draft2009matt

Last update: Saturday, April 25, 2009
Next Update: Matt’s 2010 NFL Mock Draft.

WALT’S 2009 NFL MOCK DRAFT| MATT’S 2009 ROUND 2| MATT’S 2009 ROUND 3
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Detroit Lions: Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia
I have heard a ton of talk about Aaron Curry being taken as the No. 1 overall pick, and I am simply not buying it as a football decision. Look, we are in a bad economy, and I understand how the negotiation of contracts can affect where a team goes with a pick. However, the Lions are a different bunch. They do not have much talent. Why in the world would you draft a strongside linebacker No. 1 overall? The positional value you get with Curry is simply horrendous.
Saint Louis Rams: Jason Smith, T, Baylor
I was wrong about this pick, but I was never convinced Jason Smith wasn’t seriously in the conversation with Eugene Monroe to be the first offensive tackle taken here to the Rams. I think Smith is a risky pick because he doesn’t have Monroe’s technique or footwork, and he never played in a three-point stance at Baylor. Monroe will be the best tackle from this class, but Smith is certainly not a bad selection here. The Rams want to rebuild their offense and left tackle is the best starting point since so much money is tied up into Marc Bulger.

Pick change; previously Eugene Monroe, T
Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
Scott Pioli can be very unpredictable. Will Daniel Snyder be crazy enough to think Seattle is seriously considering Mark Sanchez enough to take him at No. 4? Will Scott Pioli throw out the Trade Value Chart to move down? I have no idea if this scenario goes down. What I do think is it’s most likely Curry is the highest-rated defensive player for the Chiefs. He fills a need at inside linebacker, has elite intangibles, and has the talent to command this pick. Some say Tyson Jackson is a sleeper, but when push comes to shove, I think Pioli will stick to his board.

Kansas City Chiefs Pre-Draft Analysis – Kansas City Chiefs 2009 NFL Free Agent Moves
Seattle Seahawks: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
Despite the recent signing of T.J. Houshmandzadeh, the Seahawks will still identify wide receiver as a need, though I admit Crabtree here is now slightly less probable. Remember Houshmandzadeh is a 31-year-old veteran and Deion Branch can’t seem to stay healthy, so they might still want a young play-maker at that position.

What it comes down to is if this coaching staff wants to cut Deion Branch or Walter Jones after the 2009 NFL Draft? I just have a hard time seeing them draft Monroe or Smith, then keeping Jones, Monroe/Smith and Locklear on the roster. I would much rather have Jones and Crabtree as opposed to Branch and Smith/Monroe.
Cleveland Browns: Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas
This pick might come down to Brian Orakpo, B.J. Raji, and Tyson Jackson. Does Eric Mangini hate Shaun Rogers enough to draft Raji? Mangini is arrogant enough to do it. I never really considered that before, but it makes sense. Cleveland seriously lacks a pass rush, and I think Orakpo is most likely to go here because of his ability to explode at the snap and get upfield. The Browns lack this threat on their defense. What could stop this from happening is if Cleveland is serious about trading back up into the first round for an Everette Brown, Aaron Maybin or even a Connor Barwin. If this is the draft plan, then they could seriously be looking at Raji most likely here.
Cincinnati Bengals: Andre Smith, T, Alabama
The Bengals simply do not care about character. I wouldn’t draft Andre Smith in the first two rounds, and I think the rest of the NFL is insane to forget about Smith’s antics this offseason. The Bengals seem to gravitate to the “bad boy” type player and that is definitely Andre Smith; not Jason Smith. They might even have Andre Smith ranked as the top offensive tackle on their board. This was a really tough call, but I think Cincinnati is too attached to Andre Smith at this point to pass up on him.

Pick change; previously Jason Smith, T
Oakland Raiders: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
If you are going to take someone’s advice when it comes to whom the Oakland Raiders will select in the draft, look no further than former Raiders executive Michael Lombardi. He worked with Al Davis, has connections with people within that organization, and happens to be an analyst for the NFL Network. He previously said the Raiders would only go offensive line or defensive line here. However, he has said with the recent signing of Khalif Barnes this team is more likely to go wide receiver.

