Finally, Casey Hampton and the Steelers come to terms on a new contract.
The contract is a three year deal, worth $21M, $11M guaranteed.
This is great because it takes a 1st round NT off the board.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Steelers retain the following: Hampton, Clark, Reed, Eason, Colon, Gay, Spaeth, Sepulveda, Stapleton, Bailey.
Steelers get two 5ths and one 7th round pick.
Steelers pick 18th. They trade down with New Orleans to get 1(32), 3(95), 4(131), 5(169).
1. S Taylor Mays, USC
After watching some tape on the guy, I can see why most consider him a huge bust/boom type of player. However, the one player he reminds of is current Steeler Ryan Clark. They both hit big. They both struggle a little bit in coverage. However, they are both good players. So Mays takes some bad angles on tackles. That can be corrected and coached. So he goes for the big hit to often. That can also be corrected and coached. In short, the Steelers take Mays on his endless potential. The worst he turns out to be is another Ryan Clark. I will be okay with that.
2. S Chad Jones, LSU
Another safety? Apparently you did Jones is one of my favorite prospects in this draft. Jones has great size at 6'3" 230lbs. Not only do I love his size, he can run a 4.48 40. Jones hits like a truck. Also, Chad Jones can cover. He was routinely put one-on-one with receivers and has the speed to run with most of them. Jones is one the few prospects that I think could go in the 1st round. However, I think that in a deep class that his name goes overlooked and slips down to us in the 2nd. Guys like Morgan Burnett, Nate Allen and a lot of talented CBs and DTs will dominate the fringe area between the 1st and 2nd.
3. DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State
Carrington has all the tools to be a dominant 34 DE. He has excellent lower body strength, active hands and good technique, and is even a good pass rusher. He is has made his living the past two years in the opponents backfields, recording 19 sacks and over 20 tackles for losses. Carrington reminds me a lot of Aaron Smith when he first came here: a little undersized in a frame that could stand to gain 15lbs and be great. I think Carrington could play at around 310 and not lose a single step, but maybe that is just me being hopeful.
3. RB Joe McKnight, USC
In all likelihood, and for the sake of this mock, Willie Parker will not be back in the Black n' Gold for the 2010 season. I love Parker and everything he has given this franchise over the past five years, but he would agree that it is time to part. He wants to start, and he has no shot at that in Pittsburgh. A new change of pace back is needed, and I think McKnight would be a perfect fit. He has tools of a complete back: he runs hard, has good hands, can go the distance on any play, and is a complete back. He would complement Mendenhall very nicely, and he could also probably help out in the return game.
4.G/T John Jerry, Mississippi
Believe me. Rooney wants to run the football. Jerry should be one hell of RG and a solid starting RT. He is quick off the line, has great size(6'6" 335lbs), and is extremely powerful. He is the ultimate mauler, while is also surprisingly good in pass protection. His first three seasons he played at guard, and was very impressive. He started this last season at RT, and earned All Second Team SEC honors. He has definitely impressed me enough. He would present excellent value here.
5. T J'Marcus Webb, West Texas
Webb has impressed a good deal of people at the Texas vs. The Nation practices not only with his football game, but also his intelligence. He has showed the mobility to get out on screen passes. More importantly, he showed that he is very good in pass protection and is a stout run blocker. He also has room to max out his frame. It looks as if he could gain some more lower body strength to make his game even better.
5. TE Colin Peek, Alabama
I have been promoting Peek from the get go. However, no one seems to realize how good of a TE he can be. He is the perfect TE for the Steelers. He is an excellent blocker. He runs excellent routes and has sure hands. He is the PERFECT TE for the Steelers. I will be pissed if pass on Peek in this draft, considering how Arians loves TEs and like to run out of a 2 TE single-back set.
5c. CB Rafael Priest, TCU
Priest unfortunately was injured for his bowl game against Boise State. However, Priest is a very talented CB. He has excellent timed and closing speed. He has very good hands. He is more than willing to help out against the run. QBs simply stopped throwing the ball his way because he is so good in coverage.
5c. WR Seyi Ajirotutu, Fresno State
Ajirotutu had a great week at the East/West Shrine game. I expect him to run decent at the Combine, but not wow anyone with his speed. He has nice size at 6'4" 215lbs. He runs good if not great routes, has good hands, and can stretch the field. He also can push Sweed for a roster spot. I really hope Sweed can get his head on straight and recover from whatever, nonphysical illness he has. I really hope Sweed can recover.....can you think of a WR corp including Ward, Holmes, Wallace, Sweed, and Arijotutu? Nice.....
6. OLB Arthur Moats, James Madison
An athletic freak of nature. His coaches rave how much of a complete player he has become: he terrorizes the QB, he is stout against the run, and he can drop into coverage. Sounds like our late round developmental OLB project to me. The Steelers scouts at the Texas vs. The Nation practices have also raved about his great quickness and speed, calling him the next James Harrison.
7. OLB Adrian Tracy, William & Mary
Tracy played DE his first three years at William & Mary, but made the transition to OLB last season and recorded 12 sacks. I think he and Moats can shore up a very talentless depth chart. He is also from Tomlin's alma mater....something tells me that he will pay his respects and take him despite his talent which obviously help his argue also. Sorry for the run-on sentence.
7c. CB R. J. Stanford, Utah
Stanford is very raw. He has always been more of an athlete than a player. However, the was starting to become a good CB last season. He also had a good week at the Texas vs. The Nation practices. He reminds of a raw Ike Taylor, but who has good hands.
Steelers get two 5ths and one 7th round pick.
Steelers pick 18th. They trade down with New Orleans to get 1(32), 3(95), 4(131), 5(169).
1. S Taylor Mays, USC
After watching some tape on the guy, I can see why most consider him a huge bust/boom type of player. However, the one player he reminds of is current Steeler Ryan Clark. They both hit big. They both struggle a little bit in coverage. However, they are both good players. So Mays takes some bad angles on tackles. That can be corrected and coached. So he goes for the big hit to often. That can also be corrected and coached. In short, the Steelers take Mays on his endless potential. The worst he turns out to be is another Ryan Clark. I will be okay with that.
2. S Chad Jones, LSU
Another safety? Apparently you did Jones is one of my favorite prospects in this draft. Jones has great size at 6'3" 230lbs. Not only do I love his size, he can run a 4.48 40. Jones hits like a truck. Also, Chad Jones can cover. He was routinely put one-on-one with receivers and has the speed to run with most of them. Jones is one the few prospects that I think could go in the 1st round. However, I think that in a deep class that his name goes overlooked and slips down to us in the 2nd. Guys like Morgan Burnett, Nate Allen and a lot of talented CBs and DTs will dominate the fringe area between the 1st and 2nd.
3. DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State
Carrington has all the tools to be a dominant 34 DE. He has excellent lower body strength, active hands and good technique, and is even a good pass rusher. He is has made his living the past two years in the opponents backfields, recording 19 sacks and over 20 tackles for losses. Carrington reminds me a lot of Aaron Smith when he first came here: a little undersized in a frame that could stand to gain 15lbs and be great. I think Carrington could play at around 310 and not lose a single step, but maybe that is just me being hopeful.
3. RB Joe McKnight, USC
In all likelihood, and for the sake of this mock, Willie Parker will not be back in the Black n' Gold for the 2010 season. I love Parker and everything he has given this franchise over the past five years, but he would agree that it is time to part. He wants to start, and he has no shot at that in Pittsburgh. A new change of pace back is needed, and I think McKnight would be a perfect fit. He has tools of a complete back: he runs hard, has good hands, can go the distance on any play, and is a complete back. He would complement Mendenhall very nicely, and he could also probably help out in the return game.
4.G/T John Jerry, Mississippi
Believe me. Rooney wants to run the football. Jerry should be one hell of RG and a solid starting RT. He is quick off the line, has great size(6'6" 335lbs), and is extremely powerful. He is the ultimate mauler, while is also surprisingly good in pass protection. His first three seasons he played at guard, and was very impressive. He started this last season at RT, and earned All Second Team SEC honors. He has definitely impressed me enough. He would present excellent value here.
5. T J'Marcus Webb, West Texas
Webb has impressed a good deal of people at the Texas vs. The Nation practices not only with his football game, but also his intelligence. He has showed the mobility to get out on screen passes. More importantly, he showed that he is very good in pass protection and is a stout run blocker. He also has room to max out his frame. It looks as if he could gain some more lower body strength to make his game even better.
5. TE Colin Peek, Alabama
I have been promoting Peek from the get go. However, no one seems to realize how good of a TE he can be. He is the perfect TE for the Steelers. He is an excellent blocker. He runs excellent routes and has sure hands. He is the PERFECT TE for the Steelers. I will be pissed if pass on Peek in this draft, considering how Arians loves TEs and like to run out of a 2 TE single-back set.
5c. CB Rafael Priest, TCU
Priest unfortunately was injured for his bowl game against Boise State. However, Priest is a very talented CB. He has excellent timed and closing speed. He has very good hands. He is more than willing to help out against the run. QBs simply stopped throwing the ball his way because he is so good in coverage.
5c. WR Seyi Ajirotutu, Fresno State
Ajirotutu had a great week at the East/West Shrine game. I expect him to run decent at the Combine, but not wow anyone with his speed. He has nice size at 6'4" 215lbs. He runs good if not great routes, has good hands, and can stretch the field. He also can push Sweed for a roster spot. I really hope Sweed can get his head on straight and recover from whatever, nonphysical illness he has. I really hope Sweed can recover.....can you think of a WR corp including Ward, Holmes, Wallace, Sweed, and Arijotutu? Nice.....
6. OLB Arthur Moats, James Madison
An athletic freak of nature. His coaches rave how much of a complete player he has become: he terrorizes the QB, he is stout against the run, and he can drop into coverage. Sounds like our late round developmental OLB project to me. The Steelers scouts at the Texas vs. The Nation practices have also raved about his great quickness and speed, calling him the next James Harrison.
7. OLB Adrian Tracy, William & Mary
Tracy played DE his first three years at William & Mary, but made the transition to OLB last season and recorded 12 sacks. I think he and Moats can shore up a very talentless depth chart. He is also from Tomlin's alma mater....something tells me that he will pay his respects and take him despite his talent which obviously help his argue also. Sorry for the run-on sentence.
