It's finally here! The 2013 NFL season starts this week! And me being the eternal optimist, I have very high expectations for my Chicago Bears!
Prevailing thought seems to be that nobody knows what to expect from the Bears. I think the media sees a team that didn't make the playoffs last year, fired its well respected coach, and is going thru a 4th offensive coordinator in the last 5 years. However, what I see is a 10-win team with a great, opportunistic defense that would have been a playoff team last year with an offensive scheme and playcalling resembling anything close to NFL caliber.
Lovie Smith and most of his defensive staff are gone, but 9 of the 11 defensive starters are back. And the good thing about having a veteran defense is that the seed has already been planted in them. The Bears have looked like the same defense that scored 9 TDs last year, leading the NFL in turnovers forced in the preseason. Maybe losing Lovie's motivation, Urlacher's leadership, and gaining a year of age is going to slow the defense down a little, but there's no reason to believe there will be a significant dropoff. Even if the 30-somethings (Peppers, Briggs, Tillman, Jennings) go from playing at an elite level to just merely "good", the Bears still have pro-bowler, Henry Melton in his prime. Also, players like Wootton, Paea, McClellin, Wright and Conte look to be on the upswing. Wootton is 100% healthy. Paea quietly may have been the best player on the defense in the preseason. McClellin has shown flashes. Conte looks to have taken that next step and seems to be quicker to react to the ball, with a pair of INTs and a few pass breakups in the preseason. Additionally, James Anderson appears to be a much better pass defender than Nick Roach, though admittedly, Anderson isn't a great run defender. Starting a rookie at MIKE LB is a concern to some, as Bostic has been a little slow on his run keys and getting depth in his zone coverage, but he is surrounded by a strong front 4, a pro-bowl WLB, and a SS that excels at stopping the run. Bostic will make some mistakes, but for the most part, I feel like the team around him can cover up for him until he gets used to the speed of the game. One concern may be the depth on defense as 9 of the projected backups are either rookies or 2nd year players. But that depth also includes DJ Williams and Zach Bowman who have a wealth of starting experience under their belts.
Offensive is what will determine if this team can win the division and go on a deep playoff run, the way I think they can. And let's face it, this is all about the passing game. The run game will be fine. It has been strong in preseason. It was good enough last year. But the one thing that has stood out to me the last few years is the fact that, Earl Bennett's screen to the house aside, the Bears get very little YAC....yards after catch. In the dreaded days of Hester as the #1 WR, the lack of YAC was due to the fact that neither Hester or Knox could beat press coverage enough to get in the open field where they could use their great speed. Last year, it was simply a lack of route diversity and creativity to get guys open. There were very few crossing routes, scrapes, designed picks, and clearouts in the playbook.
Brandon Marshall, routinely a top 5-7 WR (top 20 overall) in terms of YAC pre-Chicago, was 30th overall last year. And frankly, most of those yards seemed to be his pure strength and ability to break tackles. Overall, the Bears as a team were 31st in yards after the catch. They have routinely been in the bottom 1/4 of the league in the Cutler era, which has not been his doing. And in today's NFL, you don't throw for 4,000 yards by just chucking the ball deep. Your QB gets 4,000 yards by getting the ball out of his hands and allowing his WRs to get him "cheap" yardage, running with the ball already in their hands. As an example, in 2011, Tom Brady threw for over 5200 yards. Welker, Gronk, and Hernandez were all in the top 10 in YAC. Almost 2000 of his yards came while Brady was watching his guy run with the ball....and that's only to those 3. In 2012, less than 1/2 (48%) of Brady's passing yards came from him throwing the ball in the air. For comparison, Cutler was at 56%, and with Forte being the 2nd leading receiver, many of those came on dumpoffs, which are obviously not as productive than a run after catch when the ball is thrown further down the field.
In comes the West Coast Offense. While not as in vogue as it was years ago, every team typically run some WCO concepts in its base formations. The WR screen we grew to love (or is it loathe?) in the days of Gary Crowton as OC, is a staple play of the WCO (just not the only play, Crowton!). But also, the west-coast offense includes things foreign to recent Bears OC's such as quick slants, rollouts, TE seams. These play designs allow the QB to get the ball out of his hands, not only to slow down a pass rush, but also to simply get yards by creating situations in which the receiver has to only beat 1 guy in order to pick up a big gain (see opening drive completion to Jeffery in Oakland). These type of concepts also opens up double moves and the deep passing game as the DL will be less focused on getting to the passer if the ball is typically gone before they have a chance.
YAC will be the key in determining whether the Bears offense is sufficient or not. In a league where Matt Schaub, Josh Freeman, and rookies have come into the league to throw for 4,000....there's no reason why Jay Cutler shouldn't at least be sniffing that number. Last time Cutler was in the WCO, he threw for 4,500+ in Denver. Also was the last time he didn't get sacked a ton of times. I have no reason not to have faith that an improved OL, improved WR talent, and a real offensive gameplan will get Cutler to the 3,800-4,200 passing yards threshold. And if that happens with a sufficient running game and an opportunistic defense, the Bears will surprise many and be one of the top teams in the league this year.
This blog is solely used to provide both Steelers and Bears fans with a very realistic look at their teams upcoming possible draft picks.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Friday, August 30, 2013
Steelers 53 man roster, educated guess?
3 QB- Ben, Bruce and ugh... do I have to? Jones. I hear Enderle is looking for work among a few others Id take over Landry in a heart beat.
5 RB- Bell, Redman, LSH, Felix the Cat and Will Johnson. Fumbles didnt help Mendenhall when he was here and he was a 1st round pick. Tomlin wont settle for another 8-8 season using almost the same RBs as in 2012. LSH was our typical "Gem FA" and Felix is yet another. 2 great RB additions in our new ZBS.
3 TE- Heath, Pauslon and Id hope Palmer but odds are its gonna be DJ. At least thats until Speath comes back from IR. To be honest I hope an above average vet is released and we walk away from Speath and DJ for the 2nd time. Or keep Palmer. I also hoped a few weeks ago itd be Moeaki but he went and got broken again.
6 WR- AB, Manny, Cotchery, Wheaton, Moye, J. Brown. Look, on this blog IM THE GM DAMN IT AND IM KEEPING ALL 6!!! If you check your notes I had us getting Moye last year, so decent foresight on my part. Hes done a tremendous job. Had Brown fielded 2 punts and been looked at by Landry in the 2nd half as opposed to throwing to the defense, then maybe this is different and not such an argument.
8 OL- Gil (yes, at LT), Foster, MP53, Destro, Beachum (pay attention kids). Adams, Malecki, and Long. I hate Whimper. And as well as Long did last night I do hope we find a better vet than Whimper and Long and just make a move. But this is the Steelers. So these are the 8. Long has a far higher ceiling along with bloodlines.
7 DL- Hood, McLendon, Keisel, Woods, Cam, Fangupo and Arnfelt. "The Fang" has outplayed TaAmu all preseason, getting looks ahead of him as well as beside him. Hmmm, beside him you say? That goalline stand last night had Woods, Fangupo, TaAmu and Arnfelt on the Dline. Yes, a 4 man front. A very powerful one at that. Ive said it before and Ill say it again- TaAmu is a 3 tech in a 43 defense. Nothing more. Fangupo can and has played the 1 and the 0 in both alignments. And Woods just frankly kicks ass everywhere (3 year extension anyone???). As for Arnfelt- there are too many 34 teams now to take a chance on placing him on the Practice Squad. He earned a chance on the 53. Granted he probably wont dress. At least not this year. Now next year when/if Ziggy leaves... well thats another question altogether.
5 ILB- Timmons, Foote, McFadden, Vince (ass kicker. Pay attention Spence), Rolle. I went Rolle over Wilson primarily due to LeBeau being a Buckeye alum. Sorta. Rumor has it our coaching staff have been a fan of his for awhile now, and him playing with the 2s almost all preseason says enough. Kion has PS time available.
4 OLB- Woodley, Jones (again, pay attention kids), Worilds, Baxter- Baxter is this years Harrison. No questions asked. While Chris Carter finally showed up last night he has been lacking the past 3 seasons showing little to nothing, even on special teams. He was given the starting gig last year on a platter and couldnt handle it. And while Carter did well last night, Alan has been playing that well if not better all preseason. We used Harrison as a ping pong ball a few years ago with the Ravens. Baxter wont bounce around at all.
5 CB- Ike, Tez, Gay (Ras I Dowling? Any vet not named Gay???), Hawthorne, Green- Heres my thinking. The Shark and Golden can and have played the nickel spot very well. So their flexibility wont force us to use iffy talent in coverage. Sorry Curtis. Sorry Victorian. The 1st cant cover and the other cant tackle. Green has done well on special teams and has the speed and hands we love. Hawthorne is Lakes new toy and I bet before long he shows up and dresses (pay attention Gay). And yes, I still hate William Gay.
