darnell Mooney, WR, Tulane 7 (226). Arlington Hambright, G, Colorado 7 (227). Lachavious Simmons, G, Tennessee State

A variety of trades (including the one two years ago for Khalil Mack) left the Bears with just two irrefutably consequential picks, both in the second.

Regarding Cole Kmet: In part due to injuries, things never fully worked out with intriguing 2018 free agent signing Trey Burton, who was recently released. And ’17 second-rounder Adam Shaheen officially became a bust last season when he too often failed to get on the field ahead of low-pedigreed, workman tight ends like Ben Braunecker and J.P. Holtz. Kmet is as classic a tight end as you’ll see, which allows recently signed veteran Jimmy Graham to play more of a receiving role. And don’t be surprised if the Bears go with more three-tight end sets this season. Creative offensive architect Matt Nagy understands that those packages make a defense slower and more predictable, and with ex-Chief Demetrius Harris already aboard, Kmet now gives this team three tight ends who can align almost anywhere as receivers.

As for Jaylon Johnson: defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano likes to bring pressure and/or employ Cover 4, where each defensive back plays match-zone in a deep quarter of the field. Those match-zones require sound man coverage technique, and most blitzes, because of how quickly they force the ball out, demand straight man coverage on the back end. And so it was critical that Chicago find a talented specimen to slide into the right corner spot that was vacated by Prince Amukamara’s release. Johnson has the assertive, physical press coverage acumen to fill the role nicely.

Grade: B-

* * *

CINCINNATI BENGALS

1 (1). Joe Burrow, QB, LSU 2 (33). Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson 3 (65). Logan Wilson, LB, Wyoming 4 (107). Akeem Davis-Gaither, LB, Appalachian State 5 (147). Khalid Kareem, DE, Notre Dame 6 (180). Hakeem Adeniji, G, Kansas 7 (215). Markus Bailey, LB, Purdue

By all appearances, Cincinnati’s commitment to Joe Burrow has been strong and steady from the start. The only reasonable knock on LSU’s 2019 breakout star is his lack of top-level arm strength, but that’s not to say Burrow can’t still make every throw. What sets him apart is how he gets to those throws. He sees and exploits the entire width of the field; he moves calmly, courageously and craftily within the pocket, and has good enough wheels to make plays outside of it. There’s no task in Zac Taylor’s zone-based, play-action-oriented offense that Burrow can’t perform.

Getting Burrow to quickly maximize the potential of those tasks will require better play at offensive line and wide receiver, areas the Bengals could address later in this draft but will also improve by default with wide receiver A.J. Green and 2019 first-round left tackle Jonah Williams returning to health. This can be a whole different Bengals offense in 2020, especially if second-round pick, Tee Higgins, builds on the drastic growth he showed from 2018 to ’19 at Clemson and carves out a meaningful role as a rookie in 2020. His college improvements were especially poignant inside—a significant note given that in Taylor’s play-action heavy offense the receivers often align in tight splits, working the middle of the field.

Higgins’s presence speaks to the Bengals’ concerns about incumbent wide receivers John Ross and especially A.J. Green staying healthy. They made this pick before addressing glaring needs on defense. Higgins, with his 6' 4" frame, wide catch radius and perimeter ball-attacking ability, is much more similar to Green, who will be 32 come Week 1 and is coming off a season-long foot injury in 2019 after missing seven games the previous year.

As for that defense, which was improved with mid-round picks… there were some who thought Logan Wilson was almost on LSU first-round linebacker Patrick Queen’s level in terms of pass-coverage potential. If the Wyoming product pans out, he gives the Bengals the top-flight coverage prowess that they were hoping to get from third-rounder Germaine Pratt last year. Pratt played a much more prominent role in the second half of last season and will have every opportunity to take a big step forward in 2020. If Wilson can, too, the Bengals will be very comfortable playing nickel defense. And to pad their options here, the Bengals spent the first pick in Round 4 on linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither—another linebacker whose physical traits offer value on passing downs.

Grade: A-

* * *

CLEVELAND BROWNS

1 (10). Jedrick Wills Jr., T, Alabama 2 (44). Grant Delpit, S, LSU 3 (88). Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri 3 (97). Jacob Phillips, LB, LSU 4 (115). Harrison Bryant, TE, Florida Atlantic 5 (160). Nick Harris, C, Washington 6 (187). Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR, Michigan

The Browns must have been thrilled: The Giants’ surprising selection of Georgia’s Andrew Thomas and the top three quarterbacks getting snatched up in the first six picks left the man they likely had at the top of their board still available at pick No. 10. Jedrick Wills played right tackle at Alabama but has the light feet and athleticism to transition smoothly to the left side. That would allow expensive free agent pickup Jack Conklin to stay at right tackle, where it took him four years to locate a comfortable set of mechanics as a Titan. In today’s NFL, the delineation between left and right tackles means very little (if anything), so the Browns can base these decisions strictly on what’s best for their two players.

If Wills pans out quickly, this Browns offense could suddenly meet the expectations that were placed on it a year ago. Quarterback Baker Mayfield will have the protection he lacked last season and he’ll be playing in a smart, QB-friendly scheme under new head coach Kevin Stefanski, throwing to a more familiar Odell Beckham Jr. and working with a balanced run game headed by Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt. That’s a 25-point-per-game type lineup.

On defense, the Browns signed ex-Raider Karl Joseph and ex-Viking Andrew Sendejo in free agency, but only because they wanted to be sure to have a couple of hard-hitting veterans who can immediately patrol the alleys against the run and play match-zone coverage out of the Cover 4-heavy scheme that this new coaching is likely to install. Both Joseph and Sendejo are on one-year deals and it’s likely at least one will be allowed to walk in 2021, given that Grant Delpit is expected to be a full-fledged starter by then (if not sooner). Delpit is rangy and athletically diverse. His draft stock tumbled from a high first-round projection last season after missing too many tackles and taking too many poor angles in run defense. Such mistakes are especially problematic in Cover 4, where the safeties are often solely responsible for a run gap along the edges.

Up front, Jordan Elliott intrigues with his potential as a pass rusher, where scouts believe his development hinges on whether he can continue to build on his effective hand usage. One concern: The Browns don’t have a lot of gap-penetrating depth at D-tackle, and Elliott might not have the initial quickness to change that.

Grade: B+

* * *

* * *

DALLAS COWBOYS

1 (17). CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma 2 (51). Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama 3 (82). Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma 4 (123). Reggie Robinson II, CB, Tulsa 4 (146). Tyler Biadasz, C, Wisconsin 5 (179). Bradlee Anae, DE, Utah 7 (231). Ben DiNucci, QB, James Madison

With Randall Cobb joining Houston, the Cowboys needed a new slot receiver. What they smartly realized is if they found one who could also play the “Z” position, going in motion and aligning outside, that would allow them to slide pricey star Amari Cooper into the slot, where he’s guaranteed to avoid the press-jam coverage that sometimes gives him trouble. Even better is that CeeDee Lamb himself can also play significant snaps inside, affording offensive coordinator Kellen Moore the ultimate flexibility with his first-round wide receivers. Expect to see even more of the creative pre-snap motioning and stack-release tactics from Moore this season.

Having Lamb and Cooper together almost assures that Michael Gallup, who is quietly developing into a nice “X” receiver, will often face one-on-one coverage. And in that same vein, it could mean lighter run boxes for Ezekiel Elliott. This is a quality pick with a potentially significant domino effect.

Right corner Byron Jones departed in free agency this year, and next year the Cowboys face losing left corner Chidobe Awuzie and/or slot/utility corner Jourdan Lewis, as both are finishing up their rookie deals. Don’t be surprised if Awuzie is retained and Lewis walks. But even if both return, an immediate and direct replacement for Jones is prudent, since it would allow Lewis to keep providing valuable, versatile depth on the back end. Trevon Diggs is a long-armed, physical corner and is stepping into a Mike Nolan-led scheme that, thanks to its expected emphasis on blitzing, will feature press-man on the outside. Dallas hit another home run in this draft, filling an important, specific need with a top-level talent at a later-than-expected draft slot. And in case they wind up losing both Awuzie and Lewis, they got a jump on replenishing their depth by also drafting Reggie Robinson in Round 4.

Up front, Neville Gallimore was yet another Cowboys selection whom many expected to be taken a lot higher. He is not a particularly large or long-limbed man, and so quickness and mechanics are key to his success. He showed those traits at Oklahoma; if he plays with more consistent leverage, he has a chance to be a contributing pass rusher.

Lastly, the Cowboys in Round 4 went after another Wisconsin center, Tyler Biadasz, after their previous one, Travis Frederick retired suddenly earlier this offseason. Biadasz was a three-year starter in a Badgers offense that had a dominant run game.

Grade: A+

* * *

DENVER BRONCOS

1 (15). Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama 2 (46). KJ Hamler, WR, Penn State 3 (77). Michael Ojemudia, CB, Iowa 3 (83). Lloyd Cushenberry III, C, LSU 3 (95). McTelvin Agim, DT, Arkansas 4 (118). Albert Okwuegbunam, TE, Missouri 5 (178). Justin Strnad, LB, Wake Forest 6 (181). Netane Muti, G, Fresno State 7 (252). Tyrie Cleveland, WR, Florida 7 (254). Derrek Tuszka, DE, North Dakota State

The Broncos have a budding star in “X” receiver Courtland Sutton, who can consistently win one-on-one downfield on the perimeter and hurt teams with in-breaking routes. But for their optimism in 2019 second-round quarterback Drew Lock to be fully realized, they needed a “Z” receiver—that guy who can go in motion, run every route at every level and contribute via yards-after-catch. Some feel that Jerry Jeudy is the best route runner coming out of college in this era. The Broncos addressed a glaring need with a stylistically perfect prospect, and they didn’t have to trade up to do it.

After rounding out the outside spots in their receiving corps, the Broncos added a prototypical super-shifty weapon inside, in slot receiver KJ Hamler. It won’t be hard to predict where Denver’s wide receivers will line up on any given play, but with three players so perfectly suited for their roles, it will be hard to stop them.

After finding weapons for Lock, they also gave him some protection in Lloyd Cushenberry. Given that they signed sig ex-Lion Graham Glasgow in free agency, so it’s possible they see Cushenberry as a right guard, where he’d compete with converted tackle Elijah Wilkinson (though Glasgow can also play guard). However it shakes out, another weakness on offense has been addressed.

Defensively, Denver’s No. 2 corner position was a revolving door all season last year; it’s possible Michael Ojemudia was selected to be a potential starter sometime in the near future. One thing about Vic Fangio’s scheme: with all of its blurry two-deep safety looks, it does a lot to help and hide cornerbacks.

Up front, McTelvin Agim moved from defensive end to defensive tackle last year; it will be interesting to see where he plays in Denver. He might have an opportunity to develop through trial and error, as last year’s third-round pick, Dre’Mont Jones (and, likely, DeMarcus Walker), will be ahead of him in the rotation.

Grade: A

* * *

DETROIT LIONS

1 (3). Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State 2 (35). D'Andre Swift, RB, Georgia 3 (67). Julian Okwara, LB, Notre Dame 3 (75). Jonah Jackson, G, Ohio State 4 (121). Logan Stenberg, G, Kentucky 5 (166). Quintez Cephus, WR, Wisconsin 5 (172). Jason Huntley, RB, New Mexico State 6 (197). John Penisini, DT, Utah 7 (235). Jashon Cornell, DT, Ohio State

No team played more man coverage than the Lions last season, which is a philosophy that head coach Matt Patricia brought over from New England. In that same vein, Patricia also puts a huge emphasis on matchups, having specific corners travel almost everywhere with specific receivers week after week. You must have a true No. 1 corner to consistently do this. What reigning Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore has brought to New England, the Lions hope Jeff Okudah will bring to Detroit. He’s a slightly different style of corner than the physical Gilmore; what scouts liked most about Okudah is he has the agility to mirror wide receivers.

The Lions, who like to have multiple safeties helping in coverage, often instruct their corners to play in the low hip pocket of their man. Okudah shined with that at Ohio State. The only negative here is Detroit GM Bob Quinn probably felt he could get a quality corner a few picks later in the draft, but he did not get an enticing enough package to trade down. Okudah is the first corner drafted in the top three since Seattle took Shawn Springs third in 1997. He can slide right into the role previously filled by recently traded veteran Darius Slay.

The downfall of Detroit’s man coverage last season was it occurred behind an absolutely futile pass rush. Enter third-round pick Julian Okwara. Julian is a different style of defensive lineman than his older brother Romeo, with whom he’ll now be teammates in Detroit. While Romeo is a long and somewhat thick-bodied moderate NFL-caliber athlete who is highly dependent on his mechanics, Julian is more of a dynamic edge defender, with the length, burst and flexibility to turn the corner and reach the quarterback. Guys with those attributes are not usually available in Round 3. The Lions desperately needed to buttress their pass rush; you’ll likely see Julian Okwara in a passing down sub-package specialist role in 2020.

Offensively, the focus was on the running game. The Lions resumed their ongoing efforts to find Barry Sanders’s replacement. The latest swing here, D’Andre Swift, was a highly refined zone runner at Georgia and will operate mainly out of those designs in coordinator Darrell Bevell’s offense. Swift has the lateral agility to create his own space, and his potential explosiveness as a receiver could do wonders for a Lions offense that must regain some aerial balance after becoming heavily skewed toward vertical throws in 2019. With sustaining third-year back Kerryon Johnson aboard, expect Swift to fill an Alvin Kamara type role.

To buttress the swift pick, Detroit added third-rounder Jonah Jackson, who has a chance to start immediately at right guard ahead of middling veterans Oday Aboushi and Kenny Wiggins (who has been a quality backup but turns 32 in August). And fortifying the Jackson selection, the Lions also pursued his likely backup in Logan Stenberg, a blue-collar scrapper who might even be able to compete for a starting job with Joe Dahl.

Grade: A

* * *

GREEN BAY PACKERS

1 (26). Jordan Love, QB, Utah State 2 (62). AJ Dillon, RB, Boston College 3 (94). Josiah Deguara, TE, Cincinnati 5 (175). Kamal Martin, LB, Minnesota 6 (192). Jon Runyan, G, Michigan 6 (208). Jake Hanson, C, Oregon 6 (209). Simon Stepaniak, G, Indiana 7 (236). Vernon Scott, S, TCU 7 (242). Jonathan Garvin, DE, Miami (FL)

The Packers spent six of their first seven picks on offensive players, and it’s possible none of them will play in 2020. This brings us to the age-old debate: should a team that was one game away from a Super Bowl draft for the present in hopes of getting over the hump? Or, should the team draft for the future in an effort to maintain its success long-term? There is no “one size fits all” answer. What’s clear is Packers GM Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur felt that this draft would be best spent investing in the future.

Obviously, the biggest move here (and of the entire draft), was trading up to get Love. Get ready for a whole offseason spent dissecting this from every angle, then get ready for another one or two years of it afterward—presumably, that’s how long the Packers plan for Jordan Love to sit behind Aaron Rodgers.

Rodgers is notorious for remembering every slight, and by default, all the speculation about his and LaFleur’s relationship gets rejuvenated after it had been put to bed by this team’s success in 2019.

Let’s just focus on the “for now:” Rodgers is still elite. He might not have the dazzling playmaking ability that he possessed a few years ago (particularly when it comes to getting outside the pocket), but he is still one of the three or four best football throwers in the world, and he’s smart. He got better in LaFleur’s system last season, as both quarterback and head coach did a wonderful job adjusting to each other and meeting in the middle, with LaFleur rolling out his scheme gradually and Rodgers reigning in some of his off-beat style dropbacks in turn.

Love has first-round tools, but inconsistent mechanics plagued him at Utah State, as did bizarre bouts of poor field vision. The Packers feel they can clean that up. Mechanics rarely get corrected once a guy reaches the NFL, but one of LaFleur’s specialties and greatest passions is teaching the details of throwing mechanics, and Love is in the unusual position of a first-round quarterback being groomed behind a superstar QB who likely still has multiple years of greatness left in him.

So for now … it’s business as usual for the Packers. Just with some PR work to massage.

As for the next two offensive picks: The trend right now is to not pay a running back for a second contract unless he is truly special. Aaron Jones could be deemed worthy when his rookie deal expires after this season, but it’s unlikely his sidekick, Jamaal Williams, will also be. Hence the addition of AJ Dillon.

