I write this post just two hours before the start of the annual NFL draft, arguably the most boring event on sports television. Here’s hoping no one out there goes into a seizure following the first Bermanism.
Couple thoughts:
—This is probably the deepest talent pool of any draft in this generation. Most of the second rounders could qualify as first rounders in any other year. I’m especially impressed by the running back class, which has underrated players like Anthony Dixon of Mississippi State and Ben Tate of Auburn likely to go in the later rounds. I wouldn’t be shocked if several free agent signees make an impact at this position, too. The defensive tackle spot is also loaded.
—My sleepers at each position, guys further down in the pre-draft rankings who I think will be of great value either as late-round draftees or free-agent pickups:
QB–Sean Canfield, Oregon State
RB–Keiland Williams, LSU
WR–David Gettis, Baylor
TE–Jeff Cumberland, Illinois
OT–Nick Howell, USC
OG–Chris Marinelli, Stanford
C–Chris Hall, Texas
DT–Malcolm Sheppard, Arkansas
DE–Greg Middleton, Indiana
ILB–Clinton Snyder, Stanford
OLB–Rico McCoy, Tennessee
CB–Sam Shields, Miami (Fla)
S–Darrell Stuckey, Kansas
—I’m not a big fan of taking Sam Bradford as the overall No. 1 pick. I think he’s a great college player who flourished with superior talent around him in a unique offensive scheme. I’m not sure he’s a guy who can make an average squad better at the NFL level. More than most quarterbacks of his stature, he seems to need an ideal situation in the pocket to make things happen. Once that ideal situation breaks down, his effectiveness drops precipitously, mostly because of shoddy footwork. He’s a guy who is not used to getting hit. He’ll get hit a lot if he plays early for the Rams. How he comes through that process will determine his future success and I’m not betting against his chances of being a very good NFL quarterback. I’m just not sure he’s worth the No. 1 overall pick.
—Random draft prediction: 12 defensive tackles and 10 running backs will be taken in the first two rounds.
—For what it’s worth, I think Gerald McCoy is the best player in this draft. I’ve liked him for a long, long time.
I love Chris Hall, but he’s actually not entering the draft and will instead pursue a Christian ministry career in California. Still, what a great guy for doing that.
Saying you liked Gerald McCoy in January 2009 after he played in the national title game is not proof you have “liked him for a long, long time.” He was a 5-star recruit back in 2006. You would have to have mentioned him when he was in middle school to get away with saying that. Nice try though.
Dude Shawn whats your deal
I have liked him since he was a senior in high school. The post I linked to is just the earliest example I could think of linking to where I comment on him being a top pick.
come on fellas. i’m just having a little fun. i like the site and subscribe to the feed. i’m excited to see if you’re right about lane kiffin! if you are he’s going to make a messy situation a whole lot worse. can’t wait
Only 9 DTs and 7 RBs in the first 2 rounds. Out of curiosity, who were the other 3 RBs that you expected to go (assuming thew 7 that went were among those you predicted)?
There was actually 11 DTs in the first two rounds and 7 RBs. So I was off by a total of four picks. I just thought the running back corps was so packed that more would be taken, but 7 is still pretty strong.