7c. CB R. J. Stanford, Utah
Stanford is very raw. He has always been more of an athlete than a player. However, the was starting to become a good CB last season. He also had a good week at the Texas vs. The Nation practices. He reminds of a raw Ike Taylor, but who has good hands.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Trade Back Mock 2.0
Steelers resign/tag Hampton, Clark, Reed, Eason. Steelers RFA Colon, Gay, Sepulveda, Spaeth, and Stapleton.
Steelers receive two 5th and one 7th round compensation picks.
Steelers pick 18th. They trade down with Green Bay and get picks 23 and 86. They then trade down again with New Orleans and get picks 32 and 95. Steelers then trade down with their 2nd round pick with Arizona to get picks 57 and 125.
1. FS Chad Jones, LSU
Jones is one of my favorite prospects in this draft. Jones has great size at 6'3" 230lbs. Not only do I love his size, he can run a 4.48 40. Jones hits like a truck. Also, Chad Jones can cover. He was routinely put one-on-one with receivers and has the speed to run with most of them. Jones is one the few prospects that I think could go in the 1st round. He is also a special teams demon: he has blocked punts and returned them in his career.
2. ILB Brandon Spikes, Florida
I am not concerned with his 40 time. I know this kid is the real deal. He has started on a BCS Championship caliber team the last four years in the tough SEC. He was the unquestioned leader of the Gator defense that routinely was one of the top defenses in the country. He is a very good tackler and can hit like a truck. He is also underrated in coverage. What I love most about him though is strength against the run and ability to take on interior offensive linemen. He will be a steal this late.
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
Thomas is rare specimen. He has a wide and massive frame at 6'4" 331lbs. He has a good bull rush and rip move, can collapse the pocket, and looks like he could be a potential replacement for Hampton in the near future. Thomas is also surprisingly fit and athletic......he could be a 3 down NT, which is hard to find.
3. FS Major Wright, Florida
Wright is one of the many safeties I like in this year's draft class. Wright is very instinctive. A few times in the Sugar Bowl he hit a player right as they were catching the ball. Wright is very good in coverage, has excellent timed and closing speed, and has very good hands. He can also deliver the knockout punch like Ryan Clark has done for us. He should also have good Combine numbers.
3. NT/DE Linval Joseph, East Carolina
Jospeh is an incredible athlete that could probably play either position for the Steelers. He played NT for the Pirates at 6'6" 322lbs. He has room to gain weight and not lose his quickness. Joseph is great against run, can help collapse the pocket, and is athletic enough to be a 3 down NT. He is also powerful and quick enough to play DE. A friend of mine said that Joseph could be a poor man's version of Haloti Ngata, playing every position across the DL.
4. OLB Austen Lane, Murray State
Lane had a sold Senior Bowl week. The concerns about level of competition are flawed. However, the biggest concern about him is that he is a DE/OLB hybrid. He is a great pass rusher and is good against the run, but people question whether he can stand up in play. He looked okay in coverage at the Senior Bowl when he asked to drop back. This should put him around here.
4. G/T John Jerry, Ole Miss
Believe me. Rooney wants to run the football. Jerry should be one hell of RG and a solid starting RT. He is quick off the line, has great size(6'6" 335lbs), and is extremely powerful. He is the ultimate mauler, while is also surprisingly good in pass protection. His first three seasons he played at guard, and was very impressive. He started this last season at RT, and earned All Second Team SEC honors. He has definitely impressed me enough. He would present excellent value here.
5. OT J'Marcus Webb, West Texas
Webb has impressed a good deal of people at the Texas vs. The Nation practices not only with his football game, but also his intelligence. He has showed the mobility to get out on screen passes. More importantly, he showed that he is very good in pass protection and is a stout run blocker. He also has room to max out his frame. It looks as if he could gain some more lower body strength to make his game even better.
5c. TE Colin Peek, Alabama
I have been promoting Peek from the get go. However, no one seems to realize how good of a TE he can be. He is the perfect TE for the Steelers. He is an excellent blocker. He runs excellent routes and has sure hands. He is the PERFECT TE for the Steelers. I will be pissed if pass on Peek in this draft, considering how Arians loves TEs and like to run out of a 2 TE single-back set.
5c. CB Rafael Priest, TCU
Priest unfortunately was injured for his bowl game against Boise State. However, Priest is a very talented CB. He has excellent timed and closing speed. He has very good hands. He is more than willing to help out against the run. QBs simply stopped throwing the ball his way because he is so good in coverage.
6. OLB Arthur Moats, James Madison
An athletic freak of nature. His coaches rave how much of a complete player he has become: he terrorizes the QB, he is stout against the run, and he can drop into coverage. Sounds like our late round developmental OLB project to me. The Steelers scouts at the Texas vs. The Nation practices have also raved about his great quickness and speed, calling him the next James Harrison.
7. RB Curtis Steele, Memphis
Steele has made his presence known during the Texas vs. The Nation week. He is a complete back, is super quick and elusive, and can churn out yards in the middle. I think he will be a very nice complement to Mendenhall down the road. Also, his name is "Steele". It is only one letter short of "Steeler".
7c. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
You know this guy is going to work hard - he was a walk-on and had just five receptions entering the year. As a senior, he logged 48 catches for 893 yards and eight touchdowns. This sounds like the classic Steelers type of player.
UDFAs
ILB Micah Johnson, Kentucky
S Kendrick Lewis, Ole Miss
OLB George Johnson, Rutgers
OLB Christian Anthony, Grambling
OT Tyler Eastman, Maine
OL Nick Howell, USC
TE Jeff Cottam, Tennessee
CB R.J. Stanford, Utah
DL Sean Liessemore, William & Mary
S Austin Thomas, Indiana
WR Stephen Williams, Toledo
Steelers receive two 5th and one 7th round compensation picks.
Steelers pick 18th. They trade down with Green Bay and get picks 23 and 86. They then trade down again with New Orleans and get picks 32 and 95. Steelers then trade down with their 2nd round pick with Arizona to get picks 57 and 125.
1. FS Chad Jones, LSU
Jones is one of my favorite prospects in this draft. Jones has great size at 6'3" 230lbs. Not only do I love his size, he can run a 4.48 40. Jones hits like a truck. Also, Chad Jones can cover. He was routinely put one-on-one with receivers and has the speed to run with most of them. Jones is one the few prospects that I think could go in the 1st round. He is also a special teams demon: he has blocked punts and returned them in his career.
2. ILB Brandon Spikes, Florida
I am not concerned with his 40 time. I know this kid is the real deal. He has started on a BCS Championship caliber team the last four years in the tough SEC. He was the unquestioned leader of the Gator defense that routinely was one of the top defenses in the country. He is a very good tackler and can hit like a truck. He is also underrated in coverage. What I love most about him though is strength against the run and ability to take on interior offensive linemen. He will be a steal this late.
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
Thomas is rare specimen. He has a wide and massive frame at 6'4" 331lbs. He has a good bull rush and rip move, can collapse the pocket, and looks like he could be a potential replacement for Hampton in the near future. Thomas is also surprisingly fit and athletic......he could be a 3 down NT, which is hard to find.
3. FS Major Wright, Florida
Wright is one of the many safeties I like in this year's draft class. Wright is very instinctive. A few times in the Sugar Bowl he hit a player right as they were catching the ball. Wright is very good in coverage, has excellent timed and closing speed, and has very good hands. He can also deliver the knockout punch like Ryan Clark has done for us. He should also have good Combine numbers.
3. NT/DE Linval Joseph, East Carolina
Jospeh is an incredible athlete that could probably play either position for the Steelers. He played NT for the Pirates at 6'6" 322lbs. He has room to gain weight and not lose his quickness. Joseph is great against run, can help collapse the pocket, and is athletic enough to be a 3 down NT. He is also powerful and quick enough to play DE. A friend of mine said that Joseph could be a poor man's version of Haloti Ngata, playing every position across the DL.
4. OLB Austen Lane, Murray State
Lane had a sold Senior Bowl week. The concerns about level of competition are flawed. However, the biggest concern about him is that he is a DE/OLB hybrid. He is a great pass rusher and is good against the run, but people question whether he can stand up in play. He looked okay in coverage at the Senior Bowl when he asked to drop back. This should put him around here.
4. G/T John Jerry, Ole Miss
Believe me. Rooney wants to run the football. Jerry should be one hell of RG and a solid starting RT. He is quick off the line, has great size(6'6" 335lbs), and is extremely powerful. He is the ultimate mauler, while is also surprisingly good in pass protection. His first three seasons he played at guard, and was very impressive. He started this last season at RT, and earned All Second Team SEC honors. He has definitely impressed me enough. He would present excellent value here.
5. OT J'Marcus Webb, West Texas
Webb has impressed a good deal of people at the Texas vs. The Nation practices not only with his football game, but also his intelligence. He has showed the mobility to get out on screen passes. More importantly, he showed that he is very good in pass protection and is a stout run blocker. He also has room to max out his frame. It looks as if he could gain some more lower body strength to make his game even better.
5c. TE Colin Peek, Alabama
I have been promoting Peek from the get go. However, no one seems to realize how good of a TE he can be. He is the perfect TE for the Steelers. He is an excellent blocker. He runs excellent routes and has sure hands. He is the PERFECT TE for the Steelers. I will be pissed if pass on Peek in this draft, considering how Arians loves TEs and like to run out of a 2 TE single-back set.
5c. CB Rafael Priest, TCU
Priest unfortunately was injured for his bowl game against Boise State. However, Priest is a very talented CB. He has excellent timed and closing speed. He has very good hands. He is more than willing to help out against the run. QBs simply stopped throwing the ball his way because he is so good in coverage.
6. OLB Arthur Moats, James Madison
An athletic freak of nature. His coaches rave how much of a complete player he has become: he terrorizes the QB, he is stout against the run, and he can drop into coverage. Sounds like our late round developmental OLB project to me. The Steelers scouts at the Texas vs. The Nation practices have also raved about his great quickness and speed, calling him the next James Harrison.
