An inside look at the Minnesota Vikings 2015 NFL Draft

Thursday night is a special night. To say I enjoy the annual NFL Draft is an understatement. Since 1982 I have watched virtually every draft in its entirety. I don’t know what it is. Perhaps it is due to the fact that each year I do my own research of these players by scouring website after website, reading each scout’s assessment of players, and then classifying them into a ranking system of my own. Also, there are a lot of players I get to watch during the college football season and I make mental notes of players. Either way, it’s a lot of fun to read about these kids; to explore another aspect of something I enjoy and that is research.

This year; however, I have not done as thorough a job as I would have liked, and so I have decided not to mock the First Round, as is customary of me the last 10 years or so. So, I can only offer my assessment of my favorite team, the Vikings.

I have been pretty happy about the Vikings drafts these last few years. It is unfortunate they missed on Christian Ponder because I really was a fan of the kid, but the Vikings panicked and picked him too early. I thought they could have waited until the 2^nd round to grab him, or my other choice, Andy Dalton. Anyhow, it is what it is. I hope that Ponder is able to catch on with another team and should make a viable back up, perhaps being a starter someday.

So, onto the 2015 pick. I like several players for the Vikings at #11, but I am leery about that spot. In the last 20 years, starting in 1995, the Vikings have not had much success drafting between 11-20 in the first round. In fact, the only two players who stand out are: Daunte Culpepper (pick #11, 1999), and Chad Greenway (pick #17, 2006). I am not sure the Vikings can trade back farther than picks 14-16, but they  could do the double drop. I have seen teams do it in the past (see New England Patriots draft history). If the Vikings are able to do two drops into the early 20-22, they could amass several mid-round picks to either use on a deep draft or as trade bait.

Before I offer my suggestions, a quick analysis of the so-called depth draft. Most of the experts have said this is a deep draft for edge rushers, wide receivers, defensive linemen, and running backs. It’s weak at the ILB, S, TE, and  punters (just kidding at that position). Given the Vikings needs, dropping down makes a lot of sense. Unless they are looking at best available and cannot move out of the #11 spot, then take a WR, CB or Edge Rusher, or maybe even a DT.

Now, let’s look at a few players that intrigue me that mesh with what the Vikings need. First their needs. Most pundits have the following positions as big needs for the Vikings: offensive line, cornerback, safety, and inside linebacker. Other needs are defensive line, wide receiver, and perhaps outside linebacker.

The players at each position and where the Vikings could get them:

Offensive linemen, Round One: Brandon Scherff, G//T, Iowa, and La’El Collins, G/T, LSU

Round Two: Laken Tomlinson, OG, Duke, Ali Marpet, G, Hobart

Cornerback, Round One: Trae Waynes, Michigan State, Kevin Johnson, Wake Forest, or Byron Jones, Connecticut (could be an early round two).

Round Two: Jalen Collins, LSU, P.J. Williams, FSU

Inside Linebacker, Round One: Eric Kendricks, UCLA (only if Vikings drop to that 20-22 area would he be worth that selection)

Round Two: Stephone Anthony, Clemson

Given their immediate needs, if one can classify that as such, it looks as though the Vikings would be best served trading down and grabbing some extra picks. However, if the Vikings stand pat at #11, here are a few players they should consider.

Before I start let me make a very bold statement. Unless someone trades up or the Jets or Falcons take him, Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia would say a lot about what the Vikings have with Adrian Peterson.  I want Adrian back. He’s got another 2-3 really good years left, but if there are rumblings in the Vikings organization, or a pending trade going down, it would not surprise me to see the Vikings select Gurley, should he be there, but my inclination is that he will not.

Sidebar over. Here are some other players to watch at #11 should the Vikings not get any willing trade partners: Kevin White, WR, West Virginia, Devonte Parker, WR, Louisville, Danny Shelton, DT, Washington, Randy Gregory, DE, Nebraska, Shane Ray, DE, Missouri. I know the last two guys have issues off the field, and the Vikings may not be interested in them at all given their woes from the  Adrian Peterson deal and other situations in the recent past,  but there is no denying these guys’ talent, and both should be available at #11.

Of all the guys I had at the positions of need, the only player, I feel is a solid sure thing is Scherff from Iowa. I don’t know enough about the other positions to feel confident at #11, and that is why I would like to see a trade down.

The Bottom Line here is, I am not a football GM or a draft expert. I am a Vikings fan first and a football fan second. I take what I have learned over the 40 plus years being a Vikings fan, considering trends, and evaluating players. It is my hope the Vikings have a good draft. They have done pretty well the last three years, and if they can parlay this one into another solid draft, then the future is bright for the Vikings and their new stadium.

Final word: My choice is Scherff from Iowa. I predict a trade down and then best available athlete regardless of position. My surprise pick should Scherff be gone, is Danny Shelton, DT, Washington. I am not too happy with the Vikings interior defensive line. We need some massive production from Sharrif Floyd and Linval Joseph, especially Joseph, at 323, he should be that run stopper they need, but Shelton could be an impact type right away. Also, don't be surprised if the Vikings go CB. Zimmer loves CBs. 

One thing is for sure, Thursday night the focus will be the NFL Draft and pretty much nothing else, sorry honey! As for Friday and Saturday, I get just as excited because in many cases, this is where the team is really built and sustained. It's going to be an interesting weekend to say the least.

SKOL Vikes!

A Brief Recap of Vikings 2014 Draft

If you cared to look at my last post on the Vikings, you would have noticed that I had some good points and points I would rather dismiss as foggy-eyed and dreamy. Hey, predictions are pretty hard things to master.


Anyhoobastank, I am proud to say that I hit a home run by selecting Anthony Barr in my mock draft. I did not anticipate the Vikings moving back into the first round to nab Teddy Bridgewater. I was thinking more in the lines of Derek Carr in Round Two, but suffice to say both QBs have shown they may eventually be the class of this class.


Overall, I was pretty happy with their selections and the hiring of Mike Zimmer seems to have been a good choice. I have to be honest, I wasn't sure about Zimmer. When analysts say things like, "It's time for Mike Zimmer to get his chance" and yet has not, I began to wonder if he had head coaching "scruples." I didn't want another  Rod Marinelli situation, but in the Vikings case. I was okay with the  Lions making questionable choices, but the  Vikings? No. However, I was not a big fan of the Leslie Frazier choice. Especially when there were proven coaches out there like, Jim Harbaugh. Yes, he was at Stanford, but he was a Michigan guy, and now IS a Michigan guy again. There was also Ron Rivera. He may not have been the smartest, but he's a tough, hard-nosed guy who gets the most of his players. Then there was John Fox...enough said about his track record. By the way, Chuck Pagano and Jeff Fisher were out there as well.


I am not saying that Zimmer was a bad choice. He strikes me as a Ron Rivera type. I hope he can keep Norv Turner as his OC for at least a couple more years before retirement or moving on. I was more or less pointing the finger at the Frazier hire when they could have held onto Childress for the rest of the season and then opened the door to a wide variety of other candidates.


Okay, closing that door. I am hopeful for the Vikings in the coming years. I see a decline in the Packers over the next few years, not sure if Fox can rebuild the Bears with Cutler as his QB, and the Lions will fade soon as is their history. With some hiccups here and there, the Vikings have a way of making that consistent performance a franchise way of life. We have had our down years these past three to four years. It's time for the Vikings to re-emerge as Kings of the NFC North and vie for that elusive Super Bowl title that has eluded them.


I am not being foggy-eyed or dreamy on this one. In this day and age of sports, it seems that any team can win a championship at any given time, just look at the Buccaneers. The BUCCANEERS!


SKOL VIKES!

Minnesota Vikings 2014: An Early Look at the Draft

I think I can speak for most Vikings fan when I say that, thus far, the season has been beyond disappointing. Yes, there are other storied franchises under-performing: Giants, Steelers, Ravens, and Falcons, but the expectations for the Vikings were that they could take the next step.

Last year ended on a fairly high note, with the exception of a poor playoff effort, but by most accounts, most people felt that the Vikings just needed a backup quarterback.

Eight games in and the jury is still out. Ponder played his best game of the year against the Cowboys, but many fans feel the Vikings are still searching for their next franchise QB.

I would argue that Christian Ponder has helped this team to three (Chicago, Cleveland, and now Dallas) late 4^th quarter leads only to see them wither by way of a defense that just can’t stop a team when it really counts. If the Vikings win those games they are 4-4 and still in the playoff hunt. I would also argue the Vikings made a huge mistake playing Freeman against a Giants team that was equally bad on defense, and we handed them their first victory, but this is not revisionist history. The Vikings are 1-7.

I have long been a supporter of Christian Ponder, but if he doesn’t flash here in the next couple of weeks, his tenure in Minnesota is in the waning stages and a vigorous search for a new quarterback shifts into high gear.

The following slides will look at positions I feel are of need. Also, there are potential players to look at in the draft the Vikings should consider or may have a shot at. This is purely a speculative look because there is a lot of time between now and the 2014 draft, but as Americans we always love to look ahead, sometimes putting the cart before the horse, but let’s have some fun with this.