4 S- Troy, Clark, The Shark and Golden- maybe the best deep coverage in the league? Gotta be top 5. The only way this group coulda been better was if we drafted Matt Elam. LOL Shit.
K- Suisham
P- Flip a coin. Ok, rock paper scissors? My mother and your mother were hanging up clothes...
LS- Warren
Thats 53 kids. Yes If I were Tomlin Id put Gil back at LT and start Beachum at RT. Let Adams be the flex. You put your best 5 in to start right??? RIGHT??? Beachum has shown far more than anything Adams has done. His kick slide is still lacking for Christs sake (my biggest concern of his from the draft). And JJ over Worilds. Yup, at some point itll happen.
5 RB- Bell, Redman, LSH, Felix the Cat and Will Johnson. Fumbles didnt help Mendenhall when he was here and he was a 1st round pick. Tomlin wont settle for another 8-8 season using almost the same RBs as in 2012. LSH was our typical "Gem FA" and Felix is yet another. 2 great RB additions in our new ZBS.
3 TE- Heath, Pauslon and Id hope Palmer but odds are its gonna be DJ. At least thats until Speath comes back from IR. To be honest I hope an above average vet is released and we walk away from Speath and DJ for the 2nd time. Or keep Palmer. I also hoped a few weeks ago itd be Moeaki but he went and got broken again.
6 WR- AB, Manny, Cotchery, Wheaton, Moye, J. Brown. Look, on this blog IM THE GM DAMN IT AND IM KEEPING ALL 6!!! If you check your notes I had us getting Moye last year, so decent foresight on my part. Hes done a tremendous job. Had Brown fielded 2 punts and been looked at by Landry in the 2nd half as opposed to throwing to the defense, then maybe this is different and not such an argument.
8 OL- Gil (yes, at LT), Foster, MP53, Destro, Beachum (pay attention kids). Adams, Malecki, and Long. I hate Whimper. And as well as Long did last night I do hope we find a better vet than Whimper and Long and just make a move. But this is the Steelers. So these are the 8. Long has a far higher ceiling along with bloodlines.
7 DL- Hood, McLendon, Keisel, Woods, Cam, Fangupo and Arnfelt. "The Fang" has outplayed TaAmu all preseason, getting looks ahead of him as well as beside him. Hmmm, beside him you say? That goalline stand last night had Woods, Fangupo, TaAmu and Arnfelt on the Dline. Yes, a 4 man front. A very powerful one at that. Ive said it before and Ill say it again- TaAmu is a 3 tech in a 43 defense. Nothing more. Fangupo can and has played the 1 and the 0 in both alignments. And Woods just frankly kicks ass everywhere (3 year extension anyone???). As for Arnfelt- there are too many 34 teams now to take a chance on placing him on the Practice Squad. He earned a chance on the 53. Granted he probably wont dress. At least not this year. Now next year when/if Ziggy leaves... well thats another question altogether.
5 ILB- Timmons, Foote, McFadden, Vince (ass kicker. Pay attention Spence), Rolle. I went Rolle over Wilson primarily due to LeBeau being a Buckeye alum. Sorta. Rumor has it our coaching staff have been a fan of his for awhile now, and him playing with the 2s almost all preseason says enough. Kion has PS time available.
4 OLB- Woodley, Jones (again, pay attention kids), Worilds, Baxter- Baxter is this years Harrison. No questions asked. While Chris Carter finally showed up last night he has been lacking the past 3 seasons showing little to nothing, even on special teams. He was given the starting gig last year on a platter and couldnt handle it. And while Carter did well last night, Alan has been playing that well if not better all preseason. We used Harrison as a ping pong ball a few years ago with the Ravens. Baxter wont bounce around at all.
5 CB- Ike, Tez, Gay (Ras I Dowling? Any vet not named Gay???), Hawthorne, Green- Heres my thinking. The Shark and Golden can and have played the nickel spot very well. So their flexibility wont force us to use iffy talent in coverage. Sorry Curtis. Sorry Victorian. The 1st cant cover and the other cant tackle. Green has done well on special teams and has the speed and hands we love. Hawthorne is Lakes new toy and I bet before long he shows up and dresses (pay attention Gay). And yes, I still hate William Gay.
4 S- Troy, Clark, The Shark and Golden- maybe the best deep coverage in the league? Gotta be top 5. The only way this group coulda been better was if we drafted Matt Elam. LOL Shit.
K- Suisham
P- Flip a coin. Ok, rock paper scissors? My mother and your mother were hanging up clothes...
LS- Warren
Thats 53 kids. Yes If I were Tomlin Id put Gil back at LT and start Beachum at RT. Let Adams be the flex. You put your best 5 in to start right??? RIGHT??? Beachum has shown far more than anything Adams has done. His kick slide is still lacking for Christs sake (my biggest concern of his from the draft). And JJ over Worilds. Yup, at some point itll happen.
My 53-man Bears roster
This is how I would construct the Bears final roster, pending no trades are made. It's also a prediction on what I think the roster will look like.
Quarterbacks (2)- Jay Cutler, Josh McCown.
The Matt Blanchard situation stinks, because he was a nice developmental QB. But what it does is create an open spot for the Bears to keep a player at another position. I look for the Bears to find a practice squad QB after final cuts are made. If a 3rd QB is needed, they can always go get Trent Edwards or Jordan Palmer again off the street, which is where they will be after final cuts this weekend.
Running backs (4)- Matt Forte, Michael Bush, Michael Ford, Tony Fiametta.
Forte and the Presidents. As I predicted several months ago in a mock draft, Michael Ford has too much talent not to be on an NFL roster. Highly recruited out of HS. Hard runner, who is also very fast. Armando Allen is an experienced special teamer, but the Bears aren't short on those. Ford has proven to be better in all phases with the ball in his hands, Allen's injury didn't help either. Fiametta has been a big + in the run game, he makes the squad.
Wide Receiver (6)- Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery, Earl Bennett, Marquess Wilson, Joe Anderson, Eric Weems.
Interesting that Anderson hasn't been in with the 1s at all the last 2 weeks, and doesn't appear to be out there on special teams with the 1s either, a role he was very good at last year in limited duty. A surprise would be Terrance Tolliver taking Anderson's spot, as the Bears seem to really like him. Anderson gets the nod due to his ability to play the slot and teams, whereas Tolliver doesn't appear to be able to do either. Weems makes it for the same reason. All phase special teamer, potential to play slot WR. Bennett's health forces the Bears to carry 6 WRs, at least to start.
Tight End (3)- Martellus Bennett, Steve Maneri, Fendi Onubun.
I know Bears fans think Onubun is a lost case because of his wide open drops in games the last few weeks, but he has had a strong camp and can really run. You see drops, I see a guy who can get open. He'll start catching the ball. Wanted to keep 4 TEs, but Fiametta has been really good so far. Adams, I like, and thought he and Maneri could make Fiametta look 1-dimensional and play a FB/H-back role. Haven't shown that they can this preseason. Adams is gone because of it.
Offensive Line (8)- Jermon Bushrod, Matt Slauson, Roberto Garza, Kyle Long, Jordan Mills, Eben Britton, James Brown, Jonathan Scott.
I am a rare Bears fan that actually likes J'Marcus Webb, but a change of scenery is probably necessary. Penalties and poor run blocking probably sealed his fate last week. He will presumably get a ton of time this week to bury himself. Britton makes the squad because he has experience at OT and OG. He's probably gameday inactive when the rest of the OL is healthy, but he is the swing OT until Scott is ready to play. Hopefully, he won't be needed.
Defensive End (5)- Julius Peppers, Corey Wootton, Shea McClellin, Cheta Ozougwu, Cornelius Washington.
Bears keep 5 DEs. With Peppers and Wootton's ability to play inside on pass downs, the 4 D-End, DL is possible. Washington has too much potential to risk on waivers. Gameday inactive to start.
Defensive tackle (4)- Stephen Paea, Henry Melton, Nate Collins, Corvey Irvin.
Irvin is hurt right now, but he got the start over Collins in Week 2 vs. the Chargers. I thought he looked decent. Bears take a risk here and expose Zach Minter to waivers, frankly because he can go to the practice squad and Irvin can't.
Linebackers (6)- Lance Briggs, Jon Bostic, James Anderson, DJ Williams, Blake Costanzo, Khaseem Greene.
