In Day 3 of the 2010 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens added BYU TE Dennis Pitta with their 4th round pick.
After having previously selected Oregon's Ed Dickson in the 3rd round, it was interesting to see the Ravens make the selection of another TE.
When Dickson was selected last-night, I talked about how the Ravens may now have the ability to run the 2 TE sets they envisioned being able to run last-year with the addition of LJ Smith. My first thought with the addition of Pitta, is that the Ravens are envisioning running a 2 TE set of Dickson, and Pitta in 2011 after the departure of Todd Heap.
I think Heap gets the 2010 season to go for a ring, cement his place in the Ravens Ring of Honor, and to mentor these two young TE's.
As ESPN's Ron Jaworski articulated, the need for TE's is extremely important with the opposing blitz packages like those of the New York Jets. Further confirmation of that line of thinking, was seeing that the New England Patriots had also selected 2 pass-catching TE's in the draft.
National Football Post rated Pitta as the 7th best TE in the Draft:
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/front-office-total-access-stats.html&position=te
"Pitta is a tall, rangy tight end prospect who exhibits impressive body control in the pass game and does a great job adjusting to the throw and coming down with the tough catch. He lacks ideal explosion off of the line and kind of strides into routes downfield. But he possesses the body control to cleanly break down, get his head around and find the ball. He looks natural using his big frame to gain a step on a defender initially vs. man coverage and extends his long arms well to pluck the ball. He showcases average speed downfield once he gets going, but he's very crafty, sells his routes well and can go up and high point the ball down the seam when needed. He isn't a physical blocker as an inline guy. Pitta consistently allows his lower half to uncoil on contact and struggles to keep his base down through the play.
Yet he's athletic enough to get his feet around off the snap and displays above-average hand placement on contact. He will work hard to stay on blocks and can be tough to disengage from on runs off his frame. Overall, he isn't an overly gifted speed/strength athlete, but he's savvy and knows how to uncover and pluck the ball vs. man coverage. He looks like a team's No. 2 tight end who can create mismatches in the pass game."
Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ga1ln7L3qUw
Showing posts with label NFL Draft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NFL Draft. Show all posts
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Friday, April 23, 2010
3rd Round Pick Ed Dickson = Flacco's future best-friend
Tonight, in the 3rd round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the Ravens were able to add another weapon to the offensive-stable, with the selection of Ed Dickson, TE (Oregon) with the 70th overall pick.
I went into the 2009 season, very excited about the Ravens off-season addition of LJ Smith. I pictured the Baltimore offense exploiting opposing defenses with two TE sets. That scenario never got off the ground, as Smith battled injuries all year, and struggled to learn the play-book.
The selection of Dickson will give Cam Cameron the chance to run those two TE sets this coming year. The fact that Dickson will have the chance to apprentice under one of the NFL's best TE's of this decade in Heap, is a bonus. Getting beyond this season, Flacco has to be ecstatic of adding a potential long-term piece to his receiving corps.
National Football Post ranked Dickson as the 4th best TE in the Draft, stating:
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/front-office-total-access-stats.html&position=te
"Dickson is a tall, lean, good-looking athlete who possesses an explosive element to his game. He needs to do a better job slipping the bump and cleanly getting into his routes when his hand is on the line, but when standing up off the line, he exhibits an explosive first step and gets into his routes quickly. He has an ability to consistently threaten the seam and showcases an impressive burst in and out of his breaks. He has good body control as a route runner and is doing a much better job this season setting up his routes and changing gears. Dickson looks a lot more balanced in the pass game and isn't trying to do everything at full speed.
He does a nice job using his length to pluck the ball away from his frame and has the toughness to take a hit over the middle and hang on to the ball. He showcases a toughness after the catch and isn't afraid to take on would-be tackles and fight for additional yards. He isn't overly physical at the point of attack and doesn't block with much leverage, but he does a nice job extending his long arms on contact and the athletic ability to stay in front of his man. Dickson showcases good effort blocking downfield and has the ability to consistently reach and seal defenders at the second level. He has the makings of a guy who can create mismatches in the pass game and create plays downfield."
Youtube highlight of Dickson:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpXURJqx8MU
I went into the 2009 season, very excited about the Ravens off-season addition of LJ Smith. I pictured the Baltimore offense exploiting opposing defenses with two TE sets. That scenario never got off the ground, as Smith battled injuries all year, and struggled to learn the play-book.
The selection of Dickson will give Cam Cameron the chance to run those two TE sets this coming year. The fact that Dickson will have the chance to apprentice under one of the NFL's best TE's of this decade in Heap, is a bonus. Getting beyond this season, Flacco has to be ecstatic of adding a potential long-term piece to his receiving corps.
National Football Post ranked Dickson as the 4th best TE in the Draft, stating:
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/front-office-total-access-stats.html&position=te
"Dickson is a tall, lean, good-looking athlete who possesses an explosive element to his game. He needs to do a better job slipping the bump and cleanly getting into his routes when his hand is on the line, but when standing up off the line, he exhibits an explosive first step and gets into his routes quickly. He has an ability to consistently threaten the seam and showcases an impressive burst in and out of his breaks. He has good body control as a route runner and is doing a much better job this season setting up his routes and changing gears. Dickson looks a lot more balanced in the pass game and isn't trying to do everything at full speed.
He does a nice job using his length to pluck the ball away from his frame and has the toughness to take a hit over the middle and hang on to the ball. He showcases a toughness after the catch and isn't afraid to take on would-be tackles and fight for additional yards. He isn't overly physical at the point of attack and doesn't block with much leverage, but he does a nice job extending his long arms on contact and the athletic ability to stay in front of his man. Dickson showcases good effort blocking downfield and has the ability to consistently reach and seal defenders at the second level. He has the makings of a guy who can create mismatches in the pass game and create plays downfield."
Youtube highlight of Dickson:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpXURJqx8MU
Picturing the Ravens D with 2nd Round additions Kindle and Cody
After trading out of the 1st round of the 2010 NFL Draft last night, the Baltimore Ravens made a pair of 2nd-round additions to their defense tonight.
With the 43rd overall-pick, Baltimore added Outside LB Sergio Kindle from Texas. With their 2nd pick in the 2nd-round (and 57th overall) the Ravens were able to add Alabama DT Terrence Cody. Considering some prognosticators had Baltimore selecting Cody with their original 1st-round pick, this had to considered a victory for the Front Office.
First some reviews on Kindle, and Cody, and then a look at the Defense as a whole.
Kindle:
Gil Brandt of NFL.com listed Kindle as his 2nd best player still on the board entering today.
http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d817b78c8&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true
"Outstanding athlete who was named high school player of the year for both offense (as a running back) and defense, something that had never been done in modern history. He can rush the passer or drop into space. Was outstanding vs. Alabama in the BCS title game."
National Football Post had Kindle as the 8th best OLB in the draft:
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/front-office-total-access-stats.html&position=olb
"An explosive athlete off the edge who displays the initial burst to get on top of tackles quickly and consistently threaten the corner, Kindle showcases good closing speed toward the ball and breaks down surprisingly well for his size. He does a nice job keeping pad level down when shooting gaps inside and has the lower body strength to drive his way into the backfield. He exhibits a good initial pop on contact and has the power to create a push as a bull-rusher. But he doesn't display great change-of-direction skills or lateral mobility off his outside rush and struggles to disengage on contact. Kindle doesn't use his hands well enough when an opposing tackle gets into his body, and he struggles to shed. He has a tendency to get too upright at the point of attack and isn't much of a factor when his initial move is stalled. He looks more like a 3-4 OLB than a nickel rusher, but is more of a one trick pony at this stage."
Nolan Nawrocki of Pro Football Weekly stated:
http://www.profootballweekly.com/2010/04/23/pick-by-pick-analysis-round-two
"GM Ozzie Newsome is one of the best in the NFL at recognizing value, especially as it relates to trusting his doctors, and if Kindle stays healthy, he could be a double-digit sack producer in the mold of Peter Boulware. Kindle is a first-round talent who slid out of the first round largely because of concerns about his knee, intelligence and character — three red flags. But the Ravens know how to keep the game simple and have a track record of hitting on pass rushers. Kindle could be the next if he stays healthy. He is tough, physical and explosive and is well suited for the rush LB position."
Cody:
Brandt on Cody:
"Wide-bodied player, most likely a two-down player. Has worked hard to lose weight -- going from 370 at the end of the '09 season to 346. Will be a very good run stopper."
National Football Post ranked Cody as the 5th best DT:
"Cody showcases impressive bend for his size and has the ability to get under the pad level of opposing linemen. However, he doesn't get off the ball well and lacks much of a first step. He possesses elite anchor strength on contact and is nearly impossible to move inside. Cody eats up blocks inside and does a great job keeping his linebackers clean. Obviously, he lacks ideal range when asked to reach the perimeter, but he moves well for his size and works hard in pursuit.
He's a real two-gap player who possesses the body control and balance to work his way toward the block when engaged and close running lanes on either side. Cody lacks the ability to shed blocks inside, but he knows how to close gaps and work his way toward the ball, even against the double team."
