Mel's Post Draft Analysis
Editors Notes:
While this is a review of the draft itself, I think
this is a great place to show some of the free agent signings and trades
that went on, while I won't grade trades or Free agent pickups, I'll try and
bring you as many as I see important enough to list here as editors notes,
after each teams Draft grade.
Arctic
Needs
Coming into this draft Arctic
had more holes to fill than they had picks. With a 10 year vet at QB, and
only 1 Poor backup. A QB of the future ranked as one of the
most important positions. This team also needed to improve their
backup FB situation, a 3rd option at WR, A backup center, A starting
guard, and starting tackle, a starting DT, and backups at the CB and S
positions. On special teams Goodburn had to go.
Conclusion
With it's first pick in the
draft, Arctic passed up future Hall of fame QB Jim Drucknmiller, and
Future Hall of Fame HB Mike Treadwell to grab future hall of fame CB
Leroy Donnalley. Donnalley not only solved the need for a backup,
but should come in an start right away, giving this team an even deeper
defensive backfield. With their 2nd pick they picked up DT Todd
Kilgore. Kilgore will come in and start right from week 1, and
shows signs that he could be a real star in the NPL. CB Sawyer
Jones was their third pick overall and 2nd pick in round 2. While
he will add even more depth to a very good defensive backfield, I have
to wonder what a Fullback like Mark Bryant or Stuart Rable would have
brought to this team. The 4th pick was QB Neville White, I
think White was undervalued in this draft and could prove to be a mover
at his position, He could probably be an adequate Starter next season,
but if Brooks hangs around 1 more season after this one, White should be
ready to take his place as a bonafide starter. OT Chris Mays was
the 5th pick for the Wild, and while I don't think he is a ready to
start at OT for this team yet, he could come in and start at guard for
them now. Willie West was their 6th pickup in this draft and he
seems like a perfect fit for a backup Center. Matter of fact even
though he is a little rough around the edges, I could see Arctic take a
chance on starting him at center and moving current Center Bryan Brooks
to tackle where he could excel. Their 7th pick DE Vernice Holloway
Gives them a good all around backup DL, that could give aging DT Pat
Terrell a run for his money this year. The last two picks saw them
replace inferior Punter and Kickers with slight upgrades. The only
areas I see Arctic falling short of their needs is WR and FB. All
in All I'd have to say Arctic did a fine Job.
GRADE:
B + |
Draft Choices
11 CB Leroy Donnalley
+19.6 + 20 + 34.2
73.8
25 DT Todd Kilgore
-35.4 + 20 + 12.7
- 2.7
29 CB Sawyer Jones
+17.6 + 5 +
12.2 34.8
47 QB Neville White
-20.4 + 10 -
13.3 - 23.7
61 OT Chris Mays
-43.3 + 20 +
3.0 - 20.3
65 OC Willie West
-36.3 + 10 -
25.0 - 51.3
83 DE Vernice Holloway
-15.6 + 10 -
0.3 - 5.9
101 K Allen Newton
-29.7 + 20
- 9.7
119 P Ted Conlan
-70.7 + 20
- 50.7
- 55.7 |
Area 51
Needs
Area 51 came into the draft
needing to address a lack of quality depth on the Offensive Line, as
well as a quality backup at FB, and needed Depth at Halfback. To
me defense should have been their key needs, requiring a backup DE, a
Starting DT, a Starting LB, and a backup safety.
Conclusion
A51 chose to trade their 1st
2nd Draft picks for veteran WR Johnson, while there is no doubt Johnson
is one of the best WRs in the game, what would have happened if this
team had of instead picked up a little more defensive help. HK
grabbed Rod Favre with the #17 pick, and Houston with the 34th pick
grabbed OT Lomas Berry. With their 1st pick in the draft, Area 51
went to work on OL depth by picking up OT Perry Bailey. Bailey
should move right into a backup job at least for this year and seems to
be a good bet to be a starter down the road. Their 2nd pickup WR
Tony Anders has me puzzled, true Anders is a good WR, but this team is
very Deep at WR, and Anders will more than likely be picking splinters
out of his butt for the next few seasons. Passing up players like
DE Holloway, DE Bellows, LB Koonce, and DT Winkler just did not make
since. Picking up S Lyle Hill could be the saving grace of this
draft for the Aliens Hill should come in and be a significant
contributor on D, perhaps even starting. With the 4th pick in the
draft they went right back to S and picked up Up Kendall Heyward, A
first glance it appears that maybe A51 went to the hill once to much,
but Heyward has shown some fine athleticism, if he can pick up a little
speed he may just become a starter down the road, right now he will get
a little work as a backup. And last on the list is HB David Hauck,
this reporter thinks Hauck does not fit the mold of a quality backup,
but maybe A51 has other plans. One would note he has decent hands,
and I feel this had something to do with his being grabbed.
GRADE:
C - |
Draft Choices
53 OT Perry Bailey
-27.4 + 10
- 4.0 - 21.4
71 WR Tony Anders
+11.7 + 0
- 22.6 - 10.9
89 S Lyle
Hill
+40.4 + 20 +
8.6 + 69.0
107 S Kendall Heyward
+40.3 + 5
- 2.3 + 43.0
125 HB David Hauck
- 1.7
- 38.8 - 40.5
39.2 |
Bangor
Needs
Bangor was another team that
had many holes to fill this Draft season, but was very short on Quality
picks. Needing a quality backup QB that could be groomed as a
starter, and Quality backups for at the RB positions. Banogr could
also use for some depth at OL, and quality backups at the receiver
positions. Their biggest needs are along the defensive front where
they could use a good Starting DT, and added depth in the overall DL.
A starting linebacker and Safety as well as a quality backup corner.
Conclusion
Bangor's First pick in this
draft was not really a surprise to anyone, but may not have been the
wisest choice Either. If Somics proves to be a starter then they
made a good decision, if not..... Passing up the likes of HB Mike
Treadwell, DT Bryan Williams, and DT Andre Purvis, has to be seen as a
big reach. Makes you wonder what Bangor was thinking about.
