Upscale Cheese

I try really hard not to look too much into the NFL Draft.  In my opinion, there is only so much people can get out of a 40 time, how many times someone bench pressed, or even how they played in college.  For every Ryan Leaf, there is a Tom Brady. Also this has a lot to do with how much of the draft I actually watched on Friday and Saturday. I watched a minimal coverage on the second and third round then kept myself updated through Twitter for the final three rounds.

I am not trying to dampen an event that had better ratings than the NBA Playoffs, I just try to not to get caught up in the knee-jerk reactions that I am known for at times. But I will say this about the Green Bay Packers draft, the rich got richer.  

I thought  the Packers draft showed confidence, swagger, and the attitude of a team who if this season actually happens is ready to repeat as World Champions.  Everybody including myself thought the Packers would draft defense in case they needed a replacement for Cullen Jenkins, or a better edge-rusher to create bash brother situation with Clay Matthews. Nope, Ted Thompson, the general manager believed guys like Erik Walden, Jarius Wynn, Brad Jones, Frank Zombo, and others have what it takes for the Packers to get it done defensively.  They did add some pieces in the later rounds with Davon House (CB), D.J. Smith (LB) Ricky Elmore (DL), and Lawrence Guy (DT). But the early focus stayed on the offense. 

Randall Cobb gives the Packers
their first special teams talent in
a long time.

I started to wonder why this was? I mean the Packers lit teams up like Christmas trees for most of the season, so I began to explore this topic. At first, I thought it might be due to the lack of red zone efficiency. Nope, wrong about that one, USA Today tells me the Packers scored a touchdown 60 percent of the time when they got inside the 20 (only five teams were better than the Pack by the way).  For whatever it's worth, I think  one of the reasons the Packers went offensive was to guaran-damn tee that if injuries like 2010 happen again, there will be some up and coming pieces ready to contributed.  Thompson wanted make sure his team is protected for 2011, and I assume he feels confident in his role players on defense. 

The other reason to draft new offensive talent is they need to replace guys like James Jones, Brandon Jackson, and Donald Lee, all major role players from the Super Bowl who are owed money in the next couple of months. Additionally, they will get more than their market value due to having a Super Bowl ring on their finger. Randall Cobb, Alex Green, and DJ Williams hopefully can fill the holes left by the players above. Who knows, they could be better, and if that is the case?  Tim Masthay might have a couple games where his uniform doesn't need to be washed by the Packers' staff after the game. 

I want to see a season for a laundry list of reasons, but one is to see if these players can develop. With the track record of Mr. Thompson, it's hard not to think one or two of these guys will be great additions to the Green Bay Packers

-Charlie.  

Running Diary: NFL Draft

The second annual running diary of the NFL Draft.  Last year, we were drinking with it, but this year, it's a different animal due to school work (be proud parents!).  It's 8 o clock so I am an hour behind, but I will recap the top ten inbetween the picks.

8:03  Blaine Gabbert got drafted at 10 by the Jacksonville Jaguars, and he has real nice flow right now with the blonde locks.  Big Cat and I are very jealous of it.  I am not a huge fan of Gabbert because of the system he played in.

8:03 Gabbert also couldn't look less happy to be playing in Jacksonville, I don't think anyone wants to live or play there honestly.



Top Ten  Cam Newton went number 1, it makes sense, hard to pass up a player like Newton. He is an absolute freak athlete but I worry about his maturity. People thought Michael Vick had maturity issues?  Newton could be just as much of a problem child as Vick. Good thing he is playing in a small market

Top Ten Von Miller went 2, and Brett informs me he cried his ass off, which means Brett thinks he is a girl even though Von could kick his ass up and down the Pacific Coast.

Top Ten Marcel Dareus went 3, love that pick for the Bills.  He is a great athlete and I liked how he played in the mighty tough SEC

8:08 The next pick is in! The Texans are going with JJ Watt from Wisconsin, which makes no damn sense with how bad they have been in the secondary. This is like deciding to bring home a grenade from the bar instead of the willing smokeshow next to you.  Love JJ, but I hate this move for Houston.

8:09 I played against JJ Watt in one game at Tosa West.  We actually had some words because they were kicking our ass 30 to 0 and Watt complained to the refs about a hold I had  (I never hold by the way).  I told him to stop being a effin bitch and move on.  He tattled to the refs about how I swore.  I feel he will hear some of that language in the NFL too.

8:10 Of course, Jon Gruden loves him because that is all he can do.  When I hear something negative out of Gruden's mouth, I will stop being a dick about his positive attitude.

8:11 Brett kept saying 'I was there' during Wisconsin highlights and I tried to make a bad joke about dick showing instead of dick measuring, I just suck.

Top Ten  Patrick Paterson went to Arizona at 5, and I agree with everyone that he will be an absolute monster on defense. I think you will Patterson in the Pro Bowl in the upcoming seasons.

