***Note: Every year I've done the Mock Drafts, I've always vehemently never counted on draft picks swapping, but there is so much going on and things are sliding into place that this year I've gone ahead and counted on a swap to happen. A lot of talk has been lingering that the Jets and Saints will swap 1st rounders and the Saints will get an additional pick later, and the situation has aligned itself to the point where it is pretty much guaranteed to happen…Also, the 49ers traded with the Broncos, getting Denver's 22nd overall as well, so I would not be shocked if Houston got an offer from the 49ers for the 6th and 22nd picks for the number 1 overall so San Fran can grab hometown favorite Reggie Bush; if that did happen, the Texans could grab Ferguson with the 6th (or Hawk if he is still there, then an OT later like McNeil) and a stud CB later***
1. HOUSTON TEXANS
REGGIE BUSH
RB * Southern Cal * Height: 5-10 7/8 * Weight: 201 * 40-Time: 4.33
Gale Sayers. Barry Sanders. Tony Dorsett. Marshall Faulk. Reggie Bush.
They all had a few things in common. They all could change direction in a flash, and accelerate through the hole and hit the corner in half the number of steps as other people that have played the position.
Bush is the all around package. He has amazing speed and quickness, a crazy fast burst to accompany great vision. He has great hands and great feet, and is a great return man. He is very strong, shifty, and is tough to tackle even when you get your hands on him. When he breaks into the open it's over. He is patient when he has the blockers, and when he doesn't he kicks it into another gear.
At the all USC Pro Scout Day he had eye bulging stats: a 4.33-second 40, 24 reps of 225 pounds, a vertical leap of 41 inches. He didn't need to do the workout, but did to just prove he has what it takes (physically and mentally) to be #1.
Some people list his size as a hindrance, but they aren't being mindful of the people he's been compared to. He's not much bigger than Sanders was, or Sayers. He's roughly the same size Faulk was when he entered the league, only he played for a much bigger school than Faulk did, who played at San Diego State. He is very smart, so where his size lacks, he can make up for it by being a smarter player. Some question if he will be able to take the physical pounding of being and every down back, but I do not think that will be an issue.
Towards the end of the season, people were wondering if teams would throw some of their games at the end since they were close record wise to each other. It seemed that everyone was trying to do everything possible to lock up that #1 pick. The Texans won it in the end, and a lot of people are suggesting Houston won't grab Bush simply because they have Dominick Davis locked up and they would opt to grab a stud Offensive Tackle to protect David Carr.
They are idiots if they think that. Reggie Bush is the type of player that comes around once every 10 years. They could trade Davis away for an established lineman or two or an OT and a draft pick. There are a lot of ways they could package some of their players up, especially if they grab someone like Eric Moulds in a trade.
In the end, it will be no shock that the Texans will grab Bush. They'll wait until the 11th hour to hear all trade offers from other teams, but they'll be more than happy taking the USC Heisman Trophy winner.
2. NEW YORK JETS (pick acquired from New Orleans)
MATT LEINART
QB * Southern Cal * Height: 6-4 7/8 * Weight: 225 * 40-Time: 4.80
Once I decided to buck tradition and have Mock Draft that features teams swapping picks, this pick (and draft) became much easier. At first I had New Orleans taking Mario Williams here, but no one in the first four picks would grab him except New Orleans, and they could easily swap this pick to the Jets that want their choice at QB.
The Jets QB situation is total hell right now. They have Chad Pennington who has restructured his contract, and no one knows if he can ever return to form with a bum shoulder. They recently traded for some insurance at the position by acquiring Patrick Ramsey, however, they're looking at Ramsey at this point to be a decent fill-in if needed, and not really be the true starter of the franchise. Former Patriots defensive coordinator and new Head Coach of the Jets Eric Mangini covets someone in the mold of a Tom Brady, and Matt Leinart is the closest thing to it.
Leinart has great touch, but not an excellent arm. He has good throwing mechanics, while Young does not. What he doesn't have physically he makes up for mentally, and that is key in the NFL.
Leinart may not be a physical specimen like Young, but he knows how to win games. He is very smart, he can read defenses very well, and he has what it takes to start this season. Tennessee needs someone that can start now, they can't lay their hopes on Vince Young and what he might be able to do for them in a couple years.
His leadership abilities and overall character are what set him aside from a lot of QBs that have entered the draft, even in years past. He was a mortal lock for the number 1 pick last year, and he opted to come back for his Senior year. He potentially passed up a few million dollars for that, but he wanted to win another championship (but didn't) and has said he does not regret the decision for one second. I tend to believe him.
Again, all things being equal, if it comes to a gut decision, the Jets will grab Leinart over Young. Eric Mangini knows the process of taking a great college QB and molding them into someone that can succeed at the NFL level. He's been around Brady and will look to install a system in New York similar to what they have going on in New England.
3. TENNESSEE TITANS
VINCE YOUNG
QB * Texas * Height: 6-5 * Weight: 229 * 40-Time: 4.57
This is an interesting pick. His workouts weren't stellar, and he was slow in his 40. Some people thought he'd easily be able to run a 4.40 and he was sluggish as hell in his workouts.
But not as sluggish as Leinart, who wears two knee braces at all times and isn't known for his mobility.
The reason why I'm going with Young here is even more apparent today: Steve McNair has been told by the Titans not to work out at their complex until they have some contract stuff worked out. Basically they don't want him getting hurt and sitting the entire year and have to fork over $9 million. Understandable. Does this help or hurt Young's chances of latching on with the Titans? Who knows really.
McNair has helped mold Young since high school, and he is a younger, faster, stronger version of McNair. The one thing that he needs to improve that McNair has is football smarts. He doesn't make his reads well, he forces his throws sometimes because of the faith he has in his arm (similar to Jake Plummer's mentality), and he sometimes has issues with complex plays (can you say Michael Bishop??).
That said, Young is amazing. He has the prototypical quarterback size, amazing speed and quickness for a QB, has great vision and makes plays. A lot of people say he is further along now than Michael Vick was when he came out of college. I would agree, as one of the best tests for Vick in college was in the Sugar Bowl against Florida State and he was the only reason why the Hokies kept it close. He was a one man circus and FSU just made enough plays to win. Young stepped up and made just enough plays to beat the Trojans in the Orange Bowl this year. Speed kills and this kid has it.
His arm is strong, but not as strong as some think. He can throw the ball downfield, but he lacks some of the touch in the short to mid range passes. He's worked on that a bit towards the end of the season and got better at it, but he can definitely improve. His deep ball doesn't really compare to Jay Cutler's, but a lot of people criticized Tom Brady's deep ball too.
