Bighouse's 2038 Draft Review

Man it seems like each year of the last 3 years the draft classes have gotten better. Rob either has some super secret cheat code with the up down left right a b a b a start or just a random nice draw. If you pick in the top 15 you have elite talent staring at you. 

I saw 11 elite WR possibilities and also 5 starter quality chance Qbs. 

OK let's look at the draft-

1 - 1 (1) Philadelphia Coldheat007 » change team Dominic Singleton QB Mississippi

Pros-Singleton took the Heisman trophy in a landslide and racked up a 3 time all american at the QB spot for Ole Miss. He can make any throw and has great accuracy dropping it out of the sky into where only his receiver can catch it at times. He is almost unsackable where his sense rush is incredible and he gets rid of the ball before defenders can get to him. 

Cons-Just had a mediocre offseason and showed up as just one of the other talented quarterbacks at the combine. He had a 3-1 Td to interception ratio in college but his testing scores showed some weakness. Do not take me wrong this is the elite QB of the class but there are some question marks.

Rating-118 All Pro #1 Qb on the board #6 player on my board

Grade-A+ you could have gone with Kasica here too as he is a once in a lifetime player but taking the QB is the better route most likely. 


1 - 2 (2) New England ukpatfan » change team Spencer Poston QB Michigan


Pros-Poston ran more of the 4-5 Wr spread open offense and ran the ball more then any other RB in his 4 years at Meechigan. Accurate passer with precision to his throws and splits dbs with frozen ropes. I love this kids arm its lively and accurate. He does a great job avoiding the rush and runs more often then naught. He only threw 5 interceptions in 1400 passing attempts. 

Cons-Runs a little more then i would and i want him in the pocket a bit more. He is not a timing passer as he can do it but not always on the same page as the receiver. 

Rating-111 All Pro #2 Qb on my list and #9 player on my board

Grade A+ Getting a Qb that is elite and a potential all pro does not always fall to the 2nd pick. We had two in this draft for sure that seem like nice stud Qbs. 

on the clock-
1 - 3 (3) New York (N) Joel Benjamin Kasica WR Nebraska

Pros-A once in a lifetime talent. This kid runs perfect routes, has wiggle to make anyone miss, and seems like he is always one speed faster then anyone else. He leaves Nebraska as the all time leading receiver and the runner up in the Heisman race. I can go on and on here but this kid is a certain specimen bred out of a laboratory. 

Cons-I guess he has no return ability and probably is at his ceiling so nowhere to go from here. 

Rating-143 HALL OF FAME #1 prospect #1 Wr on my board

Grade A+ usually the 1st pick overall type of kid that changes the dynamic of a team and he was picked 3rd overall. 


1 - 4 (4) New Orleans * Nemesis Marlon Brewer WR Texas

Pros-Coach's dream as Brewer is always in the right spot. He runs crisp dynamic routes which helps him get seperation as he does not have elite athletic speed. He makes the toughest catches and always is in the right spot to move the chains. He plays every down and runs each routes at 110%.

Cons-I am not sold on him as an elite top5 player but a neat pick here by Nemesis. He does not have the elite BP ability you really look for and the GD is marginal at best. He does have some concentration drops at times and remember he is a slight stature at 5 foot 10. 

Rating-82.5 #26 player on my board #5 WR on my board. 

Grade B+ Like not love. He is a good player and will be a good number one but a top 5 pick needs that elite talent level and i clearly have him rated lower then quite a few WRs. 


1 - 5 (5) Baltimore Big A Lee Leff WR Kansas

Pros-here is a player i thought for sure would never have been there at the 5th pick. Leff has incredible hands and elite speed that burns through zone and defensive backs cannot cover him in Man. He has 7 career kick returns for touchdowns and makes the touch catches on 3rd down. 

Cons-Not the best route runner but still such a weapon to have on the field. He also does not return punts but i really cannot hold that against him here. 

Rating-129 # 3 player on my board #2 Wr 

Grade A+ Superstar wide receiver that is an elite talent and will make plays game in and game out. 


1 - 6 (6) Buffalo ChrustifusMax » change team Ike Billingsley S Colorado

Pros-When talking about difference makers on offense you could bring up Billingsley as a difference maker on defense for the Buffs. He blocked 7 kicks in his 3 years and had 7 total TD returns on fumbles, interceptions, or blocks. He is as fundamental as you can as for on defense stout against the run, he has the pop and control to play man to man, and lastly he can read and react in zone coverage with such amazing natural instincts it is scary at times. 

Cons-Not a tape review kid but so talented that his instincts and ability take over the play diagnosis at times. 

Rating-139 HOF #2 on my board and #1 DB on my board

Rating A+ best player on defense and the #2 player on the board at pick 6 is amazing. Some mocks had him as high as #3 overall. 


1 - 7 (7) Carolina * Pip76 » change team Nickolas McElroy T Virginia Tech

Pros-Quick footed Monster of a man that uses his size and athletic ability to the utmost of his ability. Strong smart kid that blew up the combine and locked himself up as the #1 OT prospect and probably offensive lineman in the draft. 

Cons-This is the first real time i am sort of speechless on a player in the cons catagory. He plays every down and can pass and run block at an elite level. 

Rating-128 All Pro #6 on my list #1 OT

Grade A Solid pick love that Pip has all the positional players and is working on the core of the line here. Stud offensive tackle that is elite. 


1 - 8 (8) Green Bay clown » change team Levi Bouy RB Oregon

Pros-Elite speed burner kid that can tear away from the defense and also get the to the edge insanely fast. He is a carry burner as you can give him the rock 30 plus times a game and he does not wear down. He runs more inside and really moves the pile at Oregon offensive lineman would wear back pads for how hard he hit into the piles. He is a really good receiver out of the backfield.

