Sunday, September 1, 2013

2013 Heisman Prediction: Tajh Boyd

     Last night, football regained control of our TV screens for the first time since Alabama whooped Notre Dame in the National Title game. Saturday's biggest game of course featured two teams with very different football backgrounds; 5th ranked Georgia of the SEC and 8th ranked Clemson of the ACC. The game featured two high flying offenses, but in the end, Clemson's quarterback Tajh Boyd was able to overpower Georgia's defense, as Clemson upset the Bulldogs 38-35. Tajh Boyd is familiar with the spotlight, as he led his offense past LSU in last year's Chick-Fil-a Bowl. Boyd is extremely talented, with a strong, accurate arm, and the ability to make big plays with his feet. For this reason, we believe Tajh Boyd will take home the Heisman Trophy in 2013.

     Four minutes into the third quarter in last night's game against Georgia, Tajh Boyd faked the handoff to running back Roderick McDowell, hesitated, and then unleashed a 31-yard pass to wide receiver Zac Brooks. Brooks was draped by a Georgia defender, yet Boyd was able to place the ball where only his receiver could catch it. Once the ball landed in Brooks' hands, he was immediately tackled by the opposing cornerback in the end zone for the touchdown, which gave Clemson a 28-21 lead. This touchdown pass was just one of three for Tajh Boyd in last night's game, with an additional two touchdowns on the ground. His performance against Georgia perfectly reflects the skill-set in which Boyd possesses. Yes, Boyd is capable of running the ball, but unlike quarterbacks such as Marcus Mariota and Braxton Miller, Boyd is a pass-first type of quarterback. The accuracy on the deep throws is extremely inconsistent, but last night's game, especially Boyd's touchdown pass to Zac Brooks, is a posotive sign that Boyd has improved on the deep throws.

     In 2012, Tajh Boyd led his team to an 11-2 record, where both losses came against Top 25 teams (Florida State, South Carolina). By year's end, Boyd passed for 3,896 yards, 36 touchdowns, and just 13 interceptions. His passer rating of 165.6 ranked fourth in the nation last year behind pocket passers AJ McCarron, Aaron Murray, and David Fales. Unlike the three I just listed, Tajh Boyd is more than capable of running the ball, especially in the red zone. Boyd's 10 rushing touchdowns last season ranked 11th in the nation among quarterbacks, while he also ran for 514 yards on the ground. Clemson finished second in the ACC Atlantic, and faced off against LSU in the Chick-Fil-A Bowl. After beating LSU on a last second field goal, Tajh Boyd was named MVP, passing for 346 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions.

     Clemson's offense lost wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins who left for the draft, but Boyd still has one of the best wide receivers in the nation, Sammy Watkins. Watkins is a deep threat with extraordinary speed, and this duo is more than likely to succeed if both players are able to stay on the field. Clemson's schedule in 2013 features games against division rival Florida State, as well as SEC powerhouse South Carolina in the last game of the season. Tajh Boyd and the Clemson Tigers are off to a great start, and Clemson playing for the National Title no longer seems so far fetched with Boyd leading the way. If Boyd is able to lead Clemson to one of the major BCS Bowls, we see Tajh Boyd being named the winner of the Heisman Trophy in 2013.


Friday, August 30, 2013

Preseason 2014 NFL Mock Draft: Complete

1. Jacksonville Jaguars: QB Teddy Bridgewater: The Jacksonville Jaguars drafted Blaine Gabbert in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft, but Gabbert has not yet proved he is worthy of the starting job. Gabbert was placed on the IR after the first 10 games, where his passer rating finished at a mediocre 77.4. Backup Chad Henne was even worse, at 72.4. The Jaguars are in desperate need of a talented, consistent quarterback to resurrect this struggling franchise. Teddy Bridgewater passed for 3,718 yards, with 27 touchdowns and a passer rating of 160.5. Coming from Louisville, Bridgewater's big arm and elusiveness in the pocket allows him to make big plays at any point in the game.

2. Oakland Raiders: DE Jadeveon Clowney: The Oakland Raiders have just one returning starter on the defensive line, after Matt Shaughessy, Richard Seymour, and Desmond Bryant all left via free agency. At defensive end, the Raiders acquired Andre Carter, who at age 34, is signed on a one-year deal. Jadeveon Clowney, a defensive end from South Carolina, is by far the most talented player of the draft, and it is possible surpasses Teddy Bridgewater as the first overall pick. The Raiders need help on the defensive line, and Clowney has the potential to be a Hall of Fame defensive end in the NFL. Clowney may be the key to an Oakland turnaround.

3. Tennessee Titans: OT Jake Matthews: The Tennessee Titans are trying to re-vamp their offensive line, who ranked 21st in the league in sacks allowed. Guard Chance Warmack, the first round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, will join Andy Levitre at guard, while two tackles, both with 9 years experience in the league, will protect the outside corners. Jake Matthews is well-deserving of the third overall pick, and with his father Bruce Matthews as Tennessee's offensive line coach, it would only make sense that Jake Matthews plays in a Titans uniform in 2014.

4. Buffalo Bills: OT Taylor Lewan: Three out of Buffalo's five offensive tackles finished the 2012 season on the injured reserve, including starting right tackle Erik Pears. If Pears can not make a swift recovery, the Buffalo Bills will need new talent to replace the aging lineman. Many believe Taylor Lewan is better than Texas A&M's Jake Matthews, and at 6'8" with All-American honors on his resume, Taylor Lewan makes a pretty good case for the nation's best offensive lineman.

5. Arizona Cardinals: WR Marquis Lee: Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald will be turning 30 in August, where he is coming off his least productive season of his accomplished career. The Cardinals were hoping 2011 Draft pick Michael Floyd could take some pressure off of Fitzgerald in 2012, but Floyd looked undeveloped as a rookie, and will need a few more years before he can blossom into an NFL star. Marquis Lee is clearly the most talented wide receiver of the 2014 Draft Class, as he was a unanimous All-American as a junior. Lee also won the 2012 Biletnekoff Award, which honors the best wide receiver in college football. Lee no longer has Matt Barkley throwing him the ball, so there may be a slight drop-off in production, but Arizona will look to spice-up this offense as Larry Fitzgerald enters his thirties.

