Mock Draft Round-Up: Arizona Cardinals Style
by Hawkwind on Jan 19, 2010 7:59 AM MST
in General Arizona Cardinals News
Email
PrintNow that the dust is starting to settle on the Arizona Cardinals season, it's time for ROTB to kick it into another gear. We'll be bringing you off season awards and positional breakdowns in the near future but one of the dominating story lines over the next couple of months will be the NFL draft. There has been some regular fanpost threads discussing various draft scenarios and needs but we've strayed away from the subject on the front page until now. Over the course of the next couple of months we'll be bringing you countless mock draft updates as well as some potential draft picks to ponder. We'll also have our annual ROTB mock draft so be thinking of teams you'd like to represent (and no you can't pick the Niners just to select Bobby Bouche as their first round pick). With all that being said here's our first official mock draft look-in (first round picks only unless otherwise noted):
(Disclaimer: I know some of you guys may not be ready to talk NFL draft so if you're still in mourning or simply don't think the draft should be a topic of discussion yet, just keep scrolling down to the next story.)
Draft Countdown: Anthony Davis (OT-Rutgers) - The Cardinals have one of the most explosive offenses in the league but one position they need to shore up is left tackle. Mike Gandy has quietly been a serviceable player for many years but he is the type you are always looking to replace, plus he's now in his 30's. It goes without saying that when you have a quarterback who is almost 40-years-old it's always a good idea to protect him. There may not be another draft-eligible blocker with more natural ability than Anthony Davis of Rutgers. A great athlete and imposing 6-6, 325 pound physical specimen, Davis is undeniably a first round talent and word is he's leaning towards going pro. Concerns about his conditioning and intangibles could hurt Davis on Draft Day but considering the great demand for blindside protectors it would be a bit of an upset if he escaped the first round. Anthony Davis | Rutgers Scarlet Knights Another interesting possibility is tight end and this could be a potential landing spot for Oklahoma's Jermaine Gresham. Linebacker is another option since Karlos Dansby still hasn't been signed to a long-term contract yet and guys like Bertrand Berry, Chike Okeafor and Clark Haggans are all getting a bit long in the tooth. The Cardinals pass defense ranked near the bottom of the league once again this year so it probably wouldn't hurt them to bring in another starting - caliber cornerback either.
Walter Football (3 rounds): Jerry Hughes (DE/OLB-TCU) - Arizona compiled 43 sacks on the year, but only a few came from the rush linebackers. The leader in that department was Bert Berry, a 35-year-old free agent who had six sacks. After that, 33-year-old Clark Haggans notched five sacks, followed by Chike Okeafor's 4.5. Okeafor, 34, is also a free agent. The Cardinals spent a second-round pick on Cody Brown last year, but he hasn't played a single down in the NFL because of a wrist injury. Clearly, rush linebacker is a dire need for Arizona this offseason - and this was evident before the Cardinals couldn't put any pressure on Drew Brees in their playoff loss. This may seem a bit low for someone as talented as Jerry Hughes, but teams are much more hesitant to take rush linebackers now because the conversion is so unpredictable. Just look at last year's results - no one in the top 15 selections took a rush linebacker. The Chargers (No. 16), Broncos (18) and Packers (26) went with one, but only Green Bay's selection (Clay Matthews) has panned out thus far. It wasn't just last year; in 2008, the Jets were burnt by Gholston. They were the only team to gamble on a rush linebacker in the first round. I think some of these 3-4 guys will take a tumble come April.
- Round 2: Kyle Calloway (OT-Iowa) - If you weren't convinced that the Cardinals needed tackle help, you have to be now after watching the Saints put tons of pressure on Kurt Warner in the second round of the playoffs. Mike Gandy, who just entered his 30s, surrendered 6.5 sacks in 2008, and gave up eight sacks and eight penalties this year before landing on IR. He'll be a free agent after the 2009 NFL season. Backup Jeremy Bridges played relatively well in relief of Gandy at first, but was exposed as the season progressed.
