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With the Super Bowl done literally hours ago, it seems only right that we put our minds to the seemingly interminable offseason and the draft.

Here is the thread for the NFL action of the next 12 months.

I will start by posting my first round mock draft. Views, scoffing and alternatives welcome.

(https://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/7c1545795156a1d193375559bad4d12e007cc872/c=323-155-1706-1195&r=x404&c=534x401/local/-/media/2018/02/05/USATODAY/USATODAY/636533888406939879-USP-NFL-SUPER-BOWL-LII-PHILADELPHIA-EAGLES-VS-NEW-97155354.JPG)

Very much hoping I haven't had two teams drafting the same player. As you'll see, I've made the whole thing about as complicated as the catch rule.

Mock Draft 1

The way this works is I'll put who I think the teams should draft and why, then give you who I think they actually will draft. Teams sometimes go best available and sometimes fill need...and some just pick who will sell shirts...and some...no idea.

There is also the problem of the players who will be free agents and traded over the next few weeks. I’ve decided to run this first version on what I know and have worked on the – undoubtedly false – assumption that no team trades in the first round. I might revise that in future versions of the draft, but version one is a nice, simple, vanilla one.

1.   Cleveland Browns

Who they should draft: Saquon Barkley RB
The best prospect in the draft, fills an immediate need and I'm not convinced the Browns scout well enough to pick the right guy, if they are forced to choose between QBs. Trading down makes sense, too, as they have 22 positions of need on the roster, so stockpiling picks in a draft rich in areas the Browns are particularly weak in is a good move

Who they actually draft: Sam Darnold QB
They decide the safest choice is Darnold. The move will involve bringing in an average guy in free agency like AJ McCarron to mind the shop for a season, along with DeShon Kizer. They redshirt Darnold for 2018, while he learns the ropes and while they sort out a team that he can actually play with.

2.   New York Giants

Should: Saquon Barkley RB
Eli is poor but they haven't had a running back since Barber. One of the problems they have is the game is one dimensional, owing to the most impotent running game in the league. Careful drafting will help Eli and his successor.

Do: Josh Rosen QB
I cant see them going any other way. Personally, I think he's the best QB in the draft, and he will enjoy a year with a possible Hall of Fame quarterback. He is outspoken and the New York people will lap it up. The Giants love gambling on characters and never seem to learn.

3.   Indianapolis Colts

Should: Bradley Chubb DE
How bad is their edge rush? No. Worse. It's a passing league and defense wins championships, so get to the QB and create some pressure. An elite prospect who should inspire a welcome burst of improvement for a shaky team.

Do: Bradley Chubb DE
A match! Well done Josh McDaniels!

4.   Cleveland Browns (from Houston)

Should: Saquon Barkley RB
See above

Do: Saquon Barkley RB
The Browns get a welcome stroke of luck. With a competent, developing offensive line and a potentially elite running back, Sam Darnold won't feel so bad about those cold winter nights in the Dawg Pound. Bleacher Report’s Draft Scout, Matt Miller, says he’s the best running back he’s ever graded.

5.   Denver Broncos

Should: Baker Mayfield QB
With QBs coming off the board, the Broncos have to make a decision. Paxton Lynch isn't the franchise guy and neither is Trevor Siemian. Mayfield impressed in the Senior Bowl and that was under Denver's coaching. Elway can't afford another whiff and he is the best fit for their offense. If he is gone by this point, I would not be surprised if they traded down.

Do: Baker Mayfield QB
Already we are seeing very talented – more talented – players dropping down the draft order. 7

6.   New York Jets

Should: Lamar Jackson QB
There are options here like Quenton Nelson, but I think the right thing to do is taking a QB. The Jets (like several teams around them) could look to bring in Kirk Cousins, which probably would mean they don’t go QB, even for a redshirt year. It’s far from clear whether the Jets pay the likely sky-high fee to sign Cousins, who the Redskins might choose to franchise tag, so they can trade him. That sort of thing leads to prohibitive pricing, so we will have to see. I am leaving Cousins where he is for now, until we know more, as this one likely runs for a while.

Do: Lamar Jackson QB
The Jets managed to get a system in place for Josh McCown, so Jackson is delighted at going to New Jersey. There’s logic, if they did take Cousins, in having a prospect to sit behind him, particularly one who has a few mechanical issues. It worked out fine for Aaron Rogers, we will doubtless be told.

7.   Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Should: Minkah Fitzpatrick S/CB
They should be delighted that he has fallen this far down and select the best player available. With Grimes going, they need someone opposite Vernon Hargraves and, much as they have other needs, this is a high scoring division, so you need defensive playmakers. He would probably end up playing at safety like Honeybadger in Arizona.

Do: Quenton Nelson OG
Not a bad choice by any means. They fill the position of greatest need and Nelson is a special talent. Enormous, rangey and transforming an awful O-Line. I won’t lie: I did consider putting a kicker here for my own amusement. Suspect they won’t do that again in a hurry.

8.   Chicago Bears

Should: Denzel Ward CB
Cornerback is such a huge issue for this team, though there are a number of holes (offensive line, wide receiver too). Reaching for a wide receiver is a mistake they've made before and they can't really miss on defense, with Ward and Jackson still on the board at CB, Tremaine Edmunds at LB and Minkah Fitzpatrick at S.

Do: Calvin Ridley WR
Bears gonna Bear. On the plus side, if this pays off, Chicago find a stud. The trouble is he isn't a big receiver, compared with the corps in Detroit. He will stretch the field, though, which will suit the system for short passes to the running backs

9.   Oakland Raiders (could be 9 or 10 on a coin toss)
I have decided Oakland win this, as Gruden runs golden.

Should: Tremaine Edmunds LB
Could end up being the best player in the draft. A junior with no ceiling, Edmunds has outrageous speed and will raise eyebrows in the combine. The Raiders lack pressure aside from Khalil Mack and could do with a playmaker like Edmunds in the most competitive division in the NFL.

Do: Roland Jones RB
Gruden decides the best strategy is to take the pressure off his main man, Derek Carr. He will be hoping Donald Penn (35) can stay healthy at left tackle. The Marshawn Lynch experiment hasn't worked, so bringing in an athletic prospect who can run straight up the gut or round the outside makes sense. Commentators and fans alike will be screaming DEFENSE at their TVs though.

10.   San Francisco 49ers

Should: Minkah Fitzpatrick S
The secondary is a huge need for the 49ers and this is the best guy on the board. He offers versatility too.

Do: Minkah Fitzpatrick S
Kyle Shanahan seizes the chance to bolster the defense. An uncontroversial pick which is unlikely to backfire.

11.   Miami Dolphins

Should: Tremaine Edmunds LB
This team is so weak at linebacker that it's a racing certainty his name is called at 11, if not before.

Do: Tremaine Edmunds LB
Mike Mayock breathes an enormous sigh of relief, after having had him at the Best Available spot in his graphic for the last 40 minutes. Tom Brady takes note.

12.   Cincinnati Bengals

Should: Connor Williams OT
Not sure if anyone has noticed, but the Bengals could do with improving the five turnstiles in front of Andy Dalton (thanks again, Andy, by the way). If it was up to me, Andy, you ginger ledge, you would get all the protection you need, starting with this automatic starter, whose measurables make him a potential left tackle immediately.

Do: Derwin James S
It is an area they need to improve on, and James has featured highly in scouting notebooks. There is a lot to like about him and the Bengals do love their nasty defense. Draft an O-Line though, for goodness' sake!

13.   Washington Redskins

Should: Marcus Davenport DE
This is a good place to go best available, with what is likely a rebuild team. Alex Smith is a sticking plaster at QB, and the team needs to create some pressure without the ball. Davenport has huge upside, but needs coaching.

Do: Joshua Jackson CB
Perhaps the best Zone CB, the Redskins elect to take Jackson, which can hardly be a bad choice. It fills a position of need and makes sense.

14.   Green Bay Packers

Should: Denzel Ward CB
Lots of options here, but if A-Rod is healthy, having a spritely secondary is a smart play, as teams will often be needing to throw to stay in games. Ward is close in standard to Jackson.

Do: Connor Williams OT
Surprised looks around the auditorium, but Mayock tells us he was always a possibility. Rodgers will be delighted to see some pass protection and the franchise has to start building for a future without the baaaaad maaaan, as Brett Huntley can't have another season being chased like Benny Hill.

15.   Arizona Cardinals

Should: Josh Allen QB
A new era begins and that means a new guy under center. Allen could be a steal here and, if they can persuade Larry Fitzgerald to stick around for another year, he will enjoy the windows Allen can find. Allen also has a big arm, which this team, with John Brown, Jaron Brown and JJ Nelson, needs.

Do: Josh Allen QB
New Head Coach, new QB. Same running back coming back from injury, though. David Johnson looks happy to be back. They might turn out to be suitors for an experienced quarterback for 2018, as Allen is not a finished product and I would not be surprised if he sat out this year behind someone like Case Keenum, Nick Foles or even a Ryan Tannehill. It could be, if they hit the reset button, the Cards save themselves a lot of money on the cap and reinvest it on a short contract QB.
 
16.   Baltimore Ravens

Should: Derrius Guice RB
Close call, here, as they need every offensive skill position and they were able to muddle through at running back last season with Alex Collins and Buck Allen. Guice will play three downs and will run straight ahead with lowered shoulders. He is where I would go.

Do: Christian Kirk WR
An understandable choice, but possibly a reach at 16. Kirk is a big lad and will be handy all over the field, which Flacco desperately needs. This is the problem with paying a top 20 QB top 5 money: you have to invest and keep investing in the tools around him, else you look like an even bigger mug.

17.   Los Angeles Chargers

Should: Roquon Smith LB
Whilst the defense is good, inside linebacker is a need for the Chargers. Smith isn't the biggest, but he is versatile and will add even more speed to a scary defense. They might have gone quarterback, but the five off the boards already mean they need to look elsewhere.

Do: Orlando Brown OT
The son of Orlando Brown Sr, also an offensive tackle, young Orlando is a 6 foot 8 345lb unit, who immediately bolsters a pretty weak offensive line. The Chargers have to consider life after Philip Rivers and the best way to do so is start building a fortress around the quarterback. That might keep Rivers healthy for another year and enable whoever comes in next a solid foundation. This looks a smart pick.

18.   Seattle Seahawks

Should: Mike Hughes CB
There’s a real argument for the Seahawks trading up or down. They need offensive linemen but the best two have gone. Hughes has a lot to offer. Denzel Ward is probably higher in terms of talent at the position, but Hughes is nastier, more physical and looks better suited to a defense that could be losing Richard Sherman.

Do: Denzel Ward CB
Pete Carroll picks up the experts’ choice as the top corner left on the board, but, however much coaching he will get, can 5 foot 10 Ward be taught to be taller? Hard to criticise the choice, though. The Seahawks stay tough against the pass.

19.   Dallas Cowboys

Should: Da’Ron Payne DT
The Cowboys have a good offensive line but need to be able to create pressure on the other side of the ball. It’s a big area of weakness and Payne has huge talent and could end up being the pass rusher the Cowboys have lacked through the middle.

Do: Billy Price C
Two years ago, the O-Line was impenetrable but last year there were cracks. In my view, they have bigger needs, but Price has had four years as a starter in college and can play anywhere along the interior offensive line from week one. It’s a logical pick, even if it will draw criticism.

20.   Detroit Lions

Should: Marcus Davenport DE
The Lions need to threaten the opposition QBs more than they did last year. Davenport would add a big threat to a team that is quietly looking upwards.

Do: Marcus Davenport DE
They probably can’t believe their luck that he is still in the green room when they are on the clock, but a run of teams with other needs has played into their hands. He needs coaching, but 6 foot 6 and over 250lb is an athletic start. Aaron Rogers beware. 

21.   Buffalo Bills

Should: Vita Ve’a DT
The Bills have a whole smorgasbord of needs, but are blessed to have five draft picks in the first three rounds…which helps. They could cash some of those in to get a quarterback, as Tyrod Taylor doesn’t seem to be a fit in Buffalo. To get a Cousins, it’ll probably cost too much, and the Bills don’t have an enormous amount of cap space, so a bidding war is probably out of the question. Ve’a is a beast and is a cheap replacement for Marcel Dareus in the same position. 350lb of grunt will help support a handy defense.

Do: Vita Ve’a DT
He also fulfils the criterion of “Best Available” and it’s pretty hard to find a complete airball, when pretty much every position is either devoid of talent or, more often, lacking in depth.
 
22.   Buffalo Bills (from Kansas City)

Should: James Daniels C
Daniel Jeremiah of nfl.com loves him, but the Bills fans won’t be enamoured at us drafting two linemen. You have to make the best football decision, though, and that means replacing Eric Wood, who has been a stalwart of the Bills’ O-Line, but who has had to retire due to injury. Daniels is a strong run blocker, particularly at the second level, which is a necessary feature for the Bills, who rely on making gaps for Shady McCoy at running back.

Do: James Daniels C
I would not have been surprised if they went Billy Price, if he were still on the board…or frankly a whole load of other positions of need. Reality is that there aren’t any standout WRs, QBs or TEs out there in the low twenties, so drafting sensibly for now is best. It’s not sexy, but it is a smart couple of picks. Mayock impressed.

23.   Los Angeles Rams

Should: Donte Jackson CB
Cornerback is a massive need for the Rams, who are presumably losing Trumaine Johnson in the offseason. Having turned into an aggressive offense, it’s more important than ever to stop the opposition from getting the ball downfield quickly. Jackson is an athlete and McVay has shown himself to be a coach who wants to develop raw talent.

Do: Donte Jackson CB
A smart call, though one of a few they could have made. The one I think they rightly omitted was Mike Hughes, whose off-field issues (a misdemeanour assault) could be a red flag for a big city like LA.

24.   Carolina Panthers

Should: Mike McGlinchey OT
He had the option of declaring for last year’s draft, but chose to do another year of school. That sort of thing is attractive to some teams, who value intelligence and self-appraisal. McGlinchey is a strong pass protector, who can start straight away in an offensive line which is light on talent. Protecting Cam must surely be a priority?

Do: Auden Tate, WR
The trouble with teams chasing a quick return to glory is they chase. This is a gamble, as a 6 foot 5 receiver offers a great option for the team (and a direct replacement for Kelvin Benjamin), but he doesn’t have explosive speed and has draft projections from rounds 1 to 3.

25.   Tennessee Titans

Should: Arden Key OLB
The Titans need an edge rusher and there are a few options here. Key has mobility and talent, but he’s also probably a safer pick than some of those left on the big boards. He has a huge first step, which shapes to be a success in the NFL. He does have areas of weakness, but he could be a Pro Bowl talent, with a higher floor than his rivals.

Do: Sony Michel RB
There’s little reason to keep Demarco Murray and a genuine pass-catching running back to support Derrick Henry makes a lot of sense. Michel also brings a strong pass protection game, which is important for disguise, as you can’t give away what you’re doing these days.

26.   Atlanta Falcons

Should: Maurice Hurst DT
The Falcons probably find themselves letting Dontare Poe go and, if they do, a more explosive replacement might be in order. Hurst fits the nasty, Seattle-type defense that Atlanta have been building. He offers mobility over size, but that could well be ideal for this team.

Do: Taven Bryan DT
I suspect this is the guy who gets the headlines, as the draft draws near. He has been getting comparisons to JJ Watt, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves here. He is a little more raw than Hurst, but the Falcons won’t mind that.

27.   New Orleans Saints

Should: Roquon Smith LB
I do see this as a position of need, as, although they have talent at the position, injuries hurt them late in the season and a young talent like Smith offers a big upside. They might like a QB or a WR, but these can come later in the draft, rather than reaching now.

Do: Roquon Smith LB
If he’s still on the board at 27, Smith makes huge sense. The Saints will be happy with their evening’s work.

28.   Pittsburgh Steelers

Should: Rashaan Evans LB
Having been teased by hours of watching teams draft around him, the Steelers will hate that Smith went just before they came to pick at 28. Evans isn’t a bad alternative, though.

Do: Rashaan Evans LB
Currently, and given the draft order above, I see this as a no-brainer. Ryan Shazier’s career is in serious question and the Steelers need a line backer.

29.   Jacksonville Jaguars

Should: Hayden Hurst TE
A few options here, but the Jags need to give Blake Bortles more options. They will lose Marqise Lee in the summer to free agency and, even with Allen Robinson coming back, a safe pair of hands will help. Hurst is probably the only tight end who could go day one.

Do: Isaiah Wynn OG
A similar principle, in helping Blake Bortles, plus offering some interior help for Leonard Fournette. Wynn was a left tackle for the Bulldogs, but Daniel Jeremiah has him as a guard. That would be ideal for the Jaguars.

30.   Minnesota Vikings

Should: Mike Hughes CB
The Vikings really need offensive linemen, but they’ll have to take them further down or bring in some free agents. They can afford to take a risk on Hughes, as he comes with huge upside if he turns out to be as good as his film suggests. If he doesn’t work, they have depth there anyway.

Do: Mike Hughes CB
Derrius Guice will be attracting attention with the commentators at this point, but the Vikings can’t really justify taking a first round running back when they have Dalvin Cook coming back. That is unless his recovery isn’t going as well as planned. Hughes it is.

31.   New England Patriots

Should: Da’Ron Payne DT
The Patriots defense looked pretty ordinary at times this season and, whilst the bend but don’t break system works to a point, they need to be able to stop teams getting consistent yardage. That starts with a run stuffer and they haven’t a good one since Vince Wilfork left. Jean Ricky Francois is an unrestricted free agent this summer and they need to pay Nate Solder or let him go, along with Dion Lewis and Rex Burkhead. Payne is a big unit who caused damage for the Alabama Crimson Tide and could be a first rounder. I toyed with Sam Hubbard, as his defensive coordinator is Schiano, whom Belichick loves. Also with McGlinchey as a replacement for Nate Solder.

Do: Jaire Alexander CB
Another free agent this summer is Malcolm Butler. His time seems to be up and the Patriots need cover desperately. Alexander has had some injuries but he is the projected to be the quickest of the corners and can play nickel, too, which suits the versatile Belichick system. Of course, we don’t know what will happen, post-Patricia, but we can expect it won’t be a complete overhaul in style. Alexander could be the one who shines in the combine and the Patriots need a raw speed guy. He is made for Belichick and Bill almost cracks a smile as he drafts him.

32.   Philadelphia Eagles

Should: Derrius Guice RB
This might seem an odd one, but he’s a vertical runner, who can either take a heavy workload or at least do some of the dirty work for Ajayi. Blount and Sproles are free agents and Guice is a nice replacement for Blount, which Wendell Smallwood certainly isn’t. The Eagles have relatively few needs (as befits the Super Bowl champions), though they could do with some replacement guys at Offensive Guard and linebacker. This is a fairly obvious potential trade down spot for the Eagles, but we aren’t doing that here.

Do: Leighton Vander Esch LB
This one might be a reach, but February is a long way away from the draft. I can see Vander Esch drawing praise for the next few months, as his performances for Boise State showed him to be more than a competent tackler. He is likely to go in the second round, but has a decent ceiling, which might well attract suitors. He is big enough to cover tight ends and that helps, when you are in a division with Evan Engram, Jason Witten, Jordan Reed and Vernon Davis.



So, that’s 16 offense and 16 defense, which is a nice coincidence.

I have no interest in NFL ,but what a terrific post.

Utterly fascinating read. Thanks Tal.

OMG, it's just hit me that I have to wait until pick 32 this year.

Great post, Tal.  I'm not close enough to the college prospects to properly assess it, but seeing that pick number brought a huge smile to my face (it had disappeared briefly, about 30 minutes ago, when I temporarily thought about Barnsley losing their manager).

Great post Tal will digest it properly later on! Can't beat a far too early mock draft :D - From the small amount I've seen so far I would like the Bengals to take Wynn, he seems like an animal. I wouldn't be shocked to see us move back and gain a couple of picks later in the first/second round, Bengals love their draft picks.

Saw a few clips of Guice today saying how good a North to South runner he is, seems like he'd be a good replacement for Blount if he does leave

McDaniels confirmed as the new head coach of the Colts, was rumours he'd stay for another year with the possibility of succeeding Belichick in 2019, but obviously not

I'm looking at putting together a stat/preview pack for the start of the season, do you think there's any use for recording what a team has done this year and whether there is likely to be any pattern year on year? Things like First half field goal, first half points, whether they score first, TD scorers, Score every qtr etc... based more towards betting lines that are available than general info.

Or do you think teams change too much year on year for there to be any correlation?

Works for some teams, but the ones that have had changes (including coaches of course) are harder to predict.

Also lots of subtle things:

Bolstering the offensive line in the summer might mean a running back is more efficient in yards per carry. Drafting a third down back in the fourth round might increase a QB's rating and passing yards. Changes in divisional rival teams can affect performance, when 2/16 games are against them.

Which teams defer helps for first TD bets, if you can get them up against a team that receives.

Score every quarter is largely irrelevant of itself.

Coaching tendencies are better: like the Eagles having an analytics team informing the coach when to go for it on 4th down.

That's the thing, there's been a lot of changes, there is a lot of those this summer and obviously the QB merry-go-round is in full swing as well.

Score every qtr may be irrelevant, but it's usually around 13/8-15/8 for decent teams and it could be a good earner if there's a team that usually does, although again I think that's largely dependant on schedule which may be harder to judge, I guess it would probably be more relevant to find Drive success rate, what percentage of drives end in scores

Or maybe Mcdaniels hasn't accepted it and is going to be Pats HC in 2019

Incredible turnaround.

Can't see what the Colts have done wrong. They had the coaching staff in place with a new team assembled. What happens to them now? Do they also renege?

McDaniels does a Belichick, then (resigned one day into his reign as Jets Head Coach).