Defensive Line: Gregg, Ngata, Pryce, Cody, Talavou, Redding, McKinney, Divens
Snap-judgement:
Even if Cody's conditioning does not allow him to be an every-down Tackle, he is litterally a huge addition. Gregg also can not play every down either, but he can help. When Ngata and Cody line-up together, they will dominate the point of attack. Everyone says Cody has zero pass-rushing ability, but if you double-team either Cody, or Ngata that is going to allow the other to collapse the pocker.
Linebacker: Johnson, Lewis, Gooden, Suggs, Kindle, Barnes, McClain, Ellerbe, Kruger, Ayanbadejo, Phillips,
Snap-judgement:
Clearly the Ravens believed Kindle represented too much talent to pass-up. Also, an improved pass-rush will always benefit the Secondary. Still, the selection of Kindle has to be some repudiation of Kruger (and to a lesser extent Barnes).
As good as Ayanbadejo has been on Special Teams in his career, I have a hard time seeing him make the roster.
I know the Ravens liked Phillips, will be interesting to see him after his injury.
If Ngata, and Cody are collapsing the pocket from the interior, the Ravens pass rush could be scary again. Picture passing downs with Suggs with his hand in the dirt, Kruger or Kindle lined up behind him, with the the other coming from the opposite edge.
Secondary: Foxworth, Webb, Washington, Carr, Gerard, Williams,Reed, Landry, Zbikowski, Nakamura,
Snap-judgement:
As Baltimore did not use one of their first three 2010 picks on a CB, that shows they have confidence in the return of both Webb, and Washington. With those two, and Foxworth you have 3 solid CB's. Webb showed potential shut-down ability prior to his injury. Carr certainly looked better later in the year, when forced to action.
I am assuming that Landry will be back, but have not heard his recent status (was a Restricted Free Agent). If the Ravens do not feel good about Nakamura's rehab, perhaps they actively target another Safety for depth with Zbikowski.
My opinions on Reed have not changed. He is obviously the key to the Secondary and maybe the Defense, and Team as a whole. Signed for the next several seasons, there is no issue there. The only question is his health, and if he has the desire to return.
The fact that he sought out a second-opinion on his hip, shows that a) He was concerned, and b) Still wants to play. If you were ready to shut it down and retire, he would not have been seeking additional opinions. I think he clearly received good news with the second-opinion, and I think he will return.
With the 43rd overall-pick, Baltimore added Outside LB Sergio Kindle from Texas. With their 2nd pick in the 2nd-round (and 57th overall) the Ravens were able to add Alabama DT Terrence Cody. Considering some prognosticators had Baltimore selecting Cody with their original 1st-round pick, this had to considered a victory for the Front Office.
First some reviews on Kindle, and Cody, and then a look at the Defense as a whole.
Kindle:
Gil Brandt of NFL.com listed Kindle as his 2nd best player still on the board entering today.
http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d817b78c8&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true
"Outstanding athlete who was named high school player of the year for both offense (as a running back) and defense, something that had never been done in modern history. He can rush the passer or drop into space. Was outstanding vs. Alabama in the BCS title game."
National Football Post had Kindle as the 8th best OLB in the draft:
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/front-office-total-access-stats.html&position=olb
"An explosive athlete off the edge who displays the initial burst to get on top of tackles quickly and consistently threaten the corner, Kindle showcases good closing speed toward the ball and breaks down surprisingly well for his size. He does a nice job keeping pad level down when shooting gaps inside and has the lower body strength to drive his way into the backfield. He exhibits a good initial pop on contact and has the power to create a push as a bull-rusher. But he doesn't display great change-of-direction skills or lateral mobility off his outside rush and struggles to disengage on contact. Kindle doesn't use his hands well enough when an opposing tackle gets into his body, and he struggles to shed. He has a tendency to get too upright at the point of attack and isn't much of a factor when his initial move is stalled. He looks more like a 3-4 OLB than a nickel rusher, but is more of a one trick pony at this stage."
Nolan Nawrocki of Pro Football Weekly stated:
http://www.profootballweekly.com/2010/04/23/pick-by-pick-analysis-round-two
"GM Ozzie Newsome is one of the best in the NFL at recognizing value, especially as it relates to trusting his doctors, and if Kindle stays healthy, he could be a double-digit sack producer in the mold of Peter Boulware. Kindle is a first-round talent who slid out of the first round largely because of concerns about his knee, intelligence and character — three red flags. But the Ravens know how to keep the game simple and have a track record of hitting on pass rushers. Kindle could be the next if he stays healthy. He is tough, physical and explosive and is well suited for the rush LB position."
Cody:
Brandt on Cody:
"Wide-bodied player, most likely a two-down player. Has worked hard to lose weight -- going from 370 at the end of the '09 season to 346. Will be a very good run stopper."
National Football Post ranked Cody as the 5th best DT:
"Cody showcases impressive bend for his size and has the ability to get under the pad level of opposing linemen. However, he doesn't get off the ball well and lacks much of a first step. He possesses elite anchor strength on contact and is nearly impossible to move inside. Cody eats up blocks inside and does a great job keeping his linebackers clean. Obviously, he lacks ideal range when asked to reach the perimeter, but he moves well for his size and works hard in pursuit.
He's a real two-gap player who possesses the body control and balance to work his way toward the block when engaged and close running lanes on either side. Cody lacks the ability to shed blocks inside, but he knows how to close gaps and work his way toward the ball, even against the double team."
Defensive Line: Gregg, Ngata, Pryce, Cody, Talavou, Redding, McKinney, Divens
Snap-judgement:
Even if Cody's conditioning does not allow him to be an every-down Tackle, he is litterally a huge addition. Gregg also can not play every down either, but he can help. When Ngata and Cody line-up together, they will dominate the point of attack. Everyone says Cody has zero pass-rushing ability, but if you double-team either Cody, or Ngata that is going to allow the other to collapse the pocker.
Linebacker: Johnson, Lewis, Gooden, Suggs, Kindle, Barnes, McClain, Ellerbe, Kruger, Ayanbadejo, Phillips,
Snap-judgement:
Clearly the Ravens believed Kindle represented too much talent to pass-up. Also, an improved pass-rush will always benefit the Secondary. Still, the selection of Kindle has to be some repudiation of Kruger (and to a lesser extent Barnes).
As good as Ayanbadejo has been on Special Teams in his career, I have a hard time seeing him make the roster.
I know the Ravens liked Phillips, will be interesting to see him after his injury.
If Ngata, and Cody are collapsing the pocket from the interior, the Ravens pass rush could be scary again. Picture passing downs with Suggs with his hand in the dirt, Kruger or Kindle lined up behind him, with the the other coming from the opposite edge.
Secondary: Foxworth, Webb, Washington, Carr, Gerard, Williams,Reed, Landry, Zbikowski, Nakamura,
Snap-judgement:
As Baltimore did not use one of their first three 2010 picks on a CB, that shows they have confidence in the return of both Webb, and Washington. With those two, and Foxworth you have 3 solid CB's. Webb showed potential shut-down ability prior to his injury. Carr certainly looked better later in the year, when forced to action.
I am assuming that Landry will be back, but have not heard his recent status (was a Restricted Free Agent). If the Ravens do not feel good about Nakamura's rehab, perhaps they actively target another Safety for depth with Zbikowski.
My opinions on Reed have not changed. He is obviously the key to the Secondary and maybe the Defense, and Team as a whole. Signed for the next several seasons, there is no issue there. The only question is his health, and if he has the desire to return.
The fact that he sought out a second-opinion on his hip, shows that a) He was concerned, and b) Still wants to play. If you were ready to shut it down and retire, he would not have been seeking additional opinions. I think he clearly received good news with the second-opinion, and I think he will return.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Ravens trade out of the 25th pick, initial thoughts
The Baltimore Ravens traded out of the 1st-round in the National Football League draft, relinquishing their 25th overall pick to Denver for a 2nd-round pick (43rd overall), 3rd-round pick (70th overall), and a 4th-round pick (114th overall).
While I would have been excited by the addition of Dan Williams (DT, Tennessee), I like the move overall. I would expect that the Ravens will now be able to address DL, TE, and CB by the time they make their 3rd-round selection.
Players I am intersted in:
Corners: Brandon Gee, Perrish Cox, Chris Cook
TE's: I do not see Gronkowski being on the board... Aaron Hernandez, Anthony McCoy, Dorin Dickerson
DL: Terrence Cody, Geno Atkins, Cam Thomas, Carlos Dunlap, Everson Griffen
While I would have been excited by the addition of Dan Williams (DT, Tennessee), I like the move overall. I would expect that the Ravens will now be able to address DL, TE, and CB by the time they make their 3rd-round selection.
Players I am intersted in:
Corners: Brandon Gee, Perrish Cox, Chris Cook
TE's: I do not see Gronkowski being on the board... Aaron Hernandez, Anthony McCoy, Dorin Dickerson
DL: Terrence Cody, Geno Atkins, Cam Thomas, Carlos Dunlap, Everson Griffen
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Most recent NFL Mocks & The Ravens
The marathon that will be the 2010 NFL Draft begins this Thursday night. While you always have to be cautious when listening to NFL Executives this time of year, I tend to believe what you are hearing come from the Castle in Owings Mills. That being, while the Ravens would love the opportunity to trade down from their 25th overall pick in the 1st-round, and pick up additional picks - it does not seem likely to occur. That leads many to believing the Ravens should move Gaither and use him to pick-up an additional pick. I also do not see that happening.