8:18 HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA VIKINGS HAHAHAHAHAHAHA  

Ponder's girlfriend Kacie, Miss
Barstool U is not too shabby

8:19 Christian. Ponder. Ouch, at least take Andy Dalton or Ryan Mallet.

8:20 This is really funny, I am glad the Vikes will stay in the cellar for the rest of the decade.  Jordan T. cannot be happy right now.

8:21 Brett is obessed with the Detroit Lions taking Nick Fairley, which would make their d-line scary but let's remember they need other defensive players. But you know how the Lions are with taking the same position for multiple years.

8:22 The Lions take Fairley and Suh with him is a scary combination. Brett is now a Lions fan when they don't play the Packers. Whoever let him on the Packer bandwagon, needs to be shot off immeidetly for letting him on in the first place.

8:23 I am not too impressed with Fairley with his high stance and character issues. Also one great season guys do not always transition well in the pros. But if Fairley plays like he did at Auburn, Suh-Fairley could do stunts like no other defensive line combo.

8:27 Goodell gets booed every time he goes up there.  Give it a rest. I want football too, but I wouldn't do it every time.

8:29 Robert Quinn from North Carolina heads to Saint Louis, I wonder if the Rams will pay less for his services than the Tar Heels did, heyoooo!

Top Ten: I cannot believe Atlanta got Julio Jones and I really think they have a chance to be a Super Bowl contender for next year.  Jones will get a ton of touches underneath. I love it for the Falcons, hate it as a Packer fans. Also who cares about the picks?  They had a talented young team already without any added players.

Top Ten I did not like Aldon Smith to Niners, another one year player who didn't complete the season. Good athlete, nice size, but it will take some time for him to have an impact.

8:35 Mike Pouncey goes to the Dolphins, which ruins the dream of having the Pouncey-Pouncey connection. Also why didn't Mel Kiper give Gruden his notes about Pouncey's problems snapping out of the shotgun formation?  I don't think you can be a 'perfect center' with the inability to snap out of the shotgun.

8:39 I have to remind myself to stay off Twitter during the NFL Draft because they always give it away earlier. Found out Ryan Kerrigan went to Washington Redskins early. I personally think he is underrated because Purdue was not good during his time there. I expect him to have an immediate impact.

Top Ten A lot of people are surprised that Jake Locker went to the Tennessee Titans instead of Blaine Gabbert, but let's remember Locker projected as the number one pick before the 2010 College Football season.

8:46 I cannot believe they still make Nerf guns.  Are we just trying to bring back everything in the 90s and make it cool again in the 2010s (is that the proper way to say it, ah who gives a damn)

8:48 Big Cat thinks the United States should have done the Vietnam Draft this way. Just keep saying names of the people who were headed to Nam. He asked if this was going in the diary? I nodded my approval

8:50 Nate Solder looks like one of the players on the MonStars (credit to Brett) in Space Jam. Brett seemed disappointed I did not know this off the top of my head, then again, Brett is the same kid who kept Kung Fu Panda on DVR for 4 months.

8:54 Corey Liguet is heading to the San Diego Chargers. These phone calls and shit are really ruining the excitement.  It's like getting to the nude scene in the movie right away without any anticipation. I mean let's see the bra and underwear set for a little bit before we get to the boobies.

8:57 In another sport, the Atlanta Hawks-Orlando Magic are down to the wire, and we do not see any of it on TNT. Thanks for nothing Turner.

8:59 Can someone tell ESPN that 'All I Do Is Win' was cool around this time last year?  Actually, could we tell this to the Eau Claire bars while we are at it?

9:01 Oh, I didn't Jason Whitlock was at the NFL Draft? And that he was a Giants fan?

9:03  Great pick for the Giants right there. People thought he could go low in the top 10. I know his first name is Prince, but I must have completely missed he starred in Coming to America in the 1980s.

9:06 The Hawks are on to face the Bulls, which means 1 of Brett's Final 4 is gone in the NBA Challenge... perfect.

9:09  STOP RUINING FOR US!   I called Clayborn in the house, and I like the pick for Tampa. Gotta respect those dreads, wow.

9:13 Seth is just ranting about excellent things, I try to tell him that it will get better with Ice Cream later and then realize I sounded like Adam Lambert

9:17 Kiper nailed it on the head with the trade between the Browns-Chiefs here saying they might be getting Da'Quan Bowers, which I would do personally. But Phil Taylor from Baylor looks like the pick.

9:21 Tom Silverstein said on Twitter that there is a chance for the Packers to trade up for Mark Ingram, which I would love. He is a great downfield runner and an excellent goal line option.

9:23 Peyton Hills is definitely trying out for the next season of Jersey Shore with that outfit. His Shore name would be P-Heezy for sure.

9:25 Anthony Contanza gets drafted, good to see George's cousin get a shot in the NFL.  Will George become his agent?  Wait, ooooh it's a Contanzo, still calling him Contanza.  Props to Contanza for going skins team in an NFL Draft commercial.  Once again, lineman do not care about what other people think.

