2007 Mock Drafts Already Starting
The 2006 NFL and NCAA seasons have just begun but some sites have already started working on their 2007 mock drafts. One of the most interesting parts of these early mock drafts is seeing where the writers think NFL will draft - the higer the pick, the worse the 2006 season went. Here are a couple of 2007 mocks with their top 10 picks:
NFL Draft Countdown
1. OAKLAND RAIDERS - BRADY QUINN - QB | Notre Dame
Despite not having a top signal caller on their roster the Raiders opted to pass on Matt Leinart in the '06 Draft, a move that could come back and haunt them. With that in mind the team is still in need of an upgrade over Aaron Brooks so they use this opportunity to select a potential franchise quarterback. Many Raider fans would point out that Andrew Walter is their quarterback of the future but he has yet to earn that title. Brady Quinn has everything you look for in a quarterback physically and then when you factor in the pedigree of having been tutored by Charlie Weis it's no wonder why this Carson Palmer clone is projected to be the #1 overall pick.
2. SAN FRANCISCO 49'ERS - CALVIN JOHNSON - WR | Georgia Tech
Slowly but surely the Niners are upgrading their overall talent level but they still lack a true #1 wide receiver. Antonio Bryant was brought in and he's a solid starter but there is very little to get excited about beyond him so this pick would make a ton of sense. A physical marvel with a rare blend of size, speed and athleticism, Johnson is one of the best wideout prospects to come along in years and could be a better version of Andre Johnson. Due to the program he plays for and average quarterback play Johnson doesn't get a lot of attention but make no mistake about it he is an elite pro prospect that will go very high, whether it is in 2007 or 2008.
3. GREEN BAY PACKERS - ADRIAN PETERSON - RB | Oklahoma
With so many needs it's hard to figure out where to begin so with that being the case Green Bay simply takes the best player on the board. After a phenomenal freshman campaign Peterson battled injuries as a sophomore but still came through with a solid campaign. Durability is the only big question mark with Peterson but if he can stay healthy he'll be an elite prospect and potentially one of the best running backs the draft has produced in a very long time. With a tremendous blend of size, speed and power Peterson has evoked comparisons to Eric Dickerson so if he has the junior season he's capable of you can pencil him into the Top 3 overall.
4. HOUSTON TEXANS - JOE THOMAS - OT | Wisconsin
Since their inception the Texans have been in search of a premier left tackle but after failed experiments with the likes of Tony Boselli, Chester Pitts and Seth Wand they've come up empty to this point and Charles Spencer really isn't the answer either. That would all change with Thomas though, who had it not been for a knee injury in the Badgers bowl game while playing defensive end would likely have come out early and been a top 10-15 overall pick in 2006. A great athlete for the position with ideal size and nimble feet, Thomas is an excellent all-around blocker who would finally solidify the Houston offensive line if he were somehow still available here.
5. TENNESSEE TITANS - QUENTIN MOSES - DE | Georgia
Last year Kyle Vanden Bosch seemingly came out of nowhere to notch 12 sacks but throughout his career he has been prone to injury and there is very little else beyond him at defensive end for the Titans. Even though he lacks elite timed speed Quentin Moses is an outstanding athlete who early in his career even saw some action on the Bulldogs basketball team. One of the top sack artists in the country, Moses tallied 11.5 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss as a junior in 2005 and set himself up to be a very high pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. Moses will help carry on the strong recent tradition that Georgia has of sending top defensive linemen on to the pros.
6. BUFFALO BILLS - BRIAN BROHM - QB | Louisville
After jettisoning a number of veterans it would appear that the Bills are now in rebuilding mold but they still lack a top signal caller. Former first round pick J.P. Losman won the starting job but the team doesn't seem to have much confidence in him while nobody in their right mind would mistake Kelly Holcomb or Craig Nall for long-term options. Brohm is at the helm of one of the most explosive offenses in the entire nation and with Michael Bush out of the picture he should really be able to put on a show for pro scouts this season. After having already suffered a serious knee injury in '05 Brohm may be ready to go pro rather than risk getting hurt again.
