The most exciting part of any suspension in sports is finding out the excuse the law breaker will come up with. Rarely do those caught come clean and it's almost always someone else's fault. We've heard of a vindictive masseuse that took down Olympic Champion Justin Gatlin, that Miguel Tejada messed around with Rafael Palmeiro's B-12, and "the hGH belonged" to Roger Clemens' wife Debbie. These are just a few of the laughable ones. However, with MLB's newest and biggest catch, I actually believe Manny Ramirez (cue me from three years ago punching myself repeatedly). This really is another "Manny being Manny" moment.
Let's forget he played for the Red Sox for a second so I can say truthfully he is the best right handed hitter of my generation. Been that way since he was a skinny kid for the Cleveland Indians. There's no way this man has been using something to enhance his performance now. Although the story is still developing, he's already accepted his fate and emphasizes his clean history of drug testing. Skeptics will say, if he tested positive for something, he had to know he was doing something wrong. He's having some sort of problem (probably mental), went to a doctor, obtained a prescription they both suspected wouldn't cause any problems, and he went about his business. There's no doubt he should have attempted to clear this medication under baseball's Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE), but it's totally reasonable that he was absent-minded enough not to do so. Of all the athletes that have copped to "I unknowingly used this substance", this is one scenario in which I truly believe the guy. Who knew that all these year's of "Manny being Manny" could help to keep his name clean in an era where even one substantial rumor could kill your shot at the hall.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Yankees Officials to Fans: Mi casa NO es su casa
Forget the 0-5 start against the Red Sox. Brush aside Teixiera's batting average is riding on the interstates and Sabathia has only notched one victory. Even try to put aside that the third basemen, catcher, 8th inning guy, utility infielder, and number two starter are all on the Disabled List. Let's strictly talk about how utterly disgraceful Yankees' stadium personnel has been in breaking in their new home.
In the interest of full disclosure, I was one of the many trapped inside Yankee Stadium Monday night debating whether to wait out the rain delay or not. Like any informed fan should do, I waited for official word announced over the loud speakers. Many people were not so patient and decided to take their cues from team employees. They were left standing out in the rain when the game got under way. As you might imagine, they were not thrilled and caused quite a stir leaving one police offer hospitalized after a run in with a disorderly female fan. Whether fans were told the game would not be played by these employees or not, it has been clear at every point in their history that you will not be admitted for re-entry.
Despite being on the Yankees side for this one controversial issue, their stadium personnel has been generally despicable. The Yankees employ an absurd amount of ushers to guard over their higher paying customers. If you wish to even visit a friend in another section, do not expect to get anywhere near them. I have no problems with ensuring that people do not steal other people's seats, but the extreme measures they take is a severe disservice to other paying customers. And will someone please explain to me why, if someone has left the game for good, why it is a Class A felony to allow someone to move in to said unoccupied seat? Is it costing the Yankees anything? As I discussed with my buddy Matt at Monday night's game, such a move would probably only be beneficial. Especially in the seats with a wait staff, they may able to sneak a few extra hundred or thousand in concession sales by allowing for such moves.
While many things have bugged me over my first few trips to the Stadium, it wasn't until I read about how they mishandled a beloved former player and his wife. Yankee great Paul O'Neill was asked not to stand around the cage during batting practice, despite you know, being a television broadcaster who needs to see these things AND a part of the "family". Then, his wife was not allowed access to the "wives lounge" because her husband wasn't on the current roster. I know these things seem trivial, but to see how unwelcoming they are even to the most important members of the family, it's scary to think about what the future holds for those of us on the lower part of the totem pole.
In the interest of full disclosure, I was one of the many trapped inside Yankee Stadium Monday night debating whether to wait out the rain delay or not. Like any informed fan should do, I waited for official word announced over the loud speakers. Many people were not so patient and decided to take their cues from team employees. They were left standing out in the rain when the game got under way. As you might imagine, they were not thrilled and caused quite a stir leaving one police offer hospitalized after a run in with a disorderly female fan. Whether fans were told the game would not be played by these employees or not, it has been clear at every point in their history that you will not be admitted for re-entry.
