Tag Archives: NFl Draft

aaron_murray_1_medium
May 2 2012

2013 NFL Draft Quarterbacks

The quarterback is the most important position in the NFL and the 2013 NFL draft quarterback class will be special.  This draft class may not have as good of a prospect as Andrew Luck, but it could have as many as 6 first round picks.

1.     Tyler Wilson Arkansas – Tyler shows a strong arm that will be able to make all the throws.  Tyler also shows above average accuracy and has the ability to fit the ball in tight spaces.  On top of that, Wilson goes through all his progressions often throwing to his 3rd or 4th wide receiver.  The only major downside is that he plays in a spread offense.
2.      Matt Barkley USC – Matt is one the smartest quarterbacks I have ever seen.  He rarely makes any bad or errant throws.  When Barkley sees he can’t make a play, he will just throw the ball away. Barkley is the frontrunner for the Heisman because of the weapons he has on offense.  Matt shows above average arm strength and excellent accuracy.  While Matt is the most NFL ready, he doesn’t show as much upside as some of the other quarterback prospects.
3.     Tyler Bray Tennessee – Tyler is a very young prospect who’s development was hampered some this year do to injury.  However, Tyler shows a great arm and shows good athleticism for his size.  Also, he shows good accuracy, but this is the part of his game that he must improve in most.   I feel that his accuracy was most affected by his injury.   Tyler shows good upside as a pocket passer and has the upside to jump both Tyler Wilson and Matt Barkley as the top quarterback.
4.      Logan Thomas  Virginia Tech– Thomas presents the most upside of any quarterback prospect in this draft class. He is big and shows great athleticism, while being able to make any throw.  Logan often extends plays with his feet and then makes a spectacular throw down the field.  However, Logan must increase his accuracy since his completion percentage was at 59% this past season.  An NFL comparison for Logan Thomas is Ben Rothlesberger.
5.     Aaron Murray  Georgia -  Aaron has been starting at Georgia since he was a Freshman and has been quite successful in the SEC.  Aaron has a strong arm and shows decent accuracy, but he should improve as a junior. However, the concern for Aaron is his height.  Aaron is measured at 6’1’ according to ESPN, but he is probably closer to 5’11’.  However, Aaron Murray has the upside to be Drew Brees due to his height limitations.
Sleeper – Zach Mettenberger LSU –  Mettenberger is my sleeper here because no one has seen him play in division one football.   Zach was expected to compete with Aaron Murray and Zach Cox as the starting quarterback at Georgia, but he was kicked off the team for violating team rules.  He transferred to Butler Community College and looked incredible.  He then transferred to LSU where will most likely be the starting quarterback this season.  Zach shows an incredibly strong arm and has mobility for a 6’6’’ quarterback.  He is also my Heisman sleeper this year. I could see him pulling a Cam Newton and win a National Championship, Heisman, and be the number 1 overall pick, all in one year.  The only thing I question is his accuracy because he hasn’t played division one college football.
Connor Willsey
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Dontari Poe
Apr 29 2012

