The Combine DL and LB Discussion Thread

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Starting this thing up since there's a good chance we draft one of the guys that will be working out tomorrow.

The benchpress was done today, the top 10 DL were:

1. Terrance Taylor - 37 reps
2. Roy Miller - 36 reps
3. David Veikune - 35 reps
4. Evander Hood - 34 reps
5. BJ Raji - 33 reps
6. Ron Brace - 32 reps
7. Adrian Grady - 31 reps
8. Brian Orakpo - 31 reps
9. Alex Magee - 30 reps
10. Khalif Mitchell - 30 reps


The top 10 LBs were:

1. Brian Cushing - 30 reps
2. Marcus Freeman - 30 reps
3. Kaluka Maiava - 30 reps
4. Anthony Felder - 28 reps
5. Scott McKillop - 27 reps
6. Tyrone McKenzie - 27 reps
7. Jasper Brinkley - 26 reps
8. Aaron Curry - 25 reps
9. Jonathan Casillas - 24 reps
10. Lee Robinson - 24 reps


NOTABLES:

Everette Brown - 26 reps
Rey Maualuga - 23 reps
James Laurinaitis - 22 reps


Not sure what the rest of the numbers were or who did not participate. Maualuga and Laurinaitis were supposed to, so either they benched like girls or they bowed out. No word on Everette Brown or Aaron Maybin yet either.

Brown weighed in at 256, Maybin at 249.

Raji weighted in the heaviest at 337, Brace at 330. Terrance Taylor weighed in at a svelt 306 and then went bonkers in the bench press. He's short and stubby, he may be a NT after all.

Strongest guy seems to be DE David Veikune from Hawaii that weighed in at 257 and then benched 225 35 times. Yikes. He's a pure 4-3 Rush End, so that should raise some eyebrows. He's expected to run well tomorrow too.



Anyway, thoughts? As people get information on Maualuga and Laurinaitis, post it.

[Murph2432]

i thought the DL and LB dont start until tomorrow?

[dragster69]

Right on. Thanks for posting that...

I'd like to believe we'll be getting one of these guys; BJ Raji, Ron Brace, Cushing or Maualuga. Preferrably in that order of availability... :salute!:

[MFJ]

Cushing and Brace would look great in Denver uniforms, impressive bench #'s for both. I'll take the next "Romo Jr." anyday!

[Murph2432]

Cushing and Brace would look great in Denver uniforms, impressive bench #'s for both. I'll take the next "Romo Jr." anyday!

I would love to see Denver get Cushing and then Brace!! But in order for me to be happy about this i say we have to get Bart Scott or Vilma for MLB. Cushing will give Boss plenty of time to fully heal his injury and later on move him in ILB with Bart/Vilma

[24TheCHAMP24]

I would love to see Denver get Cushing and then Brace!! But in order for me to be happy about this i say we have to get Bart Scott or Vilma for MLB. Cushing will give Boss plenty of time to fully heal his injury and later on move him in ILB with Bart/Vilma

Cross Vilma off your list. He wanted nothing to do with the 3-4 defense after the jets switched to it. He tried it for 1 year and wanted nothing more to do with it. He is strickly a 4-3 mlb

[Murph2432]

Cross Vilma off your list. He wanted nothing to do with the 3-4 defense after the jets switched to it. He tried it for 1 year and wanted nothing more to do with it. He is strickly a 4-3 mlb

i Know he is not a fan of the 3-4 but he still put up good stats. over a 100 tackles. I think with the right players he will like the 3-4 system. he was just put in a 3-4 with no help

[GridironChamp]

Cross Vilma off your list. He wanted nothing to do with the 3-4 defense after the jets switched to it. He tried it for 1 year and wanted nothing more to do with it. He is strickly a 4-3 mlb

Just like a 4-3 defense, a 3-4 can be ran different ways. Look at any Tampa-2
based defense compared to what the Eagles run. A 3-4 can differ in the same
way, so yes vilma hated the Jets 3-4, but would he hate what you guys will
run? I don't pay enough attention to Denver to know if your DC has connections
to anything that had to do with that Jets defense or not.

[lancane]

According to their measurements there is a change in the apparent nose tackle prospects for the draft. Some kids showed up at weights that impressed the 3-4 defensive scouts:

Ron Brace - Boston College: 6'3 330lbs. (Late 1st early 2nd round pick)

Chris Baker - Hampton: 6'2 326lbs. (Mid 3rd to 4th round pick - Stock is rising)

Marlon Favorite - LSU: 6'1 314lbs. (Late 6th early 7th round pick)

Sammie Lee Hill - Stillman: 6'4 329lbs. (Late 3rd to 4th round pick - Stock is rising)

Terrance Knighton - Temple: 6'3 321lbs. (Late 5th mid 6th round pick - Stock is rising)

Myron Pryor - Kentucky: 6'0 319lbs. (Mid 5th to early 6th round pick)

B.J. Raji - Boston College: 6'1 337lbs. (Top 10 pick - Stock is rising)

Losers:

Terrance Taylor - Michigan: 6'0 306lbs. (Came in lighter then expected, will be looked at by 4-3 teams. Stock will measure out about a 4th round pick)

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Maualuga checked in with 23 reps, Laurinaitis with 22 reps.

Everette Brown with 26.

[halfback]

I would love to see Denver get Cushing and then Brace!! But in order for me to be happy about this i say we have to get Bart Scott or Vilma for MLB. Cushing will give Boss plenty of time to fully heal his injury and later on move him in ILB with Bart/Vilma

id love to see cushing in the first and brace in the second, but instead of vilma who is washed up and cant play or wont play in a 3-4 how about channing crowder for MLB opposite DJ? crowder is much better then vilma at this stage of the game

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

id love to see cushing in the first and brace in the second, but instead of vilma who is washed up and cant play or wont play in a 3-4 how about channing crowder for MLB opposite DJ? crowder is much better then vilma at this stage of the game

What's wrong with Spencer Larson? He's cheap. Signed for 3 more years. And he was a stud playing as a two down thumper last year. You don't spend big bucks, or a high draft pick, on a two down thumper. DJ Williams is the ILB that will stay on the field for passing downs.

[Murph2432]

id love to see cushing in the first and brace in the second, but instead of vilma who is washed up and cant play or wont play in a 3-4 how about channing crowder for MLB opposite DJ? crowder is much better then vilma at this stage of the game

I wouldnt mind Crowder on the team, but to say vilma is washed up?!?:confused: Vilma has had better stats then Crowder even when he played in the Jets 3-4

[halfback]

What's wrong with Spencer Larson? He's cheap. Signed for 3 more years. And he was a stud playing as a two down thumper last year. You don't spend big bucks, or a high draft pick, on a two down thumper. DJ Williams is the ILB that will stay on the field for passing downs.

id be ok with larsen i have no problem with him, with the logic you just used why are so many on here primed to have rey maulaluga? if DJ is our 3 down LB in the middle why waste a 1st rd pick on him? not saying your one of the ones that want him, but just curious

[Goatmaster]

id be ok with larsen i have no problem with him, with the logic you just used why are so many on here primed to have rey maulaluga? if DJ is our 3 down LB in the middle why waste a 1st rd pick on him? not saying your one of the ones that want him, but just curious

they are only thinking of the 3-4, not when we play in the 4-3. we play a hybrid now people. we are not a purely 3-4 defense, maualuga would be unreliable to say the least in a 4-3 in the nfl. and after putting up 225 just 23 times im not even sure he will be good in the 3-4. eddie royal had 24. do we really want a man who will be taking on 300+ linemen on the team who is weaker than someone else who was drafted to be a returner?