First order of business: A New Dawn at the Quarterback Position?

Having three quarterbacks on the roster is like deciding between the Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. Some support Ponder, others support Freeman, and the others support Cassel. There could be an argument for all three, but here is a point to be made before any speculation of a new quarterback even begins.

If the season continues its downward slide, I don’t see how the organization can hang on to either coordinator, or head coach for that matter. My last article focused on possible head coach replacements. Here is the link: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1824803-2013-vikings-pivot-point-time-to-consider-a-new-direction if you would like to see my thought process on who should/could replace Frazier.

Here is something to ponder, no pun intended. If Frazier is fired, the new coach will have three quarterbacks from which to choose to run the show the first year or two. This is realistic because the only quarterback entering this draft who is considered NFL ready is Teddy Bridgewater, and I am sure he is talking to real estate agents in the Jacksonville area. Some will argue for others, but we’ll get to that.

It is safe to say that unless the Vikings foolishly grab a quarterback with their, most likely, Top-10, perhaps even Top-5 pick, then it will most assuredly happen in Round Two.

I am of the mindset that the Vikings keep all three quarterbacks on the roster, unless they get some interesting trade calls for one of them. The new coach has three quarterbacks who offer their own skill set, and deciding on a quarterback would depend on the type of offense he plans to run. Once the decision is made, one of the remaining quarterbacks could be dealt; therefore, drafting a quarterback in the 2014 draft would be the third quarterback until he is ready.

Case for Ponder: There are Ponder haters out there, and there are those who are willing to be more patient. A coach with a read-option or spread mindset would consider keeping Ponder because he is more athletic of the three. Running a 4.6-40 yard dash, Ponder has shown some real flash as a runner-scoring four times with his feet- and this might enable him to see the field better. Someone like Shanahan from the Redskins or Greg Roman from the 49ers may consider Ponder as the go to guy initially. Also, if you watch the start of the Cowboys game, the Vikings came out in the shotgun and had a spread/read-option look and Ponder looked very confident.

Before everyone gives up on Ponder just go to this website, courtesy of NFL.com: http://www.nfl.com/player/christianponder/2495215/situationalstats. I am all about perspective, and maybe this will give some readers perspective. The biggest knock I have on Ponder is that he has to improve his 4^th quarter numbers, but part of that may go into conservative play calling as well.

Case for Freeman: Freeman fits that prototypical NFL quarterback: strong arm, great size, grittiness, and ability to escape. If the new coach comes in say Mike Sherman, he would most likely be interested in Freeman because he would have the skill set that Sherman likes for his offense. Freeman has enough mobility to run what Sherman runs.

To be fair, here are Freeman’s situational stats, and I didn’t even include this year. Here is last year’s, again, courtesy of NFL.com. And arguably, the guy had some pretty good talent around him.  

http://www.nfl.com/player/joshfreeman/79557/situationalstats?season=2012.

Case for Cassel: This is the poor man’s pick. A new coach could keep Cassel as the bridge to his new guy. Ponder and Freeman could muddy the waters, so allowing them to go or be traded might be in the next coach’s best interest in order to avoid that dreaded quarterback controversy

Cassel offers professionalism and experience, attributes a coach may want in a veteran player. He has shown stretches of good play and would lend good leadership to a young squad.

If a new coach comes in he has the luxury of having guys who have significant number of starts and at least has something to work with initially until his quarterback pick is ready.

       Quarterback 2014: In the cards?

The 2014 quarterback class could be considered a great class, or just another over-hyped one in this day and age of 24-hour coverage.

Here are the seniors with their projections, as per CBSSports.com http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/prospectrankings/2014/QB.

Zach Mettenberger, LSU: 6-5, 235, Round 1-2

Derek Carr, Fresno State: 6-3, 215, Round 1-2

Tajh Boyd, Clemson: 6-1, 225, Round 2

Aaron Murray, Georgia: 6-1, 208, Round 2

Here are others:

Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville, junior: 6-3, 205, Round 1

Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M, rSo: 6-0, 210, Round 1

Marcus Mariota, Oregon, rSo: 6-4 212, Round 1

Brett Hundley, UCLA, rSo, 6-3, 222, Round 2

Other than the seniors, there is no guarantee these other quarterbacks will even enter the draft. Most feel that the two most likely to come out will be Manziel and Bridgewater. Other than Bridgewater, do you throw Manziel right in there from the get-go?

If all of them stay in school, what would that do to the draft? What would that mean to the Vikings? If the Vikings are interested in one of the seniors, there is a possibility that all of these guys may drop to the late Round 1 or early Round 2.

However, would you trust Mettenberger to step right in? Carr? Boyd?

There are no Andrew Luck’s in this draft. I would argue there are no RGIII’s, so what do the Vikings do?

Also, each of these quarterbacks offers a certain skill set. You don’t draft Mettenberger if you plan on running the read option.

My bet is Bridgewater and Manziel come out, but the others choose to stay, especially guys like Mariota and Hundley, whose teams look to be National Champion contenders next year. It would make sense because then they would grab all the draft headlines in 2015.

Final analysis: I am not here to predict who the Vikings will draft. They may not choose one this year based on who comes out and who stays in college, or if they have a guy on the roster they believe in.

I have watched all these quarterbacks play, albeit, here and there, and I have been somewhat impressed with Carr, Mettenberger, and I love Murray, but Murray is too similar to Ponder.

Derek Carr has been a 3-year starter and so far has 91 TDs and 20 INTs in his career. He has a quick release and definitely displays great leadership. I think he is better than his brother David, who got a pretty raw deal for an NFL career. He has great mobility, effortless motion, good vision, and pedigree, but he does not get under center, so that adjustment may take time. With that said, Derek reminds me of another No. 4, but not quite yet. He would be my first choice.

Zach Mettenberger has the size and arm, no doubt. He is a two and a half-year starter and has put up pretty good numbers as well: 32 TDs, 14 INTs. Mettenberger runs a more traditional style of offense and his adjustment to the NFL could be quicker.

Tajh Boyd kind of reminds me of Donovan McNabb, but he lacks McNabb’s size and speed, so I say no thank you.

I think Hundley, Mariota, and Manziel should all stay for one more year at least.

2.       Guard: Too Much Push Up the Middle

I think it’s safe to say that teams like to blitz the Vikings up the middle. Our weakness along the line lay at both guard positions. Charlie Johnson oftentimes is slow and Brandon Fusco sometimes just gets blown up.

I don’t know what the plans are for Minnesota’s 2013 sixth-round choice Jeff Baca, guard out of UCLA, but obviously he’s not ready or he would have replaced one of these two already.

It is imperative the Vikings address the guard positions in Rounds 2 or 3 or via FA.

Here are some notable names that could be available in those rounds.

Cyril Richardson, Baylor, rSR, 6-5, 340, Round 1: According to Walterfootball.com, “Richardson has been dominant…” He is part of an explosive offense that runs and passes well. Richardson is considered a solid Round 1 pick.

Gabe Jackson, Mississippi State, rSR, 6-3, 340, Round 1-3: Jackson has had a solid season playing well against SEC opponents in LSU and Auburn. I am looking forward to see him play against Alabama in a few weeks. He is well suited for the zone blocking scheme with his quickness and frame.

Zack Martin, Notre Dame, rSr, 6-4, 308, Round 1-3: Martin is another Fighting Irish player that will surely garner the eye of Minnesota’s GM Rick Spielman.

According to Rob Rang of CBSSports.com, “He does play with good quickness…He also shows better athleticism than you might think when blocking on the move…With less than ideal length, Martin's NFL future may lie inside at guard.”

David Yankey, Stanford, Sr, 6-5, 311, Round 2-3: According to Walterfootball.com, “Yankey has been superb for Stanford in the early going of the 2013 season. He is a technician and is equally effective as a run- or a pass-blocker.”

Unless the Vikings pursue a free agent, the draft is most likely the place for them to begin replacing both Johnson and Fusco.

All information posted to this slide courtesy of: http://www.walterfootball.com/draft2014OG.php.

3. Defensive Tackle: Frankenstein Experiment Should be Over

Most Vikings fans would admit that since Pat Williams departed, the run defense has never been the same. The “fall into your lap” draft of Sharif Floyd may hopefully pay dividends, but the Vikings sorely need a big run stuffer; something Guion and Evans have yet to prove with consistency. Chase Baker has been a nice surprise, but not a long term solution. The organization seems to want to create a Frankenstein from multiple players, but it is not working. This is a position that must be addressed.

Before I comment on possible picks, let us consider one thing. Is it time for the Vikings to look at going to a 3-4 defense? If that move is made, then they will need to draft players who come from that type of defense in college. Or look to pay someone like B.J. Raji (Packers) who will be a free agent after this year.

Louis Nix, Notre Dame, 6-3, 340, rJr, Round 1: Some have Nix as a Top 20 pick. If that’s the case the Vikings would have to take him when they pick, most likely Top 10. If they are sitting at No. 3, is that too high for Nix, especially when Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA is there?