With that in-mind, my focus remains on who appears likely to be available to the Ravens in the 1st round. Overall, I continue to believe the Ravens want to address the DL, and TE positions during the first two-rounds. The wild-card here is figuring out exactly what Baltimore internally thinks about their Secondary.
You continue to hear they anticipate Reed's return, but just how confident are they? Behind him, how is Nakamura progressing from his injury? Ultimately I believe the Ravens will look at Saftey as non-pressing issue.
You are looking at a possibly different scenario at CB. If healthy, I like the CB trio of Foxworth, Webb, and Washington. If the Ravens are not sold on the ability of Webb, and Washington to be ready, they are going to have to address CB in these first two-rounds. DeCosta went to great lengths last year telling the local media you could never have enough Corners, and that you needed to select them early. Certainly the latest Mock Drafts below bear that out.
NFL.com posted April 17th:
http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d8178682f&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true
25. Baltimore Ravens
Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama
The Ravens need to fortify their interior defense after losing Bannan and Edwards in free agency. Cody gives the team a mammoth nose tackle that is nearly impossible to move off the ball. He teams with Ngata to form an impenetrable wall at the point of attack. (Previous pick: Dan Williams)
Pro Football Weekly posted April 12th:
http://www.profootballweekly.com/2010/04/12/georgia-techs-thomas-climbs-up-draft-boards
25. Baltimore Ravens
CB Kyle Wilson, Boise State
The Ravens' current cornerback situation is thin, with no greater need, and Wilson can play the physical press-and-trail coverage frequently employed by the club.
National Football Post posted April 16th:
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Mock-draft-60.html
25. Baltimore Ravens
Chris Cook, CB, Virginia
This might be a little high for Cook, but the Ravens need to add talent and size to their cornerback position, and no one has more in this year’s draft than him.
With that in-mind, my focus remains on who appears likely to be available to the Ravens in the 1st round. Overall, I continue to believe the Ravens want to address the DL, and TE positions during the first two-rounds. The wild-card here is figuring out exactly what Baltimore internally thinks about their Secondary.
You continue to hear they anticipate Reed's return, but just how confident are they? Behind him, how is Nakamura progressing from his injury? Ultimately I believe the Ravens will look at Saftey as non-pressing issue.
You are looking at a possibly different scenario at CB. If healthy, I like the CB trio of Foxworth, Webb, and Washington. If the Ravens are not sold on the ability of Webb, and Washington to be ready, they are going to have to address CB in these first two-rounds. DeCosta went to great lengths last year telling the local media you could never have enough Corners, and that you needed to select them early. Certainly the latest Mock Drafts below bear that out.
NFL.com posted April 17th:
http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d8178682f&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true
25. Baltimore Ravens
Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama
The Ravens need to fortify their interior defense after losing Bannan and Edwards in free agency. Cody gives the team a mammoth nose tackle that is nearly impossible to move off the ball. He teams with Ngata to form an impenetrable wall at the point of attack. (Previous pick: Dan Williams)
Pro Football Weekly posted April 12th:
http://www.profootballweekly.com/2010/04/12/georgia-techs-thomas-climbs-up-draft-boards
25. Baltimore Ravens
CB Kyle Wilson, Boise State
The Ravens' current cornerback situation is thin, with no greater need, and Wilson can play the physical press-and-trail coverage frequently employed by the club.
National Football Post posted April 16th:
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Mock-draft-60.html
25. Baltimore Ravens
Chris Cook, CB, Virginia
This might be a little high for Cook, but the Ravens need to add talent and size to their cornerback position, and no one has more in this year’s draft than him.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Latest NFL Mock Drafts & The Ravens
We are getting closer to the NFL Draft (April 22nd - 24th) and the projected available options for the Baltimore Ravens at the 25th pick overall are coming into sharper focus.
Here are the results of a couple of recent Mock Drafts:
NFL.com posted April 2nd:
http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d817461d4&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true
25. Baltimore Ravens
Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
The Ravens have an obvious need at tight end, but this team typically takes the best available player on the board regardless of position. Williams would give the Ravens a young defensive tackle to pair with Haloti Ngata in the middle of their defense. (Previous pick: Jermaine Gresham)
Pro Football Weekly posted March 29th:
http://www.profootballweekly.com/2010/03/29/qb-bradford-still-atop-latest-mock-draft
25. Baltimore Ravens
Dan Williams, NT — Tennessee
With Kelly Gregg aging and the Ravens losing Justin Bannan to the Broncos in free agency, Greg Mattison could use more help in his defensive line rotation. Williams is ideally suited for the Ravens' movement front and could be too difficult to pass up despite more pressing concerns at cornerback.
Yahoo! NFL Shutdown Corner
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ys-headtoheadmockdraft033110
25. Baltimore Ravens
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
With Todd Heap(notes) getting up in age and Joe Flacco(notes) needing as many reliable targets as possible, Gresham would be a great fit here. People will look at Gresham’s size and debit him for not being as physical at the line as other big tight ends, but Gresham projects better as a down-field threat – think more Antonio Gates(notes) than Brandon Pettigrew (notes).
Notes / Thoughts:
1) National Football Post has Williams as the 6th best DT available in the Draft. Pro Football Weekly has Williams 3rd. NFL.com has Williams as the 6th best DL.
NFL.com's bio on Williams: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2010/profiles/dan-williams?id=496873#tabs:tab-overview
Overview
Williams was a three-year starter for the Vols and had a breakout season in 2009. He has an excellent combination of size, strength and athleticism for an interior defender. He plays with great pad level and a natural base to anchor effectively versus the run. He is a powerful bull-rusher who can collapse the pocket in the passing game. Williams can be inconsistent with his effort but does play with an attitude (can be nasty) in the trenches when he wants to. He is tough to move due to great initial punch and good balance and will draw many double-teams on the inside. He doesn't have great initial quickness to penetrate gaps but is a better run defender than pass rusher in base defenses. He feels pad pressure well and understands how to leverage blockers to maintain gap responsibilities. Williams will fit best as a nose tackle in a 3-4 scheme and will improve his draft status if concerns about his weight and work ethic are answered.
Strengths:
Thickly built in the lower half with excellent strength. Almost unblockable one-on-one and maintains good balance to eat up double teams. Shows a strong punch and uses heavy hands to control blockers. Collapses the pocket with a strong bull rush and is athletic enough to make plays in space. Explosive tackler who plays mean.
Weaknesses:
Carries around too much weight. Lacks a good initial burst to consistently provide a good pass rush. Does not always give a solid effort and takes plays off. Plays too high and struggles to disengage from blockers at times. Lacks the closing speed to make plays from the backside.
1a) I love the idea of pairing adding a talented weapon next to Ngata on the line. Offensive lines would have to pick which Raven to double-team, and face the collapse of the pocket from the other. If the Ravens choose this route, I will certainly get on board with that decision.
2) Interesting range of opinions on the available TE's. NFP has Aaron Hernandez 1st, while PFW, and NFL.com have him 4th. (Gresham number 1 on both PFW, and NFL.com).
Aaron Wilson reported that the Ravens worked-out the Pittsburgh TE's, with Dorin Dickerson being the higher rated option. If the Ravens decided to go with Williams (or another D-line option) in the 1st round, I would love to see one of the TE's fall to the Ravens in the 2nd round. I wonder if Gronkowski will still be available at this point? Has anyone seen a projected round for Jimmy Graham? Would he potentially be around in the 5th due to his lack of football experience, or will he be gone earlier due to his physical ability?
3) How great would it be to come away from the first two-rounds with a DL and TE? What a haul it would be to add a Gresham, and Dunlap to the fold, or a Williams and Gronkowski / Hernandez.
4) If the Ravens do not trade Gaither, and add an additional high-pick (1st or 2nd) to the stable of picks; or trade down from their 1st and pick-up and additional pick - they would have to use their existing 1st, or 2nd to address the Secondary. I tend to believe Reed will be returning, and that Saftey is a non-issue. If the Ravens are very uncomfortable with the health of Webb, and Washington, it is possible they go after a CB. A personal favorite of mine is Brandon Ghee from Wake Forest as a dark-horse 2nd-rounder.
5) I am not seeing the Ravens drafting a WR in the 1st round, but it is interesting seeing the differing opinions on Demaryius Thomas from Georgia Tech. Thomas has the size and athleticism you can not teach. He also put up huge numbers in the Yellow Jackets Triple-Option run 1st, 2nd, 3rd offense. Though as I have written before, it should be remembered that the Triple-Option creates a lot of single coverage defense for wideouts (which is part of the reason I want to see MD adopt the offense). NFL.com has Thomas going 29th overall, and lists Thomas as the 4th best WR in the draft. PFW has Thomas going 26th overall, and lists Thomas as the 2nd best WR in the draft.
NFP (West Bunting) has an article from today stating Thomas is not a 1st round caliber WR, and has him as the 12th best WR in the draft.