Bloke has the Foles touchdown catch/trick play tattooed on arm

might support the Eagles

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DVYExcGW4AMYLtt.jpg)

Love the tattoo and Tal's mock draft, chuffed for Curtis and Ironside too.

This might be a bit left field but how about Bill now gets traded given things are clearly not right in New England. Bill to the Colts who now look likely to have a far from fit QB and a bad roster could be the final act  if Kraft decides to show him who is boss. Giving him the same treatment Beilichick has given players that caused problems down the years, most recently Jamie Collins and now Malcolm Butler.

The Kraft love/loyalty for Brady feeds in to this. If you could have had only Brady or Bellichick for the last 17 years. Who would you pick?

the difference between posting on instagram and linkedln

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DVdWfAbXkAEECS-.jpg)

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DVdWfvOXUAEbEKp.jpg)

Russell Wilson was traded yesterday,yet no comment on here at all

that went down well in Indy then

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DVbuW3mWAAAu6DB.jpg)

Mic'd Up of the 'Philly Special'/'Philly Philly' is good fun. Up on the NFL site now.

Same move as A-Rod, then?

:D

Chris Simms of Bleacher Report suggests a move in free agency for Jimmy Graham by the New England Patriots.

That would be an interesting one.

The 49ers and QB Jimmy Garoppolo have agreed to a five-year, $137.5 million contract, source says. The biggest deal in NFL history on a average-per-year basis.

Nana Garropolo's 86th birthday.

"Hey Jimmy G! How's football?"
"Nana G! Good"
"You starting yet?"
"Not yet, Nana."
"Oh. Not to worry. Tommy can't have long"


Nana Garropolo's 87th birthday.

"Hey Jimmy G! How's football?"
"Nana G! Good"
"You starting yet?"
"Not yet, Nana."
"Oh. Not to worry. Tommy can't have long"


Nana Garropolo's 88th birthday.

"Hey Jimmy G! How's football?"
"Nana G! Good"
"You starting yet?"
"Not yet, Nana."
"Oh. Not to worry. Tommy can't have long."


Nana Garoppolo's 89th birthday

"Hey Jimmy G! How's football?"
"Nana G! Good"
"You starting yet?"
"Yes ma'am"
"Really?! That's fantastic news! Tommy finally retired huh?"
"No. He threw 505 yards in the Super Bowl"
"What?!"
"Yeah. I'm in San Francisco now"
"Oh...I'm so sorry to hear that"
"Don't worry Nana. I'm earning more than him"
"My beautiful Jimmy G!"

I think it would be Bellichick as he's won games with Cassel at QB when Brady was injured.  Jimmy G and Brisett when he was suspended. Over 17 or so years and acting as Coach and GM too in recent times his record given how tough one of those jobs is let alone two is unreal.

Brady prob the GOAT but I'd fancy Arod, Big Ben, Peyton to have won a lot of the big games New England have won.

And to think I drafted him in the Blonde Dynasty NFL league 4 years ago, had him on my bench and waited patiently for Brady to retire so he could take over but then traded him to Brent 3-4 weeks before Jimmy went to San Fran. He's won 7 games in the NFL and is now the highest paid player. Incred really. Have to think Kirk Cousins, Matt Ryan and ARod will be over the moon that Jimmy G has just reset the QB market tho. can't be long before the first 30 million a year QB can it?

Got to give credit to Brady here tho haven't we, who has taken pay cuts down the years to help the team and now finds the QB that sat on the bench behind him for 4 years is basically now earning twice as much a year in salary than he is.

That's the biggest takeaway for me.

Kirk Cousins is now likely to price a few teams out of the market. Can't see Buffalo affording him for example. And Arthur Blank has been trying to influence the negotiations with Ryan publicly by encouraging him to take a deal that suits the cap. A-Rod is now on $5.5m a year less than Jimmy and 2017 taught us just how valuable he is to that franchise.

Arguably, quarterback is the worst paid position in football.

Jimmy G has started less than 10 games in the NFL and now has two Super Bowl rings and the biggest contract in NFL history. A true inspiration to those that let their partners do all of the work on group projects

What's the situation now with Colin K?

Has he got a Team, & a Contract?

Neither.

What a weird story.

Guess he has stood up (well, NOT stood up....) for his principles, but his career is in ruins.

Not sure whether he should be admired or pitied for that, to be honest.

Can't help but think he'll look back in 10 years & regret losing such a wonderful career.

What he's standing up for is so much more important than a game though. I reckon he'll play again, just need a team owner who's comfortable telling Trump to gfh.

I read something the other day that his legal team have been granted access to a Gazillion documents to put their case of collusion within the league together. On the face if it he looks to have a strong case.

A few weeks ago I saw a 'Quarter backs that have started in the league since Colin Kaepernick has been blackballed' list that was making the point that 'THESE' guys have jobs and he doesn't. I'm pretty sure the current Super Bowl MVP and owner of the TD that's was described as A TD that will be shown a billion times was one of the QB's listed too. Funny how things turn out.

He abs deserves to have a job given his talent so will be interesting to see if they can prove collusion.

On a side note I saw something on a Twitter feed reposted on Neil C's page that made an interesting point. The POTUS was making a point that Iranians were well within their rights to peacefully protest against unfair treatment and conditions that were unacceptable within Iran. That's the same POTUS that called NFL players lead by Kaepenicks example to peacefully kneel during the US anthem singing before each NFL game 'sons of bitches' and called for them to be sacked.

just did a a google search for new england patriots owner best google result ever

when ii first saw a photo of the result i thought it was photoshopped but nope see for yourselves

One of the prospects at cornerback for the draft is Isaiah Oliver of the Colorado Buffaloes.

Currently not in my first round, I found out his athletics stats. Turns out he's handy as a decathlete:

https://www.iaaf.org/athletes/united-states/isaiah-oliver-014578399

Could be a decent combine time, even at 6 foot 2. A little raw in football terms but the right coaching could turn that sort of stat sheet into a pro bowler.

Today's reminder of the unpredictability of the draft:

The first 4 QBs drafted in 2012 threw 0 passes in 2017.
The 5th QB in 2012 was so bad, Houston gave up a second-round pick to get rid of his contract.
The 6th, 7th and 8th QBs were Russell Wilson, Nick Foles and Kirk Cousins.

Where does Cousins go?

New York Jets

A good WR corps that did well with an unfavoured quarterback last year. Has a good relationship with the coaching staff. Talk of incredible money offers.

Cleveland Browns

Another team with $100m to spend. A better offensive line on paper than the Jets and a returning WR corps in Corey Coleman and Josh Gordon. Browns could go hard here, use picks 1 and 4 on positions of need, then maybe spend 33 or 35 on a development QB to sit behind him. Would be a dream scenario for them.

Denver Broncos

The last chance for this franchise before a possible rebuild, the Broncos have to gamble, if they want to make a playoff run. They desperately need a QB. The chance of a a gunslinger behind center gives this team a realistic prospect of challenging in the West.

Any others?

Cardinals.

They've actually got a lot of holes, but defensively pretty good and I would argue they're better than the 3 teams above.

Vikings as a rank outsider, plenty of cap space, no qbs under contract. Could let Bradford, Keenum go, sign Teddy to a team friendly deal as backup and become potential NFC winners again.

From the sound of it though the Jets seen to be the favourites after offering him a blank cheque

(https://files.taxfoundation.org/legacy/docs/PIT-01.png)

If you're moving for money, Jacksonville, Miami, Raiders, Seattle, Houston, Dallas look the places to be.

Cleveland nearly twice as good as New York!

Is there a way around these taxes or do players just have to suck it up?

Marcus Peters is a game-changer.

He’s forced 24 turnovers in 3 seasons.

19 INT
5 FF
5 FR
3 TD

He must be a real headache to be traded....

talk of the Vikings ditching all 3 QBs and going for cousins

seems a strange one, with so many QBs at the top of the draft chart this year
will we see the end of the careers for some household names cant give them all roster spots

Keenum to Denver
Cousins to Minnesota
Darnold to Cleveland (maybe with Bradford)
Rosen to the GMen
McCown re-signs with the Jets (who also draft one)
Tyrod stays in Buffalo
Bridgwater to Arizona?

Is anyone of the view that Cousins is a top 12 QB? Someone is going to overpay.

I think Cousins is a top 12 QB, yes

He's average IMO. In the middle bracket.

Would rather take Keenum and two decent offensive linemen.

The combine has started. We currently find ourselves enjoying watching the least athletic guys doing athletic things.

Some of the offensive linemen have been putting up strong numbers. There looks to be a very strong class here, based on the early results. You have two types of linemen, here: tackles and guards. Some of the prospects will be able to play in either position, but players tend to specialise.

5 people protect the quarterback in the offensive line: Left Tackle, Left Guard, Center, Right Guard, Right Tackle. Your guards will generally be heavier and lower on the ground to push holes for running backs and to block any inside pass rush. Tackles marshal the outside and the pass rush, also protecting the edge to make space for the running backs who want to go round the outside. Left tackle protects the right handed QBs' blindside, so this is a critical position for teams. There aren't 32 good left tackles in the NFL.

I've just watched a tackle called Brian O'Neill run 40 yards in 4.80 seconds, with the first ten yards in 1.70. Generally, these guys are doing well to get close to 5 seconds. That first ten yard split is really important for these guys, as they will be facing rushers with huge first steps like Von Miller and being able to stop them - and being able to get up the field to pass block at the second level - is a huge boost for your chance of getting drafted (and getting paid).

Kolton Miller - who is talked about as a potential early rounder - managed a stupendous 1.67 in his ten yard split, and his 4.98 forty time is handy. Being 6' 8" 5/8 means he's a fair unit to shift out the way. It's some wingspan. He's an outstanding athlete. How about this broad jump?

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACGWZK9tpIA

Again: he's an offensive lineman!

Connor Williams 1.76 and 5.05 also impressive. His drills look sharp. 34 inch vertical jump is insane. 26 inches was last year's average. He's a top 10 talent in the draft and will start immediately at tackle.

Quenton Nelson had a superb day yesterday with a monster 35 reps on a 225lb bench press.

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RN81HcJ1mk8

He then injured his hamstring in the warm up today and won't run a 40 time. He says he will compete in everything else, though. His drill afterwards was very impressive: balanced, powerful and composed.

Meanwhile, Orlando Brown Jr - who is a highly unathletic looking fellow - ran 5.86 then 5.77 and that first one is slated to be the slowest time ever going to be drafted. He's not there to be athletic, but Mike Mayock calling his performance "historically bad" doesn't help. He is 6'8" and has cut down from 370lb to 345lb. There are some guys here who look big but are built like they are phyiscally fit. Brown is the opposite; he looks like he's never seen a gym. But he can really play. It's going to be interesting to see what happens next, because he was always going to look bad at the Combine but chose to come anyway. He did an interview with Colleen Wolfe afterwards, where he was honest and explained he'd been 450lb in 8th grade and has worked hard to get the weight down. He's a very good football player, as you'll see below (number 78). No sacks allowed last year:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCkY01Ma-Kg

Will Hernandez outbenched Nelson with 37 reps:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-1dJ0k-h5I

Having shorter arms clearly helps with this test (and you want length in these positions), but these are still eyebrow raising numbers. He has helped his cause for sure.

do the browns take Barkley as the 1st pick?

I would but it's virtually certain they take Sam Darnold.

surely there is enough depth at QB that if they want they can pick one up at 4

if they dont pick up a veteran before hand

They have the chance to get their guy. I expect them also to bring a veteran in.

None of the current QB class look like slam dunk immediate starters. Cleveland and Giants will likely go QB at 1 and 2, both of them sitting their drafted QBs for the time being.

Barkley more likely to go at 2 than 1. If he is still there at 4 (Darnold, Rosen, Chubb), he will go to Cleveland.

LOL!

I can just about do 1 rep at 225 :D

Amazing how some of these lumps can move so quickly, be so strong, and still so athletic.

Personally I think they have.

If I were them I'd pay Cousins, Bradford, Foles, whatever is needed.

Take Barkley at 1, then either trade the 4 to say, the Bills for their 2 1sts, or take Chubb, or Fitzpatrick. Chubb opposite Garrett would be a heck of a pass rush, on paper.

Or they could still take 2nd or 3rd QB there.

I get your point but why overpay for Cousins or spend on a mediocre gap-fill when you have 2 picks in the top 4 of a QB rich draft?

Take Darnold and then one of Barkley, Chubb and Fitzpatrick (in that order). Could make a case for Nelson too. Let's be honest: they can't miss at 1 and 4.

There will be a running back at 33 if they want: Sony Michel, Guice, Ronald Jones might be there. Then a lineman or a DBack at 35. The run on QBs and teams reaching for WRs (in what is a modest class) will push talent down to the Browns on Friday for sure.

Can't argue with you there either tbh. I'm hoping Nelson drops to 12 but seems unlikely after his performance

Probably better in the Strong thread, but here's 3rd round prospect, Kentavius Street carrying 50 stone on his shoulders:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7YDFzDXzWg

6'2" and 280lb defensive end. That's some strength from that.

Having said that...

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DXTvbFQUQAEWzn8?format=jpg)

...if they can find a QB not called Darnold or Rosen that they like, the Browns could take Barkley at 1.

here we go

 Bovada now has Saquon Barkley as the favorite to be picked No. 1 in the draft

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DXopGQ5U8AAuemo.jpg)

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DXoY5pfWsAIi4IU.jpg)

Paddy:

Barkley 5/2
Darnold 5/2
Allen 5/2
Rosen 7/1
Mayfield 7/1
Chubb 25/1

We can say no to Chubb, Rosen and Mayfield: seems implausible to me the Browns go down those lines for various reasons (Not position of greatest need; risky off the field; possible Manziel). And if you believe they are trading out of #1, you'll believe anything.

Allen is definitely viable and has been working well with coaches to improve areas of perceived weakness. We've not seen him against NFL defensive systems yet, but he's definitely improved his stock. A couple of weeks ago, he was being drafted in the twenties. Not anymore. Does he go first? Darnold has a lot of pressure on his pro day now, but I expect him to be a better fit for Cleveland. They need a game manager whose sole focus is football.

Betting both Darnold and Barkley is the same as a 4/5 bet. Value?

i think Mayfield is a definite runner

not at all like Manziel in the "intangibles",much more like Drew Brees on the field (stature and style)

I am a huge fan

Ok, the Manziel comparison is a lazy one. Baker is a better quarterback.

We can't ignore his head-loss moments though - DUI arrest, naughty gesture to opposing fans and the Souness-esque flag planting in Ohio. If you're the GM of a team that's 1-31, are you even considering a risk like that in front of (possibly lower ceiling but miles higher floor) Darnold?

Whoever they draft is not going to be playing until week 10 or later. They'll still be getting all the headlines and all the attention. The Browns need a Mr Reliable.

Wouldn’t be surprised if Hue Jackson fancies Barkley at 1 and Nelson at 4 going with AJ mccarron at qb.Dont think he’ll get his way as surely they have to take a qb at 1.

There's a good Move the Sticks podcast up today about the number 1 pick options. Whatever they do, they will be taking a QB this year. Be unthinkable not to. Only option beyond 1 or 4 is trading down from 4, but that's not really in the wheelhouse of the new management.

At this rate Seattle are going to be able to afford an O line this season. Given Bennett away, Sherman seemingly on his way too, Possible Chancellor when he is fit again. A proper cleaning of house in progress.

Which year was it that Jimmie Johnson pulled off that coup by trading your RB for a lset of players but having in place that the players would convert to draft picks if they didn't work out?

Didn't he then release all the players he had taken in the trade and ended up getting 4-5 draft picks for one RB?

Herschel walker 1991. Ended up being 12 picks, and three Superbowls followed in the next four years. Had already drafted their quarterback too so really made hay

Was looking for a good option on the 49ers. Oddschecker listed them to make the playoffs at 17/2 on Bet "twats" Victor. Turns out that's not a market they actually offer.

There's an NFC team I'm cute on this year and I'm expecting them to be a big price. Will explain in the forthcoming Mock Draft number 2. Probably tomorrow. It's nearly finished, but the various free agency shenanigans haven't helped. Plus I might - might...possibly - have spotted I'd given a player to two teams. Ahem...

 ;booboo;

Mock Draft 2

This is the second edition of my predictions for the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Like its predecessor, I’m pretending that there will be no trades, which obviously won’t be true. However, until we get much nearer to the end of April, it is pure guesswork, so I’m leaving the order as it is for now. I plan to do one more near the draft, so I’ll consider throwing in a couple of plausible trades for that. We’ll see.

The free agency market will have a significant impact on who gets drafted and that is still taking shape at the time of typing. There will always be something, so there’s no perfect time for these things.

I’ve made a few assumptions and best guesses along the way about where certain players go and which areas teams decide to improve with experienced players and which they test the water of the draft with. For example, Mock 2 has Kirk Cousins going to Minnesota, as it’s a flip between them and the Jets (according to Kirk Cousins) and I can see him taking less money for a conceivable Super Bowl run, rather than wallowing in the mediocrity of the Meadowlands.

For this one, although I again do what I think the teams SHOULD do and then what I think they WILL do, I’ve added a third thing to reflect the change from the first edition of the mock draft and some general notes. Sometimes, it will simply be that the man I had them drafting is no longer available, but sometimes it will be the circumstances have changed and there’s a different need or want.

As before, the Draft runs on what DOES happen.

Of course, one change forced upon me is the coin flip, which San Francisco won, so they draft ahead of the Raiders. That could well be significant.

Ok, enough waffle. Let’s get on with it...

(http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2013/0424/nfl_2013draft_08.jpg)

1.   Cleveland Browns

Notes: Projected number one pick, Sam Darnold, elected not to throw at the Combine. It is a false environment, in that you’re not throwing to your own receivers and I can understand that decision, but throwing and decision-making are greater strengths for Darnold than the physical drills, so it still seems a strange decision. He must believe that he is getting a high draft pick and that throwing had no real upside, but carried risks. Barkley meanwhile had a sensational Combine, and a couple of the QB competitors performed well above expectation. Cleveland also intimated that they are open to trading out of the number one spot. Yeah right. Not even Ferguson or Mourinho in their most mischievous would say that with a straight face.

Who they should draft: Saquon Barkley RB
A recent topic of discussion everywhere and I’ve flipflopped a bit about this. The argument for going Barkley first is that he’s the best player in the draft and has the potential to lift a team that needs pressure taking off its passing game. Gurley, Zeke, Fournette have made a big difference to their teams in recent years. There’s nothing to suggest Saquon will be less than a stud. He shapes to be a generational talent for a team that has shown it can run the ball competitively (14th best OLine and 10th best running game last year, per Football Outsiders) and that was with Duke Johnson.

Who they do draft: Sam Darnold QB
I keep coming back to it: the Browns need a franchise leader and this is the most football-y decision. They get a guy who could be in a Browns jersey in 2030. He has to have a good pro day, but I expect him to. It’s a shame to miss out on Saquon (which you would now expect to), but they get another stud at 4 and should have superb choices at 33 and 35, too. Cue the picture of the jersey with all those names on, but this is the face of the Cleveland Browns, even if he starts begins by behind AJ McCarron.


2.   New York Giants

Notes: The Giants have – and get this – worked out that their offensive line is terrible, which is about time, frankly. It’s been rubbish for years. They met with the best Guard in the draft, Quenton Nelson, during the Combine, and there is some talk they pick him at 2. The new administration seems to be suggesting they are happy with Eli Manning under center for a few years, but they need to protect him better. They look, at time of typing, to be bringing in Andrew Norwell from Carolina, who is a very good Guard. They have so many weapons on offense through the air that they will be left with an interesting decision in April. I can’t see them trading down from 2.

Should: Saquon Barkley RB
Much as I love Nelson – his combine performance just backed up his numbers from college and all the hype – and much as I disagree that Eli is still a decent quarterback, it’s impossible to pass on Barkley, particularly when you desperately need a running back in your team.

Do: Saquon Barkley RB
There is no chance whatsoever that Barkley falls to 4 now. The Giants might do stupid things every now and then and love to take a risk (Eli Apple anyone?) but this is a slam dunk selection.


3.   Indianapolis Colts

Notes: The Colts aren’t a free agency team. They don’t really care much for it. GM Chris Ballard has said nothing to indicate that’s changing. They have a new head coach in Josh Mc…sorry…Frank Reich and he will want to stamp his authority on the franchise. The franchise will be losing RB Frank Gore and a few others, particularly in the wide receiver corps. The one most likely to re-sign is offensive guard Jack Mewhort, who is solid but has ended the last two seasons on a frustrating injured reserve. Andrew Luck is hopeful of returning in time for the next season, but who knows exactly?

Should: Bradley Chubb DE
The AFC South is a passing division, with Bortles, Watson and Mariota. The second most important position behind quarterback in the NFL is the guy that gets to the quarterback. Chubb could have been number one overall, if he’d been born a year earlier and went into last year’s Draft. His Combine performance was excellent and the Colts desperately need an edge threat.

Do: Bradley Chubb DE
It’s a second slam dunk pick in a row. They would go Barkley if he were still there, but he’s not, in this mock.


4.   Cleveland Browns (from Houston)

Notes: The Browns have their quarterback and their second and third best have just been taken too. There is an argument, with Rosen, Allen and Mayfield (the presumptive next three QBs) still on the board, that the Browns could trade down from 4, but it’s not Sashi’s analytics team anymore and the offer will need to be pretty big. That’s not to say it won’t happen, though. Denver will be going QB and teams will be working out who Elway wants. If they think “their” guy will be heading to Denver, the incentive is there to trade with Cleveland and jump above Denver. Equally, to combat that, Denver might make the trade themselves to get the man they want. It’s a more likely trade down spot than number one. The other thing to note is their left tackle, “Catfish” Joe Thomas, is considering looking for a new team. It won’t be a money decision; they have to convince him they won’t be the 1-31 team anymore.