I would like for you to close your eyes for a moment: Do you think Al Davis will draft a 6-0 receiver with 4.45 speed (Jeremy Maclin) or a 6-2 receiver with 4.30 speed (Darrius Heyward-Bey)? Do not be shocked if DHB is the pick here at all, because it is seriously possible. Remember, Davis is the guy who has drafted a kicker and a punter in the first round. Granted, Ray Guy is the best punter in NFL history by a mile, but it still shows that Davis isn’t scared to go against the grain.
Washington Redskins: Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
TRADE! Daniel Snyder is fed up with Jason Campbell. This is why he heavily pursued Jay Cutler, but unfortunately lost out to Chicago. Snyder wants a big name to come to his team, and will do absolutely anything to get it. The Washington Post reports Washington has very strong interest in Mark Sanchez. If this is true, I think it is extremely likely the Redskins make a move up, probably at this pick, to draft Mark Sanchez.

I previously had Denver trading up to this spot, but I changed my mind because Daniel Snyder hates his current starting quarterback more than Josh McDaniels does, and he will be more willing to give up more value in draft picks to move up to take Sanchez.
Green Bay Packers: Eugene Monroe, T, Virginia
Ted Thompson’s philosohy on draft value is that talent far outweighs need. Eugene Monroe plays the elite left tackle position and quite frankly there is no way he should pass up on arguably one of the most talented players in the entire draft. This is now Aaron Rodgers’ blindside tackle and you can think about moving Chad Clifton to right tackle because Monroe is far more gifted. Watch out as a team such as Buffalo or San Francisco seriously considers trading up for Monroe.

Pick change; previously Tyson Jackson, DE
San Francisco 49ers: Michael Oher, T, Mississippi
This pick will come down to a receiver (Jeremy Maclin), a pass rusher (Everette Brown/Larry English/Aaron Maybin), or Michael Oher. Oher has the most positional value and has outstanding intangibles in terms of his competitive attitude. I think Mike Singletary will be a huge fan of Oher and feel like he can be a huge boost to their offensive line. Marvel Smith was brought in, but he is not a long-term answer. Josh Freeman is a sleeper pick here if this team feels like they need a franchise quarterback.

Pick change; previously Michael Oher, T
Buffalo Bills: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State
With all the left tackles off the board this pick comes down to either a defensive end or Brandon Pettigrew. The Bills love elite blockers in their system and Pettigrew is simply their guy. They love him and made this known. They have the No. 28 pick, which they did not have previously so they can always target a pass rusher there depending on who is still on the board. Pettigrew opens up everything offensively for Trent Edwards and is a long-term weapon on this offense. Pettigrew will also help in pass protection, which is what Buffalo is looking for.

Pick change; previously Andre Smith, T
Denver Broncos: B.J. Raji, NT, Boston College
A source close to the league recently told me that Denver defensive coordinator Mike Nolan “loves” B.J. Raji. The Broncos severely lack a great nose tackle on their defense, and Raji is the prototype.

I feel like Denver would pass up on Josh Freeman as opposed to Mark Sanchez here because Freeman isn’t as good of a fit for Josh McDaniels’ offense. I think he would prefer Sanchez over Orton, but Orton over Freeman. Then again, if he is delusional to trade away the best quarterback from the 2005 to 2008 NFL Drafts, then he just might be dumb enough to take Orton over Sanchez and Freeman.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut
The Jaguars previously traded down with Denver in my last mock and selected Vontae Davis. It has come to fruition by PFW’s Nolan Nawrocki that Vontae Davis has potential character concerns. Nawrocki notes that Davis does not take well to coaching. He’s also allegedly immaturity and has questionable intelligence. If the Jaguars see this, do not be shocked if Darius Butler is the first corner off the board. He is a very underrated prospect at this point. Butler is a freak athletically and can play in the Jaguars’ press man scheme.
New Orleans Saints: Malcolm Jenkins, CB/FS, Ohio State
This is a beautiful pick for the Saints here. None of the questions surrounding Malcolm Jenkins’ long speed were answered at the awful 2009 NFL Scouting Combine. Twenty corners last year ran a faster time than the fastest corner at this year’s Combine. All 40s are thrown out the window, and we have to wait for Pro Days. The Saints could also go with Darius Butler here, but Jenkins gives them versatility at free safety if he does not work out at corner.
Houston Texans: Clay Matthews, OLB, USC
I will lament, I do not understand why the Texans would be so eager to draft a linebacker. They recently signed Cato June and are high on Xavier Adibi. Gary Kubiak said last year that strongside linebacker Zach Diles was one of the best players on the defense prior to his season-ending, fractured tibia injury in the middle of the year.