9:32 Nice moment with all the wounded warriors. USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA!!!

9:33 Dr. Dan is joining us from work. I ask how it was flirting with the Dooley's employees?  He just goes good night. There better be pictures to document this.

9:34 The Philadelphia Eagles decide to go with Danny Watkins at guard who used to be a firefighter.  Good move for the Eagles with their average interior offensive lineman. He seems like a class act, basically the opposite from Jimmy Smith.

9:40 Cam Jordan is showing me that I can wear plaid with my suitcoat tomorrow. Awesome, I hope my teacher doesn't mind. He is now a Saint, a team who needed a running back. Could the Packers get Mark Ingram?

9:43 The Packers are talking about trading for Seattle Seahawks pick! It makes sense because they have their murderers row of players to pick from.

9:47  People are also talking about Andy Dalton to Seattle, I love the madness of the late round

9:51  James Carpetner, according to Kiper was a second round pick got taken by the Hawks.'  I guess it helps build the offensive line plus their GM John Schneider worked with Teddy T. I would trust him.

9:55 I like the old school jazz song to bring us back from break, I also enjoy they only have a three-team booth instead of the five, they usually have for these things.  People say the Baltimore Ravens need a corner... Jimmy Smith.

9:58 I wish the people I were hanging with were actually funny. They are actually have grown-up conversations and debates. I hate it for the diary

9:59 If there were an off-field concern about me (cough Jimmy Smith cough), I would NOT wear a Scarface t-shirt on national television.

10:02 Did the Baltimore Ravens pull a Minnesota Vikings?  Classic! I love that's how we refer to the Vikings draft day decisions.  Reaching and passing.

10:04 Kansas City decided to take Jonathan Baldwin out of Pittsbrugh who 6'4.  Dwayne Bowe is also pretty big giving them a huge wide receiver core. I like what the Chiefs did there, gives them another weapon with Jamaal Charles and Tony Moeaki.

10:06 Ha!  The Chicago Bears tried to trade up and it didn't work.  Somewhere, Mike Fant weeps.

10:08 Doesn't shock me that Smith's agent is Drew Rosenhaus.  Smith is a stud, but too bad, he will be starring the real life version of the Longest Yard in three years.

10:10 Let's remember the last time the New England Patriots traded out of the first round, the pick was Clay Matthews. Now, it's Mark Ingram to the New Orleans Saints

10:13  I love Ingram, I think he will be very successful for the Saints and I will say buh-bye to Reggie Bush, also welcome him with open arms to Green Bay!

10:17 The Bears will get Gabe Carimi who I loved at Wisconsin, but the scouts were not that high on him.

10:21 "No way. No way," an NFC personnel director said. "I can't understand the love. He's slow-footed. He's not powerful for a guy his size. He's on the ground all the time. I just don't see it. I know some people will try to compare the two, but (Bryan) Bulaga was a lot better.  


10:23 LOVE Carimi to the Bears! 


10:26 The Jets did not boo their pick, it has to be a good sign right?! I do like Wilkerson, it's a good pick. 


10:27 I saw a negative Facebook status about Ted Thompson, I guess one Super Bowl trophy isn't good enough for them. 


10:28 Everyone had the Pittsburgh Steelers taking Aaron Williams from Texas, but they went d-lineman Cameron Heyward from the Ohio State.  Interesting to see who the Packers take. 


10:29 My top three would be Bowers (injury schmjury, people talked him up as a number one) Brooks Reid (Clay Matthews' bash brother)  or Williams who could give the Packers some depth. 


10:31 I guess Ryan Mallet being a dick to everyone, and not having clutch moments in the 4th quarter actually hurt him.  Fascinating.  


10:32 I am browsing around on my computer and the roommates keep telling me the pick is in. I am acting like a dog and they are the owner fake throwing the ball, just tempting me. 


10:35 PICK IS IN!   PICK IS IN!   I repeat the Pick Is In  


10:37 The Green Bay Packers select Derek Sherrod, an offensive lineman out of Mississippi State.  I never have a problem drafting a lineman.  This guy is a beast too. 


That's all for this year folks

-Charlie.

Half Assed NFL Mock Draft

Hey guys and smokeshows, sorry that this is late and short analysis, but I plan on doing a running diary of tonight's events starting at 7:30.  Tonight, it will be the true test of multi-tasking as I will be writing, watching the draft on the computer, and Michael Scott's last episode on the TV.  I looked at couple mocks and made my decisions that way.