6. Cleveland Browns: QB Tahj Boyd: The Cleveland Browns have had extreme difficulty finding a talented quarterback within this past few years, and they will continue to search when Brandon Weeden fails in 2013. The Browns did not draft a quarterback in last April's draft, sending a message that they have not yet given up on Brandon Weeden. Weeden, though only in his second season, will turn 30 in October, and unless he can turn his game around with Norv Turner as offensive coordinator in 2013, the Browns will give up on Weeden and search for yet another quarterback. Tahj Boyd is one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy, with a lethal combination of accuracy, strength, and speed. Boyd  might even be a better quarterback than projected first overall pick Teddy Bridgewater. We will have to wait and see.

7. New York Jets: WR Sammy Watkins: The New York Jets lost number one wide receiver Santonio Holmes to a Lisfranc injury in 2012. Sophomore wide receiver Stephen Hill did not seem to be prepared for the big leagues, where he caught the ball just 21 times for 252 yards in his rookie season. It would not be surprising if Geno Smith replaces Mark Sanchez midway through the season, and the New York Jets would want to surround the young quarterback with new talent. Sammy Watkins is Tahj Boyd's number one target at Clemson, and this two-time All-American will make a smooth transition into the National Football League.

8. St. Louis Rams: OLB Anthony Barr: The St. Louis Rams improved their defense dramatically when they drafted outside linebacker Alec Ogletree in last April's draft. This selection will likely shift Jo-Lonn Dunbar to the strong side if Ogletree succeeds as a rookie. With Anthony Barr still on the board, it would be hard to pass on the most talented linebacker of the 2014 draft class, and it is rumored that Barr ran the 40-yard dash in a mind boggling 4.47 seconds. Barr's 13.5 sacks ranked second in the nation last season, only behind Georgia linebacker Jarvis Jones (drafted 17th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers). If St. Louis drafts Barr with the eighth overall pick, the Rams' pass rush would be by far the most dominant in the league.

9. Carolina Panthers: CB Bradley Roby: The Carolina Panthers cornerback situation is a complete mess, where they have five different mediocre cornerbacks to choose from. Both starting cornerbacks, Captain Munnerlyn and Josh Norman, are incapable of shutting down the top wide receivers of a very talented passing division. With Carolina competing with Atlanta, New Orleans, and Tampa Bay for the division title (all talented passing teams), they will need someone who can shut-down the most talented of wide receivers. Bradley Roby is by far the best cornerback of this draft class, and he can be a star defender for the Panthers.

10. Kansas City Chiefs: DE Stephon Tuitt: The Kansas City Chiefs signed defensive end Mike DeVito to play left end this past off-season, whereas right end is held by Tyson Jackson, a 2009 draft pick whose contract was reduced this past off-season. If Jackson fails, there is little talent on the Chiefs' depth chart left to replace him, therefore ruining this defensive line. Stephon Tuitt is a first-team All American from Notre Dame, where he sacked the quarterback 12 times as a freshman. Expect that number to only increase as he enters his second year at Notre Dame.

11. Miami Dolphins: OT Cyrus Kouandijo: Left tackle Jake Long has left for St. Louis, and second year tackle Jonathan Martin will be replacing him in 2013. Miami will also have 31-year-old Tyson Clabo at right tackle, who will only be productive for one or two more years. Cyrus Kouandijo of Alabama is one of the most talented offensive linemen in this year's draft class, and could easily transform into a star while protecting Ryan Tannehill.

12. Detroit Lions: G David Yankey: The Detroit Lions lost three offensive lineman this past offseason: two tackles and one guard. Now, Detroit's offensive line is made up of veterans and inexperienced first and second year players, some lacking the talent needed to succeed in the NFL. With Bill Nagy at right guard, a player who ended the season on the IR, the Lions could use someone like David Yankey protecting Matthew Stafford in the pocket. Offense means everything to this organization, so it would make sense that Detroit draft Yankey with their first round pick.

13. San Diego Chargers: OLB Trent Murphy: The San Diego Chargers were hoping outside linebacker Melvin Ingram could make an immediate impact on their defense when they drafted him in 2011; instead, Ingram recorded just 1 sack with 41 tackles in his rookie season. If Ingram can not elevate his game in 2013, the Chargers will look to replace him through the draft. Trent Murphy sacked the quarterback 10 times as a junior at Stanford, while also recording 50 tackles. If Manti Te'o is successful in San Diego, and Trent Murphy is added on the outside, the Chargers would have a very talented group of linebackers.

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DE Jackson Jeffcoat: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers let their star defensive end Michael Bennett test the free-agent market, and to their misfortune, he was signed by the Seattle Seahawks. This was a dangerous decision made by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are left to rely on second-year DE Da'Quan Bowers and DE Adrian Clayborne, who is coming off of a major knee surgery. With one of the most talented defensive ends in this year's draft class still on the board, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would use Jeffcoat to add more depth to their roster.

15. Minnesota Vikings: DT Louis Nix III: As of right now, the Minnesota Vikings' defensive line is one of the most talented units in the National Football League. Unfortunately for the Vikings organization, three of the four defensive linemen will be free agents, and there is no telling if all three will be able to return to Minnesota. In the event that defensive tackle Kevin Williams is not re-signed, Louis Nix III, widely regarded as the most talented tackle of this draft class, would be an excellent replacement.

16. Indianapolis Colts: WR Brandon Coleman: Reggie Wayne's days in Indianapolis are numbered, and at age 34, it is expected Wayne will see a drastic drop-off in production as the years drag on. The Indianapolis Colts have a group of very young wide receivers, but it is hard to pass on this future Calvin Johnson. Coming out of Rutgers University, Brandon Coleman's size (6'6") and speed makes him a very versatile wide receiver. Andre Luck and the Colts would greatly benefit from Coleman's presence on the field.

17. Cincinnati Bengals: OLB CJ Mosley: The Cincinnati Bengals managed to steal James Harrison after he was cut from Pittsburgh, but at age 35, the Bengals would much prefer a young, talented rookie at outside linebacker. CJ Mosley recorded 107 tackles and 4 sacks while playing for Alabama, and once Harrison's contract expires in 2015, Mosley will take control of this linebacker unit. Vontaze Burfict has many more years as Cincinnati's weak side linebacker, and alongside CJ Mosley, the Bengals' defense could be one of the league's best.