Many times you hear of guys who are a very high risk, but have a high reward to them if they pan out the way they expect them to. Vince Young is no exception to this rule, in fact, he IS the rule.
Basically, Young needs some time to develop. If the Titans and McNair kiss and make up, I think he has a chance to sit behind McNair for a season and learn an awful lot. My bet is they'll draft Young and will work out something with McNair, even for a season or two.
4. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (pick acquired from New York Jets)
MARIO WILLIAMS
DE * North Carolina St. * Height: 6-7 * Weight: 295 * 40-Time: 4.66
This is the guy the Saints have wanted all along. Knowing the Jets wanted Leinart and the Titans would take Young, it made it easy on them to deal their 1st rounder to move down in the draft and get another pick. They knew Williams would still be here and it works out for both the Saints and the Jets. Sure they could have grabbed Williams at the 2 spot, but the difference in salary from the 2 to the 4 pick is significant, and why overpay when you know you can get the guy you want on the cheap?
Very much the Tweener type. People have compared him to Jevon Kearse and Julius Peppers. He has blazing speed for someone that is almost 300lbs. He has both great speed and that quick burst you need to be successful at the next level. He can make plays up and down the field, and has even chased down WRs and TEs in college. He is very strong, and has huge hands he puts to good use when he gets into space and closes in on his man. He has a huge wingspan and uses that to the best of his ability when going against huge Tackles.
Williams needs to have a bit of a fire lit under him, as people have questioned his work ethic in the past. He isn't balls to the wall on every play, and to succeed in the NFL that is a must. Having someone like Will Smith to help motivate him and take him under his wing certainly wouldn't be bad for him. He's very raw in some aspects but that isn't always a bad thing.
Overall, this is a great spot for New Orleans. They could take Williams, they could grab Ferguson to protect Brees, they could bring in Hawk to lead their defense. They could do a number of things with this pick, and no team complains about having too many options. It's all about the overall draft board for the Saints at this point. Taking any of the guys I just listed wouldn't be a bad move at all given that New Orleans needs help in many areas.
5. GREEN BAY PACKERS
A.J. HAWK
OLB * Ohio St. * Height: 6-1 * Weight: 248 * 40-Time: 4.59
The Packers are in limbo as they await Brett Favre's decision to retire or give it one more year. In a recent interview with Peyton Manning and Tom Brady and their quest to get the NFL to let them use their own game balls on the road as well as home games, one of Manning's quotes alluded to the fact that Favre is indeed retiring. That is pure speculation, but at this point people are grasping at anything to see what he may or may not do.
The Pack need a solid defender, and I definitely seeing them carefully eyeing A.J. Hawk and Michael Huff. This could have easily turned to Huff going here if the Packers signed LaVar Arrington, and from all reports they went after LaVar hard, but in the end he was happy signing a big fat 7 year, $49 million deal with the Giants. Their run defense was terrible last year, and their pass defense wasn't much better. A.J. Hawk is just too good to pass up. Everyone always talks about how instinctive he is and how football smart he is. He is a true ball hawk (no pun intended) and always flies to the ball. He has great range and speed. He's more fast than quick but can close the gap when he needs to. He has great hands and is an excellent tackler. He hits the hole fast and makes himself small when breaking through and is a sure tackler. His football intelligence is second to none and he has great range, even if he's out covering a slot receiver.
Sometimes he can get outmuscled if he puts himself in the wrong position, especially because of his size. Although his lateral speed and movement is fluid, stopping on a dime and going the other way especially on cutbacks and counters has been a problem in the past; however, his ability to learn and be a sponge may keep him from putting himself in the wrong spot and improve him. Coming out of college, he's a notch better than Dan Morgan from the University of Miami.
6. SAN FRANCICSO 49'ERS
VERNON DAVIS
TE * Maryland * Height: 6-3 3/4 * Weight: 263 * 40-Time: 4.38
Not many people have used the pro workouts and combines to improve their draft status more than Davis. Some have him as high as going in the 3 pick, but I see too many needs up there for him to go there. I originally had the 49ers grabbing Ferguson here, opting to have the great Larry Allen teach Ferguson, and give Alex Smith two very gifted bookend tackles, but Davis' stock just keeps rising. Like I said earlier, if the 49ers deal this pick and their 22nd and grab Reggie Bush, I would not be shocked if Houston grabs Ferguson at this spot and a stud CB at the 22nd spot, provided that AJ Hawk is gone; otherwise, I think they'd opt for Hawk, and grab an OT at the 22nd pick.
On to the athlete himself. Davis is great. He's very similar to Ben Watson of the New England Patriots. He's a big target, has great speed for someone his size that can get downfield and very soft hands. He makes people miss and always seems to get open at the right time. He is very strong and is a bit raw in the blocking aspect of the game, but he's improved over his college career. He doesn't have ideal height for his position, but he can leap and create space when needed.
He is definitely one of the better Tight Ends to come out of the draft in recent years. The 49ers would love to provide Smith with a target like Davis, especially if he can learn how to block and move people off the edges. He hits the gym hard, and it shows in the numbers. From what I've heard he owns school strength records for a tight end in bench (460), power clean (355), vertical jump (40 inches), index (797), squat (685) and 40-yard dash time (4.41), all of which were recorded in the spring of 2005. He is not afraid of workouts and challenges and will only get better with time.
This is one of those picks that shapes the top 15 overall. They wish they were one pick earlier so they would have a shot at Hawk, but they aren't, and yet could benefit from Huff but the value of Huff isn't as high as Davis' at this spot. Huff is great, but not at the 6 spot, and this is a limbo pick, which solidifies my thoughts on them wishing to move up and grab Bush.
7. OAKLAND RAIDERS
HALOTI NGATA
DT * Oregon * Height: 6-4 1/8 * Weight: 338 * 40-Time: 5.12
Like Davis, Ngata's stock is rising. The Raiders would love for Vince Young to land here, but that is highly doubtful, and at this point they need help on the defensive line before they look anywhere. An aging Warren Sapp is going to need a lot of help with the losses of Ed Jasper and Ted Washington, and Ngata would be great next to Sapp. If they run the 3-4, Ngata can cause some damage, but they may be better suited to run a 4-3 if they want to create havoc, with Sapp and Ngata clogging holes in the middle.
