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2019 Minnesota Vikings Offseason Blueprint: Part I

By: Chris

So 2018 was a bust for our favorite team. Instead of dwelling on a down year, we here at Mocking the Draft are in full offseason mode, prepping for a postseason run in 2019! In part 1 of my 2 part dive into the Vikings’ offseason, I will cover some tough roster cuts, a few contract tweaks, and who among the team’s free agents they should attempt to keep! Without further ado, let’s get into it the same way we always do.

Awwwww HERE GOES!

Roster Cuts

1.) Andrew Sendejo (Safety) - Sendejo proved to be a key cog in Zimmer’s defense and lived up to his contract extension. People tend to forget, in the Divisional playoff game against New Orleans (the Minneapolis Miracle), the Vikings’ defense began its collapse only after Michael Thomas’s dirty hit knocked Sendejo out for the rest of the year. In 2018, Sendejo spent much of the year injured, and Anthony Harris played extremely well in his absence. Harris is five years younger and will likely carry a smaller cap hit than Sendejo. A tough cut, but necessary one. SAVINGS: $5.50 million

2.) Mike Remmers (Tackle) – Many people don’t hesitate to light up Remmers for his godawful play at right guard. I will not be among them. Indeed, his play was atrocious, but the Vikings coaches insisted on playing him out of position, leaving him to the wolves the entire season. Remmers had a very good year in 2017 at right tackle, but with the addition and great play of RT Brian O’Neil, he no longer has a spot. Unfortunately, $6.3 million is too high of number for a bench player unless he’d be willing to rework his deal. Remmers could start on another team in a o-line starved league, so I don’t foresee that happening. SAVINGS: $4.55 million

3.) Everson Griffen (Defensive End) – This one really hurts. Sack Daddy has been one of my favorite players to watch over the last several years, but it’s hard to ignore his massive cap number and the minor dead cap ($1.2 million) if he were released this year. While Griffen was out for a large portion of last year, Stephen Weatherly filled in admirably. While it pains my soul, with the best defensive line coach in the business in Andre Patterson, I believe Griffen’s absence will be the easiest to mask. SAVINGS: $10.54 million

Restructures, Extensions, & Trades

1.) Kyle Rudolph (Tight End) – While Rudolph’s production dipped during the dark ages known as the DeFilippo era, he is still a crucial member of the offense. While cutting him outright would save a tempting 7.5 million in cap space, I don’t believe the money should be saved here. A free agent in 2020, I would give Rudolph a 3 year extension with a lower average of $5 million. If the team includes more guaranteed money, I think Rudolph will take it. SAVINGS: $2.50 million

2.) Trae Waynes (Cornerback) – Like Griffen, I could see Waynes being a cap casualty, though I’m going to argue against it here. Waynes has steadily improved to be a solid CB2 in the NFL. The Vikings have decent depth at the position with Alexander making great strides, Mike Hughes showing great promise as a future starter, and Holton Hill also performing decently. However, last year proved you can never have too much depth. With Xavier Rhodes having a down year and also getting “injured” every time he fell behind in coverage, Waynes needs to stick around. Instead of picking up his $9.1 million option, the Vikings should give him an extension somewhere in the $5 million range for 4 years. SAVINGS: $4.1 million

3.) Laquon Treadwell (Wide Receiver)-  I’m so done with this guy. Easily the biggest bust since Troy Williamson (not good company to be in), it’s time for the Vikings to cut their losses and move on. The Vikings cannot outright cut him, as they would suffer a dead cap hit equal to his salary, $3.16 million. However, if they were to trade him, they could potentially save upwards of $1.8 million for 2019. His spot on the roster is actively hurting Minnesota, so this is a no brainer. TRADE for 2019 6th Round Pick. CAP SAVINGS: $1.8 million

 Beginning Cap Space (Estimated): $5.82 million

Resulting Cap Space (Estimated): $34.81 million

  In-House Free Agents.

1.) Anthony Barr (Linebacker) – One of Mike Zimmer’s original draft picks, Barr was the only notable Viking defender not to receive a massive extension last year. To that I say, good. Barr has shown flashes of being worthy of his first round pick status. Unfortunately, flashes aren’t enough to justify a massive contract that would likely exceed $10 million a year. I will always be grateful for the handful of great plays Barr gave us, notably crunching Aaron Rodgers’ collarbone. That said, he can underperform somewhere else next year. Do Not Sign

2.) Latavius Murray (Running Back) – Murray really came to the rescue throughout Dalvin Cook’s injury-plagued seasons. While his production for the Vikings can’t be questioned, and his willingness to take a pay cut last year is commendable, the budget is tighter than Shaq in a PT Cruiser. The Vikings have very suitable, dare I say exciting replacements in Mike Boone and Roc Thomas. Murray will likely land on his feet somewhere with the opportunity to start. Do Not Sign

3.) Sheldon Richardson (Defensive Tackle) – A surprise luxury signing on the heels of the Kirk Cousins deal, Richardson started out hot but ended on a seemingly average year. While not a high sack number type of player, he still can be a big disrupter up the middle. The Vikings have some younger talent in the wings, but none of them have shown they are ready to take on a starting role. I would offer Richardson similar money to last year’s deal, with another year of security. Offer- 2 year, $8 million average

4.) Tom Compton (Guard) – Not even as a backup. Do Not Sign

5.) Nick Easton/ Brett Jones – Why combine the two players here? Simply put, they are absolutely one in the same. Both are serviceable backups, though Easton started the majority of the 2017 campaign. Both can play the guard and center position. Both held a cap number of $2.9 million.  However, Easton’s back injury was serious enough to be ruled out for the entire 2018 season, and I don’t trust he will stay healthy in 2019. The offensive line is in no position to take risks, so I would keep Jones. Easton - Do Not Sign / Brett Jones – Offer 1 year, $3 million average

6.) Matt Wile (Punter) – After a somewhat shaky start to his tenure, Wile proved to be one of the best punters the Vikings have had of recent memory. He ended the year with a 45.2 yard average, with 27 kicks inside the 20 and only 2 touchbacks. Haunted by special teams play for years, this is one position the Vikings can exorcise some demons at. Offer 3 year, $1,000,000 average

7.) Anthony Harris (Safety) – The heir to Andrew Sendejo, Harris seamlessly filled in last year in Sendejo’s injury absence. To stick around, he will likely require a healthy raise, but he deserves it. Offer 3 year, $3 million average

The Rest to Keep-

·         CJ Ham (Fullback) – Offer 2 year, $600,000 average

          Tom Johnson (Defensive Tackle) - Offer 1 year, $1 million 

SALARY CAP REMAINING: $18.22 million

 Phew! That wraps up part 1 of our favorite team’s offseason blueprint. Stay tuned for what surprises await via the draft and free agency! Thanks for reading.

[respect-the-wind]

Minnesota Vikings Offseason Blueprint Part II : Free Agents & Draft

By Chris Vogel, Mocking the Draft contributor

…and we’re back!

Welcome to part two of the Minnesota Vikings Offseason Blueprint. Buckle up, because some hard truths are going to come flying at you from left and right. I’m going to be touching on some very sore subjects currently inhabiting Vikingland. However, I believe if emotions are taken out of the equation, much of the wailing and gnashing of teeth would subside. Without further ado, let’s get into it.

Free Agents

In part one, all three quarterbacks the Vikings had in 2017(-Kyle Sloter) are not re-signed. This list, of course, includes Teddy Bridgewater. After scrolling through endless comment boards on the Vikings SB Nation site, The Daily Norseman, I can tell you this:

…If Bridgewater started a church, let’s call it The People’s Temple of Teddy B

·         did a personality 180 and became a major manipulative jerk

·         built his own self-sufficient city in Guyana called TedTown

·         suggested his followers drink a poison laced purple flavor-aid (NOT Kool-Aid, look it up) in response to the Vikings moving on from his services

…a sizeable portion of the Vikings fan base would not only be there, but would ask for refills.

I simply do not understand the obsession. The man is a stand up human being, and he was dealt a cruel, unfair blow when his knee exploded in practice that fateful day a few years ago. That being said, what have these people seen from his play that I haven’t to warrant such an infatuation? I have seen every single in-game throw, preseason included, Teddy has ever thrown. I have not seen the makings of a top 10 quarterback in the NFL, or even a ranking in the top half. I’ve seen arguments such as;

·         he really knows how to rally the troops in the huddle

·         he has such a high ceiling

·         his contract is cheap

·         Norv Turner didn’t know how to use him

·         He had no weapons

Really, people? Really? Not only do those excuses not touch on his actual throwing abilities, his level of play that we DO have film on comes before an absolutely devastating knee injury. Now, why would I be so worked up over this situation? We know from the Bradford trade that franchise QB’s are rare and cost very important draft picks for teams to part with, so why argue?

Because there is a franchise QB that inexplicably will hit the open market.

1.) Sign QB Kirk Cousins (5 year, $140 million)

Let’s get one thing straight from the start; the Washington Redskins are stupid. They did not let Cousins go by choice. Management royally screwed up by tagging Cousins twice, offering him a slap-in-the-face extension, and then releasing the terms of his rejected contract proposal to the public. The QB has clearly had enough with the team, and who wouldn’t?

Captain Kirk isn’t the best QB in the league, but he is certainly within the top 10 and a clearly better option than our in-house candidates. Why?

·         He first turns 30 this year

·         His numbers stack up with the likes of Drew Brees and Ben Rothlisberger

·         He has no major injury history

·         He has a cannon for an arm with great accuracy

This Vikings team is built to win now, so they cannot hope to draft a ready-now QB at pick 30. The argument that he costs too much is flawed, considering if the Cult of Teddy is correct about his ceiling, he will cost just as much as Cousins would, albeit a year later. Cousins has expressed his desire to join a roster ready to win outweighs his need for top money. The QB will still cost a pretty penny, but for a team on the cusp of winning it all, it is money well spent. It’s time to officially close down the endless QB carousel that has plagued the Vikings for over a decade.

2.) Sign DT Dontari Poe (3 years, $24 million)

We talked about the sad fate of Sharrif Floyd in part one. The Vikes have not had great interior QB pressure rushing their front 4 ever since. Because we left Tom Johnson go as well in the previous article, the Vikings have a large hole to fill next to Pro Bowler Linval Joseph. Enter Dontari Poe. While not as flashy as fellow free agent Sheldon Richardson, Poe doesn’t come with the extra off-field baggage that Richardson carries. Poe could serve as a stellar stopgap while Jaleel Johnson develops, and also insurance for if Johnson fails to reach his potential. I could see coach Zimmer wanting to fill the void with a top draft pick, but with other holes to fill and a prospect in Johnson already aboard, this move makes perfect sense.

3.) Sign OG Justin Pugh (4 years, $34 million)

I failed to cover this in the previous article, but LG Nick Easton is also a restricted free agent this year. Long story short, I believe the Vikings can upgrade and my vote is to let him leave. Now, with the likely retirement of Joe Berger, the offensive line cupboard will once again be frighteningly bare. Pugh, who played nearly every position along the line for the New York Giants last year, would solidify the LG position for the foreseeable future and will be a strong upgrade over Easton. He can also fill the void of jack-of-all-trades that Berger provided the team.

 That’s it for free agency! I realize that, with the addition of QB Kirk Cousins, the salary cap will likely be an issue in 2019 beyond. However, with the contracts that Remmers and Reiff currently have, I believe the team can cut Remmers (start OT Rashod Hill in his place) at that time and restructure Reiff to open up additional space. The Vikings are well known to be cap wizards, and they can make this work. The Latavius Murray contract is a good example of how the team keeps itself out of cap trouble, and I would anticipate these free agent contracts (aside from QB) could be structured similarly. Relax, sit back, and enjoy the dynasty.

DRAFT

We still have no left guard! No, I didn’t forget. The team has spent enough in free agency now that there is no space left for a quality free agent LG, but that doesn’t concern me the slightest. Why? Bring on the draft!

1.) Draft G/C Billy Price - Round 1 Pick 30 (Ohio State)

Last year, I believe the endless Vikings mock drafts picking Pat Elflein (mine included) somehow supernaturally made it happen for real. I really hope we are able to do the same for Price. The Ohio State product, who played alongside Elflein, is a stud. He could plug into the RG position Week 1, and would create a stellar tandem with the aforementioned center for years to come. Price also provides flexibility, as he played both center and guard in college. Our line for 2018 would now look like:

Reiff – Pugh – Elflein – Price – Remmers

Yeah.

2.) Draft TE Dallas Goedert / Hayden Hurst – Round 2 Pick 62 (South Dakota State/ South Carolina)

Landing one of these two premier TE’s in round 2 would be an absolute steal. Both players are stud pass catchers, have great speed and also great height at the position. Add either to an offense that already has pass catchers Stefon Diggs, Adam Thielen, and Kyle Rudolph, and Kirk Cousins has a lethal set of weapons to play with. The Vikings offense could transform into a powerhouse, and opposing teams would now have to deal with something other than the defense. I can see the Vikings having to leapfrog some other teams to get either Goedert or Hurst, and if they can do so without spending a ton of picks, I’m fully on board.

3.) Draft CB, DL, WR, OL the rest of the way

I’m not going to dwell on the entirety of the draft, for multiple full Vikings Mock Drafts are coming from us here at Mocking the Draft (from myself and the draft wizard himself, Blayne), so I’ll just summarize here. The team can focus on defensive raw talent for their next two picks, which is perfect for Zimmer. If history has taught the team anything, they should not pick a wide receiver before round 5. If they follow this logic, mark down another successful draft in the books and call it a day!

This concludes the Minnesota Vikings Offseason Blueprint. With free agency only a few weeks away, we won’t have long to wait to see if Rick Spielman and co. snuck a peek at this blueprint or not. Let’s hope, for our favorite team’s sake, that they did. 

Thanks for reading!

[respect-the-wind]

Minnesota Vikings Offseason Blueprint Part I : In-House Moves

What can be said about our Minnesota Vikings’ 2017-2018 season that hasn’t already been spoken? Not much more, considering all you need to know is that most fans likely will develop heart trouble sooner in life now. I’m not writing this to reminisce about the great season our Vikes had, or the massive letdown that ended our dreams one game too early. I’m writing this to say that it’s time to pick ourselves up, brush the dust off, and look onward to what promises to be one of the most important offseasons in Minnesota Vikings history.

Tradition has it that this will be divided into two pieces, the first covering decisions involving coaching staff and in-house player decisions. The second piece will cover what the Vikings should do in free agency and the draft to finally push this team over the proverbial hump. Mix in some of my legendary humor and an interesting assortment of GIFs, and I promise you will only mildly regret reading this. Awwwwwwwww HERE’ GOES!

COACHING

1.) Sign Philadelphia Eagles QB Coach John DeFilippo as Offensive Coordinator

This one was easy, considering it….already happened. However, just because Rick Spielman and co. were able to make the hire happen faster than I can type won’t deter me. DeFilippo was my first choice among the interviewees that included Kevin Stefanski, Sean Ryan, Darrell Bevell, and Dan Campbell. Why?

He brings along a new offensive scheme, likely some from the phenomenal Philadelphia Eagles’ 2017 offense

He helped turn Carson Wentz into an MVP candidate in 2 years, and prepped his injury replacement Nick Foles well enough to defeat Tom Brady in the Super Bowl

He’s a young, fresh mind in a sea of coaching retreads

Stefanski was my second choice, due to his experience at several offensive coaching positions and long tenure in the Vikings organization (it appears as though he will still remain with the team, as interviews with other teams have been blocked.)

It’s also important to note how intent the Vikings were on bringing aboard DeFilippo. They waited until the Super Bowl was over to interview him, which ended up being a few weeks into their search. The interview itself almost seemed a formality, as he was hired that same night. Spielman and Zimmer must have really seen something they liked in his résumé. Alas, bravo, Slick Rick, you made the right move here.

CUTS

1.) RB Latavius Murray

     This move isn’t going to make a lot of sense to you right away, but I’ll get there. Murray had a very slow start to the season, including after starter Dalvin Cook went down with a knee injury. However, he really picked it up in the second half of the schedule, forming a fantastic duo with Jerick McKinnon. However, Murray’s contract was designed to basically be a 1 year deal with 2 more additional team option years. His $5.15 million for 2018 in guaranteed money only becomes official on the 3rd day of the new league year. Murray can likely land a nice deal somewhere else, and the Vikings can use all the extra cash they can get their hands on.

2.) DT Sharrif Floyd

     This one is sad. Floyd showed real promise when he was on the field. Unfortunately, he suffered some sort of nerve damage in his knee during a relatively normal operation. The damage has been bad enough that he has not seen time since the 2016 season opener. This is a seriously cruel fate for a young player to meet. The Vikings have no choice but to move on. The cap savings from this would near $6.8 million and no dead cap hit.

IN-HOUSE FREE AGENTS (Sign or Decline)

1.) RB Jerick McKinnon

     McKinnon is the reason why Murray must be cut. Out of the two, McKinnon shows more athleticism, elusiveness, and speed on the field. His explosive screen plays were a highlight of the season, and the Vikings need his speed in the backfield. However, McKinnon has publicly stated his intention to explore the market in search of a more prominent role. It’s hard to see him landing a starting role somewhere, but he would certainly land a primary backup role somewhere. If the Vikes ditch Murray and give McKinnon that role, he may be inclined to accept it. SIGN

And so we meet again.

