Florida were systematically destroyed by Alabama in the SEC title game today. The tears at the end from Tim Tebow said it all - this wasn't how he planned the dream to end. It's hard not to admire Tebow the man, he was truly emotional afterwards and whilst visibly crying, still found time to congratulate Alabama and Nick Saban. A class act in every sense.
However, his performance on the field was another great example as to why scouts have so many concerns about his pro-prospects. He made awful reads throughout the game, often being too tentative and dumping a pass off to the tight end when there were better options downfield. His accuracy wasn't great and we once again saw the issues with his long delivery where he holds the ball below waist height before releasing.
But we knew all that already. The great unkown with Tebow is whether the intangibles that have done him so well in college translate to the NFL. This was a test - his team were missing key players on both sides of the ball (well done, Carlos Dunlap) and he needed to drag them to finish line. He couldn't do it - and in the second half he looked sullen on the sidelines as he witnessed a thorough beating from the Crimson Tide. It was more Clark Kent than Superman, spectacles and ready for a day in the office.
I still think he'll go in the first round, although I think it's fair to say now that anyone who does take him that early is buying into the hype and the hope. This draft class isn't all that great with a few exceptions (notably on the defensive line) and someone, somewhere is going to take him earlier than he perhaps should go. Tonight proved, however, that winning games at the next level is going to be a tough ask for Tebow - especially if he lands on a team that doesn't have a good offensive line and some talented weapons.
Saturday, 5 December 2009
Today's viewing
I'm currently enjoying the Florida vs Alabama SEC title game and the first half was immense - great football game. I've recorded Cincinnati vs Pittsburgh to watch later in the week, with Texas vs Nebraska and Georgia Tech vs Clemson set to record also. I'll have reaction to the GT/Clemson game on the blog tomorrow.
But back to the Florida/Alabama game. The Tide have dominated for the most part but at half time it's only 19-13. This is the kind of game that Tim Tebow needs to win to convince me he can win games at the next level. He's missing key components on offense. Things aren't going entirely to plan with the defense. Can he drag this team to victory against a real quality opponent? Clearly he has big issues with his mechanics and I'm not talking from a Seahawks perspective here - this is purely Tebow and the NFL period. He's always going to have those problems, it's whether the intangibles are enough to justify someone taking a gamble that he'll just find a way to win. This should be a great second half...
But back to the Florida/Alabama game. The Tide have dominated for the most part but at half time it's only 19-13. This is the kind of game that Tim Tebow needs to win to convince me he can win games at the next level. He's missing key components on offense. Things aren't going entirely to plan with the defense. Can he drag this team to victory against a real quality opponent? Clearly he has big issues with his mechanics and I'm not talking from a Seahawks perspective here - this is purely Tebow and the NFL period. He's always going to have those problems, it's whether the intangibles are enough to justify someone taking a gamble that he'll just find a way to win. This should be a great second half...
Charles Scott, RB, LSU
Sorry for the long delay, everyone. It's been one test/presentation/paper after another at school for me, and I'm entering the last week. The good news is that I'll have at least two weeks off work and school this winter, so hopefully I'll start adding a voice of insanity to Rob's voice of reason.
It probably makes me a bad person, but I smiled when I heard Charles Scott was out for the year with a broken smile. Now, LSU is my 2nd favorite college program, and I actually think quite a bit of Scott. Nothing personal against him at all. But I was very happy to have a legitimate NFL prospect to scout for the full 4 games I usually use on a prospect. Two games really isn't enough to develop a feel for a guy, actually. Though, I will add that watching Ciron Black in 2009 was even less pleasant than 2008 - LSU misses giant LG Herman Johnson a lot.
Actually, the loss of Johnson told me about Scott. Scott had a great 2008, running for over 1,100 yards and scoring 18 TDs on the ground. 2009 was a lot rougher, with Scott averaging a still-respectable 4.7 YPC but significantly down from the 5.4 he averaged in 2008. College stats are almost worthless, though, so without further ado, here is the report!
(Note, for those unfamiliar with my grading system, most of what is HERE applies. The actual criteria I use has changed (and could change later as I write a few of these), but in general the meaning of the grades are the same.
