SB Nation User Blog: Raybin

2010 Mock Draft - Rounds 1, 2, and 3

Raybin — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:48:19 -0000

Well, this is the product of quite a lot of labor. I'll probably update it in 1-3 weeks (a long period, I know, but it really depends on work and life schedule). You can feel to disagree...but you'll be wrong! :-) I pretty much have juniors staging a jailbreak from the NCAA, which at this point is what I think will happen. Obviously it'll change as they make up their minds. On to the show!

Round 1

1. St. Louis Rams - Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame

Even more than the Bucs or Even more than the Bucs or Raiders, the St. Louis franchise is in desperate need of a a complete reset. You start with that by building from the most important piece: quarterback. With Sam Bradford getting knocked silly twice this year, Clausen becomes the #1 prospect and the #1 pick

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska

As close to a no-brainer as you can possibly get. With the Bucs drafting their (hoped for) QB of the future in Josh Freeman last year, it's time to pay attention to the trenches. From what I read, Tampa's coaching staff is already totally in love with Suh and by picking #2 they're virtually guaranteed to get him.

3. Cleveland Browns - Eric Berry, S, Tennessee

Certainly quarterback is a big temptation here, but I just get the feeling Eric Mangini is going to search in the mid-rounds for his new QB. That is, if he doesn't trade his entire draft to the Jets for Kellen Clemens. Anyway, the Browns defense is atrocious and in desperate need of playmakers. Eric Berry defines the term. If there is one player who (barring injury) will NOT bust this draft, it is Berry.

4. Kansas City Chiefs - Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State

think the Chiefs are gonna pull a Robert Gallery move with Brandon Albert. Albert appears to be out of his depth at tackle, but I believe he could be a dominant guard. With Cassel getting knocked around like an unpopular pinball, the Chiefs will take the best lineman in the draft to keep their $63 million dollar man upright and throwing.

5. Oakland Raiders - Jake Locker, QB, Washington

Two things have to happen: 1) 2010 has to be an uncapped year so they can comfortably rid themselves of JaMarcus Russell. 2) Locker has to actually declare for the draft. If both those things happen, Davis will take Locker in a heartbeat. Locker has arm strength and athleticism, so as far as Al is concerned he can stop evaluating right there. Fortunately for the Raiders, Locker is a decent overall prospect beyond Al's only two criteria. If there is a cap for 2010 or if Locker returns for his senior season, then this will probably be Taylor Mays, Carlos Dunlap or some other equally stupid Davis pick based mostly on 40 times and upside.

6. Detroit Lions - Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland

The Lions are a team that is definitely trending in the right direction. Unfortunately, they're still not very, you know.....good. Stafford appears to have a real future in the league, so you've gotta put the pieces into place to keep him healthy and developing. This is a very deep draft on the defensive side of the ball, so I can see the Lions addressing that in the mid-rounds. For now, they'll take Bruce Campbell. He can protect Matthew Stafford AND fight demons. Groovy.

7. Tennessee Titans - Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

Who saw this coming at the beginning of the year? Anyway, Kerry Collins is done and the Titans appear to have given up on Vince Young. Forget Bradford's injuries: I still firmly believe he's going to be an excellent NFL quarterback. Plus, the Titans are in a situation where they need someone who can step in and start on day 1. Bradford has the college experience and work ethic to make that happen.

8. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina) - Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama

Is Terrence Cody a legitimate top 10 pick? No. Do the 49ers need him? Most definitely yes. Can they afford a luxury pick here since they have another 1st rounder coming? You betcha. Can Mike Singletary kick Cody's butt enough to keep him motivated and in shape? Absolutely. San Francisco should send a Christmas card to the Panthers for sucking so bad this year.

9. Washington Redskins - Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida

Yeah, yeah, I know. They need a quarterback. Somehow, I can't see Dan Snyder falling in love with Colt McCoy, though, and the other, better options are off the board. What the 'Skins do need in the worst way is an upgrade at defensive end. Whether or not Dunlap is that guy remains to be seen, but I can envision Dan Snyder convincing himself that he'll have found his Mario Williams. Caveat: If Jon Gruden is the next head coach, this pick is Tim Tebow.

10. Buffalo Bills - Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma

The Bills can't stop the run and McCoy is the BPA. You do the math.

11. Jacksonville Jaguars - Tim Tebow, QB, Florida

I know this is currently the trendy thing to do in the mock drafts already out there, but when the owner says he'd like to draft a player and that player is available when his team picks, that's tough to ignore. Until I see evidence that the Jaguars are thinking of someone else, this will remain Tebow on my board.

12. Seattle Seahawks - Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

We can (and will) argue until doomsday about whether or not McCoy is a top 15 prospect. When you look at the Mora/Knapp style of offense, I have to believe that they'll think Colt McCoy tumbled straight out of heaven into their laps. Add that to the fact that Matt Hasselbeck isn't getting younger or healthier and you have what appears to me to be a pretty likely pick.