7. CLEVELAND BROWNS - TED GINN JR. - WR | Ohio St.
This franchise has been trying to find offensive playmakers for years now and while they do have a couple of youngsters who could potentially break out in Kellen Winslow and Braylon Edwards it sure wouldn't hurt to add some more firepower. Ted Ginn, Jr. is a local Ohio product with world-class speed who is a threat to take it the distance anytime he gets his hands on the ball, whether it be as a receiver, a return man or on trick plays. Adding a talent like Ginn, who some feel compares favorably to Joey Galloway, would do wonders for the Browns offense and bringing in a local legend certainly wouldn't hurt from a public relations standpoint either.
8. NEW YORK JETS - MARSHAWN LYNCH - RB | California
Father time has finally caught up with Curtis Martin and it looks like the future Hall of Famers career is over so with that in mind New York opts to bring in a stud runner with this premium pick. Despite a trade for Kevan Barlow the Jets situation at the running back position is pretty dire so the opportunity to add a top talent like Marshawn Lynch to the mix is simply too good to pass up. Lynch has been very productive throughout his career and is a dynamic big play threat who can take it the distance at any time. In some ways Lynch is similar to Laurence Maroney and if he opts to come out after his junior season he could be chosen early in round one.
9. DETROIT LIONS - DREW STANTON - QB | Michigan St.
After four tumultuous seasons the Joey Harrington error, I mean era, is officially over in Motown. Jon Kitna is the starter for now but he is nothing more than a stop-gap solution which means they are going to have to bring in a top young signal caller sooner rather than later. Drew Stanton is a local guy who shows flashes of brilliance and really brings a gunslinger's mentality to the quarterback position so even though he isn't yet a finished product Mike Martz should be able to coach him up. Matt Millen might be gun-shy about using another high pick on a quarterback but unless the team makes major strides this season he won't be around anyway.
10. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS - PAUL POSLUSZNY - OLB | Penn St.
It's not an exaggeration to say that the Saints have been in search of a stud linebacker for a good decade and despite using first day picks on the likes of Sedrick Hodge, James Allen, Courtney Watson and Alfred Fincher the position is still without question the weakest on the team. New Orleans was all set to take A.J. Hawk at #2 overall this year until Reggie Bush fell into their laps but they could get another shot at an impact 'backer from the Big Ten in Paul Posluszny. Many have called "Puz" one of the best, if not the best, linebacker the Nittany Lions have produced and that is saying something when you consider the school has been tabbed "Linebacker U".
Consensus Draft Services
1. The Bills Pick : Brady Quinn (QB, Notre Dame)
After a successful junior season under Charlie Weis, Brady Quinn is the early front-runner for the first overall pick in the 2007 draft. The expectations for Quinn and Notre Dame are high, and many expect him to be in New York for the Heisman ceremony next year. Blessed with ideal size, Quinn has improved throughout his career at Notre Dame and could have came out after a 32 TD, 7 INT performance last year as a junior. With Vince Young, Matt Leinart, and Jay Cutler all ending up as top-11 picks, it is tough to predict where Quinn would have gone had he come out early. If he can continue to improve with experience, the Tom Brady comparisons will begin to arise and Quinn will be considered by all teams who will need a QB come the 2007 NFL Draft.
2. The 49ers Pick: Calvin Johnson (WR, Georgia Tech)
Even with an inconsistent QB in Reggie Ball, Georgia Tech WR Calvin Johnson has wowed college football fans as much as any player in the NCAA during his first two years. With Terrell Owens-like athleticism and even better speed, Johnson has everything you look for in a franchise WR. During his first two seasons, Johnson has been one of the most electrifying playmakers in college football not named Reggie Bush, making a few insane highlight catches, showing off his incredible hands. His rare speed-size combination makes him a threat in the red-zone as well as on deep routes. If he chooses to come out early, Johnson could see himself as a legitimate candidate for the top overall pick.
3. The Jets Pick: Adrian Peterson (HB, Oklahoma)
Adrian Peterson was slowed by injuries during his sophomore season at Oklahoma, and the team did not play as well without Jason White at QB. Peterson struggled a bit, but still showed why he finished second in Heisman voting as a freshman. His weaknesses include receiving out of the backfield and a tendency to run too up-right. Beyond that, however, Peterson is as gifted as any football player in the world right now, and is another candidate to be the first overall pick in 2007, assuming he comes out early.
