SB Nation User Blog: JvilleJag2

Profiling The Man In The Middle: Brad Meester

JvilleJag2 — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 22:02:44 -0000

Look at the above photograph. This article is about one of those players. No, not Fred Taylor and not Byron Leftwich. It's about the guy that led the way for Fred Taylor and protected Byron Leftwich in his short stint in Jacksonville as the Jags' starting quarterback. This is about the Jags' man in the middle of all the action, the guy who is always in the thick of the action. The man that can REALLY appreciate if quarterback David Garrard used hand warmers, Jaguars starting center Brad Meester.

I took on the responsibility to profile Brad Meester because, well he's always been one of my favorite Jaguars. I've always thought Brad got overlooked and was under-appreciated. As I discovered more about the Jags starting center I found out not only has he been a good ball player for many seasons but Brad is a devoted family man and a very strong individual that has overcome tragedy and for that Brad not only has my attention but my utmost respect.

Brad is from the tiny town of Parkersburg, Iowa. At Aplington-Parkersburg high school he earned all district honors twice (linebacker) before garnering all state honors as a lineman his senior year and helping his school win the state title his junior. Brad went onto Northern Iowa where he was a four year starter at center for the Panthers. Meester graduated with a business degree and a 3.76 gpa.

He was a second round draft pick by the Jaguars in the 2000 NFL Draft. As a rookie Brad started all sixteen contests at left guard and was considered a good looking young offensive line prospect. He was named to several all-rookie teams by pro football writers and was well on his way to having a very good career in the NFL. In his first go around at center since college Brad allowed just half a sack and was called for two penalties. Since that move Brad has been the rock in the middle of the offensive line. He proved he could not only play center in the NFL but play it at a high level.

Brad's been the quarterback of the Jags offensive line for seven seasons now but he usually went unheralded. Being overlooked until you screw up is par for the course, such is the life of an offensive lineman. I'm sure we all can recall the botched snap against the Vikings last season but that's one foul up in ten seasons, I'd call that pretty good career so far. Although Brad has been a more than just a solid member of the offensive line since 2000. Although the rock began to chip away. In 2005 while playing the Cleveland, Brad tore his biceps and missed a playoff game against the New England Patriots. The final four games of 2005 where the first games Meester missed since entering the NFL.

In 2006 Brad moved back into the starting line up and did not miss a single offensive snap. With Meester back in the line up the Jaguars began a two year stretch of producing one of the best rushing offenses in the NFL. In a wrinkle of the offense the coaching staff began to pull Meester on sweeps and Brad became so adept at pulling that the sweep became a staple of the offense. If you ask me Meester should have been named to the pro bowl for his performances in 2006 and 2007 where he again led the offensive line in paving the way for the NFL's second best rushing attack. I've always said if you want anonymity play on an offensive line in the NFL, if you want to rival the federal witness protection program play offensive line for the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Brad has been a player that didn't wow you when you looked at him. He isn't overly big or strong but he is smart and tough, two qualities that can sometimes be overlooked. Meester is a technician, he doesn't overpower his opponents, he understands how you win up front and that is with leverage, not always brute strength.

As mentioned above Brad is a smart and tough individual and no doubt those characteristics where instilled in him in his hometown of Parkersburgh, Iowa. If that name rings a bell it should. Last year a F-5 tornado ripped through the tiny town of just 1800 residents reaking havoc and leaving nothing but carnage in its wake. As a response Meester, with the backing of the Jaguars organization, raised funds for Parkersburg by selling hats at last year's training camp. The "A-P" caps sold well and the funds that were raised were sent with Brad back to Parkersburg to help ease the aftermath of the storm. Parkersburg is a small town, with a big heart that was able to overcame a severe storm but nothing could prepare them for what would come next.

via images.footballfanatics.com

Ed Thomas, the man who coached Meester and other NFL players such as Casey Wiegmann, Jared DeVries and Aaron Kampman was shot to death by a former student earlier this summer. Thomas was the coach at Aplington-Parkersburg high school for 34 seasons two of which culminated in state titles. As expected Meester took the news hard and reiterated his and his family's intention to move back to Parkersburg after his NFL career is over.

Meester on Thomas:

"He treated each and every one of us like we were his kids. He truly did care for each and every one of us and that's one of the greatest things about him that will always be remembered. I know that each of us who have been through that program and been with him will take so much from that and everything that he's taught us about being a man we take into our every day life. We're able to take that into life with our families, with our job and we thank him for that."

Brad is also a very devoted family man. Brad's wife, Jamie and their four daughters, Lily, Sophia, Chloe and Emma are significant in their lives. Brad's home life is probably one of the biggest reasons he can often be found volunteering in many community initiatives such as HabiJax.

So who is Brad Meester? Put it simply he's the starting center for the Jacksonville Jaguars but I'd be doing him a disservice if I left it at that. Brad is a tremendous guy, a dedicated family man, a pillar in the community of Jacksonville, a role model for younger athletes and the type of smart, hard nosed football player every Jaguars fan can be proud of.

Jacksonville Jaguars Position Preview: The Tight Ends

JvilleJag2 — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:56:03 -0000

More photos » by Nati Harnik - AP

8 months ago: FILE - In this Nov. 1, 2007 file photo, South Dakota's Byron Bullock (9), unsuccessfully tries to tackle Nebraska-Omaha's quarterback Zach Miller (15), in the first half of a college football game, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik, File

Browse more photos »

Marcades Lewis: Overrated Receiver or Underrated Blocker?

[Note by River City Rage, 08/05/09 5:58 AM PDT ]: Please welcome JvilleJag2 to the Big Cat Country team!