7. RB Curtis Steele, Memphis
Steele has made his presence known during the Texas vs. The Nation week. He is a complete back, is super quick and elusive, and can churn out yards in the middle. I think he will be a very nice complement to Mendenhall down the road. Also, his name is "Steele". It is only one letter short of "Steeler".
7c. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
You know this guy is going to work hard - he was a walk-on and had just five receptions entering the year. As a senior, he logged 48 catches for 893 yards and eight touchdowns. This sounds like the classic Steelers type of player.
UDFAs
ILB Micah Johnson, Kentucky
S Kendrick Lewis, Ole Miss
OLB George Johnson, Rutgers
OLB Christian Anthony, Grambling
OT Tyler Eastman, Maine
OL Nick Howell, USC
TE Jeff Cottam, Tennessee
CB R.J. Stanford, Utah
DL Sean Liessemore, William & Mary
S Austin Thomas, Indiana
WR Stephen Williams, Toledo
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Trade Back Mock
Steelers resign/tag Hampton, Clark, Reed, Eason. Steelers RFA Colon, Gay, Sepulveda, Spaeth, and Stapleton.
Steelers receive two 5th and one 7th round compensation picks.
Steelers pick 18th. They trade down with Green Bay and get picks 23 and 86. They then trade down again with New Orleans and get picks 32 and 95. Steelers then trade down with their 2nd round pick with Arizona to get picks 57 and 125.
1(32). CB Kareem Jackson, Alabama
2(57). DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State
3(82). ILB Sean Lee, Penn State
3(86). NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
3(95). FS Major Wright, Florida
4(117). G/T John Jerry, Ole Miss
4(125). OLB Koa Misi, Utah
5. RB Joique Bell, Wayne State
5c. TE Nate Byham, Pittsburgh
5c. OLB Arthur Moats, James Madison
6. G/T Marshall Newhouse, TCU
7. CB Chris Hawkins, LSU
7c. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
Jackson, Carrington, Lee, Thomas, Wright, and Jerry can all start in two years time. They fill huge holes. Jackson gives us a capable #2/3 CB, Carrington and Thomas provide youth for a very old DL, Lee replaces Farrior in two years and is another solid rotational mad in middle, Wright will replace Clark in time while in the mean time providing sorely needed depth, and Jerry could replace Essex in time. All six of them offer key depth and eventual starters within two years or less.
Misi and Bell would provide solid complements to the players they are behing. Byham would improve the 2nd TE spot almost immediately. Moats, Newhouse, Hawkins, and Easley would all likely be close calls to make the roster, and will probably end up on the practice squad.
Steelers receive two 5th and one 7th round compensation picks.
Steelers pick 18th. They trade down with Green Bay and get picks 23 and 86. They then trade down again with New Orleans and get picks 32 and 95. Steelers then trade down with their 2nd round pick with Arizona to get picks 57 and 125.
1(32). CB Kareem Jackson, Alabama
2(57). DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State
3(82). ILB Sean Lee, Penn State
3(86). NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
3(95). FS Major Wright, Florida
4(117). G/T John Jerry, Ole Miss
4(125). OLB Koa Misi, Utah
5. RB Joique Bell, Wayne State
5c. TE Nate Byham, Pittsburgh
5c. OLB Arthur Moats, James Madison
6. G/T Marshall Newhouse, TCU
7. CB Chris Hawkins, LSU
7c. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
Jackson, Carrington, Lee, Thomas, Wright, and Jerry can all start in two years time. They fill huge holes. Jackson gives us a capable #2/3 CB, Carrington and Thomas provide youth for a very old DL, Lee replaces Farrior in two years and is another solid rotational mad in middle, Wright will replace Clark in time while in the mean time providing sorely needed depth, and Jerry could replace Essex in time. All six of them offer key depth and eventual starters within two years or less.
Misi and Bell would provide solid complements to the players they are behing. Byham would improve the 2nd TE spot almost immediately. Moats, Newhouse, Hawkins, and Easley would all likely be close calls to make the roster, and will probably end up on the practice squad.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
2nd Mock of the Offseason
In addition, Steelers resign Hampton, Reed, Clark, Eason. The Steelers RFA Colon, Gay, Sepulveda, and Spaeth.
Steelers receive two 5th and one 7th round compensation pick(s).
Steelers pick 18th, but trade down with Green Bay and pick up picks 23 and 87. The Steelers also then trade down with their 2nd round pick for Dallas's 2nd(57) and 4th(126). Finally, they then trade their 5th round pick to Miami and get both of their 6th round picks.
1. OLB Brandon Graham, Michigan
While OLB is not the biggest need for the Steelers......OLB depth sucks. There is none worth mentioning. Graham is the second coming of Lamarr Woodley. He is super strong, and excellent pass rusher, super stout against the run, and can even drop into coverage(though that is not his forte). Graham would finally solve some issues: he would come in and be a good special teams player, he could sub in for a gassed Woodley or Harrison, and depth would finally be established at a position that the 34 defense relies on to be the playmakers.
2. CB Kareem Jackson, Alabama
Jackson is unlike most CBs: he is super strong and physical. Jackson is also fast, is very good in coverage, and has good hands. He also possesses very good closing speed and excellent feet when changing directions. Can come out of his backpedal to high at times, but that is minor concern that can easily be corrected. Jackson started at CB as true freshmen in the SEC. Enough said.
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
Thomas is rare specimen. He has a wide and massive frame at 6'4" 331lbs. He has a good bull rush and rip move, can collapse the pocket, and looks like he could be a potential replacement for Hampton in the near future. Thomas is also surprisingly fit and athletic......he could be a 3 down NT, which is hard to find.
3. FS Major Wright, Florida
Wright is one of the many safeties I like in this year's draft class. Wright is very instinctive. A few times in the Sugar Bowl he hit a player right as they were catching the ball. Wright is very good in coverage, has excellent timed and closing speed, and has very good hands. He can also deliver the knockout punch like Ryan Clark has done for us. He should also have good Combine numbers.
4. G/T John Jerry, Ole Miss
Believe me. Rooney wants to run the football. Jerry should be one hell of RG and a solid starting RT. He is quick off the line, has great size(6'6" 335lbs), and is extremely powerful. He is the ultimate mauler, while is also surprisingly good in pass protection. His first three seasons he played at guard, and was very impressive. He started this last season at RT, and earned All Second Team SEC honors. He has definitely impressed me enough. He would present excellent value here.
4. TE Colin Peek, Alabama
It still continues to amaze me that the media and talking heads refuse to acknowledge Colin Peek. He is major reason that the Crimson Tide's running game was so effective in the BCS National Championship. Peek is an excellent blocker......one of the few excellent blockers that can actually be a dual threat at the next level. Peek has strong and sure hands, and runs very crisp routes. Peek could even push Heath Miller down the road. The Steelers have a chance to bring home a true cornerstone TE if they value Peek's abilities....especially for the TE eccentric Bruce Arians.
5c. G/T Marshall Newhouse, TCU
Newhouse should be flying up boards right now, but my feeling is that he will be overlooked just like Peek above. Newhouse lined up at G, LT, and RT during the East/West Shrine game and practices and did a very good job at all three. Newhouse sizes up at 6'3" 323lbs. In my honest opinion, he can be just as good if not better than Colon. However, he must work on is getting to the second level and knowing who to block. He struggled when he didn't have a defined subject. He is super quick as well, and is a bit of a speedster: while working out in Westlake, he supposedly ran the 40 in under 4.8 seconds. Wow.
5c. OLB Arthur Moats, James Madison
An athletic freak of nature. His coaches rave how much of a complete player he has become: he terrorizes the QB, he is stout against the run, and he can drop into coverage. Sounds like our late round developmental OLB project to me. The Steelers scouts at the Texas vs. The Nation practices have also raved about his great quickness and speed, calling him the next James Harrison.
6. RB Curtis Steele, Memphis
Steele has made his presence known during the Texas vs. The Nation week. He is a complete back, is super quick and elusive, and can churn out yards in the middle. I think he will be a very nice complement to Mendenhall down the road.
6. CB Chris Hawkins, LSU
Hawkins has played lights out during the Texas vs. The Nation week. He has blanketed every receiver all week, has shown great hands, and is excellent in coverage. I think he could turn out to be a poor man's Ike Taylor down the road.
6. DE Clifton Geathers, South Carolina
He is big and athletic, and shows some promise as a 34DE. He is a decent pass rusher and is solid against the run. He also has rare size at 6'7" 283lbs, who can run the 40 at a low 4.8.
7. ILB Phillip Dilliard, Nebraska
Dilliard really impressed me at the Big 12 Championship Game versus Texas. Dilliard made plays all over the field, impressed against the run, and showed he could hold his own coverage too. He is also a very good tackler.
7c. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
You know this guy is going to work hard - he was a walk-on and had just five receptions entering the year. As a senior, he logged 48 catches for 893 yards and eight touchdowns. This sounds like the classic Steelers type of player.
UDFAs
OLB George Johnson, Rutgers
OLB Christian Anthony, Grambling
TE Jeff Cottam, Tennessee
LB Danny Batten, South Dakota State
OT Tyler Eastman, Maine
OT Roman Harwood, Morehouse
OL Nick Howell, USC
S Aaron Webster, Cincinnati
DE Sean Lissemore, William and Mary
SS Austin Thomas, Indiana
CB Ray Fisher, Indiana
CB R.J. Stanford, Utah
My future OL would consist of LT Max Starks, LG Chris Kemoeatu(as of now), C Doug Legursky, RG John Jerry, RT Marshall Newhouse. Peek would step in immediately and replace Matt Spaeth as the #2 TE.
Steelers receive two 5th and one 7th round compensation pick(s).
Steelers pick 18th, but trade down with Green Bay and pick up picks 23 and 87. The Steelers also then trade down with their 2nd round pick for Dallas's 2nd(57) and 4th(126). Finally, they then trade their 5th round pick to Miami and get both of their 6th round picks.