4. The Titans Pick: Joe Thomas (OT, Wisconsin)
Joe Thomas will enter his senior season at Wisconsin as the consensus number one offensive lineman prospect in the nation. Thomas, who has enjoyed a nice career as a Badger, toyed with the idea of coming out early as a junior, but injuries made his decision to stay an easy one. A great athlete, Thomas was even asked to play a little defensive line last season. In the NFL, however, he could end up being a franchise left tackle, one of the most coveted positions in the draft.
5. The Packers Pick: Marshawn Lynch (HB, California)
After sharing time with J.J. Arrington, Marshawn Lynch continued to develop as the number one HB on a very good Cal run offense. Sharing carries with Justin Forsett, Lynch rushed for over 1’000 yards as a sophomore, and has the kind of talent that has some Cal fans thinking Heisman. What might not be so happy for those fans is the thought of Lynch leaving school early for the NFL. In terms of upside, Lynch has as much as any HB in the nation not named Adrian Peterson, with the explosiveness only some runners possess.
6. The Texans Pick: LaRon Landry (S, Louisiana State)
LSU Safety LaRon Landry thought about coming out early after last season, but opted to stay his senior season despite being projected by some as a possible top ten pick. A ball-hawking free safety, Landry has no weaknesses as a college stud, but could use to add some bulk to his 6’2”, 187-lb. frame. Landry has started the last 35 games of his college career, and has accumulated nine interceptions in his career so far for the Tigers.
7. The Raiders Pick: Paul Posluszny (LB, Penn State)
The leader of an extremely tough Penn State defense, Paul Posluszny had an amazing junior season, capturing both the Chuck Bednarik and Dick Butkus awards. After injuring himself in an Orange Bowl win against Florida State, Posluszny decided not to enter the 2006 NFL Draft. With LB A.J. Hawk going fifth overall to Green Bay, Posluszny, a comparable prospect, may have been in that range as well had he come out. Instead, Posluszny will lead the Nittany Lions as a senior and if he puts up another great year after the injury with similar production, it is hard to envision a scenario where he isn’t a top ten pick.
8. The Lions Pick: Gaines Adams (DE, Clemson)
As a junior, Gaines Adams made a splash as one of the top DE’s in college football, racking up 9.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss for Clemson. Although he was a possible first rounder, Adams opted not to enter the 2006 NFL Draft, and might be able to propel himself into top ten or maybe even top five status with a solid senior year. Adams is an instinctive pass-rusher with a good burst, but at just 260-ish pounds, the question of size may come into play for some teams.
9. The Browns Pick: Dwayne Jarrett (WR, USC)
Easily one of the most exciting young WR’s in college football, Dwayne Jarrett wasted no time making a name for himself and seizing the opportunity of having Matt Leinart as his QB. Statistically, Jarrett has been one of the most impressive WR’s ever at this stage in his young career, and with two national championship appearances and one national title to go along with his 26 career touchdowns, it would not be a surprise to see Jarrett leave USC a year early. Still young, the athletic Jarrett could still add some more muscle and improve his route running, which makes his upside flat-out scary. Scouts will tolerate the occasional drop because of how dominant Jarrett can be most of the time.
10. The Ravens Pick: Quentin Moses (DE, Georgia)
Senior DE Quentin Moses will look to lead the Georgia defense in the 2006-2007 college football season. A possible candidate for an OLB in a 3-4 defense, the 250-lb. Moses had 11.5 sacks as a junior and is one of the most feared pass-rushers in college football. Quickness and upside are two positives for Moses, who has improved throughout his career in Athens.
NFL Draft Blitz
1) San Francisco 49ers - *Adrian Peterson (RB) Oklahoma
Analysis: Frank Gore may be the running back of the moment for the 49ers, but barring a 1,500+ yard season from him, picking Peterson is a no-brainer. Peterson should be an impact player from the first day he suits up.
2) New York Jets - *Sam Baker (OT) USC
Analysis: The casual draft fan may not yet be aware of just how good Sam Baker is. Make no mistake, he's a special prospect who has the chance to anchor an offensive line for 10 years.
3) Houston Texans - *Dwayne Jarrett (WR) USC
Analysis: Eric Moulds was a nice addition for the team, but he's not getting any younger. Jarrett is a big, strong and fast wide receiver who has shown the ability to make tough catches look routine.
4) Tennessee Titans - Gaines Adams (DE) Clemson
Analysis: One season of Kyle Vanden Bosch not withstanding, the Titans have been lacking an impact player on the outside of the defensive line since Jevon Kearse left town for Philadelphia. Adams is a disruptive pass rusher who can change opponents offensive gameplans.