Marcedes Lewis
Entering his fourth season with the Jaguars Marcedes Lewis is in a "prove it" season. Lewis will enter as the unquestioned starter at tight end. He's been improving each season and this upcoming 2009 campaign could turn out to be his best yet. The fact remains Lewis must start showing he was worthy of the 28th overall selection in 2006 NFL Draft.

2006     13 receptions 126 yards 1 touchdown
2007     37 receptions 391 yards 2 touchdowns
2008     41 receptions 489 yards 2 touchdowns

What Lewis brings to the field is a pretty complete skill set. He's physically imposing standing 6'6, 275lbs and seems to have learned how to utilize his size as a mismatch with smaller defenders. Coming out of UCLA Lewis was considered a dynamic pass catcher but poor blocker. However with the coaching of tight ends coach Mike Tice, Marcedes has developed his blocking prowess and is now amongst the better blocking tight ends in football. The only criticism of Lewis is that for a player that was considered a pass catching dynamo in college, Lewis has had an inordinate number of drops. Last season in particular he seemed to have issues bringing in the football, almost as if he was fighting the football as he attempted to corral it. While this may be attributed to his focus on trying to improve his blocking Lewis has worked hard this Spring to improve his pass catching skills.

Greg Estandia
Estandia was an undrafted free agent out of UNLV who ended up on Cincinnati’s practice squad before being plucked by the Jaguars in 2006. Since his arrival in Jacksonville Estandia has wowed with his size (6’8) and athletic playing style. While Greg is a fine athlete and a solid pass catcher he isn’t much of a blocking presence or a threat to score. He offers a little more speed than Marcedes Lewis but isn’t quite the blocker Lewis is. Estandia is a contributor on special teams and that is where he will have to continue to make his mark.

2006     No stats
2007     9 receptions 136 yards
2008     10 receptions 113 yards

Richard Angulo
Angulo isn't going to wow anyone with his speed or hands. He's mainly used as a blocking tight end and he's pretty solid in that. The Jaguars like to run the football almost more than any team so it's likely Angulo, barring a complete meltdown in training camp, will make the roster. Angulo played for Jacksonville’s tight ends coach Mike Tice in Minnesota so Tice has pretty good knowledge of Angulo.

2007 8 receptions 82 yard 1 touchdown
2008 8 receptions 63 yards

Zach Miller
Miller, the team's sixth round draft pick, has opened eyes. The former Nebraska-Omaha quarterback is making the position switch (No Matt Jones jokes please) and has really turned heads this Spring. As a quarterback at Nebraska-Omaha, Miller threw for 4,096 yard and 26 touchdowns while rushing for 3,122 yard and 50 scores. Miller offers something that no other tight end on the roster offers. Yes, the "Wildcat" option, and while the Jags may not employ it like Miami did, the fact Miller does provide the option is intriguing. Miller ran a 4.53 at his pro day and so far that speed looks legitimate. He closed out OTAs with a strong showing. Jaguars GM Gene Smith likens Miller to the Colt's Dallas Clark and Houston's Owen Daniels but says that Miller is faster. While that's high praise it bodes well for an offense looking to create more explosive plays down the field.

Tyler Lorenzen
Like Zach Miller, Lorenzen, a former University of Connecticut quarterback is making the position switch from quarterback to tight end. At UConn he amassed 3,236 yards passing with 16 touchdowns in two seasons as the Huskies quarterback. Lorenzen also showed good running ability by rushing for over 600 yards and five scores in his two seasons at UConn.

Wrap Up: This is a group that should benefit from offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter’s emphasis on working the ball to the tight ends. This bunch is largely defined by two draft picks, Lewis and Miller. Marcedes could finally be realizing his ability this season if he can get back to being the pass catching machine he was in college while not letting his blocking slip. Miller offers versatility at the position while bringing a true down the seam threat. How this group is regarded will fall squarely on the shoulders of Marcedes Lewis and his 2009 production.

-Andy

Unsustainable Success In Jacksonville

JvilleJag2 — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 23:38:32 -0000

Any team can win a game. It goes hand-in-hand with that "Any Given Sunday" mantra. The good teams win more games than they lose and great teams win consistently. With that in mind, where are the Jacksonville Jaguars and why?

The Jaguars are an average football team. Jack Del Rio's tenure has been marked by roller coaster type seasons. One year the team over achieves and then the next year they fail to meet expectations. Del Rio's record illustrates my point, his record since taking over the Jags in 2003 is 51-48 with a 1-2 mark in the playoffs.

There are few franchises that are truly great. I will use the reigning Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers as an example. The Steelers have been owned by the Rooney family for decades. It's a family business where one generation is not only expected but honored to take over the franchise. Majority owner, Dan Rooney is carrying the torch for his family and whenever he decides he cannot oversee administration of the franchise the next Rooney will step into his shoes.

The Jaguars have a very good owner in Wayne Weaver. He believes in the city of Jacksonville and even though he's in a small market and doesn't have the money that other franchises do he isn't afraid to spend for players he think can help his club. He lets his scouts do their jobs and the coaches theirs. He isn't an owner you'll see on the sidelines constantly over the shoulder of his head coach.

Although ownership is just one facet of a successful franchise. The scouting department is crucial to a team's success because the NFL Draft is a team's lifeblood. Keeping with the "The NFL Draft is a team's lifeblood" theme the Jaguars needed a transfusion. Their failures in the first round are awful. Those wasted draft choices are those of James "Shack" Harris, the former personnel director for the Jags. The Steelers on the other hand have hit on most of their first round draft choices. The most important man in the Steelers organization that you've probably never heard of is Kevin Colbert. Colbert is the Steelers Director of Football Operations. He's basically the head talent evaluator and has a lot of pull on draft day. When looking at Pittsburgh's recent draft you can see Colbert does his job very well. Speaking of the draft I think it's only appropriate to look at how a consistent winner drafts compared to a team that is floundering around .500.

