2010 ncd draft recap - nitrografixx
TRANSCRIPT
Click here for draft
2010 Nor*Cal Rookie Draft Recap
By Dan Schwarz & Mike Rico
Welcome to the 2010 Rookie Draft Recap. First thing you should know: I don’t watch college football!
Well, outside of the bowl season, that is. Maybe it’s because if all the owners of Nor*Cal banded
together, we could probably beat the teams of the colleges that I attended. That and I would have been
divorced a long time ago if I told my wife that I’ll be watching football on Saturday and Sunday (and
Thursday and Monday!). So I am a compiler of opinions and a frequenter of message boards and really
enjoy learning about the new class of rookies every year. This is why every time Robin says I drive a
white van, I have to buck up and wear that shit like a man.
When breaking down the players I leaned on 2 of my favorite resources. One’s a pay site where I pay
$10 a year and the other is a free site. I read other sources, but I these are two of the three I trust the
most.
Dan Schwarz stepped up big time by doing both the Pacific Beach and Croix de Candlestick Divisions. As
you will read, he outclassed me on the recaps‐ he also goes the extra mile to put the picks in context
with owner’s rosters and he actually does watch college football! And Dan’s not afraid to tell you like it
is… Dan wanted me to mention that he believed this year’s draft was the most thoughtful by owners in
terms of drafting and trading. Thank you Dan for doing a phenomenal job!
I’ll add that doing just half the recaps gave me a new appreciation for the job Mike Campbell has been
doing the last two years. Campbell drops the science while making it entertaining and that is no easy
task…
Hope you enjoy!
Mike
Pacific Division by Dan Schwarz
MANU MANU THE SLENDER
2.02: Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Pit (6' 0", 228lbs – 4.59)
A failed drug test and a slow time at the combine did not scare the Steelers, who picked Dwyer to
complement Rashard Mendenhall in what I anticipate will be a return to the power running game for
Pittsburgh. The first few games of the NFL season will be telling, as the Steelers will need their RBs to
carry the day until Big Ben returns from his suspension. Barring a Mendenhall injury, I think Dwyer’s
rookie year value will be highest during this period. He’ll see enough touches in the first few weeks for
the coaches to decide if he has a significant RBBC role in 2010. My impression is that he needs to get
into better shape and learn the professional game – especially protecting the QB – and that he will see
limited opportunities as the year goes on. If Dwyer commits to his profession, I see no reason why he
cannot unseat or replace Mendenhall down the road. Manu has a lot of depth at RB, so Dwyer
appeared to be a nice prospect to draft and sit on for a few years. But, Dino traded him for two picks
later in the second round – I’ll comment on Dino’s trades later.
2.04: Mardy Gilyard, WR, StL (6' 1", 187lbs – 4.61)
I tried for days to trade my way into the second round. One of my targets was Mardy Gilyard. It would
not have done me any good, since he would have been gone. I did not factor Dino’s love affair with the
Lambs into my assessment. 2.04 seems a little early for Gilyard. I believe you have to take the best
talent on the board. Gilyard has tremendous potential, but I think it was a stretch for Dino to grab him
before Starks, Dixon, and Clausen. That said, Manu landed a great long‐term prospect that plays for
Dino’s favorite team. Despite the poor 40‐yard dash time, Gilyard has speed and is a return man in the
same form as Ted Ginn Jr. I was really impressed with him at Cincinnati. I think St. Louis can make use
of Gilyard in much the way the Chiefs plan to make use of Dexter McCluster. Once all the pieces are in
place for St. Louis, Gilyard should be a fantasy fixture.
2.05: Rob Gronkowski, TE, NE (6' 6", 265lbs – 4.65)
That’s not a typo. Gronkowski posted a 4.65 in the 40‐yard dash. It is one of the few things I like about
Gronkowski as a fantasy TE. Don’t get me wrong, I really like Gronkowski as a football player. I am a
Pac‐10 fan and thought that had he stayed for his final year at Arizona, Gronkowski would be a star.
Here are some fantasy red flags: (1) Gronkowski left school in part because he was concerned about
getting hurt (again) in college; (2) the NFL scouts anointed him an athletic, blocking TE; and (3) the
Patriots picked the best receiving TE later in the draft. (I am biased, since we drafted Hernandez.) The
pundits counter that Gronkowski will be on the field a lot. True, but I have watched Brady dump the ball
to RBs far too often to get excited about “being on the field.” [I think what most bothers me about this
pick is that Manu has an immediate need at TE and far and away the best 2010 short‐term TE selection,
Tony Moeaki, was still on the board.]
2.14: Dennis Pitta, TE, Bal (6' 5", 248lbs – 4.63)
I love Pitta. A hard‐working, fast, athletic TE drafted to a team that employs a wide‐open offense. And
the veteran in front of Pitta is rarely healthy. Fellow rookie Ed Dickson complicates matters, but I think
Pitta is better prepared to step on an NFL field. Pitta reminds me of Dallas Clark. With Cam Cameron in
charge, I can see the Ravens using two TE sets and letting Pitta run down the field 10‐20 yards as a
primary or secondary option. Because the Ravens look like the next great passing offense, in five years, I
think Pitta will be the cream of this talented crop of TEs.
3.07: Deji Karim, RB, Jax (5' 11", 200lbs – 4.37)
As noted earlier, Manu is very well‐positioned to draft RB talent and sit on it for a few years. Karim is
exactly the kind of player for a third‐round selection when you are able to speculate. I have to admit
that I do not know much about Karim other than he is well‐regarded, very fast, and seems to have been
drafted into an excellent situation. My only knock is that he seems to be a clone of Jones‐Drew, which
might limit his value until Jones‐Drew gets hurt or leaves Jax via free agency.
3.18: Charles Scott, RB, Phi (5' 11", 233lbs – 4.67)
The third round is kind of like playing the lottery. You might land Mike Wallace or Tim Hightower, but
the odds are against you. Because this draft was very deep in terms of second tier WR talent, I thought
the chances of landing a valuable WR were higher than getting a useful RB. Since Manu appears thin at
WR, I was surprised that Dino used both third‐round picks on RBs. Scott will not see much action in
2010. The Eagles are committed to Lesean McCoy and have Mike Bell and Leonard Weaver in the mix.
Scott was a bruising back who showed some bursts of speed at LSU. The knock is that he never showed
up for the big games. I think he will have a hard time establishing himself on a team with a poor history
of long‐term prospect development.
