"Where are we going, and why am I in this handbasket?"

As I watched Denver charge through the 2009 NFL draft, these two questions kept popping into my head. I held my breath as I watched each pick come and go, and as each pick was read, I was progressively more and more confused.

My mock drafts were wrong. I had a few hits here and there, but mostly misses, and I am ok with that. I was expecting that. I also knew that one of the things I simply could not expect was to have a clear perspective on what new head coach Josh McDaniels and GM Brian Xanders had in store for the draft.

And it is not that I'm disappointed with the caliber of each player selected, just mostly confused about the positions they play, or why we pulled them where we did. Here's the breakdown...

Round 1, Pick 12 - Knowshon Moreno, RB
Don't get me wrong. I like Moreno. I think he's the best back in this draft and I am excited to have him on the team. I believe it was appropriate he was the first back off the boards. But my confusion stemmed from two other places. The first... in the offseason we successfully signed Correll Buckhalter, LaMont Jordan, J.J. Arrington, and we proudly announced the physical recoveries of Ryan Torrain, Selvin Young and Peyton Hillis. That's right folks, Denver had 6 runningbacks who have all been former starters. Even if you take Hillis out of the mix toward a position as a FB and flex option, you still have way too many guys. But fair enough. Knowshon is a talented guy. But there's the second part of the problem... why at 12? Did the Broncos really believe there was another team likely to snag him in between? Would getting Chris Wells or Donald Brown be such a horrific step down in talent it was worthwhile to wait to snag an RB at 18? With some defensive talent still on the board, this one had me shaking my head, but the day was young.

Round 1, Pick 18 - Robert Ayers, DE/OLB
I also like Ayers. But I was under the clear opinion that the team was moving to a 3-4 under coach Mike Nolan. The guy is an inbetweener on a team that already had a few. But it was defense, and as I said, I don't mind the caliber of the player... I was just confused as to what position we were hoping to fill there.

Round 2, Pick 5 - Alphonso Smith, CB
Please don't get me wrong. Smith seems promising too. But the Broncos pulled in starter Andre Goodman. They have Champ Bailey, and promising younger players like Jack Williams. And I don't mind having Smith. Really. But even if he is only stepping in as a nickleback, was he really worth sacrificing the leverage of a first rounder next year? Was he more worthwhile on a defense that did so very terribly against the run last year, when Rey Maualuga and Ron Brace were still on the board? Was Smith so likely to be off the board in the next 11 picks that he was worth such an effort? Now I was starting to get mad. Even our efforts to retool our defensive seemed to be slightly off-center. I didn't want to think it could get worse.

Round 2, Pick 16 - Darcel McBath, DB
This corner turned safety looks like a talented guy. But in the offseason, we pulled in two very talented guys to play safety, in Brian Dawkins and Reynoldo Hill. And yes, I know they're old, but why pull the trigger on McBath so early? Was he likely to go before the next round? Do we feel he's someone who can start? I couldn't help but wonder if we had just begun a long process of acquiring men for special teams and decided to start early. I comforted myself in knowing at least we were done for the first day.

Round 2, Pick 32 - Richard Quinn, TE
Or maybe we weren't. I gasped in horror as I learned that Denver had sacrificed two 3rd round picks to move to the second to select a pass-blocking tightend that had been graded out around the fifth. He was also the second tight end selected in the draft, with various other prospects at the position graded above him. This couldn't wait until the third? If we were so anxious to lose 3rd round draft picks, couldn't it have been for someone to play in a woeful defensive front 7? Was there a plan at all here?

Round 4, Pick 14 - David Bruton, FS
"Another safety?" I screamed. Yes, Bruton is a good player, and I was surprised he fell to the fourth round as well, but this was just getting ridiculous.

Round 4, Pick 32 - Seth Olsen, OG
Yes, because a line that gave up 12.5 sacks last year needs the help, not the defensive line that applied about as much pressure as a well intented cotton swab.

Round 5, Pick 5 - Kenny McKinley, WR
Marshall, Royal, Stokely, Gaffney, Jackson, and probably Scheffler. We moved up to snag McKinley because he obviously brought us something we didn't have before... a seventh receiver. And that defense keeps getting better too, doesn't it? Yeah, that's a great reason to give up two picks to move up 7 spots... (shakes head)

Round 6, Pick 1 - Tom Brandstater, QB
Project QB. Sweet. Glad we traded next years pick for him as well. Just as well, we've effectively bypassed every obvious D-Lineman and LB save Ayers in the draft. Why worry now?

Round 7, Pick 16 - Blake Schlueter, C
You know what? Fine. Casey Wiegmann needed a backup, assuming this dude even makes the team.