We'll examine the first round of three drafts spanning from 2003 to 2005 involving the Jaguars and Steelers.
2003: The Jaguars drafted Marhall quarterback Byron Leftwich seventh overall. Seven years later Leftwich is on his third team competing for a starting spot in Tampa. In that same draft the Steelers struck gold with USC's Troy Polamalu at the sixteenth overall spot. Polamalu has become one of the league's best defenders and is well on his way to a Hall of Fame career. The Steeler's safety is widely regarded as one of the best at his position, if not he best and has been an integral part of Pittsburgh's two Super Bowl titles in the past five years.

2004: The following year the Jaguars passed on Miami (OH) quarterback Ben Roethlisberger because they had just drafted Leftwich the year before. Instead of selecting the best available player the Jags selected with the ninth pick of the draft Washington receiver Reggie Williams. Williams went on to play five mediocre seasons with the Jaguars. Williams was a huge reach and has had multiple run ins with the law and remains currently unsigned by any team. Roethlisberger fell to the 11th pick and was selected by the Steelers. The story could end there but then I'd be leaving out Big Ben's incredible rookie year where he garnered Rookie of the Year honors. In his second season Ben led the Steelers to their first Super Bowl win in almost thirty years and in 2008 he won a second Lombardi Trophy, giving the Steel City its sixth, making the Steelers the only franchise with six Super Bowl titles.

2005: The Jaguars opted to go with former Arkansas quarterback and work out wonder Matt Jones. Jones posted off the charts Combine numbers and flashed at the Senior Bowl making former Jacksonville personnel director James Harris make the quarterback turned receiver the 21st overall pick. The Steelers sat and waited for Virginia tight end Heath Miller to fall to them at the 30th spot. Miller was in the Jaguars' sights but his back injury and non-participation at the Combine scared the team off. What makes this pick even harder to swallow is Andy Heck, the Jags assistant offensive line coach at the time, was Miller's position coach at UVA and probably knew him better than any other coach in the country.

So there it is. One team, the Jaguars, wasted three consecutive draft picks. It doesn't matter if Byron Leftwich turns his career around somewhere else, he was a bust for the Jaguars. Williams and Jones were perennial disappointments on and off the field. In that same span the Steelers drafted two players that are looking like future Hall of Famers in Troy Polamalu and Ben Roethlisberger. The third player, tight end Heath Miller, has become a very good tight end that could garner Pro Bowl consideration in coming seasons.

The next thing to consider is does the team have a head coach that is capable of taking the team to the playoffs and to the Super Bowl? You have to admire the Steelers consistency, they've only had three coaches since 1969. Chuck Noll, Bill Cowher and now Mike Tomlin are the select few that have led the Black and Gold onto the field. The Steelers ownership believes in patience and letting a coach find his own way to win. Noll yielded four Super Bowls, Cowher won one and Tomlin, in only his second year, has won another. The Rooney family knows coaches are going to have down seasons and they understand that a good coach can get his players to play hard for him no matter the dearth of talent on the team. In their 15 years of existence the Jaguars have had two coaches, Tom Coughlin for the first eight seasons and Jack Del Rio since 2003. Coughlin got a young, expansion team to fight and play hard. Del Rio took the reigns after Coughlin was let go after multiple losing seasons. Since Del Rio has been in charge the team has been a tough, physical bunch but their effort has been less than 100% all the time.

That raises the question, Is Del Rio the right coach to lead the Jaguars to the playoffs consistently? Frankly his two playoff appearances in six years wouldn't be tolerated in other cities. His background as a former linebacker and fiery personality has sometimes led to riffs with players. When comparing Del Rio to his Pittsburgh contemporaries, Cowher and Tomlin, Del Rio falls short to both. JDR, like Cowher, is a former linebacker. Where Del Rio seems to fall short is he doesn't always keep his personal feelings out of team matters. Cowher knew how to motivate and get the most out of his players. In the past Del Rio has often seen his team give half-hearted efforts. Third year coach Mike Tomlin never played in the NFL but he worked his way up through the defensive coaching ranks. Tomlin brings exuberance that only a young coach can but there's also a calmness to him and a business-like approach that is usually only seen by veteran head coaches. Del Rio seems to lack the composure and sometimes the maturity that a "leader of men" to paraphrase Jack's words should have.

In Del Rio's defense the fact that James Harris blew three consecutive first round picks has hurt the talent on the team. I mean those are three players that should be building blocks for the franchise and each should be in the prime of their careers, so those busts of first round picks do sting. I will say at least owner Wayne Weaver made a smart move in promoting Gene Smith into the exalted position of general manager. Smith, unlike Harris, understands how you build a team. Smith won't sacrifice character for talent. Smith also understands how you build a team, up front, not by drafting receivers that were reaches in the first place.

With a good owner in place and a promising young GM the Jaguars have the front office to be successful. The question now lies with Weaver and Smith, Is Del Rio the coach that can take the Jaguars to the next level? We've seen the up and down stuff from Del Rio's teams and we're growing tired of it. Patience is a virtue as the Rooney family has proven but sometimes you have to know when to cut and run from a losing situation.

Reader Feedback: Who do the Jaguars pick?