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Tech-WR-Thomas-has-talent-but-he-needs-time.html
Here are the results of a couple of recent Mock Drafts:
NFL.com posted April 2nd:
http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d817461d4&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true
25. Baltimore Ravens
Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
The Ravens have an obvious need at tight end, but this team typically takes the best available player on the board regardless of position. Williams would give the Ravens a young defensive tackle to pair with Haloti Ngata in the middle of their defense. (Previous pick: Jermaine Gresham)
Pro Football Weekly posted March 29th:
http://www.profootballweekly.com/2010/03/29/qb-bradford-still-atop-latest-mock-draft
25. Baltimore Ravens
Dan Williams, NT — Tennessee
With Kelly Gregg aging and the Ravens losing Justin Bannan to the Broncos in free agency, Greg Mattison could use more help in his defensive line rotation. Williams is ideally suited for the Ravens' movement front and could be too difficult to pass up despite more pressing concerns at cornerback.
Yahoo! NFL Shutdown Corner
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ys-headtoheadmockdraft033110
25. Baltimore Ravens
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
With Todd Heap(notes) getting up in age and Joe Flacco(notes) needing as many reliable targets as possible, Gresham would be a great fit here. People will look at Gresham’s size and debit him for not being as physical at the line as other big tight ends, but Gresham projects better as a down-field threat – think more Antonio Gates(notes) than Brandon Pettigrew (notes).
Notes / Thoughts:
1) National Football Post has Williams as the 6th best DT available in the Draft. Pro Football Weekly has Williams 3rd. NFL.com has Williams as the 6th best DL.
NFL.com's bio on Williams: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2010/profiles/dan-williams?id=496873#tabs:tab-overview
Overview
Williams was a three-year starter for the Vols and had a breakout season in 2009. He has an excellent combination of size, strength and athleticism for an interior defender. He plays with great pad level and a natural base to anchor effectively versus the run. He is a powerful bull-rusher who can collapse the pocket in the passing game. Williams can be inconsistent with his effort but does play with an attitude (can be nasty) in the trenches when he wants to. He is tough to move due to great initial punch and good balance and will draw many double-teams on the inside. He doesn't have great initial quickness to penetrate gaps but is a better run defender than pass rusher in base defenses. He feels pad pressure well and understands how to leverage blockers to maintain gap responsibilities. Williams will fit best as a nose tackle in a 3-4 scheme and will improve his draft status if concerns about his weight and work ethic are answered.
Strengths:
Thickly built in the lower half with excellent strength. Almost unblockable one-on-one and maintains good balance to eat up double teams. Shows a strong punch and uses heavy hands to control blockers. Collapses the pocket with a strong bull rush and is athletic enough to make plays in space. Explosive tackler who plays mean.
Weaknesses:
Carries around too much weight. Lacks a good initial burst to consistently provide a good pass rush. Does not always give a solid effort and takes plays off. Plays too high and struggles to disengage from blockers at times. Lacks the closing speed to make plays from the backside.
1a) I love the idea of pairing adding a talented weapon next to Ngata on the line. Offensive lines would have to pick which Raven to double-team, and face the collapse of the pocket from the other. If the Ravens choose this route, I will certainly get on board with that decision.
2) Interesting range of opinions on the available TE's. NFP has Aaron Hernandez 1st, while PFW, and NFL.com have him 4th. (Gresham number 1 on both PFW, and NFL.com).
Aaron Wilson reported that the Ravens worked-out the Pittsburgh TE's, with Dorin Dickerson being the higher rated option. If the Ravens decided to go with Williams (or another D-line option) in the 1st round, I would love to see one of the TE's fall to the Ravens in the 2nd round. I wonder if Gronkowski will still be available at this point? Has anyone seen a projected round for Jimmy Graham? Would he potentially be around in the 5th due to his lack of football experience, or will he be gone earlier due to his physical ability?
3) How great would it be to come away from the first two-rounds with a DL and TE? What a haul it would be to add a Gresham, and Dunlap to the fold, or a Williams and Gronkowski / Hernandez.
4) If the Ravens do not trade Gaither, and add an additional high-pick (1st or 2nd) to the stable of picks; or trade down from their 1st and pick-up and additional pick - they would have to use their existing 1st, or 2nd to address the Secondary. I tend to believe Reed will be returning, and that Saftey is a non-issue. If the Ravens are very uncomfortable with the health of Webb, and Washington, it is possible they go after a CB. A personal favorite of mine is Brandon Ghee from Wake Forest as a dark-horse 2nd-rounder.
5) I am not seeing the Ravens drafting a WR in the 1st round, but it is interesting seeing the differing opinions on Demaryius Thomas from Georgia Tech. Thomas has the size and athleticism you can not teach. He also put up huge numbers in the Yellow Jackets Triple-Option run 1st, 2nd, 3rd offense. Though as I have written before, it should be remembered that the Triple-Option creates a lot of single coverage defense for wideouts (which is part of the reason I want to see MD adopt the offense). NFL.com has Thomas going 29th overall, and lists Thomas as the 4th best WR in the draft. PFW has Thomas going 26th overall, and lists Thomas as the 2nd best WR in the draft.
NFP (West Bunting) has an article from today stating Thomas is not a 1st round caliber WR, and has him as the 12th best WR in the draft.
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Tech-WR-Thomas-has-talent-but-he-needs-time.html
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
CNNSI / TFYDraft.com Top 50 NFL Prospects
Here is a link to a Pre-Combine Top 50 Draft Board from CNNSI / TYFDraft.com:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/football/nfl/02/23/combine.45/index.html?xid=cnnbin&hpt=Sbin
Here are some of the players I will be following closely at the combine:
9) Bruce Campbell*/T/Maryland: "Scouts feel Campbell may have as much upside as any other offensive tackle in the draft. He's expected to turn in a great combine workout and move higher up draft boards by the time April comes around."
Over the weekend, I had read another review saying that many NFL teams had Campbell slipping, and even believing his future could be Guard (hard to believe with his size, and strength). If he does not have a huge combine, maybe he slips into the 20's at the Draft. If that happens, and if the Ravens were to lose Gaither, he might be an intriguing choice for Baltimore.
21. Demaryius Thomas*/WR/Georgia Tech: "Thomas is a game-controlling wideout whose best football lies ahead. His broken left foot, which was first reported by SI.com, will deny him the opportunity to turn in the workout many expected. As a result, Thomas won't make a big move up draft boards, but he continues to project as a No. 1 receiver."
24. Jared Odrick/DT/Penn State: "Odrick's versatility on the defensive line is key to his draft grade. The consensus is he'd be equally effective at tackle on a conventional four-man line or at defensive end in a three-man front."
29. Kyle Wilson/CB/Boise State: "Wilson capped off a good campaign in '09 with a terrific performance at the Senior Bowl. He hopes to keep the momentum going with fast 40 times at the combine."
37. Anthony McCoy/TE/USC: "McCoy has jumped to the top of the tight end position for a variety of reasons, including his tremendous play last season. He's big, fast and is a terrific pass-catcher. Though it's not his forte', McCoy also gives effort blocking."
43. Perrish Cox/CB/Oklahoma State: "He's a shut-down cornerback with natural cover skills. He has the potential to be a big-time player at the next level, though character flaws concern a number of teams."
44. Jermaine Gresham/TE/Oklahoma: "Gresham is one of the better athletes from the tight end class, but missed the entire '09 campaign with injury. His hands are suspect, yet Gresham has good value outside the initial 30 choices."
46. Marshwan Gilyard/WR/Cincinnati: "Gilyard has displayed an ever-improving game and was the playmaking force behind the Bearcats offense last season. He offers home run hitting skills as a receiver and return specialist. Scouts are not yet sold on Gilyard being a number one receiver in the NFL."
49. Aaron Hernandez*/TE/Florida: "He ranks as one of the best pass catchers in this draft, be it tight end or receiver. The knock is he lacks the strength to be a blocker and the speed to be a consistent downfield threat."
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/football/nfl/02/23/combine.45/index.html?xid=cnnbin&hpt=Sbin
Here are some of the players I will be following closely at the combine:
9) Bruce Campbell*/T/Maryland: "Scouts feel Campbell may have as much upside as any other offensive tackle in the draft. He's expected to turn in a great combine workout and move higher up draft boards by the time April comes around."
Over the weekend, I had read another review saying that many NFL teams had Campbell slipping, and even believing his future could be Guard (hard to believe with his size, and strength). If he does not have a huge combine, maybe he slips into the 20's at the Draft. If that happens, and if the Ravens were to lose Gaither, he might be an intriguing choice for Baltimore.
21. Demaryius Thomas*/WR/Georgia Tech: "Thomas is a game-controlling wideout whose best football lies ahead. His broken left foot, which was first reported by SI.com, will deny him the opportunity to turn in the workout many expected. As a result, Thomas won't make a big move up draft boards, but he continues to project as a No. 1 receiver."
29. Kyle Wilson/CB/Boise State: "Wilson capped off a good campaign in '09 with a terrific performance at the Senior Bowl. He hopes to keep the momentum going with fast 40 times at the combine."