- Round 3: J.D. Walton (C-Baylor) - Lyle Sendlein has played better this season, but you saw it in that Monday night game - the 49ers just had a beat on Sendlein, which is how they were able to get to Kurt Warner so easily. The Cardinals, who don't have very many needs, could use an upgrade at the center position.
Draft Tek (5 Round Simulator): Ricky Sapp (DE/OLB-Clemson) - A highly adaptable pass-rusher that can line up all over the field in the Cards' hybrid defensive alignment - the Clemson standout fits the bill at both DE and OLB for Whisenhunt.
- Round 2: Ciron Black (OT-LSU) - (Editors Note: The original pick for CMD #12 here was Von Miller, who has decided to return to Texas A&M) A healthy OL is key to keeping Arizona's potent offense firing on all cylinders. Black was a 4 YEAR STARTER at LSU. Oh, and did I forget to mention that Black started at LT for 4 YEARS while at LSU ?! - Drafttek Staff (Hawk's note: Wouldn't it be weird if this happened and big Herman Johnson and Black ended up starting on our OL.)
- Round 3: Daryl Washington (ILB-TCU)
- Round 4: Sean Canfield (QB-Oregon State)
- Round 5: Lance Kendricks (TE-Wisconsin)
FFToolBox (Dimon): Trent Williams (OT-Oklahoma) - A massive presence on the offensive line, Williams was solid for Oklahoma this season even though the Sooners were not what the used to be. While the Cardinals' offense is better than their defense, they still need to improve up front.
FFToolBox (Long): Brandon Spikes (LB-Florida) - The Cardinals still have an average to below average defense, so head coach Ken Whisenhunt needs to address the needs on that side of the ball. LB Karlos Dansby is a free agent, and OLBs Clark Haggans, Chike Okaefor and Bertrand Berry will all be 33 or older in 2010. Spikes would be a nice addition since he would fill a need as he can play multiple spots in their defensive scheme.
FFToolBox (Standig): Jermaine Gresham (TE-Oklahoma) - Cards still looking for OLB/pass rush help in their new 3-4 defense and adding an offensive tackle is likely. for now they solve their long standing hole at TE with Gresham.
FFToolBox (Wesler): Sean Weatherspoon (LB-Missouri) - Sean Weatherspoon is a great playmaker and the Missouri defense never gets the credit that it deserves. The 2008 Missouri team would not have been nearly as good without Weatherspoon and it is the defense that has spurred the relatively quality play of the Tigers in the 2009 campaign. His size, or lack there of, will keep him down some draft boards, but every team could use a playmaker like Weatherspoon.
Draft Daddy: Bruce Campbell (OT-Maryland) - Campbell is an athlete but lack of starts could hurt his value. The cards need a new LT.
The Football Expert: Jermaine Gresham (TE-Oklahoma) - The Cards could use an impact tight end and will hope Gresham falls. They missed on Leonard Pope in the third round (2006) and he is now a Chief. Remember Stephen Spach's dramatic wild card game against the Falcons? He hasn't been the same since. Left tackle is also wobbly with Gandy aging. Last year right about here (#20) the Lions took Oklahoma State's Pettigrew and this year it is a different Big XII player looking like the consensus top tight end in the field. His knee injury makes his draft stock hard to gauge right now, but this feels right.
NFL Draft Dog: Mike Iupati (G-Idaho) - Iupati is a mammoth (6' 5" 330 lbs) road grader. He has great feet and uses his hands very well.
New Era Scouting: Brandon Graham (DE/OLB-Michigan)
Pro Draft Party: Eric Norwood (OLB-South Carolina)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lastly guys, if our infrequent draft threads aren't satisfying your thirst for the subject, check out our sister site Mocking the Draft. I know several ROTB regular's are frequent commentors over there, Bezekira and Pyro among others. They cover the draft and everything related to it all year long so they'll have more than enough to fill your draft cup.
As for the mocks around the net, I know it's too early to have much of an idea where players will actually go but it at least gives us an indication of where "outsiders" see holes in our team and which collegiate players might best fill those holes. At this point I can't squabble too much with any mock that has either a ILB or OLB headed to Arizona and I won't raise too much fuss over any offensive tackle not named Trent Williams as well. I can't stand the mocks that have Gresham headed to the desert but our lack of consistent play from the tight end spot is going to push some people in that direction. Thoughts?