Grabbing TE Anthony Sumner with the 2nd pick has to be seen as a win win
situation. While Sumner may backup the aging Mitchell this year,
Sumner is a future all star Tight end. Their 3rd Pick Rod Payne
was one of the best OL in the draft, Payne can come in and start right
away and allow Ball to move to OT where he will dominate for years.
What really strengthened this draft crop for Bangor in my opinion was
the Drafting of HB Brian Girt. Girt had been overlooked by many
teams as there was some question of his speed, and endurance. But,
by the look of it, Girt is a future All pro HB taken in the 4th round.
Last on the list is WR Barry Wyatt Wyatt has some good upside, and
could prove very beneficial to this team with an aging WR talent base.
Overall I think Bangor did a good job with their draft though not
perfect.
GRADE:
B |
Draft Choices
18 LB Gavin
Somics -22.4
+ 20 + 34.1 + 26.7
21 TE Anthony
Sumner + 9.6 + 10
+ 8.3 + 27.9
35 OC Rod Payne
-14.4 + 20 -
15.0 - 9.4
67 HB Brian Girt
+26.7 + 10
- 22.0 + 14.7
103 WR Barry Wyatt
+19.3
- 32.2 - 12.9
+ 47.0 |
Barcelona
Needs
Barcelona came into this
draft needing a backup QB that could be groomed for the starting role, A
Backup FB, depth at HB, and like everyone else Depth in the OL.
Depth at WR, LB, DB, a backup DE and a starting tackle!
Conclusion
For their first pick in the
draft BAR selected OT Frank Ford. While Frank will be an
outstanding OT for them, I wonder if the teams future would have been
better served by picking up QB Jim Drucknmiller, or Future Stud RB Mike
Treadwell. It is true that you can't run without a line, but the
line likes to know there is a back that can make them look good in the
backfield. Barcelona's 2nd pick Was a very good one, Stewart Rable
will become a great back, and looks like he has the speed to play HB,
and be a very good one. Kudos on this pick. DE Les Ogglesby
picked up in the 4th round (BAR's 3rd pick) should be an excellent
backup this year, and work into a starting position down the road, which
is very good for Barcelona considering the age of their DE's.
Their 4th pick coming in the 5th round saw them grab up S Simon Hill,
Hill will need to put on some speed if he is gonna be anything more than
a special teams player. Perhaps DE Holloway, S Lyle Hill, or WR
Newton Way would have been a better choice here. FB Harvey Jones
was their last pick (#5) taken in the 6th round. When you get to
the 6th and 7th rounds, it is a crap shoot, you either look good or you
don't. Jones is the exception to this rule. Though first
appearing to be to slow to play FB at this level, he has very good
skills, and is a powerful blocker on top of it all. If he works
hard he could be a serviceable FB......
Grade:
B - |
Draft Choices
8 OT Frank
Ford -38.4
+ 20 + 46.0
+ 27.6
32 FB Stewart
Rabble +20.6 + 5
+ 12.2 + 37.8
62 DE Les
Ogglesby - 4.3
+ 10 - 5.3
+ 0.4
80 S Simon
Hale + 41.4
+ 18.8 + 60.2
98 FB Harvey
Jones + 20.3
- 1.4 + 18.9
+ 144.9 |
Carolina
Needs
Carolina was a team with Deep
needs coming into this Draft. Backup QB, Backup TE, and a Stud
Linebacker were a the top of the Offensive Coordinators list. As
all other teams OL depth was also a major concern, especially with the
age of this teams OL. On the Defensive side They needed starters
at almost every position.
Conclusion
Carolina wasted no time
addressing their Defensive needs when they took DE Sheldon Jones as the
4th player in the draft. Jones should develop into one of the most
feared DL in the league, if he is not already in that spot. In the
2nd Round they once again addressed a weakness at DT by taking DT Andre
Purvis. With Decent Speed, explosiveness and athleticism, Purvis
could make an excellent Right DE, I don't think he is suited for a
tackle. And interesting Idea would be to line Purvis up as Right
DE, and Move Jones to tackle (Man what a tackle he would be). 3rd
Pick Vitto Riccio has the tools to be a great WR. I think this was
a very good pick. Their 4th selection CB Floyd Conklin,
Conklin in my opinion is Backup Material he will have to improve his
Athleticism quite a bit to be even a nickel back. For Carolina's
5th selection they took LB Fred Koonce. Koonce looks like he will
be a very solid Lb down the road, and added great depth to the Carolina
LB Troops. If he continues to develop he might make an all-pro LB
someday. The Pirates 6th selection was HB Nelson Boyde, This guy
seemed on paper to be a good selection, but many questions have come up
regarding his athleticism, he will need great improvement in this area
to ever be much of a contributor, this is a pick that I am not sold on.
Carolina picked up Offensive tackle with their last pick, Grant is not a
bad pick for the seventh rounds, and shows some promise. He will
have to work on his overall foot speed and explosiveness to become a
starter, but seems to have the other tools necessary.
GRADE:
B+ |
Draft Choices
4 DE
Sheldon Jones - 11.4 + 20
+ 43.7 + 52.3
22 DT Andre
Purvis - 13.4 + 20
+ 29.0 + 62.4
58 WR Vitto
Riccio + 26.7 + 20
+ 19.3 + 66.0
60 CB Floyd
Conklin + 26.7
+ 5.3 + 32.0
76 LB Fred Koonce
+ 7.4 + 20
+ 11.6 + 39.0
94 HB Nelson
Boyde + 44.3 + 10
- 13.3 + 40.0
109 OT Webster Grant
- 34.7 + 20
- 9.8 - 24.5
267.2 |
Hong Kong
Needs
The NPL champs come in with
quite a few holes to fill especially on the defensive side of the ball.
On offense they need a Quality backup QB, Backup FB, HB, and backups in
the OL. On D they need an entire new starting DL, Starting LB,
Starting CB, and backups at most of those positions, plus Safety.
Their special teams also could use a shot in the arm with a new kicker
and punter.