Comments: With some immediate help, particularly at WR and TE, Manu will be very competitive this
year. Without a first‐round pick, it is hard to find immediate help. It would have been understandable if
Manu had taken the best player available rather than focus on need. But I think Manu tried to strike a
balance between upside and need. All the more reason I am surprised Manu passed on Tony Moeaki,
who is likely to start in KC. Too much talent was still on the board (Dixon, Starks, and Clausen) to take
Gilyard and Gronkowski at 2.04 and 2.05. I thought Dino made three excellent trades to add picks, but I
am disappointed that he did not parlay trading Dwyer into one of the other RBs and a WR/TE. In a few
years, Dino can celebrate having Gilyard and Pitta (and, maybe, Karim). For now, I think it is a shame he
does not also have Dixon (or Starks). I also think he should have looked at Anthony McCoy or Marcus
Easley at 3.18.
Manu Manu: C+
BIG AL’S BBQ
1.11: Ben Tate, RB, Hou (5' 11", 217lbs – 4.43)
Too bad “winning” the Combine does not guarantee NFL success, because Tate dominated in
Indianapolis. Tate is fast. And to hear him tell it, he is better than rival Mark Ingram, the Heisman
trophy winner. Tate landed in a good spot in Houston and should contribute right away. In fact,
everything points to Tate as the primary back in a RBBC with Steve Slaton . Yet, I find myself
unenthusiastic. Every draft, I tag one or two players and say, “let someone else have the joy.” Tate was
one of those players this year. He talks more than I think he can back up and NFL defenses will relish
knocking him down a peg. I must not be alone in this nagging doubt. Tate fell to Houston in the later
part of the second round of the NFL draft. Mel Kiper did call Tate a tremendous value for Houston. I
can’t knock Big Al’s pick, but I am glad Dave made it and not us.
2.07: Colt McCoy, QB, Cle (6' 3", 210lbs – 4.79)
I almost feel like Big Al’s BBQ stole a page from our draft notebook. It was the page marked “let
someone else have the joy.” Like all good Cal fans, I always root against Mack Brown and his teams. But
I have a soft spot for McCoy, who showed pluck and grit throughout his career. What surprises me
about the write‐ups on McCoy is that they fail to note how similar he is to Tim Tebow. Both are quick
drop, short range passers who run too readily. I guess McCoy gets a leg up because his throwing motion
is more orthodox. McCoy needs a year or two on the sidelines, which he will not get in Cleveland. He’ll
be in the line‐up before he is ready and it will take a tremendous amount of character on McCoy’s part
to avoid having the confidence sucked out of him by the mediocrity on the Cleveland offense. I do not
like his chances and see him relegated to back‐up status over a 5‐7 year career. But I hope I am wrong.
2.08: Joe McKnight, RB, NYJ (6' 0", 200lbs – 4.47)
With Tate and McCoy, Big Al’s BBQ selected players that were high on the board at their respective
positions at that point in the draft. With McKnight, this was not the case at 2.08. Anthony Dixon and
James Starks were still on the board. What distinguishes Dixon and Starks is that they may land in RBBC
situations that offer the chance to take the lead role over the next season or two. McKnight goes to the
Jets, where, at best, he will be the 3rd‐down back in a RBBC. Even allowing that McKnight lines up as a
WR on occasion, he will see limited touches over the next few years. He is a poor man’s Reggie Bush,
circa 2009. And I see that as his upside.
2.12: Ed Dickson, TE, Bal (6' 5", 243lbs – 4.67)
This draft was rich with high‐ceiling TEs. Dickson is no exception. He is big and athletic. I saw a few
Oregon games where he was the only sure thing going on offense. My concern with taking Dickson is
that he needs to compete with Todd Heap and Dennis Pitta for opportunities in the Ravens’ high octane
offense. I think Dickson will have a hard time cracking the line‐up and by the time he does, Pitta will be
an established fixture. Given how thin Big Al’s BBQ is at TE, it seems foolish to have passed on Tony
Moeaki, who will start this season for KC.
3.15: Antonio Brown, WR, Pit (5' 10", 179lbs – 4.57)
Brown is a sleeper with a good chance to become the Steeler’s slot receiver in the next year or two. He
had a productive career at Central Michigan and could easily be the type of offensive player that
develops faster than Pittsburgh can afford or is willing to pay. There were several WRs taken after this
pick that will get more 2010 playing time, but this pick is as intriguing as any for this late in the draft.
Comments: This grade includes two trades. Big Al’s BBQ was holding 2 first round picks and 4 second
round picks when the draft started. Dave turned one of his first round picks into TJ Houshmandzadeh
and a second next year. Housh was better than his numbers indicate for a bad Seattle team. Dave
turned one of his second round picks into help and depth for this season and a second round next year.
Both trades helped Big Al’s BBQ significantly in 2010. The two trades and the selections of Tate and
Brown would warrant an “A”. With all the talent left on the board at 2.07 and 2.08, especially at RB,
combined with taking a longer‐term TE prospect over more certain production, I have to knock this
down to a “B+”.
Big Al’s BBQ: B+
MONSIGNOR MURPHY DID NOT TOUCH US!
1.09: Golden Tate, WR, Sea (5' 11" / 195lbs – 4.42)
Last year, it seemed like every time I watched Notre Dame, Tate did something interesting. He looks like
a running back once he has the ball, which makes it particularly entertaining when he builds up a head
of steam. My only concern about Tate is that he and Clausen never looked crisp to me. I could never
tell whether that was due to route running, passing, or both. Time will tell. Tate is in a great situation to
play now and develop. And recent reports indicate Seattle will pass on T.O., which I take as a sign the
coaching staff is pleased with what they are seeing from Tate. A very nice pick at 1.09.
1.10: Demaryius Thomas, WR, Den (6' 3", 229lbs – injured)
I admit it. I look at just about any ranking list I come across on the internet. Does not matter who the
author is. I cannot remember a player with the spread I have seen on Thomas. Some people rank him
as high as 7th in a rookie dynasty draft on the basis that Denver has no choice but to make him successful
(and, I suppose, because of his size and college stats). Other people think he should be selected in the
vicinity of the 30th pick in a dynasty draft. Given our rules and his opportunity in Denver, I think Thomas
should have been taken in the first round. But I would have taken him after Arrelious Benn and Mike
Williams. Benn and Williams have limitations. But they also have almost no significant competition in
Tampa Bay, whereas Thomas, coming off an injury, has to beat out a couple of decent WRs well‐versed
in the Denver offense.
