Jacksonville Jaguars (#8)
Word on the street is that USC QB Mark Sanchez won't make it past #8. Whether he makes it that far is still up for debate, but regardless of whether the Jags get a new quarterback in the first round or not, they have a subpar receiving core, even with newly added Torry Holt, and they lost a valuable piece of their running game when RB Fred Taylor was cut. For a team that has struggled in recent years scoring passing touchdowns inside the red zone, an athletic tight end could be on the wish list also.
Jacksonville has a leaky pass defense that gave up 25 touchdowns through the air, and a league-worst 17 plays of 40 yards or more. CB Rashean Mathis has fallen off the past two seasons, and doesn't have much help in the secondary now that Drayton Florence is in Buffalo. LBs Justin Durant and Clint Engram have both shown promise, but are far from being elite level players. No one would fault the Jags for taking Ohio State LB James Laurinitis at #39, if he's still available.
WR, DB, OL, LB, TE
Houston Texans (#15)
Because they gave up 49 plays of 20+ yards, and only registered 12 interceptions all season long, the Texans #1 concern in this draft should be the defensive backfield. Adding DE Antonio Smith to tandem with Mario Williams should increase the pressure on the opposing quarterback, and by adding LB Cato June to help Demeco Ryans and Xavier Adibi round out the linebacker corps, the defense is not in terrible condition. Elite defenses get off the field on third down more than 61% of the time though, so the Texans have to be looking to upgrade on this side of the ball. Any of the USC linebackers (Clay Matthews, Brian Cushing, Rey Maualuga) could wind up in Houston this year.
What do we say about the offense? Surprisingly enough, Houston was 4th in the league in passing (1st in their own division, which includes the pass-happy Colts), and if not for being -12 in turnover differential, might have been even better than that. RB Steve Slaton also turned in a good rookie campaign, with over 1,200 yards. And the offensive line has been better the past two seasons than we give them credit for, due in part to last year's first round pick LT Duane Brown. But they still need a complement to WR Andre Johnson, and after Steve Slaton, the running backs are questionable (though they did add Chris Brown from the Titans).
Needs: DB, LB, WR, RB
Indianapolis Colts (#27)
Bill Polian is calling the shots here, and because this is an offensive-minded team that just appointed an offensive-minded coach the heir to Tony Dungy's throne, all roads point to this being an offensive-minded draft for the Colts. Especially when you consider the fact that the offense took a step backwards last year. Only 23.6 points per game, a tepid-at-best running attack, injuries along the offensive line, free agent defections: the jig is up for the Colts offense, right? Not quite. On a positive note, they did convert 67.2% of the time on third down (tied with the Dolphins for league-best), and QB Peyton Manning won his third MVP. The team cut ties with future HOFer Marvin Harrison, and RB Joseph Addai showed again his inability to handle the full-time job. The Colts added three offensive linemen in last year's draft, and will probably be looking more at the skill positions this year.
On defense, everyone knows that this is not a strong suit for Indy, and never has been. That said, they're covered at defensive end, with two Pro Bowlers in Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis. The run defense digressed last season, partly because of a lack of depth at DT, and partly because of an undersized linebacker corps. The Colts have a compensatory 4th round pick (#136), and always do well in the later rounds, so look for them to address their defensive needs on Day Two. Day One is for offense.
Needs: WR, DL, LB, DB
Tennessee Titans (#30)
Slow, steady improvement by the Titans in each of the last three seasons finally paid off last season with a division title and the best record in the NFL. Remarkably, this is a team that is far from complete. QB Vince Young hasn't materialized as of yet as a premiere playmaker, there is no deep threat in the receiver corps, and the man under center last season will turn 37 next season. The offensive line is in good shape, even with 38 year old Kevin Mawae playing center. Depth up front is always a good thing though, and the Titans will probably add some in the Draft.
Tennessee is one of only two teams to receive 4 compensatory picks in this year's Draft (# #135, 173, 206, and 242). Considering the fact that coach Jeff Fisher favors the defensive side of the football, don't be surprised if winds up using a lot of those picks shoring up his D. The defensive backs and linebackers are underwhelming on paper, and Pro Bowl DT Albert Haynesworth signed a mega deal with the the Washington Redskins.