There is no doubt in Nix’s talent, and this is not a Notre Dame zombie article, but Nix is basically the top DT on everyone’s board.

RaShede Hageman, Minnesota, 6-6, 311, rSr, Round 1-2: Minnesota could stay local with Hageman. Walterfootball.com says, “There are times where Hageman looks unblockable with power and explosion.” And CBSSports.com says, “They don't come much more physically imposing than Hageman, whose broad shoulders, long arms and trim waist have generated comparisons from J.J. Watt to John Henderson.”

You would think that Hageman might be there early Round 2.

Two guys that could go Round 3-5:

Beau Allen, Wisconsin, 6-3, 325, Sr: According to Walterfootball.com, “Allen broke into the starting lineup as a junior and was a solid run-stuffer for the Badgers.” http://www.walterfootball.com/draft2014DT.php.  

DaQuan Jones, Penn State, 6-3, 318: Jones has been a steady force for the Nittany Lions and has been more productive this year without battery mate Jordan Hill who is in the NFL. Jones could continue a trend of recent Lions DT to make the transition to the NFL.

4. Linebacker: Middle or Outside, Pick Your Poison

Erin Henderson is an enigma. One would always have to ask, “Is it the player or the scheme?” For Henderson size and speed is really not an issue. It just seems the guy disappears. It was the same at the OLB position. Statistically he is having a good year. After eight games he has 73 tackles, three sacks, two INTs, but oftentimes gets overwhelmed at the point of attack. He can fill a hole, but taking on the big guys is another story. Source: Vikings.com

Chad Greenway is consistent, and there is no reason to look at his position, but age is soon a factor. He is second in tackles, has two sacks, and two INTs. He is putting together another Pro-Bowl year.

The weak side is an understatement. From Desmond Bishop to Marvin Mitchell, the Vikings defense is in need of someone to step in and take control of this position. Whether that lies with rookie Gerald Hodges is still out for consideration. Either way, something must be addressed.

If Vikings consider a move to the 3-4 defense, they could look at Greenway, Henderson and either Mauti or Cole in the middle, and look to fill the OLB position with Hodges or one of these players below.

Anthony Barr, DE/OLB, UCLA, 6-5, 236, 4.6-40: Barr is considered a Top 10 pick.

If the season ended today, here are the Top (or bottom) 10 teams and their selection spot.

Jaguars, Buccaneers, Vikings, Giants, Rams, Falcons, Texans, Steelers, Eagles, Bills. Of those 10 teams, I would guess that five to six will go defense with their first pick: Vikings, Giants, Falcons, Steelers, Eagles, and possibly Rams.

You would have to think the Jaguars will select Teddy Bridgewater, QB, and Tampa would select Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina. If the Buccaneers go Barr, then the Vikings may go with Clowney as best athlete.

But, we’re talking OLBs. Outside of Barr, here are the next three guys that are ranked as Round One or Two. They are essentially the same height, weight, and speed, so it’s a pick’em based on your preferences.

C.J. Mosley, OLB, Alabama, 6-3, 236

Kyle Van Noy, BYU, 6-3, 235

Vic Beasley, Clemson, 6-3, 235

Rounds Two and Three types are:

Khalil Mack, Buffalo, 6-3, 245

Ryan Shazier, Ohio State, 6-2, 226: He is a junior and may stay for senior year.

Christian Jones, FSU, 6-4, 232

All information posted for this slide courtesy of: http://www.walterfootball.com/draft2014OLB.php.

5. Can Someone Make a Play in the Defensive Backfield?

It’s hard to believe that backup corner A.J. Jefferson has the only INT for a cornerback for the Vikings. The following have the others: Harrison Smith: 2, Erin Henderson: 2, Chad Greenway, 2: Kevin Williams: 1. That is a sad statistic.

I am going to give Xavier Rhodes a pass because he is a rookie, and he has had his ups and downs, but I do like his aggressiveness. Now, for the other side, I am not so sure.

Chris Cook has shown signs, but injuries and off field issues have affected his play. Josh Robinson played his best game against the Cowboys and is the fourth leading tackler. He would seem better suited for the outside, rather than the slot, where his straight line speed cannot match the side to side quickness required. It’s not like Robinson is a first round bust. He was drafted in Round Three and before the combine was seen as a Round Four or Five prospect.

It used to be that there’s a corner around every corner, but in today’s pass happy NFL, the position is now viewed with greater priority. I do not think the Vikings need to address CB in Round One or Two, but beyond that they should look at the best athlete at that position and consider it.

Here are some Round Three and beyond they could consider:

Kyle Fuller, VT, 6-0, 193, 4.52-40: Virginia Tech always fields a good defense and this year Fuller has been steady and consistent. I watch Tech –unfortunately- a lot and he has had some very good games. He played very well against Alabama shutting down receivers and getting an INT.

Justin Gilbert, OSU, 6-0, 194, 4.47-40: Gilbert plays in the pass-happy Big 12. He has been solid this year and has the right attitude to get in the face of opposing wide receivers.

Darqueze Dennard, Michigan State, 5-11, 188, 4.56-40: Michigan State’s defense is stout and Dennard is part of that. He could be a real find in Round Four.

Information posted to this slide courtesy of: http://www.walterfootball.com/draft2014CB.php.

6. Other positions: Running Back and Wide Receiver

It would seem unlikely the Vikings will draft for either position given the necessities at other positions, but if they see a can’t pass him up athlete, it could be one of these positions.

Toby Gearhart will be a free agent and the Vikings will be hard pressed to maintain his services. I would like to see the Vikings draft a speedy third down back should Gearhart depart. A few guys in that category are:

Marion Grice, Arizona State, 6-0, 204, 4.5-40: Grice catches the ball well out of the backfield and is averaging 5.2 YPC this year.

James White, Wisconsin, 5-10, 197, 4.5-40: White is effective and catches the ball well.

Both of these guys are ranked as Rounds Four to Six by Walterfootball.com, so it’s a low risk high reward for the Vikings.

Wide Receiver: It is highly unlikely the Vikings draft a receiver, but if there is some sort of discontent with Jerome Simpson or Jarius Wright, they might be able to gobble up a late round gem. Here are a few receivers ranked from Rounds Three and beyond.

My first guy is Jared Abbrederis, Wisconsin, 6-1, 190, rSr, 4.5-40. I love the way this kid plays receiver. He reminds me of Jordy Nelson. I would love for the Vikings to draft this kid, but it seems unlikely. Abbrederis is considered Round Three prospect. He has been extremely productive for Wisconsin.

According to http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1785868/jared-abbrederis, “Abbrederis displays excellent field savvy, tracks the ball very well and makes the proper adjustments to extend and pluck with his quick, soft hands. He has excellent field awareness and always appears to know where he is on the field.”

Here are a few guys that all have similar physical attributes, it depends on your preferences.

Devin Street, Pittsburgh, 6-4, 190, 4.57-40

Davante Adams, Fresno, 6-2, 216, 4.57-40

Donte Moncrief, Ole Miss, 6-3, 226, 4.53-40

DeVante Parker, Louisville, 6-3, 205, 4.6-40

So, there you have it. Yes, it’s early and perhaps this is jumping the gun, but it is just a speculative look and nothing more.

Quick draft day prediction: If the Vikings wind up at pick No. 3 and the Bucs select Barr, I think the Vikings trade down anywhere from five to 10 spots to pick up additional selections.

I think that most of this team’s problems lie with the coaching staff. How can you explain the Chiefs, 49ers, and Seahawks over the last few years or even this year?

Some will say it’s their quarterbacks, but they all have superb defenses, and Kaepernick, Wilson, and Smith all do not have to carry their teams like a Brady or Brees for the most part. I truly believe that if the Vikings defense was ranked in the mid-teens to twenty, the Vikings would be 4-4, at least within ear shot of the playoffs.

Bottom Line: For those who feel it’s players like Ponder, Robinson, Cook, Johnson, etc. just look at the Buccaneers. They had Josh Freeman, still have Doug Martin, Vincent Jackson, Crabtree (TE), a pretty strong offensive line, and a pretty fair defense with tons of high draft picks. This team should be 4-4, but they’re 0-8. Coaching?

I welcome your constructive comments.

Minnesota Vikings To Trade Ponder?

This article was first published on October 23, 2013

First, let me state that my prayers, and any fan of football, mourns the loss of Adrian Peterson’s son at the hands of a twisted human being. The taking of innocent life is inexcusable and cowardly. The sporting world is with you Adrian and your family.

No posturing here, but Americans love drama, not the drama stated above. It dominates television, reality TV, and now, sports. Minnesota has certainly been a hot spot for drama lately. The 2013 season was one of hope for Vikings fans; hope of another playoff run, but three weeks in cracks began to fissure the organization and rumblings by fans grew louder.

In my last article, I pointed out several scenarios regarding the Vikings quarterback situation. As it now stands, Cassel will start his second consecutive game. Ponder is listed as questionable, but most people believe, questionable as in, remaining a Viking.