2.09: Tim Tebow, QB, Den (6' 3", 245lbs – 4.72)
Tim Tebow will get a chance to play someday. And the tenure of his head coach will hang in the balance
when that day comes. Everyone has heard about the real world knocks on Tebow. Here’s the fantasy
knock. If he is allowed to run, on his best days, he is going to be a poor man’s Michael Vick. If he is not
allowed to run, Tebow’s ceiling is probably a very poor imitation of Donovan McNabb. Definitely
nothing to get excited about. Msgr. Murphy should have grabbed a high‐upside running back or receiver
and waited for one of the QBs likely to fall to the third round…
3.08: John Skelton, QB, Ari (6' 5" / 258lbs – 4.85)
… like John Skelton. Skelton became a popular topic with draft watchers after Arizona grabbed him.
Talk about your lack of faith in Matt Leinart. Scouting reports on Skelton say he has the tools, but is
probably no more than a back‐up in the pros. Given Arizona’s situation, Skelton will not be rushed and
might blossom with a little attention. (He went to Fordham and needs some time with a clipboard.) An
interesting pick, though I would have selected Levi Brown or Matt Kafka.
Comments: Msgr. Murphy employed a sound strategy, including trading next year’s second round pick
to move from 1.15 to 1.10. I just would have liked to have seen someone other than Thomas taken with
the selection. Thomas will take awhile to develop. There were other players on the board with
immediate upside and long‐term potential. I like the idea of grabbing QBs that might develop in the
next year or two, but I think the high risk, modest pay‐off potential of Tebow and Skelton brings the
grade down for this foursome of picks.
Monsignor Murphy Did Not Touch Us!: B
Croix de Candlestick Division by Dan Schwarz
WATSONVILLE A&M
2.10: Anthony Dixon, RB, SF (6' 1", 235lbs – 4.65)
One thing is clear. The Niners want to be a two‐back team in the fashion of Barber/Dayne (NYG) or
Johnson/White (Ten). With Dixon, I think they may finally have found the complement to Gore they
have been seeking. Dixon is a solid back who will lower his shoulder and run into and through defenses.
He has stuggled with his weight and lacks the type of burst to be a star. Dixon faces competition for
touches from Glen Coffee. But Coffee’s yards‐per‐carry was pathetic last year and he really is more of a
back‐up to Gore than a partner in a two‐back system. I think Dixon will be a contributor by mid‐season
and puts the Niners on course to have two 1,000 yard backs in 2011. Mike gave up $3NC to move up to
this spot from 2.14. Well worth it, IMO.
2.15: Tony Moeaki, TE, KC (6' 4", 250lbs – 4.69)
Who is the starting TE in KC? Leonard Pope’s only claim on the position is that he understands the
offense. Brad Cottam is still recovering from an injury. The position appears to be Moeaki’s to lose. If
the Combine was any indication, Moeaki will grab the starting job in training camp and never look back.
Moeaki wowed scouts with his athleticism in Indianapolis. He should be a decent fantasy TE right away,
with the opportunity to produce nicely after he masters Todd Haley’s offense. 2010 was a deep year for
TEs. Moeaki may have a lower ceiling than some of the other TEs available, but he will probably be the
first to achieve fantasy starter status. Given how many teams above A&M were in the market for a TE, I
am amazed he fell to 2.15. Excellent selection.
3.02: Andre Roberts, WR, Ari (5' 11", 185lbs – 4.46)
I admit it. I did not know who Roberts was until I started preparing for the NorCal draft. I simply do not
follow the Citadel. Maybe I will try to watch their games after reading about this guy. A fast receiver
with a reputation for tight route running and good hands, Roberts landed in an excellent situation in
Arizona. The Cardinals do not seem sold on Steve Breaston and may let him leave after the 2010
season. Roberts is reportedly similar in build and style to Breaston and will likely be Breaston’s back‐up
this season. A great investment for 2011. Of course, there is a big issue – who will be the QB? Mike
made a trade to nab Roberts. Good thing, because I planned on taking him at 3.04.
3.06: Kerry Meier, WR, Atl (6' 3", 220lbs – 4.62)
A slow time at the NFL Combine hurt Meier’s stock. Meier was not a burner at Kansas, but he sure
caught a lot of balls. Meier is a big‐body, good hands receiver who should develop into a solid PPR
contributor over time. I think Meier is a reflection of the 2010 WR class. Three years from now it will be
interesting to see how many NFL possession receivers emerged from this draft class. The count will be
pretty high and Meier will likely be on the list. A good player to stash on the development squad.
3.14: Jeremy Williams, WR, SDG (6' 1", 201lbs – 4.57)
The Chargers clearly went into the 2010 draft to find some WRs to develop. Reports continue to swirl
that Vincent Jackson will never suit‐up in lightning bolts again. If that is true, Williams may get on the
field sooner rather than later. But with Naanee and Davis ready to go, Williams will have to earn his PT
on the return team. Reports tapped Williams as a player who could very well become a solid NFL starter
with some seasoning. Not sure if A&M has the bench room to hold Williams for the 2‐3 years it will take
to find out.
3.21: Seyi Ajirotutu, WR, SDG (6' 3", 210lbs – 4.53)
Reports are that Keenan McCardell has taken an interest in Ajirotutu, which may be why the Bolts were
inclined to take this Fresno State project. It probably helps that the Chargers were watching a lot of
footage of Ryan Mathews. They probably saw the occasional play involving Ajirotutu. I do not have
much else to say here except that I would have liked to have seen a long‐term prospect at TE or QB
selected at this point. Anthony McCoy and Mike Kafka were still there.
Comments: How successful can a draft be when you do not have a first‐round pick? Pretty darn
successful if you have done your homework. And it is clear that Mike Rico did his homework. His
second round selections will contribute early and have the potential to be regular fantasy starters within
a season or two. The four wide‐receivers he selected in the third round have the potential to become
NFL starters within 2‐4 years. The question is whether Watsonville A&M can hold them for that long.
Roberts has “steal” written all over him and I think it will be hard to hold two Chargers’ prospects for 3
years to find out which one emerges as a contributor. I probably should ding Mike a little in his grade
for tapping Williams and Ajirotutu (need to keep the portfolio diversified when reaching this deep), but I
was so impressed with Rico’s trades, I am giving this one an “A”. Keep in mind that in addition to
grabbing Roberts, Mike picked up Shiancoe at TE. It cost him a second round pick next year, but
Shiancoe is a great 2010 contributor if Favre comes back. (Maybe I should say when Favre stages his
LeBron‐style TV special in which he retires in the first hour and comes out of retirement in the second
hour.)
Watsonville A&M: A
KIRKWOOD CRUSHERS
1.01: Dez Bryant, WR, Dal (6’2”, 215 lbs – injured)
Was there ever any doubt that Mike Campbell would select Bryant? The best WR in the draft. A likely
PPR‐machine. Some have called him the next Randy Moss, others have said the next T.O. And there is
the little matter of his having been on the OSU campus. (I am not going to say he attended school there.