5) Buffalo Bills - Brady Quinn (QB) Notre Dame
Analysis: J.P. Losman could surprise us all and have a breakout season as a starter for the Bills this season, but we're not counting on it. Quinn is as NFL-ready a quarterback as you could hope for and could start as a rookie.
6) New Orleans Saints - *Antoine Cason (CB) Arizona
Analysis: Cason has the potential to become an elite level player at the cornerback position. He combines good size with very good speed, ball skills and closing ability.
7) Green Bay Packers - **Sidney Rice (WR) South Carolina
Analysis: The Packers appear to be in for a rough season this year and could go a lot of different ways with this pick. However, the chance to pick up a game-changing wide receiver is too much to pass up.
8) Oakland Raiders - *Brian Brohm (QB) Louisville
Analysis: Aaron Brooks is an inconsistent a quarterback as is in the NFL today. Andrew Walter is being groomed as the QB of the future, but he's struggled this season to the point where the team has recently signed Jeff George.
9) Detroit Lions - *Lawrence Jackson (DE) USC
Analysis: Players with the size and speed of Lawrence Jackson don't come along very often. He's may not be in a Julius Peppers / Mario Williams class, but Jackson is only a half-step down from them as a prospect.
10) Cleveland Browns - Joe Thomas (OT) Wisconsin
Analysis: Thomas is an obvious pick here as the Browns are surprised to see him still on the board. Thomas has added some muscle to his frame and should be able to come in and start right away for the Browns.
Footballs Future
1. 49ers - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
Frank Gore has some talent, but Peterson is special.
2. Jets - Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech
The Jets probably will not pick this high, and could be tempted for Quinn despite taking Clemens in the second last year.
3. Bills - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
The Bills will be in the hunt for the #1 overall pick, and a QB will be high on their board.
4. Saints - Paul Posluszny, LB, Penn St.
Their never ending search for a stud linebacker has ended.
5. Packers - Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC
With the trade of Javon Walker, the Pack lack a playmaker at WR.
6. Browns - Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
A LT is needed, and found.
7. Titans - Jared Gaither, OT, Maryland
Just a sophomore, but has amazing potential.
8. Raiders - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
More bodies are needed on defense, and Adams is the best defender on the board.
9. Texans - Laron Landry, S, LSU
A playmaker at safety like Landry is a big need for the Texans.
10. Lions - Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
Still in search of a QB to lead the team, the Lions again use a high pick on a QB.
Draft King
1. Oakland Raiders - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
2. Detroit Lions - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
3. Houston Texans - Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
4. Green Bay Packers - Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska
5. Cleveland Browns - Paul Posluszny, OLB, Penn St.
6. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Levi Brown, OT, Penn St.
7. Tennessee Titans - Jeff Samardzija, WR, Notre Dame
8. Miami Dolphins - Quentin Moses, DE/OLB, Georgia
9. San Francisco 49ers - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
10. Buffalo Bills - LaMarr Woodley, DE/OLB, Michigan
About.com
1. Buffalo Bills - Brady Quinn, QB Notre Dame
2. New York Jets - Michael Bush, RB Louisville
3. Tennessee Titans - Joe Thomas, OT Wisconsin
4. San Francisco 49ers - Paul Posluszny, OLB, Penn State
5. Houston Texans - Levi Brown, OT Penn State
6. Oakland Raiders - Quentin Moses, DE Georgia
7. Detroit Lions - Drew Stanton, QB Michigan State
8. Baltimore Ravens - LaRon Landry, FS LSU
9. St. Louis Rams - Gaines Adams, DE Clemson
10. Cleveland Browns - Quinn Pitcock, DT Ohio State
Huddle Geeks
1.) New York Jets Brady Quinn - QB - Notre Dame
2.) New Orleans Gaines Adams - DE - Clemson
3.) Green Bay *Adrian Peterson - RB Oklahoma
4.) San Francisco *Calvin Johnson - WR - Georgia Tech
5.) Oakland Frank Okam - DT - Texas
6.) St. Louis *Antoine Cason - CB - Arizona
7.) Buffalo Joe Thomas - OT - Wisconsin
8.) Houston Justin Blalock - OT - Texas
9.) Tennessee Brandon Meriweather - S - Miami
10.) Baltimore *Brian Brohm - QB - Louisville
11.) Detroit *Ted Ginn Jr. - WR - Ohio State
NFL Draft Countdown
1. OAKLAND RAIDERS - BRADY QUINN - QB | Notre Dame
Despite not having a top signal caller on their roster the Raiders opted to pass on Matt Leinart in the '06 Draft, a move that could come back and haunt them. With that in mind the team is still in need of an upgrade over Aaron Brooks so they use this opportunity to select a potential franchise quarterback. Many Raider fans would point out that Andrew Walter is their quarterback of the future but he has yet to earn that title. Brady Quinn has everything you look for in a quarterback physically and then when you factor in the pedigree of having been tutored by Charlie Weis it's no wonder why this Carson Palmer clone is projected to be the #1 overall pick.