2.) CB Terence Newman

     NEWMAN. The ageless wonder followed up a rough ending to 2016-17 with a decent 2018. It’s truly stunning to see a player of that age (39) still playing corner in the NFL. The problem is Newman has become a defensive liability. Wide receivers simply are much faster than him at this juncture, and why wouldn’t players 10 years younger be? The Vikings cannot continue to use Newman as a band-aid, they must improve this position. That all being said, I know deep within my soul that Zimmer is going to bring him back anyway, and I hope it’s as the team’s 4th CB instead of 3rd. SIGN (only because it’s gonna happen anyway)

3.) DT Tom Johnson

Johnson continues to be a beast against the run. It’s unfortunate that he isn’t more helpful against the pass though. The Vikings desperately need some QB pressure from the interior line, and right now there isn’t enough coming from Johnson to help out star nose tackle Linval Joseph. There are a few intriguing options on the free agent market that could have an immediate impact. Decline

4.) G Joe Berger    

     This really isn’t a choice for the team to make. Berger has made his intentions relatively clear that he intended to retire after the 2017-2018 season. The Vikings are going to have to fill this void, which will be somewhat difficult considering Berger has done a very good job during his time. Decline (Retirement)

5.) K Kai Forbath

     Ah, the Kai Conundrum. Forbath missed a plethora of extra points throughout the season, and a few long-distance field goals. I would have banished him to the Chokey if I based his performance in the first half of the season alone. However, it simply cannot be ignored that Forbath was clutch when they needed him most, including in the Divisional playoff game against the Saints. Forbath hit 2 long distance field goals to keep the Vikings in the game just enough for the Minneapolis Miracle to be relevant. Perhaps they bring in some competition, but ultimately he’s earned his spot. SIGN

And that wraps up Part 1 of the Minnesota…..just kidding. Turns out there might be a few more “notable” in-house decisions to cover. By notable, I mean franchise-altering quarterback decisions that will make or break this franchise’s best shot at the Lombardi trophy in decades. No big deal or anything.

 6.) QB Sam Bradford

     The Bradford Experiment was a huge success in the first game of the season, brilliantly mastering the Saints defense for a great victory. The End. That’s how the Story of Sam ends for Minnesota. Undeniably the most talented QB of the three the Vikings had this year, he cannot shake the injury bug. In short, his knee simply cannot be trusted to lead the franchise going forward and the team cannot afford to pin their hopes on him. Decline

7.) QB Case Keenum

     By now you are likely aware of the Curious Case of….Case. The guy did some unbelievable things for the Vikings this year. Keenum has incredible pocket presence, masking most flaws the o-line had. His ability to extend plays was crucial, and he showed undeniable energy and composure as the offense leader. The problem is, it wasn’t enough. Keenum never displayed great arm strength and struggled mightily with deep throws. The offense was incapable of playing from behind, which was a very glaring problem in the NFC Championship game. I’m not blaming Keenum for his shortcomings, because he does the best with what he’s got. I would absolutely love to sign him back as the primary backup, but that will not only NOT happen, it wouldn’t be fair to him. He will likely land a starting gig for a rebuilding franchise with a contract around $20 - $22 million. As thankful as I am for his services this year, it’s a hard but necessary pass. Decline

8.) QB Teddy Bridgewater

     I’m going to dive into the Teddy topic heavy in the next article, so I will keep this short. Teddy completed a miraculous comeback from a gruesome knee injury late this year, making a short and emotional appearance against the Cincinnati Bengals. Drafted as the QB of the future for the Vikings, Bridgewater found himself on the outside looking in while Keenum led the team to a 13-3 record. Simply put (and believe me, it gets much more complicated than this so stay tuned) how do you entrust a franchise in full win-now mode to a QB who has missed nearly 2 years of game action, and was not fully developed prior to the injury? The answer is, you can’t. Decline

Bear with me fellow fans; this will all make sense eventually. This (officially) concludes Part I of the Minnesota Vikings Offseason Blueprint. Part II will be a real doozy, so please stay tuned, and thanks for reading.

[respect-the-wind]

Beware the Timberwolves

A rarity for professional sports in Minnesota occurred last night, stealing the thunder from the NBA draft before it even started. A nearly identical trade, proposed at this same time last year, to bring Chicago superstar Jimmy Butler to the Timberwolves was completed, making waves across the NBA. Moves of this caliber are as precious and few to Minnesota fans as, oh, lets say, how many days out of the year news-starved sports pundits DON'T argue who is better, Lebron or Michael. Sure, you can point back to 2003 when Kevin McHale finally surrounded Kevin Garnett with the talent of Latrell Sprewell and Sam Cassell, or when Brad Childress picked up Brett Favre from the airport while traffic helicopters created a scene similar to OJ and the white Bronco. Both moves put their respective teams into their league’s Conference championships (lets not talk about what happened next, both are still raw memories.) Something about this move feels quite different.

For starters, it should not be overlooked that the Wolves would not be in this position without the superb maneuvering of the late GM/Coach Flip Saunders, who drafted Lavine, Towns, and PG Tyus Jones, traded disgruntled star Kevin Love for Andrew Wiggins, and made the Timberwolves a desired destination for an unemployed Tom Thibodeau. Losing Flip is still raw for me as a fan, and the idea that he is not around to see his love, work, and vision for the Timberwolves culminate into what they are now still brings a tear to my eye. Thanks Flip, rest in peace

Let’s talk about the trade itself. You can paint this picture with any which color you like, but there is little doubt to anyone with any knowledge of the pieces involved - Chicago received a punishing spanking. Not just because Lavine is coming off of a major knee surgery that has slowed athletes in the past and not just because Kris Dunn at 23 vastly underperformed in some scary stat categories. Lavine is likely to return to form and Dunn has plenty of potential to develop. It’s because of the known commodity that Jimmy Butler IS right now. That trade in itself is lopsided, then add in the 16th pick in the draft Chicago sent along. That’s just mean, Thibs. .

While I’m riding high on this move, I’m not going to start dishing out feel-goods about how losing Lavine is no big deal and that he didn’t do much, mostly because it’s not remotely true. He has a work ethic that is matched by no-one, his shooting improved dramatically in 2016 than previous years, and any which one of his dunks featured on ESPN Top 10 showcase what an athletic freak his is. Above all, anyone who has dealt with him will tell you he is a stand-up you man that both teammates and the community he’s apart of will notice. He is a sure starter in the NBA and will be a great piece to build off of.

So why make the trade? 

To be simple, he’s not a top 10 NBA talent, Butler is. Butler is a proven superstar defender, scorer, and team leader. In a roster built around Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins, Lavine was the only realistic option to entice the Bulls into parting with their star. Simple enough, right?

Let’s go even further.

-Butler has been to the playoffs, has worked with (and praised) Thibs, and is a proven slayer in crunch time, a time where the Wolves blew the most second-half leads in the NBA. That’s a good trade, especially to this team. 

- Adding the defensive-guru Butler, who has bought into Thibs’ coaching already, has the potential to light a fire under the underperforming defenders on the team. Andrew Wiggins has the build and has shown he can play great defense, when he wants to. Same goes for KAT. Imagine if you can make consistently-adequate defenders out of those two, add in the great defenders that Butler and Ricky Rubio are, and this team solved its most glaring problem.

-Having a well respected coach in Thibodeau, young promising talent in Wiggins and KAT, a very generous PG in Ricky Rubio, and NOW a proven All-Star, puts Minnesota the best possible position to sway FA talent to visit. They will never overcome the stigma that is the “cold Minnesota weather” and this won’t convince every starry-eyed fame chasing player who dreams of LA, but it will draw others that may not have considered the Timberwolves before.

- Getting Butler has changed the offseason for the rest of the league’s teams DRASTICALLY. The top talent pool, thin to begin with, is one player less. Teams will overpay and overtrade to get their hands on them. Not only that, the Western conference is already beginning to change, as Chris Paul and Blake Griffin declined their player options, leaving the Clippers facing a possible rebuild. I’m not saying the Butler trade was a direct factor in this, but I can’t help but wonder. Super-teams appear to be the new normal, and the Wolves positioned themselves wisely before the ship set sail.  

Now, there’s still ways the Wolves can screw this trade up. Rumors about unloading Ricky Rubio should be quashed immediately. The team needs his defense and second-to-none passing skills more than ever, making him more valuable to Minnesota than his market will be anywhere else. Judging by the fact both Lavine and Dunn were relied upon as point guards, I’d hope this goes without saying. Unless Chris Paul gets brainwashed into believing he wants to reside in Minnesota, FORGET TRADING RUBIO RIGHT NOW.

Also, re-signing Butler before he becomes a free agent in 2 years is a priority. Now that he has become a core member, its time to ensure that this core gets at least 4-5 years to show its true potential. Time will tell if the Wolves adhere to these possible complications.

After all of this, if you are STILL unsure about this move, wait until the season starts. I bet you a game or two will quickly change your mind. :D

[respect-the-wind]

2017 Mock Draft 2.0 Post Combine

2017 Mock Draft 2.0 Post Combine

We’ve made it past the combine and things are already shaking up. Many people “secured” their spot in the first round (which we know means nothing, only 32 spots) and some hurt their stock and became questionable first round prospects. If you read my previous mock that was released directly after the conclusion of the Super Bowl (which I will often reference) you will notice that picks have definitely changed and some prospects have slipped out of the first round, while others have snuck up into the top 32. Once again, as a little disclaimer to keep haters away (you know who you are, Chris), this is my OPINION on what I think COULD happen; not what I want to happen, not what I think should happen. I am not a professional and definitely don’t get paid for this. This is my hobby made for my enjoyment as well as the maybe 10 people that read it (thank you by the way). I hope you enjoy.

1.       Cleveland Browns

Oh Lordy, the Browns. Where to start? I’m going to spoil this right away and say that Cleveland is going to screw this one up. Myles Garrett should go here (for the love of God let me be wrong) but he won’t. The Browns are desperate for a QB and they know that there is no way Mitchell Trubisky makes it down to their next selection in the first. I believe that if he doesn’t go here then he goes next to the 49ers. With that in mind Cleveland has the thought process of: “No we don’t get Myles Garrett in a deep DL class, but we did pick up some pieces last year in the draft as rotational players. We have another first rounder to add another defensive piece or weapon to help out our new franchise QB who we have needed for the past decade. This is the top QB in the draft and he is now ours.”  That’s my quotes, not Sashi Brown’s, don’t get too excited. Will this be a terrible pick? Not necessarily, was there a better pick available, absolutely. I don’t think we should laugh Trubisky off the stage though, let’s at least wait and see what their next selection has in store for us.

-          QB Mitchell Trubisky

2.       San Francisco 49ers

John Lynch runs his selection to Goodell to personally hand it to him and set a new 40 yard dash record (take a hike John Ross). Front 3 of SF’s defense: Armstead, Buckner, Garrett. Let that sink in. There’s nothing more to say here, only other thing to do would be trade down but it’s doubtful.

-          DE Myles Garrett

3.       Chicago Bears

I have to stay strong here. Many people are mocking this as a QB or Jonathan Allen but in the air it out nature of the NFC North the Bears desperately need S help. Chicago has seen the difference it makes to have someone like Harrison Smith in your secondary while playing the Vikings twice a year. Aaron Rogers, Matt Stafford, and even Sam Bradford/Teddy Bridgewater to an extent all lead passing offenses and the Bears have had a weak secondary for years. This is going to change in this year’s draft. Is pick #3 too soon to draft a safety? No, I strongly believe if Harrison Smith, Earl Thomas, or Eric Berry are in this draft then nobody would bat an eye if they were selected here. Adams is in the same class.

-          S Jamal Adams

4.       Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars have some options here. If I am them I trade down into the middle of the round if at all possible. I originally had them selecting Leonard Fournette here and right now I don’t think that changes. OL could use help but at this point that would be more of a reach than RB. The RB class is deep but Jacksonville doesn’t need another rotational guy, they need a feature back. This will help Bortles with teams having to put more attention on the RB position. The OL will need to be addressed in the second round which will help both Bortles and newly acquired Fournette. The recent trade for Branden Albert (is this finally official yet?) gives some OL help and makes this pick Fournette.

-          RB Leonard Fournette

5.       Tennessee Titans

Another team with 2 first round picks, this is always fun. Although I won’t stray far from my ideas as to how the Titans should play this one out, I am going to change my pick. Originally Mike Williams went here as a big body to help out Mariota and then the second pick would be defense, more so secondary. Only part of that that I plan on changing, at least of of pick 5, is the Williams pick. He’s big, he’s talented, he’s a wise selection but I feel Corey Davis is the man with the higher ceiling. We’ll hopefully know more after pro days but I think Davis is a boom of a selection with minimal bust potential. Tennessee rolls the dice on the Western Michigan product.

-          WR Corey Davis

6.       New York Jets

OL, CB, S, WR, RB, take your pick NY. With the recent release of Brandon Marshall the Jets have got to have something up their sleeve. Maybe that’s free agency but let’s assume it’s the draft. With the “slide” of Mike Williams past the Titans let’s further assume it’s the draft. Whoever among the mess of QB’s is under center it is clear that they will need a target who will make them appear better than they are. Enter Mike Williams, the man who will give Smith, Hackenberg, and Petty hope in training camp.

-          WR Mike Williams

7.       Los Angeles Chargers

Who plays safety for the Chargers? Yeah I had to look this one up too. Upon looking at who’s available here and taking another look at Los Angeles’ roster it’s clear that they need safety help. You got to believe that they are missing Eric Weddle. Their offense isn’t in rough shape although they could use some depth at most positions which can be addressed through the remainder of the draft or in free agency. Same goes for the defense but safety is one position where they lack an impact player. Although Adams is off the board I believe Hooker is every bit the player Adams is, where Adams is superior is run support. Hooker can cover with the best of them in this draft and that is truly what the Chargers need. LA had a player fall into their lap here.

PS- Yes I copy and pasted that from my last mock. Nothing changes here.

-          S Malik Hooker

8.       Carolina Panthers

Carolina could go a couple ways here. They could prolong Cam Newton’s lifespan with a new offensive lineman. They could take some heat off Cam and add a feature back rather than having a running back by committee. They could go secondary here and help the defensive front get to the QB. They could also go best player available or trade down. I believe they will go secondary this time around although they could benefit from a deep class and wait til round 2 they will savor the thought of having their choice at any CB they want to choose to fit what they are looking for. I do not work for the Panthers so I couldn’t confidently tell you what kind of player they look for in their CB’s but I can take an educated guess.

-          CB Sidney Jones

9.       Cincinnati Bengals

For how badly I wanted to copy and paste my paragraph from my last mock and go with Solomon Thomas I believe they go secondary here. With 2 safeties and 1 CB off the board and no defensive lineman being taken yet besides Garrett the Bengals will feel safe waiting until round 2 to add depth to the defensive front. Just like the Panthers, Cincinnati will basically have their pick of the litter here. I believe Wilson is the best CB in the class and although the Bengals could have other preferences I think they pull the trigger on Wilson.

-          CB Quincy Wilson

10.   Buffalo Bills

The Bills should take Ryan Ramczyk here; they won’t. The Bills, like the Browns are desperate for a franchise QB on having one who dazzled at the combine and who is mobile enough to get by with a mediocre OL is very enticing here. All signs point to a new QB under center next year. Buffalo appears to be moving on from Taylor and they won’t confidently hand the reigns to Manuel or Jones. The next best QB comes off the board here and Buffalo fans body slam themselves onto a flaming card tables in celebration.

-          QB Deshaun Watson

11.   New Orleans Saints

Well, in my last draft NO drafted for the future with Watson. They could still do this with Kizer but I think they turn their attention elsewhere. Brandon Cooks seems to be disgruntled and possibly on the move. Although the Saints rejected the alleged offer of NE’s first round pick there is still belief he may be moved even if it’s next season. In the meantime NO will draft his replacement here and give Brees one more weapon to scare the daylights out of opposing defenses.

-          WR John Ross

12.   Cleveland Browns

Well, Myles Garrett is off the board. Luckily the board works out in Cleveland’s favor. They still have the opportunity here to draft a difference maker on defense. Whether that be on the DL, LB, or CB they have a solid selection here. If they aren’t able to lure some big names on the OL during free agency the pick could be OL here. I wouldn’t knock that selection but I’m hoping (for Cleveland’s sake) that they use their ridiculous cap room to sign at least one high profile offensive lineman in free agency. Needless to say this pick will be much clearer for my next mock. With the thought in mind that they also hold the first pick in the second round they can wait to grab a CB in this deep class. With no OL picks being made thus far they could also pick up a nice piece to their line with that selection (assuming the board continues to play in their favor). Regardless we’re waiting and going defensive front. In my mind Solomon Thomas is the closest we’re going to get to Myles Garrett and at this point will be arguably the biggest difference maker on defense. Jonathan Allen would be a nice pick up here as well but Thomas is a freak and the Browns need to take advantage of him still being on the board.

-          DE Solomon Thomas

13.   Arizona Cardinals

Everyone and their brother in Arizona will want the Cardinals to pull the trigger on their future at QB but Arizona will do the sound thing and draft for other needs. Kizer is not worth a 1st round pick intended for the future (at least not in my mind). If Watson falls here we’ll have this conversation but it’s highly doubtful. They will instead look to prolong Palmer’s shelf life with the number 1 OL still on the board. Not only does this pick help Palmer stay on his feet, it also makes David Johnson that much more dangerous.

-          OL Ryan Ramczyk

14.   Philadelphia Eagles

Looks like the popular selection of a WR is now off the board as far as many draft junkies are concerned. The Eagles could go RB, OL, CB, DL, or LB here. They have some solid options. I do believe though with the deep CB, RB, and DL class they will take advantage of Ramczyk being the only lineman off the board and pounce on the weak OL class. Carson could use some more time in the pocket if he hopes to improve from his already solid rookie campaign. He took a lot of sacks and most of his interceptions were a result of heavy pressure. This should help after he put on an impressive showing at the combine.

-          OL Garett Bolles

15.   Indianapolis Colts

The Colts will be tempted to take a RB here and it would be a nice pick if they did whether that be Cook or dual threat McCaffrey. The Colts will instead take advantage of the deep RB class and have a RB by committee and select one later. They will instead pluck a defensive lineman from the equally deep class and go away winners with a draft day steal. Allen possesses incredibly talent and could very easily go before pick 15 but like my last draft (apparently the coin flip didn’t make a difference here) he somehow falls into the Colts’ lap. This will be a much needed boost to the defense.