Cons-Not a wiggle guy so more of a plodder 2 yards, 2 yards, 10 yards. Not a great return guy or special teamer. 

Grade-104 All Pro #14 player on my board #3 Rb on my board

Grade-A- I like the kid but i really have 2 guys rated ahead of him Brock looks like the best of the bunch to me but i can see the statics grabbing you on Bouy i just hope you dont sink....


1 - 9 (9) Miami * (15 min) FlexD » change team Drake Jeffries S Syracuse

Pros-Jeffries slid under the radar a bit this season and really jumped up into scouts laps at the combine. He held his own with Billinsgley and that really was a surprise as his Orangeman performance was not as strong as his numbers. He played a ton of CB but is listed as a safety. He can cover zone and play bump on receivers or even tight ends with his size. He studies film and knows how to read the offense. 

Cons-Does not have much return presence or special teams numbers. He is a good hitter but not the type to force fumbles and scare offenses away from his tackles. 

Rating-113.8 All Pro # 9 player on my list #2 DB 

Grade A I love this kid and i think a perennial all pro caliber kid. He can play in the box at safety or cover and you could put him at corner as his coverage skills are that good. 


1 - 10 (10) Atlanta Wes (online) » change team Kurt Guthrie WR Brigham Young

Pros-Guthrie is probably the most polished route runner in this class of wide receivers. He makes the breaks in his routes and clears the defenders always making the Qb look better on the pass. He knows the game and is in the right spot all the time and is an avid move the chains guy that can be counted on again and again. He crosses the middle of the field and takes big hits but just stands up each and every time. 

Cons-Looks to struggle to adjust to hard to catch balls at times but has good hands not great. He does not have elite speed but has enough to play at the next level. 

Rating-91 #26 on the board All Pro #4 Wr

Grade B+ Looks like a solid WR without a ton of speed. This could be an absolute average WR pick or one of the next Yac/catch machines for Lonnie. 


1 - 11 (11) Oakland SweenDawg72 » change team Jay Brock RB Washington State

Pros-This kid is a steal at pick 11. He has great speed that breaks angles and reads the defense and has some of the best quickness in reading holes in the offensive line. He is a good receiver out of the backfield and virtually impossible to tackle in the open field. 

Cons-he does not have the speed to the outside to break contain much and more of a wiggle and run straight guy. Not elite in inside running but a physical specimen nonetheless. 

Rating-132 All Pro #3 player on my board #1 Rb on the board

Grade A+ Just a monster pick at 1.11. He reminds me a bit of Manning on the value at a later round pick.

SweenDawg72's take-
I am changing it up a little but your pick at number 11 -

1 - 11 (11) Oakland SweenDawg72 » change team Jay Brock RB Washington State



Brock was one of my best guys up there. What helped you make a decision on drafting him?

Are you happy with the pick? Who else were you looking at during that pick?



I have him rated as the 3rd best prospect in the draft and i think you got a steal. I am guessing he takes over the Miller and Lane commitee but what is your plans with him?


Well, our biggest need you could argue for us was at Wide Receiver and felt we would get a very nice Wide Receiver at 1.18. Running Back was also an option for me at that spot but felt there was more a chance of Carlisle being around at that spot whom i also liked. However, when I saw that Brock was still on the board who I also rated the 3rd best player in the draft. I decided to make a move for him. While we ran the ball very well last year it was as you mentioned running back by committee, it certainly worked but that is not a long term solution for me. I decided to contact Rob who was shopping the 1.11 pick and with a lot of back and forth, we landed on a deal.



I love the pick and he was the guy I was moving up for but I also considered Carlisle as the other guy I was looking at.



My plan for him is to be the starter on Day 1. Lane with his experience will certainly play a role should Brock struggle with it being his rookie year. I actually like Miller as a Wide Receiver and may make that switch with him this offseason.




1 - 12 (12) San Francisco dthompso8 (online) » change team J.R. Bell WR St. Francis Pa.

Pros-Big play kid that runs great routes and breaks a lot of tackles in the process. He is a small school kid and not quite academically eligible for the big leagues but ran amuck against inferior competition. Great hands and good concentration. 

Cons-Not adapt to catching the tough balls with body control and avoids crossing routes. he is more of a single coverage send him this direction player that gets separation 9 times out of 10. He does not play much special teams and also endurance is an issue as he takes a decent amount of plays off at times.

Rating-87.1 Starter #6 WR on my board #34 on my board

Grade A Great number one WR that i had debated at my pick 1.10. I think a solid career #1 guy and in the right offense a 1500 yd 100 catch guy season in and out. 

Dthompso8's take-
Sup Dave!

So you drafted 1 - 12 (12) San Francisco dthompso8 (online) » change team J.R. Bell WR St. Francis Pa.

I had him slotted as the 6th best WR on the board. I think he is a great number one just a little undersized.



What brought you to draft him? Who else were you looking at when you picked him?



Finney needed some help and Greene looks like a nicer player that did not play much last year. What are your plans and expectations with Bell?



We need more WR help for QB Finney. Greene should see a lot more playing time this season, however other than him we are lacking quality. I liked that Bell runs excellent routes so should see plenty targets, and with the big play ability and reasonable ability to get downfield he should make some plays with the opportunities. His interview was O but thought he was worth taking a shot on. I think Bell will see more playing time than Greene did last season but not sure how much as he is only 35% developed.



I was also looking at RB Carlisle to Seattle took and ILB Richardson (however was already in talks with Washington for Conrady so decided to pass on him despite being my only U interview), the RB came back as O as well. I also had some talks re trading down and if the other team hadn't been out of communication would have dropped down a few places as I had other options.

1 - 13 (13) Denver Hooper » change team Byron Holdgate RB Iowa

Pros-Great static bars and elite speed in Breakaway and S2O. good receiver out of the backfield and really plays hard on every play even on special teams. A smaller stature back that really moves the pile and runs better inside the you would anticipate. 

