MUG's Bronco's Mock (Detailed Explanation)

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Due to requests, I'll share some research and thoughts on my Bronco Mock selections:

1) DT Frank Okam - Texas
2) LB Ali Highsmith - LSU
4) FS Eric Wicks - West Virginia
4) FB Peyton Hillis - Arkansas
5) DT BJ Raji - Boston College
5) WR/KR Kevin Robinson - Utah State
7) OT Pedro Sosa - Rutgers
7) CB Trey Brown - UCLA



1. DT Frank Okam - Texas Size: 6'5", 325 lbs.

2007 Stats: 49 tackles, 10 stuffs, 5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 4 passes defended.

"A big, strong and explosive fourth-year player who elected to bypass the NFL Draft and return to UT for his senior season … a third-team All-America selection by The Associated Press … a member of the Bednarik Award, Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy watch lists … a three-time All-Big 12 selection … played in 49 career games, starting 38, and recorded 157 tackles, 10 sacks, 27 TFL, 46 pressures, 11 PBD, a forced fumble and five fumble recoveries … started all 12 games in 2007 … tabbed first-team All-Big 12 by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and second-team All-Big 12 by The Associated Press, Austin American-Statesman and the league’s coaches … tallied 49 tackles, 10 TFL, a team-high five sacks, 16 pressures, four PBD, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery … started 12 games in 2006 … earned honorable mention All-Big 12 honors from The Associated Press … was a preseason member of the Playboy All-America team … posted 38 tackles, six TFL, two sacks, 10 pressures and recovered a fumble … started all 13 games in 2005 … earned second-team All-Big 12 honors from the league’s coaches … notched 48 tackles, five TFL, 11 pressures, a sack, two PBD and two fumble recoveries, one of which was recovered in the end zone for a TD … earned first-team Freshman All-America honors from The Sporting News as a true freshman in 2004 … played in all 12 games in 2004, including one start … recorded 22 tackles, six TFL, nine pressures, five PBD, a fumble recovery and was second on the team with two sacks … was a Parade All-American as a prepster … a 2007 first-team Academic All-Big 12 selection … a four-time member of UT’s Athletics Director’s Honor Roll … graduated in December 2007 with a degree in sports management (three-and-a-half years)."

http://www.mackbrown-texasfootball.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=15&change_well_id=17&member_id=64


My thoughts:
I think he's a Top 20 draft pick regardless of what hacks like Kiper and McShay say at the moment, and I think he's the absolute best DT in this draft. He's a 4.0 student, which suggests he's going to pick up the defensive schemes quickly and stay out of trouble off the field. He's very articulate, so he could be a boon in the community. He's exceptionally strong and should fly up draft boards post combine, and he's been one of the most effective DTs, and the best NT, in the country for the past few years. Okam is a can't miss, dynamic Nose Tackle along the lines of Vince Wilfork and Haloti Ngata. And he should have the instant impact both of those players did. And Denver needs that impact. Badly.




2. LB Ali Highsmith - LSU Size: 6'1", 220 lbs.

2007 Stats: 93 tackles, 7.5 stuffs, 1.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 8 passes defended.

"Highsmith is an outstanding leader who has been a productive player for LSU. He's able to defend sideline-to-sideline and displays great recovery speed. Highsmith takes good angles, and while he has a nose for the ball, he shows good patience defending against the run. He has excellent awareness and drops back into coverage nicely. A lack of size and his inability to shed blocks is a concern at the next level."

http://profootballexperts.scout.com/2/687999.html


My Thoughts:
Highsmith's size limitations will probably cause him to fall further then he should based on pure talent, of which he has in spades. He excels in his versatility, which the Denver Broncos place an extreme importance on at WILL LB. Highsmith draws a ton of comparisons to Ian Gold, excelling in the areas Gold excels in, experiencing the same problems Gold does as well, namely being out muscled and blocked by OGs. Highsmith is going to require a solid D-line to keep blockers off him, but he may be a better tackler in open space then Ian Gold. I believe he could be the natural successor to Gold, and if nothing else, provides needed depth and special teams ability.




4. FS Eric Wicks - West Virginia Size: 6'1", 205 lbs.

2007 Stats: 48 Tackles, 7 stuffs, 2 sacks, 3 ints, and 8 passes defended

"Wicks is a physical defender who makes plays all over the field. He's strong at the point of attack and tracks down the opposition with his lateral quickness. He displays a solid burst of closing speed and takes good angles in defense. He's solid in coverage and possesses great ball skills. He has good range and makes plays sideline-to-sideline. He has to get stronger and work on his tackling technique, but he has great awareness and is improving. Wicks is a skilled defender who is better suited to play free safety at the next level. He has the potential to be very good player at the NFL level and will reward a team with his skill set."


My Thoughts:
3 year starter that has improved every season. Is a clubhouse leader and positive role model. Is very dangerous with the ball in his hands, returns just about anything for a TD. Is an EXCEPTIONAL blitzer. And has the ability to shut down TEs easily in coverage. This is a very deep draft in Safeties, so that's why a darn good player like Wicks is still available in the 4th round.




4. FB Peyton Hillis - Arkansas Size: 6'2", 245 lbs.

2007 Stats:
327 Yards Rushing, 5.7 YPC, 2 TDs
495 Yards Receiving, 44 Receptions, 5 TDs.
Lead Blocker for Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, both 1000 yard rushers.

"One of the most versatile offensive weapons on the roster, Arkansas suffered down the stretch in 2006 when Hillis wasn’t available due to a deep thigh bruise. A punishing blocker, a powerful runner and a natural pass catcher, he will most likely be utilized at fullback, H-back, tailback, tight end, wide receiver and punt returner at some point during the upcoming season. If that isn’t enough, he may return to special teams where he was dominant on the kickoff coverage team early in the 2006 season. Rated the No. 1 fullback in the nation by Phil Steele’s College Football, he was also recognized as the best blocking back in the Southeastern Conference by The Birmingham News. He will help clear the way for Arkansas’ stable of tailbacks and will get an opportunity to get his hands on the ball out of a variety of formations. He enters pre-season camp as the Razorbacks’ top fullback and a prime candidate to return punts."

http://www.hogwired.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=30724&SPID=2419&DB_OEM_ID=6100&ATCLID=186598&Q_SEASON=2007


My Thoughts:

Bone-crushing blocker, who loves to hit people. Dynamic receiving threat and excellent short yardage runner. Explosive, versatile, and durable. Should instantly improve the Broncos running game via lead blocking, especially around the goal line. And should also improve red zone scoring due to his ability to catch and run gimic plays.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

CONTINUED....


5. DT BJ Raji - Boston College Size: 6'1", 342 lbs.

2007 Stats: Was declared academically ineligible, so red-shirted.

"At 6-foot-1, 325-pounds, Raji is a big, physical interior lineman who commands a lot of attention. A good athlete who has a solid burst off the line, he plays with leverage, and bull rushes opponents up the field. Raji also has a quick first step and immediately penetrates upfield and makes plays in the backfield. With his great strength, he brings down the opposition with his initial push, gets off blocks very well and can handle double-teams. But there's an interesting twist about Raji and his draft status. He was ruled academically ineligible this season and was redshirted. Boston College is trying to convince him to come back for his senior season, but the risk of suffering an injury next year will only hurt his draft status even more. Expect Raji to enter the draft and be a high Day-Two selection."

http://profootballexperts.scout.com/2/689340.html

My Thoughts:
A bowling ball-type player. Very stout, very strong, and is a master of manipulating leverage. He's obviously not very bright, so he's probably more of a project-type player with little immediate impact. He's also probably out of shape after sitting out a year. But he's one of the most physically gifted DT's in the nation, and a year of seasoning on the practice squad, or heck, our DTs are so bad, he'd probably be our 4th rotational guy as a rookie, meaning inactive most games but learning. Has extreme upside as a backup Nose Tackle with pass rushing ability. If he had played, would probably have been a Top 50 pick. There's a chance he'll return for another season at BC, but if his grades haven't improved enough, he's coming out this draft.




