patchick

An if-then...

In the last couple of days, it seems that 75% of mocks -- here and elsewhere -- have settled on Darren McFadden for the Raiders. The ones with comments usually say something to the effect of "this isn't really a logical pick, but we all know Al Davis can't resist shiny objects." But there's another equally shiny object out there who actually makes sense for their team. Let's say they select Vernon Gholston. IMO that really transforms the board by eliminating a guy who would have been a real consideration for any one of the next 3 teams.

Try this on for size:

1. Jake Long, OT
2. Glenn Dorsey, DT
3. Sedrick Ellis, DT (A very real possibility for Atlanta, IMO -- DT would be the hardest position to address well with their wagonload of #2s )
4. Vernon Gholston, DE
5. Chris Long, DE

This leaves a very weird board for the Jets and Patriots. I don't think they want McFadden -- they've been sticklers for straight arrows, they've just taken on a ton of salary, and this draft is thick with RBs. And Ryan just isn't ready enough for a team that has a major win-now desperation about it. I think the Jets work like mad to trade down.

6. (via trade) Carolina: Matt Ryan

So: now what???

MrBigglesWorth

if this scenario happens let's hope someone wants to trade up for mcfadden.

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patchick

Right...but who? I don't see any likely takers until Arizona at #16.

SamBamsFan

Actually when I was sorting out my mock I went through this conundrum. You need the Raiders, or Atlanta to go offense for Ellis to wind up falling to us. My feeling is that it comes to Ellis/ Ryan for Atlanta and they decide against Ryan, they wind up trading down. Dimitroff wouldn't see the value in Ellis @ 3, vs the value that someone might give him for the pick. Of course, that just muddles the whole top end of the draft even further.

Also, Denver @ 12, Chicago @ 14 might be players if McFadden slips. JMO. I think that Shanahan wants to make this a statement draft after firing his GM, so previous trends might not apply.

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Seneschal2

According to John Murphy, McFadden stated that four teams who have shown the most interest in him the last few weeks are:

Rams
Raiders
Jets
Patriots

In addition, the Bears GM Angelo stated he's the draft's best player.

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"What we want to try to do is maximize each spot on the roster; we want to be stronger at No. 1 than the opponent, stronger at No. 25 than they are, and stronger at No. 53 than they are, we're always looking to upgrade the talent level on the team, and play together to be functional."
- Bill Belichick -

JoePats

"Hello Jerry, this is Bill."

Seneschal2

Also:

Raiders consider trading down in draft

__________________
"What we want to try to do is maximize each spot on the roster; we want to be stronger at No. 1 than the opponent, stronger at No. 25 than they are, and stronger at No. 53 than they are, we're always looking to upgrade the talent level on the team, and play together to be functional."
- Bill Belichick -

tombonneau

Honestly, if that scenario happens and the Pats can't trade down, I'd say there is a very high chance they draft McFadden.

unoriginal

Is Jerry Angelo considered a shrewd running back evaluator and manager now?

makoute

Especially after the RB the Bears have drafted that couldn't make it.

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