This is my early attempt at somewhat likely draft for the Lions in April's upcoming draft. This are not necessarily the players I would like Mayhew and Co. select. They are just players that are a little under the radar.

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   So, it was Friday afternoon.  I had just gotten out of work, and was on my way home.  It was a typical San Francisco afternoon.  Sunny, warm with blue skies.  While walking I notice about a half of a block a head of me. The unmistakable sight of a Honolulu Blue Lions' jersey.  I thought to myself that the bandwagon will be full this year.  But as I got closer to the individual that was wearing the jersey.  I was very surprise to see the person in the jersey, as well as the jersey itself.

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Last season NYCLions did a weekly Lions and general football trivia fanpost during the regular season.  And since he went AWOL after being married.  I thought I would carry on the tradition in his absence.

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    I think normally this would be a Fanshot.  Since there is not much going in the NFL, and since nobody really reads the Fanshots.  I thought that I would do a Fanpost

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  There are a tons of mock drafts out floating around in the Internet world. Most seem to have the Lions taking an offensive tackle with the 13th pick.  I know the sentiment on this site, is that an offensive linemen is not a big need in the top part of the draft. And I agree with that.  So, in my search to find a sensible, reasonable, and even a sagacious mock draft website.  I came upon Drafttek.com.  So here is what I believe to be the "Best" mock draft out there so far.  Well, at least in my opinion.  Put it in the context of how an actual draft could turn out.  This mock was conducted by several persons representing other teams. I know it is not the most ideal draft. And take in the account that the free agency period will not begin until after the draft.  So I beileve that teams might draft assuming that the players that have not signed their tender will not be with their teams next season ( ie Chris Houston...).  

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As some of you may be aware the Lions are drafting at number 13 this upcoming NFL draft.  And could be in position to grab one of two highly sought after Colorado prospects.  OT Nate Solder, and CB Jimmy Smith.  We have some good insight on both players.  Nate and Jimmy should be impact players in the NFL.  Now over at the Pride of Detroit there is some what of a mini debate going on between Jimmy Smith and Brandon Harris.  Although, as of now, I feel Harris is a more polished corner, but I think Smith has a higher ceiling in the NFL.  Watching as much highlights of Smith as I can,  I notice that he seemed to line up more on the other teams #2 WR.  For example in the Georgia game.  My question to you guys is.  Was that just the defensive scheme that the Buffaloes run?  Meaning that no matter who the opponent is, Jimmy lines up on the same side every game?  Or was there more to it than that?  And what about Jalil Brown?  He looked like he could play on Sunday at times.  He did go against the better wideouts every weekend.  Any feedback on Smith and his role at Colorado would be greatly appreciated. 

Thank you for your time.  Good Luck to the Buffs as they try to get themselves into the NCAA Tournament.  With a couple of key wins in the Big 12.  You guys could battle yourselves up the conference ladder.  You are only a few wins from being in third place.  And Good Luck on the upcoming football season.

   I did a post last week about the linebackers that I think the Lions will be interested in, this upcoming draft.  So, here is my post on the cornerbacks.  We all know this was a mash unit last season.  Lots of injuries and a lot of faces came and went.  But from that, we found two guys I hope will be here for a long time.  Chris Houston and Alphonso "The Phonz "Smith.  My concern, Chris Houston as publically said he is going to test the free agent market.  He would like to return to the Lions, but wants to see what is out there.  Personally I do not like this.  I get the feeling that if an offer comes from a better team, that he will jump ship.  But then again.  His comments were made before the Lions four game winning streak.  So I am hoping for a change of heart from Chris.  Look, both Houston and Phonz exceeded expectations this season.  And both will be pieces of the puzzle as the Lions move forward.  It is just that the Lions need one more guy that can line up opposite Houston.  Let Smith use his knack for the big interceptions and ball hawking skills in the nickel and dime formations.  And bring in a guy that can go one on one with the other teams #2 wideout.  So without further ado.  Here are the 2011 NFL Draft cornerback prospects for the Detroit Lions.

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the Story

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I want to create a fan post focusing on the linebacker position, in this year’s upcoming NFL Draft.  Unless you have been living under a bus, you should know that this is a position of major concern.  We basically had a merry-go-round of linebacker starters last season. 

First off, what we know we have.  We have DeAndre Levy in the middle.  The man battled injuries most of the season.  But he was a key player in the Lions four game winning streak, with 34 tackles and two very big interceptions during the streak.  The man is solid in the middle. And we also have Ashlee Palmer.  Pretty solid in his start against Minnesota, had six tackles.  But I see him more for depth, than a true starter.  For the most part.  The rest of the Lion’s linebackers are either free agents or soon to be released.

 The Draft:  Despite some talk that this year’s draft has a weak linebacker group.  I feel that there are some very good prospects in this group. 

 Leading the group is Texas A&M’s Von Miller.  A 6’3 235lb OLB that primarily played a "joker" role in the Aggies’ 3-4 schemes.  But don’t let that the fact his comes from a 3-4 defense, that he is not a fit for the Lions.  The guy is lights out.  Has the skill set and football intelligence to play in any scheme. Just watch the Senior Bowl.  With only a few weeks of practice, Miller adopted his game to the 4-3 scheme.  He showed why he is at the top of every teams draft board.  If Von can do what he did with a few weeks of practice.  Imagine what he could do with an entire training camp and pre-season, working with Schwartz, The Gun and Burke.