At tight end, Green Bay drafted Jace Sternberger in the third round last year, but considering that “12” personnel is a meaningful part of their offense, and that the recently resigned Marcedes Lewis is nearing his end, it makes sense to invest in depth at this position. And so they nabbed Josiah Deguara. Packer fans may not love this draft, but given it’s long-term investment slant, only time will tell how it went.

Grade: B-

* * *

Everything You Need to Know About the NFL Draft: Sign up for Sports Illustrated’s newsletters and get complete NFL Draft coverage and analysis—delivered right to your inbox.

* * *

HOUSTON TEXANS

2 (40). Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU 3 (90). Jonathan Greenard, LB, Florida 4 (126). Charlie Heck, T, North Carolina 4 (141). John Reid, CB, Penn State 5 (171). Isaiah Coulter, WR, Rhode Island

Felling Houston down the stretch last season was a putrid pass rush that, at times when J.J. Watt was out, bordered on downright irrelevant. Some see Ross Blacklock as the best pure pass rushing defensive tackle in this draft. He aligned primarily over the center at TCU, both as a 0-tech (directly over the center) and 1-tech (shaded over the center’s shoulder). But elite athleticism—including much-coveted short-area lateral quickness—suggests he can play 3-tech in the NFL. Blacklock’s game is not built on power, so he himself won’t fill the void left by free agent D.J. Reader’s departure, but his presence allows Reader’s in-house replacement, Brandon Dunn, to focus almost solely on the nose position.

Speaking of focusing on a position, one of Jonathan Greenard’s biggest selling points was his ability to focus on many position. Versatility is an attribute the Texans usually put to good use in their interchangeable front seven. Don’t be surprised if Greenard plays multiple positions off the bench in his first couple of seasons.

As for the rest of this draft… Charlie Heck has a good chance to be the swing tackle given the inconsistencies of Roderick Johnson. John Reid and Isaiah Coulter might have trouble making the final roster considering Houston is already deep at cornerback and wide receiver.

Grade: B-

* * *

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

2 (34). Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC 2 (41). Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin 3 (85). Julian Blackmon, S, Utah 4 (122). Jacob Eason, QB, Washington 5 (149). Danny Pinter, G, Ball State 6 (193). Robert Windsor, DT, Penn State 6 (211). Isaiah Rodgers, CB, Massachusetts 6 (212). Dezmon Patmon, WR, Washington State 6 (213). Jordan Glasgow, LB, Michigan

This has a chance to be a lucrative draft, especially if you consider (albeit expensive) ex-Niners defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to be its de factor first-round pick.

After a mostly unsuccessful one-year stint with free agent Devin Funchess last season, the Colts took another stab at a long-bodied perimeter target. Michael Pittman Jr. gives them a nice stylistic complement to explosive movable chess piece T.Y. Hilton, who likely now will play full-time in the slot in three-receiver sets. (Hilton has seen plenty of action here in recent years already; third-year pro Zach Pascal is likely to continue getting opportunities as the other outside receiver.) Philip Rivers has thrown to big targets throughout his career: Mike Williams, Tyrell Williams, Vincent Jackson, Malcom Floyd, etc. Pittman is a good stylistic fit.

In the backfield, NFL Films’s Greg Cosell has described Jonathan Taylor as an Ezekiel Elliott level of runner. Taylor weighs 225, runs a 4.39 in the 40 and is both efficient and explosive working downhill. He does not offer Elliott’s receiving prowess, but the Colts already have Nyheim Hines to handle their third down duties. Taylor may have just been too much value for the Colts not to pursue early in the second round, but also consider this: Marlon Mack is scheduled for free agency after this season. Colts head coach Frank Reich comes from the Eagles, a franchise that has prioritized having running backs on cheap rookie deals. If Mack departs in 2021, the Colts now have a ready-made starter in Taylor at an affordable rate for the next three years—maybe four, if Taylor performs really well. (And that’s not to say Taylor can’t contribute immediately in 2020.) At that point, the Colts could repeat the cycle all over again, drafting Taylor’s replacement and letting Taylor leave. Because the one blemish on the stud runner: He already has the tread of 926 carries from his time at Wisconsin.

Some might also cite the fourth-round selection of Jacob Eason as a possible starting quarterback for down the road. But this happens every year; the media conjures a story about some mid-round pick and tries to paint him as the next Tom Brady or Dak Prescott. Who knows, maybe Eason is. But if the Colts and 31 other teams truly thought he could be, his name would have been called a day earlier than it was.

On defense, there was no edge rusher added, but that was not a glaring need. Indy’s depth at safety is sound with George Odum operating behind strong safety Khari Willis and free safety Malik Hooker, but considering how much three-safety dime personnel coordinator Matt Eberflus employs, it’s important to be four-deep at this position, thus the addition of Julian Blackmon.

Grade: A-

* * *

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

1 (9). CJ Henderson, CB, Florida 1 (20). K'Lavon Chaisson, LB, LSU 2 (42). Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado 3 (73). Davon Hamilton, DT, Ohio State 4 (116). Ben Bartch, T, St. John's (MN) 4 (137). Josiah Scott, CB, Michigan State 4 (140). Shaquille Quarterman, LB, Miami (FL) 5 (157). Daniel Thomas, S, Auburn 5 (165). Collin Johnson, WR, Texas 6 (189). Jake Luton, QB, Oregon State 6 (206). Tyler Davis, TE, Georgia Tech 7 (223). Chris Claybrooks, CB, Memphis

The Jaguars spent this draft basically trying to make themselves back into what they were three years ago. They were strapped for cap space and had to get rid of expensive veteran A.J. Bouye and, before that, soon-to-be expensive superstar Jalen Ramsey. So they did, and to compensate, they drafted the man some see as the best corner in this year’s class in C.J. Henderson. One might argue that the Jags, who play a lot more Seahawks-style zone coverage than pure man-to-man, do not need to spend so heavily for a cornerback. But in that Seahawks-style scheme, the perimeter corners often have de facto man-to-man responsibilities. Henderson can perform those duties, via both press-man and mirror technique coverage. They also may have found a long-term slot corner to go with Henderson, in fourth-rounder Josiah Scott, who could supplant up-and-down veteran D.J. Hayden in 2021, when Hayden becomes a free agent.

Jacksonville’s second first-round pick (acquired from the Rams in the Ramsey trade) also filled a need that was brought about by a veteran departure. Or, an upcoming veteran departure, anyway. Frustrated franchise-tagged defensive end Yannick Ngakoue wants to get paid and has been very publicly campaigning for a trade. The Jags may not acquiesce in 2020, but it seems unlikely they’ll hold onto him long-term even though Ngakoue is an explosive, top-shelf edge-bender and Jacksonville’s Cover 3-based defensive scheme cannot work without a quality four-man pass rush.

K’Lavon Chaisson won’t even be 21 until July, and naturally, much of his game still needs to be developed. But his raw talent is eye-popping, and the Jags, amidst a roster overhaul, can afford to be patient here. And if last year’s first-round pick, Josh Allen, builds on his encouraging rookie season, this defense can look forward to having one of the league’s most dominant edge-rushing tandems.

If and when Chaisson makes it into the base package (don’t be surprised if he is a pass rushing specialist his first year or two), working inside of him will, the team hopes, will be Davon Hamilton, who projects as an athletic nose shade tackle, lining up over the shoulder of the center and playing either one or two gaps, depending on the situation. He can develop comfortably because the Jaguars still have Abry Jones for this role in 2020, as well as recently signed veteran Rodney Gunter. Jones will likely be allowed to walk in 2021, making room for Hamilton to join the back of the rotation.

Offensively, the Jags added some depth in the later rounds, but the only headlining move was Laviska Shenault—a pick that makes sense. D.J. Chark is on his way to becoming a No. 1 receiver, and now he may have an equally talented sidekick. Shenault wowed with his straight-line explosiveness and versatility at Colorado. And stylistically, he gives Jacksonville another big-bodied target after this offense has been stuck playing with mostly thinner-framed, finesse-oriented guys. It might take Shenault a year or two, though. One concern is he needs some polish and refinement. New offensive coordinator Jay Gruden’s scheme is sharply built but dependent on smart, precise route running.

Grade: B-

* * *

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

1 (32). Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, LSU 2 (63). Willie Gay Jr., LB, Mississippi State 3 (96). Lucas Niang, T, TCU 4 (138). L'Jarius Sneed, S, Louisiana Tech 5 (177). Michael Danna, DE, Michigan 7 (237). Bopete Keyes, CB, Tulane

It’s rare to win the Super Bowl and not lose a bunch of guys in free agency, but that’s the position the Chiefs are in. Which means they entered this draft able to (mostly) draft for luxury instead of need.

Few probably expected the short-but-not-small Clyde Edwards-Helaire to be the first running back taken. But the LSU product has the type of burst, lateral agility and quickness to create his own space as a runner, and he is a diverse weapon in the passing game.

A gripe with this pick is that you can almost always find a quality tailback in the middle rounds (yes, that old song) and there were good defensive backs still on the board. That includes Alabama’s Xavier McKinney, who would have been an excellent replacement (stylistically) for underappreciated departed free agent Kendall Fuller. But let’s remember: You don’t get the 32nd pick without doing a few things right as a franchise. It’ll be interesting to look back on this one a few years from now.

Blocking for Edwards-Helaire will be Lucas Niang (though hopefully not soon, since the Chiefs, if they stay healthy, are sound and deep up front, leaving him in a second-string for at least 2020). Scouts are intrigued by Niang’s athleticism as a run-blocker, but there are some concerns about his footwork and quickness as a pass-blocker. This makes him like a lot of mid-round right tackles.

Willie Gay has prototypical linebacker size but, more importantly, he plays with sideline-to-sideline speed, which is something Kansas City’s linebacking corps lacked last season. This pick was made with the hope that the Mississippi State product will eventually play all three downs. Don’t be surprised if that happens sooner than later.

Grade: C+

* * *

* * *

LAS VEGAS RAIDERS

1 (12). Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama 1 (19). Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State 3 (80). Lynn Bowden Jr., WR, Kentucky 3 (81). Bryan Edwards, WR, South Carolina 3 (100). Tanner Muse, S, Clemson 4 (109). John Simpson, G, Clemson 4 (139). Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech

We learned last year that the Raiders badly want a stud wide receiver, and now they have one who can actually be counted on. Henry Ruggs III has effortless, jaw-dropping speed, and he can produce at all three levels. That’s notable because few offensive architects are as creative and diverse in three-level passing concepts as Jon Gruden. Ruggs also presents terrifying big-play potential on jet sweeps and quick screens.

Last season, the Raiders had far fewer 20-plus-yard air throws than most teams. That should change now—though to make the Ruggs pick fully worth it, you can bet Gruden will ride Derek Carr even harder about playing aggressively.

While Ruggs brings a speed dimension, Las Vegas’s third-round pick, Lynn Bowden, brings a gadgetry dimension. This pick was likely also made with the return game in mind, given that Las Vegas’s receiving corps is fully, and very clearly fledged out (Tyrell Williams is the X, Henry Ruggs the Z, Hunter Renfrow the slot and Zay Jones and Nelson Agholor the depth providers). The depth here also makes you scratch your head a bit about the selection of Bryan Edwards, who came immediately after Bowden.

On defense, even though coordinator Paul Guenther plays a lot of zone coverage with two safeties back deep, he has always prioritizing having talent at cornerback. Guenther coached a trio of first-round corners when he was the defensive coordinator in Cincinnati (Dre Kirkpatrick, William Jackson and Darqueze Dennard), and now he has a 2020 first-round corner to pair opposite 2018 second-round corner Trayvon Mullen. (And Damon Arnette was only selected because a free agent deal with another former first-round corner that they had acquired, ex-Giant/Saint Eli Apple, fell through.)

“But just one problem,” the critics say. “Arnette is not really a first-round corner. Most mock drafts had him going in Round 2, maybe even 3.” Maybe that’s valid, and that’s certainly the type of thing that will ding Las Vegas’s draft grade. But GM Mike Mayock and head coach Jon Gruden couldn’t care less, and they understand that to assume a guy will go later in the draft, you are—on some level—assuming you know 31 other teams’ draft boards. It’s not the worst thing to like a player (a lot, presumably) and pick that player.

Tanner Muse is a safety-linebacker hybrid player. The Raiders likely see him as a potentially dynamic special teamer early on given that they already spent big money on capable cover linebackers Cory Littleton and Nick Kwiatkoski.

Grade: C+

* * *

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS

1 (6). Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon 1 (23). Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma 4 (112). Joshua Kelley, RB, UCLA 5 (151). Joe Reed, WR, Virginia 6 (186). Alohi Gilman, S, Notre Dame 7 (220). K.J. Hill, WR, Ohio State

Those around the NFL said the Chargers, who are well-stocked on defense, believe they will not have an opportunity to draft this high again anytime soon. And so they jumped at the franchise QB. Like predecessor Philip Rivers, Justin Herbert is a classic “big, strong pocket passer,” but unlike Rivers, he can also make plays with his legs. The big concern is whether Herbert can be consistently accurate enough. He has a fastball and can make throws that many starting NFL quarterbacks cannot, but he was wild at times as a Duck, not unlike how Cam Newton or Josh Allen can be. Quarterbacks like that are best suited for a downfield passing attack that is supported by a sound run game. The Chargers have good front line pieces here in wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, plus tight end Hunter Henry, but they still need more depth and run game weapons.

As for that well-stocked defense, its only weak spot was linebacker, which the Chargers, with few glaring needs to correct, could afford to trade their second-and third-rounders to New England in order to address at pick 23. Kenneth Murray, with his prototypical size, athleticism, speed and explosiveness, was widely regarded as the best stack linebacker in this class. The Chargers entered this draft with two-down linebacker Denzel Perryman and erratic ex-Bengal Nick Vigil penciled in atop their base package depth chart, and only 2019 fourth-rounder Drue Tranquill as a capable passing down linebacker. It’s a simple case of injecting talent where talent is needed, and it creates options for defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, who now has some depth and diversity to work with in the middle.

The only potential mark against this pick is that many see Murray’s blitzing prowess as a significant part of his value, and the Chargers are not a big blitzing defense. But maybe with Murray now paired with Derwin James, Bradley will get more aggressive.

Murray will have a chance to play significant snaps right away. So might fourth-round pick Joshua Kelley, if he can wedge out third-year pro Justin Jackson for 1 of the 2 backfield “punch” jobs alongside Austin Ekeler.

Grade: B-

* * *

LOS ANGELES RAMS

2 (52). Cam Akers, RB, Florida State 2 (57). Van Jefferson, WR, Florida 3 (84). Terrell Lewis, LB, Alabama 3 (104). Terrell Burgess, S, Utah 4 (136). Brycen Hopkins, TE, Purdue 6 (199). Jordan Fuller, S, Ohio State 7 (234). Clay Johnston, LB, Baylor 7 (248). Sam Sloman, K, Miami (OH) 7 (250). Tremayne Anchrum, G, Clemson

With their first-round selection gone as part of the Jalen Ramsey trade, the Rams waited until Pick 52 to get a new player.

Explosive 2019 third-round pick Darrell Henderson still has much room to develop and may not be ready for a full-time role in 2020. Soon-to-be 27-year-old Malcolm Brown is a very serviceable rotational back but is in the final year of his contract. And so the Rams used their first pick on a more direct replacement for Todd Gurley, whom they likely expect to compete for a starting job right away. Cam Akers was a mature, gliding runner at Florida State, showing nuance and an understanding of how to read defensive fronts. If that translates to the NFL, he’ll be a perfect fit in Sean McVay's outside zone running game.

They also found a receiver who fits the passing game. What many scouts like most about Van Jefferson is his route running prowess. Not coincidentally, that happens to be one of the traits L.A. values most in a wide receiver. Some see Jefferson more as a slot weapon, though it’s hard to envision the Rams moving Cooper Kupp out of that role. But remember, the slot designation does not matter quite as much in this scheme, as so many of its passes come on play-action and off route combinations that all originate from tight splits inside.

Defensively, there were plenty of spots to fill, starting up front, where they need a pass rushing boost. Terrell Lewis has a long body and the desired traits to be a quality NFL pass rusher. Injuries were a concern at Alabama, which is why the Rams are finding the talented specimen so late in the draft.