Ngata is your prototypical defensive tackle: tall, has the weight to contend against physical offensive lines, and some speed. He moves well up and down the line, clogging holes and getting a great push. He has no issue being double teamed and is very successful stuffing the run. With his big size and push, he could potentially be used in goalline situations as a fullback.
A lot of people question his desire to be great, they question his heart. One second he's going 100mph, the next he's forgettable. He's had some injuries in the past, but if he can work through them and work next to Sapp for another couple years before he retires, I think he has the chance to be really dominant and make a couple Pro Bowls in the future.
8. BUFFALO BILLS
D'BRICKASHAW FERGUSON
OT * Virginia * Height: 6-6 * Weight: 305 * 40-Time: 5.07
At this point, the Bills are thrilled to have Ferguson drop this far. They wouldn't have minded to grab Ngata, but they are more than happy to provide protection to J.P. Losman and company.
That said, they have holes on both sides of the ball, and protection of whoever steps up in training camp and grabs the starting QB spot is paramount.
Ferguson is a freak of nature. He is very quick on his feet and has great mobility and range for a man of his size. One big question about his size though is can he pack on some good muscle poundage and not lose a step. His weight is under the average for the position he plays, but he is still a force with great balance and excellent pass protection. At the college level he pushed defensive ends into the ground, but at the pro level he'll need to rely a bit more on his football smarts and his other intangibles.
People have compared Ferguson to Tony Boselli, Orlando Pace, Will Shields, Larry Allen, and Jonathan Ogden.
I can't see why Mike Nolan wouldn't be happy to have Ferguson drop this far, who has been projected in many Mock Drafts as a #2 at some point recently.
9. DETROIT LIONS
MICHAEL HUFF
S * Texas * Height: 6-0 * Weight: 204 * 40-Time: 4.34
Matt Millen is showing shades of intelligence lately. Recently he signed Mike Martz on as the Offensive Coordinator, and he's exploring trade options for Joey Harrington (who reportedly wants to go to the Miami Dolphins). If he does move Harrington before his roster bonus and gets some draft picks, people will question whether this is an imposter wearing a Matt Millen costume. For someone who has constantly made stupid decisions, Millen is starting to smarten up (it seems), signing veteran QB Jon Kitna and Josh McCown. He also has Dan Orlovsky on the roster who could beat out both QBs in a year or so if Martz decides he is the man to take over the helm. Shaun King also could get some time in Motown at the QB spot.
Offensively, this team has it all, they just need a QB to lead them, and an offensive coordinator who knows what he is doing that. I think they have both now. They have tons of great receivers in Charlie Rogers, Roy Williams, and Mike Williams, and a stud Running Back in Kevin Jones, so defense is where they need to look to here.
Michael Huff would be fantastic for the Lions. He's a bigtime playmaker with bigtime speed. He made some big tackles down the stretch for Texas, including in the Orange Bowl to contain Reggie Bush and Matt Leinart. He had a great open field tackle on LenDale White as well. He is extremely athletic with great football instincts. He is a very sure tackler and has above average hands, taking more of his interceptions in for TDs than not. He flies to the ball and is a leader.
Some people knock him a bit because he doesn't really have the size to be a premier corner or safety, but they also said that about Ronnie Lott. He's very versatile, and a Bill Belichick type of player. Too bad the Patriots don't get to pick for another 12. I think he will do just fine in Motown, and will show people you can do just fine in the NFL despite not having 'ideal size' for a given projected position.
10. ARIZONA CARDINALS
JAY CUTLER
QB * Vanderbilt * Height: 6-3 1/4 * Weight: 226 * 40-Time: 4.77
This is an interesting pick, because some thing Cutler won't make it this far. Some think he will drop even further, maybe into the 20s. I think he will land in the top 10 as his stock has taken a hit a bit lately, which is why I have him going to Arizona. He could make it to Oakland, which wouldn't surprise me, but I think they lost too much on the D-line to take Cutler there.
He is a poor man's Drew Brees. He has a strong arm and some size to him. He has good touch and can put the ball where he wants. He is adept at reading defenses and going through his progressions. He can move a bit, but his speed won't amaze you. Some people with strong arms get into the problem of thinking they can muscle the ball into spots sometimes, and Cutler is no exception. He hasn't really been around a great offensive line, and the Cardinals will need to make that a priority to help out Cutler and Edgerrin James, but they did resign both Guards and that is a start. Sometimes chemistry makes all the difference.
Dennis Green is a great coach. He already has the pieces of a great young team that can be good for years. The Cardinals have Warner for a couple more years, and he could easily mentor Cutler. Edgerrin James gives them a great proven running back, and they still have J.J. Arrington, who if he can stay healthy can make a difference. Coming off 100 catch, 1000 yard seasons, Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Bolden will continue to stretch the field. They just need to get some guys in there to improve their defense and a sure leader on offense. Cutler can be that guy. His stock has taken a minor hit lately, but some project him to go before Vince Young, but I doubt that since Young's stock is steadily rising.
11. ST. LOUIS RAMS
BRODRICK BUNKLEY
DT * Florida St. * Height: 6-2 3/4 * Weight: 306 * 40-Time: 4.94
Losing a big time Nose Guard like Damione Lewis greatly hurts the Rams. They luck out though in the draft by getting younger in snatching Bunkley. He's incredibly strong and fills the gaps. He has no problem getting the big push and taking the double team. He has a motor similar to Dwight Freeney. For his position and size he is extremely quick and explosive off the ball. He's had a chance to come up through a great program in Florida State and against great ACC schools and players.
The main concern for Bunkley is health. He is a bit undersized for the position, but his strength and great skills will overshadow that. He's has a history of knee problems, blowing an ACL in high school and having torn his MCL (same knee) during his freshman year.
With a little refinement from head coach Scott Linehan, and a good mentor like La'Roi Glover, I think Bunkley will do just fine in St. Louis. His speed will be perfect for the track surface they play their home games on, and that always makes fast guys faster.
12. CLEVELAND BROWNS
KAMERION WIMBLEY
DE * Florida St. * Height: 6-3 7/8 * Weight: 248 * 40-Time: 4.61
Back to back Florida State picks. I would not be surprised if Wimbley goes to the Rams, but right now they are hurting from the loss of Damione Lewis to the Panthers more than anything.
If Kamerion is still here, Romeo Crennel will have a field day in making this choice. Kamerion is extremely versatile, and is your prototypical Tweener. He can be a smaller defensive end or has the speed to be an outside linebacker in a 3-4. He doesn't have the range to be an OLB in a 4-3 just yet, as his speed is fast, but he doesn't have that extra quick burst in closing speed. Being a defensive minded genius, Romeo is looking for versatile players that can play multiple positions and play them well. Similar to Bill Belichick's point of view on players, Wimbley has a lot to offer.