Charles Scott
LSU
Senior RB
5'11, 235lbs
Athletic Ability:
Speed: 5.5
Quickness: 6.0
COD (Change of Direction): 5.0
( A 5.5 is not a terrible grade, it's not good by any means, but a guy can be a good player even if he has a 5.5 or two, so long as he makes up for it... The 5.0 grade is a bigger concern)
Scott isn't a great athlete, and in the NFL he would have merely okay athletic ability. While Scott has some burst and some speed, he won't be leaving anyone behind and just about every safety in the league will be able to beat Scott to a point downfield. Scott's change-of-direction is not very good, as it brings him almost to a halt.
Football Smarts:
Polish: 6.5
Instincts: 6.0
Football Character: 6.0
Personal Character: 6.0
Holds ball securely and does not fumble at all, in sync with QB, makes good blocks in the passing game. He does not have great vision, sometimes running straight into his linesmen, but as LSU only has Scott as a powerback I suspect some of that is due to the play-calling. He does show the ability to locate and find a hole at the second level much more effectively than he does at the LOS.
RB Specific:
Power: 7.0 (Blows up defenders)
Tackle Breaking: 6.0 (Blows them up, but does not have an ounce of shiftiness and does not dodge tackles in the backfield. Legs are strong enough to at least gain yardage if not break the tackle.)
Receiving: 6.0/NA (Caught everything thrown to him, which in four games meant 5 passes, none of them more than a screen/shovel pass)
Open Field Running/RAC: 6.5 (While he lacks COD, he is a terror to tackle in the open field due to his power and strength)
Vision/Cutting: 5.0 (Scott is more of a straight-ahead back, and while his vision is better than 5.0, his cutback skills are not.)
Inside Running: 6.0 (Has ideal frame for inside running, but his marginal vision and burst, combined with a tendency to run a little higher than he should, makes him too easy to tackle for a back his size. This is somewhat mitigated by toughness and the strength needed to fall forward after contact.)
Outside Running: 5.5 (Needs OL to seal off corner, as Scott will not beat many defenders to it. Once he gets shifted forward, though, he will be dangerous as he is too strong for almost all defensive backs to bring down unassisted.)
Blocking: 6.0/NA (LSU rotated their backs thoroughly and I am out of LSU games with Scott in them. Typically did not keep Scott in to block, but he had a couple nice blitz pickups when he was kept back and I feel he will do well at blocking in the NFL, given a year or two to get some more experience.)
Fit for Seattle: I actually think Scott works well in Seattle if we keep the Zone Blocking system. While he is not a dynamic threat in the passing game, he can be used on screens and flares and his strength makes him tough to tackle. His biggest weakness as an inside runner is that he isn't hard to bring down at the LOS, which is surprising given that he is a power back. However, one advantage of the ZBS is that it tends to get keep the RB from getting hit as much in the backfield (something Scott's lack of elusiveness makes a concern). If Seattle can get Scott past the defensive line, he can do some damage against linebackers and defensive backs.
Overall: I like Scott, to an extent. Losing Herman Johnson really hurt Scott because Johnson often cleared out a path for Scott to run through, where he could wreak havoc on linebackers. He lacks great speed but could provide the power in a 1-2 Speed/Power role. He's not worth spending a first day pick on, but if his clavicle checks out medically he is someone to consider in the 3rd-4th round range.
Final Grade: 5.9 - Not quite a starter, but still a valuable member.
It probably makes me a bad person, but I smiled when I heard Charles Scott was out for the year with a broken smile. Now, LSU is my 2nd favorite college program, and I actually think quite a bit of Scott. Nothing personal against him at all. But I was very happy to have a legitimate NFL prospect to scout for the full 4 games I usually use on a prospect. Two games really isn't enough to develop a feel for a guy, actually. Though, I will add that watching Ciron Black in 2009 was even less pleasant than 2008 - LSU misses giant LG Herman Johnson a lot.
Actually, the loss of Johnson told me about Scott. Scott had a great 2008, running for over 1,100 yards and scoring 18 TDs on the ground. 2009 was a lot rougher, with Scott averaging a still-respectable 4.7 YPC but significantly down from the 5.4 he averaged in 2008. College stats are almost worthless, though, so without further ado, here is the report!