  Miller's Highlights

 Next Akeem Ayers, 6’4 255lb OLB UCLA.  Ayers is a very good athlete.  Shows very good coverage skills.  Good overall football instincts.  Some question marks on his overall motor and football IQ.  Both Von Miller and Akeem Ayers will be a 1st round draft choice.  While I would love to see Miller in a Lion’s jersey.  I am not yet sold on Ayers.  I question his overall strength, and his problems with shedding blocks.  A good combine from him.  Could be enough to get me excited for the Lions to draft him.  As we all know, I have a great influence on Mayhew.

 Ayers' Highlights

The next of the rest. 

 Bruce Carter 6’3 235lb OLB UNC.  Would have been a top 15th pick if not for a torn ACL in his knee.  Some questions whether he will be available to play in 2011. Might not be 100% until  the end of the season.    But is definitely worth a 2nd round pick. 

  Carter Highlights

Martez Wilson 6’4 250lb ILB Illinois.  Martez is big, strong, and quick.  He can play in the middle and on the outside.  Show the intangibles that will make him a very good NFL linebacker. 

 Wilson's Highlights

 Quad Sturdivant 6’2 230lb OLB UNC.  A teammate of Bruce Carter.  This guy is a aggressive run stopper.  Fires off the ball and sometimes launches himself at the ball carrier.  Shows some good zone coverage skills as well.  Could be a steal in the 3rd round.

  Sturdivant's Highlights

Greg Jones 6’0 240lb OLB MSU.  A natural linebacker.  An instinctive run stopper, and solid in covrage.  Lacks the overall quickness to get to the edge.   Some experts say his size could drop him into the 3rd round.

  Jones' interview (note: could not find a highlight vid)

The next of my best

Mark Herzlich 6’4 250lb ILB Boston College.  Projected a late 2nd to 3rd round pick Highlights 

Kelvin Sheppard 6’2 250lb ILB LSU.  Projected a late 3rd to a 4th round pick Highlights

K.J. Wright 6’3 246ILB Miss St.  Projected a 3rd round pick (no highlights)

Mason Foster 6’1 240 OLB Wash.  Projected a 3rd round pick Highlights (note: Foster is #40)

Casey Matthews 6’1 232lb OLB Ore.  Projected as a late 3rd to a 4th round pick Hightlights

Thomas Keiser 6’5 244lb OLB Stanford.  Projected as a 4th round pick  (no highlights)

Chris Carter 6’1 246lb ILB Frenso St.  Projected as a 4th to a 5th round pick Highlights

Jonas Mouton 6’2 240lb OLB Mich.  Projected as a late 5th to a 6th round pick Highlights

Mike Mohamed 6’3 241 OLB Cal.  Projected as a 6th round pick Highlights

Some players to mention that might not be drafted.  Nick Bellore CMU.  Chris White Miss St.  Scott Lutrus UConn.  Kendall Smith FSU.

My personnel favorites of this draft are Miller, Sturdivant, and Foster.  Matthews looks like he does have some great instincts along with Greg Jones.  If the Lions can add one or a couple of these guys.  Along with resigning Bobby Carpenter.  This could be a great young unit.

 And I will leave you with a LIONS VID

LB Caleb Campbell has been released. Replacing him on the roster is former Dolphin OG Donald Thomas. Thomas appeared in all 16 games for Miami in 2009, starting 12. Campbell will likely return to Detroit's practice squad if he clears waivers. Lions RapidReports

This sucks.  I was really hoping that Campbell would have an impact this season.  Just hopes he clears the waivers.

Donald Thomas is a 6'4 310 OG.  Drafted in the 6th round in 2008.  But he will add much needed depth at the guard position.  I am hoping he will replace Peterman...ASAP!!!!

But the good thing is that our front office keeps looking for improvement.

I was a little bored.  At home watching a show on the gangsters of the twenties.  Most had a unique nickname.  Some good and some bad.  That got me thinking about our Lions.  And what nicknames would they have if they were gangsters of the roaring twenties.  So I came up with a list of our( most likely ) starting 22 players.

Matthew Stafford - " The Kid "

Jahvid Best- " Shakes "  Juke would have been good too.

Jerome Felton - " The Hammer "

Calvin Johnson- " The Don "  Sorry but Megaton just would have not made sense for the time

Nate Burleson - " Quick Nate "

Brandon Pettigrew - " Gravy "  With the other offensive weapons.  Pettigrew in just gravy on top of it

Jeff Backus - " Happy George "  Every pic I have seen of Jeff.  He always have a big dumb guy smile

Rob Sims - " The Wall "  I hope this name sticks in a good way

Dom Raiola - " Bowling Ball "  He looks like a bowling ball

Stephen Peterman- " Angry Bob "  Look at his pic on the Lions yahoo page and tell me he does not look like an angry Bob

Cherilus Godser- " The Bull-Dodser "  Only if this were true

Cliff Arvil - " The Anvil "

Sammie Lee Hill - " Cheeseburger Hill "

Ndamukong Suh - " The Enforcer "

Klye Vanden Bosch - " Curly "  Three Stooges reference

Julian Peterson- " Big Balls Mahoney "  Just seems like he would have big balls....

DeAndre Levy - " Knuckles "  Every good gangster outfit has a " Knuckles "

Zach Follett- " Smacks "  Cus he smacks you the fuck out

Louis Delmas - " Psycho "  He gets that crazy look in his eyes

Amari Spievey - " Five Fingers "

Chris Houston - " Burn Notice "  Lets hope this is one of those ironic nicknames.  Like when you call a fat guy "slim"

There it is.  Please feel free to add your own.

What  Hall of Fame wide receiver was drafted by the Detroit Lions,  but never played a down in a Lions uniform?

There is a very interesting story behind the answer.