He is an amazing athlete coming off the edge and gets his hands on the QB time and time again. His stop and start time is above average, and he can close on the QB and on the ball (he just doesn't have that extra umph to excel in a 4-3 at Outside backer). He is a great tackler, but he has issues shedding his blocks, especially when someone gets their hands on him, which is why he might be better suited as a 3-4 OLB rather than a pass rushing DE. He is very much like Willie McGinest and would do well to learn from him, since he is similar in many aspects to Willie.
Romeo has some options on the defensive line after adding Ted Washington as his Nose tackle. It's imperative to have a stud in the middle of the d-line to do the dirty work to free up the OLBs, and this would just be a great situation for Wimbley and the Browns.
13. BALTIMORE RAVENS
WINSTON JUSTICE
OT * Southern Cal * Height: 6-6 1/8 * Weight: 319 * 40-Time: 5.15
Another USC prospect, another stud. Similar to a few other players, Justice's stock has soared of late after his workouts. At first he was projected late 1st round, now he is projected in the early to mid 1st round.
Justice is a lot like Ferguson in that any team that gets him to protect their Quarterback will be more than happy. A Right Tackle in college who protected lefty Matt Leinart's blindside, many seem to think he has so much talent that he could make the transition to moving to Left Tackle. He has great size and quick feet. Couple that with long arms and a superhuman strength and you have the makings of a premier Offensive Tackle that will excel at the next level. He's had some injuries in the past, and is still raw, but there is no reason to believe he won't be able to make Pro Bowls in the future, and protect Kyle Boller.
In an ideal world, the Ravens would love for Jay Cutler to fall to this spot, and he just may. Boller hasn't done too much for the Ravens except tease them, and some healthy competition wouldn't be a bad thing. This is a defining year for Boller. This season could determine whether or not the Ravens go looking for a Quarterback in next years draft. The Ravens let go of Orlando Brown, but they still have Jonathan Ogden to teach Justice the ropes. With the resigning of Jamal Lewis, the pickup of Mike Anderson, and weapons like Todd Heap (if he can stay healthy), Mark Clayton, and Derrick Mason, Boller has plenty of tools to get the job done. But does he have the mental stability to get it done? Can he step up and lead the Ravens to the playoffs? If not, his days in Baltimore will be numbered.
14. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
CHAD JACKSON
WR * Florida * Height: 6-0 7/8 * Weight: 213 * 40-Time: 4.32
The Eagles are ecstatic that Terrell Owens is no longer their headache, but now they have to replace his ability. Can they? They think they can. The Eagles have always drafted well, and have made a few good free agent pickups to give Donovan McNabb some weapons. Jabar Gaffney bolted from Houston in search of a team that had a chance and could use his abilities. He never was comfortable in Houston, and the fact that David Carr was sacked before he could run a 5 yard out didn't help matters. Gafney is a more than suitable # 2 slot receiver, so the Eagles need a clear # 1, and they get that in another Florida receiver in Chad Jackson. He has great size, great speed and quickness, and great hands. He's explosive, both off the line and when he needs to go vertical. He is excellent at creating space and runs superb routes. He is not afraid to go over the middle (unlike guys like Randy Moss), and many times pulls a double team.
Unlike the man he'll be replacing in Owens, he could learn a lot from T.O. as far as being physical and aggressive. He has a chance to improve in the blocking scheme of things, but above all else he has to get stronger. If he does, he has a chance to be a premier Wide Receiver and help out the Eagles, especially in the red zone.
The Eagles receiving corps has been better in years past. Todd Pinkston is never a threat to score, and Reggie Brown is starting to come along. If Brown improves, and Gaffney lives up to his ability, they could have a dangerous triple threat at WR if they sign Jackson.
15. DENVER BRONCOS (f/ATL)
SANTONIO HOLMES
WR * Ohio St. * Height: 5-10 5/8 * Weight: 179 * 40-Time: 4.34
Every draft Mike Shannahan grabs a running back. It doesn't matter what round it is, but he always gets value. This is too high of a spot for him to grab DeAngelo Williams, especially since there are a lot of great running backs to grab in the later rounds, like Maurice Jones-Drew, and Laurence Maroney (late 1st round, early 2nd).
Shannahan is in love with offensive weapons, and Holmes is just that. He doesn't have the size that he would like, but he surely makes up for it with his speed. Shannahan has big targets in Rod Smith and Ashley Lelie, but he'd love to have a home run threat (similar to Deion Branch from the New England Patriots), and Holmes is a track star in football pads. He's extremely fast and was once clocked in the low 4.2s but is consistently in the low 4.3s. He has great hands and makes people miss with his moves. He is physical and strong, and plays with his heart on his sleeve. He runs crisp routes and is where the quarterback needs him.
The main complaint about Holmes is his size. If he had another 4 inches and 20-30lbs., people would be saying he is the next Terrell Owens. A lot of people compare him pound for pound, size for size, play for play to Terry Glenn. He's a play maker and doesn’t make mistakes, and he's coming from a receiving corps at Ohio State that was built on speed. Shannahan's creed could be that 'speed kills' in the National Football League, and it's tough to ignore the 40 time when draft day rolls around.
16. MIAMI DOLPHINS
DONTE WHITNER
S * Ohio St. * Height: 5-10 1/8 * Weight: 204 * 40-Time: 4.40
Back to back Ohio State picks, this time jumping to the other side of the ball. This isn't the secondary of the Dolphins we've seen in years past, with shutdown corners on each side and a stud safety corps. Whitner is an impact player that can play both Cornerback and Safety. His stock is also on the rise, and a lot of teams (the New England Patriots included) would love for Whitner to drop to them, but I don't think he will, he's just too good.
Whitner is the all around package. Speed, quickness, explosiveness, range. He can tackle, he can make a play on the ball, and when he touches it he has the speed to streak down the sideline and bring it to the house. He's an excellent pass rusher who has great instincts and makes big plays. Again, people that are this good, someone always has to say something is wrong with them. Everyone says he lacks ideal size to play the position, but smart players in the NFL don't let size dictate where they play or how often they hit the field. Whitner is definitely a CB/S Tweener, and that could work to his advantage. He has the speed to play both well, and be great at both too.
