The Cincinnati Bengals poured a $7.8 million signing bonus over former Buccaneer Antonio Bryant, then cut him without an appearance in a single game. In his place is the 2010 preseason phenom and 4th round draft choice Mike Williams.
Derrick Ward signed a two year contract last year as an insurance policy for Cadillac Williams knees. Enter 2009 Undrafted Free Agent Kareem Huggins. Exit Derrick Ward.
Five of the six 2009 draft choices are either starting or second in line (Freeman, Miller, Moore, Biggers, Stroughter). The same goes for four members of the 2010 draft class (McCoy, Price, Williams, Lewis).
Does anyone question the ability of General Manager Mark Dominik's front office to judge talent anymore?
Chris Hovan, longtime mainstay in the middle of the Buccaneers defense, was not offered a new contract by Dominik during the past offseason. The St. Louis Rams did pick up Hovan, but he has been on IR since early July (back) and has not taken a snap during the preseason. It is unlikely he makes the Rams opening day roster.
A quick prowl around the web shows Jermaine Phillips and Torrie Cox are not be in any NFL camps this fall. Derrick Brooks has retired, as has Warrick Dunn. Ike Hilliard never played another snap.
What would you think about your General Manager if your team drafts a player in April, then trades him away before the end of training camp in August? Isn't it more impressive to find a Sammie Stroughter in the 7th round? Obviously!
It seems the eight years Dominik put in as the Pro Personnel Director are paying off for the rebuilding Buccaneers. No talent is "leaking" away from the team in the form of veterans with viable playing time remaining. Dominik seems to understand when a veteran has given all they have to the franchise. Knowing when a player has reached the end of their career is as important a talent for a GM as organizing the draft efforts -- mistakes in either case can cost the team cap space and roster opportunities for developing additional talent onto the depth chart.
Now Dominik must dig into his bag of tricks for another tool: correctly choosing between two talented players at the same position. Granted, this type of decision falls heavily on the shoulders of the coaching staff, who must be able to identify players which can perform the tasks presented to them at the highest level. But, also, Dominik must manage his cap, the roster, and the practice squad while keeping an eye on the waiver wire, so the final decision rests in his office. This is not a task for the squeamish; you know not all decisions will be winners. In the modern NFL you don't have to hit with every decision, but you do have to nail the majority of them. The core of the roster is the 44-man two-deep (that is, the starter and his backup for all positions) plus the punter, kicker, and perhaps a specialist long-snapper. On a 53-man regular season roster, that leaves room for around six "others" -- versatile special teams performers, young talent to groom, or . . . mistakes, which will need to be corrected. And a GM does not have time to deal with mistakes.
The final preseason game is tomorrow, after which rosters will be pared down from 75 players to 53-man rosters. Those last few decisions may not be as critical as a first round pick in April, but they will impact the season and the future of the franchise. Dominik has shown the ability a GM needs for the task. As the talent on the roster continues to improve, the decisions will get tougher. With the right choices, the rewards will escalate as well.
Showing posts with label 2010 draft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2010 draft. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Let Expectations Grow for Rookies in 2010
With OTAs heating up and the 2010 season on the distant horizon it seems many are looking forward and who can blame them? Buccaneer fans, fanatical about their defense, have two young defensive linemen coming in. And Buccaneer fantasy fans have two young wide receivers to watch.
Then Pat Kirwan shows up on NFL.com a couple weeks ago to apply water to the flames the blowtorch known as the 2010 draft put into the Buccaneer fan base with his article about having too high of expectations for the rookie defensive linemen. Just a flat out harsh to the love. I understand why Kirwan said it. I just wish he would have used a bigger sample size. Namely, a six foot two inch three hundred ten pound sample called Roy Miller.
Kirwan makes a pretty good case about first round defensive linemen not producing incredible numbers during their first season. I think Buccaneer fans get it -- it takes time for younger players to work well with the players around them, they make mistakes, they think too much, etc. But I don't think Buccaneer fans have to lower their expectations.
Here's a Tampa-sized sample of why: Roy Miller was the second Tampa Bay draft pick in the 2009 Draft class (arriving in the 3rd round). He was touted as a strong, stout interior line presence. Miller was one of 37 rookie defensive linemen last year. He dove into the regular season war and nobody heard much about him. Such is life when the TV only shows your back just before a play begins. But he emerged with a solid, impressive season behind him. Quietly.
Miller was the third most productive rookie defensive linemen in 2009 (according to NFL.com statistics) recording 27 total tackles, better numbers than 25 of 26 defensive ends drafted in 2009. Only Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Tyson Jackson had better numbers from a standing start. Only Terrance Knighton (also a 3rd rounder selected by Jacksonville) had better rookie numbers from the defensive interior.
Miller also had two sacks (only four other rookies had two or more) and was even credited with one pass defensed. For comparison, Warren Sapp had three sacks and an interception for a touchdown as a rookie in 1995. Not exactly comparable (the NFL did not keep individual tackles until the 2001 season), but not that far off either.
So no matter how you look at the numbers, Roy Miller brought it to the table in 2009. He reached the field in 15 of 16 games and even started one. And there is no doubt he will be improved for 2010. Clearly he has the right stuff. And what have you heard from him since? Nothing but a quiet mouth and more hard work. This is the kind of leadership the new Buccaneers management was hoping for.
The real reason why the Kirwin article can be easily dismissed by Tampa Bay fans is the same guys who found Miller in the third round were evaluating McCoy and Price in 2010. Many still do say they do not think the new front office has it figured out in Tampa. I could not disagree more with that opinion and I look forward to the 2010 season as proof. Will any of the rookies from 2010 go to the Pro Bowl this year? Probably not. Will they be impact players? Will they be productive? Will they get the Buccaneers back to the playoffs? Those questions get the excitement rolling for the 2010 season and it's well deserved.
Don't let a national media wonk ruin it!!
Perhaps Mr. Kirwan should have looked a little deeper into the draft -- his analysis is based on 17 players from the first two rounds between 2006 and 2009. Sadly, he has overlooked some of the best performers by going to sleep on the third round.
Thank goodness the Buccaneers did not!!
Then Pat Kirwan shows up on NFL.com a couple weeks ago to apply water to the flames the blowtorch known as the 2010 draft put into the Buccaneer fan base with his article about having too high of expectations for the rookie defensive linemen. Just a flat out harsh to the love. I understand why Kirwan said it. I just wish he would have used a bigger sample size. Namely, a six foot two inch three hundred ten pound sample called Roy Miller.
Kirwan makes a pretty good case about first round defensive linemen not producing incredible numbers during their first season. I think Buccaneer fans get it -- it takes time for younger players to work well with the players around them, they make mistakes, they think too much, etc. But I don't think Buccaneer fans have to lower their expectations.
Here's a Tampa-sized sample of why: Roy Miller was the second Tampa Bay draft pick in the 2009 Draft class (arriving in the 3rd round). He was touted as a strong, stout interior line presence. Miller was one of 37 rookie defensive linemen last year. He dove into the regular season war and nobody heard much about him. Such is life when the TV only shows your back just before a play begins. But he emerged with a solid, impressive season behind him. Quietly.
Miller was the third most productive rookie defensive linemen in 2009 (according to NFL.com statistics) recording 27 total tackles, better numbers than 25 of 26 defensive ends drafted in 2009. Only Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Tyson Jackson had better numbers from a standing start. Only Terrance Knighton (also a 3rd rounder selected by Jacksonville) had better rookie numbers from the defensive interior.
Miller also had two sacks (only four other rookies had two or more) and was even credited with one pass defensed. For comparison, Warren Sapp had three sacks and an interception for a touchdown as a rookie in 1995. Not exactly comparable (the NFL did not keep individual tackles until the 2001 season), but not that far off either.
So no matter how you look at the numbers, Roy Miller brought it to the table in 2009. He reached the field in 15 of 16 games and even started one. And there is no doubt he will be improved for 2010. Clearly he has the right stuff. And what have you heard from him since? Nothing but a quiet mouth and more hard work. This is the kind of leadership the new Buccaneers management was hoping for.
The real reason why the Kirwin article can be easily dismissed by Tampa Bay fans is the same guys who found Miller in the third round were evaluating McCoy and Price in 2010. Many still do say they do not think the new front office has it figured out in Tampa. I could not disagree more with that opinion and I look forward to the 2010 season as proof. Will any of the rookies from 2010 go to the Pro Bowl this year? Probably not. Will they be impact players? Will they be productive? Will they get the Buccaneers back to the playoffs? Those questions get the excitement rolling for the 2010 season and it's well deserved.
Don't let a national media wonk ruin it!!
Perhaps Mr. Kirwan should have looked a little deeper into the draft -- his analysis is based on 17 players from the first two rounds between 2006 and 2009. Sadly, he has overlooked some of the best performers by going to sleep on the third round.
Thank goodness the Buccaneers did not!!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
2010 Rookie Camp Has Possibility at Guard
The general tone after the rookie camp this past weekend has been one of real excitement. The speed and handwork of the young defensive lineman was very impressive and the natural, smooth ability of the wide receivers was remarkable.
Some players came away with minor injuries to nurse -- it was extremely hot and the players are still in "combine" shape, not football shape -- but it seems there were no injuries of significant note.
One player who stood out strongly was unsigned college free agent Lee Grimes, an offensive guard from Texas A&M. His bio on the Texas A&M website lists him as 6'6", 309lbs. He moved well in tight quarters and showed good footwork. Grimes did well against the Buccaneers new young defensive tackles and may have turned enough eyes to get to training camp.
We'll have to wait and see if the coaches and front office decide to move on any of the talent they had in camp. Signings, if any, should occur Sunday or Monday before the players leave town.
One step closer to the 2010 fooball season!
Some players came away with minor injuries to nurse -- it was extremely hot and the players are still in "combine" shape, not football shape -- but it seems there were no injuries of significant note.
One player who stood out strongly was unsigned college free agent Lee Grimes, an offensive guard from Texas A&M. His bio on the Texas A&M website lists him as 6'6", 309lbs. He moved well in tight quarters and showed good footwork. Grimes did well against the Buccaneers new young defensive tackles and may have turned enough eyes to get to training camp.
We'll have to wait and see if the coaches and front office decide to move on any of the talent they had in camp. Signings, if any, should occur Sunday or Monday before the players leave town.
One step closer to the 2010 fooball season!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Post Draft Update: The Young Core Defense
The draft is barely over and a pandemic of hope is sweeping across the NFL. Fans believe their teams have the players they need to improve. Front offices around the league are celebrating their new, young stars. It is no different in Tampa. A closer look shows the hope is very well founded in the Bay Area.
Here is the updated young core defense, last reveiwed just before the draft. The "young core" is made up of the players on the 80-man offseason roster with five or fewer seasons.