Grades for Chiefs Draft

The Chiefs have mastered the art creating quite a frenzy throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area, and most of the times they are not good reasons. With the draft in the rear view mirror, many fans have questions about why the Chiefs picked certain guys. What was the most frustrating aspect of watching the draft, was it seemed as Scott Pioli went against getting the best player out of the position they ended up drafting. I don’t tend to think Todd McShay and Mel Kiper’s mock draft boards are doctrine, but I believe the Chiefs left some quality players out in the draft pool. For example in the second round, the Chiefs drafted OG Jeff Allen from the University of Illinois. The Chiefs passed on offensive linemen that were projected as better prospects than Allen such as, Peter Konz (Atlanta pick 55), Mike Adams (Pittsburgh 56), and Kelechi Osemele (Baltimore 60). I understand that Scott Pioli has actually seen these guys workout and maybe they do not fit the scheme. It is almost like he is drafting with the idea that every guy he drafts will have the same success story as Tom Brady. It is obvious they left some pretty talented guys on the draft board, but lets take a look, pick by pick, on how well the Chiefs draft went.
1. Dontari Poe (Memphis) NT C+
 After hearing the rumors that the Chiefs may trade up to get Ryan Tannehill, I was just hoping they picked anybody but him. As the pick came in however, I was not as happy as I thought I would have been. With Stanford guard David DeCastro, still available I was certain they would take him. He would have been a great addition along with Eric Winston, to solidify their offensive line as being one of the best in the AFC West. I love Poe’s upside, I mean who wouldn’t like a 6’4″ 330lb guy running a 4.9 forty and bench pressing 225lbs 44 times! He has the tangibles to be a dominating, enforcing nose tackle. This will help Derrick Johnson make more plays and keep the guards off of him. The value of the pick is the most concerning part. Guys such as Devon Stills and Jerel Worthy were not picked until the second round. Both of these guys were seen as much safer picks than Poe. Romeo Crenel vouched for this pick and will take all the heat if he cannot get Poe to become a dominate nose tackle.
2. Jeff Allen (Illinois) OT C-
 Again, I do not question the pick because it was a need, however, I do question the value of the pick. The start of the second round, Stanford OT Johnathan Martin was still available and I was for sure the Chiefs would trade up to get him. After that was no longer an option, I figured they would go get Kelechi Osemele, OG, from Iowa State or Peter Konz, OG, from Wisconsin. Allen will not be a player that will a\play immediately and will take on a more developmental role behind Ryan Lilja. He will need a lot of coaching to become the player the Chiefs think he can become.
3. Donald Stephenson (Oklahoma) OT C
Many were surprised that the Chiefs went back to back offensive tackles, but they did when they selected Jeff Allen and then Donald Stphenson in rounds two and three. A great story to begin with, as Stephenson comes back home to play in a Kansas City Chiefs uniform. At 6’6″ 320lbs, Stephenson has great footwork and is a premiere pass blocker. However many did not see Donald coming off the board this early in the draft. He is not the most explosive and dominating left tackle but will provide solid blindside protection. I look for Stephenson to take his first year to learn the system and possibly be the replacement of Brandon Alberts, if the Chiefs or Alberts decide to part ways after this season.
4. Devon Wylie (Fresno St) WR D+
 Even if we had not seen Scott Pioli’s resume, we could all assume by the way he drafts that he was with the Patriots. I mean come on, the most obvious reason Devon Wylie was selected was because Pioli thought he could be the next Wes Welker. I have no problem with that at all, except the fact the Chiefs continuously reach for players and leave others for other teams to take. If anything, Devon Wylie will provide the possibility of explosive kick off and punt returns but that is also in question. Last year, he was recovering from a torn ACL and with a 5’9″ 187 lbs frame, I do not seem him lasting long in a NFL uniform.
5. De’Quan Menzie (Alabama) CB B-
 When you can get an All-American in the fifth round, I think you should be pleased with your pick. The former Alabama Crimson Tide corner, will provide great man to man coverage as well as an extraordinary tackler which is rare for a corner. He plays physical on the outside and was utilized as a blitzer within Nick Saban’s scheme. He will fit will in the Chiefs three safety packages were they utilize blitzing defensive backs. Menzie’s height and length is concerning if the Chiefs are looking for him to become a number one type corner, but he will fit will in nickel and dime packages for now.
6. Cyrus Gray (Texas A&M) RB A
 One of the few consistent players to come out of the underachieving Texas A&M program, Cyrus Gray is a steal pick up early in the sixth round for the Chiefs. With Jamaal Charles coming off injury and Peyton Hillis’ work ethic being questioned, the Chiefs drafted a potential every down back in Gray. Gray touched the ball over 620 times and accumulated nearly 3,300 career yards and scored 30 touchdowns on the ground. He also provides a great pass catching option out of the backfield and even has showed the ability to pick up blitzers. He will provide great depth to an already talented group. Cyrus Gray was one of the Chiefs better picks in the draft and I look for him to make an major impact, depending on how healthy Jamaal Charles knee is.
7. Jerome Long (Sand Diego St.) DT/DE C
 The Chiefs made Jerome Long their second defensive linemen selected in this draft in the seventh round. Long has a distinct nose for the ball. He was second on his team in tackles, which is tough for a defensive linemen to do, sacks, and also tackles for a loss. There is nothing that Long does that is overwhelming that spectacular, but he just a solid football player. He will provide a great motor and ability to stop the run at the five technique in the Chiefs 3-4 defense.
8. Junior Hemingway (Michigan) WR B-
 The Chiefs capped off the draft by taking Michigan playmaker, Junior Hemingway, one choice of being Mr. Irrelevant which is the last pick. With Dennard Robinson as his quarterback, you would have to think Hemingway is used to making acrobatic adjustments to the ball. You are hard pressed to find anything Hemingway does not do well, because he may have been under utilized due to quarterback play. He has strong hands and has proved he has the ability to catch passes in traffic. Hemingway is a steal for a seventh round pick and I believe he will become a huge playmaker for the future.
 I believe as the draft went later and later, the Chiefs made more and more better decisions on picking guys. I believe their is a lot of upside within this class, but their are a lot of risks. The most is in Dontari Poe but he has the ability to be a top defensive tackle in the league. Everyone that was drafted has the ability to make an impact on this team within the next three to four years.
Michael Rose
bruce irvin
Apr 28 2012