Big name cut here is JT Thomas. I really thought JT had some potential. He, frankly, looked bad vs. Terrell Pryor this weekend. He also missed a couple tackles on kickoffs. And a player on the bubble like him can't afford special teams screw ups. DJ Williams' ability and experience at all 3 LB spots makes the depth here OK without Thomas.
Cornerbacks (5)- Charles Tillman, Tim Jennings, Isaiah Frey, Zach Bowman, Sherrick McManis.
CJ Wilson led the team in defensive snaps last week. He will get a longer look this week. With Bowman's health for Week 1 in question, there's a shot for Wilson to make the roster if he has a good showing on Thursday. In that case, the Bears would have to go short handed at WR or DT with Weems, Anderson, and Irvin the names fighting for their lives on the roster. Ideally, the Bears would be able to trade Webb or someone not making the roster for an experienced CB. McManis isn't very good as a corner, but is a core special teamer. Outside shot his roster spot could be taken, but it would have to be a solid upgrade over him on the defensive end, while not losing much on teams. Not sure that player exists.
Safeties (4)- Chris Conte, Major Wright, Craig Steltz, Anthony Walters.
Big cut here is 2012 3rd round pick, Brandon Hardin. Hardin just has not done enough on defense or teams to keep his job. While the GM did draft him, the coaching staff has no loyalty to him. Very talented kid, but if a starter gets hurt and he has to come on the field, it wouldn't be a good situation for the Bears.
Specialists (4)- Robbie Gould- K, Adam Podlesh- P, Pat Mannelly- LS, Devin Hester- KR.
Well, looks like Hester is going to be on the roster. Special teams coach, DeCamillas really wants him to be the team's return man and still has faith in him returning to greatness. Could be coach speak, but I would have bet money that Hester would have been gone by now if that was the plan the entire time. But if he's not going to play WR or cover kicks, I think there's an outside shot he could be trade bait. Not sure what a team would give up for him (reserve CB?), but odds are, he plays out the final year of his contract with the Bears.
Quarterbacks (2)- Jay Cutler, Josh McCown.
The Matt Blanchard situation stinks, because he was a nice developmental QB. But what it does is create an open spot for the Bears to keep a player at another position. I look for the Bears to find a practice squad QB after final cuts are made. If a 3rd QB is needed, they can always go get Trent Edwards or Jordan Palmer again off the street, which is where they will be after final cuts this weekend.
Running backs (4)- Matt Forte, Michael Bush, Michael Ford, Tony Fiametta.
Forte and the Presidents. As I predicted several months ago in a mock draft, Michael Ford has too much talent not to be on an NFL roster. Highly recruited out of HS. Hard runner, who is also very fast. Armando Allen is an experienced special teamer, but the Bears aren't short on those. Ford has proven to be better in all phases with the ball in his hands, Allen's injury didn't help either. Fiametta has been a big + in the run game, he makes the squad.
Wide Receiver (6)- Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery, Earl Bennett, Marquess Wilson, Joe Anderson, Eric Weems.
Interesting that Anderson hasn't been in with the 1s at all the last 2 weeks, and doesn't appear to be out there on special teams with the 1s either, a role he was very good at last year in limited duty. A surprise would be Terrance Tolliver taking Anderson's spot, as the Bears seem to really like him. Anderson gets the nod due to his ability to play the slot and teams, whereas Tolliver doesn't appear to be able to do either. Weems makes it for the same reason. All phase special teamer, potential to play slot WR. Bennett's health forces the Bears to carry 6 WRs, at least to start.
Tight End (3)- Martellus Bennett, Steve Maneri, Fendi Onubun.
I know Bears fans think Onubun is a lost case because of his wide open drops in games the last few weeks, but he has had a strong camp and can really run. You see drops, I see a guy who can get open. He'll start catching the ball. Wanted to keep 4 TEs, but Fiametta has been really good so far. Adams, I like, and thought he and Maneri could make Fiametta look 1-dimensional and play a FB/H-back role. Haven't shown that they can this preseason. Adams is gone because of it.
Offensive Line (8)- Jermon Bushrod, Matt Slauson, Roberto Garza, Kyle Long, Jordan Mills, Eben Britton, James Brown, Jonathan Scott.
I am a rare Bears fan that actually likes J'Marcus Webb, but a change of scenery is probably necessary. Penalties and poor run blocking probably sealed his fate last week. He will presumably get a ton of time this week to bury himself. Britton makes the squad because he has experience at OT and OG. He's probably gameday inactive when the rest of the OL is healthy, but he is the swing OT until Scott is ready to play. Hopefully, he won't be needed.
Defensive End (5)- Julius Peppers, Corey Wootton, Shea McClellin, Cheta Ozougwu, Cornelius Washington.
Bears keep 5 DEs. With Peppers and Wootton's ability to play inside on pass downs, the 4 D-End, DL is possible. Washington has too much potential to risk on waivers. Gameday inactive to start.
Defensive tackle (4)- Stephen Paea, Henry Melton, Nate Collins, Corvey Irvin.
Irvin is hurt right now, but he got the start over Collins in Week 2 vs. the Chargers. I thought he looked decent. Bears take a risk here and expose Zach Minter to waivers, frankly because he can go to the practice squad and Irvin can't.
Linebackers (6)- Lance Briggs, Jon Bostic, James Anderson, DJ Williams, Blake Costanzo, Khaseem Greene.
Big name cut here is JT Thomas. I really thought JT had some potential. He, frankly, looked bad vs. Terrell Pryor this weekend. He also missed a couple tackles on kickoffs. And a player on the bubble like him can't afford special teams screw ups. DJ Williams' ability and experience at all 3 LB spots makes the depth here OK without Thomas.
Cornerbacks (5)- Charles Tillman, Tim Jennings, Isaiah Frey, Zach Bowman, Sherrick McManis.
CJ Wilson led the team in defensive snaps last week. He will get a longer look this week. With Bowman's health for Week 1 in question, there's a shot for Wilson to make the roster if he has a good showing on Thursday. In that case, the Bears would have to go short handed at WR or DT with Weems, Anderson, and Irvin the names fighting for their lives on the roster. Ideally, the Bears would be able to trade Webb or someone not making the roster for an experienced CB. McManis isn't very good as a corner, but is a core special teamer. Outside shot his roster spot could be taken, but it would have to be a solid upgrade over him on the defensive end, while not losing much on teams. Not sure that player exists.
Safeties (4)- Chris Conte, Major Wright, Craig Steltz, Anthony Walters.
Big cut here is 2012 3rd round pick, Brandon Hardin. Hardin just has not done enough on defense or teams to keep his job. While the GM did draft him, the coaching staff has no loyalty to him. Very talented kid, but if a starter gets hurt and he has to come on the field, it wouldn't be a good situation for the Bears.
Specialists (4)- Robbie Gould- K, Adam Podlesh- P, Pat Mannelly- LS, Devin Hester- KR.
Well, looks like Hester is going to be on the roster. Special teams coach, DeCamillas really wants him to be the team's return man and still has faith in him returning to greatness. Could be coach speak, but I would have bet money that Hester would have been gone by now if that was the plan the entire time. But if he's not going to play WR or cover kicks, I think there's an outside shot he could be trade bait. Not sure what a team would give up for him (reserve CB?), but odds are, he plays out the final year of his contract with the Bears.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Phil Emery: Positive Returns on Short Draft History
In about a year and a half as the GM of the Chicago Bears, Phil Emery has certainly made his mark quickly on the organization. He's fired a beloved coach, right after having a double-digit win season. He set an ultimatum on a potential Hall of Famer and face of the franchise, essentially forcing him to walk away from the game NOT on his own terms. Emery has also made unconventional choices at head coach, and most importantly.....the draft.
While this team will only go as far in 2013 as Jerry Angelo drafted/acquired players will take them, Emery's primary job, in my opinion, was to turn around the future of the organization. By the looks of things, Emery is well on his way to doing just that.
Emery started off on a great foot by trading for Brandon Marshall as his first major roster move. Last April, the GM really put his stamp on the team by frankly, making some headscratching choices in his first draft. On paper, the 2012 Bears' draft was a 3-4 OLB drafted to a 4-3 team, a WR with questions about his speed and ability to keep weight off, a college CB being converted to safety after missing his entire senior season, an overdrafted FB/TE tweener, and 2 corners brought in late to compete on special teams. Flip the calendar to the end of the 2013 training camp, and the 2012 draft is starting to show some potential. While many Bears fans will still lament the fact that Shea McClellin probably will never be a 3-down DE, the fact is he can be (and is starting to look like he'll be) a productive part of the Bears pass rush. That 2nd round WR, is regarded by teammates of having the best camp on the offensive side of the ball. And Alshon Jeffery showed that by being Jay Cutler's key target on a team that exploded for 27 points in the first half of the 3rd preseason game. Lastly, one of those CBs was able to hang around the practice squad last year and has been the most improved player on the defensive side of the ball this summer. And Isaiah Frey has gained the confidence in his coaching staff going into the season as the nickel back, a very important and much used position in the Bears defensive scheme.