Bold is a 2010 draft pick, italics is 2010 college free agent, slashed is cut since the draft. Players are arranged by experience, nothing else:
RE: Stylez White (4th year), Tim Crowder (4), Maurice Evans (1), Brandon Gilbeaux (0)
DT: Roy Miller (2), Brian Price (0)
DT: Dre Moore (2), Gerald McCoy (0)
LE: Kyle Moore (2), Micheal Bennett (2), Erik Lorig (0), James Ruffin (0)
SLB: Jon Alston(5), Quincy Black (4), Lee Robinson (1)
MLB: Adam Hayward (4), Rico McCoy (0)
WLB: Geno Hayes (3), Dekoda Watson (0)
LCB: Aquib Talib (3), Derrick Roberson (2), Brandon Anderson (1)
RCB: Elbert Mack (3), E.J. Biggers (1), Myron Lewis (0),Stony Woodson (1)
SS: Sabby Piscatelli (4), Emanuel Cook (2), Donte Nicholson (2), Cody Grimm (0)
FS: Tanard Jackson (4), Corey Lynch (3), De'von Hall (1), Dennis Rogan (0)
This is an absolutely perfect looking defensive position chart with at least two players competing at every spot. The rebuilding phase is officially over for the defense! From this point on it's about getting as much talent on this chart as possible each offseason and letting them fight it out through Organized Team Activities (OTAs), work in the weight room, conditioning, and finally in the preseason. This is how and this is when depth is born. A 3-13 team is generally not in this position due to some combination of poor drafting, poor use of the wiaver wire, poor player development, or too much reliance on veteran free agents. The Buccaneers appear to have these issues resolved. It's an exciting indicator of progress and good things to come this fall to a unit which struggled last year.
These 33 players will compete for 22 positions on the two-deep depth chart. Around another 4 of these players may go to the practice squad. Best of Luck to all these men as they chase their dream of playing in the NFL!
Here is the updated young core defense, last reveiwed just before the draft. The "young core" is made up of the players on the 80-man offseason roster with five or fewer seasons.
Bold is a 2010 draft pick, italics is 2010 college free agent, slashed is cut since the draft. Players are arranged by experience, nothing else:
RE: Stylez White (4th year), Tim Crowder (4), Maurice Evans (1), Brandon Gilbeaux (0)
DT: Roy Miller (2), Brian Price (0)
DT: Dre Moore (2), Gerald McCoy (0)
LE: Kyle Moore (2), Micheal Bennett (2), Erik Lorig (0), James Ruffin (0)
SLB: Jon Alston(5), Quincy Black (4), Lee Robinson (1)
MLB: Adam Hayward (4), Rico McCoy (0)
WLB: Geno Hayes (3), Dekoda Watson (0)
LCB: Aquib Talib (3), Derrick Roberson (2), Brandon Anderson (1)
RCB: Elbert Mack (3), E.J. Biggers (1), Myron Lewis (0),
SS: Sabby Piscatelli (4), Emanuel Cook (2), Donte Nicholson (2), Cody Grimm (0)
FS: Tanard Jackson (4), Corey Lynch (3), De'von Hall (1), Dennis Rogan (0)
This is an absolutely perfect looking defensive position chart with at least two players competing at every spot. The rebuilding phase is officially over for the defense! From this point on it's about getting as much talent on this chart as possible each offseason and letting them fight it out through Organized Team Activities (OTAs), work in the weight room, conditioning, and finally in the preseason. This is how and this is when depth is born. A 3-13 team is generally not in this position due to some combination of poor drafting, poor use of the wiaver wire, poor player development, or too much reliance on veteran free agents. The Buccaneers appear to have these issues resolved. It's an exciting indicator of progress and good things to come this fall to a unit which struggled last year.
These 33 players will compete for 22 positions on the two-deep depth chart. Around another 4 of these players may go to the practice squad. Best of Luck to all these men as they chase their dream of playing in the NFL!
Monday, April 26, 2010
2010 Draft Results: Expert Opinions
The 2010 Draft is over and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have landed a significant haul of talent. Don't take my word for it:
I am so ready for football season already I can barely stand it.
"They owned this draft. For all the ripping that general manager Mark Dominik has taken in some circles in his first year on the job, there's no denying he should be standing proud today."
-- Pete Prisco, CBS Sports (full article)
"The Buccaneers may have found half a dozen potential starters, and DTs Gerald McCoy and Brian Price and WR Arrelious Benn are good bets to crack the starting lineup by Week 1."-- USA Today (full article at The Huddle)
"Grade: A"-- John Czarnecki, Fox Sports (full article)
I could not agree more -- this was an unbelievable draft for Tampa Bay. Between now and the rookie camps this upcoming weekend we'll take a deep look at how this draft has changed the Buccaneers for 2010 and I'll make the case this draft set the rebuilding plan forward by almost two years."This was one of the league's better hauls."- NBC Sports (full article)
I am so ready for football season already I can barely stand it.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Draft Day Final Thoughts
So, the analysis is complete (offense and defense), the scenarios have been laid out, the needs have been listed, and a few fake runs of draft selections have been finished. All that's left is some final notes and thoughts on the 2010 NFL Draft (and making the popcorn):
Byron Leftwich (QB) has been traded back to Pittsburgh for another 7th round pick in the 2010 Draft. He doesn't really create a void since most teams only carry three quarterbacks during the regular season. However, the Buccaneers will need a camp warrior quarterback for the offseason, so it's possible that one of the last picks could be used to add one extra arm to the team. Best case is the Buccaneers find a player to push Rudy Carpenter for the #3 position.
The Buccaneers now have twelve picks in the 2010 NFL Draft, five in the 7th round. This provides General Manager Mark Dominik a huge amount of flexibility while the draft is in progress.
Consider This: Two of the original allotment of 7 picks of the 2010 Draft were sent to Cleveland in 2009 for tight end Kellen Winslow. Those picks were a 2nd rounder and a 5th rounder. Buccaneers GM Mark Dominik got the 2nd round pick back by trading defensive end Gaines Adams to the Chicago Bears and got the 5th round pick back by trading tight end Alex Smith to the New England Patriots. The net result is getting Kellen Winslow for Gaines Adams and Alex Smith. The original trade brought the most productive receiver in 2009 to Tampa Bay. The subsequent moves let loose an under performing defensive end and semi-productive tight end. Starter for starter between Winslow and Adams would certainly favor Winslow as far as production. Add in the fact Alex Smith did not even make the opening day roster of the New England Patriots (meaning the Buccaneers got something and New England got nothing) and you see this entire set of moves was a big time win for Dominik and the Buccaneers. The final result for Tampa Bay is having the 2nd and 5th round picks back this year plus Kellen Winslow. This shows great savvy by GM Mark Dominik and demonstrates how to use the needs of other teams to improve your own roster. Very impressive for a GM just starting his second season at the top.
Another quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger of Pittsburgh, could play a factor if he is indeed traded. This would remove a possible trade-up option and may result in Detroit staying put and taking one of the top defensive linemen leaving the other top defensive lineman for Tampa Bay.
Maurice Stovall (WR) is back with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers having signed his one-year tender offer. He is a key piece in replacing Antonio Bryant so Buccaneer fans should feel good about it. It does not, however, remove the need to draft at least one wide receiver in the 2010 NFL Draft.
Jimmy Wilkerson (DE, 42 tackles, 24 assists) has signed a free agent deal with the New Orleans Saints. Wilkerson had six sacks in 2009, making him the 2nd leading sack producer for Tampa Bay in 2009 (Stylez White had 6.5 sacks to lead the team). Losing a productive player is never a good thing. The Buccaneers, however, have already gone a long way improving this position with September 2009 September 2009 waiver wire acquision Tim Crowder (37 tackles, 10 assists, 3.5 sacks) and October 2009 waiver wire acquisition Micheal Bennett (undrafted in 2009 but picked up by Seattle) as well as Buccaneers 2009 draft pick Kyle Moore (2009, 4th round). And White also remains with the team. A look at the young core defense shows Wilkerson's leaving should not change needs previously identified, so I do not believe this means the Buccaneers need to draft a Defensive End in the 2010 Draft.
Barrett Ruud (LB) has signed his tender but it should not change the Buccaneers draft needs.
Elbert Mack (CB) has signed his tender as well. This adds young depth with good experience to the young core defense. However, considering the front office activity last year, Tampa Bay will most likely spend at least one pick at corner.
Finally, some videos worth watching:
Could this be the #1 pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2010? Gerald McCoy on NFL Network
There have been changes to draft preparation this offseason, hear what offensive coordinator Greg Olson thinks of them: OC Greg Olson on Buccaneers Insider (does he slip regarding drafting wide receivers this year??)
What the rest of the team has been up to: Offseason Workouts Have Started; High Participation
That does it. Find a great chair in a comfortable room and relax. Best of Luck to the entire Tampa Bay Buccaneers organization on the 2010 Draft!!!
Byron Leftwich (QB) has been traded back to Pittsburgh for another 7th round pick in the 2010 Draft. He doesn't really create a void since most teams only carry three quarterbacks during the regular season. However, the Buccaneers will need a camp warrior quarterback for the offseason, so it's possible that one of the last picks could be used to add one extra arm to the team. Best case is the Buccaneers find a player to push Rudy Carpenter for the #3 position.
The Buccaneers now have twelve picks in the 2010 NFL Draft, five in the 7th round. This provides General Manager Mark Dominik a huge amount of flexibility while the draft is in progress.
Consider This: Two of the original allotment of 7 picks of the 2010 Draft were sent to Cleveland in 2009 for tight end Kellen Winslow. Those picks were a 2nd rounder and a 5th rounder. Buccaneers GM Mark Dominik got the 2nd round pick back by trading defensive end Gaines Adams to the Chicago Bears and got the 5th round pick back by trading tight end Alex Smith to the New England Patriots. The net result is getting Kellen Winslow for Gaines Adams and Alex Smith. The original trade brought the most productive receiver in 2009 to Tampa Bay. The subsequent moves let loose an under performing defensive end and semi-productive tight end. Starter for starter between Winslow and Adams would certainly favor Winslow as far as production. Add in the fact Alex Smith did not even make the opening day roster of the New England Patriots (meaning the Buccaneers got something and New England got nothing) and you see this entire set of moves was a big time win for Dominik and the Buccaneers. The final result for Tampa Bay is having the 2nd and 5th round picks back this year plus Kellen Winslow. This shows great savvy by GM Mark Dominik and demonstrates how to use the needs of other teams to improve your own roster. Very impressive for a GM just starting his second season at the top.
Another quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger of Pittsburgh, could play a factor if he is indeed traded. This would remove a possible trade-up option and may result in Detroit staying put and taking one of the top defensive linemen leaving the other top defensive lineman for Tampa Bay.
Maurice Stovall (WR) is back with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers having signed his one-year tender offer. He is a key piece in replacing Antonio Bryant so Buccaneer fans should feel good about it. It does not, however, remove the need to draft at least one wide receiver in the 2010 NFL Draft.
Jimmy Wilkerson (DE, 42 tackles, 24 assists) has signed a free agent deal with the New Orleans Saints. Wilkerson had six sacks in 2009, making him the 2nd leading sack producer for Tampa Bay in 2009 (Stylez White had 6.5 sacks to lead the team). Losing a productive player is never a good thing. The Buccaneers, however, have already gone a long way improving this position with September 2009 September 2009 waiver wire acquision Tim Crowder (37 tackles, 10 assists, 3.5 sacks) and October 2009 waiver wire acquisition Micheal Bennett (undrafted in 2009 but picked up by Seattle) as well as Buccaneers 2009 draft pick Kyle Moore (2009, 4th round). And White also remains with the team. A look at the young core defense shows Wilkerson's leaving should not change needs previously identified, so I do not believe this means the Buccaneers need to draft a Defensive End in the 2010 Draft.
Barrett Ruud (LB) has signed his tender but it should not change the Buccaneers draft needs.