18. Philadelphia Eagles: DT Daniel McCullers: The Philadelphia Eagles just signed DT Isaac Sopoaga to a three year deal, but with Daniel McCullers still on the board, it would be extremely difficult not to draft the sophomore out of Tennessee. McCullers is an astounding 6'8" and 360 pounds, and it would be absolutely remarkable if any offensive lineman in college could stop this guy. With a new defensive scheme set for 2013, McCullers would be the ideal nose tackle in Philadelphia's 3-4 scheme.

19. Dallas Cowboys: DE Aaron Lynch: The rumors appear to be true; 2013 will be defensive end Anthony Spencer's last season in a Cowboys uniforms. The Cowboys organization and Spencer have halted talks on a contract extension, despite Spencer's above-average year in 2012. The 2014 draft class has several talented defensive ends, including Aaron Lynch. Lynch left Notre Dame as a result of home sickness, and transferred to USF. He is only a sophomore, so there is no telling if he leaves for the draft after next year. If Lynch's numbers stay the same, he has the potential to be top 10 pick in the upcoming draft.

20. St. Louis Rams: RB De'Anthony Thomas: There is no disputing Oregon running back De'Anthony Thomas is one of the most exciting players to watch in all of college football. With an official 40-yard dash time of 4.38, Thomas has the capability of out running the majority of NFL linebackers and safeties. Thomas also has experience as a return man from his freshman year, when he averaged 27.3 yards per attempt. St. Louis just lost Steven Jackson to free agency, with seventh round draft pick Daryl Richardson serving as his replacement. By season's end, St. Louis will be searching for a new running back, and De'Anthony Thomas would be a perfect fit.

21. Chicago Bears: OLB Adrian Hubbard: The Chicago Bears will likely have one more year left with their starting linebackers, but by 2014, Lance Briggs, D.J. Williams, and James Anderson will all be over the age of 30. Adrian Hubbard, an outside linebacker from Alabama, will have plenty experience playing in college football's most competitive division, the SEC. Hubbard is 6'6", yet his quickness allowed him to sack the quarterback 7 times last season. The NFL knows how talented players coming from Alabama can be, and Hubbard is no different. Once Chicago's starting three retire, Hubbard will get his chance to shine.

22. Pittsburgh Steelers: CB Jason Verrett: Cornerback Keenan Lewis is gone, as he will be playing for New Orleans next season after just one solid year as a Steeler. This puts the majority of the pressure on 33 year old Ike Taylor, who is still Pittsburgh's best cornerback despite his age. Unfortunately, Taylor's contract will expire in 2014, which means Pittsburgh will need to find someone who can replace him. Jason Verett is that guy.

23. New York Giants: OLB Kyle Van Noy: New York's linebacker group will look very different in 2013; Chase Blackburn has left, Michael Boley is gone, and Mathias Kiwanuka will be moving back to defensive end. Now, the Giants must rely on Keith Rivers, who will likely be gone when his contract expires by the end of the season. With so much change taking place, the Giants will need someone like Kyle Van Noy to put consistent pressure on the opposing quarterback. As a junior, Van Noy recorded 13 sacks, and has one more chance to show the scouts what he is capable of in his senior season.

24. Baltimore Ravens: WR Cody Hoffman: Wide receiver Anquan Boldin played in a Baltimore uniform for three years, and in 2012, Boldin helped the Ravens win their second Super Bowl title in franchise history. Now, Boldin will be playing for San Francisco, and Joe Flacco's number one target will be missing from this offense for the rest of the season. Wide receivers Torrey Smith and Jacoby Jones are legitimate deep threats, but Flacco will need someone like Boldin who is capable of easily separating himself from coverage. At 6'4" and 215 pounds, Hoffman's style of play is very similar to that of Anquan Boldin, and he would be able to fill the hole left by number 81.

25. New Orleans Saints: OLB Ryan Shazier: After surrendering the most rushing yards of any team in the National Football League last season, the New Orleans Saints have done little to improve their run defense. The organization is hoping Rex Ryan's new approach can change the defense for the better as they adjust to the 3-4. The outside linebacker position is clearly in need of some new talent to turn around this defensive unit, which is why Ohio State's Ryan Shazier would be a solid pick late in the draft. At 6'2" and 222 pounds, Shazier is not the biggest defender at the position, but his name has already been mentioned in the 2013 Butkus and Lombardi Award discussion.

26. Houston Texans: TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins: The clear-cut favorite to be the first tight end to be taken in next April's draft, Austin Seferian-Jenkins is expected to dominate in 2013. His overwhelming size and ability (6'6, 266 pounds) allowed him to snag 69 passes for 852 yards and 7 scores. Sefarian-Jenkins pleaded guilty to a DUI charge from last March and will spend one night in jail. Hopefully, this is only a one time offense; otherwise, off the field problems may keep this player from a spot in the first round.

27. Atlanta Falcons: DE Kareem Martin: Last season, veteran defensive end John Abraham accounted for 10 of Atlanta's 29 total sacks (34.4%), and with Abraham now an unsigned free agent, the team will need someone to fill the void. As a junior at UNC, Kareem Martin (6'6", 265 pounds) recorded 40 tackles and 4 sacks in 12 games, but is looking to top those numbers in 2013. And with his extraordinary size, who's going to stop him?

28. Green Bay Packers: ILB A.J. Johnson: As seen in their playoff game against San Francisco last season, the Green Bay Packers need to do better in stopping the run. In their final two games of the season, Green Bay allowed a grand total of 490 rushing yards on 72 attempts, an average of 6.8 yards per attempt. With someone like A.J. Johnson protecting the middle (134 tackles last season), Green Bay's run defense would surely see an immediate improvement.

29. Seattle Seahawks: OLB Christian Jones: The loss of outside linebacker Leroy Hill has left a hole that needs to be re-filled through the draft. It is believed the Seattle Seahawks will put Heath Farewell at the job left vacant by Hill, but it is safe to assume Farewell will not have the starting job for more than a year. Christian Jones has the speed to keep up with some of the league's best wide receivers, while also having the athleticism necessary to pursue the opposing team's running back.

30. New England Patriots: CB Ifo Ekpre-Olomu: Yes, the New England Patriots were successful in re-signing Aqib Talib, but they are in desperate need of a new cornerback on the opposite side of the field. Alfanzo Dennard, a 7th round draft pick out of Nebraska, will be playing right cornerback for the Patriots, and it is unlikely for him to find success in New England. With a DUI now on his resume, the Patriots would be more than happy to drop this cornerback as soon as the opportunity arrives. Ekpre-Olomu is projected to be a first round draft pick, and will be a grade-A cornerback in the NFL.