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

id be ok with larsen i have no problem with him, with the logic you just used why are so many on here primed to have rey maulaluga? if DJ is our 3 down LB in the middle why waste a 1st rd pick on him? not saying your one of the ones that want him, but just curious


That's the entire point. There is no 3-4 defense in the NFL with big dollars invested in both ILB positions. Rey Maualuga does not make sense for this team unless:

A) We are going to trade/cut DJ Williams

or

B) We are going to play DJ Williams at WOLB.



Neither of those appear likely whatsoever. Dumervil has to play WOLB. Williams will move inside, and he's decent in coverage. We only need a 2 down thumper next to him. Spencer Larson can handle that fine. We need depth, but you don't draft depth until late in the draft.


People want Rey Maualuga because he is a fiery personalty, he crushes people with his tackles, and he has the stigma of being the next great MIKE LB, and people are not figuring out that DJ has to move inside in the 3-4. Some fans don't understand the 3-4 dynamics and assume because DJ played WILL last season, that we need a MIKE or ILB.

[DancingHorsey]

That's the entire point. There is no 3-4 defense in the NFL with big dollars invested in both ILB positions. Rey Maualuga does not make sense for this team unless:

A) We are going to trade/cut DJ Williams

or

B) We are going to play DJ Williams at WOLB.



Neither of those appear likely whatsoever. Dumervil has to play WOLB. Williams will move inside, and he's decent in coverage. We only need a 2 down thumper next to him. Spencer Larson can handle that fine. We need depth, but you don't draft depth until late in the draft.


People want Rey Maualuga because he is a fiery personalty, he crushes people with his tackles, and he has the stigma of being the next great MIKE LB, and people are not figuring out that DJ has to move inside in the 3-4. Some fans don't understand the 3-4 dynamics and assume because DJ played WILL last season, that we need a MIKE or ILB.

This is why I'm convinced that, assuming we don't trade down, we go OLB or RB with our first pick.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Brian Orakpo is locked in as a Top 10, maybe Top 3 selection now. Great Combine.

Everette Brown showed off tremendous speed. He's a Top 12 pick.

Aaron Maybin was ok, ran in the high 4.7s. Orakpo and Brown were in the low 4.6s. I think Maybin is probably goes in the 20-32 range, not higher. He showed decent, but did not blow it up. Larry English put up similar numbers and might be considered less risky.

ALOT depends on the 10 yard splits. We don't have that info yet.



Other D-linemen that timed well: (Non-official results)

1. Lawrence Sidbury, Jr
2. Micheal Johnson
3. Ziggy Hood
4. BJ Raji (5.14 or so for 340lbs), Brace at 330 ran a 5.4 or something similar.
5. Tyson Jackson (low 4.9s)


There's probably more, but none that really stood out.


Raji also blew up the position drills, showing the much desired "sewing-machine feet". He's Top 10, if not Top 5.

[Snarfalicious]

Jarron Gilbert backed up all the hype, as well. He ran a 4.8 or so 40 (don't remember exact number), and he practically outjumped the vertical test. Dude's a stud.

[elevation INC]

Brian Orakpo is locked in as a Top 10, maybe Top 3 selection now. Great Combine.

Everette Brown showed off tremendous speed. He's a Top 12 pick.

Aaron Maybin was ok, ran in the high 4.7s. Orakpo and Brown were in the low 4.6s. I think Maybin is probably goes in the 20-32 range, not higher. He showed decent, but did not blow it up. Larry English put up similar numbers and might be considered less risky.

ALOT depends on the 10 yard splits. We don't have that info yet.



Other D-linemen that timed well: (Non-official results)

1. Lawrence Sidbury, Jr
2. Micheal Johnson
3. Ziggy Hood
4. BJ Raji (5.14 or so for 340lbs), Brace at 330 ran a 5.4 or something similar.
5. Tyson Jackson (low 4.9s)


There's probably more, but none that really stood out.


Raji also blew up the position drills, showing the much desired "sewing-machine feet". He's Top 10, if not Top 5.

i agree i think okrapo might be going to KC or clevland now....I see brown going to clevland or san fran, i think maybin goes to new england. english is still a wildcard between brown and maybin he could go at 12 to us or at 23 to new england....

Jackson ran well as did hood and a 4.53 40 from sidbury was amazing i told ya he was going second rd.....:P. michale johnson may be solidifying his stock and his celing could be 18 to chicago....


my face dropped when i saw raji run a 5.1 at 333 lbs thats ungodly he is a top 5 pick for certain.......

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

They flashed some "official" numbers just now.

Sidbury and Connor Barwin are in the low-mid 4.6's.

Orakpo and Brown were in the low 4.7s.

Aaron Maybin was not on the list, he must have been in the 4.9s. At 248 lbs, thats not very good. He did look good in position edge drills though.


I forgot about Gilbert, he blew it up completely. Mayock said he's like Micheal Johnson though, highly inconsistent. He looks like a 2nd Round pick now with the insane measureables. But we'll see. He probably should be mocked to every Denver mock draft from here on out in the 2nd Round.

[MilitantDBFan]

Yea, Michael Johnson just looked great in the linebacker drills. Had the most fluid motion in his movement and back pedal. By far the most prepared DL to be a rush linebacker. They compared him to Julius Peppers. The Broncos might want to trade down to the lower half of the first round if the value is right.

[MilitantDBFan]

Gilbert is solid. I have played basketball with him a couple of times at the local gyms. He is massive in terms of basketball but in terms of football he might be a little too lean for what we are looking for along the defensive line. I never even knew he played football let alone along the defensive line. With that said he is a hell of an athlete and definitely has a future in the NFL.

[SBboundBRONCOS]

Yea, Michael Johnson just looked great in the linebacker drills. Had the most fluid motion in his movement and back pedal. By far the most prepared DL to be a rush linebacker. They compared him to Julius Peppers. The Broncos might want to trade down to the lower half of the first round if the value is right.

ive taken some grief for suggesting Johnson a while ago, the dude is just a freak athlete though, what did he run??

i think he will be one of the best OLB in the 3-4 for a while and he could be a great pick for us and even better if we could trade down some while getting extra picks

[MilitantDBFan]

ive taken some grief for suggesting Johnson a while ago, the dude is just a freak athlete though, what did he run??

i think he will be one of the best OLB in the 3-4 for a while and he could be a great pick for us and even better if we could trade down some while getting extra picks

He ran a 4.7 with a 38" Vertical. He doesnt move like he ran a 4.7. If you would have seen him just now in the linebacker drills you would have thought he played their his entire career. I wasnt expecting that at all.

Connor Barwin impressed with the numbers 4.6 forty and a 40" vertical. Im not sure if Barwin participated in the Linebacker drills. If he did they didnt show it on Television. Johnson was BY FAR the most impressive. I would have loved to seen Orakpo in this drill.