Again, it is not that I'm disregarding any of these guys ability... just the seeming lack of draft strategy or needs assessment done by the Broncos before hand. Our trade strategies stunk like they had gin on their breath.

At this point, I just don't see how we have the personnel to get anywhere close to transitioning to a 3-4 defense as coach Nolan might have hoped, and our basic 4-3 package is largely still intact from last year. And the defense was terrible, as fans may recall.

I keep trying to give the new head staff the benefit of the doubt, but they seem to be going out of their way to show that they don't have to play by any sense of logic because they're in charge now. I have a sense that if Denver doesn't have a winning season this year, fans might start asking for heads to roll again. It was almost sickening to see how excited McDaniels was that they got such great players, but I'm failing to see how these off-season movements really have helped the team at all, and at the moment, I believe we're worse off than when the season ended.

If I were Brian Dawkins, I would be furious. Part of the lure to come to Denver was that he saw us as a playoff up and comer, simply in need of a few defensive tweaks and some emotional leadership to find success. Now it seems that the team will be lucky to go 8-8 again, and that we may be in for a complete rebuild. It is a shame.

On the plus side, at least the Raiders had a worse draft.

I am happy to see all the late comers to the party. Mock drafts are popping up like internet ads now, which must mean it is the day before the NFL Draft. I look forward to spending time in my neighborhood bar, groaning at how off my mock draft was and how horrible some team's picks ended up being... but in the meantime.

If you all have seen my previous mock drafts, you know I abide by a handful of rules.

First, I'm not assuming any trades. The world is just far too crazy for that to happen. Yes, I know the chances of us getting through the first round without a trade is close to zero, but seriously, how many things do you want me to speculate on?

Second, an FA signings that occur between now and tomorrow will screw this blog up, so I'm not counting that either.

So, here we go!

Pick 1 - Detroit Lions
Matt Stafford - QB, Georgia
Hey hey! Looks like I got one right! This afternoon the Lions announced Stafford will be their first pick in the draft, and while hard contract numbers may not come until after tomorrow, he's still the guy. And don't fret for Dante Culpepper. Matt will need some time to mature, and not be thrown to the wolves.

Pick 2 - St. Louis Rams
Mark Sanchez - QB, USC
I know! I am in as much shock as anyone. I don't know how they think this makes the least amount of sense, but according to Steve Wyche of NFL.com, St. Louis has purchased a plane ticket to St. Louis for Sanchez on Sunday. Even if this is a dramatic smoke screen, it is an effective one, and Mark will likely be the number two pick, and the Rams may simply hold him hostage to get a deal they like (ala Eli Manning being drafted by the Chargers).

Pondering - I really hope this plan doesn't backfire on them. I'd hate to see Sanchez and Bulger on the sidelines arguing about who's turn it is to stand behind the awful o-line.

Pick 3 - Kansas City Chiefs
Eugene Monroe - OT, Virginia
I still really like Monroe to the Chiefs to build the o-line. He'll bump Branden Albert to RT, and Matt Cassel will feel safe and secure.

Pick 4 - Seattle Seahawks
Arron Curry - LB, Wake Forest
Curry just makes too much sense here to slide down any further.

Pick 5 - Cleveland Browns
Michael Crabtree - WR, Texas Tech
After the outright denials that Quinn will be traded, and the early drafting of Sanchez and Stafford, the Browns find themselves landing very happily on their other "it" guy. Goodbye Dante Stallworth, and get nervous Braylon Edwards.

Pick 6 - Cincinnati Bengals
Jason Smith - OT, Baylor
I just see the Bengals sitting there, looking confused for a moment as it sinks in that Smith actually fell to them. I can even say Ochocinco smiling at this turn of fortune.

Pick 7 - Oakland Raiders
Jeremy Maclin - WR, Missouri
I thought long and hard about this, and all the other players that might go to Oakland, but in the end, I think Maclin is their guy. Their comments that Crabtree was a "primadonna" only sealed it for me. If the top regarded receiver was here or not, Maclin is still their man.

Pick 8 - Jacksonville Jaguars
B.J. Raji - DT, Boston College
After the signing of Torry Holt, I think the Jags are more likely to think D, and Raji would be a stellar pick. I also think, however, that this might be the pick at this spot for another team. It is commonly believed that Raji won't make it past the Pack, so if it is not the Jags, another NFL team might be too tempted to trade into their spot and secure B.J.

 

Pick 9 - Green Bay Packers
Brian Orakpo - DE/LB, Texas
I think GB will jump on Orakpo in the hope that he will be a dynamic edge rusher in their transition to a 3-4.