43. Perrish Cox/CB/Oklahoma State: "He's a shut-down cornerback with natural cover skills. He has the potential to be a big-time player at the next level, though character flaws concern a number of teams."
46. Marshwan Gilyard/WR/Cincinnati: "Gilyard has displayed an ever-improving game and was the playmaking force behind the Bearcats offense last season. He offers home run hitting skills as a receiver and return specialist. Scouts are not yet sold on Gilyard being a number one receiver in the NFL."
Monday, February 15, 2010
2010 NFL Mock Drafts, Thoughts on the Ravens
Here are links to a couple of NFL Mock Drafts from National Football Post, and Pro Football Weekly.
National Football Post
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2010-NFL-mock-draft-Take-One.html
25. Baltimore Ravens: Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
"LaFell is the type of playmaker who can help generate yards down the field in the pass game."
Pro Football Weekly
http://www.profootballweekly.com/2010/01/30/mock-draft-defensive-tackles-dominate
It seems likely that the Ravens will not be able to retain Justin Bannan. Between Kelly Gregg's age, and the fact that Ngata has not been signed long-term, I would think the Ravens would have to consider adding a DT early.
To me, here are the leading Draft Needs for Baltimore:
1) A long-term pass-catching weapon WR or TE for Flacco.
2) If Gaither leaves, a starting RT. (Bruce Campbell, Maryland?)
3) DL help. I think you can make the case for either a DT, or a rusher off the edge.
4) CB depth. I think even if Reed decided to retire, the Ravens would be comfortable with their safeties. Obviously that changes if Nakamura is not healing on schedule, or if Dawan Landry were to leave as a RFA.
5) I am sure the Ravens will not lose both Yanda and Chester (both are RFA's), but they figure to lose one. I expect that the Ravens will draft a player they can groom behind Birk at Center, and provide depth at RG.
National Football Post
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2010-NFL-mock-draft-Take-One.html
25. Baltimore Ravens: Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
"LaFell is the type of playmaker who can help generate yards down the field in the pass game."
Pro Football Weekly
http://www.profootballweekly.com/2010/01/30/mock-draft-defensive-tackles-dominate
25. Baltimore Ravens: WR Arrelious Benn, Illinois
"The Ravens sorely need some offensive playmakers around Joe Flacco, and GM Ozzie Newsome will not be deterred by the declining production of an injured Benn in what was a struggling, stale Illinois offense."
While I think WR's like LaFell, Benn, Georgia Tech's Demaryius Thomas, and Notre Dame's Golden Tate are names to keep in-mind, I think it would be a mistake to think the Ravens will be locked into a WR.
If the Ravens do add a weapon for Flacco in the 1st-round, I think there is a good chance it is in the form of a TE. The two names you hear most often are Aaron Hernandez from Florida, and Jermaine Gresham from Oklahoma.
However, Ravens fans should remember there are other things to consider.
Jared Gaither is a Restricted Free Agent. If some team gives him an extremely high-tender, will the Ravens match the offer? I hope they do, and believe extending Gaither should be a priority. However, I think there is some reason to believe the Ravens would not. If that were to happen, and you lose Gaither; obviously Oher moves to LT full-time. That leaves a glaring weakness at RT - would Baltimore again look towards the draft to fill that hole?
What about CB? Fabian Washington is also a RFA, but his ACL injury will probably prevent others from making offers. While he should be able to return, there has to be some question in the Ravens minds about relying on him as a Nickleback, or even as a starter until Lardarius Webb returns. Webb suffered his ACL injury so late in the year, that his return for Training Camp is in-doubt. You can not go into a season, with questionable CB depth. Even if the Ravens do not address CB in the 1st round, it is a foregone conclusion in my-mind that they will take one in the first 3 rounds.
What about the DL? Does Trevor Pryce want to return? With a 2010 contract of $4.5M, I would assume he does. Do you want to pay him that much to be the backup?
It seems likely that the Ravens will not be able to retain Justin Bannan. Between Kelly Gregg's age, and the fact that Ngata has not been signed long-term, I would think the Ravens would have to consider adding a DT early.
To me, here are the leading Draft Needs for Baltimore:
1) A long-term pass-catching weapon WR or TE for Flacco.
2) If Gaither leaves, a starting RT. (Bruce Campbell, Maryland?)
3) DL help. I think you can make the case for either a DT, or a rusher off the edge.
4) CB depth. I think even if Reed decided to retire, the Ravens would be comfortable with their safeties. Obviously that changes if Nakamura is not healing on schedule, or if Dawan Landry were to leave as a RFA.
5) I am sure the Ravens will not lose both Yanda and Chester (both are RFA's), but they figure to lose one. I expect that the Ravens will draft a player they can groom behind Birk at Center, and provide depth at RG.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Where are the weapons for Flacco?
When the Ravens picked in the 3rd round, there were a lot of high-end TE talent on the board that the Ravens passed on. Additionally, the Ravens have seen numerous WR's come off the board.
You have to wonder how the Ravens plan on upgrading the WR core. Also, considering that Clayton, Mason, and Williams are all Free Agents after the 2009 season... you would think adding talent there now would be a priority.
They left Nix and Britt on the board in the 1st round... and after Kruger in the 2nd round, Williams, Tate, Wallace, Barden, Turner, Butler, and Iglesias have also come off the board... not to mention all the TE's that were left on the board.
They could have dropped back with their 1st round pick... taken Britton if they wanted a Tackle, and added a pick to pursue a WR like Massaquoi.
Where are the weapons for Flacco?
Maybe the Ravens trade a 2nd round pick next year for Boldin?
Possible, but since there has been all that conjecture that the Ravens would have to trade a player back to Arizona to fit Boldin under the cap... and most of that conjecture is around Heap... you would have thought the Ravens would have taken a TE in the 3rd round if that was the case.
There are now 15 WR's off the board... and if you want to say you can find value WR's later in the draft... fine...
However, if you are going to say as an organization that WR's taken in the 1st round from the 20th pick on are most likely to fail vs any other position group... would it not hold true, that those guys are still likely to be more successful vs the 16th WR on the board?
I understand that football is won in the trenches... but just how much higher did the Ravens value Oher vs Britton?
Just how little do the Ravens think of Anderson, and Terry?
Just how much money do you want to invest in a RT?
I think there was great value there with Oher... I think he will be very productive, and low risk.... I do not love the pick.
You have to wonder how the Ravens plan on upgrading the WR core. Also, considering that Clayton, Mason, and Williams are all Free Agents after the 2009 season... you would think adding talent there now would be a priority.
They left Nix and Britt on the board in the 1st round... and after Kruger in the 2nd round, Williams, Tate, Wallace, Barden, Turner, Butler, and Iglesias have also come off the board... not to mention all the TE's that were left on the board.
They could have dropped back with their 1st round pick... taken Britton if they wanted a Tackle, and added a pick to pursue a WR like Massaquoi.
Where are the weapons for Flacco?
Maybe the Ravens trade a 2nd round pick next year for Boldin?
Possible, but since there has been all that conjecture that the Ravens would have to trade a player back to Arizona to fit Boldin under the cap... and most of that conjecture is around Heap... you would have thought the Ravens would have taken a TE in the 3rd round if that was the case.
There are now 15 WR's off the board... and if you want to say you can find value WR's later in the draft... fine...
However, if you are going to say as an organization that WR's taken in the 1st round from the 20th pick on are most likely to fail vs any other position group... would it not hold true, that those guys are still likely to be more successful vs the 16th WR on the board?
I understand that football is won in the trenches... but just how much higher did the Ravens value Oher vs Britton?
Just how little do the Ravens think of Anderson, and Terry?
Just how much money do you want to invest in a RT?
I think there was great value there with Oher... I think he will be very productive, and low risk.... I do not love the pick.
Ravens 3rd Rd Selection - CB Lardarius Webb
According to the NFL Draft Bible, Webb is 5'11, 173 lbs that ran a 4.43 40 yard dash, and benches 295 lbs.
That 40 time was the fastest of any CB at the NFL Combine, and helps explain why the Ravens would take a CB now in the 3rd round, after Eric DeCosta recently made the point that finding CB starters after Round 1 is basically impossible.
Webb will join a secondary that currently features Washington, Foxworth, Reed, Landry, Rolle, Zybikowski, Nakmaura, and Walker.
Webb was originally at Southern Miss, but transferred to Nicholls State.
There were a lot of high-end TE talent on the board that the Ravens passed on. Additionally, the Ravens have seen numerous WR's come off the board.
You have to wonder how the Ravens plan on upgrading the WR core. Also, considering that Clayton, Mason, and Williams are all Free Agents after the 2009 season... you would think adding talent there now would be a priority.
Here are some links to info about Webb...
http://www.nfldraftbible.com/Draft-Bible-Q-A/lardarius_webb_interview.html
http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/04/22/browns-work-out-lardarius-webb-sleeper-cornerback-of-the-nfl-dr/
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-draft-reformedwebb&prov=ap&type=lgns
That 40 time was the fastest of any CB at the NFL Combine, and helps explain why the Ravens would take a CB now in the 3rd round, after Eric DeCosta recently made the point that finding CB starters after Round 1 is basically impossible.
