Pro Football Weekly reports that Tennessee linebacker Jerod Mayo is skyrocketing up many teams draft boards. Some have even intimated that they feel Mayo has overtaken Rivers as the top linebacker in the draft. While there's little debate that Mayo possesses superior athleticism, Rivers is easily the more polished of the two.
Many have conjectured that Denver will draft Mayo with their first overall pick in this year's draft, including ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper, Jr. Mayo's current skillset makes him a better fit at WLB than at our position of need, MLB; however, many feel he can be an effective MLB at the next level, given time. With free agent acquisition Niko Koutivides on the roster, Denver arguably has that. What's more, Mayo is an excellent zone defender, meaning he could conceivably see some playing time on special teams and in Nickel packages while he acclimates to the defense. Still, that's an awfully small role for a player that would garner first round money. I don't see this pick happening, but seeing as Mayo has solidified himself as a first round pick, I thought it was worth mentioning.
Another possible suitor for Jerod Mayo is the Detroit Lions, who'd love to find a talent to compliment Erie Sims. Should Mayo continue his climb, there may be demand to move ahead of Detroit in the draft. Chicago and Denver are the most likely suitors for such a team. When you add Mayo to the crowded list of talent that will undoubtedly be available with the 12th overall pick, Denver figures to have an easy time moving down and adding an extra first day pick.
Showing posts with label Linebacker. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Linebacker. Show all posts
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Lofton's Draft Stock Rising
Pro Football Weekly has moved Curtis Lofton ahead of Dan Conner in their top 5 linebackers column. At this point, it looks like--unless we move down on draft day--Lofton is probably out of reach. If you want to see some film on Lofton, visit my March column, "Manning the Middle."
Denver's Nickel Package
There was another interesting comment I wanted to mention in Legwold's mailbag column. Here's a quote:
Assuming this is true--which I invite you to comment if its not--there are several interesting insights we can garner from this. For one, this is a silver lining to the failed D.J. Williams experiment at middle linebacker. In 2006, D.J. typically sat out on the Nickel. A true weak-side linebacker, he wasn't considered a reliable pass defender. After a year in the middle, perhaps Denver's confidence in Williams seems to have increased.
In a related comment, this could be a telling sign of Denver's long-term vision of Niko at middle linebacker. Given that D.J. is not elite in pass coverage, its surprising to me that Niko wouldn't be filling this role. While inside linebackers typically sit out in the Nickel and Dime, there are certainly plenty of examples in the NFL where this isn't the case (e.g. Lofa Tatupa in Seattle). If true, this further supports my assertion that Denver will target Niko's successor at some point in this year's draft.
Or maybe Legwold just didn't think this comment through as much as I did. In any case, it will be interesting to see how our linebacker corp develops as the preseason progresses.
So that said Bailey and Williams would likely be the two linebackers on the field in the nickel. Bailey, even with some knee troubles in his career, is still the kind of athlete people don't see very often.
Assuming this is true--which I invite you to comment if its not--there are several interesting insights we can garner from this. For one, this is a silver lining to the failed D.J. Williams experiment at middle linebacker. In 2006, D.J. typically sat out on the Nickel. A true weak-side linebacker, he wasn't considered a reliable pass defender. After a year in the middle, perhaps Denver's confidence in Williams seems to have increased.
In a related comment, this could be a telling sign of Denver's long-term vision of Niko at middle linebacker. Given that D.J. is not elite in pass coverage, its surprising to me that Niko wouldn't be filling this role. While inside linebackers typically sit out in the Nickel and Dime, there are certainly plenty of examples in the NFL where this isn't the case (e.g. Lofa Tatupa in Seattle). If true, this further supports my assertion that Denver will target Niko's successor at some point in this year's draft.
Or maybe Legwold just didn't think this comment through as much as I did. In any case, it will be interesting to see how our linebacker corp develops as the preseason progresses.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Draft Targets: The Vanderbilt Connection
Fan euphoria surrounding the enormous potential of Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler has been a near-ubiquitous theme at blogs, message boards, and fan sites since we drafted him 11th overall in 2006. What's not to love? In 2007, Cutler tied Payton Manning for the 3rd fewest interceptions among 16-game starters, boasted a respectable 7.5 YPA, and completed over 63% of his passes. Given Denver's overwhelming success with the Vanderbilt alumni, it comes as no surprise to hear that Denver will take a serious look at Cutler's blind-side tackle Chris Williams and favorite target Earl Bennett.