63 comments
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Can't stand the Gresham drafts either
I’m on board with the Walter and Draft Tek mocks. I’d be stoked with Sapp or Hughes. As opposed to the Draft Tek one, though, I think we need to take a look at CB in the mid rounds. Not sure we have to go with Canfield.
When I get sad, I stop being sad and be awesome again. True story.
-Barney Stinson
Didn't Canfield get signed somewhere else?
What? I didn't break it, I was just testing its durability, and then I placed it in the woods becuase it's made out of wood and I just thought he should be with his family.
Revenge of the Birds
Yeah, different Canfield. Think Our 7th rd from last year is in Cincy now.
I was referring to the Oregon State QB that Draft Tek has us taking in the 4th.
When I get sad, I stop being sad and be awesome again. True story.
-Barney Stinson
yea we'll definitely need a CB before the 5th round rolls around
A center or QB before that point just seems like a wasted pick.
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
I
have looked at a few of these and I don’t like the Gresham pick. That is not the most important need and there are quite a few TE picks that will stand out later in the draft. Now with the talk of Warner retiring I have seen TimTebow, Colt McCoy, Sean Canfield and Jonathon Crompton being picked up too. But overall the Cardinals probably will go for a OT or LB. I am leaning more towards getting some new starters or better depth on defense.
there is no way we're taking a tight end with our first round pick
kurt warner doesn’t really use the tight end too often. if he retires, it would be nice to have a tight end for leinart, but it’s definitely not our biggest need. if leinart retires, we’re not much of a superbowl contender (unless he pulls off a kurt warner in 99) and it would be better to draft somebody who would really imprint himself on our defense for the next 10 years. i’m also okay with an offensive tackle pick, gandy needs to go and bridges is a backup. a good o-line would help our run game and make us into more of a possession team.
linebacker has to be a second round pick if we go tackle in the first, and i’d like some cornerback help in the third or in free agency.
linebacker has to be a second round pick if we go tackle in the first, and i’d like some cornerback help in the third or in free agency.
Could not agree more. If we got an impact LT in the first, a ILB who can contribute in the second and a CB in the third, I’d be ecstatic.
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
I already said that I want to go with a Linebacker in the first round.
Lifelong Arizona Cardinals/Chicago Bears fan.
I can't stand band-wagoner fans, stick with your team, throughout the good and the bad.
hard to call because we pick so late...
At pick #26 there could be some fantastic players that have been overlooked. Overall, I think he’ll only pick very healthy guys, except for 3rd round. Looking back at the Cards ‘09 and ’08 & ’07 picks they’ve come out of it really well, except for Cody and there’s still time for him. I’d be excited to pick up Brandon Spikes, ILB 1st round. Everyone is talking about OT, so Ciron Black 2nd round. I think the 3rd round will be a surprise bargain, they’ll go outside the box here. 4th Round Safety, possibly Kyle McCarthy or Barry Church. 5th round, a versatile RB, I like Joique Bell, or anyone that came out a small school with something to prove.
why would you want a versatile RB?
Are you not sold on the Howler or want Hightower to assume a lesser role?
With three backs under 25 years old, I figured we were relatively set at the position for quite a while.
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
It’s difficult because they must provide for two different QB’s, even if Warner stays with the Cardinals there is no telling how long till he gets hurt again.
How can we still be a good team without warner’s massive passing game? It turns into screen passes and running game. I don’t think the Howler has much to add, and I don’t believe Hightower is going to get much better. My thinking is “why wait another year?”
Even if Hightower is "maxed out" right now, what's wrong with that?
He averaged 4.2 yards per carry and is a very good receiver out of the backfield. What more do you want from your #2 back?
With all the other needs on this team, drafting another running back makes about as much sense as drafting another wide receiver.
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
+2
Life's too short. Be a fan. Orlando Magic, Arizona Cardinals,Tampa Bay Rays and of course "the U"! What a winning combo.
by hevchv on Jan 20, 2010 10:22 AM MST via mobile up reply actions
+3
They are who we thought they were!
by Jesse Reynolds on Jan 20, 2010 10:24 AM MST up reply actions
I think the trio they have now is fine.