-          DL Jonathan Allen

16.   Baltimore Ravens

Baltimore could go with secondary help here but two round 1 talents at RB have fallen to them and rather than have a RB by committee they will finally get their feature back. They can get the secondary help or defensive front they need later in the draft. Although he’s an untraditional feature back (most people probably envisioned someone else here when I said feature back) he is capable of being a workhorse in this offense. When were the Ravens most successful? When they had Ray diddle diddle up the middle. Rice was a dual threat for Flacco and I feel he has missed him since his departure by poor choice. After a strong combine there is no reach here.

-          RB Christian McCaffrey

17.   Washington

Come on free agency. I’ve been sweating this pick both in this mock and the last. FA will dramatically clear this selection up. For the time being they will look to improve their defensive front and what better way to do that than with versatility? Say what you want about McDowell’s motor but that kid can flat out play when he is motivated. With the right coaching, and I think Gruden qualifies, McDowell can be a force on the DL. He can line up at just about any position along the line and will be a valuable piece wherever he goes.

-          DL Malik McDowell

18.   Tennessee Titans

We have arrived at the Titans second selection this round and if you read what I said earlier about this selection the board worked in Tennessee’s favor. Ideally they would draft a weapon at WR for Mariota then take advantage of the CB depth and sit and wait until pick 18. Although they don’t get their pick of the litter they still have many options. Lattimore is arguably the best CB left here and many would argue he’s better than Jones (who’s already been taken). Unless the Titans see a fit with another player they should go with the Ohio State product here even after a hamstring scare at the combine.

-          CB Marshon Lattimore

19.   Tampa Bay Buccaneers

TB will be lucky if this pick is even an option come draft night. After an impressive combine he and other TE’s have become a hot item. Winston needs a safety blanket and as long as this pick is available I will make it 9 times out of 10. Even if he does get selected before here there are other options at TE that would make sense. The Bucs could go elsewhere with this pick but for the love of God help Winston out and get him a big and reliable target who can also block well. He’s your franchise QB and needs to put up better numbers, this should help.

-          TE O.J. Howard

20.   Denver Broncos

The rich are about to get richer. Denver could use OL help more than anything but they will take advantage of an unfortunate event at the combine. Reuben Foster should’ve been long gone but he was kicked out of the combine which raises character concerns and also prevented an evaluation of his injurey/ies. Nobody quite knows what happened with the hospital staff but regardless being removed is out of line. You are going to be a professional and need to act like one; this will rub a lot of teams the wrong way. The Broncos on the other hand have had no issues with players with troubled pasts; just ask Talib, Ray, and Miller. There’s no way Foster falls out of the first round, especially if he hits pick 20. Denver’s already Super Bowl caliber defense just got scarier.

-          LB Reuben Foster

21.   Detroit Lions

There is still plenty of depth available to help Detroit on the DL. Although this is the popular pick I believe they have a stronger DL than they do secondary. For how much I want to unload Barnett here he’s going to continue to head down the board. Conley is exactly what the Lions need playing in the NFC North. The ultimate goal of the Lions, Bears, and Vikings is to find a way to stop Aaron Rogers and win the division. Although this can only slow the bleeding it will certainly help. There’s still hope for a pass rusher next round.

-          CB Gareon Conley

22.   Miami Dolphins

Miami clearly was unhappy with Mario Williams’ performance. They will still look to improve their “should be better than it is” defensive line. Getting younger and fresher legs appears to be what’s in sight to help free up their veterans that currently make up the DL. The end is where they will look here with the most talented players available playing on the outside. I originally had Tim Williams going here but, despite the drug test confessions, the more I watch his tape I see him as a great rotational guy which is not what Miami needs. Barnett on the other hand can be a 3 down player in the NFL and I believe the Dolphins will see more value in that.

-          DE Derek Barnett

23.   New York Giants

Here’s another pick that will be made 9 times out of 10 if the possibility is here (must be something about TE’s and TE needy teams). If he’s not available the Giants could go OL considering Flowers hasn’t been quite what we all thought he might be. Maybe he needs a replacement, maybe he needs a kick in the butt in the form of first round pick used on OL, or maybe they want to do some rearranging on the line and put him elsewhere and put someone new in his place/next to him. That’s a lot of maybe’s. Luckily for us NY’s converted TE is still available so I don’t need to do much further thinking on anywhere else they could use this pick.

-          TE David Njoku

24.   Oakland Raiders

Originally I had Malik McDowell here and it would still be a solid selection, but, he’s a little tied up in Washington. I believe Oakland will still elect to go with the DL here although they could use some CB depth. This Florida product has some serious potential to get after the QB from the DT spot and the Raiders will be happy to take a flyer on him here. He possesses quickness off the line that makes up for his lack of size. He will be fun to watch on Oakland swarming defense.

-          DL Caleb Brantley

25.   Houston Texans

I previously had Houston looking for CB help and it would be wise to take someone like Tabor or Humphrey here but there is a prospect flying up draft boards after a strong showing at the combine. Reddick is a LB who previously played in the secondary, therefore he will still be able to help in pass coverage in the middle or out in the flats. Another freak athlete to pair up with Clowney and to help free up some space for McKinney to lay some wood will benefit the LB position. Although it’s not an immediate need it’s a smart move by Houston.

-          LB Haason Reddick

26.   Seattle Seahawks

It’s no secret that the Seahawks need help on the OL. Although they’ve tried to have a solid group up front through previous drafts they could use a franchise guy. The only guy left on the board who truly has that franchise T potential is Cam Robinson. Russell Wilson will be a happy man on draft night if this is how it plays out. Sure Seattle could go elsewhere here but it’s time they do something to prolong Wilson’s shelf life. He constantly runs for his life because he needs to not just because he can.

-          OT Cam Robinson

27.   Kansas City Chiefs

It is time to set the ultimate tweener free. You all know who I’m talking about. Peppers had an excellent showing at the combine proving his worth in the first round and in the NFL. KC now owns the deepest (by far) punt/kick return group in the NFL with Peppers, Hill, and Thomas. Dalvin Cook could very easily be the selection here and some would argue that it should be but I think Peppers to KC is an intriguing fit and could very well happen. He just adds to the weapons KC already has on defense. He can play safety or LB and provides many different looks for the Chiefs. The Chiefs will have a running back by committee backfield and take a RB in the next couple rounds.

-          LB/S Jabrill Peppers

28.   Dallas Cowboys

If KC doesn’t pick Peppers at 27 you better believe Dallas will take a good long look at making the selection. Luckily for me I don’t have to sweat that decision. The only decision I have to make is CB or DE/EDGE. There is depth at both positions but I think Dallas has been really looking for their guy that can hit double digit sacks for them since the departure of Ware. It’s clear Randy Gregory is not that guy. Although there are many options here and I would listen to arguments to make another selection at DE here but this Alabama product (not Tim Williams) impresses me more and more when I watch his tape and I think he would be a great fit in the improving Dallas defense.

-          DE/EDGE Ryan Anderson

29.   Green Bay Packers

This pick isn’t going to change from the last draft and you’re not getting any more reasoning out of me (Skol Vikings).

-          CB Jalen “Teez” Tabor

30.   Pittsburgh Steelers

Here’s my personal debate: Charlton, McKinley, Humphrey, Baker, or Lamp. I’m going to rule Lamp out right away because Pittsburgh’s offense can still produce big numbers even with the OL they have. I’m then going to rule out both CB’s because of the strides the secondary made last season. The defensive front on the other hand isn’t getting any younger and could use an eventual replacement. So Charlton or McKinley? Considering Charlton did nothing to set him apart from McKinley at the combine and the Steelers can afford to wait for McKinley, who I believe has the higher ceiling, the UCLA product gets the nod here.

-          DE Takkarist McKinley

31.   Atlanta Falcons

Atlanta is still a very talented team even after blowing a huge lead in the big game. They could go with defense here with many nice possible additions available but they really need to protect Matt Ryan better. If the OL can add another piece they can easily retain the potency of their dangerous offense. Look at what Dallas does with their league leading OL. Atlanta will look to copy that to protect Ryan and open things up for their talented RB duo. Lamp was a stud at the combine and is very worthy of this pick (he could very well go higher), the Falcons are lucky to get him here especially in a scarce OL group.

-          OL Forrest Lamp

32.   New England Patriots

If NE does in fact pick here and doesn’t trade the pick they will likely go best player available…on their board. With that being said I am not even going to try to guess who’s atop the Patriots’ always mysterious board but will go with what makes the most sense to me. I’m going to honest this is a really hard selection because it’s so hard to predict what NE will do. I am going to do the most NE thing possible and go with a reach that they see great potential in with the right coaching, who stood out at the combine, and fits the mold. Here comes a surprise.

-          DL T.J. Watt

As always, thank you for reading. I do these mocks in my spare time and they do take me many hours to complete so I do appreciate any read, like, share, comment, etc. Next mock will drop after the first wave of free agency: 3-16-17.

-Blayne Waselk

[respect-the-wind]

Minnesota Vikings Offseason Hopes, Dreams, & Realities (Pt II)

...and we’re back!

Last post, I covered what in-house duties our favorite football team should accomplish before the real fun of free agency and the draft begins. We are now less than 2 weeks away before the free agent floodgates open, so it’s time to take a whack at what I’d like to see the team do, and to what degree that it’s likely to happen. 

This might be the most complex offseason GM Rick Spielman has ever faced. The offensive line needs 3 new players. We have a slot corner who is going to get paid well, likely by some other team. We have a former superstar RB that currently will account for $18 million in salary cap space. To top it all off, we have no 1st round pick. Yeah.

But fret not fellow fans, there is a way to navigate this offseason successfully. By focusing on building a new O-line and utilizing the draft to fill the other holes, our Vikes can be back into contention in no time. Let us begin.

Free Agents

The draft is extraordinarily thin on blue chip O-lineman, and that doesn’t work out well when your first pick is in round 2. Time to open the checkbook. We will begin with the assumption that Adrian Peterson is getting cut, saving an additional $18 million and bringing the Vikings cap space to around $42 million. (Note- I’m no salary cap expert, so I’m not going to pretend I am and work with hard numbers, just estimates) 

1.) RT Ricky Wagner - Wagner is the best RT available in a sea of mediocre options. As much as I would like to see our top $$ go to free agent guard Kevin Zeitler, the options at guard are far more than at tackle. Wagner is only 27 years old, and can become an anchor on our brand new line.Time to overpay. Sign for 4 years, $38 million

Likeliness it happens: 60/40 - I have a habit of getting my hopes up on big name free agents and getting burned, but Spielman needs to get real serious real fast to fix this o-line, his job depends on it. This is a necessary step.

Cap space update: $33 million

2.) RG TJ Lang - Ahh, the sweet taste of bitter Packer fans’ animosity. Why not bring another one of their players to the dark side? Lang is one of the better guards available this offseason, but at 30 years old by season’s start, he won’t command quite as much salary as Zeitler. A top pass blocker and above-average run blocker, Lang will protect the Vikings’ investment in Sam Bradford for the next few years while our (SPOILER ALERT) draftee develops. Sign for 3 years, $21 million

Likeliness it happens: 80/20 - My confidence doesn’t sit with Lang as much as it does with the position. I do expect a signing of either Lang, Zeitler, or Larry Warford.

Cap space update: $26 million

With our own free agents to re-sign, factoring in cuts and restructures, I believe this will bring our FA acquisitions to a close. Our new o-line looks like -

___ - Boone - Berger - Lang - Wagner

.....where’s the LT....

Trades

I have been struggling mightily trying to decide the best way to fix our LT hole. First, I wanted to sign back Kalil to a prove-it cheap deal. Then, I wanted to sign free agent Andrew Whitworth. The more I thought about it, the more I did not want to dump $10-12 million of our precious cap space on a 35 year old tackle, regardless of his play. Then, after reading some fine articles written by fellow fans at the Daily Norseman, I remembered.

1.) Joe Thomas - Thomas remains one of the best LT’s in the NFL. At 32 years old, he provides a few more years of production than Whitworth, solidifies the position in a Pro-Bowl way, and most importantly, gives the Vikings a pass on this year’s thin OT crop in the draft. TRADE Vikings 2nd round pick for LT Joe Thomas

Likeliness this happens: Before Free Agency - 0%. After Free Agency - 50/50 Once Whitworth gets overpaid and the LT market becomes bare, this move is going to become more and more likely. Cleveland is loaded with picks in this draft, including 2 1st rounders and the 1st pick in the 2nd, meaning they would have multiple chances to replace Thomas while gaining another early pick. I know just how much losing another pick goes against the legend of 10 Pick Rick, but strap in, it’s gonna get worse.

2.) TRADE Vikings extra 3rd and 4th round picks for a 2nd round pick - Yes, we are down to 6 picks in the draft. Yes, this would require Spielman to give up on his 10 pick surplus, but the time for hoping mid-to-late round picks eventually pan out is over. The VIkings super bowl window is cracking open, and it doesn’t stay open very long. With these moves, we fully enter the “Dreams” portion of this post. Leaving the rest of the draft information to my good friend and fellow Viking fanatic MockingtheDraft (check out his blog), I will only go into the 3rd round.

DRAFT

1.) 2nd round pick - RB Christian McCaffrey- with the value of RB’s in flux, I believe McCaffrey can fall into the mid 2nd round, where the Vikings will draft their RB workhorse of the future. A standout from Stanford, McCaffrey also displayed a good set of hands for catching the ball, something AP never was able to master. Just think, Bradford and McCaffery under center, behind a line consisting of Thomas, Boone, Berger, Lang, Wagner. Yeah. 

2.) 3rd round pick - RG/C Pat Elflein- this is where we start bolstering our new O-line while also prepping for the future. Berger, a stand out player at center, is 34. Having Elflein sit for a year under this line, while also being versatile enough to play RG or C in the event of an injury, would be a major win.

Alas, we have reached the conclusion of my vision for the Vikings offseason, full of dreams and dashed with a few shakes of reality. Thank you for reading, and Skol Vikes.

[respect-the-wind]

Minnesota Vikings Offseason Hopes, Dreams, & Realities (Part 1 - In House Decisions)

........

Wow, 2016. Wow.

Turns out our favorite football team has a major O-line problem. Remember last year when I wished for the signing Kelechi Osemele? Ya, that certainly wouldn’t have helped at all. 

To be fair, a countless number of things went wrong, and lessons hopefully have been learned. Luckily, the forgiving guy that I am, I’m willing again to lend my expertise to get this team over the hump. So without further ado...

CUTS

The Vikings have already started this process, and I can’t say they’ve disappointed me yet. RG Brandon Fusco is gone, along with the injured Mike Harris, so I will not include them in my list.

1.) Adrian Peterson - This is perhaps the biggest no-brainer in all of professional sports. The blunt reason(s). 

He doesn’t fit the offense anymore.

He’s on the wrong side of 30, especially for RB’s.

He’s not worth 1/4 of his $18 million cap hit. 

His presence is becoming a locker room distraction, especially after opting for surgery over playing through the torn meniscus last year. 

The Vikings desperately need every cent of his $18 million to spend elsewhere.

End of story.

2.) Emmanuel Lamur - though his cap hit is only a few million, it’s a few million they need. His presence was not felt last year, at all. 

3.) Jarius Wright - I think Wright has good value as a slot WR, but the Vikings did.not.use.him.at.all. in 2016. If he’s going to ride the bench, he’s better off somewhere else and his money is needed. MOAR MONEY

next.

Notable In-House Free Agents (Sign or Sayonara)

There are some important names to consider on this list. Fortunately, it doesn’t take much brain power to figure out who needs to stay and who needs to be kindly shown the door.

1.) WR Adam Thielen - Thielen is a restricted free agent, meaning they can match any offer he gets on the market. He shouldn’t get there. Thielen became QB Bradford’s favorite (and trusted) target throughout the 2016 campaign, and he didn’t disappoint. Thielen has morphed from a homegrown undrafted FA into a premier #2 WR, and a WR corps waiting on 1st round pick Treadwell to find his footing cannot afford to lose him. SIGN DAMNIT SIGN

2.) LT Matt Kalil - Oofta. The tale of Matt Kalil has become more twisted than the era of Christian Ponder. Kalil is young-ish, played Pro-Bowl level his rookie year, tanked, improved some, then suffered a season ending injury. Though he wasn’t playing well, the Vikings learned what a true revolving door looks like when they plugged TJ Clemmings into the spot. Results were, conclusive.

Even so, they need to improve this spot. Badly. Sayonara.

2.) CB Captain Munnerlyn - This is a move that lies within the “dreams” more so than “realities.” The Captain found his footing during the 2015 season, and has since played an important role in Zimmer’s defense. The Vikings drafted his clear replacement, Mackenzie Alexander, but he has much left to learn and cannot be trusted to start yet. The Captain will come at a cost, most likely more than the team will pay, but his services are needed, at least on a 1-2 year contract. SIGN 

3.) CB Terence Newman - 

NEWMAN.

That’s the proper response over the controversy surrounding the CB’s move to defy Mike Zimmer’s orders against Green Bay. While it made none the difference during the game, this kind of stuff cannot be allowed, especially with a huge core of young players watching. Newman defied his age and played at a high level, even ranking in PFF’s Top 100 of 2016, but the damage is done. Even if the disobedience didn’t take place, the team needs to stop relying on Newman’s 2 year streak of age defiance. Sayonara 

4.) WR Cordarrelle Patterson - just when you thought 2016 couldn’t get any weirder, Patterson and his 1st rounder promise showed up. Maybe ol’ NORV! didn’t like him. Maybe Cordarrelle realized he was in a contract season. Maybe he finally found his spot in new OC Pat Shurmur’s offense. Whatever the case is, Patterson excelled towards the end of the season. He caught deep balls. He caught touchdowns. He made extra effort plays for the 1st down. He became the hybrid WR/RB we fans saw glimpses of his rookie year. This FA is going to be tricky, because there are most likely teams willing to dump more cash at his feet than Minnesota. But his explosiveness is huge for this team, and his ability to develop into a WR3 is renewed. SIGN

5.) P Jeff Locke - a punter on the list, you didn’t misread. I will be honest, I was screaming for Locke to get the axe, and screaming loud. The Vikings didn’t hear me, did not draft or sign a replacement, and payed the price.