5. WR/KR Kevin Robinson - Utah State Size: 6'0", 200 lbs.

2007 Stats:
55 Receptions, 640 yards, 5 TDs
20 Punt Returns, 378 Yards (18.9 Avg.), 1 TD
43 Kickoff Returns, 1260 Yards (29.3 Avg), 3 TDs

" Everyone is looking for the next Devin Hester, a playmaker whot can strike fear in the opposition on special teams. One player that has gone under the radar in the WAC, but has produced impressive numbers, is Utah State senior Kevin Robinson. The 6-foot, 200-pound Robinson is a threat on special teams anytime he touches the ball. He's fielded 20 punts for 378 yards (18.9 YPR) and a touchdown, as well as returning 43 kickoffs for 1,260 yards (29.3 YPR) and three touchdowns. Robinson also led the Aggies in receiving with 55 receptions for 640 yards and five touchdowns. He's not a burner like Hester, but he has a unique blend of good speed (4.48, 40-time), sure hands, quick feet, and excellent vision that makes him a dynamic player who'll receive fifth- to sixth-round consideration."

My Thoughts:
Simple. He looks like a helluva return ace. Looks like he also has some slot development skills. Broncos need a return ace, we also need depth at WR. Win/Win. Not much analysis here...basically, just "Holy crap, this guy looks good".




7. OT Pedro Sosa Size: 6'5", 290 lbs.

2007 Stats: Starting Left Tackle for Rutgers. Allowed the fewest sacks in the country. Team averaged nearly 200 yards rushing a game as well.

"2007 All-BIG EAST Conference Second Team (Coaches): OT Pedro Sosa has helped to produce both a prolific passing and rushing attack. He is part of a line that has seen the best offensive production in Rutgers history."

My Thoughts:
Has the size to get better, seems like a decent practice squad-type project. Most draft sites don't even have him being drafted, some have him going in the 4th round. He's undersized and this is a deep draft for OTs. I think he goes in the 6th-7th round area to a team that places more emphasis on finesse then strength (Broncos for example). Regardless, I think he's a practice squad guy for a year or two.



7. CB Trey Brown - UCLA Size: 5'9", 190 lbs.

2007 Stats: 28 Tackles, 1 Sack, 5 Ints, 17 Passes Defended.

"Brown has emerged as a lock-down corner who has started almost every game during the last three years. He is considered one of the top corners in the conference and he anchors one of the best units on the team."

http://bruinroar.blogspot.com/2007/06/player-profile-trey-brown.html


My Thoughts:
He's a 5th rounder in any other year. This is probably the deepest draft for CBs in the history of football. He's a smaller guy, probably limited to a nickel-type role, but is a clubhouse leader and has solid coverage skills with marginal hands. Very good at knocking down passes though, I think I read somewhere he led the nation in passes defended. He only has average speed however. By the time the draft roles around, he might have moved up to the 5th round area, but for now, 7th round steal for Denver!

[Nick]

I would be fine getting Okam in the first and Butler or Highsmith in the 2nd. Okam would be a impact right away against the run and highsmith is an ideal line backer for our Broncos (including Butler) both are under sized but perform as if they are bigger.






4. FS Eric Wicks - West Virginia Size: 6'1", 205 lbs.

2007 Stats: 48 Tackles, 7 stuffs, 2 sacks, 3 ints, and 8 passes defended

"Wicks is a physical defender who makes plays all over the field. He's strong at the point of attack and tracks down the opposition with his lateral quickness. He displays a solid burst of closing speed and takes good angles in defense. He's solid in coverage and possesses great ball skills. He has good range and makes plays sideline-to-sideline. He has to get stronger and work on his tackling technique, but he has great awareness and is improving. Wicks is a skilled defender who is better suited to play free safety at the next level. He has the potential to be very good player at the NFL level and will reward a team with his skill set."


My Thoughts:
3 year starter that has improved every season. Is a clubhouse leader and positive role model. Is very dangerous with the ball in his hands, returns just about anything for a TD. Is an EXCEPTIONAL blitzer. And has the ability to shut down TEs easily in coverage. This is a very deep draft in Safeties, so that's why a darn good player like Wicks is still available in the 4th round.




It is a deep draft in saftey. So with that in mind I can see a little more of a playmaker droping into 4th like Simeon Castille, FS, Alabama, Courtney Greene*, SS, Rutgers, Marcus Griffin, FS, Texas, Jamar Adams, SS, Michigan, Caleb Campbell, SS, Army or Wesley Woodyard, SS, Kentucky


As far As Hills whom is "projected" as a 4th. I guarentee he is going to be late 3rd early fourth. Normally people reach a little for the top FB.

BJ Raji is not droping that far... There is no way. He is a monstrous nose tackle and by far is one of the premier run-stuffers in this class. "If" he does go to the draft someone will invest a 3rd at least on him.

Pedro Sosa who is prjected at 4th round or 5th... Is waaaaaay to slow for a zone blocking system. He will go some where that thinks he can bulk up or somthing.

not to familiar with Kevin Robinson.

Fine with Trey or at least picking him up as a UDFA for practice squad // His stats look good because people pick on him.

[The|Snake#16]

Great mock, everything you've listed makes sense to me. However I like Xavier Adibi over Highsmith, he is quick, strong, good at blitzing, and doesn't seem to be a big liability in coverage. Either way you get a good LB prospect I think, but if I had my choice it'd be Adibi.

[Nick]

Great mock, everything you've listed makes sense to me. However I like Xavier Adibi over Highsmith, he is quick, strong, good at blitzing, and doesn't seem to be a big liability in coverage. Either way you get a good LB prospect I think, but if I had my choice it'd be Adibi.

I dought he drops that far though IMO he will end up moving into first round.

[Dream]

This draft actually blows at safety, but whatever. This is an okay draft, I still feel Denver will use two of their four top selections to get offensive players as well though, from what I heard anyway - they seem to like what they see at tackle. Then again, maybe it's just personal preference because half of these guys I don't pay attention to and honestly haven't seen play.

[Nick]

This draft actually blows at safety, but whatever. This is an okay draft, I still feel Denver will use two of their four top selections to get offensive players as well though, from what I heard anyway - they seem to like what they see at tackle. Then again, maybe it's just personal preference because half of these guys I don't pay attention to and honestly haven't seen play.

Agree in a way. The draft is deep at saftey position for AVG and Below Avg talent. With only 1 "elite" saftey and that is "If" he comes out.

BUT there is a abundance of late 2nd to 4th round graded safties though.

I how ever love the wide receiver class and offensive line class and in a way would not mind if Broncos focus on that in draft if they are able to focus in a couple areas on the deffensive side in the off season in free agency.

[Dream]

Agree in a way. The draft is deep at saftey position for AVG and Below Avg talent. With only 1 "elite" saftey and that is "If" he comes out.

BUT there is a abundance of late 2nd to 4th round graded safties though.

I think there's a bunch of nice Day two selections, but there are barely any top talents. Then again, we don't need a top tier guy. Then again, Day Two includes the third round now, so maybe that's my brain kicking in. Unless it's Phillips, I don't see Denver addressing safety until the area in which MUG put us picking them. It's logical. Great talent is usually found in every draft in those mid-rounds.

I still think we'll see some early offense though.

I won't be doing a mock again until the season is over and until I type up my game analysis on the prospects I've been keeping an eye on. Way too many to know everyone though.

Good job though MUG, I think we'll see DT/LB addressed early, but I also think we'll see an OT and WR added to this offense in the top four rounds as well. I'd expect us to gather another pick between rounds two and four as well.

This team is going to be built around Cutler. We'll have to wait for the FA to occur to know for sure what direction they're heading in. Usually it'll give us a good clue.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

I would be fine getting Okam in the first and Butler or Highsmith in the 2nd. Okam would be a impact right away against the run and highsmith is an ideal line backer for our Broncos (including Butler) both are under sized but perform as if they are bigger.

