SB Nation User Blog: Raybin

Raider Nation Dreaming of Better Days: Chucky Visits the Bay Area

Raybin — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:06:56 -0000

Raider Nation Dreaming of Better Days: Chucky Visits the Bay Area

In town to do color commentary for the 49ers/Cardinals MNF showdown tonight, Jon Gruden brought his colleagues Ron Jaworski and Mike Tirico to one of his old favorite hangouts. He bought a Bo Jackson jersey and forced Jaws and Tirico to pose for pictures wearing Raiders hats.

The Nation members on hand were, well....enthusiastic, let's say. Jerry Mac has the details at the link.

5 Round 2010 Mock Draft

Raybin — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:42:26 -0000

Well, this is a labor of love and a lot of work if ever there was one. Feel free to excoriate me and tell me how stupid I am in the comments section. Obviously neither I nor anyone else has much information on who or how many underclassmen will declare. This will receiver a major overhaul after the Senior Bowl as some declare, others stay, unexpected stars emerge and old favorites fade.

FIRST ROUND

1. Cleveland Browns - Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame

I've had people tell me that this won't be Clausen because the Browns will fear taking another Notre Dame QB in round 1. This, of course, makes zero sense. Whether it's Mangini wanting the proverbial "his guy" or a new coach who'll be after the same thing, Clausen with his experience in a pro style offense is the best of this year's bunch.

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

Go ahead and chisel this in stone because if Suh is on the board when the Bucs draft (and he almost certainly will be), they are taking him.

3. St. Louis Rams - Jake Locker, QB, Washington

I recently read that Steve Sarkisian made the pitch to Locker to stay another year. While it's true his game could benefit from another season, it's also true that he could potentially be passing up on millions of dollars if he stays because of the very real possibility of a rookie salary cap. We'll see what happens, but for now I'm keeping Locker to the Rams, who desperately need him.

4. Detroit Lions - Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State

Now that Matthew Stafford has not only been knocked around like a pinata, but injured, Detroit will see the need to protect him. I'll give their new, non-Millen regime the benefit of the doubt that they'll do the right thing.

5. Kansas City Chiefs - Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa

Speaking of things getting knocked around, witness Matt Cassell, the Human Pinball. With Okung gone, Bulaga is the ticket here. Eric Berry is also a very, very real possibility.

6. Washington Redskins - Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas

Much like Al Davis, Dan Snyder falls in love with big names with big physical gifts. Mallett has caught everyone's attention this year and with the Jason Campbell experiment likely winding down, it doesn't take a great leap to imagine Snyder drooling over the big, cannon armed Mallett. Mallett is another guy who should probably stay 1 more year in college, but will likely come out for the big bucks. Can't blame him

7. Oakland Raiders - Joe Haden, CB, Florida

The Raiders have the best cover corner in the league. They also have no one behind him. Chris Johnson has spent this season doing an effective impersonation of burnt toast and Stanford Routt is just horrible. Now think about Al and his first round defensive backs. Now consider that Haden can run a 40 time in the low 4.4's without much difficulty. You can write this in as a virtual lock if Haden can run a sub 4.4 at the Combine. Fortunately for Al, Haden has real football talent to go along with his track skills.

8. Buffalo Bills - Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma

Zero run defense. Gerald McCoy is a good run stopper. Mark it.

9. San Francisco 49ers - Eric Berry, S, Tennessee

THE steal of the draft, no question, since Berry is a top 3 talent. 49ers should be thankful for other teams' needs and retardation.

10. Denver Broncos - Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State

I know this is way high for Cameron Heyward, but they need a 3-4 end and Heyward is probably the best option. Plus, based on Denver's goofy draft last year, it's pretty clear that we can expect the unexpected from Josh McDaniels

11. Seattle Seahawks - Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland

Seattle is a mess at the tackle position right now and there's really no QB or RB they can justify taking at this spot.

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

The Jets have some holes on defense to fill, but I can't see them passing up the opportunity to give their young franchise QB a chance to throw to a guy he knows and trusts.

13. San Francisco 49ers - Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma

Now that Alex Smith is at last emerging, the Niners have got to keep him protected so his confidence isn't shattered again.

14. Houston Texans - Donovan Warren, CB, Michigan

I'm really not fond of the Texans secondary. Warren can help in a big way, though a safety like Taylor Mays wouldn't go amiss here either.