Cons-Not a wiggle guy he gets 2 yards and rarely loses a yard but does not tend to break the 50 yard runs consistantly. He is a good receiver out of the backfield but does not get a ton of Yac. That 0 bar in Elu scares me a little. 

Rating-111.3 #2 Rb on my board #10 player on my board

Grade-B+ I like the kid he seems to not have enough HR for me to jump all over him and that 0 bar scared me away at least early on in ELU. 

Hooper's take-
Whaddup

So i am adding a few things to my draft stuff.

You grabbed 1 - 13 (13) Denver Hooper » change team Byron Holdgate RB Iowa

Who i had rated as the 2nd best back in the draft. WHat brought you to grab him here at pick 13? I think you traded down to get here too was RB your focus the whole time?



You grabbed Gibson at Rb in the offseason but does drafting Holdgate mean Gibson moves right to the bench? Who else were you looking at when you picked? What are your thoughts on Holdgate this year and as a future Bronco?

RB was a crazy position for us this offseason. We had Dan Strong who was doing a god job. Then I decided I wanted new leaders (specifically Hill-friendly). We traded for Gibson assuming he'd take the leadership role. Strong wouldn't give it up, so we had to move him. Then in the draft I liked the top 3 RBs as replacement. I wasn't sure Gibson could handle the load. At 6 we had all 3 available. The deal with Buffalo was too good to pass up given that we had just traded a bunch of mid-round picks for the RB and WR. Between 6 and 13, two of the 3 went and we were lucky to get Holdgate. He was the #2 RB on our list and easily in the top 10 overall. Of course, the game isn't showing a backfield leader for us and the WR we got doesn't have chemistry with Hill even though his birthday should. Stupid game.

So long story long, we couldn't be any worse than we have been lately. So the new-look RB crew could be explosive. Holdgate should dominate the first 2 downs, and the combo of Gibson/Romanowski look to be solid 3rd down guys.


1 - 14 (14) Seattle * Nick » change team Johnnie Carlisle RB Washington State

Pros-Static bars out of the roof on this guy and the 2nd Rb from Washington State taken in the first 14 picks. Carlisle was the backup but they split time and by change of pace i mean this kid has blazing speed and may even make a better WR in RZB as he runs great routes and has great hands. This kid sneaks through the lowest of cracks in the offensive line but makes plays every time in the game. O yeah by the way he is the nations leader in all purpose yards with his insane kick return ability. 

Cons-He really was a top pick this year UNTIL he hit the combine. His numbers are outlined in mediocrity and this draft slot was mostly on his college football gameplay. he does not have elite endurance but good enought to be a tough number one back especially in Seattle. 

Rating-83.8 #45th is player on my board and i think 5th best RB

Grade A- I dropped it a little just because i can see a little dip in the kid but a great pick here for Nick. 

Nick's take-
Sup man.

I am adding a little to my draft as i go through the picks.



So you grabbed 1 - 14 (14) Seattle * Nick » change team Johnnie Carlisle RB Washington State Who has bars like a monster back that is 6 foot 2 and 230 pounds. Do you think all of those bars hold up based on those static speed Rb bars? His combines were underwhelming what brought you to pick him?



Your team is good year in and year out. What are your thoughts on Carlisle this year and the future? Who else was on your radar when you picked here? I know you usually draft running backs high when you think they are going to give you 2000 yards a year....


Carlisle's bars looked great to me, but he came back Overrated. I think there is a good chance he drops some, although he comes out 50/70 which is obviously great. I really wanted Buoy who went to the Packers, I would of taken Brock before Carlisle too. The other guy I seriously considered here was the G Cooley, but fortunately he dropped to 1.20. No regrets on this pick he was a need, but I doubt it will be noted as great value once all is said and done.

1 - 15 (15) Jacksonville slimmikey » change team Donovan Richardson ILB Louisiana State

Pros-Huge kid that did everything for LSU. He is an elite run defender and a physical speciman at the point of attack. He is virtually unblockable and can cover slot wide receivers or tight ends. 

Cons-Does not hit as hard as he plays. He only forced 3 fumbles at a Tiger but this kid is menacing. 

Rating-89.3 Starter #2 linebacker #30 player on my board

Grade A I love these deep drafts. I would have pegged this kid as a top 10-12 player but it shows how deep the talent pool was this year. 

Mike's take-
Hey you grabbed 1 - 15 (15) Jacksonville slimmikey » change team Donovan Richardson ILB Louisiana State



It is always a nice spot to pick in the middle of the round in the 1st as talent sneaks out at this point. Richardson looks like a great all around linebacker what brought you to drafting him? Were you looking at anyone else at that spot?

Richardson is a guy we had our eye on for a long time. His Junior year vs Florida. He had a spectacular game, but his play in the 4th really caught our eye. While the offense was struggling LSU had a 6 point lead. Florida had three possessions in the 4th quarter. On 3rd and 7 he played outside on the defensive line at the 5 technique. He rushed the passer resulting in a drive killing sack. Next possession on a 3rd and 2 he was playing MLB spot. Florida ran off tackle and he made the stop with no gain. The last drive of the game for Florida it was 3rd and 8. This time he was playing SLB in zone defense. The ball was thrown over the middle and he jumped in front of the TE for an interception. We thought he was going to turn pro last season. Our scouts just love everything he brings to the table. He can do it all. To see him fall to use at 15 was simple amazing. We tried desperately to move up to 10, 12, 13 to get him.

Did you go into the draft thinking linebacker the whole way at your pick? You have 2 youngsters on the outside so does Richardson take over the ILB spot from day one? What are your thoughts on Richardson and what do you expect this year from him?