The Answer is: Fred Biletnikoff

The Story:  In 1965 Fred was drafted in the third round by the NFL Detroit Lions.  And in the second round by the AFL Oakland Raiders.  Fred went to FSU.  And at the end of FSU's bowl game( I believe it was the Orange Bowl).  Al Davis of the Raiders.  Ran on to the field.  With a AFL laywer, and a contract.  While a Lions rep.  Was on the sidelines taking with Biletnikoff's mother.  At mid-field, Al convinced Fred to sign with the AFL Raiders.

It is almost a anlogous situation, with what is the Ford Years.  The Lions stand on the sideline.  While other teams grab the talent.

Yahoo' s Jason Cole did a recent interview with Coach Jim Schwatz.  It was a great read.  Schwartz shares some good insight on the Detroit Lions' draft strategy.  Also you get a good feel for what kind of a Head Coach Jim Schwartz is.

 For some filler.  I think the Lions are in a great situation in terms of the draft.  There are about 101 differents way the draft could turn out.  And about 50 different players I would love to see in a Lions uniform next season.

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So this is my mock rounds 1 thru 3.  Rds 4 thru 7 will be posted next week.  The hardest thing about this mock was the draft order.  I used 5 different sites.  And only two were the same.  So there might be some mistakes with the draft order, in the later rounds.  Also, I know there will be trades.  So I drafted for that.  Like, Denver taking a WR.  In case of a trade involving Marshall..etc...

So POD I give you my Mother Mocker

Round 1

#1 St.Louis Rams – Jimmy Clausen 6’2 223lb Quarterback  Norte Dame

Clausen is a potenial francise quarterback.  The Rams quarterback options are awful.

#2 Detroit Lions – Ndamukong Suh – 6’4 302lb DT Nebraska

What needs to be said here?

#3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Gerald Mcoy 6’4 298lb DT Oklahoma

Missing out on the Suh sweeptakes.  The Bucs still need to fill the middle of their D

#4 Wahington Redskins – Sam Bradford 6’4 223lb QB Oklahoma

The ‘Skins need to find the face of their franchise.  Bradford is it.

#5  Kanas City Cheifs – Eric Berry 5’11 203lb FS Tennessee

Maybe the second best player in this draft.  This player is what the Chiefs need

#6 Seattle Seahawks – Russell Okung 6’5 305lb OT Oklahoma State

With the two QB’s gone.  Seattle looks to replace Walter Jones

#7  Cleveland Browns – Joe Haden 5’11 190 CB Florida

The  BPA is a player that the Browns really need

#8  Oakland Raiders – Carlos Dunlap 6’6 290lb DE Florida

One of the worst run D in the game.  Dunlap should help cut down those 24 rushing TD’s

#9 Buffalo Bills – Dan Williams 6’2 329lbs DT Tennessee

The 1st surprise of the draft.  Bills going to a 3-4 scheme.  Dan fits the bill here

#10 Denver Broncos – Dez Bryant  6’2 220lb WR Oklahoma State

Really wanted Williams.  Morgan is not a 3-4 lineman.  Watch out Marshall your days are numbered.

#11 Jacksonville Jaguars – Derrick Morgan 6’4 272lb DE Georgia Tech

An instant up grade to what the Jags call a pass rush.

#12 Miami Dolphins – Ronaldo McClain 6’4 254lb ILB Alabama

With Taylor and Porter about to collect Social Security.  Phins need a ILB

#13 San Francisco 49ers – Anthony Davis 6’6 325lb OT Rutgers

49ers were weak up front.  Davis and Staley could be bookends for a long time

#14 Seattle Seahawks – C.J. Spiller  5’11 195lb RB Clemson

In the mold of Chris Johnson.  Spiller will give the Hawks some explosion in their offensive

#15 New York Giants – Sergio Kindle 6’4 255lb OLB Texas

The Giants LB core is not what is once was.  Sergio has the versatility that the Giants like

#16 San Francisco 49ers – Travis Mays 6’3 231lb FS USC

Singletary will love Travis’ big hitting stlye.

#17 Tennessee Titans – Everson Griffen 6’3 278lb USC

This pick could have been Wootton also.  But Griffen is more of a pass rusher that they need

#18 Pittsburgh Steelers – Mike Iupati 6’5 325 OG Idaho

Steelers were thinking OT here.  But can’t pass up on the talent of Iupati

#19 Atlanta Falcons – Corey Wootton 6’6 280lb DE Northwestern

Like the Titans, Falcons need to generate a soild pass rush from the edges

#20 Houston Texans – Jonathan Dwyer 5"11 235lb RB Georgia Tech

Texans have a bunch of complementary optins at RB.  But not a true #1.  Now they do.

#21 Cincinnati Bengals – Brian Price 6’2 300lb DT UCLA

Bengals need better play on the inside.  And with Peko and Williams being FA’s.  The Price is right.

#22 New England Patroits – Terrence Cody  6’4 370lb DT Alabama

Wilfolk is unhappy.  Cody is a huge hole plugger in the 3-4 scheme

#23 Green Bay Packers – Bruce Campbell  6’7 310lb OT Maryland

With Clifton’s injuries.  Packers need to sow up the line that was a patch work in ‘09

#24 Philadelphia Eagles – Brandon Graham  6’1 263lb DE Michigan

Sorry guys.  But Brandon’s performance in the Senoir Bowl opened a lot of eyes.