(Note, for those unfamiliar with my grading system, most of what is HERE applies. The actual criteria I use has changed (and could change later as I write a few of these), but in general the meaning of the grades are the same.
Charles Scott
LSU
Senior RB
5'11, 235lbs
Athletic Ability:
Speed: 5.5
Quickness: 6.0
COD (Change of Direction): 5.0
( A 5.5 is not a terrible grade, it's not good by any means, but a guy can be a good player even if he has a 5.5 or two, so long as he makes up for it... The 5.0 grade is a bigger concern)
Scott isn't a great athlete, and in the NFL he would have merely okay athletic ability. While Scott has some burst and some speed, he won't be leaving anyone behind and just about every safety in the league will be able to beat Scott to a point downfield. Scott's change-of-direction is not very good, as it brings him almost to a halt.
Football Smarts:
Polish: 6.5
Instincts: 6.0
Football Character: 6.0
Personal Character: 6.0
Holds ball securely and does not fumble at all, in sync with QB, makes good blocks in the passing game. He does not have great vision, sometimes running straight into his linesmen, but as LSU only has Scott as a powerback I suspect some of that is due to the play-calling. He does show the ability to locate and find a hole at the second level much more effectively than he does at the LOS.
RB Specific:
Power: 7.0 (Blows up defenders)
Tackle Breaking: 6.0 (Blows them up, but does not have an ounce of shiftiness and does not dodge tackles in the backfield. Legs are strong enough to at least gain yardage if not break the tackle.)
Receiving: 6.0/NA (Caught everything thrown to him, which in four games meant 5 passes, none of them more than a screen/shovel pass)
Open Field Running/RAC: 6.5 (While he lacks COD, he is a terror to tackle in the open field due to his power and strength)
Vision/Cutting: 5.0 (Scott is more of a straight-ahead back, and while his vision is better than 5.0, his cutback skills are not.)
Inside Running: 6.0 (Has ideal frame for inside running, but his marginal vision and burst, combined with a tendency to run a little higher than he should, makes him too easy to tackle for a back his size. This is somewhat mitigated by toughness and the strength needed to fall forward after contact.)
Outside Running: 5.5 (Needs OL to seal off corner, as Scott will not beat many defenders to it. Once he gets shifted forward, though, he will be dangerous as he is too strong for almost all defensive backs to bring down unassisted.)
Blocking: 6.0/NA (LSU rotated their backs thoroughly and I am out of LSU games with Scott in them. Typically did not keep Scott in to block, but he had a couple nice blitz pickups when he was kept back and I feel he will do well at blocking in the NFL, given a year or two to get some more experience.)
Fit for Seattle: I actually think Scott works well in Seattle if we keep the Zone Blocking system. While he is not a dynamic threat in the passing game, he can be used on screens and flares and his strength makes him tough to tackle. His biggest weakness as an inside runner is that he isn't hard to bring down at the LOS, which is surprising given that he is a power back. However, one advantage of the ZBS is that it tends to get keep the RB from getting hit as much in the backfield (something Scott's lack of elusiveness makes a concern). If Seattle can get Scott past the defensive line, he can do some damage against linebackers and defensive backs.
Overall: I like Scott, to an extent. Losing Herman Johnson really hurt Scott because Johnson often cleared out a path for Scott to run through, where he could wreak havoc on linebackers. He lacks great speed but could provide the power in a 1-2 Speed/Power role. He's not worth spending a first day pick on, but if his clavicle checks out medically he is someone to consider in the 3rd-4th round range.
Final Grade: 5.9 - Not quite a starter, but still a valuable member.
Friday, 4 December 2009
How Ruskell's exit affects the draft
Until we know the identity of the new Seahawks GM, we won't know the full extent of how this could affect Seattle's 2010 draft. Previously, we'd been looking at 'Ruskell guys' - big school, high character preferably seniors. Not only that, we were assuming certain scheme fits. If the new GM appoints his own coaching staff, we might be looking at completely different prospects for many different reasons.
Here's some examples. Ruskell would never go near a defensive end like Carlos Dunlap who was previously arrested for DUI. You could eliminate him from the discussion entirely. Now - who knows? During Ruskell's tenure, the team preferred to draft offensive lineman in later rounds with a preference for agile lineman who fit the zone blocking scheme. The new regime might change that completely, adjusting to a man blocking system and drafting an expensive lineman at the top end of the draft.