1.) Carolina Panthers- QB Cam Newton (Auburn)
2..) Denver Broncos- OLB Von Miller (Texas A and M)
3.) Buffalo Bills- DE Marcel Dareus (Alabama)
4.) Cincinnati Bengals- WR A.J. Green (Georgia)

5.) Arizona Cardinals-  QB Blaine Gabbert (Missouri)
6.) Cleveland Browns- WR Julio Jones (Alabama)
7.) San Francisco 49ers- CB Patrick Patterson (LSU)
8.) Tennessee Titans- DT Nick Fairley (Auburn

9.) Dallas Cowboys- OT Tyron Smith (USC)
10.) Washington Redskins- QB Jake Locker (Washington)
11.) Houston Texans- DE Aldon Smith (Missouri)
12.) Minnesota Vikings- QB Andy Dalton (TCU)

13.) Detroit Lions-  CB Prince Amukamara (Nebraska)
14.) St. Louis Rams- DT Corey Liuget (Illinois)
15.) Miami Dolphins- OG Mike Pouncey (Florida)
16.) Jacksonville Jaguars- QB Ryan Mallet (Arkansas)

17.) New England Patriots- DE JJ Watt (Wisconsin)
18.) San Diego Chargers- DE Robert Quinn (North Carolina)
19.) New York Giants- OT Anthony Contanzo (Boston College)
20.) Tampa Bay Bucanneers- DE Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue)

21.) Kansas City Cheifs- OT Nate Solder (Colorado)   
22.) Indianapolis Colts- OT Gabe Carimi (Wisconsin) 
23.) Philadelphai Eagles- CB Jimmy Smith (Colorado)
24.) New Orleans Saints- DE Cameron Jordan (California) 

25.) Seattle Seahaws-  DE Da'Quan Bowers (Clemson)
26.) Baltimore Ravens- DT Phil Taylor (Baylor)
27.) Atlanta Falcons- RB Mark Ingram (Alabama)  *Rumor right now is they want a WR such as   Jones/Green*

28.) New England Patriots- OT Derek Sherrod (Mississippi State)
29.) Chicago Bears- OG Danny Watkins (Baylor)
30.) New York Jets- OLB Akeem Ayers (UCLA)
31.) Pittsburgh Steelers- CB Aaron Williams (Texas)
32.) Green Bay Packers- DE Brooks Reid (Arizona)

That's all I got, running diary will be up early tomorrow morning. 

-Charlie.

In-Depth Packer Draft Preview From Murph

Here it is folks, the annual draft report from local "draft expert" Nolan Murphy. I didn't bother going through the 1800 word report, so pardon the numerous grammatical errors and such. Nonetheless, it's highly in-depth for all you Packer Backers. You can thank the Ritalin in his system for that boys.

Christmas in April: The Reigning Champs' Draft Preview

By Nolan Murphy
“I love picking at 32,” G.M. Ted Thompson said, 12 months ago the thought of the Packers picking last in the NFL Draft was only a dream for Packer Nation. Fast forward to late April, and our Green Bay Packers have the honor of being Super Bowl champs and selecting last in April 28 NFL Draft.

I have been following and anticipating each and every NFL Draft since I was probably around 10 years old. I dubiously called the Packers 2001 1st round pick Florida State Defensive End Jamal Reynolds… In those 10 years I have rebounded and done some character building. I never thought that I would see a the Packers picking last after our favorite Wrangler Jeans actor left town, but with a little luck in the draft (thank you 49ners and Alex Smith, God Bless) and the help of a belt the Pack are back.

Looking at the Packers needs in the NFL Draft they are coming off a season in which they had many notable starters and roll players on injured reserve including: Running Back Ryan Grant, Tight End Jermichael Finley, Middle Linebacker Nick Barnett, and Strong Safety Morgan Burnett. In looking at the roster, the downfall of a team winning a Super Bowl is the factor that their role players look to cash in off that success. Notable Departures look to be Wide Receiver James Jones and Defensive End Cullen Jenkins. Inside linebacker also may become expendable before next season due to the budding star Desmond Bishop and a younger A.J. Hawk. Barnett has dealt with a unhealthy bill of health of the last few years, and has never been deemed big enough to play inside in the 3-4 base defense.

The defensive line also took a hit earlier this month with the arrest of suspended Defensive lineman Johnny Jolly, who once again was caught sipping the potent “Purple Drank.” Earlier this week Jolly did find out he will not face any jail time for his actions, who knows how dictator Roger Goodell, will handle off the field issues once a collective bargaining agreement is reached.

With the on going NFL lockout out, this years NFL Draft looks to be different then ever before. Without a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) decided by April 28th no player movement or trades will be approved before, during, or after the Draft. This will not affect the Packers negatively, but does rule out the idea of us shopping backup quarterback Matt Flynn. G.M. Ted Thompson and Head Coach Mike McCarthy have seen many of their role players on team over the years be undrafted free agents, without a new CBA no undrafted free agents will be able to sign with teams.

Positions Need: WR, OT, DL,OLB, DB, KR/PR

Wide receiver: With the possible departure of 4 year player James Jones and knowing the Donald “DD” Driver will not be around for ever, look for Thompson so snag a wide out in the middle rounds. Rodgers can never have enough weapons in his arsenal.