#25 Baltimore Raven – Brandon LaFell 6’3 206lb WR  LSU

The Ravens have too many questions at WR to pass on LaFell

#26 Arizona Cardinals -  Brian Bulaga 6’6 312lb OT Iowa

Gandy is a FA.  And Bulaga is a talent that the Cards’ cant pass on

#27 Dallas Cowboys – Earl Thomas 5’10 195lb S/CB Texas

His play making ability and ball hawking goes great with the weak secondary

#28 San Diego Chargers – Ryan Matthews  5’11 220lb RB Fresno State

Chargers could really use a DT here.  But with none left with value.  A RB makes sense

#29 New York Jets – Jason Pierre-Paul  6’6 265lb DE South Florida

The biggest need is a pass rush.  To get by Manning and the Colts

#30 Minnesota Vikings – Kyle Wilson  5’10 190lb CB Boise State

Without a doubt.  Was the biggest weakness.  Now they need a replacement for the old man

#31 New Orleans Saints – Ricky Sapp 6’4 248lb OLB Clemson

Ricky becomes a big weapon in Greg Williams attacking style defense

#32 Indianapolis Colts – Charles Brown 6’5 295lb OT USC

Colts are a team with little weakness.  Brown is a great upgrade and depth

ROUND 2

#1(33) St. Louis Rams  –  Sean Weatherspoon 6’1 241lb OLB Missouri

Paris Lenon was their starting WLB.  Any questions????

#2(34) Detroit Lions -  Jon Asamoah 6’4 300lb OG Illinois

Jon is the BPA on May-Wartz’s draft board.  And he fits a need.

#3(35)  Tampa Bay – Golden Tate  5’11 195lb WR Notre Dame

Would have like to see a DE here.  But Antonio Bryant is a FA.  Tate is a WR they really need

#4(36)  Kanasas City Chiefs – Trent Wiliams 6’5 318lb OT Oklahoma

Trent saw his stock drop out of the 1st round.  Much to the glee of the Chiefs

#5(37)  Washington Redskins – Maurkice Pouncey 6’5 318lb  C/OG Florida

Skins got their QB.  Now some added help to keep him standing

#6(38) Cleveland Browns – Jahvid Best  5’10 195lb RB California

WR is a need.  But with Harrison being a FA.  This is a great value pick

#7(39) Oakland Raiders – Jermaine Gresham  6’6 258lb TE Oklahoma

Little bit of a head scatter here.  But Al likes to keep things interesting

#8(40) Seattle Seahawks -  Colt McCoy 6’2 220lb QB Texas

Seahawks can wait and let Colt learn for a few years.

#9(41) Buffalo Bills – Brandon Spikes 6’3 256 ILB Florida

Bills keep missing the chance to draft a QB.  So they take the BPA on their board

#10(42) New England Patroits – Jerry Hughes  6’2 257lb OLB TCU

Pats are getting more help on their D.  That got ripped by Henne late in the year.

#11(43)  Miami Dolphins - Rob Gronkowski  6’6 265lb TE Arizona

A big target for Henne.  And will help with the pass rush as well

#12(44) Tampa Bay – Patrick Robinson  5’11 190lb Florida State

The Bucs are in need of some help at the #2 CB. 

#13(45) Denver Broncos – Devin McCountry  5’11 186lb CB Rutgers

Denver really needs a D-Lineman.  But what McCountry is.  Is the BPA.  And Denver likes him.

#14(46) New York Giants – Chad Jones 6’3 230lb SS LSU

If the G-Men want to get back to the playoffs.  They must upgrade their deep secondary.

#15(47) Carolina Panthers – Damian Williams 6’1 195lb WR USC

Carolina is finally on the clock.  And they get somebody to play opposite of Steve Smith

#16(48) New England Patroits – Dominique Franks  6’0 192lb CB Oklahoma

Franks becomes the #1 CB in a weak secondary for the Pats

#17(49) San Francisco 49ers – Anthony Dixon  6’1 245 RB Mississippi

Dixon will be the thunder to the often injured Gore’s lightning

#18(50) Kansas City Chiefs – Navorro Bowmen  6’1 232lb OLB Penn State

With Derrick Johnson only starting 3 games last year.  The Chiefs need a OLB in a bad way

#19(51) Houston Texans – Morgan Burnett  6’1 210 FS Georgia Tech

Playing in the same Division as the Colts.  You are going to need a lot of good secondary help

#20(52) Pittsburgh Steelers – Nate Allen 6’1 205 FS South Florida

Steelers would have love to see a big,fat DT here.  But will be happy with Allen.

#21(53) New England Patroits – Demaryius Thomas 6’3 229 WR Georgia Tech

It is all about giving Brady weapons.  A RB would have been good here too

#22(54) Cincinnati Bengals – Aaron Hernandez – 6’2 250lb TE Florida

Cincy has nothing at TE.  And Coffman was a big disappointment

#23(55) Philadelphia Eagles – T.J. Ward  5’9 199lb SS Oregon

Sean Jones will mostly likely be gone.  Meet his replacement

#24(56) Green Bay Packers – Parrish Cox  5’9 189lb CB Oklahoma State

This is pretty much a no-brainer pick.  Woodson and Al Harris are old( too put it lightly)

#25(57) Baltimore Ravens – Vladimir Ducasse  6’5 329lb OT U-Mass

Like a lot of teams. The Ravens need some secondary help.  But can’t pass on Ducasse

#26(58) Arizzona Cardinals – Jason Worilds  6’2 252lb DE/OLB Virgina Tech

Berry might retire.  Okefor is a FA.  Worilds will be a LB in the Cards’ 3-4 scheme

#27(59) Dallas Cowboys – Jason Fox  6’6 314lb OT Miami(Fla)

Adams is getting old and is injury prone now.  Possible replacement

#28(60) San Diego Chargers – Greg Hardy  6’4 279lb DE Mississippi           

I remember when he was a top 15 pick.  If healthy, a good pass rusher.