We really like our young group of LBs. George and Robertson are our thumpers. Speers and Winley are great coverage LBs. We believe in all of them and they will play lots of snaps for us at LB this season. Richardson might be labeled as a LB, but we look at him as a defensive specialist. We see him playing both the SLB and MLB this season. Dont be surprised if he rushes the passer from the defensive end spot. We plan to play him a lot and all over the place.

Mike that was awesome i love how you broke down gameplay!

1 - 16 (16) Detroit * Sef0r » change team Horace Conley T Texas Tech

Pros-Elite pass blocker that has extremely long arms. A very athletic kid that played center on the Red Raiders basketball team. He plays every play and you can use the old adige that he has a motor on every play. 

Cons-He does not overpower and uses more technique to make blocks. He is a better then average run blocker but not elite. 

Rating-114.5 All Pro #3 OT on my board and #9 player on my board

Grade B I was not all that sold on some of the offensive tackles in this class. I think Conley is a good one especially in a pass happy offense. 

Here is Sefor's take-
you grabbed 1 - 16 (16) Detroit * Sef0r » change team Horace Conley T Texas Tech who looks like an elite pass rushing OT. What brought you to picking Horace and were you considering anyone else at that spot? Did you go in thinking you needed offensive line help?



You have a player on your roster at RT Willis who looks like a twin to Conley was that the plan? Heading into this year does Conley start from day one? What are your thoughts on Conley this year and moving forward into the future? It looks like you really could have used a QB but you need to build a base first. Is that your general plan is build the line and around your stud RB?



Sup ma man. Yeah I had 6 Tackles in my list, Conley was the 3rd rated tackle but my primary pick was WR Timothy Humphrey.

I went to sleep not setting the timer on conscriptor and woke up to find I had taken Conley even though Finch and Wallace (who were higher on my list) were still there.

Tried to message Rob and Nick, but by that time the draft had moved and I wasn't going to ask for a 2nd rollback in 2 seasons. What I did want to understand was how it happened, no real idea why and I'm now just putting it down to my own error being tired and not arranging the players in the order I thought I had them in.



Anyways, now that I've settled down offensive line help was definitely something I was targeting and much like Willis I prefer to take pass blocking Tackles, though I would have liked more strength there but oh well I won't be running the ball 300 times a season so I'm okay with that.



As long as Conley develops enough in the pre season to keep his rating high enough he will likely start and I'll move people around so I have the best 5 linemen starting (even if it means playing out of position or changing).



I've never had much success with creating a run heavy gameplan that produces high YPC even with a great RB so what I'll likely end up doing is short passing and utilise him as much in the passing game as possible. I wasn't going to try and get a QB in the draft unless one fell to me. I feel like Clinton was sufficient enough in his play last season to warrant a chance to start again, however I got a little lucky with QB Kuennen being there late in the 2nd so I pushed to try and get both 3.1 and 3.4 from slim as I knew I could probably get him there. So now I have a possible starter if he plays out how I think he might.



Humphrey somehow makes it another 5 picks too which baffled me. 


1 - 17 (17) Jacksonville slimmikey » change team R.J. Finch T Penn State

Pros-Now having talked about the hype at the offensive line i am somewhat sold on Finch. I think a solid really good offensive tackle That is really strong and throws defenders around like rag dolls. He has a great reach and keeps defenders at bay in the pass rush and his lateral quickness helps him be a good run blocker. 

Cons-Not an ideal player on endurance and barely hits 300 pounds at times struggles to keep weight on. Raw player lowly developed also. 

Rating-114.8 #2 OT on my list #8 player on my list

Grade A I think a great value and really helps to get him this late in the middle of the first as he is an elite talent. 

Mike's take-
Sup Dawg we are doing this again.

So 1 - 17 (17) Jacksonville slimmikey » change team R.J. Finch T Penn State was your next pick 2 picks later. I loved Finch and had him as a top ten player. THis value pick is great man. What is your thought on picking him and were you looking at anyone else?



WE actually trade up to just get him. While Richardson was our guy, some members on our offensive staff really wanted us to get him. After we selected Richardson we tried like heck to get another pick to select Finch. There was no one else we were looking at with this pick.


You already have two stud offensive tackles that are decently young on your roster. I know you trade your guys like what but what are the future plans for Finch with this pick and franchise?



While he did play Tackle his Senior year at Penn ST, he played a lot of guard his sophomore and junior year. He was all Big Ten at OG his Jr year and all Big Ten OT his Sr year. He will walk in the door competing at the LG spot.

1 - 18 (18) Dallas * ManWithNoName » change team Rusty Finley WR Utah

Pros-Finley does not have the elite top end speed to break coverages but one of the best hands guys in this draft and is always in the right place at the right time. He seems to run routes as flawlessly as you can breaking defenders down most of the time. 

Cons-Not elite speed and not a ton of broken tackles and wiggles. This guy gets open and makes the catch and that is plain and simple. He may get you 10 catches for 110 yards with 10 yac but has 7 first down grabs. 

Rating-83.8 #7 WR on my board 43rd player on my board

Grade B+ A legit receiver that will eat up coverage and make the tough play to move the chains. 



MWNN's take-
1 - 18 (18) Dallas * ManWithNoName » change team Rusty Finley WR Utah was your pick and i had him as VU when i scouted him. What are your thoughts on your pick and were you looking at anyone else at this spot? Does the lower then normal BP bar scare you away a little as 1st round WR?



Dallas has not become WR U in RZB. Finley comes in as the 4th best rated WR on your roster pretty much from day one. What are your thoughts and him and the future going forward? Does this put Siever to top level QB talent now in your opinion?