13. Denver Broncos (from Chicago) - Arthur Jones, DT, Syracuse

Dear Denver: You're welcome. Here's a guy who can play nose tackle or end in your 3-4. You need a guy like that, don't you? Love, Chicago.

14. Miami Dolphins - Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU

Okay, so they've got a quarterback and a running game. Now they need some legitimate receiving threats. Enter LaFell.

15. New York Jets - Damian Williams, WR, USC

See above

16. San Francisco 49ers - Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa

The 49ers are still searching for that franchise left tackle. I think Bulaga has a good shot to be that guy.

17. San Diego Chargers - Mike Williams, WR, Syracuse

I originally had this as Travis Lewis as a replacement for the almost certainly departing Shawne Merriman. Then I remembered that the Chargers have last year's first round pick, Larry English, to take that slot. So it seems that San Diego will address their suddenly problematic wide receiver depth with this pick. They'll just have to hope this wide receiver named Mike Williams works out better than the last one to enter the draft.

18. Philadelphia Eagles - Travis Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma

My first instinct was to go inside linebacker, but the Eagles already addressed that by trading for Will Weatherspoon. Outside linebacking could use a boost and Travis Lewis is an animal.

19. Green Bay Packers - Charles Brown, OT, USC

This has to be an OT. Green Bay's line has been just awful this year.

20. Dallas Cowboys - Jason Fox, OT, Miami

The first round run on offensive tackles continues. I know this pick might surprise a lot of people, but I look for Fox to rise steadily up draft boards.

21. Houston Texans - Taylor Mays, S, USC

Houston could use an upgrade at the safety position and Mays has the potential to be a bigtime playmaker.

22. Cincinnati Bengals - Joe Haden, CB, Florida

The cornerback position is the Achilles heel of the otherwise fearsome Ravens defense. Haden is far and away the best cornerback in the 2010 class.

23. Cincinnati Bengals - Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State

I'm really not fond of their depth at wide receiver and Marvin Lewis has shown he's not afraid to take a chance on players who have done some things they maybe shouldn't have. God knows he has to be used to coaching them by now. Bryant is a steal at 23.

24. Arizona Cardinals - Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma

Sweet daddy Jeebus, this a deep class of offensive tackles, which is fortunate for the Cardinals, since they need one.

25. Atlanta Falcons - Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State

Atlanta is a super solid team overall, but that secondary just makes me wince. I'm going to say Robinson's participation in the FSU cheating scandal won't hurt him too much since it's been a couple of years by now. Greg Hardy wouldn't go amiss here either.

26. New England Patriots - Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi

Derrick Burgess hasn't gotten it done for the Pats. (Did Al Davis actually get the better of that trade?) Greg Hardy has the size, speed and athleticism to play with his hand on the ground or stand up and rush the passer. His injury history causes him to drop to here, but his talent is too great to ignore.

27. New York Giants - Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri

A pure tackling machine at a position the Giants might want to try to upgrade. The possibility that this becomes Nate Allen goes up exponentially (I'm talking nearly 100%) if Kenny Phillips is forced into retirement by his injury.

28. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver) - Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois

Offensive tackle is a serious thought here, but their receiving corps has a lot of good-not-great guys and TJ Houshmandzadeh is creeping up on his mid-30's. Benn could be a superstar someday. You wouldn't hear me give the Seahawks any grief if they went with an OT here, though

29. Pittsburgh Steelers - Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama

The perfect guy to step into James Farrior's shoes in a year or two and continue the tradition of great Steeler linebackers. I also can't manage to shake the suspicion they might have their eye on Mike Johnson or Mike Iupati if they think either one could be their new Alan Faneca.

30. Minnesota Vikings - C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson

The perfect complement/contrast to Purple Jesus.

31. Indianpolis Colts - Nate Allen, FS, South Florida

I originally had this as Eric Norwood but changed my mind. The utter inability of Bob Sanders to stay healthy makes safety depth a necessity for Indy. Allen also happens to be awesome.

32. New Orleans Saints - Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State

Stick this guy next to Sedrick Ellis and the Saints will have a truly terrifying defensive front four.

ROUND 2

33. St. Louis Rams - Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan

Okay, they've got the QB. They got the tackle last year. Now it's on to the defense. Leonard Little is like 700 years old. Brandon Graham will do a good job replacing him.

34. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Brandon Ghee, CB, Wake Forest

Speaking of 700 year olds who need replacing, we have Ronde Barber in Tampa Bay. The Bucs will take Brandon Ghee here to create a formidable young corner duo.

35. Cleveland Browns - Zac Robinson, QB, Oklahoma State

Go ahead and laugh at me if you must (and I know you will) but I think Robinson is excellent clay to mold an NFL QB from. His size, arm strength and accuracy are all pro quality. Plus, he played in an offensive system that let him take some snaps from under center.