Pick 10 - San Francisco 49ers
Andre Smith - OT, Alabama
Again, this is another situation where I think San Fran would be very happy with this pick, but I also think the Smith may get drafted at 10 even if the 49ers aren't the ones pulling the trigger and someone else moves into their place.

Pick 11 - Buffalo Bills
Michael Oher - OT, Mississippi
The last of the four major tackles won't make it past the team that traded away Jason Peters.

 

Pick 12 - Denver Broncos
Tyson Jackson - DE, LSU
Jackson has been one of the harder guys to pin down in this draft. First not even projected to be in the first round, now there is common debate about whether he'll make it out of the top 10. By twist of fate, he does, but the Broncos could use him, and he becomes the pick at 12.

Pick 13 - Washington Redskins
Everette Brown - DE/LB
First, let me say I feel bad for Campbell, and after seeing Cutler act the way he did, I think Campbell should be widely applauded for the way he's coped with the crazy rumors and half-assed attemptes to replace him in the off-season. ANYWAY, the Skins add more danger to their line by adding Everette Brown.

Pick 14 - New Orleans Saints
Malcolm Jenkins - CB/S, Ohio State
Since the beginning, I've said Malcolm is their man. It is still true today.

Pick 15 - Houston Texans
Clay Matthews - LB, USC
I'm also pretty locked in here, too. Texans need an OLB, he has connections to the organization and is a flexible, able player that would start out of the gates. What's not to love?

Pick 16 - San Diego Chargers
Rey Maualuga - LB, USC
Stupid Chargers. Jerks. Good pick.

Pick 17 - New York Jets
Percy Harvin - WR, Florida
I've had Freeman here from day one, but after hearing talk that the Jets aren't too worried about a little weed smokin', Harvin fill the hole left by Coles. I think they're sold.

Pick 18 - Denver Broncos
Ron Brace - DT, Boston College
Every draft has its reaches, and sadly, I can't help but think my team makes it. Reports are that the Broncs like Brace, and he's one of a small handful of DTs that can eat the middle in a 3-4 as a NT.

Pick 19 - Tampa Bay Bucs
Josh Freeman - QB, Kansas State
I never had a draft where Tampa Bay would have Freeman fall to them, and now that I do, I think they take him. He's got connections to Raheem and he could quickly be elevated to a new face of the franchise. And I don't want to hear any nonsense about Leftwich. He's past his prime, he makes bad choices throwing and his release is like molasses. McCown just has terrible timing as far as when he ends up on teams.

Pick 20 - Detroit Lions
Peria Jerry - DT, Mississippi
After trading away Rodgers last year and Redding this year, the Lions may want a DT. There has also been a spoken emphasis to get tougher in both lines. Jerry would go a long way to accomplishing that.

Pick 21 - Philidelphia Eagles
Knowshon Moreno - RB, Georgia
Yep. Same reasons as before.

Pick 22 - Minnesota Vikings
Eben Britton - OT, Arizona
Man, this is easy. Why did I change so many picks before?

Pick 23 - New England Patriots
Vontae Davis - CB
There have been character concerns raised about Vontae Davis, but the Pats seem to have the ability to get talented guys over that. They can boost their secondary with probably the best corner in the draft. It also doesn't help that many of their starters also have grandchildren and bingo nights (I kid, but only a little.)

Pick 24 - Atlanta Falcons
Brian Cushing - LB, USC
Cushing is going to be a nice, fierce addition to the depleated LB crew in the dirty.

Pick 25 - Miami Dolphins
Aaron Maybin - DE, Penn State
Maybin moves into Miami at a spot appropriate with the guy's talent and lack of experience. He could be a serious threat down in Miami.

Pick 26 - Baltimore Ravens
Darius Heyward-Bey - WR, Maryland
Since it seems that Baltimore isn't in the same pricing range as the Cards for the services of Anquan Boldin, Heyward-Bey is the pick here.

Pick 27 - Indianapolis Colts
Evander "Ziggy" Hood - DE/DT, Missouri
The Colts want bigger, better DTs, and with so few in the draft, they pull the trigger on Hood now.

Pick 28 - Buffalo Bills
Robert Ayers - DE, Tennessee
After addressing the O-line with their first pick, Buffalo can address their D with the 28th pick, and Ayers may be just the guy they are hoping for to line up down from Schobel.

Pick 29 - New York Giants
Hakeem Nicks - WR, North Carolina
It seems the buzz of trading WRs for first round picks has died down a bit, but it doesn't mean a team like the Giants aren't still in need.