I'm glad to hear you had VU on him. My own scout had him as underrated, so hopefully there's a good chance he comes out better than advertised. WR was a position of need for me. I have three 60 rated WRs right now, but two of them have almost no, if any, endurance and there's a good chance Grayvil drops below 60. I want a player that can grow with Siever. The other player I was looking at here was WR Dexter Picken (who I tried to trade into the 2nd for) who went at 2.15 to the Vikings. I thought Finley would come out 60+ and with the positive interviews maybe he could be even better than I'm expecting. The big-play bar is a concern but I've always thought getting downfield is the more important bar for WRs. Seems to correlate more with high yards per target and Finley looks like his bar there will be fine. The Big Play Bar should come out between 40-50 so it's not non-existent either. Right now, he looks similar to WR Otis Branch of the Houston Texans.

We've had some very good WRs over the years but we've struggled to find them ourselves in the draft. I hope I can pair him with Bellas in the longterm and draw some attention away form him. With Grayvil and Ballard currently as they are, we might not need him right away. I don't think this pick puts Siever in the top level. He's still got plenty of room to grow but having a bunch of talent WRs can certainly make you look a lot better than you are.

 
1 - 19 (19) Indianapolis * Wackad00 » change team Dillon Fabian S Northwestern

Pros-Fabian is a hands guy that makes almost any interception thrown his way. I labelled him as the first player on my S tab that is a perfect fit to upgrade any spot as he is a great run defender and also reads and reacts in zone coverage. You can put him in man to man on a tight end and he wins most of those battles. 

Cons-Not a hard hitter at all and more of a finesse defensive back that makes plays. He also is not a corner or a safety hybrid as you put him in the box our back in 2 deep and he will make plays. 

Rating-98.7 All Pro #3 DB on my list #17 on my list

Grade A good looking kid that makes plays. That is a recipe for a nice sneaky pick. 

Wackad00's take-
Your draft started with 1 - 19 (19) Indianapolis * Wackad00 » change team Dillon Fabian S Northwestern i had him as one of the best pure safeties in this draft with great RD, zone, and ints. What are your thoughts on him and what brought you to pick him?



Your safety group is old and this pick seems like such a blessing to fall into your lap. Do you feel the same way? Was there a player that just got picked before you? What are your plans with Fabian moving into the future?



I have always leaned toward trying to keep my secondary cohesion as much as possible, so I tend to find a group and ride them through for entire careers. My Safeties are aging and he seemed to be there at the right time to have him get a season behind my veterans before we need him to step into the starter role. He has been moved from SS to FS as I think he is a perfect prototypical FS. When drafting I generally always wait to determine needs to fill based on who is there. He was the best on board when we came up and he fit a need we defiantly had so we were pleased to get him.



1 - 20 (20) Seattle * Nick » change team Devon Cooley G Eastern Michigan

Pros-I have him rated really high and probably one of the highest rated players in this year's draft. Cooley played for the Hurons who went 0-11 this year and he was not invited to the combine at all. He is an elite run blocking lineman that buries defenders. I can see him pushing some pancake records in RZB. 

Cons-A big fleet footed kid but does have a let down sometimes in the passing game. He also does have a struggle with penalties at times but the talent surpasses the worry for the penalties. 

Rating- OK so 78.8 rated based on no combine but if the combines were equal to the bars 147.8 which would be the highest in the draft and HOF material

Grade A+ I love this kid just not the smartest tool in the shed. 

Nick's take-
You grabbed 1 - 20 (20) Seattle * Nick » change team Devon Cooley G Eastern MichiganWhich surpised me a i did not see you going G there. I have him as the best risk pick as he shows up to me with a chance to be close to 75-80 rated. Does the no combine scare you with him and only having 25 sole? What were your thoughts on drafting him and was there anyone else you wish you would have grabbed or had on your radar?



That gives you the ability to have 3 stud guards all 60 plus rated and Jamison may be on a farewell tour. Did you pick him based on any need or did you JUst see him as BPA? I had him on my radar a little at pick 10 but WR>G and i am guessing you thought the same as the stud G was better then the other talent levels am i right?



I had great bars on Cooley, plus VU. He comes out 52/89 and I expect him to break the 90's. Only 39 intelligence, but obviously very happy at 1.20. I figured him as BPA at 1.14, and certainly as 1.20. The no combine didn't worry me as I trust my scout.



It looks like Nick and i had him both pegged as a monster

1 - 21 (21) Los Angeles (A) * imnkognito » change team Timothy Humphrey WR Oregon

Pros-smallish Wr that makes plays and has no real weakness. He led the Ducks in receptions and yards the last 3 years. I love his BP potential and his ability to cross the middle to make the hard catches. He is little but really climbs the ladder to make clutch grabs. HUmp is also great kick returner and plays a ton of special teams. 

Cons-Not a great big Yac guy and makes the consistant catch but not a ton of wiggle to his game despite all his speed. I think a really flawless WR pick here for the most part a good consistancy. 

Rating-100.6 All Pro #3 Wr on my board #16 player on my board

Grade-A+ WR is one of the more important spots and he has kick return value with no real flaws. He may not be elite but he looks great coming out of the box.

KO's take-
Yooo

I am changing up my picks a bit. YOu picked 1 - 21 (21) Los Angeles (A) * imnkognito » change team Timothy Humphrey WR Oregon I loved him and really never would have though he would sneak to 21st overall. Do you feel like you had a great value? Where you looking at anyone else when you picked or did you run to the podium?



I think you got a great value and a stud #2 WR. He should pair with Lucino nicely but is McCormick the answer at QB and does HUmphrey help that cause? What do you see out of Humphrey this year and in the future?



I thought he was a good value pick there and has skills complementary to Willie Lucero on the other side. That said, it was a coin flip between him and the TE Zach Wilkerson. Based on the limitations of my QB I might still harbor some reservations about going the direction I did. A security blanket TE seems to be a good fit for the lower echelon starter QB's, which I'm likely to have unless I get a lucky boomer somewhere. I also got VU for Wilkerson while getting H2R for Humphrey after some of his key bars took a little drop on the high end.