JvilleJag2 — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:50:40 -0000

Round One, Pick Eight: Ohio State Defensive Back Malcolm Jenkins
Regarded by many as the nation's top corner in 2008 Malcolm Jenkins has experienced a slight fall since leaving THE Ohio State for the NFL. Whether it was his struggles against Texas or Southern California or his less than stellar showing at the Combine Jenkins has now put the question into team's heads whether he would be a better corner or free safety at the next level.

While Jenkins' slower than expected 4.51 forty yard dash numbers at the Combine have dropped him in some scouts eyes don't pigeonhole the 2008 Jim Thorpe Award Winner as a slow defensive back that has to move to safety. Both Antonio Cromartie and Chris Gamble ran slower than expected numbers at the Combine in their respective draft years. During the Buckeye's Pro Day, Jenkins ran between the mid 4.4s and the low 4.5s, improving slightly on his Combine numbers.

By selecting Jenkins the Jaguars could address two positions with one draft pick. Jenkins would likely be the opening day starter opposite Rashean Mathis, curing a significant need in the secondary. Secondly, with the addition of Jenkins that would allow Brian Williams to move back to his 2008 position of strong safety. Also on the off chance Reggie Nelson isn’t the player the team envisions at free safety Jenkins can move inside. Filling a need a corner and safety with one draft pick is serious value.

If you're still concerned about his forty time don't be. Jenkins may not be a great fit for every defense but he's a good fit for a team that employs a cover-two defense. The Jaguars will go back to their cover-two style under Mel Tucker and Jack Del Rio. With that scheme in place, and some zone coverage mixed in, Jenkins' forty time won't be as big a deal as some would like to make it.

Consider the fact that new Jacksonville defensive coordinator, Mel Tucker's coaching history is heavily steeped in coaching secondaries. In fact Tucker coached at THE Ohio State mainly coaching the defensive backs. Jaguars' GM Gene Smith is from that area and has strong ties there too. The Jaguars were in heavy attendance for Ohio State's Pro Day and have traveled back to Columbus to continue to look over prospects. Jenkins plays a smart, consistent brand of football and a hard working football player is just what Gene Smith wants in his first ever draft pick as general manager.

Round Two, Pick 39: Ohio State Wide Receiver Brian Robiskie
Jacksonville goes back to THE Ohio State University in an attempt to quell the major ill that is the wide receiver position. What the Robiskie brings is a good feel for the position and a tremendous work ethic. His father, Terry, is a longtime wide receiver coach in the NFL. Being a coaches' son carries with it an inherent hit-the-books work ethic and top notch effort, both are two characteristics the Jaguars new regime are looking to emphasize.

Physically Robiskie is ready to go, he can overpower and out-muscle smaller defensive backs. He isn't a blazer, but knows the position well and how to get open whether out wide or in the slot. He also has soft hands and better than average body control to go up and snag poorly thrown passes. It's no secret David Garrard needs more viable weapons and the Jaguars provide him one with Brian Robiskie.

Round Three, Pick 72: University of Louisville Center Eric Wood
The Jaguars are expecting to get all of their starting interior line back from injury. Included in the rehabbing list is center Brad Meester. Meester re-upped with the Jags for a few more seasons but over the last four he's missed time with various injuries bringing into question his durability. With Meester's long-term durability in question the Jaguars take the first step in cementing the future of their front five for the foreseeable future by grabbing Eric Wood from Louisville.

Wood plays exactly how the Jaguars like their linemen, tough and physical. He's agile enough to pull and find his way to the second level to clear the way for the running game, something that's always at a premium on a Jack Del Rio coached team. Wood is also a leader and possess a high football intelligence. With the addition of Wood the Jaguars solidify the quarterback of the offensive line for the next decade.

Round Four, Pick 107: University of Wisconsin Guard Kraig Urbik
With his eye fixed toward the future of the offensive line GM Gene Smith continues to stockpile future starting linemen. Former Badger Kraig Urbik fits exactly what the Jaguars look for in a guard. He's a big, nasty lineman that looks to put his opponent on the ground as he opens up holes for running backs. Urbik may be a mauler on the field but he's totally clean off it, which is music to Smith's ears. At the minimum Urbik can be a reserve lineman for his first year then possibly takeover as a starter in his second season.

Round Five, Pick 144: University of Alabama Running Back Glen Coffee
While there's talk about the Jaguars taking "Beanie" Wells in the first round I don't buy it. Although the Jaguars do draft a running back to help shoulder the load with Maurice Jones-Drew. Glen Coffee runs only one way, hard. He's a smart and instinctual player plus he's a more than adequate pass catcher and a hard worker to boot. Coffee may never be a starter in the NFL but in the role the Jaguars will utilize him he's ideally suited.

Round Six, Pick 180: University of Georgia Defensive Tackle Corvey Irvin
The Jaguars underestimated how much they would miss Marcus Stroud. Rob Meier was over-matched in his new role and "Big John" Henderson clearly missed his running mate. The team needs to grab another big bodied lineman that can clog up the run and at least allow Meier to do what he does best, come off the bench on third downs to rush the passer. The Jaguars go back to Marcus Stroud's alma mater and grab Corvey Irvin.

Even though Irvin was a one year starter at Georgia he impressed in that one year. He racked up over 30 stops and 8.5 tackles for loss. At 6'3, 301 lbs Irvin isn't a great athlete but he works hard in the trenches and has enough initial quickness to pursue down the line to make the stop.

Round Seven, Pick 232: Stillman College Defensive Tackle Sammie Lee Hill
In an attempt to refortify the defensive tackle position the Jags take a chance on a big small school product. Hill didn’t face top competition in college but he has great size and tremendous strength that cannot be taught. With the addition of the Stillman product the Jaguars defensive line immediately gets bigger and stronger.