Elbert Mack (CB) has signed his tender as well. This adds young depth with good experience to the young core defense. However, considering the front office activity last year, Tampa Bay will most likely spend at least one pick at corner.
Finally, some videos worth watching:
Could this be the #1 pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2010? Gerald McCoy on NFL Network
There have been changes to draft preparation this offseason, hear what offensive coordinator Greg Olson thinks of them: OC Greg Olson on Buccaneers Insider (does he slip regarding drafting wide receivers this year??)
What the rest of the team has been up to: Offseason Workouts Have Started; High Participation
That does it. Find a great chair in a comfortable room and relax. Best of Luck to the entire Tampa Bay Buccaneers organization on the 2010 Draft!!!
Fake Draft from Valrico, Florida
I picked this draft to post because Jesse is the youngest person to send in a draft.
Jesse used the CBS 2010 Prospect Rankings (notes in parentheses are Jesse's):
#3 - Gerald McCoy (but I want Suh) (DT, Nebraska, 6'4", 295lbs)
#35 - Carlos Dunlap (DE, Florida, 6'6", 278lbs)
#42 - Terrence Codey (to go with McCoy) (DT, Alabama, 6'4", 349lbs)
#67 - Eric Decker (to replace Antonio Bryant) (WR, Minnesota, 6'2", 217)
#101 - Brandon Lang (DE, Troy, 6'4", 266lbs)
#153 - Jason Fox (OT, Miami (FL), 6'7", 305lbs)
#172 - Emmanuel Sanders (to replace [Micheal] Clayton) (WR, SMU, 5'11", 186lbs)
#210 - Charlie Tanner (G, Texas, 6'4", 305lbs)
#217 - AJ Edds (OLB, Iowa, 6'4", 246lbs)
#232 - Darryl Sharpton (ILB, Miami(FL), 6'0", 236lbs)
#253 - Sam Shields (CB, Miami(FL), 5'11", 184lbs)
Jesse says:
Thanks for sending in your draft, Jesse from Valrico!!
Jesse used the CBS 2010 Prospect Rankings (notes in parentheses are Jesse's):
#3 - Gerald McCoy (but I want Suh) (DT, Nebraska, 6'4", 295lbs)
#35 - Carlos Dunlap (DE, Florida, 6'6", 278lbs)
#42 - Terrence Codey (to go with McCoy) (DT, Alabama, 6'4", 349lbs)
#67 - Eric Decker (to replace Antonio Bryant) (WR, Minnesota, 6'2", 217)
#101 - Brandon Lang (DE, Troy, 6'4", 266lbs)
#153 - Jason Fox (OT, Miami (FL), 6'7", 305lbs)
#172 - Emmanuel Sanders (to replace [Micheal] Clayton) (WR, SMU, 5'11", 186lbs)
#210 - Charlie Tanner (G, Texas, 6'4", 305lbs)
#217 - AJ Edds (OLB, Iowa, 6'4", 246lbs)
#232 - Darryl Sharpton (ILB, Miami(FL), 6'0", 236lbs)
#253 - Sam Shields (CB, Miami(FL), 5'11", 184lbs)
Jesse says:
We need defensive line and wide receivers. I picked a whole new defensive line. And lots of players from Miami because they are the best!Jesse, I like your thinking. Coach Dungy had a lot of success with in-state college talent. We'll have to see if Coach Morris can have the same success.
Thanks for sending in your draft, Jesse from Valrico!!
Fake Draft from Brandon, Florida
I'm posting this draft since it's the only one I received that did not have Gerald McCoy at #3.
Tom, who lives in Brandon, Floirda, sent along his draft using the CBS Sports 2010 NFL Draft prospect rankings:
#3 - Eric Berry (FS, Tennessee, 6'0", 211lbs)
#35 - Carlos Dunlap (DE, Florida, 6'6", 278lbs)
#42 - Terrence Cody (DT, Alabama, 6'4", 349lbs)
#67 - Cam Thomas (DT, North Carolina, 6'4", 330lbs)
#101 - Darrell Stuckey (SS, Kansas, 6'0", 205lbs)
#153 - Mike Williams (WR, Syracuse, 6'2", 221lbs)
#172 - Emmanuel Sanders (WR, SMU, 5'11", 186lbs)
#210 - Shay Hodge (WR, Mississippi, 6'1", 209lbs)
#217 - Vincent Ray (ILB, Duke, 6'2", 240lbs)
#232 - Chris McCoy (OLB, Middle Tennessee, 6'3", 261lbs)
#253 - Richard Dickson (FB, LSU, 6'3", 249lbs)
Tom says:
Tom, who lives in Brandon, Floirda, sent along his draft using the CBS Sports 2010 NFL Draft prospect rankings:
#3 - Eric Berry (FS, Tennessee, 6'0", 211lbs)
#35 - Carlos Dunlap (DE, Florida, 6'6", 278lbs)
#42 - Terrence Cody (DT, Alabama, 6'4", 349lbs)
#67 - Cam Thomas (DT, North Carolina, 6'4", 330lbs)
#101 - Darrell Stuckey (SS, Kansas, 6'0", 205lbs)
#153 - Mike Williams (WR, Syracuse, 6'2", 221lbs)
#172 - Emmanuel Sanders (WR, SMU, 5'11", 186lbs)
#210 - Shay Hodge (WR, Mississippi, 6'1", 209lbs)
#217 - Vincent Ray (ILB, Duke, 6'2", 240lbs)
#232 - Chris McCoy (OLB, Middle Tennessee, 6'3", 261lbs)
#253 - Richard Dickson (FB, LSU, 6'3", 249lbs)
Tom says:
Defensive line is deep and I think Eric Berry is the best athlete on the board. We gave up too many long plays last year so get the best defensive back early and get defensive line later in the draft. In the 7th round, get big guys who can run for special teamsCertainly a different take, and Tom found about 680lbs of defensive tackle. Thanks for sharing your draft, Tom in Brandon!
Monday, April 19, 2010
The Tampa Media And Dominik-Tied-To-The-2010-Draft
Looks like Tampa Bay Buccaneers General Manager Mark Dominik believes that his opportunity in Tampa Bay is attached to the 2010 draft:
In light of all this, I just have to say to the Tampa Media: Can I attach my credibility to this draft as well? Please???
Seems to me this time the hounds in the Tampa Media Elite have been tricked by a wily fox in the person of Mark Dominik. This is the most talented draft in 20 years by some estimations with the talent running long and deep. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have 11 picks to mine this rich talent pool for contributors. If your job is to drill for oil and you're standing above one of the largest finds in 20 years, be sure to look your boss right in the eye and assure them that your next raise should be based on the next 11 wells dug. Likewise, if you are going into a draft room with a deep talent pool and lots of picks you make sure the fans know you understand the situation. That, my friends, is called tact ("skill in dealing with difficult or delicate situations"). Now Dominik has the Tampa Media to thank for tying his name closely with the talent that comes out. Suddenly, after the draft, they will realize they can't call it "luck" or "a can't miss draft" -- now they must give him credit when the talent matures. And I believe that has been Dominik's plan since he dropped the quote last week. So while the Tampa Media rushes to the gallows to wait for a mistake, misstep, or some unfortunate luck, Dominik can sit back, do what he's done for 15 years, and play the cards he has stacked in his own favor (four extra picks this year) to his strong suit.
I suspect Dominik will bring the same tact to the table starting Thursday evening, and Buccaneer fans will be extremely pleased come Saturday night.
I think it wouldn’t be unfair for me to say that this class will have a big impact on the success of this football team going forward. If this draft class doesn’t succeed, I probably don’t, either.The Tampa Media has pounced on Dominik's quote like executioners given big new axe to grind:
-- Pewter Report press conference notes
For a long time, they will be intertwined, Dominik and this draft. In a week, in a year, in a decade, when someone mentions one of them, you will not be able to avoid thinking about the other.
-- Gary Shelton, TampaBay.com
How this draft turns out, even short term, will almost certainly determine the fates of General Manager Mark Dominik and Coach Raheem Morris and a lot of other people not named Glazer inside One Buc Place.-- Martin Fennelly, TBO.com
(How about Joe Buc Fan pulling out references to World War II, Napolean, and baseball in one fell swoop on a football blog? Sheesh!) And, more importantly, some have started to set the bar far above anything accomplished by most general managers long before this year's draft even begins:Banking on this draft to ressurect the Bucs is the football equivilent of loading the bases for Albert Pujols with two outs.Pujols could ground out. Just as easily, he could hit a grand slam.That’s what Dominik has done. He’s walked the bases loaded.-- JoeBucFan.com, article titled "Draft Will Be Midway or Waterloo for Dominik"
The Bucs have 11 picks, enough to fill a huddle, and five of those are among the first 101 selections. It is not too much to suggest the Bucs should walk away with four eventual starters and two Pro Bowl caliber players.Really? Two pro bowl players per year? As usual, the egomaniacs of the Tampa Bay Media feel it is their right, their position to dictate exactly what must be accomplished by whom and by when, while they themselves sit high above the frenzy and pass judgement.
-- Gary Shelton, TampaBay.com
In light of all this, I just have to say to the Tampa Media: Can I attach my credibility to this draft as well? Please???
Seems to me this time the hounds in the Tampa Media Elite have been tricked by a wily fox in the person of Mark Dominik. This is the most talented draft in 20 years by some estimations with the talent running long and deep. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have 11 picks to mine this rich talent pool for contributors. If your job is to drill for oil and you're standing above one of the largest finds in 20 years, be sure to look your boss right in the eye and assure them that your next raise should be based on the next 11 wells dug. Likewise, if you are going into a draft room with a deep talent pool and lots of picks you make sure the fans know you understand the situation. That, my friends, is called tact ("skill in dealing with difficult or delicate situations"). Now Dominik has the Tampa Media to thank for tying his name closely with the talent that comes out. Suddenly, after the draft, they will realize they can't call it "luck" or "a can't miss draft" -- now they must give him credit when the talent matures. And I believe that has been Dominik's plan since he dropped the quote last week. So while the Tampa Media rushes to the gallows to wait for a mistake, misstep, or some unfortunate luck, Dominik can sit back, do what he's done for 15 years, and play the cards he has stacked in his own favor (four extra picks this year) to his strong suit.
I suspect Dominik will bring the same tact to the table starting Thursday evening, and Buccaneer fans will be extremely pleased come Saturday night.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Tampa Bay Draft Summary
Having completed a review of the young offensive core and young defensive core on the rebuilding Tampa Bay Buccaneers on this blog, I offer a prioritized list of positions I hope the team hits during the 2010 draft. But first, lets check out what the Buccaneers have to work with.
The Buccaneers have 11 picks in the 2010 NFL Draft:
Round 1, #3 (3rd overall)
Round 2, #3 (35th overall)
Round 2, #10 (42nd overall) -- via the Gaines Adams (Defensive End) trade to Chicago in 2009
Round 3, #3 (67th overall)
Round 4, #3 (101st overall)
Round 5, #22 (153rd overall) -- via the Alex Smith (Tight End) trade to New England in 2009; this pick replaces the fifth round pick given up to Cleveland for Tight End Kellen Winslow in 2009
Round 6, #3 (172nd overall)
Round 7, #3 (210th overall)
Round 7, #10 (217th overall) -- via the Luke McCown trade to Jacksonville in 2009
Round 7, #25 (232nd overall) -- via the Marques Douglas trade to Baltimore in 2008
Round 7, #46 (253rd overall) -- compensatory pick
Analysis posted here over the past two days show the Buccaneers needing six defensive players and between four and six offensive players to keep the rebuilding process moving along. What a perfect time to have four additional picks available!