1. OLB Brandon Graham, Michigan
While OLB is not the biggest need for the Steelers......OLB depth sucks. There is none worth mentioning. Graham is the second coming of Lamarr Woodley. He is super strong, and excellent pass rusher, super stout against the run, and can even drop into coverage(though that is not his forte). Graham would finally solve some issues: he would come in and be a good special teams player, he could sub in for a gassed Woodley or Harrison, and depth would finally be established at a position that the 34 defense relies on to be the playmakers.
2. CB Kareem Jackson, Alabama
Jackson is unlike most CBs: he is super strong and physical. Jackson is also fast, is very good in coverage, and has good hands. He also possesses very good closing speed and excellent feet when changing directions. Can come out of his backpedal to high at times, but that is minor concern that can easily be corrected. Jackson started at CB as true freshmen in the SEC. Enough said.
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
Thomas is rare specimen. He has a wide and massive frame at 6'4" 331lbs. He has a good bull rush and rip move, can collapse the pocket, and looks like he could be a potential replacement for Hampton in the near future. Thomas is also surprisingly fit and athletic......he could be a 3 down NT, which is hard to find.
3. FS Major Wright, Florida
Wright is one of the many safeties I like in this year's draft class. Wright is very instinctive. A few times in the Sugar Bowl he hit a player right as they were catching the ball. Wright is very good in coverage, has excellent timed and closing speed, and has very good hands. He can also deliver the knockout punch like Ryan Clark has done for us. He should also have good Combine numbers.
4. G/T John Jerry, Ole Miss
Believe me. Rooney wants to run the football. Jerry should be one hell of RG and a solid starting RT. He is quick off the line, has great size(6'6" 335lbs), and is extremely powerful. He is the ultimate mauler, while is also surprisingly good in pass protection. His first three seasons he played at guard, and was very impressive. He started this last season at RT, and earned All Second Team SEC honors. He has definitely impressed me enough. He would present excellent value here.
4. TE Colin Peek, Alabama
It still continues to amaze me that the media and talking heads refuse to acknowledge Colin Peek. He is major reason that the Crimson Tide's running game was so effective in the BCS National Championship. Peek is an excellent blocker......one of the few excellent blockers that can actually be a dual threat at the next level. Peek has strong and sure hands, and runs very crisp routes. Peek could even push Heath Miller down the road. The Steelers have a chance to bring home a true cornerstone TE if they value Peek's abilities....especially for the TE eccentric Bruce Arians.
5c. G/T Marshall Newhouse, TCU
Newhouse should be flying up boards right now, but my feeling is that he will be overlooked just like Peek above. Newhouse lined up at G, LT, and RT during the East/West Shrine game and practices and did a very good job at all three. Newhouse sizes up at 6'3" 323lbs. In my honest opinion, he can be just as good if not better than Colon. However, he must work on is getting to the second level and knowing who to block. He struggled when he didn't have a defined subject. He is super quick as well, and is a bit of a speedster: while working out in Westlake, he supposedly ran the 40 in under 4.8 seconds. Wow.
5c. OLB Arthur Moats, James Madison
An athletic freak of nature. His coaches rave how much of a complete player he has become: he terrorizes the QB, he is stout against the run, and he can drop into coverage. Sounds like our late round developmental OLB project to me. The Steelers scouts at the Texas vs. The Nation practices have also raved about his great quickness and speed, calling him the next James Harrison.
6. RB Curtis Steele, Memphis
Steele has made his presence known during the Texas vs. The Nation week. He is a complete back, is super quick and elusive, and can churn out yards in the middle. I think he will be a very nice complement to Mendenhall down the road.
6. CB Chris Hawkins, LSU
Hawkins has played lights out during the Texas vs. The Nation week. He has blanketed every receiver all week, has shown great hands, and is excellent in coverage. I think he could turn out to be a poor man's Ike Taylor down the road.
6. DE Clifton Geathers, South Carolina
He is big and athletic, and shows some promise as a 34DE. He is a decent pass rusher and is solid against the run. He also has rare size at 6'7" 283lbs, who can run the 40 at a low 4.8.
7. ILB Phillip Dilliard, Nebraska
Dilliard really impressed me at the Big 12 Championship Game versus Texas. Dilliard made plays all over the field, impressed against the run, and showed he could hold his own coverage too. He is also a very good tackler.
7c. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
You know this guy is going to work hard - he was a walk-on and had just five receptions entering the year. As a senior, he logged 48 catches for 893 yards and eight touchdowns. This sounds like the classic Steelers type of player.
UDFAs
OLB George Johnson, Rutgers
OLB Christian Anthony, Grambling
TE Jeff Cottam, Tennessee
LB Danny Batten, South Dakota State
OT Tyler Eastman, Maine
OT Roman Harwood, Morehouse
OL Nick Howell, USC
S Aaron Webster, Cincinnati
DE Sean Lissemore, William and Mary
SS Austin Thomas, Indiana
CB Ray Fisher, Indiana
CB R.J. Stanford, Utah
My future OL would consist of LT Max Starks, LG Chris Kemoeatu(as of now), C Doug Legursky, RG John Jerry, RT Marshall Newhouse. Peek would step in immediately and replace Matt Spaeth as the #2 TE.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
First Offseason Mock
Steelers resign Casey Hampton, Ryan Clark, Jeff Reed, Deshea Townsned, and Nick Eason. Steelers RFA Willie Colon, William Gay, Daniel Sepulveda, Darnell Stapleton, and Matt Spaeth.
Steelers one 4th, 5th and 7th round compensation picks for last year's free agent losses.
Steelers pick 18th, but trade down with Green Bay and pick up picks 23 and 87. The Steelers also then trade down with their 2nd round pick for Dallas's 2nd(57) and 4th(126).
1(23)OLB Brandon Graham, Michigan
While OLB is not the biggest need for the Steelers......OLB depth sucks. There is none worth mentioning. Graham is the second coming of Lamarr Woodley. He is super strong, and excellent pass rusher, super stout against the run, and can even drop into coverage(though that is not his forte). Graham would finally solve some issues: he would come in and be a good special teams player, he could sub in for a gassed Woodley or Harrison, and depth would finally be established at a position that the 34 defense relies on to be the playmakers.
2(57)CB Kareem Jackson, Alabama
Jackson is unlike most CBs: he is super strong and physical. Jackson is also fast, is very good in coverage, and has good hands. He also possesses very good closing speed and excellent feet when changing directions. Can come out of his backpedal to high at times, but that is minor concern that can easily be corrected. Jackson started at CB as true freshmen in the SEC. Enough said.
3(82) NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
Thomas is rare specimen. He has a wide and massive frame at 6'4" 331lbs. He has a good bull rush and rip move, can collapse the pocket, and looks like he could be replacement for Hampton in the near future. Thomas is also surprisingly fit and athletic......he could be a 3 down NT, which is hard to find.
3. FS Major Wright, Florida
I have been a Major Wright fan for years. He was one of the first players that screamed Steelers to me when I saw him play two years ago in the BCS National Championship Game versus Oklahoma. Wright has elite timed and closing speed, has great hands, is very good in coverage, and is plays bigger and meaner than his 5'11" 205lb frame would suggest. He can really lay the knock out shot, just like current Steelers FS Ryan Clark. Both play with reckless abandon, except Wright can actually make plays on the ball.
4. OT Rodger Saffold, Indiana
I have had the privilege of seeing Saffold perform in person for the past year. Saffold was the best linemen on a young OL for the Hoosiers. Saffold is very good is pass protection. He does an excellent job of using good technique to mirror his opponents moves. He also finishes his blocks in the run game. Saffold could fill out his frame a little more, but he should be a solid starting OT in the NFL. Saffold impressed at the East/West Shrine game, so his stock has risen tremendously from being a sleeper pick up into the mid round range.
4. DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State
Carrington has all the tools to be a dominant 34 DE. He has excellent lower body strength, active hands and good technique, and is even a good pass rusher. He is has made his living the past two years in the opponents backfields, recording 19 sacks and over 20 tackles for losses. Carrington reminds me a lot of Aaron Smith when he first came here: a little undersized in a frame that could stand to gain 15lbs and be great. I think Carrington could play at around 310 and not lose a single step, but maybe that is just me being hopeful.
5. TE Colin Peek, Alabama
It still continues to amaze me that the media and talking heads refuse to acknowledge Colin Peek. He is major reason that the Crimson Tide's running game was so effective in the BCS National Championship. Peek is an excellent blocker......one of the few excellent blockers that can actually be a dual threat at the next level. Peek has strong and sure hands, and runs very crisp routes. Peek could even push Heath Miller down the road. The Steelers have a chance to bring home a true cornerstone TE if they value Peek's abilities....especially for the TE eccentric Bruce Arians.
5c. SS Myron Rolle, Florida State
Rolle is a mystery to a lot of people. Some people won't understand why Rolle chose to become a Rhodes scholar and miss his senior season of football. While Rolle had a solid week at the Senior Bowl, he showed some rust and the Combine will make or break his stock. His 40 time is the only real question about his game. Rolle is a very physical safety who isn't afraid of anyone. He is very strong against the run, is good in coverage, and can really lay a beating the opponents skilled players. Also has above decent hands.
5c. RB Keith Totson, Oklahoma State
Keith Toston finished with 1,218 yards and 12 touchdowns on a 5.4 average. He also had 25 receptions. Oklahoma State's offense seemed to perform better when he was in the game (as opposed to Kendall Hunter). Totson is a very hard runner, who also happens to be an excellent receiving threat as well. He will be the perfect complement to Reshard Mendenhall.
6.ILB Reggie Carter, UCLA
Carter is solid against the run, very good in coverage, and good tackler in open space. Carter has solid potential, and getting him here could be a steal.
7. ILB Phillip Dilliard, Nebraska
Dilliard really impressed me at the Big 12 Championship Game versus Texas. Dilliard made plays all over the field, impressed against the run, and showed he could hold his own coverage too. He is also a very good tackler.
7c. WR Kelton Tindal, Newberry
Big play receiver with blazing speed had 116 receptions for 1898 yards and 16 touchdown reception during his career. In case you missed the Texas vs. The Naton game Tindal blew by coverage to make a spectacular 67 yard reception. Tindal's primary competition for a roster spot would be speedster Jason Chery who was added to the Steelers offseason roster. Rumored to run a 4.2 flat, if not lower.