Ruskell was always risk averse picking early in his drafts. Last year, when presented with the opportunity to draft a dynamic playmaker (Michael Crabtree) a long term option at quarterback (Mark Sanchez) or a lineman who didn't fit the teams scheme (Eugene Monroe), Ruskell instead chose to draft a linebacker in Aaron Curry who was deemed to be very talented but ultimately the lesser risk. Seattle already had a lot of money invested in Lofa Tatupu and Leroy Hill and nobody can argue that right now, having the most expensive linebacker trio in the NFL isn't doing the team much good.
It was admirable that Ruskell put his faith into prospects with excellent character. Essentially, we all want a team full of guys like Aaron Curry who play like each game is their last and mirror than on field attitude in the community. However, there were perhaps times when too much emphasis was placed on character and 'risk' and not enough on what this team actually needs.
Ruskell also did focus on areas of need, but with mixed results. He was aggressive in adding to the defensive line, through cap space and picks. Brandon Mebane was an excellent pick and Patrick Kerney, when healthy, has consistently been Seattle's best pass rusher (albeit at a cost). But Darryl Tapp has been inconsistent, Lawrence Jackson has started both his two seasons in the NFL with promise but faded quickly. The investment in Colin Cole hasn't been justified to date.
So what does the future hold? Following on from my piece yesterday, I think the Seahawks will become a farcical franchise if they think simply replacing Ruskell man-for-man is the answer. An inside appointment or someone who will 'tow the party line' isn't enough. It just serves to make Ruskell a scape goat and retains the status quo. I hope this doesn't happen and whilst I feel for Jim Mora and his staff, I expect wholesale changes. You can't ask a GM to work with Ruskell's tools.
If there are changes amongst the coaching staff, that will signal the beginning of a new era. Under Ruskell I fully expected Seattle's focus to be on the defensive line. Who knows, that may still be the case. The class of defensive lineman in the 2010 draft is exceptional and warrants serious consideration. However, we've seen with many franchises in the past that when big changes are made you need a starting point. That usually means a new quarterback. Will the Seahawks search for a man to lead this team forward under the new regime? This has to be more likely, because it will surely buy time for the new regime. If there's no immediate success in the short term, they can point to the development of a young QB as a justification for fans needing to be patient.
Do they look for a long term replacement to Walter Jones? Remember, it was Tim Ruskell who'd put his faith (and cap space) into the Sean Locklear project as a blind side blocker. Do we now assume that plan will be terminated? Is Locklear 'on trial' through the remainder of the season? The 2010 class doesn't offer much hope for a stud left tackle. I'm not a fan of Russell Okung personally and I prefer Charles Brown. I'm not sure either warrant a top ten pick.
I'm certainly considering these two options a lot more than I did previously. What do you think? Let me know in the comments section or email rob@seahawksdraftblog.com
Here's some examples. Ruskell would never go near a defensive end like Carlos Dunlap who was previously arrested for DUI. You could eliminate him from the discussion entirely. Now - who knows? During Ruskell's tenure, the team preferred to draft offensive lineman in later rounds with a preference for agile lineman who fit the zone blocking scheme. The new regime might change that completely, adjusting to a man blocking system and drafting an expensive lineman at the top end of the draft.
Ruskell was always risk averse picking early in his drafts. Last year, when presented with the opportunity to draft a dynamic playmaker (Michael Crabtree) a long term option at quarterback (Mark Sanchez) or a lineman who didn't fit the teams scheme (Eugene Monroe), Ruskell instead chose to draft a linebacker in Aaron Curry who was deemed to be very talented but ultimately the lesser risk. Seattle already had a lot of money invested in Lofa Tatupu and Leroy Hill and nobody can argue that right now, having the most expensive linebacker trio in the NFL isn't doing the team much good.
It was admirable that Ruskell put his faith into prospects with excellent character. Essentially, we all want a team full of guys like Aaron Curry who play like each game is their last and mirror than on field attitude in the community. However, there were perhaps times when too much emphasis was placed on character and 'risk' and not enough on what this team actually needs.