Webb will join a secondary that currently features Washington, Foxworth, Reed, Landry, Rolle, Zybikowski, Nakmaura, and Walker.
Webb was originally at Southern Miss, but transferred to Nicholls State.
There were a lot of high-end TE talent on the board that the Ravens passed on. Additionally, the Ravens have seen numerous WR's come off the board.
You have to wonder how the Ravens plan on upgrading the WR core. Also, considering that Clayton, Mason, and Williams are all Free Agents after the 2009 season... you would think adding talent there now would be a priority.
Here are some links to info about Webb...
http://www.nfldraftbible.com/Draft-Bible-Q-A/lardarius_webb_interview.html
http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/04/22/browns-work-out-lardarius-webb-sleeper-cornerback-of-the-nfl-dr/
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-draft-reformedwebb&prov=ap&type=lgns
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Thoughts on Ravens 1st round pick Michael Oher
The old adage in football, is that you build teams through the lines.
If that is correct, than the selection of Michael Oher is not shocking.
I went into today, believing that the Ravens would select TE Brandon Pettigrew if available with the 26th pick, and CB Vontae Davis if he was not.
I had hoped that Heyward-Bey would be available, and once he was off the board - I had hoped the Ravens would select WR Kenny Britt.
I am surprised to see the Ravens trade up to the 23rd pick to take Oher, but not shocked.
In the AFC North, the Ravens are going to face Pittsburgh and their pass-rush twice a year, every year. You need to be able to protect the franchise - Joe Flacco.
With Gaither, Grubbs, Birk, Chester/Yanda, and Oher... Baltimore has a talented line, that can be together for a lot of years.
I would guess this means that Willie Anderson will not be back in 2009... but that bears watching...
With Terry, Chester/Yanda, Cousins, and Hale in reserve... this is a really deep unit.
Watching Michael Oher's story this morning on ESPN, of dealing with being homeless as a teenager, and how he overcame that adversity was really inspiring.
Watching his interview after the selection, and seeing his hunger... it was clear to understand why he was identified as a 'Raven' type of player.
The Ravens can make this a really strong draft, if they are now willing to move their 2nd round pick for Boldin...
I am hoping for DE (Jarron Gilbert, San Jose St ?) help in the 2nd round, unless Chase Coffman TE Missouri is still available.
I am interested to see what the Ravens traded NE to move up.
Here are a couple of profiles on Oher:
http://nfldraft.rivals.com/cviewplayer.asp?Player=52538&PT=7&PR=2&type=scoutingreport&type=scouting#scouting
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Oher
http://www.nfl.com/draft/2009/profiles/michael-oher?id=71419
If that is correct, than the selection of Michael Oher is not shocking.
I went into today, believing that the Ravens would select TE Brandon Pettigrew if available with the 26th pick, and CB Vontae Davis if he was not.
I had hoped that Heyward-Bey would be available, and once he was off the board - I had hoped the Ravens would select WR Kenny Britt.
I am surprised to see the Ravens trade up to the 23rd pick to take Oher, but not shocked.
In the AFC North, the Ravens are going to face Pittsburgh and their pass-rush twice a year, every year. You need to be able to protect the franchise - Joe Flacco.
With Gaither, Grubbs, Birk, Chester/Yanda, and Oher... Baltimore has a talented line, that can be together for a lot of years.
I would guess this means that Willie Anderson will not be back in 2009... but that bears watching...
With Terry, Chester/Yanda, Cousins, and Hale in reserve... this is a really deep unit.
Watching Michael Oher's story this morning on ESPN, of dealing with being homeless as a teenager, and how he overcame that adversity was really inspiring.
Watching his interview after the selection, and seeing his hunger... it was clear to understand why he was identified as a 'Raven' type of player.
The Ravens can make this a really strong draft, if they are now willing to move their 2nd round pick for Boldin...
I am hoping for DE (Jarron Gilbert, San Jose St ?) help in the 2nd round, unless Chase Coffman TE Missouri is still available.
I am interested to see what the Ravens traded NE to move up.
Here are a couple of profiles on Oher:
http://nfldraft.rivals.com/cviewplayer.asp?Player=52538&PT=7&PR=2&type=scoutingreport&type=scouting#scouting
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Oher
http://www.nfl.com/draft/2009/profiles/michael-oher?id=71419
Friday, April 24, 2009
Don Banks CNNSI - Mock Draft April 24th
Don Banks has an updated Mock Draft out this morning.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/don_banks/04/23/mock1/index.html
This has been updated to reflect the Tony Gonzalez trade to Atlanta.
With the 26th pick in the Draft, Banks has the Ravens selecting USC LB Rey Maualuga.
In quiet hushes, you have heard rumblings about Maualuga to the Ravens in recent days. Without wanting to put the pressure of calling him the next 'Ray', there are those that want to make that comparison.
If Banks' board is correct, and Maualuga is the choice, the Ravens will have selected an extremely talented player that I believe will be a multiple-time Pro-Bowl player.
It would be hard to object to obtaining that level of talent at the 26th pick.
It would be hard to believe that the Ravens were able to obtain talents like Gaither, and Maualuga as the heir apparents for Ogden, and Lewis.
That said, if Banks' board is correct… I would not be jumping up and down for joy.
I would not be jumping for joy, because that would mean several things:
1) LB is not exactly a weakness for the 2009 Baltimore Ravens… Suggs, Lewis, Gooden, Johnson (McClain, Barnes) … if you add Maualuga at LB, it would be hard to envision the Ravens locking up Suggs long-term. Not because of position.. Suggs is OLB, Maualuga is MLB… but because you would have to question how much $$ overall you could invest in the Linebacking core.
2) It would mean that the Ravens passed on CB Vontae Davis… if the Ravens do not want invest a 1st round draft choice in an already crowded Secondary of Washington, Foxworth, Reed, Landry, Rolle (Zybikowski, Nakamura, and Walker) … I am fine with that. However, Ravens Director of Player Personnel Eric DeCosta repeatedly said at the Ravens Pre-Draft Party, that you can only obtain starting CB in the 1st round of the draft.
There is not a better combination of athleticism, and cover skills vs Vontae Davis… and he would help the Ravens more in 2009 vs Maualuga.
3) It would mean that the Ravens passed on Heyward-Bey, Hakeem Nix, and Percy Harvin with the 26th pick.
At that Pre-Draft Party, DeCosta made the additional point that he believes you can obtain receivers at later points in the draft that can produce, and that WR's taken in the mid 20's have the highest percentage of failure historically in NFL Drafts.
Ok, those are fair enough points... certainly are numerous examples of that. I have not done the research on this, so I put this out there as a legitimate question... If wideouts selected in the mid 20's overall in the 1st round have the highest degree of failure ... would not receivers selected after those players have an even greater chance at 'failure'? I think the answer is obviously yes... the retort would be that the risk is lower, with lower picks...
If Heyward-Bey is available with the 26th pick, (and Brandon Pettigrew is not… Banks has Pettigrew to Detroit with the 20th pick) than DHB should be the Ravens choice.
If you are going to question his hands and route running, you need to acknowledge that they improved every year at MD. You need to acknowledge he did not play the game as a youth, and started late in High-school at McDonough.
He is electric everytime he touches the ball… and is able to make plays in the air. His combination of size, and breakaway speed is ideal with a QB like Joe Flacco. Flacco loves to throw deep… and needs weapons to develop with long-term.
NFL Executives talk about how hard it is for NFL WR's to gain separation on NFL CB's… well, you have a better chance to gain separation if you are the combination of size, speed, and overall athleticism of Heyward-Bey.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/don_banks/04/23/mock1/index.html
This has been updated to reflect the Tony Gonzalez trade to Atlanta.
With the 26th pick in the Draft, Banks has the Ravens selecting USC LB Rey Maualuga.
In quiet hushes, you have heard rumblings about Maualuga to the Ravens in recent days. Without wanting to put the pressure of calling him the next 'Ray', there are those that want to make that comparison.
If Banks' board is correct, and Maualuga is the choice, the Ravens will have selected an extremely talented player that I believe will be a multiple-time Pro-Bowl player.
It would be hard to object to obtaining that level of talent at the 26th pick.
It would be hard to believe that the Ravens were able to obtain talents like Gaither, and Maualuga as the heir apparents for Ogden, and Lewis.
That said, if Banks' board is correct… I would not be jumping up and down for joy.
I would not be jumping for joy, because that would mean several things:
1) LB is not exactly a weakness for the 2009 Baltimore Ravens… Suggs, Lewis, Gooden, Johnson (McClain, Barnes) … if you add Maualuga at LB, it would be hard to envision the Ravens locking up Suggs long-term. Not because of position.. Suggs is OLB, Maualuga is MLB… but because you would have to question how much $$ overall you could invest in the Linebacking core.
2) It would mean that the Ravens passed on CB Vontae Davis… if the Ravens do not want invest a 1st round draft choice in an already crowded Secondary of Washington, Foxworth, Reed, Landry, Rolle (Zybikowski, Nakamura, and Walker) … I am fine with that. However, Ravens Director of Player Personnel Eric DeCosta repeatedly said at the Ravens Pre-Draft Party, that you can only obtain starting CB in the 1st round of the draft.