36. Kansas City Chiefs - Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina

Another year, another lackluster Chiefs pass rush. Mike Vrabel is just about past it as well.

37. Oakland Raiders - Ciron Black, OT, LSU

Right tackle has been an epic disaster for the Raiders all year long. Even Al Davis can see the need for a change, preferably a big, mean run blocker to open holes for McFadden, Bush and Fargas.

38. Detroit Lions - Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M

Detroit's pass rush is anemic in the extreme. Von Miller is the most dynamic pure pass rusher in this year's draft. Is he largely a one year wonder, though?

39. New England Patriots (from Tennessee) - Mike Iupati, G, Idaho

Stephen Neal is getting up there in years and the Pats always have to be thinking about protecting the franchise.

40. Carolina Panthers - Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas

Obviously this changes if he doesn't declare, but I have to think he will. His stock is hot and with the potential of a lockout/rookie cap in 2011, he probably won't want to risk another year.

41. Washington Redskins - Tony Pike, QB, Cincinnati

Pike is rapidly becoming one of the "sexy" picks, so I can easily see Dan Snyder grativating in this direction, especially since he happens to need a quarterback.

42. Buffalo Bills - Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame

With the great T.O. experiment not likely to last beyond this year whether Dick Jauron stays or goes, the Bills will be in need of more weapons for Trent Edwards. Tate is easily the best still available

43. New England Patriots (from Jacksonville) - Mardy Gilyard, WR, Cincinnati

I know as well as you do that Gilyard is overrated, but I think he could actually fit pretty well into the Patriots offensive system.

44. Seattle Seahawks - Selvish Capers, OT, West Virginia

They certainly need some help at tackle and I think the athletic Capers is the best fit for their offense.

45. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Chicago) - Eric Decker, WR, Minnesota

The Bucs are in desperate need of some depth at WR and Decker happens to be the best available.

46. Miami Dolphins - Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee

Probably a bit of a reach here, but Jason Ferguson is nearing the end of his career. Where else are the Dolphins going to find a 6'3", 327 pounder to clog the middle? Besides, it's not like Williams doesn't have a lot of talent to go along with his bulk.

47. New York Jets - Boo Robinson, DT, Wake Forest

The Jets were forced to go sign a castoff to step into the spot vacated by Kris Jenkins when he went down for the season. They need more reliable depth. I believe Robinson has slimmed down some this year, but can easily bulk back up.

48. San Francisco 49ers - Mike Johnson, G, Alabama

The 49ers guards, particularly Chilo Rachal, have been in and out of Mike Singletary's doghouse all season. Johnson is talented and versatile.

49. San Diego Chargers - Tyson Alualu, DT/DE, California

Jamal Williams going down hurt the Chargers defense bigtime, but it's not like their defensive ends have done a lot to pick up the slack. Alualu comes from a 3-4 scheme, so it's a perfect fit.

50. Philadelphia Eagles - Vince Oghobaase, DT, Duke

The Eagles drafted Trevor Laws in the second round in 2008, but he hasn't exactly set the world on fire. They can try again with Oghobaase, who might even be able to push Mike Patterson for starting time. Patterson's production has dropped from his 2007 peak.

51. Green Bay Packers - Ras-I Dowling, CB, Virginia

Charles Woodson and Al Harris are both still effective, but aren't exactly getting younger.

52. Dallas Cowboys - Corey Wootton, DE, Northwestern

I'm not sold on Igor Olshansky as the guy at DE for Dallas. Wootton seems like the kind of player Jerry Jones could fall in love with.

53. Houston Texans - Trevard Lindley, CB, Kentucky

The Texans continue their quest to beef up their secondary by taking the talented Mister Lindley.

54. Baltimore Ravens - Terrence Toliver, WR, LSU

You can never have too many weapons for your franchise quarterback.

55. Cincinnati Bengals - Everson Griffin, DE, USC

With Antwan Odom down with a serious injury, Robert Geathers kind of "meh" and Michael Johnson an unknown quantity, the Bengals could do worse than to snag a guy as talented as Griffin at this point in the draft

56. Arizona Cardinals - Perrish Cox, CB, Oklahoma State

You can never, ever have too much cornerback depth.

57. Kansas City Chiefs (from Atlanta) - Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

The Chiefs got this pick in exchange for Tony Gonzalez. They desperately miss Tony Gonzalez. Here's a guy who reminds me a whole lot of Tony Gonzalez. He's a first round talent, but for his injury. At this point, the Chiefs won't hesitate.

58. New England Patriots - Jahvid Best, RB, California

Ever notice how most of New England's moves at running back never seem to quite work out 100 percent? They'll try again with Jahvid Best.