The Dolphins would be a fantastic fit for Whitner because of a good defensive line, a stud leader in Zach Thomas in the linebacking corps, and the overall athletic ability of the defense. Even when the Dolphins haven't been up to snuff on offense the last few years, their defense always brings the hammer and keeps it close.
17. MINNESOTA VIKINGS
ERNIE SIMS
OLB * Florida St. * Height: 5-11 1/8 * Weight: 231 * 40-Time: 4.50
Losing a leader like Sam Cowart to the Texans is a pretty tough pill to swallow. Being in this spot in the draft helps it go down a bit easier. The Vikings have a great defensive line and secondary, and an average linebacking corps. Going with the mentality of snatching the best player available (and one that could thrive in your system, Sims is the pick here. They will have to wait for a later round to grab a Quarterback because there is no one worthy of grabbing here that they can't grab later on.
Sims makes a lot of sense here. He's an amazing athlete and has great genes. His father played for Bobby Bowden in the late 70s, early 80s, and his mother was a track star at FSU. His little brother just signed a letter of intent to become a Seminole as well. He has great speed and when he hits his man, he makes him feel it. He has superb instincts and is always around the ball. He can shed blockers and even hang in coverage as well. He has great range and for a shorter linebacker he can also jump. He is always moving and some compare him favorably to a Ray Lewis or Derrick Brooks type of player. He's a tough as nails player who plays when he is hurt and doesn't complain one bit.
He is not the ideal size, but you can't always get everything and I'd rather have an undersized backer than one that was too stupid and can't react to the play. He's had a few minor brushes with the law, but not deal breakers like Marcus Vick.
If you watch the film on him from Florida State, you constantly see him on just about every stop, whether it's stuffing the run, chasing down the quarterback, and going into coverage and doing it well. Head coach Brad Childress understands the importance of defense which is why he's gone to great lengths to surround himself with a solid defensive coaching unit. Sims' stock has been soaring as well, and I wouldn't be shocked if he goes to the Browns at even the 12 spot. Because of the departure of Daunte Culpepper the Vikes would love to somehow steal Vince Young or Jay Cutler, but they don't really expect either to make it to them.
18. DALLAS COWBOYS
JIMMY WILLIAMS
S * Virginia Tech * Height: 6-2 3/8 * Weight: 213 * 40-Time: 4.41
Even though the Cowboys recently signed veteran safety Marcus Coleman, the Cowboys are still looking for a bigtime playmaker in the secondary to complement Roy Williams. Williams is a great run stopper, but his coverage skills could improve. He doesn’t have the speed he used to, and he sometimes gets caught playing the run over the pass.
For that very reason, I see Dallas grabbing Jimmy Williams here. What a duo in the secondary that would be: the Williams boys. Jimmy is about 10 lbs. lighter, but almost 3 inches taller than Roy, and he comes from a program (Virginia Tech) that breeds nasty defenders.
Jimmy has great size and speed. Like Roy, he is very strong and physical and reads the quarterback very well. He has the cover skills to be a corner or a safety, and is a great leader. He was one of Frank Beamer's projects at the Tech and turned him into the player he is today. He has a bit of a mean streak, and that gets him into trouble sometimes, as he can sometimes be a bit overzealous and goes for that knock out hit and doesn't always connect. Although he is a great tackler, sometimes he puts himself in a bad position for making a play, and takes himself out of it. He is still raw, but can easily develop into a great partner in crime with Roy. If Dallas thinks he would be better a corner, they may opt to try him there before shifting him in no man's land.
19. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
TYE HILL
CB * Clemson * Height: 5-9 5/8 * Weight: 185 * 40-Time: 4.30
Last season the Chargers were #1 against the rush, while ranking an awful 28th against the pass. When you only have one decent cornerback, that is what will always happen. Quentin Jammer needed some help, and this year Marty Schottenheimer can do just that if he decides to bank on Tye Hill. Some people have Hill going in the top 12, but there are some bigger corners out there, and a lot of times teams are scared of smaller corners. Jammer is a little more than 3 inches taller than Hill and about 20 lbs. heavier, but Hill has something Jammer doesn't have: tremendous speed. Jammer was fast coming out of the draft back in 2002, but not 4.3 fast. Hill could take a lot of pressure off of Jammer and force teams to get a little more creative in their air attack.
Hill is one of the fastest players in the draft, if not the fastest. We're not talking just combine speed, we're talking football speed. In his pads he can run a 4.3. Now that is speed. He is extremely explosive and an amazing leaper, especially for his smaller stature. When you see him play he makes you quickly forget he's under 5'10" with his big play. He is strong, and is very smart, two more great qualities that make him even better.
At most positions, being a couple inches shorter than the average player at that position doesn't make a huge difference, but at cornerback you need to make sure that if a guy is 5'9" he has the intangibles and the rest of the package that makes it seem as if he were 6'3". For the most part, that is true about Hill. He has below average catching skills, but that could be due to his small hands. He sometimes drops easy interceptions and will need to be groomed a bit in some areas.
Hill originally began his college campaign as a running back, and who wouldn't try him there when he has blazing speed. He was a dual sport athlete, lettering in both football and track, where he won ACC titles running the 60 meter dash in indoor track, and the 100 and 400 meter dashes in outdoor track.
The Chargers really wanted a WR here, but scoring wasn't really that much of an issue last year. They did lose Reche Caldwell, and didn't have any major free agent acquisitions in the realm of wide receiver. They also lost leader and quarterback Drew Brees to free agency and the Saints. I wouldn't be surprised if they opted for a wide receiver here for Philip Rivers, but McCardell and Parker should be good for the Chargers again this year.
20. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
ASHTON YOUBOTY
CB * Ohio St. * Height: 5-11 3/4 * Weight: 189 * 40-Time: 4.43
It's been no surprise the Kansas City Chiefs have had some of the worst passing defenses in the league the last couple years. This past year they were 30th against the pass and the year before they were dead last at 32nd. They've had a few chances at greatly improving it, opting not to sign Ty Law last year, and signing Patrick Surtain instead.
Aside from having the coolest name in the draft, Youboty (pronounced YA-BOOTY) has had the distinction of being the man to cover both Santonio Holmes and Ted Ginn Jr. in practice each and every day. What more could a competitive football player want? Lining up against two of the best receivers in the country day in and day out?