15. Tennessee Titans - Ras-I Dowling, CB, Virginia

Dowling can play corner or safety. Depth and versatility are never bad things.

16. Miami Dolphins - Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee

The Fins need a NT and Williams has had an absolutely brilliant season. Parcells would probably shy away from someone with Cody's issues anyway.

17. Jacksonville Jaguars - Tim Tebow, QB, Florida

If you're into mock drafts, you're already well aware of the logic at work here.

18. Atlanta Falcons - Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech

Among other problems, the Falcons have a pathetic pass rush. Morgan can fix that in a big way.

19. Baltimore Ravens - Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU

Lots of little holes in the Ravens roster, but Joe Flacco needs targets most of all. Always have to put your young franchise QB first.

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

Green Bay's offensive line has been atrocious this year. This has to be an OT.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers - Taylor Mays, S, USC

If Polamalu's abscence proved anything this year, it's that the Steelers need help at safety. Mays is the biggest athletic freak in the draft, but struggles in pass coverage...not good for a FS. But his talent is too great to ignore and the Steelers need another dominating presence in the defensive backfield if/when Polamalu goes down in 2010. You have to figure Tomlin and LeBeau can coach him up.

22. Dallas Cowboys - Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers

Flozell Adams is a joke and should be out of football. There's a strong chance this is his last season in Dallas and Jerry Jones like his linemen to be enormous, just like Davis.

23. New York Giants - Travis Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma

The Giants linebackcorps corps is falling apart. Lewis is a great place to start the rebuilding.

24. New England Patriots - Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama

They're still so desperate for help at ILB that they went out and signed 40,000 year old Junior Seau...again. McClain and Jerod Mayo will make the most formidable young inside linebacker duo in the league.

25. Philadelphia Eagles - Mike Iupati, G, Idaho

Philly's had some struggles along the whole offensive line this year, but especially at guard. Iupati is one of those rare dominant guards worth of a mid-to-late first round pick.

26. Seattle Seahawks - CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson

Justin Forsett? Julius Jones? What a cruel joke to play on the good people of Seattle. Spiller can do everything.

27. Arizona Cardinals - Jason Fox, OT, Miami

It's shocking how effective Kurt Warner is, given the turnstiles currently occupying the tackle slots in Arizona.

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

The Bengals need receiving help and they've never shown hesitancy on taking a gamble on players who had problems in the past. They're like the Statue of Liberty for troubled players: "Give us your fined, your arrested, your rulebreaking masses yearning to make bank"

29. San Diego Chargers - Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama

A gift from the football gods for the Bolts--A true, elite 3-4 NT falls to 29. AJ Smith will pounce.

30. Minnesota Vikings - Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida

EJ Henderson's ugly, very serious injury suddenly made ILB depth a top priority on a team with not many other holes. Spikes fills the bill.

31. Indianapolis Colts - Jerry Hughes, OLB, TCU

They need an upgrade at SLB and Hughes fits the Colts mold: fierce competitor on the field, solid citizen off it.

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

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

SECOND ROUND

33. Cleveland Browns - Jahvid Best, RB, California

The Browns are in desperate need of real playmakers on offense, especially in the backfield

34. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi

Having gotten Suh to tend to the interior, the Bucs grab Greg Hardy to upgrade the pass rush off the edge.

35. St. Louis Rams - Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

Having got their QB of the future, the Rams need some weapons for him to throw to. Gresham's injury causes him to fall out of the first round, but he's too good and too valuable to make it past St. Louis

36. Detroit Lions - Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State

Their pass defense is just awful. They have got to do something about it.

37. Kansas City Chiefs - Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri

Mike Vrabel isn't getting any younger and Weatherspoon tackles everything in sight.

38. Washington Redskins - Corey Wootton, DE, Northwestern

Philip Daniels will be 37 before the 2010 season. Dan Snyder will drool over Woottons measurables

39. Oakland Raiders - Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin

For a man of his gargantuan stature, Carimi is extremely athletic, so he'll be on Al's radar. The Raiders are in desperate need of a big, dominant run blocking right tackle.