Ruskell also did focus on areas of need, but with mixed results. He was aggressive in adding to the defensive line, through cap space and picks. Brandon Mebane was an excellent pick and Patrick Kerney, when healthy, has consistently been Seattle's best pass rusher (albeit at a cost). But Darryl Tapp has been inconsistent, Lawrence Jackson has started both his two seasons in the NFL with promise but faded quickly. The investment in Colin Cole hasn't been justified to date.
So what does the future hold? Following on from my piece yesterday, I think the Seahawks will become a farcical franchise if they think simply replacing Ruskell man-for-man is the answer. An inside appointment or someone who will 'tow the party line' isn't enough. It just serves to make Ruskell a scape goat and retains the status quo. I hope this doesn't happen and whilst I feel for Jim Mora and his staff, I expect wholesale changes. You can't ask a GM to work with Ruskell's tools.
If there are changes amongst the coaching staff, that will signal the beginning of a new era. Under Ruskell I fully expected Seattle's focus to be on the defensive line. Who knows, that may still be the case. The class of defensive lineman in the 2010 draft is exceptional and warrants serious consideration. However, we've seen with many franchises in the past that when big changes are made you need a starting point. That usually means a new quarterback. Will the Seahawks search for a man to lead this team forward under the new regime? This has to be more likely, because it will surely buy time for the new regime. If there's no immediate success in the short term, they can point to the development of a young QB as a justification for fans needing to be patient.
Do they look for a long term replacement to Walter Jones? Remember, it was Tim Ruskell who'd put his faith (and cap space) into the Sean Locklear project as a blind side blocker. Do we now assume that plan will be terminated? Is Locklear 'on trial' through the remainder of the season? The 2010 class doesn't offer much hope for a stud left tackle. I'm not a fan of Russell Okung personally and I prefer Charles Brown. I'm not sure either warrant a top ten pick.
I'm certainly considering these two options a lot more than I did previously. What do you think? Let me know in the comments section or email rob@seahawksdraftblog.com
Thursday, 3 December 2009
My thoughts on Ruskell's exit
So the Seahawks are now officially looking for a new GM. It wasn't really surprising in all honesty. The franchise could have stopped all the rampant speculation of the last few weeks by simply giving Ruskell a vote of confidence - and a new deal. When they chose not to, the writing was virtually on the wall.
But here's the truth - the situation is a complete mess. It's a shambles. Allowing a GM to hand pick his own coaching staff with one year left on his contract - and then watching him walk out the door before week 13 - is simply unacceptable. Any new GM that arrives now is going to either have to work with the current staff, or initiate a mass exodus. Neither situation is attractive, but that's what we're faced with.
Of course, there is the quote from CEO Tod Leiweke today: "We will not join them. They are going to join us." I don't know about anyone else, but I want the new GM to have as much control as possible. I don't think a case where he sneaks in through the back door represents anything other than a switching of the deck chairs on the Titanic. Tim Ruskell could quickly become a scapegoat for a franchise living with dellusions of grandeur.
Someone in the organisation must grab the bull by the horns and make a decision here. It may even be a tough one. But right now this franchise is going nowhere fast. The offense is impotent, severely lacking game winning play makers whilst relying heavily on ageing veterans. The defense is over rated, but also thoroughly expensive. A number of the key components are 'Ruskell guys' on big contracts and the new GM will have to deal with that.
Overall this is not a good time for a new man to come in. For that reason, it's important they have as much control as possible because make no mistake - there won't be many tougher challenges in the NFL than righting this ship.
But here's the truth - the situation is a complete mess. It's a shambles. Allowing a GM to hand pick his own coaching staff with one year left on his contract - and then watching him walk out the door before week 13 - is simply unacceptable. Any new GM that arrives now is going to either have to work with the current staff, or initiate a mass exodus. Neither situation is attractive, but that's what we're faced with.
Of course, there is the quote from CEO Tod Leiweke today: "We will not join them. They are going to join us." I don't know about anyone else, but I want the new GM to have as much control as possible. I don't think a case where he sneaks in through the back door represents anything other than a switching of the deck chairs on the Titanic. Tim Ruskell could quickly become a scapegoat for a franchise living with dellusions of grandeur.