Offensive Tackle: Last year the Packers address one bookend of the offensive line by draft Bryan Bulaga out of Iowa. Buluga looks to be the successor for LT Chad Clifton in the near feature, so looking for a replacement for RT Mark Tauscher whose health is up in the air is a must. OT T.J. Lang may be an in house solution.

Defensive Line: In the 3-4 defensive you can never have enough fresh bodies on the DL. Uncertainty with free agent Cullen Jenkins and the age of Ryan Pickett, make this position attractable in the draft.

Outside Linebacker/Pass Rusher: Finding a playmaker opposite of Pro Bowler Clay Matthews will be addressed. Many prospects this year fit into that 3-4 pass rusher mold.

Defensive Back: Mr. Heisman and All-Pro Charles “Chuck” Woodson is not getting any older. While the blossoming of young Tramon Williams and Sammy Shields this year were promising. Depth could be addressed here.

Return Specialist: As it has been seen in the past years in our own the division, return specialist are game changers and effect the game heavily (Devin Hester and Percy Harvin). The Packers have been missing that game changer since the Desmond Howard days of the late 1990’s. Thompson hopes to find one, but only at the right price and by not reaching for a player.

Nolan’s Big Board: As usual these players are ones slated to come off the draft board around the 32nd pick. With such a deep draft, don’t be surprised if the Packers trade out of the 1st round with a team looking to trade back into the first round for a QB (Arizona, San Fran, Cincinnati, Miami, Tennessee)

1.        Akeem Ayres OLB, UCLA
2.        Derrik Sherrod OT, MISS ST.
3.        Adrain Clayborn DE, IOWA
4.        Cameron Hayward DE, THE OSU
5.        Gabe Carmi OT, WISCO
6.        Brooks Reed OLB/DE, ARIZONA
7.        Justin Houston OLB/DE, Georga
8.        Jonathon Baldwin WR, PITT
9.        Brandon Harris DB, The U
10.        Muhammad Wllkerson DE/DT, Temple
11.        Mark Ingram RB, Alabama
12.        Jimmy Smith DB, Colorado

Akeem Ayres: Outside Linebacker out of UCLA, had 39 career starts and has an uncanny ability to get to the QB. Questions arise about his ability to drop back into coverage. Almost has the size of an inside backer but agility of outside linebacker. Thompson knows what he is getting if Ayres is selected.

Derrik Sherrod: A mammoth of an OT in SEC for Miss St. Could start at either LT or RT tackle in the NFL. Needs to build more strength but has a lot of upside. Excelled in classroom and was 1st all SEC. Showed durability by starting every game in last two collegiate seasons.

Adrian Clayborn: If he would of came out last year could have been a top 15 pick. Had an inconsistent senior year, but the skill is still there. Has a motor that you like to see in a defensive end, and is solid against run and pass. Can only play on right side due to condition with left arm called Erb’s palsy.

Cameron Hayward: Had an extremely successful career for Buckeyes. Many scouts compare his transition into the NFL as a Trevor Pryce like player, who can make an effect anywhere on the defensive line. Never can have enough players that come from a winning tradition. Questions about an elbow injury, that limited him in his final year.

Gabe Carmi: If Carmi falls to 32 it will be about concerns of athleticism. Would be a great fit opposite of Bulaga and a star at RT for years to come. Extremely hard worker and 3 times all-academic BIG 10 at Wisco. Would be an extremely popular pick, and would be best player available on the board if there

Brooks Reed: Often compared to as a “poor mans” Clay Matthews, would be a great fit opposite of him. Shows great technique in getting the QB and has a motor that doesn’t stop. Somewhat of a durability issue with only starting two games in 2009. Has a lot of upside and would be a great fit in Capers defense. Ability to drop back into coverage is in doubt. Would be great to have another long hairstyle to the linebacker core.

Justin Houston:  Was a combine freak in Indianapolis this year. Two year starter at Georgia, and had a very productive career in the SEC. Is looked at somewhat of a project and is raw. Shows the talent though to become an elite edge rusher in a 3-4 defense. Might be somewhat of a reach. Scouts sometimes did not production and work ethic 100% of the time.

Jonathon Baldwin: Played without a QB pretty much his last year at Pitt. Is a very big receiver with the ability to stretch the field and go over the middle to catch balls. Would be a great replacement for James Jones if he leaves. Has some maturity and attitude issues, called out play calling after the year was done. Has some off the field issues, but good locker room in Green Bay could fix that.

Brandon Harris:  Had a great career at Miami while starting 2 and half years. Good at supporting the run, which is a must in the Packers defense. Great top-end speed, which is why I like him more than Aaron Williams from Texas. Coach’s son and showed great work ethic. Not great ball skills, but is known for good hands.

These last 3 players on my big board my fall to 32, or have enough talent that Thompson might trade up which is out of character.