Well, Highsmith is undersized but Butler is a huge LB. And Okam is a huge NT for his age. Butler probably projects to MIKE in the NFL, though I think he'd be a great SAM. In an interview he gave, he said most teams are talking to him as a MIKE.




It is a deep draft in saftey. So with that in mind I can see a little more of a playmaker droping into 4th like Simeon Castille, FS, Alabama, Courtney Greene*, SS, Rutgers, Marcus Griffin, FS, Texas, Jamar Adams, SS, Michigan, Caleb Campbell, SS, Army or Wesley Woodyard, SS, Kentucky

Castille is firmly a CB. Griffin is an early rounder whom has started one season. Adams is a one dimensional run stuffing strong safety. Woodyard is a LB that is going to have to make a transition and is probably not going to be drafted. Campbell is a 7th rounder at best with severe knee concerns since he's already annihilated it once.

In terms of "playmakers", Wicks and Quintin Demps are the best of the bunch. Demps is likely a 2nd round pick though.

So I have to strongly disagree with that analysis.




As far As Hills whom is "projected" as a 4th. I guarentee he is going to be late 3rd early fourth. Normally people reach a little for the top FB.

Maybe, but the top FB has never been drafted before Round 4. Brian Leonard, whom is as close as it gets, was drafted as a pure RB. Also, Hillis (with an "i") is not the top fullback according to many, that would be Owen Schmitt. Though some teams are on record as debating whether to move him to TE or not. I think Hillis is not even a lock for a 4th round pick since most teams do not even use fullbacks any more. His versatility and our need for a FB in the red zone make me think we'll snatch him in the 4th.



BJ Raji is not droping that far... There is no way. He is a monstrous nose tackle and by far is one of the premier run-stuffers in this class. "If" he does go to the draft someone will invest a 3rd at least on him.

Actually, he's not a great run stuffer at all oddly enough. He's more like a Gerrard Warren type Nose Tackle that is excellent at pass rushing and penetration. The earliest he will go in this draft is the 5th round. He's sat out the entire season and gained nearly 20 lbs. He's a long term project with huge upside and very low intelligence. He projects, not as a run stuffing DT, but as a rotational pass rushing Nose.



Pedro Sosa who is prjected at 4th round or 5th... Is waaaaaay to slow for a zone blocking system. He will go some where that thinks he can bulk up or somthing.

I'm confused here Nick, where are you getting your thoughts and opinions from? Sosa is the star of the best zone blocking O-line in the Nation.



not to familiar with Kevin Robinson.

Fine with Trey or at least picking him up as a UDFA for practice squad // His stats look good because people pick on him.

Yeah, I don't know anything about Robinson either, other than he's an exceptional return man and appears to have some developmental ability as a slot WR.

Brown would be a steal as a nickel back I think, but the more I've researched him, the more I think he'll be a 5th rounder. I'll probably have to update that selection as the draft nears.


Anyway, thanks for your thoughts. I always like to see draft enthusiasts. I do question some of the information obtained though, but only because it clashes drastically with the research I've done on the prospects, which is relatively substantial.

[Nick]

I think there's a bunch of nice Day two selections, but there are barely any top talents. Then again, we don't need a top tier guy. Then again, Day Two includes the third round now, so maybe that's my brain kicking in. Unless it's Phillips, I don't see Denver addressing safety until the area in which MUG put us picking them. It's logical. Great talent is usually found in every draft in those mid-rounds.

I still think we'll see some early offense though.

I won't be doing a mock again until the season is over and until I type up my game analysis on the prospects I've been keeping an eye on. Way too many to know everyone though.

I have not even done or started any of my mocks... I want to see how some of these players perform in the Bowl games. I most likley will come up with my first rough one sometime in the NFL playoffs... Or at the end of the season.

[Dream]

I'd say offensive tackle and wide receiver. I used to think Denver would be wise to grab a junior running back, but maybe with Young looking sharp we won't. Denver desperately needs help in the return game and we have to build around Cutler like the other premier offenses have. I'm still not a big fan of Pears, and even with Harris in the mix - another ripe OT for the future would be nice.

I think a player like Chris Johnson (ECU) will really interest Denver. Can run the ball, catch the ball and return the ball. I think if a bunch of junior backs declare, he could slip into that early fourth-round range where we could be picking if that Oakland pick does indeed escalate to a fourth based on Warren's play.

I feel Denver could add another receiver (preferably a speed burner) to be an understudy to the receivers we have here and learn the tricks of the trade. Most teams in the NFL have two good wide receivers, some even three. Now the best offenses have four legit options. I'd say we have a given in Marshall, but I worry about Stokley and Walker, especially Walker long-term. Insurance never helps, and with Denver having extra Day Two picks, and with this draft having some good receivers - why not make the most of it?

[Nick]

I am getting my thoughts and opinions from what I see when I watch them play... So I am not the one that is getting from one source.

As far as Sosa He needs to get ALOT more quick to play zone blocking in the NFL... OR needs to add some bulk. Zuttah is FAR more capable of a NFL transition into a zone blocking scheme IMO

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

I think there's a bunch of nice Day two selections, but there are barely any top talents. Then again, we don't need a top tier guy. Then again, Day Two includes the third round now, so maybe that's my brain kicking in. Unless it's Phillips, I don't see Denver addressing safety until the area in which MUG put us picking them. It's logical. Great talent is usually found in every draft in those mid-rounds.

I still think we'll see some early offense though.

I won't be doing a mock again until the season is over and until I type up my game analysis on the prospects I've been keeping an eye on. Way too many to know everyone though.

Good job though MUG, I think we'll see DT/LB addressed early, but I also think we'll see an OT and WR added to this offense in the top four rounds as well. I'd expect us to gather another pick between rounds two and four as well.

This team is going to be built around Cutler. We'll have to wait for the FA to occur to know for sure what direction they're heading in. Usually it'll give us a good clue.


Bah, I did a reply without seeing this 2nd post.


Agreed on safety. Excellent depth, lots of solid talent, but minimal top heavy talent. Though I opine that Nic Harris, if he comes out, is even better then Kenny Phillips. So, if the juniors declare, we should have at least 2 Top 20 Safeties we may look at.


WR definitely becomes a higher need if Walker is released. If not, I think getting a return specialist who moonlights as a slot WR is the approach we'll take, regardless of which round it is. We had to learn something from the Devin Hester game and our season long "suck" on special teams.


I can't see an OT though. Generally a team usually keeps 3 on their active roster. Unless we don't keep Pears or release Lepsis, I'm not sure where we would stick a top pick. I understand one or both could occur, but I don't expect it. I know Lepsis has a large contract, but he's always renegotiated in the past.

Do you believe we'll cut Lepsis or release Pears this offseason?


*Edit* Bah, you snuck a post in again! Sneaky bastid!

[Nick]

Actually, he's not a great run stuffer at all oddly enough. He's more like a Gerrard Warren type Nose Tackle that is excellent at pass rushing and penetration. The earliest he will go in this draft is the 5th round. He's sat out the entire season and gained nearly 20 lbs. He's a long term project with huge upside and very low intelligence. He projects, not as a run stuffing DT, but as a rotational pass rushing Nose.






He is the top 3-4 NT's in the draft IMO. Every team taht runs a 3-4 are going to look hard at him... "If" he comes out which I think he not going into the draft this year because if he plays a another year of collage because of the year he missed he will be a 1st rounder.

He is very very good at stopping the run. If you plug his name on search instead of looking at one site... You will also get that.

My opinion of what I stated on him is going from what "I" saw when he played last year (or year before last, how ever you put it)... 2006 season.

[Dream]

I think that this team could afford to carry four tackles just for the fact, "What happens if "X" goes down?" It's always nice to have another viable option available, even though Myers and Kuper could play tackle in a pinch. I thought Pears was a FA, and I know Lepsis' contract is gigantic. Pears has never been a quality tackle and I think we could definitely have an upgrade there. People want to know why Daniel Graham isn't getting passes? He's having to be training wheels for that guy. We suck when running to the right (almost every big run goes left) and Pears is a big reason for that.