2. SAN FRANCISCO 49'ERS - CALVIN JOHNSON - WR | Georgia Tech
Slowly but surely the Niners are upgrading their overall talent level but they still lack a true #1 wide receiver. Antonio Bryant was brought in and he's a solid starter but there is very little to get excited about beyond him so this pick would make a ton of sense. A physical marvel with a rare blend of size, speed and athleticism, Johnson is one of the best wideout prospects to come along in years and could be a better version of Andre Johnson. Due to the program he plays for and average quarterback play Johnson doesn't get a lot of attention but make no mistake about it he is an elite pro prospect that will go very high, whether it is in 2007 or 2008.
3. GREEN BAY PACKERS - ADRIAN PETERSON - RB | Oklahoma
With so many needs it's hard to figure out where to begin so with that being the case Green Bay simply takes the best player on the board. After a phenomenal freshman campaign Peterson battled injuries as a sophomore but still came through with a solid campaign. Durability is the only big question mark with Peterson but if he can stay healthy he'll be an elite prospect and potentially one of the best running backs the draft has produced in a very long time. With a tremendous blend of size, speed and power Peterson has evoked comparisons to Eric Dickerson so if he has the junior season he's capable of you can pencil him into the Top 3 overall.
4. HOUSTON TEXANS - JOE THOMAS - OT | Wisconsin
Since their inception the Texans have been in search of a premier left tackle but after failed experiments with the likes of Tony Boselli, Chester Pitts and Seth Wand they've come up empty to this point and Charles Spencer really isn't the answer either. That would all change with Thomas though, who had it not been for a knee injury in the Badgers bowl game while playing defensive end would likely have come out early and been a top 10-15 overall pick in 2006. A great athlete for the position with ideal size and nimble feet, Thomas is an excellent all-around blocker who would finally solidify the Houston offensive line if he were somehow still available here.
5. TENNESSEE TITANS - QUENTIN MOSES - DE | Georgia
Last year Kyle Vanden Bosch seemingly came out of nowhere to notch 12 sacks but throughout his career he has been prone to injury and there is very little else beyond him at defensive end for the Titans. Even though he lacks elite timed speed Quentin Moses is an outstanding athlete who early in his career even saw some action on the Bulldogs basketball team. One of the top sack artists in the country, Moses tallied 11.5 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss as a junior in 2005 and set himself up to be a very high pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. Moses will help carry on the strong recent tradition that Georgia has of sending top defensive linemen on to the pros.
6. BUFFALO BILLS - BRIAN BROHM - QB | Louisville
After jettisoning a number of veterans it would appear that the Bills are now in rebuilding mold but they still lack a top signal caller. Former first round pick J.P. Losman won the starting job but the team doesn't seem to have much confidence in him while nobody in their right mind would mistake Kelly Holcomb or Craig Nall for long-term options. Brohm is at the helm of one of the most explosive offenses in the entire nation and with Michael Bush out of the picture he should really be able to put on a show for pro scouts this season. After having already suffered a serious knee injury in '05 Brohm may be ready to go pro rather than risk getting hurt again.
7. CLEVELAND BROWNS - TED GINN JR. - WR | Ohio St.
This franchise has been trying to find offensive playmakers for years now and while they do have a couple of youngsters who could potentially break out in Kellen Winslow and Braylon Edwards it sure wouldn't hurt to add some more firepower. Ted Ginn, Jr. is a local Ohio product with world-class speed who is a threat to take it the distance anytime he gets his hands on the ball, whether it be as a receiver, a return man or on trick plays. Adding a talent like Ginn, who some feel compares favorably to Joey Galloway, would do wonders for the Browns offense and bringing in a local legend certainly wouldn't hurt from a public relations standpoint either.