40. Buffalo Bills - Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

With Trent Edwards looking to be finishing in Buffalo and Ryan Fitzpatrick almost certainly not the answer, the new regime in Buffalo will want their man. Bradford is too talented to fall farther.

41. Carolina Panthers - Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

Jake Delhomme is a liability and Matt Moore hasn't exactly been tearing up the field.

42. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Golden Tate, WR, Notre Damae

Josh Freeman needs someone to throw to and I truly believe Tate is going to be awesome.

43. Seattle Seahawks - Tony Pike, QB, Cincinnati

Hasselbeck isn't quite done yet, but he's getting there. Pike is the kind of QB that'll need to sit for a year anyway to adapt to the NFL

44. New York Jets - Syd'Quan Thompson, CB, California

The Jets are in desperate need of someone reliable across from Darrelle Revis.

45. San Francisco 49ers - Nate Allen, S, South Florida

The whole 49ers secondary could use an overhaul, really.

46. Houston Texans - Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech

Steve Slaton has been inconsistent and was just placed on injured reserve for the year. The Texans have no real other viable options, so they must address that need here.

47. New England Patriots - Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina

Everyone else in the universe is mocking a rush linebacker to the Patriots, and with good reason. They need one.

48. Miami Dolphins - Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois

They have got to get someone for Chad Henne to throw to. Benn's upside is tremendous and if he pans out, he'll be great value halfway through round 2.

49. New England Patriots - Allen Bailey, DT/DE, Miami

Ty Warren and Jarvis Green haven't exactly set the world on fire this year.

50. Kansas City Chiefs - Mike Johnson, G, Alabama

How old is Brian Waters anyway? Pretty damn. Johnson is a great guard.

51. Baltimore Ravens - Brandon Ghee, CB, Wake Forest

Baltimore's CB play has been really inconsistent this year.

52. Green Bay Packers - Perrish Cox, CB, Oklahoma State

Charles Woodson is having an outstanding season, but still isn't getting any younger.

53. Pittsburgh Steelers - Daryl Washington, ILB, TCU

An excellent potential replacement for James Farrior as he approaches the end of his road.

54. Dallas Cowboys - Morgan Burnett, S, Georgia Tech

The safety position could use some tweaking in Big D.

55. New York Giants - Sean Lee, ILB, Penn State

The combination of Clint Sintim, Sean Lee and Travis Lewis could be very, very fearsome once they gel.

56. New England Patriots - Jon Asomoah, G, Illinois

Lots of expiring contracts along the offensive line and Brady must be protected at all costs.

57. Philadelphia Eagles - Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan

The Eagles could use someone better across from Trent Cole.

58. Denver Broncos - Matt Tennant, C, Boston College

Casey Wiegmann is approaching 40.

59. Arizona Cardinals - Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M

The Cardinals could use a replacement for the aging Chike Okeafor.

60. Cincinnati Bengals - Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State

The Bengals could use both secondary depth and a better return man. Here you go.

61. San Diego Chargers - Terrance Toliver, WR, LSU

With all those expiring receiever contracts, you have to figure the Chargers will be looking for one in the draft. Toliver has the kind of big body (6'4") the Chargers want in their receivers.

62. Minnesota Vikings - Arthur Jones, DT, Syracuse

Jones will be an excellent choice to fill the chinks in the aging Williams Wall. He's a first round talent who only falls because of injury.

63. Indianapolis Colts - Tyson Alualu, DT, California

Another player in the traditional Indy mode, Alualu may the guy who at last solves the problems in the center of their defensive line.

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

Everyone in the world appears to be mocking a linebacker the Saints at some point in the first 3 rounds, so who am I to argue?

THIRD ROUND

65. Cleveland Browns - Trevard Lindley, CB, Kentucky

The Browns corner depth is just horrible

66. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Jerome Murphy, CB, South Florida

The Bucs have got to find a replacement for Ronde Barber soon

67. St. Louis Rams - Everson Griffen, DE, USC

Formerly dominant pass rusher Leonard Little is getting long in the tooth and Griffen could be a fine replacement.

68. Detroit Lions - Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford

Kevin Smith needs help. The Lions have to get a real running game to take pressure off Matthew Stafford.

69. Kansas City Chiefs - Mardy Gilyard, WR, Cincinnati

The KC wide receiver corps has been a patchwork and improvised affair all year long.