On the back end don’t be at all surprised if Terrell Burgess plays significant snaps right away. The Rams are very thin at linebacker and, in recent years, have preferred to play a three-safety dime package, keeping just one LB on the field. With Taylor Rapp being a dynamic box player, John Johnson being better down near that area as well and no proven depth behind those two, the runway is clear for Burgess to slide in as the centerfielder on passing downs.

Grade: A

* * *

MIAMI DOLPHINS

1 (5). Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama 1 (18). Austin Jackson, T, USC 1 (30). Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn 2 (39). Robert Hunt, T, Louisiana 2 (56). Raekwon Davis, DT, Alabama 3 (70). Brandon Jones, S, Texas 4 (111). Solomon Kindley, G, Georgia 5 (154). Jason Strowbridge, DE, North Carolina 5 (164). Curtis Weaver, DE, Boise State 6 (185). Blake Ferguson, C, LSU 7 (246). Malcolm Perry, WR, Navy

With four of this draft’s first 39 picks, this was a productive Step 2 in Miami’s multi-year rebuilding process. Step 1 was cleaning house and introducing a new coaching staff in 2019. Step 3 will be repeating Step 2, as the Dolphins have two first-rounders and two second-rounders in 2021.

At pick No. 5, the Tua Tagovailoa represents a perfect outcome for Stephen Ross’s team. 2019’s “Tanking for Tua” slogan proved false, but only because the Dolphins played so much better in the second half of the season and fell in the draft order. Tagovailoa’s late-season hip injury may have been a blessing in disguise, as none of the other QB-needy teams traded up to get him.

That hip is reportedly healed, and there is time for it to get even stronger as the Dolphins don’t need Tagovailoa to play right away. But it’d be a surprise if he’s not the starter come mid-November. The Dolphins are still in the early phases of a massive rebuild, and stopgap veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick can be counted on for at least a half-dozen of the type of head-scratching interceptions that get a quarterback benched.

Tagovailoa’s draft status also speaks to the expanding definition of an NFL quarterback. Ten years ago, a small-statured, good-but-not-great-armed QB would have never gone fifth overall. But football IQ, athleticism and intangibles have become even more valued at the position. Still, for Tagovailoa to succeed, the Dolphins must support him with a strong cast and crisply defined system. He projects to the NFL as more of a timing and rhythm passer than a Russell Wilson-style playmaker.

The Austin Jackson selection made sense, too. The Dolphins had just drafted a quarterback who must be protected. They had an extremely limited offensive line in 2019, and signing free agent left guard Ereck Flowers alone was not enough to change things in 2020. So, they used their next first-round pick on a left tackle. Jackson likely wasn’t atop their offensive tackle board (there were rumors that they were trying to trade for the No. 3 overall pick), but he is a long-bodied, flexible athlete who showed competitiveness at USC.

They also found a right tackle shortly after Jackson—another wise move. Miami entered this draft with glaring needs at both tackle spots, considering that young veterans Julie’n Davenport and Jesse Davis are both better suited for utility backup roles. Some had suggested Robert Hunt, who is a compact 6'5", 323 with just 33.5-inch arm, might play guard in the NFL. But given that Ereck Flowers was just signed to a surprisingly expensive contract to play left guard, and Michael Deiter was drafted in the third round last year to play right guard, the plan at this point is likely for Hunt to be a right tackle.

Defensively, it was about finding players who fit head coach Brian Flores’s Patriots-style scheme. With just two years of cornerback experience, converted wide receiver Noah Igbinoghene is a gifted but raw prospect. The athleticism and competitiveness he showed at Auburn is mandatory in the man-to-man-intensive scheme that Miami is aggressively investing in. With pricey ex-Cowboy Byron Jones and pricey incumbent Xavien Howard on the roster, it’s possible the Dolphins plan on grooming Igbinoghene for a role in the slot. At 5' 10", 198 he has the measurables to play inside or outside. More likely, though, is the Dolphins just pounced on raw talent that they’d like to groom and figure they’ll decide on a long-term role later in the process.

Joining Igbinoghene in the secondary is the third-rounder Jones. Incumbents safeties. Adrian Colbert and Steven Parker were not bad down the stretch last season, but neither is a surefire starter (though Parker is young and worth monitoring). Expect Jones to get a long look in centerfield first and foremost.

Up front, Raekwon Davis is a somewhat less-heralded prospect, but he has potentially explosive trench-fighting traits and is built for the gritty, two-gap plugging tactics that Miami’s scheme often calls for on first and second down. Before the draft, the only real scheme fits in this sense on Miami’s roster were last year’s first-rounder Christian Wilkins and space-clogging nose tackle Davon Godchaux.

Grade: B-

* * *

Everything You Need to Know About the NFL Draft: Sign up for Sports Illustrated’s newsletters and get complete NFL Draft coverage and analysis—delivered right to your inbox.

* * *

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

1 (22). Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU 1 (31). Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU 2 (58). Ezra Cleveland, T, Boise State 3 (89). Cameron Dantzler, CB, Mississippi State 4 (117). D.J. Wonnum, LB, South Carolina 4 (130). James Lynch, DE, Baylor 4 (132). Troy Dye, LB, Oregon 5 (169). Harrison Hand, CB, Temple 5 (176). K.J. Osborn, WR, Miami (FL) 6 (203). Blake Brandel, G, Oregon State 6 (205). Josh Metellus, S, Michigan 7 (225). Kenny Willekes, DE, Michigan State 7 (244). Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa 7 (249). Brian Cole II, S, Mississippi State 7 (253). Kyle Hinton, G, Washburn

This was a workmanlike job by the Vikings, filling their roster’s myriar holes one by one. Start with the one at wide receiver created by the Stefon Diggs trade. At first glance, Jefferson may not seem like an ideal style of replacement. At LSU, 109 of his 111 catches came from the slot. The Vikings, however, often play with just two wide receivers on the field (which usually means no slot position to fill) and likely see Justin Jefferson as an outside weapon. The 6' 1", 202-pounder played with polish and a sound sense of tempo in LSU’s offense and should transition effectively to a new role in a Vikings scheme that will make heavy use of in-breaking routes off play-action. He is not as explosive as predecessor Diggs, but he’ll likelier be a happier camper to deal with.

Worse than the hole at wide receiver was the hole at cornerback. Minnesota needed immediate help after losing Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes and Mackensie Alexander earlier this spring. They found it by trading back into the first round for likely slot corner Jeff Gladney and then tabbing Cameron Dantzler in Round 3.

Mike Zimmer historically prefers to develop cornerbacks from the bench in Year One, but with so few quality corners on the roster, don’t be surprised if Gladney starts in 2020—perhaps in a nickel slot role, which plays to his skill set. Zimmer’s corners are always sound tacklers. That, and blitzing, were two things Gladney did well at TCU. It’s possible Dantzler could see significant playing time in 2020, as well. Ideally, though, he’ll follow the traditional Zimmer route and develop from the bench early on, as his game needs some polish. Best case scenario in 2020 is he plays outside in nickel situations, where he is physical and competitive.

Minnesota’s four picks following Dantzler all went towards restocking the depleted depth on defense. The pick before Dantzler went towards hedging against an upcoming hole on offense, as it appears left tackle Riley Reiff is on his way out. The Vikings could dump his $13.2 million cap number this year at a cost of just $4.4 million in dead money. More likely, though, Reiff will be gone next year, when his cap number rises to almost $14 million and his dead money drops to just $2.2 million. His replacement, Ezra Cleveland, has many of the desired traits you look for in a left tackle, though some observers were concerned about what they perceive as his inconsistent competitiveness. But Cleveland’s high-level athleticism will fit well in a scheme that’s predicated on quickness and agility along the O-line.

Grade: A-

* * *

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

2 (37). Kyle Dugger, S, Lenoir-Rhyne 2 (60). Josh Uche, LB, Michigan 3 (87). Anfernee Jennings, LB, Alabama 3 (91). Devin Asiasi, TE, UCLA 3 (101). Dalton Keene, TE, Virginia Tech 5 (159). Justin Rohrwasser, K, Marshall 6 (182). Mike Onwenu, G, Michigan 6 (195). Justin Herron, G, Wake Forest 6 (204). Cassh Maluia, LB, Wyoming 7 (230). Dustin Woodard, C, Memphis

Incredibly, the Patriots are just one of two teams that have not drafted a single Pro Bowler in the last five years. (The other is Cincinnati.) Considering they are 2-1 in Super Bowls during that span, we can chalk this up as just a measly fun fact.

As usual, most of New England’s picks were spent with the future in mind. Kyle Dugger is a bit of a head-scratcher for the simple reason that the Patriots entered this draft with four quality safeties already: the recently re-signed Devin McCourty, do-it-all box player Patrick Chung, grossly underrated ex-Charger Adrian Phillips and the lesser-known Terrence Brooks, who performed nicely as Chung’s backup last season. Brooks is signed through 2020, while the other three are under contract through 2021. But few teams have made better use of diverse secondary talent, which is precisely what Dugger brings. He doesn’t fill a need, but there is no question he fits the scheme.

The Patriots have a sound front seven given the context of their scheme, but it could stand to have more athleticism on the edges. They made a similar pick to Josh Uche last year, taking his former teammate, Chase Winovich, in Round 3. Don’t be surprised if those two are both on the field in obvious passing situations down the stretch this season.

Just in Uche doesn’t deliver, there’s Jennings. You can afford to draft for depth when you have over a dozen picks. This particular pick is an excellent scheme fit; Anfernee Jennings’s sound technique has earned him comparisons to Kyle Van Noy.

On offense, to fill the still-enormous void left by Rob Gronkowski’s retirement (or his recent trade—either way), Bill Belichick drafted two tight ends just 10 picks apart, though the men could end up playing totally different roles. Though not quite possessing ideal length, Devin Asiasi intrigues as a route runner, particularly down the seams and on play-action—a tactic the Patriots, out of gap-scheme run looks, use a lot for feeding their tight end. Dalton Keane is known for his versatility, particularly as a movable chess piece.

Grade: C+

* * *

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

1 (24). Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan 3 (74). Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin 3 (105). Adam Trautman, TE, Dayton 7 (240). Tommy Stevens, QB, Mississippi State

Draft trades in past years left the Saints short on draft capital, and what capital they did have went towards filling roles that might not be recognized until 2021. That’s not the worst thing. Even though this is likely Drew Brees’s last season, and so one might think they’d be drafting for this year, the Saints are still set up for success down the road. Head coach Sean Payton and GM Mickey Loomis are keeping the big picture in perspective.

The two questions with Ruiz: When will he play? And where will he play? As far as the when: Right guard Larry Warford is in the final year of his contract and the team could actually save $8.5 million in cap space by cutting him now. That, however, would mean $5 million in dead money on the books, plus Warford is only 28 and is still playing at a high level. It’s entirely possible Ruiz could develop from the bench in Year One.

The where question is even more interesting. Left guard Andrus Peat was just signed to a big second contract and seems entrenched at that position, which means Ruiz will either play right guard or center. Ruiz says he is more comfortable at center but that’s the job held by 2019 second-rounder Erik McCoy (who also cost New Orleans this year’s second-round pick). McCoy is coming off a solid rookie season.

The only addition on defense was Zack Baun. He will likely play up on or near the line of scrimmage in New Orleans’s base defense. It’s a 4-3 scheme but the duties won’t be wildly different from what he did in Wisconsin’s 3-4. But really the intrigue here is in passing situations. Baun showed some pass rushing juice as a Badger, and the Saints like to play with two linebackers on all passing downs (even if they’re in dime defense, where they’ll go with just three D-linemen), and they often send one of them after the quarterback.

Grade: C-

* * *

NEW YORK GIANTS

1 (4). Andrew Thomas, T, Georgia 2 (36). Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama 3 (99). Matt Peart, T, Connecticut 4 (110). Darnay Holmes, CB, UCLA 5 (150). Shane Lemieux, G, Oregon 6 (183). Cam Brown, LB, Penn State 7 (218). Carter Coughlin, DE, Minnesota 7 (238). T.J. Brunson, LB, South Carolina 7 (247). Chris Williamson, CB, Minnesota 7 (255). Tae Crowder, LB, Georgia

No surprise the Giants took an offensive tackle, but there was plenty of surprise about which offensive tackle. Few expected the 6'5", 320-pound Andrew Thomas to be the first offensive tackle taken. In a draft where so many teams need offensive tackle help and so many outstanding offensive tackle prospects are available, it’s surprising New York wasn’t able to trade down and get their guy later. GM Dave Gettleman does not have a history of trading down, but the Giants made it known that they were willing to deal.

Obviously, the right offer did not come along, and so the Giants took the guy they like best. What’s to admire about Thomas: 36-inch arms, standout competitiveness, sound pass-blocking mechanics and overall composure. It will be interesting to see if the Giants view Thomas as a right tackle (his likely position for 2020) or a left tackle (his possible position for 2021, when up-and-down veteran Nate Solder could be a cap casualty). Wherever Thomas plays, the hope is that late third-round pick Matt Peart can play the other side.

Defensively, consider Xavier McKinney a catch-all solution for a Giants secondary that is quietly better inside than people realize. Or, potentially better, since they’re counting on last year’s fourth-round free safety, Julian Love, to build on his intriguing rookie season, and on former Browns first-round strong safety Jabrill Peppers to perform at a star level. In today’s NFL you need three quality safeties, and it really helps if one of those safeties can play the slot, as that provides answers inside against both three-receiver and two-tight end personnel. McKinney offers diverse value.

Grade: B

* * *

* * *

NEW YORK JETS

1 (11). Mekhi Becton, T, Louisville 2 (59). Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor 3 (68). Ashtyn Davis, S, California 3 (79). Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida 4 (120). La'Mical Perine, RB, Florida 4 (125). James Morgan, QB, Florida International 4 (129). Cameron Clark, G, Charlotte 5 (158). Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia 6 (191). Braden Mann, P, Texas A&M

By the end of last season, the Jets were playing with four backup offensive linemen, and that lineup actually played better than the starting unit had played. The point? They need more O-line talent. Mekhi Becton has that. He’s the largest man to enter the league since right tackle Trent Brown, who earned a $36.25 million guaranteed contract with the Raiders in 2019. He played left tackle at Louisville, and plugging him in there would let ex-Seahawk George Fant, who was signed for three years and $27.3 million ($8.85 million guaranteed), play right tackle, where he’s probably better suited. Becton might have some pass-blocking mechanics to clean up, but he should be a Day One starter.

So should wideout Denzel Mims. On the rare snaps where Adam Gase’s scheme did not look to deliberately help its receivers through design, New York’s lack of perimeter talent and depth at this position was grossly exposed. And that was with a quality “X” receiver in Robby Anderson. Now Anderson is a Panther, leaving New York in need of a pure outside weapon to pair with newcomer Breshad Perriman. Mims gives Sam Darnold a well-sized target, though in a perfect world, the Jets would have found one more receiver in the middle rounds. But that was undoable after addressing the need for a long-term backup QB (James Morgan) and running back depth to compensate for the departures of veterans Bilal Powell and Ty Montgomery.

On defense, the Ashtyn Davis pick might add to the speculation that Jamal Adams will eventually be traded since it is hard to immediately decipher where, exactly, Davis will play in New York’s defense. Adams is a first-class strong safety and Marcus Maye is a quality free safety. But Jets defensive coordinator Gregg Williams has never hesitated to put extra defensive backs on the field, and given his predilection for playing Cover 2 out of so many different formats and disguises, having a third dynamic safety could be of real value. It’s also possible that the Jets have decided they’ll let Maye hit free agency after this season. He fits the profile of the free agent who gets away, as he’s not quite good enough to franchise tag but too good to re-sign at a team-friendly price.

Up front, our friend Greg Cosell has cited Jabari Zuniga as a possible dark horse star. He played several positions at Florida, flashing terrific explosiveness both outside and inside, particularly as a pass rusher. Many (including yours truly) felt before the draft that New York’s biggest need on defense was cornerback. But with the amount of Cover 2 the Jets play, their corners often have help… just as long as the pass rush can get there. Zuniga aids that.