So, given the Vikings current situation, the question is, “What to do with Christian Ponder?”

I have been and will continue to be a fan of Christian Ponder. Never have I seen more vitriol from Vikings fans as I have seen toward Ponder. Fans weren’t this vicious about Brad Childress, and he nearly brought the franchise to its knees. But we are where we are, so the Vikings have a dilemma.

For all intent and purpose, Ponder seems more like a goner than to remain a member of the Vikings organization. If the Vikings were to hold on to Ponder, and if Cassel were to get injured or fail, and if Freeman was significantly delayed in picking up the offense, it would be hard to go back to a guy so disliked by the fan base. You can look over every franchise in the last 15 or 20 years and ask, “Has any team gone back to a former starter, who was benched?”

The Vikings are not alone in this. The Jets face that same dilemma with Mark Sanchez.

So, if Ponder is to be dealt, where are some likely places he could wind up, and what could the Vikings get in value for him? Well, let’s find out!

Ponder’s Value

Depending on whom the Vikings can trade with and that team’s situation, I believe the Vikings should be able to get a third or fourth round pick for Ponder. That’s a far cry for a former No. 12 selection, but something is better than nothing.

Worst case scenario is that you get no takers and the Vikings release him at season’s end, or sooner. But, Ponder does have trade value, and I am sure Rick Spielman will be working the phones pretty heavily once that decision is made.

Remember, the Vikings are most likely still in a holding pattern because one, Cassel could get hurt and Freeman isn’t ready, or two, Freeman is probably two weeks from possibly being handed the reins for the remainder of the season, and who knows how he will play, so there will not be a quick decision on Ponder’s fate.

My guess is Freeman makes his first start against the Packers. Advantage Vikings because the Packers would not have any current game film as a Viking, only tape from Buccaneers games and Freeman’s tendencies.

As it goes, time will tell how this all plays out, but in all likelihood, Ponder will be dealt before season’s end, or at the very least once the season is over and other teams can evaluate  their quarterback situations.

Another factor is whether teams are looking at Ponder as a possible starter or as a backup who has significant playing time. The following slides are possible landing places for Christian Ponder.

Arizona Cardinals

This would be an ideal place for Ponder. One, Carson Palmer is 33. He has had a pretty good career, but he is a lot closer to the end now, and the possibility of injury increases. His backup is Drew Stanton, who has four starts in his 7-yr career. The other quarterback on the roster is Ryan Lindley. Lindley is only in his second season, but his four starts last year were pretty ugly. Zero touchdowns and seven INTs and a 46.1 QBR.

Bruce Arians has a history with quarterbacks. He was Peyton Manning’s first QB coach. Then he had Big Ben Roethlisberger in Pittsburgh. He had rookie Andrew Luck last year, posting a 9-3 record in Chuck Pagano’s absence. Now, he has Carson Palmer, and could be a great coach for young Ponder.

This makes sense because the Cardinals have a pretty competitive team. Are they in the Seahawks or 49ers class right now, no, but they have a solid defense, strong receiving corps, and just need to have that steady reliable back. Ponder could sit and learn, and based on Palmer’s career nearing its sunset, could slide in after Palmer hangs them up. Plus, they wouldn’t have to change the initials for any references out there in the desert from Carson Palmer to Christian Ponder. Just sayin’.

Kansas City Chiefs

Andy Reid is no dummy. He has to have an insurance policy behind Alex Smith. Smith is 29, but has had a stressful career. Although he is enjoying recent success, having Ponder as his backup would be a pretty good insurance should Smith get injured or lose his recent pension for being a strong game manager.

Why it makes sense? Reid runs a west coast style offense that Ponder could easily adapt to. And, in some ways, Ponder is most likely a late bloomer, just as Smith appears to be. Also, Ponder brings an athleticism that Chase Daniel and Tyler Bray do not. Andy likes athletic quarterbacks for the most part.

Mentioning Daniel and Bray, both have zero starts between them. Yes, Bray is a rookie, and he could easily remain the third quarterback, but the Chiefs are competitive right now, and in to the foreseeable future, so a bonafide backup with plenty of starts under his belt should not be a significant drop off.

If you’re a Chiefs fan who would you rather see come in should Smith go down, Chase Daniel or Christian Ponder?

New Orleans Saints

Oh, here it comes. Oh when the Saints, oh when the Saints, oh when the Saints come marching in. This is probably the most unlikely of the trades posited at this point, but hang on and keep reading, you may agree.

Drew Brees has been phenomenal. In fact, I always felt that given time and the right coaching, Ponder could be a slightly flawed replica of Brees. This could be his chance.

There are a few quarterbacks who have memorable careers, put up gaudy numbers, and come away as champions. Drew Brees one, San Diego Chargers, zero. Who has the last laugh on that deal?

I don’t expect Ponder to wind up in that rarified air. He could, but at this point, the realistic observant says that Ponder could have a pretty nice career when it’s all said and done. New Orleans would be a nice destination for Ponder.

Drew Brees is 34 and is in his 13^th season. He looks good enough to play for another five or six years, but as in most QB cases, when the skills go south, they go south in a hurry. Brees would be a phenomenal mentor for Christian, and again, God forbid Brees goes down, but Ponder is a better option than Luke McCown, who is in his 10^th year and has a total of nine starts and is now with his 5^th team.

St. Louis Rams

Yes, the Rams have Sam Bradford, but how much longer do they maintain patience with him? Yes, from a pocket perspective and scouting report, Bradford is a more solid pocket passer than Ponder, but the mobility factor is something that may intrigue Fisher, who resides in a division of two pretty mobile quarterbacks, Russell Wilson and Colin Kaepernick. Plus, other than that weird 2010 season where the Rams made the playoffs, Bradford’s record as a starter is 18-34-1.

Sam Bradford was the No. 8 pick in 2010, but has yet to play up to that billing. He has never had more than a QBR of 83. He throws TDs, 55 thus far, but also has his fair share of INTs, 37. He is having a decent start to this year, but nothing spurs the battle more than a quarterback competition, and with Kellen Clemons as Bradford’s backup, that’s not a lot of competition for him.

Other Possible Destinations

This is the NFL, and much like politics, can sometimes make for strange bedfellows.

Some may speculate teams like the Browns, Jaguars, heck, maybe even Houston, could be interested in Ponder. Don’t be surprised to hear rumors of the Packers. Who does Rodgers have to back him up? That search is still under way. If Matt Flynn can throw six touchdowns in one game for the Packers, surely it’s a quarterback friendly system where Ponder may serve as a capable backup. Oh, the irony is not lost on me, I assure you.

This is purely a speculation piece, and no one other than the Vikings front office really knows what the situation is and what their plans are for moving forward, whether that includes Christian Ponder or not.

One thing is for sure, three starting caliber quarterbacks means you have no starting quarterback. The Vikings will have to do something soon, whether it is to keep Ponder, start Freeman, Cassel, or one of a dozen possible scenarios, the conversation from the front office down to the coaches and on down to the players will have to be one where everyone is on the same page, and that no one is leaking information, or saying something to the public contrary to what the organization wants.

As a fan of Ponder, I wish him well. I still feel strongly that he will have a decent NFL career. I usually reserve judgment on players for the first five years. After all, Newton was a world beater his first year, yet now seems to struggle, and he has some pretty stout players around him as well. Colin Kaepernick, every magazine’s cover “bad” boy is now seeing that the NFL is a pretty astute place and that you’re blind luck is only going to get you so far.

Bottom line, players deserve a full evaluation. Apparently, the Vikings saw an opportunity to get a first round caliber player in Josh Freeman. Only time will tell if that pays off. I am in the corner that says Ponder deserved to at least have this full season as the starter in order to have a full two-year evaluation for the staff to go on. That is not going to be the case. And, I don’t think you would have gotten much of an argument from Freeman to stay as a backup given all the drama surrounding him. Plus, it would give him plenty of time to learn the offense and make the off-season a season of competition. Instead, it has accelerated the organizations hand in making a decision.

A good kid, stand up guy, and probably late bloomer, is most likely being shown the door. Good luck Christian, wherever you go or wind up.

2012 NFL Mock Comparison...Me vs. Them

Perhaps it sounds a little self-serving and perhaps so, but the last time I interviewed for a job the principal wanted to see my resume. It was a record of responsibilities, accomplishments, goals, etc. Ergo, the reason for this article posting is to showcase that I, with hardy research, common sense, deductive reasoning and a host of other blessings, was able to put together a comprehensive NFL mock draft for Rounds One and Two.

In the beginning I was not looking to compete with anyone. I was merely putting together what I thought was a reasonable draft board. Of course I looked at many mock drafts, who doesn't, but I saw many mocks that just looked to be a mish-mosh of the top 50 players and that was it. Or, I noticed that some who attempted to mock only understood the teams from within the division their team dwells within. As for me, I was looking at the Vikings, my team. We had an abysmal year; one to forget for sure, and I mocked the Vikings all seven rounds, but my point here is, I wanted to challenge myself and here were the final results.