That being said, the other 3 picks in the 2012 draft have either been or will be cut within the next week. While 3 contributing picks and a 50% "hit" rate on the draft doesn't seem like a big accomplishment, consider the Bears have not had 3 players from the same draft contributing positively in the same season since probably 2004.
Again with the 2013 draft, Phil Emery left Bears fans scratching their heads with his 1st round pick. With guys like Desmond Trufant, Sharrif Floyd, and Xavier Rhodes on the board, the Bears opted for Kyle Long, an inexperienced lineman with HOF bloodlines. Granted he's played the 1st string of 2 bottom 5 D-lines in the league and 2nd stringers in the preseason opener, but so far, Long looks like a star at RG. Joining him in the starting lineup will be 2nd round pick Jonathan Bostic and 5th rounder, Jordan Mills. In addition to 3 starters in 6 picks, Emery's draft also boasts 3 players who will make the roster. Marquess Wilson was a steal in the 7th, and looks like he'll get some runs with the 1s as the #4 WR. Khaseem Greene and Cornelius Washington will not contribute on defense, but Greene looks like a 4-phase special teamer with potential to start at LB down the line. And Washington has flat out dominated 3rd teamers so far in the preseason. Washington potentially could be a pass rush option down the stretch once he gets some extra work in on the side. Probably not gameday active til midseason, barring injuries. Lastly, UDFA Michael Ford looks to have a bright future as the #3 RB this year, with potential to be more in the future (as I predicted in one of my previous mocks).
While it is too early to hail Phil Emery as a genius, the guy who comes off as trying to be "smarter than everyone else", may just be on to something. If the 3 rookie starters continue to play like they have against lesser competition this preseason, and the 3 from 2012 take the next step to being long term contributors, Emery has set a solid foundation for this team's future. With all the aging players on defense, the contracts expiring of several veterans, it was imperative for the Bears to hit homeruns in the draft early in Emery's tenure. While neither of these drafts are near that yet, they look to be a huge step in the right direction as of now.
While this team will only go as far in 2013 as Jerry Angelo drafted/acquired players will take them, Emery's primary job, in my opinion, was to turn around the future of the organization. By the looks of things, Emery is well on his way to doing just that.
Emery started off on a great foot by trading for Brandon Marshall as his first major roster move. Last April, the GM really put his stamp on the team by frankly, making some headscratching choices in his first draft. On paper, the 2012 Bears' draft was a 3-4 OLB drafted to a 4-3 team, a WR with questions about his speed and ability to keep weight off, a college CB being converted to safety after missing his entire senior season, an overdrafted FB/TE tweener, and 2 corners brought in late to compete on special teams. Flip the calendar to the end of the 2013 training camp, and the 2012 draft is starting to show some potential. While many Bears fans will still lament the fact that Shea McClellin probably will never be a 3-down DE, the fact is he can be (and is starting to look like he'll be) a productive part of the Bears pass rush. That 2nd round WR, is regarded by teammates of having the best camp on the offensive side of the ball. And Alshon Jeffery showed that by being Jay Cutler's key target on a team that exploded for 27 points in the first half of the 3rd preseason game. Lastly, one of those CBs was able to hang around the practice squad last year and has been the most improved player on the defensive side of the ball this summer. And Isaiah Frey has gained the confidence in his coaching staff going into the season as the nickel back, a very important and much used position in the Bears defensive scheme.
That being said, the other 3 picks in the 2012 draft have either been or will be cut within the next week. While 3 contributing picks and a 50% "hit" rate on the draft doesn't seem like a big accomplishment, consider the Bears have not had 3 players from the same draft contributing positively in the same season since probably 2004.
Again with the 2013 draft, Phil Emery left Bears fans scratching their heads with his 1st round pick. With guys like Desmond Trufant, Sharrif Floyd, and Xavier Rhodes on the board, the Bears opted for Kyle Long, an inexperienced lineman with HOF bloodlines. Granted he's played the 1st string of 2 bottom 5 D-lines in the league and 2nd stringers in the preseason opener, but so far, Long looks like a star at RG. Joining him in the starting lineup will be 2nd round pick Jonathan Bostic and 5th rounder, Jordan Mills. In addition to 3 starters in 6 picks, Emery's draft also boasts 3 players who will make the roster. Marquess Wilson was a steal in the 7th, and looks like he'll get some runs with the 1s as the #4 WR. Khaseem Greene and Cornelius Washington will not contribute on defense, but Greene looks like a 4-phase special teamer with potential to start at LB down the line. And Washington has flat out dominated 3rd teamers so far in the preseason. Washington potentially could be a pass rush option down the stretch once he gets some extra work in on the side. Probably not gameday active til midseason, barring injuries. Lastly, UDFA Michael Ford looks to have a bright future as the #3 RB this year, with potential to be more in the future (as I predicted in one of my previous mocks).
While it is too early to hail Phil Emery as a genius, the guy who comes off as trying to be "smarter than everyone else", may just be on to something. If the 3 rookie starters continue to play like they have against lesser competition this preseason, and the 3 from 2012 take the next step to being long term contributors, Emery has set a solid foundation for this team's future. With all the aging players on defense, the contracts expiring of several veterans, it was imperative for the Bears to hit homeruns in the draft early in Emery's tenure. While neither of these drafts are near that yet, they look to be a huge step in the right direction as of now.
Monday, July 1, 2013
Pittsburgh Steelers 2014 mock draft (Well I cant just let Bleacher Report make such a BS fuss now can I?)
Im gonna go with an average slot of the 18th pick. Im also granting two 3rd rd comps for losing Wallace and Lewis, and two 5th rd comps for Mendenhall and Harrison. Lastly, Bruno gives a 7th but is countered with the addition of Gay and Speath. Casey hasnt signed yet and I might be missing a guy or 2, but this is just for fun (and yet it will still be more educated than BR).
Ok, that said, here we go...
With the 18th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft (that was moved 2 weeks because Goodell is the devil) the Pittsburgh Steelers select...
18 Taj Boyd QB Clemson. Yes I know he'll be a top 10, should even be the 1st QB taken. A guy can dream cant he?!!?!?
Ok back to realism...
18 Louis Nix III, NT Notre Dame- typical Tomlin going for undergrad with the 1st pick. Weve been thru way too many after thoughts, and drunks, at the 0 tech to ignore addressing it with a guy familiar with the spot. This is unless Hunter, the UDFA DT from Florida, shows a lot in 2013. I cant stand TaAmu and I dont think Fangupo is the deal. Steve is a decent back up, but more of a 5 tech.
50 2nd rd- Jason Verrett, CB TCU- this is my other man crush, 2nd to Boyd. Verrett is all picks all the time. He covers so well that I think he could be a 1st rounder, however he isnt the biggest CB sizing up at 5'10 178. What he shows playing in the Big 12 however could be too much to ignore. So this is my one iffy pick. He could however allow our new DC Butler to move him, Allen and Hawthorne all over the field. Lake could have so much fun with our new totally revamped secondary.
105 (3rd rd comp 1)- Jacob Petersen, TE Wisconsin- here is typical Haley. This kid reminds me of Moeaki, the TE Haley drafted from Iowa. Solid run blocker with above average hands. There is another guy you could kind of compare him too- Kendricks. We were interested in the former Badger TE Lance Kendricks a few years ago, and while Jacob is a threat in the passing game, he is more of an in line blocker and isnt moved outside to the flex Z nearly as often. He and Paulson would be a great tandem at TE for years to come.
106 (3rd rd comp 2)- Shane Skov, LB Stanford- a major knee injury and not quite being 100% will allow him to fall some. As Ive said before, I think Vince Williams is our steal from the 2013 draft, but depth at ILB is iffy at best. Not to mention Skov has and can play OLB as well as ILB. Foote is beyond old, and Sly has his days numbered. McFadden will probably take Slys spot on the 53. And then theres Spence. No matter how you play it, we need depth at ILB, and an 80% Skov is enough for me.
124 4th rd- Isaiah Lewis, SS Michigan State- Whew, thank God, heres our tall safety!! Haha, at 5'10 he might tower over The Shark, but as a former teammate of our new RB Bell, he has excelled in pass coverage at both safety spots. Hes estimated to clock a 4.4 40, so as Tomlin (and new maybe Lake) prefer- speed speed speed. Hes not as "roaming" as Shamarko, but he is a very good deep cover playing the top of the umbrella. Troy to Shamarko and Clark to Lewis. Golden is very good depth at all the 2ndary spots, as well as Cromartie Smith. The safety position has now been totally revamped.