Pick 30 - Tennessee Titans
Darius Butler - CB, Connecticut
There are rumors right now that the Titans and Cards might be in discussion for a RB/WR trade, possibly involving Chris Henry or LenDale White and Anquan Boldin. Regardless, it wan't affect the first round, exactly, save that if it IS LenDale, don't be surprised to see the Titans select Wells, and the Carndinals to select... someone else. Maybe Kenny Britt. I don't know. I'm not assuming trades, OK?

Fast and smart, Butler offers the Titans a starting nickle corner with tremendous upside. Playing against teams like the Colts encourages you to have a good set of corners.

Pick 31 - Arizona Cardinals
Chris Wells - RB, Ohio State
Yes, I have wells at 31 still. I guess we'll see tomorrow if I'm right that teams will likely let RBs slide.

Pick 32 - Pittsburgh Steelers
Max Unger - OL, Oregon
I like Max. I like Max in Pittsburgh. So... yep. That's the pick

And there it is. I hope you've all enjoyed my draft blogs, and can't wait to hear how you all think your team did in the draft! Here's to tomorrow, and the promise it brings!!!

I'm hoping someone can shed some light on an issue I just can't wrap my head around...

Why would the Lions think about drafting Aaron Curry?

Yes, I understand he is regarded as the most solid player in the draft.

Yes, I know his contract numbers probably won't be as high as a QBs.

Yes, I know the Lions make some strange picks.

But the problem for me is that right now the Lions have two of the better OLBs in the game in Peterson and Simms, and both are young, prosperous, and signed.

I also have read that Curry is projected to have the ability to play inside or outside linebacker, but he played outside linebacker. Why would you spend a top pick on a guy who you would have to shift over to another position? It just doesn't make ANY sense to me.

Add to that, the ILB position is almost never drafted very highly, and if they really really want someone to come in to start at MLB, either Maualuga or Lauirinitis is likely to be at spot 20... and guess what? THEY'VE ACTUALLY PLAYED MLB!!!

Someone help me out here. My only consolation so far is that it might be the world's worst attempt at a smoke screen.

Let's face it. For an NFL fan, there are two types of pleasure come draft day, especially on the first day.

The first is the more sedate, warm fuzzy sort of feeling that the guy your team drafted is someone you heard of before, and you're likely to be saying his name time and time again in coming year. Even if you don't understand the teams logic or were SURE there was someone better out there, you start to see hints of potential in your team's selection, and you either boo the choice of a foe, jeer at a selection you felt was a reach, or nod with respect if you think they made a good pick.

The second pleasure is a little more electric though, when your team suddenly jumps up in the draft to snag someone in particular, or they slide down and amass later picks, or somehow, they trade away a player or two for a pick, or end up on the receiving end of some veteran talent.

This is where the real draft day drama comes in, and it creates moments that you can actually remember.

For me, the most recent include the agony of watching Brady Quinn continue to fall, his disbelief (and that of anyone who watched the draft) becoming more and more acute with each pick that passed... but then there was the relief when the Browns suddenly moved back up and snagged him. I can also remember Randy Moss' happiness when he stood, pumping his fist upon finding out he'd be a Patriot (and all for a fourth rounder?).

As we move closer to draft day, it's become clear this draft has the potential for much chaos and drama. After unexpected off-season cuts, coaching changes, scheme shifts and the recent trades of Jay Cutler and Jason Peters, it is easy to think that come Saturday, even more drama is likely to abound.

But when looking at the first round, who is likely to be in the mix?

I really believe the Lions, Rams, Chiefs and Seahawks will not provide any entertainment early. While 3 of the 4 have openly expressed a willingness to trade down, the want on the parts of other teams to move up seems lacking.

Which makes the Cleveland Browns the first team to be the first team who might invite some chaos. If area reports are to be believed, the Browns have settled into one of two draft picks, namely QB Mark Sanchez or WR Michael Crabtree. This isn't a complete shock since there have been heavy rumors circulating about trading QB Brady Quinn and WR Braylon Edwards. The chaos doesn't really come from shifting the pick as much as it does raise questions about what they pick made will mean later in the draft. One could easily assume that if one position is taken, it means their is a trade worked out somewhere else in the draft, and we can all wait with baited breath as the team logo shifts to the Browns again.