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

Let's run through the checklist. Position of need? Check. Runs a sub 5 second 40 at over 300 pounds? Check. Filled with "upside" he may or may not ever fulfill? Check. Welcome to Oakland, D'Anthony.

71. Buffalo Bills - Jeremy Williams, WR, Tulane

Their new QB is going to need more reliable people to throw to.

72. Carolina Panthers - Danario Alexander, WR, Missouri

Wide receivers flying off the board. In Carolina's case, it's necessary, since other than Steve Smith their options are a 5,000 year old Mushin Muhammed and an underperforming Dwayne Jarrett.

73. Chicago Bears - Joseph Barksdale, OT, LSU

Welcome to the draft, Chicago. You have a lot of needs. None are greater, however, than tackle because Orlando Pace can't block anybody anymore.

74. Philadelphia Eagles - Anthony Dixon, RB, Mississippi State

With Brian Westbrook ever more injury prone and one more concussion likely to end his career, the Eagles are going to need insurance at running back.

75. Cleveland Browns - Ciron Black, OT, LSU

The Browns could sure use a big, mean runblocking right tackle to bookend Joe Thomas.

76. San Francisco 49ers - Mitch Petrus, G, Arkansas

The 49ers guards have been in and out of Mike Singletary's doghouse all season.

77. Houston Texans - Colin Peek, TE, Alabama

A great blocker and a great weapon for Matt Schaub. He can be the Texans' Jason Witten.

78. Tennessee Titans - Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida

Kyle Vandenbosch's contract is up at the end of the year and who knows if he's coming back.

79. Miami Dolphins - Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas

The Dolphins are going to need at least one rush linebacker now that Jason Taylor and Joey Porter aren't spring chickens anymore.

80. Jacksonville Jaguars - Roddrick Muckleroy, OLB, Texas

Their linebacking group is seriously underwhelming and they have got to get more pressure on the opposing QB.

81. Atlanta Falcons - TJ Ward, S, Oregon

The whole Atlanta secondary could use overhauling.

82. Baltimore Ravens - Micah Johnson, ILB, Kentucky

With Ray Lewis beginning to wind down, it's never too early for Baltimore to start thinking ILB depth.

83. Green Bay Packers - O'Brien Schofield, OLB, Wisconsin

With Aaron Kampmann likely headed for greener pastures where he can put his hand back in the dirt, Green Bay will be searching for a natural rush linebacker.

84. Pittsburgh Steelers - Ekom Udofia, DT, Stanford

It might be time for Pittsburgh to begin thinking about grooming Casey Hampton's eventual successor.

85. Dallas Cowboys - Pat Angerer, ILB, Iowa

Keith Brooking will turn 35 midway through next season, so it might be time to start getting some ILB depth.

86. New York Giants - Mike Neal, DT, Purdue

The Giants' DTs have been very disappointing this season

87. Oakland Raiders - Brandon Carter, G, Texas Tech

Cooper Carlisle has shown signs of fading dramatically this year. More to the point, have you seen Brandon Carter? He was put on earth to play for the Oakland Raiders.

88. Philadelphia Eagles - Perry Riley, OLB, LSU

The Eagles were so lacking in linebackers that they signed old and busted Jeremiah Trotter. Riley will be a solid addition on the outside.

89. Denver Broncos - Jordan Shipley, WR, Texas

I think the Broncos need more receiving depth, especially with Brandon Stokely turning 34 before the season starts.

90. Arizona Cardinals - Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama

Arizona doesn't have much corner depth behind Rodgers-Cromartie and McFadden.

91. Cincinnati Bengals - John Jerry, G, Mississippi

Their lack of depth at guard is worrisome

92. San Diego Chargers - Zane Beadles, OT, Utah

The Chargers have been killed with injuries along their offensive line this year and the backups haven't really played to a high level.

93. Minnesota Vikings - Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers

The Vikings secondary has looked shaky at times this year, especially when Winfield has been out.

94. Indianapolis Colts - Adam Ulatoski, OT, Texas

Protecting the best QB in the league is always a good idea. Selvish Capers will merit a look here as well.