#29(61) New York Jets – Koa Misi  6’3 244lb DE/OLB Utah

Koa was a pass rushing DE at Utah.  Now he is a pass rushing OLB for the Jets

#30(62) Minnesota Vikings – Joe McKnight 6’0 190lb RB USC

A QB makes sense here.  But with the pending FA Taylor.  A change of pace back for AP is good too.

#31(63)  New Orleans Saints – Tyson Alualu  6’2 291lb DT California

Purely a depth pick.  But Sedrick Ellis does have some injury concerns

#32(64)  Indianapolis Cotls – Daryl Washington 6’2 226lb ILB TCU

Bracket could be a FA.  If not just more depth for the defending champs

ROUND 3

#1(65) St. Louis Rams – Dexter McCluster  5’8 165lb WR/KR Mississippi

Dexter gives the new franchise QB a weapon to work with.

#2(66) Detroit Lions – Jerome Murphy  6’1 191lb CB South Florida

What? No Donovan Warren?  No sorry, I did not play the "Homer" card.

#3(67) Tampa Bay Buccaneers -  Mike Johnson  6’6 306lb OG Alabama

Bucs are really beefing up both lines.

#4(68) Kansas City Chiefs – Matt Tennant  6’5 290lb C Boston College

Chiefs are re-making their offensive line

#5(69) Oakland Raiders – Rodger Saffold  6’5 312lb OT Indiana

Raiders will do everything they can to make Russell that FOH QB they think he is.

#6(70) Philadelphia Eagles – Selvish Capers  6’5 304lb OT West Virginia

Eagles always seem to have injuries up and down their O-line.  Caspers will fill in nicely

#7(71) Cleveland Browns – Dan LaFevour  6’3 229lb QB Central Michigan

It is not that his Senior Bowl game pushed him ahead of Pike.  Pike just did not look that good

#8(72)  Buffalo Bills – Jevan Snead  6’3 215lb QB Ole Miss

The Bills loved the Browns pick so much.  They drafted a QB as well

#9(73) Miami Dolphins – Cam Thomas  6’4 331lb DT North Carolina

J. Ferguson is 34. Nothing else to add.

#10(74) Chicago Bears – Kyle Calloway  6’6 322lb Iowa

The obvious pick here.  The Bears need line help.

#11(75) Jaksonville Jaguars – "wait for it, wait…." Tim Tebow  6’2 239lb QB Flordia

Jacksonville is the first team to go all "Gun" on offense. 

#12(76)  New York Giants -  Jared Veldheer  6’8 321lb OT Hillsdale

Giants went defense with their first two.  Now helping to beef up their O-Line

#13(77)  Carolina Panthers – Eric Norwood  6’1 246lb OLB South Carolina

Panthers could really use some D-Line help.  But could not pass on a local product

#14(78) Tennessee Titans – Donovan Warren  6’0 185lb CB Michigan

The Titans are doing everything they can to build up their defense

#15(79) San Francisco 49ers – Arrelious Benn  6’2 220lb WR Illinois

Adding weapons for ummm…. Alex Smith?  I guess so.

#16(80)  Denver Broncos – Tony Pike  6’6 212lb QB Cincinnati

McDaniels can make anyone into a great QB….right?

#17(81)  Houston Texans -  Sean Lee  6’2 236lb OLB Penn State

Texans need defensive to compete with the Colts.

#18(82)  Pittsburgh Steelers – Danario Alexander   6’5 210lb Missouri

Finally, one of those tall recievers that Ben was talking about a few years back

#19(83)  Atlanta Falcons – A.J. Edds  6’4 245lb OLB Iowa

Edds adds run stopping  ability to the Falcons front seven

#20(84)  Cincinnati Bengals – Javier Arenas  5’9 195lb CB/PR  Alabama

Javier gives the Bengals a PR and a nickleback

#21(85) Oakland Raiders -  Kareem Jackson  5’11 192lb CB Alabama

Al got confused.  And thought this was Arenas.  Kareem still adds needed depth

#22(86)  Green Bay Packers – Austin Lane  6’6 267lb DE/OLB  Murray State

Bye Bye Kampman.  Hello Austin

#23(87)  Philadelphia Eagles – Toby Gerhart  6’1 235lb RB Stanford

Trying to add alittle power in the Eagles run game. 

#24(88)  Baltimore Ravens – Syd’Quan Thompson  5’9 182lb CB California

Once thought to be a late first or early second.  Ravens get a good CB for their weak secondary

#25(89) Arizona Cardinals -  Amari Spievey  6’0 190lb CB Iowa

Not to many needs for the Cards.  But Spievey gives them a good nickel back

#26(90)  Dallas Cowboys -  Jordan Shipley  6’0 190lb WR Texas

Sorry.  I had to do it.

#27(91)  San Diego Chargers – Taylor Price  6’0 198 WR Ohio State

With the WR core being FA’s.  Taylor is good insurance.

#28(92)  Cleveland Browns -  Mitch Petrus  6’3 304lb OG Arkansas

Browns could use a WR.  But with the recent run on WR.  Petrus help the line get better

#29(93)  Minnesota Vikings -  Torrell Troup  6’3 310lb DT UCF

Not sure what Pat Williams will do.  Too bad there was no DT named Williams in the draft

#30(94)  New Orleans Saints -  Ben Tate  5’11 214lb RB Auburn

Bush could be release.  Ben is a complementary back to Pierre.  And the BPA on the board

#31(95)  Indianapolis Colts – Jarrett Brown  6’3 219lb QB West Virgina

Sorry Colts fans.  But Peyton can’t play forever.  But in three years Brown will be ready to go.