Here is my prioritized list for the picks above:
Four picks in the first three Rounds
Defensive Lineman (looks like the first pick is going to nail this solidly)
Corner
Safety
Wide Receiver
Top corner talent is hard to find, so the hope is that there is some great talent at the first pick in the second round to get a corner (I'll be cheering for lots of linemen to come off the board in the first round!). I have no preference for safety or wide receiver as the second pick in the second round -- I just hope one position or the other is at the top of the draft board when the pick comes around.
Three picks in rounds 4 through 6
Center or versatile Guard
Another Defensive Lineman
A Middle Linebacker
Again, the order really doesn't matter. These are not players that need to start on day one of the 2010 season. Get football players who will be ready to compete, play special teams, and step it up for 2011. If there is a wide receiver at the top of the board for one of these picks. . . it would be tempting.
Four picks in the 7th round
Wide Receiver
Tight End
Running back
Another Linebacker, any position
These are special teams warriors, hidden gems, or all out athletes. Can the Buccaneers possibly catch lighting in a bottle with another 7th round wide receiver in 2010? I would not complain if there was no running back taken and a third wide receiver or third linebacker were taken instead. To be honest, at this point in the draft you are looking for someone who can play at an NFL level. To try to fill a positional need here is very challenging, so if none of the seventh round picks line up with these positions then you just carry the need over to next year (hoping the needs fulfilled early in the draft this year don't come back again next year).
The Buccaneers rebuilding process would take a monsterous step forward if all eleven picks in the 2010 draft could find a way into the rotation for playing time on Sundays this fall. However, this is not realistic, as some players will have injuries, not fit the systems as hoped, or perhaps not have exactly the right personality to meld into the team. But with 11 chances to find the right player, the 2010 draft will determine how short or how long it takes to rebuild the team into a playoff contender.
The Buccaneers have 11 picks in the 2010 NFL Draft:
Round 1, #3 (3rd overall)
Round 2, #3 (35th overall)
Round 2, #10 (42nd overall) -- via the Gaines Adams (Defensive End) trade to Chicago in 2009
Round 3, #3 (67th overall)
Round 4, #3 (101st overall)
Round 5, #22 (153rd overall) -- via the Alex Smith (Tight End) trade to New England in 2009; this pick replaces the fifth round pick given up to Cleveland for Tight End Kellen Winslow in 2009
Round 6, #3 (172nd overall)
Round 7, #3 (210th overall)
Round 7, #10 (217th overall) -- via the Luke McCown trade to Jacksonville in 2009
Round 7, #25 (232nd overall) -- via the Marques Douglas trade to Baltimore in 2008
Round 7, #46 (253rd overall) -- compensatory pick
Analysis posted here over the past two days show the Buccaneers needing six defensive players and between four and six offensive players to keep the rebuilding process moving along. What a perfect time to have four additional picks available!
Here is my prioritized list for the picks above:
Four picks in the first three Rounds
Defensive Lineman (looks like the first pick is going to nail this solidly)
Corner
Safety
Wide Receiver
Top corner talent is hard to find, so the hope is that there is some great talent at the first pick in the second round to get a corner (I'll be cheering for lots of linemen to come off the board in the first round!). I have no preference for safety or wide receiver as the second pick in the second round -- I just hope one position or the other is at the top of the draft board when the pick comes around.
Three picks in rounds 4 through 6
Center or versatile Guard
Another Defensive Lineman
A Middle Linebacker
Again, the order really doesn't matter. These are not players that need to start on day one of the 2010 season. Get football players who will be ready to compete, play special teams, and step it up for 2011. If there is a wide receiver at the top of the board for one of these picks. . . it would be tempting.
Four picks in the 7th round
Wide Receiver
Tight End
Running back
Another Linebacker, any position
These are special teams warriors, hidden gems, or all out athletes. Can the Buccaneers possibly catch lighting in a bottle with another 7th round wide receiver in 2010? I would not complain if there was no running back taken and a third wide receiver or third linebacker were taken instead. To be honest, at this point in the draft you are looking for someone who can play at an NFL level. To try to fill a positional need here is very challenging, so if none of the seventh round picks line up with these positions then you just carry the need over to next year (hoping the needs fulfilled early in the draft this year don't come back again next year).
The Buccaneers rebuilding process would take a monsterous step forward if all eleven picks in the 2010 draft could find a way into the rotation for playing time on Sundays this fall. However, this is not realistic, as some players will have injuries, not fit the systems as hoped, or perhaps not have exactly the right personality to meld into the team. But with 11 chances to find the right player, the 2010 draft will determine how short or how long it takes to rebuild the team into a playoff contender.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Tampa Bay Draft Needs: Offense
To build a team through the draft means to build a nucleus of young players and allow them to mature and gain experience through rotation during the season. You need to find youth which is talented enough to get into a positional rotation or youth which can develop on the coverage teams and find it's way into the rotation later.
To find draft needs while rebuilding it makes sense to look at the young core of players instead of the starting lineup. Holes in the starting lineup should be filled by free agency, but must be added carefully to allow the youth on the team to continue maturing. In the case of the 2010 Tampa Bay Buccaneers young players need more experience (i.e. the rebulding process means creating depth across the board). The status of the rebuilding process can also be measured by looking at the young core.
Here is the young core offense (Pre-Draft 2010) of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (players with five or fewer seasons):
WR - Maurice Stovall (5th Year), Mario Urrita (1), Terrance Nunn (2)
LT - Donald Penn (5), James Lee (3), Marc Dile (1)
LG - Jeremy Zuttah (3), Arron Sears (3),
C - Johnathan Compas (2)
RG - Davin Joseph (5), Shawn Murphy (3)
RT - Jeremy Trueblood (5), Demar Dotson (2), Xavier Fulton (2)
WR - Sammie Straughter (2), Micheal Spurlock (3)
TE - Ryan Purvis (1)
QB - Josh Freeman (2), Josh Johnson (3), Rudy Carpenter (2)
RB - Clifton Smith (3), Kareem Huggins (1)
FB - Chris Pressley (2)
PK - Conner Barth (3)
P - Sam Paulescu (3)
LS - Andrew Economos (5)
Players in italics are unsigned free agents who have pending offers from the Buccaneers. Should another team make an offer for the player, the Buccaneers have the right to match the offer. If the Buccaneers do not match the offer, the other team may have to give up draft picks for the player. Unrestricted free agents are not listed.
The breakdown is:
5 players with 5 years of experience
0 players with 4 years of experience
9 players with 3 years of experience
8 players with 2 years of experience (2009 draft, 2008 practice squad, some free agents)
4 players with 1 year of experience (2009 waiver/free agent pick-ups and practice squad)
This group represents 26 members of the 80-man offseason roster. There is an obvious hole at four years of experience and, as a result, a lack of "internal free agents" on this side of the ball (as was the case a five years experience on the defense). This shows inadequate player development stemming from the 2007 draft when only three offensive players were selected. Arron Sears would be a fourth year player from that draft but was unable to participate last year (so it could have been one, but just one would be no less of an issue). The lack of fourth year players means there will be a bit of a gap as far as leadership and experience which will continue to upset the rebuilding process. Time will correct this problem if the 2nd and 3rd year players can get to the field and gain experience.
(The first note for the 2011 Draft is that four of the five 5th year players are offensive linemen -- look for that to be a draft priority next year.)
There is very little experience at the wide receiver position. Granted that these men have been behind Michael Clayton and Antonio Bryant for some time, but with Bryant gone and 4th year receiver Brian Clark signed by Detroit somebody here will have to step up. Stroughter had an unbelievable rookie year for a 7th round selection. The Buccaneers need to get a couple more playmakers in this group to increase the competition, perhaps even play in the starting rotation, to keep this position well stocked.
The offensive line is stocked to perfection. While you can never have enough talent on the front line, this group gained a lot of playing experience last year and remains a great part of the young core to build around. One need did become obvious last year when center Jeff Faine went down. Instead of inserting someone from the roster the Buccaneers went to the free agent market and got journeyman Sean Mahan to fill in while Faine healed. This suggests the Buccaneers need to consider drafting a center to compliment young Johnathan Compas (and Compas needs to progress strongly this offseason and preseason). It is possible that one of the reserve guards can fulfill this need, in which case this unit does not require an update from the 2010 draft.
Tight End is a major area of need, with just one player with less than five years experience on the roster. In fact, two of the veteran tight ends are also among the five oldest players on the roster (Jeremy Stevens and John Gilmore). This tight ends as a whole did pack a lot of punch last year as well as producing the top receiver on the team (Kellen Winslow). However, the Buccaneers would be well served to haul in another young tight end in the 2010 draft to sustain the position as these players wrap up their careers.
The quarterback position was in a state of flux from the first preseason game until the bye week. With the waiver-wire pickup of Rudy Carpenter, the Buccaneers have no pressing need at this position for the next couple years. It is likely a fourth quaterback will be brought in as an offseason warrior (perhaps that 7th round compensatory pick?) to challenge Carpenter for the #3 spot. But using a draft slot for a quarterback is most certainly not a priority this year.
In the backfield there is a good, young core, but no heir apparent once Cadillac Williams and Derrick Ward step aside. While not pressing, additional talent here to push the youth would be a luxury pick.
As far as specialists go, I'd be happy with only having to have one punter and one kicker for the entire year this season!
So, in summary:
Wide Recievers (2 would be great)
Center
Tight End
Running Back and/or Quarterback (but only as a luxury pick in the later rounds)
That's a solid four player need and two nice-to-have picks. Only the wide receiver position needs an immediate boost. Not too bad at all for a very young and rebuilding team. The rebuild is nearly complete on this side of the ball, but that gap in 4th year players will need some time to play out.
To find draft needs while rebuilding it makes sense to look at the young core of players instead of the starting lineup. Holes in the starting lineup should be filled by free agency, but must be added carefully to allow the youth on the team to continue maturing. In the case of the 2010 Tampa Bay Buccaneers young players need more experience (i.e. the rebulding process means creating depth across the board). The status of the rebuilding process can also be measured by looking at the young core.
Here is the young core offense (Pre-Draft 2010) of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (players with five or fewer seasons):
WR - Maurice Stovall (5th Year), Mario Urrita (1), Terrance Nunn (2)
LT - Donald Penn (5), James Lee (3), Marc Dile (1)
LG - Jeremy Zuttah (3), Arron Sears (3),
C - Johnathan Compas (2)
RG - Davin Joseph (5), Shawn Murphy (3)
RT - Jeremy Trueblood (5), Demar Dotson (2), Xavier Fulton (2)
WR - Sammie Straughter (2), Micheal Spurlock (3)
TE - Ryan Purvis (1)
QB - Josh Freeman (2), Josh Johnson (3), Rudy Carpenter (2)
RB - Clifton Smith (3), Kareem Huggins (1)
FB - Chris Pressley (2)
PK - Conner Barth (3)
P - Sam Paulescu (3)
LS - Andrew Economos (5)
Players in italics are unsigned free agents who have pending offers from the Buccaneers. Should another team make an offer for the player, the Buccaneers have the right to match the offer. If the Buccaneers do not match the offer, the other team may have to give up draft picks for the player. Unrestricted free agents are not listed.