Youboty has the size and speed to make a huge difference in the Chief's secondary and he would be an impact player now rather than a development project for them. He flies to the ball and when he gets his hand on the pigskin he can move. He is a physical corner who isn't afraid to mix it up a bit and bump and be a bully. He loves to tackle, and this is something a lot of the faster corners that have come into the league haven't been or aren't good at (Ty Law, Deion Sanders, Charles Woodson). He still is a bit raw and gives up the big play once in a while, but he does have the makeup speed to still make a play when he gives up the big one. He should thrive under a teacher like Herm Edwards, and can get better both physically (could easily gain 15 lbs.) and mentally (have less mental lapses and get out of his game).
They could easily slip in and grab Tamba Hali or Mathias Kiwanuka here, as they have good linebackers, but their defensive line is a bit suspect; however, as pointed out with the horrendous passing defense, that might be the way to go as far as the draft is concerned with this pick.
21. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
BOBBY CARPENTER
OLB * Ohio St. * Height: 6-2 1/2 * Weight: 256 * 40-Time: 4.66
What is it with all of these back to back school picks? The system or just team needs? The player or the success of the program? Or just coincidence?
This is the toughest pick in the entire draft for me. It's not because the Patriots are my favorite team. It's not because they need guys at all positions. It's because no one knows what Bill Belichick or Scott Pioli will do. They have no clue. If I had to guess what they need here I'd say (in this order) Linebacker, Running Back, Wide Receiver, Cornerback. But for all we know, he'll grab Mathias Kiwanuka here. Who knows. All I know is that B-squared knows what he is doing and In Bill We Trust. He always comes out with a great draft grade and who are we to question him?
The Patriots had Carpenter in a week ago for some interviews and workouts. Belichick is looking for the entire package, but his idea of the "whole package" is different than most coaches. He's not looking necessarily at size or weight or speed. He's looking for cerebral players that can learn, that can make adjustments, that don't just execute the play but they know the who, what, where, and why to every play. A lot of people credit A.J. Hawk's great Senior campaign with having an assassin in Carpenter to roam the flats and go deep when needed, to make the adjustments, and vice versa. When surrounded by great players, he can elevate his game and their's as well. He would not be a great leader just yet, he still needs to develop and be a sponge.
Carpenter has great size and is very fast. He has excellent instincts as far as flow of play and where to hit the hole. One of his biggest problems is getting through the hole sometimes when someone gets their hands on him and blocks him. He is very good scraping and filling the hole against the run and is a great pass rusher and isn't afraid to blitz. He has a motor that doesn't stop and he has boundless energy if he has to go the length of the field. He is very versatile which is why he would succeed so well in the Patriots' system, coming down at defensive end at times and dropping back into coverage.
Things he can improve upon are pretty basic: shedding blocks, tackling, and taking what the offense gives to him and not going solo. He needs to use his teammates to his advantage and let them do their jobs.
Carpenter would quickly remind Belichick of another Ohio State product in versatile linebacker Mike Vrabel, who is another extremely smart player who was a bit raw at first and was a great special teams product before moving to starter and a TD machine any time he lines up at TE. His flexibility and versatility might be too much for B-squared to pass up.
22. SAN FRANCICSO 49'ERS (from DENVER BRONCOS from WASHINGTON REDSKINS)
DEANGELO WILLIAMS
RB * Memphis * Height: 5-9 * Weight: 207 * 40-Time: 4.44
I would not be surprised if the 49ers package this and their 6th overall to the Houston Texans so they can get Reggie Bush. If that doesn't happen and they sit on this pick, I see another interesting scenario coming out: the Patriots could grab Williams at the 21 spot and the 49ers could snag Bobby Carpenter to replace Julian Peterson. The 21 and 22 picks setup the rest of the first round this year, and it will be interesting to see how it all plays out.
For this Mock, I have the 49ers grabbing Williams. Teams aren't necessarily shying away from smaller running backs, in fact, the only question about the smaller backs is their durability, which is a question about Williams teams have because he has had some injuries. Aside from the injuries question, there really aren't many issues with him. He is smaller and isn't a great blocker, but not many smaller backs usually are. He has great hands and is great for the swing pass. He has the patience to wait for the holes to open and for people to make their blocks. He has some speed and hits the hole fast before it closes. He is a very smart player who has top intangibles. He's hard to bring down and makes himself small as he's about to be hit or goes into the hole. Very compact and strong for someone his size.
The Indianapolis Colts would kill to get Williams, but he won't fall that far. San Francisco needs a great back to complement Alex Smith, and perhaps the best move for them would be to sit back and grab two great players in Vernon Davis at the 6th spot and Williams here, rather than trade up for Bush. Either way, regardless of what happens, the 49ers could come out of the draft smelling like roses.
He has been compared favorably to a guy named LaDainian Tomlinson, who's alright I guess.
23. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
MARCUS MCNEILL
OT * Auburn * Height: 6-7 5/8 * Weight: 336 * 40-Time: 5.07
6'7".
336 lbs.
5.07.
That sums up McNeill in three short sentences. He's a beast. He is tall and he's big. Oh, and he's fast. He's everything Jon Gruden needs in an Offensive Tackle to protect Chris Simms. Cadillac Williams also could benefit from having a man-beast like McNeill at the corner throwing blocks and coming down on Linebackers.
McNeil has very long arms, huge paws for hands and is light on his feet. He is great against quick defensive ends and smart enough not to get fooled play after play with some of the trick moves they pull on him. He has the strength of an ox and is great at both blocking for the rush as well as protecting the quarterback for the pass.
He has a couple lingering neck and back injuries, which is one of the bigger reasons for him falling this far. He doesn't have a mean streak, and is more of a gentle giant but with a fear years in the NFL the streak could come alive. Although he has a good base under him, sometimes he overextends himself and gets into trouble.
The one thing you cannot teach in the NFL is size. You can teach a guy how to prepare himself better on how not to get hurt and how to stay healthy, you can teach a guy and refine his technique, but you cannot teach how to be 6'7". McNeil is an athlete and Gruden being the offensive mind he is will be pleased to have him starting on the offensive line and giving Simms some time to get the throws off and go through his progressions.
24. CINCINNATI BENGALS
GABE WATSON
DT * Michigan * Height: 6-3 1/2 * Weight: 339 * 40-Time: 5.10
Marvin Lewis has come a long way from grabbing the reigns from the lowly Bungles and turning them into the Bengals, a team that is proud of their offensive explosion over the last couple seasons. It's quite remarkable they are a franchise that can throw up 40 points, and have a decent defense, but not an amazing defense when they are run by an extremely defensive minded head coach. That changes this year. They'll maintain their offensive weapons, and continue to improve their defensive weapons.