Diles is not 100-percent healthy at this point, and as Walter said to me, if he is not ready to go that the Texans are screwed. I personally would draft Knowshon Moreno here without blinking, maybe even a receiver, but I am projecting what the Texans will do; not me. John McClain is adamant the Texans will go defense, and who am I to think I know more about the Texans than McClain?
San Diego Chargers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
Tyson Jackson is simply too good to pass up here. They allowed Igor Olshansky to leave via free agency, and they have nothing at 5-technique currently opposite Luis Castillo. Jackson is the prototypical 3-4 defensive end because of his 6-4, 295-pound size and outstanding ability to stop the run. Jackson simply presents elite value for this pick and gets the San Diego defense back to respectability as this defense will welcome back Shawne Merriman with open arms.

Pick change; previously Eben Britton, T
New York Jets: Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State
The Jets haven’t had a franchise quarterback since Joe Namath… suffice to say this team needs a face for the organization. Josh Freeman has the size and arm strength to be able to stand up to the northeast winds he will endure in his career. Freeman has the upside to become a huge threat offensively and when push comes to shove, I don’t think the Jets can pass up on him.
Denver Broncos: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
The Broncos have had no stability at the running back position since the days of Clinton Portis. Knowshon Moreno is a perfect fit for Josh McDaniels’ offense, and he is too talented to be passed up on at this point. LaMont Jordan? J.J. Arrington? Correll Buckhalter? This team can’t be serious. Don’t get me wrong, I think people are going to start talking about Peyton Hillis as an All-Pro fullback, but more help is needed offensively in the running game.

Pick change; previously Larry English, DE/OLB
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
I just do not see Josh Freeman being on the board any longer for the Buccaneers. It seems like the Jets have more and more interest in drafting a quarterback as this process goes along. PewterReport.com believes Georgia Tech product Michael Johnson is seriously on the Buccaneers radar. Peria Jerry is not big enough to fit Jim Bates’ scheme and this team needs more help on the defensive line. I personally really dislike Michael Johnson and have previously had him in my second round, but if the Bucs like him then there isn’t anything I can do about it.

By the way, if you are a Bucs fan, go ahead and check out PewterReport.com. They are the best source of information for inside sources, season previews, and knowledge of the Bucs roster. Their Draft Day track records ranks as one of the best for any specific team in the NFL.
Detroit Lions: William Beatty, T, Connecticut
If the Lions do not go left tackle here after taking Stafford, and do not end up with William Beatty at No. 33, I will completely grill this organization. If you do not take a left tackle after going with Matt Stafford, you are putting him into a major bust risk. We have seen this happen before with Joey Harrington, but since the Lions apparently have learned from that, I think this is a good thing. Now, the fans know not to demand Stafford to play early. Now, the organization knows they need a productive left tackle. The Lions can be a contender if they learn from the mistakes they made with Harrington.
Philadelphia Eagles: Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee
I have to give Walter a lot of credit because I am kind of stealing his idea with Philadelphia’s draft strategy. Andy Reid loves to rotate defensive linemen and there is a little bit of a hole at left defensive end. Juqua Parker is solid, but suited better as a backup. Victor Abiamiri has not done much in the NFL. Some teams may have Ayers rated in their top 10 players. I think the Eagles just might considering their love for defensive linemen. It is just like Andy Reid to take a defensive linemen very early. This pick makes too much sense not to happen.

Pick change; previously Kenny Britt, WR
Minnesota Vikings: Eben Britton, T, Arizona
I nearly had Phil Loadholt going to this pick, but in any instance the Minnesota Vikings are selecting a right tackle here. There is too much positional value tied up into this position and I am simply not sold on the Percy Harvin love. This team has Bernard Berrian as a deep threat and Brad Childress wants to pound the rock in his offense. I think the pick is a right tackle here when it is all said and done, and it will come down to either Britton or Loadholt.

Pick change; previously Alex Mack, C
New England Patriots: Larry English, DE/OLB, Northern Illinois
The Patriots go with intangibles over athleticism at this pick as they pass up on Everette Brown and Aaron Maybin. Larry English simply fits the Bill Belichick profile of a high intangibles prospect with an elite motor. English has good burst off the snap and can play the outside linebacking position.