Steelers one 4th, 5th and 7th round compensation picks for last year's free agent losses.
Steelers pick 18th, but trade down with Green Bay and pick up picks 23 and 87. The Steelers also then trade down with their 2nd round pick for Dallas's 2nd(57) and 4th(126).
1(23)OLB Brandon Graham, Michigan
While OLB is not the biggest need for the Steelers......OLB depth sucks. There is none worth mentioning. Graham is the second coming of Lamarr Woodley. He is super strong, and excellent pass rusher, super stout against the run, and can even drop into coverage(though that is not his forte). Graham would finally solve some issues: he would come in and be a good special teams player, he could sub in for a gassed Woodley or Harrison, and depth would finally be established at a position that the 34 defense relies on to be the playmakers.
2(57)CB Kareem Jackson, Alabama
Jackson is unlike most CBs: he is super strong and physical. Jackson is also fast, is very good in coverage, and has good hands. He also possesses very good closing speed and excellent feet when changing directions. Can come out of his backpedal to high at times, but that is minor concern that can easily be corrected. Jackson started at CB as true freshmen in the SEC. Enough said.
3(82) NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
Thomas is rare specimen. He has a wide and massive frame at 6'4" 331lbs. He has a good bull rush and rip move, can collapse the pocket, and looks like he could be replacement for Hampton in the near future. Thomas is also surprisingly fit and athletic......he could be a 3 down NT, which is hard to find.
3. FS Major Wright, Florida
I have been a Major Wright fan for years. He was one of the first players that screamed Steelers to me when I saw him play two years ago in the BCS National Championship Game versus Oklahoma. Wright has elite timed and closing speed, has great hands, is very good in coverage, and is plays bigger and meaner than his 5'11" 205lb frame would suggest. He can really lay the knock out shot, just like current Steelers FS Ryan Clark. Both play with reckless abandon, except Wright can actually make plays on the ball.
4. OT Rodger Saffold, Indiana
I have had the privilege of seeing Saffold perform in person for the past year. Saffold was the best linemen on a young OL for the Hoosiers. Saffold is very good is pass protection. He does an excellent job of using good technique to mirror his opponents moves. He also finishes his blocks in the run game. Saffold could fill out his frame a little more, but he should be a solid starting OT in the NFL. Saffold impressed at the East/West Shrine game, so his stock has risen tremendously from being a sleeper pick up into the mid round range.
4. DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State
Carrington has all the tools to be a dominant 34 DE. He has excellent lower body strength, active hands and good technique, and is even a good pass rusher. He is has made his living the past two years in the opponents backfields, recording 19 sacks and over 20 tackles for losses. Carrington reminds me a lot of Aaron Smith when he first came here: a little undersized in a frame that could stand to gain 15lbs and be great. I think Carrington could play at around 310 and not lose a single step, but maybe that is just me being hopeful.
5. TE Colin Peek, Alabama
It still continues to amaze me that the media and talking heads refuse to acknowledge Colin Peek. He is major reason that the Crimson Tide's running game was so effective in the BCS National Championship. Peek is an excellent blocker......one of the few excellent blockers that can actually be a dual threat at the next level. Peek has strong and sure hands, and runs very crisp routes. Peek could even push Heath Miller down the road. The Steelers have a chance to bring home a true cornerstone TE if they value Peek's abilities....especially for the TE eccentric Bruce Arians.
5c. SS Myron Rolle, Florida State
Rolle is a mystery to a lot of people. Some people won't understand why Rolle chose to become a Rhodes scholar and miss his senior season of football. While Rolle had a solid week at the Senior Bowl, he showed some rust and the Combine will make or break his stock. His 40 time is the only real question about his game. Rolle is a very physical safety who isn't afraid of anyone. He is very strong against the run, is good in coverage, and can really lay a beating the opponents skilled players. Also has above decent hands.
5c. RB Keith Totson, Oklahoma State
Keith Toston finished with 1,218 yards and 12 touchdowns on a 5.4 average. He also had 25 receptions. Oklahoma State's offense seemed to perform better when he was in the game (as opposed to Kendall Hunter). Totson is a very hard runner, who also happens to be an excellent receiving threat as well. He will be the perfect complement to Reshard Mendenhall.
6.ILB Reggie Carter, UCLA
Carter is solid against the run, very good in coverage, and good tackler in open space. Carter has solid potential, and getting him here could be a steal.
7. ILB Phillip Dilliard, Nebraska
Dilliard really impressed me at the Big 12 Championship Game versus Texas. Dilliard made plays all over the field, impressed against the run, and showed he could hold his own coverage too. He is also a very good tackler.
7c. WR Kelton Tindal, Newberry
Big play receiver with blazing speed had 116 receptions for 1898 yards and 16 touchdown reception during his career. In case you missed the Texas vs. The Naton game Tindal blew by coverage to make a spectacular 67 yard reception. Tindal's primary competition for a roster spot would be speedster Jason Chery who was added to the Steelers offseason roster. Rumored to run a 4.2 flat, if not lower.
State of the Steelers: The Offseason
Well, the Saints won the Super Bowl. And Manning came up short once again.....I picked the Saints to win because of their defense. Turns out that their defense ended up securing the New Orleans 1st Super Bowl.
And then, somehow the Colts are once again the favorites to win the Super Bowl next year. Well, Vegas gave them 13/2 odds of winning it. I can see why....they return pretty much every starter, and their young defense should only get better. Also, the Colts always do a good job of identifying players that excel within their system.
But enough about the Super Bowl and Manning's choke. Let us move on to the Steelers.
They followed up their Super Bowl winning season with once again a disappointing season. It killed Steeler Nation all year to lose Cincinatti twice.....not to mention losing to Kansas City, Oakland, and Cleveland. The Steelers finished the season strong, but failed to make the playoffs. Their were disappointments on both sides of the ball all year. Losing Aaron Smith and Troy Polamalu on defense really hurt. Ben not playing in Baltimore really hurt. Overall though, this team beat themselves this year.
The Steelers have already made some personnel decisions. Quarterback coach Ken Anderson retired after 44 years in the NFL. Offensive line coach Lance Zierlein and special teams coach Bob Ligashesky were both released. In addition, the Steelers moved Wide receiver coach Randy Fichtner to quarterback coach. The Steelers then signed offensive line coach Sean Kugler and special teams coach Al Everest to fill the voids left. The only position coach that has yet to be addressed is wide receivers coach.....and I have no idea who they might be interested in.
The Steelers also have a good deal of players that are set to become free agents as of March 5th. That lists includes starters such as Casey Hampton, Ryan Clark, and Jeff Reed. They also have other free agents such as Willie Parker, Nick Eason Travis Kirschke, not to mention restricted free agents in Willie Colon, William Gay, Daniel Sepulveda, Matt Spaeth, and Darnell Stapleton. Art Rooney II has publicly said that the offseason negotiations will start with Hampton. Therefore, the key to the offseason is whether the Steelers can resign Big Snack after another Pro Bowl caliber year. Resigning Hampton is the key to the offseason. IF they can get a deal done, the Steelers can avoid drafting their NT of the future until later in this draft or another draft entirely. If not, it becomes a huge need in a small free agent class. Reed and Clark are the next big resigns. Reed is clutch and Clark becomes a good FS when Troy Polamalu is healthy. I also think Nick Eason deserves a contract. He proved this year that he can be a decent starter in a stop gap situation, as well as being a more than decent wave player.
After resigning those key free agents, finding a #2 CB is a must. I am terrified that the Steelers may go into next season with William Gay or Deshea Townsend(who I don't see the Steelers resigning) starting at CB. Teams picked on them all year long. Either Keenan Lewis needs to step up and become the player the Steelers need him to be or they need to address it free agency or the draft. Given the weak DB free agents this year, my bet is that the draft will be the Steelers solution.
Other notes on the year:
And then, somehow the Colts are once again the favorites to win the Super Bowl next year. Well, Vegas gave them 13/2 odds of winning it. I can see why....they return pretty much every starter, and their young defense should only get better. Also, the Colts always do a good job of identifying players that excel within their system.
But enough about the Super Bowl and Manning's choke. Let us move on to the Steelers.
They followed up their Super Bowl winning season with once again a disappointing season. It killed Steeler Nation all year to lose Cincinatti twice.....not to mention losing to Kansas City, Oakland, and Cleveland. The Steelers finished the season strong, but failed to make the playoffs. Their were disappointments on both sides of the ball all year. Losing Aaron Smith and Troy Polamalu on defense really hurt. Ben not playing in Baltimore really hurt. Overall though, this team beat themselves this year.
The Steelers have already made some personnel decisions. Quarterback coach Ken Anderson retired after 44 years in the NFL. Offensive line coach Lance Zierlein and special teams coach Bob Ligashesky were both released. In addition, the Steelers moved Wide receiver coach Randy Fichtner to quarterback coach. The Steelers then signed offensive line coach Sean Kugler and special teams coach Al Everest to fill the voids left. The only position coach that has yet to be addressed is wide receivers coach.....and I have no idea who they might be interested in.
The Steelers also have a good deal of players that are set to become free agents as of March 5th. That lists includes starters such as Casey Hampton, Ryan Clark, and Jeff Reed. They also have other free agents such as Willie Parker, Nick Eason Travis Kirschke, not to mention restricted free agents in Willie Colon, William Gay, Daniel Sepulveda, Matt Spaeth, and Darnell Stapleton. Art Rooney II has publicly said that the offseason negotiations will start with Hampton. Therefore, the key to the offseason is whether the Steelers can resign Big Snack after another Pro Bowl caliber year. Resigning Hampton is the key to the offseason. IF they can get a deal done, the Steelers can avoid drafting their NT of the future until later in this draft or another draft entirely. If not, it becomes a huge need in a small free agent class. Reed and Clark are the next big resigns. Reed is clutch and Clark becomes a good FS when Troy Polamalu is healthy. I also think Nick Eason deserves a contract. He proved this year that he can be a decent starter in a stop gap situation, as well as being a more than decent wave player.
