Draft Misc - Football Wiretap
The Only NFL Draft Summary You'll Need To Read
The draft has come and gone, much to the relief of draftniks? wives across the country. I don?t issue immediate draft grades anymore, because the full impact of this draft cannot be judged until two or three seasons have passed. But I do harbor some definite opinions about what each team did over the weekend.
Arizona Cardinals: They got bigger and more physical across the board. Beanie Wells is a thumping RB and should be the best RB in this draft if he can stay healthy. Cody Brown is a great schematic fit as a rush OLB. Trevor Canfield and Herman Johnson are good value picks up front, though they?re probably fighting for the same roster spot. I know one other team was privately disappointed Greg Toler didn?t fall a few more picks.
Best pick: Cody Brown at #63, though getting a top-5 caliber talent at #31 in Wells can?t be overlooked.
Atlanta Falcons: Hard to argue with their plan of attack. They desperately needed help in the defensive front and the secondary, and their first five picks all addressed those areas. I?m not a William Moore fan, but their scheme will help him, and he has a knack for forcing turnovers. Owens and Sidbury represent excellent value potential for their slots.
Best Pick: Peria Jerry at #24, instant starter up front who will toughen the run defense.
Baltimore Ravens: This draft is certainly not one to judge quickly, as most of the players are unlikely to see much time until 2-3 seasons from now. They built depth at positions of strength, positions which are integral to their success. Not taking a WR or a developmental DL could come back to bite them. They passed on some players I had rated much higher than whom they took in the first two rounds, but I will always give Ozzie Newsome the benefit of the doubt. I love their mid-round trade with the Patriots; they picked up a solid ILB in Jason Phillips for two practice squad players. Their locker room atmosphere is perfect for Michael Oher.
Best Pick: Cedric Peerman at #185, provides quality depth and offers punch in the return game. 3rd-4th round talent in the 6th is always worth the pick.
Buffalo Bills: I?m no Aaron Maybin fan, but in Buffalo he will only have one task--rushing the passer, the only thing he can do. I like Eric Wood, but it makes the Hangartner signing look superfluous. Trading up to get Levitre is questionable, though he could start right away and provide toughness. Shawn Nelson and Cary Harris were both great value picks. Nelson compares well to Greg Olsen of the Bears, an above-average starter, and they got him in the 4th round.
Best Pick: Shawn Nelson, the passing game threat at TE the team has lacked for years.
Carolina Panthers: They traded next year?s 1st for Everette Brown and Mike Goodson, a real questionable move. Brown provides insurance against Peppers leaving, but he appears to be a better fit as a 3-4 OLB and not a 4-3 end. Goodson is the #3 RB, though he brings versatility. Taking Tony Fiammetta makes for a very crowded backfield for a team that had far more pressing needs elsewhere. Sherrod Martin is the big nickel back they wanted, and Duke Robinson in the 6th is tremendous value; Robinson was in the first round of some mock drafts within the last month.
Best Pick: Duke Robinson, replenishing their depleted OL depth with serious potential.
Chicago Bears: GM Jerry Angelo had the fan base fuming after trading out of Saturday?s action, but he sure appears to have redeemed himself with a very strong Sunday. Jarron Gilbert is a fantastic pick, the upfield complement to Tommie Harris they?ve lacked along the DL. Angelo correctly gambled that WR Juaquin Iglesias would fall. Their 4th and 5th round picks can all contribute right away in some fashion and bolster the depth at some very thin positions. Keep an eye on Derek Kinder, their 7th round pick. They did not get a true #1 WR that they desperately need, but they got Jay Cutler some capable help. Potentially.
Best Pick: Jarron Gilbert, great value where they got him, and they didn?t reach for a wideout.
Cincinnati Bengals: Nobody had a better Saturday than the Bengals. Andre Smith and Rey Maualuga bring size, snarl, and skill to a team in need of all those attributes. Maualuga gets reunited with Keith Rivers, and the Bengals won?t ask him to do much but kill the ballcarrier, which he does better than any LB in recent drafts. They didn?t reach for Michael Johnson and Coach Lewis knows how to bring him along slowly. Jonathan Luigs is ready to start at C, good value for a 4th round pick at a major position of need. They lose points for taking a punter (Keith Huber) and yet another player (Bernard Scott) with serious character concerns. Their 6th and 7th rounders are all practice squad fodder with long-term backup potential at best.
Best Pick: Andre Smith
Cleveland Browns: Are they still trading down? I?m not as negative on the Sanchez trade as most, because I know Mangini coveted Abram Elam as a starting safety they desperately needed and they saved signing bonus $$. Tampa Bay needlessly gave them what became Coye Francies, a game-ready nickel corner they sorely needed, in order to take a project QB that would have fallen to them anyways. Alex Mack is a puzzling pick considering their myriad defensive needs, but he will start for the next decade. Their 2nd round WRs are smart fits, but Veikune is a questionable reach. James Davis is worth the 6th round pick. Bonus points for not giving away Edwards or Brady Quinn.
Best Pick: Brian Robiskie, who can step right in and more than capably fill the Joe Jurevicius role that they really missed in 2008.
Dallas Cowboys: Their theme was long-term building and special teams/depth needs, and if you take it in that regard, Jerry Jones did well. The only players taken that look to contribute at all in 2009 are the Cincinnati DBs, Deangelo Smith (replacing Anthony Henry) and Mike Mickens, an exceptional 7th round value. Michael Hamlin is a good risk/reward safety where they took him. I love the Stephen McGee pick at the top of the 4th, but both 3rd rounders were taken at least a round too early. Jason Williams has good potential but needs some work. Not taking more help for the OL leaves them desperately thin up front, though they have not had any sort of success when they?ve tried recently.
Best Pick: Mike Mickens, who should win the nickel CB job at pick #227.
Denver Broncos: Denver fans who were already mutinous about the McDaniels/Xanders duo got more plank fodder. Knowshon Moreno is a legit starting RB, but they signed three others in free agency and their offense looks to be more pass-oriented. Robert Ayers and Alphonso Smith are great picks, though the price for Smith (2010 1st) is real steep. Trading for a #3 TE (Richard Quinn) in the 2nd round is ponderous even though I like his developmental upside. That trade cost them two higher-rated players than Quinn to Pittsburgh. They picked up a lot of potential useful parts on Sunday, though Bruton and McBath are redundant.