The breakdown is:
5 players with 5 years of experience
0 players with 4 years of experience
9 players with 3 years of experience
8 players with 2 years of experience (2009 draft, 2008 practice squad, some free agents)
4 players with 1 year of experience (2009 waiver/free agent pick-ups and practice squad)
This group represents 26 members of the 80-man offseason roster. There is an obvious hole at four years of experience and, as a result, a lack of "internal free agents" on this side of the ball (as was the case a five years experience on the defense). This shows inadequate player development stemming from the 2007 draft when only three offensive players were selected. Arron Sears would be a fourth year player from that draft but was unable to participate last year (so it could have been one, but just one would be no less of an issue). The lack of fourth year players means there will be a bit of a gap as far as leadership and experience which will continue to upset the rebuilding process. Time will correct this problem if the 2nd and 3rd year players can get to the field and gain experience.
(The first note for the 2011 Draft is that four of the five 5th year players are offensive linemen -- look for that to be a draft priority next year.)
There is very little experience at the wide receiver position. Granted that these men have been behind Michael Clayton and Antonio Bryant for some time, but with Bryant gone and 4th year receiver Brian Clark signed by Detroit somebody here will have to step up. Stroughter had an unbelievable rookie year for a 7th round selection. The Buccaneers need to get a couple more playmakers in this group to increase the competition, perhaps even play in the starting rotation, to keep this position well stocked.
The offensive line is stocked to perfection. While you can never have enough talent on the front line, this group gained a lot of playing experience last year and remains a great part of the young core to build around. One need did become obvious last year when center Jeff Faine went down. Instead of inserting someone from the roster the Buccaneers went to the free agent market and got journeyman Sean Mahan to fill in while Faine healed. This suggests the Buccaneers need to consider drafting a center to compliment young Johnathan Compas (and Compas needs to progress strongly this offseason and preseason). It is possible that one of the reserve guards can fulfill this need, in which case this unit does not require an update from the 2010 draft.
Tight End is a major area of need, with just one player with less than five years experience on the roster. In fact, two of the veteran tight ends are also among the five oldest players on the roster (Jeremy Stevens and John Gilmore). This tight ends as a whole did pack a lot of punch last year as well as producing the top receiver on the team (Kellen Winslow). However, the Buccaneers would be well served to haul in another young tight end in the 2010 draft to sustain the position as these players wrap up their careers.
The quarterback position was in a state of flux from the first preseason game until the bye week. With the waiver-wire pickup of Rudy Carpenter, the Buccaneers have no pressing need at this position for the next couple years. It is likely a fourth quaterback will be brought in as an offseason warrior (perhaps that 7th round compensatory pick?) to challenge Carpenter for the #3 spot. But using a draft slot for a quarterback is most certainly not a priority this year.
In the backfield there is a good, young core, but no heir apparent once Cadillac Williams and Derrick Ward step aside. While not pressing, additional talent here to push the youth would be a luxury pick.
As far as specialists go, I'd be happy with only having to have one punter and one kicker for the entire year this season!
So, in summary:
Wide Recievers (2 would be great)
Center
Tight End
Running Back and/or Quarterback (but only as a luxury pick in the later rounds)
That's a solid four player need and two nice-to-have picks. Only the wide receiver position needs an immediate boost. Not too bad at all for a very young and rebuilding team. The rebuild is nearly complete on this side of the ball, but that gap in 4th year players will need some time to play out.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Tampa Bay Draft Needs: Defense
To build a team through the draft means to build a nucleus of young players and allow them to mature and gain experience through rotation during the season. You need to find youth which is talented enough to get into a positional rotation or youth which can develop on the coverage teams and find it's way into the rotation later.
Knowing this, it makes sense to find draft needs by looking at the young core of players instead of the current starting lineup. If the starting lineup has a need, free agency is probably the right place to look since experience is needed immediately. In the case of the 2010 Tampa Bay Buccaneers young players need more experience (i.e. the rebuilding process means creating depth across the board). The status of the rebuilding process can also be measured by looking at the young core.
Here is the young core defense (Pre-Draft 2010) of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (players with five or fewer seasons):
RE - Stylez White (4th year), Tim Crowder (4), Maurice Evans (1)
DT - Roy Miller (2)
DT - Dre Moore (2)
LE - Kyle Moore (2), Micheal Bennett (2)
SLB - Quincy Black (4), Lee Robinson (1), Jon Alston(5)
MLB - Adam Hayward (4)
WLB - Geno Hayes (3)
LCB - Aquib Talib (3), Derrick Roberson (2), Brandon Anderson (1)
RCB - Elbert Mack (3), E.J. Biggers (1), Stoney Woodson (1)
SS - Sabby Piscatelli (4), Emanuel Cook (2), Donte Nicholson (2)
FS - Tanard Jackson (4), Corey Lynch (3), De'von Hall (1)
There is only one free agent in this list, Elbert Mack (in italics), and he is an exclusive rights free agent. He can only resign with the Buccaneers.
The breakdown is:
1 player with 5 years of experience
7 players with 4 years of experience
4 players with 3 years of experience
7 players with 2 years of experience (2009 draft, 2008 practice squad, some free agents)
6 players with 1 year of experience (2009 waiver/free agent pick-ups and practice squad)
That group represents 24 members of the 80-man offseason roster. This breakdown points out one very significant question: Where are all the 5th year players?? The answer is basically they were never really here to begin with. In 2006, the Buccaneers drafted six offensive players and four defensive players. None of the defensive players chosen in 2006 returned in 2007. In fact, the only 5th year player on the defensive roster (Jon Alston) is a 2010 offseason free-agent pickup! This void is a troubling player development problem as it means there is a lack of "internal free agents" ready to lead the defense for the next few years. It also means there will most likely be some continuing growing pains because of a lack of playmakers with a high level of experience on defense. Unfortunately, only time can fix the problem.
Going into the Organized Team Activities it would be preferred to have at least two young players at every position. Once this is achieved there is youth competing at every position and the first phase of rebuilding is over. After that, you look at the roster at the beginning of the season and see how many survived the summer and the preseason. When there is youth, experience (youth and experience can sometimes be the same player), and quality depth at every position the rebuilding process is over.
Let's check the defense position by position.
Five players are listed at defensive end. At right end, Stylez White has played in every game but one since his arrival in 2007. He posted 6.5 sacks and 30 tackles, his best numbers to date. Tim Crowder, a waiver pickup in 2009, had 3.5 sacks and 37 tackles. On the other side, Kyle Moore was a 2009 draftee who spent the 2009 season working through injuries and did not play a game before the bye week last year. Micheal Bennett was a 2009 waiver wire pickup after being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2008. Likewise, Maurice Evans was also a 2009 waiver wire pickup. There is plenty of youth and competition at defensive end so this position is not a need.
The interior of the defensive line contains only 2009 draft pick Roy Miller and 2008 draft pick Dre Moore. Miller played in 15 games during the 2009 season, Moore in 7. Obviously this is a position of need, and actually could use two additional players.
There are five players listed at the various linebacker positions. Hayes finished second on the team in tackles and Black finished tied for third (with the ageless Ronde Barber). Hayward played in every game but the first in 2009 (including one start) behind the team's #1 tackler Barrett Ruud. Hayward also played in all 16 games in 2008, and 12 games in 2007. So there is a lot of experience in this group. However, only practice squad promotee Lee Robinson has less than three years experience. To keep good depth here, the Buccaneers should add one or two additional players, one specifically at middle linebacker.
Cornerback seems to be in good shape with plenty of youth and plenty of young depth to slug it out in the preseason. But something else is going on here. The Buccaneers went through wiaver wire cornerbacks during the 2009 season like a machine. So while there is plenty of youth, the amount of waiver wire activity suggests to me the talent level is not where the Buccaneers want it to be. So the Buccaneers will probably add at least one player at this position.
Safety plays out like cornerback -- looks good but seems that the front office was looking for more. Jackson appears to be the real deal, so a young strong safety seems to be a need.
In summary, the Buccaneers have the following defensive needs:
Defensive Linemen (2, one for each interior technique)
Linebackers (1 MLB, 1 other)
Cornerbacks (1 or more)
Safety (1 or more)
That's at least six defensive players needed -- nearly as many needs as a full draft in a normal year. It goes to show how much the team misses those four defensive players drafted in 2006 (2 corners and 2 defensive ends). Obviously, the rebuilding process on this side of the ball is still in progress and may not end this season. But it's going to get a great boost from the 2010 draft as there seems to be plenty of defensive line and defensive back talent to make an impact. It would not shock me to see at least three of the first four picks on the defensive side of the ball. Look for this area to be where the early action happend on April 22nd, the first day of the 2010 draft (and April 23rd as well!).
Knowing this, it makes sense to find draft needs by looking at the young core of players instead of the current starting lineup. If the starting lineup has a need, free agency is probably the right place to look since experience is needed immediately. In the case of the 2010 Tampa Bay Buccaneers young players need more experience (i.e. the rebuilding process means creating depth across the board). The status of the rebuilding process can also be measured by looking at the young core.
Here is the young core defense (Pre-Draft 2010) of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (players with five or fewer seasons):
RE - Stylez White (4th year), Tim Crowder (4), Maurice Evans (1)
DT - Roy Miller (2)
DT - Dre Moore (2)
LE - Kyle Moore (2), Micheal Bennett (2)
SLB - Quincy Black (4), Lee Robinson (1), Jon Alston(5)
MLB - Adam Hayward (4)
WLB - Geno Hayes (3)
LCB - Aquib Talib (3), Derrick Roberson (2), Brandon Anderson (1)
RCB - Elbert Mack (3), E.J. Biggers (1), Stoney Woodson (1)
SS - Sabby Piscatelli (4), Emanuel Cook (2), Donte Nicholson (2)
FS - Tanard Jackson (4), Corey Lynch (3), De'von Hall (1)
There is only one free agent in this list, Elbert Mack (in italics), and he is an exclusive rights free agent. He can only resign with the Buccaneers.
The breakdown is:
1 player with 5 years of experience
7 players with 4 years of experience
4 players with 3 years of experience
7 players with 2 years of experience (2009 draft, 2008 practice squad, some free agents)
6 players with 1 year of experience (2009 waiver/free agent pick-ups and practice squad)
That group represents 24 members of the 80-man offseason roster. This breakdown points out one very significant question: Where are all the 5th year players?? The answer is basically they were never really here to begin with. In 2006, the Buccaneers drafted six offensive players and four defensive players. None of the defensive players chosen in 2006 returned in 2007. In fact, the only 5th year player on the defensive roster (Jon Alston) is a 2010 offseason free-agent pickup! This void is a troubling player development problem as it means there is a lack of "internal free agents" ready to lead the defense for the next few years. It also means there will most likely be some continuing growing pains because of a lack of playmakers with a high level of experience on defense. Unfortunately, only time can fix the problem.
Going into the Organized Team Activities it would be preferred to have at least two young players at every position. Once this is achieved there is youth competing at every position and the first phase of rebuilding is over. After that, you look at the roster at the beginning of the season and see how many survived the summer and the preseason. When there is youth, experience (youth and experience can sometimes be the same player), and quality depth at every position the rebuilding process is over.