Despite being on the Yankees side for this one controversial issue, their stadium personnel has been generally despicable. The Yankees employ an absurd amount of ushers to guard over their higher paying customers. If you wish to even visit a friend in another section, do not expect to get anywhere near them. I have no problems with ensuring that people do not steal other people's seats, but the extreme measures they take is a severe disservice to other paying customers. And will someone please explain to me why, if someone has left the game for good, why it is a Class A felony to allow someone to move in to said unoccupied seat? Is it costing the Yankees anything? As I discussed with my buddy Matt at Monday night's game, such a move would probably only be beneficial. Especially in the seats with a wait staff, they may able to sneak a few extra hundred or thousand in concession sales by allowing for such moves.
While many things have bugged me over my first few trips to the Stadium, it wasn't until I read about how they mishandled a beloved former player and his wife. Yankee great Paul O'Neill was asked not to stand around the cage during batting practice, despite you know, being a television broadcaster who needs to see these things AND a part of the "family". Then, his wife was not allowed access to the "wives lounge" because her husband wasn't on the current roster. I know these things seem trivial, but to see how unwelcoming they are even to the most important members of the family, it's scary to think about what the future holds for those of us on the lower part of the totem pole.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
CC Earning His Stripes
For the past several years, many Yankee followers have complained that the pitching staff lacked guys who will stand up for their teammates. You hit one of ours, we hit one of yours. That's the code. Even umpires who get warning happy understand the unwritten rules. Unfortunately, the guys who have been taking the bump for the Yanks have gotten lost in the corporate atmosphere and strayed from the code. With the additions of AJ Burnett, CC Sabathia, and Joba Chamberlain to the rotation, the Yankee have three enforcers on the mound. Despite his struggles, the highest priced acquisition of that trio may have taken his first steps towards being a "true Yankee" by an "errant" pitch in today's game.
In case you've missed it, a few Yankees have been on the receiving end of wayward pitches. A fastball to the elbow even knocked Nick Swisher out of last night's game and earned him a day off today as well. Fortunately, this fact has not been lost on Sabathia. In to the top of the fourth inning, with one out and nobody on, Sabathia planted a pitch in to the rear end of Angels catcher Mike Napoli. Hitting the catcher is the American League's equivalent to drilling a pitcher in the National League. In other words, it was a well-orchestrated purpose pitch by Sabathia. If he's going to earn the big money the Yankees paid him, he's going to have to do more than pile up wins and strikeouts. He needs to protect his hitters. He needs to be a guy his teammates know they can turn to with the deck stacked against them. And yeah, he's going to have to show the accuracy he used to hit Napoli to get a few guys out. Ironically, the pitch he's thrown farthest from the strike zone may be the most crucial to proving his value on this team.
In case you've missed it, a few Yankees have been on the receiving end of wayward pitches. A fastball to the elbow even knocked Nick Swisher out of last night's game and earned him a day off today as well. Fortunately, this fact has not been lost on Sabathia. In to the top of the fourth inning, with one out and nobody on, Sabathia planted a pitch in to the rear end of Angels catcher Mike Napoli. Hitting the catcher is the American League's equivalent to drilling a pitcher in the National League. In other words, it was a well-orchestrated purpose pitch by Sabathia. If he's going to earn the big money the Yankees paid him, he's going to have to do more than pile up wins and strikeouts. He needs to protect his hitters. He needs to be a guy his teammates know they can turn to with the deck stacked against them. And yeah, he's going to have to show the accuracy he used to hit Napoli to get a few guys out. Ironically, the pitch he's thrown farthest from the strike zone may be the most crucial to proving his value on this team.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Baby Bombers Propelling Yanks
The last week has felt a lot like the Summer of 2007. Solid bullpen pitching fresh from Triple A (Joba to Coke and Melancon), strong starting pitching, and a healthy dose of Melky (ok, maybe not as crucial this week, but I'm glad my "Got Melky" shirt is wearable again). Most importantly, Phil (Franchise) Hughes and Joba Chamberlain looked every bit the potential aces they are supposed to be. With a combined 13 innings of one-run ball from the two kids are the least earned runs given up on consecutive starts by Yankee pitchers by such young pitchers since the early 1980s. Of course, the New York media has to take a strength and make it appear to be an issue. Oh no! Six quality starting pitchers? What ever shall we do?