As I mentioned in my FB page, I awarded each candidate 1 point for a direct player hit and .5 for a position hit, but it had to be the exact position. It's not as if I gave credit to someone who had a defensive end (DE) as their choice, but the team chose a defensive tackle (DT).

The challengers were as follows:

Mike Mayock, NFL Network, who has a sturdy reputation in terms of evaluating talent, etc.
Charles Davis, NFL Network, a well respected colleague of Mayock's and former player.
Mel Kiper, JR, a mainstay within the ESPN monopoly.
Todd McShay, another ESPN spokesperson who came on to the scene more as an antagonist to Kiper than anything else.
Peter King of Sports Illustrated, a very well respected sports journalist. I give Peter great credit because he covers most sports; whereas the names mentioned above cover football only.
Matt Miller, a featured columnist and top gun for Bleacher Report. Matt also covers a variety of sports, but he knows his football.
Nolan Nawrocki of Pro Football Weekly, a very well respected arm of the NFL journalism spectrum.
WalterFootball.com, a compilation site that is a tremendous source for research and the home to much of my information.

Last note before I get to this. I consulted a variety of websites for my research. NFL.com, CBSSports.com, ESPN.com, Walterfootball.com, Draftek.com, Footballsfuture.com, and newnfldraft.com

Okay, to the scoring, here are the results for Round One

Mike Mayock: Mike had 5 direct player hits and 10 position hits for a total of 10 points.

Charles Davis: Charles had 6 direct hits and 6 position hits for a total of 9 points.

Mel Kiper, Jr: Mel had 8 direct hits and 8 position hits for a total of 12 points.

Todd McShay: McShay had 6 direct hits and 7 position hits for a total of 9.5 points.

Peter King: Mr. King had 6 direct player hits and 7 position hits for a total of 9.5 points.

Matt Miller: Matt had 6 direct hits and 7 position hits for a total of 9.5 points.

Nolan Nawrocki: Nolan had 5 direct player hits and 8 position hits for a total of 9 points.

Walterfootball.com: They had 6 direct player hits and 7 position hits for a total of 9.5 points.

Me: Scott had 7 direct hits and 9 position hits for a total of 11.5 points.

Four of my direct hits were what most analysts had, so it was almost a given that each person would have those, but it was beyond those obvious picks where things got a little dicey. I am proud to call these as direct player hits.

Andrew Luck, Robert Girffin III, Trent Richardson, Matt Kalil, Fletcher Cox (Eagles), Dre Kirkpatrick (Bengals),
and David Wilson (Giants). I am probably most proud of the last one because of all the numerous mocks I saw, there was only one other who had the Giants taking a RB.

I hit the following teams for position, not necessarily exact player. Jacksonville, Kansas City, Cincinnati's second of their first round pick, Cleveland's second of their first round. I had them drafting Tannehill, who really should have dropped there, but instead the Dolphins drafted Tannehill and the Browns drafted Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State.

I also hit on Denver with a DT, Green Bay, Baltimore, and one of the Patriots picks.

Finally, I was stubborn about the Miami pick. I was in denial that Tannehill would go that high, but it will be interesting to see how the kid works out for them. I am rooting for him.

So, Bottom Line, with a little research, common sense, and reasonable thinking, you might surprise yourself with what you can and/or are capable of doing. I appreciate you getting to this point, thanks.

2012 NFL Draft: Round One: V1.0

NOTE: This mock was written on April 4, 2012. The updated version can be found on Bleacher Report at: This mock is designed to look at Rounds One and Two only. I admire anyone who mocks an entire draft.

With that said, this approach will analyze straight up picks, no trades up or back. Although, I firmly believe there are several teams looking to trade their picks. At first I thought the Vikings might try to trade back, but when the Rams traded, the Vikings were pretty much sitting in the cat bird’s seat to draft Matt Kalil. Oops, gave one away already; not that it was any surprise though.

I think the Browns (already notified the media, including the Russians), Dolphins, Seahawks, Cowboys, Jets, and of course, the Patriots may be willing to deal. However, let’s look at Rounds One and Two pick for pick with brief analysis for each pick.

Indianapolis Colts – RG III, err I mean, Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

Colts pull the surprise of the draft….Just kidding, Andrew Luck is 99.95% a Colt, although the arguments have been made for both players. In my estimation either guy would be a great pick, it just depends on the type of offense you want to run in Indy.

Washington Redskins – RG III, QB, Baylor

Now this is the real pick and every reason the Redskins gave up the Department of Justice to get it. Again, all joking aside, RG III is a dynamic player who will remind Redskins fans why chasing Michael Vick around the last two years was worth it. They will now have a younger, more astute version of MV. Sky is the limit for this quality kid.

Minnesota Vikings – Matt Kalil, T, USC

I think this is the first time that I have seen where the top three players are universal across most mock drafts. The contrarians have the Vikings drafting Claiborne, nice try or smoke screen.

If the Vikings pass on Kalil there will be riots in the Twin Cities. Although let me say, it would not be surprising to see the Vikings trade down with Bucs so the Bucs can draft Trent Richardson, and the Browns will be left at the altar once again.

Cleveland Browns – Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

This might be a little high for Richardson, but the Browns, short of a trade back have little choice. Justin Blackmon is also a possibility, but Holmgren knows what division he is in and a strong running game is paramount in this division. Richardson gives them that power, explosiveness and speed to git’r done.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

Things could get a little interesting here as well. The Bucs went buck wild in free agency. I think they spent way too much for Eric Wright, and even with that they select Claiborne who is a quality shut down type with great speed and quickness. He’s smooth and at times looks effortless. Barber is 100-yrs old, so Claiborne makes total sense here.

St. Louis Rams – Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

The Rams breathe a sigh of relief to know that Blackmon is available; the trade pays off in a big way. Blackmon possesses all the necessary tools to be the featured receiver in an offense that lacks punch and reminiscences of the greatest show on turf.

Jacksonville Jaguars – Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

The Jaguars are in a unique position, but also that no man’s land. I always feel that from pick No.7 to pick No. 13 is a tough area to pick. Are you reaching for player, or do you just look at best athlete at position? It’s always tough.

I harken back to the Vikings. In 2007 at No. 7 they chose Adrian Peterson even though they had Chester Taylor. Last year they are at No. 12 and pick Christian Ponder, of whom some said was a reach. So you never know how this is going to play out.

Some have the Jags drafting for defense, but their offense struggled way too much last year, and I see Mularkey getting help for his embattled quarterback; therefore, they add another receiver to go with Laurent Robinson because neither of the other Jaguar receivers are feature receivers. Floyd can be that guy.

Miami Dolphins – Melvin Ingraham, DE/OLB, South Carolina

I seriously believe the Dolphins will try and trade this spot because to draft Tannehill at No. 8 is a big stretch. I like Tannehill, but I saw him more as a late first early second round pick. If they could trade down four or five spots then the selection of Tannehill would not be seen as that bad of a reach because the team at least got another two or more picks from the trade.

I don’t give a crap what Todd McShay says, Miami should not feel desperate because they lost out on Manning and Flynn because there is a silver lining to all of this, next year’s quarterback crop is supposed to be deeper than this year and the Dolphins might be at or around where they are this year and could have its pick of quarterback. I don’t want to say throw away the season, but Moore has shown to be capable and the Dolphins cannot force the issue and push the panic button. It always comes back to haunt you. Tannehill has 19 starts. He needs time. If they rush him in, it could be disastrous.

With that said, Ingraham adds a nice complement to Cameron Wake and the Dolphins defense is at least able to keep the teams in games. Most scouts believe that Ingraham is a more consistent player than Coples, although Coples can look incredible at times.


Carolina Panthers – Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis

The Panthers are in a good position because there are several players sitting there relative to their team needs, but with Floyd and Blackmon off the board, there is no other receiver rated to go this high. They could look to Riley Reiff, but there is a greater need.

Some may see this as a reach but the Panthers really need to address their woeful run stop game. The Panthers gave up nearly 131 yards per game. Poe is a big body with great athleticism reminiscent of Haloti Ngata.

Buffalo Bills – Riley Reiff, T, Iowa

Buffalo has several areas of immediate need, but protecting their new million dollar quarterback is paramount, and with the signings of Derek Anderson, DE and Mario Williams, DE/OLB, they can turn their attention to the offensive line.

According to the Bills depth chart the only player listed at LT is Chris Hairston. Reiff is considered one tier below Kalil, but that may not be a bad thing.

Kansas City Chiefs – Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

The Chiefs could consider David DeCastro, G, Stanford, but their need is greater at Tackle, so the Chiefs could make that trade with the Dolphins and then select Reiff, T, Iowa and the Dolphins may go with Tannehill here, but that is all speculation.

Straight up, the Chiefs gave up 132 YPG in rush defense and Brockers would be a solid pick to slide in to the middle to shore up an eye sore.

Seattle Seahawks – David DeCastro, G, Stanford

By signing Matt Flynn, the Seahawks now have to shore up an offensive line that lost Robert Gallery, DeCastro is a nice consolation prize.