Conclusion
Hong Kong went right to work
on their D needs when they grabbed up CB William Williams with the 7th
pick in the draft. A pick they obtained from Russia at a steep
price. But this guy can play, he is truly an elite CB, and HK will
make plenty of use of his talents. Their 2nd pick in the first rod
nabbed them DE Rod Favre, Favre is already showing signs of just how
explosive he can be on defense, and he should make a big impact in his
career. In the 2nd Round HK went back to work on D by grabbing DT
Bryan Mitchell, Mitchell is a powerful run stopper and possesses enough
speed to cause some damage as a pass rusher as well. In the 3rd
round HK called HB Chris Taylor, Taylor seems to be a bust, to
slow to play HB and not strong enough to play FB, he does have some
upsides though, with great hands and Good conditioning. Hong Kong could
have made better use out of this pick by drafting HB Brian Girt, or WR
Newton Way. One of the biggest steals of the draft has to be FB
Mark Bryant, Bryant is an obvious first round draft choice taken in the
4th round. He is versatile enough to play either halfback or
Fullback, though to be a consistent blocking back he needs to put on a
little more bulk. In the 4th round HK Landed DT Trey Vlassic,
Vlassic seems like a real good player, the real question is where does
he fit on the HK line, and how much playing time will he get? The
other question is how much better would they have been grabbing WR
Newton Way, HB Brian Girt, DT Floyd Winkler, DT Lonnie Cadwell, or DE
Vernice Holloway. Don't get me wrong, Vlassic is a good pickup,
but these guys might have been better. Their 2nd pick in the 4th
round garnered them LB Darryl Williams. I just can't make up my
mind about Williams, he is a tad bit slow, but he has many upsides.
Once again some of the names mentioned above would have been a
much better fit, I just can't see Williams improving speed wise enough
to make a difference. HB Randy Zolak was taken in the 5th round,
and while this guy has a few flaws, one thing he has is Hong Kong Speed.
If he grows he will be an excellent backup HB, and I have to say this
was a much better pick than Taylor in the 3rd. Hong Kong ups their
draft rating with a strong pick of S Emile Disher, Disher is a true
Safety whereas current starter Mark Moss is not! I look for Disher
to take over a starting role on this D perhaps as early as next season.
John Parker was taken in the 6th round and seems to have wont he battle
for the backup QB spot. There were a couple other players that HK
might have gone trolling for here, but backup QB position was one that
concerned them, and if Parker Matures he should be good. CB Jackie
Zilkoski became one of their two picks in the 7th round, and Zilkoski
shows signs that he could be good down the road. With aging Chad
Ruttledge still in the starting lineup, Zilkoski does not need to be
rushed into service, which is good since his hands need some improvement
before he can take on those top flight WR's in this league. Last
but not least is Troy Tjader at one time seen as the Leader for the
backup Job, Tjader has all the tools to be a decent backup at one time,
as I have said previously 7th round picks are your mixed grab bag, you
get what you get.
GRADE:
A |
Draft Choices
7 CB William
Williams + 31.6 + 20
+ 35.0 + 86.6
17 DE Rod Favre
- 13.4 + 20
+ 52.3 + 58.9
23 DT Bryan Mitchell
- 11.4 + 20 + 25.6
+ 57.0
49 HB Chris Taylor
+ 9.6
- 10.8 - 1.2
52 FB Mark Bryant
+ 38.6 + 10 + 31.3
+ 79.9
64 DT Trey Vlassic
- 6.3 + 10
+ 8.6 + 12.3
72 LB Darryl Williams
+ 2.7 + 10 +
16.3 + 29.0
90 HB Randy Zolak
+ 12.4 + 5
- 26.8 - 9.4
108 S Emile Disher
+ 54.3 + 5 +
9.5 + 68.8
116 QB John Parker
- 1.7 + 10 -
17.3 - 9.0
122 CB Jackie Zilkoski
+ 29.3 + 5 -
26.0 + 8.3
126 QB Troy Tjader
- 7.7 + 5
- 23.3 - 26.0
355.2 |
Houston
Needs
After a disappointing
campaign, Houston's needs were many. A backup QB, FB, much needed
depth at HB, A backup TE, #2 option at WR, backup OC, Starting OG, and
Starting OT. On the defensive side they are in dire need of a
Starting DE, backup DT, youth at LB, Starting CB, and Starting Safety.
Conclusion
At first glance, Houston's
first pick seems to have been a mistake, but make no mistake about it,
Brian Deary is going to be an excellent WR, and a good choice for
Houston. With great hands, a motor that can run all day, and very
good pass route precision, Deary just needs to add a step to his get
along, and he'll be ready for prime time play. Their 2nd pickup OC
Lorenzo Kentucky was also a very wise pick. This guy could
probably start at any position along the Offensive line, and should be a
great asset for this team. Houston opted to increase their OL
depth again with the pickup of OT Lomas Berry. Berry is a bull of
a man, and only needs to work on his footwork to become a very good
lineman, heck with a little work he could play center. Houston's
4th pick produced TE Eugene Bader, Bader has all the ear-markings of a
great TE, and you can't overlook that average yards per catch, and TD to
reception ratio he had in college. After sewing up Offensive
needs, Houston turned to Defense, CB was a weak spot for this team and
that area was improved with Houston's 5th pick CB Tommie May, May
looks to be a fine addition to this team and could play nickel for them
this year, stepping into the starting role next season. Their 6th
pick saw them take another good Corner John Brooks, Brooks should fill
in nicely this year, and with a little work move up the depth chat next
season. Still working on defense, the Rebels chose DT Floyd
Winkler for their next pick. Winkler Possesses good Athleticism
for a big man, and that should allow him to start right away for this
team. In the 95th spot Houston took K Steve Lewis, with an aging
but very talented kicker, this pick could go either way. Giving
them a good replacement for the future, but I wonder if S Emile Disher,
or HB Dino Eugene would not have been a better pick for them. My
Philosophy, don't place kickers unless you have to! Rodney Carhart
was the last pick in the draft for the Rebels. Carhart is a very
good blocker, and a good pass receiver, and he should add something to
this team. Overall I have to say that I think Houston had a Strong
Draft presence, and this is a team looking to do well in the future.