Grade: A-

* * *

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

1 (21). Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU 2 (53). Jalen Hurts, QB, Oklahoma 3 (103). Davion Taylor, LB, Colorado 4 (127). K'Von Wallace, S, Clemson 4 (145). Jack Driscoll, T, Auburn 5 (168). John Hightower, WR, Boise State 6 (196). Shaun Bradley, LB, Temple 6 (200). Quez Watkins, WR, Southern Miss 6 (210). Prince Tega Wanogho, T, Auburn 7 (233). Casey Toohill, DE, Stanford

In critical pass situations last season, the Eagles often went to 12 personnel—two receivers and two tight ends. Yes, they have a pair of quality tight ends in Zach Ertz and Dallas Goedert, but this personnel decision said more about what they had—or didn’t have—at wide receiver.

Jalen Reagor fills a gargantuan void. He was an explosive outside weapon at TCU who showed he can also move into the slot. While maybe not quite a pure burner through and through, he can still get vertical—a notable trait given that Carson Wentz is innately aggressive when it comes to pushing the ball downfield. Reagor also impressed scouts with some of his route running nuance—another notable trait given that Doug Pederson’s offense, when it’s functioning comfortably, is built on detailed route combinations.

Knowing that a lack of receiving speed was their downfall in 2019, the Eagles compensated very thoroughly by also drafting burner John Hightower in Round 5. With the two rookies aboard and veteran DeSean Jackson (hopefully) back healthy this year, Philly’s offense has simply gone from slow to fast.

It might also go from static to multiple if second-round quarterback Jalen Hurts was brought in to be a dynamic gadget weapon. And almost certainly, that’s the case. Carson Wentz has obviously been injury prone, but it’s highly unlikely that Philadelphia would spend a second-round pick on an insurance policy here, and it is inconceivable that they’d even contemplate replacing a 27-year-old QB who has superstar traits.

But even if Hurts’s gadgetry role is clearly defined, don’t make any Taysom Hill comparisons; Hurts is a dual-threat QB but not a blocker or receiver on top of that.

Defensively, Davion Taylor is perceived to be a raw but potentially explosive prospect. Such a project is probably not what linebacker-hungry Eagles fans want for 2020, but as we highlighted in Philadelphia’s “team needs” before the draft, the defensive staff has good reason to be comfortable with young incumbents T.J. Edwards and Nathan Gerry as their starting nickel options. And if they take the long view, the fans have plenty to look forward to given the upside that comes with having 4.39 speed. Worth noting: Taylor is the first linebacker GM Howie Roseman has drafted in the first three rounds since Mychal Kendricks in 2012. (Jordan Hicks in 2015 was a Chip Kelly pick.)

Grade: C

* * *

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

2 (49). Chase Claypool, WR, Notre Dame 3 (102). Alex Highsmith, LB, Charlotte 4 (124). Anthony McFarland Jr., RB, Maryland 4 (135). Kevin Dotson, G, Louisiana 6 (198). Antoine Brooks Jr., S, Maryland 7 (232). Carlos Davis, DT, Nebraska

Pittsburgh’s first-round pick is already a success considering it was dealt last year for Pro Bowl free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. That takes a bit of the sting out of the possibility that no one from this draft class will make major contributions in 2020.

The guy with the best chance to prove this wrong is Chase Claypool. Pittsburgh’s offense is heavy on isolation routes, which means it’s dependent on having wide receivers who can win. Right now, there’s really only one: JuJu Smith-Schuster. Last year’s third-rounder, Diontae Johnson, showed encouraging flashes as a rookie, and 2018 second-round speedster James Washington made far fewer of the mistakes that marred his rookie season, but neither guy is a sure thing No. 2 receiver. (Or even No. 3 receiver.) With a Super Bowl-caliber defense and 38-year-old quarterback, the Steelers need their young wideouts to make plays right away.

As for top defensive pick Alex Highsmith, with T.J. Watt aboard and Bud Dupree a somewhat surprising franchise tag recipient, it’s clear the Steelers are drafting for depth at outside linebacker, both now and for the future.

Grade: C

* * *

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

1 (14). Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina 1 (25). Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State 5 (153). Colton McKivitz, T, West Virginia 6 (190). Charlie Woerner, TE, Georgia 7 (217). Jauan Jennings, WR, Tennessee

In a technical sense, a variety of trades left the Niners with just two meaningful draft picks (both first rounders), but that’s not a bad thing when you’re a defending conference champion and do not have many weaknesses to correct. Plus, if you count ex-Washington left tackle Trent Williams as part of this class (he was acquired for a 2020 fifth-rounder and 2021 third-rounder, and will replace the retired Joe Staley), it’s a top-heavy haul of talent.

Many expected the Niners to find a replacement for departed wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders at Pick 14, when every wide receiver save for Henry Ruggs III was still on the board. But that’s not how this organization thinks. Head coach Kyle Shanahan and GM John Lynch understand that as long as they have quality route runners on the field, Shanahan’s play designs can win. Quality route runners can be found in Rounds 2-4. (Plus, the Niners are said to love 2019 third-rounder Jalen Hurd, who missed his rookie season with a stress fracture in his low back.)

The fact that the Niners traded up in the late first round to get Brandon Aiyuk says they must be smitten with the Arizona State star. Stylistically, he first their offense. Scouts liked Aiyuk’s effectiveness operating on the move, which is a key characteristic in Shanahan’s timing-based offense. He also has shown he can align in a variety of positions.

As for how San Fran used that No. 14 pick … what Shanahan and Lynch understand is that, while their offensive system is not player-dependent, their defensive system is. Coordinator Robert Saleh’s scheme is predicated on having a potent four-man pass rush. The Niners rode that to a Super Bowl appearance last year. After financial constraints forced them to trade DeForest Buckner to the Colts, they needed to restock for this year. NFL draft expert Greg Cosell has said that Javon Kinlaw is not a flawless prospect, but his best-case scenario is to develop into a Chris Jones type of force. That’s a helluva best-case scenario, and the Niners believe they have one of the NFL’s best defensive line coaches in Kris Kocurek.

Grade: A-

* * *

Everything You Need to Know About the NFL Draft: Sign up for Sports Illustrated’s newsletters and get complete NFL Draft coverage and analysis—delivered right to your inbox.

* * *

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

1 (27). Jordyn Brooks, LB, Texas Tech 2 (48). Darrell Taylor, DE, Tennessee 3 (69). Damien Lewis, G, LSU 4 (133). Colby Parkinson, TE, Stanford 4 (144). DeeJay Dallas, RB, Miami (FL) 5 (148). Alton Robinson, DE, Syracuse 6 (214). Freddie Swain, WR, Florida 7 (251). Stephen Sullivan, TE, LSU

The Seahawks have a history of drafting players with not this upcoming season, but the following season, in mind. That appears to be the formula GM John Schneider and head coach Pete Carroll followed again this year.

After being unable to trade down in the first round, they took Jordyn Brooks. It’s a puzzle, figuring out exactly why. Perennially underappreciated star veteran K.J. Wright is in the final year of his contract. Though he showed little sign of decline last year, it stands to reason the Seahawks might be willing to move on once his deal expires. (That’s largely how Seattle has approached 30-plus-year-old star defenders in the past.)

Bobby Wagner might seem old because he has been playing at such a high level for so long, but he doesn’t turn 30 until June and his contract runs through 2022. There is an opt-out after 2020, but it’s hard to fathom Seattle planning to go that route at this point. Wagner has shown no sign of decline on film. (Though remember, teams often start seeing a player’s decline up close in practice before that decline makes its way to the playing field.)

The Seahawks also drafted a future starting linebacker last year in Cody Barton, who has the coverage skills to maybe even push for all-important nickel snaps this season. So it’s not like things were looking bereft at linebacker for 2021 and beyond. So why take Brooks in the first round?

Recall that last season the Seahawks often played base 4-3 personnel, even against three-receiver sets. It was a highly unusual move in a nickel-heavy league, but it worked well, in part because Seattle is so comfortable playing zone. (4-3 vs. 3 WRs does not work well in man-to-man.) We assumed the 4-3 move was in part because Seattle did not have any great options at slot corner. But at pick No. 27, there were decent slot corner prospects on the board. And yet they still took Brooks. Is Pete Carroll planning to commit to the 4-3 approach long-term? This will be a fascinating scenario to watch play out.

As for second-rounder Darrell Taylor, the Seahawks think highly of defensive line coach Clint Hurtt and are giving him a talented but unrefined specimen to develop. Hurtt best get results sooner than later; Seattle’s four-man rush—which is vital in their zone scheme—was nowhere near good enough last season and has since said goodbye to its top force, Jadeveon Clowney. Clowney remains unsigned, in part, because he’s not a truly bendable edge player. Taylor, on the other hand, has those traits in spades. But they must be honed.

At first glance, third-round pick Damien Lewis might look like an unofficial admission that 2017 second-round pick Ethan Pocic has not fully panned out – and maybe it is. But more likely this pick is a response to veteran guards Mike Iupati and D.J. Fluker being in contract years. At 6' 2", 327 pounds, Lewis, though not quite as big as Iupati or Fluker, has the sheer bulk that Seattle has come to value at guard.

In the middle rounds, investing in running back depth made sense given the questions about Rashaad Penny’s healthy. Investing at tight end was a little surprising considering the team is at least three-deep, if not four-deep at that position. But then again, starter Greg Olsen likely won’t be around for long.

Grade: B

* * *

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

1 (13). Tristan Wirfs, T, Iowa 2 (45). Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota 3 (76). Ke'Shawn Vaughn, RB, Vanderbilt 5 (161). Tyler Johnson, WR, Minnesota 6 (194). Khalil Davis, DT, Nebraska 7 (241). Chapelle Russell, LB, Temple 7 (245). Raymond Calais, RB, Louisiana

If you’re going to invest in a 42-year-old Tom Brady, you need to fill your glaring hole at right tackle. Insert Tristan Wirfs, who was an efficient, compact starting right tackle for three years at Iowa. Though his measurables are mostly normal—he’s nearly 6' 5" and has 34-inch arms—some feel that Wirfs’s playing style is better suited for the guard position. That’s an unlikely move for the Bucs, who have a quality left guard in Ali Marpet and spent a third-rounder on right guard Alex Cappa in 2018. Consider this a straightforward, value-needed selection.

It was a little surprising the Bucs did not look for wide receiver depth until the fifth round (Tyler Johnson), which suggests they must really like third-round back Ke’Shawn Vaughn. He was a straightforward, one-path runner at Vanderbilt, which means the Bucs see him as a base down player. Is he here to add backfield depth? Or does Tampa Bay’s brass envision Vaughn challenging Ronald Jones?

The defense did not have many needs, but Antoine Winfield Jr. was a good pick. Safeties are important in defensive coordinator Todd Bowles’s scheme. Incumbent 2017 second-rounder Justin Evans flashed decent range in 2018 but spent last season on IR. Versatile 2019 third-round pick Mike Edwards is intriguing, but was taken off the field at times in passing situations. Jordan Whitehead, a fourth-rounder in 2018, has some coverage versatility and at times flashes good closing speed, but he can’t quite be viewed as a cornerstone starter at this point. By drafting Winfield, the Bucs—theoretically—stabilize one safety spot, which, given their decent options in the players outlined above, makes it easier to stabilize the other safety spot.

Grade: A-

* * *

TENNESSEE TITANS

1 (29). Isaiah Wilson, T, Georgia 2 (61). Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU 3 (93). Darrynton Evans, RB, Appalachian State 5 (174). Larrell Murchison, DT, N.C. State 7 (224). Cole McDonald, QB, Hawaii 7 (243). Chris Jackson, S, Marshall

It’s straightforward: When you’re a run-heavy team and you just lost your quality right tackle in free agency, it’s imperative you find a new quality right tackle. Quality offensive tackles require an early-round pick. Especially when that tackle weighs 350 and is athletic.

What’ll be interesting is to see if Isaiah Wilson, at his size, can play at the NFL level with the needed quickness and mobility for Tennessee’s wide-zone blocking scheme. He wouldn’t be here if the Titans had many doubts that he could.

Adding a run-blocker makes even more sense if you add a dynamic runner later. Third-rounder Darrynton Evans has big-time home-run hitting ability, and Tennessee’s wide-zone rushing attack presents opportunities for him to find space on the perimeter. He’ll fill departed veteran Dion Lewis’s old role and, given Derrick Henry’s passing game limitations, likely get every chance to earn the third-down duties.

There were some concerns about Kristian Fulton’s inconsistent balance and technique at LSU, but he often compensated with his late recovery ability. Those recovery skills may not transfer cleanly to the much more competitive NFL, but the good news is Fulton steps into a scheme that features a lot of disguised zone coverage, including heavy doses of Cover 2. That can hide some of his warts.

Grade: B

* * *

WASHINGTON

1 (2). Chase Young, DE, Ohio State 3 (66). Antonio Gibson, WR, Memphis 4 (108). Saahdiq Charles, T, LSU 4 (142). Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR, Liberty 5 (156). Keith Ismael, C, San Diego State 5 (162). Khaleke Hudson, LB, Michigan 7 (216). Kamren Curl, S, Arkansas 7 (229). James Smith-Williams, DE, N.C. State

Washington entered this draft with many needs, and pass rusher was not one of them. Tenth-year veteran Ryan Kerrigan still offers quality burst and bendability, and the team spent a first-round pick last season on Mississippi State’s Montez Sweat. Inside, defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis is coming off a quietly strong 2019 season, and alongside him are relatively recent first-round picks Jonathan Allen (2017) and Da’Ron Payne (���18). So no, Washington did not need Chase Young, but that doesn’t make them wrong for taking him. Sometimes talent is too immense to pass up. Many scouts see Young as the type of explosive difference-maker who only comes along once every few years.

No team has ever rued having too many quality pass rushers, especially not if that team runs a 4-3 gap-based, zone-oriented scheme like new head coach Ron Rivera and defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio are expected to install.

With Washington’s second-round pick being sacrificed in last year’s trade up to get Montez Sweat, Rivera’s next move was not until early in the third-round. He took Memphis tailback Antonio Gibson. Why? When healthy, you can argue that scat back Chris Thompson has been one of Washington’s three most valuable offensive players. The problem is Thompson has not been healthy nearly often enough, missing at least five games in each of the last three seasons. So, Washington drafted a younger version of Thompson; a dynamic receiving back can be a good friend for a young pocket passer like Dwayne Haskins.

So can a sound offensive line, which Washington is trying to piece together after their trade of Trent Williams to the 49ers officially leaves them with one of the least steady left side O-line situations in the league. It’s not inconceivable that mid-round selections OT Saahdiq Charles and even C Keith Ismael could see playing time as rookies, especially considering they’re both capable of lining up at guard.

Grade: B+

April 26, 2020 at 06:54AM NFL Draft 2020 Grades: Analyzing All 32 Teams’ Picks from Blogger https://ift.tt/2zxck6r

[mitchintille]

2020 Mock Draft 2.0

Less than one week away from perhaps the most unusual and bizarre NFL draft we’ll ever witness. At the end of the day, it really doesn’t matter how the draft happens, just as long as it does. 

Fair warning, I fully expect the actual draft to look nothing like this one. I’m anticipating numerous trades and head scratching picks come next Thursday night. And while it may not be conducive for me to not include trades, it is simply too unpredictable so I’ll be selecting for each team with the order as is.

Here we go.......

1. Cincinnati Bengals - Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

Ahem.

2. Washington Redskins - Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State

While there have been rumors speculating a possible trade down or surprise selection of a QB, they are simply just that, rumors. Young is the most talented player in this class top to bottom. He checks every box as a prospect and would bolster an already impressive front seven for the Skins. 

3. Detroit Lions - Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State

Here’s where the draft gets fun. The Lions are a team I expect to be highly active come draft night. A trade back here with a QB needy team such as LAC or Miami would not surprise me at all. However, in the case of this mock, we are assuming Detroit holds at three which would leave them the nice consolation prize of Okudah. He can fill the void left by Darius Slay and would instantly be the best DB on that roster. 

4. New York Giants - Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

Yet another team I expect to be clinging to their phones come draft night. But in this scenario, I’d expect them to go with either Isaiah Simmons or their highest rated tackle. The nod goes to the freaskishly athlethic Wirfs, who although shows glimpses of his high upside potential, will need to fix his footwork and inconsistent timing with his punch hand in pass pro.