Lifelong Arizona Cardinals/Chicago Bears fan.
I can't stand band-wagoner fans, stick with your team, throughout the good and the bad.
Qb
Id rather pick up a QB in the later rounds, just as a backup option
you never know
by zAIN J on Jan 19, 2010 1:29 PM MST up reply actions 1 recs
+1
What? I didn't break it, I was just testing its durability, and then I placed it in the woods becuase it's made out of wood and I just thought he should be with his family.
Revenge of the Birds
Why not pick up another QB? because we already have two plus a third string. Unless you’re the eagles you’re only using one QB at a time. If they are firm on keeping Leinart, no reason to go down that road. The end.
Now if they change their minds on Leinart, totally different story.
well I really doubt BSP is back next year
I think we’ll bring in some kind of rookie, whether it’s a late round pick or a UDFA. BSP proved he’s not better than Leinart and I think Whiz finally granted his wish of letting him complete a pass in a NFL game.
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
I'd go with Max Hall in the draft as someone who would be a good backup for Matty
Lifelong Arizona Cardinals/Chicago Bears fan.
I can't stand band-wagoner fans, stick with your team, throughout the good and the bad.
Leinhart
Stick with Leinhart and maybe sign a vet. in free agency. I think Leinart can be a decent qb! (if warner retiers)
by Dont mess with me!!!! on Jan 20, 2010 8:27 AM MST up reply actions
RB?
Unless they would take out Wright and then I would just shoot for a more versatile FB or late pick on a RB. But otherwise the Cardinals are really set at RB.
I wouldn't be too surprised if we drafted a true fullback sometime late in the draft
or picked one up as a priority UDFA. There were reports late in the year that Beanie prefers running behind a fullback and our offense is headed in that direction one the mighty Gloved One hangs ’em up.
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
Hypothetical here
Our WR core is deep.
Trade Boldin. Get some picks, hopefully a mid-high 2nd and a 4th.
Chew our nails till we hear about Warner. If he stays:
Draft 1 T and a ton of D talent. Mostly LB’s, a DT/DE (depth) and DB’s
If he retires:
A good TE is a good idea especially if he is a duel threat to pass block and help out our T’s and can catch the ball. I also think its a good idea because I figure Leinart will probably check down a lot (especially early season) and a good TE would help him gain confidence. Also, we probably won’t have many 4 WR sets with Leinart. TE sounds smart to me.
Draft a ton of D talent and forgo the T. Mostly LB’s, a DT/DE (depth) and DB’s. I believe this because I also agree with the previously mentioned idea, our O efficiency is going to drop and we will have a brand new shiny TE to help the line.
They are who we thought they were!
draft
Im thinking pass rusher, pass rusher, pass rusher…………and yes trade boldin
by Dont mess with me!!!! on Jan 20, 2010 8:23 AM MST up reply actions
What about Terrence Cody he should be an early to mid 2nd round
ASSUMING THAT BOLDIN LEAVES (HOPE NOT)
The Devil Birds just got cha
Yeah he was on my draft preview last year
Hoping he came out early.
Life's too short. Be a fan. Orlando Magic, Arizona Cardinals,Tampa Bay Rays and of course "the U"! What a winning combo.
by hevchv on Jan 20, 2010 5:17 AM MST via mobile up reply actions
Terrace Cody in the second round?
There are way too many teams switching to 3-4 defenses for Cody or Dan Williams to make it into the second round. These guys may not be first round talents but the demand far outweighs the supply. I’d be pretty surprised if either of them even make it to our first round pick.
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
maybe...
If cody doesnt lose enough weight like the draft ppl want him too, he might slip. I think cody would be a steal in the second round but the whiz already has a nose tackle in training.
there's a ZERO percent chance he's avaliable by our second round pick
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
Ready for the Draft!