59. New York Giants - Marvin Austin, DT, North Carolina

Two of their defensive tackles are up for free agency and you have to figure at least one is leaving.

60. Denver Broncos - Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida

Spikes is easily the BPA at this point and Andra Davis will be 31 before the end of the 2009 season.

61. Pittsburgh Steelers - Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers

Pittsburgh's offensive line is improved this year, but still kinda shaky. Davis can play tackle or guard

62. Minnesota Vikings - Morgan Burnett, S, Georgia Tech

A bit of a luxury pick here, but when you're a solid as the Vikings are overall, you can afford to do such things. Burnett can play either safety position and probably play his way into the starting job within a year or two.

63. Indianapolis Colts - Jerry Hughes, OLB, TCU

A classic Colts player: a solid citizen off the field and an intense, hard-worker on it.

64. New Orleans Saints - Ricky Sapp, OLB, Clemson

A bigtime talent at a position where the Saints aren't exactly weak, but could use a boost.

ROUND 3

65. St. Louis Rams - Jeremy Williams, WR, Tulane

Clausen is going to need some people to throw the ball to, and St. Louis is currently short on those folks.

66. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech

Their defensive line is just terrible. They fixed the middle with Suh and now they can work on the ends. This draft is insanely deep. To get a player like Morgan over 2 rounds in is a bargain and a half.

67. Cleveland Browns - Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee

Here's a guy who flies a bit under the radar, but who I see having a big future in the league. Jamal Lewis should've retired a year and I'm not wild about the other horses in their running back stable.

68. Kansas City Chiefs - Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech

Larry Johnson appears to have Tweeted himself to a one-way ticket out of Kansas City. He's also going to be 30. Dwyer will be the replacement.

69. Oakland Raiders - D'Anthony Smith, DT, Louisiana Tech

Let's run through the checklist: A position of need? Check. Projected to run a sub 5 second 40 time at at 300+ pounds? Check. Filled with that nebulous thing called "upside" he may or may not ever fulfill? Check. Welcome to Oakland, D'Anthony.

70. Detroit Lions - C.J. Wilson, DE, East Carolina

A bigtime producer at an area where the Lions have been getting little to none of it.

71. Tennessee Titans - Jeff Owens, DT, Georgia

Is he the next Haynesworth? The Titans will certainly hope so. At the least, I think he'll be a lot of help to their reeling defensive line.

72. Carolina Panthers - Jordan Shipley, WR, Texas

They've got a disgruntled Steve Smith, a 5,000 year old Mushin Muhammed and a bunch of mannequins in uniforms. They need to take the best WR available.

73. Buffalo Bills - Jevan Snead, QB, Mississippi

Has managed to play himself out of being a surefire top 10 pick and back into the mid-rounds. The smart thing for him to do would be to stay for his senior season and try to play his way back into first round contention. Then again, it's easy for me to type that, since lots of dollars aren't at stake for me. Anyway, I think Snead could be a nice project for Buffalo while Trent Edwards gets one more chance.

74, Jacksonville Jaguars - Brandon Deaderick, DE, Alabama

If the Jaguars stick with their conversion to a 3-4 defense, they'll need better defensive end play. Deaderick is one of the most underrated players in the draft and comes from a great 3-4 college system. Plus, he got shot. With a bullet. Fired from a gun...and didn't miss playing time. That's a warrior, right there.

75. Philadelphia Eagles (from Seattle) - Kam Chancellor, S, Virginia Tech

76. Chicago Bears - Sean Lee, ILB, Penn State

Is he the next Urlacher? The Bears will certainly hope so. He might be too...right down to the tendency to get injured at the worst possible times.

77. Miami Dolphins - Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas

They're going to eventually need a new Joey Porter.

78. Cleveland Browns (From New York Jets) - Zane Beadles, OT, Utah

Joe Thomas is one of the best in the league. They could use a better bookend tackle on the right side.

79. San Francisco 49ers - Dan LeFevour, QB, Central Michigan

Here's another player that I'm really, really high on. I think LeFevour has the potential be a lot like Steve Young or Jeff Garcia.

80. San Diego Chargers - Jay Ross, DT, East Carolina

Ross is a big space filler and they clearly need a guy like that behind Jamal Williams.

81. Philadelphia Eagles - Syd'Quan Thompson, CB, California

The Eagles aren't averse to having corners who are somewhat on the small side, but are very athletic and play with intensity.

82. Green Bay Packers - Navorro Bowman, OLB, Penn State

Aaron Kampmann is miscast as a 3-4 linebacker and is probably gone this after this year to someplace where he can put his hand back in the dirt. Navorro Bowman is probably the best outside linebacker available at this point.

83. Dallas Cowboys - Reshad Jones, S, Georgia

84. Houston Texans - Colin Peek, TE, Alabama

A great pass-catching weapon for Matt Schaub and blocker for Steve Slaton. Peek is everything a tight end should be.