GRADE:
A- |
Draft Choices
5 WR Brian Deary
- 4.4 + 20 +
3.2 + 18.8
31 OC Lorenzo Kentucky
- 27.4 + 20 - 1.0
- 8.4
34 OT Lomas Berry
- 46.4 + 20 - 11.7
- 38.1
41 TE Eugene Bader
+ 26.6 + 20 + 14.5
+ 61.1
59 CB Tommie May
+ 23.7 + 20 + 12.7
+ 64.4
70 CB John Brooks
- 0.3 + 10 -
11.3 - 1.6
77 DT Floyd Winkler
- 11.6 + 20 -
7.0 + 1.4
95 K Steve
Lewis + 2.3
+ 20 + 22.0
+ 44.3
113 FB Rodney Carhart
+ 32.3 + 10 -
2.7 + 39.6
+ 181.5 |
Lubbock
Needs
Lubbock came into the
off-season as a team seeking Identity. With 8 year pro Berwick at
the helm, they needed a Backup QB that could be groomed as a starter.
Backup Fullback, Starting HB, Blocking TE, an impact WR, Depth at OL was
also in demand. On Defense Backups in the DL, and a starting LB
would really hit the spot.
Conclusion
Lubbock came in with great
Draft position, 2nd in the draft to Philadelphia. After Philly
took QB Fran Glenn, the smiles came out on Lubbock's faces. It
took them about two seconds to get their pick in HB Dave Davis.
Davis is a TRUE impact player, and if Lubbock didn't have another pick
in the draft, I'd give them an A just for getting this guy. Their
second pick however, WR Malcolm Ashbaugh has to be seen as a big let
down. When you get a guy in the 2nd round, you expect that he will
challenge for a starting role, and if he does not get it, at least be a
significant contributor. As of right now neither of those things
are going to happen for Ashbaugh. Coaches have stated that lack of
athleticism and natural hands are going to hamper this WR, one thing
Ashbaugh does have is great acceleration, and that may keep him on this
team as a special teamer, one has to wonder why they passed up WR's such
as Vito Riccio, Newton Way, and Tony Anders for this clunker.
Lubbock's third pick was CB Andree Mcgee this could also be seen as a
questionable call. While Mcgee looks to have a long career in NPL,
he is not ready yet. However Lubbock has two aging Veterans in the
defensive backfield, and could use a boost of youth. OT Dirk
Riesenberg was the next selection for this team, and this time Dave
Davis was smiling, this brute of a man is already the strongest OL on
the team, and will come in and start immediately at guard for this team.
Lubbock continued on the strategy of building a line to let Davis do his
thing with their next selection G Wesley Everett. This versatile
guard has quickly made the transition to C where he will start this
season. With their 6th pick, Lubbock chose DT Shane Stegall,
the Jury is still out on Stegall, he seems to lack the Bulk to play
inside and the speed to play outside, however the coaches say he is
working hard and will make the cut. Last up the 7th pick was OT
Mark Swires, Swires like Riesenberg has been moved to OG and will start.
Any time you can bring in a 7th round OL pick and have him start it says
one of two things about your team, one you made a great pick up in the
7th, or two, your OL was in sad shape. I think both would fit
here! Overall Lubbock made a couple questionable decisions, but
the pickup of HB Davis, and the rebuilding of the offensive line was a
great start to a great future for this club. The missed out on
several key areas, Impact WR, Starting LB, Backup FB, and most
importantly a QB of the future.
Grade:
B |
Draft Choices
2 HB Dave
Davis + 30.6
+ 20 + 73.0
+ 123.6 20 WR Malcolm
Ashbaugh + 0.6 + 10
- 5.0 + 5.6 38 CB Andree
McGee + 24.6
- 6.2 + 18.4 56 OT Dirk
Riesenberg - 40.3 + 20
+ 5.7 + 14.4 74 OG Wesley
Everett - 31.6 + 20
+ 25.7 + 14.6 92 DT
Shane Stegall - 4.7
+ 20 + 5.0
+ 20.3 110 OT Mark
Swires - 24.7
+ 20 + 4.7
0.0
+ 196.9 |
New Jersey
Needs
Jersey was one game away from
a conference Championship last season, and with a young and talented
squad, a god draft could put them back where they wish to be. To
further their goals they could use a backup HB, & TE, but their real
needs are offensive lineman that could come in and start right away.
On defense a backup DL, and LB, along with a nickel back could
strengthen their lineup. And last A starting Punter.
Conclusion
With Jersey's 1st pick in the
draft #14, they grabbed up C Ed Cole. Cole has all the makings of
a great offensive lineman, possibly the best in this draft. This
pick alone has done wonders for the New Jersey franchise. However,
Coles would not play center for me. This guy would quickly move to
Tackle where he could really dominate. Jersey's 2nd pick has to be
seen as the 2nd WR bust in this draft. Heyward will never be more
than a cheap talking, hanger on, he is a 5th option at best for this
team, If I had been Jersey I would have gone right back to the well and
picked up OC Rod Payne. Their third player taken #68 Overall was
Mark Bayless. I think Bayless is a fine pickup adding much needed
depth to DL, and will grow into a good DE in a couple years. And
with an aging McAllister this was a perfect fit. DT Adam Johnson
was picked up in the 5th round, and once again he should add some depth
to the DL, though there were several strong safeties that could have
also helped this team. Lorenzo Graves was the final pick in the
draft for Jersey, and I am not sure Graves has the upside to make this
team. Overall I would have to say the rookie coach did well for
his first draft, and he should do better with a little more experience.
GRADE:
C |
Draft Choices
14 OC Ed Cole
- 25.4 + 20 + 40.3
+ 34.9
26 WR Freddie
Heyward - 1.4 + 10
- 0.1 + 8.5
68 DE Mark Bayless
- 28.3 + 10 + 18.3
0.0
86 DT Adam
Johnson - 30.6 + 10
+ 14.8 - 5.8
104 LB Lorenzo Graves
+ 22.3 + 10 + 18.3
+ 50.6
+ 88.2 |
Oakland
Needs
Oakland comes in a team
looking for a Quality backup at QB, along with needed depth at HB.
A quality backup at TE, along with Depth at OL, preferably a starter.
On the D side of the ball, this team really needed help on the DL bad.
and a Starting Safety.