The Seahawks could also look to go with Luke Kuechly, OLB, Boston College, or Quinton Coples, DE, UNC, but the primary need is O-Line.

Arizona Cardinals – Jonathan Martin, T, Stanford

This was a tough one because the Cardinals would have liked to have seen Reiff drop here, but again, teams drafting ahead of the Cardinals look for needs and LT is coveted and Kalil and Reiff are the top two.

The Cardinals do not have a pick in Round Two so they have got to get the guy they need, but again, there is a market here to trade down and the Cardinals could very well do that. A team that really likes Devon Still or Fletcher Cox, or even Luke Kuechly could pull a trade here.

With that said, and no trade, the Cardinals draft Martin who is a big man who did very well protecting Andrew Luck. Plus, he keeps the mascot name of Cardinal, too easy.

Don’t rule out Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama, but this may be a little too high for him.

Dallas Cowboys – Quinton Coples, DE, UNC

Jerry Jones is steaming over the fact that DeCastro is not there, and since they signed Dan Conner they lose out on Kuechly and Courtney Upshaw. Jones wants to trade down, but since his asking price is equivalent to the purchase of a small pacific island they select Coples.

Other than Ware the Cowboys have difficulty getting to the quarterback and with the Giants and Manning, the Eagles with Vick and most likely RG III with the Redskins, pressure on the QB is paramount.

Philadelphia Eagles – Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

With the acquisition of DeMeco Ryans, it is unlikely they will look at Luke Kuechly or Courtney Upshaw. The Eagles can look to fill the middle up front with Cox.

There is a possibility the Eagles could look at Devon Still if the Cowboys grab Cox, and wouldn’t Jerry Jones love to rub Reid’s rhubarb.

Cincinnati Bengals – Cordy Glenn, G, Georgia

Cincinnati made great strides last year, and although they still have several need areas, one is the guard position and Glenn is a powerful run blocker. They could go for Kirkpatrick here and hope that Glenn is available at 21, but with the Chargers at 18, the Bears at 19, and the Titans at 20 who are also looking to shore up their interior line, this is a smart pick.

San Diego Chargers – Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

The Chargers could grab Kevin Zeitler, G, Wisconsin, but he is projected more as a Round Two selection. Mercilus can be merciless when it comes to the quarterback. Besides, this is a need area for the Chargers as their defense last year only came up with 32 sacks and Antwan Barnes had 11 of those. Plus, if they lose Luis Castillo, that makes this pick even more important.

Another possibility if Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama, but his stock seems to have dropped lately. Plus, they signed Jarrett Johnson.

Chicago Bears – Kevin Zeitler, G, Wisconsin

This may seem to be a bit of a reach given Zeitler’s grade was as a second round selection, but the other top guards are gone and with the acquisition of Brandon Marshall, the Bears will not see WR as an initial need, although they may look at that in Round Two given Johnnie Knox’s situation.

The Bears need interior help, and even though Zeitler follows Carimi as Badgers to the Bears, it is about necessity and making Jay Cutler some more security.

Tennessee Titans – Nick Perry, DE, USC

In looking at who the Titans may like at this position, I found that some of the picks they may desire are gone while others may be a reach at this point. I do not think Perry is a reach. On several boards he was rated anywhere from 15-25 and is ranked No. 3 for DE’s.

I don’t think there is any doubt that Coach Munchak wants to have a dominant offensive and defensive line and to work outward from there. Perry fits in nicely with Munchak’s rebuilding of the defensive line.

Cincinnati Bengals – Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

This pick makes perfect sense for the Bengals. After shoring up their interior line to help Andy Dalton, now they can focus on an area of weakness on the defense.

Kirkpatrick is probably the top rated DB coming out of the draft next to Claiborne. He will make Bengals fans very happy. There’s champagne being poured in Cincinnati as they begin to build a team that will overtake the AFC North.

Cleveland Browns – Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

The Browns wanted RG III no doubt, but there is no reason to believe they will just draft another QB just to draft a QB, but… Tannehill is a quality QB who many feel may start over Colt McCoy. Yes, Tannehill could go earlier, but most teams are pretty secure in who their starters are. One could argue the Browns don’t have to push the panic button and could draft a WR here to further bolster McCoy’s chances.

If they draft a WR here in this spot and with Richardson, yet the Browns still look flat on offense, then the lack of offense can be pointed at McCoy, but if they draft these weapons and McCoy advances his play then they would have chosen wisely.

My take is too much pressure forces the Browns to take Tannehill here. And honestly, this is about the area of Round One where Tannehill’s name begins to surface.

Detroit Lions – Janoris Jenkins, DB, Northern Alabama

The Lions are sporting high fives as Jenkins drops into their lap. There is an argument that Jenkins may turn out to be the best of the DB bunch, but there is also a risk and the reason he drops to this point.

The Lions defense gets a significant upgrade at a position that was torched last year.

Pittsburgh Steelers – Devon Still, NT, Penn State

At this point in Round One, the Steelers stand in that area where best player available (BPA) comes into play. They really have three need areas, OL, DL, CB.

Of the three position areas, Still or Jerel Worthy are rated higher than the next highest players at OL and DB. I went with DL because age has become a factor for this stout group and with Still they get a powerful guy who can work behind Casey Hampton, or alongside him.

Denver Broncos – Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

The Broncos seemed to have addressed areas of need on offense, especially with Manning, although I am still upset with how they dealt with Tebow.

Gilmore is a player who can come in right away and play. He’s a smart, savvy player who has really helped his draft stock. Although I thought Gilmore was more of an early Round Two player, there is a need for certain players and sometimes you have to do what you need to do and since the Broncos need CB or S, this one makes the most sense.

Houston Texans – Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Again, another tough one, but there are two schools of thought here, one, Andre Johnson needs help. He has had an adequate support cast, but Wright gives them an added dimension.

I almost went with Stephen Hill here, but Hill and Johnson are mirror receiver types and Wright gives the Texans that Desean Jackson type of receiver. If you thought the Texans offense was potent last year, wait until you see this one explode on defenses.

New England Patriots (from New Orleans) – Jerel Worthy – DT, Michigan State

The obvious is obvious, the Patriots need some serious help on defense and the best place to start is in the middle and losing Mark Anderson didn’t help. The signing of Fanene just seemed to be more of a tit for tat type of transaction.
There is a chance the Patriots could go DB or S here but they have another choice in Round One unless Belichick decides to bundle and move up, or stand pat and draft BPA.

Worthy helps a front line that had more rotations than a pole dancer.

Green Bay – Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama

The Packers were in a similar position last year as the Patriots, but the Packers problem was they ran into a Giants defense that was playing better than any defense in the playoffs. Ergo, the Pack were sent packing and their defense was too much of a liability.

Upshaw gives them a credible threat on the end to book end with Matthews. My only concern is that Upshaw’s draft stock has dropped, but on balance, Upshaw’s body of work makes him a late first round pick, so this seems about right.

Baltimore Ravens – Dont’a Hightower, ILB, Alabama

Back to back Tide players go here, but more out of necessity than just being Crimson Tide players. Ray Lewis has been a phenomenal player, but there will be a time to replace the ageless wonder.

Hightower is a nasty player who would relish learning from one of the game’s best. However, if the Steelers happen to grab Hightower, the Ravens may look at Mike Adams, T, Ohio State, or Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin.

San Francisco 49ers – Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin

With the signings of Randy Moss and Mario Manningham, it would appear the 49ers are not going to select a WR here because there are two other areas of need as well, OL and CB.

The 49ers interior line needs help and Konz is the best value at this point. With the loss of Snyder and Goodwin will be 34, either C or G needs to be addressed. Had one of the top CB’s dropped that position could have been addressed, but for the Niners, addressing the line seems paramount at this time.

New England Patriots – Mark Barron, SS, Alabama

This is prime time Belichick time. You have to know those little Gerbel wheels are running feverishly through Coach Belichick’s mind. I would not be surprised to see him trade out this pick to accumulate more for this year or next.

The Patriots could also look to Andre Branch, DE, Clemson to combine with Worthy which would certainly make a lot of sense as well.

New York Giants – Mike Adams, T, Ohio State

Hang on, hang on New York fans before you go putting my address on twitter hear me out. Most scouts feel the two primary needs for the Giants are OL and MLB. I know Fleener looks like the attractive choice, but with the signing of Bennett, that gives me pause to have Fleener going at this point.

With that said, Adams gives them a big son-of-a-gun of a tackle. He is a solid run blocker with a mean streak, but needs work in the pass protection game. Also, he would most likely be better suited at RT until he learns more about the LT position if they want to project him for that spot.

This is a solid pick. As for the MLB position, I just don’t see another MLB outside of Kuechly and Hightower worth taking this high.

Well, that does it for Round One, stay tuned for Round Two

Minnesota Vikings 2010 Season: A Season That Could Have Been

Well, as of this writing the Vikings are 3-7. If you had asked most Vikings fans at the beginning of the season what the Vikings record would be after week 10, it probably would have been the reverse of what it is. But like the old/new cliche, it is what it is. The team is on the breaking point. Up to this point they have been very cool with the media saying all is copasetic in the locker room. What we saw yesterday was a near implosion, but of course that is to be expected. Are we surprised to see this? We shouldn't, don't most people allow things to fester before the veritable outward expressions that would indicate frustration. So, with that being said, here are some of the reasons the Vikings season has been less than expected.