Except they didn’t. Locke showed up last year big league, booting 50 yarders, hitting inside the 20, you know, everything a punter should do. Locke proved his worth and my incorrectness, and proved that his field goal holding was NOT the issue with the Blair Walsh Project. The Vikings already have signed competition for Locke, which could be the writing on the wall for his Vikings career, but he should be kept. SIGN

phew. NEXT

Extensions

As the theme has been cap space, we need MOAR. MOAR CASH. Extensions seem to fly in the face of this, but certain moves need to be made to lock up talent for the future, while opening some space up for acquisitions.

1.) QB Sam Bradford - Remember when Teddy Bridgewater was this team’s QB? Seems like light years ago. Our fan favorite QB was struck down by the football gods, succumbing to the most gruesome knee injury known to players sans amputation (though that was a possibility at the time), and a short while later, the Sam Bradford era began. I may get grief for this, but Bradford proved to be worth the 1st round pick it took to get him. The deep ball became an actual threat, and considering his millisecond window to get the ball out before becoming ground beef, he played exceptionally well. We are forever grateful for his services in beating the Green Bay Packers in US Bank Stadium’s opener, preventing that curse from following us around the rest of the building’s life. To be short, Teddy’s career proceeding is far from a certainty. Sam is signed for one more year with a $20 mil cap hit. Extend him for 4 years and lower his cap hit for this year in exchange for bonuses and future guaranteed money. I’m fairly sure he will be gracious for the opportunity to help stop the pummeling by opposing rushers.

2.) CB Xavier Rhodes - Rhodes became the premier shutdown corner we had all dreamed him to be, getting the best of pro bowlers Odell Beckham Jr, DeAndre Hopkins, Larry Fitzgerald, etc. His contract is up next year, and he’s going to get paid. They succeeded in locking up S Harrison Smith early, I’m positive they can do the same here.

That was a doozie, but we are through Part 1 of our Minnesota Vikings Offseason Hopes, Dreams, and Realities. Part II will cover the exciting FA additions this team needs HARDCORE, while touching on the team’s draft needs. Thanks for reading.

NEWMAN.

[respect-the-wind]

Grading the Vikings 2016 Draft

A week has passed since the 2016 NFL and the dust has settled. Nerves have been calmed and my crazy dreams about the draft at night have come to an end (my fiancé informed me I was talking in my sleep about players/prospects). I would like to take some time to voice my personal opinions about the Vikings’ draft picks and maybe make you feel better or worse about whom we selected.

Round 1: Laquon Treadwell

If you read the opening paragraph of my final mock draft you’ll know that Treadwell was my dream prospect to fall to the Vikings. As the picks went on I got more comfortable with my top WR’s staying on the board, but as we got to pick 21 the anxiety set in. Houston traded up, good Lord here goes Doctson with Treadwell to follow at 22. Thoughts ran through my head of “well there goes our first round, might as well trade down and take Michael Thomas” and “Jesus Christ Spielman you knew this was going to happen, why didn’t you trade up” but then… Houston takes Fuller! Ha! We still get our choice between my two favorite receivers! My nerves calmed again, with the help of another cold one, and I sat back and watched Washington take Doctson. Alright Slick Rick here we go take the man we’ve all been waiting for. I’m not going to lie I was a little nervous he would go elsewhere with the pick. As Treadwell’s name was announced I jumped off the couch with joy at the expense of our downstairs neighbors. As time has passed I have remained thrilled with this pick and love the physical WR that Teddy will have at his disposal. Treadwell and Diggs both provide a different skillset and will provide an excellent 1-2 punch for years to come. This could be the pick to jump start our offense and take us deeper into the playoffs (I like to think Super Bowl, and AP agrees).

Grade: A+

Round 2: Mackenzie Alexander

Whoa I did not see this one coming and I can still picture the look on my friend Chris’s face (not a good one). I personally was surprised but it was more of a pleasant surprise, Chris on the other hand not so much. But to make him and anyone else who doesn’t like this pick feel better I will explain why this is a homerun pick. Alexander was my number 3 CB coming into the draft, no he didn’t nab an interception during his time at Clemson but he was definitely lights out. Opposing QB’s didn’t even dare throw his way in pure fear that he finally would pick one off. He managed to knock away around 70% of the passes thrown his way so do the interceptions really bother you upon seeing that number? This is a pure value pick and sure I would’ve loved to see a safety taken, maybe Vonn Bell, but thinking about the steal we got overshadowed those feelings. Plus, even though Bell was a great prospect he didn’t fit the bill as well as Alexander does as a hard-nosed, tough, and rugged warden of the North. Alexander has that swagger to him that our secondary could use. Keep in mind that Munnerlyn is in the final year of his contract so this creates the perfect situation for Zim to give his prized CB a year to develop (as always) and then step in a year later to add to a secondary that should feature Rhodes and Waynes on the outside, Alexander in the slot, and Harry the Hitman roaming the secondary. Now that’s just plain dirty.

Grade: A+

Round 3: Traded Out (badly wanted Miles Killebrew here)

Round 4: Willie Beavers

Is this a bad selection? No not really. Did I like it? No not really. It’s not that I didn’t like the selection of an offensive lineman here it’s just that in my mind there were better prospects on the board. I really liked Jerald Hawkins and even had him mocked early on as a first rounder. Even if we’re going for versatility I liked Joe Haeg (I might be a little biased). Honestly I knew very little about Beavers and had to do some research after the pick was made. After learning a little more about him I began to feel a little better about the pick and now no longer see it as a bad one. If you asked me what I graded this on right after the pick was announced I might have yelled out F! I would’ve loved to see some competition at LT to give Kalil a little kick in the pants but I do like Beavers’ versatility and potential especially seeing that Clemmings is moving to LT. Neither him nor Kalil are anywhere near elite but maybe this is the motivation they both need. Basically my overall grade has improved, we upgraded this position during free agency and there’s no need to panic, this is a nice developmental pick.

Grade: B-

Round 5: Kentrell Brothers

All I really knew about Brothers was he was an undersized tackling machine out of Mizzou. Immediately I think project. I see Brothers as a situational player more than a regular down player. He could be a pass rush specialist with the right coaching, he could become a hybrid player in the nickel, or worst case a special teams beast. I know that our management loves these project players and that they draft based on skillset and potential (see 2015 round three) so with that being said this is a solid pick. Like I said, worst case scenario Brothers becomes a standout player on special teams, he blocked 3 kicks last season, or we get a nice tweener that Zimmer has been looking for.

Grade: B

Round 6: Mortiz Bohringer

Well we all saw this one coming at some point. This is definitely a project but also definitely a good story. MoBo deserved a chance to prove what he’s got and I do like this pick to add to a WR bunch riddled with underachievers. This should motivate Patterson even more and same goes for Charles Johnson. This now comes down to the three of them. Wright is a different WR playing in the slot and earned himself a nice contract extension and Thielen get brownie points for his special teams work and versatility. Part of me would’ve rather had Listenbee at his point but part of me thinks this could end up being a homerun of a project. Let’s just hope he doesn’t end up like our last foreign project, Babs (ain’t even going to look that name up to spell it). A nice gamble though but yes that’s exactly what it is, a huge gamble.  

Grade: B-

Round 6: David Morgan II

Here’s where Spielman really gave me some grey hairs. I was bursting at the seams waiting to hear Tom Hackett’s name be called. I figured who we would possibly need to trade up to get, must be Hackett, we’re desperate for a punter (or so I thought). Boy was I disappointed real fast. A TE??? And who is David Morgan II?? We have Rudolph, we drafted Pruitt last year, and we (barely) resigned Ellison. Ok I get it, he’s a great blocking TE and could be the next Jimmy Kleinsasser and that’s a nice piece to have on the team but come on. Our TE depth is solid and everyone and their brother wants to see Locke get the boot out of town. But, I do feel a little better that we have LeCompte and O’Toole coming in to compete with Locke so at least we are making an effort without Spielman having to swallow his pride and admit Locke was a terrible pick. I will grow to be ok with this pick; it’s just going to take more than a week.

Grade: C+

Round 7: Stephen Weatherly

Ok I’ve been begging the draft God’s for a safety all draft long and have been waiting for Kearse’s name to be called for the past 3 rounds. Hey Hackett is still on the board too. It’s got to be one of them, right? Wrong. We got ANOTHER LB. There’s going to be some heavy competition at the position this offseason with all LB’s from last season returning along with the addition of 2 in the offseason and another prior in the draft. I like the competition there will be for the final OLB spot and like that we can have some solid rotational players but still would’ve liked this pick to go elsewhere. I see Weatherly as more of a pass rusher/rotational player than anything else. Honestly I didn’t know who he was when we drafted him so I had to do some more research but it’ll be interesting to see what he can do. I know Zimmer likes his late round, no name LB’s, so let the offseason position battle begin.

Grade: C+

Round 7: Jayron Kearse

How Kearse fell this far is beyond me but I guess I’m ok with it. I do like Michael Griffin next to Harrison Smith for the coming year but did want someone else to come in and compete/develop. I still have hopes for Harris and Exum but they’re going to really have to step up their game this offseason to beat out Kearse. I think Kearse is the better prospect of the three (we aren’t even counting Sendejo here because he’s that bad) and fully expect him to be starting next to Smith next season. Kearse is a freak (must run in the family) and should fit right in with the defense. I love this pick even though it means Locke isn’t a guarantee to be cut.

Grade: A

I do like this draft class and like how we spread the wealth between the offense and the defense. We are taking the steps we need to in order to help our young offense take a step forward and we are adding talent and competition to an already dominant defense. With the free agent signings and the solid draft class look for the Vikings to be a scary team come playoff time. I do believe we have filled all the holes we had after last season and all there’s left to do is maintain the strategy Spielman has been implementing to build a Super Bowl contender. I can’t wait to see how everyone develops and meshes with the team and look forward to another exciting year of Vikings football. Skol!

Overall Draft Grade: B+

[respect-the-wind]

Final 2016 NFL Mock Draft

2016 NFL Mock Draft

Well, well, well, we finally made it. Draft week is here and I couldn’t be more excited. It is my favorite day in all of sports (until the Vikings make it to the Super Bowl sometime in my lifetime) and it’s something I look forward to every year. As soon as the Vikings are done for the season I go full on draft mode(my lovely fiancé gets less and less attention the closer we get to the draft) and spend many hours watching film and reading scouting reports about every relevant player that could go rounds 1-3. I do scout other players but that’s more on a level of who the Vikings could possibly take throughout the draft. When making my drafts though I spend the majority of my time scouting early round prospects and spend a lot (and I mean a lot) of time on Bleacher Report reading articles and watching videos. I go pick by pick with my draft as if it were actually happening and if you have read my mocks before (I make 4 every off season: Post Super Bowl, Post Combine, Post Free Agency, and Final) you know that I am a hardcore Minnesota fan but am much unbiased when making my mocks. To give an example I would love for MN to land Treadwell or Doctson but as I am writing this right now I couldn’t tell you if that’s how the mock will play out so we’ll both have to wait and see. Ok though enough rambling, I’m exciting to do write my final mock (especially after the two blockbusters) and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy writing it.

1.       St. Lo… sorry… Los Angeles Rams

a.       Guess I was wrong when I said last mock that nobody would sell the farm to take either Goff or Wentz with the first overall pick. I personally think it’s giving up too much but with a move to LA I guess its necessary to make a splash and they did just that. They will now have a franchise QB (hopefully) and are gambling either way whether they did this or whether they had the chance to take Lynch later on in their original slot. Honestly I don’t need much expertise to mock this pick because the fellas at Bleacher Report tell me it’s 99.9% certain Goff will be the Ram’s selection. Tough to argue against that, smokescreen or not. This guy just looks like a franchise QB, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TcwdHWD3YU,easy to say though when you’re watching just highlights but still.

                                                               i.      QB Jared Goff

2.       Philadelphia Eagles

a.       Again this one doesn’t take much expertise. I actually originally had Carson going to Philly in my first mock (Post Super Bowl) but obviously that was long before they traded up twice. Since then, Carson’s stock has risen immensely, immensely enough for another team to sell the farm to select him. Honestly I think the Browns should’ve stayed put and took Wentz (we’ll get into that later on) but I am at least happy that Carson will not go to the QB black hole. Looking at this before Bradford’s recent trade demands it would be perfect being Wentz could take a redshirt year but even with this possible shipping of Sam out of Philly I believe Carson is capable stepping in day 1 and starting/succeeding. If you don’t believe me check this out (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRLe5ltOD4g ).  He is a determined individual who demands nothing but the best from himself and others around him (try being in his group for school projects). I said it in my first draft and I will say it again, good luck in the City of Brotherly Love my friend, you deserve it Big Red. Go Bizon and go Eagles!

                                                               i.      QB Carson Wentz

3.       San Diego Chargers

a.       Now here’s where things get interesting. People will argue back and forth whether Tunsil or Ramsey will go here. Either one should be seen as a homerun pick considering both could very easily have gone number 1 overall. We’ll debate that in a passing league it is a necessity to have a solid secondary. We will also debate that Rivers is aging and regularly got the snot beat out of him last season (see Week 3 against the Wardens of the North). Both are extremely important aspects of a football team and honestly this is hard for me to pick but I feel this once in a decade talent in the secondary will be a surprising number 3 overall pick.

                                                               i.      DB Jalen Ramsey

4.       Dallas Cowboys

a.       Another interesting pick comes at number 4. It has been reported that Jerry Jones loves Elliot and wants him picked at 4 overall. Looking back at recent drafts it’s not very often that Jerry gets his way picking players, best example is Johnny Football. I’ll just say that he should be owner and president and have the title of GM taken away. He prefers players who put up a big highlight real rather than make smart football decisions. Sorry but Elliot is not going number 4 overall, heck Adrian Peterson wasn’t even drafted this high and he’s the greatest RB this generation has ever seen rush the football. Dallas has had a band of misfits (literally: Hardy, Lawrence, Gregory) on the defensive front. They also don’t have a need on the OL so picking Bosa just makes sense here.

                                                               i.      DL Joey Bosa

5.       Detroit Lions *Trade*

a.       If you read my last blog I posted (revisiting last year’s final mock draft) you’d see that I totally botched the trade aspect of it. Here I am foolish again to give it another try. The Jags don’t need Tunsil and there’s no way someone doesn’t move up in front of Baltimore (who would take Tunsil). Why do I pick the Lions to do it? I made fun of Rivers earlier about getting beat on by the Vikings but good Lord the beating that they put on Stafford last year was even worse. This move allows Detroit to move Reiff over to the right side where he belongs and also helps last year’s Tomlinson by adding more quality around him. The whole line benefits and so does Stafford’s back side, thus benefitting the whole offense. They reestablish their passing game by giving their QB more time, thus benefitting the running game by having a defense who isn’t solely focused on the rush, thus benefitting their other high draft pick in Abdullah. With this selection Detroit isn’t even bothered by Megatron’s departure because Stafford can have time to do more than just heave the ball up in Johnson’s general direction. That was a lot to process. I apologize.

                                                               i.      OT Laremy Tunsil

6.       Baltimore Ravens

a.       Baltimore ideally wants to move out of this pick but now with the trade value of it has cooled. Here are the Raven’s options being they are “stuck” here: Buckner, Jack, Stanley, and Hargreaves. Buckner is an incredible talent as a 3-4 DE but Baltimore is flirting with the possibility of switching to a 4-3 so depending what they decide to do on defense will heavily influence this pick. Jack’s knee was compared to a time bomb and will slide. Stanley I have nothing to argue against at this point and same goes for Hargreaves. Hargreaves is talented enough to play whatever concept at either outside or slot and Baltimore’s pass defense has been horrendous, but then again they did lose arguably their best asset on the OL in free agency. Here we stand at another difficult selection. If I’m Baltimore I will need to take the full 10 minutes to decide and ultimately decide to continue to build around the defense who won them two Super Bowls and could very well do it again. Hargreaves is the gritty player Baltimore likes on their defense and one who plays bigger than his height with an aggressive playing style and impressive vertical. You think this is a reach?  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Mh17M–aQc not as much as you may think.

                                                               i.      CB Vernon Hargreaves

7.       San Francisco 49ers

a.       I’m going to sound like a broken record by the end of this, here is another interesting pick. Then again that’s what makes the draft so awesome is the uncertainty and insanity that comes along with it. It is a chess match and your future not only lies in your hands but also in the hands of the people drafting in front of you as well as behind you. Ok I got sidetracked, back to SF. Does Chip convince Kap to stay or does he get traded? Do they believe in Lynch enough to take him at 7? I personally don’t think so but then again nothing is a surprise with Chip. Some secondary help here would be great but do they want Alexander, Apple, or Jackson his high? That I’m not sure. They could also use a running mate for Bowman but is Jack’s or Smith’s knee worth the risk considering they had two LB’s bolt early on them because of injury/wear and tear concerns? They could trade down or pair Armstead and Buckner, after all there is that Oregon connection. I think they surprise everyone early and be the first team to pick a WR to help out whoever may be under center this coming season.  Coleman is an excellent fit for a high tempo Chip Kelly offense.

                                                               i.      WR Corey Coleman

8.       Cleveland Browns

a.       Here we go Brownies, here we go! Woof, woof! This is always an entertaining pick. The Browns have made a habit of being a laughing stock in the first round in recent drafts, I’d list off bust selections but I want to keep this pick to a single paragraph. I personally think the Browns should have taken their first legit franchise QB since I don’t even know who but at least they managed to acquire more picks after letting all their big name free agents walk. I don’t put it past Cleveland to select Lynch here but weirdly enough they seem content with Bob at QB and will probably elect to take a developmental QB in the next couple rounds, hopefully sooner rather than later. Derek Carr did fall to early second round and its very realistic to think this could happen to Lynch and the Browns. Anyways, whoever is at QB will need some protection after the OL lost some key contributors in the offseason. If they fail to select Stanley here someone cue the laugh track.