Let's check the defense position by position.
Five players are listed at defensive end. At right end, Stylez White has played in every game but one since his arrival in 2007. He posted 6.5 sacks and 30 tackles, his best numbers to date. Tim Crowder, a waiver pickup in 2009, had 3.5 sacks and 37 tackles. On the other side, Kyle Moore was a 2009 draftee who spent the 2009 season working through injuries and did not play a game before the bye week last year. Micheal Bennett was a 2009 waiver wire pickup after being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2008. Likewise, Maurice Evans was also a 2009 waiver wire pickup. There is plenty of youth and competition at defensive end so this position is not a need.
The interior of the defensive line contains only 2009 draft pick Roy Miller and 2008 draft pick Dre Moore. Miller played in 15 games during the 2009 season, Moore in 7. Obviously this is a position of need, and actually could use two additional players.
There are five players listed at the various linebacker positions. Hayes finished second on the team in tackles and Black finished tied for third (with the ageless Ronde Barber). Hayward played in every game but the first in 2009 (including one start) behind the team's #1 tackler Barrett Ruud. Hayward also played in all 16 games in 2008, and 12 games in 2007. So there is a lot of experience in this group. However, only practice squad promotee Lee Robinson has less than three years experience. To keep good depth here, the Buccaneers should add one or two additional players, one specifically at middle linebacker.
Cornerback seems to be in good shape with plenty of youth and plenty of young depth to slug it out in the preseason. But something else is going on here. The Buccaneers went through wiaver wire cornerbacks during the 2009 season like a machine. So while there is plenty of youth, the amount of waiver wire activity suggests to me the talent level is not where the Buccaneers want it to be. So the Buccaneers will probably add at least one player at this position.
Safety plays out like cornerback -- looks good but seems that the front office was looking for more. Jackson appears to be the real deal, so a young strong safety seems to be a need.
In summary, the Buccaneers have the following defensive needs:
Defensive Linemen (2, one for each interior technique)
Linebackers (1 MLB, 1 other)
Cornerbacks (1 or more)
Safety (1 or more)
That's at least six defensive players needed -- nearly as many needs as a full draft in a normal year. It goes to show how much the team misses those four defensive players drafted in 2006 (2 corners and 2 defensive ends). Obviously, the rebuilding process on this side of the ball is still in progress and may not end this season. But it's going to get a great boost from the 2010 draft as there seems to be plenty of defensive line and defensive back talent to make an impact. It would not shock me to see at least three of the first four picks on the defensive side of the ball. Look for this area to be where the early action happend on April 22nd, the first day of the 2010 draft (and April 23rd as well!).
Saturday, April 3, 2010
2010 Draft: Two Defensive Linemen Off the Board
Worth A Look: Check this video for offseason information like the Organized Team Activities (OTA) schedule and what types of training the players go through from Buccaneers Insider. (March 25, 2010, buccaneers.com).
#1 Pick: Saint Louis chooses Ndamukong Suh, DL, Nebraska
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Gerald McCoy, DL, Oklahoma
- OR -
#1 Pick: Saint Louis chooses Gerald McCoy, DL, Oklahoma
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Ndamukong Suh, DL, Nebraska
Either way, this would be the "bummer" scenario for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The two best players are off the board and the Buccaneers do not need a quarterback or an offensive tackle. Granted, they could pick a tackle, and getting the best tackle in the draft is not a bad thing for those of us in the "you can never have too many good players in the trenches" camp. But with this pick you really want someone who is not only an impact player but one who fills a need.
Here are the top two players at each position (as ranked by NFLDraftScout.com) with school and overall ranking:
Running Backs:
- CJ Spiller (Clemson, 7)
- Ryan Mathews (Fresno State, 24)
Wide Receivers:
- Dez Bryant (Oklahoma State, 18)
- Golden Tate (Notre Dame, 30)
Tight Ends:
- Jermain Gresham (Oklahoma, 26)
- Rob Gronkowski (Arizona, 45)
Guards/Centers:
- G Mike Iupati (Idaho, 19)
- C Maurkice Pouncy (Florida, 35)
Tackles:
- Russell Okung (Oklahoma State, 5)
- Trent Williams (Oklahoma, 6)
Defensive Linemen:
(Well, the top 2 are gone in this scenario, so these are the next two)
- Dan Williams (Tennessee, 14)
- Jared Odrick (Penn State, 27)
Defensive Ends:
- Derrick Morgan (Georgia Tech, 9)
- Jason Pierre-Paul (South Florida, 21)
Inside Linebackers:
- Rolando McClain (Alabama, 11)
- Sean Lee (Penn State, 65)
Outside Linebackers:
- Brandon Graham (Michigan, 17)
- Sergio Kindle (Texas, 22)
Strong Safeties:
- Chad Jones (LSU, 63)
- Reshad Jones (Georgia, 70)
Free Safeties:
- Eric Berry (Tennessee, 4)
- Taylor Mays (USC, 13)
Corners:
- Joe Haden (Florida, 8)
- Earl Thomas (Texas, 15)
So where in this high-powered list of football talent might the Buccaneers go under this scenario? The question boils down to V-A-L-U-E, and at pick #3, it starts with the money. The third pick is going to demand a big contract -- what player can provide performance for your team equal to the money you'll be forced to dish out?
WalterFootball.com has a great study of the top three picks going back to 1998. The short version: 12 years of 3 picks is 36 picks. They break down like this: 15 of them were quarterbacks, six were offensive tackles, six were defensive ends, and 5 were wide receivers (plus one defensive tackle, and one linebacker). Personally, I am totally shocked none of the picks were cornerbacks. A great cornerback is very rare and can take out the best playmaker in the opposition's passing game in man-on-man coverage. But that is not where teams have gone. If the Buccaneers follow history, then an offensive tackle, defensive end, or wide receiver is most likely. Blindly following history, however, is a sure shot at a bad pick.
As far as overall talent, the remaining top flight non-quarterback talent still on the board would be Eric Berry (Safety, Tennessee), Russell Okung (OT, Oklahoma State), Trent Williams (OT, Oklahoma), CJ Spiller (RB, Clemson), Joe Haden (CB, Florida), Derrick Morgan (DE, Georgia Tech), Bryan Bulaga (OT, Iowa), and Rolando McClain (LB, Alabama). Granted, there are other defensive tackles out there but they would not bring third-pick-value and would be too risky. The 2010 draft is deep at defensive tackle this year, so in this scenario waiting until the second round (or later) would probably the right place to get good value for that need.
A quick review of the young core offense of the Buccaneers shows that offensive tackle is not a need. And with Cadillac Willams returning to form, free agent Derrick Ward, old-timer Earnest Graham, and BJ Askew at running back there is plenty of talent and depth on the current roster. One thing to consider is both the Buccaneers starting offensive tackles are restricted free agents this year, meaning Tampa Bay may soon be forced to buy in long term with them or allow them to leave town with a bigger contract. This adds a bit of weight to the argument for offensive tackle, but offensive tackle is also a very deep position in the 2010 draft. Again, better value may be found in later rounds among the Buccaneers other 10 draft picks.
There are four interesting options -- all on defense -- for consideration worth picking at #3 overall. Each one is considered the top player at their position in this draft.
Joe Haden (CB, Florida) - bookend Haden with Aqib Talib and the field becomes very narrow.
Eric Berry (Safety, Tennessee) - would add depth to a defensive backfield already improved by free agency.
Derrick Morgan (DE, Georgia Tech) - to increase the pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Rolando McClain (LB, Alabama) - to divide the field in half against the runing game.
This is an exciting bunch of players! I have them listed in my order of value for a #3 pick -- a shutdown corner, a playmaker at safety, and the top defensive end. McClain would lead this list if he was an outside linebacker and he is still a worthwhile pick with Barrett Ruud having held out of offseason workouts in 2009 (is he happy in Tampa?).
While these players have not had the hype of the top defensive linemen they are still top-flight talents and each can bring playmaking ability to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense. So even though this would be the most disappointing scenario I believe the Buccaneers will still find good value if they use the pick.
Finally, with Sam Bradford (QB, Oklahoma), the top QB of the 2010 draft still on the board, the Buccaneers could see trade offers from several teams (as previously discussed). The most likely candidates are the Cleveland Browns (said they want a QB from the draft), Washington Redskins (appear to be courting quarterbacks), and San Francisco 49ers (two picks in the first round) based on the interest in Bradford these teams have shown[link]. Outside chances are the Kansas City Chiefs (close pick proximity) and the Seattle Seahawks (two picks in the first round). In fact, given the correct offer, most any team in the league is a candidate to move, but certainly the Buccaneers would not talk with any of their NFC South rivals and would prefer to trade with an AFC team over an NFC team.
This scenario will test the meddle of Buccaneers General Manager Mark Dominik and his staff to pull good value for a high pick in a great draft class. Even if this occurs, the Buccaneers should still be able to address a team need and build a stronger core for the future.
#1 Pick: Saint Louis chooses Ndamukong Suh, DL, Nebraska
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Gerald McCoy, DL, Oklahoma
- OR -
#1 Pick: Saint Louis chooses Gerald McCoy, DL, Oklahoma
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Ndamukong Suh, DL, Nebraska
Either way, this would be the "bummer" scenario for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The two best players are off the board and the Buccaneers do not need a quarterback or an offensive tackle. Granted, they could pick a tackle, and getting the best tackle in the draft is not a bad thing for those of us in the "you can never have too many good players in the trenches" camp. But with this pick you really want someone who is not only an impact player but one who fills a need.
Here are the top two players at each position (as ranked by NFLDraftScout.com) with school and overall ranking:
Running Backs:
- CJ Spiller (Clemson, 7)
- Ryan Mathews (Fresno State, 24)
Wide Receivers:
- Dez Bryant (Oklahoma State, 18)
- Golden Tate (Notre Dame, 30)
Tight Ends:
- Jermain Gresham (Oklahoma, 26)
- Rob Gronkowski (Arizona, 45)
Guards/Centers:
- G Mike Iupati (Idaho, 19)
- C Maurkice Pouncy (Florida, 35)
Tackles:
- Russell Okung (Oklahoma State, 5)
- Trent Williams (Oklahoma, 6)
Defensive Linemen:
(Well, the top 2 are gone in this scenario, so these are the next two)
- Dan Williams (Tennessee, 14)
- Jared Odrick (Penn State, 27)
Defensive Ends:
- Derrick Morgan (Georgia Tech, 9)
- Jason Pierre-Paul (South Florida, 21)
Inside Linebackers:
- Rolando McClain (Alabama, 11)
- Sean Lee (Penn State, 65)
Outside Linebackers:
- Brandon Graham (Michigan, 17)
- Sergio Kindle (Texas, 22)
Strong Safeties:
- Chad Jones (LSU, 63)
- Reshad Jones (Georgia, 70)
Free Safeties:
- Eric Berry (Tennessee, 4)
- Taylor Mays (USC, 13)
Corners:
- Joe Haden (Florida, 8)
- Earl Thomas (Texas, 15)
So where in this high-powered list of football talent might the Buccaneers go under this scenario? The question boils down to V-A-L-U-E, and at pick #3, it starts with the money. The third pick is going to demand a big contract -- what player can provide performance for your team equal to the money you'll be forced to dish out?