I suspect that would be stretching the truth a bit.) Like Michael Crabtree the year before, you cannot
help but wonder what Bryant would have been like paired with a star QB. Bryant would have been a top
pick no matter which NFL team drafted him, but because he landed with the Cowboys, enthusiasm is off
the charts. Bryant is yet another weapon for a high‐powered offense that was often let down last
season by the poor showing of Roy Williams. Bryant has the skills to overtake Williams on the depth
chart right away. The only thing that might hold him back is his commitment and attitude.
1.05: CJ Spiller, RB, Buf (5’11”, 195 lbs – 4.37)
Many fantasy pundits pegged Spiller as the best RB before the NFL draft. Because Spiller landed in
Buffalo, he fell below Mathews and Best in most rankings I saw. Months after the draft, Spiller’s role
remains unclear. Will Buffalo use a RBBC with two or three backs? Or will Chan Gailey tap Jackson as a
feature back, use Lynch occasionally, and let Spiller come along slowly? Spiller is built a lot like Jamal
Charles. Like Charles, I think Spiller will benefit from a flexible role in his rookie season. I think Gailey
will conclude the same thing and give Spiller limited touches early in the season while he learns the NFL.
Spiller could very well be the feature back going in to 2011. A solid pick.
1.13: Arrelious Benn, WR, TB (6’2”, 220 lbs – 4.48)
It is going to be a long season in Tampa Bay. With camp set to open, Benn and fellow rookie Mike
Williams are frontrunners to start for the Buccaneers. Hey, there’s always 2011! Campbell must have
been thrilled to see Benn there for the taking at 1.13. Mike put together a package of picks to trade up
into this spot and grab Josh Freeman’s new favorite target. Benn is an all but certain starting WR with
the size and talent to become a star. I saw Illinois a couple of times last season. Benn was impressive in
both games. He is big and physical, and he knows how to use his strength to his advantage. Sheer
opportunity makes Benn valuable for 2010. Talent makes Benn valuable for years to come.
2.01: Jimmy Graham, TE, NO (6’6”, 260 lbs – 4.56)
The 2010 rookie class is noteworthy because of the depth at TE. Lots of high‐ceiling guys. None more so
than Graham. After three season of basketball at the U, Graham played TE for the Hurricanes. Smart
move. Graham did not have a future in the NBA, but he does have one in the NFL. A bright one. With
Shockey and Thomas back, New Orleans has the luxury of bringing Graham along slowly. Good thing,
because Graham still has a lot to learn, particularly about blocking. Campbell has enough depth to stash
Graham on his bench, so this pick makes a lot of sense. Graham could be Drew Brees’ favorite outlet by
2012. I like Dennis Pitta’s long‐term value more, but I cannot quibble with this investment.
2.06: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Car (6’3”, 223 lbs – injured)
If you blinked, you might have missed Kirkwood’s aggressive trade to move into this spot and grab
Clausen. Campbell saw another opportunity and he took it. Poor Matt Moore. What does he have to
do to earn John Fox’ confidence? Clearly Carolina is looking a few years down the road and sees
Clausen, not Moore, lined‐up behind center. Makes sense to me. Clausen has all the tools to be an NFL
QB and he has already proven himself in a pro‐style offense. I have three issues with Clausen. First, he
is not a winner. It is impossible to avoid watching Irish games. And when I did, I always reached the
same conclusion. Clausen does not have a killer instinct. He is not a winner. Everyone falls somewhere
between Joe Montana and Steve Beuerlein when it comes to attitude. Clausen is a Beuerlein. My
second knock on Clausen is that he simply never looked crisp. He has to get a lot sharper to win in the
NFL. Finally, Clausen will never achieve greatness because he is a “Jimmy.” Jimmy is the kid down the
street or the guy making BB&Q with a cooler full of Bud on‐hand (or Shiner if you are down Campbell’s
way). Jimmy is not a leader of men. And a great NFL QB is a leader of men. Jimmy Clausen might have
a good NFL career, but he will never be great. Just ask Danny White.
Comments: It certainly helps your chances of having a successful draft if you have five of the first 23
picks. But you can still misfire if you are not careful. Kirkwood finished the draft with the top WR, a
consensus top‐4 RB, another top‐5 WR, the future starting TE for the high‐powered Saints, and the #2
QB in the draft. I would have simply given Campbell an “A” and moved on, but I had to toss on the “+”
when I realized that Kirkwood’s entire draft position was the product of trades. I thought he paid a lot
to grab Clausen, but Kirkwood needed the roster room, Greg Olsen’s value in a Mike Martz offense is
uncertain, and Derrick Ward may be the NFL’s most expensive, “lesser” member of a RBBC. Mike
Campbell remains the owner to emulate when it comes to trading and the draft. One question to ask
now and consider 3 years from now – is getting an A+ in a weak talent pool better than a B is a rich draft
class?
Kirkwood Crushers: A+
DIGGING DEEP
2.03: Damian Williams, WR, Ten (6’1”, 190 lbs – 4.53)
Two things hurt Williams’ NFL value and caused him to fall to the Titans in the third round. One was his
injury history. The other was that he had his breakout year with Matt Barkley at QB. It was not until
Barkley was truly comfortable as the Trojans QB that Williams shined. In the 2009 Emerald Bowl,
Williams shredded the Boston College defense, earning MVP honors on 12 catches for 189 yards. When
healthy, Williams has the talent to be an NFL star. He has the tools and he already knows the pro‐style
passing game. If Williams had been drafted into a better fantasy situation, he would have been
considered a top‐10 dynasty selection. On the Titans, Williams faces two challenges. First, he has to
climb the depth chart to earn playing time. Williams might be more talented than his fellow WRs in
Tennessee, but they are solid, established NFL players. Jeff Fisher is not going to rush Williams. Second,
until the wheels come off, this is Chris Johnson’s team. The passing game comes second. It is
interesting, though, that Williams follows last year’s selection of Kenny Britt. Perhaps the Titans see a
future in which the vertical game plays a larger role. Williams was the best WR on the board at 2.03, but
Digging Deep will have to sit on him for a few years.
2.13: James Starks, RB, GB (6’2”, 211 lbs – 4.50)
I really do not have to write much about Starks, since we all follow the Buffalo Bulls closely. No? Well, it
would not have mattered much, since Starks missed the 2009 season with a shoulder injury. True Bulls’
fans know that Starks was a beast in his first three season, getting progressively better each year.