First, as a Vikings fan for 40 years I have not seen a collapse of this magnitude. Forget about the Super Bowl expectations, this has been a collapse that's hard to compare to other collapses. Of similar fashion, there are 3 that come to mind: 1972 the Vikings went 7-7 after finishing 11-3 the previous year. 1972 was also Fran's first year back after the trade with the Giants.

The second one would be 2001. The previous year the Vikings went 11-5 and lost to the Giants (in an embarrassing fashion) in the playoffs, and in 2001 went 5-11 with basically the same team. That year Dennis Green was fired and replaced by Mike Tice.

And now here we are in 2010 looking at a total collapse from a 12-4 team the previous year and with essentially the same players on the roster, and would it not be ironic should they finish 4-12? I am not a superstitious man (insert Gregorian chant here) but here is an eery thought, so far this decade has been one not up to the standards of this organization. We started this decade in 2001 at 5-11, how will we end the decade in 2010?
So, how did this year’s collapse come to pass?

We would have to go back to the summer. It took a chartered plane and 3 players to woo Favre out of retirement, and then when he got to camp he heard the news that Sydney Rice was going to be out at least the first 8 games. Then he loses his starting center, Percy Harvin battled migraines of monstrous proportion, Bernard Berrian was his tender self, and then we lose both starting corners to start of the year. Yes, all teams have injuries, but it was the offensive injuries, coupled with their inability to work together that started the downslide. They attempted to patch things up with trades with Miami for Camarillo and then the Patriots for Randy Moss, clearly the beginning of the lowest point for this team this year.

In the NFL it can be a snowball effect. I think many pundits continued to believe in the Vikings because of the talent they had and the fact that #4 was under center, but when one loss led to another, then to another, and finally the debacle in Chicago, it was over. The Green Bay could have given them a glimmer of hope, but after the 1st quarter it was obvious, this team is just not very good right now.

I would not be surprised to see ownership make a move this week relative to coaching. The Green Bay disaster was the final nail in the coffin of this team's year. Sort of like Dallas versus Green Bay. Isn't that ironic? Green Bay fans can happily parade about while wolfing down their Brats and slurping down their beer, how they were responsible for the firing of 2 coaches in one year. I find that amusing and fitting. The Vikings will promote from within, so it will either be Bevell or Frazier. My money is on Frazier simply because of his current title as Assistant Head Coach, which in my world, he is part of the Childress problem and should be gone as well, but most likely not going to happen. If Childress is not fired there is a chance he stays for the entire year. What that says about Favre I cannot speculate other than to say, he should continue to start.


Now, as for Favre. Okay, the season is over, but you know what, the guy deserves to go out on his own terms. I say FIRE CHILLY, (which just happened a few hours ago) promote Bevell (which didn’t happen, they promoted Frazier) and let Favre basically Peyton Manning the rest of the season (call his own plays). I get tired of people saying all that they say about this guy. Vikings fans were all so excited we nearly wet ourselves when we got him, and when he returned we wet ourselves again, so stop crying and moaning about this guy. Look at all the exigent circumstances; predictable offense, predictable defense, inconsistent special teams play and that is the recipe for a 3-7 team.

Yes, this is a season that could have been, but isn't going to be. Like any setback, we can bemoan our situation, or find the positive and move forward.

We have 6 games remaining, let's have fun, and let's watch the old man play this out and finish it with a smile. But the first question Frazier will be asked is whether he will bench Favre in favor of Jackson? Stay tuned!

As always, given the title of this here blog, here's the Bottom Line. We had great hopes for this season, no doubt, but that didn't come to fruition, so it's up to the management, the insiders to the organization to get this thing figured out. Childress has obviously lost this team, and a movement will be made, but let's hope we don't just simply put this in the hands of someone they "think" might be able to do the job. I mention 4 names for the next head coach and they are: Bill Cowher (nearly impossible), Jon Gruden (possibly impossible), Rob Ryan or Mike Pettine, Jr.

Have faith Vikings fans, we'll be back before you know it, our history proves that out. SKOL VIKES!!!!

Vikings 2010 Post Round One Analysis: Pepto Bismal Time

Okay, it's Friday and many Vikings fans sat up last night only to hear the 30th pick was traded to, of all teams, a division rival. Being that I am just an armchair wannabe football executive, let's look at today and tomorrow and what the Vikings could very well do to help situations immediate and future. I know, this looks like hindsight is 20/20, or Monday morning QB, but just go with me here.

In fairness to myself, trying to pick picks is like trying to shoot a quarter in a dark room. Yet we soldier on and further inflict even more stress on ourselves. So, here goes, revision of the Vikings draft, although there are some overlaps of an earlier article of mine.

Quarterback: Do they or don't they? Clausen, McCoy? Or do they consider Pike, Lefevour, or Snead a little later? One thing is for sure, this could help in 2011 or 2012, or set us back if we believe Tarvaris is heir apparent and still falls on his face. We are actually in a pickle. Brett has one more year and then it's open QB season. What if the Vikings opt out of this draft for a QB and T-Jack fails? People will look back on what could have been. As a wannabe executive, I try to drop another 5 - 8 picks and grab McCoy.

O-Line: McKinnie is, well, McKinnie, Hutchison is climbing the age ladder and Hererra is teetering. I have no doubt something will be addressed. They could go Asamoah (G, Illinois) in the 2nd round, or hold off and go guard or center late 2nd or 3rd. If they drop the 34th pick, maybe 2 or 3 lineman could be chosen.

D-Line: Here the pickings are mixed. No doubt Pat Williams will retire after this next year, and Kennedy and Guion are temporary stop-gaps. Maybe Mount Cody (ALA), or Price (UCLA) in the 2nd, maybe Cam Thomas (UNC) late 2nd. After Thomas the talent pool drops off and at best you are looking at average starters or back ups.

DB's: Decision time, but this always seems to be a deep field. Vikings are okay for the interim, but looking a few years down the road could push their hand in the 2nd round. I am not necessarily sold on Cook from UVA, and Arenas (BAMA) at 5'9" hurts him. Again, I think this is now 3rd and 4th round territory for the Vikings. As for safety, I am not as big a Mays fan as I was last year. The 2 guys I am intrigued by are: Jones (LSU), and Wright (FLA). I see a definite 3rd here.

LB’s: I hate to sound redundant, but I am worried about Henderson’s return, and I am not sure if Brinkley is the long term answer. I would love Sean Lee in round 2, but most likely it will not happen, there are other areas they will go. I am looking at Angerer (IOWA) or Butler (Washington) 4th round.

WR: I know, what? I have given this some thought and there are some players that the Vikings could look at if they pick up another pick or two: Decker (MN) would have to be a late 2, but that is too early due to other needs. I am looking more at 4th and 5th round guys that could come in and contribute special teams: Jordan Shipley is an interesting thought for returns and a possible 4th receiver and he could be there as a 4th rounder. Also, there is Denario Alexander (Missouri) at 6’5”. You could also consider Jacoby Ford (Clemson) as a return man since Reynaud is now a RB.

Okay, enough said, let’s do this. Here is another stab at a revised draft post first round. (What a cheater, how do I sleep at night?)

If the order holds:

34: Trade down to anywhere from 38 (Cleve), 39 (Oak), or 41 (Bills), or at worst 48 (Panthers). Most likely the team that trades gets Clausen. Believe it or not, the Vikings are in a great position here at 34.

Let’s say they trade down to 41: Vikings get pick 107 and 209: Colt McCoy, QB

2nd round: (62): Lamar Houston, DT, Texas

3rd round: (93): Mike Johnson, G, Alabama

4th round: (100): Pat Angerer, LB, Iowa

4th round: (107 from Bills): Major Wright, S, Florida

5th round: Trade 161 and 167 to move up to 153: Eric Olsen, G, Notre Dame

6th round: (199): Brian Jackson, CB, Okalahoma

7th round: (209 from Bills): Kyle Bosworth, LB, UCLA

7th round: (214): Blair White, WR, Mich. St.

7th round: (237): A kicker here, or another DB.

Of course my chances of this even being remotely close are about as good as winning Powerball, maybe.

MInnesota Vikings 2010 Draft Outlook

As with all drafts teams face an immediate situation, as well as future considerations, and since the Minnesota Vikings are my favorite team, who were just one less turnover (if you will) away from heading to the Super Bowl, we (fans) gather together to feel the excitement of this year’s draft.

