Patriots draft plans exposed

[My2Cents]

Don't tell the Jets :scared:, but I think I'm exposing the Pats draft.
The theme being upgrading speed, versatility and athleticism.

1. CB, DRC, TSU
It will take a team with a lot of balls to draft this guy early. But the Pats love of athleticism will help start an early run on CB's. Having trained with both Sanders and Darrell Green, he's NFL ready. And let us not forget bloodlines!

2. WR/KR Dexter Jackson, AS
There is a big void left by Donte' Stallworth. Granted, Chad Jackson could finally step up and contribute. But Jackson is known for his hands, not his speed. This Jackson, Dexter, is known for both big plays and speed.

3. OLB Marcus Howard, UGA
Compares favorably to USC's Keith Rivers in many respects. Highest rated speed at his position. After being stuck behind 2 NFL caliber DE's, Howard exploded on the scene, notching 10.5 sacks and dominating the SugarBowl.

4. MLB Stanford Keglar, Purdue
Despite serving mostly spot duty, Keglar caught the eyes of scouts at the Combine with excellent measurables. Has the build you look for in a 3-4 MLB.
Unfortunately, the Pats have to draft him early since he has many suitors.

5. FS Thomas Decoud, Cal
Decoud doesn't do any one thing great. But he does everything so very good. He doesn't get any media play but ask the people who play and practice against him and they insist he's the most feared hitter around.

6. CB Orlando Scandrick, BS
While Ryan Clady headlines at Boise State, Scandrick was a shutdown corner and ST standout. Could step right into the hole left by Gay at CB. Only a Junior, with room to get better. Good ball skills but teams mostly avoided him.

7. LT Chad Rinehart, N. Iowa
Scouts have fallen in love with his teammate, OG Brandon Keith, but Rinehart has the drive, determination and toughness that the Pats generally love in late round lineman. Will likely see some time at the Right Tackle position.

8. OG Jordan Grimes, Purdue
Doesn't look particularly strong. Didn't do very well in the benchpress. But engulfs defenders at the point of attack before they even react to the snap.
Very quick jump despite being slow. Will provide extra push up the middle.


And that's a wrap, folks. See you next year!

 

[JoeSixPat]

I still have a problem comprehending the rationale of giving nearly as much money to an untested rookie at CB over the next 5 years as Asante Samuel, a proven NFL commodity.

The majority of mock drafters out there seem to think its a good idea however.

 

[A.C Vegas]

cause most of them have a Binky for a certian 3 named CB

 

[Brady'sButtBoy]

I still have a problem comprehending the rationale of giving nearly as much money to an untested rookie at CB over the next 5 years as Asante Samuel, a proven NFL commodity.

The majority of mock drafters out there seem to think its a good idea however.

Yes, I've been thinking the same thing. But part of me never really bought into Samuel's 'greatness,' maybe BB did not either? Either way, I think taking a CB is the last alternative for the Pats at #7.

Ellis would appear to be the likely pick. Alberts doesn't seem to genuinely fit the "football is important to him" model the Pats value or I'd say he'd be in the mix. So it's Ellis, if he's gone they try hard to trade, if nothing comes up then they go for Rivers. McKelvin is the CB if they have to take one because their board has been cleared of those players ahead of him.

 

[My2Cents]

I still have a problem comprehending the rationale of giving nearly as much money to an untested rookie at CB over the next 5 years as Asante Samuel, a proven NFL commodity.

The majority of mock drafters out there seem to think its a good idea however.

That (false) argument of giving a rookie CB Asante Samuel's money is covered here: My2Cents Finalized Two Round Mock Draft

 

[tjones7]

Don't tell the Jets :scared:, but I think I'm exposing the Pats draft.
The theme being upgrading speed, versatility and athleticism.

1. CB, DRC, TSU
It will take a team with a lot of balls to draft this guy early. But the Pats love of athleticism will help start an early run on CB's. Having trained with both Sanders and Darrell Green, he's NFL ready. And let us not forget bloodlines!

2. WR/KR Dexter Jackson, AS
There is a big void left by Donte' Stallworth. Granted, Chad Jackson could finally step up and contribute. But Jackson is known for his hands, not his speed. This Jackson, Dexter, is known for both big plays and speed.

3. OLB Marcus Howard, UGA
Compares favorably to USC's Keith Rivers in many respects. Highest rated speed at his position. After being stuck behind 2 NFL caliber DE's, Howard exploded on the scene, notching 10.5 sacks and dominating the SugarBowl.

4. MLB Stanford Keglar, Purdue
Despite serving mostly spot duty, Keglar caught the eyes of scouts at the Combine with excellent measurables. Has the build you look for in a 3-4 MLB.
Unfortunately, the Pats have to draft him early since he has many suitors.