Muhammad Wilkerson: Would be a great fit at any position on the DL. Is a extremely big and athletic player. Scouts view on work ethic could be reason to drop. Thompson would love for him to fall to 32, probably wouldn’t move up more than a few picks do to depth at position in this draft.

Mark Ingram:  Former Heisman Trophey winner, and had a great career at Alabama. Will be first running back off the board in this Draft. Would be hard to pass up, due to overall analysis that he will be a great NFL running back (compared to Emmitt Smith). Injury to knee in junior season was reason for drop in production. Team would probably look to move on without injury-prone Ryan Grant.

Jimmy Smith:  I have him rated as a top 10 player in this year draft. Is in a tie for 2nd best cornerback with Prince Amukamare of Nebraska.  Great cover corner and top end spend, and showed an ability to stop the run at Colorado. Was thrown away from a lot in Big 12 conference play. Major off the field issues with marijuana and the law has made his stock draft, but really how hard is it to get in trouble in Green Bay. Only player I feel Thompson might move up for. Will be the steal of the first round.


As we all know this could all change, as Thompson and Pro Personal department always will go with strategy of best player available on draft board. It will also be interesting to see what teams try trading back into the first round. The Packers will only be getting more talented in this years draft. Let the madness begin….

2011 Chicago Bears Draft Preview

The Bears surprised many people last season, including myself, by reaching the NFC championship game. However, the season was a disappointment because they did not win the Super Bowl. The Bears finally have a first and a second round pick after a two-year hiatus and it could not come at a better time. Many of their players are getting up there in age and they have several holes to fill to make them a consistent contender. Not to mention the fact that divisional rival Green Bay is a young team and has had success in drafting over the years. Bears GM Jerry Angelo on the other hand, has not been very successful in drafting players during his tenure. Since taking over as GM in 2001, Jerry has drafted only six players (Tillman, Manning, Hester, Olsen, C. Williams, and Forte) in the first or second round that are still on the team. All drafts are critical to a team, but this draft is especially critical for the Bears to draft well to remain in contention for the NFC and Super Bowl title.




Bears Draft Picks, Round (Pick #): 1 (29), 2 (62), 3 (93), 4 (127), 5 (160), 6 (195).

Needs (In order of importance)

1. Offensive Line: The most pressing spot on the line is the LT spot, but the other 4 positions are of need as well. In 2008, the Bears thought they drafted their LT of the future in Chris Williams. Injuries and inconsistent play has limited him in his brief career. Center Olin Kreutz is a free agent and will be 34 in June and the other spots on the line is full of make shift players. The Bears would love for Gabe Carimi from Wisconsin to fall to them at 29, but that may not be likely. Many mock drafts have them selecting OT Derek Sherrod from Mississippi St.

2. Defensive Line: Other than the production from Julius Peppers, there was not much else production from the DL last season. Israel Idonije had a nice season, but he benefited from playing opposite of Peppers. Tommie Harris was released before the lockout but underachieved and was injury prone his last few years in Chicago. DT Corey Liuget from Illinois would be a nice prospect to see fall to the Bears at 29 if all the top OL prospects are off the board, but that seems unlikely. DT Marvin Austin from North Carolina (“Don’t drink and twitter,” Brent Musburger) may still be on the board, but he has character issues and the Bears usually stray away from character issue players.

3. Cornerback: Charles Tillman is a solid pro, but the other corner spot is still a question mark. Tim Jennings did ok as the second corner during the year, but he was exploited in the NFC championship game. Not to mention the fact that he is like 5’2. Zackary Bowman has always had good training camps, but he has not been able to translate that into the regular season. The Bears need to pick up a competent corner that can help defend the multiple receiver formations that teams such as the Packers show.

4. Wide Receiver: I think the Bears think higher of their receiving corps than they should. It is a decent group of number 2 and number 3 receivers, but they do not have that one guy you can consistently count on to make a play. Earl Bennett and Johnny Knox made strides of improvement this past season, but I do not believe they are going to develop into a number 1 receiver at any point in their careers. I am high on Jon Baldwin from Pittsburgh and if he were to slip to the Bears when they draft in the second round, I would not be disappointed if they drafted him.

Low and behold, as I get home from work early this morning I come to find an article from Chicago Breaking Sports that the Bears are shopping their first round pick. I am not surprised in this maneuver what so ever. Jerry Angelo has a history of dealing first round picks in order to trade down to acquire more picks. I guess I would not be too upset if he trades out of the first round, granted they get in return a pick that is early in the second round and another mid round pick or two. They had also better be sure the prospect(s) they are targeting would still be on the board at that point. I just have a gut feeling, based on experience, that the 29th pick will be traded at some point Thursday.