Even if we don't release Lepsis, he has one year at best. Considering Lepsis won't be here long-term, and I feel Pears is a poor long-term option, another guy wouldn't be that big of an idea. OT is even more of a need if you're on the pessimistic side of things and believe Harris' back problems will continue. I think the kid will pan out and do fine, but that's another concern.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

He is the top 3-4 NT's in the draft IMO. Every team taht runs a 3-4 are going to look hard at him... "If" he comes out which I think he not going into the draft this year because if he plays a another year of collage because of the year he missed he will be a 1st rounder.

He is very very good at stopping the run. If you plug his name on search instead of looking at one site... You will also get that.

My opinion of what I stated on him is going from what "I" saw when he played last year (or year before last, how ever you put it)... 2006 season.


I absolutely can respect someone's counter opinion, but this guy can't play Nose Tackle in a 3-4. His game is all about penetration, he's not a guy that sits back and clogs multiple gaps.

He is literally Gerrard Warren Part 2. He's a huge man that wants to play 3 technique, but projects as a penetrating Nose Tackle.

Now, could a team draft him to start and play against the run? Absolutely, but that team will be a 4-3 team and will pair him with another Nose Tackle. Raji is never going to be the primary run stuffer on an NFL defense, it's not his game.

The good news is that I'll still be at this forum when he gets drafted and eventually plays in the NFL. So, you will definitely have your opportunity to tell me "I told you so". But then again, so will I.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

I think that this team could afford to carry four tackles just for the fact, "What happens if "X" goes down?" It's always nice to have another viable option available, even though Myers and Kuper could play tackle in a pinch. I thought Pears was a FA, and I know Lepsis' contract is gigantic. Pears has never been a quality tackle and I think we could definitely have an upgrade there. People want to know why Daniel Graham isn't getting passes? He's having to be training wheels for that guy. We suck when running to the right (almost every big run goes left) and Pears is a big reason for that.

Even if we don't release Lepsis, he has one year at best. Considering Lepsis won't be here long-term, and I feel Pears is a poor long-term option, another guy wouldn't be that big of an idea. OT is even more of a need if you're on the pessimistic side of things and believe Harris' back problems will continue. I think the kid will pan out and do fine, but that's another concern.


Excellent Points.

Though, I don't think we want to start a rookie at Right Tackle. I can't imagine a scenario where we don't resign/extend Pears. I mean, yeah, he might not be great, but we have one of the best offenses in the NFL, give up minimal sacks, and have one of the top rushing offenses...all with Pears starting at RT, and he was arguably even better when he played LT last season.

Lepsis is another story. His salary is immense, and I agree that he did not play up to it this season. But, the flipside is that he's still recovering from his knee injury, has generally improved barring a specific game as the season progressed, and has historically always been willing to restructure his contract. At this stage of his career, I can't imagine he'd want to go to another team.


So, that's the view I'm taking, which is a little different then yours. I see Lepsis staying at LT, Pears extended at RT, Harris developing to replace Lepsis at LT, and Kuper as the backup RT in the event of injury.

But, I can definitely see how that's "optimistic" thinking. So, I think you could be absolutely right that we look at an OT early. And if we do, I have no problem giving you props for the call.

[Ncfootball]

I love your draft. It's gotta be the best I've seen so far.

I'm not too big on Highsmith, but the rest of the draft definitely makes up for that and still makes it an extremely good one to me. I'd love to get Connor in the 1st and Okam in the 2nd, but we'll have to see the way things are going around the time of the combine. We all know that in the span of a few months, a player can go from the 3rd overall pick to the second round in draft projections *cough* Alan Branch *cough*. If we have any luck, maybe Okam will be one of those vastly overanalyzed prospects who drops for no good reason.

[Nick]

I absolutely can respect someone's counter opinion, but this guy can't play Nose Tackle in a 3-4. His game is all about penetration, he's not a guy that sits back and clogs multiple gaps.

He is literally Gerrard Warren Part 2. He's a huge man that wants to play 3 technique, but projects as a penetrating Nose Tackle.

Now, could a team draft him to start and play against the run? Absolutely, but that team will be a 4-3 team and will pair him with another Nose Tackle. Raji is never going to be the primary run stuffer on an NFL defense, it's not his game.

The good news is that I'll still be at this forum when he gets drafted and eventually plays in the NFL. So, you will definitely have your opportunity to tell me "I told you so". But then again, so will I.


Talk about pairing up... If he goes back to BC next season, Brace and Raji could be an elite college DT tandem.

I also believe he will be FAR more succesful in a 4-3 but is I think he will be able to be that clogger type in a 3-4 even though he is smaller in height.

What sites do you look at? By your rankings it looks like NFL Draft Scout or Scout?

Again we will see... I really think he is a true NT... but not saying only a 3-4 Deffesive team will look at him. 4-3 teams will take a very good look at him and I am sure will do a lot better staying in a 4-3.

If goes in this coming draft he will be between rd 2-4 not 5 plus

If stays in school another year he will be 1-2 rd

You heard it here first :D

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Talk about pairing up... If he goes back to BC next season, Brace and Raji could be an elite college DT tandem.

I also believe he will be FAR more succesful in a 4-3 but is I think he will be able to be that clogger type in a 3-4 even though he is smaller in height.

What sites do you look at? By your rankings it looks like NFL Draft Scout or Scout?

Again we will see... I really think he is a true NT... but not saying only a 3-4 Deffesive team will look at him. 4-3 teams will take a very good look at him and I am sure will do a lot better staying in a 4-3.

If goes in this coming draft he will be between rd 2-4 not 5 plus

If stays in school another year he will be 1-2 rd

You heard it here first :D

LOL, ok. :beer:


For draft research purposes, the first place I like to go is Scout.Com, which I feel is the absolute best draft site on the net (note, this is not Scouts Inc. as I think they are one of the worst). It's a very expensive site, in comparison, but the sheer amount of research material they do and have available is pretty impressive. So, once I see who they tend to like, then I go and visit the myriad other draft sites on the net, to see if there is a consensus opinion or not. If so, I feel more comfortable assuming the guy is properly ranked. If not, I tend to side with Scout.Com as history has proven they're usually right.

Next, I'll peek and see what ESPN (McShay and Kiper) are saying. I put zero stock in those guys until right before the draft. At which time they annually transform from complete morons to extreme accuracy. Though, Mike Mayock of the NFLN has been much better as of late. So, since I get NFLN, and Mayock makes his little draft opines from time to time, I take into account what he says as the offseason progresses. I trust him to a fair degree.

What I really like to do is then go to the players' collegiate website. Scout.Com typically offers lots of taped interviews with the coaches concerning certain players. I like to listen to those. For instance, when USC's D-Cord says that Sedrick Ellis is more impressive to him then Mike Patterson was, that reminds me of his former interview where Mike Patterson was the most impressive DT he'd ever coached. Which means, now the coaches at USC believe Sedrick Ellis is the best DT they've ever coached, better then Patterson, and Patterson is one of the better DTs in the NFL.

So then, after you accumulate all this information, you look at historical data, NFL team schemes, prior drafting tendencies by the front offices, and player performance from each specific college. For instance, for many years, until Braylon Edwards, Michigan WRs were taboo. So, it was easy to predict David Terrell would be a bust. And likewise with FSU D-linemen. I did a study a few years ago and it was something like 80% of FSU D-linemen are busts. So, I always downgrade them on principal. I do the exact same thing with LSU D-linemen, which is why I'm not sold on Dorsey yet, though if anyone will break their string of busts, it probably will be Dorsey.