                                                               i.      OT Ronnie Stanley

9.       Tampa Bay Buccaneers

a.       The Bucs really need some pass rush. Their safety tandem is awful and no safety is worth taking this early in the draft. They could go with Lawson here but I think they elect to go with versatility and take a risk. TB seems like they don’t mind taking on some red flags (see last year’s number 1 overall pick) and the stakes are lower here than last year so they pick Spence. I personally think Spence could be a bust judging his lack of ability to bend the edge and get low when taking on tackles. He dominated at Eastern Kentucky but are any OT he faced there going to go round 1 and have legit talent like he will face on a regular basis in the NFL? I could be wrong but with the right coaching he could fix these flaws in his game. For me though the stiffness is the big one, just check out the TV views on this tape when he comes around the edge and you be the judge, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S68wjetIcT4 . He wins off power and that won’t cut it in the NFL, one trick ponies don’t always have the brightest future. But he fits in Tampa Bay and could thrive here whether he’s standing up or has his hand in the dirt.

                                                               i.      EDGE Noah Spence

10.   New York Giants

a.       Myles Jack is the popular pick here and there’s reason for it. I will have no argument if that ends up being their selection and I would maybe even go as far as to call it a steal, but I think we’re in store for another surprise. Eli needs help in one way or another. That goober often looks clueless out on the field and NY can’t afford to throw the ball as much as they do without some sort of running game. Their RB group consists of 3 decent backs who are better as change of pace/role players rather than workhorses. Elliot is worthy of this pick and the Giants should make haste and snatch him here. Trade offers will likely be coming in (I was really tempted to put Miami here) and NY could elect to give up Elliot and trade down to target Jack or Floyd but that’s no fun. It’ll benefit Eli greatly with teams having to respect their running game. OBJ and Elliot are a nasty combination for the offense. We have all seen Beckham Jr.’s highlights well here, now add this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FFKyKLHwDw .

                                                               i.      RB Ezekiel Elliot

11.   Chicago Bears

a.       The perfect situation just fell right into Chicago’s lap. If this is how the draft plays out and they stay patient there is no way they can pass on this pick. In fact if there’s another team that’s high on DeForest Buckner then they had better be calling the Giants before this even becomes a possibility. The Bears would literally be drooling for this and there’s a very good chance this isn’t how things will play out but hey, crazier things have happened. It’s the draft, nobody really knows. We had two surprises already with SF’s pick and Elliot falling to the unlikely Giants. There really isn’t much more to write about this pick, its best case scenario for the hometown Bears.

                                                               i.      DL DeForest Buckner

12.   New Orleans Saints

a.       Who exactly plays on the DL for NO?? Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? Yeah unless you’re a Saints fan you probably can’t name one. I’ll help you out though, they signed Nick Fairley in the offseason and it could be argued that he’s their best defensive lineman. They clearly need some beef up front. They could go defensive back here but I think that if they play their cards right with a defensive lineman then they can help the pass coverage. There is a ton of options here in a deep class and part of me wants to put Billings here because he is an absolute monster but also not a three down player. I think they elect for versatility here and look elsewhere.

                                                               i.      DT Sheldon Rankins

13.   Miami Dolphins

a.       In my mind, Miami tried to trade up with the Giants but couldn’t seal the deal for Elliot. This means Ajayi is the workhorse for the time being. It’ll turn into a make or break year for him. He’ll have to prove that he can handle the load or else his role won’t last long. Miami could also target RB’s early after the first round. In the meantime what are they going to do with this pick?? Popular word says CB but their defense can and will hold their own this year. Do we still know if Tannehill is their guy? Not really and we won’t know until the Dolphins patch up the sieve in front of him. They have some decent guys up front but that’s not going to cut it and they would be wise to take a tackle early here.

                                                               i.      OT Taylor Decker

14.   Oakland Raiders

a.       Let the red flags fly. Oakland is going to take a gamble here and look to add to a defense that is shaping up to be an elite one. They could take an offensive lineman or a CB and I wouldn’t argue if they did but if they want the defense to really take that step forward then take a gamble. Again I like Billings here but we’re still a little early for a nose tackle unless a team is 3-4 and NT is a high need. So we go with the curious case of the Ole Miss product who at one point was seen as the number 1 overall pick.

                                                               i.      DL Robert Nkemdiche

15.   Tennessee Titans

a.       Bravo to the Titans for robbing the Rams for picks. Great move for a team that wants to accelerate the rebuilding process. Tennessee would’ve gotten an A grade for selecting Tunsil number 1 overall but they get an A+ for trading down and getting another tackle they desire. Also a target of Detroit who traded up to get Tunsil the Titans were safe here. Tennessee could use an upgrade at right tackle and this fits perfectly being Conklin is a better prospect on the right side. Not much more to say here. Mariota will be happy.

                                                               i.      OT Jack Conklin

16.   Jacksonville Jaguars *Trade*

a.       Another bravo to Jacksonville who will finally end a huge draft slide. Before knee concerns the Jags’ could’ve very easily made this pick at their original position but instead they acquire more picks and get they player they wanted. Is it me or is this draft all too good to be true for a lot of teams? You might say this is too far for Jack to fall but I don’t think it’s unrealistic. Jaylon Smith is going to fall out of the first round because he will be taking a redshirt year and now with Jack people are worried he might not make it to a second NFL contract. So no I don’t think this is a unrealistic fall. But enough arguing, just envision this: Fowler Jr., Malik Jackson, Amukamara, Gibson, and now Myles Jack. Time to start taking the Jaguars seriously.

                                                               i.      Myles Jack

17.   Atlanta Falcons

a.       Darron Lee or Leonard Floyd??? Either are great picks here. Beasley could use a partner in crime to keep defenses guessing. Floyd is a bit of a wildcard who I think has Anthony Barr potential (I’ll link highlights for him when he goes on the board (spoiler alert, it’s not right now)) but I think Atlanta will be looking for more of a 3 down stereotypical linebacker and Lee just fits that mold. Heck I’ll link one of his highlight films too, this guy is just plain fast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWw7-WZRrr4 am I wrong??

                                                               i.      LB Darron Lee

18.   Indianapolis Colts

a.       We got options here. OL is one specifically on the interior such as Whitehair, Martin, or Kelly. And they could very easily go that route and nobody would criticize them (well maybe some people). The Colts do need some pass rush especially considering their defensive front isn’t getting any younger. Or they could take a CB here, again an aging group. Let’s narrow it down between Floyd and Alexander. Alexander is a big CB who has the length teams look for and although his interception numbers won’t blow anyone away he allowed an impressively low number of catches during his tenure at Clemson. Sorry but those promised Floyd highlights are going to have to wait. Pass rusher are easier to come by than quality CB’s in this draft class. Expect the Colts to go OL in the second round.

                                                               i.      CB Mackenzie Alexander

19.   Buffalo Bills

a.       Paxton Lynch could very easily be selected here is the draft unfolds like this. I believe though that the Bills will elect to pass on him here and give Tyrod Taylor some competition with a round 2-3 QB such as Hackenberg or Cook. I just don’t see Lynch falling past the QB needy Jets so it’s just a pipe dream to think he’d fall to Buffalo in round 2. Buffalo could use some DL depth and they could also use a LB so hey best of both worlds (you get the highlights now). Floyd can play with his hand in the dirt when needed and also can play as a OLB. Now just sit back and enjoy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZlXZ_P2xq8 I think the Bills got a steal.

                                                               i.      EDGE Leonard Floyd

20.   New York Jets

a.       Well I kind of gave away this pick in the previous paragraph. But here let me explain. Fitzpatrick is asking way too much to be a stopgap QB and the Jets will most definitely not bring him back and waste their money if this scenario plays out. Geno Smith’s days as the starter are as good as gone in NY but he can be a decent backup for Paxton who will be the closest thing the Jets have seen to a franchise QB since Sanchize and that’s a big stretch. Paxton Lynch is this year’s Blake Bortles to me and may struggle to begin his NFL career but will only get better over time unlike some other QB’s they’ve had under center lately. Fans will have to be patient but in a few years they will love this selection, heck they’ll love it on draft night as well, they’re Jets fans.

                                                               i.      QB Paxton Lynch

21.   Washington

a.       Again we have options. Washington could use some beef on the DL, aka Billings, they could use a big receiver to help Cousins out, or they could use some interior OL help such as Kelly at center. It’s been a long while since we’ve seen a WR come off the board after the ‘Niners reached for one earlier but I think we’ll have to wait a little while, and when I say a little while I mean like the next pick or two, or both, haven’t decided yet. Washington can get a WR later in the draft who can be a rookie contributor, especially after only one has gone so far. They can also get some beef later on with a historically deep pool of defensive tackles. So I think they elect to help out their offense by adding a new starter at a very underappreciated position.

                                                               i.      C Ryan Kelly

22.   Houston Texans

a.       Houston is more than likely going to WR here if they have the options they do. Of the ones that could go round 1 we have Treadwell, Doctson, Thomas, and Fuller. Thomas’s and Docton’s game are both similar to that of Hopkins so I am going to rule them out. Fuller is a burner who could compliment Hopkins nicely and Treadwell would really help Osweiler out with his sticky hands. I’m not sure that a burner is the best option for Osweiler who made his money in Denver by throwing to receivers who he could rely on to be where they are supposed to be, when they are supposed to be and who catch anything thrown in their direction. Treadwell fell this far because of speed concerns but he can run solid routes and has incredible hands; Anquan Boldin proved these receivers can be very valuable to QB’s. He can be the WR Osweiler needs to succeed here.  

                                                               i.      WR Laquon Treadwell

23.   Minnesota Vikings

a.       Well my dream prospect was one pick short and I probably am crying into my beer if I’m watching this draft unfold on Thursday night. Those tears then quickly turn to nervous jitters that the Vikes are going to trade down (don’t you dare Rick) but I don’t think they pass up the chance to take a WR who they have been rumored to love giving Teddy a much needed number 1 target. My weird jittery tears now turn to tears of joy. I shouldn’t need to explain this pick; the Vikings have one of the weakest depth charts at the WR position in the league. Here’s the highlight film I will be watching soon after this pick is announced. I am also probably drooling over his insane catch radius, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5J-_-xSx9x0 .

                                                               i.      WR Josh Doctson

24.   Kansas City Chiefs *Trade*

a.       A recent run on WR’s has the Chiefs worried, especially with the Bengals looking to fill that position. The Bengals can go other directions and draft a receiver in round 2 without a need for a number 1 receiver with Green on the roster. KC on the other hand could use an impact WR to give the offense the boost they need. Originally I liked them going OL here but with the signing of Schwartz it’s no longer a big need. No it’s time to help out the infamous game manager in a different way, WR. Michael Thomas is one of the most complete receivers in this draft and honestly I think he’s worth the trade up here. If not for the trade up it’s near certain the Bengals take a long hard look at Thomas. Thomas can run clean routes, can pluck the ball out of the air, and is elusive with the ball in his hands. He isn’t elite in any of those categories but he can do it all. If you don’t believe me, watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlgFzwfn-0k .

                                                               i.      WR Michael Thomas

25.   Pittsburgh Steelers

a.       The Steelers are going to be using their whole 10 minutes for this one. They desperately need secondary help and somehow have the options of CB’s Apple and Jackson and any safety on the board. Going off of the Steelers history of hard-nosed defenders expect Pittsburgh to select the first safety off the board. This is a bit of a medical risk but we’ve seen players come back from knee injuries in the past and be just as strong as ever (AP and Gurley); with medical technology this pick is worth the risk. Karl Joseph fits the bill as a hard hitting safety who can hold his own in coverage. This is the successor to Polamalu.

                                                               i.      S Karl Joseph

26.   Seattle Seahawks

a.       The Seahawks are kind of a wildcard here and I’m not sure there’s anyone who really knows that they’re going to do. I would expect them to add to their line on either side of the ball. They lost key pieces on both but let’s be honest the OL needs more help than the DL. But, there is an incredible talent still on the board and if Seattle doesn’t take him here then Green Bay most definitely will. I have talked about him a few times already throughout this draft and couldn’t find the right match until now. Billings is an space eater if I’ve ever seen one and will demand double teams. He will open things up for the guys around him and be just plain disruptive. Looking back at last year Danny Shelton was seen as the best NT in the draft. He was drafted high in the first and somehow Billings made it this far down. I believe Billings is a better prospect coming out of college than Shelton was so in my mind this is a steal. I got to post some highlights because he is impressive front and center of the defense https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afNZkUuJqhA

                                                               i.      DL Andrew Billings

27.   Green Bay Packers

a.       Prepare for a short explanation. GB would have loved for Billings to fall to them and I’m glad that they didn’t get their way. Unfortunately though for us who despise the Packers they still have a player high on their board available here. They need help at LB and have needed it for a while. Here’s their guy and let’s be honest, he’s a little scary. They could use an intimidation factor on defense to balance out Clay’s girly presence. Consider it done.

                                                               i.      LB Reggie Ragland

28.   Cincinnati Bengals *Trade*

a.       The Bengals want to trade up in front of the Vikings to nab Doctson but I think once they realize what the price will be to take a number 2 receiver they will elect to stay put and then trade down with KC. Their main target was gone so why not trade down with multiple solid WR’s still on the board?  For a team looking for a number 2 receiver this is their best move. They would have to hop in front of Houston too (another team that covets a WR) thus driving up the price even more. If I’m the Bengals I would think long and hard about taking a CB here especially with the ones still available, but they seem pretty set on that partner for AJ Green. Yeah they could use it and yeah there isn’t much depth at WR so I’m going to agree with them and take a WR here. With Green being more of a deep ball guy than a jack of all trades, go across the middle, take screens, line up all over the place type of guy. That’s no knock on Green because he os one of the best at what he does but they need a swiss army knife here. Miller flew up draft boards after the combine but has since cooled off. I don’t see him as a first round product (watch his hands on each catch in the highlight film to come) and I worry about drops and the transition to the NFL but he’s a fit for Cincinnati and I don’t believe he will be around when they pick in the second round so here he comes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOXd9tWYuiI

                                                               i.      WR Braxton Miller

29.   Arizona Cardinals

a.       Instantly here I start debating between DB and DE. Both would greatly help out the defense and maybe they even debate Jaylon Smith, the best player that everyone is forgetting about. I believe that teams are scared off and he will have to wait until day 2 to hear his name called. So we’re back to the original debate. Shaq Lawson and Kevin Dodd are both still on the board as are Eli Apple and William Jackson III. I believe the Cardinals come into the first round leaning towards CB because it’s more realistic than arguably a top 15 pick sliding down to them but hey anything is possible. It’s far too tempting to pass up Lawson and Arizona should pull the trigger. He will help out their pass defense by rattling opposing QB’s and their defensive front isn’t getting any younger so they need more help there than CB. Wait! Or they could take an offensive lineman to help protect their aging QB… no, now I’m overthinking things.

                                                               i.      DL Shaq Lawson

30.   Carolina Panthers

a.       The Panthers could very easily take an offensive lineman here and it would be a highly graded selection but two CB’s that are very worthy of this selection are still on the board. Norman got greedy and bolted so there’s a big hole left at CB. The Panthers shouldn’t take long with this pick and take the best player available who is also a position of need. They can most definitely take an offensive lineman in the next couple rounds to protect their franchise QB who we all watched in the Super Bowl run around like a chicken with his head cut off. It’s hard to pass up Norman’s replacement here though.

                                                               i.      CB Eli Apple

31.   Denver Broncos

a.       I hate making this selection. It’s either a reach at QB or taking a player at a position that isn’t really a huge need. Denver could trade down here and would probably be wise to do so but I think they will struggle to do so with no player really making it worth any team’s while to make it happen. Denver will more than likely be stuck here and could go by the best player available philosophy but come on now we all know Mark “the butt fumble” Sanchez will not actually be the starting QB for the defending Super Bowl champions. This pick is going to be seen as a reach but it’s worth the reach here for Denver.

                                                               i.      QB Connor Cook

Well there you have it, nearly 10 hours-worth of work for my couple of readers to enjoy! I love doing these mocks and do them strictly as a hobby (I need a life) and I know I will be wrong on many picks but hey look at other mocks, nobody gets them all that close. You don’t read this to spoil what will happen in the draft, you read it for entertainment and to wonder/visualize what could possibly happen. I recently read a tweet from a writer who said he quit doing mocks because they’re impossible to predict and not worth the time. I instantly thought he was crazy! I write and you read for enjoyment, that’s what this process is all about, the wonder, the suspense, and the mystery. I hope you enjoyed this as much as I enjoyed putting it together. I would like to thank Harris Highlights on YouTube for agreeing to let me use his highlights in my mocks, if you watched the videos I posted links to you can see the quality in his work and I’m happy to have permission to use them. I would also like to give a shout out to Bat Flip Sports; you can find them on Facebook and Twitter specializing in unique semi-biased writing made for your entertainment. And last but certainly not least, a big thanks to my draft partner Chris; he’s always scrolling and refreshing his twitter feed like a madman and updating me with breaking news even before sports apps on my phone come out with an article. Alright though enough rambling, I have a big thick ribeye to marinade for the draft tomorrow night! Enjoy the draft and be sure to boo at your TV as soon as Goodell steps on to the stage for the first time J Check back with me after the draft for a grading of the Vikings complete draft and a redrafting of the 2015 draft. Thank you for reading.

Oh wait I forgot the Patriots…   Ha! Just kidding

-Blayne Waselk

[respect-the-wind]

Why Tom Thibodeau will be the next coach/prez of the Minnesota Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves are making franchise history this offseason. And for once, it’s for the right reasons.

This is the first time that the head coaching position is drawing heavy interest from the elite coaching circles of the NBA.

Equipped with a roster full of major talent under the age of 23, owner Glen Taylor quickly dismissed interim coach Sam Mitchell in search of the big fish coach the team has never been in a position to even dream of. Ex Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau has emerged as a top target of the team, along with Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson. While no official word on which way Taylor is leaning, I believe the answer is pretty clear.