*** Washington Redskins do not have a 3rd round pick***

  I just wanted to send a holiday's greeting to all of my fellow Lions fans.  It is great to see alot of new posters here.  Another tough year for our Lions.  But there seems to be a silver lining for this season. 

A Special thanks to Sean for doing an outstanding job here.  Can't be to easy, balancing school, the POD, and hopefully some sort of personal life.  You are doing an awesome job.

I know this year has been difficult, personally for a few here.  As well as myself.  My wife as been very ill in the past month and a half.  She has been in and out of the hospital.  Spending days sometimes weeks at a time.  But thankfully she seemed to turn the corner to a full recovery.  But during the past several weeks.  You can't help to think those thoughts.  The ones you tell yourself not to think.  But you find yourself thinking.." What if..?"  "What will I do now...?"  So it was some comfort for me to remember couple of Fanpost that were posted here.  So a big thanks to Drewslions and KDawg.  In way, it help ease me somewhat.  Knowing that no matter what life brings.  You just gotta keep moving forward. 

On a personal note:  Fellow POD member Roustique has had a doulbe dose of tragedy recently.  So if everyone could keep a special thought for him and his family.  I am sure he would really appreciate it. 

So from my family to yours.  Have a great holiday.  Be safe.  And as always...GO LIONS!

A special shout out to Davis....Where you at?   Is your computer still crashing?

God Bless

The Detroit Lions picked up Maurice Willaims off waivers today.  And release Salaam.  This is a very good move.  Williams was injured in the Jags opener.  With a ruptured right bicep.  Then lost his spot to 2nd round pick Eben Britton.  Williams, a Detroit native.  And former U of M star. Maurice could be a big addition to the Lions under achieving line.   I think that he could play right tackle.   But more likely he was  brought in to play a guard.

Williams Stats

We were 0-16. I mean really.. it will take a few years.  I dont think anyone here realizes how bad the Lions really were. Alot of people look to the Dolphins as a reference.  Loook where they are now.  F%@# 3-4.  11-5 last season.  Parcells took the short cut, of signing a bunch of FA.  Mayhew and Schwartz are building through the draft.  It will take more than one draft to get the job done. 

Jesus H. Christ...   What do you expect?  The calling cry of this site before the season was " Any given Sunday"  Well, guess what.  It works both ways.  Just because the Lions lost to the Rams.  It means the Lions are the worst team in the league?  Give me a break.  I, mean the Eagles lost to the fuckin Raiders for Christ sakes. The Skins, in back to back games lost to the Lions.  Than to the Chiefs.  Really what do you want?  How many starters do you think the Lions really have?  Do you think that White is a starter on 2/3's of the NFL teams?  Maybe,maybe not.  Give Stafford more than five games.  The Lions drafted a big time quarterback.  Give him a few years.  Look how many rookie are getting playing time.  When has that ever happen a Millen draft?  Never. 

Whats funny to me is.  That we all were here through the " defeated season".  You all can see the progress that is being made.  So, why cry now?  I just dont get it.  The Lions were being blowin out 42-10 almost every game last season.  Fuck.   This is one of the watchable season that I have seen in a long time. 

I am loving these Lions.  I am savoring every minute they play.  I just dont get why would anyone be disappoint with  this team.  I see them on the field.  Are they giving up?  Hell, no.  They have had a brutal schedule so far. 

Just kept the faith.  The direction the Lions are taking is the right one.  It will take a few years.  But for the ones who will stick around.  It will be something great.  I have never had more faith in a Lions team.  Than I do with this one.  And I have seen plenty of Lions teams. 

All this misplace negativity.  " this player got into it with fans."  " this player is missing tackles."  ect.  ect.  Than you put pads and you suit up.  Those players.  If they are shit.  Well they will be gone soon enough.  But it takes time.  Millen really fucked us.  You have to come to terms about that.  We had the worst front office in football history. 

Anyone that has been here at the POD since before the draft.  You know my post.  I am not a overly emotional person.  My post's are stat or fact base. 

I am not trying to call out any posters here.  I love all the different opinoins and personalities we have here. ( and yes that includes you rbanner).  I think, all the people who post here are what I call the 1%ers.  We are the hardest of the diehards.  We all want the Lions to to great.  We just have different views on how for them to get there.  All I am asking is have some faith.  Have some faith that Schwartz and Mayhew have a plan.  Have some faith, that some of the underachievers will blossom as players.  Just...have faith.  I love this Lions team.  It is just hard for me to read a bunch of negative comments about them

Thank you.   

Jakob Cruize  

First off.  Happy to finally see the start of preseason football.  Even though it was the Bills and the Oilers/Titans.  I know it is the AFL 50th anniversary.  And both the Oilers and the Bills were a big part of that League.  But something has always bothered me about the Bills.  Not the team itself.  But the nickname.

Buffalo Bills.  They were named because of local contest.  Which named the team after a  previous football franchise from the All-American Football League.  And the team was named after William Fredrick " Buffalo Bill" Cody.  A famous bison hunter.  Who was born in Iowa( or the Iowa Territory).  He died in Denver. 

 Bill Cody really had nothing to do with the city of Buffalo.  So, my question is this.  Why is the team logo a buffalo?  Why didn't they just call themselves the Buffalo Buffaloes?  Or the Buffalo Bison.  Anything is better than the Bills.  What if Cody's first name was Mike?  Would they be the Buffalo Mikes? 