31. Denver Broncos: CB Loucheiz Purifoy: After surrounding Peyton Manning with talent on offense, the Broncos should look to add young talent for their defense through the draft. Cornerback Champ Bailey is set to retire any year now, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is only signed to a one year deal. If these two cornerbacks were to leave Denver in 2014, there is no disputing the need to draft Loucheiz Purifoy in the draft.

32. San Francisco 49ers: CB Aaron Colvin: The San Francisco 49ers are heavily relying on Nnamdi Asomugha returning to his All-Pro form, as they brought him to the West Coast in order to improve San Francisco's pass defense. The first string cornerback is Carlos Rogers, a veteran defender who still has three more years on his contract. If Asomugha flops in 2013, the 49ers will look for a shut-down corner in Aaron Colvin.

Saturday, August 24, 2013

2014 NFL Predictions (AFC)

1. Denver Broncos (12-4): Denver has the easiest schedule in the NFL, one that is very pass friendly. Peyton Manning has all the tools around him that he needs on offense, but the defense lost two great pass rushers in Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil. The loss of these two players (Von Miller suspended for 6 games) will have more of an impact on the Broncos than people may think.

2. Houston Texans (12-4): Similar to the Denver Broncos, Houston will face little competition in their division, and with such an easy schedule, they should be able to lock up the number two seed. Defensive Player of the Year JJ Watt will only become more dominant with time, which is absolutely horrifying if you were a quarterback in the AFC South. The passing game should see an improvement after the drafting of wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins.

3. New England Patriots (11-5): Though it was only a preseason game, the blowout that took place against the Detroit Lions (40-9 lost) may be a horrible sign of things to come for this offense. Down near the goal line, one of the fill-ins for Rob Gronkowski fumbled the ball, costing Tom Brady and the Patriots a shot at a touchdown. We know Tom Brady is capable of winning games, but the talent that surrounds him at wide receiver is not enough for Brady to win his fourth Super Bowl.

4. Cincinnati Bengals (11-5): Andy Dalton and AJ Green resurrected Cincinnati's offense, where as the defense is becoming a dangerous force in the National Football League. All-Pro defensive tackle Geno Atkins is the leader of a fearsome defensive line, and it would not come as a surprise if Cincinnati won the division title in 2013.

5. Baltimore Ravens (11-5): The Super Bowl champions lost many key veterans on defense, including linebacker Ray Lewis and Paul Kruger, as well as safety Ed Reed; however, quarterback Joe Flacco is capable of leading this offense in make-or-break situations, as seen in the 2012 playoffs. The offensive weapons that surround him make the Ravens a team to be reckoned with when it's time for the playoffs.

6. Kansas City Chiefs (10-6): The Kansas City Chiefs win our made-up award for the best offseason of 2012. New head coach Andy Reid surrounded himself with an incredible coaching staff, as he will have Alex Smith at quarterback. This team is just too talented to miss out on the playoffs.


Wednesday, August 14, 2013

NFL Report Update: Tom Brady

Breaking News: Earlier today, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady injured his left knee in a joint practice with the Buccaneers. Brady underwent an MRI, and luckily for the Patriots, the results came back negative. Defensive lineman Adrian Clayborn pushed Solder into Brady's left knee, and immediately Brady fell to the ground, clutching his knee in pain. Tom Brady returned to practice, but after completing three more passes, coaches Bill Belicheck and Josh McDaniels decided it would be best if the quarterback returned to the locker room. Back in 2008, Brady required surgery on his left knee to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament, as well as a torn medial collateral ligament. According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, Tom Brady is now day-to-day.



Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Russell Wilson vs Robert Griffin III vs Andrew Luck

     The 2012 NFL Draft class produced one of the best group of quarterbacks in recent memory, where an astounding five quarterbacks from this particular draft class started on opening day last season. Three quarterbacks in particular were able to find success within their first season: Russell Wilson, Robert Griffin III, and Andrew Luck. With their second season quickly approaching, we will predict which quarterback will have the best statistical year in 2013.


Robert Griffin III, Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III, the 2012 Offensive Rookie of the Year, was clearly the most dominant rookie of the 2012 draft class. RGIII now holds the record for the highest passer rating of any rookie in NFL history (102.4), as he threw for 3,200 yards and 20 touchdowns. One of RGIII's most dangerous qualities is his ability to run; Griffin ran for 815 yards and 7 touchdowns, but his days of escaping the pocket may soon be over. RGIII underwent surgery on January 9th to repair a torn ACL and LCL, and though he will miss all four preseason games, RGIII will likely return by Week 1. Unfortunately for Griffin, head coach Mike Shanahan will certainly limit his quarterback's rushing attempts. RGIII is rather small considering how frequently he runs the ball, so injury will likely follow RGIII until he transforms into a pocket passer. Robert Griffin III has all the qualities needed to be a successful pocket passer, and with offensive weapons such as Pierre Garcon and Fred Davis, RGIII has the potential to be one of the best passing quarterbacks in the league.
2013 Projection: 3,850 yards, 30 touchdowns, 11 interceptions


Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts: Entering the 2012 Draft, Andrew Luck was the clear favorite to be picked first overall by the Indianapolis Colts. With a big arm, the ability to evade tacklers, and leadership qualities, it was no surprise Andrew Luck was considered the number one prospect of the 2012 draft class. Andrew Luck was the opening day starter, and his most important accomplishment was an 11-5 record, earning Indianapolis a Wild Card berth. Andrew Luck broke the record for passing yards by a rookie in a single season after throwing for 4,374 yards. Other parts of his game need drastic improvement if he looks to win a Super Bowl with the Colts. Luck's completion percentage stood at just 54.1%, and his 76.5 passer rating put him behind quarterbacks such as Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder. The Indianapolis Colts rely heavily on their offense, and if Andrew Luck turns the ball over 28 times as he did last season, this offense will not get the chance to succeed.
2013 Projection: 4,350 yards, 29 touchdowns, 16 interceptions


Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks: As a rookie, Russell Wilson gradually improved over the course of the season, and by year's end, he challenged RGIII as the league's best offensive rookie. In his final eight regular season games, Wilson passed for 1,652 yards with 16 touchdowns and just two interceptions. By the end of the regular season, Russell Wilson tied Peyton Manning's record for the most passing touchdowns by a rookie (26). Wilson's spectacular play carried over into the playoffs, as he led the Seahawks past Washington in the first round, yet despite passing for 385 yards with two touchdowns in the divisional round, Seattle lost 30-28 to the Atlanta Falcons. Wilson is an intelligent quarterback with great accuracy and impeccable mechanics. Wilson also uses his speed only when necessary, but it would be dangerous for him to consistently run the ball at just 5 feet 11 inches. The Seattle Seahawks traded for wide receiver Percy Harvin in the offseason, but a hip injury will keep Harvin on the sidelines until the playoffs. If Wilson is able to play all 16 games, the Seattle Seahawks will be a serious threat to dethrone San Francisco as the NFC West champion.
2013 Projection: 3,900 yards, 28 touchdowns, 14 interceptions


Bottom Line: Russell Wilson and Robert Griffin III will both have great second seasons, with the advantage going to RGIII if he can stay healthy. As for Andrew Luck, we predict Luck will make great strides in his level of improvement, but he still needs more time to mature. 

Thursday, August 8, 2013

NFLR Videos: Marshawn Lynch

Our most recent video is a compilation of Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch's best runs as a member of the Seahawks. Lynch ran for 1,590 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2012, and the Seattle Seahawks are one of the favorites to take home the Lombardi Trophy in 2013. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel here for more awesome highlight videos!



Saturday, June 29, 2013

2013 Fantasy Football: Tight Ends

1. Jimmy Graham: After a spectacular season in 2011, Jimmy Graham saw a large drop-off in 2012. His 1,310 receiving yards in 2011 fell to 982 yards in 2012. Graham still managed to finish the year as the number one ranked fantasy tight end in the league. Next season, head coach Sean Payton will return from a suspension, and the New Orleans Saints offense will be clicking on all cylinders. Don't be surprised if Graham exceeds 15 receiving touchdowns in 2013.

2. Rob Gronkowski: Gronk's offseason has been a complete train wreck so far, as he underwent a surgery to repair a herniated disc, where the recovery period will last up until the start of the regular season. New England's star tight end has had five surgeries so far since November of 2012, and there is no telling how prepared Gronkowski will be for the 2013 regular season. Wes Welker and Aaron Hernandez will not be present next year in the Patriots' offense, so if Gronk is ready to play, he should expect more targets from Tom Brady. When healthy, Gronkowski is the best fantasy tight end in the league, but the many surgeries should make fantasy owners nervous.

3. Dennis Pitta: Dennis Pitta had a breakout season in 2012, as he recorded 669 receiving yards with 7 touchdowns. Pitta is Flacco's favorite target in the red zone, with a combination of size and extraordinary leaping ability. Anquan Boldin will be leaving for San Francisco, so it is more than likely that Pitta's statistics improve as the number of targets increase. Joe Flacco is now entering the prime of his career, as proven by his sensational playoff run. Put this all together, and you have a lethal fantasy football weapon.

4. Vernon Davis: After Colin Kaepernick took over for San Francisco last season, Vernon Davis saw few passes come his way, and as a result, Davis averaged 2.6 fantasy points per game. Despite his disappointing regular season, Vernon Davis recorded 254 receiving yards and a touchdown throughout the playoffs, proving that there is chemistry between Kaepernick and his tight end. If this chemistry continues into next year's regular season, Vernon Davis deserves consideration over Gronk and Pittta.

5. Jason Witten: Jason Witten recorded a career high in receptions with 110, as well as 1,039 receiving yards. Sounds pretty good, right? Well, Jason Witten has struggled to find the end zone throughout his career in the NFL, where he has yet to record double digit touchdowns in a single season. Witten is competing with wide receivers Dez Bryant and Miles Austin in Dallas. Luckily, Witten also saw a career high in targets, so clearly, Tony Romo trusts throwing to his tight end.

6. Tony Gonzalez: Originally, Tony Gonzalez pledged to his team that 2012 would be his last year in the NFL, but the Atlanta Falcons managed to bring him back for one more year. Obviously, Tony Gonzalez will play a key role in 2013 for this offense or else the Falcons would not have forced him to come out of retirement. At the age of 37, Gonzalez no longer has the same speed or leaping ability he had in his prime, but his size will continue to make him a dominant force in the red zone. His productivity in terms of receptions and yards will drop, but I believe the touchdown total will stay the same in 2013.

7. Greg Olsen: As Cam Newton enters the prime of his career, and Steve Smith become less and less efficient with age, tight end Greg Olsen will become one of Netwon's favorite targets. Olsen played on 98 percent of the Panthers offensive snaps, and he also hasn't missed a game from injury since 2007. With 843 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns, Olsen finished sixth overall among fantasy tight ends. Olsen's potential makes him an extremely valuable fantasy option if players like Witten and Gonzalez are off the board.

8. Kyle Rudolph: At 6'6" and 260 pounds, Kyle Rudolph recorded 9 touchdowns on 53 receptions last season, despite lacking an elite quarterback in Minnesota. With Christian Ponder as the quarterback, there is a clear chemistry between these two players; however, after signing Matt Cassel in the offseason, it is possible Rudolph will not see as many targets in the red zone. As seen with Vernon Davis after Colin Kaepernick took over, quarterback changes can drastically affect a players fantasy value.

9. Owen Daniels: After Kyle Rudolph, there is a serious drop off among fantasy tight ends. Owen Daniels has never scored more than six touchdowns in an NFL season, as he competes with Andre Johnson for targets. Also, the Houston Texans rely on their running game, so Daniels is not utilized in Houston's offensive scheme. Finally, Owen Daniels' health remains a concern for fantasy owners, as he has not played all 16 games in a season since 2008. Daniels will finish in the top 10 among fantasy tight ends, but he is not a consistent scorer, and should be avoided if possible.

10. Brandon Myers: While playing for the Oakland Raiders, Brandon Myers caught a whopping 79 passes for 806 yards, as he provided offense to a team in desperate need of scoring. In 2013, he will be playing for the New York Giants, and though no tight end is challenging him at the position, he will have to compete with wide receivers Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. It is highly unlikely he can replicate the same numbers in New York with Eli Manning having so many other options. 