158 5th rd- Kenarious Gates, OT Georgia- a pure LT that can flex to RT as well as OG. Look for him to build much needed depth at the OT spot while also giving Gilbert some push. Not to mention the young Long brother.
180 (5th rd comp 1)- Jonotthan Harrison, OC/OG Florida- Tomlin proved me wrong when he drafted 2 players from the same school in 2013 (though Landry was a mistake). He does it again using one of his favorite schools, the same school we all but ignored in 2013. Harrison was the starting OC for the Gators in 2012, and LG in 2011. He can flex anywhere inside. He is what we wanted Bruno to be, and are now hoping Malecki and Beachum could be, if not for 1 year. Here is our true back up center.
181 (5th rd comp 2)- Will Clarke, DE WVU- an experienced 5 tech. Yes we drafted one in Williams in 2013 and also 2 UDFAs, but this kid has played the spot for the last 2-3 years and is more than familiar with it. While Id like to take Burton here and flip Clarke to the 6th rd, history shows we go WR at 6. So this stays as is.
200 6th rd- Trey Burton, WR/RB/QB/Anything and Everything on Offense Florida- Could Tomlin, and more so Haley, go for another toy outta Gator Country? I hope so. Even if Sanders leaves we have more than enough young up and coming WRs on the depth chart (Moye, Gilreath, Woods, Dunn) with the recent additions of Wheaton and Brown to say the least. But a kid like Burton... wow, Haley would piss his pants with all the options he would and could have here. And heres something I just thought of- Burton and Wheaton on the field at the same time, motioning them both all over the place. Good luck defense.
224 7th rd- Brendon Kay, QB Cincinatti- Landry Jones isnt mobile, Landry Jones may very well not be on our team as of this pick. I think he goes on the PS at best in 2013 and has direct competition here with Kay. Kay has the "end of the game, gotta get it done" mentality. An above average arm with ability to move in the pocket. Want a comparison? I think hes a more NFL sized version of Matt Scott. Kay doesnt fail under pressure mentally or physically like Jones is known to. The Jones pick in the 4th round was wasted.
Ok, that said, here we go...
With the 18th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft (that was moved 2 weeks because Goodell is the devil) the Pittsburgh Steelers select...
18 Taj Boyd QB Clemson. Yes I know he'll be a top 10, should even be the 1st QB taken. A guy can dream cant he?!!?!?
Ok back to realism...
18 Louis Nix III, NT Notre Dame- typical Tomlin going for undergrad with the 1st pick. Weve been thru way too many after thoughts, and drunks, at the 0 tech to ignore addressing it with a guy familiar with the spot. This is unless Hunter, the UDFA DT from Florida, shows a lot in 2013. I cant stand TaAmu and I dont think Fangupo is the deal. Steve is a decent back up, but more of a 5 tech.
50 2nd rd- Jason Verrett, CB TCU- this is my other man crush, 2nd to Boyd. Verrett is all picks all the time. He covers so well that I think he could be a 1st rounder, however he isnt the biggest CB sizing up at 5'10 178. What he shows playing in the Big 12 however could be too much to ignore. So this is my one iffy pick. He could however allow our new DC Butler to move him, Allen and Hawthorne all over the field. Lake could have so much fun with our new totally revamped secondary.
105 (3rd rd comp 1)- Jacob Petersen, TE Wisconsin- here is typical Haley. This kid reminds me of Moeaki, the TE Haley drafted from Iowa. Solid run blocker with above average hands. There is another guy you could kind of compare him too- Kendricks. We were interested in the former Badger TE Lance Kendricks a few years ago, and while Jacob is a threat in the passing game, he is more of an in line blocker and isnt moved outside to the flex Z nearly as often. He and Paulson would be a great tandem at TE for years to come.
106 (3rd rd comp 2)- Shane Skov, LB Stanford- a major knee injury and not quite being 100% will allow him to fall some. As Ive said before, I think Vince Williams is our steal from the 2013 draft, but depth at ILB is iffy at best. Not to mention Skov has and can play OLB as well as ILB. Foote is beyond old, and Sly has his days numbered. McFadden will probably take Slys spot on the 53. And then theres Spence. No matter how you play it, we need depth at ILB, and an 80% Skov is enough for me.
124 4th rd- Isaiah Lewis, SS Michigan State- Whew, thank God, heres our tall safety!! Haha, at 5'10 he might tower over The Shark, but as a former teammate of our new RB Bell, he has excelled in pass coverage at both safety spots. Hes estimated to clock a 4.4 40, so as Tomlin (and new maybe Lake) prefer- speed speed speed. Hes not as "roaming" as Shamarko, but he is a very good deep cover playing the top of the umbrella. Troy to Shamarko and Clark to Lewis. Golden is very good depth at all the 2ndary spots, as well as Cromartie Smith. The safety position has now been totally revamped.
158 5th rd- Kenarious Gates, OT Georgia- a pure LT that can flex to RT as well as OG. Look for him to build much needed depth at the OT spot while also giving Gilbert some push. Not to mention the young Long brother.
180 (5th rd comp 1)- Jonotthan Harrison, OC/OG Florida- Tomlin proved me wrong when he drafted 2 players from the same school in 2013 (though Landry was a mistake). He does it again using one of his favorite schools, the same school we all but ignored in 2013. Harrison was the starting OC for the Gators in 2012, and LG in 2011. He can flex anywhere inside. He is what we wanted Bruno to be, and are now hoping Malecki and Beachum could be, if not for 1 year. Here is our true back up center.
181 (5th rd comp 2)- Will Clarke, DE WVU- an experienced 5 tech. Yes we drafted one in Williams in 2013 and also 2 UDFAs, but this kid has played the spot for the last 2-3 years and is more than familiar with it. While Id like to take Burton here and flip Clarke to the 6th rd, history shows we go WR at 6. So this stays as is.
200 6th rd- Trey Burton, WR/RB/QB/Anything and Everything on Offense Florida- Could Tomlin, and more so Haley, go for another toy outta Gator Country? I hope so. Even if Sanders leaves we have more than enough young up and coming WRs on the depth chart (Moye, Gilreath, Woods, Dunn) with the recent additions of Wheaton and Brown to say the least. But a kid like Burton... wow, Haley would piss his pants with all the options he would and could have here. And heres something I just thought of- Burton and Wheaton on the field at the same time, motioning them both all over the place. Good luck defense.
224 7th rd- Brendon Kay, QB Cincinatti- Landry Jones isnt mobile, Landry Jones may very well not be on our team as of this pick. I think he goes on the PS at best in 2013 and has direct competition here with Kay. Kay has the "end of the game, gotta get it done" mentality. An above average arm with ability to move in the pocket. Want a comparison? I think hes a more NFL sized version of Matt Scott. Kay doesnt fail under pressure mentally or physically like Jones is known to. The Jones pick in the 4th round was wasted.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Bears Draft Analysis, Day 3
Round 4: 117th Overall- Khaseem Greene, LB, Rutgers.
Love the player! Not a huge fan of the pick. With only 5 total picks (at the time), I thought drafting 2 LBs out of the first 3 picks was a little overkill, especially after signing 2 free agent LBs this offseason. The Bears are now pretty deep at LB. You have DJ Williams, and James Anderson on 1-year deals. Two drafted rookies. JT Thomas and Blake Costanzo, core special teamers that have shown flashes when thrown into games. And there's that Lance Briggs guy. My two gripes with this pick are that: A) over the last 2 or so weeks, I have come to the conclusion that Greene may be pigeonholed as solely at WLB in a 4-3 defense. While Briggs is getting older, he's still very capable, certainly for the 2013 season. So, the Bears have basicallly picked a guy that's going to be redshirted for his entire rookie year. B) the Bears could have gone with a player that could have contributed some as a rookie. A CB there could have come in to compete in the nickel and dime packages with Kelvin Hayden. A WR there could have come in and contributed for time as the #4. A DT, DE, even RB or QB could have competed for playing time in some form right away. The Bears say Greene will compete, but I don't see him being able to hold up at SLB, especially when his prinary competition will be a guy drafted 2 rounds ahead of him and an experienced veteran who the coaches raved about in the brief mini-camp.