WalterFootball.com has a great study of the top three picks going back to 1998. The short version: 12 years of 3 picks is 36 picks. They break down like this: 15 of them were quarterbacks, six were offensive tackles, six were defensive ends, and 5 were wide receivers (plus one defensive tackle, and one linebacker). Personally, I am totally shocked none of the picks were cornerbacks. A great cornerback is very rare and can take out the best playmaker in the opposition's passing game in man-on-man coverage. But that is not where teams have gone. If the Buccaneers follow history, then an offensive tackle, defensive end, or wide receiver is most likely. Blindly following history, however, is a sure shot at a bad pick.
As far as overall talent, the remaining top flight non-quarterback talent still on the board would be Eric Berry (Safety, Tennessee), Russell Okung (OT, Oklahoma State), Trent Williams (OT, Oklahoma), CJ Spiller (RB, Clemson), Joe Haden (CB, Florida), Derrick Morgan (DE, Georgia Tech), Bryan Bulaga (OT, Iowa), and Rolando McClain (LB, Alabama). Granted, there are other defensive tackles out there but they would not bring third-pick-value and would be too risky. The 2010 draft is deep at defensive tackle this year, so in this scenario waiting until the second round (or later) would probably the right place to get good value for that need.
A quick review of the young core offense of the Buccaneers shows that offensive tackle is not a need. And with Cadillac Willams returning to form, free agent Derrick Ward, old-timer Earnest Graham, and BJ Askew at running back there is plenty of talent and depth on the current roster. One thing to consider is both the Buccaneers starting offensive tackles are restricted free agents this year, meaning Tampa Bay may soon be forced to buy in long term with them or allow them to leave town with a bigger contract. This adds a bit of weight to the argument for offensive tackle, but offensive tackle is also a very deep position in the 2010 draft. Again, better value may be found in later rounds among the Buccaneers other 10 draft picks.
There are four interesting options -- all on defense -- for consideration worth picking at #3 overall. Each one is considered the top player at their position in this draft.
Joe Haden (CB, Florida) - bookend Haden with Aqib Talib and the field becomes very narrow.
Eric Berry (Safety, Tennessee) - would add depth to a defensive backfield already improved by free agency.
Derrick Morgan (DE, Georgia Tech) - to increase the pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Rolando McClain (LB, Alabama) - to divide the field in half against the runing game.
This is an exciting bunch of players! I have them listed in my order of value for a #3 pick -- a shutdown corner, a playmaker at safety, and the top defensive end. McClain would lead this list if he was an outside linebacker and he is still a worthwhile pick with Barrett Ruud having held out of offseason workouts in 2009 (is he happy in Tampa?).
While these players have not had the hype of the top defensive linemen they are still top-flight talents and each can bring playmaking ability to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense. So even though this would be the most disappointing scenario I believe the Buccaneers will still find good value if they use the pick.
Finally, with Sam Bradford (QB, Oklahoma), the top QB of the 2010 draft still on the board, the Buccaneers could see trade offers from several teams (as previously discussed). The most likely candidates are the Cleveland Browns (said they want a QB from the draft), Washington Redskins (appear to be courting quarterbacks), and San Francisco 49ers (two picks in the first round) based on the interest in Bradford these teams have shown[link]. Outside chances are the Kansas City Chiefs (close pick proximity) and the Seattle Seahawks (two picks in the first round). In fact, given the correct offer, most any team in the league is a candidate to move, but certainly the Buccaneers would not talk with any of their NFC South rivals and would prefer to trade with an AFC team over an NFC team.
This scenario will test the meddle of Buccaneers General Manager Mark Dominik and his staff to pull good value for a high pick in a great draft class. Even if this occurs, the Buccaneers should still be able to address a team need and build a stronger core for the future.
2010 Draft: Quarterback and Offensive Lineman Off the Board
Here is the scenario:
#1 Pick: Saint Louis chooses Sam Bradford, Quarterback, Oklahoma
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
I'm not the only one who thinks this is a possibility.
The only question with this scenario: Would the bedlam in Oklahoma (top 2 picks!!) be crazier than the bedlam in the Buccaneers draft room? The only two teams ahead of the Buccaneers go offense with picks for positions Tampa Bay is probably not concerned about this year. They leave the board wide open with every top ranked defensive player available. Certainly the pick would be Ndamukong Suh, DL from Nebraska, or Gerald McCoy, DL from Oklahoma (rumor has is that Suh would be preferred). What could possibly be better?
Believe it or not, there is one trade offer in this situation which may be worth considering.
Pick #4 is the Washington Redskins and Pick #5 is the Kansas City Chiefs. I suspect that the Redskins are interested in Jimmy Clausen. I also suspect since Charlie Weis is the offensive coordinator for the Chiefs that the Chiefs would not pass on Jimmy Clausen (QB, Notre Dame) should he fall past the Redskins. Clausen would have extra time to develop behind Matt Cassel in Kansas City. Cassel is locked up in a very heavy contract until 2014, but that is just 4 seasons away. Cassel took a beating last year and even if the Chiefs look to the 2010 draft for help on the offensive line it will take time to develop. So holding a quarterback on the bench for a year or two would not be a bad idea and the Chiefs would be well served to pick up a good offensive linemen and ignore Clausen. However, there are eight 2010 offensive line prospects thought to project into the first and second rounds. Depending on how their draft board stacks up the Chiefs may be comfortable putting off an offensive line selection until either of their second round picks (36th and 50th overall). If that is the case and they value Clausen highly they could try to trade up above the Redskins. If the Redskins also value Clausen, they may try to trade up to assure they get the quarterback they want.
In this scenario, if the Bucs were to trade with Washington, they would still get their choice of the defensive linemen they covet, plus additional picks in who-knows-what rounds or years. If this offer is on the table, this would be the no-brainer oprtion, adding twice as much bedlam to the Buccaneers war room.
Under this scenario, the Bucs could also opt to trade with the Chiefs and still have (at least) one of the top defensive linemen in the draft still available. Again they would also gain some variety of additional picks. If this offer is on the table it is a harder choice. If the Chiefs do indeed want to take Clausen, this trade only makes sense if Tampa Bay considers the two defensive linemen absolutely equal. If they prefer one over the other for any reason they would most likely not trade with the Chiefs.
If the Bucs trade with any other team they cast the dice on seeing either defensive lineman drop to them. Is there any price that could make that happen? Perhaps. Keep in mind that the Seattle Seahawks and San Franciso 49ers have two first round picks this year and the New England Patriots have three second round picks this year. In a draft this deep more picks can make for a very bright future. I am quite sure it would have to be a very, very nice fat offer to move the Buccaneers.
All in all, this scenario is the best of all worlds for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. At worst they end up with the defensive lineman they want the most. At best they pull a trade, get extra picks, and still get one of the top defensive linemen. This is the situation I'll be hoping for all day on April 22nd.
#1 Pick: Saint Louis chooses Sam Bradford, Quarterback, Oklahoma
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
I'm not the only one who thinks this is a possibility.
The only question with this scenario: Would the bedlam in Oklahoma (top 2 picks!!) be crazier than the bedlam in the Buccaneers draft room? The only two teams ahead of the Buccaneers go offense with picks for positions Tampa Bay is probably not concerned about this year. They leave the board wide open with every top ranked defensive player available. Certainly the pick would be Ndamukong Suh, DL from Nebraska, or Gerald McCoy, DL from Oklahoma (rumor has is that Suh would be preferred). What could possibly be better?
Believe it or not, there is one trade offer in this situation which may be worth considering.
Pick #4 is the Washington Redskins and Pick #5 is the Kansas City Chiefs. I suspect that the Redskins are interested in Jimmy Clausen. I also suspect since Charlie Weis is the offensive coordinator for the Chiefs that the Chiefs would not pass on Jimmy Clausen (QB, Notre Dame) should he fall past the Redskins. Clausen would have extra time to develop behind Matt Cassel in Kansas City. Cassel is locked up in a very heavy contract until 2014, but that is just 4 seasons away. Cassel took a beating last year and even if the Chiefs look to the 2010 draft for help on the offensive line it will take time to develop. So holding a quarterback on the bench for a year or two would not be a bad idea and the Chiefs would be well served to pick up a good offensive linemen and ignore Clausen. However, there are eight 2010 offensive line prospects thought to project into the first and second rounds. Depending on how their draft board stacks up the Chiefs may be comfortable putting off an offensive line selection until either of their second round picks (36th and 50th overall). If that is the case and they value Clausen highly they could try to trade up above the Redskins. If the Redskins also value Clausen, they may try to trade up to assure they get the quarterback they want.
In this scenario, if the Bucs were to trade with Washington, they would still get their choice of the defensive linemen they covet, plus additional picks in who-knows-what rounds or years. If this offer is on the table, this would be the no-brainer oprtion, adding twice as much bedlam to the Buccaneers war room.
Under this scenario, the Bucs could also opt to trade with the Chiefs and still have (at least) one of the top defensive linemen in the draft still available. Again they would also gain some variety of additional picks. If this offer is on the table it is a harder choice. If the Chiefs do indeed want to take Clausen, this trade only makes sense if Tampa Bay considers the two defensive linemen absolutely equal. If they prefer one over the other for any reason they would most likely not trade with the Chiefs.
If the Bucs trade with any other team they cast the dice on seeing either defensive lineman drop to them. Is there any price that could make that happen? Perhaps. Keep in mind that the Seattle Seahawks and San Franciso 49ers have two first round picks this year and the New England Patriots have three second round picks this year. In a draft this deep more picks can make for a very bright future. I am quite sure it would have to be a very, very nice fat offer to move the Buccaneers.
All in all, this scenario is the best of all worlds for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. At worst they end up with the defensive lineman they want the most. At best they pull a trade, get extra picks, and still get one of the top defensive linemen. This is the situation I'll be hoping for all day on April 22nd.
Friday, April 2, 2010
2010 Draft: Quarterback and Defensive Lineman Off the Board
Worth A Look: Check this video to hear from last year's #1 pick Josh Freeman and how he is approaching the offseason from Buccaneers Insider. (March 10, 2010, buccaneers.com).
There are two possibilities in this scenario which make sense:
#1 Pick: Saint Louis chooses Sam Bradford, Quarterback, Oklahoma
Possibility A:
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Ndamukong Suh, DL, Nebraska
Possibility B:
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Gerald McCoy, DL, Oklahoma
It's a very safe bet that Tampa Bay would gladly (and quickly) take the other top rated defensive lineman. The Buccaneers are not looking for a quarterback. And if you look at the youth on the offensive line, there is no need to go that way. Plus, by many accounts, you are getting one of the top 2 players in the draft with the 3rd pick which means it's a good value.
The Buccaneers are not really a threat to pull the second rated quarterback off the board and in this scenario there may not be many trade offers. I believe any offers would be by teams that want the other defensive lineman so there is no chance for the Bucs to drop back but still get what they are looking for.
If this scenario plays out, the Buccaneers will have the impact player they have been looking for and at a solid value. What a fantastic way to start the draft with 10 more picks to go!
There are two possibilities in this scenario which make sense:
#1 Pick: Saint Louis chooses Sam Bradford, Quarterback, Oklahoma
Possibility A:
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Ndamukong Suh, DL, Nebraska
Possibility B:
#2 Pick: Detroit chooses Gerald McCoy, DL, Oklahoma
It's a very safe bet that Tampa Bay would gladly (and quickly) take the other top rated defensive lineman. The Buccaneers are not looking for a quarterback. And if you look at the youth on the offensive line, there is no need to go that way. Plus, by many accounts, you are getting one of the top 2 players in the draft with the 3rd pick which means it's a good value.