Someone in the organisation must grab the bull by the horns and make a decision here. It may even be a tough one. But right now this franchise is going nowhere fast. The offense is impotent, severely lacking game winning play makers whilst relying heavily on ageing veterans. The defense is over rated, but also thoroughly expensive. A number of the key components are 'Ruskell guys' on big contracts and the new GM will have to deal with that.
Overall this is not a good time for a new man to come in. For that reason, it's important they have as much control as possible because make no mistake - there won't be many tougher challenges in the NFL than righting this ship.
Rob Rang's updated mock draft
Rob Rang has an updated mock draft on CBS Sportsline that's worth checking out. As things stand, Cleveland would be picking first overall if the season ended now. Rang has the Browns taking Ndamukong Suh (DT, Nebraska), something that I agree could be a distinct possibility. Suh is flexible enough to figure as a 4-3 three technique tackle or as a 3-4 defensive end. Cleveland currently runs a 3-4. Despite the fact they'll almost certainly have a new GM and coach next year, the underwhelming nature of the quarterback class and the fact it'd be a nightmare situation for a rookie QB to come into could make Suh a likely #1 pick.
But what about the Seahawks? Rang has Seattle taking Sam Bradford (QB, Oklahoma) with the eighth overall pick and Anthony Davis (OT, Rutgers) later in the first round. That would be an aggressive investment on the offense with an eye to the future, post Matt Hasselbeck and Walter Jones. There are some other notable appearances in the first round - namely Auburn running back Ben Tate.
But what about the Seahawks? Rang has Seattle taking Sam Bradford (QB, Oklahoma) with the eighth overall pick and Anthony Davis (OT, Rutgers) later in the first round. That would be an aggressive investment on the offense with an eye to the future, post Matt Hasselbeck and Walter Jones. There are some other notable appearances in the first round - namely Auburn running back Ben Tate.
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
Pre-mock draft thoughts
I'm going to publish an updated mock draft before the end of the week. If the season finished today, the Seahawks would own the eighth and twenty-sixth picks in the first round. You can see a full run down of the current draft order by clicking here. I thought I'd share some thoughts before I sit down to compile the mock.
For starters, I know this is a quarterbacks league. Bad teams picking at the top of the draft usually look to draft a new signal caller first overall - especially if they've recently changed coach or GM. It's a way to kick start the franchise, lay out a blue print for future success and buy yourself some time - after all, if you've invested in an expensive young QB you're likely going to get the chance to work them up to scratch, even if you eventually fail.
The Cleveland Browns would own the first overall pick in the draft in this scenario. Eric Mangini is essentially a lame duck coach - it seems almost certain he won't be there next year. Names like Mike Holmgren have been touted to be anything from VP, GM or even head coach. There's going to be big changes at Cleveland whoever moves in.
That franchise is essentially a depleted mess. The QB situation is like a revolving door between Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson, the defense does nothing and they have no weapons on offense. They do, however, have a very good offensive line filled with young talent. A lot of people will expect them to go QB next year and start out. I'm not convinced, because I'm not convinced in this class of quarterbacks. Who out there would get more from that pathetic 'arsenal' than the current hapless duo? With no stand out rookie QB, it wouldn't surprise me if they went BPA and took one of the stud d-lineman - possibly Ndamukong Suh who is a good fit at 3-4 defensive end.
This could essentially trigger a run on d-lineman. The Rams could go QB - but Steve Spagnuolo knows he could get Gerald McCoy (DT, Oklahoma) who is a much greater prospect than the QB options. Tampa Bay would pick third and they've just drafted Josh Freeman. Would they look at going defensive line with Derrick Morgan, Carlos Dunlap and the rising Brian Price available? Detroit pick fourth overall - another team who won't go QB and would probably entertain taking a top young d-lineman. It could be that Washington - who round off the top five - will have the pick of the quarterbacks (and I'm almost certain they'll be drafting a QB in 2010).
Maybe it is unrealistic to see no QB go earlier. However - Matt Stafford went first overall last year not because he was the best prospect, but because he came from a productive pro-style offense and had prototype size and arm strength. He could make every pass and his technique was good, even if his accuracy and decision making wasn't always top notch. Mark Sanchez was in a similar position. There's nobody that fits that mantra this year. Sam Bradford? Injury concerns and comes from a spread offense. Jimmy Clausen? Over rated and has shown a restricted range. Tim Tebow? Mechanically very suspect even if the intangibles are other worldly. Jake Locker? Ryan Mallett? Very raw and nobody knows if they'll declare.
