Over the past few days I've done a lot of reading, talking to folks and listening, and here are some interesting notes about the draft that begins tonight. Now, one thing to note: EVERYBODY LIES. Of course, you know that by now if you've watched a second of this stuff. But anyway, a few things to follow:
- There are a ton of guys with character issues potentially in the first round. Everyone knows about Jameis Winston, but you've also got Dorial Green-Beckham, La'el Collins, Randy Gregory (LB Nebraska), Todd Gurley and, of course, the capper with Shane Ray getting busted with pot 3 days before the draft. One scout called it the "draft of knuckleheads", but there are a few guys whose character is not in dispute. Two are Marcus Mariota (unless he's TOO nice) and Cedric Ogbuehi. That may well help Ced tonight.
- Ced is moving up draft boards pronto. I don't know why this is, if it's in preparation for a run on linemen or because of the character stuff, but now there are whispers he is moving towards the middle of the first round instead of the back end of it. Kansas City, who picks at 18, may be one to watch. I still think it's more likely that he ends up in Indy or Denver later in the round, but if linemen start coming off the board early, watch for him to go faster.
- If Ced somehow slips out of the first round, he's not going to last past the Bucs at the top of the 2nd. They'll take him immediately.
- Jarvis Harrison looks like he's going to be the second Aggie off the board, in the middle rounds. The idea is he's got too much potential to drop much farther, even if his effort level has been a concern.
- Trey Williams is a likely late round pick. His landing spots really could be anywhere, but watch for the Redskins. They're looking for a 3rd-down back and kick returner. Of course, so are about 15 other teams.
- From there, Malcome Kennedy, Deshazor Everett and Josh Lambo all have a shot at being drafted. If they do, though, it'll be in the 6th or 7th round. I think Kennedy is being hosed, but he's been labeled a system wideout and interest is limited.
- If the Browns trade for Sam Bradford (to help the Eagles get to Mariota) or trade for Mariota himself, they will do so without the support of the players. Since his return from rehab, Johnny has really impressed his teammates with his drive and dedication. The Browns front office has said all the right things so far if you want Johnny to stay there and start, but there's still a ton of smoke.
- Chip Kelly wants Mariota a lot. The question is if anyone is willing to meet Tennessee's price tag for the #2 pick, which will be exorbitant.
- Jacksonville seems set on taking Dante Fowler from Florida -- unless they're lying. Remember, nobody had them linked to Blake Bortles last year, and voila.
- The Redskins want to trade back or take a pass rusher. I mention this solely for the trade back part. I want to see what they do if Leonard Williams from USC is sitting there and they can take him.
- Amari Cooper to the Raiders seems like a slam dunk. (this is why they'll take Kevin White)
- White to the Bears could be something to watch. And the Bears are trying to trade Martellus.
- The Texans will have some options. If they want another edge rusher, Ray will certainly be there -- but I've heard they may have pulled him from the board entirely. It seems more likely they'd go wideout, and Breshad Perriman of UCF may be their guy.
- Dallas, if you listen to Jerry, is committed to drafting defense in the first round. Safety or corner? Landon Collins from Bama may be here.
- I don't think anyone is going to get to Tennessee with a good enough offer and they'll take Mariota.
- Bud Dupree of Kentucky is benefitting from the stupidity of Ray and Gregory. He may go 8th to the Falcons. We never saw him, but the dude is a tackling machine.
- How about T.J. Yeldon to Dallas in the second round?
- The Saints had Bryce Petty in to throw last week. They need to get a replacement program for Drew, but taking him in the first round would be a waste.