As for Alec, likely not the long term answer, but he seems to be one of those guys that outplays his ratings. I was surprised by how effective he was last season. As mentioned above, though, the TE might have been more help for him than the other WR. Then again, the WR will have more trade value down the road than the TE, most likely, so we'll roll the dice with what we have this season and see how it pans out.



1 - 22 (22) Jacksonville slimmikey » change team Junior Jenkins DT Western Michigan

Pros-I pegged him as a 3-4 plug and play nose tackle but he could always be an off defensive tackle too. He is an elite run defender and strong as Paul Bunyon moving offensive lineman in his way to make plays. He hits hard and punishes tacklers and does not take many plays off. 

Cons-Does not play special teams at all. He is really not a finesse rusher at all. You really cannot throw him on the edge and get a rush so he needs to push the pocket which he does more then most players. 

Rating-109 #2 NT and DT on my list #12 player on my board. 

Grade A- So unsexy but i like the pick a ton. PLays the run and gets you 5+ sacks a year while clogging up the middle. 

Mike's take-
1 - 22 (22) Jacksonville slimmikey » change team Junior Jenkins DT Western Michigan You took a DT, OT, and LB in the 1st round. Is that a hint that you wanted to solidify the trenches or was it more value based for you? Did you contemplate a few players at this spot or was Jenkins your man the whole way?



To be honest we loved Erbs and Jenkins. We again traded up for the spot to select a DT. Jenkins had that something extra (Max Static bar, LOL). We liked them so much so that at 2.1 we almost took Erbs. WE just felt after taking Jenkins another player we had a first round grade on that was a need we took instead. When we compare Jenkins and Erbs we looked closely at their college games. Both players we all conference players. There was lots of pressure to bring in the local kid. What we noticed about Jenkins tapes, similar to Richardson is he played many defensive line positions on the field through out the game. WE believe that will translate to the RZB field as well.



Jenkins is a legit run stuffing beast monster. it looks like he has a B line into the starting role at DT/NT am i correct? What do you expect from him to be a successful pick for your Jags?



WE have some solid DT's here in Jax. What we lacked last season was the big nasty. A guy that will just wreak havoc on the field. WE wanted someone that offensive coordinators will have to game plan around. Someone that a QB's will lose sleep over. If he has a good off-season I expect he will start some where. He will play both DE and DT spots for us this season.



I really really like this pick

1 - 23 (23) Seattle * Nick » change team Preston Malone DE Southern California

Pros-2 static bars stand out on me with this kid so i would guess he is a better pro then collegiate. He really is a Seattle type of player as he plays the run, plays special teams, good play diagnosis. 

Cons-A little small to move to DT which i thought may be his prime spot if he could put weight on. Here is another guy that is marginal on finesse and speed pass rush moves but can push the pocket effectively. 

Rating-82.2 Starter #2 DE on my board #43 best player

Grade A- I think a good pro plays strong but probably not elite.

Nick's take-
Preston Malone Elite run defender and great statics with an average PRT. DO you expect him to boom at the next stage? What was your thought on drafting him and did you have any other guys you really were looking at?



I love me some defensive ends as i feel like they are one of the top 3-5 positions in FOF. You have a slew but Malone is a little different as he has less then what you usually have at PRT. What are your thoughts on Malone this year and for the future?



It really was Malone versus the DT Erbs at 1.23. The 2 BPA's for me. Shocked to see Erbs drop in to the 2nd. Very similar players, but age ultimately made the difference. Similar development yet Malone is only 22, Erbs 25. He comes out 43/76, I expect him to push up a little after PS2. If he can gain weight we may make him a DT, although will likely play him there in spots anyway. He bumps up to 78 at DT.



LIke i said probably a better DT that 280 drops him a little for me. 

OK waiting on -
1 - 24 (24) New England * ukpatfan » change team Lincoln McKnight G Iowa State

Pros-Here are one of those guys i really did not think would last this long. He never missed a game as a Cyclone and has 0 durability concerns. He has a nice snap while passing blocking really nullifying the pass rushers. 

Cons-No the smartest box of rocks but by far not a problem on consistancy. Good run blocked not an elite run blocker. 

Rating-97.6 Pro Bowl #17 player on my board

Grade-A solid pick slight downgrade based on positional importance but tremendous value at pick 24 here. 

1 - 25 (25) New England * ukpatfan » change team Stanley Wallace T Kansas State

Pros-A common theme here in New England is take the best available pass blocking offensive lineman. Wallace has great feet and plays great leverage. He is a great pass blocker may not be elite at the next level like he was for Kstate. The kid plays every play and you will find him blocking down field on passing plays at times trying to break his receivers loose. 

Cons-A repeat of the above as he is not an elite run blocker just good and does have a slight issue with penalties at times. 

Rating-95.7 Pro Bowl # 19 player on my board # OT on my board. 

Uk's take-
The main focus for the Patriots this draft was to take a top QB talent.

After landing Poston we wanted to get him some protection and thought this draft class had some great O-line value in the mid 1.20's.

We are really happy with McKnight and Wallace. We see both as day one starters on the left side of the line protecting Poston's blind side.

1 - 26 (26) Tennessee grimmer » change team Korey Heimburger G Baylor

Pros-Korey is a game tape player. He has quick feet and keeps his opponent at bay in the run game while always having good body position. In the passing his technique is sound and has a good arm length to stifle the defender. 

Cons-More of a gamer then a weight room guy. He puts his play on the field as his skill and is great not elite overall. 

Rating-77 Starter #3 G on my board 47th player on my board ish

Grade B+ Good player not sexy not a standout just a good solid pick. 