Best Pick: Robert Ayers fills a major void and could easily have been the #12 pick, not #18.
Detroit Lions: I forget who said it, but I completely agree with the analysis that the Lions needed, and hit, a lot of doubles instead of mixing strikeouts and homers. Stafford wouldn?t have been my choice, but I understand the need for picking him. Pettigrew is surprisingly well-received and should help keep the outside open for the Johnsons. Delmas is a great fit for a defense that needs his swagger and playmaking ability. They fleeced the Jets for an extra pick, getting a solid backup swing tackle in Lydon Murtha as well as a developmental NT to learn behind Grady Jackson in Sammie Lee Hill. Levy and Williams will help more on special teams, but that was a need too and they both have developmental potential. Zack Follett could be a real steal in the 7th round. They resisted taking high risk/reward players several times, a distinct departure from the Millen era. It can?t go any worse, so it?s a welcome change.
Best Pick: Louis Delmas, the alpha male leader the Lions D has lacked for years. He?d better be, because they took him instead of Laurinaitis or Maualuga.
Green Bay Packers: Their first three picks are as good as any team made in this draft. B.J. Raji and Clay Matthews are instant starters and give the new defense some versatility and toughness. T.J. Lang will help their weak run blocking and can play three positions. The rest of their draft doesn?t excite me, though they got good value for their slot with Jamon Meredith and Brandon Underwood. They gave up quite a bit to get Matthews, so the pressure is on him to produce right away.
Best Pick: T.J. Lang, who should start at RG and really help their running game.
Houston Texans: I was victimized by a deliberate smokescreen from a Texans insider (yes, he works inside their building), who told me they would take Clay Matthews ahead of Brian Cushing at #15 overall. Lesson learned. I?ve openly worried about Cushing?s lack of production and ability to stay healthy, but he brings a much-needed dimension of physicality and intensity at outside LB. The rest of their draft was humdrum at first impression, but looks better the more I look at it. I love Connor Barwin at #46 and Antoine Caldwell at #77--both exactly 20 spots lower than their rating on my overall board. Their secondary has been consistently dreadful, and they addressed it with some underappreciated late-round talent, Glover Quin could earn a starting job at CB with his confidence and footwork. Anthony Hill fits well as the blocking TE they?ve needed. James Casey seems superfluous as a TE, but his versatility--he has experience running the Wildcat package as a QB--and professional experience are nice value.
Best Pick: Antoine Caldwell in the 3rd, who can earn a starting spot at either G or C.
Indianapolis Colts: Before the draft I identified three players as guys who would make great Colts more than they would help other teams, and the Colts took all three: Donald Brown, Fili Moala, and Austin Collie. Not sexy picks, but all three are plug-and-play fits into their system that should answer positional questions for years. Terrance Taylor is a fair gamble who brings needed beef. Jerraud Powers reminds me a great deal of Tim Jennings, whom he appears to be replacing. I give them a pass on drafting a punter because their long-time punter, Hunter Smith, left for the Redskins.
Best Pick: Fili Moala at the bottom of the 2nd.
Jacksonville Jaguars: The first two picks set the Jaguars at offensive tackle for the next five years at minimum. Eugene Monroe is a steal at #8, and Eben Britton brings the nastiness they?ve been missing. They saw something few others did in Derek Cox, and Terrence Knighton went at least a round too early, but I really like how they addressed the WR position with the next two picks. Mike Thomas and Jarrett Dillard are receivers who come in with defined games and roles, and those rolls are ones that Jacksonville lacked. Rashad Jennings is a great 7th round pick. A developmental QB would have been nice, but I?m proud of them for resisting the urge to reach for one early.
Best Pick: Eugene Monroe at #8. The best overall tackle in the draft and they didn?t have to move to get him.
Kansas City Chiefs: I really like the Tyson Jackson pick and don?t find it a reach, though taking Alex Magee with the next pick is puzzling as he plays the exact same spot. The rest of their picks appear destined for the practice squad, and Mr. Irrelevant is a 66% FG kicker. No linebackers, no ready-to-play WRs, and just a real reach offensive lineman. I?ve questioned Scott Pioli?s recent drafts in New England, and this sure looks like more of the same--brilliant 1st rounder and then praying for good fortune.
Best Pick: Tyson Jackson
Miami Dolphins: Bill Parcells & Co. made some curious decisions that are either going to look genius or horrific. Vontae Davis has outstanding physical potential but lots of flags. I happen to like Pat White as a QB, but this team already has a good starter and 1st rounder from last year (Chad Henne) as his backup. He?s tailor-made to operate the Wildcat package, but this is the team that pioneered it with Ronnie Brown, who was largely ineffective outside of it last year. Sean Smith offers great size but is eerily similar to the man he?s set to replace, Jason Allen--not really a corner or a safety. Brian Hartline came off earlier than expected but is the kind of player who might make a better pro than collegian, and the same might be said of Chris Clemons. They passed on several ?safer? picks that would have addressed needs on defense and took a lot of players (Davis, Patrick Turner, Hartline, Andrew Gardner) that carry the ?underachiever? label, right or wrong.
Best Pick: Vontae Davis, potentially.
Minnesota Vikings: Less than a week before the draft a Vikings scout told me there was ?no way in hell? they were taking Percy Harvin based on concerns over his injuries and character. Another team I was with took Harvin off their draft board almost immediately after working him out, finding him an arrogant, uncoachable know-it-all. For a Vikings' team with their recent history, taking a chance on Harvin is a stunning risk. Harvin does present a Reggie Bush-like dynamic to their offense, if they can properly harness him. I wouldn?t even rule out Offensive Rookie of the Year, but it?s a big gamble. They made no secret of their yearning for Phil Loadholt, and by playing him at RT they play to his strengths. Asher Allen is an excellent pickup at #86 overall, and with the QBs in their division they will play a lot of base nickel package. Jasper Brinkley is a smart depth pick, though he?s a lot stiffer than what they have in front of him at LB.