Glen Taylor has been a notoriously questionable owner. Most notably of the list of mistakes was the David Kahn/Kurt Rambis era. Skipping through the painful memories, local sports writers tend to gloss over a pretty serious fact about Taylor’s ownership: He recognized his mistake and atoned for it by re-hiring Flip Saunders to both coach and control the personnel decisions.

Many people will let fandom blind their judgement, but it’s clear Taylor deeply cares about the Timberwolves franchise. While realizing he is approaching old age rapidly, he has set out for a new majority owner, while demanding that the franchise be kept in Minnesota. Taylor, no longer accepting mediocrity, rehired longtime friend Saunders in hopes he could turn the franchise around. By doing this, it seems to me that Taylor recognizes he doesn’t have an adequate judgement/skill to operate an NBA team, maybe even doesn’t wish to. But he wanted the franchise to succeed after years of failure, and Flip began the journey of re-tooling the franchise with major building blocks. He orchestrated a trade (steal) by acquiring Andrew Wiggins for disgruntled star Kevin Love. He drafted fast improving Zach Lavine, and future superstar Karl Anthony-Towns. He even brought back franchise legend/mentor Kevin Garnett to keep the kids in order. Things were looking bright for a historically dark franchise.

And then Flip tragically died of complications from Lymphoma treatments.

You could see the deep sadness and shock in Glen Taylor’s face when he announced Sam Mitchell would lead the Wolves as Flip “recovered.” As the future would unfold, it was clear that already then, Taylor knew Flip wasn’t going to make it. Not only would Taylor be losing a close, longtime friend, he would be losing the leader of his franchise. Back to square one, a team with no vision and no leader.

Glen Taylor has obviously grown tired of this game, and this is where Tom Thibodeau enters. A successful coach who wishes to have full control of his roster. A coach with a clear vision of where he wants the franchise to go. No more clashing coaches and GM’s (something that eventually lead to Thibodeau’s Chicago demise). While Jeff Van Gundy is a superb option, he doesn’t share the desire to control the team operations. To summarize:

Taylor is looking for the new Flip Saunders. To complete his vision and see his extensive work that he poured his heart and soul into translate into success, though it will be from heaven.

And while no one will ever fill the shoes he left behind, the only candidate that comes close is Tom Thibodeau. Taylor is ready to go all in on the Timberwolves to bring an NBA title to Minnesota.

And God surely knows by now, there is no one more deserving to see it than Flip, who can watch from the best seat in the house.

[respect-the-wind]

Vikings Draft Simulation

Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft I used http://fanspeak.com/ontheclock/ to create a 7 round draft simulation for the Vikings. If you haven’t tried it I would definitely recommend it; it’s quite entertaining to pretend to be Rick Spielman. On the website you are given an option who’s big board you want to use and I chose Matt Miller of Bleacher Report’s. I am a big fan of his and very much respect his work, and although it’s not his latest big board on the site it’ll do. I tried to keep in mind the tendencies of Rick and Zimmer on draft day and went that route of the draft with throwing my own twist (opinion) as well. Hope you enjoy.

Round 1- Before I start I will say that I hesitated to pass on Jaylon Smith who was available in this simulation. Just think Barr, Kendricks, Smith…wow. But…everyone and their brother wants a WR here and that includes me; there may just be a riot if that’s not the selection. I feel it makes the most sense with the existing roster. Diggs was a pleasant surprise but he is not a featured number 1 receiver that teams are going to fear. He’s going to be an impact player in this league but he needs someone alongside him to take the focus off.  When he became more productive than Mike Wallace towards the end of last season teams began to focus on him rather than Wallace and his production dipped. In no way am I bashing Diggs, I think he’s a stud, but I am saying he needs a partner in crime. To fill that position I had the option of Michael Thomas or Josh Doctson. In my mind Thomas is the most compete receiver in the draft, but Doctson’s specialty is the jump-ball. Diggs is a versatile receiver who can fill the void Percy Harvin left when he was traded and Wright is a solid slot receiver. Charles Johnson is a question mark and Patterson is a kick returner… So that leaves a need for a guy who can go pluck anything Teddy throws out of the air. So I went with TCU’s stud, especially being the Vikings were well represented at his pro day. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5J-_-xSx9x0  Any more Questions?? WR Josh Doctson

Round 2- It’s obvious that Harrison Smith needs a running mate. He’s the president of the secondary and needs his Joe Biden. The rest of the secondary is held down pretty solidly with Rhodes, Waynes, Munnerlyn, and Newman. But there is definitely a weakness next to Smith. I personally like the signing of Griffin (would’ve preferred Iloka) and think he could compliment Smith in a limited role. Sendejo is garbage, let me just throw that out there. Even if Griffin wins the starting position we need to invest in the future of the position (Griffin is 31 on a 1 year deal). Before I announce my selection I will state that Jason Spriggs was available and extremely tempting but given the depth of the OL and Minnesota’s recent signings of Boone and Andre Smith make it easier to make this a safety pick. I went with Miles Killebrew because he is a beast and fits the mold of a hard-nosed Zimmer defender. Just watch his highlightson YouTube and I won’t have to explain anymore (would post a link but I stick to Harris Highlights and I couldn’t find one on Killebrew).  Karl Joseph would also fit the mold but he wasn’t available. S Miles Killebrew

Round 3- Well, well, well Spriggs was somehow still available. I was fully anticipating trying to snag Joe Haeg from North Dakota State with this pick but with Spriggs available he should be the selection. For how much I like Haeg (watched him a lot being I went to NDSU) I feel Spriggs will be able to make the jump easier and quicker and ultimately will be a player who could be a play and plug starter baring injuries (see TJ Clemming). Although Clemmings struggled being he was pushed into a position before he was ready I feel Spriggs could see the benefit of developing while a battle between Andre Smith, Clemmings, and Phil Loadhold ensues. I see Spriggs as being Matt Kalil’s backup for the season and even possible replacement if Kalil doesn’t get his head out of his rear end. The weakest link of the offense (or the team) has now become a highly competitive group. OT Jason Spriggs

Round 4- This is the round where Zimmer does his Zimmer thing (may happen next round as well, hint, hint). This is one of those picks where Zimmer has an athlete and wants to turn him into a football player (see Danielle Hunter). My top options here were Shawn Oakman, Vadal Alexander, Scooby Wright, and De’Vondre Campbell. With other solid guard options available I went defense. Scooby Wright went from a day one prospect to begin the college season to a late round pick and could be available later on. Oakman is not a football player but he is a tank. Campbell is not built quite like Oakman but is more of a football player. I decided to go with Campbell because he can be a nice 4th round tweener for the Vikes and could rotate in for certain situations along with Greenway and newly acquired Lamur. Another seller, he’s local. LB De’Vondre Campbell

Round 5- Well look who’s still available, although not as much of a surprise as I make it seem, Shawn Oakman. Like I stated earlier, Oakman is not a football player, he’s an athletic freak. He looks like a brick fortress and could be molded under Zimmer. In round 5 it’s late enough where I don’t quite mind the pick but any earlier and it’d be a reach. There’s a chance Oakman can learn a thing or two from Zim and become an impact player for the wardens of the North.  You can see potential in this animal. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73Ry-ZsWcSU DL Shawn Oakman

Round 6- Chalk up another pick to the wardens of the North. Zimmer loves his cornerback but with a lack of talent left on the board I expect them to take a chance on a player previously mentioned who is still on the board after a huge slide since the start of the season. Scooby Wright adds solid depth to a group that is now stacked. Here’s the names: Barr, Kendricks, Greenway, Lamur, Cole, Lewis, Robinson, Campbell,  and Wright. Let the competition begin and let the best men win. Wright is more of a 2 down LB but he’s worth a selection here to add to a group that will terrorize QB’s and RB’s for years to come. Worse-case scenario we found our next Mike Mauti aka special teams beast.   LB Scooby Wright

Round 7- Just like we did to the LB’s we are going to add even more depth/competition to the OL. Like I stated earlier, this was the weak link last year, really week. Last year we took 3 linemen last season and weren’t afraid to weed out the weak (see David Yankey and Tyrus Thompson). The OL is really going to have to compete and taking a massive guard here adds some beef to the inside. At 340 pounds Mike Harris will have some competition in the dining room. OL Denver Kirkland

Round 7- I was tempted to take another local in Briean Boddy-Calhoun to develop as a slot corner behind Munnerlyn but let’s be real here there is a much bigger hole on the roster and this is the best time to fill it; punter. I think we can all agree that Locke is scraping the bottom of the league at his position. To put it lightly he’s trash. I had high hopes when we decided to reach for him, I mean he’s a left footed punter, Kluwe was on the roster, and we were confident enough to take him higher than round 7. Here’s much needed competition or just a guy to show Locke the door. Heck the guy even has highlights on YouTube (not tradition punting but talent is definitely there).  Selecting him here avoids fighting over him as an UFA. P Tom Hackett  

All video credit goes to https://www.facebook.com/HarrisHighlights/ , check out his work!

[respect-the-wind]

Mock 3.0 Post FA

Mock Draft 3.0 Big Boards > Brackets One Week into Free Agency Let me start off by saying thank you for your interest in my mock, this is something I have enjoyed doing for quite some time now and just as of now have decided to share them with the internet. With that being said, I am doing this for my enjoyment and it is just one man’s opinion. I am not an expert (although sometimes I like to think I am) and what I might project could be 100% wrong (or 100% right (probably not)). So hopefully you enjoy this as much as I enjoy making them. Mock 3 Note: Again with this mock I will not be projecting trades. It’s just far too early still and every projected trade would be nothing but a wild guess. I will though project trades for my final mock that I will post the week of the draft (probably the day before). This mock is meant to throw together combine and pro day performances (so far) as well as highlighting some free agency acquisitions. Enjoy!

1. Tennessee Titans a. At this point I still haven’t seen anything that leads me to believe that the Titans will draft anyone other than Tunsil. I also believe there are no suiters to sell the farm to acquire this pick.  Sure Tennessee could elect to go with an impact player on the defense such as Jack or Ramsey but I think they elect to pay first overall selection salary for protection of their franchise quarterback. i. OT Laremy Tunsil ii. (Previous Pick) OT Laremy Tunsil iii. (Original Pick) OT Laremy Tunsil 2. Cleveland Browns a. Alright Carson I am convinced. After watching Gruden’s quarterback camp and hearing what he had to say was the selling point for me and it should be enough for the Browns as well. I hate to put you in this situation after what Cleveland managed to do in free agency but you are the best building block they could ask for. It’s not worth Cleveland’s pick to invest anywhere else; they need to start at QB. Time to add another name to the infamous QB jersey. i. QB Carson Wentz ii. (Previous Pick) QB Jared Goff iii. (Original Pick) QB Jared Goff 3. San Diego Chargers a. I’m going back with my original pick. San Diego did a decent job of replacing the departing Weddle. Ramsey is an incredible talent but the secondary needs less help than the defensive line. Non-Chargers fans name some of their defensive linemen, ready go! Yeah me either. They need help and Bosa is gaining a little momentum back from his previous combine slide. i. DL Joey Bosa ii. (Previous Pick) CB/S Jalen Ramsey iii. (Original Pick)  DL Joey Bosa 4. Dallas Cowboys a. After free agency, running back remains the biggest need for the Cowboys. At 4 a running back is a reach so Dallas could look to trade down. Like I said earlier I am not projecting any trades at this point so the Cowboys stay put and they make a great selection adding the best defensive back in the class. Even with Jack still on the board they won’t pass up the secondary talent they’ve been looking for since drafting Claiborne. i. CB/S Jalen Ramsey ii. (Previous Pick) LB Myles Jack iii. (Original Pick) CB/S Jalen Ramsey 5. Jacksonville Jaguars a. Smith is still available and is still a great selection at this point but after Jacksonville’s free agent spending spree they will look to make a playoff push this coming year. Smith won’t help with that this coming year while recovering from a nasty knee injury. The Jaguars could elect to select some much needed help at CB with Hargreaves but just imagine Jack flying around behind a defensive line featuring Fowler and Jackson. i. Myles Jack ii. (Previous Pick) LB Jaylon Smith iii. (Original Pick) LB Jaylon Smith 6. Baltimore Ravens a. Baltimore could still elect to grab some much needed OL help here especially being Flacco could use more time in the pocket. As we recently figured out, Wallace needs a “good” quarterback so helping Flacco by giving him some more time would get the most out of their one trick pony WR. Instead though I think they take a player who can line up across from Jimmy Smith to help the secondary which also recently added Weddle. There is more depth in the draft at the OL position than there is in the secondary so the Ravens can wait until round two to grab a lineman who can be thrown in the trenches day one.  Things won’t be as easy for the likes of Antonio Brown and AJ Green after this offseason. i. OT Vernon Hargreaves ii. (Previous Pick) OT Ronnie Stanley iii. (Original Pick) CB Vernon Hargreaves 7. San Francisco 49ers a. Well there’s a lot of options here for the ‘Niners. With so many positions of need and so many players worthy of a top 10 selection available on the board there is an opportunity to trade down here. San Fran is going to be undergoing a rebuild and trading down for more picks could be a wise way to start. For the sake of this mock they stay put. No mock can go without mentioning Oregon connections with Kelly so maybe Buckner to pair with Armstead? Maybe? Nah…Like I said a rebuild is going to happen and they need offense, specifically quarterback. Kelly has never had a franchise QB while in the NFL so he finds one here.   i. QB Jared Goff ii. (Previous Pick) WR Michael Thomas iii. (Original Pick) LB Myles Jack 8. Philadelphia Eagles a. The Eagles moved on up the draft order while dumping Kelly’s old acquisitions. Moving up gives Philly a chance to draft a steal of an OLineman at 8. The depth of the OL has now shot up after free agency and this mock hopefully giving Bradford some protection in the pocket thus benefitting the whole offense. i. OL Ronnie Stanley ii. (Previous Pick) OL Jason Spriggs iii. (Original Pick) QB Carson Wentz 9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers a. With the addition of Grimes in free agency the Bucs don’t need to take a CB here. They very well could and it’d be a solid pick but instead I believe they elect to help they secondary in a different way, rushing the passer. The two best EDGE players are available here in Spence and Floyd. I think they go boom or bust here. i. EDGE Noah Spence ii. (Previous Pick) CB Vernon Hargreaves iii. (Original Pick) CB Mackenzie Alexander 10. New York Giants a. Ragland, Smith, Lee. Ragland, Smith, Lee. Eenie meanie miny moe. All depends what the Giants are looking for in a linebacker. I’m not their GM and I’m not part of their coaching staff so I don’t know what that is. New York should be patient with this pick and select the best player available, even if they have to wait to see him on the field.   i. LB Jaylon Smith ii. (Previous Pick) LB Reggie Ragland iii. (Original Pick) DL DeForest Buckner 11. Chicago Bears a. Sorry not sorry Chicago, your dream come true is off the board. Lucky for you there are still solid options on the board. The Bears could go many ways here, especially defensively. I believe they, just like the Giants, take the best player available. Pair this beast of a human next to Goldman and you might have something special. i. DL DeForest Buckner ii. (Previous Pick) QB Carson Wentz iii. (Original Pick) OT Ronnie Stanley 12. New Orleans Saints a. The Saints were drooling as Buckner was slowly sliding down to them. They could elect to again add to their defensive front but they were awful last year against the pass. Sure a pass rusher would help but a CB to add to last years mid round pick Williams (coming off injured reserve) would be even better.   i. CB Mackenzie Alexander ii. (Previous Pick) EDGE Noah Spence iii. (Original Pick) DE Shaq Lawson 13. Miami Dolphins a. Miami’s hopes of landing Bosa were nothing more than a dream. Especially after moving down the draft order. Miami could still use another CB even after adding Maxwell. This team has the makings of a team built around its defense.  We could go running back here and it wouldn’t be a reach but Ajayi is capable of being a workhorse, or is at least worth giving him a shot to be one. For this reason I think the Dolphins elect to go CB. i. CB Eli Apple ii. (Previous Pick) DL Joey Bosa iii. (Original Pick) LB Reggie Ragland 14. Oakland Raiders a. The Raiders are a free agency winner in my mind. The advantage to that is now having flexibility on draft night. With less holes Oakland has more of a luxury to draft best available rather than reach for a need.  OT is still a need but with good depth still on the board Oakland could gamble and try to snag one in round two. The offense could use a workhorse behind Carr and they now have an opportunity to find a real difference maker to take some pressure off their franchise QB. i. RB Ezekiel Elliot ii. (Previous Pick) CB Mackenzie Alexander iii. (Original Pick) OT Taylor Decker 15. Los Angeles Rams a. I still think Lynch is the selection here. The Rams desperately need a QB and this seems like the best place to get one. Lynch may be a reach at 15 but with the move to LA there needs to be a franchise QB in place for years to come. May take a couple years to develop much like Bortles but it’s worth the pick to build around. i. QB Paxton Lynch ii. (Previous Pick) QB Paxton Lynch iii. (Original Pick) QB Paxton Lynch 16. Detroit Lions a. The addition of Jones makes the hurt of losing Johnson a little less. It also makes it easier to pass on a WR at this point. The idea of adding a bookend at LT and moving Reiff to a more natural position will greatly benefit the Lions and Stafford. i. OT Taylor Decker ii. (Previous Pick) OT Taylor Decker iii. (Original Pick) WR Michael Thomas 17. Atlanta Falcons a. Well, both of Atlanta’s previous selections are still on the board. I really like the versatility of both but I believe Floyd will be a better selection at 17. He can play at LB or put his hand in the dirt and play DE. I just realty like the idea of pairing Floyd with Beasley. i. EDGE Leonard Floyd ii. (Previous Pick) EDGE Leonard Floyd iii. (Original Pick) LB/S Su’a Cravens 18. Indianapolis Colts a. I’m sorry Indianapolis, your main man is no longer available. Henry is not the answer either especially after the Colts have been scarred by Richardson. At this point OL would be a wise investment but I think they pull the trigger on a sideline to sideline LB who can also put some pressure on opposing QB’s. i. LB Darron Lee ii. (Previous Pick) RB Ezekiel Elliot iii. (Original Pick) RB Ezekiel Elliot 19. Buffalo Bills a. Right now I am leaning between Lawson and Nkemdiche. Both would be solid selections. Heck you could throw Dodd in the conversation as well, him being my original selection. I’m feeling better about Lawson right now after watching more tape. I do worry about him bending the edge (Dodd does it better in my opinion) but Lawson is just a big bad man who is hard to block combining massive size and speed. i. DE Shaq Lawson ii. (Previous Pick) DL DeForest Buckner iii. (Original Pick) DE Kevin Dodd 20. New York Jets a. And now both the Jets’ previous selections are off the board. I still believe NY elects to go with LB especially with a very solid one on the board. Like most teams the OL could also use an upgrade but they really need to take advantage of the DL they have a put a playmaking LB behind them. i. LB Reggie Ragland ii. (Previous Pick) LB Darron Lee iii. (Original Pick) EDGE Leonard Floyd 21. Washington Redskins a. WR’s are sliding and the slide stops now. I am once again changing the pick though. I believe Thomas is the most well rounded WR in the draft. He’s not the most talented or athletic but he’s far from a one trick pony like others in this draft. I have had him going high and that will continue as Washington takes the first WR off the board. i. WR Michael Thomas ii. (Previous Pick) WR Corey Coleman iii. (Original Pick) WR Laquon Treadwell 22. Houston Texans a. After adding Miller in free agency, Henry becomes a reach. The OL becomes the biggest priority for me. It’d benefit the whole offense to do so, especially their new franchise QB under center. I think they go versatility here and grab one of my favorite linemen in the draft. i. OL Jason Spriggs ii. (Previous Pick) RB Derrick Henry iii. (Original Pick) DL Robert Nkemdiche 23. Minnesota Vikings a. With the addition of Boone the Vikings don’t feel immediate pressure to draft OL here. If they do go that route though I believe it’ll be a tackle (unless they sign Smith, then maybe guard, regardless it makes things a little more interesting guessing which line position). Every Minnesota fan and their brother wants to see a number 1 WR taken. Patterson was a bust, Wallace didn’t work out, Diggs was a pleasant surprise but is better suited at the slot. Both jump ball receivers are still on the board so flip a coin, Doctson or Treadwell. My preference is the Ole Miss product.   i. WR Laquan Treadwell ii. (Previous Pick) OL Cody Whitehair iii. (Original Pick) WR Josh Doctson 24. Cincinnati Bengals a. Both previous options are off the board for the Bengals but luckily for them there is still plenty of talent at WR. Cincinnati took a hit in free agency at the position and they will look to reload here. Green provides the jump ball receiver Dalton needs, all he needs now is a burner. I’m between Fuller, Coleman, and Miller. Maybe it’s late at night and my brain isn’t functioning on all cylinders but I’m going with Miller! i. WR Braxton Miller ii. (Previous Pick) CB Eli Apple iii. (Original Pick) LB Darron Lee 25. Pittsburgh Steelers a. The Steelers still need a safety or CB. At this point either position will be a reach in my mind. I still love Killebrew as a fit for Pittsburg. He’s the type of hard-nosed, smash mouth player the organization loves. Pull the trigger. i. S Miles Killebrew ii. (Previous Pick) S Miles Killebrew iii. (Original Pick) CB Eli Apple 26. Seattle Seahawks a. Although Robinson is still a great pick here especially after losing Mebane, the Seahawks need to stop making Wilson run for his life. Sure he can do it just fine but there’s no reason to put more ware on the tires of your franchise QB. Seattle will go with versatility adding a player that can play any position in the trenches. i. OL Cody Whitehair ii. (Previous Pick) DL A’Shawn Robinson iii. (Original Pick) DL A’Shawn Robinson 27. Green Bay Packers a. For how much the Cheeseheads could use Henry their hand has been forced by Raji. The DL took a major hit and this monster is a steal at this point. Not sure how he managed to not make my last two drafts (I was slacking in the film room). i. DT Andrew Billings ii. (Previous Pick) TE Hunter Henry iii. (Original Pick) TE Hunter Henry 28. Kansas City Chiefs a. The Chiefs will now probably shy away from Conklin after the signing of Schwartz. I believe they will give Fisher one more try to prove himself before bringing in someone else to challenge him. WR is still a need and a legitimate jump ball receiver who has been flying up big boards but has slid down my mock is available. No reason for the KC to pass on this pick. i. WR Josh Doctson ii. (Previous Pick) WR Laquon Treadwell iii. (Original Pick) OT Jack Conklin 29. Arizona Cardinals a. I’m going to stick with this pick even with the acquisition of Jones. Pair them together and you will have something special. Jones will be a good mentor for the sometimes troubled Nkemdiche. Plus Arizona seems to have a knack for getting the most out their troubled players and turning their careers in the right direction, right Tyrann? i. DE Robert Nkemdiche ii. (Previous Pick) DE Robert Nkemdiche iii. (Original Pick) EDGE Noah Spence 30. Carolina Panthers a. The Panthers only real gaping hole is on the OL. Cam ran for his life in Super Bowl 50. If they want to win it anytime soon that needs to change. My pick will change though with a better prospect still on the board. Oher shall get some much needed competition. i. OT Jack Conklin ii. (Previous Pick) OT Jerald Hawkins iii. (Original Pick) OT Jerald Hawkins 31. Denver Broncos a. Denver really took a hit in free agency. Do they reach for a QB? There was talk of a dynasty after the Super Bowl but I think it may be more of a reload. Many key players left in free agency and many other key players are aging. It would be wise to trade down here to acquire more picks and avoid a reach for a QB but that’s not happening here. Denver proved defense can win championships even with average QB play. They can still take a QB in round 2. Here’s a great weapon for the defense.   i. LB/S Su’a Cravens ii. (Previous Pick) DE Shaq Lawson iii. (Original Pick) OG Cody Whitehair