I really hope that Warner doesn’t retire and then we can focus on OT, DE/OLB, ILB, CB and a good TE. Even if Warner doesn’t retire, if Gresham is there, I would take him in a heartbeat. He can block and catch and you can see what Gates, Clark and Witten do for a QB. If the young OL can play, then defense defense defense. We need to be able to rush the QB better and that would help the DB’s look better. I’m disappointed about the loss but now is when you start working towards next year. Go Cards!!!!!
by jetstreamgreen81 on Jan 19, 2010 6:32 PM MST reply actions
defense
I think focusing on a pass rusher is #1 priority.
by Dont mess with me!!!! on Jan 20, 2010 8:22 AM MST up reply actions
Completely disagree with TE
No part of our offense really works properly when our QB isn’t going or isn’t able to go deep. Having a premier TE would handcuff Leinart to mid- and shallow- routes (with the occasional seam), effectively removing our receiving corps. from the offense. Look at Gonzalez in Atlanta — of course he’s great, but having him meant that Ryan didn’t need to throw deep to White and everybody suffered.
We need to encourage Leinart to get the ball to our receivers, rather than throttle down the offense with a top-tier TE. Everything we’ve seen from Patrick indicates that he is enough of a joker TE to be what our offense dictates he be.
Another example
Dallas Clark? Vernon Davis? Owen Daniels?
Granted Clark is a much better receiver than blocker. A TE puts another body on the line that can help with run blocking even if he isn’t that good, stay in on an audible to help defend against the blitz or create match up problems with LB’s.
Also, we are not much of a deep threat team. Breaston is our only true deep threat. Larry can get down field obviously but he isn’t going to be blowing by anyone. Also most of the time they put a safety over top of him. It’s obvious is a YAC guy. And so is Q and Doucet…
Obviously if we can’t get a TE that demands coverage than we shouldn’t get one at all. I just don’t see how adding one would “slow down” the O. Leinart isn’t Warner and I personally do not want to see him throwing the ball around like him. A balanced attack with a good TE, Wells, Fitz, Boobs and possibly Doucet has the making of a powerful offense.
They are who we thought they were!
by Jesse Reynolds on Jan 21, 2010 4:21 AM MST up reply actions
Hard not to consider those guys!
But I really don’t see them helping us that much. Do we want 50+ catches going to our TE, or do we want the bulk of those catches going to our WRs?
True
Honestly, I just don’t trust Leinart and figure we can handicap him like Romo is with Witten. Fitz will get his, but who knows what will happen with Breaston and Doucet?
Than again, thinking about it we do have a vastly improved ground game. Maybe that dynamic will allow us to forgo a TE in the draft…
Maybe we just need to find Tampa Bay’s Mike Allstats reincarnate. 3WR’s with him lead blocking for Wells? That would cause some match up problems…
Oh man the draft turns me into a dreamer…
They are who we thought they were!
by Jesse Reynolds on Jan 22, 2010 5:59 AM MST up reply actions
*Alstott
They are who we thought they were!
by Jesse Reynolds on Jan 22, 2010 6:01 AM MST up reply actions
Pass rusher
In my eyes we still are lacking in the Pass Rush Department. We have tremendous talent in the secondary. If Warner does retire it is time for Lienhart to put up or shut up. We are very young at runningback but should use a draft pick on boosting up our offensive line. Obviously our most talented area is our receivers. I believe trading Boldin would help the team. It would be sad to see him go but he stated he wasn’t happy and has become an injury prone player. Im not sure how happy I am with Rackers. He has a strong leg but has missed key field goals on numerous occassions.
by Dont mess with me!!!! on Jan 20, 2010 8:20 AM MST reply actions
I agree, which is why I'm focusing on OLB's and ILB
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
TE Position
I’ve been a huge fan of Ben Patrick since we drafted him out of Delaware in the 7th round even though there was quite a bit of talk about him going so late (I was really pissed when I bought Madden 2010 and he wasn’t on there, guess it was because of his 4 game suspension to start the year).
He has good hands (that he showed off in the super bowl last year) and his run blocking must be adequate due to the emergence of our running game when he became the starter in the second half of the season for the final 7 games I believe. Coincidence??