Should: Quenton Nelson OG
This is going to cause a stir, I suspect, but how do you persuade your best player you understand his position matters? Invest in the offensive line. You’ve just drafted your franchise guy at 1 and the guy you drafted last year spent more time on treatment tables than the field, because you can’t protect him. Nelson is an elite guard who has pro bowl potential. If they draft a running back at 33 or 35, which is conceivable, Nelson offers support there too.

Do: Minkah Fitzpatrick S
This is the consensus pick at 4. The NFL defense nowadays looks for players who can play in more than one position; hybrids. Fitzpatrick is a massive upgrade at safety, but he can play anywhere in that backfield with his pace at football IQ. 


5.   Denver Broncos

Notes: Previously a suitor for Kirk Cousins, the Broncos now have to look elsewhere. I believe they will sign Case Keenum, whom they’ve coveted as a second choice. Free agency is a tough one for them, as they have lots of positions of either immediate or impending need. It’s plausible they pick up some gap fill guys like RB Dion Lewis and WR Donte Moncrief, spending money on someone like left tackle Nate Solder.

Should: Baker Mayfield QB
I think this is a pretty clear choice by way of fit and I expect him to be available at 5. He has worked with the coaching staff there for the senior bowl and Elway will fancy himself able to harness his undoubted talent. Expect visits from Peyton Manning.

Do: Baker Mayfield QB
Hi-fives in the Denver war room. John Elway is wearing aviators. 


6.   New York Jets

Notes: I’m working on the assumption that the Jets don’t get Cousins. Clearly, if they do get him, the choice for draft pick is going to be markedly different. They have a number of holes to fill and look to be in a rebuilding mode (even if they won’t admit it).

Should: Josh Rosen QB
From a pure football perspective, this is the guy for the Jets. I like Rosen. In my view, he’s the best QB in the draft. He simply can’t go to the Jets, though.

Do: Josh Allen QB
Rosen’s outspoken views on President Trump won’t enable him to sign for the Jets, whose owner, Woody Johnson, is the American ambassador to the UK. I suspect that’s a mutually convenient situation, though; Rosen wouldn’t want to play for the Jets. Allen excelled in the Combine, far above the guy I had previously put in this spot, Lamar Jackson. A pocket passer who has progressed a lot in the last few months, Allen is a franchise QB for a team that badly needs one.


7.   Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Notes: This is a fun one. Five out the first six picks are on offense and the Buccs must choose between two excellent defensive players and an offensive lineman. None of those will send Florida wild but they can’t go wrong, whoever they pick. Losing Doug Martin means they have a big need at running back. They have a big need at safety, too, with a truly woeful pass defense. Expect free agency moves there.

Should: Quenton Nelson OG
Personally, I look at the second and third rounds as the place to pick up guys in the secondary, as this is a deep draft in that position. They can also get someone like Tre Boston, Eric Reed, Kenny Vaccaro or even Tyrann Matthieu in that safety spot from free agency. Their quarterback has been hit and miss, but he’s undoubtedly their guy. So protect him. With all those weapons through the air, having an elite pass protector is a must, in order to give Jameis Winston the time he needs.

Do: Derwin James S
I think the Buccs will be too drawn to the chance to bring in someone of James’s talent. A hybrid star, he’s a huge upgrade on what they have and can play in a strong safety position or wherever else is needed.


8.   Chicago Bears

Notes: The Bears have decided to tag Kyle Fuller, which must be a smart move. They still need a cornerback, though, as well as extra defensive talent and some offensive line help. I do think Chicago are another trade down team, particularly in a situation like this mock draft, where there are some desirable players available and Chicago have so many positions of need. They are ripe for trying to get a wide receiver in free agency, as it’s a massive need for them and the wide receivers in the draft did nothing to suggest they’re worth the number 8 pick.

Should: Josh Jackson CB
I know plenty prefer Denzel Ward, but I love Jackson. He’s a zone corner par excellence and will be working with a young, talented group of defenders. He notably turned up to the Combine having bulked up, which will have raised a few eyebrows, but that’s not a bad thing at all; this is a physical league. Second choice for me – and a close one – is the one they plump for.

Do: Tremaine Edmunds LB
He’s another hybrid player, as he could play inside or outside. The Combine showed his fitness and strength. At 6’5”, he will be a defensive mismatch for even some tight ends. I’ve seen nothing to change my assessment of him from last time: he’s a stud.   

9.   San Francisco 49ers
 
Notes: as I commented at the start, the Niners won the coin toss, so pick ninth. They have their quarterback (not sure if anyone has mentioned that…), so it’s about building the rest of the roster now. This is a sneaky good team in prospect, with a head coach who has shown himself to be capable in his first year. I think they will look to bring in a wide receiver veteran and, again, could be a trade down team for someone needing a QB. Picks are a valuable commodity for this franchise.

Should: Quenton Nelson OG
Sorry, I keep saying this name, but he’s the guy to take here. Protect the quarterback.

Do: Quenton Nelson OG
If they are stuck at 9 and can’t trade down and assuming there’s no Barkley or Chubb available, this is the pick. He’d be a popular choice with the pundits.


10.   Oakland Raiders

Notes: Aldon Smith at linebacker has left, but that’s no loss to a team that barely saw him take to the field. If anything, he’s a distraction and they’re better off without him. The team has a big hole in the secondary.

Should: Denzel Ward CB
The better pick for a team that plays about with its defensive schemes a lot. Ward is more comfortable in man systems than Josh Jackson.

Do: Denzel Ward CB
I think they would have liked Derwin James here, so they could push Karl Joseph out to free safety, but he’s off the board. Upgrading the secondary cannot be a mistake.  


11.   Miami Dolphins

Notes: They have so many needs and their relentless pursuit of over the hill, overrated, overpaid names is a source of amusement for rival fans. They need a quarterback and they are currently $19m over the salary cap…and that’s before Robert Quinn becomes the latest name who used to be good a few years ago to join. They desperately need a tight end, but 11 is probably too high. Actually, they probably need two.

Should: Josh Rosen QB
Perhaps not the obvious pick, but it’s patently obvious the team needs a leader under center. The locker room has a lot of characters in it (see above) so no shrinking violets will be allowed. Rosen could have gone 9 places sooner, if the Browns had taken Barkley first.

Do: Josh Rosen QB
He’s still on the board and has to come off it now. The Dolphins would be spending 10 minutes taking phone calls from Arizona, Buffalo and other places, but we’re not doing trades, so Miami gets a new poster boy.  


12.   Cincinnati Bengals

Notes: Historically, the Bengals don’t seem to believe in starting with the OLine when it comes to the draft. They might have their hand forced this year, as the center, Russell Bodine, might well be looking for a new jersey and, even if he does re-sign, he could do with upgrading. Chris Baker adds some grunt at Defensive Tackle.

Should: James Daniels C
This might feel like a reach, but Daniels looked good in the Combine, where his rival for top center, Billy Price, tore a pectoral on the bench. There are lots of options for them, but Daniels has a lot to offer and could play in a guard position if they were able to bring Bodine back, or upgrade him in free agency.

Do: James Daniels C
I’m going to be nice. The Bengals draft a center. And he’s a good’n.


13.   Washington Redskins

Notes: It looks like the Redskins will target Paul Richardson at wide receiver in free agency. They must improve the secondary, too. Alex Smith coming in is not a long term solution, though his replacement is not an immediate need either.

Should: Josh Jackson CB
I said Marcus Davenport last time, but I am not convinced by his draft performance. I was hoping his 3 cone drill would be under 7 seconds, which is typically the mark of an elite edge rusher. He went 7.2. I think Davenport is a work in progress, where Jackson is a natural fit at corner, an immediate difference maker and I’m very much a truther for him.

Do: Josh Jackson CB
This is the area I fancy the Redskins to upgrade first in the draft. It makes a lot of sense.


14.   Green Bay Packers

Notes: A team that is generally frugal in the offseason, the Packers might dip their toe in this year and pick up some positions of need to help the returning Aaron Rogers.

Should: Connor Williams OT
I like him and watching Packers QBs running around a lot only has so much appeal. I originally had Denzel Ward going here, but he’s off the list this time. Williams might switch to guard, but he’s available in either position.

Do: Connor Williams OT
A-Rod is happy. They can bolster the secondary in later rounds and hopefully secure a name or two at wide receiver in free agency or later down in the draft.


15.   Arizona Cardinals

Notes: Very much touted as a trade up team or a suitor for the various free agent QBs, the Cards are in a rebuild mode, whether they like it or not. The wide receiver corps isn’t good enough, even having managed to persuade Larry Fitzgerald to stay. David Johnson will be getting 30+ touches a game in all likelihood, but they have so many needs and could easily finish fourth in the division this time around. I expect Honeybadger to stay, but the team needs help badly.

Should: Will Hernandez OG
A new name for my mock draft, but he had an excellent Combine. There are no QBs worthy of a top 15 pick, nor wide receivers, so it should be an offensive lineman. Not long in the arm, but his quick feet will enable him to get downfield quickly. Blocking at the second level is a must for David Johnson, much like Richie Incognito does for Shady McCoy in Buffalo.

Do: Will Hernandez OG
They’d love a QB, but it’s not going to happen this time. Here’s hoping they can find a Teddy Bridgwater or Nick Foles to mind the shop.


16.   Baltimore Ravens

Notes: the Ravens blog Baltimore Beatdown proposes that the Ravens will pick between an offensive tackle and a wide receiver. Indeed, it even names both: Mike McGlinchey and Calvin Ridley. Tight end would be a reach and Tremaine Edmunds has gone already at inside linebacker. They are one of the teams looking to bolster WR in free agency and they might take a quarterback late, just in case.  

Should: Roquan Smith LB
I disagree with the blog and say they should take Roquan Smith, who is a gifted prospect in the linebacker corps. Marcus Davenport could be a fit, as he is a project who needs coaching on the edge and has plenty of people around him to teach him how to improve, but I’d go Smith.

Do: Calvin Ridley WR
This one seems obvious: GM Ozzie Newsome gets an Alabama wide receiver.  

17.   Los Angeles Chargers

Notes: Head Coach, Anthony Lynn, has been on the record this weekend that they're looking to make some changes on the OLine, which will enable them to bring in last season's draft pick Forrest Lamp. They should be looking at quarterback options, but it probably won't be in the first round, unless one drops into their lap.

Should: Vita Vea DT
I'm a big fan of this unit. His Combine performance was strong and he is an immediate starter in a woeful run defense. He's also got the athleticism this system demands.

Do: Roquan Smith LB
In fairness, this is a toss up. The only thing worse than the run defense in general is the linebacker corps specifically.


18.   Seattle Seahawks

Notes: There's a feeling of a changing of the guard in the NFC West, as the two dominant teams of Seattle and Arizona make way for the energised San Francisco and Los Angeles Rams. Seattle still have the best QB in the division in Russell Wilson and, whilst not the Legion of Boom anymore, the defense is still good. We know Michael Bennett has gone to Philadelphia. He hasn't been the dominant force of a couple of years ago, but will still be missed. Richard Sherman is done, if you believe Richard Sherman. Kam Chancellor a doubt to return.

Should: Marcus Davenport DE
A polarising prospect, Davenport could be a top ten pick or a first round sneaker-inner. He has so much talent but is raw. He needs coaching and moulding into a consistent producer. Do that and he's an elite pass rusher that threatens 20 sacks a season. Hard to think of a better team than Seattle for that.

Do: Marcus Davenport DE
Still here at 18 you say? Sign him up. Pete Carroll loving life. Look for them to take cornerbacks in the 2nd and 3rd round, as they rebuild the secondary.


19.   Dallas Cowboys

Notes: Dez Bryant was rumoured to be available to other teams but that never happened. He's staying in Dallas. Dak Prescott is probably going to have to make do again, though there might be some pick ups in free agency and in the draft. Jerry Jones says they'll be looking to turn the offense “Dak friendly”, whatever that means. Franchise tagging Demarcus Lawrence means they secure their best edge rusher for a season, though he is one of a few marquee players who will be looking for new contracts soon.

Should: Vita Vea DT
Defensive tackle is a big area of need and little else makes sense at this point in the draft. The system will be to stop the opposition getting easy yards on the ground and then to give it to Zeke. That's pretty Dak friendly.

Do: Vita Vea DT
I can't see how the Cowboys leave him and think anyone else is better.


20.   Detroit Lions

Notes: I think this is the most interesting team in the NFL. I know...I know...but a good QB, three good receivers, talk of Jimmy Graham upgrading on Eric Ebron at TE, franchise tagged DE Ziggy Ansah and an elite cornerback in Darius Slay, all coached by former Patriots DC, Matt Patricia. The division is horribly competitive but they're not far behind Minnesota or Green Bay.

Should: Derrius Guice RB
Hard to overlook the gaping hole at running back. Guice is the only other running back beyond Saquon that I’d confidently take in the first round. He has versatility that will appeal to Patricia too.

Do: Da’Ron Payne DT
Versatility applies here, as well. Payne is sharp, quick and scary. If you are a defensive guy looking to build a defense, this makes a lot of sense. The team already has AShawn Robinson but there's no reason why they can't have both. This selection enhances Ziggy's threat on the outside, too. Move over Minny!


21.   Buffalo Bills

Notes: Having lost Eric Wood at center and with Kyle Williams still deciding whether to leave, Tyrod Taylor doesn't seem like such a problem right now for the men from upstate New York. The Bills can't think of last year as a minimum expectation. They overachieved for sure. Now is the time to be sensible and build, with 5 picks in the first three rounds. They picked up Chris Ivory as the back up running back, which I think was a very good move. Now for everything else.

Should: Isaiah Wynn G
What I like about Wynn is his athleticism. He's not tall but he is efficient and will get upfield, which this Bills offense needs. It's not out of the question that he becomes a center, at 300lb.

Do: Isaiah Wynn G
Billy Price was long linked with the Bills but I'm not sure they can afford to take a risk on him, after his injury. I think he would be their first choice, though. I'll stick with Wynn as a default.


22.   Buffalo Bills (from Kansas City)

Notes: as above.

Should: Kolton Miller OT
Approximately five metres tall (well, 6'9") and following a fine performance in the Combine, Miller's stock is high. The Bills have struggled on the right hand side of the OLine, with a rolling stock of mediocrity and guff. Miller would offer support on the edge. He isn't a finished product by any means, but he could be a steal. Whatever he is, he is an upgrade.

Do: Lamar Jackson QB
Jackson did something odd at the Combine: he didn't run. What's odd about that is he's really good at it. So Darnold didn't their and Jackson didn't run. Go figure! The Bills get a quarterback who has a cannon for an arm and who is a very good runner. His ceiling is several floors higher than Tyrod and keeping Taylor for a year would enable the Bills to maintain the system when the changeover inevitably comes. It's a decision that makes sense. Who knows: they might have just drafted Michael Vick.

 
23.   Los Angeles Rams

Notes: Much to Todd Gurley's chagrin, the Rams traded linebacker Alex Ogletree for some late round picks. Add to that the unceremonious dumping of Tavon “JetSweep” Austin. This probably is all necessary to free up enough cap space to pay Aaron Donald whatever number he can think of. And that is the number they should pay him. They have brought in Marcus Peters, which arguably saves them the need to spend their first pick on a cornerback. A burgeoning quarterback, a strong running game, talented chain moving receivers and a grumpy defense, all under the stewardship of the 2017 coach of the year. This is a team on the up.

Should: Rashaan Evans LB
The position of greatest need is often a plan. Evans is a big, quick linebacker, who'll be a good fit in an imaginative defensive scheme. I think he'd be a really good fit here.

Do: Jaire Alexander CB
Stole the show in the Combine and offers something a bit different for a team that could do with a nickel corner. A close call, here, but I think they might get a guy if they really fancy one of the many corners left.


24.   Carolina Panthers

Notes: Carolina are in a tough spot. They're in a very competitive division, which makes getting that all-important home field advantage all the tougher. They also have a roster that is in a bit of flux at a few positions, with some decent names heading off to find new employment. All this while still having enough talent to be competitive. Jonathan Stewart leaves Christian McCaffrey as the main running back (if you don't include Cam Newton). Andrew Norwell leaves a hole at guard. They desperately need cornerbacks, too. Oh and probably a wide receiver, if Curtis Samuel isn't going to turn into one.

Should: Mike Hughes CB
I could find an argument for a different position, but I think Hughes is good enough to justify the selection. On some boards, he's the top corner and he comes into the team straight away.

Do: Mike McGlinchey OT
Cam Newton keeps getting hit in the head, so bringing in a big bloke to stop opposing big blokes from hitting him in the head does make sense, when you put it that way. The depth of the cornerback class appeals for rounds 2 and 3, plus the wide receivers not called Ridley are a stretch at 24.

25.   Tennessee Titans

Notes: Mike Vrabel is now in charge. He is probably not going for the “exotic smashmouth" nonsense that has held this team back. Now they must kick on because they lost ground to the Jaguars in the AFC South last year.

Should: Lorenzo Carter DE
This might be a reach, but I was very impressed with his performance at the Combine. The Titans need a pass rush and, though his college numbers aren't great, that is partly owing to him being in a rotational system. A safer pick would be the linebacker, Leighton Vander Esch, but both have the dual threat make up that Vrabel will want. Get Carter.

Do: Leighton Vander Esch LB
Vrabel, the former Texans linebacker coach, picks a linebacker. But he's a good'n. His Combine performance was excellent, too. I had him sneaking into the first round last time but he might now end up going quite a bit higher.


26.   Atlanta Falcons

Notes: The Falcons thought they might have signed Michael Bennett, but he chose the Super Bowl champions instead. They’ve restructured left guard Andy Levitre’s contract, which suggests they won’t be spending big on an upgrade in the linemen. It also suggests they’re trying to bring in a big name defender like Mo Wilkerson or Sheldon Richardson and needed to get the wage bill down, in order to meet the cap. There’s an outside chance they look at a wide receiver in free agency, but their biggest needs are on defense, where they were disappointingly mediocre last year.

Should: Taven Bryan DT
Now it’s possible they find a deal for a veteran without a team or during the legal tampering period, but, even if they do, there’s scope for bringing in a rookie who needs a bit of work. Bryan had a superb Combine but was unpolished in his college career. He’ll need a year behind a veteran and needs a team that can coach him.

Do: Taven Bryan DT
Vic Beasley, Tak McKinley and Taven Bryan mark a young, hungry defense that is hoping to become what the Seahawks were, when Falcons Head Coach Dan Quinn was their Defensive Coordinator.


27.   New Orleans Saints

Notes: The Saints were on the rough end of the Minneapolis Miracle, else they would have been going to the NFC Championship game in Philly. A much improved defense – ok that wasn’t difficult – and a stud running back corps has propelled the team from average to challenger. They have two big areas of need: tight end and linebacker. If they can improve on those two areas, they have a very interesting team. There is talk of Jimmy Graham coming back. Not sure I believe it.

Should: Rashaan Evans LB
There are a number of linebackers to choose from, here, plus a fair few available on the market, but Evans is an instant starter and his ten inch hands will be all over plenty of opposing jerseys for years to come.

Do: Mike Gesicki TE
I’m pretty sure they’d go Tight End, if the draft played out as it has here. Which one they plump for is a toughie. Goedirt apparently has some long term injury concerns, Hurst’s 25 so how much better is he going to get, and Gesicki struggles to block defensive backs. I’ve gone Gesicki, as blocking is probably a lesser consideration in this team than others.


28.   Pittsburgh Steelers

Notes: RB Lev Bell is the big offseason story, as he pushes for a lot more money. He’ll get it, despite all the histrionics in the press. WR superstar Antonio Brown has restructured his contract, in order to create the cap space necessary to get down to business. The linebacker corps is weakened by the loss of Ryan Shazier. His return is unclear at best, having suffered in a horrible incident last year. They need a threat to quarterbacks and could do with bolstering the secondary.

Should: Rashaan Evans LB
Much as an outside threat would be ideal, I think Evans is the pick of the linebackers left on the board.

Do: Ronnie Harrison S
Harrison played alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick at Alabama, so there’s an outside chance the Steelers have drafted Sergei Rebrov, rather than Andrei Shevchenko, but Fitzpatrick and Harrison are different players and Harrison will be joining a decent defense. What he brings is an upgrade on the run defense, which is where the Steelers are weakest. 6’3” and 214lb are handy stats, as was his ten foot broad jump at the Combine, showing his explosiveness.


29.   Jacksonville Jaguars

Notes: The best defense in football last year, certainly against the pass. They were one game away from the complete turnaround from laughing stock to Super Bowl team, but the jokes have unquestionably stopped and they are the best of the three Florida teams, without question. Offense is the obvious area of need, particularly at wide receiver, with Allen Robinson and Marquise Lee probably not returning. I doubt they will spend a first round pick on one, though, as their formula seems to be finding guys lower down.

Should: Hayden Hurst TE
The Jags need a guy who’ll start straight away and help Blake Bortles out. Hurst is a former baseball player – hence why he’s joining at 25 – already physically developed and well placed to add to an offense that needs to move the chains when teams stack the box against Leonard Fournette’s running game.

Do: Hayden Hurst TE
The former South Carolina player will have fun playing the Panthers twice a year.


30.   Minnesota Vikings

Notes: the discussions this offseason have almost exclusively been about the quarterback situation. They have three and it seems implausible that all three are there in September. Or May. Sam Bradford is probably the most talented, Case Keenum is wanted by the Broncos and Teddy is the most likely to stick around as a back-up, possibly to Kirk Cousins. There’s scope for a trade down to the second round.

Should: Billy Price C/G
Had he not torn his pectoral in the bench press, he would likely have been higher up. It’s cost him a few quid, but it might work out for him, as he gets drafted by a genuine contender to help a pretty mediocre run offense.