After resigning those key free agents, finding a #2 CB is a must. I am terrified that the Steelers may go into next season with William Gay or Deshea Townsend(who I don't see the Steelers resigning) starting at CB. Teams picked on them all year long. Either Keenan Lewis needs to step up and become the player the Steelers need him to be or they need to address it free agency or the draft. Given the weak DB free agents this year, my bet is that the draft will be the Steelers solution.
Other notes on the year:
- ILB James Farrior clearly lost a step as the season progressed. Getting a replacement for him down the road is a real need now.
- OLB James Harrison got hurt later in the year with a torn bicep, and clearly wasn't the dominate the player he was a year ago. Depth is a must.
- Depth at safety is must to address this offseason. In a very deep and talented class of safeties, I expect the Steelers to at least one.....if not two.
- This offense showed flashes of being downright unstoppable. If the Steelers can capitalize....wow.
- OLB LaMarr Woodley- We all know that Woodley is a very good OLB. This year I think he gives the NFL a run for their money and has at least 16 sacks.
- WR Limas Sweed- I think the light will finally turn on and he will really open up the Steelers already dangerous offense.
- RB Reshard Mendenhall- Mendenhall got over 1000 yards last season in only 12 games. Imagine what he can do with another four.......
- The Steelers 1st Round Draft Pick- Rooney said himself he wants the rookies to develop faster. I think that draft pick comes in right away and has a defined role on the team.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Crazy Super Bowl Pipe Dream Edition Mock
Steelers resign Hampton, Clark, Reed, Eason. RFA Colon, Gay, Sepulveda, Spaeth.
Steelers receive two 5th round compensation picks as well as a 7th.
Steelers pick 18. However, they trade back with New England and get pick 22 and 47. The Steelers then trade pick 23 to Tampa Bay and receive picks 35 and 40. The Steelers then trade up with their 5th and 6th round selections to get Miami's 4th round pick.
2. CB Donovan Warren, Michigan
Look at him on tape. He is the definition of a Lebeau CB. Fast, very good in coverage, and has excellent hands. Needs to take better angles tackling though.
2. FS Chad Jones, LSU
While some may think Jones won't fit in the system, I disagree. He has good speed, good hands, and is good in coverage. He is also very good against the run. I think he replaces Ryan Clark in two years time. He will be asked to do what Clark does currently: play deep and don't let anything past you....and be ready to lay some people out. He should do that with ease.
2. ILB Brandon Spikes, Florida
The Steelers are amazed when Spikes is here. He is a monster against the run, is a great tackler, good shedding blocks, can rush the passer, and is even underrated in coverage. He is also a natural born leader....which is another positive trait since Farrior will probably be done within the next two years.
2. OT Jared Veldheer, Hillsdale
Veldheer will amaze all at the Combine. I think the Steelers snag him here to shore up the OT depth. Veldheer is super athletic, strong, and has tremendous upside.
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
Mayock recently said that Thomas may not escape out of the 2nd round. While I do like Mayock, I think he is exaggerating here. Thomas is a big time run stuffer, can collapse the pocket, and may have the athleticism to be a 3 down NT.
4. OLB Austen Lane, Murray State
Lane had a sold Senior Bowl week. The concerns about level of competition are flawed. However, the biggest concern about him is that he is a DE/OLB hybrid. He is a great pass rusher and is good against the run, but people question whether he can stand up in play. He looked okay in coverage at the Senior Bowl when he asked to drop back. This should put him around here.
4. DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State
Carrington is another player who had a good Senior Bowl week. He showed all week that he has the lower body strength to anchor in a 34. He also showed that he is very active.....he is very good pass rusher and he continually makes plays in the backfield.
5c. RB LaMarcus Coker, Hampton
Coker had drug problems in the past, but he has kept clean the past two years and supposedly has turned his life around. I view Coker as a better version of Willie Parker.....he is super fast, has good vision, and good hands. He should be a very good complement to Reshard Mendenhall.
5c. TE Nate Byham, Pittsburgh
Byham reminds me so much of Heath Miller it is not even funny. They both were elite blockers at the college level and more than solid receiving threats. It would be awesome for this offense to have a legitimate 2 TE set.
7. QB Jonathon Crompton, Tennessee
You may question the pick of a QB here.....I do as well. However, I think he could be this year's camp arm that really surprises everyone and earns a job on the practice squad. Crompton can make all the throws at the NFL level, and has decent accuracy.
7c. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
You know this guy is going to work hard - he was a walk-on and had just five receptions entering the year. As a senior, he logged 48 catches for 893 yards and eight touchdowns.
Steelers receive two 5th round compensation picks as well as a 7th.
Steelers pick 18. However, they trade back with New England and get pick 22 and 47. The Steelers then trade pick 23 to Tampa Bay and receive picks 35 and 40. The Steelers then trade up with their 5th and 6th round selections to get Miami's 4th round pick.
2. CB Donovan Warren, Michigan
Look at him on tape. He is the definition of a Lebeau CB. Fast, very good in coverage, and has excellent hands. Needs to take better angles tackling though.
2. FS Chad Jones, LSU
While some may think Jones won't fit in the system, I disagree. He has good speed, good hands, and is good in coverage. He is also very good against the run. I think he replaces Ryan Clark in two years time. He will be asked to do what Clark does currently: play deep and don't let anything past you....and be ready to lay some people out. He should do that with ease.
2. ILB Brandon Spikes, Florida
The Steelers are amazed when Spikes is here. He is a monster against the run, is a great tackler, good shedding blocks, can rush the passer, and is even underrated in coverage. He is also a natural born leader....which is another positive trait since Farrior will probably be done within the next two years.
2. OT Jared Veldheer, Hillsdale
Veldheer will amaze all at the Combine. I think the Steelers snag him here to shore up the OT depth. Veldheer is super athletic, strong, and has tremendous upside.
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
Mayock recently said that Thomas may not escape out of the 2nd round. While I do like Mayock, I think he is exaggerating here. Thomas is a big time run stuffer, can collapse the pocket, and may have the athleticism to be a 3 down NT.
4. OLB Austen Lane, Murray State
Lane had a sold Senior Bowl week. The concerns about level of competition are flawed. However, the biggest concern about him is that he is a DE/OLB hybrid. He is a great pass rusher and is good against the run, but people question whether he can stand up in play. He looked okay in coverage at the Senior Bowl when he asked to drop back. This should put him around here.
4. DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State
Carrington is another player who had a good Senior Bowl week. He showed all week that he has the lower body strength to anchor in a 34. He also showed that he is very active.....he is very good pass rusher and he continually makes plays in the backfield.
5c. RB LaMarcus Coker, Hampton
Coker had drug problems in the past, but he has kept clean the past two years and supposedly has turned his life around. I view Coker as a better version of Willie Parker.....he is super fast, has good vision, and good hands. He should be a very good complement to Reshard Mendenhall.
5c. TE Nate Byham, Pittsburgh
Byham reminds me so much of Heath Miller it is not even funny. They both were elite blockers at the college level and more than solid receiving threats. It would be awesome for this offense to have a legitimate 2 TE set.
7. QB Jonathon Crompton, Tennessee
You may question the pick of a QB here.....I do as well. However, I think he could be this year's camp arm that really surprises everyone and earns a job on the practice squad. Crompton can make all the throws at the NFL level, and has decent accuracy.
7c. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
You know this guy is going to work hard - he was a walk-on and had just five receptions entering the year. As a senior, he logged 48 catches for 893 yards and eight touchdowns.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
No Value Pick, Trade Down
Resign Hampton, Clark, Reed, Eason. RFA tender Colon, Gay, Sepulveda, Stapleton(I don't want too....but the Steelers will do it), Spaeth.
Steelers will receive two 5ths and one 7th round compensation picks.
Steelers pick 18th, but trade down with the Cardinals for picks 26 and 89. They also trade up with their 5th and 6th round picks to move up earlier into the 5th with Seattle to snag their 5th round pick.
1.FS Chad Jones, LSU
2. OT Jared Veldheer, Hillsdale
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
3.OLB Austen Lane, Murray State
4. CB Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, Indiana of Pennsylvania
5. ILB Micah Johnson, Kentucky
5c. DE C.J. Wilson, East Carolina
5c. RB LaMarcus Coker, Hampton
7. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
7c. OLB O'Brien Schofield, Wisconsin
Steelers will receive two 5ths and one 7th round compensation picks.
Steelers pick 18th, but trade down with the Cardinals for picks 26 and 89. They also trade up with their 5th and 6th round picks to move up earlier into the 5th with Seattle to snag their 5th round pick.
1.FS Chad Jones, LSU
2. OT Jared Veldheer, Hillsdale
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina
3.OLB Austen Lane, Murray State
4. CB Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, Indiana of Pennsylvania
5. ILB Micah Johnson, Kentucky
5c. DE C.J. Wilson, East Carolina
5c. RB LaMarcus Coker, Hampton
7. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
7c. OLB O'Brien Schofield, Wisconsin
Thursday, February 4, 2010
New Mock
Resign Hampton, Clark, Reed, Eason. RFA Colon, Gay, Sepulveda, Spaeth.
Receive two 5ths and a 7th round pick for compensation.
Steelers select 18th, trade down with Dallas and pick up their 3rd.
1. CB Kyle Wilson, Boise State- Complete and starting caliber CB that the Steelers lack.
2. FS Chad Jones, LSU- Versatile backup while waiting for starting job.
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina- Pushes for time as a rookie.
3. OT Jared Veldheer, Hillsdale- Develops, waiting in the wings.
4. OLB Austen Lane, Murray State- Phenomenal pass rusher who get 3rd down looks.
5. TE Colin Peek, Alabama- Excellent dual threat TE.
5c. RB LaMarcus Coker, Hampton- Fast as lightning, Mendy's change of pace back.
5c. DE E. J. Wilson, North Carolina- Big guy with good athleticism.
6. OLB George Johnson, Rutgers- Another developmental pass rusher.
7. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut- Good WR with high ceiling.
7c. NT Martin Tevaseu, UNLV- Another big stout guy in the middle.