There is not a better combination of athleticism, and cover skills vs Vontae Davis… and he would help the Ravens more in 2009 vs Maualuga.
3) It would mean that the Ravens passed on Heyward-Bey, Hakeem Nix, and Percy Harvin with the 26th pick.
At that Pre-Draft Party, DeCosta made the additional point that he believes you can obtain receivers at later points in the draft that can produce, and that WR's taken in the mid 20's have the highest percentage of failure historically in NFL Drafts.
Ok, those are fair enough points... certainly are numerous examples of that. I have not done the research on this, so I put this out there as a legitimate question... If wideouts selected in the mid 20's overall in the 1st round have the highest degree of failure ... would not receivers selected after those players have an even greater chance at 'failure'? I think the answer is obviously yes... the retort would be that the risk is lower, with lower picks...
If Heyward-Bey is available with the 26th pick, (and Brandon Pettigrew is not… Banks has Pettigrew to Detroit with the 20th pick) than DHB should be the Ravens choice.
If you are going to question his hands and route running, you need to acknowledge that they improved every year at MD. You need to acknowledge he did not play the game as a youth, and started late in High-school at McDonough.
He is electric everytime he touches the ball… and is able to make plays in the air. His combination of size, and breakaway speed is ideal with a QB like Joe Flacco. Flacco loves to throw deep… and needs weapons to develop with long-term.
NFL Executives talk about how hard it is for NFL WR's to gain separation on NFL CB's… well, you have a better chance to gain separation if you are the combination of size, speed, and overall athleticism of Heyward-Bey.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
National Football Post vs Pro Football Weekly Mock Drafts
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=Ap13NaBVakGpF.Zuphb__SFDubYF?slug=ys-dualmockdrafts041509&prov=yhoo&type=lgns
Updated April 15th
Projected Ravens Picks
National Football Post - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
Pro Football Weekly - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
Projected position of some players the Ravens have been linked to, National Football Post:
Aaron Maybin, DE - PennSt 10th overall to San Francisco
Robert Ayers, DE - Tenn 11th overall to Buffalo
Tyson Jackson, DE - LSU 16th overall to San Diego
Heyward-Bey, WR - MD 17th overall to New York Jets
Eben Britton, OT - Arizona 22nd overall to Minnesota
D.Buter, CB - Uconn 23rd overall to New England
B.Pettigrew, TE - OkSt 24nd overall to Atlanta
P.Harvin, WR - FL 29th overall to New York Giants
Vontae Davis, CB - Illinois 30th overall to Tennessee
J.Gilbert, DE - SJST 32nd overall to Pittsburgh
Hakeem Nix, WR - Not in the 1st round
K.Britt, WR - Not in the 1st round
Projected position of some players the Ravens have been linked to, Pro Football Weekly:
Tyson Jackson, DE - LSU 9th overall to Green Bay
Aaron Maybin, DE - PennSt 11th overall to Buffalo
Rey Maualuga, ILB - USC 16th overall to San Diego
Robert Ayers, DE - Tenn 18th overall to Denver
Heyward-Bey, WR - MD 21st overall to Philly
D.Buter, CB - Uconn 22nd overall to Minnesota
B.Pettigrew, TE - OkSt 23rd overall to New England
Vontae Davis, CB - Illinois 32nd overall to Pittsburgh
J.Gilbert, DE - Not in the 1st round
P.Harvin, WR - Not in the 1st round
Hakeem Nix, WR - Not in the 1st round
K.Britt, WR - Not in the 1st round
Updated April 15th
Projected Ravens Picks
National Football Post - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
Pro Football Weekly - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
Projected position of some players the Ravens have been linked to, National Football Post:
Aaron Maybin, DE - PennSt 10th overall to San Francisco
Robert Ayers, DE - Tenn 11th overall to Buffalo
Tyson Jackson, DE - LSU 16th overall to San Diego
Heyward-Bey, WR - MD 17th overall to New York Jets
Eben Britton, OT - Arizona 22nd overall to Minnesota
D.Buter, CB - Uconn 23rd overall to New England
B.Pettigrew, TE - OkSt 24nd overall to Atlanta
P.Harvin, WR - FL 29th overall to New York Giants
Vontae Davis, CB - Illinois 30th overall to Tennessee
J.Gilbert, DE - SJST 32nd overall to Pittsburgh
Hakeem Nix, WR - Not in the 1st round
K.Britt, WR - Not in the 1st round
Projected position of some players the Ravens have been linked to, Pro Football Weekly:
Tyson Jackson, DE - LSU 9th overall to Green Bay
Aaron Maybin, DE - PennSt 11th overall to Buffalo
Rey Maualuga, ILB - USC 16th overall to San Diego
Robert Ayers, DE - Tenn 18th overall to Denver
Heyward-Bey, WR - MD 21st overall to Philly
D.Buter, CB - Uconn 22nd overall to Minnesota
B.Pettigrew, TE - OkSt 23rd overall to New England
Vontae Davis, CB - Illinois 32nd overall to Pittsburgh
J.Gilbert, DE - Not in the 1st round
P.Harvin, WR - Not in the 1st round
Hakeem Nix, WR - Not in the 1st round
K.Britt, WR - Not in the 1st round
NFL Draft Site - 7 Round NFL Mock Draft
Updated April 13th
http://www.nfldraftsite.com/
Projected Ravens Picks
Round 1 - Darius Butler, CB - Uconn
Round 2 - Gerald McRath, OLB - Southern Miss
Round 3 - Patrick Turner, WR - USC
Round 4 - Lendy Holmes, S - Oklahoma
Round 5 - Mitch King, DE - Iowa
Round 6 - Anthony Parker, OG - Tennessee
Round 7 - NA
Projected position of some players the Ravens have been linked to:
Aaron Maybin, DE - PennSt 11th overall to Buffalo
Vontae Davis, CB - Illinois 14th overall to New Orleans
Tyson Jackson, DE - LSU 18th overall to Denver
Robert Ayers, DE - Tenn 24th overall to Atlanta
Eben Britton, OT - Arizona 28th overall to Philly
Heyward-Bey, WR - MD 29th overall to New York Giants
Hakeem Nix, WR - UNC 35th overall to St. Louis
B.Pettigrew, TE - OkSt 42nd overall to Buffalo
K.Britt, WR - Rutgers 49th overall to Chicago
J.Gilbert, DE - SJST 117th overall to Dallas
University of Maryland Players Projected
Heyward-Bey, WR 29th overall to New York Giants
Kevin Barnes, CB 97th overall to New England
M. Fokou, LB 165th overall to Indy
Jamie Thomas, OG 218th overall to Green Bay
Some Scouting Reports
D.Butler
http://warroomreport.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=372&Itemid=1
G.McRath
http://warroomreport.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=417&Itemid=1
P. Turner
http://www.draftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/wr/Patrick-Turner.php
http://www.nfldraftsite.com/
Projected Ravens Picks
Round 1 - Darius Butler, CB - Uconn
Round 2 - Gerald McRath, OLB - Southern Miss
Round 3 - Patrick Turner, WR - USC
Round 4 - Lendy Holmes, S - Oklahoma
Round 5 - Mitch King, DE - Iowa
Round 6 - Anthony Parker, OG - Tennessee
Round 7 - NA
Projected position of some players the Ravens have been linked to:
Aaron Maybin, DE - PennSt 11th overall to Buffalo
Vontae Davis, CB - Illinois 14th overall to New Orleans
Tyson Jackson, DE - LSU 18th overall to Denver
Robert Ayers, DE - Tenn 24th overall to Atlanta
Eben Britton, OT - Arizona 28th overall to Philly
Heyward-Bey, WR - MD 29th overall to New York Giants
Hakeem Nix, WR - UNC 35th overall to St. Louis
B.Pettigrew, TE - OkSt 42nd overall to Buffalo
K.Britt, WR - Rutgers 49th overall to Chicago
J.Gilbert, DE - SJST 117th overall to Dallas
University of Maryland Players Projected
Heyward-Bey, WR 29th overall to New York Giants
Kevin Barnes, CB 97th overall to New England
M. Fokou, LB 165th overall to Indy
Jamie Thomas, OG 218th overall to Green Bay
Some Scouting Reports
D.Butler
http://warroomreport.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=372&Itemid=1
G.McRath
http://warroomreport.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=417&Itemid=1
P. Turner
http://www.draftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/wr/Patrick-Turner.php
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Thoughts on Eric DeCosta with Nestor Aparicio at Padonia Station
I caught the replay of Nestor's appearance with Coach Brian Billick, and the Ravens' Director of Player Personnel Eric DeCosta last-night at Padonia Station.
Some interesting information provided by all three, and certainly a glimpse into the thinking of the organization as they head towards the draft.
I was struck by a several comments by DeCosta, which seemed to indicate a slight deviation from strategy of past drafts.
First, DeCosta was asked by Billick on his thoughts on 3 Wide-outs... Heyward-Bey, Nicks, and Britt.
While his evaluation of each was interesting, it was what he said about all receivers which was more illuminating.
"We have looked back at the past 10 drafts, at teams selecting in our general range... graded the selections of all picks... and wideouts have the highest percentages of failures."