Best Pick: Asher Allen, at worst their starting nickel back, at best a very solid/streaky strongside CB.
New England Patriots: Once again they made a boatload of trades to move down and stockpile future picks, and I?m getting real tired of the almost universal praising of their draft strategy. Ron Brace and Darius Butler were good picks in the 2nd round and both should fit in well and contribute right away. But the rest of their draft is full of reaches and head-scratchers. Brandon Tate is a high risk/reward 3rd rounder, and they can afford to do that, but taking a long snapper in the 6th? Three nose tackles? Patrick Chung and Sebastian Vollmer in the 2nd round? Dealing Ellis Hobbs for two late-round picks? Every pick they made after Tyrone McKenzie (a decent value pick) in the 4th had a free agent grade from most teams, and Vollmer was at least two rounds too early. I understand they don?t need much and prefer to sign veterans to fill needs, but they?re flaunting it a bit. This is the third draft in a row where they?re not likely to have more than two players make the opening day roster.
Best Pick: Darius Butler, who they took in the late 2nd after being ready (allegedly) to take him in the first round.
New Orleans Saints: I believe Malcolm Jenkins is going to be a very good pro, but I don?t get the Saints? strategy. After signing Jabari Greer and with promising Tracy Porter coming back, they appear set to use Jenkins at safety. So what do they do with their next pick? They drafted Chip Vaughn, a safety. Thomas Morstead is going to make an excellent NFL punter, but I scoff at any team that drafts a specialist before the second half of the 7th round. When you factor in their 2nd and 3rd round picks are essentially Jeremy Shockey and Jonathan Vilma, it eases the pain--so long as those two both stay healthy. No RBs and no OL depth could be troublesome.
Best Pick: Malcolm Jenkins, the best DB in the last two draft classes.
New York Giants: ...and the rich get richer. Hakeem Nicks is a big-play receiver with the swagger to potentially replace Plaxico Burress, the only real glaring need. I love the Clint Sintim pick in the 2nd round, great value and fit. I?m not high on any of their next three selections, but they all make sense for where the Giants took them, particularly Ramses Barden at the bottom of 3rd. The next three picks demonstrate why this team will compete for the Super Bowl every year for the foreseeable future. Andre Brown is Brandon Jacobs light, but with great hands. Rhett Bomar is a developmental #3 QB that they needed, with some similarities to Eli Manning. DeAndre Wright was very well-regarded by several teams and is a great value at #200 overall. I love what the Giants do--the identify specific wants and they go out and find guys who fill those wants without reaching.
Best Pick: Clint Sintim, a rare collegiate 3-4 OLB that projects better as a 4-3 blitzer and nickel LB.
New York Jets: They shot their load early with the trade for Mark Sanchez, which was a necessary evil given the demanding fan base and the prospect of starting Kellen Clemens. I believe Sanchez will be the best QB in this draft class when all is said and done, but his growing pains are going to be magnified under the Big Apple pressure to win now. He doesn?t have a lot to work with at WR, and they failed to add help there later. The trade up for Shonn Greene was not worth it, unless they truly feel neither Thomas Jones nor Leon Washington are long-term Jets. Matt Slauson is a bone to new OL coach Bill Callahan, who recruited him to Nebraska.
Best Pick: Mark Sanchez, the new face of a franchise that needed a face lift.
Oakland Raiders: I?d like to thank Al Davis for making me more valuable. As a loud-and-proud Ohio Bobcat alumnus, I became a go-to interview for people looking for info on shocking 2nd rounder Mike Mitchell. The skinny: Al Davis sees Jack Tatum, and Mitchell sure brings the lumber with a freakish size/speed package...when he stays at home and locates the ball, two skills that need lots of work. Heyward-Bey fits the Raiders system, but they could have traded down and still taken him. Ditto the Mitchell pick, though I know of at least two other teams that saw him with third-round potential. Louis Murphy brings yet more speed outside, and Stryker Sulak is an intriguing 6th rounder. They?re the butt of most jokes, but at least they are a team with a defined identity, and it?s an identity that can cause real problems for some teams.
Best Pick: Louis Murphy, a guy I?m not real high on but who could blossom with Jamarcus Russell throwing him the ball.
Philadelphia Eagles: Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy are gifts from the draft gods, plain and simple. Maclin is not a real #1 wideout, but Andy Reid?s offense doesn?t use a #1 but can definitely use his elite speed and strong hands. McCoy is just enough like Brain Westbrook to fit in well but offers just enough difference to make an effective change-up. Trading to get Ellis Hobbs from New England is a great move. Cornelius Ingram is a 2nd round talent taken in the 5th, though he has to recover fully from his nasty knee injury. Their later picks are going to be hard-pressed to make the team, though Macho Harris might make a good NFL safety.
Best Pick: Jeremy Maclin. No more excuses for Donovan McNabb, just like he wanted.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Their draft won?t win any popularity contests, but the Super Bowl champs quietly accomplished a great deal to keep that status. Ziggy Hood brings much-needed depth along the DL, and he has potential as a real disruptive force up front. 3rd rounder Kraig Urbik can capably fill in at either guard spot or RT and has good size. Mike Wallace is a similar player to the departed Nate Washington--very straight-line fast downfield targets. The two corners both went one round early but both should stick. A.Q. Shipley has freakishly short arms but nobody competes harder at center. They did an exceptional job drafting guys who play with the blue collar Steeler mentality and attitude.
Best Pick: Kraig Urbik.
San Diego Chargers: The Chargers clearly put some distance between themselves and the rest of their division with a strong draft. Some were surprised by Larry English at #16, but two different evaluators I respect think he will be Defensive Rookie of the Year. Their next two picks weigh almost 700 combined pounds and bring power and intensity as depth projects. Vaughn Martin is a freakish athletic specimen who can learn a lot from Jamal Williams, though coming from Canadian college football he?s got a tremendous learning curve. Gartrell Johnson makes a nice #3 RB, and Brandon Hughes fits their style of play in the secondary. Keith Ellison is real slow but makes up for it with savvy and hustle; I would not count him out despite some physical limitations. They added both immediate impact and solid long-term developmental potential at positions with aging starters, just what good teams do.