Do: Billy Price C/G
He joins up with Pat Eflein, the Vikings Center who he played with in college. Assuming he’s able to recover from his injury – and no reason to suppose he won’t – he improves a very good offensive line.


31.   New England Patriots

Notes: Last year’s Super Bowl runners up could end up with a few tricky decisions, as a number of their players are out of contract. The Pats do have a habit of being able to get their players back on reduced contracts; it’s almost as though players quite fancy playing for a perennial championship team, under the greatest coach and best quarterback of them all. Mystery, eh? TE Martellus Bennett has left. CB Malcolm Butler is going, so there is a gap there, as Stephon Gilmore has shown himself to be only good in man coverage and the Pats play a mixture of systems, from play to play. They could look for a new quarterback – no, not to start – but Jimmy Garoppolo and Jacoby Brissett are no longer there to step into the Pats jersey, when Tom Brady retires in 2036. The Pats have 3 picks in the first two rounds, so expect defense to dominate. They also love trading down to the second round.

Should: Sam Hubbard LB
The other area the Patriots really struggle in is pass rush and this could be the best guy in the draft at that who isn’t called Bradley Chubb. He fits the mould of a Belichick edge rusher at 6’5” and 270lb. Arden Key is an option, too, but I think this is more what the Pats have been missing since Jamie Collins and Chandler Jones left. Key also carries some off-field concerns.

Do: Sam Hubbard LB
I think this is a perfect fit and, barring something major, it’s one I think as close to likely as a 30-variable situation can be.


32.   Philadelphia Eagles

Notes: The quarterback situation is an interesting one. Expect Foles to stay, though, behind Carson Wentz. He is settled and happy, plus the team can afford to keep them both on the roster, as Wentz is still on his rookie deal and Foles isn’t due a gargantuan amount of cash in 2018. With Michael Bennett coming in on a trade, the Eagles improve on the pass rush and boast a formidable offensive line. LB Nigel Bradham is probably going to find a home somewhere else and Vinny Curry seems unlikely to be sticking around, unless he’s prepared to take a substantial pay-cut. On top of that, there’s a chance they look to offload one of their cornerbacks for a draft pick.

Should: Mike Hughes CB
Best available makes sense and Hughes has all the talent, without the team forcing him to be a stud player. There’s a really good coaching network in place and he will be one of the guys straight away.

Do: Rashaan Evans LB
Another perfectly good option, filling a gap for the champs. It’s not out of the question that the team improves from its offseason work. They could well be contenders again.



16 offense and 16 defense again, coincidentally. Plenty of variables there and all set to change between now and the draft in late April.

Any feedback welcome.

fantastic to read thanks

wish i had any time,i might do you my one liner 1-32 though!

yours 2003 football outsiders draft prediction champion lol (back when life was simpler)

Enjoyed that Tal.Unfortunately Cincy will re-sign Bodine so a centre at 12 is unlikely.

I think there's still scope for it. Bodine can stay at center and you have a good guard then alongside him. Daniels got rave reviews for his mirror work in the Combine and it's such an area of need for your boys, it's the first place I'd look. Dalton could have been the most sacked QB in the league if Bill Lazer hadn't come in and implemented a quick release offensive system halfway through.

The trouble with these things is they can be out of date moments after release: say if Kirk Cousins signed for the Jets.


Boss: "Doing anything nice on your week off, Tal?"

Tal: "Yes. Watching the NFL combine and sorting out version two of my mock draft"

Boss: "Errr. Didn't expect that. Most people say spending time with friends and family"

Tal: "They'd be no good. Don't know anything about NFL and would just think me weird for doing this."

Boss: "..."

Wonderful read, thanks Tal.

Made me feel Juventusenated.

(https://media1.tenor.com/images/9e8ce490a9b9109e8e3a623e1b5e862f/tenor.gif?itemid=5389064)

a really good read about my pet cat

Baker Mayfield's combine:

-- 3:30am drug test
-- Dorsey's 1st question: "So you like food trucks?"
-- CLE, NYG and now Jets will fly him in.
CLE, NYJ, MIA, N.O. plan private Norman workouts
-- Combine interviews: MIA JAX BUF DEN CLE NYJ NYG NO LAC ARI WAS

https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/03/08/baker-mayfield-combine-interviews-draft-browns-jets-dolphins-saints-giants

eagles have traded away torrey smith to the panthers for CB worley saving over $4 million on the cap in the process, cant say i have hear of worley sad too see smith but as good a deep threat he was he didnt have the greatest season

That's a very interesting piece.

Move the Sticks were talking about the Darius Guice interview where he was asked whether he is gay. The podcast is done by two guys who have quite a bit of experience of those interviews and neither expressed any recollection of that sort of question... though neither doubted Guice.

They said the worst thing they'd do is try to rattle the cage by pointing out in film where the player hasn't given his all, questioning the player's heart and commitment.

I imagine these interviews are horrible things for 19-21 year old lads. Like being in the Apprentice semi finals where the difference between a good answer and a great one is $10m and the difference between a great answer and a bad one could be $30m.

Richard Sherman released..Best player I’ve seen at running routes ahead of the receiver..

Bengals letting a Pacman hit free agency. With WJ3 arguably one of the best young CBs in the league not that much of a shock.

Mike Evans the second highest wr in the league now 82.5m for 5 years. Leading Sigmund Bloom to claim that A Rob could hit that much in free agency, not a view I agree with.

DJ and Bucky are a very good listen, I'll get back into it all come April, giving myself a break from podcasts until then! Still gives me 3 weeks before the draft to bone up a bit, and obviously keeping track of everything on twitter anyway

As a long suffering Jets fan, without the in depth knowledge of the NFL some of you guys have, I wondered if anyone would be prepared to say, which, of the seemingly vast number of quaterbacks that will be available, either through the draft or free agency, they would be better off getting?.
I know we need an edge rusher, corner back x2, a running back, and offensive line help as well, But A franchise QB is something I have not seen in green. Cousins will be expensive and I am unsure if he would choose the Jest over the Vikings, So do we try and pinch Bridgewater and draft either Mayfield or Allen if they are still on the board come the sixth pick?
What do you guys think?
Nick

What a fun day!

Jarvis Landry to the Browns for 2 picks.

Logically surely not the 4 overall, so probably one of their 2nds and 4th? General later round pick.

If they sort out QB situation, add Barkley they'll be in rather good shape, could even make it to 4 wins

It's one this year and one next.

Be thinking 33 this year and your third next year?

6th pick has to be best player available to me,probably a future pro bowl defensive back.If Cleveland pass up a qb at 1 and 4 you might get a shot but being behind Denver hurts.Pure guess jets draft a corner at 6 and take a qb free agency teddy or mccarron.

Have a look at the last page

:)

Cracking deal for the Browns either way, although he could just play tagged this year and cash in next year. But seeing as they have roughly 50% of all picks in the draft this year I'm sure they don't mind

Bills trade Tyrod Taylor to the Browns for a 3rd round pick.

#Browns Updated Skill-Position Corps:

QB Tyrod Taylor
RB Duke Johnson
WR Josh Gordon
WR Jarvis Landry
WR Corey Coleman
TE David Njoku

Plus a hotshot rookie qb and/or saquon and/or Chubb to come. Nice!

And another trade for Browns: Packers have informed CB Damarious Randall that he is being traded to Cleveland (like everybody else), per source.

Fantastic stuff, free agency not even started yet either

And they have 5 draft picks in the first 2 rounds!

Last 48 NFL hours:

Michael Bennett traded
Richard Sherman cut
Alec Ogletree traded
Aqib Talib traded
Martellus Bennett cut
DeMarco Murray cut
Elvis Dumervil cut
Torrey Smith traded
Jarvis Landry traded
Tyrod Taylor traded

Nate Ulrich
@NateUlrichABJ
#Browns left tackle Joe Thomas, who's pondering his future, is a fan of Tyrod Taylor and has said so on the ThomaHawk Show podcast

https://www.paddypower.com/american-football/2018-nfl-draft

5/2 on Barkley first, Sky 6/4, Ladbrokes 5/4....

Has to be now? Unless they trade out

The Bills' position for the first 2 nights of the draft: 21, 22, 53, 56, 65, 96.

Presumably mostly going to the giants as they go to get the QB they want for the next decade

Plan has always been get a bridge QB in and draft Darnold. More I think about it, more convinced I am.

Give them McCoy and 22 for pick 2?

No value in vet running backs. Market has cratered

 Something like 21,53 and next year's 1 to get to 2 or 3 like Philly did for wentz.

The Browns still have to get the paperwork sorted on Wednesday.

To me it seems more 50/50 at 1, but we shall see, I'd think there's a fairly good chance of Darnold at 4 still, but as you've said a few times if that's the QB you want then you get him at 1

Source: The #Packers have traded for QB DeShone Kizer. From the #Browns to Green Bay.

Well at least green bay have their QB now

Something to note about the Browns seemingly getting enough talent to put it all together-

The AFC North is about to be wide open. Ben is getting older, Flacco and Co. are what they are, and this is likely the last Bengals season before a rebuild. It'll be there for the taking.

As a fan of one of them teams I can't argue with that assessment, the Bengals aren't really getting older though, they're still a fairly young unit, I'd argue with a change of coaching they're in good position (obviously not happening this year) but I still think the roster is good. It's going to be an intriguing division though

Tighty, I've put Darnold #1 at 15/8 up on Fred if we fancy.

I'm in a tough position going up against someone who has done far more research and knows more about the NFL than myself, time will tell, and I may well be wrong

I would say good luck Tal, but, I can't. I shall be keeping an eye on Darnolds odds though

Draft isn't for 6 weeks. Plenty can happen. They could use their three second round picks on another first :D

That's the worst bit, it's 6 weeks away, i'm 6 beers in to my long weekend, and all this is going on, this is probably the most confident I'll be in my choice! Gives me plenty of time to get on Darnold if I need anyway.

Hopefully we're sorted here, in time for the draft :D

With Danny Shelton traded to Patriots, every one of the Browns first-round picks from 2009 to 2015 is gone

Alex Mack
Joe Haden
Phil Taylor
Trent Richardson
Brandon Weeden
Barkevious Mingo Justin Gilbert
Johnny Manziel
Danny Shelton
Cameron Erving

How the Browns’ options could play out...

Glenn to the Bengals for pick 12 swapped for 21

Bills now in better striking distance to target a QB. Currently own the No. 12 and No. 22 picks in the 1st round

Very reminiscent of what Philly did in 2016 for Wentz (moved up from 13 to 8 to 2)

Yes.

We do, however, only have one decent offensive lineman in 34 year old Richie Incognito, having lost Glenn at LT, and our Center Eric Wood to retirement.

The new QB is going to have to release the ball quickly!

.Lots of moving pieces. Colts will have options to move out of 3. Giants, if they aren't taking a QB, will have a shot to move out of 2.

Again, this is why the Browns can't mess around with the 1st pick and assume their QB is there at 4.

Regardless, Browns are in great position at 4. After a QB at No. 1, they'll either get a haul to trade out or great chance Barkley/Chubb will be there at No. 4.

Yup, I may have to get on Darnold before that price goes!

Exactly what I think.

The Browns could even trade up to 3 and take Barkley, with all their ammo.

free agency starts tomorrow

so far

- Broncos plan to sign QB Case Keenum
- Chiefs set to grab WR Sammy Watkins (3 years, $48M, $30M guar.)
- Jaguars zero in on guard Andrew Norwell (5 years, $66.5M, $30M guar.)
- Bears set to sign WR Allen Robinson (3 years, $42M, $25M guar.)

Drew Brees also free to talk to teams. must be a tempting 2 year option for $50m or so with a QB needy team to play him and draft a rookie behind

Sammy, tyreek and kelce for the big arm of Mahomes/gunslinger type QB

should be fun to watch

Kirk Cousins plans to sign a three-year, fully-guaranteed contract from the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday, sources tell ESPN.

The right move for him and the Vikings, I like him and think he'll do well with the weapons there

Sharp

Cousins deal further reason why now, more than ever, new Super Bowl "window" is in the 5 yrs (4+option yr) of a first round QB's rookie-deal. This is why we're seeing aggressiveness from:
• PHI
• CHI
• LAR
• KC
HOU missing their opportunity. DAL has just 4 yrs w Dak.(and hasn't got the cap due to Romo dead money)

Today has been great.

Keenum to Denver.
Bradford to Arizona.
Cousins to Vikings.
Watkins to KC.
Amendola to Miami.
Albert Wilson to Miami.

All I can remember off the top of my head.

And not off the top of my head - ICYMI: Some players & their new expected tms:
Cousins/MIN; Keenum/DEN; Bradford/AZ; A Rob/CHI ; Watkins/KC; P Richardson/WSH; Amendola & A Wilson/MIA; Moncrief/JAX, T Gabriel/CHI; Graham/GB; Burton/CHI..staying w/ current tm: Brees, M Lee, McCown...Released: Jordy, Woodhead, AP

Malcolm Butler to the Titans too.

Graham to packers
Burton to bears

Some of those WR numbers are eye watering really. Possibly a fallout from this being the 2nd poor looking WR draft class on the trot?

I like Paul Richardson but 8 million a year? same number for  Albert Wilson. I’ve had a man crush on a Trey Burton for a long time but 8 million a year too? 16 million a year to Sammy a Watkins feels steep. Ryan Grant just got 7 million a year from Baltimore, that’s Ryan Grant!,

John Brown and his sickle cell illness just got 5 million and Danny Amendola who has spent weeks being wrapped in cotton wool until the Pats needed him got 6 million a year from Miami. The Pats spent years restricting his snaps to keep him fit.

Feels like a clever deal by Cousins tho, a 3 year deal now and in 3 years time the Cap number will be even higher per team and so will QB salaries. He’s going to be in a great spot to cash in again without tying himself up for  5 to 6 years now.

No wonder Gronk is considering retirement when he’s getting paid the same as Trey Burton and Albert Wilson and a million more than Ryan Grant for the next two years is it?  :-o Got to admire Brady and Gronks will to win when they are both playing for well under their value. They are getting 22 million combined this year. Sam Bradford and his latest iffy knee just signed for 1 year in Zona for 20 million.

That’s incred isn’t it?

Huge trade: Jets acquired No. 3 overall pick from Colts for No. 6 overall pick, 37th overall pick, 49th overall pick and 2019 2nd round pick.

So that's aQB at 3 then . Giants can ask for a fortune from the bills at 2

Yes, this is awful news for the Bills. Broncos too.

That's an absolutely incredible haul for the Colts. So incredible they decided not to wait for other offers or for the Jets to realise what they'd just done.

Now feels like

Cle - Darnold
Gia - Barkley
Jets - QB (guess Allen best fit)
Cle - trade down to the highest bidder and get even more picks plus a premium left tackle.

Only trade partner for Giants would be Denver now. No one else could afford it.

Darnold

Rosen to giants or bills or broncos

Allen or Mayfield to jets

Chubb

Allen or Mayfield

Barkley to colts
 

Colts now have picks 6, 36, 37 and 49 and don't need a quarterback

They could of course flip 6 for 12/22 with the bills if one of the big four quarterbacks is there

That sort of thing, yes.

Jets have done a lot of work on the QB class. They'll presumably have 3 options they're happy with.

That or they're not finished yet!


Well you say they don't need a quarterback...

But yes, they should be getting some serious edge threat and an offensive line boost.

Bills are now in a difficult position.

Honeybadger has left Arizona, going to Houston, whose offer to him is $1m less.

Bills after this trade here's what a similar trade could look like with the Giants for 2 overall:

2018 First Rounder (#12 overall)
2018 First Rounder (#22 overall)
2018 Second Rounder (#53 overall)
2019 Second Rounder (TBD)

Bills beat writer take:

Jay Skurski
@JaySkurski

Using the Jimmy Johnson trade chart, the Jets traded away 2,956 points (1,600 for No. 6, 530 for 37, 410 for 49 and 416 for the average value of a 2019 second-rounder) for the third pick, which has a value of 2,200 points. It's going to cost the Bills a fortune to move to No. 2

My immediate thought is stay at 12(ish) and use the picks on players to fill our many holes. We could take Jackson, Rudolph or even a falling one of the top 4 if we stay put.

It's the absolute house to be sold if we want to get number 2.

Tal sorry to hear you’ve signed bodine and newhouse.Really hope there backups no o-line deserves both.

We are short on offensive linemen and money.

I think Newhouse will be a depth player. We have Dion Dawkins moving from right to left tackle (following Cordy Glenn's departure) and Jordan Mills will be playing RT, barring a surprise (or a steal in the draft).

Bodine has a chance to start at center. Ryan Groy is no better.

Hmmmm

Today following Sam Darnold's pro day

@MoveTheSticks: "I would be very surprised...shocked...if he is not the first pick"

@BuckyBrooks: "I think it's a foregone conclusion Darnold is going to be the number one pick"

@joelklatt: "The No. 1 pick was solidified today."

Clutching the tickets fervently...

Betstars have a market on the number of QBs drafted in the first round. Over 4.5 at 6/10 is too big.

Can you really see it being more than a 1 in 3 chance Rudolph AND Jackson slide to the second round?

5 is almost certain

would happily put the spread 5-6

The key thing is that to get the fifth year of rookie contract control you have to draft a player in the first round....for quarterbacks, frequently needing a few years of development, that fifth year is crucial hence we often see teams trade into the back end of the first round for quarterback

we can see the moves teams like the rams, eagles, chiefs etc can make because they have a cheap star rookie quarterback and lotsofsalary cap flexibility so the risk reward on seeing rudolph at pick 25-32 from a betting perspective is very attractive

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNfr5FsDCmw

Blimey!

Reported that the Rams have held discussions with the Giants about trading for Odell Beckham Jr.

Any deal would likely involve a first round pick. Rams would be best off offering next year's, you'd think, as they might be in win now territory.

Imagine if they got OBJ and Suh!

How do they afford it? Have to pay Donald, peters this year and gurley in the next 2, Beckham needs a new contract and that's before you have to pay the QB in 3 years. I also think Hollywood would be bad news for a highly strung diva type such as OBJ.

I guess the first thing to do is find a home for Tavon Austin (presumably a trade to NYG) for $8M off the cap. Maybe Michael Brockers too.

It'll take a Patriots/Seahawks level of convincing to get the buy-in from the players: we want to win now and we need everyone to accept a bit less.

Even still, this will take some work!

And agreed on Hollywood

Former Dolphins’ DT Ndamukong Suh reached agreement with Los Angeles Rams on a one-year, $14 million deal, per source. Suh took less to go to LA.

Suh and Aaron Donald now manning LA’s front.

So who gets the double team?!

Interesting to see if teams go no huddle to keep 2 three techniques on the field every down.Looks like plenty of halfback screens and quick releases  to slow down these two.Should be fun to watch Donald is an amazing player.

The north end of the Raiders' $1.8B stadium will feature folding doors that will open to a view of the Las Vegas Strip→

video here http://bit.ly/2IN0HIz

Rule changes on what's a catch

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kS_pJahMSu4

The new rule change regarding lowering the head sounds like a potential recipe for disaster next season, especially as it could lead to player ejections if deemed 'flagrant'.

Based on wording alone, it's going to encompass all sorts of regular plays, so will hopefully be subject to a great deal of clarification.

https://twitter.com/MichaelDavSmith/status/978734688033542145

Looks like cheerio to the cut block then.

If you're cut blocking and leading with the crown of your helmet, you're doing it wrong - Even from halfback where you see them 'attack' the line of scrimmage as QB drops back to pick up a free blitzer, you don't (or shouldn't) use your head in the block at all. Shoulder between knee and hip height, head outside, roll through so that your weight takes them to the ground and stay high enough that they can't just step over you to make you miss the block and have a free run at the QB.

I reckon they'll make the QB sneak exempt from this, or just turn a blind eye to it, because they kinda have to. It's hard to get the same forces in a collision at the line of scrimmage when the MLB/DT and QB are 2-3 yards apart pre-snap just because of not accelerating to full speed. If they start throwing flags on 4th & 1 against either a diving QB or a linebacker making a hit, it's going to become a problem for the league's popularity real fast, especially as they'll be inconsistent calls because QB sneaks naturally end up being a complete mess and the side judges' views will be blocked by guards and tackles.

The 'Flagrant' line has been in the NFL rulebook for ages in regards to unsportsmanlike conduct, personal fouls etc, but Odell Beckham stayed in the game with Josh Norman a couple of years back and Gronkowski's hit on Tre'Davious White didn't get an ejection either, even though both were flagged ingame and were about as flagrant as you can get. The refs are super reluctant to eject anyone and I don't see that changing except in cases where a helmet hit starts a fight or something.

To me, it reads more like a half arsed effort at rewriting the targeting rule and not using the word "targeting", and I doubt they enforce it most of the time because it's been so unpopular at college level with fans. If there's more than one or two extra ejections as a result of this rule next season, I'll be surprised.

https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/03/29/football-gambling-betting-future-nfl-owners-meeting-mmqb

Is the NFL ready to embrace gambling properly?

Also, a round up of news and gossip.

Shakeem Griffin has been invited to attend the NFL Draft.

You can get a big price on him going in the first round with Paddy or BFSB, if that appeals.

I'm still very much of the view he goes on Friday late round 2 or roumd 3. But his stock has been rising.

Safety Andy Smigiera.

A top level explosive athlete who's clearly got something between the ears.

https://www.wkbw.com/sports/west-senecas-andy-smigiera-hopes-to-jump-his-way-into-the-nfl

Not expected to be drafted.