Conclusion
Oakland elected to go after
veteran leadership and traded most of their picks to get it. Their
first pick in the draft was K Alan Hollifield. I have to say this
pick shocked me, Their current kicker had all the ear-markings of
greatness, but a sub performance, was apparently too much for Oakland,
and with Hollifield (the best kicker in the draft) still on the board,
Oakland made their move. The Raiders picked up DT Alan Zorich in
the 5th round as their 2nd pick. While Zorich does not seem to
possess the ST to play DT, nor the speed to play DE, his overall
quickness and athleticism should result in him seeing plenty of playing
time this season, if he continues to work hard, he could be a real good
pickup for this team. Last on the picklist for Oakland was DT
Quincy Stark. As I see it Stark is just a body, and nothing more,
a Free Agent pickup like DT Bob Sharpe might be a much better choice.
GRADE:
C |
Draft Choices
43 K Alan
Hollifield - 11.4
+ 20
+ 8.6
79 DT Alan Zorich
- 37.6
- 4.0 - 41.6
97 DT Quincy Stark
- 63.7
- 6.3 - 70.0
- 103.0 |
Oklahoma
Needs
Oklahoma was a premiere team
in the NPL last season, the question was could they keep it up?
With an aging roster, youth is a necessity at many positions. On
offense backups at QB, HB, FB, TE, will really pave the way for future
years. While a starting WR is needed now. On the line, a
Starting Guard, and backup T. On Defense this is a team with many
holes on the defensive front, and with the amount of blitzing this team
does a 4th LB would be very helpful. They also could use a nickel
back, and a Starting Safety. Another team that could also use a
starting Punter.
Conclusion
Oklahoma was another team
that decided to trade for experienced players instead of rookies.
Their first pick Brad Ayers was taken in the 5th round. Ayers was
a real good pickup for Oklahoma and this guy could actually see himself
as a starting Free Safety or no less than a dime back by Regular season
time my hat is off to Oklahoma for making this find. OKL followed
that up with taking CB Bill Tebbs in the 6th. Again I think this
was a fine choice, with two aging CB's in front of him, Tebbs is
destined to play Nickel this year, and should have a shot at working
into the lineup in a couple more seasons. OKL then proceeded to
pick up OC Dave Miller with their 1st pick in the 7th round.
Miller has a lot of Growing to do to make it in this league, the
question is does he have that type of potential? I like my Centers
Strong, I'd probably be more inclined to cut this guy and Sign a guy
like T Chris McMillian as my backup. Their last pick was LB Roger
Klingbeil, The Real question mark on Klingbeil, is his speed, when
offensive lineman pass you in the sprints, you know you are in trouble.
Klingbeil has some upsides, but his one downside is a big one.
GRADE:
C |
Draft Choices
88 S Brad
Ayers + 33.4
+ 10 + 6.2
+ 49.6
106 CB Bill Tebbs
- 0.7 + 10 -
27.0 - 17.7
121 OC Dave Miller
- 14.7 + 10 - 31.0
- 35.7
124 LB Roger Klingbeil
+ 0.3 + 10 -
0.2 + 10.1
+ 6.3 |
Philadelphia
Needs
Memphis/ Philadelphia holds
team records for consecutive losses in one season, They knew
coming into the draft, that they need two things to get on the winning
track, Talent (and lots of it) and Coaching. With a QB in the
declining years of his career, Philly needed a Goto guy to run their
offense. They also needed starting options at both HB, and FB.
a backup TE, and a impact WR were also high on the agenda. like
most teams depth at OL was also a consideration. On the defensive
side of the ball this team needed a Starting DE, backup DT, youth at
Linebacker, youth at CB, and a backup Safety.
Conclusion
When Philadelphia announced
they were going to pick HB Dave Davis with the first pick in the draft,
no one was surprised. When they took QB Fran Glenn a few people
were surprised, especially Lubbock that was going to take Glenn.
Fran Glenn is a FRANCHISE quarterback. He will be great for the
next 12 years in this league. Hong Kong has made it clear they
would love to have this guy in their lineup, and that's with Bracken
already there. Their 2nd pickup is still an amazement to me, how
the heck did Mike Treadwell fall to the 2nd round? This is
amazing to me, Philly passes up the best HB in the draft to take the
best QB in the draft and then turns around and gets the 2nd best HB in
the draft with the 1st pick in the 2nd round, WOW. With their
third pick in the draft Philly took I love this pick as well, Cobb will
be a very good WR in this league, and is already showing signs of that
now. Their 4th selection brought FB Keith Myss to the lineup. Many
people look at Myss as being too slow, but This kid has more upsides
than a Amusement Roller Coaster, with few of the downsides. Sure
he is not lightning, but the Kid can catch, Block, and is in great
shape. I predict he will be a star in 2 - 3 seasons. TE
Brandon Williams was picked up with pick #73, Williams was another
player overlooked because of speed issues, but he will be a good TE.
Turning to the defensive side, Philly picked up S Upton Dupriest with the 85th pick in the draft. No Offensive player in the draft wants
to be hit by this guy. He will hit you like a train wreck.
Dupriest will be a solid cover guy with some more work, but right now
put that sucked on Special Teams, and on run support, and watch him do
his thing. OG Joshua Turner was Phillies last pick in the draft.
Turner is another 7th round OL, that can play the game of football.
Overall I think this team had a monster draft, and give them another
year to develop these young guys, plus fresh blood next season and they
will be a power to be reckoned with
GRADE:
A+ |
Draft Choices
1 QB Fran Glenn
+ 31.6 + 20 + 22.0
+ 73.6
19 HB Mike Treadwell
+ 16.6 + 10 - 15.0
+ 11.6
37 WR Judd Cobb
+ 13.6 + 20 +
7.2 + 43.8
55 FB Keith Myss
+ 34.7 + 10 + 16.0
+ 60.7
73 TE Brandon Williams
+ 34.4 + 10 + 8.0
+ 52.2
85 S Upton
Dupriest + 11.4 + 10
- 12.8 + 8.6
91 OG Joshua Turner
- 1.7 + 20 -
8.5 - 9.8
+ 240.7 |
Pittsburgh
Needs
Pittsburgh started off slow
last year and made a few adjustments to end the season with a good
finish. Adding a little more talent to Defense could make this
team go over the top in 2003. Pitt came in looking for a Backup FB,
A starting HB to replace aging Ellis, A backup Tight End, Starting
Center, and youth at guard. Their big holes are on the defensive
end of the ball, where they need depth in the DL, Starting Linebackers,
Backup CB, and Starters at Safety and the all important Kicker.