Expectations were very high headed into 2009. Interestingly, Starks went to Buffalo to play QB. When
he did not get the job, he was converted to RB. I guess you have to be turning pro to be converted into
a WR. Starks was impressive at the combine and made a lot of fantasy sleeper lists. The latter
circumstance is in part due to his potential and in part due to where he landed. In Green Bay, Starks
looks like a good bet to participate in a RBBC with Grant and Jackson. A perfect situation for a back that
needs a little time to shake off the rust and adjust to the pro game. If Starks is as talented as most
pundits say he is, I think he takes on a progressively larger role as the season goes on. And he gives the
Packers a reason to let Grant go when his contract is up. As I have indicated elsewhere, I am surprised
Starks was still on the board at 2.13. He should have gone before several other players in my mind.
Great pick.
3.05: Armanti Edwards, WR, Car (6’0”, 184 lbs – did not participate)
Edwards was the first of three QBs that Digging Deep drafted in the third round. But Edwards was
drafted by the Panthers to play WR – a role the former Appalachian State QB was destined for as soon
as the 2009 season ended. Edwards probably has some Wildcat in his future – Google his college career
and check out his Michael Vick‐like numbers. Edwards joins Brandon LaFell and David Gettis as the next
generation of Carolina WRs. LaFell appears most ready to play alongside Steve Smith, but Edwards and
Gettis will challenge him for playing time. An interesting long‐term prospect and one of the best players
left at 3.05.
3.20: Levi Brown, QB, Buf (6’4”, 219 lbs – 4.95)
Pick #52 is the perfect point in the draft to throw a dart at the draft board. Digging Deep did better than
that, grabbing the former Troy star. I admit I have not seen Brown play. But several sources describe
him as having the tools to be a solid NFL pocket passer. Given how little talent there is ahead of him in
Buffalo, Levi Brown could be a name we hear on Sundays before the 2010 season is over. Will “Levi’s
Song” become the chant of Bills fans everywhere?
3.25: Mike Kafka, QB, Phi (6’3”, 210 lbs – 4.93)
Before the NFL draft, Kafka was touted as having the skills and smarts to make an impact in the NFL.
Because he landed in Philly, where he will carry a clipboard behind Kolb and Vick, fantasy owners lost a
lot of their enthusiasm. At the beginning of the season, Kafka will get the time he needs to develop.
Vick is living on borrowed time. If the season goes south for Philly, look for Kafka to see snaps by Week
16. If things go well for the Eagles, Kafka will probably be the back‐up in 2011. After that, who knows?
Perhaps he can be the next… Kevin Kolb?
Comments: There is no immediate return to this group, but when you do not have a first round pick,
that is understandable. I think Digging Deep put together a very nice group for the taxi squad. Like
Watsonville A&M, Digging Deep did its homework. Williams and Starks will pay dividends over time and
have very high ceilings. Edwards could be the #2 receiver in Carolina and his Wildcat potential will
almost certainly get him on the field. Either Brown or Kafka will contend for playing time at some point.
If Digging Deep can afford to hold them, I think they will realize some level of return.
Digging Deep: A
Nihonmachi Division by Mike Rico
THE U
1.03: Jahvid Best, RB, DET (5’10”, 190 lbs ‐ 4.35)
At 1.03 & 1.04, Jason had to make the choice of what 2 out of 3 prospects he was going to pick: Jahvid
Best, Sam Bradford and CJ Spiller. In this instance, Mr. Cal Alum could have his cake and eat it, too. Best
comes in a small package, but is reported to be a better inside runner than Spiller and lands in a nice
situation where he can run in Detroit’s version of the Triangle offense with Stafford and Megatron. This
is a boom/bust pick because of the size of Best and his awful injury during his final season at Cal.
However, this guy is a big play waiting to happen. If he can resist launching himself near the goalline and
bulk up a bit, this can be one of the steals of the NFL draft for the Lions. With Aaron Rodgers, his newly
signed TE Tony Gonzalez and Best, this could soon be happy times for The U, aka (Blue and) Goldilocks
and the Three (Cal) Bears. Don’t worry, I already booed myself after I typed that.
1.04: Sam Bradford, QB, STL (6’4”, 236 lbs.)
An accurate quarterback can carry your team in this league (I heart U, Drew Brees) which is why I think
Bradford was the correct pick at 1.04. It’s tough for real NFL scouts to evaluate the quarterback position,
so I am not going to be able to tell you if Bradford will be the next great QB. His accuracy, however, is
not in question‐ 69% and 68% in his two full seasons at Oklahoma. The knock is that his jersey was
always clean at the end of every game, so there is little film of him trying to navigate a pass rush. And
like Best, his season was derailed by an ugly injury‐ this one to his throwing shoulder. We’ll see soon
enough as he looks like he will start in his first season.
1.08: Jermaine Gresham, TE, CIN (6’6”, 261 lbs ‐ 4.73)
Wait a minute, is this another 1st round prospect that had his final college season cut short because of a
major injury? I think we now know Jason’s tolerance for injury risk; it’s similar to Dino’s tolerance of
cheap body sprays worn by strippers. It’s mildly bothersome, but not really a deterrent… Gresham is an
athletic tight end who can also be a very good blocker. It will be interesting to see how the Bengals
integrate a TE into their offense as they haven’t had a threat at that position since I can remember…One
owner did write in and thought this was a reach at 1.08 given his past injury and other options at
different positions. I’d call it a slight reach as well. I would have passed on him and went for one of the
“move” TEs in Aaron Hernandez or Jimmy Graham at a later spot. Sometimes the 2‐way TEs get
penalized for being able to block well ‐ they get more snaps, but they are held in by the playcalling. Still,
you could argue this is a solid safe pick here in this format. Overall, I would say Greshham has a higher
floor than those two, but with lower ceilings.
3.24: Joe Webb, QB/WR?, MIN (6’3”, 226 lbs. – 4.43)
Before the draft, it was widely assumed that the Vikings would convert the super‐athletic Joe Webb to
wide receiver. Recent reports have the Vikes talking up Webb’s skills at QB and they will keep him there
heading into TC. If that’s the case, then he’s looking up at Farve, Jackson and Rosenfelds. Maybe this
says more about what they want to do with Rosenfelds than anything. At any rate, Webb looks like a
candidate for the practice squad as he is a project at either position.
3.29: David Gettis – WR, CAR (6’3”, 215 lbs – 4.47)
A good pick for the prospect that is our version of Mr. Irrelevant. David Gettis brings raw tools with very
good speed in a larger body. A project that will have to compete with rookie classmates Brandon LeFell
and Armanti Edwards, but the Panthers will be happy to have him on the roster if he can make
noticeable strides in training camp… I noticed this year that 5 D‐Squad slots does not seem like enough.