Winners or Losers from the Draft

Winners

Saint Louis Rams – The Rams had five picks in the first 3 rounds and picked quality players at each pick.  They started in round 1 with Michael Brockers, who will be a great run stuffer for the Rams. Next, they drafted Brain Quick, a big wide receiver out of Appalachain State who will help out Sam Bradford.  They drafted two cornerbacks in Janoris Jenkins and Trumaine Johnson, both have the skills to be a shut down corner in the NFL.  Also, they drafted running back Isaih Pead, who should be a good rotational back for the Rams.

Philidelphia Eagles – The Eagels have had an all around good draft.  They have addressed their pass rush situation by drafting Fletcher Cox and Vinny Curry.  Also, they drafted Mychal Kendricks who is the most athletic linebacker in the  draft. He should be an immediate starter this year.  Lastly, they drafted quarterback Nick Foles who they will develop at quarterback behind Michael Vick.  Also, this pick insures they will have a good back up in case MIchael Vick can’t make it through the entire season.

Indianpoils Colts -  The Colts drafted Andrew Luck, the best prospect in this draft, but what they did on day 2 really impresses me.  They drafted 2 tight ends in Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen, which should really help Andrew Luck.  Next, they drafted T.Y. Hilton who is a slot wide receiver. When the ball is in his hands, he has the potential to score a touchdown.

Losers

Seattle Seahawks -  The Seahawks have reached on every single pick so far.  They drafted Bruce Irvin who is there first round pick, but should have been picked in the 2nd round.  They then drafted Bobby Wagner, who I felt should have been picked in the 3rd or 4th round.  Finally they drafted Russel Wilson, the 5’10” quarterback and he probably won’t succeed because of his height.

Oakland Raiders -  The Raiders had one pick at the end of the 3rd round and picked a 25 year old offensive guard who probably should have gone in the 5th round. I’m not bashing the pick of Tony Bergstom, but I am bashing them for only having one pick in the first 3 rounds.

New Orleans Saints – The Saints only had one pick in the first 3 rounds and drafted Akiem Hicks.  Hicks is a high upside defensive tackle who could become a great defensive tackle in the NFL.  The Saints are a loser, because they too only had 1 pick in the first 3 rounds.

Jacksonville Jaguars -  The Jaguars drafted a great wide receiver in Justin Blackmon.  In the second round, they drafted Andre Branch at defensive end, but I am a huge fan of him.  However, there 3rd round pick was a real head scratcher; They drafted Bryan Anger a punter who is the highest punter drafted since 1995.  Bryan Anger could have been drafted in the 7th round.

Connor Willsey

luke-kuechly
Apr 25 2012

The BIG Draft Story

Best player: Of course Andrew Luck and RG3 are rare talents that only come along every decade or so, but outside of those two players, I believe Trent Richardson has the chance to be a truly special player in the NFL. He’s arguably the best running back prospect since Adrian Peterson. He runs with power, speed, and agility. He’s also a receiving threat out of the backfield. The team that ends up with Richardson will reap the benefits.

Biggest bust: Obviously depending on where they are selected, I believe Ryan Tannehill and Dontar’i Powe have the highest probabilities of being deemed “busts.” While Tannehill does have the potential to become a productive quarterback at the next level, he needs a few years to ride the pine and develop more as a quarterback. Powe is what we call a “combine warrior.” He performed unbelievably well at the combine, but his production in college was lacking. He could be the next Vince Wilfork, or the next Vernon Gholston.

Sleeper: As an avid Notre Dame fan, I watched most of the Irish’s game this past season, and while Michael Floyd is obviously a first round pick, a player I think could be a very solid contributor at the next level outside the first round is safety Harrison Smith. Smith has ideal size for the safety position and has good instincts. He’s a high character guy and was the captain of the Irish defense for 3 years.

Chiefs pick: If Kansas City doesn’t trade down, I think the pick at 11 will be David DeCastro. DeCastro is possibly the best guard prospect since Steve Hutchinson, and with the addition of DeCastro, the Chiefs could have one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. With a healthy Jamaal Charles and a determined Peyton Hillis, the Chiefs would be well on their way to leading the league in rushing as they did in their playoff season of 2010.

 

Tyler Howard

 

Bust player: Ryan Tannehill from Texas A&M has by far the most bust potential. First, Tannehill has only started QB for only 19 games. Tannehill ran a pro-style, West Coast offense under Mike Sherman, a former NFL head coach. Tannehill has mobility, he was athletic enough to play wide receiver during his first two seasons at Texas A&M. However, Tannehill’s lack of experience as a starting quarterback could make it difficult for him to have instant impact. Teams are going to jump on the bandwagon of Tannehill because of the need for a franchise quarterback. He is not the answer!