[SBboundBRONCOS]

curry is a freaking beast a 4.54 OMG :jawdrop:

[AdamantiumBronco]

I want Arron Curry :peace:

[Snarfalicious]

What did Brinkley run? My Internet got a hiccup when it posted his time. ****in' shotty internet...

[Snarfalicious]

Laurinitis with a 4.8... Matthews with a 4.59... Maualuga with a 4.83 (and an injury)...

[SBboundBRONCOS]

What did Brinkley run? My Internet got a hiccup when it posted his time. ****in' shotty internet...

brinkley is pretty impressive at 4.65 and 4.69

id def take him in the 4th

[Den615]

my money is now on tyson jackson with the 12th pick...OLB's are rising, same with raji. Maualuga is sliding (i still think he'd be a good pick)

i think if we signed canty to play RDE and with Jackson at LDE it would allow us to get by with a stop gap defensive tackle (Gabe Watson, Collin Cole)

i also like terrence taylor, i think he could actually be a very good nose tackle...obviously he is strong, but if he added 10 lbs he could be an ideal nose tackle (based on height to weight ratio) i think he would be a good 4th - 5th round pick

[broncos SB2010]

Yea, Michael Johnson just looked great in the linebacker drills. Had the most fluid motion in his movement and back pedal. By far the most prepared DL to be a rush linebacker. They compared him to Julius Peppers. The Broncos might want to trade down to the lower half of the first round if the value is right.

If Raji is there at 12, they take him, only if he is gone would they potentially trade down, IMO. I still think Raji falls to us. The teams most likely to draft a NT or DT are GB, SF, Seattle, and Jacksonville.
SF needs a QB. Seattle needs a WR so bad they took Keary Colbert from us. Jacksonville needs WR and DB. The most likely team to pick Raji is GB but the have several players who could play NT like Cole, Pickett, or harrell so they don't need to use a #1 on it especially when they need a DB so bad and next years draft has more NT to pick from. They also need DEs. Most oftheir DT are big NT size so they could pick someone like Tyson Jackson to be a good 34 DE. Raji falls to us.

[Mat'hir Uth Gan]

Aaron Curry has been very impressive. He's definitely in the Top 11 to somebody. Cleveland would make sense but Brian Orakpo has been just as impressive.

Maybe with Crabtree's situation, KC takes Orakpo and Cleveland takes Curry. Then they both go in the Top 5. That seems very likely now. It might be vice versa, but those two spots look good for those two guys.

Cushing has had a very strong Combine, but his 40 times at his reduced weight do not translate as well as I thought to a 3-4 OLB. He's in the high 4.6s - low 4.7s. He's probably a Top 15-20 pick easily, maybe even 11 to Buffalo, but he looks like a SAM in the 4-3 or an ILB in the 3-4. He still tested better then Clint Sintim whom might be the same type of player despite being a DE/OLB throughout college. And....Clay Matthews is in the same boat also, though he had the best speed of the three. All three of these guys seem like SAMs in the 4-3 and ILBs in the 3-4. There is added value in their versatility though.

Jasper Brinkley had a great Combine, he's back on the map as a 3rd-4th round pick. Completely healed from his ACL.

James Laurinaitis was solid. He didn't raise nor hurt himself. He probably quited the concerns he'll slip out of the 1st Round though. He's going somewhere between 20 and 33.

Rey Maualuga popped his hamstring, he might not be working out full blast until after the draft. He's in free fall. Probably still in the late 1st, but might be in the 2nd round now after a very bad offseason (out of shape at Senior Bowl, mediocre senior bowl practices, poor strength at combine, injury knocking him out of combine drills). I can't fathom us taking him at #12 now.
He might be this year's Dan Connor, whom dropped from sure fire Mid-1st to early 3rd.

Worrell Williams, DJ's little brother, has looked very good as an ILB. He's going to be very good value in the 5th Round area for somebody, maybe us.

WLB prospect Gerald McRath blew it up. He might be in the Late 1st, but probably a 2nd Round lock now.

[lancane]

Aaron Curry has been very impressive. He's definitely in the Top 11 to somebody. Cleveland would make sense but Brian Orakpo has been just as impressive.

Maybe with Crabtree's situation, KC takes Orakpo and Cleveland takes Curry. Then they both go in the Top 5. That seems very likely now. It might be vice versa, but those two spots look good for those two guys.

Cushing has had a very strong Combine, but his 40 times at his reduced weight do not translate as well as I thought to a 3-4 OLB. He's in the high 4.6s - low 4.7s. He's probably a Top 15-20 pick easily, maybe even 11 to Buffalo, but he looks like a SAM in the 4-3 or an ILB in the 3-4. He still tested better then Clint Sintim whom might be the same type of player despite being a DE/OLB throughout college. And....Clay Matthews is in the same boat also, though he had the best speed of the three. All three of these guys seem like SAMs in the 4-3 and ILBs in the 3-4. There is added value in their versatility though.

Jasper Brinkley had a great Combine, he's back on the map as a 3rd-4th round pick. Completely healed from his ACL.

James Laurinaitis was solid. He didn't raise nor hurt himself. He probably quited the concerns he'll slip out of the 1st Round though. He's going somewhere between 20 and 33.

Rey Maualuga popped his hamstring, he might not be working out full blast until after the draft. He's in free fall. Probably still in the late 1st, but might be in the 2nd round now after a very bad offseason (out of shape at Senior Bowl, mediocre senior bowl practices, poor strength at combine, injury knocking him out of combine drills). I can't fathom us taking him at #12 now.
He might be this year's Dan Connor, whom dropped from sure fire Mid-1st to early 3rd.

Worrell Williams, DJ's little brother, has looked very good as an ILB. He's going to be very good value in the 5th Round area for somebody, maybe us.

WLB prospect Gerald McRath blew it up. He might be in the Late 1st, but probably a 2nd Round lock now.

Great analytical post MUG...

Right now I believe the Top 10 is really starting to form, of those who are defensive players thus far I think the only top ten graded players are Raji, Orakpo, Curry and depending on how he measures out and so forth, Jenkins. Brown is the odd man out...but I do not think Buffalo will pass on him, especially if Orakpo is long gone. It would be too early for Pettigrew, they could take one of the offensive lineman who may fall, though I think they are more worried about their defense at this time. If they are unimpressed with Brown, the top linebacker on the boards could be their pick, which could end up being about anyone at this time.

Here is my issue, as you know I said there was no security with the 12th overall pick, and thus far it is looking more and more like I was correct. Denver could get lucky and Orakpo or Raji could fall, but highly unlikely. The Broncos could trade down and get another pick or two, that would be a smart move, but I also think McDaniels' wants a player who will make an impact on the team, especially since he is a first year head coach and there is a lot of people watching him and waiting to see what he does.

My 'gut' feeling, the one that told me we were taking 'Cutler' is telling me that if we stick at 12, the pick will be Knowshon Moreno. I know I will hear guff for it, but coaching staff has been noted as talking to backs in the draft, Brown being one of them. Moreno is considered a solid Top Ten to Fifteen product, and if the players are not their to make your defense better, then I could see him taking a player that could make our offense a better unit. People will not like it, but the way I see it...better to win a game or two more because of a juggernaut offense rather then losing because you were improving your defense.