95. New Orleans Saints - Dexter McCluster, WR, Mississippi

Call me crazy, but I think Sean Payton and Drew Brees could come up with all sorts of imaginative, interesting ways to use this explosive, multi-talented player out of Ole Miss. Plus he costs a hell of a lot less than Reggie Bush who I believe is due 8 million this off-season if retained

FOURTH ROUND

96. Cleveland Browns - Jermaine Cunningham, OLB, Florida

The Browns need an upgrade across the way from Kamerion Wimbley

97. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Dorin Dickerson, FB, Pittsburgh

The Bucs are so thin at FB they've pressed natural running back Earnest Graham into service this season. Dickerson is good at catching passes out of the backfield.

98. St Louis Rams - Dezmon Briscoe, WR, Kansas

The depth at WR is just ugly for the Rams

99. Detroit Lions - Jeremy Beal, DE, Oklahoma

Beal is a solid all around DE who can help the Lions get to the opposing QB.

100. Kansas City Chiefs - Kam Chancellor, S, Virginia Tech

The safety position has been a problem for the Chiefs all year

101. Washington Redskins - Selvish Capers, OT, West Virginia

The 'Skins line has been decimated by injuries

102. Oakland Raiders - Kenny Alfred, C, Washington State

The center position has been a scene of very inconsistent play in Oakland this year. Samson Satele has not lived up to expectations

103. Buffalo Bills - Anthony McCoy, TE, USC

A nice weapon for any young QB to have is the do-it-all TE. McCoy fits that bill.

104. Carolina Panthers - Vince Oghobaase, DT, Duke

The Panthers won't have far to seek to get a big presence in the middle of their line

105. Chicago Bears - Naaman Roosevelt, WR, Buffalo

Jay Cutler needs more weapons to work with

106. Seattle Seahawks - Kurt Coleman, S, Ohio State

Seattle could use a better safety to pair with Jordan Babineaux

107. New York Jets - Torrell Troup, DT, Central Florida

Kris Jenkins' injury exposed just how badly the Jets need a reliable player behind him

108. San Franciso 49ers - Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama

49ers keep working on that secondary

109. Houston Texans - Marvin Austin, DT, North Carolina

The Texans try to shore up their defensive middle

110. Tennessee Titans - Eric Decker, WR, Minnesota

The Vince Young-to-Kenny Britt connection appears to have real promise, but now that Young has learned to throw, the Titans need to get him more receivers.

110. Miami Dolphins - Jamar Cheney, ILB, Mississippi State

Depth/future replacement for Ayodele and Crowder

111. Jacksonville Jaguars - Ben Tate, RB, Auburn

Someone to pair with MJD

112. Atlanta Falcons - Alterraun Verner, CB, UCLA

Depth/potential starter at a position where the Falcons are thin

113. Baltimore Ravens - Ed Dickson, TE, Oregon

Backup for and eventual successor to Todd Heap

114. Green Bay Packers - Jacoby Ford, WR, Clemson

Small, but very good

115. Pittsburgh Steelers - Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee

Rashard Mendenhall has taken over full-time starter duties and I expect Willie Parker to depart to someplace where he can get more playing time. Hardesty will make a nice complement to Mendenhall.

116. Dallas Cowboys - Jay Ross, DT, East Carolina

Ross can backup and fill in nicely at either 3-4 DE or DT, both of which places feature multiple expiring contracts.

117. New York Giants - Stephan Virgil, CB, Virginia Tech

Corner depth is never, ever a bad idea

118. New England Patriots - Marcus Easley, WR, Connecticut

Targets for Tom Brady are always a good thing!

119. Philadelphia Eagles - Blair White, WR, Michigan State

Would make a nice #3 behind Maclin and Jackson

120. Denver Broncos - Dan LeFevour, QB, Central Michigan

Chris Simms is probably not long for Denver and it might be nice to an insurance policy behind Kyle Orton. LeFevour could flourish in a Josh McDaniels style offense

121. Arizona Cardinals - Chris Hall, C, Texas

Arizona's whole line hasn't really played inspired football this year

122. Cincinnati Bengals - Greg Romeus, DE, Pittsburgh

Romeus will be a better player than Geathers or Rucker and who knows if Antwan Odom will ever be the same player after his injury

123. San Diego Chargers - Brandon Deaderick, DE, Alabama

The Chargers were really caught scrambling for solutions at DE earlier this season. Deaderick would be a perfect fit.