Best Pick: Larry English, though three years from now it could very well be Vaughn Martin.
San Francisco 49ers: Michael Crabtree at #10 is a no-brainer that will do more to help their passing attack than a new QB ever could. He?s a legit #1 wideout that will command lots of defensive attention. They dealt their 2nd and 4th rounders for an extra first next year--good value to be sure but it stunts the forward momentum this year. Scott McKillop is a Mike Singletary type of player, as is Bear Pascoe, who will really help on special teams. Nate Davis was worth a 5th round pick, so long as they don?t rush him. I?m not high on either LSU player they took, but they didn?t reach for them and both could be pleasant 7th round surprises.
Best Pick: Michael Crabtree, arguably the best overall pick in the entire draft.
Seattle Seahawks: My excitement over drafting Aaron Curry at #4 overall is tempered by the fact that it forced them to make Leroy Hill a free agent. They can still bring Hill back and sport the best LB corps in the game, but if he departs it blunts Curry?s impact. I?m not a Max Unger fan and he?s a bad fit for a team with lots of 3-4 defensive fronts inside their division. Deon Butler is an excellent fit for their offense with good promise to succeed fellow Nittany Lion Bobby Engram. Their late rounder picks are not really developmental players as much as they are good system fits who can perhaps provide more immediate depth. Courtney Greene has the best shot to make an impact.
Best Pick: Aaron Curry, almost universally regarded as the best overall player in the draft, at #4 overall.
St. Louis Rams: Their first two picks are great value, and they chose wisely to match up with the rest of the NFC West. I?m not as high on Jason Smith as most, but he has the athletic potential to fill Orlando Pace?s shoes. James Laurinaitis steps in as the field general this defense badly needs, and his skills in coverage and blitzing will come in handy in their division. Dorell Scott was a nice value pick, and Brooks Foster and Chris Ogbonnaya both made a lot of ?sleeper pick? lists before the draft. It?s time for their last two draft classes to step up more than they need immediate contributions from this group.
Best Pick: James Laurinaitis at #34 overall.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: They needlessly traded up two spots to take a long-term project QB, Josh Freeman, with their first pick. With all the offseason changes, that move clearly signifies this team is in full rebuild mode in 2009, That makes sacrificing a later pick all the more pointless, having already dealt their 2nd rounder for high-priced, chronically injured sore thumb TE Kellen Winslow. Roy Miller and Kyle Moore are both very good value picks on the DL with starting potential, and I like the long-term potential of Xavier Fulton, though he?s likely to spend 2009 on the IR. I watched every WMU game over the last two years, and I saw very little that said ?NFL corner?, though he?ll certainly fight for his spot. Stroughter is a KR with some Wildcat package potential, if he can stay clear medically.
Best Pick: Roy Miller in the 3rd round. He doesn?t look like much but dude can flat-0ut play.
Tennessee Titans: Titans fans finally get in Kenny Britt the 1st round WR they?ve begged for since the last one (Kevin Dyson) failed to pan out. His size and toughness are real problems for their divisional opponents. Their next two picks, Sen?Derrick Marks and Jared Cook, are uncharacteristically boom/bust players, and they traded a 2nd next year to take Cook in the 3rd this year. Ryan Mouton and Gerald McRath are aggressive, undersized competitors, and Javon Ringer and Troy Kropog were good value picks that might be more than just depth players at some point. None of the other picks look like more than practice squad fodder, though Ryan Durand could surprise.
Best Pick: Ryan Mouton at the bottom of the 3rd. This team consistently finds and develops underrated secondary talent, and Mouton looks like the latest find.
Washington Redskins: They got exactly who they wanted in Brian Orakpo at #13, and he fills a giant need. He should more than capably fill the role Jason Taylor could not, and the addition of Albert Haynesworth inside will give him room to operate. Owner Dan Snyder didn?t get overly excited and sacrifice future picks for once, but if the later rounds are an indication, perhaps he should have. Kevin Barnes has potential if his shoulder holds up, but the rest are in need of practice squad time. Marko Mitchell was a nice late pick, though he?s unlikely to make much of an immediate impact. Not addressing the OL with their 5th and 6th rounders is a major mistake.
Best Pick: Brian Orakpo.
Tracking Day Two Live!
Day Two of the 2009 NFL Draft is here. Stay tuned to RealGM to track the picks all day long as teams look to unearth great value with late selections.
Round Three
65 (1). New York Jets (from DET): Shonn Greene, RB, Iowa
66 (2). St. Louis Rams: Bradley Fletcher, CB, Iowa
67 (3). Kansas City Chiefs: Alex Magee, DT, Purdue
68 (4). Chicago Bears (from SEA): Jarron Gilbert, DT, San Jose St.
69 (5). Dallas Cowboys: Jason Williams, OLB, W. Illinois
70 (6). Cincinnati Bengals: Michael Johnson, DE, Ga. Tech
71 (7). Oakland Raiders: Matt Shaughnessy, DE, Wisconsin
72 (8). Jacksonville Jaguars: Terrance Knighton, DT, Temple
73 (9). Jacksonville Jaguars (from NE via GB): Derek Cox, CB, W & Mary
74 (10). San Francisco 49ers: Glen Coffee, RB, Alabama
75 (11). Dallas Cowboys (from Buffalo): Robert Brewster, OT, Ball St.
76 (12). Detroit Lions (from NYJ via NO): DeAndre Levy, OLB, Wisconsin
77 (13). Houston Texans: Antoine Caldwell, C, Alabama
78 (14). San Diego: Louis Vasquez, OG, Texas Tech
79 (15). Pittsburgh Steelers (from DEN): Kraig Urbik, OG, Wisconsin
80 (16). Washington Redskins: Kevin Barnes, CB, Maryland
81 (17). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Roy Miller, DT, Texas
82 (18). Detroit Lions: Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State
83 (19). New England Patriots (from GB via NYJ): Brandon Tate, WR, North Carolina
84 (20). Pittsburgh Steelers (from DEN via CHI): Mike Wallace, WR, Ole Miss
85 (21). New York Giants (from PHI): Ramses Barden, WR, Cal Poly
86 (22). Minnesota Vikings: Asher Allen, CB, Georgia
87 (23). Miami Dolphins: Patrick Turner, WR, USC
88 (24). Baltimore Ravens: Lardarius Webb, CB, Nicholls St.