And while on the subject.  What the hell is a " Brown" ?  Yes, I know that the name came from Paul Brown.  Their first vice president, general manager, and head coach.  He must of had some kind of an ego.  To name the team after himself.  Okay, I know he did not have anything to do with the naming of the team.  But again.  What if his last name was Schwagghopper?  Would they be the Cleveland Schwagghoppers?  What is worst.  They do not even have a logo or mascot.  Just the color brown.  Sometimes they are referred to as the ' Brownies ".  But aren't the Brownies a splitter cell of the Girl Scouts?

Not really something to be feared. 

One more team to pick at.  Houston Texans.  The background story of the Texans is this.  An original AFL team Dallas Texans.  Moved to Kansas City.  And became the Chiefs.  The Oilers move  to Tennessee.  And a new franchise is brought back to the city of Houston.  Even though the name " Texans " has some history.  It is misplaced.  And very redundant.  I almost have a feeling that the name was a marketing scheme.  Just reminding people that the Cowboys are not the NFL team in Texas.

If there is one thing that I can take solice in being a Lion's fan.  Is this.  Our team name makes sense.  Yes I know the only lions in Michigan are at the zoos.  But it is far better than being a Seahawk.  What ever the hell that is?  And we don't have to walk around with a silly looking dolphin on our shirt.   Or, a plain brown shirt.  That reads " Browns ".  I wear my Lions jerseys with pride.  And maybe some of you have some thoughts on other team nicknames. 

GO LIONS.   RESTORE THE ROAR!!!

With Larry Foote being a done deal (almost).  The Lions find themselves in an unfamiliar situation.  At least, from a fans point of view.  The Lions are on the verge of becoming a real NFL team.  The Lions have the complete make-up of a big time franchise.  From the brash and intelligent GM.  To the young and well mentored head coach.  Young players that want to prove that they belong.  Veterans that want to show that they still have it.  And everything in between.  The team needs to come together.  Find the one underlying thing that unites them.  The older players needs to take the younger ones aside.  Show them a trick or two.  Bring a winning attitude into the locker, and onto the field.  The blueprints were made.  The foundation is set.  Time to built this house.  And built it the right way.  So it will last.  Be honest.  When was the last time.  That you really had high hopes for a Lions team?  And not just from a year to year perspective.  But long term.  With the same front office and coaching staff.  Can I dare  say: " Lions Super Bowl bid in 2011".  And to think,  The Lions best season.  Could be the direct result of their worst season.

I loved all the comments made by the fans of the Lions.  I thought alot of them were funny as hell.  I guess there is not alot of love for Matt Stafford.  I read one post.  " I am ashamed to be a Lions fan".  Really?  This is what did it?  Not the fifty years of no champioships.  Not the " Defeated Season".  Alot of you act like we just drafted a punter.  Insert your joke here.  I thought I should set-up a suicide hot-line for some of you.  All that really happen is that the Lions drafted a quarterback over a linebacker.  There will be a tommorow.  Some people think that Stafford was the " fashion pick".  He was signed to sell jerseys.  Put the asses in the seats.  He was called "shiny" and "Hollywood".  But it seems to me that Curry would have been the fashion pick.  Who would have sold more jerseys?  Curry or Stafford.  A large segment of the Lions fans wanted Curry.  So who would have put more asses in the seats.  The fact that Mayhew and Schwartz pick Stafford over Curry.  Tells me that they have a great feeling that Stafford will be a good NFL quarterback.  Mayhew and Schwartz knew how much of a backlash this would cause.  That takes guts.  I liked the idea of Curry in a Lions uniform.  But, I like the idea of having a true starting QB.  And a true starting MLB.  Yeah that is right.  The Lions have more draft picks.   And the thing is.  If the Lions drafted Curry.  They would not have be able to get a quarterback.  Other than some 6th round project at best.  So I am pleading with the Pride of Detroit.  It is time for some clarity.  The Lions have more picks.  Don't give up just because the Lions did not draft the player you wanted.  I mean if that was the case.  Some of us would have left after the Eric Hipple pick.  Or for the newer fans.  The Mike Williams pick.  Keep the faith go Lions.  Enjoy the Draft weekend. 

First off, I really do not like these things.  Mock drafts are more of an eight year olds' christmas wish list.  But since my wife thinks I act like a child.  Here we go.  And I am doing two versions.  One, for all the Curry- manics.  And one for all Stafford man-crush backers.  In mine there are no trades.  The Lions have not given me the power to make trades(yet). 

#1.  Aarron Curry- ILB/OLB  6"2 254lbs.  Wake Forest

With NO ILB on the roster.  Curry is a dominating force. Enough said.

#20 Evander Hood-DT 6"3 300lbs. Missouri

Great size and strenght.  Played in a 3-4 defence.  Does not have the burst of quickness like Raji or Jerry.  But he is stronger, and a gap filler.

#33.  Eric Wood. OG/C/OT 6"4 310 Louisville

Can play all the O-line positions.  Has an OT reach( 34 inches).  recording 78 knockdowns, sixteen touchdown-resulting blocks in 2008.

#65. Sherrod Martin-CB 6"1 198lbs. Troy

Early career injuries have showed his progress.  But he has good speed and footwork.  Could fight for Herny's spot. At the #2 CB.

#82 Paul Kruger DE 6"4 263lbs. Utah.

61 tackles.  7.5 sacks.  With some added weight he could be a outside "bull rusher". 

#174 Clinton McDonald DT 6"2 283lbs. Memphis

Had a good pro day.  36 reps on the bench.  Led the Tiger with 7 sacks.  Needs to add weight.  But could be a sub for the older DT's on the roster.

Dan Gronkowski TE 6"6 255lbs Maryland.

Was known as a very good blocker.  Maryland changed to the West Coast offense last season.  And he became a very good receiver as well. 