I'd be lying if I said that I shared Broncos fans' infatuation with Bennett and Williams. I think the Williams is a top-shelf talent at tackle--particularly when one considers his competition; however, I'm not overly-excited about spending a 12th overall pick to grab him. Also, I disagree with the assertion that Denver has a desperate need for help at offensive tackle.
In Bennett's case, I don't see a player that evolves into a dominant NFL receiver. His build and technical competencies suggest that he could push a guy like Stokley out of the slot, but many doubt he has the speed to get consistent separation and he doesn't show much flash after the catch. He doesn't have the height to win battles for deep balls and doesn't have elite speed. Bennett's work ethic, character, and relationship with Cutler are intriguing, but ultimately I don't think there's enough to this guy to warrant second round consideration. In short, I like a lot of other receivers better.
Instead of Williams or Bennett, I am going to suggest that Denver takes a long look at another quarterback from Vanderbilt in this years draft. Namely, the quarterback of their defense, ILB Jonathan Goff. Goff is a mean, hard-hitting linebacker with outstanding range. There are zero off-the-field issues, injuries, or other baggage on his resume. Goff is a little stiff in interviews, but he's well spoken and intelligent. On the field, his energy is infectious.
Goff's combine workout bested all of his peers at inside linebacker. He was one of two players to complete the cone drill in under 7 seconds, he had the best time in the 60-yard shuttle, and he missed the best 20-yard shuttle time by 5/100th's of a second. Goff was the strongest inside linebacker with 28 reps, his broad jump was second best, and his 31.5" vertical was third best. Only Jerrod Mayo and Tavares Gooden bested his 4.68 40-time. You won't find a more well-rounded performance in this draft.
At 6'2" 245 lbs. Goff also has the distinction of being the biggest inside linebacker in this year's draft. Many scouts are concerned that he lacks ideal lower body strength. With a 6'2" frame, however, he has the ability to add additional mass. After adding Niko in the off season, Denver can certainly afford to give Goff at least year to pack on some muscle and contribute on special teams.
Goff is technically well rounded. He's a fantastic tackler and shows great closing speed. He takes efficient angles to the ball carrier and shows great lateral agility. In coverage, he's effective in read-and-react zone coverage. He had only 2 interceptions at Vanderbilt but displays above-average ball skills. He probably doesn't have the speed to be elite in man-to-man coverage and would probably struggle against AFC tight ends (further illuminating our need to find an elite strong safety).
From top to bottom, its hard to find a more complete option at middle linebacker available in this year's draft. Rivals has him rated the 100th best player in the draft, which makes him a 4th rounder; ESPN seems to think he'll go in the 6th; and Pro Football Weekly projects him at the bottom of the 6th round. Even for 4th round money, I think Goff is a steal on draft day. I still like Curtis Lofton as an overall prospect, but based on his draft position, Goff is a better value.
Here's a video of Goff for those who are interested:
I'd be lying if I said that I shared Broncos fans' infatuation with Bennett and Williams. I think the Williams is a top-shelf talent at tackle--particularly when one considers his competition; however, I'm not overly-excited about spending a 12th overall pick to grab him. Also, I disagree with the assertion that Denver has a desperate need for help at offensive tackle.
In Bennett's case, I don't see a player that evolves into a dominant NFL receiver. His build and technical competencies suggest that he could push a guy like Stokley out of the slot, but many doubt he has the speed to get consistent separation and he doesn't show much flash after the catch. He doesn't have the height to win battles for deep balls and doesn't have elite speed. Bennett's work ethic, character, and relationship with Cutler are intriguing, but ultimately I don't think there's enough to this guy to warrant second round consideration. In short, I like a lot of other receivers better.
Instead of Williams or Bennett, I am going to suggest that Denver takes a long look at another quarterback from Vanderbilt in this years draft. Namely, the quarterback of their defense, ILB Jonathan Goff. Goff is a mean, hard-hitting linebacker with outstanding range. There are zero off-the-field issues, injuries, or other baggage on his resume. Goff is a little stiff in interviews, but he's well spoken and intelligent. On the field, his energy is infectious.