Maybe we should open it up to 6 slots next year?
Comments: The can’t miss players were one‐deep this year IMO‐ Dez Bryant and even he has question
marks due to his suspension last year. Aside from that, Ura took two guys (Best and Bradford) who have
terrific upside, but with some risk. At the top of the draft, you have to draft for upside. Jason did a nice
job with his deals to assure that he got these two players. I like both, but there are no guarantees… Not
a big fan of Gresham at 1.08, but it could pay off for him.
Grade: A‐
THE QUINN‐CLARK SHOW
3.11: LeGarrette Blount, RB, TEN (6’1”, 240 lbs ‐ 4.62) – A second or third round talent that was off
every team’s draft boards because of the baggage he lugs around. At 3.11, there is little invested here
and upside for QCS… Blount is probably as emotionally mature as a 15 year old, but if he ever got his act
together, he could be the perfect complement to Chris Johnson. He’s a big, one cut‐and‐go back with
good burst that is tough to bring down. Unfortunately, he’s a long way off to be trusted enough to pick
up a blitz and we don’t know if he can catch passes… We do know that you should watch your manners
around him as he is good at talking with his fists. Some guys do get it eventually, but most of the time it
is too late.
3.17: Carlton Mitchell, WR, CLE (6’3”, 215 lbs ‐ 4.49)
Mitchell looks the part as 6‐3 215 lb WR, but the reports are a mixed bag. He came out too early, does
not know how to run routes, is not fluid or run balanced and is not aggressive. On the plus side, I did
read that he does have decent hands and gives good effort blocking. He also doesn’t have much
competition in his way if he can impress his coaches. If he shows he can handle the physical side of the
NFL then the Browns may have something.
3.23: Anthony McCoy, TE, SEA (6’5”, 252 lbs ‐ 4.79)
Great pick here as it seems McCoy was generally underrated by teams before his ex‐college coach Pete
Carroll scooped him up in the sixth round. (Take that, Taylor Mays! But I am hearing good things about
your boy Mays, Sisson.) He is a converted WR who shows good hands, a willingness to block and was
thought of as one of the more complete TEs in the draft. He will have competition from John Carlson on
his team, but a nice pick up here for QCS based on talent and value.
3.27: Clay Harbor, TE, PHI (6’4”, 243 lbs. ‐ 4.69) –The Eagles are good at scouting their offensive skill
positions, so it’s interesting that they thought enough of Harbor to draft him in the 4th round. I couldn’t
find much on him other than then he was announced as a fullback when he was selected, so he looks
like a possible H‐back if he works his way into getting some snaps.
Comments: QCS live in the here and now. High draft picks are assets to keep the roster competitive and
they have 3 playoff appearances and 2 championships to show for it. They received Brandon Marshall in
a package that included their 2010 1st, so that is where they are coming from. They still have all their
picks for next year, so maybe they see that it’s near time to build for the future.
I liked all their picks in the spots they were taken. Still the odds are long that they will contribute to a
fantasy roster. With no picks in the first or second, it’s tough to give them a grade.
Grade: Incomplete
TOKYO GAS CREATORS
1.02: Ryan Mathews, RB, SDC (5’11”, 220 lbs ‐ 4.53)
Tokyo secures the top‐rated running back in the draft by moving up two spots. Mathews falls into a
great situation by taking over lead RB duties for a team that surprisingly moved up early in the first
round to grab him. On top of that, Norv Turner, who has presided over some nice running games over
the years has come out and set up some high expectations for him in the media… The critics of Mathews
say that he is not a creative runner with limited vision and he will go as his Oline goes. That’s true of
most backs, but there is more expected from Mathews because of his NFL draft position and situation.
We’ll see soon as he will be forced to hit the ground running.
1.15: Aaron Hernandez, TE, NEP (6’2”, 250 lbs – N/A)
Tebow to Hernandez was a popular refrain last season for Florida Gator fans. Some say he was the key
to the Gators offense (him and that Tebow guy) and he certainly ended up on a team that is smart
enough to use his talents as a move TE. A great athlete and natural pass catcher who understands how
to get open dropped in the draft after he failed a drug test of his pee‐o, because he done smoked major
weed, bro. Luniz up in here!!! Not good timing on Aaron’s part and his draft stock plummeted. He was
rated as 1st to 2nd round talent… He can now learn how to set up defenders and how to submit clean
urine samples from one of the all‐time greats, Randy Moss.
3.16: Shawnbrey McNeal, RB, SDC (5’10”, 190 ‐ 4.56)
You can’t accuse AJ Smith of being a sentimental guy. He told his first‐ballot Hall of Fame RB, “LT, I know
you have been the face of the franchise through the good times and bad, but don’t let that doorknob
stick you in the ass when you leave. And who produced your crappy video anyway, Kurtis Blow?” I think
AJ was the only guy in the theater who was rooting for Jon Voight to stay on the trainer’s table in “The
Champ”. In a similar vein, Darren Sproles will probably outlive his usefulness from a cost/benefit stand
point after this year which means that scatback Shawnbrey McNeal has a chance to take his place on the
roster in 2011. McNeal was a transfer from The University of Miami to SMU and he’s impressed in OTAs,
so he has that going for him. He could couple up with Mathews to make up the Charger backfield for the
foreseeable future.
3.19: Marcus Easley, WR, BUF (6’2”, 216 lbs ‐ 4.46)
Easley is another one of those guys that teams take as WR projects that fit the 6’3”ish, 215‐230 lbs‐ish,
4.4 speed and hope they turn into the next Terrell Owens. Well, not last year’s TO as the Bills already
know too well… Easley will compete against Steve Johnson and current disappointment James Hardy for
the spot opposite Lee Evans. Chan Gailey made some chicken salad out of the KC offense when he was
there recently and there is some buzz on Easley early on, so there might be something here. At 3.19, this
is a great grab and stash.
3.22: Riley Cooper, WR, (PHI 6’3”, 215 lbs ‐ 4.52)
Riley Cooper is a guy who played baseball and football at Florida, so there may be some upside here as
he now concentrates on one sport. He almost snuck into the 4.4s at the combine which is impressive for
a big guy like him. Unfortunately, he’s got young guys like DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin and Brent
Celek getting most of the love already, but he could develop into an interesting player for the Eagles
down the line for them and should get time to develop.