Sleeper: Janoris Jenkins is the best at man coverage of all cornerbacks in this draft class. While he may not be the best corner, he will surprise people if he can stay on the field. After being labeled as a pothead at the University of Florida, Jenkins has had to battle to gain a good reputation. While he has yet to gain a good reputation, he is an elite corner. If drafted by the right team, Jenkins can have the same effect Joe Haden had with the Cleveland Browns.

Chiefs Pick: Luke Kuechly, Line backer from Boston College. Kuechly is the best linebacker in this draft class. He has extremely great instincts that help stuffing the run. At Boston College, he managed to record over 200 tackles his senior season. With one of the Chief’s needs being inside linebacker, Kuechly can step in and contribute immediately. He would an outstanding fit in the Chiefs system because of his great flow to the ball.

Spencer Montgomery

 

 Bust Player: Dontari Poe has the biggest but potential of and player in the 2012 NFL draft.  Dontari has bust potential because he didn’t dominate in a weak C-USA conference.  Also, Dontari before the combine was considered a fringe first round pick and after the combine he was considered a top ten pick.  Dontari dominated the combine measuring at 350 and running his 40 yard dash in the 4.9’s and showed amazing athleticism for a man his size. Another concerning part of Dontari’s game is his hot and cold motor he shows on the field.  Dontari will often flash brilliance one play and then for the next ten plays he will disappear.  However, Dontari has the highest upside of any player in the draft, but with high reward also comes high risk.

Sleeper Pick: My sleeper of this draft is Beau Reliford a tight end from Florida State.  Beau is a former basketball player who actually came to Florida State on a duel sport scholarship.  Beau is a big measuring in 6’5’’ 256 pounds and is incredibly athletic.  Beau shows a good burst off the line of scrimmage and is a good pass catcher.  The only problem with Beau is he isn’t a very good blocker. However, Beau shows great potential as a blocker with a big frame and is strong, but sometimes he plays soft and gets dominated at the point of attack.  If Beau is able to become a good in-line blocker he could become one of the better tight ends in the NFL which isn’t bad for a 5th or 6th round draft pick.

Chiefs Pick: In my eyes the Chiefs should play it safe and draft David DeCastro.  David is the best guard prospect in the last 10 years.  David projects as a starting NFL guard who will be a pro bowler for many years to come.  If the Chiefs draft DeCastro, the interior of their line will be set for the next 10 years. Also, David fills a position of need and should immediately start in front of Ryan Lilja. He will help to Chiefs to regain their potent running attack from 2010.

Connor Willsey

Biggest Bust: Ryan Tannehill
In any other year, Ryan Tannehill would be consider a late second to mid, maybe even late, third round pick as a quarterback. But because there this years quarterback pool is shallow, scouts are coming up with more BS about Tannehill than a east Texas Rodeo bull pin. I do not see what the scouts are seeing in Tannehill. He had a mediocre career at a often times overrated and under performed Texas A&M team as a quarterback after spending two years as a flanker. Looking at his film, you can tell scouts want to believe that Tannehill is the guy. I heard one scout say, “Tannehill has the height that prototypical NFL quarterbacks have.” Really? Is that the only thing he has going for him? His arm is average, accuaracy is below average, his best attribute is his athleticism due to his stint at wide receiver. Miami will get him and I think they will regret it later on.
Sleeper Pick: Brandon Weeden and Kirk Cousins
 Weeden will be 28 when the NFL season kicks off and that is why many have backed away from picking him earlier than is projected. I actually see his age being a huge positive. For one, he 28 and married which means maturity is not a problem. He can come in and unlike a 22 year old rookie quarterback, he can come in and demand a huddle instantly because he is not a young hot shot coming in. Secondly, Weeden can play football!!! He has a great arm as far as strength and accuracy and he showed great command of the Oklahoma St. offense in Stillwater. I believe if it was not for his age, Weeden would replace Tannehill as the third best quarterback in the draft. I also like Michigan St. quarterback Kirk Cousins. He showed an uncanny ability to lead his team throughout his tenure in East Lansing. I believe beyond Luck and RGIII, Cousins is the third most ready quarterback to run a pro offense in the draft. Look for either one of these guys to be picked up between the second and third round.
Chiefs Pick: Luke Kuechly
 I mean he is a stud, period. With Derrick Johnson already in the middle, you add Kuechly to the mix and you bring in a tenacious tackler and playmaker from sideline to sideline. I would not mind Stanford guard, David DeCastro, but I think Kuechly is one of the more sure things in this years draft.