85. Baltimore Ravens - Chris Hall, C, Texas

Eventual replacement for all-world center Matt Birk, who's getting up there

86. Cincinnati Bengals - Sergio Render, G, Virginia Tech

Guard is a bit of a weakness on their offensive line and the whole team begins and ends with Carson Palmer.

87. Arizona Cardinals - Rennie Curran, OLB, Georgia

88. Atlanta Falcons - Charles Scott, RB, LSU

With Turner dropping in production this year and Norwood's contract expiring, the Falcons will snap up Scott as insurance.

89. Oakland Raiders (from New England) - Brandon Carter, G, Texas Tech

Cooper Carlisle has regressed this year and none of their depth guys at guard seem to....oh who am I kidding? Go take one look at this guy. Tell me there shouldn't be a law requiring him to be a Raider.

90. New York Giants - Daryl Washington, ILB, TCU

91. Pittsburgh Steelers - Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama

92. Minnesota Vikings - Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State

Antoine Winfield's injury exposed their lack of cornerback depth.

93. Indianapolis Colts - Adam Ulatoski, OT, Texas

The best quarterback in the league must be protected at all costs.

94. New Orleans Saints - Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin

Ditto.

Richard Seymour guarantees the Raiders will make the playoffs.

Raybin — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:00:39 -0000

Richard Seymour guarantees the Raiders will make the playoffs.

"Mark it down," the man says.

Wow.

Ask a Silver and Black Dude

Raybin — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:17:54 -0000

Well, it's certainly been a few weeks since I've been able to do one of these and hold my head up high.

Hello Jets fans! I am Raybin and I am a denizen of Silver and Black Pride. As I've done every week this season, I am coming onto the SB Nation site of our weekly opponents and writing a short FanPost offering to answer any questions/comments you may have about the Raiders, their players, our upcoming matchup this week....etc, etc, etc. It's been fun for all up until this point in the season and I expect it to continue with you fine folks here at Gang Green Nation. Fire away if the spirit moves you!

Oh, one more thing. You may be in trouble this Sunday....we've got a secret weapon and we're not afraid to use it

How to Fix the Cleveland Browns in 1 Simple Draft

Raybin — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:16:12 -0000

I really enjoyed doing this one because the Browns currently have 11 picks in this upcoming draft, which allows us fantasy GM's to go nuts. I did this on the assumption that the Browns would be picking 3rd overall in the first round. The same rules apply as when I did this for the Raiders (which can be found here)

1) The title is firmly tongue in cheek

2) This is a draft of who I would take were I the GM, not who I think those teams will take.

1st Round: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee

Wow, the Cleveland secondary is just awful. Awful's not even a strong enough word. Maybe the ancients had a word to describe just how bad they are, but I don't know Latin or Greek. They have no true playmakers on the whole defensive side of the ball. I'll tell you this: if there is one player I absolutely promise you will not bust, it is Eric Berry. He is everything the Browns need on the defensive side of the ball. Quarterback is a big temptation here, but I'm just not going to do that....there are better options in free agency and in the later rounds. When your secondary is as weak as it is, you can't pass a guy like Berry.

2nd round: Zac Robinson, QB, Oklahoma State

Some people might hoot at me for this, but so be it. I'm a lot higher on Robinson than a lot of people. I like that he plays in a hybrid offense, so he has experience taking snaps under center as well as from the shotgun. I like that he can make plays with his feet. I like that he has good size and arm strength. He's excellent clay to mold an NFL quarterback from. I question his decision making at times, but that can be fixed.

3rd round: Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee

Jamal Lewis is done and I'm not at all sold on who else Cleveland has on their roster at this position. Hardesty is an electric presence in the backfield. In fact, it wouldn't shock me if he's gone at this point, but in researching I found that he's mostly projected in the third round....so here he is.

3rd round (from Jets): Zane Beadles, OT, Utah

Joe Thomas is one of the best in the NFL, but they need help on the other side of the line. I really like Beadles for his size and think he's a great value pick at this point. He projects as an excellent right tackle.

4th round: Brandon Deadrick, DE, Alabama

He was shot and didn't miss any time. Let me repeat that: He got shot. With a bullet. Fired from a gun. And it didn't seem to affect him. Put a guy like that on my team, please. Not to mention he has the size you want in a 3-4 DE and comes from a great program. Another guy currently projected in the 4th round, but it wouldn't surprise me if he goes a bit higher.

5th round (from Bucs): Jamar Wall, CB, Texas Tech

Remember what I said about the Cleveland secondary and how bad it sucks? At this point in the draft, you could do a lot worse than Wall.

5th round: Colin Peek, TE, Alabama

They miss Kellen Winslow in a big way. Peek has great size without being too big, can block well, and is a great pass catcher. The Browns really, really need a guy like this on offense.