5. FS Thomas Decoud, Cal
Decoud doesn't do any one thing great. But he does everything so very good. He doesn't get any media play but ask the people who play and practice against him and they insist he's the most feared hitter around.

6. CB Orlando Scandrick, BS
While Ryan Clady headlines at Boise State, Scandrick was a shutdown corner and ST standout. Could step right into the hole left by Gay at CB. Only a Junior, with room to get better. Good ball skills but teams mostly avoided him.

7. LT Chad Rinehart, N. Iowa
Scouts have fallen in love with his teammate, OG Brandon Keith, but Rinehart has the drive, determination and toughness that the Pats generally love in late round lineman. Will likely see some time at the Right Tackle position.

8. OG Jordan Grimes, Purdue
Doesn't look particularly strong. Didn't do very well in the benchpress. But engulfs defenders at the point of attack before they even react to the snap.
Very quick jump despite being slow. Will provide extra push up the middle.


And that's a wrap, folks. See you next year!

Any 250lb OLB who can run a 4.4 40 is all right in my books, worth our 3rd rounder

 

[Pats726]

That (false) argument of giving a rookie CB Asante Samuel's money is covered here: My2Cents Finalized Two Round Mock Draft

Actually it makes a LOT of sense..if they wanted to throw money at a cornerback..they would give it to a CB with exprience..not with an untested rookie who could be a bust...

 

[Pats726]

So where how are the Pats plans being exposed??? Somehow there is a real disconnect....don't understand...

 

[JoeSixPat]

That (false) argument of giving a rookie CB Asante Samuel's money is covered here: My2Cents Finalized Two Round Mock Draft

If you disproved the argument I can't quite seem to find it in that thread.

No one's saying Samuel's contract and a rookie CB's contract at #7 are equal dollar to dollar -but both are signficiant amounts... the difference being one going to a proven NFL commodity (and no I don't believe he was worth the money he got either) and one to a completely unproven commodity.

If anyone wants a detailed breakdown of Samuel's salary check it out here:

http://www.igglesblog.com/iggles_blog/2008/03/asante-samuels.html

They assert that Samuel can also be cut after the first two years if need be - and his last two year salaries are $8 mil and $10 mil - so its possible he never sees that anway, lowering the total value and years of his contract to potentially something even closer to a #7 rookie contract.

Of course, everyone also seems to think its doubtful a rookie will step right in and play at Samuel's level as well - so factor in one year of on the job training too.

Hey - apparently the mock drafters think that's a helluva smart move, so what do I know.

All that matters is whether Belichick thinks its a good move too - but much of what I read also suggests that the CBs are really only good enough to go in the teens - not in the top 10.

 

[My2Cents]

If you disproved the argument I can't quite seem to find it in that thread.

No one's saying Samuel's contract and a rookie CB's contract at #7 are equal dollar to dollar -but both are signficiant amounts... the difference being one going to a proven NFL commodity (and no I don't believe he was worth the money he got either) and one to a completely unproven commodity.

If anyone wants a detailed breakdown of Samuel's salary check it out here:

http://www.igglesblog.com/iggles_blog/2008/03/asante-samuels.html

They assert that Samuel can also be cut after the first two years if need be - and his last two year salaries are $8 mil and $10 mil - so its possible he never sees that anway, lowering the total value and years of his contract to potentially something even closer to a #7 rookie contract.

Of course, everyone also seems to think its doubtful a rookie will step right in and play at Samuel's level as well - so factor in one year of on the job training too.

Hey - apparently the mock drafters think that's a helluva smart move, so what do I know.

All that matters is whether Belichick thinks its a good move too - but much of what I read also suggests that the CBs are really only good enough to go in the teens - not in the top 10.

Well, how could I possibly argue with somebody who is so committed to indecision? As for Samuel, newsflash: He's gone!

Why the Eagles cap numbers intrigue Pat fans so much is beyond me.
Are you holding out hope of his return? I don't follow. It makes no sense.

But what I do get is that there is a small crowd of Pat fans who think that somehow the Pats had a choice of either paying their #1 rookie top dollar or giving that same money to a veteran: namely, Asante Samuel. That's wrong.

I think I've thoroughly disputed that argument in My Finalized Mock Draft. The Pats never had the option of paying what they might to their #1 pick to Samuel (dollar for dollar, or not)! I don't know how many times I have to repeat it.
The only question is, how do they move on from there and replace Samuel? My best bet is DRC.

