I have always like the weekly Mods Pick'em, and I appreciate WABillsfan taking the time and effort to put it together every week.  When it first started, the Mods Pick'em was much more popular and generated a lot more comments.  The comments this year have been few and far between, even by the Mods making the picks. The lack of interest has made me wonder if it is worth keeping this series going.   I have a few ideas on how to make it more interesting.  Or, maybe you would rather just kill it altogether?   A poll to gauge reader opinion is after the jump.

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I have a suspicion that many a final mock will be posted in the next twenty-four hours.  I thought it might be a good idea to put them all under one roof.  We all know the players pretty well by now, so I am not going to be posting any in depth analysis of players or links to scouting reports.  This is basically for bragging rights and/or the eating of crow.  Who I would draft if I were the Bills GM is after the jump.  And if you think putting all final mocks together in one post is a good idea, please rec this so it stays on top.

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I am getting fed up with the NFL and the players union.  Tickets cost to much, players salaries are way to high, stadiums cost owners to much to build on their own and taxpayers understandably don't want to or can't handle another tax increase to help.  Maybe it is time to start over?

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I can see why some people are high on this kid.  If you don’t look past his big arm and a big smile, you might think he was to good to pass up.  Too bad it takes more than a big arm and quick feet to be a great NFL QB. 

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After reading Der Jeager’s post ,

http://www.buffalorumblings.com/2011/2/12/1990611/franchise-quarterbacks#59104785

I wanted to see in what years the current starting QBs were taken,  and how long they sat before being named the starting QB.  I decided to list them by the year they were drafted, team who drafted them, round taken in the draft, and put the number of years they sat before being named the starter, which I put in parenthesis.  I also included a few pertinent tid bits about each QB.

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Since the Senior Bowl has passed, I figured it was time to get a mock together.  Round one - QB, Round two - OT...Right?  Nope....and nobody was more surprised than me.  Here is what I would do if I was the GM of the Bills.

1.  (3) Patrick Peterson – CB – I didn’t take a QB????   Shocking I know….. I want to take a QB here so bad it hurts, but Locker did not look good in the Sr. Bowl and without seeing more of Gabbert, I just can't put him here.  I can’t shake the feeling that he is this year’s Locker.   Maybe Gabbert and/or Locker will end up being great NFL QBs, but can I really afford to find out?  I may have already missed with Spiller.  You can’t afford to repeatedly miss on your #1 pick, or you end up out of a job…just ask Jauron.  Peterson is considered a top 3 pick and the best CB in this draft.  He is a winner that has consistently produced as a CB and on special teams. From

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1632296

"Peterson played in 39 games, starting 30 times. He recorded 135 tackles, 22 pass breakups and seven interceptions on defense. As a return specialist, he finished with 418 punt returns yards and two touchdowns to go with 932 kickoff return yards. Peterson scored touchdowns three different ways during his career with the Tigers - punt returns (2), interception return, and return of a blocked field goal.

Intangibles: Confident, almost cocky demeanor on the field. Possesses the short memory of all great cornerbacks. Extremely competitive. Seems to relish the battles against top receivers in man coverage. Campaigned to be used on special teams and even offense while at LSU due to his natural playmaking skills. Good bloodlines. Cousins of NFL cornerback Bryant McFadden and wide receivers Santana and Sinorice Moss. Characterized as "freak" athlete. " 

Peterson is a shutdown CB that can also tackle. I can’t find any character issues.  Shutdown CBs can play in any system, so defensive scheme is not an issue. Peterson is the BPA and fills a need at CB, return specialist, and maybe even at S if need be. 

2.  (34) ILB - Martez Wilson  Height: 6-4   Weight: 250 – The Bills need a thumper at ILB, and Wilson is the highest rated ILB in this year’s draft. From

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1272548

“Wilson lead the team in tackles this season (2010) with 112…….2009 - Recorded nine tackles in the season opener against Missouri … Suffered a herniated disc in his neck, which forced him to miss the remainder of the 2009 season …2008 - Ranked 14th in the Big Ten in tackles per game with 6.6 … Ranked fifth in the Big Ten in fumbles recovered with two …2007 - Played in all 13 games at linebacker … Posted three solo tackles in the Rose Bowl against USC.”