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

NFL Report Update: Aaron Hernandez

Breaking News: At 8:45 earlier this morning, Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez was put into handcuffs by North Attleboro police and placed into a police cruiser. Hernandez is charged with the murder of semipro football player Odin Lloyd, as well as five weapons counts in connection with the murder. Hernandez and two other men picked up Lloyd at his home at 2:30 in the morning, and nearly an hour later, workers at the industrial park reported hearing gun shots. Two hours after Hernandez's arrest, the New England Patriots announced Hernandez had been released from the organization, which will have a significant impact on the Patriots in 2013.


Friday, June 14, 2013

2013 Fantasy Football: Wide Receivers

1. Calvin Johnson: For the second year in a row, Calvin Johnson led the league in fantasy points by year end. From Week 9 to Week 16, Johnson averaged 17.5 fantasy points per game, and this magnificent run helped Megatron break Jerry Rice's single season receiving yard record. Calvin Johnson was tackled on the opponent's one yard-line six times last year, so expect the touchdown total to increase in 2013. Defenses are still stumped by Johnson's pure athleticism, and he will continue to dominate for years to come.

2. Brandon Marshall: Brandon Marshall is the ideal fantasy wide receiver; great hands, reasonable size, and enough speed to make him a legitimate deep threat. After reconnecting with quarterback Jay Cutler in Chicago last season, Marshall recorded 1,508 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. Despite a weak offensive line and constant double teaming from opposing defenses, Marshall finished as the second best fantasy wide receiver in the league. Not much should change in 2013.

3. AJ Green: In just his second year in the league, AJ Green recorded 1,350 yards and 11 touchdowns in Cincinnati, proving he is an elite wide receiver in the league. A weak quarterback and no second string wide receiver to to take the pressure off Green has not deterred Green from producing astounding numbers. Cincinnati's offense revolves around Green, since quarterback Andy Dalton struggles with the deep ball. AJ Green will have relatively inconsistent numbers unless Dalton can strengthen his arm.

4. Percy Harvin: A sprained ankle prevented Harvin from finishing the 2012 season, but fantasy owners have high hopes for Harvin next year. Percy Harvin recorded 62 receptions for 677 yards, and six of his first eight games resulted in double digit fantasy points. Harvin is always at risk of injury, but instead of quarterback Christian Ponder throwing him the ball, Rookie of the Year candidate Russell Wilson will be taking the snaps. If Harvin can remain healthy, this wide receiver could give Calvin Johnson a run for his money as the top fantasy wide receiver in the league.

5. Dez Bryant: Through the first three weeks of the 2012 season, Dez Bryant was averaging 5 fantasy points per game, causing many fantasy owners to grow concerned. It was not until Week 10 when Dez Bryant was able to score consistent fantasy points week after week. In Bryant's final 8 games of the season, he averaged 17.75 fantasy points per game, and finished the year with 1,382 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. The slow start last season may be a red flag during the draft, and hopefully Bryant will be more consistent in 2013.

6. Larry Fitzgerald: Larry Fitzgerald had a disastrous 2012 season, with no injuries to blame for the drop-off. The quarterback problems in Arizona (Kevin Kolb, John Skelton) were awful, as they threw for many interceptions and a low completion rate. Hopefully, newly-acquired Carson Palmer can help Fitzgerald get back on track. We have high hopes for Fitzgerald in 2013, and we expect him to exceed expectations.

7. Julio Jones: Julio Jones has dangerous competition in Atlanta, as he shares a backfield consisting of Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez, and Steven Jackson. Jones has incredible hands, capable of catching a passes across the middle, or snagging a ball out of the air deep in the end zone. Luckily, teams can not double team Jones or else Matt Ryan will dump the ball off to White or Gonzalez. Jones has the advantage over White in terms of athleticism, but the two are capable of tremendous statistics each week.

8. Randall Cobb: Former Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings signed with the rival Minnesota Viking in the off season, and as he leaves Green Bay, someone will have to fill the void. We believe Randall Cobb will be that guy. Randall Cobb plays out of the slot in Green Bay, and will dominate the middle part of the field. His 954 yards and 8 touchdowns is expected to see a drastic increase in 2013, and Cobb adds to his value with a decent running ability, as he recorded 132 rushing yards last year.

9. Roddy White: As mentioned before, Roddy White has fierce competition in the Falcons' backfield, and as a result, he has not replicated the same numbers from years earlier. White will be 32 next November, but he is still capable of performing. White scored just 7 touchdowns last year, as Ryan prefers to pass to tight end Tony Gonalez or Julio Jones in the red zone. White has enough left in the tank to be a top 10 wide receiver, but he will not be a first round draft pick unless Jones and Gonzalez are out of the lineup.

10. Demaryius Thomas: Once Peyton Manning arrived in Denver, wide receiver Demaryius Thomas transformed into a star. Thomas finished fifth overall in fantasy points among wide receivers, even with teammate Eric Decker finishing eighth. Now, slot receiver Wes Welker will be playing for the Denver Broncos, and it is more than likely that he will take away a large portion of Thomas' targets. Thomas will remain Peyton's number one target, but Wes Welker clearly hurts his draft value.

Monday, June 10, 2013

NFL Report Update: Tim Tebow

Breaking News: According to ESPN, quarterback Tim Tebow will sign with the New England Patriots. Tim Tebow will be reunited with coach Josh McDaniels, as the two played together in the Denver several years ago. After leading the Denver Broncos into the playoffs in 2011, Tebow was traded to the New York Jets, where he served as a back-up to Mark Sanchez.

Friday, June 7, 2013

NFL Report Update: Notre Dame

Breaking News: After Notre Dame quarterback Everett Golson was suspended from the school, head coach Brian Kelly announced Tommy Rees will be the starting quarterback in 2013. Golson led Notre Dame to the BCS National Championship, where they lost to Alabama 42-14. Tommy Rees was the starting quarterback for the Fighting Irish at one point in time, with an overall record of 14-4 as a starter at Notre Dame.



2013 Fantasy Football: Running Backs

1. Adrian Peterson: There is no disputing that Adrian Peterson is the greatest active running back in the National Football League. Peterson rushed for more than 2,000 yards last season in the wake of an ACL injury. Peterson's knee will only strengthen over time, and it is very likely the Minnesota Vikings rely heavily on their star running back in 2013. Opposing defenses will focus on the AP due to the poor passing game in Minnesota, so it is highly unlikely Peterson replicates the same statistics seen in 2012.