For the Bengals, that improvement begins in the trenches. The one big hit on Watson is his conditioning. College conditioning is not nearly as rigorous as the NFL and I think if he wants to improve in that area he will. If he doesn't want to put forth the extra effort, he will just be a one or two down run stopper. He has excellent size and quickness for a guy his build. He moves well off the snap and always pulls a double team. He stays low and gets a great push. He is very strong and can collapse the pocket while rushing the passer. He does a great job of sealing the inside and protecting his linebackers, forcing backs to bounce outside for their hole.
The biggest concern about Watson is his conditioning but a lot of people talk about his great character. His motor isn't the best and he's balls to the wall one play and sometimes seems to take the next play off. Had an excellent Senior Bowl and dominated, as if to make up for an average Senior year. Most head coaches see him as a boom or bust type, which is why he falls down to this spot. He can turn his negative into a positive if he really wants to, and if he does that, he could be like a Ted Washington or Grady Jackson. He could be a gamble, but could pay off in a big way. It all depends on him and his desire.
25. NEW YORK GIANTS
JONATHAN JOSEPH
CB * South Carolina *Height: 5-11 * Weight: 193 * 40-Time: 4.31
This is one of those picks that if the first half of the 1st round shakes up differently, Joseph is gone here and the Giants have to take a chance on a boom or bust prospect like Antonio Cromartie (major health concerns). The Giants need a bigtime playmaking cornerback and Joseph seems to fit well for them.
He has excellent speed and quickness. He has good size and can get his hands on the ball and do something with it. Like Youboty, he loves to tackle and he's good at it. He has no problem coming out of his zone to go after a back and is very fluid in his hips and has great footwork. He is still raw though, because he only played one year in Division I, playing some JuCo out of high school. His speed coupled with his size is why a lot of teams are interested in him, as the issues he has are based solely on his inexperience. The Giants are looking for someone to swoop in and save them, providing great coverage and run support (something even Jason Sehorn never did very well) to help out Will Allen.
If the Giants weren't hurting in their secondary, they may have opted to use this to grab another receiver, since after Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer the talent drops off considerably. They were in the running to grab Randle El, but he landed in Washington. If they grabbed him they would be more confident in this pick at this spot.
Regardless, Joseph is still raw and needs to develop, however he could help out and be an impact player right away.
26. CHICAGO BEARS
LEONARD POPE
Tight End * Georgia * Height: 6-7 3/4 * Weight: 258 * 40-Time: 4.62
This is one of those picks that can go either way, depending on one contract that they offered to a restricted free agent. They just signed Ricky Manning to an offer sheet, to be matched by the Panthers by the 28th of April or they lose him to the Bears. This is very important to their draft day, because if they don't get Manning, they may opt to go after a Corner here. If they do get him, they can rest easier and go for a more pressing need, a Tight End for Quarterback Rex Grossman.
Talk about a huge target for Rex Grossman. It seems that Georgia has something in the water, because they seem to know how to grow big, fast, strong Tight Ends. New England Patriots Tight End and Georgia alum Benjamin Watson said in an interview this week that he will be with Pope watching the draft in Georgia. Some thing tells me there won't be a lot of room to see the TV with these two sitting in front of it.
Watson said himself that Pope is a bit raw in areas, but is downright nasty. He has great size and is a huge target with his long arms. He can jump for the ball and make a play when he goes vertical. He is tough to take down when he has the ball and uses his size to get into space or create it. He runs crisp routes and gets into the secondary quickly with his speed. He has good footwork and can be physical if needed. He can destroy smaller corners, especially if the ball is lobbed up to him in space because of his athletic ability to leap combined with his size.
He does have areas of improvement, and they start at the line where he could become a better blocker. If he finds a love for blocking and moving upfield when he doesn't have the ball or isn't in the realm of getting it, he can really be a nuisance for defenses.
Pope has an eye-popping career average of 18.1 yards per catch and was a bit of a man playing against boys in college.
Coming off a mostly injury plagued season, Rex Grossman would love to have a target like Pope to complement Mushin Muhammed. Lining the two of them up on the same side of the field might have to be outlawed.
27. CAROLINA PANTHERS
LENDALE WHITE
RB * Southern Cal * Height: 6-0 3/8 * Weight: 238 * 40-Time: 4.50
This is a tough pick in that the Panthers were very high on White prior to hearing about his torn hamstring. A torn hamstring is not a torn ligament, it's not a bum ankle. It's something that should be healed before mini-camps kick off this summer and shouldn't have any lingering effects. If the Panthers are still worried about that, they may decide to go with Laurence Maroney, but I'm banking on them sticking with White here. He is not as big of a risk as Willis McGahee a few years ago when he was selected in the first round by the Buffalo Bills at the 23 spot.
That said, White would be a great fit for replacing the loss of Stephan Davis, and taking over the starting job from always injured DeShaun Foster. With all the stars on USC, White was always overshadowed by flashier players like Reggie Bush and Matt Leinart. White is a true workhorse. People forget that in his last three college seasons he averaged over 1,000 yards and 17 TDs in each season. He took the bulk of the carries, opting to be the work horse while Bush was kept fresh and stretched the field when he touched the ball.
White has ideal size for the position and is fantastic in goal line situations. He has a couple moves but is primarily a North / South runner, a poor man's version of Emmitt Smith, and actually compares quite nicely to Jamal Lewis. He has good vision and he protects the ball when he hits the hole. He is very strong, tough to bring down, and he reminds a lot of people to Jerome Bettis (which is why if he doesn't go here, he will be gone at the 32nd pick for sure). He punishes tacklers and his yards after contact are great. He catches the ball well and moves well in open space. He has the speed to pull away when he needs it but not blazing speed. He can definitely improve as a blocker, but the Carolina Panthers won't need to rely so heavily upon him to do that with the great offensive line they have.
The biggest question for everyone is his hamstring, and it isn't the type of question of if he will be drafted, but when and where. Many will take note that he could have had even more gaudy numbers if he didn't share the load with Reggie Bush. Game tape doesn't lie, and even after his hamstring issue, I think he'll land in the 1st round with the Panthers.
28. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
CHAD GREENWAY
OLB * Iowa * Height: 6-2 1/2 * Weight: 242 * 40-Time: 4.75
This is a perfect case of a guy landing with the right team and a team needing the right guy. The Jaguars have a very real pressing need to have a stud outside Linebacker and Greenway gives them just what they need.