Not only does Wilson upgrade our LB core, but he will allow Poz to do what he does best, stay clean, run to the ball, and make plays.  And again, it kills me not to take the best OT here…..there are so many freaking holes on this team it makes me sick.  The Bills have made a point of picking up O-lineman from other teams’  practice squads.  We can’t fill all of the holes we have at once.  If we are lucky, we will pick up a RT via free agency.  If not, look for Chan to try polishing more practice squad turds.

3. (68) QB - Collin Kaepernick  Height: 6-5   Weight: 225 or Ricky Stanzi  Height: 6-4   Weight: 221– And so it has come down to this….taking another developmental QB.  I can’t tell you how disappointed I am in myself, but I can’t seem to justify taking one of the higher rated QBs like Gabbert, Locker, or Mallett, who I assume will all be gone by the time we pick in the second round.  Assuming they are, I don't believe their is enough of a difference between a QB like Ponder and a QB like Kaepernick that an extra year of development won't fix.  I actually liked Stanzi better as a passer.  Stanzi was more poised in the pocket and had better accuracy.   But there was no denying Kaepernick has better physical tools.  Plus, he really seems to have the “it” factor.  Some of the notes I took while watching Kaepernick in the Sr. Bowl: 

First pass was picked, but not his fault.  Has good pocket awareness and moves well in the pocket.  He does look down field initially, but takes off running to soon.  Has experience running the Pistol (Chan licks his chops).  Big arm and really spins the ball.  Raw as hell as a under center pocket type QB.  Two year project.  Very well spoken in his sideline interview.  Confident but not arrogant.  Saw him on the sidelines encouraging teammates.

 Kaepernick's stock is on the rise, so if the Bills really want him they might have to take him in the second or settle for Stanzi here.

4.  (99) DT - Jerrell Powe   Height: 6-2   Weight: 320 –  The cornerstone of the 3-4 is a true NT….that mountain of humanity that makes it next to impossible to run it straight up the gut.  If you think Kyle Williams was good before, just wait until we put him next to this guy.  From

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1632316

“2010 ALL-SEC FOOTBALL SECOND TEAM (COACHES): DL Jerrell Powe, Ole Miss, has been selected All-SEC Football Second Team for the 2010 college football season as selected by the SEC head football coaches. The senior defensive tackle earned second team honors for the second straight year, after garnering the same distinction in 2009 from the Associated Press. A native of Waynesboro, Miss., Powe was among the candidates for the Rotary Lombardi Award, Outland Trophy and Bronko Nagurski Trophy and was voted a Team Captain by his teammates. Despite often facing double teams, Powe amassed 27 total tackles, 8.5 TFLs and 2.5 sacks this season, including 1.5 sacks at No. 8 Alabama. Powe missed only one game in his three seasons with the Red and Blue and started 22 of 25 games the past two years.”

4. (121) OT - Marcus Gilbert  Height: 6-6   Weight: 329 – I was hoping to take James Brewer here, but the Sr. Bowl seems to have boosted his stock as well.  Gilbert might actually be as good, and certainly isn't this years version of Ed Wang.  Gilbert played both RT and LT for the Gators, but I think he projects well as a RT in the NFL.  The short version….this guy is a bulldozer with good feet.  From

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1114672

“Pass blocking: Solid pass protector with a quick set, fluid lateral movement and willingness to go out and punch his man off the snap instead of waiting for the rush to come to him.

Run blocking: Effective size and mobility to be an extremely effective positional blocker at the next level. Anchors against strong defensive ends well, resets his hands to sustain the block. Moves his feet to wall off backside run support and sustain until the play is away. Also has quick feet to the second level; does more than get in the way, will extend his arms to fully negate linebacker (raises them off the ground at times). Good drive-blocker, churns forward after engaging and will usher his man downfield for seven to 10 yards.