Goff's combine workout bested all of his peers at inside linebacker. He was one of two players to complete the cone drill in under 7 seconds, he had the best time in the 60-yard shuttle, and he missed the best 20-yard shuttle time by 5/100th's of a second. Goff was the strongest inside linebacker with 28 reps, his broad jump was second best, and his 31.5" vertical was third best. Only Jerrod Mayo and Tavares Gooden bested his 4.68 40-time. You won't find a more well-rounded performance in this draft.
At 6'2" 245 lbs. Goff also has the distinction of being the biggest inside linebacker in this year's draft. Many scouts are concerned that he lacks ideal lower body strength. With a 6'2" frame, however, he has the ability to add additional mass. After adding Niko in the off season, Denver can certainly afford to give Goff at least year to pack on some muscle and contribute on special teams.
Goff is technically well rounded. He's a fantastic tackler and shows great closing speed. He takes efficient angles to the ball carrier and shows great lateral agility. In coverage, he's effective in read-and-react zone coverage. He had only 2 interceptions at Vanderbilt but displays above-average ball skills. He probably doesn't have the speed to be elite in man-to-man coverage and would probably struggle against AFC tight ends (further illuminating our need to find an elite strong safety).
From top to bottom, its hard to find a more complete option at middle linebacker available in this year's draft. Rivals has him rated the 100th best player in the draft, which makes him a 4th rounder; ESPN seems to think he'll go in the 6th; and Pro Football Weekly projects him at the bottom of the 6th round. Even for 4th round money, I think Goff is a steal on draft day. I still like Curtis Lofton as an overall prospect, but based on his draft position, Goff is a better value.
Here's a video of Goff for those who are interested:
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Manning the Middle
This morning, the Denver Post profiled free agent acquisition Niko Koutouvides. According to the article, Denver plans to use Koutouvides at middle linebacker this year, moving D.J. Williams back to the weak side (after a year in the middle). Free agent Boss Bailey will man the strong side.
Scouting reports on Koutouvides suggest that he has great speed and tackling ability; however, they also say he's more of a straight-line player and struggles as a positional player. To his credit, Koutouvides was selected by Seattle in the 4th round of the 2004 NFL draft. With this being only his 4th year in the league, perhaps Broncos management sees something we don't; however, Koutouvides just turned 27. So if ever there was a time for him to deliver on his potential, its in the next year or two. He's not getting any younger.
I do think that Koutouvides will hold down the starting MLB job in '08; however, I don't think he'll be there long term. Don't get me wrong: I think Koutouvides is a great free agent signing; he provides great depth at the position and is a proven standout on special teams. But I think Denver--contrary to what many analysts have reported, is looking strongly at the draft for a solution at the MLB position.
Who might they take? The top MLB on most draft boards is Penn State's Dan Conner. Conner is a great athlete who's held down the position capably at Penn State; however, character issues abound and he hasn't displayed leadership, a hunger for knowledge, or a blue collar work ethic--all attributes which should arguably be present for the quarterback of the defense (name a great quarterback that isn't a film rat). What's more, Conner projects as a late first rounder, so unless Denver were to trade down (or up), he's likely not in our plans.
A far more likely candidate is Oklahoma's Curtis Lofton. Lofton's 4.79 40-yard dash time didn't help his draft stock at the combine. Lofton is also only 6'0", which means he probably doesn't have the frame to add much bulk. But at 246 lbs., he's at a great size. More importantly, Lofton is hungry for recognition, works hard, displays fantastic leadership in-and-out of the locker room, and has never shown durability problems.
Despite his seemingly average athleticism, Lofton has a never ending motor, plays with an aggressive streak, and always seems to be around the ball. He absolutely punishes wide receivers coming across the middle. Playing in the zone underneath, Lofton would be a great fit in Denver (although he doesn't flash exceptional man coverage skills). His nose for the ball in the running game is an attribute that gets high marks with Shanahan. Lofton is an extremely efficient player who might be one of the most underrated players in the draft. The price tag would be a second rounder, but in my opinion its well worth it.