Needs: WR, OL, DB, LB
Showing posts with label draft needs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label draft needs. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
NFC North Draft Needs
Detroit Lions (pick #1, #20)
Where do we start? It's been well documented by now that the Lions plan on having a deal in place with their first round pick before the Draft starts, but do we know who that's going to be? All signs point to QB Matt Stafford (Georgia), but Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry and his agents met with Detroit brass last weekend, and word is that Lions management is high on Baylor OT Jason Smith, as they should be. We know that nothing is really out of bounds here.
What else can we say about their needs, without giving a position by position breakdown of the entire roster? Honestly, it's not as bad as their 0-16 record, receiver Calvin Johnson is one season away from breaking out as the dynamic go-to guy they hoped they were getting two years ago, and the defense is only a couple of pieces away (a pass rusher and some help in the secondary) with LB Paris Lenon manning the middle. They have five picks in the first three rounds thanks to the Cowboys, and new head coach Jim Schwartz should have a better product on the field. Expect the Lions to get their quarterback #1, and perhaps some help on the offensive line at #20.
Needs: OL, QB, WR, DB, DE
Green Bay Packers (pick #9)
Lambeau faithful saw a new starting quarterback for the first time in 16 years last season, and even though the Pack only won 6 games, Aaron Rodgers had a solid season. Green Bay is set at QB. They let him get put on his butt 34 times last season, though, so they might want to upgrade that offensive line. Some depth at running back would be nice as well, and eventually WR Donald Driver will start slowing down, and no one is sure that James Jones, Martin Ruvell, or anyone else is ready to be a #2 to Greg Jennings.
The other side of the ball isn't quite as set, but still isn't a shambles. Both Aaron Kampman and Cullen Jenkins are still to be reckoned with up front, and linebackers A.J. Hawk and Nick Barnett do their job as well. With DB's Al Harris and Charles Woodson both getting older, it's time to improve the secondary.
Needs: OL, WR, DB
Chicago Bears (no first round picks)
Now that the Bears have a good (if annoying) quarterback in Jay Cutler, we know what position they won't be looking at this year. We also know that the cost of doing business with the Broncos was their 1st and 3rd round picks this year, plus another 1st rounder next year, so they won't doing much on Day One. They should be looking for some help at receiver in the 2nd round, because their Pro Bowl quarterback doesn't have anyone to throw to.
The defense is getting old, as was exposed last year in the passing game. Addressing this concern would mean getting better in the secondary, and adding some youth along the defensive line. Lucky for them, they received a compensatory 3rd round pick, and will be able to address the defense at #99. There weren't a lot of standout DBs at the Combine this year (there won' t be any Leodis McKelvin in this Draft) but help shouldn't be hard to find.
Needs: WR, DB, DL
Minnesota Vikings (#22)
The Vikes and their fans certainly aren't resting on their proverbial "laurels" after winning the vaunted North on the last day of the season, nor should they be. They have a lot of holes in their lineup. No #1 receiver (their two best wideouts combined for 101 receptions) a shaky quarterback situation (shaky is being kind), and an offensive line that have given up 81 sacks the last two years. We know that they won't be looking for a running back early, but every other position on offense needs an upgrade. Badly.
But, ah, the defense. Well, what about it? DT Pat Williams will be 37, and he and his counterpart (the other Williams, Kevin) are both facing possible league suspensions. An undisciplined bunch, the defense gave up a league-worst 1,002 yards in penalties, and was mediocre against the pass (6.5 yards per attempt, 49 plays of 20 yards or more). Their defensive core is set, but could use some help at the second level.
Needs: WR, OL, QB, DB
Where do we start? It's been well documented by now that the Lions plan on having a deal in place with their first round pick before the Draft starts, but do we know who that's going to be? All signs point to QB Matt Stafford (Georgia), but Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry and his agents met with Detroit brass last weekend, and word is that Lions management is high on Baylor OT Jason Smith, as they should be. We know that nothing is really out of bounds here.
What else can we say about their needs, without giving a position by position breakdown of the entire roster? Honestly, it's not as bad as their 0-16 record, receiver Calvin Johnson is one season away from breaking out as the dynamic go-to guy they hoped they were getting two years ago, and the defense is only a couple of pieces away (a pass rusher and some help in the secondary) with LB Paris Lenon manning the middle. They have five picks in the first three rounds thanks to the Cowboys, and new head coach Jim Schwartz should have a better product on the field. Expect the Lions to get their quarterback #1, and perhaps some help on the offensive line at #20.