Now, as I said earlier, teams look to the immediate and to the future, and with the Vikings here are my thoughts on the direction the Vikings should draft. Bear in mind that unless you are in the locker room or in the so-called war room, we have no idea as to what their (draft player) board looks like or what their thoughts are on given players they have evaluated. In other words, this is one big guessing game, so let’s have some fun. I always judge a draft this way and it’s pretty simple. A first round pick is someone you expect to start year one. A second round pick can start year one, but most likely year two. A third rounder, year three and Rounds 4-7 fall into the three year expectation. Now that does not figure into special teams because some guys are strictly special teams players and can start year one. I didn’t say it was a scientific formula, just my take on it.

First, let’s look at some immediate needs for the Vikings. One area is in the defensive backfield area. With Winfield getting up there in years and Griffin coming off ACL surgery, and the question marks behind whether Johnson or Williams can handle the safety duties remains to be seen, this area is a MUST need. Need scale from 1-10: 8

Second, middle linebacker: With the loss of Henderson to a horrific injury and with football now in doubt, one would have to ask whether Brinkley can fill in to the point of the Vikings not immediately addressing this area. There doesn’t seem to be any real depth here because it is apparent that Farwell is basically a special teams star and the jury is out on Onatolu, who seems too light at 227 lbs. I am going to take a stab at this, Leber moves to the middle and the Vikings draft an OLB because there are more choices and the position is deeper. Need scale from 1-10: 6

Third, the Vikings could use some reassurance along the offensive line. It’s a solid unit, but it had some really shaky moments, and a great defense will exploit that. McKinnie for all of his issues is still a solid LT, although a trade would not surprise me if they could land a pick in that area, or where they can move Loadholt to LT and move someone out to RT, or draft a RT a little later in the 3rd or 4th round. Need scale from 1-10: 7

Fourth, running back: I think the Vikings are pretty happy with what they have here because they could have easily signed LT or Westbrook, but they chose not to, so my take is that, yes they might address this sometime in the draft, but unless some unbelievable opportunity presents itself they feel pretty good with Peterson, Young, Johnson and now Reynaud. Plus, don’t forget about Harvin as an added dimension to the running game. I loved Taylor though. Man, losing him was like losing one of your best dogs on a sled team, no disrespect intended. Need scale from 1-10: 3

Lastly, quarterback: I have to say that I am a believer in Favre. In the past I saw him play maybe four or five times a year, but this past year I saw him play about seventeen times and the legend is reality, too bad we couldn’t get him about four years ago, I know we’d be toting some Super Bowl bling. Anyhow, I am hopeful that he returns and if the Vikings have an opportunity to draft a QB they should do it, but again, more on that later. This is looking to the future, for now, he’s as good as there is. With him we are a perennial 12-4 team, without him 10-6 or 9-7. He’s worth at least 3 more victories a year. Need scale from 1-10: 8 (if they can get the right guy)

Okay, so here we go it’s draft day and as of today (Friday, April 16) the Vikings draft at #’s 30, 62, 93, 128, 161, 167, 199, 237. Here is my dream draft with a few other possibilities thrown in for each round.

Quarterback: Colt McCoy, Texas. Here’s why: Yeah, he’s only 6’1” but he is the most accurate QB coming out of the draft. He is a winner. He is smart and athletic. Realistically: Will he be there at #30? If he is and the Vikings pass then their interest in a franchise QB is not there and if they do draft a QB it will be 3rd or 4th round perhaps.

Possibility: Tim Tebow, Florida. This is an intriguing pick because everyone knows Tim is not ready for NFL play yet, but Lord knows his leadership is without equal and he will outwork everybody else. Again, I say intriguing because you are going to have to wait on him at least 2 years. Can the Vikings afford that? If so, don’t be surprised.

Earlier I had Dan LeFevour, Central Michigan, but there seems to be problems with arm strength, and Childress seems to desire really strong arms. I don’t know, maybe because it sounded like Favre.

Offensive Line: Rodger Saffold, T, Indiana. There is a lot of good stuff written about this kid, but since he plays at Indiana you don’t see a lot of press on him. Could be a sleeper pick, and could definitely be there in round 2, maybe.

Vladimir Ducasse, T, UMass. Another intriguing pick that could be a sleeper or a bust. Book on him says great upside, but UMASS is not known for its NFL lineage.

Jon Asamoah, G, Illinois. Pretty solid all around. This does not seem to be a deep position in this year’s draft, so it’s likely that the top 2 or 3 guards will go fast, and Asamoah is top 2. Is he worth a #30 pick if a better positioned athlete is there remains to be seen, but if he’s thereat the end of round 2 (doubtful), it would be a bounty type pick for the Vikings. My guess if he is not there at all the Vikings will wait until round 3 or 4 to grab a backup G/C type, but even the Center position does not look deep, unless you think that a guy like Eric Olsen, C, Notre Dame could switch to Guard, but at 6’4” that seems unlikely. Other considerations are: Mitch Petrus, G, Arkansas, or Mike Johnson, G, Alabama.

Linebackers: Rolando McClain, Alabama will be gone by #30, and again, not a real deep position to draft high here, so the other viable choice is Dan Conner, ILB, Penn State. Need I say more about most PSU linebackers? He’s a solid 2nd round pick, but at #30, I don’t know if the Vikings take that chance. Is he a Chad Greenway type pick? Chad was a #16 pick but incredibly athletic and plays outside. Dan could be a great stopper in the middle, intelligence, leadership, and tackling are his high marks.

If ILB is a later round pick there are some possibilities: Brandon Spikes, Florida, Pat Angerer, Iowa. With a name like Angerer you know he’s tough and mean.

OLB: Here the field is deeper, which makes me believe the Vikings could switch Leber to middle if they get the right young flyer outside. My guess that the top 3 of Kindle, Weatherspoon and Graham are gone by #30, but if one is there they might grab him. Most likely Weatherspoon seems to be the one that might drop to 30. Again, this is contingent that my overall first round favorite, McCoy is not there. However, there are about 4 guys who are very intriguing and could be solid number 2 picks: Navarro Bowman, Penn State, Jerry Hughes, TCU, Eric Norwood, South Carolina, and Darryl Washington, TCU.

Defensive Backs: Now, I know that I gave this an immediate need of 8, but this is a deep field. The Vikings can definitely get pretty much the guy they want here at 30 because the field is relatively deep, but overall blue chippers, there are only about 3: Joe Haden, Florida, Earl Thomas, Texas, and Kyle Wilson, Boise State. There are some marginal blue chippers in Kareem Jackson, Alabama, and Kevin McCourty from Rutgers. However, one of these will be there for them if they so choose. Deeper in the draft you could see names like Kevin Thomas, USC, or Walter McFadden, Auburn, Jerome Murphy, South Florida.

Safety: Well, we know for sure that Eric Berry, Tennessee will NOT be there at 30 but there is a possibility that Taylor Mays, USC may be there, but now the word on Mays is that he is more of an OLB type; that he has problems in coverage, and with today’s offenses you cannot have someone guessing back there. If they take Mays I will be disappointed, let Dallas have him. He could turn out to be an Ed Reed type, or a bust. I don’t think this is a #30 type pick they need, so if it is a 2nd round or 3rd round type pick my money is on Morgan Burnett, Georgia Tech or Major Wright, Florida.

Finally, Defensive Line: Looking to the future because this is most likely Pat Williams last year and Kevin Williams turns 30. I feel pretty confident in the back ups with Guion, Kennedy and Evans, but if there is a bull built stud that can plug and disrupt by all means, draft one. Drafting at 30 is a good position because a DT taken at 30 doesn’t have the same pressure as one in the upper or middle of the round. It’s safe to say that Suh, Nebraska, McCoy, Oklahoma, and Dan Williams, Tennessee will most likely be gone, so that leaves a couple of interesting guys like, Jared Odrick, Penn State, although I think he’s too tall, and shorter guards can get leverage under the 6’5” Odrick. Also, there’s Lamarr Houston, Texas. Had DWI in 2008, but clean since. This guy is an interesting pick because he has good size, strength and speed. He’s no Kevin Williams, but the problem for the Vikings is that he may be too much like Williams, build wise; whereas a Cam Thomas from North Carolina is 330 lbs. If you have a typical 4-3 defense most of the times you want the heavyweight and the light-heavyweight in the middle; one being the big run stuffer, occupy two blockers, while the light-heavyweight scoots through for the glory.

Well, there you have it, but here is my final, final, ultimate results draft; well, call it a dream draft of number one’s. I will only project out to pick number 128 though. They have 4 more picks beyond that.

At pick 30: Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

62: Major Wright, S, Florida
93: Pat Angerer, ILB, Iowa, or Darryl Washington, OLB, TCU
128: Mitch Petrus, G, Arkansas
Finally, pick 237: Best athlete available regardless of position.

The Vikings will look for DB’s, another LB position for special teams, maybe even a TE. Don’t be surprised if they take a position that is not necessarily a need because of the best athlete factor. Also, with 8 picks they could package a two picks for one to move up if they see someone they like, but feel like they will be gone soon. That would be a good move to give up maybe your 161 and 199 to move up to a late 140 to mid 150’s choice. Feel free to call me insane, out of my mind, illogical, genius, on the mark, whatever, it's all fun and games until someone loses an eye, but I am willing to take my chances here. Have a great one!