[Snarfalicious]

I have always been high on Brinkley, I knew if he dropped a little of that extra weight he could very truly be the 3-down ILB he once was. He is completely stout against the run, and now that he's full recovered, I hope he is an ILB we choose in this draft. He offers more athletic ability than Larsen, and what separates him and Maualuga right now isn't as evident as it once appeared to be. Brinkley was once considered a first round talent so it's nice to see he's returning to form.

[MindField]

What's wrong with Spencer Larson? He's cheap. Signed for 3 more years. And he was a stud playing as a two down thumper last year. You don't spend big bucks, or a high draft pick, on a two down thumper. DJ Williams is the ILB that will stay on the field for passing downs.

Q. What exactly did Larsen prove when he got extended playing time?

A. That he could not hold onto the job, and after a decent start, faded badly down the stretch.

...and you still have to address how you can keep a guy on the field that you have to time with a sun dial he runs so slow.

Larsen is a special teams headhunter at best that any self-respecting defense would not have him play a major part of.

[Ringo56]

Q. What exactly did Larsen prove when he got extended playing time?

A. That he could not hold onto the job, and after a decent start, faded badly down the stretch.

...and you still have to address how you can keep a guy on the field that you have to time with a sun dial he runs so slow.

Larsen is a special teams headhunter at best that any self-respecting defense would not have him play a major part of.

LOL We haven't had a self-respecting D in awhile so I think just about any player will work.

Now on a serious note I don't want to pencil Larsen in as our SILB starter at this point, but I think he could work in that role until we find a better option via FA or a mid round guy who is more of a well rounded player.

[MindField]

LOL We haven't had a self-respecting D in awhile so I think just about any player will work.

Now on a serious note I don't want to pencil Larsen in as our SILB starter at this point, but I think he could work in that role until we find a better option via FA or a mid round guy who is more of a well rounded player.

Larsen reminds me of Rick Dennison or Jim Ryan back in the day. They played, and even started for the Broncos because they did not have better options. However, the more they played, the more you could see that they were ill-equipt to be full time players on the Broncos defense, and they were exposed alot during the course of their career with the Broncos.

Larsen is the same deal.

[Ringo56]

Larsen reminds me of Rick Dennison or Jim Ryan back in the day. They played, and even started for the Broncos because they did not have better options. However, the more they played, the more you could see that they were ill-equipt to be full time players on the Broncos defense, and they were exposed alot during the course of their career with the Broncos.

Larsen is the same deal.

I agree, but I think Larsen could be an option to play while we search for a better option in the long run. We aren't going to fix this mess of a defense in one offseason, and I think a SILB isn't one of the most pressing needs on a 3-4 and could be held off on unless we find a player we can't miss out on.

[broncofansd]

Jasper Brinkley is not a 3rd or 4th Round Pick MUG.

I will bet you that he isn't selected in those rounds. If I win you can't post for a 6 months.


If I am wrong and he is drafted 3rd or 4th Round I won't post for 6 months.

Bet????

[broncos SB2010]

Great analytical post MUG...

Right now I believe the Top 10 is really starting to form, of those who are defensive players thus far I think the only top ten graded players are Raji, Orakpo, Curry and depending on how he measures out and so forth, Jenkins. Brown is the odd man out...but I do not think Buffalo will pass on him, especially if Orakpo is long gone. It would be too early for Pettigrew, they could take one of the offensive lineman who may fall, though I think they are more worried about their defense at this time. If they are unimpressed with Brown, the top linebacker on the boards could be their pick, which could end up being about anyone at this time.

Here is my issue, as you know I said there was no security with the 12th overall pick, and thus far it is looking more and more like I was correct. Denver could get lucky and Orakpo or Raji could fall, but highly unlikely. The Broncos could trade down and get another pick or two, that would be a smart move, but I also think McDaniels' wants a player who will make an impact on the team, especially since he is a first year head coach and there is a lot of people watching him and waiting to see what he does.

My 'gut' feeling, the one that told me we were taking 'Cutler' is telling me that if we stick at 12, the pick will be Knowshon Moreno. I know I will hear guff for it, but coaching staff has been noted as talking to backs in the draft, Brown being one of them. Moreno is considered a solid Top Ten to Fifteen product, and if the players are not their to make your defense better, then I could see him taking a player that could make our offense a better unit. People will not like it, but the way I see it...better to win a game or two more because of a juggernaut offense rather then losing because you were improving your defense.

Why do you think it is unlikely for raji to fall? Who do you think will take him? I think everyone else above us has far more pressing needs.

[The Caped Crusader]

Jasper Brinkley is not a 3rd or 4th Round Pick MUG.

I will bet you that he isn't selected in those rounds. If I win you can't post for a 6 months.


If I am wrong and he is drafted 3rd or 4th Round I won't post for 6 months.

Bet????


Why would anyone want a quality poster like mug, who makes thought provoking and insightful posts to stop posting?

[The Caped Crusader]

Why do you think it is unlikely for raji to fall? Who do you think will take him? I think everyone else above us has far more pressing needs.

Umm, Green Bay for one.

Honestly I wouldn't be suprised if Detroit took him number 1 overall. It seems bold now, but think about it. Raji is probably the second best defensive player in the draft behind Curry; and I'm sure Detroit's new coach came from the Titans, I'm sure he's going to miss having a big guy like Albert Hayensworth at DT, Raji would fill that void.

[Ringo56]

I have Jasper as a high 5th right now but his stock is shooting up fast, I see him ending as a late 3rd to mid 4th rounder come draft day.


The only reason he was so low is because of the knee injury and weight concerns from the knee issues, and he has shown that those are a none issue at this point.

He has been a standout at the combine where he came in at 6'02" 252 and has placed in the top 10 for all LBs in the following events.

40-yard dash 6th and faster than Crushing, Freeman, and Follett

Bench press 26 reps of 225 beating Curry

Vertical jump at 35.5 beating Crushing

3-cone drill at 7.03

20-yard shuttle at 4.32

Sounds to me like he is going to go much higher than you think, and maybe you should put a little time in looking at what he has done recently and adjust your rankings.

[broncos SB2010]

Umm, Green Bay for one.

Honestly I wouldn't be suprised if Detroit took him number 1 overall. It seems bold now, but think about it. Raji is probably the second best defensive player in the draft behind Curry; and I'm sure Detroit's new coach came from the Titans, I'm sure he's going to miss having a big guy like Albert Hayensworth at DT, Raji would fill that void.

GB has 3 or 4 guys who can play NT. There was an article (http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/40068247.html) I read yesterday that says they are tryibng to re-sign Colin Cole before FA so he could play NT. Theyt also talked earlier about Ryan Pickett playing there. They are not hurting for a NT like the broncos are. They 3-4 DEs much more along with safety and CB. I don't believe they will be taking a NT in the 1st.

[lancane]

Why do you think it is unlikely for raji to fall? Who do you think will take him? I think everyone else above us has far more pressing needs.

Because he is a bonified Top 10 Pick, even though teams have other needs. The option of a Top 10 defensive tackle, similar to Haynesworth in ability and cheaper will intrigue a whole hell of alot of interest by teams. Detroit, St. Louis, Seattle, Cincinnati, Oakland, Jacksonville, Green Bay and San Francisco need defensive tackle help. Even with other needs, do you really think one of them is not going to measure him higher then other needs? It would be illogical to believe so...