Greenway could go here or 7 picks earlier. He has boatload of potential and he is one of the best outsider 'backers in the draft. The one word scouts use to describe Greenway is explosive. He has good size and has great acceleration. Like Hawk, he is very smart and has great football smarts. He is great in coverage and is a sure tackler, however he could improve in that arena if he works with his strength coach, as his lower body strength is lacking. He has excellent range and makes plays all over the field. His motor never stops and he picks people up and makes them better. He is not afraid to run down the field and get into coverage. He has issues shedding blocks and getting other's hands off of him. He tore his knee his senior year in high school but that didn't slow him down one bit.
If he hits the weights hard and works with the strength and conditioning staff of the Jaguars, he can be really special. He has tremendous upside and will start immediately, as there are huge holes on the Jaguars are OLB. With 3 unrestricted free agents at OLB, the Jags would be thrilled to get Greenway to step right in and become a young leader of a team that already has a young defense. He is flexible and versatile enough to fit in just about any type of defensive scheme.
29. NEW YORK JETS (f/DEN/ATL)
MANNY LAWSON
Defensive End * North Carolina St. * Height: 6-5 3/8 * Weight: 241 * 40-Time: 4.43
Head Coach Eric Mangini doesn't have too much to work with. After losing John Abraham this year, they need to retool, and they start with Lawson. Mangini understands the need to build your defense around a young defensive end stud (hello Dwight Freeney, Richard Seymour, Jevon Kearse, and company).
Lawson is a very gifted athlete with very rare ability. Look at his numbers: he is a bit taller than 6'5", 241, and he has wide receiver speed. That is a freak of nature, and in many aspects reminds many of Jevon Kearse. He comes off the edge hard and fast, but still has the skills to drop into coverage if need be. He has a massive arm span and he is a great tackler. Once he sees where he needs to go he takes the shortest route to his target. He is very explosive and has amazing quick twitching fibers. He has an incredible vertical . For a defensive end, he could probably gain 20-30 lbs., but should he? His speed can effectiveness could take a hit if he does that. Perhaps what he needs is a system that utilizes DE / OLB 'tweeners, such as the Patriots, and possibly the Jets (since that is the system Mangini used to run in New England). He would succeed in most 3-4 schemes as an OLB, and since most NFL teams run the 3-4, he has a lot of opportunities to be drafted by a team that has a system in which he will succeed immediately.
Size isn't necessarily the issue with Lawson, whereas strength is. He has issues getting shedding blocks and defending against the run. He doesn't always use leverage to his advantage and isn't a natural End, which may be even more of a reason for him to move to outside Backer. He needs to be better with his hands. He is athletically gifted, he just needs to get help honing his athleticism and skills.
30. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
LAURENCE MARONEY
RB * Minnesota * Height: 5-11 7/8 * Weight: 215 * 40-Time: 4.47
Depending on whether the Panthers have soured on LenDale White or not, Maroney could be gone at the 27 spot before the Colts even have a shot at him here. I'm banking on Coach Fox of Carolina still being high on White.
For some reason I half think Maroney makes it this far, and half don't, but with all the makeups of my Mock, Maroney drops here more often than not because of what the rest of the teams need.
Maroney isn't as good as Edgerrin James was coming out of college, but the Colts need a running back, and Maroney is the man and they'll have to make due. That said, he's very talented. He has speed, and great vision, but lacks the hands of Edge, mostly because of the offensive scheme he was in at Minnesota. He is a patient runner, waits for his blocks, and always has the ability to break a long run and blocks as he streaks down the field. He is much faster than his 40 time (some thing he can hit it up to 4.3 on the stopwatch), and he is also great at returning kicks. Again, another back people say is undersized, but that seems to be the trend in this draft. He is not the physical back that James was, and must bulk up a bit in order to handle the rigors of being an every down back. He is very good at protecting the ball and bounces of defenders once he gets outside. He can definitely improve upon picking up the blitz and protecting the quarterback. Many believe is a product of his system, mainly because most running backs to come out of Minnesota excel in the program and when they hit the NFL they bottom out.
31. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
MATHIAS KIWANUKA
DE * Boston College * Height: 6-5 3/4 * Weight: 256 * 40-Time: 4.75
The Seattle Seahawks need a little of everything but not a lot. Although they may have a bit more of a pressing need at Safety, the quality pick here is Kiwanuka. He is just too talented to let slip by the Seahawks, and having young stud defensive ends has never hurt any team.
Kiwanuka is an excellent pass rusher who can get upfield. He has great speed and quickness and for a big guy is light on his feet. He moves fluidly with his big frame and long arms, and if needed could add some bulk and push some Tackles around. The biggest downside to him was displayed in the Senior Bowl, where he was used and abused by D'Brickashaw Ferguson, especially when he got too far into him. He can definitely get a bit stronger, but that shouldn't be an issue at the next level. He never stops moving and has a motor that is constantly running. He creates problems for Tackles that don't have great footwork, but those that do match well against him because of his lack of moves. Some think he may have to move to outsider backer, but that remains to be seen.
Kiwanuka has the intangibles and character to excel at the next level. He'll need to kick it up a notch in the weight room and work on his technique, but Mike Holmgren can rectify that.
32. PITTSBURGH STEELERS
SINORICE MOSS
Wide Receiver * Miami (FL) * Height: 5-8 * Weight: 185 * 40-time: 4.30
Normally, a wide receiver-lacking team like the Steelers would panic when they lose their number 1 big play threat, as they lost Antwan Randle El to the Washington Redskins; however, Bill Cowher lucks out with Sinorice Moss still being available. Much like his brother Santana Moss, Sinorice is a threat to score each and every time he touches the ball. Some say he runs even faster than his 40 time and has Deion Sanders like speed. He's an exceptional talent and always fun to watch.
Moss is incredibly fast and explosive off the snap. He can accelerate and decelerate with one plant of his foot. He hits holes that aren't even there and really stretches the field and will be Big Ben's best friend as he'll open up many options for him. He has great hands and ball skills, rarely fumbling and protects it very well. He is great route runner, and knows when he has to cut the route off to help his quarterback. He loves returning the ball and having a chance to make a big play.
Many question his size and durability, but he's merely 2 inches shorter than his brother and 5 lbs. lighter. He has great genes, and will be used in a similar fashion to his brother. He won't be asked often to go over the middle, and doesn't need to be, as Hines Ward and Heath Miller have no qualms doing the dirty work. He's an exceptional talent and I wouldn't be surprised if he landed even twelve spots or more back in the 20s. His brother is a shining example of how size doesn't always matter and that may be too much for many teams to pass up.
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