[respect-the-wind]

Minnesota Vikings Offseason Hopes, Dreams, and Realities

With NFL free agency fast approaching, I thought I’d write down my thoughts on some things I would like to see the Minnesota Vikings do in free agency, and also what I believe will actually happen. So without further ado.

AWWWWW HERE IT GOES!

Move 1: Cut Matt Kalil and Mike Wallace

While Kalil improved last year after a disgraceful 2014 season, his cap number is significantly huge for an average NFL left tackle. The offense can no longer settle for mediocre line play. Cutting ties with Kalil will open up 11M in cap space and begins the remodel the O-line desperately needs.

Much of the same goes for Wallace, who has valuable speed as a wide receiver but doesn’t seem to fit into the Vikings offense. Minnesota needs a tall #1 with good hands who can win jump balls. QB Teddy Bridgewater’s deep ball accuracy is not great, and the Vikings have plenty of speed with draft gem Stefon Diggs and Jarius Wright. Add another 11M to the now huge cap space.

Likelihood of this happening: Moderate

Move 2: Sign Safety George Iloka

This move makes sense on so many levels, that you won’t believe how much this move makes sense on so many levels. Head Coach Mike Zimmer has stated that the team needs a good safety to compliment Pro Bowl safety Harrison Smith, allowing him to be used more across the field and in blitz packages. When asked if that safety is on the current roster, Zimmer said ‘I don’t know.”

That means “no.”

Ready to get hit with some major truths?

1.) Zimmer covets players that are “his guys” and play his style of football.

2.) GM Rick Spielman said in the past that the team likes to invest money in “players that they know”

3.) The Vikings have promising safety prospects on their current roster, so it makes little sense for them to draft any more of them to groom into the role. Minnesota’s window to contend opened last year, so their time is now.

4.) Iloka is 26 years old. He is no rent-a-player to fill a hole for one year. He can be an important piece for years to come.

TURNS OUT:

Zimmer drafted George Iloka as Defensive Coordinator in Cincinnati, grooming the 5th round pick into the coveted starter he is today

Meaning Zimmer knows just what Iloka is: one that plays his style of football.

Iloka has expressed his appreciation of Zimmer and that he would “love to play” for his once ex-coach.

Open up the checkbook Mr. Spielman, you have the chance to create the greatest safety tandem in the entire NFL, and maybe even, the best secondary.

Likelihood of this happening:  Likely- It makes so much sense it can’t possibly not happen.

Move 3: Sign Offensive Guard/Tackle Kelechi Osemele

Osemele has emerged as one of the best offensive lineman, if not the, in free agency. The versatile player has proven he can play both left guard and left tackle, and he will be rewarded handsomely for his services.

Luckily the Vikings have some spare change.

Osemele is the brand new anchor in the Vikings’ offensive line. Plug him in at LT and one of the biggest liabilities in the offense becomes a position of strength.

As much as I would love to see this happen, Minnesota has a history of not paying for premier free agents, and I could see them rather waiting for the draft to fix the o-line. Hope I’m wrong.

Likelihood of this happening: Low to Moderate

Move 4: Draft Wide Receiver Josh Doctson

Bye Mike Wallace, hello Josh Doctson. Moderate speed, but incredible agility, strength, and route running makes him the perfect addition to the Vikings offense that desperately needs a down field threat similar to that of recently imprisoned to Chicago Alshon Jeffrey.

It’s my belief Mike Wallace will not accept any pay cut to stay in MN, and his 11M salary is completely unacceptable for his value/production. This makes a #1 receiver a #1 priority.

Likelihood of this happening: Moderately High

One thing is certain, we won’t have to wait much longer to find out.

[respect-the-wind]

Post Combine Mock Draft

Mock Draft 2.0 Post Combine Let me start off by saying thank you for your interest in my mock, this is something I have enjoyed doing for quite some time now and just as of now have decided to share them with the internet. With that being said, I am doing this for my enjoyment and it is just one man’s opinion. I am not an expert (although sometimes I like to think I am) and what I might project could be 100% wrong (or 100% right (probably not)). So hopefully you enjoy this as much as I enjoy making them. Mock 2 Note: I won’t have as much analysis for each pick as I did for the post Super Bowl mock, reason being if you want the whole story you’re going to have to follow each of my mocks! Also might be some head scratchers here but like I said, one man’s opinions.

1. Tennessee Titans a. I’m sticking with my gut on this pick. All buzz leads to either Tunsil going number 1 overall or the Titans trading this pick. Like I said last mock I do not believe there is any player worth the goldmine it would take to trade up. Tennessee will keep this pick and invest in Mariota’s protection. i. OT Laremy Tunsil ii. (Previous Pick) OT Laremy Tunsil 2. Cleveland Browns a. This is a tricky selection with buzz that the Browns like Wentz at number 2. Maybe they mean round 2? But I don’t think so. He will be a first round selection and although the Browns could hope he falls to them at round 2 it’s unlikely. Again I will stick with my original pick based solely on the fact that this coaching staff will be pressured to win now I don’t think they gamble on a FCS player at 2. i. QB Jared Goff ii. (Previous Pick) QB Jared Goff 3. San Diego Chargers a. Combine buzz is making it sound like Bosa is going to slide and I’m going to follow suit. I can see a Leonard Williams like slide here. Originally seen as the number 1 overall pick is now going to be picked apart throughout the draft process and will slide. San Diego will instead add a versatile player to bolster their secondary with Weddle on his way out. i. CB/S Jalen Ramsey ii. (Previous Pick)  DL Joey Bosa 4. Dallas Cowboys a. Well there goes Ramsey off the board so now to plan B for the Cowboys. I think Dallas still goes defense in round 1 with the only immediate need on offense being RB and there’s no way a RB is coming off the board at 4. Linebacker is always an immediate impact pick so with an incredible talent still on the board not named Bosa the Cowboys pull the trigger. i. LB Myles Jack ii. (Previous Pick) CB/S Jalen Ramsey 5. Jacksonville Jaguars a. The Jaguars’ original player is still on the board and I don’t think I’m changing it. Smith is a fundamentally sound LB that would make an immediate impact on defense, when he is able to get on the field that is. Now if Fowler can give up officiating cat fights for the time being Jacksonville can have some serious highlight tape pieces on defense. i. LB Jaylon Smith ii. (Previous Pick) LB Jaylon Smith 6. Baltimore Ravens a. Baltimore’s original pick is still on the board as well but this pick isn’t quite as easy. Baltimore’s offense was atrocious last season (most teams would be with that kind of scramble at QB) and Flacco needs more protection to finally be considered elite. An offensive tackle would be an investment in their offense for years to come giving Flacco and Perriman some time to build chemistry. i. OT Ronnie Stanley ii. (Previous Pick) CB Vernon Hargreaves 7. San Francisco 49ers a. Myles Jack is off the board, sorry San Fran. This doesn’t mean the 49ers are in a tough position though, in fact they have plenty of options and could potentially elect to trade down. At this point it’s silly for me to project nay trades and with Kelly in his first year in the Bay area he needs to keep fans happy. We could go QB here but I still think Kelly rides it out with Kap (I don’t think he’ll be traded despite demands). So let’s help him out with an all-around playmaking receiver. i. WR Michael Thomas ii. (Previous Pick) LB Myles Jack 8. Miami Dolphins a. Holy DL, Joey Bosa is still on the board. This will be a best available selection again following suit with what the Jets did a year ago. Suh + Bosa, all that needs to be said. i. DL Joey Bosa ii. (Previous Pick) LB Reggie Ragland 9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers a. Originally Alexander was seen as a solid pick at this point but now with an even better CB on the board expect the Bucs to pull the trigger.   i. Vernon Hargreaves ii. (Previous Pick) CB Mackenzie Alexander 10. New York Giants a. Buckner is still a solid pick and is still on the board but a LB previously not on the board has fallen in New York’s lap. Name one of the Giants starting LB’s, no Jon Beason doesn’t play for NY anymore. Unless you’re a Giants fan this is probably a tough task. The LB position has more need than the DL so I will change this pick to further help out the defense. i. LB Reggie Ragland ii. (Previous Pick) DL DeForest Buckner 11. Chicago Bears a. Well Stanley is now off the board. The Bears could very easily elect to go with another offensive tackle with plenty of talent still on the board but…I think they decide to shock the sports world and do something exciting for once and give White some help on offense. Poor Cutler, poor Carson. i. QB Carson Wentz ii. (Previous Pick) OT Ronnie Stanley 12. New Orleans Saints a. NO’s original pick is still on the board but he is also sliding down big boards among scouts, and he’s not sliding because of his combine performance. There is another prospect who is rising and who plays a similar position. A troubled past shouldn’t scare away the Saints too much especially when they have the chance to pair him with two 2nd year studs at LB or play him with his hand in the dirt. Opposing QB’s and RB’s should take notice. i. EDGE Noah Spence ii. (Previous Pick) DE Shaq Lawson 13. Philadelphia Eagles a. Well unfortunately for the Eagles and unfortunately for Wentz the Bears have already selected the previous pick. So for the sake of whoever is under center this coming season the Eagles would be wise to invest in some protection. My new selection is an animal who I believe could potentially play guard or tackle at the next level. Some may say reach (he didn’t even crack the first round on my last mock) but I’m not so sure it is at this point.   i. OL Jason Spriggs ii. (Previous Pick) QB Carson Wentz 14. Oakland Raiders a. I still believe the Raiders would be making a solid pick if they invested in their OL but I think the secondary needs more help than the OL. With a player on the board who previously wasn’t expect Oakland to pull the trigger. Oakland needs to replace Woodson and Hayden has been disappointing so this is a prime opportunity. i. CB Mackenzie Alexander ii. (Previous Pick) OT Taylor Decker 15. Los Angeles Rams a. This pick is getting tricky for me. Part of me thinks Lynch is a reach at 15 and part of me thinks there are no WR’s worthy of this pick. I could go Doctson after his solid combine performance but who is going to throw the ball to this new prized first round receiver? I got to stick to the original here with the thoughts in mind that LA can pick up a WR in round 2 to pair with their new signal caller. i. QB Paxton Lynch ii. (Previous Pick) QB Paxton Lynch 16. Detroit Lions a. Is Calvin Johnson retiring or is he not?? I really don’t know so for the sake of this mock at this time we will be switching our pick. There are other options than WR even if Johnson does retire so why not fill another position of need. Drafting an OT will not only benefit Stafford but will also benefit Johnson if he does stay. Stafford will have more time in the pocket (ideally) thus making it easier for him to get the ball to others not named Megatron or getting the ball to someone named Megatron, we don’t know at this point.  And although picking OL in round one in consecutive years isn’t sexy it’s still a solid option given the circumstances.   i. OT Taylor Decker ii. (Previous Pick) WR Michael Thomas 17. Atlanta Falcons a. Looking back to the day after the Super Bowl when I posted this I’m not sure if I was confident in the idea that Cravens could be drafted this high and right now I’m less confident. The Falcons will still reach here but in a move that is less of a reach. Imagine having an impact player at EDGE coming from both sides, QB’s be on the lookout. Atlanta could go Lee here but I think they’ll elect to go with versatility instead. i. EDGE Leonard Floyd ii. (Previous Pick) LB/S Su’a Cravens 18. Indianapolis Colts a. For the same reasons as my last draft I am going to stick with this pick. Andrew Luck needs some help behind him in order to regain his previous form. Henry could be an option here after a strong combine but the Richardson experiment will scare the Colts away from another bruising back from Alabama. i. RB Ezekiel Elliot ii. (Previous Pick) RB Ezekiel Elliot 19. Buffalo Bills a. I really want to switch my pick here and go with OL to help Taylor and Watkins develop some much needed chemistry but Buckner is somehow still on the board! The Bills waste no time here on a no-brainer pick. Goodbye Mario. i. DL DeForest Buckner ii. (Previous Pick) DE Kevin Dodd 20. New York Jets a. Sorry NY fans Floyd is off the board. But sorry not sorry, the Jets are going to make an even better pick. An EDGE player is a perfect fit for the Jets but the position is scarce in this draft and the top 2 are no longer available so rather than reaching they pick a LB who is flying up big boards (at least mine). i. LB Darron Lee ii. (Previous Pick) EDGE Leonard Floyd 21. Washington Redskins a. I still like WR for the Skins but it’s just a debate as to who they prefer with only Thomas off the board. Doctson had a strong combine performance but Coleman just seems to be the popular pick among analysts. I think Treadwell is going to experience a Green-Beckham like slide in the draft so Let’s go Coleman I guess! (Terrible analysis I know but it’s the best I got with a confusing WR class). i. WR Corey Coleman ii. (Previous Pick) WR Laquon Treadwell 22. Houston Texans a. After the combine I feel the Texans could very easily pick Henry right here. Foster won’t be back and whoever plays under center is going to need some support in the running game. But why not bolster the DL with Nkemdiche? Because teams are scared of drafting him high. Ok problem solved, draft Lawson or Dodd. Actually no let’s go RB.   i. RB Derrick Henry ii. (Previous Pick) DL Robert Nkemdiche 23. Minnesota Vikings a. Treadwell is still on the board! And so is Doctson! Win/Win for Vikings fans! Unfortunately Spielman and Zim have other plans. Ask most analysts and they’ll tell you the Vikes are just a strong OL away from seriously contending for a Super Bowl. Although an underperformer at the combine he is still MN’s top OL prospect because of his versatility and their gaping hole at guard. Sexy position picks will have to wait for the next couple rounds. i. OL Cody Whitehair ii. (Previous Pick) WR Josh Doctson 24. Cincinnati Bengals a. Lee would have been a nice pick for Cincinnati but unfortunately I don’t think there is any way he makes it to pick 24. Even if he gets past the Jets there’s no way Zimmer resists adding more defense to his roster. But this isn’t all bad news for the Bengals. Their secondary could take a hit in free agency and even if they don’t their secondary is aging so why not pick a CB who could very easily have already been snatched off the board. i. CB Eli Apple ii. (Previous Pick) LB Darron Lee 25. Pittsburgh Steelers a. Steelers fan weep, Apple is off the board one pick before Pittsburg is on the clock. Ideally they still want to upgrade their secondary and ideally at this point they’d like to trade down to make this selection. A lot of people are not going to like this and yeah it is a reach but in my eyes this is an excellent fit for Pittsburg and will be a good replacement for Polamalu. He won’t be around when the Steelers pick in round 2 so here’s a climb for the safety out of Southern Utah. i. S Miles Killebrew ii. (Previous Pick) CB Eli Apple 26. Seattle Seahawks a. Sorry Seahawks fans, don’t really want to talk about Seattle. Plus they had enough analysis last mock to last the rest of the draft season. Pick stays the same because it’s a good fit and best player available. The end. i. DL A’Shawn Robinson ii. (Previous Pick) DL A’Shawn Robinson 27. Green Bay Packers a. Same goes for Green Bay. i. TE Hunter Henry ii. (Previous Pick) TE Hunter Henry 28. Kansas City Chiefs a. Conklin would still be a solid pick but there are other really tempting players on the board. If you recall just a couple years ago the Chiefs went all season without a WR scoring a touchdown. Maclin is only a temporary solution. We could go DT here with a ton of talent still on the board but that’s the problem ,there’s still a ton of DT  talent left, enough to get in the next couple rounds, no need to rush (sorry for the run-on sentence). A WR would benefit the whole offense, Smith, Kelce, Maclin, Charles; it would take pressure off of all the above. Arguably my favorite WR is finally going off the board (guess my slide prediction from earlier was slightly inaccurate). i. WR Laquon Treadwell ii. (Previous Pick) OT Jack Conklin 29. Arizona Cardinals a. Well…Spence is flying up draft boards and will never make it this far. They could though take a chance on a different player with some character concerns. Arizona helped Mathieu turn things around and could do the same for this player at position of need. Great value pick here for a player who midseason was thought to be the number 1 overall pick. Amazing what the draft process can do to a player, right Teddy Bridgewater? i. DE Robert Nkemdiche ii. (Previous Pick) EDGE Noah Spence 30. Carolina Panthers a. I actually still like this pick for Carolina. I still want to go OL and this is a versatile player that could really help out the Panthers at multiple positions. I do believe Conklin is a better player but I’m not convinced he can be the versatile player Carolina could be looking for. i. OT Jerald Hawkins ii. (Previous Pick) OT Jerald Hawkins 31. Denver Broncos a. Whitehair is gone and Hawkins would have also been a good pickup for Denver but we need to go to plan C. As I previously stated Conlklin is a better lineman than Hawkins and would be a steal at this point. But…Denver’s defense could take a hit in free agency and I believe they go best player available who somehow managed to slide all the way down to the end of the first round. i. DE Shaq Lawson ii. (Previous Pick) OG Cody Whitehair -Blayne Waselk Also, shout out to Bat Flip Sports. Check them out! https://www.facebook.com/batflipsports/