Grim's take-
You grabbed the human Hamburger in 1 - 26 (26) Tennessee grimmer » change team Korey Heimburger G Baylor and a little surprise to me as the G department was probably one of your best spots on the team. What were your thoguhts as your pick came up to play and he was still on the board?



he looks awesome is there any surprise to you on him? What are your expectations for him this year and into the future? Do you see one of the best Guards in Tennessee history?


I think he definitely has the potential to be the best guard I've drafted here. 13% developed with those bars? At least as my scout seems them. We have numerous players on the last year of their deals on the o-line and I'm not sure we'll be able to resign any of them at their demands, so it made sense to pick Heimburger to fill at least one of their shoes. It might take him a couple years to develop, but we always have injuries every year so I see him playing quite a bit this season.



We're excited to have a kid of this potential and he's an affinity to boot! I think he was a no brainer pick for us despite our needs at other positions. I was surprised he was still there, but it was a pretty deep draft. This kid is a major score for this team.



I knew the affinity kicker was going to be there ;0

1 - 27 (27) Los Angeles (N) Sawblade300 » change team Bryant King DE Georgetown

Pros-King is a prospect that played such lower level competition there were a ton of scouts that put him down despite being dominant. He does it all as he is ferocious against the run and can rush the passer. He has a good amount of speed rushers and holds his own head to head on a bull rush. 

Cons-Sort of one of those high ceiling but also low floor guys. he comes into the league good and has a nice rush and defense but not a ton to grow into. 

Rating-81.4  #3 DE on my list 

Grade B+ Another solid player that i really like. I do not see him having 15 sack season but puts up some respectable numbers all around in RZB. 
Saw's take-
For those of you that do not know i probably talk to Saw more then anyone else in FOF lol. I knew all about this pick. 

Sup Brian sir,



Hey you had a great year and went after 1 - 27 (27) Los Angeles (N) Sawblade300 » change team Bryant King DE Georgetown and during the draft i told you it was a great value at this point. What were your thoughts on picking him and was there anyone else you looked at when you came on to the clock?



You had already signed Melaragni in the offseason was defensive end a huge priority for you? What does King need to have this year and for a career to be a success in your eyes?


Yo Wes. Having a great year is relative I guess. Not getting to the big game after the season we had was disappointing. But it told me what we needed to focus on in the off-season. Defense. With the division we're in and how strong those offenses have become, we need to be able to shut them down. D-line was a concern and we needed to be stronger up front. King was my target the whole way. I liked his interview and what the bars showed. I also considered Tyrus Pryce, who ended up going in the 2nd to Denver. Pryce was more developed and maybe a safer choice, but the more I looked at King, the more I liked him and knew he'd be the better player in the future. King has two places to develop to be a success and make the pick worth it...run defense and his technique. If those develop, we'll have a very good, dangerous player coming off the edge and causing problems for opposing QB's.



1 - 28 (28) Pittsburgh ezlee2 » change team Zach Wilkerson TE Lafayette

Pros-Wilkerson is almost untackleable after the catch. He always gets Yac on every catch and has the surest hands that i have seen in this draft including Wide receivers. he runs decent routes and takes that big frame into contortion when making catches. 

Cons-Not a great blocker and not strong at the point of attack. He is extremely physical but not a blazer when it comes to speed on the field. 

Rating-82.8 Starter #1 TE on my board(I did not like this this year very much)

Grade A- Good looking kid that has a HUGE receiving upside in RZB. 
Rob's take-
My boy Rob we need a SB rematch!



Hey! I can only dream Wes. We've been knocking on the door, but just can't seem to put it all together when it counts.



You had a pick in the latter 1st round =1 - 28 (28) Pittsburgh ezlee2 » change team Zach Wilkerson TE Lafayette. I liked this kid seems like good value hate your team taking him. Walk me through your thoughts as you have a stud in Macri at TE now in his 2nd season. What was your thought heading to the podium? Was he just BPA to you or were you after him the whole way?



Well, it was simple. I am always a BPA drafter as I like to get value for my picks so I'm more of a play it safe kind of guy. Interestingly enough I was hoping to keep 1.11 and draft Drake Jeffries, but Flex crushed that dream so I traded down. I really wanted the G that the Titans took, Heimburger. When he went and Wilkerson was till there we pulled the trigger.





Its a tough pick but what do you think becomes of him this year? Do you try to run more 2 TE sets to open up the offense? What is a success for you at this pick? I think he drops a little and i do not like the static with his combines to hold up to a super high rating but a good player. Does that scare you or do you not see him that way?



I'm a little concerned about a drop tbh, but I still think he will be a solid player for us. I've always tried to have a solid pair of TEs so I'm happy to have him on board.




1 - 29 (29) Washington hildebrand » change team Darien Doyle WR Maryland

Pros-Big play kid that runs decent routes. To give you a visual, He is the player you draw a play in the sand and tell him to run and beat the defender. I saw him as one of the better number 2 options out there later in the 1st. 

Cons-He is fast but a long strider as he does not break a ton of tackles. He also DOES NOT run routes accross the middle and has the nickname Gator based on his alligator arms when crossing the middle. That 0 bar scares me a little in the pick.

Rating-66.7 Starter I think ranked 11th best WR 

Grade B I think he can be a nicer number two but that is all i see in him. 

Hilde's take-
OK you went in and drafted 1 - 29 (29) Washington hildebrand » change team Darien Doyle WR Maryland he has decent Bp and decent GD and i had him pegged right about here based on position and value. What were your thoughts on him? Are you worried that he has a zero bar in courage and that he is only 5 foot 8?



You have a band of Wrs that are all about average and he may be one of the better ones coming into camp? Does he start day one? What are your expectation for him from this year and the future? Do you see the next great Redskin Wr here?