Raji will not fall, I don't care what any draftnik thinks...a defensive tackle of that caliber is a commodity, and there will be teams likely trying to trade up to get him. Curry and Orakpo are in a very similar boat, but Orakpo has cemented his stock. We are not the only team that could be left wanting, Buffalo is in a bad spot as well. But they will likely take whatever top lineman falls or Brown if available, Brown is the likely choice unless already gone himself.

[Ringo56]

GB has 3 or 4 guys who can play NT. There was an article I read yesterday that says they are tryibng to re-sign Colin Cole before FA so he could play NT. Theyt also talked earlier about Ryan Pickett playing there. They are not hurting for a NT like the broncos are. They 3-4 DEs much more along with safety and CB. I don't believe they will be taking a NT in the 1st.

I agree, I live in Wisconsin so I only get news on the Packers and they aren't hurting for a NT they need 5 tech DE's and Rush OLB and CB and S much worse than a NT they have 3-4 guys who can play at NT already on the roster.

Now if you said #1 to the Lions or #10 to the 49ers then I wouldn't have much of and arguement but Green Bay isn't in need dire need of a NT.

[broncos SB2010]

Because he is a bonified Top 10 Pick, even though teams have other needs. The option of a Top 10 defensive tackle, similar to Haynesworth in ability and cheaper will intrigue a whole hell of alot of interest by teams. Detroit, St. Louis, Seattle, Cincinnati, Oakland, Jacksonville, Green Bay and San Francisco need defensive tackle help. Even with other needs, do you really think one of them is not going to measure him higher then other needs? It would be illogical to believe so...

Raji will not fall, I don't care what any draftnik thinks...a defensive tackle of that caliber is a commodity, and there will be teams likely trying to trade up to get him. Curry and Orakpo are in a very similar boat, but Orakpo has cemented his stock. We are not the only team that could be left wanting, Buffalo is in a bad spot as well. But they will likely take whatever top lineman falls or Brown if available, Brown is the likely choice unless already gone himself.

You may be right...I hope not, nor do I think you are (no offense) I just think their other needs are to great. Especially teams like Oak and Sea who both need WRs badly. San Fran is a possibility but I don't think so. A lot of people didn't think Clady would drop to us yet he did. I see the same thing happening with raji. Only 2 months til we find out how it all works out. Good luck to each of us (and the Broncos) on our predictions. :salute:

[lancane]

You may be right...I hope not, nor do I think you are (no offense) I just think their other needs are to great. Especially teams like Oak and Sea who both need WRs badly. San Fran is a possibility but I don't think so. A lot of people didn't think Clady would drop to us yet he did. I see the same thing happening with raji. Only 2 months til we find out how it all works out. Good luck to each of us (and the Broncos) on our predictions. :salute:

Predicition? That is not predicition...lol. If Raji by some odd fluke falls to us, then he will be the pick, without question. But I know deep down that there is no way in hell a kid being compared to Albert Haynesworth and has done what he has between the combine and senior bowl will tumble down when a bunch of the teams ahead of us have a need at that position. I think Jacksonville takes him if he drops that far, that means Oher and Smith are off the boards, Crabtree will not fall to them. And Maclin may be a reach...

Like I said if he falls, then he will be the pick...I just do not believe he will. Right now at this time I believe the pick will be Knowshon Moreno, I was thinking Laurinaitis would do enough to push himself into contention for the spot, he did well but not enough to really be a Top 15 pick, Maualuga is falling. Maybin has not done much to raise or fall, he could be a possibility. Brown is about the only person I think who could really challange Moreno to be our pick and if Orakpo is gone, Buffalo takes Brown. Unless we trade down or hear something to contradict the rankings and grades of these kids. My mock draft now has us taking Moreno at 12.

Good luck though, if he falls he will be a Bronco, so that is good for someone so high on him to know...same with Curry or Orakpo.

[GoBroncos84]

If Maualuga really does fall into the 2nd round and we can get him there I will be ecstatic. Moreno and Maualuga 1/2 would be my ideal draft. He has not performed well this offseason, but I still think he will eventually be a pro bowler. I am hoping we can get out of the 12th pick though unless a top player falls, I am not liking the value there the closer we get to the draft.

[MileHighSpirit]

Orakpo, Curry, and Raji will all be gone (possibly in the top 5). Brown might be gone as well. The pick that makes the most sense for Denver is still Tyson Jackson.

[Jack-o-Lantern]

If Maualuga really does fall into the 2nd round and we can get him there I will be ecstatic. Moreno and Maualuga 1/2 would be my ideal draft. He has not performed well this offseason, but I still think he will eventually be a pro bowler. I am hoping we can get out of the 12th pick though unless a top player falls, I am not liking the value there the closer we get to the draft.

If you think you can get a pro bowler with your first pick then you do it. Maualuga hasn't had much luck with this offseason, but that doesn't take away his skills on the field. I like his work ethic and determination to compete with the best. Maualuga is still in contention in my eyes. Some things are immeasurable and sometimes hamstrings get pulled. That's football.
http://nationalpost.pa-sportsticker.com/default.aspx?s=nfl-news-display&nid=A23326841235426666A

[lancane]

If Maualuga really does fall into the 2nd round and we can get him there I will be ecstatic. Moreno and Maualuga 1/2 would be my ideal draft. He has not performed well this offseason, but I still think he will eventually be a pro bowler. I am hoping we can get out of the 12th pick though unless a top player falls, I am not liking the value there the closer we get to the draft.

I am all for trading down, problem is that with the deflation of value at the pick, who in the hell will trade for it? If Sanchez or Crabtree somehow made it to the spot, maybe Oher...but there may be no value now. A lot of shifting is taking place. Right now, I do not see a team that will trade for a higher pick where there is no value, maybe someone will trade for the pick and reach for Cushing, Maualuga or Larinaitis, but I doubt it. And Maualuga will not fall to the second round, but a good thing is that his fall will shift the middle linebacker class and some of the draft, which could push a good prospect into our laps later in the draft.

[lancane]

Orakpo, Curry, and Raji will all be gone (possibly in the top 5). Brown might be gone as well. The pick that makes the most sense for Denver is still Tyson Jackson.

Tyson Jackson is a viable pick, but he also really has done nothing to shoot up the boards and really cement him as a better prospect then Maualuga or anyone else. I am high on Jackson, but at this point I see Denver bringing in Olshansky, Canty, Wright or Cody to man the end position, when you add in Thomas, Clemmons, Peterson, Askew and McBean...not sure Denver will be pushing to get another defensive end so early in the draft. We will see, and Jackson could be the pick, but in accordance to value and needs, I at this time think Moreno will be the pick.

[GoBroncos84]

If you think you can get a pro bowler with your first pick then you do it. Maualuga hasn't had much luck with this offseason, but that doesn't take away his skills on the field. I like his work ethic and determination to compete with the best. Maualuga is still in contention in my eyes. Some things are immeasurable and sometimes hamstrings get pulled. That's football.
http://nationalpost.pa-sportsticker.com/default.aspx?s=nfl-news-display&nid=A23326841235426666A

He has not fallen out of contention for me either, I was just responding to some claims that he could fall like Posluzny did. I only have a couple of players ranked ahead of Rey on my list, like Aaron Curry, but I doubt they will be available. He is still the pick in my eyes. I am hoping he heals up and puts on a show at his pro-day. I'm also still really high on Moreno

[JoRo]

Q. What exactly did Larsen prove when he got extended playing time?

A. That he could not hold onto the job, and after a decent start, faded badly down the stretch.

...and you still have to address how you can keep a guy on the field that you have to time with a sun dial he runs so slow.