As for Greene the player, I've become sort of a Rutgers homer over the last few years. Really fell in love with guys like Ray Rice, Mohamed Sanu, Logan Ryan, and now Greene. He's a very good straight-line athlete that was a tackling machine at Rutgers. Made a ton of plays in all facets of defense for the Scarlett Knights. He had almost 280 tackles over the last 2 years, with 26.5 of those coming in the backfield. He's an avid blitzer with 9.5 sacks over the last 2 years (6 as a senior). Also added 2 INTs in the pass coverage this year and fits right in with the Bears scheme with his 15 forced fumbles in his career, which apparently is an NCAA record. He's wonderful at going for and getting the strip out of a ballcarriers hands, so imagine how good he can be once Charles Tillman gets to him and teaches him the "PEANUT PUNCH".
On one hand, Greene was likely BPA when the Bears picked at 117. He'd been graded in the high 50s-to-low 60s by NFL draft scout for most of the season before dropping the last week and a half or so. But on the other, this was potentially the last chance to get a contributor for the 2013 Bears. Greene is NFL ready, so he could contribute if given a chance. But I just think he won't get that opportunity any time soon. And I question whether they could have waited a year to take what is potentially Briggs' successor.
Round 5: 163rd Overall- Jordan Mills, OT, Louisiana Tech.
This is one of the prototypical late round picks. A dominant small school player who has questions about his ability to produce against more talented players and who is very raw and could really benefit by good NFL coaching. Mills has good enough size (6'5", 315lbs). He's average to slightly above athletic ability. Perfect 34" arms. Good frame. Probably never going to be an NFL left tackle, but with good coaching and development, looks like he could be a starting RT down the line. Really made a name for him self kind of after the senior bowl. Ezekiel Ansah dominated in the game, but a look at the week's practices showed Mills as one of the guys on his own squad that could block the eventual #5 overall pick.
I think he's a guy that is probably going to have to be the 4th OT as a rookie (not sure can sneak him on practice squad). Then he competes to be your 3rd/swing OT in his second year if he shows some improvement in his technique. Maybe then he gets some time due to injury and you see how he competes. Year 3, either get a very cheap serviceable starter at RT or a backup with some experience that won't kill you if he has to get in there and play. Really like the value of this pick. Potentially could have gone as high as late 3rd, early 4th with the way OL were coming off the board early in this draft.
Round 6: 188th Overall- Cornelius Washington, DE, Georgia.
Another good value pick. Easily the best value of the draft for the Bears, and possibly best value overall. Washington had a late 2nd to 3rd round grade from a lot of people, including the guys at NFL Draft Scout. He measured in a 6-4, 265lbs at the combine, which isn't ideal 4-3 DE size, but it's pretty clear he has the frame to add weight and was staying at that weight to also draw interest as a 3-4 OLB, which is the position he worked out with at the combine. At that weight, Washington dazzled in Indianapolis with a blazing 4.55 time in the 40. He also backed that up by being the strongest LB by far, repping 225lbs a whopping 36 times. Washington also finished top 3 at his position in the broad and high jump events, showing off his explosion and straight line ability.
While, he didn't quite excel at the agility events, his power and speed were on display at the Senior Bowl. Guys like Ansah and the 2 stud LTs got a lot of the publicity, but frankly, I thought Cornelius Washington looked like one of the top 5 players on the field in Mobile to me. He consistently got edge pressure (lined up at DE with hand on the ground), using a combination of a very quick first step and a powerful bull rush.
Washington doesn't offer much in terms of run defense as of yet, but I think the Bears can use him right away as a pass rush specialist. Reminds me a lot of Mark Anderson when the Bears drafted him 6 years ago. He won't put up 12 sacks like Anderson did as a rookie, but hopefully, he won't also disappear. If he can come in and win the 4th DE job, I think he can give the Bears 4-6 sacks as a rookie and then the Bears can decide whether to bulk him up to about 275lbs so he can move up the depth chart or keep him as another speed rush option across from Shea McClellin.
Round 7: 236th Overall- Marquess Wilson, WR, Washington St.
This is another player that had 2nd or 3rd round aspirations, but fell for much different circumstances. I'm sure you all know what happened, so won't get into that. But as for the player himself, the Bears said they wanted to replace Johnny Knox, they may have done it with a bigger, albeit slower, version of him. Like Knox, Wilson is a very "slender" WR to put it nicely. He's about 6-3, 190lbs soaking wet. Not blazing fast, but looks like a sub 4.5 speed guy on the field. Long strider, so the speed is deceptive and he seems to get up to full speed pretty quickly for a guy his size. Can eat up a cushion in a hurry. And has huge big play ability with a career average of nearly 17 yards per catch in college, where he was a 3-year starter until being suspended from the team for the last 3 games. The biggest concerns with him on the field are that his hands can betray him at times, and he's really raw as a route runner being that he's only 20 years old. He also doesn't look like he can or will add much to his slight frame, making him questionable against press coverage.
That suspension is the reason Wilson's stock dropped so far, as NFL teams didn't really know what to think about the guy's heart and love for football in general. So, if he has his head on right, the Bears could be getting a dynamic WR to stretch the defense to give Brandon Marshall even more room to operate underneath.
Overall, Day 3 was pretty good. I think most teams pretty much have a consensus on the top 60-80 prospects, but after the mid-3rd draft boards get a little murky. I think the Bears picked up 4 guys on Day 3 who conceivably were all top 50-100 on various team boards at some point between the end of October and draft day. I think a lot of Bears fans may be disappointed in Emery's draft (everyone seems to be bent out of shape about not drafting Ryan Swope for some reason), but people are always going to be upset when a guy keeps his gameplan so close to the vest. People want to know what's going to happen and talk themselves into disliking anything that happens that they didn't plan for. And while I would have done some things very differently, Emery stuck with point 5 of my "draft day insight" article and consistently went after the best big athletes of the bunch. If all 6 of these kids come to play and the new coaching staff can get the most out of them, this will be a very productive draft.
Steelers UDFA reviews...
We only signed 15 when we have room for 16. I think thats us leaving a spot open intentionally for a vet signing at some point. Im hoping its the OL from Bama that played for the Texans. When looking deep into this players I noticed most were doubled up position wise.
Here are the 3 lone players with no doubles.
| INGRAM | BAXTER | MCNEAL |
| LS/HAWAII | LB/NO ILLINOIS | RB/USC |
Ingram is the best LS in the draft and its about time we get youth at that spot. He isnt heavy enough to spell any other positions though. But hes a long snapper, does it matter?
Baxter is a total position flex freak. Can and has played DE, OLB and ILB not to mention he brings orange wedges to practice. LOL Pay attention Carter.
McNeal is total 3rd down scat back and kick returner. With the Stephens-Howling deal done Thursday night, ya think Batch has become expendable? Yup. Me too.
On to the doubles...
| DUNN | WOODS | EMBERNATE | GOLIC JR | WADE | MADSEN | FARRELL | HUBBARD |
| WR/UTAH | WR/WVU | OL/SAN DIEGO ST | OL/ND | OC/BAYLOR | OC/WVU | OT/PSU | OL/UAB |
| RASHAD-WHITE | HUNTER | ARNFELT | HAGANS |
| DT/MICHIGAN ST | DT/FLORIDA | DE/NRTHWESTRN | DE/LA LAYFAYETTE |
Dunn has rumored to run a 4.21 40. Also a kick punt returner. Very tiny guy. Reminds me of... yup, McCluster.
Woods is a body. Sorry, cant find any big deal about this kid.
Embernate and Golic jr are interior flex OL. I thing Embernate could make the 53 while Golic jr on the Practice Squad.
Wade and Madsen are OCs that can and have played OG. Theyre almost mirror images of one another, but Madsen has academic issues. I give the nod to Wade.
Farrell and Hubbard are OTs that can play OG. Fingers crossed that Farrell gets it done and is the 9th OL. I see him as this years Foster. Plus Hubbard is under 300 pounds. I dunno why hes here.
Heres the fun ones- Rashad-White and Hunter are true 0/1 techs. It looks like MT wants short and big as both are only 6'1 315+ with RW the exact same size as Brandon Williams (now a Raven) (Fangupo also 6'1 315+). I honestly think White bumps Taamu and Hunter or Fangupo take PS.
Last but not least is Arnfelt and Hagans. Originally I thought they would be de/olbs but further investigation shows them as true 5 tech 34 des. Theyre built like young Brett Keisels. Add to that the Samford kid from the 7th round (Mitchell says wont play at all, too raw, so prob PS bound) thats 3 true new 5 techs, How ya feeling Hood? Heyward, ye best step it up, cause you have real competition here.
Later.
Saturday, April 27, 2013
STEELERS 2013 DRAFT THEME!!!