If there is a rush on defensive lineman (clearly the strength of the 2010 draft) it could force the Seahawks to look elsewhere with their 8th overall pick. What would be the options? Well they could go quarterback. There's a lot of talk about Tim Ruskell's future right now. If he stays, he could very easily buy himself some time by drafting a young quarterback - stating he's the future and then how could you make big changes after that? Even if Ruskell was replaced, the new regime might feel it's time to look beyond the Matt Hasselbeck era and likewise buy themselves some breathing space by drafting a young QB. Rex Ryan and the disappointing NY Jets are certainly not facing the same backlash as Ruskell and co right now simply because the fans know it's a slow process with Sanchez.
Alternatively, they could invest an early pick in the offensive line. Walter Jones' future is, unfortunately, seemingly not in a Seahawks jersey. Sean Locklear hasn't done enough to warrant unquestionable support as the future at blind side tackle, although there's still time to impress enough in the last five games. The thing is though, this isn't a great draft for offensive lineman. I'm not a big fan of Russell Okung, he doesn't warrant a top ten pick for me. Charles Brown is my highest ranked senior, but he's playing at 285lbs for USC. He needs to add bulk and not lose his athleticism. Apart from that, there isn't a lot else to debate.
What about the other needs? Is it too high for the skill positions? Should a Dez Bryant or Damian Williams warrant consideration at receiver? How about C.J. Spiller? Defensive back could also be an option, with Joe Haden (CB, Florida) the clear prize there. I'm not buying the hype for Eric Berry or Taylor Mays - but should they be considered?
I'll publish the mock this week so stay tuned. In the meantime, let me know your thoughts in the comments section. If the top defensive lineman are off the board - what should the Seahawks do?
For starters, I know this is a quarterbacks league. Bad teams picking at the top of the draft usually look to draft a new signal caller first overall - especially if they've recently changed coach or GM. It's a way to kick start the franchise, lay out a blue print for future success and buy yourself some time - after all, if you've invested in an expensive young QB you're likely going to get the chance to work them up to scratch, even if you eventually fail.
The Cleveland Browns would own the first overall pick in the draft in this scenario. Eric Mangini is essentially a lame duck coach - it seems almost certain he won't be there next year. Names like Mike Holmgren have been touted to be anything from VP, GM or even head coach. There's going to be big changes at Cleveland whoever moves in.
That franchise is essentially a depleted mess. The QB situation is like a revolving door between Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson, the defense does nothing and they have no weapons on offense. They do, however, have a very good offensive line filled with young talent. A lot of people will expect them to go QB next year and start out. I'm not convinced, because I'm not convinced in this class of quarterbacks. Who out there would get more from that pathetic 'arsenal' than the current hapless duo? With no stand out rookie QB, it wouldn't surprise me if they went BPA and took one of the stud d-lineman - possibly Ndamukong Suh who is a good fit at 3-4 defensive end.
This could essentially trigger a run on d-lineman. The Rams could go QB - but Steve Spagnuolo knows he could get Gerald McCoy (DT, Oklahoma) who is a much greater prospect than the QB options. Tampa Bay would pick third and they've just drafted Josh Freeman. Would they look at going defensive line with Derrick Morgan, Carlos Dunlap and the rising Brian Price available? Detroit pick fourth overall - another team who won't go QB and would probably entertain taking a top young d-lineman. It could be that Washington - who round off the top five - will have the pick of the quarterbacks (and I'm almost certain they'll be drafting a QB in 2010).
Maybe it is unrealistic to see no QB go earlier. However - Matt Stafford went first overall last year not because he was the best prospect, but because he came from a productive pro-style offense and had prototype size and arm strength. He could make every pass and his technique was good, even if his accuracy and decision making wasn't always top notch. Mark Sanchez was in a similar position. There's nobody that fits that mantra this year. Sam Bradford? Injury concerns and comes from a spread offense. Jimmy Clausen? Over rated and has shown a restricted range. Tim Tebow? Mechanically very suspect even if the intangibles are other worldly. Jake Locker? Ryan Mallett? Very raw and nobody knows if they'll declare.