89 (25). Tennessee Titans (from NE): Jared Cook, TE, S Carolina
90 (26). Atlanta Falcons: Chris Owens, RB, San Jose St.
91 (27). Seattle Seahawks (from PHI via NYG): Deon Butler, WR, Penn State
92 (28). Indianapolis Colts: Jerraud Powers, CB, Auburn
93 (29). Carolina Panthers: Corvey Irvin, DT, Georgia
94 (30). Tennessee Titans: Ryan Mouton, CB, Hawaii
95 (31). Arizona Cardinals: Rashad Johnson, S, Alabama
96 (32). Pittsburgh Steelers: Keenan Lewis, CB, Oregon St.
97 (33). New England Patriots: Tyrone McKenzie, OLB, S. Florida
98 (34). Cincinnati Bengals: Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri
99 (35). Chicago Bears: Juaquin Iglesias, WR, Oklahoma
100 (36). New York Giants: Travis Beckum, TE, Wisconsin
Round Four
101 (1). Dallas Cowboys: Stephen McGee, QB, Texas A&M
102 (2). Kansas City Chiefs: Donald Washington, CB, Ohio St.
103 (3). St. Louis Rams: Dorell Scott, DT, Clemson
104 (4). Cleveland Browns: Kaluka Maiava, OLB, USC
105 (5). Chicago Bears (from SEA): Henry Melton, DE, Texas
106 (6). Cincinnati Bengals: Jonathan Luigs, C, Arkansas
107 (7). Jacksonville Jaguars: Mike Thomas, WR, Arizona
108 (8). Miami Dolphins: Brian Hartline, WR, Ohio St.
109 (9). Green Bay Packers: T.J. Lang, OT, E. Michigan
110 (10). Dallas Cowboys (from BUF): Victor Butler, OLB, Oregon St.
111 (11). Carolina Panthers (from SF): Mike Goodson, RB, Texas A&M
112 (12). Houston Texans: Glover Quin, S, New Mexico
113 (13). San Diego Chargers: Vaughn Martin, DT, Western Ontario
114 (14). Denver Broncos: David Bruton, S, Notre Dame
115 (15). Detroit Lions (from NYJ via WSH): Sammie Lee Hill, DT, Stillman
116 (16). New Orleans Saints: Chip Vaughn, S, Wake Forest
117 (17). Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from DAL): Kyle Moore, DE, USC
118 (18). New Orleans Saints: Stanley Arnoux, ILB, Wake Forest
119 (19). Chicago Bears: D.J. Moore, CB, Vanderbilt
120 (20). Dallas Cowboys (from TB): Brandon Williams, DE, Texas Tech
121 (21). Buffalo Bills: Shawn Nelson, TE, So. Miss
122 (22). Houston Texans: Anthony Hill, TE, NC State
123 (23). New England Patriots (from BAL): Richard Ohrnberger, OG, Penn State
124 (24). Oakland Raiders (from NE): Louis Murphy, WR, Florida
125 (25). Atlanta Falcons: Lawrence Sidbury, DE, Richmond
126 (26). Oakland Raiders: Slade Norris, OLB, Oregon St.
127 (27). Indianapolis Colts: Austin Collie, WR, BYU
128 (28). Carolina Panthers: Tony Fiammetta, FB, Syracuse
129 (29). New York Giants: Andre Brown, RB, NC State
130 (30). Tennessee Titans: Gerald McRath, ILB, So Miss.
131 (31). Arizona Cardinals: Gregory Toler, CB, St. Pauls Col
132 (32). Denver Broncos (from PIT): Seth Olsen, OT, Iowa
133 (33). San Diego Chargers: Tyronne Green, OG, Auburn
134 (34). San Diego Chargers: Gartrell Johnson, RB, Colo St.
135 (35). Tennessee Titans: Troy Kropog, OT, Tulane
136 (36). Indianapolis Colts: Terrance Taylor, DT, Michigan
Round Five
137 (1). Baltimore Ravens (from DET, via SEA, PHI & NE): Jason Phillips, ILB, TCU
138 (2). Atlanta Falcons: William Middleton, CB, Furman
139 (3). Kansas City Chiefs: Colin Brown, OT, Missouri
140 (4). Chicago Bears: Johnny Knox, WR, Ab. Christian
141 (5). Denver Broncos (from CLE via PHI, NE & BAL): Kenny McKinley, WR, South Caorlina
142 (6). Cincinnati Bengals: Kevin Huber, P, Cincy
143 (7). Dallas Cowboys (from OAK via ATL): DeAngelo Smith, CB, Cincy
144 (8). Jacksonville Jaguars: Jarett Dillard, WR, Rice
145 (9). Green Bay Packers: Quinn Johnson, FB, LSU
146 (10). San Francisco 49ers: Scott McKillop, ILB, Pitt
147 (11). Buffalo Bills: Nic Harris, OLB, Oklahoma
148 (12). San Diego Chargers: Brandon Hughes, CB, Oregon St.
149 (13). Baltimore Ravens (from Denver): Davon Drew, TE, E. Carolina
150 (14). Minnesota Vikings (from WSH): Jasper Brinkley, ILB, S Carolina
151 (15). New York Giants: Rhett Bomar, QB, Sam Houston
152 (16). Houston Texans: James Casey, TE, Rice
153 (17). Philadelphia Eagles: Cornelius Ingram, TE, Floria
154 (18). Chicago Bears: Marcus Freeman, OLB, Ohio St.