I guarantee you wont hear this from any local reporters- every pick (except for Brown, 1 year at OK) thru pick 206 have been or were recently a team captain, or in Bell's case, a co-captain. This is the type of player we targeted this year due to the loss of veteran leadership in years past. These are leaders. These are men. These are not followers. These are not drunks or dumbasses that may or may not have hit their gfs. These players are the next Aaron Smiths, Hines Wards, Jerome Bettis'.
Im waiting for your call Mr. Colbert. I would love to work as an associate of some sort.
Im waiting for your call Mr. Colbert. I would love to work as an associate of some sort.
Bears Draft Analysis, Days 1 & 2
Round 1: 22nd Overall: Kyle Long, OG/OT, Oregon.
Let me start by saying that Kyle Long is a good looking player. He's a legit 6-6, athletic 303 or so pounds, nice long arms, and plays with quite a mean streak. I think he can develop into a huge Robert Gallery type LG and potentially become a good right or even left tackle. He obviously has major NFL bloodlines with a Hall of Fame father and a pro bowl caliber player for a brother. So, I think the chances of him reaching his ceiling are higher than most players, even in spite of his off-the-field issues he's had in the past.
That being said, this pick reminds me a lot of the Shea McClellin 1st round pick from last year. McClellin wasn't a horrible pick, I just didn't see the fit. He was a 3-4 OLB round peg trying to fit in the square hole that is the 4-3 DE position. Shea showed flashes last year, but still remains to be seen if the Bears got a pass rush specialist or a 3-down player at 19 overall last year. Unlike McClellin, Long was probably a full round reach. I didn't do overall grades, but I would have put him right around the Bears pick in the 2nd round (45-55 range).....though, he would not have made it that far based on the OL off the board on Thursday. Like McClellin, Long was the most athletic white guy at his position. His 40-time of 4.95 seconds would have been amazing, if it wasn't for 2 guys running 4.7s. His agility and other movement skills are definitely good enough. My big concern with him is not so much that he doesn't "fit" the Bears scheme, it's more so HOW and WHEN he will fit. The Bears signed Jermon Bushrod and Matt Slauson, who most certainly will start at 2 of the 5 OL spots. Roberto Garza doesn't look like he's going anywhere so, there's your 3rd. That leaves 3 spots for 3 guys under 25 years old in J'Marcus Webb, Gabe Carimi, and Long. Carimi is another 1st round pick, so he's not going to just get cast aside. Webb is actually younger than Carimi and has been a 3-year starter who's improved every year. So, you're talking about potentially starting the 20th overall pick on the bench as a rookie. And being that he's already 24-years old, the Bears could have a situation where they are starting a guy, they are highly invested in, for the first time the same season he turns 26 years old in 2014.
Even more upsetting about the reach for Long is the 2 trades that were made sandwiched around #20. The Niners traded picks #31 and 74 for the 18th pick. Atlanta traded picks #30, 92 and a 5th rounder for pick 22. I would have taken any of those trades for the 20th pick, and been very happy with Kyle Long at the end of Thursday, where I think he still would have been available. Also thought guys like Xavier Rhodes, Desmond Trufant, and especially Sharrif Floyd were better values at 20 that fit needs for the Bears.
But overall, I'm fine with Kyle Long as a player, and Bears fans have been begging for OL help forever (though strangely now, 3 of the last 4 first round picks they've made have gone to OL). But frankly, Kyle Long and a 3rd round pick would have been better, maybe that option wasn't out there (SF traded up higher, Atlanta didn't have to worry about moving up for CB until before the Vikings picks). Not a value pick, but hopefully he gets the most out of the amazing genes he has and the Bears don't have to worry about at least 1 position on the OL for a very long time.
Round 2: 50th Overall: Jonathan Bostic, LB, Florida.
On paper, this is a solid pick....but it could turn out to be better than most Bears fans probably expect. I will admit, I probably was a little misinformed about Bostic. I saw a lot of Florida games, and Bostic was the glue guy and leader of the Florida defense. And per usual with a "glue" guy, the assumption is the guy is a solid player with strong fundamentals and outperforms his athletic ability. This is what I thought of Bostic to some extent. Granted, he does look fast on tape, but he's on a defense where you have stud athletes all around him. Floyd and Easley stood out for their athleticism upfront in that defense. Elam and the CBs stood out for their athleticism in the defensive backfield. And even Jelani Jenkins at OLB looked like a better athlete than Bostic on gamedays. But a closer look at the numbers reveal that Bostic is plenty athletic, and actually one of the best athletes at LB this draft had to offer.
Bostic ran a 4.61 40-yard dash, good enough to be the 3rd fastest LB in the entire draft class. That number is good enough for the top 5 in any LB class in any of the last 5 years. Bostic's agility drills were just as impressive, finishing top 4 in both the 20-yard shuttle and the 3-cone drills. He was also top 10 at the combine in the bench press and broad jump, despite being one of the smaller/shorter guys in the group.
Now an important name did NOT perform at the combine: Arthur Brown. And a quick internet message board search shows a bunch of Bears fans that are up in arms that the Bears took Bostic over Brown. In fact, I am a huge Arthur Brown fan myself, including being willing to take him at 20 at one point this offseason if that's what it took to get him in a Bears uniform. And the fact that the Ravens almost immediately traded up to take him after he got past the Bears is a little concerning, considering that Ozzie Newsome can do no wrong. But the tale-of-the-tape reveals just maybe the Bears made the right choice here.
Bostic's combine results:
Height- 6'1". Weight- 245lbs
40 yard dash - 4.61
Bench - 22 reps
Vertical - 32.5
3 cone - 6.99
20 yard shuttle - 4.24
Arthur Brown pro day:
Height- 6'1". Weight- 241lbs.
40 yard dash - 4.67
Bench - 21 reps
Vertical - 32.5
3 cone - 7.07
20 yard shuttle - 4.31
Bostic outperformed Brown in every event other than a tie in vertical jump. Throw in the fact that Bostic measured 100% true to his listed weight during the 2012 season, and Brown added 13lbs from his listed weight that he may not be able to maintain, the Bears likely felt that Bostic was a better fit inside at MLB than Brown. And honestly, who can blame them. Bostic also has a better history of being willing to take on blockers, with those blockers being in the SEC.
I think Bostic can come in and be a Day 1 starter, as I think he's better than James Anderson right now. I think he could play either SAM or MIKE LB, with DJ Williams at the other. Right now, I'd say he's the MLB due to Williams having an edge in covering TEs. I would like to see him display better hips. The agility tests are at an elite level, but I frankly didn't see that on tape. I didn't quite see the ability to open up his hips, turn, and run....especially in pass coverage (though he didn't play a ton of man coverage from what I saw). More of a downhill player right now, but I think he has the ability to cover a lot of ground in the zone. Not Urlacher ground, but definitely enough to be a good fit in the Bears scheme.
Sorry for being long-winded. Also, you can follow me on Twitter @action4life to be the first to know when the blog has been updated with Bears/draft information!
Friday, April 26, 2013
So it turns out we did draft Jarvis Jones...
To be honest I was prepared for this and had built a mock,... just in case.
17 Jarvis Jones, OLB Georgia- a beast on tape vs SEC competition and a snail in the Combine and his Pro Day. Hmmm
48 LeVeon Bell, RB Michigan State- While there is recent news that Franklin has our eye, I happen to think this news, along with inviting both he and Lacy, were on purpose. There are some that have said Bell is indeed the best all around back in the draft. Some say its Franklin. And some Lacy. What better way to allow Bell to be there at 48 than to show other teams were interested in the other RBs. Let them take Franklin and Lacy, only to have Bell come right to our doorstep. Side note- Id be fine with any of these RBs (Franklin, Ball, Bell, Gillislee, maybe even Michael) but Bell is at the top of my list. And if you look further, hes a junior. And Tomlin loves juniors. He feels younger players are more open to being coached. Bell has soared up the draft boards, and had dinner with MT and Colbert. In my opinion Bell looks and plays a lot like Steven Jackson. As a matter of fact, Jax also said Bell reminds him of himself. While he doesnt have scary 4.4 speed, he does have the patience to find the best hole, and then deliver a brutal stiff arm to give himself separation. He has experience in the inside and outside zone blocking scheme, and while the stretch play might be more difficult for him to pull off in the NFL, a counter or misdirection could give him plenty of room to break away. And thats not to mention his threat in the passing game.