Pulling/trapping: Effective trapping inside and getting out in front of plays run to side because of his quick feet. Moves around the guard or tight end well for his size, is flexible enough to turn the corner and find a target.

Initial Quickness: Gets off the snap very well for his size, gets into his opponent if man-up on the outside or tries to get to the linebackers in a hurry. Strong punch and arm extension to pass protect or lock up his man on run plays. Quick kick-slide to mirror most strong-side ends, though not elite in this area; his length allows him to compensate against quicker college defensive ends.

Intangibles: Reliable, durable player who consistently gives good effort. One of the team's senior leaders for 2010. Mature, well-liked player with no known character issues. Studies his playbook and constantly looks to improve. Father is a retired Secret Service agent. “

 

5. TE - Andre Smith  Height: 6-4   Weight: 272 - Smith is solid in the running game as a blocking TE which is good because… let’s face it….our OTs are going to need the help.  The good news is he is improving as a pass catcher and plays special teams too.  From:

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1117478

“Moves into the top spot at tight end after being a key member of the rotation the past three seasons … Is coming off an exceptional spring … Coaches think he can be as good as he wants to be … The Hokies' only experienced player at the position … May have to be an every-down guy … Was a big asset to the Hokies' running game last season with his blocking … Led the tight ends with 21 knockdown blocks … Also plays a major role on special teams, starting on four different units … Is vastly improved in the passing game … Provides a big target with excellent hands … A key player for the Hokies in 2010.”

6. FB - Henry Hynoski   Height: 6-2   Weight: 260 lbs – Is it possible that Coach Wannstedt might give Chan the 411 on this guy?  From

http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=69129&draftyear=2011&genpos=FB

“Hynoski was Pitts starting fullback each of the past two years. This past season he rushed 12 times for 33 yards and caught 25 passes for 174 yards and one touchdown…..FB Henry Hynoski is always overlooked when it comes to the Panthers' offense, but he has been a crucial part of it. Used mostly to block for RBs Dion Lewis and Ray Graham, Hynoski can get the tough yards inside as a change-of-pace runner and by catching an occasional pass. He has 18 receptions for a 7.2-yard average and one touchdown. Hynoski is coming back from a concussion, and the Panthers really need him to make the ground game go.”

7. NT - Chris Neild – Height: 6-2   Weight: 313 – Developmental NT with good character and leadership skills.  From

http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=75263&draftyear=2011&genpos=DT

“NG Chris Neild, the heart and soul of the defense, was slowed in the final game by a hamstring injury. He expected to play but did not get many snaps as he could not get it loose. He is expected back by bowl time…..Chris Neild, the senior out of Stroudsburg, Pa., has been impressing NFL scouts as he has anchored the middle of a WVU defensive line that has played well all season. Despite a position that doesn't lead itself to sacks, Neild has two already this season. Against LSU he had six tackles, second to S Robert Sands' nine.”

I can see it now….fourth and goal on the one…bring in “Heavy Jumbo” ….Williams – Neild – Powe – Troup.  Try running against that!

So there it is......not really the mock I expected either.....life is funny that way ;-)

Don't forget to vote in the poll.

The Spiller pick……I could never figure the logic of it.  Then this week,  I happen to hear Eric Mangini on Mike and Mike in the morning.

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Everyone is jumping on the Fitz bandwagon.  I came across this article by Brian penned in June.  Interesting to say the least


http://www.buffalorumblings.com/2010/6/5/1502623/bills-qb-competition-will-be-a#39119731

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What are you going to do this Memorial Day Weekend?  Perhaps someone has asked you that question recently.....I know I have answered and asked that same question many times this week already.  Most answers included things like go to the lake, grill, drink beer, play golf, etc.  For some reason, the thought crossed my mind......do people know why we celebrate Memorial Day?

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Had to share this.
 