Needs: OL, QB, WR, DB, DE
Green Bay Packers (pick #9)
Lambeau faithful saw a new starting quarterback for the first time in 16 years last season, and even though the Pack only won 6 games, Aaron Rodgers had a solid season. Green Bay is set at QB. They let him get put on his butt 34 times last season, though, so they might want to upgrade that offensive line. Some depth at running back would be nice as well, and eventually WR Donald Driver will start slowing down, and no one is sure that James Jones, Martin Ruvell, or anyone else is ready to be a #2 to Greg Jennings.
The other side of the ball isn't quite as set, but still isn't a shambles. Both Aaron Kampman and Cullen Jenkins are still to be reckoned with up front, and linebackers A.J. Hawk and Nick Barnett do their job as well. With DB's Al Harris and Charles Woodson both getting older, it's time to improve the secondary.
Needs: OL, WR, DB
Chicago Bears (no first round picks)
Now that the Bears have a good (if annoying) quarterback in Jay Cutler, we know what position they won't be looking at this year. We also know that the cost of doing business with the Broncos was their 1st and 3rd round picks this year, plus another 1st rounder next year, so they won't doing much on Day One. They should be looking for some help at receiver in the 2nd round, because their Pro Bowl quarterback doesn't have anyone to throw to.
The defense is getting old, as was exposed last year in the passing game. Addressing this concern would mean getting better in the secondary, and adding some youth along the defensive line. Lucky for them, they received a compensatory 3rd round pick, and will be able to address the defense at #99. There weren't a lot of standout DBs at the Combine this year (there won' t be any Leodis McKelvin in this Draft) but help shouldn't be hard to find.
Needs: WR, DB, DL
Minnesota Vikings (#22)
The Vikes and their fans certainly aren't resting on their proverbial "laurels" after winning the vaunted North on the last day of the season, nor should they be. They have a lot of holes in their lineup. No #1 receiver (their two best wideouts combined for 101 receptions) a shaky quarterback situation (shaky is being kind), and an offensive line that have given up 81 sacks the last two years. We know that they won't be looking for a running back early, but every other position on offense needs an upgrade. Badly.
But, ah, the defense. Well, what about it? DT Pat Williams will be 37, and he and his counterpart (the other Williams, Kevin) are both facing possible league suspensions. An undisciplined bunch, the defense gave up a league-worst 1,002 yards in penalties, and was mediocre against the pass (6.5 yards per attempt, 49 plays of 20 yards or more). Their defensive core is set, but could use some help at the second level.
Needs: WR, OL, QB, DB
AFC North Draft Needs
Cleveland Browns (pick #5)
The Browns have been a leaky pass defense for several seasons now, partly because of their inability to generate a consistent pass rush. With only 17 sacks registered last season, look for new head coach Eric Mangini to look for some help up front to pressure the quarterback. The Browns will also be looking to replace LB Willie McGinest, and might achieve both goals in one shot. Some depth in the defensive backfield is on the priority list as well.
Offensively, does anyone really think the Browns would be better off without Braylon Edwards? Maybe if they have a shot at Michael Crabtree (Texas Tech), they will be. And with Jamal Lewis entering Year 10 of his NFL career, what do the Browns do to supplement him in the backfield? Browns fans should expect to see management address the running back position later on in the Draft.
Needs: DE, LB, RB, WR
Cincinnati Bengals (pick #6)
It's a good thing QB Carson Palmer only played in 4 games last year, because the offensive line was not up to the task of protecting their All Pro passer. In giving up 51 sacks, the Bengals were only better than two teams in the NFL: the 49ers and the Lions. And after losing RT Stacy Andrews to free agency, the line play could be worse. The Bengals most pressing need this offseason is along the offensive line, especially for Palmer to return to form. Jason Smith (Baylor) and Andre Smith (Alabama) could both still be available at #6.
On defense, Cincinnati is great at forcing turnovers, but gave up 15 rushing touchdowns and 3.9 yards per carry. There's no shortage of quality front line players in this draft, so expect the front office to use the majority of their selections on defense this weekend.
Needs: OT, LB, C, WR
Baltimore Ravens (pick #26)
The Ravens lost a lot of defense this offseason. CB Chris McAlister had long been a feature on the left side of the field, and is now gone. LB Bart Scott bolted for greener pastures (Jets Green, and money), and guys like LB Ray Lewis, CB Samari Rolle and CT Trevor Pryce are aging rapidly. Coach John Harbaugh can't not to add key defensive players early in this draft.