Pick change; previously Everette Brown, DE/OLB
Atlanta Falcons: Evander Hood, DT, Missouri
When I look at the Atlanta Falcons on defense, cornerback, nose tackle and outside linebacker seem to now be the biggest needs on defense. I do not think Atlanta goes corner here. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution doesn’t feel like Vontae Davis will pass the Falcons’ character test. Alphonso Smith does not fit the scheme. I doubt the pick is cornerback. Outside linebacker? I doubt this too. Brian Cushing really struggles dropping in zone, and flipping his hips against tight ends and slot receivers, so this pick can’t be linebacker here since Clay Matthews is off the board. Evander Hood has the size and athleticism to play next to Jonathan Babineaux. He is the best value for the Falcons, and I am putting my money on him here to Atlanta.

Pick change; previously Vontae Davis, CB
Miami Dolphins: Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State
Interesting pick here for Miami. I think it comes down to Everette Brown, Rey Maualuga and Kenny Britt here. The Dolphins have invested so much in their offense, I think now is the time to invest in the future of their pass rush. Brown has the burst and athleticism Bill Parcells covets. Joey Porter is getting older and Matt Roth is an average pass-rusher at best.

Pick change; previously Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB
Baltimore Ravens: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
Jeremy Maclin is the perfect deep threat this offense currently lacks for Joe Flacco. He can also be effective on special teams. Maclin does not have to be a great receiver right away. Fortunately, Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton are on the roster. I have always felt Maclin is a raw receiver because of his immature route running and inflated production at Missouri, but he would be a perfect fit with this team.
Indianapolis Colts: Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
I have not had Kenny Britt falling out of the top 26 picks for a long time, but this is a perfect fit for the Colts offense. I also think Britt is the most NFL-ready receiver in the 2009 NFL Draft due to his elite route-running ability. He is the best route-runner in the draft and this is what Bill Polian looks for. Reggie Wayne, Marvin Harrison and Anthony Gonzalez were all great route-runners. This is so important because the timing in Tom Moore’s offense is critical and Peyton Manning needs to be able to depend on his receivers. Britt has the size and yards after catch ability to be a very impactful player early in his career.

Pick change; previously Peria Jerry, DT
Buffalo Bills: Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State
The Bills do not mind undersized pass-rushers on their defense and Aaron Maybin they feel like is too good of a value to pass up on at this point. He has outstanding explosiveness and upside. I personally am not a fan of this pick because I think Maybin is overrated, but this team needs to make a splash at some point in the draft at defensive end. The Bills might also target an outside linebacker or offensive tackle here, and do not rule out the possibility of trading up for Eben Britton.
New York Giants: Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut
Chris Wells is the same kind of back Brandon Jacobs is, which is why they pass up on him here. Donald Brown has the elite intangibles and work ethic Jerry Reese loves to see in his draft picks. Reese knows value just as much, if not better than any general manager in the NFL. I think a trade gets done in which the Browns ship Braylon Edwards to the Giants for a second- and fourth-, or second- and fifth-round draft picks. This means wide receiver is less of a need for New York, but Kenny Britt and Hakeem Nicks are also possibilities if they are on the board at 29.

Pick change; previously Knowshon Moreno, RB
Tennessee Titans: Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
An elite inside linebacker can simply take this defense to another level. However, this will be tough to do with the loss of Albert Haynesworth in free agency. This pick will come down to a cornerback, Rey Maualuga or James Laurinaitis in all likelihood. Maualuga went to USC like Jeff Fisher, so they have that connection. Remember, Fisher also wanted Matt Leinart. This is a great pick for this defense and fills a big need for them.

Pick change; previously Robert Ayers, DE
Arizona Cardinals: Alex Mack, C, California
The Cardinals would really be reaching here if they took a running back. As an e-mailer pointed out, Chris Wells was just not a good fit for this offense. I knew that going in. What I wanted to do was save for the shocker of Chris Wells not appearing in my first round. I think his potential foot injury and the fact he is a bigger back makes him unattractive to many teams because he either does not fit their offense, or they already have a bigger back for short-yardage and goal-line situations. Mack is a ridiculously huge upgrade over Lyle Sendelin.

Pick change; previously Chris Wells, RB
Pittsburgh Steelers: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
Getting Vontae Davis is a complete steal here and I think his character concerns are being blown out of proportion. I am not sure if he is uncoachable or not, but what I do know is Pittsburgh will feel the loss of Bryant McFadden if they have the opportunity to draft a talented cornerback earlier in the 2009 NFL Draft and they pass up on that opportunity. Davis can be a No. 1 corner and will be aided by Pittsburgh’s pass rush early in his career.

Pick change; previously Sean Smith, FS