79 Stedmon Bailey, WR WVU- Yes we invited mid to late rounders with speed in Boyce, King and Brown, but with Wallace gone and Sanders to probably follow we need to act sooner to fill the WR spot. Why Bailey? He happens to have similar YPC to Patterson, but is a 3 year starter, and runs superb routes (everything Patterson is not). He is similar in size to the "Young Money Family", and is about the same speed as Sanders, and like Sanders he can play in the slot or outside. He is very physical at the LOS, and can get off the snap with damn near anyone in his face. To put more fuel to the fire he worked out with Mr. Richard Mann to get ready for the Combine. Recognize the name? Hes our new WR Coach and has raved about Bailey from day 1. I also did some math recently on the number of players we draft that were also brought in for a workout. We average 3-4 per year. While the number of visitors sits only at 24/30, my other mocks had far too many visitors being drafted by us. So I tweaked it, but kept with the history of MTs most successful drafts, 2010, 2011 and 2012 (maybe). Bailey falls right into place here.
115 Josh Evans, FS Florida- OK, yes, Im a Gator fan. But so is Tomlin. While Elam was more of a Polamalu type safety, Evans is more like Clark, but faster. Can can play either safety spot as well as nickel when needed. He has also covered the TE or Slot while Elam had the top of the umbrella. Depending on the scheme, play, and down/distance, Evans played solid at safety wherever needed.
150 B.W. Webb, CB William and Mary- Here is my only player falling. Why? Height and lack of competition. Or so I hope. The more I read and watch this kid, the more I like him. He is a total ball hawk that will knock the bejesus outta you if given the chance in run support. Plus, hes from MTs Alma Mater. Weve invited a few mid round CBs all with 2 things in common- speed and hands. Webb grabbed the attention of scouts and coaches with his play at the Senior Bowl. While he doesnt have the height Id prefer at CB, he does happen to be the same size as a certain former MT draftee... Ugh, William Gay. Webb usually plays the LCB spot, but has also played nickel as well as returned punts. And what makes his 5'10 height ok?- a 40 inch vertical. Go ahead, put it up. This kid will give everything he has to go get it, or at least knock it down. He can give Brown some competition at the dime spot, while actually getting playing time on special teams as a punt returner.
186 Michael Mauti, LB PSU- Its about time we drafted a LB from Penn State. Oh, this one has had 3 ACL tears? 3 ya say? Not 2? No. 3. Shit. The way I understand it is that weve been involved with the kid for a long long time, and will give him every chance to start out on special teams and maybe fill in for the other seriously injured ILB Spence at some point. Ive also read that his football smarts are extremely high, and he has a big love for the game. Its the 6th round, so what the hell. Why not? I did move him up 1 pick from my former mocks, more so to meet the history trends of MTs prior mocks. I have also read that if not for the ACL tears, he coulda been a top 60 pick.
206 Ryan Griffin, QB Tulane- Ive written about him before. He is known for his accuracy, though against iffy competition. Were not looking for the next Big Ben, but competition for the 2nd and 3rd QB spot is fine. And damn near anything besides Leftwich is a step up.
223 Nik Embernate, OL San Diego State- We might have struck gold with the Beachum pick here last year. Could we do it again? While Nik (easier to type than his last name) isnt as position flexible, he does have something in common with a former Steeler. Kemoeatu. Niks nickname is EmberNASTY. His coaches yanked him from his starting spot after being thrown out of a game in his freshman year. He simply enjoys hitting people. And in a zone blocking scheme both in college and now here, that isnt a "bad" thing, as long as its under control. He hasnt had any issues of the sort since that one episode, saying that it really woke me up". Like Destro he is very familiar (and enjoys) trapping to the left from the RG spot. While I thought finding a OL that had spent time as a OT would be the best, this mock just didnt turn out that way. I do have 2 UDFAs that could help with that matter though. In the meantime, Nik can probably be worked out at OC at some point, as well as LG.
17 Jarvis Jones, OLB Georgia- a beast on tape vs SEC competition and a snail in the Combine and his Pro Day. Hmmm
48 LeVeon Bell, RB Michigan State- While there is recent news that Franklin has our eye, I happen to think this news, along with inviting both he and Lacy, were on purpose. There are some that have said Bell is indeed the best all around back in the draft. Some say its Franklin. And some Lacy. What better way to allow Bell to be there at 48 than to show other teams were interested in the other RBs. Let them take Franklin and Lacy, only to have Bell come right to our doorstep. Side note- Id be fine with any of these RBs (Franklin, Ball, Bell, Gillislee, maybe even Michael) but Bell is at the top of my list. And if you look further, hes a junior. And Tomlin loves juniors. He feels younger players are more open to being coached. Bell has soared up the draft boards, and had dinner with MT and Colbert. In my opinion Bell looks and plays a lot like Steven Jackson. As a matter of fact, Jax also said Bell reminds him of himself. While he doesnt have scary 4.4 speed, he does have the patience to find the best hole, and then deliver a brutal stiff arm to give himself separation. He has experience in the inside and outside zone blocking scheme, and while the stretch play might be more difficult for him to pull off in the NFL, a counter or misdirection could give him plenty of room to break away. And thats not to mention his threat in the passing game.
79 Stedmon Bailey, WR WVU- Yes we invited mid to late rounders with speed in Boyce, King and Brown, but with Wallace gone and Sanders to probably follow we need to act sooner to fill the WR spot. Why Bailey? He happens to have similar YPC to Patterson, but is a 3 year starter, and runs superb routes (everything Patterson is not). He is similar in size to the "Young Money Family", and is about the same speed as Sanders, and like Sanders he can play in the slot or outside. He is very physical at the LOS, and can get off the snap with damn near anyone in his face. To put more fuel to the fire he worked out with Mr. Richard Mann to get ready for the Combine. Recognize the name? Hes our new WR Coach and has raved about Bailey from day 1. I also did some math recently on the number of players we draft that were also brought in for a workout. We average 3-4 per year. While the number of visitors sits only at 24/30, my other mocks had far too many visitors being drafted by us. So I tweaked it, but kept with the history of MTs most successful drafts, 2010, 2011 and 2012 (maybe). Bailey falls right into place here.
115 Josh Evans, FS Florida- OK, yes, Im a Gator fan. But so is Tomlin. While Elam was more of a Polamalu type safety, Evans is more like Clark, but faster. Can can play either safety spot as well as nickel when needed. He has also covered the TE or Slot while Elam had the top of the umbrella. Depending on the scheme, play, and down/distance, Evans played solid at safety wherever needed.
150 B.W. Webb, CB William and Mary- Here is my only player falling. Why? Height and lack of competition. Or so I hope. The more I read and watch this kid, the more I like him. He is a total ball hawk that will knock the bejesus outta you if given the chance in run support. Plus, hes from MTs Alma Mater. Weve invited a few mid round CBs all with 2 things in common- speed and hands. Webb grabbed the attention of scouts and coaches with his play at the Senior Bowl. While he doesnt have the height Id prefer at CB, he does happen to be the same size as a certain former MT draftee... Ugh, William Gay. Webb usually plays the LCB spot, but has also played nickel as well as returned punts. And what makes his 5'10 height ok?- a 40 inch vertical. Go ahead, put it up. This kid will give everything he has to go get it, or at least knock it down. He can give Brown some competition at the dime spot, while actually getting playing time on special teams as a punt returner.
186 Michael Mauti, LB PSU- Its about time we drafted a LB from Penn State. Oh, this one has had 3 ACL tears? 3 ya say? Not 2? No. 3. Shit. The way I understand it is that weve been involved with the kid for a long long time, and will give him every chance to start out on special teams and maybe fill in for the other seriously injured ILB Spence at some point. Ive also read that his football smarts are extremely high, and he has a big love for the game. Its the 6th round, so what the hell. Why not? I did move him up 1 pick from my former mocks, more so to meet the history trends of MTs prior mocks. I have also read that if not for the ACL tears, he coulda been a top 60 pick.
206 Ryan Griffin, QB Tulane- Ive written about him before. He is known for his accuracy, though against iffy competition. Were not looking for the next Big Ben, but competition for the 2nd and 3rd QB spot is fine. And damn near anything besides Leftwich is a step up.
223 Nik Embernate, OL San Diego State- We might have struck gold with the Beachum pick here last year. Could we do it again? While Nik (easier to type than his last name) isnt as position flexible, he does have something in common with a former Steeler. Kemoeatu. Niks nickname is EmberNASTY. His coaches yanked him from his starting spot after being thrown out of a game in his freshman year. He simply enjoys hitting people. And in a zone blocking scheme both in college and now here, that isnt a "bad" thing, as long as its under control. He hasnt had any issues of the sort since that one episode, saying that it really woke me up". Like Destro he is very familiar (and enjoys) trapping to the left from the RG spot. While I thought finding a OL that had spent time as a OT would be the best, this mock just didnt turn out that way. I do have 2 UDFAs that could help with that matter though. In the meantime, Nik can probably be worked out at OC at some point, as well as LG.
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