Undrafted Free Agents
QB Jonathon Crompton, Tennessee- Can make all the throws....could get drafted.
RB Dominque Lindsey, East Carolina- Explosive...could get drafted.
OLB Eric Moncur, Miami- Big guy with athleticism.
WR Duke Calhoun, Memphis- Bigger WR with nice upside.
DE Aleric Mullens, North Carolina- Active UT, project DE.
CB Thad Turner, Ohio- Could be solid nickel down the road.
CB Jeremy Ware, Michigan State- Could be solid nickel down the road.
Receive two 5ths and a 7th round pick for compensation.
Steelers select 18th, trade down with Dallas and pick up their 3rd.
1. CB Kyle Wilson, Boise State- Complete and starting caliber CB that the Steelers lack.
2. FS Chad Jones, LSU- Versatile backup while waiting for starting job.
3. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina- Pushes for time as a rookie.
3. OT Jared Veldheer, Hillsdale- Develops, waiting in the wings.
4. OLB Austen Lane, Murray State- Phenomenal pass rusher who get 3rd down looks.
5. TE Colin Peek, Alabama- Excellent dual threat TE.
5c. RB LaMarcus Coker, Hampton- Fast as lightning, Mendy's change of pace back.
5c. DE E. J. Wilson, North Carolina- Big guy with good athleticism.
6. OLB George Johnson, Rutgers- Another developmental pass rusher.
7. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut- Good WR with high ceiling.
7c. NT Martin Tevaseu, UNLV- Another big stout guy in the middle.
Undrafted Free Agents
QB Jonathon Crompton, Tennessee- Can make all the throws....could get drafted.
RB Dominque Lindsey, East Carolina- Explosive...could get drafted.
OLB Eric Moncur, Miami- Big guy with athleticism.
WR Duke Calhoun, Memphis- Bigger WR with nice upside.
DE Aleric Mullens, North Carolina- Active UT, project DE.
CB Thad Turner, Ohio- Could be solid nickel down the road.
CB Jeremy Ware, Michigan State- Could be solid nickel down the road.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
A Mock with McClain Falling
Rolando McClain will be the pick if he can fall past Denver, Miami, and New York(Giants).
You do not pass up on an elite player of McClain's status. Not only that, he would be an amazing special teams player while waiting for his starting role(which I believe he would pick up towards the end of the year, more towards next year).
If he can get past those teams, you realistically can get him given other teams' needs. San Fran will not pay to have two Pro Bowl ILBs. Tennessee needs DL help. Seattle just spent last year's 4th overall to take Aaron Curry. Buffalo needs help on both sides of the line. Cleveland and Oakland are the two likely teams to shock all and take McClain. However, this is a pipe dream.
This is how the 1st round would have to shake out for McClain to fall:
1. St. Louis- QB Jimmy Clausen- They NEED a franchise QB. They get theirs here.
2. Detroit- DT Ndakumong Suh- Big need, great player. This could also be McCoy.
3. Tampa Bay- DT Gerald McCoy- Big need, great player. This could also be Suh.
4. Washington- QB Sam Bradford- Snyder likes big names, and Shanahan will want his QB for the future.
5. Kansas City- OT Russell Okung- Huge need, Albert needs to slide back inside.
6. Seattle- S Eric Berry- One of the worst secondaries in the NFL will get the next Ed Reed.
7. Cleveland- CB Joe Haden- Need an infusion of talent at the CB level. Haden is the pick. Could also be
Berry if Seattle were to take Haden.
8. Oakland- DE Derrick Morgan- Amazing triangle and 40 numbers land him in Oakland.
9. Buffalo- OT Anthony Davis- They need talent on the OL. This pick would be a QB...but the best are gone.
10. Jacksonville- QB Tim Tebow- Tebow alone would bring all the fans back to Jacksonville, despite his performance.
11. Denver- DT Dan Williams- Have a feeling they will throw everyone a curve ball and reach a little bit to get their NT for the future.
12. Miami- WR Dez Bryant- Amazed he got past Denver....they pounce.
13. San Francisco- OT Bruce Cambell- They need OT help. Staley is strictly a RT, and Campbell could be one hell of a LT.
14. Seattle- OT Bryan Bulaga- Walter Jones is a shell of his former self and Sean Lockler is a RT. Protecting Hasselback is imperative with his health problems that past few years.
15. New York(Giants)- DT Brian Price- Their DTs accounted for 4.5 sacks. The year they won the Superbowl, they accounted for almost 10. They need an interior dominating presence.
16. Tennessee- DE Everson Griffen- Both starting DEs are free agents, and Vanden Bosch is getting up there in age. Griffen is super athletic, and Fisher will fall in love with his potential.
17. San Francisco- OLB Brandon Graham- While they got more pressure and better play out of there defense, Graham would bring the pass rushing talent that they have needed over the past two years.
18. Pittsburgh- ILB Rolando McClain- The Steelers historically take the BPA. They will be thrilled with McClain.
19. Atlanta- CB Donovan Warren- They need CB help. Grimes is a nickel CB at best, and he has a long history of can't keeping up with good WRs.
20. Houston- FS Earl Thomas- The key to winning the AFC North is beating Manning and the Colts. In order to do that, they must improve their porous secondary. Thomas is the true playmaking DB the Texans need.
21. Cincinatti- WR Damian Williams- The Bengals need a deep threat to Palmer and the Bengals open up the offense. Their offense sputtered towards the end of the year when they couldn't go deep, allowing defenses to defend the short and intermediate passing game. Also put more defenders in the box to contain Cedric Benson.
22. New England- DE Jared Odrick, Penn State- The Patriots traded away Seymour prior to the start of last season, and the absence was noted. Wilfork maybe gone too, so I think New England goes DL here.
23. Green Bay- OT Charles Brown- The Packers stay put and take the BPA available. Rodgers showed that he can be great when he has protection, something that the Packers line needs to improve.
24. Philadelphia- DE Carlos Dunlap- Andy Reid loves drafting linemen with great potential. Dunlap had never lived up to his, so Reid will take him to prove the world wrong.
25. Baltimore- WR Golden Tate- He reminds me a lot of current WR Derrick Mason. If Mason retires, that leaves Joe Flacco with Mark Clayton. Ouch.
26. Arizona- TE Jermaine Gresham- Severely disappointed that Brandon Graham didn't last this long, they give new starting QB Matt Leinart an amazing TE to help him when he gets pressured.
27. Dallas- G Mike Iupati- Dallas loves to run the ball. I have heard reports that Dallas loves the run blocking beast. He also is a huge OL, which Dallas has a history of drafting.
28. San Diego- NT Mount Cody- They loved Jamal Williams when he was healthy. Something tells me they take Cody due to the lack of talent at NT. They are also in a position to take the BPA.
29. New York(Jets)- OLB Jerry Hughes- Word has it that the front office and staff have given up on former 1st round pick Veronon Gholston. If that is the case, OLB once again becomes a huge need with Orlando Pace's contract up after the next season.
30. Minnesota- CB Kyle Wilson- The Vikings are in desperate need of CB help. Antoine Winfield missed a lot of last season, and Cedric Griffen tore his ACL on one of the final plays in the NFC Chamionship Game. Wilson worked himself into the 1st round in the Senior Bowl, and a good showing at the Combine will cement his status as a 1st round pick.
31. Indianpolis- DT Lamarr Houston- Houston is one of those players that the Colts fall in love with: super quick, strong, and great shooting gaps and getting pressure.
32. New Orleans- DE Jason Pierre-Paul- It is believed that starting DE Charles Grant will not be back in New Orleans next season. The Saints can ill afford for their already suspect defense to take another hit.
Now, with the first round being done, this is how I project the Steelers to finish out:
2. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina- His stock has skyrocketed and may not escape out of the 3rd round. Whether Hampton comes back or not, Thomas could be one hell of a NT. He has a very wide and massive frame, has a very good bull rush and rip moves, is stout against the run, and can help collapse the pocket. He also showed good conditioning at the Senior Bowl.....he could be a 3 down NT.
3. OLB Austen Lane, Murray State- He played some OLB at the Senior Bowl and looked good doing it. Lane is a phenomenal pass rusher and is more than big enough to excel against the run. There was no difference between him and the other "big boys" out there on the field. He could be another all star at OLB for us.
4. OT Ciron Black, LSU- Most draft sites and experts have him as a mid round prospect. I think he could be a steal for the Steelers as a RG or RT. Black has excellent size, build, and athleticisim to be a dominant RG or a more than adequate RT. He is dominant in the run game, and his pass protection is at a high level. I think he might be a better RG than RT. I have Black here because I think he could backup RG and RT. I also think Colon is going to get extended either this year or next depending on his level of play....apparently the Steelers see something I do not see.
5. FS Robert Johnson, Utah
The king sized safety rebounded in his senior compiling six interceptions, six pass deflections, 70 tackles, and 4 tackles for loss. He is the perfect candidate to learn behind Clark and then start within the next two years.
5c. CB Chris Chancellor, Clemson
Elite speed, great hands, and showed flashes of being a shutdown CB at the East/West Shrine practices and games. Needs to add some muscle to his frame to handle the more physical WRs of the NFL.
5c. DE C.J. Wilson, East Carolina
Wilson is very intriguing prospect at 6'3" 284lbs. While he does not have the prototypical size....he has logged a 4.78 in the 40 yard dash. He reminds me a lot of young Brett Keisel, who I think could be a solid starting DE for the Steelers down the road.
6. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
You know this guy is going to work hard - he was a walk-on and had just five receptions entering the year. As a senior, he logged 48 catches for 893 yards and eight touchdowns. This sounds like the classic Steelers type of player.
7. RS Trindon Holliday, LSU
While I am not trying to get rid of Logan, I would like to give him some competition. I think Trindon Holliday could have had a Dexter McCluster type of impact at LSU.....if they had a QB. Holliday got more looks at RB when Scott and Williams went down with injury, and he impressed me as a guy who be a solid change of pace back every once and while for Mendenhall. He has played RB and WR for LSU, and he is an elite return specialist.