5. Miami Dolphins - Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

It pained me having to type that out. With uncertainty surrounding Tua Tagovailoa and his concerning injury history, you can’t convince me the Dolphins will spend a premier pick on a question mark like him. Instead, they opt for the safer selection in Herbert, a high Football IQ and character driven player. His arm talent on film is evident, but his erratic tendencies and failure to make any big leaps throughout his four years as a starter are worrisome to me. This feels significantly too high for a player of his caliber, but this is the Dolphins we’re dealing with so nothing shocks me anymore.

6. Los Angeles Chargers - Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

The real QB1 finally goes off the board, Is there risk inherited with this pick? Absolutely. But for a team with a talented roster on the cusp of making a playoff run, they lack a true franchise QB to elevate them to that level. Enter Tua. One of the best short/intermediate processors to declare in years. His feel for the pocket and ability to throw wide receivers open are both translatable traits that he performs very well on a consistent basis. He isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but the reward outweighs the risk to me here. 

7. Carolina Panthers - Isaiah Simmons, LB/S, Clemson

After shipping off Trai Turner and Cam Newton, it is very clear that Matt Rhule and the Panthers want to rebuild starting from the ground up. After Luke Keuchly’s sudden retirement this offseason, an already depleted run defense just got even worse. Simmons is a dynamic athlete with high football character who can plug and play from day one. This pick is just as much culture based as it is talent, as they add the local product to a defense in dire need of a spark heading into 2020. 

8. Arizona Cardinals - Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama

An absolute mauler. Wills is head and shoulders the best run blocker at his position in this draft. After recently investing into Marcus Gilbert and finalizing a blockbuster trade with Houston for Deandre Hopkins, this allows Steve Keim the wiggle room to draft for talent instead of need. Adding a stalwart to the left side of that offensive line would serve as a good insurance policy for Kyler Murray.

9. Jacksonville Jaguars - CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

Hey Jags fans, remember a guy named Justin Gilbert who also went top ten a couple years ago? Well I found his brother. All jokes aside, Henderson is sticky in man coverage and adds superb athleticism to an already elite frame. The cupboard is bare for the Jags corner back depth chart, and this pick would help fill a gaping hole at corner.

10. Cleveland Browns - Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

The best OT in the class. The three year starter at Georgia saw snaps at both left and right tackle over the course of his career. Thomas won’t wow anyone with his athleticism, but his technically sound form and plus footwork should allow for an easy transition to the league.

11. New York Jets - Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

A bit of a conundrum here for me. I love Jeudy’s talent. It is undeniable. But I simply don’t see him being a team’s No.1 WR early in his career. Unfortunately for the Jets, they failed to resign Robby Anderson in free agency and are now left with a huge void. They opt for the best route runner in the draft and an optimal WR2 in today’s game. His ability to create separation at the line of scrimmage is already among the best at the position in the NFL. He does get into a habit of letting the ball travel into his body too much, but considering the amount of space he creates before the ball is thrown, it doesn’t worry me too much. As much as he appears to be a slam dunk prospect on tape, not having another receiver on the outside to complement his best traits could prove to be dire for Jeudy in this situation. 

12. Las Vegas Raiders - Ceedee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

Did you see the picture I used for this article? Then you understand why this makes sense. Look, Lamb just FEELS like a Raider. Given their need for a true WR1 and Gruden’s style of preferred receiver, this almost feels like an arranged marriage. Lamb's YAC skills and football IQ should be coveted by Gruden/Mayock. 

13. San Francisco 49ers - Henry Ruggs, WR, Alabama

Speed. Speed. And more speed. If Kyle Shanahan showed us one thing last season, it’s that he doesn’t mess around when it comes to speed. Ruggs displays absurd play speed and athleticism. I trust Shanny’s savviness as a coach to able to get Ruggs the ball any way possible. Pair him next to Deebo Samuel and allow George Kittle to eat over the middle. Good luck, defenses. 

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

This is yet another draft slot that I anticipate should change between now and Thursday. The Bucs went out and made a big splash, signing six time super bowl winner Tom Brady. GM Jason Licht has made it very clear: we want a ring. With that being said, I can see the Bucs trading up to ensure they land the best tackle on their board. In this case, they sit tight and still late a behemoth in Mekhi Becton. The 6′9 specimen does a good job of using his freakish length to his advantage. There are occasional mental lapses, but once he gets his hands on you, it’s a wrap. 

15. Denver Broncos - Derrick Brown, IDL, Auburn

Tough scenario here for Denver. The top three receivers and top four tackles are all off the board. Instead of reaching for need, the Broncos elect to go BPA, which just so happens to be Brown. Brown is an absolute hog molly who will immediately help reset the defensive interior. His presence on the inside with Von Miller and Bradley Chubb on the outside can help give offensive coordinators fits for the next five years. 

16. Atlanta Falcons - Javon Kinlaw, IDL, South Carolina

The medical concerns here are real. Kinlaw raised concerns following an injury related dismissal from the senior bowl. With cloudiness surrounding his future, a Mo Hurst-esque slide wouldn’t surprise me in the least bit. With that being said, Kinlaw’s burst and explosiveness are easily the best in the class. His pure brute strength and first step allowed him to win majority of his reps at South Carolina. Once he develops a few counter moves in his arsenal, watch out.

17. Dallas Cowboys - AJ Terrell, CB, Clemson

Barring one of the top three receivers falling to this spot, i firmly believe that this will be the pick. Following the departure of Byron Jones, a sudden need has emerged at cornerback. Given the depth at the position in this draft, a reach for need at this spot feels highly likely. Terrell is infamously known for his horrible game against Jamar Chase and LSU in the national championship, but I feel the hatred for him as gotten absurd. His body of work outside that game should speak for itself. He’s an intelligent and physical player with the long speed neccessary to stay attached on routes down the field.

18. Miami Dolphins - Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State

A late bloomer in the draft process, Cleveland has sky rocketed up boards since the combine. He showed quality tape but his combine and high football character find himself as a top 20 pick. Brian Flores is beginning to show a tendency to target high character Football players, and Cleveland fits the billing.

19. Las Vegas Raiders - Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

Mayock strikes again! The Raiders need for quality corners is no secret, and being that Mike Mayock and drafting college players from high profile schools are synonymous, all signs lead to this being the selection. Fulton is a smart, scheme versatile corner whose prowess in man coverage should serve immediate dividends to a team lacking players with that ability. 

20. Jacksonville Jaguars - K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE, LSU

With the impending departure of Yannick Ngakoue, it wouldn’t surprise me to see them spin the wheel with Chaisson. His lack of production for his caliber of athlete is a bit confusing, and given the lack of success from former players who tested similarly, his outlook does not bode well. However, his first step alone is worthy of the selection. He has rockets attached to his shoes, and his initial burst off the line can be mind boggling at times. He is still a work in progress, but if he can fully tap into his potential, the sky is the limit.

21. Philadelphia Eagles - Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

I know I know, it’s not a receiver. But Howie Roseman is smart, and although their depth at receiver does need to be addressed, their need at linebacker might be even more daunting. Queen, the one year starter, is a former RB who displays elite instincts. He’s a very fluid mover in coverage, and will spend his entire rookie season at age 20. Easy pick here for the Eagles. 

22. Minnesota Vikings - Josh Jones, OT, Houston 

A dream fit here. Jones is a light mover whose quick feet and athleticism in the open should translate nicely with the Vikings zone run scheme. He needs to get better about playing too tall at times, but Jones should plug right into that offensive line and serve as a contributor from day one. 

23. New England Patriots - AJ Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa

This screams Patriots to me. Epenesa is a plus run defender who is still just tapping into his potential as a pass rusher. He offers exceptional length and plus power. His versatility on the line should prove useful to Belichick, who is notorious for targeting edge guys with the ability to work from the interior. 

24. New Orleans Saints - Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

I was very tempted to go Kenneth Murray here but I can’t pass up the opportunity to keep an LSU kid in the bayou state. Drew Brees isn’t getting any younger, and the window for a Saints super bowl with him at the helm seems to be closing by the minute. Jefferson can play both in the slot and out the outside if needed. His ability to get open and find spacing in the short/intermediate pass game is a highly coveted trait in today’s NFL. Adding him to an already stable core or Michael Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders would finally give Brees all of the firepower needed to make a final run for glory.

25. Minnesota Vikings - Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State

A true big play threat. Aiyuk is not a perfect prospect by any means, as what he does with the ball in his hands is light years better than what he does without the ball in his hands. Aiyuk is still learning to play receiver, and his inconsistencies with getting off press coverage and catching contested passes are big knocks on his profile. With that being said, the dude is a freak of nature when he gets the ball in his hands. His big play flashes last year were mesmerizing, as he displays elite breakaway speed and rangy ball skills at times. While there is plenty to like about his YAC ability and athletic, he’s certainly a risk at this spot.

26. Miami Dolphins - Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State

Gross-Matos is an underrated prospect in the class in my opinion. He was highly productive at Penn State and put together a nice athletic profile in the process. The lack of pass rush in Miami is eye opening, and with three picks in the 1st round, addressing pass rush should be a priority here.

27.  Seattle Seahawks - Marlon Davidson, IDL, Auburn

I don’t know what position Marlon Davidson will play in the league. He can be a penetrating 3-tech, or be a hand in the dirt pass rusher from the edge. All I know is that he is a natural disruptor, and being that Jadeveon Clowney remains unsigned and 2019 first round selection LJ Collier appears to be a bust, this mold of player also fills what now becomes a need for Seattle. 

28. Baltimore Ravens - Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma

I truly wish that I could love this pick for Baltimore. The Ravens have recently shown a penchant for Oklahoma players in the draft (Hollywood Brown, Orlando Brown Jr., Mark Andrews), and given the need at linebacker, this makes a ton of sense, right? Well, sure it does. Murray is a rangy linebacker whose burst flies off the screen. Not to mention he is a plus leader and human off the field as well. But he is legally blind. Too many times did I see a rep where he filled the wrong gap or fell for a fake. His mental processing just simply isn’t there, and while he has the athleticism at times to make up for his mental errors, I just simply can’t see him sustaining success unless he makes serious leaps as a processor. 

29. Tennessee Titans - Jordan Love, QB, Utah State

Why not? Sure, they have other needs. But they just paid Ryan Tannehill $100m with no foreseeable backup plan. Love needs to go to a good team in order to succeed. His supporting cast at Utah State in 2019 was truly abysmal, and I believe was a major detriment to both his on field performance as well as his confidence. Love is an athletic, toolsy QB who personifies the new prototype of NFL quarterbacks. He has potential to be the steal of the draft, and the Titans have a good enough cast and coaching staff around him to make it possible. 

30. Green Bay Packers - Laviska Shenault, WR, Colorado

This goes against everything I told myself, but here we are. It is no secret that the Packers typically avoid skill players in the first round. But, for the first time since 2002, they choose that route. Shenault is a gadget style receiver with great size and athleticism. Shenault is best when he can get the ball and let his YAC ability flourish in space. He is very raw as a route runner and still learning the nuances of the position, but he is the type of playmaker that can elevate both Aaron Rodgers and the Packers’ offense immediately.

31. San Francisco 49ers - Cesar Ruiz, OC, Michigan 

Starting center Weston Richburg is still nursing a torn patellar tendon, and the interior OL depth is dwindling. Ruiz is a highly intelligent player with tons of experience. He is not the sexiest pick, but a very smooth mover in the open field that would slide ideally into that offensive line unit.

32. Kansas City Chiefs - Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah

Chiefs take a swing at the best available corner. Johnson boasted impressive tape this season and his length and football IQ are two qualities that I’d expect GM Brett Veach to be chomping at the bit for. 

Thank you guys for reading! Hope you enjoyed the content and that all of your are staying safe during the quarantine. Cheers!

[kansascityhappenings]

Tyrann Mathieu, Frank Clark turn gambles by Kansas City Chiefs into wise investments

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Tyrann Mathieu and Frank Clark were watching the AFC championship game on television a year ago, their teams knocked out of the playoffs, never thinking for a moment what the following 12 months might bring them.

Or more accurately, where it might bring them.

But after the Chiefs watched their defense fold in overtime against the Patriots, costing them a chance to reach the Super Bowl for the first time in nearly five decades, coach Andy Reid embarked on a massive overhaul of the unit.

Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans is tackled by Frank Clark #55 of the Kansas City Chiefs during the third quarter in the AFC Divisional playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 12, 2020 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

He replaced longtime coordinator Bob Sutton with Steve Spagnuolo, jettisoned aging and unproductive players, then asked general manager Brett Veach to bring in some legitimate playmakers to better fit their new scheme.

That’s how Mathieu and Clark wound up in Kansas City.

The Chiefs signed the ball-hawking safety to a $42 million, three-year deal to bring his talent and swagger to the back end of their defense.

A month later, they traded a package of draft picks to the Seahawks for Clark, then signed him to a $105.5 million, five-year contract before the bruising pass rusher had even played a down for them.

Now, the pair not only reside in Kansas City, they’re playing for an AFC championship there.

“A great opportunity to play in Kansas City and in front of the world,” Mathieu said Wednesday, before their first practice to prepare for Sunday’s game against Tennessee.

“To be on this stage is everything you work for, especially myself, being in my seventh year, going through what I’ve gone through in my career. To be in this position is a blessing.”

Strong safety Tyrann Mathieu #32 of the Kansas City Chiefs reacts to a defensive stop against the Chicago Bears in the third quarter of the game at Soldier Field on December 22, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

Mathieu is making more money per year than in any other season of his career, and Clark is now among the highest-paid defensive players in the league, yet they both seem like wise investments for a club with a lousy history of big contracts.

Eric Berry never lived up to the $78 million, six-year deal the safety signed in 2017, playing three games total over the next two seasons due to injuries.

Justin Houston appeared in only 32 games over three seasons after signing a $101 million, six-year contract in 2015, at the time the second richest for a defensive player in NFL history.

Wide receiver Dwayne Bowe had 117 catches but just five touchdowns in two seasons after his $56 million, five-year contract in 2013, and quarterback Matt Cassel went a mere 19-28 in four years as the starter after his $63 million, six-year deal in 2009.

No wonder the Chiefs are so happy with the production Mathieu and Clark have provided.

Yet their road to Kansas City — and all those riches — was fraught with obstacles.

Mathieu was a standout safety at LSU before a series of drug arrests torpedoed his college career. At one point, after an arrest in 2012, he told an Arizona television station that he contemplated suicide.

And when Mathieu got his life in order, and the Cardinals had taken a chance on him, injuries threatened his professional career.

He turned that around, too.

Mathieu helped the Texans reach the playoffs last season, then landed his contract in Kansas City, where he immediately became the go-to leader not only of the secondary but the entire Chiefs defense.

“That’s who he is,” quarterback Patrick Mahomes said. “He doesn’t have to be anything other than himself. He goes out there every single day and just by his attitude, his mindset, he’s leading other guys. His play speaks for itself, but the way he’s every single day able to be great, it spreads through the team.”

Clark has a remarkably similar story in finding his way to Kansas City.

Defensive end Frank Clark #55 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates with defensive end Chris Jones #95, after sacking quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first half of a preseason game at Arrowhead Stadium on August 24, 2019 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images)

He also was kicked off his college team, though Michigan did so following a domestic violence incident. And when Seattle gave him a chance, Clark avoided drama until an ugly social media incident involving a female TV reporter.

The Chiefs insist they did their due diligence before trading for him, though, and Clark has steered clear of trouble while helping Mathieu steer their revamped defense deep into the postseason.

Clark had three sacks of Deshaun Watson in their comeback win over Houston last week, including one in which he whiffed twice and ran about 40 yards before he finally brought down the Texans quarterback from behind.

“He’s relentless. That one sack kind of tells you the whole story,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “He was running around chasing him, missed him twice, got back up and sacked him. That’s how he is wired.”

That’s how Mathieu and Clark are both wired.

It’s a big reason they have bucked the NFL trend — so far — by living up to their massive contracts, and in doing so, helping the Chiefs return to the AFC championship game.

This time, they won’t be watching it on TV.

“It’s awesome,” Clark said, “but our goal isn’t just to make it there, it’s to win it all. It’s one game at a time. But it would feel good to go ahead and bring home that trophy, the AFC championship trophy — that would mean the world to us.”

from FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports https://fox4kc.com/2020/01/15/tyrann-mathieu-frank-clark-turn-gambles-by-kansas-city-chiefs-into-wise-investments/

from Kansas City Happenings https://kansascityhappenings.wordpress.com/2020/01/16/tyrann-mathieu-frank-clark-turn-gambles-by-kansas-city-chiefs-into-wise-investments/

[wikitopx]

A growing community, the city of Zachary is the perfect compromise between the charm of a small country town and the convenience of a metropolitan hub.