Michael Rose

Apr 20 2012

NFL Draft Big Board

NFL Big Board 2012

  1. Andrew Luck.  QB Stanford.
  2. Robert Griffen III QB.Baylor.
  3. Matt Kalil OT USC
  4. Trent Richardson RB Alabama
  5. Morris Claiborne CB LSU
  6. Justin Blackmon WR Oklahoma State
  7. Fletcher Cox DT Mississippi State
  8. Luke Kuechly LB Boston College
  9. Melvin Ingram DE/OLB South Carolina
  10. Michael Floyd WR Notre Dame
  11. Quinton Coples DE North Carolina
  12. Mark Barron S Alabama
  13. Chandler Jones DE Syracuse
  14. David DeCastro OG Stanford
  15. Riley Reiff OT Iowa
  16. Ryan Tannehill QB Texas A&M
  17. Dont’a Hightower ILB Alabama
  18. Stephon Gilmore CB South Carolina
  19. Jerel Worthy DT Michigan State
  20. Kendall Wright WR Baylor
  21.  Cordy Glenn OT/G Georgia
  22.  Michael Brockers DT LSU
  23. Dontari Poe DT Memphis
  24. Dre Kirkpatrick CB Alabama
  25. Jenoris Jenkins CB North Alabama
  26.  Shea Mcclellin DE/OLB Boise State
  27. Courtney Upshaw OLB Alabama
  28. Harrison Smith S Notre Dame
  29. Doug Martin RB Boise State
  30.  Jonathon Martin OT Stanford
  31. Coby Fleener TE Stanford
  32.  Mike Adams OT Ohio State

Connor Willsey

Brock
Apr 18 2012

Chiefs Second Round Draft Options

1. Mychal Kendricks – Inside Linebacker – University of California.  Mychal Kendricks is an interesting prospect at ILB.  Many people write him off as an ILB because of his height, he is listed at 5-11, which is small for an inside linebacker.  However, he has a big base and weighs an astounding 240 pounds and shows great balance.  Furthermore, his greatest asset is his quickness.  On tape, Mychal shows impressive range against the run.  If the Chief’s were to draft Mychal the front seven would immediately be more athletic and he shows the potential to be a three down linebacker. Kendricks is a very physical linebacker that adds tenacity to a defense that needs to get more “nasty”. Furthermore, Kendricks can lay the lumber on opposing ball carriers as he did in his career at Cal.

2. Kevin Zeitler – Offensive Guard – University of Wisconsin.  Kevin Zeitler is the third best offensive guard in the 2012 NFL draft.  What puts Kevin in the second round is that he could start at guard during his rookie year.  Kevin has to be considered by the Chiefs since they have recommitted themselves to running the ball in 2012.  Kevin projects as an above average offensive guard who could step up and contribute immediately.

3. Alameda Ta’amu – Nose Tackle – University of Washington.  Alameda Ta’amu fits the mold of a perfect 3-4 nose tackle.  He is 6’2″ and 348 pound and shows the ability to dominate one on one blocking situations.  Alameda constantly demanded double teams at Washington and significantly improved his dominance at the point of attack between his junior and senior season.  If the Chiefs draft Alameda Ta’amu, they are saying that the progression of last years six round pick Jerrel Powe is not where they want.

4. Brock Osweiler – Quarterback – Arizona State.  Brock is a wild card pick for the Chiefs.  The Chiefs are in desperate need for a quarterback with the upside to be a franchise quarterback.  Brock provides the upside to be a franchise quarterback do to his arm strength.  Brock, standing around 6-7 surprisingly shows great mobility for a player that big.  Also, Brock shows the ability to make all the NFL throws, but must improve his throwing mechanics. A major question that scouts have had on Osweiler is his accuracy, much of his problem comes from him mechanics.  Brock is your classic boom or bust quarterback prospect, but if handled right and given time to learn from the bench, he has a chance to be a great NFL quarterback.

5. Trumaine Johnson – Cornerback – University of Montanta.  Trumaine has been linked to chiefs recently and is supposedly visiting the Chief’s this week.  Trumaine Johnson has all the tools to be a potential shut down corner in the NFL.  He has the size at 6-2 and shows fluidity that is rare among cornerbacks with his size. However, right now Johnson is nothing more then athlete playing football. If the Chief’s were to draft him he would probably not contribute for a couple of years.  Trumaine is another classic example of a boom or bust prospect. The cornerback position has good depth which would give Johnson the time on the bench that he needs to develop.