Give him a full year to really see what he can do and I think we’ll all be surprised. The only TE I really like in this upcoming draft is Gresham and he is even a question mark because of his injuries (correct me if I’m wrong but didn’t he miss this entire past season?). Sounds like an unnecessary gamble to me.
by cardsfanforlife24 on Jan 20, 2010 9:43 AM MST reply actions
I agree, Patrick is a decent tight end but it's a struggle for him to play back to back games without somehow hurtin himself
He’s easily the most fragile player on this team, hell he makes Boldin look like a picture of perfect health.
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
TE from Florida
The Cards should get TE Aaron Hernandez, he has great hands, great build but also has experience blocking as a FB. Hes in the mold of a Dustin Keller but can block
yea but that would probably take a first round pick or us trading up in the second
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
FYI
Bucky Brooks on NFL.com has us picking up Sam Bradford with his Mock Draft 1.0.
Intriguing no? I have a feeling it wouldn’t happen because of how whiz seems to stick to his guns about Leinart having a future in this league but there’s nothing wrong with dreaming…
What do you guys think??
by cardsfanforlife24 on Jan 20, 2010 9:51 AM MST reply actions
that's a waste if you ask me
it would be great value but it’s giving up on Leinart and I know I’m not ready to do that.
Be careful....to a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
I think
They just put up pictures and through darts with teams names on them.
Bradford? Really? Come on….
They are who we thought they were!
by Jesse Reynolds on Jan 20, 2010 10:23 AM MST up reply actions
In a world where Leinart, his contract, and the time we’ve put into him already didn’t exist I would like the pick.
However with the emergence of our run game and the amazing wide receivers we have I think we just need Leinart to perform decent and get the ball to our receivers on short routes, let them do the rest.
As it stands I think Outside Linebacker 1st (unless we don’t bring back Dansby then I’d go Inside Linebacker). 2nd round a db, cornerback and cover safety specifically. 3rd get a LT.
by cardsfanforlife24 on Jan 20, 2010 10:58 AM MST up reply actions
I think Brooks must have a serious hate on for Leinart.
With as many teams that need QB help he thinks none will go before #26? No way. I had a laugh when I read his list.
Defense is the key need here...
Obviously we have a few offensive needs. But we have one of the best offenses in the league and, even if Warner retires, we have enough talent on the offensive ends to maintain an above average offense. The most glaring holes are on our defense. We have some amazing defensive talent that is being wasted due to aging players and a lack of effectiveness by others. I say we use our first 2, and maybe even 3 picks on defensive players. With a shutdown defense, even a mediocre offense will win games. As a example, take a look at Baltimore or the Jets. When teams can’t score against you, it makes even Mark Sanchez look good…lol
So, in hopes that we bring Dansby back, I say we go OLB at our first pick. Of those, I look for Sapp or Spike as a first pick. Dependng on who is left on the board, from there we take our 2nd pick as a pass rushing defenive lineman, or a CB. If there is a definite talent left at DE or CB(whichever we didn’t take in 2nd round), then we take this 3rd round. Otherwise, pick up an OT. I wouldn’t take a QB any earlier than the 5th round, if at all. I think Leinart may still have a future with the Cardinals so I’m not ready to move away from that direction yet. The remaining rounds, I say we take a lookg at TE, FB (or perhaps a combo a la Jim Kleinsasser that can effectively play both positions), and maybe even a safety or another linebacker late in the draft. With our age at LB, I wouldn’t complain if we exited the draft with 2 linebackers.
Two LB's
With Cody and Davis sounds good to me. Also from what I just read about Warner maybe we use 1 of those top 3 picks on a TE/OL, which ever positions offers the better talent at the time of our pick. I really think we should use 1, tops 2 pick on O and the rest on D. That seems to be the general consensus around here.
They are who we thought they were!
by Jesse Reynolds on Jan 20, 2010 8:55 PM MST up reply actions
I kinda like the Draft Tek mock...
Assuming:
Warner Retires
Trade Boldin
In order of need (sorry I don’t know players, just giving my assessment of the roster):
1 – DE/OLB
Obvious. Sapp sounds great.
2 – ILB
Maualuga, Laurinaitis. ‘nuff said
2 – NT
Regardless of whether or not Watson steps up as the heir apparent, we need more here.