8. NEW YORK JETS - MARSHAWN LYNCH - RB | California
Father time has finally caught up with Curtis Martin and it looks like the future Hall of Famers career is over so with that in mind New York opts to bring in a stud runner with this premium pick. Despite a trade for Kevan Barlow the Jets situation at the running back position is pretty dire so the opportunity to add a top talent like Marshawn Lynch to the mix is simply too good to pass up. Lynch has been very productive throughout his career and is a dynamic big play threat who can take it the distance at any time. In some ways Lynch is similar to Laurence Maroney and if he opts to come out after his junior season he could be chosen early in round one.
9. DETROIT LIONS - DREW STANTON - QB | Michigan St.
After four tumultuous seasons the Joey Harrington error, I mean era, is officially over in Motown. Jon Kitna is the starter for now but he is nothing more than a stop-gap solution which means they are going to have to bring in a top young signal caller sooner rather than later. Drew Stanton is a local guy who shows flashes of brilliance and really brings a gunslinger's mentality to the quarterback position so even though he isn't yet a finished product Mike Martz should be able to coach him up. Matt Millen might be gun-shy about using another high pick on a quarterback but unless the team makes major strides this season he won't be around anyway.
10. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS - PAUL POSLUSZNY - OLB | Penn St.
It's not an exaggeration to say that the Saints have been in search of a stud linebacker for a good decade and despite using first day picks on the likes of Sedrick Hodge, James Allen, Courtney Watson and Alfred Fincher the position is still without question the weakest on the team. New Orleans was all set to take A.J. Hawk at #2 overall this year until Reggie Bush fell into their laps but they could get another shot at an impact 'backer from the Big Ten in Paul Posluszny. Many have called "Puz" one of the best, if not the best, linebacker the Nittany Lions have produced and that is saying something when you consider the school has been tabbed "Linebacker U".
Consensus Draft Services
1. The Bills Pick : Brady Quinn (QB, Notre Dame)
After a successful junior season under Charlie Weis, Brady Quinn is the early front-runner for the first overall pick in the 2007 draft. The expectations for Quinn and Notre Dame are high, and many expect him to be in New York for the Heisman ceremony next year. Blessed with ideal size, Quinn has improved throughout his career at Notre Dame and could have came out after a 32 TD, 7 INT performance last year as a junior. With Vince Young, Matt Leinart, and Jay Cutler all ending up as top-11 picks, it is tough to predict where Quinn would have gone had he come out early. If he can continue to improve with experience, the Tom Brady comparisons will begin to arise and Quinn will be considered by all teams who will need a QB come the 2007 NFL Draft.
2. The 49ers Pick: Calvin Johnson (WR, Georgia Tech)
Even with an inconsistent QB in Reggie Ball, Georgia Tech WR Calvin Johnson has wowed college football fans as much as any player in the NCAA during his first two years. With Terrell Owens-like athleticism and even better speed, Johnson has everything you look for in a franchise WR. During his first two seasons, Johnson has been one of the most electrifying playmakers in college football not named Reggie Bush, making a few insane highlight catches, showing off his incredible hands. His rare speed-size combination makes him a threat in the red-zone as well as on deep routes. If he chooses to come out early, Johnson could see himself as a legitimate candidate for the top overall pick.
3. The Jets Pick: Adrian Peterson (HB, Oklahoma)
Adrian Peterson was slowed by injuries during his sophomore season at Oklahoma, and the team did not play as well without Jason White at QB. Peterson struggled a bit, but still showed why he finished second in Heisman voting as a freshman. His weaknesses include receiving out of the backfield and a tendency to run too up-right. Beyond that, however, Peterson is as gifted as any football player in the world right now, and is another candidate to be the first overall pick in 2007, assuming he comes out early.
4. The Titans Pick: Joe Thomas (OT, Wisconsin)
Joe Thomas will enter his senior season at Wisconsin as the consensus number one offensive lineman prospect in the nation. Thomas, who has enjoyed a nice career as a Badger, toyed with the idea of coming out early as a junior, but injuries made his decision to stay an easy one. A great athlete, Thomas was even asked to play a little defensive line last season. In the NFL, however, he could end up being a franchise left tackle, one of the most coveted positions in the draft.