If there is a rush on defensive lineman (clearly the strength of the 2010 draft) it could force the Seahawks to look elsewhere with their 8th overall pick. What would be the options? Well they could go quarterback. There's a lot of talk about Tim Ruskell's future right now. If he stays, he could very easily buy himself some time by drafting a young quarterback - stating he's the future and then how could you make big changes after that? Even if Ruskell was replaced, the new regime might feel it's time to look beyond the Matt Hasselbeck era and likewise buy themselves some breathing space by drafting a young QB. Rex Ryan and the disappointing NY Jets are certainly not facing the same backlash as Ruskell and co right now simply because the fans know it's a slow process with Sanchez.
Alternatively, they could invest an early pick in the offensive line. Walter Jones' future is, unfortunately, seemingly not in a Seahawks jersey. Sean Locklear hasn't done enough to warrant unquestionable support as the future at blind side tackle, although there's still time to impress enough in the last five games. The thing is though, this isn't a great draft for offensive lineman. I'm not a big fan of Russell Okung, he doesn't warrant a top ten pick for me. Charles Brown is my highest ranked senior, but he's playing at 285lbs for USC. He needs to add bulk and not lose his athleticism. Apart from that, there isn't a lot else to debate.
What about the other needs? Is it too high for the skill positions? Should a Dez Bryant or Damian Williams warrant consideration at receiver? How about C.J. Spiller? Defensive back could also be an option, with Joe Haden (CB, Florida) the clear prize there. I'm not buying the hype for Eric Berry or Taylor Mays - but should they be considered?
I'll publish the mock this week so stay tuned. In the meantime, let me know your thoughts in the comments section. If the top defensive lineman are off the board - what should the Seahawks do?
Tuesday, 1 December 2009
More reaction to Carlos Dunlap's DUI
The big news today is the DUI arrest of Florida's Carlos Dunlap - just days before the SEC Championship game. The initial reaction would be that this should hit the talented defensive end's draft stock incredibly. Getting wasted before the big game is bad enough, but deciding to get into a vehicle is pure stupidity. So what are people saying about this?
Steve Muench from Scouts Inc doesn't actually think it'll damage his draft standing too much: "Dunlap will have to answer questions from NFL general managers regarding this event. They will want to know if this was merely a blip on the radar or something that is a trend. If he can convince this was a one-time mistake and stays out of trouble for the rest of his time in Gainesville, we don't think it will hurt his this future first-rounder's draft stock significantly."
Jeremy Fowler reports that Carlos Dunlap's father (also named Carlos Dunlap) says his son will not feature against Alabama: "Dunlap Sr. spoke today with Florida Coach Urban Meyer, who said he needed to speak with his administrators but that he didn't know if he could play the junior. Dunlap Sr. said as of 2:15 p.m. that his son was still in jail despite being granted a release from an Alachua County judge about five hours ago. Paperwork is stalling the process."
Dennis Dodds wasn't impressed: "Asleep at the wheel? With the engine running? While the car was in gear? 3:25 in the morning? Dude, that’s not drunk. That’s falling down, can’t-count-backwards-from-100 drunk. Allegedly, of course. Certainly not exactly what you expect, though, from the BCS title game defensive MVP and one of the team leaders. Not what you want from the guy tied for the team lead in sacks (seven). A guy who could be a first-round draft choice.
Carlos, aren’t you supposed to celebrate after beating Alabama? Another stomp of the Seminoles hardly seems worth the Captain Morgan."
Kevin Wiedl offered these thoughts on Dunlap after watching Florida dismantle Florida State at the weekend: "Dunlap shows great range against the run, showing the ability to make plays down the line in pursuit and in space to the outside. He is not as strong or stout at the point of attack as Georgia Tech DE Derrick Morgan, but Dunlap is more athletic and covers more ground. There is no question that Dunlap is locking down a high-first round grade."
Carlos Dunlap arrested, blows draft stock
CBS Sports is reporting that Carlos Dunlap (DE, Florida) was arrested early Tuesday for driving under the influence, just days before his team's biggest game of the season. A police officer found the 20-year old slumped over his wheel at 3:25 am. He'll almost certainly be suspended for the SEC Championship this weekend against Alabama. Perhaps more importantly, this will have a very serious affect on his draft stock.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)