Round Seven, Pick 250: Louisiana State University Full Back Quinn Johnson
This one is for running backs coach Kennedy Pola. While I have a lot of love for Greg Jones, the Jaguars need a full-time full back especially with Jones likely to see more carries go his way in 2009. They'll get their fullback in Quinn Johnson. Johnson is a huge blocking presence that flat out flattens any defender stupid enough to get in his way. While he isn't much of a receiver that's alright, just go out and flatten the competition is good enough. Again, the Jaguars hit on a guy that's a team player and has unquestionable character.

Round Seven, Pick 253: University of Alabama Quarterback John Parker Wilson
With their final pick of the 2009 draft the Jags draft quarterback coach Mike Shula's protege. Wilson doesn't seem to have what it takes to be a starter at the next level but that's o.k. the team sees him as a back up quarterback. JPW has adequate physical skills and has a lot of the intangibles that seem to evade college passers making the transition to the pros. The kicker is Jacksonville has the best inside info on John Parker Wilson with former Alabama head coach Mike Shula being the Jags current quarterback coach.

Better Know A Draft Prospect: Wisconsin Guard Kraig Urbik

JvilleJag2 — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 06:45:30 -0000

via media.scout.com

Kraig Urbik: By The Numbers

Height/Weight: 6'5'' 328
40 Yard Dash: 5.3
Bench Press: 29 reps at 225 pounds
Vertical Jump: 24"
Broad Jump: 7'10"

Summary

Kraig Urbik is as tough as his name looks and sounds. He just has the look of a Jacksonville offensive lineman. At 6'5 and 328 pounds he's got the size and strength to engulf defenders. He is equally strong in blocking for the running game or protecting his quarterback. Urbik also plays with a really nasty attitude and works hard in the trenches to finish his blocks. While at Wisconsin he accumulated 50 career starts and was a team leader. The best thing about former Badger is although he's a rough and tumble player on the field he's a clean guy off it which suits Gene Smith just fine.

VIDEO KILLED THE SCOUTING REPORT:

Scouting Report Strengths

New Era Scouting: No character concerns for Urbik. One of the leaders of the team and has started every game since his red shirt freshman season. A very hard worker who likes to use his size and punish defenders. Has been very productive when he plays guard or tackle and never comes out of a game. He understands the game well and knows when to come off a double team and get the linebacker. Knows his assignments. Is powerfully built and is very strong. Is an imposing force standing 6′6". Has a nasty streak and likes to dominate defenders. Is very good at pass blocking when he sets his hips. Uses his strength when engaged with a defender and locks him up well. Has good quicks for such a big man while working in the line. Does a good job of double teaming linemen and releasing and reaching the linebacker. Gets off the line good and gets his hands into position. Does a good job of getting to the second level. Has a good punch off the line and can overpower defenders. Has very good strength and only gets knocked backward when he doesn’t get low enough. Has strong thick legs and a powerful upper body. Sets up well most of the time and gets into position

Mocking The Draft. Urbik defines Big Ten football. He's big, strong and excels in the run game. His lay is based on excellent strength, which is proportioned on his frame. Urbik is hard to move at the point of attack and and handle defensive tackles on his own. Keeps a good base. Continues to play hard until the whistle. A four-year starter for Wisconsin who was durable throughout his career.

Scouting Report Weaknesses:

New Era Scouting: Is average athletically. Gets to the second level but is slow when asked to pull. The running backs always seem to be waiting for him to get going. Can get knocked off balance when he straightens up and doesn’t get set. Needs to work on getting his pads lower on short yardage as linemen tend to get lower than he does and he can’t use his strength to move them away.

Mocking The Draft. If a team is looking for a mobile guard who is good pulling and trapping, Urbik is not that player. He struggles working at the second level as should be considered an in-line blocker only. Needs to do a better job of keeping his pads low so he doesn't get easily beat by speed rushers who can swim on him. Too much of a lean blocker instead of a mauler.

Why Kraig Urbik Should Be A Jaguar:

Love those mid to late round prospects that blossom in the right system? Me too. Urbik is projected to be a mid round pick and should be available to the Jaguars in order for them to add not only good depth but a future stalwart to their rehabbing offensive line. He works extremely hard and likes to maul opponents in a physical fashion. A physical, nasty road grading guard on a team that loves to run the ball? Seems like an ideal fit. Think of Urbik as a taller version of Vince Manuwai. Yea, I like that idea too.

Poll

Would you be in favor of the Jaguars drafting Kraig Urbik?

Yes

16 votes

No

3 votes

19 votes | Poll has closed

Would This Trade Make Any Sense?

JvilleJag2 — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 01:51:22 -0000

I'm of the opinion that Quentin Groves isn't a good fit on this team. I don't believe he can be an every down defensive end and seems to be out of place. I'm curious, what does everyone think of a trade that would send Groves to Kansas City for Tamba Hali.

Groves may be a better fit as a 3-4 OLB. I do recall Auburn tried him at LB but I believe that was in a 4-3 scheme.

As far as age Hali is 25 (26 in early Nov) but unlike Groves, who is 25 and going into his second year, Hali is going into his fourth NFL season. He's also been a durable player that's logged a lot of starts since entering the NFL. He's proven that at 6'3, 275 he can play the run and rush the passer as an every downs player. Other than that Hali is a hard working type that's a mature player too. Sounds like a good personality fit for Gene's Jaguars.

Wild though out of nowhere and that's where this idea may end up, nowhere. Although I am curious about what everyone would think about the trade idea.