5. The Packers Pick: Marshawn Lynch (HB, California)
After sharing time with J.J. Arrington, Marshawn Lynch continued to develop as the number one HB on a very good Cal run offense. Sharing carries with Justin Forsett, Lynch rushed for over 1’000 yards as a sophomore, and has the kind of talent that has some Cal fans thinking Heisman. What might not be so happy for those fans is the thought of Lynch leaving school early for the NFL. In terms of upside, Lynch has as much as any HB in the nation not named Adrian Peterson, with the explosiveness only some runners possess.
6. The Texans Pick: LaRon Landry (S, Louisiana State)
LSU Safety LaRon Landry thought about coming out early after last season, but opted to stay his senior season despite being projected by some as a possible top ten pick. A ball-hawking free safety, Landry has no weaknesses as a college stud, but could use to add some bulk to his 6’2”, 187-lb. frame. Landry has started the last 35 games of his college career, and has accumulated nine interceptions in his career so far for the Tigers.
7. The Raiders Pick: Paul Posluszny (LB, Penn State)
The leader of an extremely tough Penn State defense, Paul Posluszny had an amazing junior season, capturing both the Chuck Bednarik and Dick Butkus awards. After injuring himself in an Orange Bowl win against Florida State, Posluszny decided not to enter the 2006 NFL Draft. With LB A.J. Hawk going fifth overall to Green Bay, Posluszny, a comparable prospect, may have been in that range as well had he come out. Instead, Posluszny will lead the Nittany Lions as a senior and if he puts up another great year after the injury with similar production, it is hard to envision a scenario where he isn’t a top ten pick.
8. The Lions Pick: Gaines Adams (DE, Clemson)
As a junior, Gaines Adams made a splash as one of the top DE’s in college football, racking up 9.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss for Clemson. Although he was a possible first rounder, Adams opted not to enter the 2006 NFL Draft, and might be able to propel himself into top ten or maybe even top five status with a solid senior year. Adams is an instinctive pass-rusher with a good burst, but at just 260-ish pounds, the question of size may come into play for some teams.
9. The Browns Pick: Dwayne Jarrett (WR, USC)
Easily one of the most exciting young WR’s in college football, Dwayne Jarrett wasted no time making a name for himself and seizing the opportunity of having Matt Leinart as his QB. Statistically, Jarrett has been one of the most impressive WR’s ever at this stage in his young career, and with two national championship appearances and one national title to go along with his 26 career touchdowns, it would not be a surprise to see Jarrett leave USC a year early. Still young, the athletic Jarrett could still add some more muscle and improve his route running, which makes his upside flat-out scary. Scouts will tolerate the occasional drop because of how dominant Jarrett can be most of the time.
10. The Ravens Pick: Quentin Moses (DE, Georgia)
Senior DE Quentin Moses will look to lead the Georgia defense in the 2006-2007 college football season. A possible candidate for an OLB in a 3-4 defense, the 250-lb. Moses had 11.5 sacks as a junior and is one of the most feared pass-rushers in college football. Quickness and upside are two positives for Moses, who has improved throughout his career in Athens.
NFL Draft Blitz
1) San Francisco 49ers - *Adrian Peterson (RB) Oklahoma
Analysis: Frank Gore may be the running back of the moment for the 49ers, but barring a 1,500+ yard season from him, picking Peterson is a no-brainer. Peterson should be an impact player from the first day he suits up.
2) New York Jets - *Sam Baker (OT) USC
Analysis: The casual draft fan may not yet be aware of just how good Sam Baker is. Make no mistake, he's a special prospect who has the chance to anchor an offensive line for 10 years.
3) Houston Texans - *Dwayne Jarrett (WR) USC
Analysis: Eric Moulds was a nice addition for the team, but he's not getting any younger. Jarrett is a big, strong and fast wide receiver who has shown the ability to make tough catches look routine.
4) Tennessee Titans - Gaines Adams (DE) Clemson
Analysis: One season of Kyle Vanden Bosch not withstanding, the Titans have been lacking an impact player on the outside of the defensive line since Jevon Kearse left town for Philadelphia. Adams is a disruptive pass rusher who can change opponents offensive gameplans.