The Buccaneers are not really a threat to pull the second rated quarterback off the board and in this scenario there may not be many trade offers. I believe any offers would be by teams that want the other defensive lineman so there is no chance for the Bucs to drop back but still get what they are looking for.
If this scenario plays out, the Buccaneers will have the impact player they have been looking for and at a solid value. What a fantastic way to start the draft with 10 more picks to go!
Clausen to Visit Redskins This Weekend
NFL.com has reported that Jimmy Clausen will be spending the weekend with the Washington Redskins.
This is no surprise to Stowaway regulars, and great news for all Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans. The more the quarterbacks move up the draft boards, the more likely Tampa Bay will get one of the two coveted defensive linemen with the overall third pick.
Clausen still has his pro day coming up and most likely will be making visits to other teams. Here's hoping he has a great time in the nation's capital this weekend!!
This is no surprise to Stowaway regulars, and great news for all Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans. The more the quarterbacks move up the draft boards, the more likely Tampa Bay will get one of the two coveted defensive linemen with the overall third pick.
Clausen still has his pro day coming up and most likely will be making visits to other teams. Here's hoping he has a great time in the nation's capital this weekend!!
Visitors and More Visitors
Worth a Look: Check out this video of Tampa Bay General Manager Mark Dominik as he gives a preview of the run up to the draft, what he is looking for in free agency this year, and the development of a young core to build around: Behind The Flag, 3/12/2010 (buccaneers.com).
TampaBay.com has reported additional visits to One Buccaneer Place (of both the have-happend and will-happen types) for the following players:
Have Visited
Russell Okung (OT, Oklahoma State)
Mike Iupati (OG, Idaho)
Brandon Spikes (LB, Florida)
LaGarrette Blount (RB, Oregon)
Will Visit
Ndamukong Suh (DL, Nebraska)
Gerald McCoy (DL, Oklahoma)
Dez Bryant (WR, Oklahoma State)
This is in addition to the Eric Berry (S, Tennessee) visit previously reported. Looks like the welcome mat is getting a fine workout this offseason!
TampaBay.com has reported additional visits to One Buccaneer Place (of both the have-happend and will-happen types) for the following players:
Have Visited
Russell Okung (OT, Oklahoma State)
Mike Iupati (OG, Idaho)
Brandon Spikes (LB, Florida)
LaGarrette Blount (RB, Oregon)
Will Visit
Ndamukong Suh (DL, Nebraska)
Gerald McCoy (DL, Oklahoma)
Dez Bryant (WR, Oklahoma State)
This is in addition to the Eric Berry (S, Tennessee) visit previously reported. Looks like the welcome mat is getting a fine workout this offseason!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
2010 Draft Pick #1: QB or not QB?
That is the question. And more and more the answer seems to be "yes" -- but there could be a new question: "which team?"
March 29th was a pivotal day for the 2010 draft as Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford performed at a second Oklahoma Pro Day in front of NFL scouts. By all accounts it went very well. With this strong performance, Bradford could have locked himself into the Saint Louis Rams #1 overall pick in the 2010 draft. If the Rams do indeed select him it guarantees the Tampa Bay Buccaneers one of the top two defensive tackles in the 2010 draft. The Rams also have a private session scheduled with Bradford on April 19th, a mere three days before the draft (Chris Mortensen, ESPN).
The Rams are not the only ones eying Bradford. The Washington Redskins are also thinking quarterback, which is not news to Stowaway regulars, but for the first time there is tangible evidence. The Redskins have scheduled a private workout for Bradford on April 15th (again, Chris Mortensen, ESPN). This is the first direct evidence that the Redskins are considering a quarterback selection. However, this could be because they expect Bradford to be on the board when they pick (with the Rams, Lions, and Buccaneers all bypassing quarterback selections for other players).
Yet the timing of the personal workouts is intriguing. There may be more going on between the Rams and Redskins than first meets the eye.
It is a bit hard to believe that Saint Louis would be waiting until three days before the draft to make a determination on Sam Bradford and their top pick. Exactly what would they see on April 19th that would be much different than March 29th? The only information which could be gained would be a check on the rehabilitation progress of Bradford's throwing arm following season ending surgery last fall. I have a lingering suspicion that it could be a quick health check before contract negotiations begin.
But there is that Washington workout -- what if the Redskins really like what they see? They have Jason Campbell (6th year) as an established quarterback and have also acquired Rex Grossman (8th year) so they appear to have room for a young quarterback to sit back and learn (or recover) for a year or two. Is it possible that the April 15th workout is a chance to consider moving up for that top position? Could the Redskins be the team that jumps up to #1 to get Bradford?
Finally, Cleveland and Seattle have made moves that would appear to set them up for a quarterback selection and there is news regarding both teams: Seattle traded San Diego for quarterback Charile Whitehurst (5th year) and Cleveland announced they will be looking for a quarterback in the 2010 draft (just not until the later rounds). Seattle's actual action appears to remove their need while Cleveland's comments are pretty much worthless in the world of NFL predraft misdirection. At this time of year you have to doubt what teams say and look at what they do. Regarding the Bradford workout at Oklahoma, I offer this as "what they do" evidence:
And where does that leave the other first-round-value quarterback, Jimmy Clausen of Notre Dame? His pro day is coming on April 5th. As usual, all regional scouts will be attending. What will be interesting is if any coaches or front office personnel show up as well.
We are now just over four weeks out from the 2010 Draft. Things will continue to heat up from now until that first pick. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need one team, any team, to draft somebody but the top two defensive linemen so they will get the player they want and need. It appears Sam Bradford has significantly improved his chances of being that somebody the Buccaneers are hoping for.
March 29th was a pivotal day for the 2010 draft as Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford performed at a second Oklahoma Pro Day in front of NFL scouts. By all accounts it went very well. With this strong performance, Bradford could have locked himself into the Saint Louis Rams #1 overall pick in the 2010 draft. If the Rams do indeed select him it guarantees the Tampa Bay Buccaneers one of the top two defensive tackles in the 2010 draft. The Rams also have a private session scheduled with Bradford on April 19th, a mere three days before the draft (Chris Mortensen, ESPN).
The Rams are not the only ones eying Bradford. The Washington Redskins are also thinking quarterback, which is not news to Stowaway regulars, but for the first time there is tangible evidence. The Redskins have scheduled a private workout for Bradford on April 15th (again, Chris Mortensen, ESPN). This is the first direct evidence that the Redskins are considering a quarterback selection. However, this could be because they expect Bradford to be on the board when they pick (with the Rams, Lions, and Buccaneers all bypassing quarterback selections for other players).
Yet the timing of the personal workouts is intriguing. There may be more going on between the Rams and Redskins than first meets the eye.
It is a bit hard to believe that Saint Louis would be waiting until three days before the draft to make a determination on Sam Bradford and their top pick. Exactly what would they see on April 19th that would be much different than March 29th? The only information which could be gained would be a check on the rehabilitation progress of Bradford's throwing arm following season ending surgery last fall. I have a lingering suspicion that it could be a quick health check before contract negotiations begin.
But there is that Washington workout -- what if the Redskins really like what they see? They have Jason Campbell (6th year) as an established quarterback and have also acquired Rex Grossman (8th year) so they appear to have room for a young quarterback to sit back and learn (or recover) for a year or two. Is it possible that the April 15th workout is a chance to consider moving up for that top position? Could the Redskins be the team that jumps up to #1 to get Bradford?
Finally, Cleveland and Seattle have made moves that would appear to set them up for a quarterback selection and there is news regarding both teams: Seattle traded San Diego for quarterback Charile Whitehurst (5th year) and Cleveland announced they will be looking for a quarterback in the 2010 draft (just not until the later rounds). Seattle's actual action appears to remove their need while Cleveland's comments are pretty much worthless in the world of NFL predraft misdirection. At this time of year you have to doubt what teams say and look at what they do. Regarding the Bradford workout at Oklahoma, I offer this as "what they do" evidence:
"General manager Billy Devaney and coach Steve Spagnuolo were among the contingent sent by the St. Louis Rams, who have the first pick in next month's draft. Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, San Francisco 49ers coach Mike Singletary and Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren also watched."
-- Jeff Latzke (The Associated Press)So we have the usual suspects: Rams, Seahawks, and Browns . . . wait, Browns? Doesn't seem like they were very committed to looking at the "later rounds", does it? Certainly some member of the Redskins attended as well -- probably just not a well-recognized name. The San Francisco 49ers are a new twist. Like Seattle, they also have two first round picks in 2010 (49ers: #13 and #17; Seattle: #6 and #14). Could the 49ers or Seahawks be the team that moves up to #1 and selects Bradford?
And where does that leave the other first-round-value quarterback, Jimmy Clausen of Notre Dame? His pro day is coming on April 5th. As usual, all regional scouts will be attending. What will be interesting is if any coaches or front office personnel show up as well.
We are now just over four weeks out from the 2010 Draft. Things will continue to heat up from now until that first pick. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need one team, any team, to draft somebody but the top two defensive linemen so they will get the player they want and need. It appears Sam Bradford has significantly improved his chances of being that somebody the Buccaneers are hoping for.
Eric Berry to Visit with Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFL.com is reporting tonight that Tennessee Safety Eric Berry will be visiting with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at One Buccaneer Place before the draft.
Such player visits are usually a strong indicator at the top of the draft board. Should both the top defensive linemen already be off the board Berry could the player the Buccaneers target with the third overall pick.
More visits will occur over the next several weeks (that is, Berry is not a lock for Tampa Bay). One of these visitors will be that first pick of 2010.
Such player visits are usually a strong indicator at the top of the draft board. Should both the top defensive linemen already be off the board Berry could the player the Buccaneers target with the third overall pick.
More visits will occur over the next several weeks (that is, Berry is not a lock for Tampa Bay). One of these visitors will be that first pick of 2010.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
A Big Day For Sam Bradford Is A Big Day For Tampa Bay
Today, March 25th, is the Oklahoma Sooners pro day. It's the first time that Sam Bradford, injured early in the 2009 college football season, will throw in front of NFL scouts.
That means it's a big day for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
If Bradford is impressive it could seal his selection by the Saint Louis Rams who hold the #1 pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. The Rams have made several moves which demonstrate they are working toward resolving a weak quarterback position.
If the Rams select Bradford #1, they guarantee the Buccaneers will either have DL Ndamukong Suh or DL Gerald McCoy available to pick at the #3 position. These defensive linemen are the top at their position and a would fill in nicely in the young core defense next to 2009 draft pick Roy Miller.
A good showing for Bradford could mean a better defensive line for the Buccaneers. Have a great workout, Sam!
That means it's a big day for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
If Bradford is impressive it could seal his selection by the Saint Louis Rams who hold the #1 pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. The Rams have made several moves which demonstrate they are working toward resolving a weak quarterback position.
If the Rams select Bradford #1, they guarantee the Buccaneers will either have DL Ndamukong Suh or DL Gerald McCoy available to pick at the #3 position. These defensive linemen are the top at their position and a would fill in nicely in the young core defense next to 2009 draft pick Roy Miller.
A good showing for Bradford could mean a better defensive line for the Buccaneers. Have a great workout, Sam!
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