5th round (from Jets): Kavell Conner, OLB, Clemson

Outside linebacker depth is a concern of mine if I'm Cleveland's GM. Conner is a hard worker, though a tad undersized. A nice project, though.

6th round: Brandon Brinkley, CB, Houston

Have I mentioned how bad Cleveland's secondary is?

6th round (from Carolina): Vladimir Ducasse, G, Massachusetts

Still looking to upgrade the offensive line, and I like Ducasse for size and versatility, especially in the 6th round. Plus, his name is Vladimir, and that's pretty cool.

7th round: Cam Thomas, DT, North Carolina

A huge, productive guy who might be a nice backup for Shaun Rogers.

Amazing, must read article about Russell and the Raiders

Raybin — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:34:19 -0000

Amazing, must read article about Russell and the Raiders

Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports has written what I believe to be the most honest, balanced, accurate and fair-minded assessment of JaMarcus Russell and the Raiders organization in a long time.

It's a long read, but well worth your time, I assure you. In short: People looking just to point the finger at Russell or Cable or Davis or whoever have got it wrong. It's everyone's fault. Russell's for not being ready or working to make himself ready, Cable's for not giving him the coaching he desperately needs, and Davis' for not creating an environment where Russell can succeed.

I came away with a much better understanding of why we are where we are with JaMarcus and how we got here.

Ask a Silver and Black Dude

Raybin — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:38:37 -0000

Raider Nation offers greetings to Bleeding Green Nation! This Sunday in Oakland our teams will lock horns on the gridiron and battle it out to....

Oh who the hell am I kidding?

This Sunday the Eagles will take the field in Oakland and win 38-13. McNabb will be pulled by the second quarter, Kevin Kolb will still have a 300 yard passing day and LeSean McCoy will get 150 yards rushing on 15 carries. Brian Westbrook will play all 11 offensive positions in the 4th quarter and still engineer a touchdown drive.

Anyway, I am Raybin and I (for some reason) remain a Raider fan and a member of Silver and Black Pride. As I've done every week this season, I've posted a FanPost on the SB Nation site for our weekly opponents to answer any questions/comments you may have about the Raiders or our upcoming matchup and to shed some light on the team or Raider Nation at large.

If you can muster up anything but guffaws, feel free to fire away.

Raiders Appear to be Preparing to Follow Gannon's Advice (UPDATED)

Raybin — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:42:37 -0000

That is to say, if the following story is accurate, they appear to be trying to blow the team up and start again.

Per Jay Glazer of Fox Sports, via Pro Football Talk.com, we have this report:

Report: Fire sale in the Black Hole Posted by Mike Florio on October 11, 2009 1:12 PM ET We pointed out Saturday that the early emergence of bad teams coupled with the desperation that some other franchises might be feeling could make for a more active eleventh-hour trading cycle.

One of the aforementioned bad teams is already trying to move some merchandise.

According to Jay Glazer of FOX, the Raiders have been calling around the league and generally offering anyone in which other franchises might be interested.

The only exceptions? The "really young talented guys."

The question is now: Who is exempt from being moved and what are the Raiders trying to acquire?

My own guess at the "off-limits" list:

Michael Bush

Robert Gallery

Mario Henderson

Darrius Heyward-Bey

Darren McFadden

Zach Miller

Louis Murphy

JaMarcus Russell

Chaz Schilens

Nnamdi Asomugha

Tyvon Branch

Desmond Bryant

Thomas Howard

Mike Mitchell

Kirk Morrison

Richard Seymour

Matt Shaughnessy

Shane Lechler

Sebastian Janikowski

That's only about one-third of the active roster, which leaves the team with a lot of options. Obviously, not all those guys are "young" but there are some veterans that they're just not going to move: Asomugha, Seymour, Gallery, for instance.

The problem with that list, of course, is that it contains virtually every truly talented player on the roster that other team might be interested in. And as the old saying goes, "You gotta give something to get something." I don't have Huff on the list because I honestly think they'd be open to offers for him, even though he's played much better this season. Who knows if he'll regress again? I also have to think they'd be open to offers for Tyvon and Kirk, much as I want them both to remain Raiders for a long time. They might also be willing to trade away Bryant and Shaughnessy, but I'd be surprised, especially since they seem to want to build around youth and vigor.

Obviously, there are no specific rumors yet, so I don't know if the Raiders would be angling for draft picks or players. Certainly they'd have to get some players simply to fill out the 53 man roster, unless they plan on a wholesale plunder of other team's practice squads.

Some teams with running back depth problems might be interested in Fargas. Others might be willing to trade for veteran D-line experience in Greg Ellis. Maybe you could find a team willing to take a flyer on Kelly or Warren.