5) Buffalo Bills - Brady Quinn (QB) Notre Dame
Analysis: J.P. Losman could surprise us all and have a breakout season as a starter for the Bills this season, but we're not counting on it. Quinn is as NFL-ready a quarterback as you could hope for and could start as a rookie.
6) New Orleans Saints - *Antoine Cason (CB) Arizona
Analysis: Cason has the potential to become an elite level player at the cornerback position. He combines good size with very good speed, ball skills and closing ability.
7) Green Bay Packers - **Sidney Rice (WR) South Carolina
Analysis: The Packers appear to be in for a rough season this year and could go a lot of different ways with this pick. However, the chance to pick up a game-changing wide receiver is too much to pass up.
8) Oakland Raiders - *Brian Brohm (QB) Louisville
Analysis: Aaron Brooks is an inconsistent a quarterback as is in the NFL today. Andrew Walter is being groomed as the QB of the future, but he's struggled this season to the point where the team has recently signed Jeff George.
9) Detroit Lions - *Lawrence Jackson (DE) USC
Analysis: Players with the size and speed of Lawrence Jackson don't come along very often. He's may not be in a Julius Peppers / Mario Williams class, but Jackson is only a half-step down from them as a prospect.
10) Cleveland Browns - Joe Thomas (OT) Wisconsin
Analysis: Thomas is an obvious pick here as the Browns are surprised to see him still on the board. Thomas has added some muscle to his frame and should be able to come in and start right away for the Browns.
Footballs Future
1. 49ers - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
Frank Gore has some talent, but Peterson is special.
2. Jets - Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech
The Jets probably will not pick this high, and could be tempted for Quinn despite taking Clemens in the second last year.
3. Bills - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
The Bills will be in the hunt for the #1 overall pick, and a QB will be high on their board.
4. Saints - Paul Posluszny, LB, Penn St.
Their never ending search for a stud linebacker has ended.
5. Packers - Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC
With the trade of Javon Walker, the Pack lack a playmaker at WR.
6. Browns - Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
A LT is needed, and found.
7. Titans - Jared Gaither, OT, Maryland
Just a sophomore, but has amazing potential.
8. Raiders - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
More bodies are needed on defense, and Adams is the best defender on the board.
9. Texans - Laron Landry, S, LSU
A playmaker at safety like Landry is a big need for the Texans.
10. Lions - Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
Still in search of a QB to lead the team, the Lions again use a high pick on a QB.
Draft King
1. Oakland Raiders - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
2. Detroit Lions - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
3. Houston Texans - Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
4. Green Bay Packers - Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska
5. Cleveland Browns - Paul Posluszny, OLB, Penn St.
6. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Levi Brown, OT, Penn St.
7. Tennessee Titans - Jeff Samardzija, WR, Notre Dame
8. Miami Dolphins - Quentin Moses, DE/OLB, Georgia
9. San Francisco 49ers - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
10. Buffalo Bills - LaMarr Woodley, DE/OLB, Michigan
About.com
1. Buffalo Bills - Brady Quinn, QB Notre Dame
2. New York Jets - Michael Bush, RB Louisville
3. Tennessee Titans - Joe Thomas, OT Wisconsin
4. San Francisco 49ers - Paul Posluszny, OLB, Penn State
5. Houston Texans - Levi Brown, OT Penn State
6. Oakland Raiders - Quentin Moses, DE Georgia
7. Detroit Lions - Drew Stanton, QB Michigan State
8. Baltimore Ravens - LaRon Landry, FS LSU
9. St. Louis Rams - Gaines Adams, DE Clemson
10. Cleveland Browns - Quinn Pitcock, DT Ohio State
Huddle Geeks
1.) New York Jets Brady Quinn - QB - Notre Dame
2.) New Orleans Gaines Adams - DE - Clemson
3.) Green Bay *Adrian Peterson - RB Oklahoma
4.) San Francisco *Calvin Johnson - WR - Georgia Tech
5.) Oakland Frank Okam - DT - Texas
6.) St. Louis *Antoine Cason - CB - Arizona
7.) Buffalo Joe Thomas - OT - Wisconsin
8.) Houston Justin Blalock - OT - Texas
9.) Tennessee Brandon Meriweather - S - Miami
10.) Baltimore *Brian Brohm - QB - Louisville
11.) Detroit *Ted Ginn Jr. - WR - Ohio State
posted by Paul @ 8:41 AM
0 comments