My scouts showed some pretty good bars and the interview came back VU. For that, I had to grab him at 1.29. I'm not too worried about his zero bar in courage because I just don't think that bar is worth that much. He has talent in the main 5 bars so he should be able to contribute. The only effect I've ever really noticed on pass catchers and their heights is that taller players tend to be more effective in the redzone than shorter ones. If it affects his ability at all, Doyle will be more of an open field receiver than our primary goal line target, but we won't know until he takes the field.



I don't think he'll start day one. He's still a little underdeveloped for that. If I'm able to move a WR or 2 before the season starts, he may jump into the slot role. I don't really have any expectations for him this year, but I do want to see him be the next big producer in a couple seasons. Initial reveal wasn't what I had hoped, but if the interview I had on him was right, he should be a star. If not, he could make a very good #2 WR.



1 - 30 (30) Tampa Bay WilleB » change team Frankie Nelson S Colorado

Pros-Hard hitter that player in the box most of his career in Colorado. He plays every play and was the special teams captain. I think he is a better corner then safety as his zone coverage is pretty dismal whereas he does have the physical tools to play Man to man with receivers or tight ends. 

Cons-I talked a little about the zone but he also does not have great hands. He will be in the right place most of the time but not always make the play. He also struggles in deep coverage man to man as he does not have that top end speed and was used to being a run stuffer at the line of scrimmage. 

Rating-77.8 My #6 safety in this draft

Grade A- I think this is the next good corner and Willie may have the best secondary hands down in the league from here. 
Willie's take-
you grabbed 1 - 30 (30) Tampa Bay WilleB » change team Frankie Nelson S Colorado and he was one of the unique guys i could not put a peg on. I think he is not good enough in zone to be a great S but a big kid that could play strong at cornerback. What are you planning on doing with him here?



Your team was incredible last year and really much better then i would have thought. You probably have the best secondary in RZB with this pick and what do you think is a success at this point from him? Did you have any other players you were looking at here or did you run to the podium to get Frankie?



So you are alive...



Nelson was our #1 target despite his zone. He's a SS, nothing else. What he lacks in zone, he has more of in play diag and should be another linebacker in the box. We have five players in our secondary over 30 and he'll take over for Tyler Horner when he's ready and may allow us to move Horner to other places in the near future.



I am here Willie Always here......


1 - 31 (31) New York (A) * squirrel » change team Cesar Blair T Iowa

Pros-Great pass blocker and run blocker. I love the ability to finish blocks which is the Iowa way. This kid is the constant player every down he gives you 100%. In the run game he has that nasty streak you hope for despite not being an elite powered offensive tackle. He also has a background at tight and and plays the leverage game very well. 

Cons-Smaller frame just over 6 foot 2 and under 300 pounds. He says he struggles to keep weight on. He is not overpowering at all and does have some issues with the really strong of the strong for the Hawkeyes. 

Rating-66.4 Starter #6 offensive tackle on my list. 

Grade B I love this player and the bars but probably like him a little more in the 2nd round. 

Squirrel's take-
My little furry pal!



What is up man! You grabbed 1 - 31 (31) New York (A) * squirrel » change team Cesar Blair T Iowa and he is one of my perfect offensive lineman in this draft. Did you have him in your sites the whole time? You always have grabbed offensive lineman before i would have but i think we both agree on this guy. How do you feel about him now that he is on your roster?



Dawson is the man at LT now do you just have Blair wait in the wings to take the job over? What is a success for you on this pick? Is Blair the answer for the next 10 years at LT for you guys?


Hello mate.



Yep, Blair is there to replace Dawson in a couple of seasons when he ages out. Finding an affinity lineman that fits with QB Diaz and has average or better intelligence is hard, there are very few of them in the whole game population and no young guys that I don't already have. This guy T Blair won't shoot the lights out but he is young and a few seasons from now he will be a decent cohesion asset. Unexciting for a first rounder but another brick in the wall



Lastly we have the man the myth the legend-
1 - 32 (32) Chicago davehibb » change team Peyton McGee T Wisconsin

Pros-An all american for 3 years in a row and 3 times all first team big ten. We have the run blocking monster that is McGee who really puts on a show at times burying the defenders in the run game. He is a huge man at 6 foot 6 and almost 340 pounds and each blocks he throws his weight into. He wears down defenders and has NEVER allowed a sack in the 4th quarter in his football career. 

Cons-He is not going to manhandle like a a few stronger offensive lineman but really uses his frame to execute blocks. He is not an elite pass blocker but holds his own. This is a sneaky nice pick. 

Rating-87.1 #5 ofensive tackle on my list

Grade A Solid pick to close out the round for the champs.

Dave's take-
You grabbed 1 - 32 (32) Chicago davehibb » change team Peyton McGee T Wisconsin and that ended our first round with 6 offensive lineman taken in the last 3rd of the draft. Was there one of those guys that you were surprised about in a good or back way? Did you have Mcgee stared at the whole way or did you have a few guys in the mix? Was he BPA for you?



You already have solid RT in only his 7th year but was was your thought process on grabbing McGee and does he play much for you this year barring injury? What is your next step for the Bears? are you the best team in the league this year again? Did you head into the drafting with a major need you wanted to upgrade?



Picking late, I always try and grab BPA, regardless of position/depth we might already have but I had an idea that McGee might be able to move over to LT, where we also have a need having let Newton walk in FA. Whilst he'll be a little oversized, he should convert at 95%, which I'm happy enough with to make the move. We'll see how it pans out though.



As for what's next for the Bears, Just take it a game at a time and see how we do, just like last year. I don't think we have an elite team on paper by any means but the sum of our parts was a lot better than the individual pieces and hopefully we can be that again this year, as we don't really have that superstar skill position player to hang our hat on.