124. Minnesota Vikings - Robert Johnson, S, Utah

Whether or not he sold his soul to play the blues, he can play football and help out in Minnesota.

125. Indianapolis Colts - Dennis Pitta, TE, BYU

A backup/insurance policy for Dallas Clark.

126. New Orleans Saints - Myron Lewis, CB, Vanderbilt

New Orleans' secondary has been so hit by injuries that they were signing guys off the street.

FIFTH ROUND

127. Cleveland Browns - Mick Williams, DT, Pittsburgh

I actually envision him as a 3-4 DE in the NFL, which is why I'm mocking him to the Browns.

128. Cleveland Browns - Barry Church, S, Toledo

Gotta keep trying to upgrade that liability of a defensive backfield

129. St. Louis Rams - A.J. Edds, OLB, Iowa

Strong side or weak side, take your pick....they both need upgraded on the Rams.

130. Detroit Lions - Darrell Stuckey, S, Kansas

Could make an effective safety tandem with Louis Delmas

131. Kansas City Chiefs - Reggie Carter, ILB, UCLA

Some stiffening for the interior of KC's linebackers

132. Washington Redskins - Charles Scott, RB, LSU

With Clinton Portis less effective every season, the 'Skins have got to start thinking about other options

133. Oakland Raiders - Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, CB, IUP

The Raiders return game has been absolutely woeful this year. Owusu-Ansah is a dymanic returner and brings depth at the corner position.

134. Buffalo Bills - J.D. Walton, C, Baylor

A much needed boost to the interior of the offensive line

135. Kansas City Chiefs - Kade Weston, DT, Georgia

The Chiefs currently don't have much to plug up the middle of their line.

136. Chicago Bears - Joe Pawelek, ILB, Baylor

Now that Brian Urlacher is having difficultly staying healthy, the Bears need to think about depth behind him

137. Seattle Seahawks - Riley Cooper, WR, Florida

TJ Whosyermomma is still productive by aging. Deon Branch has underwhelmed.

138. Cleveland Browns - Freddie Barnes, WR, Bowling Green

For having a lot of receivers, they sure don't have many receievers, if you see what I mean.

139. San Francisco 49ers - Travis Ivey, DT, Maryland

They have zero depth at the nose.

140. Houston Texans - Taylor Price, WR, Ohio

Houston could always use a good hand behind Andre Johnson and Kevin Walter

141. Tennessee Titans - Dexter Davis, OLB, Arizona State

Keith Bulluck will be 33 in the off-season.

142. Miami Dolphins - Keith Toston, RB, Oklahoma State

With Ronnie Brown injury prone and Ricky Wililams aging, Miami needs other options at running back.

143. Jacksonville Jaguars - Chris McGaha, WR, Arizona State

Whoever will be their QB, they're pretty shallow at WR

144. Atlanta Falcons - Rico McCoy, OLB, Tennessee

Mike Peterson has played well, but was always more of a stop gap than anything.

145. Baltimore Ravens - Sergio Render, G, Virginia Tech

Depth pickup, could push for start time

146. Green Bay Packers - Javarris James, RB, Miami

They needed depth at running back so badly, they actually resigned Ahman "Mr. Glass" Green.

147. Pittsburgh Steelers - Sam Young, OT, Notre Dame

With Willie Colon's contract expiring at the end of the season, the Steelers may be in the market for a big runblocker.

148. Detroit Lions - Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas

Their defensive line interior isn't exactly the stoutest in the world.

149. New York Giants - Zolton Mesko, P, Michigan

Jeff Feagles is approaching his mid-40's and will be a free agent at the end of the season anyway.

150. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Kyle Calloway, OT, Iowa

Both of their starting tackles will be free agents at the end of the season

151. St. Louis Rams - Walter Thurmond, CB, Oregon

Excellent skills, but very injury prone. If he can stay healthy, the Rams will have themselves a steal here.

152. Oakland Raiders - Boris Lee, ILB, Troy

Raiders have expiring linebacker contracts all over the place, and while I think Al will re-sign most of them, taking a guy who tackles as well as Boris Lee in the 5th round is a smart insurance policy. I also thought about FB Rashawn Jackson out of Virginia here because can't stay healthy and Luke Lawton sucks.