The Cincinnati Bengals don't have drama in their first pick as much as the do in the locker room. Though there is more silence and things are being said publicly that would indicate otherwise, the popular consensus is that Chad Ochocinco is still not happy on the team, and is desperate to get out. The silence could indicate many things, namely that either it is a resolved as it is going to be and no ones position has changed, or that Brown's stance on a no-trade is shifting slightly, and for the right price, Chad may have a new home. If the NFL networks recent interview with T.J. Houshmanzadeh is to be believed, the later circumstance could be happening now. This would cause a shake-up in the draft order and in who the Bengals pull in. There is no doubt that Chad can still play, just doubt that he can still play for the Bengals.

The next team I see as having a high drama liklihood is the Jacksonville Jaguars at pick 8. The Jags have also expressed a want to move down, and with several top players still on the board at that pick, it wouldn't surprise me to see some team justifying moving in. While this draft has a more gradual talent slope than most, teams might move in for a chance to draft some bell cows, including Mark Sanchez, B.J. Raji, Brian Orakpo, Michael Oher, or Andre Smith (assuming they've not already been drafted).

After trading Jason Peters away, the Bills are next on the list. I imagine some fans will hold their breath during the selection, since some rumors have suggested the team might try and package their new dirth of picks to move up and select a replacement for Peters. If I were a fan, I'd be praying that this doesn't happen because then the trade makes less sense. In essence, you've traded Peters for a gamble on a rookie player and a third rounder. But still, it could be exciting.

Directly after the Bills are my Broncos, who also sport two picks in the first. I have as much hesitation about the team moving up to score a QB to replace Cutler as I do the Bills replacing Peters, but I could also see where it is possible that it could happen. I also think it is possible that the Broncos could be a trade partner with the Jags if they were intent on drafting B.J. Raji, too. There is a large chance the DT who can play NT won't make it past the Pack, so Denver would have to scoop them.

The Washington Redskins and the Houston Texans are two teams which have mild drama factor. Both teams seem big fans of guys that could likely be scored with later picks, and if someone is interested of moving ahead for specific players (such a Chris Wells before the Saints pick or Josh Freeman before the Jets pick), then a trade down might occur. Keep in mind, I'm not saying that the Saints would draft Wells or that Freeman is the Jets guy, but there is a large enough possibility of it happening that teams might feel motivated.

Tampa Bay is in an interesting place where I think fans might WANT drama, but it's unclear if the Bucs will bite. After two botched attempts at Cutler, and cutting of hometown hero Joey Galloway, fans might want some excitment. Raheem, however, may be just fine where he is.

I have a gut feeling that the Eagles may try to move down, and that they may find a taker. But I have no proof there.

The New England Patriots already have a bit of drama swirling in light of the fact that they set their sites on Carolina's Julius Peppers. The Panthers have tried to squelch there rumors, but I'm not sure it's done yet. Add to that the Patriots history of moving up and down, and it is clear your dealing with one of the most mercurial teams in the NFL. Drama is hooked to that.

At 24, the Atlanta Falcons have been rumored to have an extreme interest in KC's Tony Gonzales, and who can blame them? While it is not likely that any trade would involve their first round selection, if the Falcons draft Brandon Pettigrew, it sort of lets the air out of the bubble, and thus there is some drama.

Both the Ravens and the Giants have been rumored to have more interest in certain vetern wide receivers than they do rookie talent. With the Cards setting a high price for Anquan Boldin's services and the Browns only barely avoiding talking about Edwards, both teams could make some chaos occur.

As for the rest of the first round, I'm not really sure there is any player out their teams are dying to get their hands on with the 30th pick or later, making them somewhat drama free, but then again it is the NFL, and surprises can abound.

So, what drama are you hoping for?

Can you feel it? We're getting close to the draft, and there is excitment in the air. People around the country are salavating, wait for the names to be called that might define the next 10 years of their favorite franchise's life.

Over the past few weeks I have posted a series of mock drafts with my thoughts as to which way the draft might go. Always with the same set of rules... that any continued off-season movement could change my opinion, and that I wasn't going to take draft day trades into consideration.

My last blog, I took a leap and guessed at some of the madness I'd been hearing concerning draft day trades, and it was fun... not a mock draft I agree with exactly, but fun.

Now with the trade of Jason Peters to the Eagles, the draft board has shook again, and it brings one to wonder how much more could happen.

Below you will find the newest version of my draft, with a new addition to the mix. I'm going to also include my ponderings on the pick itself... if I think it could be traded, if there's something that sticks out strangely to me, or if there is a rumor that I just have to disagree with. I hope you all enjoy, and as always, I'd love to know what you think!!

Pick 1 - Detroit Lions
Matt Stafford - QB, Georgia
Talk is that the Lions might not want this pick, but it seems they're going to have to make a choice. The talk has also all but centered on Matt Stafford, though Sanchez has also been floated as a possibility. I'm thinking the Sanchez talk is more smokescreen to try to trade the pick, but I expect the Lions to set up a contract with Stafford sometime before next Saturday.