Perhaps even more ridiculous, beat writers and analysts alike are taking Hughes' strong start as evidence that Joba should be relegated to the bullpen. This couldn't be any more wrong. These are the same people who blamed the Yankees for having Joba prepare for the bullpen last year, only to be put in the rotation, then switched back to the pen. They say this contributed to his injuries a season ago. So, by what logic do they defend asking the Yanks to send him to the pen after he prepared all offseason to be a starter? Regardless of what role you feel he should fill in the future ( I believe he's a starter, but that's not the argument), you do NOT make a switch this season. They've made their bed, now they have to sleep in it.
Perhaps even more ridiculous, beat writers and analysts alike are taking Hughes' strong start as evidence that Joba should be relegated to the bullpen. This couldn't be any more wrong. These are the same people who blamed the Yankees for having Joba prepare for the bullpen last year, only to be put in the rotation, then switched back to the pen. They say this contributed to his injuries a season ago. So, by what logic do they defend asking the Yanks to send him to the pen after he prepared all offseason to be a starter? Regardless of what role you feel he should fill in the future ( I believe he's a starter, but that's not the argument), you do NOT make a switch this season. They've made their bed, now they have to sleep in it.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
A look at the Giants 2009 Draft Class
Round 1- Hakeem Nicks, WR, UNC. Touted as a "big" receiver, but at a shade under 61'', not the kind of safety blanket that's ideal for the QB who tends to miss high. Reportedly needs special order 4XL gloves, so has monstrous hands that catch everything (youtube or google search Nicks and Meineke Car Bowl). Not a big speed guy, maybe in the 4.5 range, but claims he can be a vertical threat. I still wanted Braylon and can't see Nicks as more than an Amani Toomer type with a smaller frame and a little less speed. A borderline #1/solid #2. Played in a pro-style college offense, so should be ready to come in and contribute.
Round 2- Clint Sintim, OLB, UVA. Big OLB who's extremely effective coming downhill, which should continue to be a trait of the Giants scheme even with the switch from Spags to Sheridan. One of the nations' leaders in sacks for a LB, projects well on the strong side. Did most of his coverage in zone schemes, so people question his ability in space with a TE or LB. Should be athletic enough to handle that. Feelin this pick.
Round 2- William Beatty, OT, UConn. Thought this was an absolute steal, but the more I read I'm tempering my expectations. He was graded out as a border-line first round prospect, but fell to the bottom of the second. Scouting director Marc Ross calls him a "natural left tackle", great feet, very athletic, big frame. Still very much a developmental project, but that's perfect given our current situation. If McKenzie and Diehl stay healthy, get another year or two out of McKenzie, then slide Diehl either inside or to the right, and we could have a franchise LT out of Beatty. Some are concerned that he's too much of a finesse guy to fit in with the lunch-pail O-line crew of the G-Men. Give him some time in that locker room and I think the attitude will be infectious.
Round 3- Ramses Barden, WR, Cal-Poly. Here's the Plax clone, minus speed, game experience, and overall ability. HOWEVER, G-Men Wide Receivers coach Mike Sullivan was feeling this guy throughout the draft process and now has a chance to mold him in to a stud. Averaged 18 touchdowns a year over his last two seasons at Cal Poly, which is big time production no matter what stage you are on. He's huge, likes to fight for jump balls, and, well, he's huge. For Eli's "high-miss" problems, he's the solution. Considering the Giants traded up in the 3rd round to grab him, they will give him every opportunity to make the roster and compete for playing time.
Round 3- Travis Beckum, TE, Wisconsin. Throw away his senior year, if you happened to look, it's something like 25 catches for a shade over or under 250 yards and no touchdowns. The team loved his earlier years producation at Wisconsin, and he's a guy who should be able to catch passes in the wind at Giants Stadium after playing all over the Midwest in college. A problem I have is that they love Kevin Boss' ability to catch the football, so you'd think a blocking TE would be the answer. Word on this guy is that he will not and can not throw a block. This may be overstated because I'm pretty sure I read he rocked 28 reps at the combine which is O-lineman good for the exercise. Giants intend to use him as an H-back, maybe move him around the formation, and just take advantage of his straight line speed and ability to catch tough balls in traffic.