153. Arizona Cardinals - Rashawn Jackson, FB, Virginia

Thought about it for the last pick, decided to go with it here since I looked and Dan Kreider's contract is expiring at the end of the season.

154. Cincinnati Bengals - Earl Mitchell, DT, Arizona

Their depth behind Peko and Johnson isn't terribly inspiring.

155. Houston Texans - Vladimir Ducasse, G, Massachusetts

Texans have some expiring contracts at this position and Vladimir Ducasse is such a cool name, I wanted to work him in somehow

156. Minnesota Vikings - Chris Brown, RB, Oklahoma

Chester Taylor has crossed the magical 30 number and has an expiring contract. Brown can be the new man who spells the Purple Jesus.

157. Indianapolis Colts - Myron Rolle, S, Florida State

Bob Sanders insurance.

158. Philadelphia Eagles - Boo Robinson, DT, Wake Forest

Depth/insurance/whatever you wanna call it

Gamers & Lamers - Week 13

Raybin — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 14:02:48 -0000

What is UP, my fellow Raider Nation faithful?! What a day for us all yesterday. Sorry I wasn't there to share with you all, but I live here in Pittsburgh so I was watching the game on TV with copious amounts of beer. Unfortunately, finances prevented me from getting a ticket to attend, but that was okay. Probably just would've got in a drunken brawl anyway. I'm writing this in an attempt to bleed off some excitement and offer my thoughts on the exciting day just passed.

GAMER: BRUCE GRADKOWSKI - A no brainer here. Gradkowski turned in what was easily the best individual performance by a Raider all season. He completed almost 2/3rds of his passes for the first 300 yard game by a Raider QB since Kerry Collins. His leadership and calmness were simply amazing. I was particularly impressed by his ability to extend the play and avoid a sack. Two or three times he looked to be caught or tripped up but kept his balance and wriggled away. In fact, he looked a lot like his opposite number in black and gold on his better days. To turn in the performance he did after two DISASTROUS previous Heinz Field outings shows him to be a true gamer. Now the million dollar question: Can he do it again and again and again consistently?

GAMER: LOUIS MURPHY - For a receiver more than any other positions, it's all about the stat sheet. Murphy's: 4 catches, 128 yards, 2 touchdowns, including a 75 yarder featuring a sick deke on Ike Taylor that allowed him to reach the end zone. He also made an incredible leaping catch on a wobbly duck of a ball, outjumping multiple defenders. The kid has hands...maybe he just needed someone who could put some touch on the ball. Now...will we see the same from Darrius Heyward-Bey?

GAMER - NNAMDI ASOMUGHA - The best player in the league who never makes an impression on the box score. Nnamdi quietly had what I feel was his best game of the year yesterday, absolutely shutting down whoever he was covering at the time. He gave up one short completion to Mike Wallace, which also happened to feature a spectacular catch by the young Steelers WR. Other than that, Nnamdi was shutdown city, also recording two tackles. If the Raiders would actually assign him to shadow a particular WR and not just one half of the field, life would be oh so good.

More after the jump

GAMER: ZACH MILLER - He continues to be a complete tight end. A good blocker and an excellent surehanded security blanket for the QB. 4 catches, 43 yards.

GAMER - JOHNNIE LEE HIGGINS - When was the last time one Raider WR was a gamer, let alone two? Starting in place of the injured DHB, our other initial man JLH made his opportunity count with 4 catches for 63 yards. He did run a bad route at one point and I believe dropped another catch, but after his miseries all this year, it was wonderful to see him recover his form from last year. He did, however, get blown up bigtime at the end of the game....will that shatter the confidence he seemed to have recovered?

GAMER - MICHAEL HUFF - The last two seasons, Huff couldn't have tackled a fat man in a phone both. Yesterday? 7 solo tackles to go with a pass defended.

GAMER - JUSTIN FARGAS - Huggy Bear ground out a YPC of over 4.2 against a nasty Steelers run defense. while running behind an o-line that wasn't exactly opening up huge holes.