155 (19). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Xavier Fulton, OT, Illinois
156 (20). Atlanta Falcons (from DAL): Garrett Reynolds, OT, UNC
157 (21). Philadelphia Eagles: Victor Harris, CB, Virginia Tech
158 (22). Washington Redskins (from MIN): Cody Glenn, OLB, Nebraska
159 (23). Philadelphia Eagles: Fenuki Tupou, OT, Oregon
160 (24). St. Louis Rams: Brooks Foster, WR, UNC
161 (25). Miami Dolphins: Jonathan Nalbone, TE, Monmouth
162 (26). Green Bay Packers (from BAL via NE): Jamon Meredith, OT, S Carolina
163 (27). Carolina Panthers: Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma
164 (28). New Orleans Saints (from NYG via PHI): Thomas Morstead, P, SMU
165 (29). Miami Dolphins (from IND): Chris Clemons, S, Clemson
166 (30). Dallas Cowboys: Michael Hamlin, S, Clemson
167 (31). Arizona Cardinals: Herman Johnson, OG, LSU
168 (32). Pittsburgh Steelers: Joe Burnett, CB, C Florida
169 (33). Pittsburgh Steelers: Frank Summers, RB, UNLV
170 (34). New England Patriots: George Bussey, OT, Louisville
171 (35). San Francisco 49ers: Nate Davis, QB, Ball St.
172 (36). Dallas Cowboys: David Buehler, K, USC
173 (37). Tennessee Titans: Javon Ringer, RB, Michigan St.
Round Six
174 (1). Denver Broncos (from DET): Tom Brandstater, QB, Fresno St.
175 (2). Kansas City Chiefs: Quinten Lawrence, WR, McNeese St.
176 (3). Atlanta Falcons: Spencer Adkins, ILB, Miami
177 (4). Cleveland Browns: Don Carey, CB, Norfolk St.
178 (5). Seattle Seahawks: Mike Teel, QB, Rutgers
179 (6). Cincinnati Bengals: Morgan Trent, CB, Michigan
180 (7). Jacksonville Jaguars: Zach Miller, QB, Mavericks
181 (8). Miami Dolphins: Andrew Gardner, OT, Ga. Tech
182 (9). Green Bay Packers: Jarius Wynn, DE, Georgia
183 (10). Buffalo Bills: Cary Harris, CB, USC
184 (11). San Francisco 49ers: Bear Pascoe, TE, Fresno St.
185 (12). Baltimore Ravens (from DEN): Cedric Peerman, RB, Virginia
186 (13). Washington Redskins: Robert Henson, ILB, TCU
187 (14). Green Bay Packers: Brandon Underwood, CB, Cincy
188 (15). Houston Texans: Brice McCain, CB, Utah
189 (16). San Diego Chargers: Kevin Ellison, S, USC
190 (17). Chicago Bears: Al Afalaya, S, Oregon St.
191 (18). Cleveland Browns (from TB): Coye Francies, CB, San Jose St.
192 (19). Detroit Lions: Aaron Brown, RB, TCU
193 (20). New York Jets: Matthew Slauson, OG, Nebraska
194 (21). Philadelphia Eagles: Brandon Gibson, WR, Wash. St.
195 (22). Cleveland Browns (from MIN via PHI): James Davis, RB, Clemson
196 (23). St. Louis Rams: Keith Null, QB, W. Texas A&M
197 (24). Dallas Cowboys: Stephen Hodge, OLB, TCU
198 (25). New England Patriots (from BAL): Jacob Ingram, LS, Hawaii
199 (26). Oakland Raiders (from NE): Stryker Sulak, DE, Missouri
200 (27). New York Giants: DeAndre Wright, CB, New Mexico
201 (28). Indianapolis Colts: Curtis Painter, QB, Purdue
202 (29). Oakland Raiders (from CAR): Brandon Myers, TE, Iowa
203 (30). Tennessee Titans: Jason McCourty, CB, Rutgers
204 (31). Arizona Cardinals: Will Davis, DE, Illinois
205 (32). Pittsburgh Steelers: Ra'shon Harris, DT, Oregon
206 (33). Tennessee Titans: Dominique Edison, WR, S F Austin
207 (34). New England Patriots: Myron Pryor, DT, Kentucky
208 (35). Dallas Cowboys: Jason Phillips, TE, Virginia
209 (36). Cincinnati Bengals: Bernard Scott, RB, Ab. Christian
Round Seven
210 (1). Atlanta Falcons (from DET via DAL): Vance Walker, DT, Ga. Tech
211 (2). St. Louis Rams: Chris Ogbonnaya, RB, Texas
212 (3). Kansas City Chiefs: Javarris Williams, RB, Tenn. St.
213 (4). Philadelphia Eagles (from SEA): Paul Fanaika, OG, Arizona St.
214 (5). Miami Dolphins: J.D. Foslom, OLB, Weber St.
215 (6). Cincinnati Bengals: Taufui Vakapuna, RB, BYU
216 (7). Carolina Panthers (from OAK): Captain Munnerlyn, CB, S Carolina
217 (8). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Edjuan Biggers, CB, W Michigan
218 (9). Green Bay Packers: Brad Jones, OLB, Colorado
219 (10). San Francisco 49ers: Curtis Taylor, S, LSU
220 (11). Buffalo Bills: Ellis Lankster, CB, W Virginia
221 (12). Washington (from MIN): Eddie Williams, FB, Idaho
222 (13). Indianapolis Colts (from NO via PHI): Patrick McAfee, K, West Virginia
223 (14). Houston Texans: Troy Nolan, S, Arizona St.
224 (15). San Diego Chargers: Demetrius Byrd, WR, LSU
225 (16). Denver Broncos: Blake Schlueter, C, TCU
226 (17). Pittsburgh Steelers: A.Q. Shipley, C, Penn State
227 (18). Dallas Cowboys: Mike Mickens, CB, Cincy
228 (19). Detroit Lions (from NYJ): Lydon Murtha, OT, Nebraska
229 (20). Dallas Cowboys (from CHI via TB): Manuel Johnson, WR, Oklahoma
230 (21). Philadelphia Eagles: Moise Fokou, OLB, Maryland
231 (22). Minnesota Vikings: Jamarca Sanford, S, Ole Miss
232 (23). New England Patriots (from MIA via JAC): Julian Edelman, WR, Kent St.
233 (24). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sammie Stroughter, WR, Oregon St.