Round 4- Andre Brown, RB, NC State. Many people are tabbing this as the Giants "steal of the draft". He's big, fast, shifty, and can catch the ball well out of the backfield. My question is, if he's that good, how did he last until the 4th round? I haven't watched this guy play at all, so I'm totally relying on reports, but he's around 6', 220, with 4.49 speed. That's a heck of a package for a running back. He also was one of his team leaders in receptions and they love his ability to make plays as a receiver. Dubbed "the perfect replacement to Derrick Ward". We all love Ahmad, and maybe having some competition will make them all better. He also returns kicks, so this pick is really a thorn in the side of Bradshaw. Plus Jacobs will miss at least 3 games, we like to carry 4 RBs anyway, so he should compete with the other AB and Danny Ware for snaps.
Round 5- Rhett Bomar, QB, Sam Houston State. This pick confused me a bit. Giants are high on David Carr as a back-up, and they picked a developmental project a year ago with Andre Woodson. Most signs point to the Giants souring on Woodson, but that may not be the case. Carr should only be around for one more year, so if they can get another year out of either Woodson or Bomar on the practice squad, they could be 3-deep at the position even after the loss of Carr. However, it's unlikely given the amount of crappy QB's in the league, that if either Woodson or Bomar pan out that they can survive on the practice squad without being signed elsewhere. Bomar is legit though. I remember him at Oklahoma as a freshman being very effective. For those who don't know his story, he got paid a salary from a car dealership run by OU boosters for not doing any real work. This did not sit well with the NCAA, so he went on to be a real star for Sam Houston State. People say his game is kind of like David Carr (take that for what you will).
Round 6- DeAndre Wright, CB, New Mexico. This is where my info starts to get a little shadier. A guy who is not considered a terrific athlete, but has some ball skills. Terrible in run support. With our pass rush, just looking for d-backs who can get their hands on some rushed passes. Very outside shot of making the roster.
Round 7- Stoney Woodson, CB, South Carolina. Funny name; I hope he makes the roster. He probably won't. Supposedly a very good, "fluid" athlete, but a little undersized. Could be converted to safety which would be his only prayer of making the team.
Round 2- Clint Sintim, OLB, UVA. Big OLB who's extremely effective coming downhill, which should continue to be a trait of the Giants scheme even with the switch from Spags to Sheridan. One of the nations' leaders in sacks for a LB, projects well on the strong side. Did most of his coverage in zone schemes, so people question his ability in space with a TE or LB. Should be athletic enough to handle that. Feelin this pick.
Round 2- William Beatty, OT, UConn. Thought this was an absolute steal, but the more I read I'm tempering my expectations. He was graded out as a border-line first round prospect, but fell to the bottom of the second. Scouting director Marc Ross calls him a "natural left tackle", great feet, very athletic, big frame. Still very much a developmental project, but that's perfect given our current situation. If McKenzie and Diehl stay healthy, get another year or two out of McKenzie, then slide Diehl either inside or to the right, and we could have a franchise LT out of Beatty. Some are concerned that he's too much of a finesse guy to fit in with the lunch-pail O-line crew of the G-Men. Give him some time in that locker room and I think the attitude will be infectious.
Round 3- Ramses Barden, WR, Cal-Poly. Here's the Plax clone, minus speed, game experience, and overall ability. HOWEVER, G-Men Wide Receivers coach Mike Sullivan was feeling this guy throughout the draft process and now has a chance to mold him in to a stud. Averaged 18 touchdowns a year over his last two seasons at Cal Poly, which is big time production no matter what stage you are on. He's huge, likes to fight for jump balls, and, well, he's huge. For Eli's "high-miss" problems, he's the solution. Considering the Giants traded up in the 3rd round to grab him, they will give him every opportunity to make the roster and compete for playing time.
Round 3- Travis Beckum, TE, Wisconsin. Throw away his senior year, if you happened to look, it's something like 25 catches for a shade over or under 250 yards and no touchdowns. The team loved his earlier years producation at Wisconsin, and he's a guy who should be able to catch passes in the wind at Giants Stadium after playing all over the Midwest in college. A problem I have is that they love Kevin Boss' ability to catch the football, so you'd think a blocking TE would be the answer. Word on this guy is that he will not and can not throw a block. This may be overstated because I'm pretty sure I read he rocked 28 reps at the combine which is O-lineman good for the exercise. Giants intend to use him as an H-back, maybe move him around the formation, and just take advantage of his straight line speed and ability to catch tough balls in traffic.