Here is a highlight video of Lofton for those who are interested:
Scouting reports on Koutouvides suggest that he has great speed and tackling ability; however, they also say he's more of a straight-line player and struggles as a positional player. To his credit, Koutouvides was selected by Seattle in the 4th round of the 2004 NFL draft. With this being only his 4th year in the league, perhaps Broncos management sees something we don't; however, Koutouvides just turned 27. So if ever there was a time for him to deliver on his potential, its in the next year or two. He's not getting any younger.
I do think that Koutouvides will hold down the starting MLB job in '08; however, I don't think he'll be there long term. Don't get me wrong: I think Koutouvides is a great free agent signing; he provides great depth at the position and is a proven standout on special teams. But I think Denver--contrary to what many analysts have reported, is looking strongly at the draft for a solution at the MLB position.
Who might they take? The top MLB on most draft boards is Penn State's Dan Conner. Conner is a great athlete who's held down the position capably at Penn State; however, character issues abound and he hasn't displayed leadership, a hunger for knowledge, or a blue collar work ethic--all attributes which should arguably be present for the quarterback of the defense (name a great quarterback that isn't a film rat). What's more, Conner projects as a late first rounder, so unless Denver were to trade down (or up), he's likely not in our plans.
A far more likely candidate is Oklahoma's Curtis Lofton. Lofton's 4.79 40-yard dash time didn't help his draft stock at the combine. Lofton is also only 6'0", which means he probably doesn't have the frame to add much bulk. But at 246 lbs., he's at a great size. More importantly, Lofton is hungry for recognition, works hard, displays fantastic leadership in-and-out of the locker room, and has never shown durability problems.
Despite his seemingly average athleticism, Lofton has a never ending motor, plays with an aggressive streak, and always seems to be around the ball. He absolutely punishes wide receivers coming across the middle. Playing in the zone underneath, Lofton would be a great fit in Denver (although he doesn't flash exceptional man coverage skills). His nose for the ball in the running game is an attribute that gets high marks with Shanahan. Lofton is an extremely efficient player who might be one of the most underrated players in the draft. The price tag would be a second rounder, but in my opinion its well worth it.
Here is a highlight video of Lofton for those who are interested:
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Randy Gradishar Recognized as Defensive Pioneer
| According to an article at Pro Football Weekly, the Pro Football Research Association recently assembled a panel of former NFL players with intimate knowledge of the 3-4. They were asked to name the "All-Time 3-4 Front Seven." Among the starters is Denver Broncos LILB Randy Gradishar. The other nominees are Lee Roy Selmon (DRE Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Curly Culp (NT Kansas City Chiefs), Howie Long (DLE Oakland Raiders), Lawrence Taylor (ROLB New York Giants), Harry Carson (RILB New York Giants), and recent Hall of Fame inductee Andre Tippett (LOLB New England Patriots). Gradishar, Taylor, and Carson all were picked by 70% of the panel or greater. Other winners were more controversial, in many cases receiving less than 50% of the votes. Gradishar's competition included Saints/Panthers LILB Sam Mills (7 votes) and former Redskins/Raiders/49ers LILB Matt Millen (2 votes). |  |
The leader of the "Orange Crush" defense, Gradishar amassed over 150 tackles for 9 straight years, averaging over 200 tackles for his career. He was NFL Defensive MVP in 1978, leading them to an AFC championship (and a loss to the Cowboys in the Super Bowl) with 286 tackles and 4 interceptions. Gradishar was a two-time All-American in college and finished sixth in the Heisman Trophy voting his senior year. Infamous Buckeye's coach Woody Hayes referred to Gradishar as "the best linebacker I ever coached." The Buckeye's award for the best linebacker is called the "Gradishar Award" to this day in his honor. Thanks to Broncotalk.net for the fantastic summary of Gradishar's career. The article I linked has a much more detailed review of his accolades for those who are interested.
Gradishar was snubbed once again by the Hall of Fame selection committee; however, he was listed among the finalists for the first time since he retired. Perhaps this additional recognition will help tip the scales in Gradishar's favor. Given the laundry list of former Broncos who've been snubbed in recent years, the odds are against him.
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