234 (25). New England Patriots: Darryl Richard, DT, Ga. Tech
235 (26). Detroit Lions (from ATL via DEN): Zach Follett, OLB, California
236 (27). Indianapolis Colts: Jaimie Thomas, OG, Maryland
237 (28). Kansas City Chiefs (from CAR via MIA): Jake O'Connell, TE, Miami (OH)
238 (29). New York Giants: Stoney Woodson, CB, S. Carolina
239 (30). Tennessee Titans: Ryan Durand, OG, Syracuse
240 (31). Arizona Cardinals: LaRod Stephens-Howling, RB, Pitt
241 (32). Pittsburgh Steelers: David Johnson, TE, Arkansas St.
242 (33). Tennessee Titans: Nicholas Schommer, S, NDSU
243 (34). Washington Redskins: Marko Mitchell, WR, Nevada
244 (35). San Francisco 49ers: Ricky Jean-Francois, DT, LSU
245 (36). Seattle Seahawks: Courtney Greene, S, Rutgers
246 (37). Chicago Bears: Lance Louis, OG, SDSU
247 (38). Seattle Seahawks: Nick Reed, DE, Oregon
248 (39). Seattle Seahawks: Cameron Morrah, TE, California
249 (40). Cincinnati Bengals: Clinton McDonald, DT, Memphis
250 (41). Jacksonville Jaguars: Rashad Jennings, RB, Liberty
251 (42). Chicago Bears: Derek Kinder, WR, Pittsburgh
252 (43). Cincinnati Bengals: Freddie Brown, WR, Utah
253 (44). Jacksonville Jaguars: Tiquan Underwood, WR, Rutgers
254 (45). Arizona Cardinals: Trevor Canfield, OG, Cincy
255 (46). Detroit Lions: Dan Gronkowski, TE, Maryland
256 (47). Kansas City Chiefs: Ryan Succop, K, S Carolina
RealGM's Day One Draft Recap
The 2009 NFL Draft is finally here. The season ended almost three months ago with the Steelers topping the Cardinals in a dramatic Super Bowl victory, but today marks the unofficial start to the 2009 campaign, with hope springing eternal for each of the league's thirty teams.
The Lions "officially" made Matthew Stafford the first overall pick with a lucrative contract on Saturday, and you can follow RealGM all weekend for up-to-the-minute updates on picks #2 through #256.
Click here to discuss the results with fellow fans and RealGM NFL Analyst Jeff Risdon: NFL Draft Forum
Click here to review Risdon's latest mock, updated just minutes prior to the draft: 2009 NFL Mock Draft, V9.0
The 2009 NFL Draft Results
Round One
1. Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
2. St. Louis Rams: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
3. Kansas City Chiefs: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
4. Seattle Seahawks: Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
5. New York Jets (from CLE): Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
6. Cincinnati Bengals: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
7. Oakland Raiders: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
9. Green Bay Packers: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
10. San Francisco 49ers: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
11. Buffalo Bills: Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State
12. Denver Broncos: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
13. Washington Redskins: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
14. New Orleans Saints: Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
15. Houston Texas: Brian Cushing, LB, USC
16. San Diego Chargers: Larry English, DE/OLB, No. Illinois
17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from CLE via NYJ): Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas St.
18. Denver Broncos (from CHI): Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee
19. Philadelphia Eagles (from CLE via TB): Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
20. Detroit Lions (from DAL): Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St.
21. Cleveland Browns (from PHI): Alex Mack, C, California
22. Minnesota Vikings: Percy Harvin, WE, Florida
23. Baltimore Ravens (from NE): Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
24. Atlanta Falcons: Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss
25. Miami Dolphins: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
26. Green Bay Packers (from NE via BAL): Clay Matthews, OLB, USC
27. Indianapolis Colts: Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut
28. Buffalo Bills (from PHI via CAR): Eric Wood, C, Louisville
29. New York Giants: Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina
30. Tennessee Titans: Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
31. Arizona Cardinals: Chris "Beanie" Wells, RB, Ohio State
32. Pittsburgh Steelers: Evander "Ziggy" Hood, DT, Missouri
Round Two
33 (1). Detroit Lions: Louis Delmas, S, West. Michigan
34 (2). New England Patriots (from KC): Patrick Chung, S, Oregon
35 (3). St. Louis Rams: James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State
36 (4). Cleveland Browns: Brian Robiskie, WR, Ohio State
37 (5). Denver Broncos (from SEA): Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
38 (6). Cincinnati Bengals: Rey Maualuga, LB, USC
39 (7). Jacksonville Jaguars: Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
40 (8). New England Patriots (from OAK): Ron Brace, DT, Boston College
41 (9). New England Patriots (from GB): Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut
42 (10). Buffalo Bills: Jairus Byrd, CB, Oregon
43 (11). Carolina Panthers (SF): Everette Brown, DE, Florida St.
44 (12). Miami Dolphins (from WSH): Pat White, QB, West Virginia
45 (13). New York Giants (from NO): Clint Sintim, OLB, Virginia
46 (14). Houston Texans: Connor Barwin, DE, Cincy
47 (15). Oakland Raiders (from NE via SD): Michael Mitchell, S, Ohio
48 (16). Denver Broncos: Darcel McBath, S, Texas Tech
49 (17). Seattle Seahawks (from CHI): Max Unger, C, Oregon
50 (18). Cleveland Browns (from TB): Mohamed Massaquoi, WR, Georgia
51 (19). Buffalo Bills (from DAL): Andrew Levitre, OG, Oregon St.
52 (20). Cleveland Browns (from NYJ): David Veikune, DE< Hawaii
53 (21). Philadelphia Eagles: LeSean McCoy, RB, Pitt
54 (22). Minnesota Vikings: Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma
55 (23). Atlanta Falcons: William Moore, S, Missouri
56 (24). Indianapolis Colts (from MIA): Fili Moala, DT, USC
57 (25). Baltimore Ravens: Phil Kruger, OLB, Utah
58 (26). New England Patriots: Sebastian Vollmer, OT, Houston
59 (27). Carolina Panthers: Sherrod Martin, CB, Troy St.
60 (28). New York Giants: William Beatty, OT, Connecticut
61 (29). Miami Dolphins (from IND): Sean Smith, CB, Utah
62 (30). Tennessee Titans: Sen'Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn
63 (31). Arizona Cardinals: Cody Brown, OLB, Connecticut
64 (32). Denver Broncos: Richard Quinn, TE, North Carolina
Stay tuned to RealGM on Sunday for live coverage of the remainder of the 2009 NFL Draft!