Round 4- Andre Brown, RB, NC State. Many people are tabbing this as the Giants "steal of the draft". He's big, fast, shifty, and can catch the ball well out of the backfield. My question is, if he's that good, how did he last until the 4th round? I haven't watched this guy play at all, so I'm totally relying on reports, but he's around 6', 220, with 4.49 speed. That's a heck of a package for a running back. He also was one of his team leaders in receptions and they love his ability to make plays as a receiver. Dubbed "the perfect replacement to Derrick Ward". We all love Ahmad, and maybe having some competition will make them all better. He also returns kicks, so this pick is really a thorn in the side of Bradshaw. Plus Jacobs will miss at least 3 games, we like to carry 4 RBs anyway, so he should compete with the other AB and Danny Ware for snaps.
Round 5- Rhett Bomar, QB, Sam Houston State. This pick confused me a bit. Giants are high on David Carr as a back-up, and they picked a developmental project a year ago with Andre Woodson. Most signs point to the Giants souring on Woodson, but that may not be the case. Carr should only be around for one more year, so if they can get another year out of either Woodson or Bomar on the practice squad, they could be 3-deep at the position even after the loss of Carr. However, it's unlikely given the amount of crappy QB's in the league, that if either Woodson or Bomar pan out that they can survive on the practice squad without being signed elsewhere. Bomar is legit though. I remember him at Oklahoma as a freshman being very effective. For those who don't know his story, he got paid a salary from a car dealership run by OU boosters for not doing any real work. This did not sit well with the NCAA, so he went on to be a real star for Sam Houston State. People say his game is kind of like David Carr (take that for what you will).
Round 6- DeAndre Wright, CB, New Mexico. This is where my info starts to get a little shadier. A guy who is not considered a terrific athlete, but has some ball skills. Terrible in run support. With our pass rush, just looking for d-backs who can get their hands on some rushed passes. Very outside shot of making the roster.
Round 7- Stoney Woodson, CB, South Carolina. Funny name; I hope he makes the roster. He probably won't. Supposedly a very good, "fluid" athlete, but a little undersized. Could be converted to safety which would be his only prayer of making the team.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Do the Giants trade up for Crabtree?
With the Michael Crabtree sliding past the first six teams, do the Giants trade up to get Michael Crabtree at #7? He's got size, good hands, and self-proclaimed top notch speed. With no receivers off the board thru six picks, I imagine the Giants will move up to try and grab a receiver. Another option could be a trade with Jacksonville at #8 to take whichever reciever (Crabtree or Maclin) that the Raiders pass on.
Mock Draft Part III- Picks 21-32
21. Philadelphia Eagles- Knowshon Moreno, RB, UGA
Why: With Brian Westbrook's durability issues, the Eagles are looking for a guy to share the load and eventually be an every down back. Moreno is thought to be the most-talented back in this year's draft. He'd be a good value in this spot.
How else could it go: This pick may be dealt. They've been tied to Anquan Boldin who, despite rumors that Arizona has lowered their asking price, may cost a 1st round pick. If they hold on to it and skip Moreno, Oklahoma State's Brandon Pettigrew could be an option to offer Donovan McNabb a security blanket.
22. Minnesota Vikings- Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
Why: This may be a reach for Britt, but the sting of Troy Williamson is still on the minds of Vikings fans. They'd prefer a bigger target who can stretch the field and Britt is that guy.
How else could it go: New management, maybe they also go for a diminutive speedster and look at Percy Harvin. Other receivers in the mix could be Hakeem Nicks and Darius Heyward-Bey. If they don't go for one of the skill positions, they could look at USC LB Brian Cushing.
23. New England Patriots- Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut
Why: Since the departure of Asante Samuel, the Pats have needed help in their secondary. Many reports have linked Belichick to Butler. The Pats are notoriously tight lipped so this may be a smoke screen.
How else could it go: The Pats also have a need to bolster their pass rush and are rumored to be looking to trade in to the top 10.