Pondering - There have been suggestions that the Lions might let this pick slide a bit just to decrease Stafford's contract number. As cheap as some believe the organization to be, I don't see this happening. If he is the future face of this football team, you don't want the relationship to start out like that. As I said, I expect this contract to be settled as soon as the Lions are sure no one will trade up. And no one will.

Pick 2 - St. Louis Rams
Jason Smith - OT, Baylor
Despite my protests that Crabtree would be a much sexier pick, the Rams will actually give their offense a true boost by protecting their QB and giving Jackson an edge to run to. Smith can block well for both, and the Rams should make the right call.

Pondering - a wide receiver is still needed, and I believe that while the class is deep at the position, if there is a heavy run on them in the first round, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Rams move back up into the first and get one.

Pick 3 - Kansas City Chiefs
Eugene Monroe - OT, Virginia
Many people have Curry going here due to the defensive switchover to occur in KC, but with the signing of Zach Tomas and Pioli's obvious preference to build a line first, Monroe should be the pick. He'll take over LT from last year's first round pick Branden Albert, who will likely protect the Cassel on the right side.

Pondering - there is also rumor that KC wants to trade out of this pick, but count on Pioli to be savvy enough to make sure it's the right value... and that's just not likely to come. Some would say the Broncos might bite (which I don't think they would), but helping out a division rival is never a smart move.

Pick 4 - Seattle Seahawks
Arron Curry - LB, Wake Forest
Curry is the most complete player on the defensive side of the ball, and after trading away Peterson, Seattle could use a man like that.

Pondering - There is talk Seattle is in love with Sanchez, but I think that the only way he goes at 4 is if someone else slides into the spot. Seattle has bigger fish to fry than choosing their future QB in the first round.

Pick 5 - Cleveland Browns
Michael Crabtree - WR, Texas Tech
The obvious thought here is that this will be because of the want to trade away Braylon Edwards. That may or may not be true. The fact is, even if the Browns decide to keep Braylon, they lost their number two when Stallworth made a poor choice to drive.

Pondering - I also think Braylon will be traded. With the Cardinals setting the price for Anquan Boldin at a first and a third, count on Braylon going for a bit less, probably a first and a fourth or fifth in this year's draft, maybe even a conditional pick next year. Let's face it, even if they are equal receivers, one played in the Super Bowl last year and showed toughness after having his jaw smashed to peices. The other seemed to frequently forget where his hands were.

Pick 6 - Cincinnati Bengals
Michael Oher - OT, Mississippi
Making the largest leap in my draft this week, Michael Oher moves into the sixth spot for the Bengals. Coach Lewis' declaration that Cinncy will become a run-heavy, smash-mouth team makes Oher a perfect selection.

Pondering - Of all the WR I think will be traded, one is not Chad Ochocinco. I think the silence from both sides is pointing to a better resolution than that, and with Carson Palmer back, I think the team is ready to see some of his show again.

Pick 7 - Oakland Raiders
Jeremy Maclin - WR, Missouri
With Crabtree gone, Maclin is the likely pick for the Raiders. Not really a surprise, either.

Ponderings - I thought it was really weird to hear Coach Cable talking about the 4 "really good tackles" in this draft. Good idea, but come on... Al wouldn't let that happen.

Pick 8 - Jacksonville Jaguars
Andre Smith - OT, Alabama
With a 3 player run at tackles and Jacksonville in need, I believe they will grab up Andre Smith at eight. WR will just have to wait.

Pondering - I think this is the first position where we might actually see teams willing to trade up, and since the Jags seem to want out of it, it'll be a happy marriage. But I'm not counting on it being for Matt Sanchez specifically. Teams also might be interested to move into the spot for Andre Smith, B.J. Raji, or Brian Orakpo should they hit this spot.

Pick 9 - Green Bay Packers
Brian Orakpo - DE/LB, Texas
Should both Orakpo and Raji fall to 9, I think the Packers will have a tough choice on their hands, since both would be extremely helpful in their switch to the 3-4. But while some of their DTs may prove servicable, an elite edge rusher like Orakpo will just be too much to turn away.

Pondering - Since it seemingly takes Packers QBs 5 or so years to mature into starters, I can't help but wonder how long it will be before they look for the guy to take over for Rodgers. (I'm kidding, of course).