NFL GMs believe Giants are angling for trade down from No. 2 and Bills could make two trades up to get there

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/how-badly-do-the-giants-want-saquon-barkley-and-must-they-stay-at-no-2-to-get-him

The Giants seem to be making enough noise to suggest they are unlikely to be staying at 2. If it were any other team, you'd say they'd be trading down one spot, but I can see no way that the two NY teams would trade. Imagine if Rosen turns out to be Peyton Manning and the Giants handed him on a plate to their bitter rivals.

There's been some talk about Bradley Chubb not being as good as Myles Garrett as an edge rusher, albeit being very good in many other facets of the game. Does he slide down? Well, it's quite possible he's there at 5, after 3 QBs and Barkley, and I would not be surprised at all if Indy were able to take him at 6. Leonard Williams went around there a couple of years ago and that smacked of value then.

Conversely, as I posted the other day, the Giants could try to trade up to 1, if they think that Darnold is significantly preferable to Rosen and Allen. Would the Browns trade down? It'd have to be a king's ransom, you'd think.

Mason Rudolph has been sliding down rankings, as has Marcus Davenport. The wide receiver class is poor at the top end, so I can really see there being just Calvin Ridley being taken (to the Ravens) in the first round. The tight ends seem to be poor at blocking, with Goedert and Hurst the best of them.

The Bills have so many needs - and there is such an opportunity in the middle of the first round this year because of 4 QBs going early - that I would be taking Lamar Jackson at 12 and then another player at 22. We would have to be near certain of Rosen (whose political views might not sit well with the upstate New York crowd), Allen (accuracy issues) or Mayfield (attitude issues) to give away what will be a grotesque amount of capital. The Jets trade has scuppered us. We should stay put.  

tried this Tal?

https://fanspeak.com/ontheclock/

great fun

Sigh...

GG free time.

Here goes...

A quick 2 rounder with the Browns:


YOUR TEAM

CLEVELAND BROWNS

ALL PICKS

1: R1P1

 

QB SAM DARNOLD

CLEVELAND BROWNS

2: R1P2

 

QB JOSH ALLEN

NEW YORK GIANTS

3: R1P3

 

QB BAKER MAYFIELD

NEW YORK JETS

4: R1P4

 

RB SAQUON BARKLEY

CLEVELAND BROWNS

5: R1P5

 

QB LAMAR JACKSON

DENVER BRONCOS

6: R1P6

 

CB MINKAH FITZPATRICK

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

7: R1P7

 

EDGE BRADLEY CHUBB

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

8: R1P8

 

LB ROQUAN SMITH

CHICAGO BEARS

9: R1P9

 

LB TREMAINE EDMUNDS

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

10: R1P10

 

G QUENTON NELSON

OAKLAND RAIDERS

11: R1P11

 

QB JOSH ROSEN

MIAMI DOLPHINS

12: R1P12

 

WR D.J. MOORE

BUFFALO BILLS

13: R1P13

 

S DERWIN JAMES

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

14: R1P14

 

EDGE HAROLD LANDRY

GREEN BAY PACKERS

15: R1P15

 

OT MIKE MCGLINCHEY

ARIZONA CARDINALS

16: R1P16

 

WR COURTLAND SUTTON

BALTIMORE RAVENS

17: R1P17

 

OT CONNOR WILLIAMS

LA CHARGERS

18: R1P18

 

G ISAIAH WYNN

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

19: R1P19

 

CB DENZEL WARD

DALLAS COWBOYS

20: R1P20

 

DL VITA VEA

DETROIT LIONS

21: R1P21

 

WR CALVIN RIDLEY

CINCINNATI BENGALS

22: R1P22

 

DL TAVEN BRYAN

BUFFALO BILLS

23: R1P23

 

EDGE MARCUS DAVENPORT

LA RAMS

24: R1P24

 

CB JAIRE ALEXANDER

CAROLINA PANTHERS

25: R1P25

 

S RONNIE HARRISON

TENNESSEE TITANS

26: R1P26

 

DL MAURICE HURST

ATLANTA FALCONS

27: R1P27

 

EDGE OGBONNIA OKORONKWO

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

28: R1P28

 

LB RASHAAN EVANS

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

29: R1P29

 

TE HAYDEN HURST

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

30: R1P30

 

DL DA'RON PAYNE

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

31: R1P31

 

RB DERRIUS GUICE

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

32: R1P32

 

G WILL HERNANDEZ

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

33: R2P1

 

C BILLY PRICE

CLEVELAND BROWNS

34: R2P2

 

RB RONALD JONES

NEW YORK GIANTS

35: R2P3

 

EDGE SAM HUBBARD

CLEVELAND BROWNS

36: R2P4

 

RB SONY MICHEL

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

37: R2P5

 

WR CHRISTIAN KIRK

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

38: R2P6

 

CB MIKE HUGHES

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

39: R2P7

 

EDGE ARDEN KEY

CHICAGO BEARS

40: R2P8

 

CB ISAIAH OLIVER

DENVER BRONCOS

41: R2P9

 

LB LEIGHTON VANDER ESCH

OAKLAND RAIDERS

42: R2P10

 

CB JOSH JACKSON

MIAMI DOLPHINS

43: R2P11

 

OT KOLTON MILLER

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

44: R2P12

 

DL DEADRIN SENAT

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

45: R2P13

 

DL HARRISON PHILLIPS

GREEN BAY PACKERS

46: R2P14

 

C JAMES DANIELS

CINCINNATI BENGALS

47: R2P15

 

CB DONTE JACKSON

ARIZONA CARDINALS

48: R2P16

 

WR JAMES WASHINGTON

LA CHARGERS

49: R2P17

 

EDGE DORANCE ARMSTRONG

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

50: R2P18

 

S JESSIE BATES

DALLAS COWBOYS

51: R2P19

 

RB NICK CHUBB

DETROIT LIONS

52: R2P20

 

G AUSTIN CORBETT

BALTIMORE RAVENS

53: R2P21

 

QB MASON RUDOLPH

BUFFALO BILLS

54: R2P22

 

LB LORENZO CARTER

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

55: R2P23

 

WR EQUANIMEOUS ST. BROWN

CAROLINA PANTHERS

56: R2P24

 

EDGE KEMOKO TURAY

BUFFALO BILLS

57: R2P25

 

WR D.J. CHARK

TENNESSEE TITANS

58: R2P26

 

CB RASHAAN GAULDEN

ATLANTA FALCONS

59: R2P27

 

RB KERRYON JOHNSON

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

60: R2P28

 

S MARCUS ALLEN

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

61: R2P29

 

LB FRED WARNER

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

62: R2P30

 

CB CARLTON DAVIS

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

63: R2P31

 

TE DALLAS GOEDERT

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

64: R2P32


DL B.J. HILL

CLEVELAND BROWNS

Darnold
Barkley
Price
Hubbard
Hill


See you in the playoffs!

A year ago, the Patriots signed Brandin Cooks from the Saints for pick 32 in the first round. They paid him his $1.5m salary and made the Super Bowl. Now they send him to the LA Rams for pick 23 (and some other bits).

Could they be in for a move up for a QB? What about Odell Beckham Jr?

Must be nice being a Pats fan.

lol

So the Patriots got Brandin Cooks and pick No. 118 in exchange for pick No. 32 and pick No 103. Then, they turned Brandin Cooks into pick No. 23. Plus, they dealt Jimmy G for what turned out to be pick No. 43.

So the Super Bowl runner-up owns picks 23, 31, 43 & 63 lolololol

going to the draft in Dallas

Could be looking at 16 or so players without 1st round Commissioner jersey photos then!

Feels like the period where journalists are having to fill articles and podcasts, so we are getting plenty of speculative and fanciful pieces. Everyone's got to make a living.

I can see the Patriots having made the Cooks trade purely for profit, rather than to get a QB higher up. If Baker Mayfield falls to 9 or below, maybe that changes.

Otherwise, I think they use the picks on defense, as there should be talent available. An edge rusher and a DT or CB would be great for them...if not for the rest of the AFC East.

Had a look at a few of the request a bets yesterday, having had to suck it up and bet on Darnold #1 (got 9n before the price died at least) I've also gone for...

First four picks to be Qbs at 25/1 - unlikely but I think that's pretty good odds, will need a bit of movement from teams to get it happening.
Lamar Jackson top 20 was 7/4 which I thought was pretty good too
O4.5 qbs at 1/2 (think you both pointed that one out a while ago)
Will probably have a little nibble on 6 or more qbs at 6/1 if that price is there in a week or two

I know it only takes a few quid to move these markets so thought I better have my fivers on before the prices go on them.

Also had a look at teams to make the playoffs on Paddypower. Some strange prices there. I am a Bengals fan so always think we're over priced but 9/1 for them to make the playoffs, same as the Browns, while the Ravens are 7/4, remarkably the Colts are some how 11/4. While the NFC East is tough I'm surprised that the Redskins are 9/1 to make the playoffs.

RaBs are skybet, playoff odds are PP.

Really wish you hadn't sent me the On The Clock thing, Tighty...

3 round draft as the Bills sees them taking:

12: Josh Allen QB (wowzers. Lovely)
22: Billy Price C (might play Guard)
53: Tyrell Crosby Jr OT (need a RT)
56: Taven Bryan DT (Marcel Dareus left a hole)
65: Mike Gesicki TE (best available and helps the lack of WR depth)
96: Orlando Brown OT (could be a steal)

go premium and offer/accept/decline trades

a great insight into it all, and a terrible time sponge

say if...

Cardinals offer RB David Johnson (final year of contract) and 47th overall pick to Browns for 4th overall pick.

If you’re Cleveland, do you do that?

If you are Arizona do you do that?

Johnson will need a new contract but Browns have tons of cap space and he is a franchise player

Arizona needs a quarterback with two knees and could get one of Allen/Rosen/Mayfield at 4

Imagine being the Cardinals GM who traded away the best running back since Charley Trippi (yes, I had to look that up) and the QB they got in his place is a bust.

Reckon they would trade pretty much everyone else but him, short of a Godfather deal.

I'm interested in which of the teams from Chicago down (ie, that don't need a QB) would trade down. Arizona, Buffalo, Baltimore (and then by necessity Miami) might be interested in that sort of move.

Raiders might be a good bet for trade down. Currently sitting at 10 and definitely dont need a QB.

Yes, we have needs, but a lot less than Bears/49ers/Dolphins. I'd say of the group fro Chicago to Buffalo, Oakland are the most likely to trade down.

i really rate this guy

interesting read

Dane Brugler  is out with his 3-round mock draft, with QBs going Nos. 1, 2 and 3 -- including a projected trade!

http://nfldraftscout.com/brugler-3-round-mock-nfl-draft/

I see Rosen going to the Jets quite a bit in mock drafts.

This is the team owned by the man Donald Trump appointed as American Ambassador to the UK. And this is the quarterback who posted a picture of himself on instagram playong golf with...how can I put this...an anti-Trump message. He's been outspoken with his political views, and that's hardly likely to change.

Buffalo might have the same problem. Trump was rumoured to be trying to buy us before the Pegulas took over. I'd expect he's popular in upstate New York.

Rosen might fit a California team more, certainly needs a liberal owner. Denver maybe at 5, where pot is legal ;-)

its why i think Mayfield is going top 4,maybe Allen too

I think it's important for the franchise to be a fit for the player as much as for the player to be a fit for franchise. Rosen would be booed by a section of fans and it would not be a surprise if Trump tweeted about him in the next 12 months.

People need to calm down on the Patriots drafting a first round QB narrative too :)

1. Darnold
2. Allen
3. Mayfield

Is 25/1 with SkyBet as a treble if that appeals, Tighty, on that logic.

Are running backs devalued in the draft?

http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/04/07/nfl-draft-are-rbs-really-devalued-quite-the-opposite-actually/a610fvr/

eagles@jags on the 28th tickets go on sale the 1st of may

Looking forward to seeing what Rich has got for the draft because frankly I can't read it at the moment.

365 have o/u on player positions.

Best I've got now is lumping on o1.5 rbs in the first round at 1/2 and even then I'm not too confident

Running back is a guess, really, as there are 2 or 3 who could go 28-40.

Saquon position under 4.5 is 2/5 with Bet £3.65. It's an awful bit of pricing, though getting on is a challenge. Should be 1/4 and maybe shorter.

Lamar Jackson under 17.5 is 6/5. That feels a little generous.

I bet under 3.5 WRs at Evs a few weeks ago with Betstars. You can now get over 2.5 at 6/5 (shows how bad that price was), so there's an angle for me to play the middle. Tempting and I might just do that in the week.

Tighty's betting preview is up, btw.

http://www.bettingemporium.com/tips/index/217

hugely generous i thought. it is a sky request a bet special at 6/4 or was

How does he get past Arizona at 15?

he can't.

The 6/5 is 365 - just an ordinary prop, which they've put up without prompt. Genuinely remarkable.

And he can't, can he? I'd love the Pats to take him (taking my Bills hat off for a second)

I also love Moore, Tighty, but you have to find out why Baltimore taking Calvin Ridley either doesn't happen (say they go Hayden Hurst) or happens after someone else has taken Moore. Obviously, the offer is fab, from a betting perspective.

I'm a big fan of Hurst. Looking at the Baltimore, New Orleans, Jacksonville, New England area and the fit at tight end is Hurst, in my view.

Do listen to the Around the NFL podcast. Their "you are the GM" segment remains one of the best each year. The John Elway hold music managed to make me laugh...even on the way home from wembley.

Ozzie newsome has been burnt at WR

could go OT, DT, Safety, linebacker

if 5 QBs do go top 15 then someone better than Ridley is being pushed down 

i don't think there has been as weak a WR class for a while and these guys can't really seperate against man coverage either

tight end

reminds me of the engram/howard thing

howard is the better traditional tight end, Engram suits the modern NFL more

same for goedert/Hurst

The number one thing I look for now in WRs. The Raiders have been torched by picking guys who can't break coverage. Zay Jones in Buffalo and so on. Being quick isn't enough.

Ravens signings of Crabtree and Brown and its not as desperate as it was.

The Ravens desperately need a slot receiver

nfl going for smaller nippier guys who can get open...receiving backs and slot guys

Ravens signed Woodhead for this and he lasted a few games and that was it

Moore at 6.75 looked value, and non consensus!

Something in that for sure.

Hurst is a new Dennis Pitta or (dare I say it) Aaron Hernandez. Engram is a more dramatically different TE in that he's a TE/WR hybrid.

All TEs take a year or two to learn the system and get used to the many demands of the role. Hurst will be the fastest learner IMO, being a little older, having been through a similar system with the Pittsburgh Pirates and given his skillset.

He's ideal for a "win now" team.

6.75 is a huge price for who I think is the best WR prospect in terms of ceiling.

I like Sutton's size, but that's not enough these days.

Like you, I wonder whether we see one or fewer WRs in the 1st round. That's what's stopping me from betting over 2.5 and closing the position.

So many good players in that 25-40 range who wouldn't be a reach for a team in that area. Seems crazy to me that Mason Rudolph could go before Harold Landry or Sam Hubbard has to wait for Courtland Sutton to get his jersey from the Commissioner.

On the DBacks, would your answer be different if you knew Derwin James is 4/1 with Betwahey?

He is one of my favourite players in the draft. All three (Fitpatrick, Ward and James) are pro bowlers, though.

The hybrid player is definitely the immediate future of the NFL

Might be

could see any one of the three going to Tampa at 7.

I did wonder about Denzel Ward at 6 though if the Colts stay there (i think they trade out to the Bills or Miami)

 

I think John Elway thinks like you: he expects the Colts to be a target for trades, so reckons he can capitalise a place higher.

Ward would be the Colts' guy for sure, as they were atrocious against WR2 and WR3 last year. Ward is the slot corner who can turn his hand to safety, which is what they need. The other two are more natural safeties.

Josh Allen at o1.5 at 1/2 in most places. Do we really think the Browns would take him over Darnold?

Think you've already noted Lamar Jackson u17.5 and suggested the Cardinals? Can't argue with that, and with teams possibly moving up I can see it being even more likely. The Bengals had him in for a visit and I wouldn't be shocked to see him land there if he's somehow still there at 21

8/11 on a Tight end being taken in the first, I think I'm leaning towards the yes on that one. I was going to get on Courtland Sutton being the first WR off the board as PP had him at a standout 7/1 but that's now 4s, so won't be touching that.

I also had a look at 1st RB without Barkley being Rashaad Penny, but that was only because it was 20/1, It's unlikely to be anyone other than Guice, and that doesn't seem to exist any more anyway! I have been trying to request o2.5 RBs hoping for somewhere near 5/1 for that, but haven't got anyone to price it up so far, I know it's probably unlikley Michel makes the first round, but if I can get the odds than I'd be tempted. (Saying that Michel to be first round is 4/1 on Skybet, which is essentially the same bet) - Skybet also have Derwin James to be drafted 1-15, judging from your comments Tal you think that's probably quite likely?

i thought this was a good one

he is very well connected

note top WR selected 27th!

http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/79471/344/2018-nfl-mock-draft-no-5?pg=1

Some bloke on Betting emporium had the same LB as the first off the board as well

Just saw that u4.5 LBs is available at 9/4 and most of the mocks I can see seem to stop at 4. Not many that I can find that are odds against, I may go for that. In fact you can get o3.5 LBs at 8/15 on Betstars, and u4.5 at 9/4...

is the draft this weekend? not that the eagles will be drafting much

Starts Friday morning, 1am-ish

Some broad musings on what might happen on the first night:

https://www.i-pools.co.uk/what-expect-2018-nfl-draft

Bob Wischusen
@espnbob
If you’re the Browns, you’ve already scared the teams who want Saquon, Darnold, Allen or Rosen into calling to see what it would take to get to #1...all that’s left is to try a transparent reach to see if you can scare a few teams that like Baker into calling too
1:42 pm · 24 Apr 2018


This is my view of it all, too.

Darnold. They're taking Darnold.

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2768308-2018-nfl-mock-draft-mike-taniers-final-predictions

My favourite NFL writer's mock draft.

A smile to your face or your money back.

Requested Kyle Lauletta to be drafted by the Bengals... 5/2. I shall pass on that one

First rule of requestabets: never only request one.

"Can you give me a price on Kyle Lauletta going to Patriots, Bengals, Chiefs and Seahawks please?"

Much harder to say 5/2 on each of them!

Neil Reynolds

i think Neil is a better writer (where he started) than boradcaster

in fact,i struggle to listen to him

anyway

dailystar.co.uk/sport/other-sports/698403/NFL-Draft-2018-New-York-Giants-Saquon-Barkley

"explaining why I think the Giants will pass on Saquon Barkley, even though he is the best player in this NFL Draft."

https://player.fm/series/pff-pro-podcast-nfl-draft-football

This is a scream.

PFF - who should the teams draft?

1. Mayfield
2. Darnold
3. Rosen
4. Maurice Hurst
5. Jackson

...

10. Barkley

I watched that draft show neil did on his own last night with a cam from the usa with some guy talking about teh draft.  He is hard to listen to for sure but why was the studio the most narrow ever and he was shoved to the far right of it?  Looked a weird set up.  Did anyone else see the show?

Further to this, there's now a pool game on the site. Nine questions. Article linked above will offer some help, so plenty of reason to have a go, even if you're not a big NFL fan.

No one can predict what will happen exactly. Join the fun.

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUSjykIe2H8

Shannon is so, so good!

ESPN's Jeff Darlington

@JeffDarlington

I just spoke to Bills GM Brandon Beane. Key takeaways: - He absolutely believes they have ammo to get to No. 2 without giving up much in future years — but might not need to go that high to get their guy. - He does covet at least one QB as a franchise guy. - This could be fun.

Bills GM Brandon Beane made clear to me he doesn’t plan to get robbed by anyone — especially the Giants at No. 2 overall — to move that high.

His leverage for avoiding that seems simple: He could still potentially get his QB with a move to No. 4 or No. 6

In our conversation, Bills GM Brandon Beane told me his possession of 22nd overall pick is the key here to a potential trade into Top 5 that can keep him from needing to mortgage future. Point of all this: Bills are THE team to watch that could throw top of draft into frenzy

Beane has been pushing the narrative hard that the Bills want to keep pick 22 this week. Might be able to get to 7 or 8 but can't see 4.

Mock Draft 3 is nearly done. Will finish it this evening and post it here.

(http://i.imgur.com/9drL0st.jpg)

Owner of the jags trying to buy Wembley for 800k

Adam Schefter
‏
Verified account
 
@AdamSchefter

Browns continue to keep the decision on their No. 1 pick a secret, but there is a mounting belief from HCs and GMs around the league that Cleveland will take Baker Mayfield

going to be a wild night

maybe 2 trades in the top 6.

The Alternative full of opposites and trades mock draft No1.

1. Baker Mayfield QB, Cleveland leave it to the last week to change their mind and take the Baker Boy here.

2. Sam Darnold Giants spit their Cwwofee over their draft board and start trying to rob teams blind to trade up to pick 2, I'm looking at you Bills and Zona. If the trade gets done then its big Sam, if it isn't then Giants take him anyway. (Pictures of Saquon Barkley looking gloomy in the hall to follow)

3. Josh Allen Jets seething, Sigh and take Josh Allen instead of the Baker boy they really wanted. (Saquon now looking really gloomy given his Merch would have sold millions of $$$ worth in The Big Apple realises Cleveland now have the next pick)

4. Shit gets real. (Pictures of Saquon Barkley on his knees with tears running down is face like Daniel Kaluuya in the film Get Out can be seen praying 'please not Cleveland god, anyone but Cleveland )  Cleveland, looking at a franchise RB still on the board, a guy given the highest ever rating for a RB coming out of college by one of the best draft judges around decide they fancy cashing in here and trade this pick

Saquon Barkley Cleveland trade pick 4 to Tampa Bay for pick 7 and other picks.