Conclusion
Their first pick in the draft
netted them HB Anton McIntyre, the 3rd rated HB, I wonder why they
overlooked Treadwell here, but McIntyre should be a great replacement to
Benny Ellis. If their is a weak spot in McIntyre's game right now it has
to be athleticism, he needs to work on those agility drills to make him
the dominant back Pitt was looking for, but make no mistakes, McIntyre
is for real. The 2nd grab was S Yuri McElroy, I like McElroy, many
coaches would probably disagree witht his, but I think Yuri is the best
S on the team. Any time you can get a S that can turn like Yuri,
possesses great hands, can hit like a ton of TNT, and is a member of
mensa on top of all that, I say PLAY THIS GUY, forget the speed he will
improve. Their third choice was QB Mike Tool, I just don't like
this pick! You have Karl Kraven, and Myron Byrd, grab a free agent
to be QB3 don't waste a pick on it. Much better choices for this
team would have been HB Brian Girt, Wr Vitto Riccio, WR Newton Way, just
to name a few. For their fourth selection Pitt chose WR Jeff Wilks,
I don't get this pick either Wilks is a born looser, and Pitt already
ahs the best WR corps in the league, grab something more useful like, S
upton Dupriest, S Brad Ayers, or if you really wanted a WR, WR Newton
Way. Pick #100 for the draft belonged to Pitt and they selected DE
Jock Canham, Canham will add needed depth to a DL that could really use
it. The 6th pick for Pitt produced TE Steve Bush Bush is not
really known for his receiving skills, but should make a fine Blocking
Tight End. Pitts last choice was S Arnold O'Shea. O'Shea
just doesn't fit my fancy, he is too slow, too weak, and not in very
good shape, Chris Holmes lingering in FA would be a much better pickup.
Pitt had some great moments and some bad ones in this draft. but
overall they have improved their team where it needed it.
GRADE:
B- |
Draft Choices
10 HB Anton McIntyre
+ 7.6 + 10 +
22.5 + 40.1
28 S Yuri McElroy
+ 32.4 + 20 + 41.8
+ 94.2
46 QB Mike Tool
- 26.4
- 14.7 - 41.3
82 WR Jeff Wilks
- 0.6
- 41.3 - 41.9
100 DE Jack Canham
- 14.7 + 10 -
8.0 - 12.7
112 TE Steve Bush
+ 3.3
- 51.5 - 66.2
118 S Arnold O'Shea
+ 30.3 + 10 +
0.8 - 27.8
- 55.6 |
Reno
Needs
Reno had a great year last
year, when setting out to evaluate their talent, I was shocked that this
team may have as many or more holes than any team in the league.
This started me to wondering what Reno would do if they got talent!
To that end, Reno needed a Starting QB badly, and could also use
Starters at FB, and HB, this is not a team that runs much, but at least
with some talent at HB, they could threaten with the run. Backups
could also be used at the TE and WR positions. Their line is a
real mess, needing starters and backups at almost every position.
On Defense, some depth at DL, and Linebacker would be helpful as well.
This team could also use several starters in the defensive backfield, as
well as new kicker, and punter. That's a lot for one draft.
Conclusion
Reno Grabbed the 2nd best QB
in the draft, and an instant 4000 yard passer for them when they took
Jim Drucknmiller in the 1st round. I am really surprised Druck
lasted this long, and discussions between Bangor and Hong Kong during
the draft made it clear if he slipped to 17 or 18 they would add him to
their rosters without hesitation, he didn't. With a team
that liked to throw like Reno, this guy could have an allpro season.
In the 2nd round, Reno grabbed up S Bubba Bolden, Bolden is a playmaker,
Reno needs to find a way to get him on the field. His #'s may seem
a little low, but the guy can play football. Give him a couple
years to season, and he will be phenomenal. In the 3rd round Reno
took P Nels Harris (A punter in the third round?) when I saw this
I thought Reno had lost their mind, after talking with Reno coach, it
seemed a must pick. With no pick in the 4th, Reno knew Harris
would not make it to the 15 pick in the 5th round, so it was now or
never. To put it bluntly Nels Harris is an offensive weapon
in his own right, heck he is a defensive weapon too. You have to
love a guy that can Boom those deep balls when you are backed up in your
end of the field, and turn around and get the coffin corners to pin your
opponents deep in their end. This guy could be the reason Reno
wins it's division again this season. WR Fred Flaming became
Reno's pick in the 5th round. Flaming adds much needed youth to
the WR corps, and with a couple seasons under his belt will be a
fine WR. In the 6th round Reno took LB Kevin Williams.
Williams should be a fine addition to this team and give them some much
needed depth, and a significant contributor in his first season.
Lastly in the 7th round Reno grabbed FB Dallas McGhee this was
another great pick, McGhee is a 7th rounder that is actually fighting
for a starting job. Overall I like Reno's choices, but wonder if
they couldn't have grabbed a little help at OL.
GRADE:
B |
Draft Choices
15 QB Jim
Drucknmiller + 3.6 + 20
+ 28.0 + 51.6
33 S
Bubba Bolden + 11.6 + 20
+ 19.2 + 50.8
51 P
Nels Harris
- 39.4 + 20 + 20.0
+ 0.6
87 WR Fred
Flaming + 10.4 +
5 - 26.2
- 15.3
105 LB Kevin Williams
- 23.7
- 43.7 - 67.4
123 FB Dallas McGhee
+ 33.3 + 20 + 24.3
+ 77.6
+ 97.9 |
Russian
Needs
If Russia was a damn, we
would all be flooded, this team has more holes than a fly swatter.
You name it, they need it, This team needs a Youth QB to be
groomed for a starting role very shortly. The could also use
backups at both RB positions. Starters at TE, and Starter(s) at WR
also should be on the top of the list. Talking about an OL with
holes, Russians needed at least 3 out of 5 starting positions. On
Defense A Starting DE, and Starting DT, along with backups at the LB,
and Defensive backfield positions.