Pick 10 - San Francisco 49ers
Mark Sanchez - QB, USC
The 49ers were once making very public declaration that QB wasn't their top area of interest in this draft, and I thought I smelled a rat. As draft day moves closer, it seems more and more rumors are beginning to swirl that a QB will be taken, and Sanchez's work out, added to Stafford's second visit makes it all to clear that inspite of not looking very hard for a QB, their taking a lot of time to do it. I stand by my previous statement that if the 49ers had the first pick in the draft this year, Sanchez would be signed now.

Pondering - If Sanchez and the top tackles are gone at this point, I'd expect San Fran to take the best available offer to move down.

Pick 11 - Buffalo Bills
Everette Brown - DE/LB
Brown is going to offer the Bills the best man they could have hoped for at 11 to place across from Schobel.

Pondering - I think that secretly though, they'll be sad to see the early run on tackles, and set their sites on scoring one with the 28th pick.

Pick 12 - Denver Broncos
B.J. Raji - DT, Boston College
The big DT will help Denver make the transition to the 3-4, while still having the ability to play in the hybrid 4-3

Ponderings - I really believe that Sanchez is not the only player Denver might move up to draft. If there seems a large possibility that Green Bay will take Raji, don't be surprised to see Denver leapfrog to 8.

Pick 13 - Washington Redskins
Robert Ayers - DE, Tennessee
With a large hole at defensive end, the Skins can pick one of the fast risers on draft boards. Originally pretty underrated, Ayers has caught the eyes of many teams in off-season workouts, and would thrive playing down with Haynesworth and the rest of the d-line.

Pondering - After signing the 100 mil dollar man in the off-season, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Redskins continuing to focus on the D-line with their next pick. The possibility of a Haynesworth suspension cannot stand in the way of this heavily armed defense.

Pick 14 - New Orleans Saints
Malcolm Jenkins - CB/S, Ohio State
Thank goodness for some consistency. Jenkins to the Saints still makes far too much sense, so I'm sticking with it.

Pondering - Many people have questioned why I let RBs fall so far in my mocks and I do believe that many will express a distaste of Chris "Beanie" Wells not being drafted here. But I also think the Saints believe there are at least 4 running backs in the draft that can help them, so I wouldn't be surprised to see the RBs continue to slide.

Pick 15 - Houston Texans
Clay Matthews - LB, USC
In my last draft, I admitted that I was convinced by another blogger that the Texans were locked into taking an OLB. But since then, I've become further convinced that Matthews is their guy, especially after I learned that former NFLer and current Texan employee Bruce Matthews is Clay's uncle.

Pondering - Between you and me, 3 weeks ago I never thought Clay would be the first of the 3 LBs from USC to be taken... but hey, it happens.

Pick 16 - San Diego Chargers
Rey Maualuga - LB, USC
Already being hailed as the second coming of Seau, Maualuga seems to be the guy on the Chargers "must have" list.

Pondering - As a Broncos fan, I hate this pick, and would be perfectly happy if they chose someone else.

Pick 17 - New York Jets
Josh Freeman - QB, Kansas State
I still say the Jets want a QB, and I still say Freeman is it. The guy will need some work, but with his arm, he could be their starter in no time flat and for years to come.

Pondering - I do wonder, however, if someone might try to move ahead of the Jets to get him. In my strange trade ponderings last week, I had Tampa moving up to Houston's spot to get him. Wouldn't be surprised if something like that happened.

Pick 18 - Denver Broncos
Tyson Jackson - DE, LSU
I'll admit it. Getting both Raji and Jackson would be a dream come true for me as a Broncos fan. I also think it's possible that it happens.

Pondering - Part of me can't help but wonder though if the Browns might not trade Brady Quinn, and if Denver would be interested... we'll see. I'd rather take my chances with QB this year and get better at the D.

Pick 19 - Tampa Bay Bucs
Peria Jerry - DT, Mississippi
The Bucs are short on DTs, the draft is short on DTs of quality, and the Bucs play 2 teams that can run twice a year. Jerry is a steal for them here.

Pondering - That being said, I'm still not convinced they won't be tempted to sign a WR or QB, but with first round QBs being gone and WRs likely being available later, DT is the better pick.

Pick 20 - Detroit Lions
James Laurinaitis - LB, Ohio State, Illinois
If a quality OT falls here, I wouldn't be surprised to see Detroit take one, but with so many holes, you take the best guy in a position of need. Laurinatis is it.

Pondering - I think it will be really weird to have conversations about the Lions having one of the best LB crews in the NFL, but with Sims, Lauinatis, and Peterson, it'll be hard to argue against.