Ok... so what does that mean? As a franchise, the Ravens have consistently taken who they have graded as the best available talent on their board.
Does that mean that if the Ravens hold on to their pick at 26th... and one of those receivers (also Percy Harvin) are available... that they will move away from their board, and look to positions that have higher-rates of success?
Secondly, DeCosta made the point that he believes you can obtain receivers at later points in the draft that can produce. Ok, fair enough point... certainly are numerous examples of that. I have not done the research on this, so I put this out there as a legitimate question... If wideouts selected in the mid 20's overall in the 1st round have the highest degree of failure ... would not receivers selected after those players have an even greater chance at 'failure'?
I think the answer is obviously yes... the retort would be that the risk is lower, with lower picks...
Third, DeCosta made the point in agreement with Billick that wideouts can take time to develop.... ok, again a fair enough point. If that is the case, that should be even more incentive to take a WR in 2009... when you consider Mason's existing age, and contract status.
Fourth, DeCosta said he used to be consumed with his draft-board... and that is no longer the case... that he wants 'Raven' players... I think the team has always targeted 'Raven' players... but the idea that they are working away from their board is interesting.
Lastly, it was clear that DeCosta believes Heyward-Bey will be a mid-1st round pick due to his athleticism... and that DeCosta questions his hands... it was clear that the team would love a chance to select Oklahoma State TE Brandon Pettigrew.... and that the team feels you have to address CB in the 1st round.
After listening to that interview, I think Nestor was clearly right with what he has heard from the organization. They feel they can never have enough CB's... even with Foxworth, Washington, Rolle, Carr, and Walker... with that in-mind, I think the Ravens will probably take the size and speed combination of Vontae Davis if he is available.
If the Ravens have both Davis and Pettigrew available to them... it would be interesting to see who wins out.
Some interesting information provided by all three, and certainly a glimpse into the thinking of the organization as they head towards the draft.
I was struck by a several comments by DeCosta, which seemed to indicate a slight deviation from strategy of past drafts.
First, DeCosta was asked by Billick on his thoughts on 3 Wide-outs... Heyward-Bey, Nicks, and Britt.
While his evaluation of each was interesting, it was what he said about all receivers which was more illuminating.
"We have looked back at the past 10 drafts, at teams selecting in our general range... graded the selections of all picks... and wideouts have the highest percentages of failures."
Ok... so what does that mean? As a franchise, the Ravens have consistently taken who they have graded as the best available talent on their board.
Does that mean that if the Ravens hold on to their pick at 26th... and one of those receivers (also Percy Harvin) are available... that they will move away from their board, and look to positions that have higher-rates of success?
Secondly, DeCosta made the point that he believes you can obtain receivers at later points in the draft that can produce. Ok, fair enough point... certainly are numerous examples of that. I have not done the research on this, so I put this out there as a legitimate question... If wideouts selected in the mid 20's overall in the 1st round have the highest degree of failure ... would not receivers selected after those players have an even greater chance at 'failure'?
I think the answer is obviously yes... the retort would be that the risk is lower, with lower picks...
Third, DeCosta made the point in agreement with Billick that wideouts can take time to develop.... ok, again a fair enough point. If that is the case, that should be even more incentive to take a WR in 2009... when you consider Mason's existing age, and contract status.
Fourth, DeCosta said he used to be consumed with his draft-board... and that is no longer the case... that he wants 'Raven' players... I think the team has always targeted 'Raven' players... but the idea that they are working away from their board is interesting.
Lastly, it was clear that DeCosta believes Heyward-Bey will be a mid-1st round pick due to his athleticism... and that DeCosta questions his hands... it was clear that the team would love a chance to select Oklahoma State TE Brandon Pettigrew.... and that the team feels you have to address CB in the 1st round.
After listening to that interview, I think Nestor was clearly right with what he has heard from the organization. They feel they can never have enough CB's... even with Foxworth, Washington, Rolle, Carr, and Walker... with that in-mind, I think the Ravens will probably take the size and speed combination of Vontae Davis if he is available.
If the Ravens have both Davis and Pettigrew available to them... it would be interesting to see who wins out.
Monday, April 13, 2009
USA Today NFL Mock Draft Updated April 13th
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2009-mock-draft.htm?loc=interstitialskip
The 8 writers had the Ravens selecting the following players with the 26th pick:
Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland (Three)
Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois (Twice)
Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
The 8 writers had the Ravens selecting the following players with the 26th pick:
Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland (Three)
Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois (Twice)
Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Sports Illustrated - Don Banks Mock Draft Updated April 9th
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/don_banks/04/09/mock1/index.html?eref=T1
Banks currently has the Ravens selecting LSU Defensive End Tyson Jackson.
I like the idea of the Ravens addressing DE in this draft, exactly for the rationale Banks provides - Trevor Pryce is aging.
On his board, he has Heyward-Bey going 16th overall to the Chargers, Percy Harvin going 17th to the Jets, and the Vikings taking Kenny Britt over Hakeem Nix with the 22nd pick.
If that scenario happened, and the Ravens had their choice of Nix or Tyson Jackson, it would be interesting to see which way the Ravens went.
Tyson Jackson - NFL Draft Scout.com Profile
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=33165&draftyear=2009&genpos=DE
Banks currently has the Ravens selecting LSU Defensive End Tyson Jackson.
I like the idea of the Ravens addressing DE in this draft, exactly for the rationale Banks provides - Trevor Pryce is aging.
On his board, he has Heyward-Bey going 16th overall to the Chargers, Percy Harvin going 17th to the Jets, and the Vikings taking Kenny Britt over Hakeem Nix with the 22nd pick.
If that scenario happened, and the Ravens had their choice of Nix or Tyson Jackson, it would be interesting to see which way the Ravens went.
Tyson Jackson - NFL Draft Scout.com Profile
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=33165&draftyear=2009&genpos=DE
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Baltimore Sun - Rolle returns to the Ravens
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/football/bal-sp.ravens07apr07,0,1921491.story
Really an interesting story here….. Shows how with effective and direct communication, frayed relationships can be repaired between employees and ownership in all areas of business.
I do not know much Ravens CB's will be able to help in running game, or how they will fair against big, physical wide-outs…. But with Foxworth, Washington, Rolle, Carr, and Walker… the Ravens have a deep core of solid cover corners that can run.
Team that group together with Reed, Landry, Nakamura, and Zbikowski - and the organization has to feel good about the secondary in-general.
Hard to imagine the team using a draft pick on CB… maybe a late-round safety if they still have doubts on Landry's return.
Really an interesting story here….. Shows how with effective and direct communication, frayed relationships can be repaired between employees and ownership in all areas of business.
I do not know much Ravens CB's will be able to help in running game, or how they will fair against big, physical wide-outs…. But with Foxworth, Washington, Rolle, Carr, and Walker… the Ravens have a deep core of solid cover corners that can run.
Team that group together with Reed, Landry, Nakamura, and Zbikowski - and the organization has to feel good about the secondary in-general.
Hard to imagine the team using a draft pick on CB… maybe a late-round safety if they still have doubts on Landry's return.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Cutler trade improves Ravens chances to select Heyward-Bey
Chicago gave up a number of draft picks to the Broncos to obtain Cutler, inclusive of the 18th pick… at 18, the Bears were widely seen as likely to choose a WR, with DHB the most likely candidate.
Michael Crabtree and Jeremy Maclin figure to be gone in the Top 10 picks… after that, there is no broad consensus on the 3rd best WR between DHB, Percy Harvin, and Hakeem Nix.
The Jets at 17, Minnesota at 22, and Miami at 25 could all take a WR ahead of the Ravens pick… However, the Jets figure to take QB Mark Sanchez if he is still on the board.. Minnesota is thought to prefer Harvin, and Miami is seen as more likely to take a defensive player.
My preference is DHB… not because he went to McDonough and MD… but because his combination of size and speed is the best available in this draft, and the perfect player to take advantage of Flacco's arm to stretch the field.
That said, the bottom-line is the Ravens can stay exactly where they are, and between DHB, Harvin, and Nix add a weapon to the offense.
Michael Crabtree and Jeremy Maclin figure to be gone in the Top 10 picks… after that, there is no broad consensus on the 3rd best WR between DHB, Percy Harvin, and Hakeem Nix.
The Jets at 17, Minnesota at 22, and Miami at 25 could all take a WR ahead of the Ravens pick… However, the Jets figure to take QB Mark Sanchez if he is still on the board.. Minnesota is thought to prefer Harvin, and Miami is seen as more likely to take a defensive player.
My preference is DHB… not because he went to McDonough and MD… but because his combination of size and speed is the best available in this draft, and the perfect player to take advantage of Flacco's arm to stretch the field.
That said, the bottom-line is the Ravens can stay exactly where they are, and between DHB, Harvin, and Nix add a weapon to the offense.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Baltimore Sun - Ravens Upcoming Draft
A great piece from Maese breaking down the projected selection of the Ravens from numerous outside analysts.
http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/thetoydepartment/2009/04/looking_ahead_to_ravens_draft.html
http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/thetoydepartment/2009/04/looking_ahead_to_ravens_draft.html
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