On offense, it's the same old thing for the Ravens: no playmakers. Thirty-five year old WR Derrick Mason has always been more of a #2 than a #1 one, and with only 12 touchdowns in the last three years, is starting to show his age. They might have a nice tandem at RB if Willis McGahee can stay healthy (huge IF) and if Ray Rice can stay consistent, but could definitely use some help. The line has some issues as well, with 34 year old Willie Anderson and Co. giving up 33 sacks last season.
Needs: DB, LB, WR, OL
Pittsburgh Steelers (pick #32)
Look for the Steelers to do what they always do in the draft: perform well. Their biggest need is on the offensive line, but they need immediate help, not a project. Since the elite of the linemen look to be gone by the time the Steelers are on the clock, they probably won't address that need in the Draft. RBs Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall make a good tandem in the backfield, and the wide receivers and tight ends are in good shape as well.
On the other side of the ball, there are no immediate concerns. Beginning to understand why they won the Super Bowl yet? This is a solid team. They could use some depth in the secondary after losing Bryant McFadden, and their line is getting up there in age, so they will likely tag some future replacements for 31 year old DT Casey Hampton and 33 year old NT Chris Hoke.
Needs: OL, DB
The Browns have been a leaky pass defense for several seasons now, partly because of their inability to generate a consistent pass rush. With only 17 sacks registered last season, look for new head coach Eric Mangini to look for some help up front to pressure the quarterback. The Browns will also be looking to replace LB Willie McGinest, and might achieve both goals in one shot. Some depth in the defensive backfield is on the priority list as well.
Offensively, does anyone really think the Browns would be better off without Braylon Edwards? Maybe if they have a shot at Michael Crabtree (Texas Tech), they will be. And with Jamal Lewis entering Year 10 of his NFL career, what do the Browns do to supplement him in the backfield? Browns fans should expect to see management address the running back position later on in the Draft.
Needs: DE, LB, RB, WR
Cincinnati Bengals (pick #6)
It's a good thing QB Carson Palmer only played in 4 games last year, because the offensive line was not up to the task of protecting their All Pro passer. In giving up 51 sacks, the Bengals were only better than two teams in the NFL: the 49ers and the Lions. And after losing RT Stacy Andrews to free agency, the line play could be worse. The Bengals most pressing need this offseason is along the offensive line, especially for Palmer to return to form. Jason Smith (Baylor) and Andre Smith (Alabama) could both still be available at #6.
On defense, Cincinnati is great at forcing turnovers, but gave up 15 rushing touchdowns and 3.9 yards per carry. There's no shortage of quality front line players in this draft, so expect the front office to use the majority of their selections on defense this weekend.
Needs: OT, LB, C, WR
Baltimore Ravens (pick #26)
The Ravens lost a lot of defense this offseason. CB Chris McAlister had long been a feature on the left side of the field, and is now gone. LB Bart Scott bolted for greener pastures (Jets Green, and money), and guys like LB Ray Lewis, CB Samari Rolle and CT Trevor Pryce are aging rapidly. Coach John Harbaugh can't not to add key defensive players early in this draft.
On offense, it's the same old thing for the Ravens: no playmakers. Thirty-five year old WR Derrick Mason has always been more of a #2 than a #1 one, and with only 12 touchdowns in the last three years, is starting to show his age. They might have a nice tandem at RB if Willis McGahee can stay healthy (huge IF) and if Ray Rice can stay consistent, but could definitely use some help. The line has some issues as well, with 34 year old Willie Anderson and Co. giving up 33 sacks last season.
Needs: DB, LB, WR, OL
Pittsburgh Steelers (pick #32)
Look for the Steelers to do what they always do in the draft: perform well. Their biggest need is on the offensive line, but they need immediate help, not a project. Since the elite of the linemen look to be gone by the time the Steelers are on the clock, they probably won't address that need in the Draft. RBs Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall make a good tandem in the backfield, and the wide receivers and tight ends are in good shape as well.
On the other side of the ball, there are no immediate concerns. Beginning to understand why they won the Super Bowl yet? This is a solid team. They could use some depth in the secondary after losing Bryant McFadden, and their line is getting up there in age, so they will likely tag some future replacements for 31 year old DT Casey Hampton and 33 year old NT Chris Hoke.
Needs: OL, DB
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