Also, do not be surprised if the Scott Pioli and the Chiefs trade down or up to get a player that fits the teams system.

Connor Willsey

Dontari Poe
Apr 11 2012

Should the Chiefs Draft Ryan Tannehill

Many times after I have heard about any Chiefs front office moves, the end result is always me quoting the great Vince Lombardi, “WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON OUT THERE!” To actually hear legitimate reports that the Chiefs may draft (waste) their first round pick on former receiver turned quarterback, Ryan Tannehill, makes me won’t to disregard myself as a Chiefs fan. With some of the many issues under the watch of Pioli in Kansas City, I often wonder how int the world were the Patriots so successful. The talk of the Chiefs drafting Tannehill have heated up as the NFL Draft nears closer and closer, which could means two things:

1) The Chiefs are bluffing and trying to entice a team that wants Tannehill later, to trade multiple picks for his services. I like this if this is what Pioli and the front office are truly doing. Though Chiefs fans are so optimistic the Chiefs are Super Bowl bound, there are many needs on the team that make me question that optimism. I believe the whole defensive line needs to be upgraded. Yes there are guys that have played decent, I REPEAT decent, but no one currently on the roster will make Peyton Manning lose sleep because of the intense pressure they bring. Tyson Jackson and Glenn Dorsey are both in contract years, which means they will probably have their most productive season yet so they can get a new contract from either the Chiefs or increase their value in the free agent market. Last years sixth round draft, Jerrell Powe, can be a plugger at nose tackle. Standing in at 6’2″ 335 lbs, Powe’s growth will be intricate because of the 3-4 defense the Chiefs play. If the Chiefs do not believe fully in Powe, I believe there are two guys in this years draft that will bring a disruptive force at the nose tackle position just like Vince Wilfork has done for many years in New England. Michigan St. defensive Tackle Jerell Worthy and combine king, Dontari Poe, look to fit the bill as far as being quality nose tackles who can handle double sometimes triple teams and keep the offensive line off of Derrick Johnson. Both of these guys are well over 300 lbs, maybe even closer to 350, but there is a slight difference. When looking at Worthy, there is actual film of dominating games and creating havoc. He is a very explosive player off the ball and shows great strength when engaging sometimes multiple blockers. However for Poe, film does not reveal the amazing athleticism that he displayed at the NFL combine. This worries many NFL teams, but this has not stopped many GM’s from interviewing Poe. His combine alone will make him a first round pick.
Along with the defensive line, I would love for the Chiefs to pick up linebacker Luke Kuechly out of Boston College. A relentless, intelligent player, Kuechly almost had 200 tackles…. FOUR YEARS IN A ROW!!! If the Chiefs do give up that pick, and Kuechly is gone, Utah St. Bobby Wagener would not be a bad pick up. He literally kept the Utah St. defense in the game against Auburn while making plays all over the field. He is going to be a good linebacker for many years to come in the NFL. He has the size, speed, athleticism, and intelligence to perform well in Romeo’s defense along with Derrick Johnson.
2) I hate to say it, but I think the second option probably the road the Chiefs will take. They will actually draft Tannehill and believe Todd McShay when he says he can be a franchise quarterback. I don’t see it, he had an average college career after playing wide receiver before Texas A&M, as only they can, under achieved and then placed him at quarterback. The Chiefs just drafted Ricky Stanzi last year in the third round, and from reports they want Stanzi to be the guy. If that is the case, then Tannehill being drafted sounds insane to me. If they keep the pick, I truly believe they should get Stanford’s guard David DeCastro. Many scouts have said he is by far the best offensive guard in the draft. With the addition of Eric Winston, this would allow the Chiefs to form chemistry and consistency at the offensive line  that has not been seen since Priest Holmes was in the back field. If the Chiefs are so committed to drafting a quarterback, why not wait and pick up Kirk Cousins? I believe Kirk Cousins maybe the second most ready quarterback to run a pro-style offense in this years draft. He has not been talked about being drafted in the first round of the  draft, which means he could be picked up in the second and possibly third round. I just am not sold on Tannehill being the starting quarterback for the Chiefs. If we don’t draft any quarterback, hey we still have Brady Quinn and Matt Cassel. All jokes aside I thinking drafting Tannehill would not improve the quarterback position. I pray to the football gods that the Chiefs hold on to that pick or at least trade it and get a later first round and possible second or third round pick. The many people I have talked to about the possible Tannehill pick, leads me to advise Pioli to watch out for a riot on Arrowhead Drive.
Michael Rose
Dont'a Hightower
Apr 7 2012