24. Atlanta Falcons- Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss
Why: After acquiring Tony Gonzalez earlier this week, they're out of the Brandon Pettigrew sweepstakes. The offense made great strides and they have young playmakers. They could use some help on the interior of their defensive line.
How else could it go: They have lost LB's Michael Boley and Keith Brooking this offseason so a linebacker could be the choice.
25. Miami Dolphins- Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
Why: The Dolphins were wildly successful in drafting Jake Long number one overall a year ago. They could shore up the other side of the line with Britton.
How else could it go: If the Ronnie Brown rumors are true, they could be in the mix for a RB such as Moreno, Wells, or UConn's Donald Brown. Many people feel the Dolphins wideouts are sub-par so Harvin, Heyward-Bey, Britt, or Hakeem Nicks could be options here.
26. Baltimore Ravens- Darius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
Why: Quarterback Joe Flacco developed quicker than anyone anticipated and led the Ravens to the playoffs in his first year behind center. Getting him a playmaker is the team's top priority. Heyward-Bey is a local kid who has the best combination of size and speed in the draft.
How else could it go: If DHB gets scooped up early, they'll take the next highest rated WR on their board. Can't imagine them going anywhere but WR with this pick.
27. Indianapolis Colts- Evander "Ziggy" Hood, DT, Missouri
Why: After inconsistent defensive efforts a year ago, the Colts could use an interior pass rusher. They manage to get a lot of pressure from the outside with Mathis and Freeney, but need help from the inside. Hood has been flying up draft boards and could be the guy.
How else could it go: The Colts should be focused on the defensive side of the ball. Some of the top LB's should be gone by this spot, but if they slip, Colts could look LB.
28. Buffalo Bills- Brandon Pettigrew, TE, OSU
Why: They brought on troubled wideout Terrell Owens and look to have an imposing offense heading in to next season. If they could provide Trent Edwards with another big target, this team could be very dangerous next season.
How else could it go: With the offense looking imposing for next year, they could focus on defense. If they don't go with a hybrid rush end/LB early, they could in this spot.
29. New York Giants- Jason "Clint" Sintim, LB, UVA
Why: The USC backers should be off the board and Sintim is a big, physical player who flies downhill (perfect for the Giants system)
How else could it go: Clearly WR is a big need. I still think they'll manage to get Edwards or Boldin in a deal, or more likely, move up in the first round to get a higher rated wideout. If they stay put, Sintim is a bit of a reach and they may try to wait until their first pick of the second round to go after him.
30. Tennessee Titans- Hakeem Nicks, WR, UNC
Why: A proven commodity in the ACC who has slipped due to a questionable offseason that has included a massive weight gain. If he manages to get past all the teams in need of wide receivers, this is a no-brainer for the Titans.
How else could it go: If all of the first round graded wideouts are off the board, they could look at one of the top safeties on the board. None project as sure fire first rounders but Louis Delmas or Chip Vaughn.
31. Arizona Cardinals- Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut
Why: Tim Hightower couldn't steal the job from Edgerrin James last year, so there's no reason to believe he can handle the load this year. They need an every down back and Brown has become a hot commodity
How else could it go: I believe they go RB all the way. Pitt's LeSean McCoy is a strong possibility as well.
32. Pittsburgh Steelers- Alex Mack, C, California
Why: The Steelers don't have many needs and win their games in the trenches. Solidifying the middle of their line for years to come would be a good way to go.
How else could it go: As mentioned, this team doesn't have any pressing needs. They'll be able to take the best available. If any top talent takes a free fall, the Steelers will snatch them up. They may also trade out of the first round with a team like Chicago or Dallas who wants to get back in.
Why: With Brian Westbrook's durability issues, the Eagles are looking for a guy to share the load and eventually be an every down back. Moreno is thought to be the most-talented back in this year's draft. He'd be a good value in this spot.
How else could it go: This pick may be dealt. They've been tied to Anquan Boldin who, despite rumors that Arizona has lowered their asking price, may cost a 1st round pick. If they hold on to it and skip Moreno, Oklahoma State's Brandon Pettigrew could be an option to offer Donovan McNabb a security blanket.
22. Minnesota Vikings- Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
Why: This may be a reach for Britt, but the sting of Troy Williamson is still on the minds of Vikings fans. They'd prefer a bigger target who can stretch the field and Britt is that guy.