And finally, you apply the "gut feeling", "eyeball test", and/or "holy crap, their stats look ridiculous" conclusional test. For instance, with DTs, at some point, I get a gut feeling which guy is going to be "my guy" for that offseason. I'm strictly a DT analyst, if anything. Frank Okam is my guy this offseason, I just get the feeling from all I've read and researched that he's a lock to be a star in the NFL. The "eyeball test" is generally when you watch a guy play, and he dominates the game you watched him play. Well, from then on, you're going to like that guy. And the "stat test" really just applies to the small school guys that you can't "eyeball test". For instance, Robinson from Utah State. Obviously, I'm not going to watch Utah State play, but his return stats are off the charts, so I instantly like him as a return prospect.


That's how I tend to reach my conclusions. I try and stockpile all the data I can, from all the sources I can. I look for any discrepencies or agreements. I look to see what the player's coaches say about him. Then I look to see what the historical tendencies are with the position, college, and NFL draft preferences. Then I apply the gut feeling, eyeball, or stats conclusions to the existing data and tendencies. Then I have my opinion formed based on solid foundations.

[BroncosTX77]

Good job as usual MUG. :salute:

But I....just....don't...see...Okam....going....in the 1st round.

Even scout.com has Okam as the 27th ranked Senior coming out. How much further will he drop when Juniors declare?

As for BJ Raji :sick: I guess we will have to wait for the combines to see if he is just plain stupid or just lazy. If he is stupid then I guess a low round draft pick will be alright. I mean Vince Young and Marcus Thomas arent doing too bad atm amirite? :cheers: If he is lazy then no.

We seem to be in agreement in the direction of the Broncos with the exception of I think safety will be stocked whereas you think Denver stocks up on DT.

Well after what has been happening lately with Stokley and Winborn extension and uncertainty with Javon Walker I am going to let the rest of the regular season play out before I think about doing anymore analyzing.

[underrated29]

once again great analysis mug.

I am with dream on the fact that i am not a pears fan either. You make good points about our sacks and offense, but i still am not sold.

however i think you are right we will probably extend him,imo due to the sheer fact that there are no viable replacements available, and he can be good depth in a pinch. Yes, kupes is too, but i like kupes where he is.

So i would hope we take a look at RT.

As i have said before, i am not so high on taking a S this year. I think we can still manage to get by 1 more year without one. And since this class isnt elite, to me it would make more sense to put our stock in DT,Oline, LB,WR/KR.

and adress saftey next year, in what could maybe be a better class.(??dont really know, i dont follow college much at all.)

OVerall nicely done.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Good job as usual MUG. :salute:

But I....just....don't...see...Okam....going....in the 1st round.

Even scout.com has Okam as the 27th ranked Senior coming out. How much further will he drop when Juniors declare?

As for BJ Raji :sick: I guess we will have to wait for the combines to see if he is just plain stupid or just lazy. If he is stupid then I guess a low round draft pick will be alright. I mean Vince Young and Marcus Thomas arent doing too bad atm amirite? :cheers: If he is lazy then no.

We seem to be in agreement in the direction of the Broncos with the exception of I think safety will be stocked whereas you think Denver stocks up on DT.

Well after what has been happening lately with Stokley and Winborn extension and uncertainty with Javon Walker I am going to let the rest of the regular season play out before I think about doing anymore analyzing.


I'm going solely on my own with the Okam in the 1st round prediction. I'm well aware no other site currently has him slated there, but I'm just convinced after teams start breaking down his gameplay, all star practices, and the combine, he will be firmly in the Top 20. I also think Sedrick Ellis could leap Dorsey at the top DT in this draft.

I have a good track record with this type of prediction (Wilfork, Ngata, Patterson) so I feel good stepping out on the limb with Okam. Incidentally, I rank him above Wilfork and Patterson, but a notch below Ngata. Which basically means I'm saying Okam is a lock to be a Pro Bowl NT in the NFL.

So, this is one of those posts that will get brought up down the road and will make me look like I know what I'm doing or that I'm a complete moron. There's 2 parts though. The first is that Okam will be a 1st round draft choice. The second is that Okam will be a Pro Bowl performer in the NFL sooner rather than later in his career. Obviously, one will be proven within 6 months. The second might take awhile.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

once again great analysis mug.

I am with dream on the fact that i am not a pears fan either. You make good points about our sacks and offense, but i still am not sold.

however i think you are right we will probably extend him,imo due to the sheer fact that there are no viable replacements available, and he can be good depth in a pinch. Yes, kupes is too, but i like kupes where he is.

So i would hope we take a look at RT.

As i have said before, i am not so high on taking a S this year. I think we can still manage to get by 1 more year without one. And since this class isnt elite, to me it would make more sense to put our stock in DT,Oline, LB,WR/KR.

and adress saftey next year, in what could maybe be a better class.(??dont really know, i dont follow college much at all.)

OVerall nicely done.


I'll concede your argument on Offensive Tackle. Both you and Dream make a good counterargument in that regard, and though i don't think we go that route, I definitely could see why and how we would.


But...I must disagree on the Safety thing. Lynch is almost done, one more hit on his neck and he's retiring on the spot. Ferguson is probably done with the team as of now. Abdullah looks like a starter, but do we really want Foxworth to continue as our Free Safety? That's if we even keep him. He's obviously on his way out in 2009 to start elsewhere, so he's probably our #1 trade chip. So, that leaves us with Abdullah and nobody.


We have to take a Safety in the draft. And we probably need to sign one in Free Agency for depth as well. I think Kenny Philips in the 1st round has to be the favorite at the moment. I'm going with Okam, but I think most draft sites are pegging us for Phillips, and that makes sense to me. Though if Nic Harris comes out, I would rather us take him if we are going to burn a 1st rounder on a Safety.

[MindField]

Well, for now, MUG, I will give you the benefit of the doubt about Okam, as I have not seen him play. He looks good on paper....but so did Dan Williams and Warren Powers. That is, former Bronco D-Linemen draftees that were selected for their numbers. Too bad neither could play...

I just hope Okam is not the next Ashley Lelie or DJ Williams. That is to say, a draft pick that is selected based upon need more than anything else. Drafting for need is the No. 1 sin of all first round picks, and usually ends badly.

Right now, I hope you are right about Okam, because I see DT as our No. 1 need above all.

As far as Highsmith goes, I see him as Ian Gold, Part II....and since I did not like the original, Highsmith would be a bad pick, IMO.

I don't know any of the other picks you suggest, so I give you kudos for at least coming up with the names.


It will be interesting to see how much you change your mind.

BTW, just a piece of advice, it's probably not a good idea to call Kiper and McShay "Hacks"....

If Okam falls out of the first round, you will look completely foolish.

[hardcorebronco]

I like your mock MUG! I wouldn't be mad to the littlest degree if that's the way our draft panned out. The only point I may argue will be over Ali Highsmith.

I think the player himself will be just fine. He takes on blocks considerably good for a player his size, and the linemen in the SEC are as big as they come. That said, I don't think we go for a Lb in the first day. I can't see us using one of our two first day picks on a player who will groom under Gold and contribute solely on Special Teams. We have so many other needs, depth at WR / RB? / O-line... I think Shanahan is more likely to keep surrounding Cutler with talent rather than soup up his Lb corps.

IF we do go LB in the draft (i think we will on the second day), I think it's more likely we look for a Strong Side Lb and use Winborn and the rest for special teams only.

But no matter what, I like your mock and I can't wait until the draft draws nearer and things become more clear. :D:salute:

[underrated29]

i'm glad the game turned out the way it did. NOw i think people can realize just how bad our SIEVEfense is. We need imo atleast 2 dts, 1 fa and atleast 1 in the draft. We also need LB. I dont think webster is going to cut it, despite his better play. I think we need a replacement for him, but as you said thats the "easiest" to fix so maybe then we get another mike or will.

And i didnt get to focus on any specific players ( was doing some work while watching the game), but it seemed to me that pears was just repeatedly getting worked.