3 – C/G
My reasoning here is that I haven’t seen anything that sways me from expecting to see Brown and Keith starting in 2010. And whether or not we retain Sendlein, Lutui, and Wells, all of them have contracts coming up soon if not immediately. I’m not suggesting someone to take the starting position away from those three. This is the guy who will take Bridges’ spot.
4 – CB
Dammit dammit dammit, I was so excited early this year when I thought — hey, with DRC, Toler and RJ we won’t need to worry about the secondary in 2010!
4 – QB
I think public opinion is with me here. BSP is done, Leinart gets the reins either now or next year. He’s not exactly a spring duck anymore, either — it’s time for a fresh face at the position. Remember how excited we were for Palko?
5 – FB
Please.
6 – OT
A groomer, if any at all. I don’t see Whiz seeking a starter in this year’s draft — I think he already found one.
7 – Best Available
Anyone to help anywhere that we don’t want to slip to FA…
Key UDFAs:
WR
A guy or two to compete with Gant & Jones for the 4th & 5th jobs
PR
Since Breaston will be a full-time starter with the offense, it’s definitely time to give this job to someone else. Possibly one of the new WRs
S
I’m not sure I see much of a roster shake-up here, but as we saw this year, even if someone as seemingly insignificant as Ware goes down, we need a backup plan. A backup plan that isn’t wearing 41 or 49.
TE
There will be a bunch of them capable of taking over for Spach and/or Becht.
K
I expect Rackers to return, but it wouldn’t hurt to look around.
LB
Beisel, Highsmith, Walker, Togafau. Names that don’t exactly inspire confidence throughout the boards. Names that won’t take much to replace.
I like Walker.
I think he could be a decent 3rd ILB until we get someone better.
Life's too short. Be a fan. Orlando Magic, Arizona Cardinals,Tampa Bay Rays and of course "the U"! What a winning combo.
Heh, well yeah
I think everyone liked what they saw of him in the preseason, which is why he’s still around. But it’s troublesome that, with Highsmith’s struggles, they brought back Togafau & Beisel instead of giving Walker a try.
Whiz Player Development 101
1. Rookies don’t start.
2. Rookies learn behind veterans and make an impact by mid-rookie or sophomore season.
3. Rookies understand game and replace older starters or get significant PT by 2nd season.
Life's too short. Be a fan. Orlando Magic, Arizona Cardinals,Tampa Bay Rays and of course "the U"! What a winning combo.
by hevchv on Jan 22, 2010 5:29 AM MST via mobile up reply actions
Yeah
Now I’m wondering, do you think Highsmith and Walker can co-exist? Is there room for both or is one going to have to beat out the other for a spot?
With Dansby leaving, our ILBs look like: Hayes > Beisel? > Highsmith? > Walker?
Hoping we draft one, we’ll have yet another inexperienced guy — albeit one with higher expectations — on the depth chart…
It’s interesting that they chose to demote Highsmith with the intention of keeping Walker locked up on the roster.
I have a theory on our OLBs/Run defense.
I think the reason we have so much trouble with quick backs is because our OLBs are too old and their change of direction and agility are not adequate enough for those scat backs. They are better at attacking the man in front of them. Now with our younger OLBs I would see the roles reversing where as they can get to the Chris Johnson’s a lot better than the TJ Duckett’s. Is there a happy median?
Life's too short. Be a fan. Orlando Magic, Arizona Cardinals,Tampa Bay Rays and of course "the U"! What a winning combo.
draft a Larry
Fitzgerald, Centers, Wilson
Over the years, the birds have gotten good production from dudes named Larry. Draft a Larry
by TBru on Jan 22, 2010 2:10 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
In Association With
Shutdown Corner - NFL - Yahoo! Sports
- Conan sends maniacal, Madonna-loving reporter to Super Bowl XLVI
- Rodney Harrison calls Rob Gronkowski out for dancing after the Super Bowl
- J.T. Thomas is pretty much the best person ever
- Jets congratulate Giants with full-page ad
- Justin Tuck gave out 80 bottles of Johnnie Walker Blue to celebrate Super Bowl
Certain photos copyright © 2012 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