Go Mock Yourself!

JvilleJag2 — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 13:39:04 -0000

This is a little post Combine mock up that I did on SN and thought I'd share it just to get some E-pinions.

1. Detroit - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
Detroit goes the safe route and grabs an offensive tackle as their cornerstone. Smith gets the edge over fellow tackle Eugene Monroe because of his run blocking ability.

2. St. Louis - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
No team has had worse luck at the left tackle spot over the past three seasons than St. Louis. Monroe comes in from day one as the penciled in starter. He has an ability to pass block that is second to none in the entire draft.

3. Kansas City - Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
Scott Pioli drafts the best defensive player in the whole draft. Curry is a definite starter from the day he is drafted and can play any linebacker spot whether Kansas City employs a 4-3 or 3-4 defensive scheme.

4. Seattle - Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
The Seahawks look toward the future with Stafford. Hasselbeck is beginning to show his age and his recurrent back injuries have become a legit concern. Stafford can sit for a season or two before taking over in Seattle.

5. Cleveland - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
The Browns were second to last when it came to quarterback sacks in 2008. Enough said, Cleveland drafts one of the most decorated defensive players in recent memory. Orakpo's amazing athleticism certainly doesn't hurt his case.

6. Cincinnati - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
Cincinnati takes the best receiver in the draft in Michael Crabtree. The Texas Tech product falls a little but he is too good for the Bengals to pass up. With Ocho Cinco and Lavernaues Coles both over 30 and not as good as they used to be Cincinnati looks for a future number one receiver.

7. Oakland - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
If you want to know how Al Davis drafts then all you have to know is "height, weight, speed". Davis loves athletes and is always looking for the next Cliff Branch. Maclin has the size, speed and break away ability to grab the attention of the Raider's owner.

8. Jacksonville - Mark Sanchez, QB, Southern California
Jacksonville continues its rebuilding process and drafts their signal caller for the future. Sanchez is a young and very talented quarterback that loves the game. That pleases Jags GM Gene Smith, he gets a great football player and Jack Del Rio gets another Trojan on the team.

9. Green Bay - B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
The Pack drafts Raji as the anchor in their new Dom Capers led 3-4 defense. Raji is ideally built to hold down the nose spot. He can occupy blockers and has a good initial burst to collapse the pocket.

10. San Francisco - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
San Francisco needs to solidify their offensive line. Smith's value and ability to play multiple spots on the offensive line make it him too good to pass by. Worried about Smith's lax attitude? Mike Singletary is the head coach, would you slouch under Mike Singletary? Me neither.

11. Buffalo - Brian Cushing, LB, Southern California
As Buffalo continues to revamp their defense into a bigger, more intimidating unit they get a little bigger and stronger at the linebacker position. Cushing can play anywhere in Buffalo's linebacking corps and will be a great tandem with Paul Posluszny for years.

12. Denver - Malcolm Jenkins, DB, Ohio State
The Broncos continue to repair their defense with the addition of Malcolm Jenkins. Jenkins could play corner but may move to safety in Mike Nolan's system. If anything he's the long term answer at safety after Brian Dawkins.

13. Washington - Everette Brown, DE, Florida State
With the release of Jason Taylor the Redskins are thin again at defensive end. Brown is another one of those athletic, speed rushers from FSU. Washington knows they have to get to the quarterback more often. Pairing Brown with newly acquired defensive tackle Albert Haynesorth is just too good not to have.

14. New Orleans - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
Moreno ends up in the Big Easy because the Saints are in desperate need for an every down back. Moreno runs hard every play and can even catch the ball when required. He's a nice fit that will allow Reggie Bush to continue to do what he does best, make plays from allover the field.

15. Houston - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
The Texans draft a really talented corner in Vontae Davis. Davis should excel in new defensive coordinator's zone scheme. The selection of Davis fixes a big hole in the Houston defense, a quality corner opposite Dunta Robinson.

16. San Diego - Rey Maualuga, LB, Southern California
The USC linebacker falls a little but won't have to pack his bags for training camp. The addition of Maualuga will beef up the middle of the Charger's defense. He's a big hitter, which will go over well with a defense that had trouble stopping people last season.

17. New York (J) - Clay Matthews Jr., LB, Southern California
Matthews is just a natural football player. He can play multiple positions on the defensive front which new head coach Rex Ryan really loves. Matthews is also a tireless defender and comes from a long line of great football players.

18. Chicago - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
The Bears need more weapons out wide it's as simple as that. I can't even name a receiver on the Bears right now. (Ok, I CAN.) Heyward-Bey reminds me of another speedy receiver that dawned the Bears uniform, Willie Gault. Let's hope Heyward-Bey is more like Gault than a Troy Williamson 2.0.

19. Tampa Bay - Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss
Tampa sticks to their roots and goes defense. New head coach Raheem Morris gets a new player on his defense in defensive tackle Peria Jerry. Jerry fits well as an undersized tackle in Tampa's defense. He can penetrate up the field and is a tireless worker.

20. Detroit (t/Dallas) - Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee
Jim Schwartz learned a valuable lesson in his years in Nashville, you win games in the trenches. By grabbing their franchise tackle earlier the Lions can go defense by selecting the quick-footed Robert Ayers. Ayers has a first step that will be feared by every tackle he lines up against. Grabbing a bookend tackle and pass rusher is a good way to start the reclamation project in Motown.

21. Philadelphia - Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
The Eagles begin their youth movement on their offensive line by getting a new left tackle. Oher is a quick study that blocks equally well for the run or pass. McNabb wanted to see what the Eagles did to improve the team, I'd think getting a blindside pass protector will go over big with him.