Being a part of Sportsman’s Paradise, as Louisiana’s nickname goes, the town has its fair share of yawning spaces of green, be it in the form of manicured parks or rugged woods. Additionally, Zachary houses many points of interest like historic villages, museums, parks, and eateries while providing easy access to big city life thanks to its strategic location, close to Baton Rouge. Head to this cozy little town to shed that city-life stress and revel in the warm embrace of country life. Read on to learn more about the things you can do in Zachary.

1. Port Hudson National Cemetery

Established along the banks of the Mississippi River, Port Hudson National Cemetery is the final resting place of all the American war heroes who sacrificed their lives in service of their country. The well-kept green space is home to these brave souls, including many unsung heroes, from the Siege and Battle of Port Hudson. Steeped in rich history and tragic stories, the national cemetery in Zachary is definitely worth a visit, to pay homage to the soldiers, if not for anything else.

2. Zachary Youth Park

Sprawling over 12 hectares (30 acres) of land, this youth park has five turf fields, for t-ball, softball, and baseball, and is essentially home ground of the Zachary Youth Baseball Organization. Apart from playing host to softball and baseball leagues all year round, the facility is the go-to spot for community events like the Easter Egg Hunt and annual fests. Recently, a brand new playground has been added to this well-maintained facility, which makes Zachary Youth Park a favorite haunt with locals and tourists alike. The vast green spaces promise a day of wholesome fun, games, and fitness.

3. The Mudd Pits

Located along the Comite River, this adventure zone is a favorite among adrenaline junkies who like to test their machine skills through the rough muddy pits. Over 30 years of operating as an open pit mining company have rendered the ground full of craters and digging pits, ideal for testing out mud trucks and ATVs. The thrill-seekers flock to this place for a heart-racing, blood-pumping day of ATV-ing through these deadly pits and then cooling off with a refreshing drink or two.

4. Brec's Zachary Community Park

Among the many parks in Zachary, this one tops the list with a soccer complex, recreation paths, a recreation center, picnic areas, a dog park, a basketball court, a disc golf course, a playground, and a pretty lake. Located to the north of the town, the park also boasts vast open spaces and pristine wooded areas. Breathe in the fresh country air as you stroll along the trails, go picnicking with the family, or read that best seller in complete peace. The best thing about parks is they provide a complete sense of well-being whether you’re running around playing ball or simply laying on the grass. And Brec’s Park is certainly no exception.

5. Zachary Historic Village

The historic district in Zachary is quite the tourist hotspot. Running along several blocks, the Village has three main dwellings: Miss Sis’ Magic House, The Victorian McHugh House, and the Farm House, along with a railroad depot and an old town hall with a firehouse. Watch history come to life as you stroll along these paths that tell the tales of a typical 19th-century small-town neighborhood, in the form of folklore, cultural artifacts, and informative guided tours. Dedicated to the rich and abundant history of the town and its surroundings, the facility is a crowd-pleaser, especially when the crowd comprises art and history lovers.

6. Teddy's Juke Joint

Once a small shotgun house, Teddy’s Juke Joint is like a time machine that transports you straight to 1979 when the joint was set up, thus earning it its apt nickname, the Authentic Louisiana Juke Joint. This popular blues club is decorated with old pictures, bar licenses, signs and relics from the past and is as good as any old historical sight in the city. With Nancy’s kitchen belting out delicious food and Teddy putting together top-notch blues acts every week, this old rustic place instantly envelops you in its old-world charm.

7. Unique Creations Gift Boutique

Aptly named Unique Creations Gifts Boutique, this charming marketplace houses all local vendors under one roof, thus providing ultimate one-stop shopping solutions for the community members as well as the tourists. This is the best place to browse through an eclectic mix of local wares and pick up unusual gifts and souvenirs for folks and friends back home. From colorful mugs to quirky stationery, fashion accessories to fancy quilts, and from organic body and face products to savory and sweet treats, they have it all covered. What’s more, you might end up spending more hours here than at any of the other local attractions!

8. Old State Capitol

The Old State Capitol building is a striking Gothic-Revival castle that was built in 1847. It is noteworthy both from a historical and architectural perspective, and is worth a look, even if just from the outside. The castle was burned by the Union Army, and in 1882, it was repaired and served as the state capitol until 1932, when the new State Capitol building opened. This eye-catching structure standing high on a bluff over the Mississippi River is now a museum of political history. The museum offers a number of good exhibits that include The Legacy of Huey Long, The Governors' Portrait Gallery, Baton Rouge and the Civil War, and several others. The Old State Capitol hosts various events and can be rented out as a venue for weddings and other occasions.

9. USS Kidd Veterans Memorial

The USS Kidd Veterans Memorial centers on the destroyer USS KIDD. This ship, named after Rear Admiral Isaac Campbell Kidd, Sr., who was killed on the Arizona during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, was launched in 1943. It was nicknamed the Pirate of the Pacific and had a long and interesting history before it was decommissioned in 1964. Today, visitors can climb aboard to see the USS KIDD for themselves and learn all about its past.

The USS Kidd Veterans Memorial complex also consists of an observation tower and museum. This Historic Warship & Nautical Center has many one-of-a-kind artifacts, a model ship collection, and a miniature replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall found in Washington D.C.

10. Louisiana State University

The Louisiana State University was established in 1860 near Alexandria, and in 1869, it was moved to Baton Rouge. In 1926, the university moved to its current location. Some of the highlights include the LSU Rural Life Museum and the LSU Museum of Natural Science. American Indian mounds, located on the grounds, are believed to be more than 1,600 years old. Popular athletic programs and venues on the LSU campus include baseball at Alex Box Stadium/Skip Bertman Field and football at the LSU Tiger Stadium.

Read also: Top 10 things to do in Fresno

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-baton-rouge-703254.html

[auburnfamilynews]

Lock him up

We’ve been patient. We’ve tried to forgive. We’ve wanted to move on. Days after November 26, 2010, a man with evil in his heart drove to Auburn and stole something from the Auburn people that had been part of where we gather, what we do, and the welcome mat to our university for almost 100 years of generations.

Time goes by, with our iconic trees being replaced by wires for the 2013 season, and then by two, new permanent oaks at the corner of College and Magnolia. One of the trees has been replaced again. And every time I look at that corner now, I long for a day I’ll never see. A day where those trees don’t look new. A day where that corner feels old again.

The sad part is that the closest I’ll ever come to seeing that corner look and feel old again is going to be if I live another 60 years. And frankly by that point in time I doubt I’d be going to games. No, what I remember as a child, celebrating in 1993, 1995, and in 1997 in Auburn after beating Alabama are memories that I know I can’t quite reach back and connect with the same way ever again. Now part of that is growth, because man has Auburn changed. Another part of that is a Pieology where a bar should be. Pieology should be put out of business and someone should resurrect Bodega immediately. But the main part of it for me are those two new trees.

Which brings me to this...

“What you’re saying today is worse than anything you said on January 27, 2011.” Harvey Updyke called into the @Finebaum Show. Paul let him have it. pic.twitter.com/JQEbooE4Jb

— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) November 9, 2019

The fact that we had been subjected to hurt, insults, having something stolen from us, and had to deal with yet another attempt at stealing our joy from 2010 was hard. It’s enough to make you a little crazy and start thinking Auburn’s the problem sometimes. When people don’t let you, an Auburn person, enjoy a season, a player, trees, traditions, etc. that are uniquely Auburn and especially that year tried to steal all of it from you, it’s hard to know where to direct your frustration sometimes.

Harvey Updyke made the direction of that anger extremely easy. He encompassed the Cam Newton investigation, and everyone who wasn’t us telling us that our moment in the sun after 53 years would be taken away from us. He represented the worst offender in terms of a fanbase. And when the thought that a program that had been robbed of national title opportunities for decades finally kicked down the door, he took matters into his own hands to ensure that “order” could be restored, by reminding us that we should be allowed to have joy.

By doing what he did, Harvey also committed a crime. And owned up to it gleefully. He’s been tried by a jury, and found guilty. He’s been asked to pay restitution. He’s been asked to stay away from athletic events in the state. He’s been spotted at football games, such as the Alabama/LSU National Title game in early 2012. He was sentenced to 3 years in prison for his crimes in 2013, serving a mere 76 days in jail in Lee County.

Beyond the emotion that goes with experiencing theft of something that cannot be replaced or replicated, there is this whole thing of this man managing to avoid justice. Furthermore, this man has thumbed his nose at the law in which he was told to abide by, and has failed to pay restitution, as Harvey has paid less than $7,000 of an $800,000 bill. Harvey has managed to create a level of damage that cannot be restored, and the upheaval at Toomer’s Corner since is his responsibility. This is a man who has not served justice, a man who has not followed judges orders, and a man who seems to enjoy the celebrity that sadly has gone with committing a crime. And now, amidst being in violation of a judge’s orders, Harvey is a man who continues to use a platform given to him for reasons that I will never understand to play the role of a victim...and to insult Auburn.

Harvey Updyke should be in jail. He has willingly missed payments and hearings around this for years. Now, he has the motivated Lee County District Attorney on his tail. He has managed to use his notoriety as a way of getting to games, I’m sure having financial support, and insulting the people he hurt. This stopped being about dead trees in 2013 for Auburn University. What this has been about since the day it happened is justice.

Which leads me to the only game I’m paying close attention to today...

LSU at Alabama

Beat their ass like they stole something from you, LSU. Not because you owe us a favor, but because the only way for Harvey Updyke to feel pain isn’t going to come from the guilt he should feel for what he did, but from his beloved Tide losing a football game. And because those people cheering that embarrassing segment on Finebaum (aired by the SEC Network), don’t think that the man who committed a crime did anything wrong. It’s easy to get defensive at what I’m about to say, but they don’t represent all of them. I refuse to believe there are more people like that in the world than there are with common sense (though this world surprises me more and more each day). But for those specific folks that feed Harvey Updyke’s twisted ego, and for Harvey, a criminal, who has such a warped view of the world that today matters so much to, I want nothing but heartbreak for each and every single one of them. Beat their ass, LSU, and enjoy yourselves, your culture, and your way of living while there today, knowing that it’s all enough. There’s no need to inflict damage on them the way one of theirs did to us. The fact that you, like us, exist while they’re on top and still love who you are is more frustration to that segment of fandom than anything you could destroy over there. So again, beat their ass.

GEAUX TIGERS.

Western Kentucky at Arkansas

Chad Morris is going to be fired this year and Auburn’s name is going to get invoked in a lot of silly season talk because of it. You know why. There’s a lot of rooting interest on one side of the Auburn sphere that will find themselves rooting for Western Kentucky today so that Morris is fired on Sunday and this process picks up steam. For my part I think the train has left the station on us being involved in the talk of silly season, and it’s going to suck. Because it steals from the two biggest games of the year, both in Auburn. For that reason, knowing we’re going to get roped in on a lot of talk in November about Gus and Arkansas, I’d rather do it with the prospect of Arkansas making a coaching change, instead of it being a definite, since, you know, I’d like to enjoy and win the rest of our schedule. For that reason, WOO PIG SOOIE.

This week’s Index is a little condensed, frankly because the SEC sets this weekend up to be about Alabama and LSU every year. It sucks, the game will probably suck, and we’re invest energy into something we have no part in and should want no part of. But it’s a BYE week so cook some chili at the house, let your dog get to enjoy you being a little less scary around the TV, and maybe even use this weekend to get out and enjoy a nice, cool fall day.

With that, here’s my rooting interests (highlighted in bold) for the rest of the SEC games:

Missouri at Georgia - DUH

Appalachian State at South Carolina - Eli Drinkwitz is a guy to keep an eye on in silly season either this year or the next. Plus South Carolina is about as useful to me now as a screen door is on a submarine.

New Mexico State at Ole Miss - Look man I just enjoy watching the world burn. And Rich Rodriguez lose it in a box.

Vandy at Florida - Normally I’d root for Vandy because I feel sorry for them and because to hell with Florida. But on the off chance Mizzou can do the deal today and we finish Georgia off next week, it sure would be nice to see someone else win the SEC East!

Tennessee at Kentucky - Mark Stoops is allegedly a good football coach, so I’m told. So good, that he’s probably the right fit for Florida State. Or he’s fine to probably never have a 10-win season again at Kentucky while not getting fired. Either way, he’s not an Alabama graduate who doesn’t understand vegetables. Tennessee is getting better. Which, yeah, ok that’s fine. They still aren’t getting better quick enough to challenge Alabama year over year. Plus this ain’t basketball. And last year happened, and I’ll never be ok with it.

That’s all I’ve got for this week friends! Feel free to comment below with your rooting interests today and how they may best impact Auburn!

War Eagle!

from College and Magnolia - All Posts https://www.collegeandmagnolia.com/2019/11/9/20956497/rootability-index-vol-5

[junker-town]

Our grades for every pick in the 1st round of the 2020 NFL Draft

Tua Tagovailoa, Javon Kinlaw, and Chase Young were all taken in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

The Minnesota Vikings played the first round perfectly while others did not.

In what was supposed to be a bizarre 2020 NFL Draft, things felt pretty normal. Through the first 12 picks, at least.

Then things started to get a little weird. Tampa Bay made the first trade of the night to go get a blocker for Tom Brady. Some teams that were expected to take a wide receiver in the first round didn’t. Some teams that we didn’t expect to take a wide receiver in the first round did.

The back half of the first round was filled with trades and some questionable selections. At least that’s how they look initially. And that is why we’re here with some instant, premature grades.

These grades are based on a combination of factors starting with player value. After that, filling need and personnel fit are considered. Of course, these are way too early. We’ll re-visit them in a few years to see the true value.

1. Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

Burrow becomes the 15th quarterback since 2000 to be taken first in the draft. Many of those picks — like David Carr, JaMarcus Russell, and Jameis Winston — haven’t worked out. Obviously the hope is that Burrow does. He’s the best quarterback in the draft and goes to a team that badly needs one.

Grade: A+

2. Washington: Chase Young, DE, Ohio State

Washington doesn’t really need Young. The team has taken defensive linemen in the first round in three consecutive drafts, most recently Montez Sweat last year. If the team has a strength, that is it. Still, Young is overwhelmingly the best player in the draft. He has every trait you want in a 4-3 defensive end, from length to an incredibly fast first move.

Grade: A+

3. Detroit Lions: Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State

After considering a trade down, the Lions stood pat to take the best cornerback in the draft. It’s a pick that makes sense. No team in the NFL gave up more passing yards per game than Detroit last season, so it needs Okudah. In the Ohio State product, the Lions get a man coverage corner with excellent athleticism for the game. He’s a Day 1 starter. This grade would be higher if the Lions didn’t force themselves into this pick by disenfranchising, and ultimately trading, Darius Slay.

Grade: B+

4. New York Giants: Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

The expectation was that the Giants would take an offensive tackle here. But did they take the right one? Thomas is considered to be the classic “high-floor, low ceiling” type of prospect. That’s in part because he played a ton of games at Georgia. As it has been stated throughout this draft process, the top four offensive tackles could come off the board in a random order. That’s what this represents.

Grade: B-

5. Miami Dolphins: Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

This is a gamble, but it could pay off huge. Tagovailoa had numerous injuries in college, the last being a fractured hip. But when Tagovailoa was healthy, he was arguably the best quarterback in this draft. Tagovailoa is a magician in the pocket with his ability to move around. But sometimes he moves around a little too much and he’ll put himself in danger. The question now becomes about how soon Miami will put Tagovailoa on the field. In the end, the Dolphins did tank for Tua.

Grade: B

6. Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

The Chargers badly needed to land a quarterback in the first round, and they didn’t have to trade up to get one. Despite what head coach Anthony Lynn said, it was impossible to see his team banking on Tyrod Taylor, a quarterback who has started just 46 games in nine seasons. Which Herbert are the Chargers getting, though? Is it the one who holds on to the ball too long or the big-armed 6’6 athlete? Are they getting Cam Newton or Paxton Lynch?