HONORARY GAMER - DARREN MCFADDEN - 9 carres for 25 yards with a long of 7. So what the hell is he doing on the "gamer" list, you ask? Well, his stats don't qualify him, but he was doing one thing that gets him an honorable mention. Yesterday I noticed for the third game in a row--so we can call it a pattern now--the fact that he's actually leaning into defenders and hitting them making them pay for tackling him. Whether he's been hanging out with Fargas more or simply is 100 percent healthy and confident now, I don't know. But I do know that if he keeps this up, his breakout game WILL be coming sooner rather than later. It's also not DMac's fault that he's forced to run between the tackles all the damn time. That 7 yard gain came on an outside pitch where he was able to get the corner and work in space. He showed a nice burst before being swarmed by the Steeler defense, which is excellent at pursuit. If he could get 10 touches a game that get him around the corner, I promise you he'll break at least one for a big gainer. Hopefully Cable was paying attention

HONORARY GAMER - TREVOR SCOTT - Scott had a very nice sack at a very important time, plus three tackles. While that ordinarily wouldn't make him a gamer, keep in mind he also was starting his first career game at WLB. I was terrified he would be exposed in pass coverage or fail to hold his own against the run....in short, that he'd be an outright liability. Instead, he played solidly, which gets him an honorable mention.

On to the less spectacular performances from yesterday:

LAMER - RICHARD SEYMOUR - Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Big Sey and I hope he finishes out his career here. I don't care if he's 30, he's still among the most dominant defensive linemen in the game. He consistently draws double teams, which can sometimes drive his stats down. But, as he showed against San Diego and Philadelphia, he can still sometimes dominante even then. Yesterday, though, he was an utter non factor, in on only two tackles and not even doing any disrupting. Fortunately, this is the exception rather than the rule.

LAMER - MATT SHAUGHNESSEY / JAY RICHARDSON - The tandem replacement for the injured Greg Ellis put together an uninspiring performance to say the least. They combined for a grand total of three tackles. Plus, Richardson had an inexcusable encroachment penalty and whiffed badly on a potential sack.

LAMER - CHRIS JOHNSON / STANFORD ROUTT - I do have sympathy, because any time you're playing across from Nnamdi Asomugha, you are going to get picked on. A lot. But these two looked particularly bad yesterday, getting repeatedly torched by Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward. Can't blame the Ward TD on CJ, though....thanks ref for not calling the blatant facemask.

LAMER - LUKE LAWTON - How exactly does a fullback manage to false start? Plus, the guy can't run block for crap and has bad hands for screen passes. Put Gary Russell back in, for God's sake.

LAMER - CHRIS MORRIS - When Satele went out, Morris came in and struggled mightily. LeBeau started repeatedly blitzing right up the middle because it became rapidly clear Morris was out to lunch.

LAMER - THE ENTIRE RETURN GAME - Ugh. Just abysmal, like it's been all season. Al has got to draft a CB/KR hybrid. There's a lot of really good ones available in the upcoming draft: Kyle Wilson, Perrish Cox, and Javier Arenas all come to mind.

HONORARY LAMER - JAMARCUS RUSSELL - Et tu, fat man?

So there you have it. What do you think? Was I too nice or too harsh on anyone? Did I miss a gamer or a lamer? Fire away.

Ask a Silver and Black Dude

Raybin — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 20:13:20 -0000

This game is gonna be real fun for me.

Greetings to all the denizens of BTSC. I am Raybin and you'll find me discussing all things related to Raider Nation over at Silver and Black Pride. For the first half of the season, I went to the blogs of the Raiders opponents and made a FanPost inviting fans of the other team to post comments/questions about the Raiders that I would attempt to answer. Then things got just too depressing and I haven't. But I wasn't going to miss this for the world.

You see, despite being raised a Raider fan from the cradle, I was born and grew up in Indiana County and now live here in Pittsburgh itself. There's an outside chance I'll be going to the game, but regardless of if that happens or not...I'm stoked like I haven't been in a long time for a football game.

So let's do this. Got questions about the Raiders? I'm your man.

By the way, I'm gonna come right out and say you can pin the loss to the Ravens on me. For maybe the 3rd or 4th time in my life I was rooting for the Steelers because of Dennis Dixon....I don't think the universe was able to handle it.

Finally, a request. Being a Raider fan involves enduring levels of pain, alcoholism and despair on levels you can't imagine unless you followed the Penguins from 2002-2006. So throw me a bone and please don't mention the You-Know-What Reception. I might have to take hostages otherwise and no one wants that.

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.