Pick 21 - Philidelphia Eagles
Knowshon Moreno - RB, Georgia
With their only pick in the first round, I still have the Eagles selecting Moreno. With better hands and a powerful running style, he'll be the best guy to eventually take the place of Westbrook.

Pondering - I got nothing. Look out for the Eagles, man.

Pick 22 - Minnesota Vikings
Eben Britton - OT, Arizona
Like the Rams, I think tackle and WR are their two highest areas of need. But being that the wide receivers have dropped off, so does the Vike's interest. Instead, the pull in Britton, who can fill in at RT for them.

Pondering - Its so nice to not have to rewrite my reasoning for some teams taking guys in the draft.

Pick 23 - New England Patriots
Vontae Davis - CB
There have been character concerns raised about Vontae Davis, but the Pats seem to have the ability to get talented guys over that. They can boost their secondary with probably the best corner in the draft.

Pondering - If the Pats don't make this pick, don't be surprised if the Panthers do. Of course, Davis might not be their guy, but rumors continue to swell that the Patriots have their sights set on Julius Peppers. The Panthers are saying they won't trade him, but I recall the Raiders saying similar things about Moss a few years ago and the Pats got their way then, too.

Pick 24 - Atlanta Falcons
Brian Cushing - LB, USC
Cushing took a bit of a freefall in this draft, but the Falcons won't let him slide any further. He fills the hole of two lost LBs, and is a steal at 24.

Pondering - Why is Keith Brooking still a FA?

Pick 25 - Miami Dolphins
Darius Butler - CB, Connecticut
Losing DBs in the off-season, the Dolphins seem to really enjoy Butler's ability and lack of character concerns.

Pondering - I wouldn't be surprised to see Miami try to move up in the next round for a better WR. There are a lot of them, but if there is a good run at the position, they won't last long.

Pick 26 - Baltimore Ravens
Darius Heyward-Bey - WR, Maryland
Let's face it. Derrick Mason played injured last year and he's 83 years old. He needs help, and Heyward-Bey let's Flacco stretch the field.

Pondering - Apparently, the Ravens might be in the running to secure Anquan Boldin's services. Since its pretty clear Edwards won't go to a division rival, the Cards could end up with the back 1/4 of this draft, and boy would that screw my draft board up.

Pick 27 - Indianapolis Colts
Evander "Ziggy" Hood - DT, Missouri
The Colts want bigger, better DTs, and with so few in the draft, they pull the trigger on Hood now.

Pondering - Again, I've got nothing.

Pick 28 - Buffalo Bills
William Beatty - OT, Connecticut
The team who owns the pick may have changed, but the pick didn't. After trading away Jason Peters, Beatty is a tackle that can maintain some stability and safety on the o-line.

Pondering - I think this was a fantastic move on the Eagle's part. Really. Not so sure about the Bills.

Pick 29 - New York Giants
Percy Harvin - WR, Florida
Harvin's stock continues to freefall after rumors of drug use, character issues, and a low wonderlic score, but if the Giants make this pick, Harvin has the talent to overshadow that. And let's face it, he's being drafted to replace a guy who shot himself in the leg. In comparison, Harvin is a genius and an angel.

Pondering - I honestly think the Browns will be making this selection though, and probably opting for a rusher on defense, like Maybin.

Pick 30 - Tennessee Titans
Ron Brace - DT, Boston College
With a lack of depth at DT, Brace fills a major hole for the Titans (pun intended). As Raji's less hyped counterpart at BC, Brace is the other DT projected to play a 3-4 well, or... you know, become a major space eater for a 4-3 like the Titans.

Pondering - I still think it's silly that the Titans won't look at a WR, but if Adammwilson is right and the Titans hold true to form, it probably won't happen.

Pick 31 - Arizona Cardinals
Chris Wells - RB, Ohio State
I know. I know. You don't think Wells will fall this far. I do. I think that the Cards are one of the first teams with both the want and ability to take a running back in the first round. And hey, good for the Cards, right?

Pondering - After getting bumped from Indy and now likely getting bumped from Arizona, I can't help but want to feel for Edge, but... then again, he usually comes off like a jerk in interviews, so I'll get over it.

Pick 32 - Pittsburgh Steelers
Max Unger - OL, Oregon
Let's be honest. It could be Unger, it could be Wood. I don't know who the Steelers really prefer, but taking a offensive lineman with the ability to play multiple positions would be huge for them. I also like Unger better since I lived in Eugene, Oregon (home to the U of O Ducks) for about a year.

Pondering - I really miss Oregon.

 

So let me know your thoughts... and trust me, there will probably be at least one more before draft day...

and no matter what, I pretty much know I'll be dead wrong. It's just fun to postulate.