Possible First Round Draft Candidates for Chiefs

Round 1

1. David DeCastro offensive guard, Stanford. Decastro is the best offensive guard prospect since Steve Hutchinson.  He will be an immediate starter for the Chiefs and has the skill set to be a future All-Pro guard.  This selection would allow the Chiefs to run the ball more effectively. With Jamaal Charles being healthy and the signing of Peyton Hillis, the Chiefs could have the best rushing attack in the league as they did in 2010. DeCastro has been given extremely high praise from all draft experts. Most experts also feel that the Chiefs and DeCastro are a perfect fit. Drafting him is the most likely scenario for the Kansas City Cheifs.
2.  Luke Kuechly inside linebacker, Boston College.  Kuechly would be an immediate contributor for the Chiefs defense and could possibly start over Jovan Belcher during his rookie season.  However, I feel this would be a safe pick for the chiefs because  Kuechly doesn’t have much doubt about his motor and attitude.  He will be a ten year starter for the Chiefs and great locker room player. While he will not be an All-Pro or a Pro-Bowl linebacker, he will be a major contributor for whom ever drafts him.
3.  Riley Reiff offensive tackle, Iowa.  Reiff is the second best offensive tackle in 2012 draft class.  He would be a great fit in Kansas City’s zone-blocking scheme.  Reiff would not start his rookie since the Chiefs just signed Eric Winston to play right tackle and Brandon Albert has established himself as the left tackle with his performance in the last 4 years. This  could be a great pick in a couple years if we lose Brandon Albert to free agency or Eric Winston’s play declines. Overall the pick of Reiff would be a great insurance for the future.
4. Dont’a Hightower  inside linebacker, Alabama.  Dont’a would be a better fit for the Chiefs then Luke Kuechly. Dont’a is 6’2’’ 260 pounds and is an extremely versatile linebacker who can play all three downs.  Dont’a played defensive end on third downs in Alabama’s nickel package and showed he could possibly play outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense as well.  This selection would be a reach on draft night, but in a couple of years Dont’a could be one of the best linebackers in football.
5.   Trent Richardson running back, Alabama.  Trent would be a luxury pick for the Chiefs since we already have Jamaal Charles and Peyton Hillis.  However, Richardson is one of the five best prospects in this years draft class. Furthermore, he is the best running back prospect since Darren Mcfadden.  This selection would immediately make the Chiefs running and passing game better.  The only problem is we already have Jamaal Charles and Peyton Hillis at running back and the Chiefs can find quality starters at running back much later in this years draft.
6.  Trade Down.  This is always a possibility for the Chiefs with Scott Pioli as our General Manager. Pioli has been known for trading down and stocking up on lower round draft picks. With the Patriots, this method worked in numerous occasions.  This could be a great move for the Chiefs. Trading down would allow them to acquire more picks in the second or third round. Depending on how far they trade down they will still have a shot at drafting Dont’a Hightower. Since the Chiefs do not have a clear problem to fix during the draft, this would be a great idea to stock picks for future drafts.
Connor Willsey
Mar 30 2012

NFL Mock Draft 1.0

2012 NFL Mock Draft

1. Indianapolis Colts – Andrew Luck.  The Colts get their next franchise quarterback.Quarterback Andrew Luck

2. Washington Redskins – Robert Griffin III.  The next best quarterback in the draft and Heisman winner.

3.  Minnesota Vikings – Matt Kalil.  They get the best left tackle to come out in the last couple of years.

4.  Cleveland Browns – Ryan Tannehill.  They reach for a potential franchise quarterback.

5.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Morris Claiborne.  Tampa bay gets the best cover corner in the draft.

6.  Saint Louis Rams – Justin Blackmon.  The Rams add another young wide receiver for their quarterback of the future, Sam Bradford.

7.  Jacksonville Jaguars – Quinton Coples.  The Jaguars add another young defensive end to their young defense.

8. Miami Dolphins – Michael Floyd.  Miami replaces Brandon Marshall with a potential all-pro wide receiver.

9.  Carolina Panthers – Dontari Poe.  The Panthers draft an ultra athletic defensive tackle in hope he becomes the next Haloti Ngata.

10.  Buffalo Bills – Riley Reiff.  The Bills finally fill their need at left tackle.

11.  Kansas City Chiefs – David DeCastro.  The Chiefs draft the best guard since Steve Hutchinson.

12.  Seattle Seahawks -  Luke Kuechly.  The Seahawks draft the best linebacker in this year’s draft.

13.  Arizona Cardinals – Mike Adams. Arizona picks up a boom or bust prospect at offensive tackle hoping he turns into a franchise left tackle.

14.  Dallas Cowboys – Mark Barron.  The cowboys add another young player to there secondary and hope he can start at safety as a rookie.