Report: Rams Buy Sanchez A Plane Ticket
Steve Wyche of NFL.com is reporting that the Rams have purchased USC quarterback Mark Sanchez a plane ticket to fly into St. Louis on Sunday.
The team plans to introduce their top pick to the media on Sunday. The Rams have the second overall pick in the draft.
The belief is that the Rams will select Baylor tackle Jason Smith, but it appears as though Sanchez is an outside possibilty.
Denver Talking Trade To Move Up For Sanchez
The Broncos have engaged in discussions regarding a draft trade for USC quarterback Mark Sanchez, according to an NFL source.
In possession of the No. 12 and No. 18 overall picks in the NFL draft, which begins Saturday, the Broncos understand they may have to move up to snag Sanchez, who is drawing interest from several teams. One possible trade partner is the Jacksonville Jaguars, who want to drop down from No. 8 overall.
Is Aaron Curry Detroit's Fallback Plan?
If the Lions aren't able to come to terms with Matthew Stafford on a contract prior to Saturday's draft, they could take a long look at Aaron Curry.
Detroit, who has denied that they are close to terms with Stafford on a contract, have maintained contact with the Wake Forest linebacker as a sort of fallback plan.
Jaguars Listening To Offers For 8th Pick
The Jaguars are listening to offers for the 8th overall pick in this weekend's NFL draft as they look to save money.
Jacksonville has nine picks in the draft, including two in the first 39 selections.
"We've talked to almost every team about all of our picks. Gene and [coach] Jack Del Rio have stressed we're going to be flexible to listen to what anyone has to say to us at every spot, not just the first pick. A lot of people have expressed interest in our picks, and we're definitely listening," director of player personnel Terry McDonough said.
Redskins Could Deal Up For Sanchez
Team officials are indicating that the Redskins could attempt to trade up in this weekend's NFL Draft in order to take USC quarterback Mark Sanchez.
"I think anything is possible," Vinny Cerrato, Washington's executive vice president of football operations, said during the pre-draft news conference at Redskins Park. "It's just what you're willing to give up."
The Redskins have the 13th overall pick, but have no picks in the second and fourth rounds.
Giants Looking To Nicks As Plax's Replacement?
With the Browns asking for a first-round pick in exchange for Braylon Edwards, the Giants could turn their eyes towards North Carolina's Hakeem Nicks as Plaxico Burress' replacement.
The Giants have had Nicks in their sights for several months because of his toughness and ability, according to several team sources.
He had gained weight, which he blamed on an injured hamstring, but is reportedly back down to 212 pounds.
Curry: I'd Take Less Money To Be No. 1 Pick
Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry says that he would take less money than top overall pick Jake Long received from the Dolphins last year if the Lions select him.
There have been persistent rumors that the Lions are looking to take quarterback Matthew Stafford with the No. 1 pick.
Agent: 'Beanie' Wells' Foot Is Fine
There have been concerns about former Ohio State running back Chris "Beanie" Wells' foot, but his agent claims that the appendage is fine.
Sanchez's Workout With Broncos Went 'Great'
USC quarterback Mark Sanchez, who has seen his draft stock rise as of late, says that his workout with the Broncos went "great."
Will Jets Make Run At Sanchez?
The Jets are expected to make an attempt to move up in the first round of Saturday's NFL Draft to take quarterback Mark Sanchez.
Crabtree: I Would Love To Play For Cleveland
Michael Crabtree has seen his name linked to the Browns, and said on Tuesday that he wouldn't mind playing in Cleveland.
Sources: WRs Harvin, Tate Tested For Pot
Two sources have revealed to FOX Sports that wide receiver Percy Harvin and Brandon Tate tested positive for marijuana in February at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Redskins Interested In Brian Orakpo
Texas defensive lineman Brian Orakpo could be gone by the time the Redskins use the 13th overall pick this Saturday, but Washington is interested in him.
Stafford's Completion Percentage Scaring People?
Potential first overall pick Matthew Stafford had a 61.4 completion percentage at Georgia, a number that is scaring some around the Lions.
Eagles Still Talking About Trading Up
With a surplus of draft picks, the Eagles are still talking about trading up in this weekend's NFL Draft.
Lions Being Very Secretive During Agent Meetings
The Lions met with a number of player agents this weekend as they prepare to use the first overall pick, but they are being very secretive with their plans.
Declining Interest In Eugene Monroe?
Virginia offensive tackle Eugene Monroe's stock may be falling heading into the final week before the NFL Draft, according to the National Football Post.
Speculation That Browns Will Draft Sanchez Or Crabtree?
The team isn't saying much, but there has been serious speculation that the Browns could draft either Mark Sanchez or Michael Crabtree.
Broncos Will Work Out Sanchez On Tuesday
The Broncos are planning to work out USC quarterback Mark Sanchez on Tuesday, according to NFL.com.
Source: Lions Negotiating With Stafford, Smith, Curry
The Lions are reportedly negotiating with quarterback Matthew Stafford, offensive tackle Jason Smith and linebacker Aaron Curry.
Kiper: Stafford Is 'Obvious' Pick For Lions
ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. believes that Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford is an "obvious" pick for the Lions.
Schwartz: Lions Still Discussing Pick
Lions coach Jim Schwartz says that the team is still discussing who to use the first overall pick on in next weekend's NFL draft.
Britt To Visit Giants On Thursday
Rutgers wide receiver Kenny Britt is scheduled to meet with the Giants on Thursday.
Rams To Use Pick On Monroe Or Smith?
The Rams are looking for an offensive tackle, and Virginia's Eugene Monroe and Baylor's Jason Taylor appear to be the top choices.
Ravens Send Flacco To Throw To Nicks
The Ravens have sent quarterback Joe Flacco and director of player personnel Eric DeCosta to North Carolina to work out with wide receiver Hakeem Nicks.
Chargers Will Reveal Picks On Web Site
The Chargers will have innovative draft coverage on their web site, revealing their draft picks before any other outlet next weekend.
Penn State's Maybin Will Visit Ravens
Penn State linebacker Aaron Maybin is scheduled to visit with the Ravens on Wednesday, according to his agent.