5. Trade Denver Broncos spit their Rocky Mountain Oysters over their draft board and laugh like a Bond baddy whispering 'one million dollars' under their breath. After 9 1/2 minutes of frantic trade talks Buffalo trade pick 12 and others for this pick and draft Josh Rosen

6. Quenton Nelson Indy need to upgrade their O line, this does the job.

7. Bradley Chubb Now everyone starts to love what Cleveland have done here, by trading down from pick 4 which is where Chubb would likely go if the QB needy teams were not filling their big needs they get to take Chubb anyway with pick 7.

8. Roquan Smith Chicago get a guy that fits there needs

9 .Denzel Ward  best CB in the draft goes to San Fran

10. Derwin James[/b ]Oakland cant believe their luck and take (maybe) the best safety in the draft.

11. Trade Green Bay trade up from 14 to 11 and take Minkah Fitzpatrick

12. Denver use their first traded pick  and take Mike Mcglinchey

13. Trade Arizona with pick 15 get a bit nervy that someone behind them will make a move here trade up to 13 to take QB Lamar Jackson

14. Miami fume that their trade down but still get Jackson coup failed miserably take the really boring option and draft Tremaine Edmunds

15. Vita Vea Washington happy that their trade down and still get the guy we want worked out well.

16. Having had a mare taking WR lately the Ravens do what they know best and take CB Jaire Alexander

17. Ive run out of jokes now. San Diego get a big run stopper in Da' Ron Payne

18. Trade Marcus Davenport Despite needing help in several positions the mighty Seahawks trade down here to The Patriots for pick 23 and others.

19. Courtland Sutton. Cowboys can't resist a new WR to fill the Dez Bryant role of half heartedly blocking when they run the ball 30 times a game.

20. Detroit take Kolton Miller

21. Frank Ragnow The experts says he is perfect for Cincy in this spot and tbh I'm only guessing here so think I will go with the guys in the know.

22. Denver use their 2nd traded pick and take Dallas Goedert

23. Now this being Seattle it is still likely we trade down again from here just coz, like thats what we do. I hope and pray they take some O line help and draft Isiah Wynn here.

24. Harold Landry Panthers get a good edge rusher here.

25. Leighton Vander Esch Tennessee. Good fit for a team getting closer to a Superbowl.

26. Hayden Hurst Atlanta.I haven't seen any expert tipping this but it feels like a good fit to me.

27. New Orleans get the face on here because their man went a pick earlier and take Taven Bryan

28. Rashaan Evans Pittsburgh love a LB here, best available gets the pick.

29. Will Hernandez Jacksonville abs rock hard and will help the running game even more.

30. Josh Jackson Minny draft a CB for the future

31. Mason Rudolph Pats take a QB that Brady can nurture ( or as he did with Jimmy G, see him as a threat and treat him badly)

32. Philly trade this to a team that want to  move up or take Derrius Guice



Feel free to pick holes Tal and Tighty ;o)

1 Darnold I think they are trying to tease the Jets into trading for number 1
2 Barkley Not like they benched Eli for Geno Smith last year though
3 Mayfield
4 Chubb
5 Trade. Bills Allen
6 Roquan Smith don't see a single weaker position than the Indy LBs currently
7 Word is James.
8 Nelson feels like a slam dunk
9 Edmunds. SF
10 Minkah to the Raiders
11 Josh Rosen to the Dolphins
12 Denzel Ward to the Broncos. replaces Talib
13 Patriots trade up for Lamar Jackson, send 31-23 to washington
14 Alexander. Trying to get Kyle Fuller tipped the Packers hand here
15 Cards. know they are in QB hell. McGlinchey to protect Bradford's knees
16 Ravens Vita Vea the new Ngata
17 Chargers Kolton Miller
18 Seahawks Landry.
19 Cowboys. shouldn't be WR. Van der Esch
20 Lions. Defense. Davenport maybe
21 Bengals Daniels, Ragnow, Hernandez, Wynn take your pick. Lets say Daniels. finally an offensive lineman
22 Broncos OL. Hernandez
23 Redskins Da'Ron Payne
24 maybe Ragnow for the Panthers. pulling guard for Newton in the read option
25 Rashaan Evans, BPA Titans
26 Atlanta. getting tricky now Taven Bryan maybe
27 Saints, someone who looks like Jimmy Graham (kamara,ingram, thomas, brees and..)Goedert or Gesicki. can't stop all ofthem
28 Pitt. usually D. lets try mike hughes CB
29 Jags. the TE Saints don't pick. Hayden Hurst maybe
30 Vikings unsexy solid pick like Wynn. Dalvin Cook thanks them
31 Redskins justin reid safety. very niceplayer could sneak in
32 Eagles running back (Michel maybe) though i think they will trade out as don't have many picks tomorrow. someone might trade into here for Mason Rudolph (Cards?)to get the fifth year option on a project

No wide receivers
 

The Alternative full of opposites and trades mock draft No2.

1. Baker Mayfield QB, Cleveland leave it to the last week to change their mind and take the Baker Boy here.

2. Sam Darnold Giants spit their Cwwofee over their draft board and start trying to rob teams blind to trade up to pick 2, I'm looking at you Bills and Zona. If the trade gets done then its big Sam, if it isn't then Giants take him anyway. (Pictures of Saquon Barkley looking gloomy in the hall to follow)

3. Josh Allen Jets seething, Sigh and take Josh Allen instead of the Baker boy they really wanted. (Saquon now looking really gloomy given his Merch would have sold millions of $$$ worth in The Big Apple realises Cleveland now have the next pick)

4. Shit gets real. (Pictures of Saquon Barkley on his knees with tears running down is face like Daniel Kaluuya in the film Get Out can be seen praying 'please not Cleveland god, anyone but Cleveland )  Cleveland, looking at a franchise RB still on the board, a guy given the highest ever rating for a RB coming out of college by one of the best draft judges around decide they fancy cashing in here and trade this pick

Saquon Barkley Cleveland trade pick 4 to Tampa Bay for pick 7 and other picks.

5. Trade Denver Broncos spit their Rocky Mountain Oysters over their draft board and laugh like a Bond baddy whispering 'one million dollars' under their breath. After 9 1/2 minutes of frantic trade talks Buffalo trade pick 12 and others for this pick and draft Josh Rosen

6. Quenton Nelson Indy need to upgrade their O line, this does the job.

7. Bradley Chubb Now everyone starts to love what Cleveland have done here, by trading down from pick 4 which is where Chubb would likely go if the QB needy teams were not filling their big needs they get to take Chubb anyway with pick 7.

8. Roquan Smith Chicago get a guy that fits their needs

9 .Denzel Ward  best CB in the draft goes to San Fran

10. Derwin James[/b ]Oakland cant believe their luck and take (maybe) the best safety in the draft.

11. Trade Green Bay trade up from 14 to 11 and take Minkah Fitzpatrick

12. Denver use their first traded pick  and take Mike Mcglinchey

13. Trade Arizona with pick 15 get a bit nervy that someone behind them will make a move here trade up to 13 to take QB Lamar Jackson

14. Miami fume that their trade down but still get Jackson coup failed miserably take the really boring option and draft Tremaine Edmunds

15. Vita Vea Washington happy that their trade down and still get the guy we want worked out well.

16. Having had a mare taking WR lately the Ravens do what they know best and take CB Jaire Alexander

17. Ive run out of jokes now. San Diego get a big run stopper in Da' Ron Payne

18. Trade Marcus Davenport Despite needing help in several positions the mighty Seahawks trade down here to The Patriots for pick 23 and others.

19. Courtland Sutton. Cowboys can't resist a new WR to fill the Dez Bryant role of half heartedly blocking when they run the ball 30 times a game.

20. Detroit take Kolton Miller

21. Frank Ragnow The experts says he is perfect for Cincy in this spot and tbh I'm only guessing here so think I will go with the guys in the know.

22. I knew I would lose track of all these trades.Denver use their 2nd traded pick and take Dallas Goedert

23. Now this being Seattle it is still likely we trade down again from here just coz, like thats what we do. I hope and pray they take some O line help and draft Isiah Wynn here.

24. Harold Landry Panthers get a good edge rusher here.

25. Leighton Vander Esch Tennessee. Good fit for a team getting closer to a Superbowl.

26. Hayden Hurst Atlanta.I haven't seen any expert tipping this but it feels like a good fit to me.

27. New Orleans get the face on here because their man went a pick earlier and take Taven Bryan

28. Rashaan Evans Pittsburgh love a LB here, best available gets the pick.

29. Will Hernandez Jacksonville abs rock hard and will help the running game even more.

30. Josh Jackson Minny draft a CB for the future

31. Mason Rudolph Pats take a QB that Brady can nurture ( or as he did with Jimmy G, see him as a threat and treat him badly)

32. Philly trade this to a team that want to  move up or take Derrius Guice



Feel free to pick holes Tal and Tighty ;o)

I like yours better than mine tbh.

If, and I think it is a big If, Mayfield and Darnold go 1 and 2 , I think the JETS take Rosen over Allen.
I am hoping that this is just pre draft smokescreen from the Browns.

Rosen is an outspoken liberal California kid

Jets owner Woody Johnson of Johnson and Johnson fame is a vocal Trump supporter

i mean it might happen but its not a great cultural fit!

then we have the news (leaked by someone who wants him to fall!) Josh Allen has been revealed as having sent dodgy texts with race relation concerns

but i think the Jets want Mayfield, and the Browns are leaking Mayfield 1 to try to get the Jets to panic trade up

Browns then go whichever QB at 3 and trade down from 4


a fun night ahead

The Allen story is an incredible one. He sent some offensive (and allegedly racially sensitive) tweets to Stephen A Smith five years ago.

It's reportedly been released by a team hoping Allen falls to them.

Let me say that again: a team has released news of a series of possibly racist tweets, in an effort to sign that player.

Could that possibly be true?!

oh yes

could be a team wanting him to fall, or a team wanting him hoping someone doesn't trade above them..or conversely someone with a grudge. will never know

remember two years ago Laremy Tunsil was a potential number one pick and 12 hours before the draft the pictures of him in a mask smoking whatever-it-was were released? Dolphins got him at 15 iirc

It shows the NFL and Colin Kaepernick aren't made for each other, still.

Mock Draft 3

Here we go then: the third and final of my 2018 mock drafts. In the first two, I kept the draft order as it stood at the time of typing and, given we know there will be trades, that’s artificial and silly. Trouble is, predicting trades is a bit of a lottery, so it’s best avoided until at least shortly before the off. We have those in for Mock 3.

The other thing I did previously was put who I think the teams should draft and then put who I think they will draft. I think I’ve said enough about needs already to get rid of that for this one for Mock 3. What I will do, though is add any comments I think are worth making as we go along, as well as a little colour to the raw outlines of draft night, as I see it happening.

Here goes, then.

Rich Eisen faces the camera, his professionalism holding firm but not quite masking the nerves of an increasingly big night in the NFL calendar. A swathe of Texans cheer outside, while inside the hall, every jersey is represented and every football stereotype is on display, from cheesehead to jet to the guy who’s brought a D and a fence. And a few eagles in dog masks. Naturellement.

Mike Mayock is eager to discuss the cornerbacks, but is told to focus on the quarterbacks, so gives you a glowing review of each of the big four in turn. “Now, back to the corners…”

“Sorry, Mike. We’ll have plenty of time for those cornerbacks, but I have to pitch in to tell you the Commissioner is out for the first time tonight. You can probably tell that by the boos in the crowd”

Out comes Roger Goodell. A red tie tonight. He informs us…

The Cleveland Browns are on the clock!

Speculation is rife about whether the Browns are shopping the pick. John Dorsey has made it clear in the press they are and has done what he can to stoke interest in it. No one wants to pay the sort of premium they’re asking for, though, and it’s far from clear there’s a guy to sell the family silver for. The pick is in.

1.   Cleveland Browns select Sam Darnold, Quarterback, USC

The safest pick. They Browns simply had to go QB, after passing on so many alternatives who’ve turned out well over the last few years. It’s a situation where nothing but a QB would do. Whilst they’ve been linked with Josh Allen and Baker Mayfield, Darnold is the solid guy they need. He gets a redshirt year behind a mobile QB who can teach the low percentage style.

No arguments so far. Darnold does not look shocked – he’s known for a while he’s moving to Ohio. The family are delighted for him. The meme of the Browns shirt with 30 names on it gets passed around again.

The G-men have been on the clock for three minutes now and we can see activity in their war room, while Darnold is still posing for pictures with the Cleveland jersey. Could they be discussing a trade?

NFL insider, Ian Rapaport gets his first appearance of the evening. “I have heard the Giants have been contacted by two teams this evening but I understand that there will be no trade for the number 2 pick.”

PICK IS IN, says the banner at the bottom of the screen. Cut to Giants fans in the crowd who are mouthing “Saquon”, between their cheers. Here comes the Commissioner…

2.   New York Giants select Josh Allen, Quarterback, Wyoming

This pick will split the pundits, but it was always going to. The Giants have a 37 year old quarterback who looked mediocre in his best moments last season. They have a fantastic receiving corps and their star man would quite like the ball. The Giants are two years at least away from being Super Bowl challengers, and that’s if they can persuade Beckham to stick around. Eli won’t be there for that success, if it comes. Go get your guy.

Barkley is going to be a star, but the analytics boys will tell you running backs are substantially less valuable than quarterbacks in the modern NFL, and using the number 2 pick on one is extremely risky. What – they will ask – is the point of ending up like Arizona with a great running back and no guy under center?

The Allen news in the last few hours has made it very interesting, as Allen could easily fall a long way in this draft. Some ill-judged comments or a serious problem? Stephen A Smith has spoken to Allen and it seems – at time of typing – to be more of a stupid thing than something reflective of his general beliefs. Well, I still think the Giants go for him. The upside is worth it and they will doubtless have done their due diligence.

Stanford coach, David Shaw, is surprised, proclaiming Barkley the best player in the draft. Daniel Jeremiah can’t disagree, but it’s a passing league and the Giants understand what they need to do – it’s about making this team relevant for the next few years, not just 2018.

Gang Green are ready. So is the Commish.

3.   New York Jets select Baker Mayfield, Quarterback, Oklahoma

PFF’s best rated player. This could be a steal, Mayock tells us. He’s got plenty of guile and gumption. We see the Ohio State game where he plants a flag in the middle of the home centre circle after a famous win against the Buckeyes. Boy that didn’t go down well!

So three QBs so far (well done if you had a bet on those lines). “Talking of Ohio”, Rich segues, “the Browns are back on the clock, thanks to Houston having had a terrible season in 2017. What’s the play here, coach?”

Shaw favours Barkley. So does D J. Mayock offers us Chubb, just to be different. Rich plays it cool and suggests a trade for the fourth pick. Rap sheet?

“There were reports of this being traded some weeks ago, but I’ve heard nothing tonight. It seems likely the Browns will take this pick now.”

4.   Cleveland Browns select Saquon Barkley, Running Back, Penn State

Measurables that break the scales. He can bench like an offensive lineman, run faster than a return man, jump higher than a wide receiver, solve the Riemann hypothesis, drive round the Nürburgring in under 9 minutes in a child’s trike…and he can do his own job pretty well, too.

I’ve somehow convinced myself that the Browns should actually take Chubb and build themselves an elite defense up front against a weak Bengals line and two past it QBs in Big Ben and Joe Flacco. But I don’t think they will do that. If Saquon is there at 4, he’s going to Ohio.

Jay Z has tweeted his congratulations to Saquon, we’re shown. LeBron is not far behind him. Cleveland is the place to be, we’re assured. They changed their tune, didn’t they?!

So Denver are now on the clock. It’s a great spot for a trade. We know that they are interested in moving down. Most likely suitor is Arizona, who would be interested in Josh Rosen. Nothing doing, though. We move on. 

5.   Denver Broncos select Josh Rosen, Quarterback, UCLA

Some people think he’s the best quarterback in the draft class. I’m sceptical about that, but he’s got everything you could want in one. And he’s got a fairly decent bloke in shades to help out with the advice in that GM of his.


Around the NFL presenter Dan Hanzus tweets:

This one’s for John…



The Colts are on the clock, while Rosen’s interviewed by Deon Sanders, who asks him whether his outspoken character will be a barrier for him. Rosen gives a brilliantly balanced and honest answer, but with the sort of wry smile you associate with a supremely confident athlete. Prime Time approves.

With four QBs having gone already, this creates a very interesting situation for the rest of the teams who want one. How high do you jump if you want to take Lamar Jackson?

The Colts would have been a trade spot, if the Broncos had taken someone else, like Chubb or Nelson. The Bills have really been hurt by the Jets trade, because it’s priced them out of the market for a jump into the top 4, without relinquishing too much capital, when they need so many other players.

6.   Indianapolis Colts select Bradley Chubb, Defensive End, North Carolina State

Legitimately might be the best player in the draft and even Chris “what’s your favorite type of frog?” Ballard can make this choice. The best first step the NFL has seen since Von Miller. The AFC South just got even scarier for QBs.

Having been offense dominated, we probably now will see some defense, after Chubb went at 6. Neil Reynolds is back in the Sky studio, delighted to be there and fizzing like a Formula One Moët. What he loves is that there are some great players being pushed down the draft and the story is that the weakest teams have gambled, which is so often a bad idea. Fortune favours the brave though, Jeff tells Neil. Not in those words, mind. He’d never say that. He says it in a much cooler way.   

7.   Tampa Bay Buccaneers select Derwin James, Safety, Florida State

I think the Buccs will have agonised over whether to take Quenton Nelson for their much-maligned offensive line. It’s got to be close. I have such a high grade on James, though: he can play in the linebacker position, out at slot corner, even with his hand on the ground for goodness sake! He’s in a division where teams will be throwing the ball on him and he’s going to be pulling the defense into order behind Gerard McCoy’s front line.

For the second time tonight, we see Quenton Nelson at his table, with his family. He looks young all of a sudden. The “glass eater” of the Combine is nowhere to be found. If the Buccs went Nelson instead, I’d say there could be a trade at 8, but the Bears are about to get their guy, Wait…is Nelson on the phone? Here comes Commish.

8.   Chicago Bears select Quenton Nelson, Guard, Notre Dame

Dave Shaw tells us this unites Nelson with his O-Line coach from college and everything Nagy and co have done since they took over has been to give Mitch Trubisky what he needs to succeed. They have bolstered the WR corps and now is the time to give him some protection. D J says Bucky Brooks calls Nelson a “hog molly”, much to everyone’s amusement.

Eisen chimes: “hog molly, glass eater, who knows?! He’s going to Illinois, though.”

TRADE ALERT

Buffalo trade up with San Francisco

The first of the night! NFL Insider, Ian Rapaport has more.

“We’re waiting on the details of it, but I have had it confirmed by both sides that the San Francisco 49ers have traded the ninth pick to the Buffalo Bills. It seems there was interest from at least two other teams, but San Francisco were keen to retain a top 15 position. It seems they are confident of being able to get someone from their big board still, having seen the quarterbacks dominate the first few picks. I believe – although this hasn’t been confirmed – that the Bills will keep their pick at 22.”

9.   Buffalo Bills select Lamar Jackson, Quarterback, Louisville

A tricky spot, but Miami and Arizona would have wanted him, so the Bills are forced to make a move. They’ve been royally hurt by the Jets trade last month and they rightly didn’t sell everything to move up for a gamble at QB. This way, it’s cost them an ageing left tackle and a little capital to move up to 9 from 21. No doubt this is a reach for the Bills, but they’ve painted themselves into a corner now.

Mayock shows us some film of Jackson. You must drink if you hear “special athlete” or “Michael Vick”.

The Raiders complete the top ten and the Big Boards around the league will have surprisingly few gaps at the top. There’s a lot of talent out there.

10.    Oakland Raiders select Roquan Smith, Linebacker, Georgia

He’s grown on me. I’d been heavy on Tremaine Edmunds, but there seems to be a consensus now that Smith is the best linebacker in the class. The Raiders have a huge hole in the middle of their defense and an impact player like Smith is just what they need. Denzel Ward is certainly a possibility, here, but I think Smith ticks so many boxes for the Raiders that he’s a Gruden pick.

TRADE ALERT

Miami trade their pick to the Green Bay Packers


Rap Sheet: “This has come as a surprise, but the circumstances have created it. The Dolphins wanted to take Lamar Jackson or Baker Mayfield and the Packers have seen a player they really covet still on the board at 11, who they think will go at 12 or 13 if they don’t take control.”

The Dolphins have become a retirement home for troubled players. It’s a mess of a roster, so a few cheap picks must be in order.

11.   Green Bay Packers select Denzel Ward, Defensive Back, Ohio State

Having spent last year’s first round pick on a cornerback, you could understand a bit of eyebrow raising at this one. But look at him. The Packers still need cover at cornerback and in the safety position. Ward is versatile enough to fit the scheme and he can do a great job inside the hashes for this defense. It doesn’t seem like it can be a miss to trade up for Ward.

The Niners are on the clock but seem not to have taken long to make their call, as Ward is still talking to Prime Time when the Redskins are on the clock at 13. Rich Eisen has no time for discussion.

12.   San Francisco 49ers select Minkah Fitzpatrick, Safety, Alabama

This is such a great spot for a Best Player Available selection. Shanahan doesn’t have a dire need at safety and they have Richard Sherman at cornerback. But what a lot of experience to give to their future defensive leader. Another line would have been to take Mike McGlinchey, the offensive tackle, but there should be room for that in later rounds. Getting one of the big three D-Backs and moving down for the privilege gets a lot of backslapping from the commentators.

Neil Reynolds is fascinated by the D-Back trio and we get a bit of time with Jeff to run through the play-calling that these guys will love. Fitzpatrick is talked about as a possible replacement for Reuben Foster. Probably wrongly, but understandably.

Washington will be gutted, as they would dearly have loved one of those three guys, but they will still be going defense.