2. Arian Foster: In the category of yards per carry, running back Arian Foster has seen a gradual decrease in production over the past three years. In 2012, Foster averaged 4.1 yards per carry, which is good, but not elite. Foster made up for it by scoring 15 touchdowns over the course of the season. Foster is no Adrian Peterson, but is clearly worth the second overall pick in the draft.

3. Marshawn Lynch: "Beast Mode" has finally taken the league by storm, as Marshawn Lynch's pure tenacity proves to be a challenge on opposing defenses. What Lynch lacks in size is made up for with speed and strength, as the Seahawks running back ran for 1,590 yards and 11 touchdowns. Despite the addition of wide receiver Percy Harvin, head coach Pete Carroll has said he will center his team around the running game in 2013. Lynch's consistency makes him extremely valuable in fantasy football, and is a valuable pick up after AP and Foster.

4. Ray Rice: A large part of Baltimore' success in 2012 can be credited to running back Ray Rice, who played a key role for Baltimore throughout the postseason run. Ray Rice saw a decrease in attempts in 2012, but by averaging 4.4 yards per carry, Rice ran for 1,143 yards. At age 26, Ray Rice should be entering the prime of his career, yet his productivity has gradually decreased over the years. Bernard Pierce, who proved himself as a consistent rusher, will also steal attempts from Ray Rice in 2013.

5. Alfred Morris: Alfred Morris, a sixth-round pick out of Florida Atlantic, broke out as a star in Week 1, and then consistently posted sensational fantasy points week in and week out. Morris' 1,613 rushing yards ranked third all-time among rookie running backs, and there is no reason why Morris can't replicate these same numbers in 2013. In fact, Robert Griffin III is injury-prone, so when RGIII is off the field, Morris will be the main guy to help move the chains.

6. Doug Martin: In a Week 9 game against the Oakland Raiders, Doug Martin caught the eyes of football fans everywhere when he rushed for 251 yards and four touchdowns, a grand total of 51 fantasy points. Martin's inconsistent play after Week 9 is worrisome as a fantasy owner, because who says Martin can replicate such numbers again. Defenses will begin to focus on Martin unless Josh Freeman can elevate his game; otherwise, "The Hamster" may be at risk of extinction.

7. LeSean McCoy: After coach Andy Reid was fired, The Philadelphia Eagles brought in Chip Kelly from Oregon, a coach who loves to utilize the run game in order to win. LeSean McCoy will be extremely valuable to Kelly in 2013, despite missing a large portion of 2013 with a concussion. When LeSean McCoy was healthy, he averaged 11.25 fantasy points per game, even though he scored just 2 touchdowns in 12 games. McCoy likely had an off-year, and will bounce back when Chip Kelly makes his debut in Week 1.

8. Trent Richardson: Trent Richardson's rookie season was a gleam of hope for the Cleveland Browns organization, who have had just one winning season in the past 10 years. Richardson is a one man show, with a weak quarterback in Brandon Weeden and a practically non-existent offensive line. The heavy work-load last season led to several different injuries, and unless the Browns supply an improved supporting cast, Richardson will continue to be at risk of injuries.

9. CJ Spiller: When running back Fred Jackson was injured in 2012, CJ Spiller jumped in to rescue Buffalo's running game. Spiller's extraordinary speed allowed him to rush for 1,244 yards and an extraordinary 6.0 yards per carry. The Buffalo Bills believe Fred Jackson is a better running back closer towards the end zone, so Spiller is unlikely to score any touchdowns next season; however, if Fred Jackson is injured once again, CJ Spiller will transform into one of the most valuable rushers in the league.

10. Jamaal Charles: Jamaal Charles underwent surgery to repair his ACL in 2012, yet he still managed to rush for 1,509 yards, a career high. Throughout his career, Jamaal Charles has averaged 5.8 yards per carry, but he has trouble finding the end zone. Under Andy Reid's new scheme as head coach, Jamaal Charles' speed and agility will make him a fantasy football star.

Thursday, June 6, 2013

2013 Fantasy Football: Quarterbacks

1. Drew Brees: Amidst the chaos that took place within the Saints organization last season, Drew Brees still managed to score the most fantasy points of any player in 2012, even though he was missing star tight end Jimmy Graham for a large portion of the season. Not bad, right? In the upcoming season, head coach Sean Payton will return from a one-year suspension, and the New Orleans Saints should regain control of the NFC South. You can count on Brees dominating the league in 2013.

2. Aaron Rodgers: Aaron Rodgers had an off year in 2012, and by off year I mean 4,279 passing yards with 42 TDs. The offensive line in Green Bay is one of the worst in the league, causing Rodgers to be very inconsistent throughout the season. In a draft loaded with offensive linemen, the Green Bay Packers did not draft a lineman until the fourth round. Also, the departures of Greg Jennings and Donald Driver should have a negative impact on Rodgers' 2013 performance.

3. Peyton Manning: Peyton Manning ended his 2012 season with a costly interception against the Baltimore Ravens, but his return to the game was nothing short of incredible. Manning was the runner-up to Adrian Peterson in the Most Valuable Player voting, but Manning beat AP for Comeback Player of the Year. The addition of slot-receiver Wes Welker creates one of the leagues most lethal wide receiver corps in the league. Manning is the NFL's iron man, but at age 37, his game will likely deteriorate as the season progresses.

4. Tom Brady: The loss of wide receiver Wes Welker in the off season will have a larger impact on Tom Brady and the New England Patriots than people think. Brady was reportedly "enraged" at the franchise when they let Welker go, and Danny Amendola is supposed to replace the missing slot receiver. Tom Brady will likely see a drop-off in 2013.

5. Cam Newton: A combination of size, speed, and arm strength makes Cam Newton one of the most valuable fantasy quarterbacks on the market. Newton's 2012 season started slowly, but after Carolina's Week 6 Bye, Cam regained his dominance at the quarterback position. His season totals last season did not replicate his rookie numbers, but hopefully, Newton will shake off the rust early in 2013 so he can put up some spectacular numbers.

6. Matt Ryan: Before 2012, Matt Ryan was an average fantasy quarterback with relatively consistent statistics that hovered around 10 fantasy points each week. Last season was a breakout year for Matty Ice, and he was even included in the MVP discussion by years end. Roddy White and Julio Jones will both be playing for Atlanta in 2013, and veteran tight end Tony Gonzalez has decided to return to the Falcons for one more season.