7c. ILB Josh Hull, Penn State- Why get him if we just got McClain? Why not? He is solid LB from a great program. He has all the qualities you look for in a thumper. He will be this year's special team ace.
I would then hope that the roster would shake out like this:
Roster
QB/ Ben, Dixon, Batch
RB/ Mendenhall, Moore, Holliday, Davis
TE/ Heath, Spaeth, Johnson
WR/ Ward, Holmes, Wallace, Sweed, Logan
OL/ Starks, Kemo, Hartwig, Essex, Colon, Foster, Black, Legursky, Urbik
DL/ Smith, Hamp, Keisel, Hood, Thomas, Eason, Hoke
LB/ Harrison, Woodley, Timmons, Farrior, McClain, Lane, Frazier, Fox, Bailey
CB/ Ike, Gay, Lewis, Burnett, Chancellor, Madison
S/ Polamalu, Clark, Johnson, Carter
ST/ Reed, Sepulveda, Warren/Retkofsky
Practice Squad
RB Redmen
DE Harris
WR Easley
WR Cherry
DE Wilson
DT McClendon
LB Lee
CB Williams
You do not pass up on an elite player of McClain's status. Not only that, he would be an amazing special teams player while waiting for his starting role(which I believe he would pick up towards the end of the year, more towards next year).
If he can get past those teams, you realistically can get him given other teams' needs. San Fran will not pay to have two Pro Bowl ILBs. Tennessee needs DL help. Seattle just spent last year's 4th overall to take Aaron Curry. Buffalo needs help on both sides of the line. Cleveland and Oakland are the two likely teams to shock all and take McClain. However, this is a pipe dream.
This is how the 1st round would have to shake out for McClain to fall:
1. St. Louis- QB Jimmy Clausen- They NEED a franchise QB. They get theirs here.
2. Detroit- DT Ndakumong Suh- Big need, great player. This could also be McCoy.
3. Tampa Bay- DT Gerald McCoy- Big need, great player. This could also be Suh.
4. Washington- QB Sam Bradford- Snyder likes big names, and Shanahan will want his QB for the future.
5. Kansas City- OT Russell Okung- Huge need, Albert needs to slide back inside.
6. Seattle- S Eric Berry- One of the worst secondaries in the NFL will get the next Ed Reed.
7. Cleveland- CB Joe Haden- Need an infusion of talent at the CB level. Haden is the pick. Could also be
Berry if Seattle were to take Haden.
8. Oakland- DE Derrick Morgan- Amazing triangle and 40 numbers land him in Oakland.
9. Buffalo- OT Anthony Davis- They need talent on the OL. This pick would be a QB...but the best are gone.
10. Jacksonville- QB Tim Tebow- Tebow alone would bring all the fans back to Jacksonville, despite his performance.
11. Denver- DT Dan Williams- Have a feeling they will throw everyone a curve ball and reach a little bit to get their NT for the future.
12. Miami- WR Dez Bryant- Amazed he got past Denver....they pounce.
13. San Francisco- OT Bruce Cambell- They need OT help. Staley is strictly a RT, and Campbell could be one hell of a LT.
14. Seattle- OT Bryan Bulaga- Walter Jones is a shell of his former self and Sean Lockler is a RT. Protecting Hasselback is imperative with his health problems that past few years.
15. New York(Giants)- DT Brian Price- Their DTs accounted for 4.5 sacks. The year they won the Superbowl, they accounted for almost 10. They need an interior dominating presence.
16. Tennessee- DE Everson Griffen- Both starting DEs are free agents, and Vanden Bosch is getting up there in age. Griffen is super athletic, and Fisher will fall in love with his potential.
17. San Francisco- OLB Brandon Graham- While they got more pressure and better play out of there defense, Graham would bring the pass rushing talent that they have needed over the past two years.
18. Pittsburgh- ILB Rolando McClain- The Steelers historically take the BPA. They will be thrilled with McClain.
19. Atlanta- CB Donovan Warren- They need CB help. Grimes is a nickel CB at best, and he has a long history of can't keeping up with good WRs.
20. Houston- FS Earl Thomas- The key to winning the AFC North is beating Manning and the Colts. In order to do that, they must improve their porous secondary. Thomas is the true playmaking DB the Texans need.
21. Cincinatti- WR Damian Williams- The Bengals need a deep threat to Palmer and the Bengals open up the offense. Their offense sputtered towards the end of the year when they couldn't go deep, allowing defenses to defend the short and intermediate passing game. Also put more defenders in the box to contain Cedric Benson.
22. New England- DE Jared Odrick, Penn State- The Patriots traded away Seymour prior to the start of last season, and the absence was noted. Wilfork maybe gone too, so I think New England goes DL here.
23. Green Bay- OT Charles Brown- The Packers stay put and take the BPA available. Rodgers showed that he can be great when he has protection, something that the Packers line needs to improve.
24. Philadelphia- DE Carlos Dunlap- Andy Reid loves drafting linemen with great potential. Dunlap had never lived up to his, so Reid will take him to prove the world wrong.
25. Baltimore- WR Golden Tate- He reminds me a lot of current WR Derrick Mason. If Mason retires, that leaves Joe Flacco with Mark Clayton. Ouch.
26. Arizona- TE Jermaine Gresham- Severely disappointed that Brandon Graham didn't last this long, they give new starting QB Matt Leinart an amazing TE to help him when he gets pressured.
27. Dallas- G Mike Iupati- Dallas loves to run the ball. I have heard reports that Dallas loves the run blocking beast. He also is a huge OL, which Dallas has a history of drafting.
28. San Diego- NT Mount Cody- They loved Jamal Williams when he was healthy. Something tells me they take Cody due to the lack of talent at NT. They are also in a position to take the BPA.
29. New York(Jets)- OLB Jerry Hughes- Word has it that the front office and staff have given up on former 1st round pick Veronon Gholston. If that is the case, OLB once again becomes a huge need with Orlando Pace's contract up after the next season.
30. Minnesota- CB Kyle Wilson- The Vikings are in desperate need of CB help. Antoine Winfield missed a lot of last season, and Cedric Griffen tore his ACL on one of the final plays in the NFC Chamionship Game. Wilson worked himself into the 1st round in the Senior Bowl, and a good showing at the Combine will cement his status as a 1st round pick.
31. Indianpolis- DT Lamarr Houston- Houston is one of those players that the Colts fall in love with: super quick, strong, and great shooting gaps and getting pressure.
32. New Orleans- DE Jason Pierre-Paul- It is believed that starting DE Charles Grant will not be back in New Orleans next season. The Saints can ill afford for their already suspect defense to take another hit.
Now, with the first round being done, this is how I project the Steelers to finish out:
2. NT Cam Thomas, North Carolina- His stock has skyrocketed and may not escape out of the 3rd round. Whether Hampton comes back or not, Thomas could be one hell of a NT. He has a very wide and massive frame, has a very good bull rush and rip moves, is stout against the run, and can help collapse the pocket. He also showed good conditioning at the Senior Bowl.....he could be a 3 down NT.
3. OLB Austen Lane, Murray State- He played some OLB at the Senior Bowl and looked good doing it. Lane is a phenomenal pass rusher and is more than big enough to excel against the run. There was no difference between him and the other "big boys" out there on the field. He could be another all star at OLB for us.
4. OT Ciron Black, LSU- Most draft sites and experts have him as a mid round prospect. I think he could be a steal for the Steelers as a RG or RT. Black has excellent size, build, and athleticisim to be a dominant RG or a more than adequate RT. He is dominant in the run game, and his pass protection is at a high level. I think he might be a better RG than RT. I have Black here because I think he could backup RG and RT. I also think Colon is going to get extended either this year or next depending on his level of play....apparently the Steelers see something I do not see.
5. FS Robert Johnson, Utah
The king sized safety rebounded in his senior compiling six interceptions, six pass deflections, 70 tackles, and 4 tackles for loss. He is the perfect candidate to learn behind Clark and then start within the next two years.
5c. CB Chris Chancellor, Clemson
Elite speed, great hands, and showed flashes of being a shutdown CB at the East/West Shrine practices and games. Needs to add some muscle to his frame to handle the more physical WRs of the NFL.
5c. DE C.J. Wilson, East Carolina
Wilson is very intriguing prospect at 6'3" 284lbs. While he does not have the prototypical size....he has logged a 4.78 in the 40 yard dash. He reminds me a lot of young Brett Keisel, who I think could be a solid starting DE for the Steelers down the road.
6. WR Marcus Easley, Connecticut
You know this guy is going to work hard - he was a walk-on and had just five receptions entering the year. As a senior, he logged 48 catches for 893 yards and eight touchdowns. This sounds like the classic Steelers type of player.
7. RS Trindon Holliday, LSU
While I am not trying to get rid of Logan, I would like to give him some competition. I think Trindon Holliday could have had a Dexter McCluster type of impact at LSU.....if they had a QB. Holliday got more looks at RB when Scott and Williams went down with injury, and he impressed me as a guy who be a solid change of pace back every once and while for Mendenhall. He has played RB and WR for LSU, and he is an elite return specialist.
7c. ILB Josh Hull, Penn State- Why get him if we just got McClain? Why not? He is solid LB from a great program. He has all the qualities you look for in a thumper. He will be this year's special team ace.
I would then hope that the roster would shake out like this:
Roster
QB/ Ben, Dixon, Batch
RB/ Mendenhall, Moore, Holliday, Davis
TE/ Heath, Spaeth, Johnson
WR/ Ward, Holmes, Wallace, Sweed, Logan
OL/ Starks, Kemo, Hartwig, Essex, Colon, Foster, Black, Legursky, Urbik
DL/ Smith, Hamp, Keisel, Hood, Thomas, Eason, Hoke
LB/ Harrison, Woodley, Timmons, Farrior, McClain, Lane, Frazier, Fox, Bailey
CB/ Ike, Gay, Lewis, Burnett, Chancellor, Madison
S/ Polamalu, Clark, Johnson, Carter
ST/ Reed, Sepulveda, Warren/Retkofsky
Practice Squad
RB Redmen
DE Harris
WR Easley
WR Cherry
DE Wilson
DT McClendon
LB Lee
CB Williams