How else could it go: New management, maybe they also go for a diminutive speedster and look at Percy Harvin. Other receivers in the mix could be Hakeem Nicks and Darius Heyward-Bey. If they don't go for one of the skill positions, they could look at USC LB Brian Cushing.
23. New England Patriots- Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut
Why: Since the departure of Asante Samuel, the Pats have needed help in their secondary. Many reports have linked Belichick to Butler. The Pats are notoriously tight lipped so this may be a smoke screen.
How else could it go: The Pats also have a need to bolster their pass rush and are rumored to be looking to trade in to the top 10.
24. Atlanta Falcons- Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss
Why: After acquiring Tony Gonzalez earlier this week, they're out of the Brandon Pettigrew sweepstakes. The offense made great strides and they have young playmakers. They could use some help on the interior of their defensive line.
How else could it go: They have lost LB's Michael Boley and Keith Brooking this offseason so a linebacker could be the choice.
25. Miami Dolphins- Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
Why: The Dolphins were wildly successful in drafting Jake Long number one overall a year ago. They could shore up the other side of the line with Britton.
How else could it go: If the Ronnie Brown rumors are true, they could be in the mix for a RB such as Moreno, Wells, or UConn's Donald Brown. Many people feel the Dolphins wideouts are sub-par so Harvin, Heyward-Bey, Britt, or Hakeem Nicks could be options here.
26. Baltimore Ravens- Darius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
Why: Quarterback Joe Flacco developed quicker than anyone anticipated and led the Ravens to the playoffs in his first year behind center. Getting him a playmaker is the team's top priority. Heyward-Bey is a local kid who has the best combination of size and speed in the draft.
How else could it go: If DHB gets scooped up early, they'll take the next highest rated WR on their board. Can't imagine them going anywhere but WR with this pick.
27. Indianapolis Colts- Evander "Ziggy" Hood, DT, Missouri
Why: After inconsistent defensive efforts a year ago, the Colts could use an interior pass rusher. They manage to get a lot of pressure from the outside with Mathis and Freeney, but need help from the inside. Hood has been flying up draft boards and could be the guy.
How else could it go: The Colts should be focused on the defensive side of the ball. Some of the top LB's should be gone by this spot, but if they slip, Colts could look LB.
28. Buffalo Bills- Brandon Pettigrew, TE, OSU
Why: They brought on troubled wideout Terrell Owens and look to have an imposing offense heading in to next season. If they could provide Trent Edwards with another big target, this team could be very dangerous next season.
How else could it go: With the offense looking imposing for next year, they could focus on defense. If they don't go with a hybrid rush end/LB early, they could in this spot.
29. New York Giants- Jason "Clint" Sintim, LB, UVA
Why: The USC backers should be off the board and Sintim is a big, physical player who flies downhill (perfect for the Giants system)
How else could it go: Clearly WR is a big need. I still think they'll manage to get Edwards or Boldin in a deal, or more likely, move up in the first round to get a higher rated wideout. If they stay put, Sintim is a bit of a reach and they may try to wait until their first pick of the second round to go after him.
30. Tennessee Titans- Hakeem Nicks, WR, UNC
Why: A proven commodity in the ACC who has slipped due to a questionable offseason that has included a massive weight gain. If he manages to get past all the teams in need of wide receivers, this is a no-brainer for the Titans.
How else could it go: If all of the first round graded wideouts are off the board, they could look at one of the top safeties on the board. None project as sure fire first rounders but Louis Delmas or Chip Vaughn.
31. Arizona Cardinals- Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut
Why: Tim Hightower couldn't steal the job from Edgerrin James last year, so there's no reason to believe he can handle the load this year. They need an every down back and Brown has become a hot commodity
How else could it go: I believe they go RB all the way. Pitt's LeSean McCoy is a strong possibility as well.
32. Pittsburgh Steelers- Alex Mack, C, California
Why: The Steelers don't have many needs and win their games in the trenches. Solidifying the middle of their line for years to come would be a good way to go.
How else could it go: As mentioned, this team doesn't have any pressing needs. They'll be able to take the best available. If any top talent takes a free fall, the Steelers will snatch them up. They may also trade out of the first round with a team like Chicago or Dallas who wants to get back in.
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