Larsen is a special teams headhunter at best that any self-respecting defense would not have him play a major part of.

He lost his job because Webster came back and Shanny favored him.


Spencer was better than Webster last year, unless you didn't actually watch a game last year and just are going off of what the offseason thoughts were on them both.


Either way: lost a lil cred. in my book. I think Spencer at this point is going to surprise a lot of people this coming season.


BTW: I am in agreeance with Lanc, at this point I think we basically take Moreno or somehow peddle the pick off... just can't see how we would unless someone lights up a Pro Day that is unexpected.

[Cugel]

Great analytical post MUG...

Right now I believe the Top 10 is really starting to form, of those who are defensive players thus far I think the only top ten graded players are Raji, Orakpo, Curry and depending on how he measures out and so forth, Jenkins. Brown is the odd man out...but I do not think Buffalo will pass on him, especially if Orakpo is long gone. It would be too early for Pettigrew, they could take one of the offensive lineman who may fall, though I think they are more worried about their defense at this time. If they are unimpressed with Brown, the top linebacker on the boards could be their pick, which could end up being about anyone at this time.

Here is my issue, as you know I said there was no security with the 12th overall pick, and thus far it is looking more and more like I was correct. Denver could get lucky and Orakpo or Raji could fall, but highly unlikely. The Broncos could trade down and get another pick or two, that would be a smart move, but I also think McDaniels' wants a player who will make an impact on the team, especially since he is a first year head coach and there is a lot of people watching him and waiting to see what he does.

My 'gut' feeling, the one that told me we were taking 'Cutler' is telling me that if we stick at 12, the pick will be Knowshon Moreno. I know I will hear guff for it, but coaching staff has been noted as talking to backs in the draft, Brown being one of them. Moreno is considered a solid Top Ten to Fifteen product, and if the players are not their to make your defense better, then I could see him taking a player that could make our offense a better unit. People will not like it, but the way I see it...better to win a game or two more because of a juggernaut offense rather then losing because you were improving your defense.

The question for teams is whether to wait on drafting an OT. They are getting harder to find every year, moving up the draft board. You may have noticed that as difficult as it is to find an elite pass-rushing DE or DT, it's simply IMPOSSIBLE to find an elite LT in FA. Teams just don't let them get away.

Ex: The Panthers chose to make their effort to re-negotiate LT Jordan Gross, giving him a $30 million guaranteed contract over the first 3 years, the highest OL contract ever awarded. Meanwhile they franchised Julius Peppers, which means he will probably be traded this off-season.

Notice, the team keeps the LT at all costs, and lets probably the best DE in football get away!

I think that all four OTs will go in the top 12 (Monroe, BOTH Smiths, & Oher). Teams will swallow hard and take one. I could be wrong, but that's my prediction. Yes, that includes Andre Smith, whose conduct at the combine will NOT endear him to NFL GMs. (He won't work out because he's out of shape.)

So, I could be wrong about him. He could fall to the 15-20 range if teams think he's just going to be a RT.

But, that's my prediction. 4 OTs in the top 11. I don't think the defensive players are really all that great beyond Curry & Raji, I don't see a real difference maker. :coffee:

Orakpo is good, but how much better than guys you could draft at 15-25? I also think that Malcolm Jenkins will move up into the top 10 away from the Broncos.

I think Denver will have it's choice of a bunch of guys, including Maybin & Tyson Jackson, but I'd be most happy if they traded back to around 20 and took DT Ron Brace or Peria Jerry, and had an extra 3rd round pick.

[broncos SB2010]

The question for teams is whether to wait on drafting an OT. They are getting harder to find every year, moving up the draft board. You may have noticed that as difficult as it is to find an elite pass-rushing DE or DT, it's simply IMPOSSIBLE to find an elite LT in FA. Teams just don't let them get away.

Ex: The Panthers chose to make their effort to re-negotiate LT Jordan Gross, giving him a $30 million guaranteed contract over the first 3 years, the highest OL contract ever awarded. Meanwhile they franchised Julius Peppers, which means he will probably be traded this off-season.

Notice, the team keeps the LT at all costs, and lets probably the best DE in football get away!

I think that all four OTs will go in the top 12 (Monroe, BOTH Smiths, & Oher). Teams will swallow hard and take one. I could be wrong, but that's my prediction. Yes, that includes Andre Smith, whose conduct at the combine will NOT endear him to NFL GMs. (He won't work out because he's out of shape.)

So, I could be wrong about him. He could fall to the 15-20 range if teams think he's just going to be a RT.

But, that's my prediction. 4 OTs in the top 11. I don't think the defensive players are really all that great beyond Curry & Raji, I don't see a real difference maker. :coffee:

Orakpo is good, but how much better than guys you could draft at 15-25? I also think that Malcolm Jenkins will move up into the top 10 away from the Broncos.

I think Denver will have it's choice of a bunch of guys, including Maybin & Tyson Jackson, but I'd be most happy if they traded back to around 20 and took DT Ron Brace or Peria Jerry, and had an extra 3rd round pick.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Vontae Davis taken before Jenkins also in the top 10.

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Vontae Davis taken before Jenkins also in the top 10.

You guys might be right. His bench press reps were pretty impressive. The 40 times will have a big determining factor as it usually does with cb's, and wide outs too.

That guy Heyward-Bey (sp?) probably just elevated himself into the top 15. I know Harvin is still fast, but I expected him to run in the low 4.3's. I think some guys are so fast that they don't work on dropping their 40 times and then they get a little surprised when there are a handful of guys as fast or faster than they are at the combine.

[SBboundBRONCOS]

You guys might be right. His bench press reps were pretty impressive. The 40 times will have a big determining factor as it usually does with cb's, and wide outs too.

That guy Heyward-Bey (sp?) probably just elevated himself into the top 15. I know Harvin is still fast, but I expected him to run in the low 4.3's. I think some guys are so fast that they don't work on dropping their 40 times and then they get a little surprised when there are a handful of guys as fast or faster than they are at the combine.

im pretty most expected bey to run the fastest 40, harvin is fast but hes very quick, much like hester

both ran about a 4.4 but you put them on a field and not too many people will catch them

[MindField]

He lost his job because Webster came back and Shanny favored him.


Spencer was better than Webster last year, unless you didn't actually watch a game last year and just are going off of what the offseason thoughts were on them both.


Either way: lost a lil cred. in my book. I think Spencer at this point is going to surprise a lot of people this coming season.


BTW: I am in agreeance with Lanc, at this point I think we basically take Moreno or somehow peddle the pick off... just can't see how we would unless someone lights up a Pro Day that is unexpected.

If you start your take with 'I think', then Larsen's performance is not based on anything but your opinion about him, and your hope he will justify it....but he did exactly NOTHING on the field last year to suggest he will be anything but a special teams guy.