Other Bears Off-Season Quick Hits

- While I am on the subject of the Bears, I feel I should address a few other offseason notes. The first one is regarding Mike Martz. He recently turned down a contract extension from the Bears because it did not include a raise. I have a question… Why does Martz think he deserves a raise? The Bears were 30th in the NFL in total offense last season, a decrease from when they were 23rd in the league in 2009. His offensive philosophy was one of the reasons in how Jay Cutler sustained his first injury of the season (concussion), causing the Bears during their bye week to tell Martz to balance the offense out and stop calling passes that require 7 step drops. His play calling in the NFC title game was also questionable. I mean, who can forget the reverse to Earl Bennett on third down with about a minute and a half left in the 4th quarter right? Martz should just be happy he is in the league right now. One final thing, how about Martz demanding a veteran backup quarterback during training camp? The choice, Todd Collins. Enough said.

- Jay Cutler finally opened up about his injury during the NFC championship game. Cutler said, “I was gone, and I stayed away from it all, but I can't say it didn't bother me that people questioned my toughness and desire to play.” That quote just speaks to Cutler’s personality. He is not a person who is particularly interested in what people say or feel about him. Nor is he going to be front and center in the media being vocal about how wrong all the critics were about his injury. Jay is Jay, and that is just the way it is.

- Finally, I know Charlie wanted me to touch on this, Jay Cutler and Kristin Cavallari are reportedly engaged. My response, congratulations to the both of them.



-Michael Fant

D-Day

After one of the most disappointing seasons in recent memory, this week’s NFL draft is vital in terms of taking steps forward for the Minnesota Vikings. With the “retirement” of Brett Favre (the reality show himself), along with and what was one of the oldest teams in the NFL last year, this draft may be the difference between rebuilding over the course of the next three years or “retooling” and competing in 2011.

With a record of 6-10 (tied for last in the NFC North) in 2010, the Vikings have many holes and question marks that need to be filled. With no true security in any position, with the exception of running back, the “best player available” method seems to be the approach the Vikings must take.



With gurus like Mel Kiper and Todd McShay analyzing the draft and its players year round and the continuous coverage of ESPN and all other major sports outlets, every player’s weaknesses and question marks are over analyzed and critiqued. In some cases, this causes some players to fall down the draft board. The Vikings have been the beneficiary of this in recent years with Adrian Peterson dropping in 07’ because of a collarbone injury his junior year along with Percy Harvin to 22 in 09’ because of character issues.

Social media has also changed the way preparation for the draft as well as the draft itself is approached. The NFL draft has turned into more of a giant game of chess where teams workout and interview players they may have zero interest in, hoping that a division rival may stretch or trade up for a particular player in fear of losing them. The Patriots and he who shall not be named (my man Bill Belichik) have become the masters of this, as we are seeing with the recent rumors of them taking a Locker or Mallet with the 17th pick. Do you really think they have serious interest in Locker if the genius himself was not present for these meetings/workouts? Not a chance!

The Minnesota Vikings enter the draft with 9 overall picks (two 5th, 6th, and 7th round picks). These picks will be used to address major needs from starting quarterback to minor special team linebackers. The Vikings currently sit with the 12th overall pick, for now. Many “experts” have predicted that the Vikings will select Cameron Jordan, DE out of Cal. Others speculate them selecting a QB such as Jake Locker, a CB such as Prince Amukamara, or trading the pick. Personally, I think they will do anything possible to trade this pick and move down to 14 to 25 range and regain a 3rd round pick. Who do they take?

My gut says the Vikings want Locker, but don’t want to stretch and take him at #12. Often time’s quarterbacks are taken so high simply because of the value of the position. I hope this is not the case for the Vikings. Locker is the sexy pick that many Minnesota fans want to see, but is too early?

Personally the safest pick in this draft is OL Anthony Castonzo out of Boston College who can play guard and tackle on both sides. With an aging offensive line full of question marks and injuries the O-line will definitely be addressed at some point in this draft. In the end, I feel that Castonzo is a stretch at #12, which takes us back to the Vikings trading down.

Now to the “what if’s”? What if Gabbert is still on the board at #6 and the Browns want to trade down? What if Nick Fairley drops to #12?

Listen, Gabbert is the ultimate QB prize and Fairley is going to be an impact player for many years to come. Unfortunately, I don’t see the Vikings moving up to take either. Thursday will be the day that sets up the weekend and the fortunes of many teams’ futures.

We’ll see who moves their queen first!

Jordan T.

Packers Draft Needs



 We haven't said too much about the draft on SNOtap yet so I'll get us started with a preview of the Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers' most pressing needs.  Ted Thompson has done an excellent job building depth in the draft and hopefully hell be up to his old tricks tomorrow night (lets just hope he stays away from the Justin Harrells of the world).



Biggest Needs

1) Offensive Tackle - In my opinion the Packers' biggest need is at the offensive tackle position.  Chad Clifton is probably looking at his final season in the NFL and I would be surprised if Mark Tauscher is ever seen on a football field again.  Plus, Aaron Rodgers' concussions could become an issue if protection isn't addressed in the draft. They seem to have hit it on the head with Brian Bulaga in last years draft and they need to find someone that can step in opposite of him to solidify their line going forward. 