The point I think now is to get the young guys more experience. No doubt Greg Ellis is much better than Matt Shaughnessy, even at age 34. But if you can get a decent O-lineman or a veteran WR, for instance, why not do it and let Shaughnessy get in there and learn and develop. The season is already lost anyway, let's face it.

UPDATE: Further information comes from NFL.com

There are issues in Oakland. That’s not news. Coach Tom Cable acknowledged many of them Monday while meeting with reporters, saying “The problem is not who we’re playing, the problem is us.” As the trade deadline approaches on Oct. 20, Lombardi notes that the Raiders have called “a lot of teams” and everyone is available with the exception of about five or six players, a group that includes CB Nnamdi Asomugah and QB JaMarcus Russell. “The Raiders want to shake it up, and certainly, they should,” Lombardi said. “They’re 1-4, they’re pathetic offensively. They need to do something to kind of stimulate and change the culture of the football team.”

Wow. I speculated yesterday (as you can see above this) that the "do not trade" list might include 15 or 16 people, not 5 or 6. Davis really is intent on blowing up the team if he can. Maybe that's what needs to be done, but I don't trust him to rebuild it right.

It actually scares me knowing the "off limits" list is that small. We may end up losing some good and beloved players and I worry we're going to be hosed in return. Maybe I was wrong above and Davis is jettisoning the "youth and upside" movement for his old "castoffs and veterans" approach. I will completely meltdown if that happens.

Oh and Mike Lombardi of all people ought to know the culture will never change in Oakland until Davis relinquishes the helm.

How to Fix the Raiders in 1 Simple Draft

Raybin — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 17:59:25 -0000

I posted this over on Mocking the Draft and I thought I'd share it here. Let's face it, whether Russell comes out of his shell or not, this season is already basically a wash and it doesn't hurt to look ahead. Plus, I admit I'm a total dork when it comes to fantasy GMing. In any case, with Kaizer already looking for ways on the front page to help the team, I thought I'd weigh in on what I think the best draft the Raiders could do that would help them out the most: Oh, and obviously I know one draft has never fixed any team....I just thought it was a snappy title. :-)

And from here on out, I'll replicate my Fanpost:

Okay, I know It's going to take several seasons to turn this ship around. But, if I could somehow wave a magic wand and make myself Oakland Raiders GM, this is the draft I would try to put together in 2010. I'm not saying this is anything close to what they will do--God knows what Al Davis has in mind--but this is what I think they should do. I'm going with the assumption that the Raiders will be drafting 6th I will offer comments on why I think Davis might take the player that I would.

First Round - Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida

For me, this is virtually a no-brainer. If I'm in charge of the Raiders draft and Brandon Spikes is available, I'm taking him. Kirk Morrison is an excellent linebacker, but is miscast at MLB. He'd be much better starting on the strong-side where Ricky Brown is currently out of his depth as a starter. Enter Spikes who can start on day 1. Plus, he's the kind of fiery, vocal leader this team desperately needs.

Why Al might actually pick him: Davis likes his linebackers to be in the 6'2"-6'3", 240-250 lb. range, have good pursuit speed and defend the pass well. That's Spikes to a "T".

Second round - Ciron Black, OT, LSU

For all the struggles of JaMarcus Russell, the biggest disaster on the team might actually be Cornell Green at right tackle. He's a penalty machine, he doesn't run-block particularly well and is an absolute catastrophe in pass protection. Ciron Black isn't the best pass protector, but he's certainly better than Green. Even better, he's exactly the big, nasty run blocking mauler the Raider running game is in desperate need of on the right side. Like Spikes, Black can be a day 1 starter.

Why Al might actually pick him: Davis can see as plainly as anyone else how bad Cornell Green truly is and how the team needs a dominating run blocker. Early in the second round, Black will be the best player available who can do all that.

Third round - Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State

The Raiders are pretty set at the starting corner position, especially with Nnamdi Asomugha. Their cornerback depth is just ugly, however. Former second round pick Stanford Routt may be the worst nickel corner in the entire league. Even worse, compared to the people behind him on the depth chart, Routt looks like Darrelle Revis. Kyle Wilson can fix all that. He is an excellent option at nickel corner and may even be good enough to push Chris Johnson as starter. Plus, he's a brilliant kick returner and the Raiders are lacking at that right now. Though he wouldn't be starting on opening day, he could contribute right away.

Why Al might actually take him: Wilson has the speed Davis loves in his corners, has the athleticism to play man-to-man and there's a good chance Davis might fall in love with his playmaking ability in the return game.

Third round (from New England) - Dan LeFevour, QB, Central Michigan

JaMarcus Russell obviously needs a nudge. At this point in the draft, with some of the biggest needs fulfilled, LeFevour would probably be the best choice to take. He doesn't have a rocket for an arm, but it's definitely NFL worthy and stronger than some higher prospects. He has NFL size at 6'3", 230 lbs. and his accuracy is solid. He can also beat you with his feet on the scramble or buy time to keep the play alive. Unlike many quarterbacks who play that style, he also usually limits his mistakes. He could provide a true playmaking force at QB, which is something that's been altogether lacking in Oakland for a long time.