 

[Afterlifemobile-86]

Would everyone please get it out of their thick skulls. The Pats are not drafting DRC at #7 or at all period.:bricks:

 

[BradyToMoss]

"1. CB, DRC, TSU
It will take a team with a lot of balls to draft this guy early. But the Pats love of athleticism will help start an early run on CB's. Having trained with both Sanders and Darrell Green, he's NFL ready. And let us not forget bloodlines! "

He's the new "Primetime", like Deion said after watching DRC's 40 at the combine........."We used to call that..........chasing rabbits, where I came from"

The dawn of the great gazelle, one Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, is but 2 days away. BB and Pioli love this kid, they've kept a good secret, nothing was leaked and in the end, the deal down to 9 or 10 with the Sedrick Ellis poker chip will be unveiled on Saturday and the Pats will make the great DRC a Patriot that will terrorize Goober Manning for the next 5 years. Let's get this freakin show started, I can't wait !

Once again for those that missed it:

http://ballhype.com/video/dominique_rodgers_cromartie_senior_bowl/

 

[jbb9s]

Granted, Chad Jackson could finally step up and contribute. But Jackson is known for his hands, not his speed.

Not known for his speed?

 

[patchick]

But the Pats love of athleticism will help start an early run on CB's.

This is the phrase that really gets me. Just to be clear, I think Rogers-Cromartie is a tremendous talent. But the Pats do NOT have a "love of athleticism" when it comes to DBs -- quite the contrary. Take a look at the size and speed of guys like Meriweather and Samuel. BB has a consistent record of drafting DBs with lousy measurables but strong football skills.

 

[patchick]

Not known for his speed?

Totally missed that! (For those with short memories, Jackson ran a 4.32 40, fastest in his draft class.)

 

[JoeSixPat]

Well, how could I possibly argue with somebody who is so committed to indecision? As for Samuel, newsflash: He's gone!

Why the Eagles cap numbers intrigue Pat fans so much is beyond me.
Are you holding out hope of his return? I don't follow. It makes no sense.

But what I do get is that there is a small crowd of Pat fans who think that somehow the Pats had a choice of either paying their #1 rookie top dollar or giving that same money to a veteran: namely, Asante Samuel. That's wrong.

I think I've thoroughly disputed that argument in My Finalized Mock Draft. The Pats never had the option of paying what they might to their #1 pick to Samuel (dollar for dollar, or not)! I don't know how many times I have to repeat it.
The only question is, how do they move on from there and replace Samuel? My best bet is DRC.

You seem to misunderstand what free agency means. The Patriots were not prohibited from making an offer to Samuel.

They were not and are not prohibited from making an offer to any other free agent CB.

They might well not deem the CB position worthy of a salary and/or cap space of @ $7 million a year either - but if your assertion that the Patriots were prohibited from making Samuel an offer approaching that of what the Eagles offered then you're just wrong.

The notion that our top CB can only be replaced by a player - be it a rookie or a veteran - earning $7 million + a year on average is wrong as well.

I'm sure many people felt that we needed to spend a ton of money to replace Ty Law when he left too, but the 4th round draft pick who took his place did OK, and even wound up earning himself a decent salary as a free agent.

 

[JoeSixPat]

Totally missed that! (For those with short memories, Jackson ran a 4.32 40, fastest in his draft class.)

But sadly and honestly we've not seen it on the NFL field yet.... and indeed running a 40 is a bit different than coming off the line, getting hit by a defender, keeping one's mind on timing and placement and making the catch.

Currently the most accurate statement about Jackson is that he's not known for his good health.

But I doubt we can yet say he's known for his good hands either.

 

[My2Cents]

Not known for his speed?

That's right. Especially after a torn ACL. Sub 4.4 speed prior to that means nothing. He has to prove himself all over again. Note, he's also trade bait. Denver could be one, in particular, who may swing a draft day deal for him.

 

[My2Cents]

But sadly and honestly we've not seen it on the NFL field yet.... and indeed running a 40 is a bit different than coming off the line, getting hit by a defender, keeping one's mind on timing and placement and making the catch.

Currently the most accurate statement about Jackson is that he's not known for his good health.

But I doubt we can yet say he's known for his good hands either.

Well, in fairness, Jackson did win best hands award at the Combine. But (1.) has he regained his speed after a torn ACL? (2.) Has he improved his routes? (3.)
Can he even stay on the field? If not, his alleged speed is totally irrelevant.

But, regardless, Dexter Jackson would provide competition at the position.

 

[jeffbiologist]

I think you are smelling your own lunch from yesterday. Think about it....think about it.....Hey, you got it!!
Every one of those players you mention are artificial turf-type players. While I do like the Jackson pick(all our 3wr sets), we need MAJOR help on Defense. We have 1 guy in 2 years drafting on defense...and he doesnt even START. The closest "athlete" we drafted so high was Terry Glenn....and though he was nearly uncoverable and took us to the super bowl as a rookie, his broken ankle and collarbone only emphasize the obvious.....and its the reason Tuna left. My buddy has a T shirt for ya, GO UGLY EARLY! Not referring to your choice in the fairer sex(this time), but that you have to get the best big guys as early as you can.