There was no pressure, and ZERO pocket collapse. ALso the dline and linbackers are like the herpes, once they get locked on they cant get rid of them. I just dont see in anyway how we do not dedicate 3/4 of our efforts (draft and FA) on dl and lb. Maybe just sneak an Oline in there for me a dream;)

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

i'm glad the game turned out the way it did. NOw i think people can realize just how bad our SIEVEfense is. We need imo atleast 2 dts, 1 fa and atleast 1 in the draft. We also need LB. I dont think webster is going to cut it, despite his better play. I think we need a replacement for him, but as you said thats the "easiest" to fix so maybe then we get another mike or will.

And i didnt get to focus on any specific players ( was doing some work while watching the game), but it seemed to me that pears was just repeatedly getting worked.

There was no pressure, and ZERO pocket collapse. ALso the dline and linbackers are like the herpes, once they get locked on they cant get rid of them. I just dont see in anyway how we do not dedicate 3/4 of our efforts (draft and FA) on dl and lb. Maybe just sneak an Oline in there for me a dream;)


I zeroed in on Winborn because I wanted to see if he could be a good backup at WILL. He's not. He's terrible at that position. He's usually a great tackler, but maybe the responsibilities and angles got to him tonight. He missed 4 tackles he should have made, and a few others that an elite LB would have made. He looked pretty bad on his one QB blitz, but then he looked good on his run blitz. He showed excellent speed on the one bootleg. And he was very physical with blowing up lead blockers. But, he was horrific in coverage. The team even went to a 3-3-5 for a little bit to help out.


Basically, we learned Winborn is not a WILL LB, and if Ian Gold is injured for the rest of the season, we are completely screwed. We'll have to use Winborn in the box, and leave Lynch back to cover. That's not a good thing either.


Webster was fine, he was blown up a few times, but he made some good plays too. He's consistently average to above average at SAM, and can even be excellent against the run.


The D-line was horrific. The only guy I thought played worth a crap was Steven Harris, who made two nice tackles. But we were invisible against a poor O-line. Rookie growing pains I guess.


Horrific game to watch. I just hope Gold doesn't have a serious knee injury.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

If Okam falls out of the first round, you will look completely foolish.

Maybe.

I'll be wrong for having him not be drafted in the 1st round. But, if he becomes an All Pro DT, as I suspect, then I don't think I'll look foolish for hammering the point home that he's a 1st round prospect with Pro Bowl potential.

Now, if he's not drafted in the 1st round, and he sucks in the Pros...well yeah...then I look completely foolish but that will take a bit.

I'm going out on a limb, but it's pretty safe to be realistic. Besides the fact, I think I'll be right on both accounts, it could potentially be 2-4 years before the truth concerning Okam comes out and these type of predictions will be forgotten by everyone except me.


I still remember certain guru's touting Daryn Colledge as the next big thing. I remember other's guaranteeing that Mike Williams would be the best WR to enter the NFL in years. But that stuff never comes up. Which is fine, but I still mentally log it. I'm not sure if others do or not.

[OKBroncoBoy]

Due to requests, I'll share some research and thoughts on my Bronco Mock selections:

1) DT Frank Okam - Texas
2) LB Ali Highsmith - LSU
4) FS Eric Wicks - West Virginia
4) FB Peyton Hillis - Arkansas
5) DT BJ Raji - Boston College
5) WR/KR Kevin Robinson - Utah State
7) OT Pedro Sosa - Rutgers
7) CB Trey Brown - UCLA



1. DT Frank Okam - Texas Size: 6'5", 325 lbs.

2007 Stats: 49 tackles, 10 stuffs, 5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 4 passes defended.

"A big, strong and explosive fourth-year player who elected to bypass the NFL Draft and return to UT for his senior season … a third-team All-America selection by The Associated Press … a member of the Bednarik Award, Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy watch lists … a three-time All-Big 12 selection … played in 49 career games, starting 38, and recorded 157 tackles, 10 sacks, 27 TFL, 46 pressures, 11 PBD, a forced fumble and five fumble recoveries … started all 12 games in 2007 … tabbed first-team All-Big 12 by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and second-team All-Big 12 by The Associated Press, Austin American-Statesman and the league’s coaches … tallied 49 tackles, 10 TFL, a team-high five sacks, 16 pressures, four PBD, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery … started 12 games in 2006 … earned honorable mention All-Big 12 honors from The Associated Press … was a preseason member of the Playboy All-America team … posted 38 tackles, six TFL, two sacks, 10 pressures and recovered a fumble … started all 13 games in 2005 … earned second-team All-Big 12 honors from the league’s coaches … notched 48 tackles, five TFL, 11 pressures, a sack, two PBD and two fumble recoveries, one of which was recovered in the end zone for a TD … earned first-team Freshman All-America honors from The Sporting News as a true freshman in 2004 … played in all 12 games in 2004, including one start … recorded 22 tackles, six TFL, nine pressures, five PBD, a fumble recovery and was second on the team with two sacks … was a Parade All-American as a prepster … a 2007 first-team Academic All-Big 12 selection … a four-time member of UT’s Athletics Director’s Honor Roll … graduated in December 2007 with a degree in sports management (three-and-a-half years)."

http://www.mackbrown-texasfootball.com/index.php?s=&url_channel_id=15&change_well_id=17&member_id=64


My thoughts:
I think he's a Top 20 draft pick regardless of what hacks like Kiper and McShay say at the moment, and I think he's the absolute best DT in this draft. He's a 4.0 student, which suggests he's going to pick up the defensive schemes quickly and stay out of trouble off the field. He's very articulate, so he could be a boon in the community. He's exceptionally strong and should fly up draft boards post combine, and he's been one of the most effective DTs, and the best NT, in the country for the past few years. Okam is a can't miss, dynamic Nose Tackle along the lines of Vince Wilfork and Haloti Ngata. And he should have the instant impact both of those players did. And Denver needs that impact. Badly.




2. LB Ali Highsmith - LSU Size: 6'1", 220 lbs.

2007 Stats: 93 tackles, 7.5 stuffs, 1.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 8 passes defended.

"Highsmith is an outstanding leader who has been a productive player for LSU. He's able to defend sideline-to-sideline and displays great recovery speed. Highsmith takes good angles, and while he has a nose for the ball, he shows good patience defending against the run. He has excellent awareness and drops back into coverage nicely. A lack of size and his inability to shed blocks is a concern at the next level."

http://profootballexperts.scout.com/2/687999.html


My Thoughts:
Highsmith's size limitations will probably cause him to fall further then he should based on pure talent, of which he has in spades. He excels in his versatility, which the Denver Broncos place an extreme importance on at WILL LB. Highsmith draws a ton of comparisons to Ian Gold, excelling in the areas Gold excels in, experiencing the same problems Gold does as well, namely being out muscled and blocked by OGs. Highsmith is going to require a solid D-line to keep blockers off him, but he may be a better tackler in open space then Ian Gold. I believe he could be the natural successor to Gold, and if nothing else, provides needed depth and special teams ability.




4. FS Eric Wicks - West Virginia Size: 6'1", 205 lbs.

2007 Stats: 48 Tackles, 7 stuffs, 2 sacks, 3 ints, and 8 passes defended

"Wicks is a physical defender who makes plays all over the field. He's strong at the point of attack and tracks down the opposition with his lateral quickness. He displays a solid burst of closing speed and takes good angles in defense. He's solid in coverage and possesses great ball skills. He has good range and makes plays sideline-to-sideline. He has to get stronger and work on his tackling technique, but he has great awareness and is improving. Wicks is a skilled defender who is better suited to play free safety at the next level. He has the potential to be very good player at the NFL level and will reward a team with his skill set."


My Thoughts:
3 year starter that has improved every season. Is a clubhouse leader and positive role model. Is very dangerous with the ball in his hands, returns just about anything for a TD. Is an EXCEPTIONAL blitzer. And has the ability to shut down TEs easily in coverage. This is a very deep draft in Safeties, so that's why a darn good player like Wicks is still available in the 4th round.