Conclusion
The Russians made me smile
when they took WR Phil Blades with their first pick of the draft, good
thing too, as HK might have taken them if they had not. Blades is
a fine WR, and should lead the Russians for years. The Russians
2nd pick was DE Allen Mitchell. Mitchell while not the equal of
Sheldon Jones his DE mate in college, is a fine Starting DE.
Continuing on Defense, the Russians took the best LB in the draft Shaun
Sacks. Sacks is smart, well disciplined, and a good tackler, put
him at Mike where he belongs and watch him dominate. With their
4th selection in the first round, the Russians took LB LeRoy Glover
(WHY Russians Why?) Remember this Offense.......A good offense
will give your team the opportunity to be #1 in D as well as all those D
players, Take Sacks, Take Glover, but not both. How Many Reasons
can I name for you to have chosen offense with this pick! Let's
See 1) Mike Treadwell, 2) Brian Girt, 3) Newton Way, 4) Vitto
Riccio, 5) well it goes on and on.
Don't get me wrong, Glover is a great LB, but Russians did not need two
of them. finally picking in the 2nd round, The Russians went after
WR Chris Seals There were probably better choices, but I think Chris
Seals will be a fine WR down the road.
OT Tom Phillips was the Russians pick in the 3rd round, and he should be
a starter for many years to come. S Jeremy Eastburn was grabbed
also in the 3rd round, Eastburn is another hitter, and should be a
decent player, but once again I have to say GO OFFENSE, grab another WR,
or Grab another OL, but grab something. The Russians made Clarence
Knoll Fullback their third pick in the 3rd round. Knoll is a great
pick up for this franchise, he can come in and start this season for
them and possesses all the tools to be a very good FB. In the 4th
round the Russians snagged TE Torrence Lyden, Lyden is a superb blocking
tight end that has great hands, while he will never be a great receiver
because of speed sneak him out a few times and he could grab a first
down or two for this team. Clarence bellows got called by the
Russians in the 5th round, and you know what I won't argue with this
pick, HK would love to have him right now. I still think Russians
are going away from O to much, but this guy is a player. In the
7th round The Russians first called up TE Cole Brothers, Brothers is
more of a Slow WR than a TE, and perhaps another OL at this point would
not have hurt their chances! And last but not least CB Robert
Aguiar got his name called. Aguiar shows some promise, but I still
say OL. While I can't agree
with all of the Russians picks, they certainly added some talent to a
mal-nourished team. One can only wait to see what they can do with
them.
GRADE:
B+ |
Draft Choices
6 WR Phill Blades
+ 5.6 + 20 +
33.3 + 58.9
9 DE Allen
Mitchell - 18.4
+ 20 + 50.7
+ 52.3
13 LB Shaun Sacks
+ 3.6 + 20 +
46.7 + 70.3
16 LB LeRoy Glover
- 10.4 + 20 + 32.7
+ 42.3
24 WR Chris Seals
- 6.4 + 5
+ 0.3 - 1.1
40 OT Tom Phillips
- 24.4 + 20 + 24.0
+ 19.6
42 S Jeremy
Eastburn + 31.6 + 10
+ 1.7 + 43.3
45 FB Clarence
Knoll + 17.6 + 20
+ 1.5 + 39.1
69 TE Torrence
Lyden - 0.3 + 20
+ 6.0 + 26.3
78 DE Clarence
Bellows - 20.6 + 10
- 1.3 - 11.9
96 P Scott
Mersereau - 57.7 + 20
+ 0.3 - 37.4
114 TE Cole Brothers
+ 13.3 + 10 +
3.0 + 26.3
115 CB Robert Aguiar
+ 13.3 + 5
- 32.4 - 14.1
+ 287.6 |
Seattle
Needs
Seattle missed the playoffs
by 1 game last season, and was looking to restock for the upcoming
season, to that end they needed a backup QB, youth at FB, a Backup to
Handley at HB, and a backup TE. Biggest n the offensive list had
to be a #3 option at WR. Once again Depth at OL would be helpful.
On the defensive side it is a different story this team needs immediate
Starters on the DL, at LB, and at DB. Likewise special teams could
use some brand new kicker/punters.
Conclusion
With no 1st round pick,
Seattle grabbed up LB John Wilkerson with the #27 pick in the draft.
Wilkerson is an extremely intelligent player, with good athleticism and
playmaking abilities. At this point in his career he needs to pick
up a couple steps, and develop some endurance to become a premier LB.
He should help Seattle immensely this year. With the 50th
selection, Seattle took Guard Mark Ambrose. Ambrose is a player
with very good speed and explosiveness, but lacks the physical strength
in the upper body to drive defenders off, he will most likely be a role
player this year, helping on the pass blocking, if he can add muscle he
can be a long time starter of the future. In the 4th round,
Seattle called FB Jerry Russell's name as the 63rd pick in the draft.
Russell has great blocking skills and is a natural inside runner, his
knocks are conditioning, and Speed. But Russell is not a player
that needs to play right away with 2 veteran FB's in front of him,
If Seattle has the patience he should turn into a good FB. In the
5th round Seattle took a chance on DE David Mlot. Mlot is an
imposing figure at 6'2" 308 pounds, but he really does not stand out
much on the field. However Seattle really has no DT that stand out
very much. Perhaps they could have been better off drafting help
at WR, where Newton Way would have been the perfect fit.
Linebacker Clifton Kirby was their next selection (pick #99) Kirby's
best features are his speed, though he needs lots of work in strength
drills. Perhaps Seattle sees a Blitzer in him, as he would have
trouble bring down most of the elite running backs in this league.
Perhaps pursuing a Safety like Emile Disher would have been a better
pick here. S David Frank was their last pick up, and as 7th
rounders go he is not bad. He can hit like so many of the rookie
Safeties, but most improve his overall foot-speed and turning abilities
to be a real player.