2) Defensive End / OLB - Clay Matthews has established himself as an elite pass rusher over the past two seasons and the Pack is going to have to find someone to work opposite of him.  Teams consistently shift pass protections towards the Claymaker and usually run the ball away from him.  While guys like Frank Zombo, Erik Walden, and Brady Poppinga have been effective I don't see them as the long term answer.

3) Wide Receiver - Donald Driver isn't getting any younger and while the Packers still have a deep receiving corps with Jennings, Jones, and Nelson they will need to draft a replacement.  This isn't an extremely pressing need so look for the Packers to look for a great value receiver in one of the later rounds.

Who They Should Pick

Predicting a Ted Thompson draft selection is as hard as predicting which graphic t Charlie will go with on a Friday night but I'll give it a shot on the Packers' first few picks..

Round 1 - Picking in the 32 hole is a great problem to have.  However, it really does limit your choices and while I think OT is their biggest need I don't think their will be a first round quality tackle left on the board by the time the Pack gets on the clock.  Therefore I think they go for a pass rusher like J.J. Watt (Wisconsin), Brooks Reed (Arizona), or Cameron Heyward (Ohio State) depending whos available.

Round 2 - Here is where I think they address the offensive line.  It obviously comes down to who is available at the 62nd pick but a couple of names that could still be around include Danny Watkins (Baylor) or James Carpenter (Bama)

Round 3 - My guess is they try to pick up a wide out that either slipped or someone who they think is under the radar.  Its tough to say who will still be around but I would love it if a guy like Greg Little (UNC) or Titus Young (Boise) were to fall to the Pack.

Possible Problem with Cam Newton

I didn't care for Cam Newton at the beginning of the college football year. I thought he was over-hyped. I was dead wrong. He proved to be one of the greatest college athletes of the last decade. I thought he was a straight, running quarterback, but his passing skills proved better than I could have ever expected.

Newton could possibly be the first pick overall in this spring's NFL draft. He is definitely a work-in-process quarterback that will need a lot of work before strong success in the NFL, but I do feel that he will eventually succeed. However, this little clip from Jon Gruden's QB confidential irked me quite a bit.

I first saw this clip on Czabe.com, written by excellent radio host Steve Czaban. Newton could not remember a complicated play call off the top of his head, and then he stated that his offense was "simplistic for fast."

If I were a GM or fan for one of the top teams in the draft, I would shudder a little bit hearing that phrase. It's common knowledge that Cam Newton has relative inexperience under center and is not familiar with pro-style offenses. Now, we may be able to add "inexperience with complicated play-calling" to his list of phopas.

This is the complicated play-calling that Newton will be facing come September (hopefully). I hope that he will be able to pick it up quickly because I honestly hope he does well. Cam Newton is a one-of-a-kind athlete, and I hope he can evolve in to a one-of-a-kind quarterback.

Don't Do It Rook

If JaMarcus Russell can do it, everyone
should be able to do it. 

I am catching up on the NFL before I need to get all the first-second round picks for the different regions plus my Jersey Shore Power Rankings for today.  But strap in and enjoy some depressing stuff from pro football, awesome!  We will start out with something that bothered me more than Comedy Central thinking The Situation could do a comedy roast.

The NFL Players Association told fifteen to twenty top prospects who will get invited to the NFL Draft to not attend the event. The players thought they would be wrong to embrace Roger Goodell who supposedly caused all of this drama. Really? Correct me if I am wrong NFL players, weren't you guys the same ones who agreed to reduce rookie salaries dramatically. Now, you are trying to tell these prospects who had visions of shaking Roger Goodell's hand and holding up the jersey of their future team to forget all of it. Pathetic.



Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Phillip Rivers, Tom Brady, and others pushing this idea would not protest the NFL Draft if they were coming into the league, you know why?  All of their collective egos are too damn big to let them pass up the chance of going to New York and having a night be all about them. Mostly, reasons for going to the NFL Draft is to show off your hot girlfriend/wife is, wear an expensive suit, and get drafted in the first ten to fifteen picks with the crowd cheering for you. If you don't agree,  remember the embarrassed awkward feelings things were for Aaron Rodgers and Brady Quinn when their stays in the green room were prolonged. It's all about your ego, nothing else.

In no way am I trying to imply there is something wrong with getting an ego boost, God knows I love it when it happens. If you did something to the highest level plus you are getting paid for playing the sport you loved as a kid, you deserve it that ego boost. The NFL players should not try to take something away from these prospects because they are dealing with more problems than Tony Hawk. It's like your older sibling telling their young sibiling how wrong something is and try to get inside the naive brain of the younger one. Therefore he or she will agree with the older sibling instead of creating your own opinion on something.

Good for Patrick Peterson for already saying he wants to go to New York. Don't be afraid of the older guys, they would give anything to be in your shoes right now. Because they would not have to deal with the stress of what's going on each day, everyone just wants to be a kid again.

-Charlie.