Comments: As far as drafting, TGC has been doin’ it and doin’ it and doin’ it well. Shoot me now, folks;
I’m starting to sound like Stuart Scott. Actually, if there are any volunteers, I would be willing to travel to
Scott’s house so we can make this a double‐homicide. Boo‐yah!!!… Mathews was chalk, I like
Hernandez at that spot as I don’t think it was a reach given the upside and our format. TGC dropped 5
spots and picked up a 2nd next year from Monsignor. The names TGC passed on‐ Thomas, Tate, Gerhart,
Benn & Decker. Chances are 1 or 2 of these guys will out produce Hernandez, but which one? And
maybe Hernandez does end up being more valuable than all those guys. Only time will tell, but for me
the nature of this draft class was that it was hard to feel strongly on any of these guys… McNeal makes
some sense for Dan and Alex and the other guys are nice talents at that spot. Very nice, workman‐like
draft for the Brothers Schwarz.
Grade: A‐
CCS Bukkakke Division by Mike Rico
WILDCATZ
1.07: Dexter McCluster, RB/WR, KC (5’8”, 165 lbs ‐ 4.58)
McCluster is an interesting guy to try and figure out. I wanted him as Niner as he is a guy that looks like
he can be a force on special teams. He was a highly productive RB in the SEC, yet he will likely take many
snaps in the slot ala Percy Harvin. Could he be a Wes Welker eventually? One of the owners that wrote
in thought this was a reach picking him at the 1.07 spot, describing him as a specialty back. I understand
that reasoning. His snaps will be limited in the beginning until he can prove he can handle them and he
will be saved for special teams. I think he’ll be a high‐impact player with the snaps he does take; it’s
likely he won’t be able to take many as his stature will limit his playing time. At the same time, it
wouldn’t surprise me if he eventually becomes a fantasy comp along the projections of a Percy Harvin.
He’s electric and he supposedly has a high football IQ. He’ll make Chiefs (and NFL) fans happy, but we
can’t be sure how many points he will tally for his fantasy owners.
1.12: Toby Gerhart, RB, MIN (6’1”, 235 lbs ‐ 4.53)
I could not fit a “My name not Toby” joke in here as hard as I tried. However, Gerhart is as historic as the
ground‐breaking “Roots” mini‐series in that he is the rare albino specimen of the tailback species that
comes along every 10 years or so. Despite all the lazy Mike Allstott comps, he looks like he brings more
to the table. Scouts say he has more wiggle and runs with lighter feet and is frequently called Jerome
Bettis‐lite. He was a baller on the baseball diamond so now he can focus on being the best football
player he can be – which could be very good. I would not want to be a safety trying to tackle ADP or
Gerhart…
2.12: Jacoby Ford, WR, OAK (5’10”, 185 lbs ‐ 4.28)
Recognized as CJ Spiller’s faster teammate, Ford was the fastest guy in his draft class. That will get you
drafted by Al Davis every time. Kudos to Creepy Al for not wasting a high draft pick on him. He can make
an impact for the Raider’s special teams, but he is strictly a project as a wide receiver for now.
Comments: This is not the blockbuster draft Jerry had when he took Ray Rice and DeSean Jackson and
then traded for Vernon Davis. (Yes, suddenly that Vernon Davis for 1.01 (Darren McFadden) doesn’t look
too bad now.) Regarding this draft, one owner wrote in and liked what he did to address the RB position.
It was an area of need for Wildcatz and JB ultimately came away with McCluster, Gerhart and Hardesty.
He did give up Rivers as it looks like he is going to ride with Kolb as his starting QB. I thought Ford was a
reach, McCluster is a slight reach (though I’ve seen him drafted in that area in other dynasty drafts), but
I love him if he turns into a full‐time WR.
Grade: C
AXIS POWERS
1.06: Montario Hardesty, RB, CLE (6’0”, 200 – 4.49)
Not sure what type of blocking scheme they are running in Cleveland, but my research informs me that
Hardesty is a good fit for a zone blocking team. He doesn’t necessarily have all the attributes of a feature
back now, but may develop them over time. He’s a fast, one‐cut runner who can shake off tackles. Ben
drafted Hardesty and then sent him and David Garrard over for Phillip Rivers on a one year contract. An
owner wrote in and “was floored” by that trade. Rivers may not put up the numbers this year as the last
couple of seasons, but I would think Jerry could have gotten more in return.
1.14: Eric Decker, WR, DEN (6’3”, 220 lbs ‐ N/A)
Ben took a stand on a player here that has been going later in most dynasty drafts. It was a smaller
reach considering it would normally be a 2nd round pick at 14 overall, but Ben later told me that he
didn’t want to lose out on the chance to draft him… A tough, sticky‐handed receiver, he lacks the
athleticism of most WRs, but makes up for it with a high football IQ. One of my sources rated him as 1rd
NFL talent; if so, then Ben got himself a steal. Decker has already gotten positive reviews in OTAs… Ben
got this pick (along with David Garrard) by trading away TJ Houshmanzadeh. It wasn’t as if Ben is chock‐
full of receivers right now, so this is a gamble in the short‐term. It might be that TJ still has one more
year left of productivity with a revitalized Matt Hasselbeck or it might be that Ben unloaded him at the
right time for the right player. These are the dilemmas of the dynasty owner…
1.17: Mike Williams, WR, TBB, (6’2”, 204 lbs ‐ 4.45)
Tampa Bay drafted two intriguing WRs this past April: Arrelious Benn and this cat who quit (before he
could get suspended) his college team last year in Syracuse. Talent wise, he could be the best (or 2nd
best, sez me and Dez) WR in his draft class; the problem is attitude and his off‐field issues. There were
reports he interviewed badly at the combines and scared away teams until the Bucs took a chance on
him in the 4th round. None of this will matter if plays to his talent level and stays off the police blotter.
Goodell is watching…Ben gave up 2.08, 2.12 & a 3rd next year for this pick, which was not much to give
up to get a player you like and before a dropoff in talent in the draft, so nice job there.
3.04: Taylor Price, WR, NEP (6’1”, 209 lbs ‐ 4.41)
Price wasted his talents playing for his alma mater, Ohio. Despite that, scouts loved his speed and his
football savvy and he looks to compete with Julian Edelman and Brandon Tate to be one of Patriot’s
wide outs of the future. So far he’s caught the attention of the NE beat writers, who have had good
things to say about him in spring practices... I have to think that since Brian Ward told us to all to go fuck
ourselves after Ben made this pick that Digging Deep was going to pick Price with the next pick, but I
have no confirmation of that. That’s just me using my fancy deducin’ skillz… I believe Brian channeled his
inner Mel Gibson because AP moved up 20 spots for $2. I do think that was a cheap move up, but at the
same time, it’s not like he moved up from 2.03 to 1.01. The right dollar amount is somewhere in‐
between… And thanks to Brian for showing some restraint by not calling us all f’ing soulless b**** c****
whores.