15.  Philadelphia Eagles – Michael Brockers.  The eagles add the best run-stuffing defensive tackle in the draft.

16.  New York Jets -  Melvin Ingram.  The jets added a much needed pass rusher for their defense.

17. Cincinnati Bengals -  Trent Richardson.  This is the best pick of the day the Bengals pick up the 4th most talented player at 17 and fills a need a running back.

18. San Diego Chargers – Courtney Upshaw.  The Chargers add a great outside lineman who will be a good starter for the next 10 years.

19.  Chicago Bears – Jonathon Martin. The bears add another offensive lineman who could be a potential left tackle.

20.  Tennessee Titans – Cordy Glenn. The Titans want to run the ball better so they pick a lineman who can play guard or tackle and his attribute is run blocking.

21.  Cincinnati Bengals -  Dre Kirkpatrick. The Bengals add another corner back who could move to safety in the future.

22.  Cleveland Browns – Fletcher Cox.  The Browns a great 3 gap defensive tackle to play next to Phil Taylor.

23.  Detroit Lions – Jenoris Jenkins.  The lions add possibly the best cover corner in entire draft, but he comes with a lot of off the field issues.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers – Donta Hightower.  The Steelers add an inside linebacker to replace James Farrior.

25.  Denver Broncos -  Kendall Wright.  The Broncos add a slot receiver who will be dangerous when catching passes form Peyton Manning.

26.  Houston Texans – Stephen Hill.  The Texans draft a boom or bust type prospect at wide receiver who could be a great complement to Andre Johnson in a couple of years.

27.  New England Patriots -  Chandler Jones.  The Patriots add a lesser known defensive end, but he could be a star for the Patriots.

28.  Green Bay Packers – Whitney Mercilus.  The Packers add an outside linebacker to try to help take pressure off Clay Mathews.

29.  Baltimore Ravens -  Peter Konz.  The Ravens add the best center in the entire draft and with Matt Birk close to ending his career the pick couldn’t make more since.

30.  San Francisco 49ers – Andre branch.  The 49ers add another outside linebacker to their already great defense.

31.  New England Patriots -  Stephon Gilmore.  The Patriots add a cornerback to their struggling secondary.

32. New York Giants -  Lamar Miller.  The Giants replace bruising Brandon Jacobs with the ultra-quick Lamar Miller.

Connor Willsey 

rg3.1323400218
Mar 24 2012

The Future QB’s

The words pro-style and dual-threat have been used to describe quarterbacks at all levels of football for decades. Ever since Brad Robinson threw the first legal pass in 1906, quarterbacks have only been catergorized within those two terms. Same as any other years, NFL teams are searching for that 6’4″ gunslinger to take their team to the next level. This year, the Colts are that team and are hoping to get their third Hall of Fame quarterback in the draft in franchise histoy. Andrew Luck fits the bill of the prototypical pro-style QB in any draft regardless of year, maybe even better. Standing in at 6’4″ and tipping in at 240lbs on the scale, Luck has been this years number one draft pick since he decided against leaving early last year. Coming from a Stanford program that runs a NFL style West Coast offense, scouts almost guarantee Lucks game is NFL ready. His career totals includes, completing 67% of his passes for 9430 yards and 82 touchdown passes. Luck also tacked on 957 rushing yards and 7 tds. To add onto his statistics, he won the Davey O’Brien award for the nations best QB, as well as the runner up in the Heisman race twice in his three year college career. Scouts have labeled him the next great NFL quarterback, but RGIII has put up equal or in some categories BETTER numbers than Luck.

Why has Griffin not been talked about when it comes to who should be the first pick? Though sports was the first institution to integrate in America, the perception of black QB’s has not changed since Doug Williams won a super bowl with the Redskins in the 80′s. Not many black quarerbacks are labeled as pro-style, but rather called dual-threat. In football scout vernacular, this means the player is a great athlete and fast but lacks adequate accuracy and ability to run a pro style offense. That is in inaccurate when comparing RGIII’s numbers to Lucks. Griffin had a better completion percentage (67.1%), more passing yards (10,366), and a higher passer rating (162.8).

Is RGIII not being discussed as a “face of the franchise” quarterback because of his skin color? Does his hair style not appeal to corporate America? If numbers alone decided who is a better quarterback, then Griffin wins in almost every catergory. Yes he can run, but numbers dont lie… HE CAN PASS, HE CAN READ A BLITZ, he does not need an assistant coach holding up a board of funny pictures and faces of tv personalities to play quarterback. Instead of making his ability to run a negative, its just another thing Griffin does better then Luck.                        

Michael Rose