"A palindrome reads the same backwards as forward. This video reads the exact opposite backwards as forward. Not only does it read the opposite, the meaning is the exact opposite.
 
This is only a 1 minute, 44 second video and it is brilliant. Make sure you read as well as listen...forward and backward.
 
This is a video that was submitted in a contest by a 20-year old. The contest was titled "u @ 50" by AARP. When they showed it, everyone in the room was awe-struck and broke into spontaneous applause. So simple and yet so brilliant.
 
Take a minute and watch it."



http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=42E2fAWM6rA

This mock will focus on strengthening the offensive and defensive lines, and takes into account the FA signings of DE Edwards and ILB Davis.  It is still my opinion that a combination of injury, lack of talent on the roster, lack of availability of impact Free Agents do to the current CBA situation, and the switch to the 3-4 defense makes drafting line heavy a very prudent move. This is how I would draft if I were the Bills GM.

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I think the Rams take Bradford with the number one pick, but maybe he has a bad Pro Day or the Rams doctors don't like what they see when they look at his shoulder. 

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Calling all mock drafters!  Time to put our heads together.  With all the good mock drafts that have been posted lately, I thought it might be fun to put together a draft board for Bills fans based on those mocks.  The idea here is to list players we would like to see the Bills draft at the earliest round you would want the Bills to take them.  During the course of the draft, if a player at a position of need drops, it would represent the greatest value for the Bills.  I realize that there might be a some disagreement about where certain players should be taken, but I will do my best to average everyone's opinions.  Players at the same positions are listed in preference of who I would want the Bills to take.  For example, if the Bills do take a QB with the #9 pick, I would take Bradford over Clausen.  There are some players like Weatherspoon that probably will not last until the second round, but are players the Bills should not consider reaching for at #9.  If the Bills trade down from #9, some of those second round players would come into play.  Should I divide the first round into picks 1-15 and 16-32?  I apologize if I missed a player or two you might have had in your mock.  If you see a player that you think should be added or feel someone should be moved up or down, let me know.  It should be fun to use this list as a cheat sheet on Draft Weekend.

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This mock will focus on strengthening the offensive and defensive lines. It is my opinion that a combination of injury, lack of talent on the roster, lack of availability of impact Free Agents do to the current CBA situation, and the switch to the 3-4 defense makes drafting line heavy a very prudent move. I hope the Bills take a similar approach come April.

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When Jim Mora Jr. got fired after one season as head coach of the Seahawks, I was surprised.  After all, injuries played almost as big a role in the their season as it did in ours.  I admit I don't know very much about Mora as a coach.  I found this.....Give it a read.   

http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/SEA/article/83299

Reminds me of a cerain ex-Bills head coach who just won a playoff game.  In my opinion, Mora got the short end of the stick in Seattle.  I am not sure if he is the best candidate, but at least he has head coaching experience, is still young and full of energy.  At the very least, his name deserves some discussion.

Yeah…..it is a long shot and I don’t’ know if it is possible, but bear with me.  I was watching the MNF pregame show and one of the distinguished talking heads mentioned that Whisenhunt only has one year remaining on his contract.  Thus far, there has been no talk from the Cardinals front office about giving him an extension.  Whisenhunt is currently making a paltry 2.5 million a year. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ken_Whisenhunt   I don’t know about you, but I have been extremely impressed with the job Whisenhut has done with the Cardinals.  The Cardinals are the defending NFC champs and poised to win their division for the second straight year.  I think it is safe to say he has changed the culture of losing in a historically uncompetitive small market team with a owner that has a reputation as being frugal.  Sound familiar?  I think you can see where I am going with this.  We were/are willing to pay Shanny or Cowher 10 million a year.  How about The Wiz?  Whenever the Cardinals seasons ends, what is stopping Ralph from calling him up and offering him a boat load of money, which the Cardinals may not be willing to match?  Answer…..that dam 1 year left on his contract.  So, I have two questions.  Can a NFL head coach get out of his contract?  And if so, how much (if at all) would you pay to get The Wiz as the Bills next head coach?