22. Minnesota - Max Unger, C, Oregon
With Matt Birk now a Raven the Vikings will move Ryan Cook from right tackle to center. The Vikings decide to go with a more accomplished lineman in Oregon's Max Unger. Unger is extremely valuable in that he can play four line positions and should be a very nice long term replacement for Birk.

23. New England - Aaron Maybin, OLB/DE, Penn State
The Patriots finally went young in their linebacking corps last year and it paid big dividends. Look for Bill Belichick to improve the pass rush by grabbing Maybin. The undersized defensive end has tremendous athleticism and did a great job at rushing the passer in his time at Happy Valley.

24. Atlanta - Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
With the departure of Dominique Foxworth the Falcons have a big hole. Alphonso Smith is a complete corner that can do it all. It's no secret the Atlanta defense was pretty much a one man show. Thomas Dimitroff decides to solidify the pass defense with Wake Forest's Alphonso Smith.

25. Miami - Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut
Bill Parcells decides to draft one of the most talented defensive backs in the entire draft. Darius Butler has great change of direction skills and ball instincts. The Dolphins have missed with other defensive backs in the past but Parcells will change that trend with the selection of Butler.

26. Baltimore - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State
The Ravens give their young signal caller another weapon. Pettigrew is the most complete tight end available. His receiving skills and blocking are solid and he's make a very good compliment to Todd Heap.

27. Indianapolis - Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina
Peyton Manning gets another polished receiver. Nicks is a very precise route runner even as a rookie. With Nicks in the fold with Wayne and Gonzalez the Colts continue to run their very effective three receiver sets.

28. Philadelphia (t/Carolina) - LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh
McCoy is to be the compliment to Brian Westbrook. McCoy is a more valuable inside runner but has the hands to be a receiving threat. Unlike Chris Wells, McCoy is more well rounded and doesn't have the injury tag hanging over him.

29. New York (G) - Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
The G-Men go after another big receiver in Rutger's Kenny Britt. He has the size and physical stature to overpower most defensive backs in the NFL. Britt may just be the replacement for another big receiver that has worn out his welcome in the Big Apple.

30. Tennessee - Percy Harvin, WR, Florida
Tennessee adds the versatile Percy Harvin. Harvin comes in and immediately helps out on special teams softening the loss of Chris Carr. Eventually Harvin will work his way into the lineup either at receiver or running back. Imagine Harvin and Chris Johnson on the field together?

31. Arizona - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State
At a great value the Cards grab talented Ohio State running back Chris 'Beanie' Wells. Adding Wells to the versatile Tim Hightower will give the Cardinals a very nice running back tandem. Wells will be the feature inside runner while Hightower runs outside and is used as a receiver out of the backfield.

32. Pittsburgh - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
Britton is rising up draft boards and for good reason. He's versatile tackle that may play either right or left in the pros. Britton has the size, long arms and good enough feet to handle either spot. The Steelers need to solidify their offensive front and Britton is the first piece in that process.

Roll Tide, Roll Right Into Jacksonville

JvilleJag2 — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 05:07:07 -0000

In an interesting and very possible scenario the Jaguars could, conceivably, just draft most of the the starting Alabama Crimson Tide to their 2009 roster. As George Carlin used to say, "This is the type of stuff I think of when I'm home alone and the power goes out." Allow me to expound on this idea:

With the eighth overall selection the Jacksonville Jaguars select Alabama tackle Andre Smith. Yes, I've heard reports on his workout at the Crimson Tide Pro Day and I know what happened at the NFL Combine. I still think the Jags like him, maybe a little less than before but they still like him. Also, I don't believe Smith bombed as bad as some people have said. Other scouts are always going to downplay how a player did in the hopes that the player in question will fall to their team.

Fact is Smith is a talented youngster that could start from day one. He's a talented enough player to start out at right tackle, where the Jags could use improvement or even slide into guard, a position where the Jags need some youth and depth. Eventually Smith might move over to the all-important left tackle position. Sure there are some character concerns but the Jags have an ace in the hole. That ace is former Crimson Tide coach and current Jags quarterback coach Mike Shula, the man who recruited and coached Smith for his first few seasons in Tuscaloosa. If Shula can vouch for Smith's character then Andre could very well find himself in Jacksonville.

Now we turn our focus to the defense. Jacksonville has a huge hole to fill in their secondary. The strong safety spot is in big need of addressing. Rashad Johnson is a good looking, fast-rising player. The former walk on has been slowly rising up draft boards and should be a solid second round pick. While he isn't ideally built he is a heady player that reads and reacts well. Johnson could excel under new defensive coordinator Mel Tucker. Tucker's background is heavily steeped in coaching secondaries.

The next wave of Crimson Tide (Is it possible to have a wave of tides?) to make their way to Jacksonville could be center Antoine Caldwell. Caldwell caught my eye in the 2008 SEC title game. I've been up and down on Caldwell but I'm back on him. I thought he was too light in the can to hold down the center position but after watching him at the Senior Bowl I'm sold. Caldwell helped hold down the Crimson Tide offensive line along with Andre Smith. He earned all SEC honors at center and was a captain in his final two years at Alabama.

What Caldwell brings, besides his physical ability, is a leadership mentality. He is mature, smart, and a leader, just the type of player Gene Smith is looking to stock the Jags with. The former Alabama center should be there for Jacksonville in the early third round. Even though he doesn't have the name of a Max Unger or Alex Mack he is a quality player that brings lots of collegiate experience and a winning attitude.