4. FB Peyton Hillis - Arkansas Size: 6'2", 245 lbs.

2007 Stats:
327 Yards Rushing, 5.7 YPC, 2 TDs
495 Yards Receiving, 44 Receptions, 5 TDs.
Lead Blocker for Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, both 1000 yard rushers.

"One of the most versatile offensive weapons on the roster, Arkansas suffered down the stretch in 2006 when Hillis wasn’t available due to a deep thigh bruise. A punishing blocker, a powerful runner and a natural pass catcher, he will most likely be utilized at fullback, H-back, tailback, tight end, wide receiver and punt returner at some point during the upcoming season. If that isn’t enough, he may return to special teams where he was dominant on the kickoff coverage team early in the 2006 season. Rated the No. 1 fullback in the nation by Phil Steele’s College Football, he was also recognized as the best blocking back in the Southeastern Conference by The Birmingham News. He will help clear the way for Arkansas’ stable of tailbacks and will get an opportunity to get his hands on the ball out of a variety of formations. He enters pre-season camp as the Razorbacks’ top fullback and a prime candidate to return punts."

http://www.hogwired.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=30724&SPID=2419&DB_OEM_ID=6100&ATCLID=186598&Q_SEASON=2007


My Thoughts:

Bone-crushing blocker, who loves to hit people. Dynamic receiving threat and excellent short yardage runner. Explosive, versatile, and durable. Should instantly improve the Broncos running game via lead blocking, especially around the goal line. And should also improve red zone scoring due to his ability to catch and run gimic plays.

Once again, I can totally live with this! Your insistence on getting Okam, or someone similar, is much appreciated. I have been steadfast that the DL HAS to be addressed too. I might try and trade down in the 2nd to get another pick. We'll still get a good LB in the mid to lower part of the 2nd or even the 3rd.

Just curious, with this current mock that you have, who are you picking up in FA? What areas are you addressing?

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Once again, I can totally live with this! Your insistence on getting Okam, or someone similar, is much appreciated. I have been steadfast that the DL HAS to be addressed too. I might try and trade down in the 2nd to get another pick. We'll still get a good LB in the mid to lower part of the 2nd or even the 3rd.

Just curious, with this current mock that you have, who are you picking up in FA? What areas are you addressing?

My approach would be to possibly pick up a Safety and Cornerback in Free Agency, probably rotational type guys with some starting experience to protect against injuries. And then to spend the rest of our cap space extending some of our younger players.

If someone like Kris Jenkins becomes available, or another building block DT, I'd try and get them. Other than that, this Free Agent class doesn't excite me.

So, I wouldn't make a big splash unless a DT becomes available that represents a multi-year improvement for our team. I don't think our team is that far away, I just think we need to get healthy, allow our rooks to develop, and to have one more strong draft.

[JoRo]

I still remember certain guru's touting Daryn Colledge as the next big thing. I remember other's guaranteeing that Mike Williams would be the best WR to enter the NFL in years. But that stuff never comes up. Which is fine, but I still mentally log it. I'm not sure if others do or not.

I have before, I always kinda wonder what taht does to someone cred.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

I have before, I always kinda wonder what taht does to someone cred.

I think you have to look at the consistency. If they are more often right then wrong, you let it go and listen to them, because nobody is going to be right 100% of the time. And vice versa, if they are wrong more often then right, you completely ignore them and dismiss your opinion.


I mean, I think the entire point of this message board, is that a poster's opinions are etched in perpetuity. You live and die by your reputation on this board, which is why I hate it when people change their names. Plus, it's really an amazing thing to see something you said 3 years ago and were criticized for come to pass years later, that's a really cool thing. That happened to me this season with DJ finally being moved to MIKE and excelling there as predicted 3 years ago. And again, when the rest of the forum said McKinley would be cut in training camp, I stood firm that he'd be our best DT by season's end. The crappy part is nobody acknowledges when you were right and they were wrong to criticize you, they only acknowledge if you were wrong and they were right. I try and always acknowledge, whether I'm right or wrong.

I definitely think people should base how much weight they give someone's opinion on that person's track record within that subject matter. I just don't think the majority of posters really remember who said what, or maybe they just don't care. I place great weight on it though, its just the dang changing of forum names drives me nuts.

I respect the hell out of certain posters though, even if I disagree with them.

[Ncfootball]

Plus, it's really an amazing thing to see something you said 3 years ago and were criticized for come to pass years later, that's a really cool thing. That happened to me this season with DJ finally being moved to MIKE and excelling there as predicted 3 years ago. And again, when the rest of the forum said McKinley would be cut in training camp, I stood firm that he'd be our best DT by season's end.

Congrats on those two predictions. I either wasn't around yet or did not read the thread you said it in, but that's awesome that you could have seen both of those.

What do you think of an OT in the first 4 rounds? Are there any prospects you like that could solidify our line?

[JoRo]

I understand what you mean 100% and I knew that with the right and wrong. But I mean there are these "draft experts" that people buy stuff for EVERY year that never seem that close and people think it is gospel (fans do). I sometimes buy it to see the different opinions because I find it interesting.

I know I had high hopes when D.J was switched to MLB and I felt he would work out if we just kept him there and didn't switch him to WLB midseason...

I will admit I was wrong with Alvin though I thought he wouldn't fit our scheme because he was lighter...

Also on the name: I only took the MoFo out of my original name because of respect for my late mum and it seemed immature to have it there anyways.

But back on the whole subject:

As of right now I hope we either get Harris/Phillips or Okam.

I haven't seen as many of our games this year as the last two (work, and not as many on tv) but our defense looks horrid. I think with Cutler and our other offensive players developing another year we will be pretty good next year on taht side. I wouldn't mind us finding a better running back or fixing our pass protection (I am not a fan of Pears) but I can see us having bigger problems on the other side of the ball.

My biggest BIGGEST hope though this or near future is locking up Marshall and Elvis. I hope they stay in blue and orange a long time.

Just my two cents for right now.

[Nick]

Maybe we can have DJ switch back to Running Back :D

(played against him when he was in high school / Played RB)

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Congrats on those two predictions. I either wasn't around yet or did not read the thread you said it in, but that's awesome that you could have seen both of those.

What do you think of an OT in the first 4 rounds? Are there any prospects you like that could solidify our line?


I'm not really on board with the concept of drafting an OT in the early rounds of this draft. It's a good draft for OTs for sure, but I'm in the minority that feels we simply do not need one. I believe we have 4 adequate OTs already, mainly Lepsis and Pears starting, a future LT in Harris developing, and an emergency RT in Kuper.

So, with that said, if we were going to go OT, I think it would be in rounds 4-7, and Tony Hills from Texas would be a great fit if he's available in the 4th. I think Pedro Sosa from Rutgers would be a great fit obviously, in the later part of the draft.

But... if the team decides to take an OT in the first 3 rounds, there are a few I'd consider, and I'd like to see Dream's opinions on these guys, since he likes to focus on the O-line, but I think these guys would fit our system:

1st Round OTs:
Sam Baker - USC
Ryan Clady - Boise State (If he comes out)

2nd Round OTs:
Chris Williams - Vanderbilt

3rd/4th Round OTs
Kirk Barton - Ohio State
Tony Hills - Texas

[trav69187]

I don't know why Jake Long has not been talked about. We are going to have a top 10 pick more than likely. I don't see us beating SD or the Vikings. I think we might try to move up and snag Long. He will only be a few picks away (I predict we are picking 9th). He knows how to play both sides and is familiar with a zone blocking scheme. He has great intangibles not to mention some young leadership that he could bring to the team that we can build around for the future. He is the prototypical Denver o-lineman.

[BroncosTX77]

I'm not really on board with the concept of drafting an OT in the early rounds of this draft. It's a good draft for OTs for sure, but I'm in the minority that feels we simply do not need one. I believe we have 4 adequate OTs already, mainly Lepsis and Pears starting, a future LT in Harris developing, and an emergency RT in Kuper.

So, with that said, if we were going to go OT, I think it would be in rounds 4-7, and Tony Hills from Texas would be a great fit if he's available in the 4th. I think Pedro Sosa from Rutgers would be a great fit obviously, in the later part of the draft.