Why Al might take him: Honestly, I don't think LeFevour is Al's type of QB. If he would take him, it'd be because he was attracted by his big playmaking ability and accuracy.

Fourth round - Jay Ross, DT, East Carolina

Ross is a big space filler and Gerard Warren isn't getting any younger or more motivated. He's been very productive stats wise from the DT position. He can join the DT rotation and maybe push for a starting gig in the future.

Why Al might take him: He knows the middle of the defensive line needs bolstering and Ross is as good an option, value wise, as he'll find at this point.

Fifth round - Brandon Carter, G, Texas Tech

He's huge (6'7", 360 lbs.!), he's a leader, he's a badass. The last two are in desperate need on the Raiders offensive line right now. I think he has talent to go earlier, but because of his (frankly ridiculous) suspension, he will probably fall.

Why Al might take him: Have you seen this guy and how he looks? He was born to be a Raider. Davis also likes monsters at the guard position.

Fifth round (from New England) - Chris Hall, C, Texas

Samson Satele has been a woeful disappointment and Chris Morris has been uninspiring to say the least. Hall is a superb value pick at this point and could make for interesting camp battles.

Why Al might take him: See above. He also has the size and versatility Davis likes in his centers.

Sixth round - Chris Chancellor, CB, Clemson

Remember what I said about the atrocious cornerback depth? This pick can help. I really like Chancellor, but a lot of people have him projecting into the later rounds. If he's available early in the sixth, he's a steal. He's a team-oriented, intense personality type in the Asomugha mold and I would like those guys on my team if I'm a GM.

Why Al might take him: Chancellor fits the profile of a Davis cover corner. You could do a lot worse in the sixth round.

Seventh round - John Fletcher, DE/DT, Wyoming

A mountain of a man at over six and a half feet tall, Fletcher is definitely a project, but what else can you expect this late in the draft? He's the kind of guy that could surprise in camp and if he doesn't, you can simply cut him without too many regrets.

Why Al might take him: He can play both DE and DT and Davis seems to like those kind of guys with versatility along the D-line. Tommy Kelly, Richard Seymour and Desmond Bryant can all play end or tackle.

How to Fix the Oakland Raiders in 1 Simple Draft

Raybin — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 17:07:27 -0000

Okay, not really. It's going to take several seasons at least to turn this ship around. But, if I could somehow wave a magic wand and make myself Oakland Raiders GM, this is the draft I would try to put together in 2010. I'm not saying this is anything close to what they will do--God knows what Al Davis has in mind--but this is what I think they should do. I'm going with the assumption that the Raiders will be drafting 6th I will offer comments on why I think Davis might take the player that I would.

First Round - Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida

Why Al might actually pick him: Davis likes his linebackers to be in the 6'2"-6'3", 240-250 lb. range, have good pursuit speed and defend the pass well. That's Spikes to a "T".

Second round - Ciron Black, OT, LSU

Third round - Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State

Third round (from New England) - Dan LeFevour, QB, Central Michigan

Why Al might take him: Honestly, I don't think LeFevour is Al's type of QB. If he would take him, it'd be because he was attracted by his big playmaking ability and accuracy.

Fourth round - Jay Ross, DT, East Carolina

Why Al might take him: He knows the middle of the defensive line needs bolstering and Ross is as good an option, value wise, as he'll find at this point.

Fifth round - Brandon Carter, G, Texas Tech

Why Al might take him: Have you seen this guy and how he looks? He was born to be a Raider. Davis also likes monsters at the guard position.

Fifth round (from New England) - Chris Hall, C, Texas

Samson Satele has been a woeful disappointment and Chris Morris has been uninspiring to say the least. Hall is a superb value pick at this point and could make for interesting camp battles.

Why Al might take him: See above. He also has the size and versatility Davis likes in his centers.

Sixth round - Chris Chancellor, CB, Clemson

Why Al might take him: Chancellor fits the profile of a Davis cover corner. You could do a lot worse in the sixth round.

Seventh round - John Fletcher, DE/DT, Wyoming

Ask a Silver and Black Dude

Raybin — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:24:55 -0000

Sigh. I've done this every week with the other SB Nation sites of the teams the Raiders have played. Every week it gets harder because every week we get worse! But, I still enjoy interacting with the fans of other teams and seeing if I can shed some light on what Raider Nation thinks about our team and franchise.

So....greetings! My name is Raybin and I'm a denizen of Silver and Black Pride and a lifelong member of Raider Nation. I'm here to answer any questions/comments you might have about the Raiders and the upcoming clash on Sunday.

Fire away if the spirit moves you! I'm happy to sit around the virtual campfire and B.S.