GRADE:
C |
Draft Choices
27 LB John
Wilkerson + 2.6 +
20 + 29.6
+ 52.2
50 OG Mark
Ambrose - 29.4 + 20
+ 46.3 + 36.9
63 FB Jerry
Russell + 20.7
+ 5 -
1.3 + 24.7
81 DE David Mlot
- 55.6 + 5
- 0.3 - 50.9
99 LB Clifton
Kirby - 1.7
- 15.4 - 17.1
117 S David Frank
+ 19.3 + 5
- 2.0 + 22.3
+ 68.1 |
Tampa Bay
Needs
Tampa Bay is another playoff
team looking to stock up on young talent, to hopefully propel the team
to the next level. To that end, Tampa needs a Feature back, not
taking anything away from Super Overachiever Tapp, but he is not a
feature back and never will be. Also a backup FB, youth at TE, a
3rd option at WR , and a couple impact players in the OL. On the D
side of things a Backup DE and starting DT would fit the order
perfectly. Also a Starting corner and more depth at DB overall
Conclusion
Tampa Bay started off the
Draft with a boom grabbing the best DT in the draft Gary Parsons with
the #12 pick. Parsons is everything you want in a DT, aggressive,
Strong, Smart, and never quits. Heck a little more speed and he
could be everything you want in a DE........The Next Grab for Tampa was
TE Corey VanDyne with the #30 pick The instant reviewer said this
looked like a slight reach, I don't think so, Vandyne is going to be a
hall of fame TE trust me! This was a big piece to the Tampa
Puzzle! Their third round selection was HB George Mueller, many
teams passed on this guy because of his apparent lack of speed, maybe he
isn't a halfback, but he can sure be a great fullback. Lee Millard
became The Armadillos 2nd pick in the third round. Millard should
be a fine receiver that will move up in the depth chart in a couple
years. The 4th round saw Tampa take S Danny Byner, Byner
will add value depth to the DB corp of the Armadillos, and should be a
staple player for years to come. He is also another of the big
hitting Safeties available in this draft. What to me was the
absolute STEAL of the draft came with the 84th pick in the draft when
Tampa took WR Newton Way, the scouts sure missed the boat on this
kid, Way is headed for Stardom, and might already be there. This
is the type of player you dream about getting in the 1st round, much
less the 5th. If Tampa made a mistake it was not drafting this guy
in Millards spot. But hey they not only got Millard, but Way was
still there for them as well. With the 102nd pick in the draft the
Armadillos took LB Bernie Newman. This is probably the worst of
all the picks for Tampa, they could have improved their team by picking
up an offensive tackle like Mark Swires with this pick instead of
Newman. Whit their last pick they grabbed what I think is a slight
steal in HB Dino Eugene, Dino could actually compete for a starting job
at HB in a couple more seasons, after learning the ropes. All in
all I think Tampa had a monster draft, and the old saying one bad apple
won't spoil the whole bunch comes to mind!
GRADE:
A+ |
Draft Choices
12 DT Gary
Parsons - 19.4 +
20 + 74.3
+ 74.9
30 TE Corey
Vandyne + 21.6 + 10
+ 21.3 + 52.9
44 HB George
Mueller + 22.6 + 10
+ 10.5 + 43.1
48 WR Lee Milard
+ 10.6 + 5
- 21.5 - 5.9
66 S Danny
Byner + 33.7
+ 10 + 15.7
+ 59.6
84 WR Newton Way
+ 33.4 + 20
- 17.5 + 35.9
102 LB Bernie Newman
+ 30.3
- 9.6 +20.7
120 HB Dino Eugene
+ 3.3 + 10
- 36.5 - 23.2
+ 258.0 |
Utah
Needs
Utah finds themselves in a
tough division with three talented teams, This draft is very important
to their chances for this season, and they come in needing the
following. A Backup QB, FB, HB, and depth at OL, on the D side
Starting DL, LB, & CB, as well as Backups at LB, and Safety. The
kicking game also needs a boost in the arm with a new K, and
P.....
Conclusion
Utah quickly addressed their
need for a starting corner by taking CB Ernie Short as the 3rd player
Chosen in the draft. Ernie is already an excellent corner, and
will only improve with age! Their 2nd pickup addressed their needs
for a S, while Vandam might not start this year, this kid is going to be
a great Safety, he already is the strongest tackler in the secondary,
and has great hands, just let him get a little more foot speed, and
Vandam will be a terror. Their 3rd pick #39 in the draft addressed
their needs for a backup QB, frankly I am not sold on this pick, while I
think Walker will be a fine Backup, I think Utah would have served their
team better by grabbing a kid like DE Vernice Holloway, in my opinion
Walker would have been there later. LB Harper Love was taken with
the last pick in the third round. Again a better pick might have
been at DL, OL, or even Safety. The Knock on Harper is his
explosiveness, other than that he seems to have everything needed to
play Lb in this league , after a little seasoning. With the 57
pick in the draft Utah took P Keith Stephens, while I have to admit I
think taking punters before the 5th round is wasted, Stephens is a good
kicker that just needs to work on his accuracy to put him over the top.
Lonnie Cadwell was called in the 5th round. While Cadwell needs to
work on getting off the ball quicker, this kid is big strong, and quite
agile, plus he has a motor that can run all game. This was a major
pickup for Utah in the 5th round, Kudos on this one. OG Roy
Ruettgers was grabbed up in the 6th round, and I would have to say he
has a great shot at making it as a long time starter in this league, he
may be a year away, but what a great value for a 6th round pick.
The final pick for Utah came in the 7th round when they grabbed DE Jon
Young. I'd say the jury is still out on Young, as he either needs
to put on needed bulk to play DT, or show, he has a lot more potential
to add some get-up to his Speed. Overall I think Utah addressed
some real needs with this draft and gained some players that will help
them for many years!
GRADE:
A- |
Draft Choices
3 CB Ernie Short
+ 29.6 + 20
+ 27.0 + 76.6
36 S Alan Vandam
+ 22.6 + 10
+ 37.5 + 70.1
39 QB Quentin Walker
- 7.4 + 10
- 13.5 - 10.9
54 LB Harper Love
+ 3.6 + 5
+ 11.0 + 19.6
57 P Keith
Stephens - 47.3 + 20
- 27.3
75 DT Lonnie Cadwell
- 21.6 + 20
+ 29.3 + 27.7
93 OG Roy Ruettgers
- 34.7 + 10
- 22.0 - 46.7
111 DE Jon Young
- 22.7
- 21.5 - 44.2
+ 64 |
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