3.26: Dorin Dickerson, TE, HOU (6’2”, 230 lbs ‐ 4.40)
Houston collects TEs, the way I collected Johnnie LeMaster baseball cards in 1978. Trust me, I didn’t
want to collect his card, but it seems that Topps gave it away free with every pack. The Texans drafted
James Casey last year and then drafted Garrett Graham in the 4th and Dorin Dickerson in the 7th this
year. But any guy who goes 6’2”, 230 and can run 4.40 is worth a look‐see. He may also line up at FB, so
he’s a versatile player. At 3.26, what the hell? Always good to look at athletic TEs in this part of the draft,
at least in this format.
3.28: Blair White, WR, IND (6’2”, 200 lbs ‐ 4.50)
The good news is that White was a productive player who was a walk‐on at Michigan State. He’s a tough
and reliable WR who performed well at the Colt’s OTAs. The bad news he will be fighting tooth‐and‐nail
to get any attention from Peyton Manning in camp amongst all the pass catchers named Wayne, Clark,
Garcon, Collie and Gonzalez. It seems Bill Polian can find All‐Pro WRs underneath his couch cushions
where I can only find broken pieces of Funyuns in mine. If this undrafted WR has signed with anyone
else, White would likely have gone sooner in our draft.
Comments: The reigning champ has been drafting well and he picks up interesting WRs later in the first
round. He turned Hardesty and Garrard into Phillip Rivers, which is a good chip for him to have this
season… After Dez Bryant, there are no sure things this year and Ben is holding a couple of good bets in
Decker and Williams. He gets Price at good value and fills out his picks with interesting players. Another
good job by one of our most active traders.
Grade: A‐
WHAT U’
1.16: Jordan Shipley, WR, CIN (6’0”, 190 lbs ‐ 4.57)
Shipley is a favorite of both my sources and they both think he is an NFL 1st round talent. Still, in the
larger FF community, he is a polarizing prospect. He is an older prospect at 24, so he may be closer to
having an impact in his rookie season. However, being an older prospect is usually not a good thing. One
owner wrote in and said that it was a reach, but that same owner also likes Shipley’s game and would
have drafted him later…We see guys like Shipley now a days and hope he will be the next Wes Welker.
We can all use the next WW and I know Carson Palmer could sure use one, too.
2.11: Brandon LaFell, WR, CAR (6’3”, 206 lbs ‐ 4.59)
Reading about LeFell, it seems that he’s high‐floor, low‐ceiling type of WR. He is also questioned about
his lack of passion for the game. It was noted that many of his big plays were when he lined up in the
slot against linebackers and safeties. Doubtful he will play out of the slot in pros as that is usually the
domain of the swift of foot… He’ll have to compete with less polished, but more athletic WR projects in
David Gettis and Armanti Edwards. His draft position and LSU pedigree to give him an edge in the
competition.
3.01: Emanuelle Sanders, WR, PIT (5’11, 180 lbs ‐ 4.41)
No more Santonio Holmes means there is opportunity for Sanders to fit the profile of speedy receiver
that can stretch defenses. Hines Ward is not long for this game and Sanders merely needs to climb over
the ranks of veterans Arnaz Battle and Antwaan Randle El. Is Limas Sweed even on their roster
anymore? (I’m not even going to Google the answer to that, because I don’t think anyone cares.) If
Emanuelle can find separation and play tough inside, then Sanders will make the Steelers and Sisson
very happy.
3.03: Dan LeFevour, QB, CHI (6’3”, 238 lbs ‐ 4.66)
LeFevour is a difficult QB to evaluate for scouts because he came from an offense that regularly utilized
5 WR sets. More gimmicky than your ordinary spread offense, but who knows, he might take to the
Martz offense on the Bears better than other styles of offense. Tough to know how this will pan out, but
there are a lot of LeFevour fans. He had a great career for Central Michigan.
3.09: Fendi Onobun, TE, STL (6’6”, 252 lbs. – 4.45)
Out of the 6th round for the Rams came the most athletic of the athletic TEs. He is also the rawest of the
raw, like Eddie Murphy eating sushi ringside at a WWE match. Thanks to the success story of Antonio
Gates, teams will always take these kinds of chances on guys like Fendi. And because of our scoring
format, so will we. Fendi played 4 years of basketball at the University of Arizona, before playing 1 year
at the U of Houston as a TE. (I learned that the NCAA will let you play one year of another sport if you
don’t redshirt your first sport.) He caught 2 passes for 33 yards and a TD in his football career, but he
killed at his private workout: 4.45‐second 40‐yard dash, 37.5‐inch vertical, 11'1" broad jump. He’ll be on
the Rams’ practice squad for a year or two to see what they have here.
3.10: Dezmon Briscoe, WR, CIN, (6’3” 200 lbs ‐ 4.61) – The Bengals double‐dipped in the draft for WRs a
couple of years ago with Andre Caldwell and Jerome Simpson. Those two haven’t really worked out so
far, so they did it again as they drafted Jordan Shipley and Dezmon Briscoe. (And Steve dipped their
double‐dip here.) Briscoe is rated as a 2nd round NFL talent by one of my sources and a potential #1
receiver for his team. That is more enthusiastic than most other reports, but at 3.10 there is some
potential upside here. He has a slow 40 time for a WR, so he’ll need to play faster than his measurables
indicate.
3.13: Garrett Graham, TE, HOU (6’3”, 250 lbs ‐ 4.71) ‐ Graham is a big guy, but does not rate as a good
blocker. He has great hands, but doesn’t showcase great speed even for a TE. He’ll have to show a
knack to get open in the next level to make any kind of impact. The good news is that Owen Daniels (his
new teammate) and Brent Celek were similar players coming out of college and they have made their
mark on the NFL.
Comments: What U got some interesting players… Given what I have read, Shipley is not a reach IMO.
There are enough experts out there that love his game and he could be a fantasy force. I have no read
on the situation myself. Brandon “LaFell” to the late 2nd and he will get an opportunity to win the 2nd WR
for the Panthers. The other guys he took in the 3rd, I liked‐ I just would have liked a little further down
for my taste, so I don’t think he got the greatest value. But we’re talking 3rd round here… I didn’t like his
trade with Kirkwood to get more picks‐ he ended up giving up the two best picks of all of them to get a
low 2nd and two 3rds. So that’s a spanking… He did trade for Jonathon Dwyer, who was essentially the
number 1 rated talent pre‐season 2009 in dynasty leagues that draft college players. So, stay tuned into
the Pittsburgh running back situation.
Grade: C