13.    Washington Redskins select Vita Vea, Defensive Tackle, Washington

This is a dire need for the Redskins, whose runstuffing game has been pretty grim. Vea is mobile enough to get sacks, too, which is a huge boost for this team. Mayock has some great film to show us. It’s called a reach by some hacks, while others call it a steal.

14.    Miami Dolphins select Tremaine Edmunds, Linebacker, Virginia Tech

Another team who can go Best Player Available, the Dolphins employ the same strategy of trading down and reaping the rewards. They could pick from around ten different positions, but linebacker and Edmunds is a smart one. The Dolphins will happily report on this being the guy they wanted all along. Sure.

Rich Eisen is settled into his stride fully now and we get to see his Combine 40 yard dash, which we play alongside Tremaine Edmunds and Vita Vea, to much hilarity. Mayock gives him a traditional appraisal.

15.    Arizona Cardinals select Josh Jackson, Cornerback, Iowa

Steve Wilks loves a zone defense and this is the best zone cornerback in the draft. If you try to run a team on one running back, one cornerback and one wide receiver, it’s a tough ask to get many wins. Patrick Peterson needs some help and he gets an equally alliterative partner in Josh Jackson. Views are very much mixed about this selection, which leads to some fun in the studio, but I am a big Jackson fan.

Baltimore are facing a challenging situation in that they have a few areas of need but there will be reaches in a few of them. They must decide what to do. This one runs down to the last few seconds before the pick is in, enabling a lot of speculation to happen, with D J suggesting Hayden Hurst, Dave Shaw suggesting Calvin Ridley, Mike Mayock suggesting Billy Price and someone on twitter mischievously suggesting Mason Rudolph.  

16.    Baltimore Ravens select Connor Williams, Offensive Tackle, Texas

The O-Line isn’t great in Baltimore, after the loss of Ryan Jensen at center. The team will have a reshuffle there and Williams will probably move inside to Guard, as his measurable suggest that’s where he will be best for the NFL.

So we’ve had two trades so far (Buff/SF and GB/Mia) and now the Chargers are on the clock. The Chargers had a mock draft the other night, where a team of scouts, whose job had been to research a different team, competed against each other as though it were Thursday night. They played through a few ideas to see how various combinations of selections would lead to a team wanting to trade up or down. What then normally happens is they draft offensive line or an edge rusher.

17.    Los Angeles Chargers select Leighton Vander Esch, Linebacker, Boise State

The Chargers have done a good job of keeping their big board close to their chest, so this is an interesting pick. It’s a huge need for the team and he has been a real riser over the past month or so. Plenty have him this high.

We are flying again. Commissioner is out again!

TRADE ALERT

Seattle trade with Carolina.


This is a real surprise. Carolina must be high on someone they think will be taken by a team between 17 and 24 and they must be high on the big board. Seattle would have been looking for a trade down to get extra picks, as they are very short in the middle rounds.

18.   Carolina Panthers select D J Moore, Wide Receiver, Maryland

Cam Newton was exposed last year for being poor in the pocket. They’ve given Greg Olsen more money, but he needs help. Moore can play inside, outside and anywhere else, as needed and that, with McCaffrey and Funchess, offers a much more balanced prospect for the offense.

Moore was an ideal guy for Dallas. Carolina would have to get above them to take him, at least with confidence, so they make a splash play and have to hope this one works out.

Cam tweets his joy. Unclear whether he is in a fancy hat, but we can assume he’s sartorially extravagant.

The Joneses are putting on a brave face. They would dearly have liked their guy at wide receiver, with Dez gone. They'd have loved Vita Vea and quite possibly Vander Esch. There's not much trade value from here, so making a choice seems more prudent. At offensive line, La'El Collins wants to play at right tackle, so the decision needs to be made about whether he is a guard. Tyron Smith on the left needs to stay healthy. Or is it Rashaan Evans at linebacker? Jerry's put the phone down. Mr Goodell, over to you...

19.   Dallas Cowboys select Mike McGlinchey, Offensive Tackle, Notre Dame

Commentators will scoff that the ‘Boys are stacked on the O Line but have maybe the 28th best receiving corps. They can get Anthony Miller in the 2nd round, where losing Dak or not getting Zeke up to 5 yards a carry is unthinkable. McGlinchey is the best tackle in the class (excluding Williams, as above).

I really think this is a smart move.

It also hurts Detroit, who would have loved a tackle. That said, Matt Patricia's first pick is going to be a defensive one, surely? They are rich at linebacker, although plenty of hacks disagree. They also have talent at safety and cornerback. I'm very cute on this team, so they need a good selection to continue to justify my interest. They could go running back, but I think the value is in the round below: if they don't pass well, there's no need to worry about the run game; the Lions will lose. There won't be a trade, here.

20.   Detroit Lions select Harold Landry, Edge, Boston College

I almost went Da'Ron Payne here. I really wouldn't be surprised if they went this way. He's an explosive, upfield tackle. But Landry has fallen to 20 and that's a terrific bit of value for a team that really needs a pass rusher. Landry is reunited with his coach from Boston, who is now the defensive coordinator in Detroit. They know who this kid is and who he can be. He’s the sort of lad I’d be considering for DPOY in this situation, as he will be a decent price.

The Bengals are now on the clock, having got this pick from Buffalo in the trade that brought them Cordy Glenn at left tackle. I think they would have liked Landry, here, as he’d fit their scheme. But the need has to be on the offensive line and they have a choice between a few big lads. There’s very little chance of a trade, here. The pick is in.

21.    Cincinatti Bengals select Frank Ragnow, Guard, Arkansas

In some publications, he’s listed as a center, but I think he will be a more natural Guard for the Bengals. There is of course the option for him to move inside, though. Ragnow has been the quiet climber the past week or so. Cincy ride the wave and take him. I don’t think they can miss very easily if they take one of the big boys (Daniels, Price, Wynn). I’m not convinced about Will Hernandez and I don’t think he is drafted tonight.

TRADE ALERT

Buffalo are at it again! This time, they have traded down with New Orleans, in order to get some of their lost picks back. Rap Sheet has the scoop:


“I’ve spoken with Brandon Beane and there’s a real sense the team can get who they want at 27, as they have multiple options. The Saints clearly want someone they worry won’t be there shortly to make this move.”

Rich Eisen asks D J who thinks it must be a receiver or tight end. Mike Mayock wonders if it’s Marcus Davenport, “Who must think he ran over the President’s foot on the way here”. 

22.    New Orleans Saints select Hayden Hurst, Tight End, Michigan

Daniel Jeremiah is grinning from ear to ear. This was his top tight end and he’d even had him going to Baltimore at 16 in his mock. Some have argued for a faster guy up the seam, but the Saints play a lot of two tight end formations, particularly in the redzone, and Hurst offers a lot more right now than the others. This is a team that wants to win it all in 2018 and a project like Gesicki would be a mistake.

Moving up to take a tight end in a weak class is a real risk, but the Saints know they have a need in a position and can fill it relatively cheaply. I have a sneaky suspicion, if the Patriots don’t manage to trade up, they will be looking hard at Hurst at 23. This is the real reason for the trade to 22.

Mike Mayock’s mock draft put Kolton Miller in at 23 for the Pats, but I can’t see him being taken here. They need a left tackle for sure, but Miller is no lock to be a great player, as his college performances don’t reflect his superb Combine numbers.

23.   New England Patriots select Sam Hubbard, Edge, Ohio State

One thing’s for sure: Bill Belichick won’t do what everyone else thinks he should. He does things his own way and paying a premium for an offensive lineman is not a Bill thing to do. They need a pass rush threat and Hubbard is possibly the most Patriot player in this whole draft class. I think this is a very strong shout.

This puts Seattle back on the clock, as they had traded down with the Panthers. Surely they go Offensive Line now? Commish is out. The boos are as enthusiastic as they were two hours ago. He must love his job.

24.   Seattle Seahawks select Marcus Davenport, Defensive End, UTSA

A raw player, but this is an athletic monster who Pete Carroll will surely relish having around the place. The Legion of Boom isn’t around any longer, so the rebuild begins. A fan in the auditorium is scratching his head at no offensive line and that’s matched tenfold by Russell Wilson, who might be doing some more running this year. But there’s still time to draft pass protectors and the trade down has helped.

This puts the Titans on the clock, which is an interesting situation. They would have loved an edge rusher, but the ones they would have taken aren’t there. Linebacker is a big need, so they could go Rashaan Evans. Offensive line is also a need, but the depth of the class suggests they try in later rounds. Gut tells me they fancy someone here.
 

25.   Tennessee Titans select Maurice Hurst, Defensive Tackle, Michigan

PFF are extremely high on this lad, whose medical problems seem to have been given the all clear. First rounders tend to be close to the finished product, but Hurst is more of a developmental project, at least by Thursday night draft standards. The key though is they can rotate him in and out, rather than relying on him immediately, and there is definitely interest out there for him. He goes next if not now.

Twitter criticises the Titans for being forgettable and for spending a big draft pick on a forgettable player. The cool kids praise John Robinson for being a genius GM. Rinse and repeat. The Falcons are getting ready and we can see in their war room that they are shaking hands and looking relaxed.

26.   Atlanta Falcons select Da’Ron Payne, Defensive Tackle, Alabama

This one seems to have come late in the press insider reports, as the commonly held view was they wanted Taven Bryan. However, the sources seem to be whispering the real target is Payne. They have to fill the enormous hole left behind by Dontari Poe leaving and, with so many cornerbacks still available, it feels inevitable the Falcons go DT.

This brings Buffalo back on the clock, as it would have been the Saints to choose now.

27.   Buffalo Bills select Billy Price, Center, Ohio State

I am convinced the Bills need to draft one of the centers if they do keep two picks in the first round. Price has had confirmation that he’ll be fine for training camp, so I am expecting teams not to put off by the pectoral injury he had in the Combine.

No one can criticise taking a lineman after you’ve drafted a quarterback. The Bills have some picks now to find a weapon for him. Evans would have been D J’s pick and Mayock’s, which is understandable. The Bills have been courting the centers, though, and it feels this is one where the obvious pick needs to be obvious. 

Four seconds later, the Pittsburgh pick is in.
 
28.   Pittsburgh Steelers select Rashaan Evans, Linebacker, Alabama

It’s just about a lock that Evans goes here, if he hasn’t before. The Steelers’ biggest is exactly the sort of player Rashaan Evans is.

Antonio Brown tweets Evans is going to enjoy the Steelers experience and Bell likes it.

29.   Jacksonville Jaguars select Mike Gesicki, Tight End, Penn State

This isn’t who I’d pick. I’m not hot on athletes for the big teams, who need football brains first. But I can see the Jags choosing him, as they would like a seam running guy who can be an easy target for Blake Bortles. I would definitely go cornerback on this draft list and look for a good slot corner.

There’s definitely some scope with the last three teams for a trade down. That all-important fifth year option will be appealing to some teams for sure.

30.   Minnesota Vikings select Taven Bryan, Defensive Tackle, Florida

There’s not much between Bryan and Payne. It’s really who you fancy. The Vikings have had the decision made for them. I’m pretty confident if either of them is available at 30, this is where they go. They have a strong defense, but there are a number of players in contract years or close to it. Having a rotation guy in the gut will be a huge boost for the team. As if this defense could get better, the panel cry.

31.   New England Patriots select Jaire Alexander, Cornerback, Louisville

Alexander is an aggressive prospect at CB. He has all the measurables and only allowed a 41.8% completion percentage against him. What will appeal is he can play in man and zone coverage, which is a big plus for a Patriots defense who set up against the opponent’s weaknesses. We’ll deal with the O-Line later is the message.

Rich Eisen cheekily asks “Malcolm who?”

Commissioner, Roger Goodell, makes his last walk out to the middle, as we learn the Super Bowl champions have not traded down. The final pick of the night is in.

32.   Philadelphia Eagles select Kolton Miller, Offensive Tackle, UCLA

I was critical of the possibility of him going further up. The difference here is the Eagles already have two good tackles in Lane Johnson and Jason Peters, plus Vaitai as a potential left tackle cover. They can rotate Miller in during the season, with a view to him starting next season. This is a much smarter move than it would be for other teams.

So that brings the evening to an end. It started with a QB frenzy but ended with defences dominating.

Erm...what? Cleveland gonna Cleveland, I guess.

Everyone's draft board out the window, yes?

Redskins drafting like a rookie getting sniped in their first ever draft.

"Crap, the team before me took the best DT and that's all I need, take the next best, now!"

Then the Raiders do the same, sigh.

Tal, you got to be loving this, surely? No way you could have expected Josh Allen AND Trumaine Edmunds in the 1st round without giving the stadium away, yet that's what you got, because those were two good deals.

 ;frustrated; ;frustrated; ;frustrated;

Was delighted at Edmunds and James falling to us at 15 until we didn't pick either.

Agreed. How do we pass on James?!

Ah well, let's see who the Chargers take then going to bed.

Sigh. Had to be really. Chargers going to make us pay. Bosa and Gordon up front, James in the back.

Have a bad feeling we're going to take a WR in the 2nd round and neglect the defense, and picking a Tackle ahead of Edmunds and James hasn't done anything to convince me otherwise.

Thought we'd grab one in the 3rd/4th round but putting up 30 points a game will sell season tickets in Vegas - we've got rid of Crabtree, Nelson is 33, and we're probably letting Seth Roberts walk in a year, so we need someone to pair with Cooper in the long term who can be our #3 receiver then start in a couple of years.

EDIT: About 5 seconds after I hit the "post" button we get Martavis Bryant from the Steelers for our #75 pick. Like that move a lot tbf. Now PLEASE pick a defensive player at #41.

Safe to say the draft went well betting wise.

I followed tighty in on DJ Moore and Roquan Smith being the first of their positions, all three that I put on my site landed, including Rashaad Penny being the second RB at 33/1 (shame they only let me have a quid on it!)

Somehiw I got 5/1 on Ragnow going first round as well, shame the Lions took him as I'm sure the Bengals would have done but they got Billy Price who I think they've wanted for weeks anyway.

Looks like the Ravens had a good night and the Bills seem to have made some good moves too. I still would have preferred Wynn, the Pats have a steal with him at 23

The Browns managed to drop the ball again. Whilst i tipped Mayfield to win the Heisman in the middle of last season, he simply isn't big enough to be successful in the NFL. Darnold would have been the safer choice as he has all the attributes, but commits too many turnovers. They should be able to coach that out of him to some degree.

I can see the Browns being in the same position in a few years time (again).

I love Mayfield

think he has "it" though undoubtedly it is a bit more boom/bust than Darnold who probably is a bit safer as a pick

being 6 ft nothing didn't stop Drew Brees

Picks by position, Round 1:

6 OL
6 DB
5 QB*
5 DL
4 LB
3 RB
2 WR
1 TE

*Record number for Round 1

there was some baffling stuff

Saints traded from 27 to 13 giving up next years 1. QB then, good job. Marcus Davenport?!

Seattle and Penny was an odd one. not much of an OL in front of him and a rebuilding roster

Draft quiz: Calvin Ridley just found out he...

A) will be playing alongside future Hall of Famer Julio Jones as part of the high-power Atlanta Falcons offense. 

B) has a case of E. coli after consuming tainted romaine lettuce

Just watched it.

Bills had two excellent picks. We need to find some offensive linemen now, but size was clearly the goal last night.

Saints and Seahawks were baffling. Dallas fans weren't happy with Vander Esch, but I'm a fan, so I think they have done well.

Hayden Hurst to Baltimore was a good choice, especially having traded down. They had a good draft.

Cleveland - I guess time will tell. I think they will be picking top 10 next year, too, so they can go and get another player next year. Darnold and Chubb would have been a much different prospect.

I would love to know what the Ohio State fans think of Mayfield in Cleveland!

28 out of 32 first rounders correct

six to the right team (my record is 9)

how did the other mocks on here get on?

26, I think.

Team-wise, I got bulldozed by the top of the draft, like you.

Truly terrible pick by Seattle, the guy might well be a good RB but we just have too many holes to fill on D and the O line to be taking a RB there. Trading down to get 2 picks today for 27 would have fitted our previous MO. Can only think Earl Thomas to Dallas for pick 50 is closer to being done than it seemed.

The trade up by the Saints did look a but strong but think it now shows that best player on the board style drafting is a thing if the past.

I hope our knew RB can pass protect, block as well as run coz he’s going to spend a lot of time trying not to get his head knocked off behind our O line.

25 but mine was a bit more left field, was pleased a lot of the teams I had to trade their original picks did trade too. Back end of the draft did me in really. Pats taking a RB at 31 was as strange as us taking one there too. Completely opposite to their strategy of taking medium talented RB’s and getting them all to do a bit.

Bills GM had another good night tho Tal, he starting to look very good.

We now have picks:

96
121
166
187
255

Do we redshirt Josh Allen so he doesn't get beaten up because of our depleted OLine? Or because he would be throwing to Kelvin Benjamin (for 6 games) and Zay Jones?

This has the feel of project to it.

Does Dez Bryant seems a logical option of a short term add to give some experienced help?

Honestly, I think he would probably just add to the problem. He doesn't want to be there and he's not in line with the new ethos.

It would be mutual desperation

Ten predictions for Round 2 and 3

1. Cleveland draft 3 of a running back, an edge rusher, a wide receiver and an offensive lineman
- guessing at these at Jones, Hubbard, Deon Cain
 
2. Anthony Miller (who I really like) to Washington, Arizona or Green Bay
- guessing Arizona

3. Patriots draft a QB
- guessing Falk

4. Dallas draft a tight end who can double in the slot
- guessing Gesecki

5. Shakeem Griffin goes in the 3rd round
- guessing AFC North team.

6. Maurice Hurst goes in the 2nd
- guessing Atlanta

7. Giants draft two offensive linemen
- guessing Daniels is one and I'll go Braden Smith for the other.

8. Bears go cornerback at 39
- Josh Jackson if he's still there. Oliver if not.

9. Tampa draft two defensive backs
- guessing Ronnie Harrison will be one and let's go Carlton Davis for a big corner

10. The Bills will draft an offensive lineman
- guessing Martinas Rankin

I must have draft day fever setting in. I honestly thought Tampa were going to get the parrot to announce their pick there.

Gone to San Francisco.

https://www.nfl.com/share/10103061-7033-0000-0092-9812ba01efc1

Tore his ACL on wednesday on a visit to the Giants

still picked in the 4th

He's worth a gamble at that price.

All 4 defensive linemen from that team drafted now.

Tavon Austin then, Tighty?

Edit: informed sources say he'll be a back up running back

Receiving running back, 3rd downs, jet sweeps, kick returns and all for 1m this year. A no downside punt

Was he not on an 8m contract for 2018?

8/27/2016: Signed a six-year, $56.14 million contract. The deal includes $30 million guaranteed. Another $10 million is available through incentives. 2018: $3 million (+ $5 million roster bonus), 2019: $9.35 million, 2020: $9.56 million, 2021: $9.22 million, 2022: Free Agent

I'm assuming The Rams have already paid his roster bonus of 5 million as there can't be any way Dallas have given him 8 million to play in 2018. Cowboys must be able to get out of this contract after this season surely?

$5m paid by the Rams

$1m base and $2m of non guaranteed incentives

then out of contract end of season

a punt, might not even get on the roster

That's a good bit of business.

How about Reggie McKenzie not drafting his own son, but letting him instead go to a divisional rival?

Or the Jags drafting no-nonsense leftback and 1972 Fairs Cup quarterfinalist Tanner Lee?

Day 3 delivers.

If they can get out of the rest Of that contract at the end of this season that is a pretty good deal tbf.

current midpoints

Vegas 2018 season win totals

2018 NFL regular season wins

Ari 5.5
Atl 9
Bal 8
Buf 6.5
Car 9
Chi 6.5
Cin 7
Cle 5.5
Dal 8.5
Den 7
Det 8
GB 10
Hou 8.5
Ind 6.5
Jax 9
KC 8.5
LAC 9
LAR 9.5
Mia 6
Min 10
NE 11
NO 9.5
NYG 6.5
NYJ 6
Oak 8
Phi 10.5
Pit 10.5
SF 9
Sea 8
TB 6.5
Ten 8
Wsh 7

give me 3 buys and 3 sells please

Sell

Min (horrible division and winner's schedule)
Bal (4th best team in the division - trying this again!)
Oak (horrible draft, changing back office and...gruden)


Buy

Chi (easy to see them climbing and a good draft)
Hou (horrid luck with injuries last year)
Den (they just drafted 10 extra sacks, two starting WRs and a direct running back replacement for anderson)

Pre draft the Bengals were 5.5 and were plus money on that as well, the Ravens and Browns had better drafts, yet our win total supposedly improves. Browns were 4.5 as well, just the one notch up for them.

Where were/are those prices tighty? Betonline.ag was apparently where I found the early prices (had to go through oddsshark as you need an account to view them at betonline.ag)

anyone else gonna try to get tickets tomorrow?

Very difficult have gone

Sell
Vikings
Browns
Colts

Buy
Rams
Bears
Bengals

Yes, went for the first time last year and absolutely loved it. Should be able to get a few tickets with friends.

I'm going to give it a go for the Titans Chargers game. Will be hitting refresh at 10am!

oh and if anyone has any tips for the best value place to sit. I've not been to the new Wembley, but I assume sight lines are great everywhere?

Yea, not a bad seat anywhere. Sat in the very back row behind the goal once for an England game and wouldn't recommend that.

Splashed out on the fancy seats last year for the NFL, was at the end and view was excellent. Feels like you get a better perspective for the game from the end?

Under

Cleveland 5.5
Seattle 8
Oakland 8

Over

Denver 7
Jets 6
Jax 9

me

been on hold 17 minutes now not holding out much hope on accessible ticket being available

eagles facebook page reporting general tickets were sold out in seconds little hope for me and an accessible one then but still on hold

Ticketmaster now showing "Wow! Loads of people have turned up today.