7. Andrew Luck: Andrew Luck's first season in the league resulted in 4,000 passing yards, but also a very high turnover count. Luck threw 18 interceptions as a rookie, with just 23 passing touchdowns. Despite a mediocre start to his career, Luck's size makes long term injuries unlikely, allowing him to escape the pocket and record 5-10 rushing touchdowns a year. Luck will only get better in time, and his resemblance to Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers is uncanny. If you can't snag Tom Brady or Peyton Manning in the early rounds, Andrew Luck is your guy.

8. Russell Wilson: Russel Wilson's poise throughout the playoffs created buzz around the rookie quarterback. His poise against some of the league's top teams may be a sign of things to come in Seattle. Wilson threw for 26 touchdowns in the regular season, with a passer rating of 100.0. When needed, Wilson would escape the pocket, compiling 489 rushing yards and 5 rushing touchdowns during the regular season. Newly-acquired Percy Harvin joins Sidney Rice and Golden Tate at the wide receiver position, giving Wilson the options he needs to succeed.

9. Robert Griffin III: RGIII's upside is extraordinary, will have to weary of the injury risk associated with the reigning Rookie of the Year. Doctors surgically repaired Griffin's ACL over the winter, and there is no telling what the effects will be of this surgery on RGIII's performance next season. Members within the Redskins organization have advised their yards and 5 rushing touchdowns during the regular season. Newly-acquired Percy Harvin joins Sidney Rice and Golden Tate at the wide receiver position, giving Wilson the options he needs to succeed.

10. Colin Kaepernick: In the divisional round of the playoffs, Colin Kapernick proved himself worthy of the starting job in San Francisco, as he passed for 263 yards and two touchdowns. More importantly, Kaepernick set a record for quarterbacks when he rushed for 181 yards and 2 touchdowns, averaging 11.31 yards per carry. Kaepernick's spectacular conclusion to his rookie season will more than likely carry over in 2013, and the addition of Anquon Bolding won't hurt either.

Sunday, June 2, 2013

2013 Fantasy Football Preview

     The 2012 football season has long been over, as well as all the festivities associated with the NFL regular season, including fantasy football. Looking ahead to the 2013 season, The NFL Report will analyze the top 10 players at each position so that you will be prepared for the fantasy football draft in 2013. These lists will be updated later in the summer, but be sure to comment on your opinions.


Sunday, April 14, 2013

2013 NFL Mock Draft 4.0

1. Kansas City Chiefs: OT Luke Joeckel: Unlike the 2012 NFL draft, where Indianapolis was clearly going to select Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck with the first overall pick, this year, half a dozen players have the potential to be drafted by Kansas City. OT Eric Fisher has been climbing up mock drafts instead of OT Luke Joeckel, the original favorite to be selected by Kansis City. Though Joeckel remains my first overall pick in the draft, Eric Fishers has a legitimate shot at playing in Kansas City in the 2013 NFL season.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: DE/OLB Dion Jordan: Jacksonville might just have the worst roster on paper in the entire National Football League. Technically, every position apart from running back needs to be improved if they wish to compete for a playoff spot. If the Jaguars were to draft defensive end Dion Jordan, Jordan would be playing alongside fellow defensive end Jason Babin, and hopefully, Jacksonville's pass rush will be more reliable in 2013.

3. Oakland Raiders: DT Sharrif Floyd: A surprisingly silent offseason for the Oakland Raiders means 2013 will not be any more successful than 2012. The signing of defensive tackle Vance Walker will not be able to solve their problems on the defensive line, which is why Sharrif Floyd will be drafted third overall in April.

4. Philadelphia Eagles: CB Dee Milliner: After what appeared to be the construction of a Dream Team, Philadelphia's hopes of a Super Bowl title were quickly dashed. In March, the Eagles organization parted ways with cornerbacks Nnamdi Asomgha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, two former Pro-Bowlers. The Eagles will look to add Milliner to their roster, so they can focus on a struggling offensive line in the next several rounds.

5. Detroit Lions: DE Ezekiel Ansah: Ansah has been playing football for approximately three years since he moved to the United States from Ghana, but already has skills resembling All-Pro defenders in the National Football League. His technique is in need of tweaking, which is why he will not overtake Dion Jordan at the number two spot, but the Lions need a defensive end after their busy offseason on the offensive side of the ball.

6. Cleveland Browns: QB Geno Smith: It seems the Cleveland Browns are willing to give quarterback Brandon Weeden another shot at the starting quarterback position, even though his mediocre rookie season did not lead Cleveland into the 2012 playoffs. With the sixth overall pick in the draft, it would be very tempting to draft Geno Smith as a backup. Head coach Rob Chudzinski served as the offensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers, and has experience with mobile quarterbacks, seeing that he was able to re-animate the Panthers offense with quarterback Cam Newton.

7. Arizona Cardinals: OT Eric Fisher: Despite having the worst offensive line in the entire league (an NFL worst 58 sacks allowed in 2012), the Arizona Cardinals did not add a single offensive lineman through free agency. Clearly, the Cardinals are looking to draft someone to protect their quarterback in a draft class loaded with offensive linemen. Eric Fisher's draft stock is gradually climbing upwards, and it is possible the Arizona Cardinals won't even have the opportunity to draft Eric Fisher at the seventh overall pick in the draft.

8. Buffalo Bills: DE Björn Werner: The Buffalo Bills organization signed Mario Williams to a blockbuster deal in 2012, but his productivity did not live up to the hype. Björn Werner, a junior coming out of Florida State, is the reigning ACC Defensive Player of the Year, and when alongside Mario Williams, teams will be forced to adjust their offensive schemes.

9. New York Jets: OLB Barkevious Mingo: Rex Ryan and the New York Jets have been showing a lot of interest in Barkevious Mingo, an outside linebacker/defensive end from LSU. Mingo posted a 40-yard-dash time of 4.58 seconds at the combine, and hopefully, Mingo would be able to ressurect a fading franchise.

10. Tennessee Titans: OG Chance Warmack: There is little doubt in my mind that Tennessee will draft a guard with the tenth overall pick. The titans signed running back Shonne Green to a minor deal this past off season, as he will join Chris Johnson in the back-field. The Titans offensive line needs minor tweaking before Week 1, and Chance Warmack fits the bill. Chance Warmack is a very talented offensive lineman, but he is also competing against guard Jonathan Cooper in the 2013 draft for a spot on the Titans roster.