Now I'll give you a name of a player that won me over the first time I saw him play. Glen Coffee split time in the Crimson backfield and probably declared early because of it. Coffee has pretty good size at 6'1, 200lbs but what makes me really like this guy is the way he runs. He only knows one way to run, hard. Just turn on the tape of him against Florida in the SEC title game. With Fred Taylor now a New England Patriot (D@MN!) the Jags could look to add a power runner with more wiggle and pop than Greg Jones. One concern about Coffee could be his role in a textbook scandal back in 2007 but Gene Smith will surely do his do diligence on the talented running back. Coffee should be available in the late third or even in the early fourth.

Finally, with Jacksonville needing to groom a young quarterback the team could select John Parker Wilson. JPW has the physical tools but most don't seem him as an NFL starting-caliber quarterback. I'm not sure I do either but I do think he's a guy that can be a solid backup for a decade or more. With Mike Shula having recruited the Wilson and Shula being the Jaguars quarterbacks coach it just makes too much sense. Wilson should be a late second day selection and could be the Jags pick in the sixth round.

The Ripple Effect: Jaguars Add Tra Thomas

JvilleJag2 — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 19:22:38 -0000

In a move that was applauded by many, myself included, the Jacksonville Jaguars signed free agent offensive tackle William "Tra" Thomas. Thomas has spent his entire 11 year career with the Philadelphia Eagles earning three Pro Bowl appearances. The addition of the veteran tackle changes the landscape of the Jaguars offensive line and the possible draft strategy of the Jaguars.

Thomas adds a much needed veteran presence to an offensive line that is going to need to rebuild itself. He should be immediately be penciled in as the opening day starter. Thomas is an improvement over former starter Khalif Barnes. Thomas may not be as good a run blocker as Barnes but he is well-versed when it comes to keeping his quarterback clean. In Philadelphia, Thomas kept Donovan McNabb upright in Andy Reid's pass-happy offense. While in the NFC East Thomas faced off against such players as DeMarcus Ware, Andre Carter and Justin Tuck. In 2008 Thomas only allowed two sacks, not too shabby. The former Florida State star still has a lot left and will be a welcomed addition in Jacksonville.

Tra Thomas' addition means the Jaguars have much more flexibility when it comes to the NFL Draft. It has been long known that the Jags needed a left tackle. In a sense the Jags were "Old Mother Hubbard" with no left tackle in the cupboard. Thomas now makes the left tackle position less of a priority and will allow Jacksonville not to have to force their hand and reach for a left tackle. Gene Smith will now try his best to trade back in the first round in order to gain more draft picks.

Poll

Do you like the Tra Thomas signing?

YES! Now we can draft BAP, baby.

62 votes

No! He's had back problems, and isn't as strong in the run-game.

1 votes

I thought Gene was starting a youth movement...

9 votes

72 votes | Poll has closed

The AFC South : A Week Into Free Agency

JvilleJag2 — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 02:57:51 -0000

Thanks to Collin for keeping after me and finally getting me to post on The Big Cat.

Disclaimer: This is my first post on BCC so any complaints must be mailed in with a stamp featuring ex-President Gerald Ford. If you're still THAT determined to tell me how bad or boring this post is then just post it in the comments. HA!

Tennessee
The Titans made a smart move by keeping quarterback Kerry Collins. Collins proved last season he can manage the game and help lead the Titans to the NFL's best record. By signing ex-Steeler Nate Washington Tennessee provided their veteran signal caller with a deep threat. Washington has nice size and has been utilized as a number three in Pittsburgh and should crack the starting line up with the Titans.

Tennessee also bolstered their defensive line with the addition of former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Jovan Haye. Haye will fit nicely in the Titan's rotation and should benefit from longtime defensive line coach Jim Washburn. Tennessee also kept nickel back Vincent Fuller and longtime punter Craig Hentrich.

Indianapolis
The Colts maintained their status quo at the start of free agency which is to say they did not sign any outside free agents. They did have one bit of internal business, resigning Pro Bowl center Jeff Saturday to a three year deal. Keeping Saturday keeps the most important offensive lineman on the Colts.

While Indy hasn't done anything in free agency, it's par for the course. They never do much if anything when it comes to signing other team's players. Under Bill Polian the Colts have drafted so well and kept the foundation intact that free agency is pretty much an afterthought.

Houston
The Texans went into the offseason looking for a bookend pass rusher for Pro Bowler Mario Williams. Houston signed former Cardinals defensive end Antonio Smith to a five year deal. Smith is seen as a young player that's up and coming. His performance in the playoffs was very impressive and no doubt that made an impression on new defensive coordinator Frank Bush.

Even though it wasn't a free agent move the Texans did move quarterback Sage Rosenfels to Minnesota for a draft pick. Rosenfels is one of the more capable back ups in the NFL and as long as he keeps his feet on the ground he can win games. In a response to the back up quarterback need Houston signed ex-Lion Dan Orlovsky. GM Rick Smith is still trying to put a foundation in place for a talented and rising Houston team and seems to have added a few solid pieces so far.

Jacksonville
The Jaguars have taken a new approach to free agency under the watchful eye of Gene Smith. The team hasn't been the player in free agency it has been in seasons past. The only move to add an outside player has been the addition of safety Sean Considine formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles. Considine fits Smith's vision of a hard working player that has great character as well.

The Jaguars did manage to keep a few of their own early in the free agency period. Veteran center Brad Meester signed a four year contract. Keeping Brad means the team will keep a guy that is a leader on the field and in the locker room. Nickel back and special teams gunner Scott Starks resigned for two years. Starks is a very good special teamer and may play nickel for the Jags this season.