As so many people are trying to book tickets, we've started a queue. Don't refresh this page as you may lose your place in the queue.

Thanks for your patience."

maybe there is still hope for me

1hr45mins on hold now i dont know if i should give up

2 hours on hold and i got cut off

Ah damn :( - I guess Titans v Chargers had much less demand perhaps.  I was in and got the tickets in a few minutes but maybe I got lucky.

yeah they are still on sale now

Only singles I think. My brother in law tried for 45 mins to get 4 tickets together for that game, eventually he ended up with 3 together at £160 a ticket. Premium Sideline and looks a great view. Was the same last year we couldn't get a bunch lot without spending a fortune

there will be more released later in the year seemingly but unlikely accessible one totally gutted was looking forward to going
going to have to make a trip to philly instead

might go down to london for the tailgate and watch the match in the pub

Yeah the teams playing get allocated X amount of tickets which usually don't sell out, they're then sent back and put up for sale for us lot to pick up. Unsurprisingly they go at the same speed as the rest of them

Tickets will become available on resale sights near to the game, often for cheaper than face value

Win totals up on Skybet, nothing hugely wrong on there IMO. And can't "parlay" them, you could on PP last year so I'll probably be waiting for that.

Matt Ryan is getting $30m a year on average.

Or you could have this team:

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DdaUiyEWsAAO-SU?format=jpg)

A few things:
1. How out of line QB salaries are with the rest of the league
2. How important it is to use a rookie QB contract is to a franchise wanting to make it big
3. QBs are arguably still underpaid: on the field half the time and touch the ball every time.
4. A few people on that list will be negotiating their contracts soon.

No more kneeling during the anthem?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-44230772

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiNBKAgtpLs

LeShannon Sharpe's thoughts...

Johnny Manziel going to make his CFL debut early Saturday morning 00.30 UK time in the Hamilton Tigercats pre season game. Will be No.2 QB behind Masoli but looks likely to get plenty of action. He has done all the right things and said all the right things so far so I'm looking forward to seeing if he still has the game.

Hopefully BT Sport will have most of the reg season games again this season if anyone with NFL withdrawal wants something to watch.

no eagles white house trip

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-44364626

They were apparently "disinvited"

Supposedly only 10 of then were going to go. He's such a self centred prick.

Might help you guys, might not, but I've got this spreadsheet online

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YO4VIm5ZLgEfRD-LgRBanVvfRVVVfYfE/view?usp=sharing

Ignore the leans on the under/overs, I was hoping to make that editable so people could choose their own and it would show the best odds, but I think it's a fair bit of work that I've not yet had time for

Remarkable arb on the Falcons there!

2.10 either side, always nice to see!

After 5 failed attempts to locate it, I eventually found the new Las Vegas Raiders Stadium last night.

It's almost ready, just a few bits & bobs to finish off.


Here's what it will look like;


(http://i.imgur.com/cOVGEJX.jpg) (https://imgur.com/cOVGEJX)



And here's what it looked like last night;



(http://i.imgur.com/surVsW0.jpg) (https://imgur.com/surVsW0)



(http://i.imgur.com/jbXRt8b.jpg) (https://imgur.com/jbXRt8b)

The playbook is pretty similar.

Tony Miles, chip leader with 4 left in the WSOP Main, appears to be a Seahawks fan. Russell Wilson, perhaps?


(http://i.imgur.com/bdqHcCA.jpg) (https://imgur.com/bdqHcCA)

Incredibly Johnny just got traded by Hamilton to Montreal  for 2!! first round picks plus 2 good Montreal players with  2 good Hamilton players also following Manziel to Montreal.

Given he didn’t even get on the field for Hamilton in a regular season game because their starting QB is very good and just tied the league record for most consecutive 300 yard games (9) it looks an incredible price to pay for him. Montreal desperately need a QB but to give up 2 first round picks when QB’s like James Franklin who is now the starter in Toronto were traded for much less.

Add in the point that almost every CFL player has it in their contract that they can leave if NFL teams want to sign them, so even if he is a great success in Montreal they might lose him to the NFL anyway. The good thing is Manziel should finally get a long rein and a great chance to prove he still has it.

From Twitter

Coach- Michael Irvin is snorting cocaine in the locker room.

Jerry Jones- ok

Coach- Greg Hardy just beat his girlfriend.

Jerry Jones- no prob

Coach- Kaepernick kneeled to bring awareness to social inj...

Jerry Jones- MY PLAYERS WILL STAND WITH THE TOE ON THE LINE I MEAN IT!

The guys over at Redzonesports have Lamar Jackson set at 5/4 to start any game this season. Am I wrong in thinking that's going to happen? Flacco isn't the best or the fittest QB out there. Lose a few games and the pressure will be on to change QB

Can't find this on the site. Where is it?

Def the wrong side of evens.

Not sure if you found it, someone has as its moved down a tick to 11/10. On the #YourZone bit on American football. Probably a few on there you can find value on.

I've asked for o/u Landry, hoping for around 1,000 on it

Has to be the worst mobile site of them all.

Took me 10 minutes after you said where it was.

Harrumph.

11/10 still wrong.

Yeah I struggled to find it on the mobile site too, remarkably easy on desktop though!

They have Baltimore priced up at 5/8 not to make the playoffs. Who's starting week 17?

Plenty of situations where Flacco starts all 16 games, but anything less than a decent start and he's under a lot of pressure.

Cheers Tal, was looking for backup on it. I don't actually have a RZ account yet, waiting a couple of weeks to do the welcome bonus because you've to go stake 7x in 30 days and with just preseason I'd rather wait and catch the first week of regular season at the end of that 30 days, they have said they'll be doing a couple more welcome offers over the coming weeks too

Feels like a good spot if Jackson comes through pre season injury free..

Seahawks v Raiders game moved to Wembley as Spurs delay opening of new stadium due to safety issues

Nothing of interest in the Skybet specials/RaB stuff Tal/Cavey?

I'm still doing a few things at the moment in prep, but I'm hoping there are a few more markets to come up (like worst record).

If you can get Harrison Buttker for most kicking points at anything bigger than 12/1, I would say that's a good bet. 16s with Scuy is very generous.

Had the most field goal attempts last year and the offense is better now. He's not a big name but did very well in his 13 games.

I have Kerryon Johnson and Anthony Miller at various prices up to 80/1 for Offensive Rookie of the Year. Related to Johnson is a bet on Matt Patricia for Coach of the Year at 40/1.

I'm probably going to do a Request a bet roundup some time later this week if I get time. I've got a few already I like the look of, but will dive into it a little more

One thing that stood out from last weekends pre season games is how badly the new hit rules affected the penalty counts. Saw 2 players interviewed that both said they really didn’t have any idea how they were supposed to tackle players without drawing flags some of the time and not others. So they were just going to carry in and accept some will get called and in other spots won’t get called. The Minny game was crazy tbh.


They just felt it was a lottery given the D players will get called far more for pens. Might be time to allow for these new rules when betting totals coz going to be a lot of 10 and 15 yard pens flying around possibly leading to more scoring chances.

Fezzik mentioned this on the Ross Tucker Even money pod this last week, he said that from week 1 to 2 the average totals were up by 2pts (iirc), in part probably due to the fact that drives will be maintained due to the rule. Definitely one to keep an eye on when the season starts, and possibly the referees as I'm sure there will be some groups who are most strict on the rule than others.

It's a first draft but I love this rule.

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-videos/0ap3000000933867/Al-Riveron-explains-the-new-lowering-of-helmet-rule

Will be mistakes but I expect it to lead to safer tackling and better behaviour on both sides.

Refs have been harsh in preseason but that's the point: gets the players to understand it can be a penalty. Better that than being soft then harsh.

OK.

Request-a-bet round up is on my site now.

Some of note for you boys. If you've got active William Hill and Redzonesports accounts. Jarvis Landry receiving yards. o/u 1050.5 on William Hill, o/u 850.5 on Redzone. That's a huge middle. - And same, to a lesser extent o/u 2.5 Cordarelle Patterson TDs on the same 2 sites.

FWIW, Numberfire has Landry at 920 yards.

Just had a quick scan.

Def take the under on Saquon rushing TDs at 8.5, even at 5/6. Would think 6.5 a better line. No guarantee he has the team that'll help him get upfield often enough to be getting 9 or 10 scores on the ground.

Broncos most sacks at 16/1?

Burkhead 9 total TDs at 5/2 is a lovely bet. Will be the main running back for the pats and a reliable pass catcher.

I requested it at Redzone hoping to go u1000 so that's about where I think it should be at.

Where's the Burkhead bet? He was touted today as their main guy, as you say. I would worry about health, but that's good odds for him

Request a bet team specials. Pats.

Yes. Being rested.

Marqise Lee injury looked pretty bad there.

Bengals locking down their guys, Dunlap and Atkins both signing contracts today, Dunlap contracted till 2021, Atkins till 2022, add them to Lawson, Willis, Billings. Future is sorted on the pass rush front in Cinci!

Finally got through my AFC previews, about 2,000 words on each division so far, not sure how I'm going to fit the NFC previews in before game time!

where can we read.

Link in my signature mate :)

CHEERS.

Jeez.



Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers will become the highest paid player in NFL history, after agreeing a four-year contract extension reported to be worth $134m (£103m).

The 34-year-old will reportedly earn more than $80m by March 2019.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/american-football/45349627

As a percentage of the Packers' salary cap, given his value to this particular roster, I would argue he is still significantly underpaid.

He reportedly gets $50-odd million just for signing.

This is all before tax of course.

:)

I had a big long post about why Carl Lawson o7.5 sacks is arguably my favourite bet of the season on Redzone, but... they've removed the bloody market after his 2.5 sacks against the Bills in preseason. They've also removed Cordarelle Patterson o2.5 total TDs which I was going to look at as well

May have a little nibble on Bengals being sack leaders at 50/1, Geno and Dunlap signed up, the other guys looking good. It's a very long shot, and probably not going to happen but still

No concern about players getting paid not being motivated?

Always seems to be the logic doesn't it! Guess it depends how the season goes

He's a baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaad man!

My fave player :)

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CubJC-ygHvc

This is good.

BTSport 2 tonight at 10.30pm:

The Two Bills
The story of a turbulent relationship between legendary NFL coaches Parcells and Belichick. From their successes to their dramatic split. Part of the ESPN 30 for 30 series.

Khalil Mack deal to the Bears agreed, according to multiple reports

Just wants the money, and not interested in winning?

Maybe, but the Bears are an attractive proposition, with an exciting offensive mind and a building defense. That NFC North is becoming one of the best in the league. Raiders now in full rebuild mode for Vegas.

Seems like Gruden and Mack were on completely different pages from day one.

Minnesota must be worried, as their Offensive Line is very poor.

Interesting stuff.

My Vikings supporting friend will be pleased :D

Looks like Jerrick Mckinnon is out for the year with a training ground injury. LA Rams have had an incredible summer in their Div with the way things have turned out in San Fran and to a lesser extent Seattle.

In fact their schedule early in the season includes Oakland who seem to be shall we say, planning ahead. Seattle who have had a complete overhaul from a defensive team to relying on Wilson and the offence. 49er's hit by injuries and Arizona. They play Minny at home in week 4 too who are having O line issues again due to injuries.

teams with rookie QBs on a first contract can go for it. If you are paying a frachise QB $80-130m you can't

Eagles, Rams, now Bears all trying to maximise their chances in a window, though i happen to support the only potential rookie franchise QB team that can't do it. Marvellous

meanwhile Madden declined the trade as being not enough :-)

Hate the Gruden strategy i have to say, though much of it is ownership being cash strapped (you have to put the guaranteed amount of contracts into escrow and they are already on the hook to 31 teams for the Vegas relocation fee)

i can't back it but

Raiders U8.5 wins at 4/5 with Ladbrokes, yes please, back the truck up

What is the "Vegas relocation fee"?

Rapsheet reported a convo from the Bears locker room on Friday when the coaches asked the players to huddle around for some important news.

'a voice from the back shouted have we all all been traded for Kahlil Mack'

The Raiders are leaving for Las Vegas in the near future. The road out of Oakland includes a toll. The NFL charged the Silver and Black a $385 million relocation fee to move away from California.

That sum must be paid over a 10-year period starting when the Raiders formally move, but crucially is held in escrow

its about 2 years of salary cap, they have a $100m contract coach and then stadium build costs..this for one of the "poorer" (its all relative) ownerships

so paying Mack what he got from the Bears was a cash flow issue

"You can't have $100m, Khalil...because I've got it."

The whole $385 milly has to be held in escrow, or just $38.5 milly per year?

In the context of NFL spending, & the new stadium costs (though I believe they only pay a part of the Stadium build costs, some comes from the city of Las Vegas itself?) it does not seem an onerous amount to me, though if it impacts salary cap, of which I know zilch, I guess it's maybe meaningful.

yes Vegas has paid for a slug of the build (tourism to the casinos and city up, huge benefits from it having the NFL in an environment of liberalising gambling legislation)

the $385m is paid up front

salary cap about $170m and league revenues to teams per annum are about $243m each

so it is an amount that is impinging on ability to pay star player second contracts/roster construction,for now

Understood, thanks.

Was coming in here to post that myself.

One that you might be able to get on, Bills u5.5, Seahawks u7.5, Raiders u8.5 - 17/4 at RedzoneSports if you fancy it

Croydon's Efe Obada makes the Panthers 53 man roster.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DmHjNfSW4AA04XQ?format=jpg)

Whilst there are practice squad deals and so on, making the 53 is a genuine achievement.

Defensive End.

(http://i.imgur.com/tAcZouG.jpg) (https://imgur.com/tAcZouG)

I love this, and I particularly love the responses from angry Americans who go and buy Nike products so they can post pictures of they angrily cutting them up, or as one amazing specimen of mankind did, set fire to his trainers. While wearing them... and ending up in Hospital. God Bless America

How do you see Cincy doing this year Cavey?

O line and receiving options look much improved on paper.

It’s probably because it’s getting so close to kick off now but I’m a lot more positive over Seattle this season than I was when they were dismantling the D early in the off season. If the pre season showings hold up into the season the O line looks better and Wilson has even been saying how he’s noticed the added time he has had in the pocket. It looks like we are going to open up the O and trust Wilson to be the game winner instead of the D.

Feels like the change of mentality from a defensively strong backbone to the team to an attacking offense might have been over looked.

I just saw you had written up your thoughts on Cincy in TFT

Cheers

Think it shows the state the US is in when this guy is derided for the stance he has taken when all he has done is for the good of others.

I have a kind of 'fire me up' playlist set up on Youtube when I'm about to do a long shift and this is on it. Its spooky to see how this 'hear what you want to hear' campaign advert from 3-4 years ago has come to mean even more now. Lyrically its spooky given how things have turned out.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-j4n-sna6Y

I had a look last night, but only for a couple minutes after it was announced, and Twitter was in meltdown, as per usual.

That is very spooky, and what a tune!

is it only me or does the backup QB’s in the NFL as we start 2018 look like a major problem? Take a look at your team’s backup QB and tell me if you can win a game with him?

a few exceptions obviously, but the situation isn't great

Deffo feels like there is some major money saving going on at back up QB doesn't it. Seattle traded for Brett Hundley who is on $705k this year and a free agent next year and he was basically a disaster in Green Bay last season.

Very spooky indeed how things have turned out isn't it.

Hope he gets the lot!

Nike has a good sense of where their target demographic is on the Anthem Protests.

Hope no one minds me putting this here:

https://www.i-pools.co.uk/2018-nfl-season-preview

Not at all.

NFL is all a bit above me, but that's a wonderful piece of writing & will help engage the NFL ignorant sorts like me. I shall certainly enjoy looking out for blokes with longer arms. They are called "tackles", see? (Surely tacklers is more correct in English?).


(http://i.imgur.com/5kGS4bu.png) (https://imgur.com/5kGS4bu)

Finally finished all of my division previews this morning. Been a painful experience!

Had a couple for tomorrow, the handicap is getting smashed at the moment. Dallas Goedert at 6/1 on PP is a price I thought would be gone by now.

6/1 on bfsb still too also 12/1 still available in places for deanrdre carter any time scorer with injuries to some of the eagles WRs he has a good chance of getting some good targets having played well preseason

I won't lie, I have have no idea who he is but will have a nose

eagles are his 5th team in 4 seasons and first time he has made a 53 man roster

with injuries he has moved up the depth chart

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkXY3dIy-j8

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Zf5Ii7mCoA

https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/the-nfl-is-no-league-for-old-men/

Interesting article here on potential market inefficiencies salary wise.

Well, it's the start of a new NFL season and it has a feeling unlike any other one I can recall.  I'm not sure if it's because I've lost the seemingly permanent chip on my shoulder about us being the only NFC East team without a Superbowl or whether it's because it's the first season where I'm pretty much 100% guaranteed it's going to be a disappointment, as NFL teams, in general, don't do back to back Superbowl wins.

It all seems a bit surreal at the moment.

PREDICTIONS Please

Superbowl:
AFC 4 Division winners:
NFC 4 division winners:
Worst record/number one draft pick goes to:
Offensive rookie of the year:
Most passing yards:
How many yards for most rushing yards:
How many coaches fired before the end of week 17:

Superbowl: eagles v dolphins winner eagles
AFC 4 Division winners:
NFC 4 division winners:
afc east dolphins
afc north ravens
afc south jags
afc west denver
nfc east SUPERBOWL CHAMPS the eagles
nfc north packers
nfc south saints
nfc west rams
Worst record/number one draft pick goes to: Cowboys
Offensive rookie of the year:  Kerryone Johnson
Most passing yards: Marritoa
How many yards for most rushing yards: 1127
How many coaches fired before the end of week 17:  4

PREDICTIONS Please

Superbowl: Blake Bortles becomes the latest 'weak link' quarterback since err, Foles, Manning etc and  Jax beat Atlanta in Atlanta 27-20


AFC 4 Division winners: Jax, Pats, Steelers, Kansas do it the hard way by beating enough good teams on their schedule in shootouts. Chargers possible lack of home advantage kicks in.

NFC 4 division winners: Atlanta have a much better 2nd half of season schedule than Saints and get up to win the Div, Philly. Minny's away schedule, O line and Cousins indoor outdoor splits record gives Green Bay with the easier schedule and improved secondary the edge. Rams have a had a dream off season in their Div.

Worst record/number one draft pick goes to:  Buffalo. I'm a Seattle fan so I've seen some bad O lines, but this Bills O line is scary bad. No wonder they have chosen a sacrificial lamb to start the season at QB instead of their QB of the future. I managed to get a whole £2 on 0-16 at 500/1 but have backed them worst record at 13/2 and less. The downside to the bet is they get 4 games v Jets and Miami who should be a bit better than Buffalo but not all that good themselves.

Offensive rookie of the year: Barkley probably just needs to stay fit all season to win this.

Most passing yards:

A few years ago TFT backed 3 QB's ew 4 places in a great each way market only for Peyton Manning to record a record season and our guys finished 2nd,3rd and 4th. Think there is deffo a big priced value pick this year using the same criteria of a good QB with good receiving weapons and a average to bad looking D.

Patrick Mahommes has a cannon arm, A good pass catching RB, the 2nd best TE in the game,  a brand new no2 WR in Sammy Watkins and a number 1 WR Tyerek Hill whose last 13 touchdowns have all been from over 30 yards out. And that was with Alex Smith at QB.

Their secondary is in a mess. The downside is Andy Reid is coach but if your D is letting teams score easily then you got to score lots of points. Mahommes is a really good running QB too so that might bring more injury risk but it also gives the Oppo's D an awful lot of passing weapons to keep in check on every down. Some 40/1 around 3 places and some 4 places available at shorter in spots which is great value in my eyes.

How many yards for most rushing yards:

1525 yards

How many coaches fired before the end of week 17:

None

Superbowl: Texans v Vikings - Vikings win

AFC 4 Division winners: Pats, Ravens, Texans, Chargers
NFC 4 division winners: Vikings, Eagles, Falcons, Rams

Wildcards: Steelers, Jags, Packers, Saints

Worst record/number one draft pick goes to: Buffalo Bills
Offensive rookie of the year: Darnold
Most passing yards: Rivers, 4,737
How many yards for most rushing yards: 1,475
How many coaches fired before the end of week 17: 3

Superbowl: Saints v pats saints 34-27
AFC 4 Division winners:pats..steelers..chiefs..texans
NFC 4 division winners: saints..vikings..eagles..Rams
Worst record/number one draft pick goes to: Jets
Offensive rookie of the year: Barkley
Most passing yards: Rogers 4750
How many yards for most rushing yards: 1755 elliot
How many coaches fired before the end of week 17: 3

Superbowl: Steelers vs Vikings

AFC 4 Division winners: Pats, Steelers, Texans, Chargers

NFC 4 division winners: Vikings, Giants, Saints, Rams

Wildcards: Baltimore, Jags, Packers, Falcons

Worst record/number one draft pick goes to: Bills

Offensive rookie of the year: Barkley

Most passing yards: Brees, 4918

How many yards for most rushing yards: 1349

How many coaches fired before the end of week 17: 1

Decided to stay up and watch the season opener, only to find the start has been delayed due to the threat of lightning. Marv.

Terrible forecast for the golf 2morrow too Tony, brought the tee times forward 4 hours to try and dodge more T storms again 2morrow afternoon.

Talking of the golf, Tiger shot 29 on the front nine and 62 total to share the lead with Rory. Tiger is back, proper back.

If he continues to drive it like he did today he's going to break his duck soon. The fairways are very wide there tho so he had a bit more room but he did look great off the tee.

Great news, IMO. Hope he can sustain it all weekend.