#255 Nick Reed ILB 6"2 245lbs.  Oregon

The kid can play.  He was a DE at Oregon.  But not big enough to play it at the NFL level.  Would be a good back-up to Curry.

NO QB in my Curry draft.  If you dont take 'em in the first.  Just dont take one.

on to the Stafford draft.

#1 Matt Stafford. QB 6"2 225lbs. Georgia

Great fotball I.Q.  Great arm strenght.  Good accuracy.  Could be a Francise QB.

#20 Evander Hood DT  6"3 300lbs.  Missouri

*see above*

#33 James "animal jr." Laurinaitis ILB 6"2 244lbs Ohio State.

Great natural instincts.  Does not make alot of "highlight" tackles.  But always finds himself around the ball.

#65 Lawrence Sidbury DE 6"3 266lbs  Richmond

Quick, Athletic, with good strengh.  Was on the Track and field team.  Fits the mold of a Jevon Kearse.  Just shorter.

#82 Kraig Urkik OG 6"5 328lbs Wisconsin

Was injuried this season.  The Badgers went 1-5 without him.  Great run blocker.  With good NFL size and strengh.  Could be at either guard positions. 

#82 Morgan Trent CB 6"1 193lbs. Michigan

Good size,and a good tackler.  Needs to improve his awarness and back peddling technique.

#192 Dan Gronkowski TE 6"6 255lbs. Maryland

*see above*

#255 Blake Schlunter C 6"3 290 TCU

A pure athlete, everything you want out of a center ... except maybe size. 

So there it is.  NO LT.  But I thought the line played well late in the year.  And the defense is the unit with the most needs.  Well that wasted about an hour and a half of my day.  So let the pundits have at it..  I dont care who is drafted first.  I am looking at the draft as a whole.  The Lions have done a horrilbe job.  Of finding starters in the later rounds.  I am hoping that this year will be different.  Go Lions.

I have not been posting alot in the last few weeks.  Not to say that I have not been on POD.  Because I have.  About four times a day.  It is just that every possible agrument for one player over another has been made.  In to reguards of the up coming NFL Draft.  Alot of good points have been made by all.   I have my opinion who I would like to go #1.  But Andre Smith?  You have got to be kidding me.  Why Andre Smith?  Because of his talent?  Granted he has talent.  But so does everyone else in this draft.  The Lions have been drafting "talent" for years.  And I am sorry KDawg if it seems like I am picking on you.  90% of the time I agree with what you have to say.  And that goes for the rest of you.  But, what the Lions really need.  They need to get football players.  Real NFL football players.  And what I mean by that is this.  All thes college players have talent.  They all put up impressive stats.  They all had good combine work-outs and such.  If you removed their names.  And just look at their numbers.  It would be hard to tell one player from another player.  It is what is between their ears.  That is what will determine if they become a good NFL player.  The Lions have been drafting bad character players. One after another.  And all of them were thought of as"great talent".  And not just by Side-Show Mel Kiper. By alot of experts and insiders.   Andre Smith was one of the best thoughout this college season.  No doubt about it.  He gets into trouble.  Does not play in the bowl game.  He has a chance to redeem himself at the combine.  Runs the 40.  Than leaves.  No good-byes.  Just walks off.  That just tells me this guy will not give you everything he has.  He will not do the extra time in the weight room.  He will work on his technique to get better.  See, all of these guys have talent.  But real football players will always try to get better.  And real football player are what the Lions are sorely lacking.  Think about it.  In the last eight years.  What player has progressed into something great? And what player has left the Lions and had a big impact on their new team?  But how many players have left the Lions and are no longer in the league?  I guess what I am trying to say is this.  Having talent is great. But if there is nothing between the ears.  What is the difference between Andre Smith and a big fat guy at an All-You-Can-Eat buffet? 

Jason Peters(LT)  is having contract issues with the Bills.    The last I heard they were more than 3 million apart.  Now, trade talk is starting to happen.  The question I have is.  Should the Lions get involved if the Bills want to move Peters? Peters just turned 26 years old.  And he is a monster now, at LT.  If the Lions had to give up a first round pick.  Do you think it would be the 1st or the 20th?  If they had to give up #1 would that be a good move?  Trading for a player.  Who is in his prime now, and will be for seven more years.  Or do the Lions pass, and kept their picks?  The Bills have #11.  If there is a way to keep two first round picks.  Or at the worst.  Have a first round.  And an additional second round.  I would be all over this.  I know this is just a reach right now. With Peters and the Bills.  But these things have happen before.  And the Bills were unable to reach an extension on Peters contract last year. 

I just wanted to thank all of you.  This is by far the most intelligent fans of the Lions site.  I lived in Detroit for 25 years,  Now I live in San Francisco( only because my wife got an awesome job here).  But I have been deprived of good Lions( or Detroit sports talk in gerenal). I have been on other chat boards.  Only to find morons and idiots.  I wear my "D" tat proud on my forearm.  To show that I am a diehard.  All of you have restored  my inter-roar.  So go Lions,  Screw the Bears, Vikes and Packs.  God bless Mayhew.  And may the Schwartz be with us all.

    I know that just about all Lions fans would love to have Cutler.  I know most would say Cutler for the #1 pick, straight up.  But here is a scenerio that might not be that far fetched.  Denver has the 12th pick.  For them to have 1 and 12.  That would be alot of money they would have to throw around.  And in a cap tight league.  Maybe that would be to much money for them.  So, lets say #1 and 20.  For Cutler and #12.  With that 12th pick.  The Lions could be looking at guys like.  LB Maugaluga.  OT Oher.  DT Jerry.  Or, even DE Ayers.  That to me would be the perfect scenerio.  For the Lions to spent their first round of drafting.