But... if the team decides to take an OT in the first 3 rounds, there are a few I'd consider, and I'd like to see Dream's opinions on these guys, since he likes to focus on the O-line, but I think these guys would fit our system:

1st Round OTs:
Sam Baker - USC
Ryan Clady - Boise State (If he comes out)

2nd Round OTs:
Chris Williams - Vanderbilt

3rd/4th Round OTs
Kirk Barton - Ohio State
Tony Hills - Texas

I'm with you Denver needs depth and can get it in FA or late rounds in draft.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

I don't know why Jake Long has not been talked about. We are going to have a top 10 pick more than likely. I don't see us beating SD or the Vikings. I think we might try to move up and snag Long. He will only be a few picks away (I predict we are picking 9th). He knows how to play both sides and is familiar with a zone blocking scheme. He has great intangibles not to mention some young leadership that he could bring to the team that we can build around for the future. He is the prototypical Denver o-lineman.


To be honest, I think he's unreachable. The Dolphins will be picking first, and history suggests that a 3-4 team will not take a D-lineman. They don't really need a RB. And they probably won't take a QB. Right now, I have the Dolphins picking Jake Long #1 overall.

[gyldenlove]

Jake Long will be a top 5 pick for sure, last year 2 LT went in the top 5. Getting a bookend LT is one of the hardest things in the league and next to a franchise QB that is one position most managers look for.

We do need to get at least 1 OT this year. Pears is not performing and Lepsis is being beaten soundly unless he gets help, and has a 5 mill base salary coming up.

Ali Highsmith is a bad pick. DJ is clearly a better OLB than MLB because of his speed. He doesn't read and react fast enough to be a good MLB. Highsmith is fast, but he is small and unless he can compensate by being an amazing tackler (Golds biggest problem) he won't do well. Our luck might be if we suck hard enough James Laurinaitis could be available, he could center DJ and a stick and we would still have a top 16 linebacker group.

We do need a DT, I like Okam, if we can snag him in the 2nd it would be awesome, if not we can go LB, WR og OT. Chris Williams would be a good pick, he already knows Cutler.

Safety is a good position this year, but with no real top talent. Kenny Philips is a borderline round 1 pick in most drafts and I suspect he would have been behind Griffin, Landry and Nelson last year. We can get a good player in the 4th.

[BroncosTX77]

To be honest, I think he's unreachable. The Dolphins will be picking first, and history suggests that a 3-4 team will not take a D-lineman. They don't really need a RB. And they probably won't take a QB. Right now, I have the Dolphins picking Jake Long #1 overall.


I foresee Miami trading down and grabbing Chris Long DE Virginia. OTOH Cam Cameron threw everybody for a loop last year and drafter Ted Ginn Jr. at #9 :confused:

I'll throw this out there too, what good will Franchise LT do for ya when there is no stability at the QB/RB positions? Miami needs everything so trading down would be the smartest move imo. Hell trading down with St. Louis would be good since they covet Jake Long.

[MindField]

Maybe.

I'll be wrong for having him not be drafted in the 1st round. But, if he becomes an All Pro DT, as I suspect, then I don't think I'll look foolish for hammering the point home that he's a 1st round prospect with Pro Bowl potential.

Now, if he's not drafted in the 1st round, and he sucks in the Pros...well yeah...then I look completely foolish but that will take a bit.

I'm going out on a limb, but it's pretty safe to be realistic. Besides the fact, I think I'll be right on both accounts, it could potentially be 2-4 years before the truth concerning Okam comes out and these type of predictions will be forgotten by everyone except me.


I still remember certain guru's touting Daryn Colledge as the next big thing. I remember other's guaranteeing that Mike Williams would be the best WR to enter the NFL in years. But that stuff never comes up. Which is fine, but I still mentally log it. I'm not sure if others do or not.

Yeah, there are always busts, but please don't suggest you are batting 1000, because you aren't.

Projecting players in the NFL is tough.

I will say this, I called into the local radio station, 950 The Fan, and asked one of the jocks there, Joe Williams, who is a HUGE Texas honk, what he thought about Okam, and he said Okam was just 'OK'....you may not know of Joe Williams, but he knows the College game very well, and is a Texas fan.

He was not a fan of Tim Crowder, either, and Crowder, to me, has been a disappointment as well.

I wonder if we should save ourselves the trouble and just trade up in the Top 10 to take Sedrick Ellis?

[draco193]

He was not a fan of Tim Crowder, either, and Crowder, to me, has been a disappointment as well.

Give the rookie some time. DL is one of the toughest positions to transition from the college game, be it an end or an tackle. Look at what Mario Williams has done this season, compared to last year.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Yeah, there are always busts, but please don't suggest you are batting 1000, because you aren't.

Projecting players in the NFL is tough.

I will say this, I called into the local radio station, 950 The Fan, and asked one of the jocks there, Joe Williams, who is a HUGE Texas honk, what he thought about Okam, and he said Okam was just 'OK'....you may not know of Joe Williams, but he knows the College game very well, and is a Texas fan.

He was not a fan of Tim Crowder, either, and Crowder, to me, has been a disappointment as well.

I wonder if we should save ourselves the trouble and just trade up in the Top 10 to take Sedrick Ellis?


Actually, I think I am flawless perfection to this point in my projections concerning the draft and the 1st round. But, I'll dig through my posts, and make a thread establishing or disproving such a boast. I honest to God can't think of single time in the last 4 years now that I was mistaken. But believe me, if I was, I'll find and post it. I need to make sure I'm not fraudulating my history.

I know that I'm not batting 1000 in my sleeper picks. Babatunde Oshinowo has only bounced around practice squads and I thought he had a chance to be a good Nose. And Paul Soliai went in the early 4th instead of the early 3rd like I projected him. But on the flipside, nobody on these boards even knew about those players until I brought them up. So, while being wrong, its not like anyone else was right, or really even cared.

With Okam, people care, and we have some set in stone stances, so this should be fun to see who is right and who is wrong. Again, I love the debates, it adds so much to the draft, just like fantasy football does to real life football. I just hate when people don't hold themselves accountable.

[LarryDean]

Good Mock Mug thanks for the read.:coffee:

[underrated29]

mug i dont recall you picking ginn to go at 9 to miami, but i do recall you saying that AD would be a much better player then bush, and i also remember you saying that y. figeurs would be a better wr/kr then ginn and probably go in rd 6.

Also i dont recall you having alan branch go in the 2nd. But hwo knows, here, im just going off of memory. Overall though i would say that you have been the most accurate of all. Thats why i wish you would go to the other site, so we (me,dream,some of the others.) dont always have to come over here.:smug:

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

mug i dont recall you picking ginn to go at 9 to miami, but i do recall you saying that AD would be a much better player then bush, and i also remember you saying that y. figeurs would be a better wr/kr then ginn and probably go in rd 6.

Also i dont recall you having alan branch go in the 2nd. But hwo knows, here, im just going off of memory. Overall though i would say that you have been the most accurate of all. Thats why i wish you would go to the other site, so we (me,dream,some of the others.) dont always have to come over here.:smug:


I'm not going to the other site. It's a fine site, but I refuse to have certain individuals moderate me. Tned, is a class act though.


Let me clarify something though to everyone, I'm in NO WAY saying I successfully can mock draft an entire draft or even a 1st round. I'm saying that when I take a "stand" on a particular player, such as I'm doing with Okam this offseason, I do not believe I have been wrong yet, at least in regards to top talent.

Players I have taken a stand on:

Vince Wilfork
Joe Staley
Mike Patterson
Haloti Ngata
Frank Okam

I have been wrong, Babatunde Oshinowo, when it comes to sleeper picks. And if someone wants to hold a late round sleeper pick against me, I absolutely understand that. And I may well be wrong again with Paul Soliai, though I still think he's going to be a good one as early as next season. I have not determined my sleeper pick for this season yet.