[MileHighSpirit]

Tyson Jackson is a viable pick, but he also really has done nothing to shoot up the boards and really cement him as a better prospect then Maualuga or anyone else. I am high on Jackson, but at this point I see Denver bringing in Olshansky, Canty, Wright or Cody to man the end position, when you add in Thomas, Clemmons, Peterson, Askew and McBean...not sure Denver will be pushing to get another defensive end so early in the draft. We will see, and Jackson could be the pick, but in accordance to value and needs, I at this time think Moreno will be the pick.

I expect Olshanksy or Canty as well (and am really excited about getting one of them), but they both fit better at RDE which becomes more of a pass rush role in a 3-4/4-3 hybrid defense (which makes me think we will target Canty first). Jackson is a darned near perfect LDE. He can function well enough as an under-tackle when we need to play a 4-3, and he can be a dominating Ty Warren type player in a 3-4.

Thomas, Peterson, McBean, etc... All those guys are not dominating players. Servicable? Good depth? Yes, and yes. They will never dominate or be nearly as versatile like Tyson Jackson can be.

Honestly, what more could we ask for than the chance to basically have a guy like this fall in our laps? If it weren't for all the great pass rushers that will go in the top 11, this guy would be gone to some 3-4 team. People forget that even the best 3-4 OLBs get their advantageous pass rush opportunities because other people take up the blockers. Merriman has Phillips on the other side and Olshansky, Williams, and Castillo collapsing the pocket. Harrison had a pedestrian 8.5 sacks in '07 and blossomed as Woodley brought the heat from the other side. Joey Porter has Starks and Ferguson (and some promising young risers in Merling and Langford). Suggs has Ngata and Pryce.

Who do we have?

...and where is the normally reliable advocate for Dline importance, MuG? Common man, I saw your recent post after you saw Jackson's combine numbers. Get on board. Make him this year's Vince Wilfork or Haloti Ngata. :salute:

[lancane]

I expect Olshanksy or Canty as well (and am really excited about getting one of them), but they both fit better at RDE which becomes more of a pass rush role in a 3-4/4-3 hybrid defense (which makes me think we will target Canty first). Jackson is a darned near perfect LDE. He can function well enough as an under-tackle when we need to play a 4-3, and he can be a dominating Ty Warren type player in a 3-4.

Thomas, Peterson, McBean, etc... All those guys are not dominating players. Servicable? Good depth? Yes, and yes. They will never dominate or be nearly as versatile like Tyson Jackson can be.

Honestly, what more could we ask for than the chance to basically have a guy like this fall in our laps? If it weren't for all the great pass rushers that will go in the top 11, this guy would be gone to some 3-4 team. People forget that even the best 3-4 OLBs get their advantageous pass rush opportunities because other people take up the blockers. Merriman has Phillips on the other side and Olshansky, Williams, and Castillo collapsing the pocket. Harrison had a pedestrian 8.5 sacks in '07 and blossomed as Woodley brought the heat from the other side. Joey Porter has Starks and Ferguson (and some promising young risers in Merling and Langford). Suggs has Ngata and Pryce.

Who do we have?

...and where is the normally reliable advocate for Dline importance, MuG? Common man, I saw your recent post after you saw Jackson's combine numbers. Get on board. Make him this year's Vince Wilfork or Haloti Ngata. :salute:

I was one of the first on here to indicate that Jackson could be the pick at 12, and I do understand the importance of a solid defensive line. Fact is that whether we sign Canty, Olshansky, Cody or Wright, we can not just cut all of those we have on the roster and the coaches will have to see where their talents could be used. So, I am not against it at all. But I think the value right now for Denver is Brown and Moreno. If both are gone, I think it will be between Jackson and Cushing...but chances are high one of those two is there and I think it is more likely to be Moreno at this point. He fits a need, he is a solid pick and he sures up the one offensive hole Denver has.

I have always been high on Jackson. We will just have to wait and see, but I would not discount the idea of taking him with our first pick.

[elevation INC]

I was one of the first on here to indicate that Jackson could be the pick at 12, and I do understand the importance of a solid defensive line. Fact is that whether we sign Canty, Olshansky, Cody or Wright, we can not just cut all of those we have on the roster and the coaches will have to see where their talents could be used. So, I am not against it at all. But I think the value right now for Denver is Brown and Moreno. If both are gone, I think it will be between Jackson and Cushing...but chances are high one of those two is there and I think it is more likely to be Moreno at this point. He fits a need, he is a solid pick and he sures up the one offensive hole Denver has.

I have always been high on Jackson. We will just have to wait and see, but I would not discount the idea of taking him with our first pick.


i beleive we are currently down to 4 options cushing, jackson, and moreno or wells. with english have risen 20 lbs in weight he doesnt fit the rush lb role and will be a mid first pick. cushing fits 3 positions with his versatility as well as gives us a proven defensive performer. Jackson gives us the best 3-4 end in the draft and moreno and wells fill a need also. i think curry, raji, okrapo, brown and jenkins are all gone by the time we pick.

and yes lancane i do believe you, me and maybe 1 or 2 others have been on the jackson wagon for sometime....:salute!:



i personally hope we select tyson jackson, but cushing is actually a safe pick as well becasue of his versatility. he gives us a good chance at getting a guy that is sure to fit and play next year on this team somewhere other than special teams.....SAM in 4-3 looks, ILB in 3-4 looks, but also rush LB in pass rush situations....im not high on the cushing pick but it should be safe, and MUG was the first one to call cushing at 12 FYI....lol

i do not think moreno or wells are the franchise back we need, but i am not blind enough to say they arent options either.....

[MindField]

i beleive we are currently down to 4 options cushing, jackson, and moreno or wells. with english have risen 20 lbs in weight he doesnt fit the rush lb role and will be a mid first pick. cushing fits 3 positions with his versatility as well as gives us a proven defensive performer. Jackson gives us the best 3-4 end in the draft and moreno and wells fill a need also. i think curry, raji, okrapo, brown and jenkins are all gone by the time we pick.

and yes lancane i do believe you, me and maybe 1 or 2 others have been on the jackson wagon for sometime....:salute!:



i personally hope we select tyson jackson, but cushing is actually a safe pick as well becasue of his versatility. he gives us a good chance at getting a guy that is sure to fit and play next year on this team somewhere other than special teams.....SAM in 4-3 looks, ILB in 3-4 looks, but also rush LB in pass rush situations....im not high on the cushing pick but it should be safe, and MUG was the first one to call cushing at 12 FYI....lol

i do not think moreno or wells are the franchise back we need, but i am not blind enough to say they arent options either.....

Just because we can take Tyson Jackson, but that does not mean we SHOULD.

Taking Tyson Jackson would be roughly the equivalent of taking Jarvis Moss or Tim Crowder.

Two years from now we will be talking about what a stiff he is.