Grade: B-

7. Carolina Panthers: Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn

This pick either had to be Brown or Clemson’s Isaiah Simmons. Carolina’s run defense last season was abysmal, and only got worse when Luke Kuechly surprised everyone and retired. Not only that, but the Panthers lost Vernon Butler and Gerald McCoy on the defensive line this offseason.

Brown is a monster of a defensive tackle. To me, he’s the new version of Fletcher Cox of the Philadelphia Eagles. Brown is hard to move off the spot and can collapse the pocket with his power. The only issue is how well his pass rush game will translate to the NFL. If it does, Brown should be a superstar in the NFL.

Grade: A-

8. Arizona Cardinals: Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

From a best player available standpoint, Simmons is a slam dunk of a pick for the Cardinals. Given general manager Steve Keim’s drafting history, he tends to like defensive players who are versatile. Sometimes it works out (Tyrann Mathieu) and sometimes it doesn’t (Hassan Reddick). The problem with this pick is that Simmons can’t block for Kyler Murray on offense. That’s maybe the one thing Simmons can’t do. This pick is akin to Derwin James falling to the Chargers in 2018.

Grade: B

9. Jacksonville Jaguars: CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

This was one of the first surprises of the first round, and it was only a mild surprise. Jacksonville’s secondary is a barren wasteland after the Jaguars moved on from Jalen Ramsey and A.J. Bouye. They needed to make this pick to help rebuild a defense that has fallen apart in the last two years.

Grade: B-

10. Cleveland Browns: Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama

The Browns needed a left tackle in a bad way. They signed Jack Conklin in free agency, so the choice of a tackle was pretty telegraphed. There is some projection with this pick, though. Wills played the majority of his snaps at right tackle in college. The assumption is that he’ll be able to effortlessly move sides because of his ability to pass block. We’ll see how well that goes.

Grade: B-

11. New York Jets: Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

This was a smart move by the Jets. They could have taken a wide receiver here, but decided it was more important to block for young franchise quarterback Sam Darnold. Becton is a physical specimen who moves around with ease despite being 360 pounds. The Jets can find receivers later in the draft. They can’t find a blocker like Becton.

Grade: A

12. Las Vegas Raiders: Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

Al Davis has risen to make the pick of a speed-first receiver over teammate Jerry Jeudy or Oklahoma’s CeeDee Lamb. Ruggs is a deep threat, sure, but he’s also a run-and-catch receiver who can line up on the outside or in the slot. Ruggs should be a playmaker for the Raiders. That’s what you expect out of a wide receiver who runs a 4.27-second 40-yard dash. But he seems much riskier than Jeudy or Lamb.

Grade: C+

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

The Buccaneers moved up a spot in an effort to get the blocker they need at right tackle. With Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski to go with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, suddenly the Buccaneers appear to have one of the NFL’s best offenses. It only got better with the addition of Wirfs, who I rated as the top offensive tackle in the draft this year.

Grade: A+

14. San Francisco 49ers: Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina

The 49ers made the right move making a no-risk trade with the Buccaneers to drop down a pick and get a fourth-round selection (No. 117) in return. Then they took a defensive lineman over a wide receiver. The 49ers originally got the 13th pick from the Colts for DeForest Buckner. Kinlaw in the closest comparison to Buckner in this draft. So basically they got a cheaper player to do the same thing.

Grade: B

15. Denver Broncos: Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

This pick was a steal for the Broncos. Jeudy was the best wide receiver in the draft, and he shouldn’t have lasted until the 15th pick. Jeudy is an excellent route runner who runs crisp, smooth patterns. He can play on the outside or in the slot for the Broncos and he has good speed too. Jeudy has very few flaws in his game.

Grade: A+

16. Atlanta Falcons: A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson

When Henderson went ninth overall, the Falcons taking Terrell seemed more likely. Terrell was widely considered the third-best cornerback in the draft, and he fills a big hole for the Falcons. Terrell is a willing press coverage cornerback, with the speed to make up space. He just has to get a little better down the field at the catch point and with his tackling. His skill level is high, though.

Grade: B-

17. Dallas Cowboys: CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

This pick was a little strange given the Cowboys just gave Amari Cooper a five-year, $100 million contract. Also consider that Michael Gallup is a solid No. 2 receiver who had 113 targets last season. And that running back Ezekiel Elliott is on a six-year, $90 million contract. Lamb is unquestionably a great player. But how much is he going to see the ball on this offense?

Grade: C+

18. Miami Dolphins (via Pittsburgh Steelers): Austin Jackson, OT, USC

After taking Tagovailoa at No. 5, it was evident the Dolphins had to get an offensive tackle here. The choices were between Jackson and Josh Jones of Houston. Look, Miami is still rebuilding, which makes it perfectly fine to take the player with more perceived upside in Jackson. It was a surprise to see him go pro because a lot of people thought he could be a top-10 pick in 2021. Jackson is a true left tackle with good athleticism, especially out on the second level.

Grade: B

19. Las Vegas Raiders: Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State

This is a risky pick for the Raiders. Few thought Arnette would be a first-round player. He nearly bolted from Ohio State after the 2018 season but was convinced to return to Columbus. Arnette is a physically gifted cornerback who defends receivers throughout their routes. That could lead to him being a penalty magnet in the NFL. By the time Arnette gets to his second contract he’ll be 29, so he enters the NFL as an older prospect.

Grade: D

20. Jacksonville Jaguars: K’Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU

When the Cowboys took Lamb instead of Chaisson, it seemed apparent this would be the pick for the Jaguars. Chaisson is a special athlete for a pass rushing edge player. He’s a player who can stand up or rush with his hand down. Pairing Chaisson with Josh Allen gives the Jaguars two bookend edge players.

Grade: A

21. Philadelphia Eagles: Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU

Like the top offensive tackles, the way the wide receivers came off the board was going to be different from what most expected. That was evidenced in this pick over Brandon Aiyuk of Arizona State, Justin Jefferson of LSU and Denzel Mims of Baylor. The Eagles obviously had to get a wide receiver with their first pick. You just have to wonder if they could have traded down and still gotten Reagor.

Grade: C+

22. Minnesota Vikings: Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

This might be my favorite pick of the first round. Some thought Jefferson could go as high as the 14th pick. For whatever reason, he slipped to the 22nd pick. He torched defenses from the slot last year at LSU to the tune of 111 receptions for 1,540 yards. It’s true, the Vikings have Adam Thielen in the slot. But Jefferson’s game lends itself to playing more on the outside than he did in college.

Grade: A+

23. Los Angeles Chargers: Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma

Los Angeles moved its second- and third-round picks to get back into the first round to take Murray ahead of the Saints. Murray is a three-down linebacker who can make plays all over the field. He comes down against the run in a hurry and he can move sideline-to-sideline. There’s a risk trading up, but the linebacker class this year is suspect. Having Murray and Derwin James on the field at the same time makes the Chargers’ defense a lot of fun.

Grade: A-

24. New Orleans Saints: Cesar Ruiz, C, Michigan

If the Saints truly view the 2020 season as their all-in year, it’s understandable why they would pick Ruiz. You have to think the Saints wanted Murray, which is why the Chargers jumped to No. 23 to snag him. Ruiz is a plug-and-play interior offensive lineman who can play center or guard for the Saints.

Grade: B

25. San Francisco 49ers: Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State

On a team that was light on draft picks, the 49ers gave up pick Nos. 31, 117 and 176 to move up five slots. That’s a big gamble for the 49ers. While they don’t have a ton of needs, the back of the first round is deep in wide receivers. While there’s something to say about getting the player you covet, the only picks the 49ers have left are Nos. 156, 210 and 217.

In regard to the pick itself, this is the type of wide receiver the 49ers needed to get. Aiyuk is an explosive playmaker who can make defenders miss after the catch.

Grade: C+

26. Green Bay Packers: Jordan Love, QB, Utah State

This is the single most stunning selection in the first round by a long shot. The Packers traded into this pick, and the thought was that it would be a for a wide receiver for Aaron Rodgers. Instead they picked the veteran’s successor. This pick could pay off big down the road. And a quarterback on a rookie contract is almost priceless in today’s NFL. And Love is a player who needs to sit at least a year to fix some of his flaws. But with Rodgers, the Packers should push to win now.

Aaron Rodgers in March on the possibility of the Packers drafting a quarterback: "No matter who you bring in, they're not going to be able to beat me out anytime soon."

— Field Yates (@FieldYates) April 24, 2020

Grade: D+

27. Seattle Seahawks: Jordyn Brooks, LB, Texas Tech

Just about every Seahawks fan was certain Seattle would trade down and out of the first round. It’s a staple of general manager John Schneider. Then Schneider didn’t and took a player most thought would be there in the second round. Other than trading down, going against the grain is Schneider’s specialty. That’s why prematurely grading Seattle’s picks are the hardest of any team. And it doesn’t help that Seattle fans keep receipts.

At any rate, Brooks gives the Seahawks a hard-hitting linebacker with excellent football IQ. Brooks is arguably the best tackling linebacker in the draft, and made a ton of plays in 2019 when he had 20 tackles for loss.

Grade: C

28. Baltimore Ravens: Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

This was the pick the Ravens needed to make. He is a sideline-to-sideline linebacker with a high motor, Queen can patrol the middle of the field for the Ravens and make a ton of plays. His comparison for me was C.J. Mosley. After building out their defensive line this offseason, Queen fits a big need for the Ravens, and he was the best player available.

Grade: A+

29. Tennessee Titans: Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia

Sometimes picks that are even in the back of the first round are obvious. That was the case with Wilson and the Titans. You could see this one coming from a mile away if you thought about it a little bit. Wilson, one of the youngest players in the draft, excels as a run blocker on the right side. That’s exactly what Tennessee, a run-first team, needs to replace Jack Conklin. You can quibble about the value of taking Wilson here — the knock is his uneven pass blocking — but you can’t argue about his system fit.

Grade: B+

30. Miami Dolphins: Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn

The odd thing about this pick is that the Dolphins just gave a huge contract to Byron Jones this offseason, they still have Xavien Howard and have a big need at safety. They could have had Xavier McKinney of Alabama with this pick, for instance. Igbinoghene is a wide receiver turned cornerback who has speed on top of speed. It’s true, NFL teams need three good cornerbacks. But the Dolphins could have found a slot cornerback later in the draft.

Grade: C+

31. Minnesota Vikings: Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU

This is a perfect fit for Mike Zimmer’s defense. Gladney is a nasty cornerback who will get physical with wide receivers. He’s aggressive coming up to play the run, and knows how to get off a block.

Grade: A

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, LSU

This is another tremendous team fit. There was plenty of speculation leading up to the draft that the Chiefs could be a team that takes a running back in the first round. Edwards-Helaire is an excellent runner who stays low to the ground. But his real value at the position is as a receiver. He’s going to catch a ton of passes in Kansas City’s offense. The only issue is the positional value of a running back in the first round.

Grade: B

[channelnewswire-blog]

Toolbox Women Weekly Round-Up: Gunners Go Triple Dutch|Arseblog News - the Arsenal news site

NINE IS FINE AS GUNNERS GO DUTCH AGAINST BRIGHTON Arsenal Women continued their 100% start to the 2018/19 season with a 4-1 win over Hope Powell's Brighton & & Hove Albion on Sunday. Toolbox fell back on 9 minutes when Ini Umotong powered through the Gunners defence and guided a surface past Sari van Veenendaal.

However Toolbox went Triple Dutch with objectives from Vivianne Miedema, Danielle van de Donk and Dominique Bloodworth prior to half time, Beth Mead's lob in the passing away moments included some shine to another convincing victory for the women, their ninth on the bounce in the WSL. However the stern difficulty of a trip to 2nd positioned Manchester City looms on the horizon on Sunday.

With the similarity Jordan Nobbs and Jess Samuelsson added to a lengthy injury list, Joe Montemurro was only able to field 4 replacements, 3 of whom were academy players. The City video game comes at a hard time offered how stretched the team is, with Kim Little still a few weeks from physical fitness. Toolbox lead City by 6 points at the top of the table and would undoubtedly think about a point a strong lead to Manchester.

Arsenal Women got rid of early scare to extend unbeaten start to their league campaign Published by The FA Women's Super League on

Monday, 26 November 2018 MEAD RELIEVED TO BE BACK ON THE SCORE SHEET Toolbox striker Beth Mead was relieved to be back amongst the goals on Sunday, as her late lob sealed the 4-1 success. With the likes of Nobbs, van de Donk and Miedema on such sensational scoring type, Mead's relative lack of goals has actually snuck under the radar somewhat. Her great surface on Sunday was just her 3rd goal in the WSL this season.

Stunning surface from @bmeado9 with less than 10 minutes to address Boreham Wood ...

-- The FA Women's Super League (@FAWSL)

November 25, 2018"To be reasonable, it was most likely among my better Toolbox goals so far. I'll take that any day of the week. I 'd take a tap in as I'm having a hard time at the minute to score objectives," Beth informed the FA site. It was a bit discouraging at the start. The pleasing thing was we were making opportunities but simply weren't completing them.

"We adhered to our strategy. We understand the talent we've got in the team and that we can score goals and we kept playing the way we did and ultimately we got our objectives and got the win we deserved. Individuals keep asking me if my objective was a cross however I actually did imply this one."

AVA GOES TO GATORS One of Arsenal's subs on Sunday, 17 year old Ava Kuyken, will leave the club to play for the Florida Gators on a 4 year scholarship. Offers of this ilk are typical for university age gamers and, as I composed back in July, Arsenal are losing a lot of academy talent to the US university system.

This ⚽ originated from throughout the pond 󠁧 󠁢 󠁥 󠁮 󠁧 󠁿!

Ava Kuyken @AvaKuyken MF-- Cherwell School-- Oxford, England-- Club: @ArsenalWFC Played w/ England's U15, U16, U17 & & U18 National Teams. 󠁧 󠁢 󠁥 󠁮 󠁧 󠁿 ➡ 2018 FIFA European Championship last in Lithuania Now in second season on Toolbox WFC #GoGators pic.twitter.com/bSHS5ehZI9-- Gators Soccer(@GatorsSoccer)

November 23, 2018 Shannon Cooke joined LSU this summer season,

with fellow centre halves Anna Patten and Lotte Wubben Moy having actually left for the US in 2017. Given the scholarship opportunities, it is totally reasonable that players opt to leave for the states and Arsenal are in conversations with the FA about how they can be better compensated for these transfers. Ava will sign up with the Florida Gators in 2019, so she will be offered for upcoming video games versus

Manchester City, Charlton Athletic and Millwall Lionesses. Her loss is unfortunate, however not entirely unexpected. Ava joined Toolbox from Oxford United in 2016, her father is a teacher of Scientific Psychology at Oxford University. A JESS AND A CURSE Swedish right-back Jess Samuelsson has suffered another injury on her foot and faces another spell on the sidelines. Jess suffered an extremely unpleasant injury last October when she collided with Sweden goalkeeper Hedvig Landahl and dislocated 2 metatarsal bones, tearing the majority of the ligaments in her foot as she did. A post shared by Jessica Samuelsson (@jessicasamuelsson15) on Nov 25, 2018 at 4:11 pm PST Jess made her international resurgence versus England a fortnight ago, but the joy was brief lived as the exact same foot is injured again. Arsenal are being tight lipped on the seriousness of the injury, but Samuelsson was imagined using a protective boot as she saw her colleagues beat Brighton on Sunday.

COMING UP There will obviously be a complete match sneak peek for Sunday's huge game away at Manchester City on the site on Friday afternoon. There will likewise be some perk content on Wednesday. I spoke with Scandinavian women's football specialist Katja Kragelund about new signing Janni Arnth, the Danish protector who will join the Gunners from Linkopings in January.

Katja informed me, "Janni is a really skilled centre back, who has exceptional leadership qualities and is a design specialist. Like a lot of Scandinavian centre backs, she is tough and she likewise has a good variety of passing." Stay tuned for the full short article on Wednesday on Arseblog News.

[olgajann]

2019 NFL Draft: 50 Players You Should Know

  NEPD Staff Contributor: Jeff Fidler

The 2018 draft is over & I'm in full 2019-mode right about now. I made a list of 50 players that I've been watching over the past year or two. Some just recently.  This isn't a top 50 list, I don't have them ranked in order of where I think they are, in terms of “who's the best”. The season will will play itself out soon enough & that will make things a lot clearer. This is just to get familiar w/ who's, who. Get some nuggets of info & stay updated as to who might be on the Patriots radar next year.