#NFLDraft #MockDraft

[respect-the-wind]

Post Super Bowl Mock Draft

Mock Draft 1.0 Post Super Bowl Let me start off by saying thank you for your interest in my mock, this is something I have enjoyed doing for quite some time now and just as of now have decided to share them with the internet. With that being said, I am doing this for my enjoyment and it is just one man’s opinion. I am not an expert (although sometimes I like to think I am) and what I might project could be 100% wrong (or 100% right (probably not)). So hopefully you enjoy this as much as I enjoy making them.

1. Tennessee Titans a. There is speculation that the Titans could trade this pick but I personally do not feel there is a standout number 1 selection that will trigger a fire sale. I also believe the Titans could benefit greatly by investing in Mariota’s protection, especially being he will develop more chemistry in year two with Green-Beckham. For these reasons they go OL. i. OT Laremy Tunsil 2. Cleveland Browns a. Here comes the controversy. I’ll just say that I’m going to get some resistance from my classmates/friends because we go to/went to NDSU and Carson Wentz was a classmate of ours. But I do not have him going here to the Browns. I feel like I would just be bias to put him here. I know the Browns like him but considering the condition of the team and the coaching situation I have them going with a safer answer. Carson is NFL ready and starter material but not a number 2 pick (sorry pal). i. QB Jared Goff 3. San Diego Chargers a. For me this is a best available pick. The Chargers could use a WR but with speculation right now that Treadwell’s 40 time will be slower than teams like to see and that he may slip makes me shy away from him at 3. I think instead they elect to select an NFL ready difference maker on the defensive line. i. DL Joey Bosa 4. Dallas Cowboys a. Dallas is another team that likes Wentz, but at 4 is a reach for them. I believe they will take a chance on RGIII assuming he’s cut by the Redskins or knowing Jerry Jones he may give Manziel try as well. Regardless the number 4 pick isn’t for a QB. Another position of need, RB, is also a reach at 4 so I think they will go for secondary help. i. CB/S Jalen Ramsey 5. Jacksonville Jaguars a. I’m between two positions, OL or LB. Jacksonville’s offense took a step forward in 2015 and we have seen teams let their defense take them to the playoffs. I am not saying a difference maker on the defense would make them a playoff team but it is a start so therefore I am going with one of the most talented players on the board even with a knee injury (we saw Todd Gurley come back just as strong). i. LB Jaylon Smith 6. Baltimore Ravens a. 2015 was a miserable season for the Ravens. Looking back at it many would say there are many holes to fill but a lot of people forget how many injuries the Ravens suffered to impact players. I do believe one hole though is the secondary. It could be argued that WR is a need too and I would agree but Perriman will be healthy next season and I believe Jimmy Smith needs more help in the secondary than Flacco needs help on offense. i. CB Vernon Hargreaves 7. San Francisco 49ers a. Here’s an interesting one. The hiring of Chip Kelly and the awful offseason they had in 2015 make this a tough pick. I don’t think they go QB because I think Kap can be a good fit in Kelly’s offense. I also like the idea of pairing last year’s first rounder Armstead with DeForest Buckner (also an Oregon connection) but I think they go fast athletic linebacker. i. LB Myles Jack 8. Miami Dolphins a. Again I want to pair Buckner with another defensive lineman to possibly create a 2 headed monster. Works better in this situation because Suh and Buckner are different players that could complement each other but I feel the Dolphins will go with a middle linebacker to help beef up the defense. i. LB Reggie Ragland 9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers a. I want to go OL here with Stanley but Winston is mobile enough to survive in the pocket without an elite line. Stanley did also have a done year which might make teams a little skittish. The Bucs do really need secondary help and although he’s not a big name like Ramsey or Hargreaves he is on the same level and is the man for the job. i. CB Mackenzie Alexander 10. New York Giants a. Originally Myles Jack or another impact linebacker would’ve gone here but they have all left the board. We could go OL with Stanley but I think the DL needs more help. An argument could be made either way but the offense has been consistently decide while the defense is a little more unpredictable. Some versatility on the DL will help. i. DL DeForest Buckner 11. Chicago Bears a. The bears could really use some help at LB but with Jack, Smith, and Ragland off the board they will go for the best player available. They also need help protecting Cutler and it will be worth the investment. The Bears will have White available to them this season and in order to get the most out of their prized first round receiver they will need their QB to have the time to toss the pass downfield. The Bears should have two bookends at tackle with Long holding down the opposite end. i. OT Ronnie Stanley 12. New Orleans Saints a. The Saints struggled on defensive last season, specifically against the pass. I am going defense here and and EDGE player like Noah Spence would make a nice addition to their young linebacking corps lead by 2015 second rounder Kikaha and 2015 first rounder Anthony but adding the last piece to the puzzle at linebacker won’t make a huge impact against the pass even if it is an EDGE player. We could go with Apple here but I think it’s wiser to dip back into the Clemson pool and pair up some college teammates to add some beef to the DE position to put some pressure on opposing QB’s. i. DE Shaq Lawson 13. Philadelphia Eagles a. I’m not sold on the Sam Bradford project in Philly. Before last season I had high hopes but maybe he just wasn’t a fit for Kelly but now that Kelly got the boot out of town maybe things could change for Bradford. In this position though I find it hard for the Eagles to pass up a younger franchise QB who could either play behind Bradford for the time being or step in for him day one. Here’s the dual threat QB the Eagles have been searching for since McNabb left. Matthews and Agholor should be celebrating on draft night. Good luck in the city of brotherly love my friend. i. QB Carson Wentz 14. Oakland Raiders a. The Raiders could use some help in the secondary after the retirement of Woodson and Apple makes sense here. But wait! Carr and Cooper have developed some good chemistry, even to get them both to the pro bowl in their first and second years respectively. Imagine if you build a line around Carr. Not only would he be more comfortable in the pocket where he is at his best but this could even help open up the run game which in return does what? Opens up the pass game. This is a win-win for the Raiders and I like Jackson at guard so we go OT here. i. OT Taylor Decker 15. Los Angeles Rams a. Well originally I liked Wentz going to LA but like I said I find it hard to see the Eagles passing him up. Not only was he a fit but he was the best player available so now we’re on to plan B for the Rams. They could be the first team to finally score a WR, Treadwell would complement Austin nicely. Or they could go OL, but the class is deep so maybe not at 15. The lights are bright in LA and for their first season back they best make a splash on draft night and as far as most (not me though) are concerned the QB position is the flashiest of the positions. So let’s see some splash. i. QB Paxton Lynch 16. Detroit Lions a. Lions could go a few ways here. Wouldn’t hurt to further bolster the OL, and cornerback is still a position of need. Apple is still on the board but I’m not ready to take him off quite yet. If Megatron hadn’t just announced his retirement Apple would be playing in a Lions jersey next season but Stafford needs help. Johnson has been his safety blanket for years and Tate is not a number 1 receiver. They need a new workhorse and their guy is still on the board. i. WR Michael Thomas 17. Atlanta Falcons a. The Falcons have added versatility to their defense through the draft the past few years. Hageman can play all over the DL and Beasley can hold down the fort as an EDGE defender. You add Trufant to that mix and you’re looking at three young impact players at each level. I think the Falcons follow suit here and although it is a bit of a reach they nab a player who can play a Kam Chancellor type role for their defense. With this move the Falcons have four young cornerstones to build on. i. LB/S Su’a Cravens 18. Indianapolis Colts a. The Colts have options here. RB, CB, EDGE, DL would all be solid options. For me though we are going to focus on offense. Luck needs someone who can keep LB’s on their toes with play action. Too much pressure is on Luck right now on offense, since being in Indy he hasn’t had a clear cut number one back behind him to keep the defense honest but all that is about to change. i. RB Ezekiel Elliot 19. Buffalo Bills a. The Bills need help at LB and could definitely benefit from adding DL depth. I think the Bills will roll with Taylor at QB for at least another season, they could at least add a backup in later rounds so the Bills will avoid a risky pick especially with the top 3 QB’s off the board. Signs point to Mario Williams being on his way out of town. With that being said the Bills would be wise to add a defensive lineman. Again going away from the risky pick the Bills will continue to push Nkemdiche down the board and go with a safer pick. i. DE Kevin Dodd 20. New York Jets a. Another team that could potentially be looking for a franchise QB but will have to look elsewhere right now. The OL could use an upgrade but the defense also needs some playmakers behind their stacked DL. A linebacker who can fly around behind and through their dominant DL is what they really need to help their defense. i. EDGE Leonard Floyd 21. Washington Redskins a. The Vikings fan in me wants to take Apple with this pick just so a certain receiver I want can continue his fall to the Vikings, but…I don’t think Washington can pass up the best receiver on the board with aging DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon on the roster. Cousins needs some help if Washington wants him to take another step toward being their franchise quarterback. i. WR Laquon Treadwell 22. Houston Texans a. Quarterback is probably Houston’s biggest need in my opinion. Hoyer is not the answer long-term. He may not even be the answer short term. But with all the first round QB’s off the board they’re going to have to go elsewhere. Again the Viking fan in me wants Houston to take Henry so that the Vikings don’t make the mistake of drafting him in the first round. But instead I think they take a chance on the DL to further bolster an already strong group, hopefully opening the field up at the LB position for the disappointing Clowney. i. DL Robert Nkemdiche 23. Minnesota Vikings a. If you haven’t figured it out yet I am a Vikings fan. Although I am unbiased during my mock I still am very much a huge Vikings fan. So far my top target for the Vikes is gone (Treadwell) and my least favorite rumor I’ve heard all week (Henry) is still on the board. There are also other routes to go though. Darron Lee is also an option here but I feel that is a luxury pick with Barr and Kendricks holding down the fort at LB. Whitehair would be a solid option but also not a flashy pick. We passed on Parker last year in favor of Waynes so I feel this is the year to get Teddy his main guy. Diggs is a solution but him and Wright play a similar game and Baylor’s Coleman is also too much like both these guys. The Vikings need a guy that can go up and win the jump ball. They need that type of player very badly. If we want Teddy to succeed we need to upgrade the OL which can be addressed later in the draft and we need to get him a top target. So here’s Teddy’s guy. i. WR Josh Doctson 24. Cincinnati Bengals a. The Bengals could be hit hard at safety and WR in free agency so my initial reaction is to go there. There is still the chance of retaining some of them but some of their free agents are also aging. The Bengals are in a win now mode not a rebuild so for me it’s a wiser option to build through free agency. With that being said we are going to find the biggest impact player we can find on the board who can step in on day 1 and contribute to the win now Bengals. i. LB Darron Lee 25. Pittsburgh Steelers a. Right now name off some of the Steelers players in the secondary… If you don’t follow the Steelers this might not be the easiest thing to do. There is a definite need for some fresh legs back there. And with a first round talent at CB still on the board I don’t foresee the Steelers passing up this opportunity. This is a near no brainer. i. CB Eli Apple 26. Seattle Seahawks a. Seattle (whom I can’t stand and this next statement makes me happy) is another team who could get hit hard in free agency. With a lot of expensive contracts on the roster Seattle isn’t going to be able to retain everyone. So this pick is all about reloaded with a younger, less expensive player. But what position do they address? OL, DL, CB, WR. I want to instantly plug in Coleman here because the Seahawks have just a band of misfits at the WR position but it hasn’t seemed to bother Wilson at all so we aren’t going to go that route. Instead we will add some depth to the DL. Seattle’s LB’s have done an admirable job but I give credit to the DL occupying many blocks so this pick should help keep that balance benefiting the LB’s as well as helping the secondary by pressuring opposing QB’s. i. DL A’Shawn Robinson 27. Green Bay Packers a. My hatred for the Packers runs deep so we’re going to keep this short and to the point. Rogers needs a reliable talent at TE. i. TE Hunter Henry 28. Kansas City Chiefs a. The Chiefs don’t have a ton of holes on their roster, especially on the defensive side of the ball. With some quality defensive lineman still on the board the Chiefs could elect to draft some quality depth. I think they elect to go offense with this pick though. Alex Smith is still labeled a game manager and Eric Fisher is beginning to be labeled a bust so something needs to change on that side of the ball. WR could be addressed here with Coleman, Boyd and Miller still on the board but their offensive tackle position opposite of Fisher needs to be addressed. For how average Fisher has been the opposite side will be worse coming into next season unless they pull the trigger here. i. OT Jack Conklin 29. Arizona Cardinals a. Initially I really want to pick Henry here because the Cardinals could use a bigger back to compliment David Johnson. I do believe though they won’t look to do that in the first round. The defensive front is aging and in need of an upgrade. Arizona could take a player like Scooby Wright to be the anchor at LB for years to come but they will be scratching their heads wondering how this player is still available when they pick and quickly send their pick to the podium. i. EDGE Noah Spence 30. Carolina Panthers a. The Panthers offense got absolutely man handled at the line of scrimmage on Super Bowl Sunday. Newton was flustered and looked like a deer in the headlights while running for his life. His line wasn’t giving him time to drop back and get comfortable. I would say it would be wise to go OL here with no first round talent left at CB. Here’s a guy they can plug in and play at either tackle spot. i. OT Jerald Hawkins 31. Denver Broncos a. The Broncos are another team that would be wise to invest in a lineman on opening night of the draft. Mathis was a good pick up but is aging and Denver will likely move on from him. Clady is an injury liability and Denver could look to find his eventual replacement but with all the high profile tackles off the board they look to find Mathis’s replacement instead. i. OG Cody Whitehair

-Blayne Waselk