[lancane]

i beleive we are currently down to 4 options cushing, jackson, and moreno or wells. with english have risen 20 lbs in weight he doesnt fit the rush lb role and will be a mid first pick. cushing fits 3 positions with his versatility as well as gives us a proven defensive performer. Jackson gives us the best 3-4 end in the draft and moreno and wells fill a need also. i think curry, raji, okrapo, brown and jenkins are all gone by the time we pick.

and yes lancane i do believe you, me and maybe 1 or 2 others have been on the jackson wagon for sometime....:salute!:



i personally hope we select tyson jackson, but cushing is actually a safe pick as well becasue of his versatility. he gives us a good chance at getting a guy that is sure to fit and play next year on this team somewhere other than special teams.....SAM in 4-3 looks, ILB in 3-4 looks, but also rush LB in pass rush situations....im not high on the cushing pick but it should be safe, and MUG was the first one to call cushing at 12 FYI....lol

i do not think moreno or wells are the franchise back we need, but i am not blind enough to say they arent options either.....

Actually, Cushing is far from a safe pick, he has risen from fast because of a good showing...but let's not forget his injury issues nor the fact that there are traces of a steroid scandal still upon him. I think he has risen his stock enough to be the 12th pick, but I will not say he is of value at the pick.

Brown, Moreno and Jackson make more sense at the spot. But Cushing is a possible...not sure how I would feel about the pick, I guess I would be fine. But there are other outside linebackers or transitional linebackers that I would rather have in round two and so on.

[elevation INC]

Actually, Cushing is far from a safe pick, he has risen from fast because of a good showing...but let's not forget his injury issues nor the fact that there are traces of a steroid scandal still upon him. I think he has risen his stock enough to be the 12th pick, but I will not say he is of value at the pick.

Brown, Moreno and Jackson make more sense at the spot. But Cushing is a possible...not sure how I would feel about the pick, I guess I would be fine. But there are other outside linebackers or transitional linebackers that I would rather have in round two and so on.

injury history aside the steroid crap is just media crap....there is no fact to it...his versatility makes him a safe pick, while injuries are possible he has 3 spots he can play from on this team......jackson to me makes the most sense now.....he to me seems like a DL verison of RYAN clady......

i also like some of the rush lb's in rd 2. in my mock i will go with tyson jackson but i can easily see brian cushing a the pick especially since Lb's usually have a succesful transition rate....

[Cugel]

i beleive we are currently down to 4 options cushing, jackson, and moreno or wells. with english have risen 20 lbs in weight he doesnt fit the rush lb role and will be a mid first pick. cushing fits 3 positions with his versatility as well as gives us a proven defensive performer. Jackson gives us the best 3-4 end in the draft and moreno and wells fill a need also. i think curry, raji, okrapo, brown and jenkins are all gone by the time we pick.

and yes lancane i do believe you, me and maybe 1 or 2 others have been on the jackson wagon for sometime....:salute!:

i personally hope we select tyson jackson, but cushing is actually a safe pick as well becasue of his versatility. he gives us a good chance at getting a guy that is sure to fit and play next year on this team somewhere other than special teams.....SAM in 4-3 looks, ILB in 3-4 looks, but also rush LB in pass rush situations....im not high on the cushing pick but it should be safe, and MUG was the first one to call cushing at 12 FYI....lol

i do not think moreno or wells are the franchise back we need, but i am not blind enough to say they arent options either.....

There are a LOT more than 4 options for the Broncos right now!

That's because you can't predict exactly what's going to happen in the draft, so you don't know who will fall! :coffee:

Nobody knows at this point who the Broncos will have available or who they have at the top of their draft boards. Most people THINK it's Raji, but who really knows? And after him?

Just one example: The Broncos might well be counting on Marcus Thomas to move out to play LDE in which case they probably wouldn't draft one in the top rounds.

If they sign a FA RB, does that mean no RB on the first day?

What about trading back and stockpiling an extra pick, which Xanders has talked about? That might mean DT Ron Brace.

I think it's clear the Lions will take a QB #1, because there's NO OT or DE worthy of the overall #1 spot this year. Will KC take Sanchez or Stafford, and if they pass on whoever's left will the 49ers grab him to be their franchise QB? Especially if Raji is off the board to Green Bay or before?

Will the Bengals take LT Jason Smith assuming Monroe is off the boards or will they grab a defensive player?

Will Green Bay take Raji at #9? Will he move up into the top 5-6?

Will a top CB sneak into the top 10 the way they normally do? Vontae Davis or Jenkins could easily be in the top 10.

Will the Raiders take Oher, which might be a very good choice for them since they desperately need a RT to protect their investment in Russell? Or will Crabtree fall to them and Al Davis take a WR? Normally, you don't use a top 10 pick for a RT, but Al Davis does whatever the hell he wants.
Will Seattle take Crabtree, and if so, will Al Davis grab Maclin? Obviously the Raiders need a WR and if Crabtree if gone he could take Maclin to be that speedy weapon Russell needs. After all, Javon Walker certainly isn't the answer.

Will anybody take a Moreno in the top 10? I'm not betting on that, but normally at least 1 RB is taken there.

There are too many imponderables for anybody to predict exactly who will be available at #12. Everette Brown? Maybin? Jackson? Raji? Jenkins? Davis? Orakpo? Maualuga? Peria Jerry? Brain Cushing?

[elevation INC]

There are a LOT more than 4 options for the Broncos right now!

That's because you can't predict exactly what's going to happen in the draft, so you don't know who will fall! :coffee:

Nobody knows at this point who the Broncos will have available or who they have at the top of their draft boards. Most people THINK it's Raji, but who really knows? And after him?

Just one example: The Broncos might well be counting on Marcus Thomas to move out to play LDE in which case they probably wouldn't draft one in the top rounds.

If they sign a FA RB, does that mean no RB on the first day?

What about trading back and stockpiling an extra pick, which Xanders has talked about? That might mean DT Ron Brace.

I think it's clear the Lions will take a QB #1, because there's NO OT or DE worthy of the overall #1 spot this year. Will KC take Sanchez or Stafford, and if they pass on whoever's left will the 49ers grab him to be their franchise QB? Especially if Raji is off the board to Green Bay or before?

Will the Bengals take LT Jason Smith assuming Monroe is off the boards or will they grab a defensive player?

Will Green Bay take Raji at #9? Will he move up into the top 5-6?

Will a top CB sneak into the top 10 the way they normally do? Vontae Davis or Jenkins could easily be in the top 10.

Will the Raiders take Oher, which might be a very good choice for them since they desperately need a RT to protect their investment in Russell? Or will Crabtree fall to them and Al Davis take a WR? Normally, you don't use a top 10 pick for a RT, but Al Davis does whatever the hell he wants.
Will Seattle take Crabtree, and if so, will Al Davis grab Maclin? Obviously the Raiders need a WR and if Crabtree if gone he could take Maclin to be that speedy weapon Russell needs. After all, Javon Walker certainly isn't the answer.

Will anybody take a Moreno in the top 10? I'm not betting on that, but normally at least 1 RB is taken there.

There are too many imponderables for anybody to predict exactly who will be available at #12. Everette Brown? Maybin? Jackson? Raji? Jenkins? Davis? Orakpo? Maualuga? Peria Jerry? Brain Cushing?



hmm lets state the obvious.....:P


good points, i still feel we are at 4 options, but anything can happen, at this point, and i dont disagree with that.

I am not trying to be right or wrong, which maybe i am coming off like....

I am simply debating and discussing different scenarios and different options....its very likely that it doesnt go down this way, but whats the point of a draft forum if we cant discuss....its boring otherwise.....