1)  Zach Allen  DE/BC – Allen, a local product from CT, is a big, thick defensive end that lined up at multiple techniques for B.C. last year. He's a legit 6'5/280 w/ long arms & at times really knows how to use them. He'll stab/punch, bull rush & spin off opponents en route to attacking the QB. At times does a good job of keeping his outside shoulder clean in the pas & run game to make plays. Doesn't get fooled by rpo's, runs etc. Doesn't panic & has a readiness about him playing ball carriers behind the line. Allen is the type of player that fits what we like from a size, length standpoint & his overall game seems to fit as well.

2)  Nathan Stanley QB/Iowa – I'm have a feeling Stanley's name will mentioned more & more as we get closer to the college football season starting. Stanley has very good mechanics, he looks like a classic pocket passer. His arm is also legit. Not a Russell or Allen cannon but he has strength to hit 60 yards easy & at times has shown sweet deep placement & accuracy. He's taken snaps & made plays from under center, on the run & in S/G. Looks very comfortable on the move & in play action. At times Stanley goes through his reads but you want to see  more of that & an overall better pocket awareness this fall. There's a lot to get excited about over this player. 6'5/215 first year starter w/ a 26/6 TD-INT ratio.

Here he is here w/ NFL player Sam Hubbard wrapped around his legs. Stays calm, goes through reads & delivers a dart.

Impressive play by @HawkeyeFootball quarterback Nathan Stanley keeping his eyes downfield without panic and firing his back hip through. pic.twitter.com/cuPMZCfIm8

- Quarterback World (@WorldOfTheQB) November 6, 2017

Nathan Stanley of @HawkeyeFootball is going to be a QB to watch…. Big, fluid, can spin it. pic.twitter.com/ixB7C2p4ti

- Quarterback World (@WorldOfTheQB) October 30, 2017

3) Devin White LB/LSU – White is a throwback linebacker that has sideline to sideline speed. 6'1/240 but moves like he's 10lbs lighter. Looks like a bullet when blitzing up through the A/B gaps. Can drop back & clog up the swallow zone w/ his big body. White hits everything w/ bad intentions. The former standout running back is a force in the middle & someone teams will covet come draft time as he's a beast athletically as well.

  4) Devin Bush LB/Michigan – While White is a throwback type, Bush is a chess piece made & molded to be moved around. Different players but both versatile players. Bush is a + chase/pursuit player in the backfield & does a good job navigating through the muck to find his target. He'll also sniff out screens & passing plays developing in the flat. Bush lit up the stat sheet last year as a young player (90 TKL, 10 TFL, 5.5 SKS, 1 INT) & has to do it again but he already looks like a future pro.

  5) Christian Wilkins DL/Clemson – Wilkins surprised some by coming back this year, 2019 is absolutely loaded along the defensive line. That said Wilkins is a versatile big boy who plays inside/outside & moves like someone who weighs 30 lbs lighter. Wilkins is very agile & nimble for a 310+ guy. Able to get skinny to flash through gaps or muscle through defenders. Wilkins has strong hands & shows + instincts on the field. He can play in a 34/43 & looks built for a multiple team up front.

  6) Dexter Lawrence DT/Clemson – Going right back to Clemson & looking at another standout interior defender. Lawrence is a freaky mini-mountain in the middle that is going to be a nightmare for G's & C's for years to come. Some have Wilkins & Lawrence as a lottery picks, which they very well could be. I just think their value is in the mid 1st & on. And with the depth of the class anything is possible. Lawrence moves like a 300lb pounder & is scheme proof. He's plug & play day1.

Dexter Lawrence. pic.twitter.com/V4mJVIXqrg

- Seldom Used Reserve (@seldomusedrsrv) April 26, 2018

  7) Daniel Jones QB/Duke – The North Carolina native is a team captain & former 2016 team MVP. Prototype size, tough player that has experience running rpo. Jones has great mechanics from his base to his upper half. Everything always looks the same. His set-up, everything starts with his foot-firing feet that are always moving & putting him in the best spot possible. Good arm that can adjust heat on throws, has enough zip on his passes but could get stronger. At times his head moved just like a clock. I definitely want to see more of that, hopefully leading to a more consistent showing, he's been up & down for stretches so far in his career. Still there are plenty of tools to work with & his overall game has improved each year from a leadership aspect.

  8) Julian Love CB/Notre Dame – Love is a thickly built corner who looks like dependable open field tackler & someone who competes for everything. He displayed + route recognition in several games, on several plays I watched. He also looks comfortable in press, zone & off man & also played CB/S in high school.

  9)  Taylor Rapp – Rapp is an instinctual Safety with very good short area quickness & doesn't shy away from coming out in run support to make a play. Very efficient in doing so as well. He's very smooth, seemingly always round the ball or where the action is. Right now he reminds me a little bit of Harrison Smith from the Vikings.

  10)  Easton Stick – Stick took over for Wentz & lead the Bison  to a title last year. Stick has been up & down & streaky at times but shows + accuracy & placement at times. He also can push the ball down the field like Wentz at times as well. Again its about consistency w/ Stick. At times he's very much in command of his offense though. Looks the part there.

  11) Greg Little OT/Ole Miss –Depending on the year he has Little could be the 1st OT tackle in a strong class. He has very good lateral movement & has the toughness & nasty you want protecting your QB. Little has the size, athleticism & skill to be a long time successful NFL player.

  12)  Nate Herbig G/Stanford – At 6'4+/340 Herbig is a throwback guard that mauls people down & ruins their day when asked to pull across the line. At times reminds you of Will Hernandez who was a top 40 pick this year.

  13)  Tyrone Wheatley Jr TE/Michigan – Wheatley jr's father Tyrone Sr played several years in the NFL & the bloodlines have evindently been passed on. Wheatley is a versatile TE that plays inline & is a smooth moving big target across the middle or down the seem. Wheatley Jr shows the ability to stalk block & will straight out muscle some opponents.

  14) Chauncey Gardner Johnson S/Florida – Gardner-Johnson is a former CB & plays the ball like one. He has very good speed & has natural ball skills. Knows what to do when he gets his paws on the ball. Gardner-Johnson will also deliver big, legal hits if the opportunity presents itself. Florida has been pumping the DB's out

  15) Lukas Denis S/Boston College – The local product might be somewhat of unknown right now on the national scene but Denis has top 20 pick written all over him. He just has natural instincts in terms of reading the QB's eyes & comes up big when he's near the ball. If you're trying Denis 20+ yards downfield you better have some arm talent & more importantly “eye” talent. You're doomed if you stare down a wr. A QB must be able to hold defenders w/ their eyes. Denis also moves like a CB down near the goal line in close quarters. Very calm, heady player that will be playing on Sundays very soon.

  16)  Ahmmon Richards WR/Miami – Richards is a good route runner w/ + quicks to work inside on slants & has shown the ability to track the ball along the sidelines as you can see below. Richards isn't the biggest wr but doesn't lack toughness for someone that's less than 195lbs.

AHMMON. RICHARDS.

IS.

EXPLOSIVE.

[flauntpage]

End of Season Availability: Brett Brown and Bryan Colangelo

45 minutes of Brett Brown.

46 minutes of Bryan Colangelo.

Holy cannoli, we’ve got quotes for days after an immersive and comprehensive end of season availability.

I figured the best way to do this would be to just pick out the most relevant quotes and do the snippets for easy reference moving forward. It would take me about 400 hours to transcribe everything verbatim, so let’s truncate the best parts for smooth reading.

There’s a lot to “parse,” which has become one of my favorite crutch words in 2018.

Brett Brown

On Ben Simmons’ jump shot:

each player received a document RE: this is what goes on with summer development, from a skill package perspective, strength and conditioning component, and what preseason looks like… 4 sheets for a detailed roadmap for each player

for Ben, it’s very much a part of conversation, his offensive future involves free throw line, efficiency finishing, and jump shot, maybe you talk about a three-point shot at some point

evolution of jump shot – he understands his world will become easier when that becomes part of his game

On his future and a contract extension:

has spoken briefly with Bryan Colangelo about a contract extension, loves being in Philadelphia, “we’ve grown something, collectively as an organization so proud of where we are.”

Looking back on Boston series:

do I wish I had played T.J. more earlier? probably. do I wish I had used Justin Anderson more? maybe. could Markelle have played a role? maybe, but when you coach a team to 52 wins, 16 game win streak, beat Miami 4-1, I’m happy to “go down” with the people who got us there

On the criticism of his coaching:

“I have heard it. I think the things that come up are, at times, wildly unfair. It’s part of our landscape, and we can go specifics if you want, but I get it. I’m the son of a coach, I get it. I am my harshest critic. I’m fine on my personal judgment day. I sleep at night. I sleep just fine at night. What we did and what we’re going to do makes me say that with confidence. The disappointment inspires emotion from passionate people and there’s nothing wrong with that. I understand but don’t pay attention enough for it to keep you up at night.”

Simmons’ shot part two:

We have a shooting coach in our program, but actually looking at other shooting coach possibilities to include in our staff design. John Townsend is a valuable asset, Ben will be spending intense time with him.

As far as completely rebuilding Simmons’ shot, no. “Intense refinement,” but not a complete blow up.

It’s an “easy sell” for Ben to fix shot this summer, to focus in on free throws, jump shot, and finishing efficiency

Ben “wants to be great,” as a team “we were exceptional in the final third of year, he was a rebound away from averaging a triple-double.” Had we played him a bit more he would have reached that easily. Celtics experience helps him with real-time learning.

On being “owed” something because he coached a bunch of terrible teams during the “Process” years:

It isn’t being owed. “I don’t feel like I’m owed anything. I feel like I deserve a lot but that I’m not owed anything.” Five years ago we talked about pace, space, and pass offense, but program also has to reflect the city and we have to play defense. We play with pace, space, and we pass the ball. Defense, we were third in the NBA this year. We finished 3rd in the east and most of us were just doing cartwheels at the thought of making the playoffs. “Our culture is not to be denied.”

On Markelle Fultz:

huge conversation, to shrink it – want him getting back his mojo and playing basketball in a high level, energized environment

had a long chat Thursday, we know what he had to endure this year, can’t wait to coach him again, we’ve seen signs of brilliance with what he’s done this year, think he’ll have a great summer

On Joel Embiid’s summer:

first summer that he has come back and will be healthy

fact that we played that volume of games, we all would have been happy with that in preseason

strongly believes Joel’s future is his body, mastery of diet, rehab/prehab, and strength and conditioning

deserves so much more credit than what he receives, coming out of an operation and wearing a mask with a lens and “trying to figure out playoff basketball,” commitment and navigating through setbacks is historic throughout his early career

health will bring post game to a new level, ability to turn and face, back down, pass out, that world he has to own

feels like Embiid is becoming a leader in the locker room

On growing the roster “organically” vs. adding a superstar free agent, the dichotomy in the fan base of how to proceed:

starting with fans, they have showed a consistent resilience, conflicted at times, but my feel is that there’s been an acceptance of growing it organically, “we all live with the pain of what we went through.”

if that portion of fan base is still prepared to take that notion and think it equals a championship, it’s “noble, but I don’t agree with it.”

another high level free agent is required and we have the ability to attract one

when the time is right, “we need help” to win a championship

Does Ben need to bring his elbow down when shooting? 

yes

also feet are important with his shot

free throw – he was a 77% FT shooter at LSU, dipped this year and then went back up in playoffs

want him to get to the free throw line more next year

Clarification on Markelle’s injury situation and what he was going through:

it is so documented, but I’ll answer the question again

he hurt his shoulder, it affected portions of his psyche, I get it, he was injured, then he didn’t play much basketball, brought him back and resurrected some stuff and I “thought he did quite well.”

felt fine with decision not to use him in playoffs, 19 year old with 19 games under his belt

feels like Markelle is doing fine now, spirit and motor is back

confident that he will have a great summer

On report that Boston committed a foul and traveling violation in final moments of game five:

respects the league for doing report and admitting it, owning it

you would love to have it back, 2 free throws for Embiid or Marcus Smart travels and you have time to get a shot up

“that’s the fragility of many things, here it’s the playoffs”

What is the makeup of a high level free agent? Shooter? Floor spreader? 

for the first time since I’ve been here, there’s tremendous clarity on roster, no mystery of Ben Simmons skill package or what Embiid has

what complements that? drape those qualities over the free agent market and say, “yep, that fits him.” we’ll make our own assessments but I’m not here to name names

Follow-up effort about the free agent question, specifically about Ben not playing with another ball-dominant perimeter player (LEBRON JAMES):

“if this player you’re describing was great, we’d figure it out, truly. we’d figure stuff out. it’s as honest and simple as I can answer that.”

Brett Brown https://t.co/GkdZrSS0bX

— Kevin Kinkead (@Kevin_Kinkead) May 11, 2018

Bryan Colangelo

Opening statement:

had a great year, lot of things were accomplished, but we’ve got so much more to do

coaches and players did a tremendous job and deserve a lot of credit

we’ve got flexibility built into our plan, ability to improve this team this year, but if we decide to defer, we could wait until 2019 free agency, have optionality with both years and been diligent protecting that, if we feel like there’s a deal to improve our team then we’ll more forward, want “sustainable winning”

On adding a high-level free agent: 

would agree that team needs to add something to get better, but great young core that continues to improve, Celtics series was worst you’ll see them play

i’ll say “talent, not free agent,” talent comes in many forms whether its trade, etc, we have cap room to explore any and all options

but to say this group can do it now, they obviously proved that they cannot, adding more talent or another piece is something we’re striving for

have about $25m in cap flexibility right now if they go for a free agent now, “does require some sacrifice,” will know more after draft lottery to find out where draft slots are

in order to use full cap flex, will have to “renounce” JJ, Ersan, Marco, and/or Amir. those four were a “big chunk of our production” at the end of the season, replacing that is difficult, would love to have all for back, but picture is not likely

Markelle Fultz playing in the summer league:

been aware of this topic, season just ended a few days ago and need to finalize a summer plan for him. Thursday meetings were more of a surface level discussion, exploring “various other hires” for basketball program and organization, may or may not factor into his development

summer league is “on the table” but need to discuss more with him and his agent and reps and everyone else

On Markelle working with his own people in the summer and keeping tabs on him when he’s not with the team: 

people train with various people, our coaches have done a great job, he’s come a long way, I’ve often said he’s not completely there yet, with respect to his offseason and where he trains, we’re still working out those details, our coaches, for the most part, will always be present

guys like to go to gyms and have a friend or former trainer rebound for them, we’re okay with that as long as it fits our plan for developing his game

On Brett Brown’s contract and how he did as a coach this year:

Spoken with Brett on a few occasions to let him know that it’s the intention to sit down and discuss a contract extension for him. Don’t think it’s healthy for a coach to go into a season with one year on their contract.

“Hopeful” to sit down and discuss his situation. “He realizes how much we value him as the coach of this program.

Brett does have what it takes to coach this basketball team, everybody asked if I’d give him the opportunity to coach – absolutely, he deserved the opportunity to coach better talent and finish the job, he’s going “a very good job, which is why we will be talking about a contract extension at the appropriate time.”

On T.J. McConnell:

his option will be exercised

  On Jonah Bolden:

has an NBA out clause in his contract, is able to leave Maccabi and join the Sixers

  On Furkan Korkmaz and Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot:

injuries set both players back, but they aren’t being forgotten from a development standpoint

both will likely play for their countries during international qualification this summer

Korkmaz added 20 pounds to his frame, but not all good pounds, still thinks he’s a young and bright talent, more likely to play summer league than TLC

On the Boston series:

this series with Boston was a bit of a wake up call, adjustments were made, it “exposed us to some degree, individual and team weaknesses” and we all have to learn from that.

no issues selecting Fultz over Jayson Tatum, very complimentary of what Tatum did in the playoffs (what the fuck else is he supposed to say anyway?)

That’s about it for Colangelo. He was asked at least 7-9 questions about Markelle Fultz specifically, so I’ll go back in and dig those up for a story sometime next week. For now, here’s the video:

Colangelo https://t.co/BLntKWsFYh

— Kevin Kinkead (@Kevin_Kinkead) May 11, 2018

End of Season Availability: Brett Brown and Bryan Colangelo published first on https://footballhighlightseurope.tumblr.com/