Recently I came across an article on NFL.com written by Gregg Rosenthal and immediately found a need to throw my hat in the ring, and let Mr. Rosenthal how incorrect he was.  The article was scrutinizing the Chicago Bears first round selection of Boise St. linebacker Shea McClelin. My reasons for coming to the rescue of McClellin are A. Rosenthal is completely wrong and i’ll tell you why in the following paragraphs of distinguished awesomeness, and B, because Shea McClellin was one of my top five favorite picks of round one which I displayed in an earlier post so I need to defend my selection. 

 Photo credited to: http://www.chicagonow.com/second-city-sports-guy/files/2012/04/nfl_u_mcclellin11_600.jpg  

I personally wish I could write for NFL.com and stop filling people’s heads full of over the top garbage. Rosenthal answers in his own post why I was correct in that the Bears were genius for drafting McClellin, the Bears defenders are getting old. Plain and simple, that’s the bottom line. Brian Urlacher, who is considered the leader of the defense, has some gas left in the tank but he’s running a court low. Why not add McClellin to the package and learn from Urlacher while he can. Even if you throw any age factor out of the equation take a look at any Chicago Bears team that has been succesful. Why were those teams successful? Because of their stellar defense. When the Bears met the Colts in Super Bowl XLI, Chicago made that run to the Chip with a top five defense and oh yeah, Rex Grossman. Need I say more about that quarterbacking situation?

 Let’s not fool ourselves here, the Bears thrived that season because they had were great when Grossman wasn’t on the field.  NFL.com’s Gregg Rosenthal felt that the Bears were wrong, and should have drafted an offensive lineman in the first round. What for? To protect Jay Cutler? Jay Cutler? The guy who cares more about his hair, white Mercedes Benzes, and fine eataries then he does about earning Chicago’s respect? The Jay Cutler who couldn’t hold Jim McMahon’s jockstrap? God by all means Chicago should have spent their first round draft pick to protect that guy.

 Im not comparing Cutler to Rex Grossman, not at all. Cutler does have tons of talent, but his attitude towards the game is so piss poor and his rich boy better then everyone else mentality is so out of the element of what Chicago needs that I think at some point the Bears should be shopping around for a new franchise quarterback. Or, just continue what they did this year and revive that defense. In Rosenthal’s article when Cutler was asked about why the Bears did not draft an offensive linemen, and if he thinks the line will get better he laughed, and boldly said “hope so”. Wow. When have you ever seen Matthew Stafford, Aaron Rodgers, or Drew Brees take public shots at their offensive lines? Never. After a day of getting their bells rung, scrambling, and still posting 300 some yards Stafford and Rodgers still take their linemen out for dinner after the game to commend them for all the plays they did hold.

 I have never been a Jay Cutler fan, ecspecially since he was pawned off to the NFC North and all of the blue collar gritty Midwest was really able to see his true arrogance. But the guy does have tons of talent, just needs to play all four quarters and stick his neck out a little more for the other guys on the team. Instead of “injuring” his knee and then climbing the ladder to a fancy balcony dinner. At the end of the day I am right. Chicago fans know it, we all know it, and Gregg Rosenthal should know it. The only person that doesn’t know it, is Cutler himself. Stop taking yourself so serious Jay, your not that important. 

  Photo credited to: http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/tWNosE9z_kW/Chicago+Bears+Workout/-CxoU0s46Zw/Jay+Cutler Does Jay not just look like the definition of douche here? Like a Baldwin brother gone wrong, or that 30 something frat guy who still hits on the 16 year old girls by showing them how fast he can crush a beer.

   Shea McClellin looks to be one of the best defensive players in the draft, and the Bears were completely right in drafting for defense. The stronger that Bears D is, the better of a team they are, because if they can rebuild that defense into a top five concrete unit then the Bears are all ready ahead of the game when it comes to their last Super Bowl appearing team because Cutler is indeed better then Grossman; too bad he knows it. Shea, please don’t make me look stupid.

 If you think the Bears defense is more important then Cutler, than that’s an Automatic First Down!

Ty  

Follow me on Twitter: @Ty_HiDef_Hines 

For all of us NFL freaks there is always something to talk about. The NFL draft has been my topic of analysis and discussion since round one was in the books. Now, it’s never too late to talk about fantasy football. So dish up and maybe these selections will help your fantasy squad this coming season.

Doug Martin RB, Buccaneers

Photo credited to: http://ogdraft.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Doug-Martin.jpg

Doug Martin may possibly be a bit of a stretch but I feel like he has a legitimate shot at making a splash in Tampa Bay’s backfield and here’s why. Legarrette Blount did not explode into the X factor star last year that every one thought he was going to, me being one of them. I really felt he had the potential to be “the guy” and maybe this season he still does. But with Blount always a temper tantrum away from pulling a shank out of his NFL liscensed socks and plugging someone on the field, I think that some where down the line this season Boise St. product Doug Martin will start getting the rock. Martin’s senior season at Boise was more than impressive, as he rushed his way to 1,299 yards and 16 touchdowns. I personally think that Doug Matin may possibly have a tough time adjusting to the NFL as far as speed of the game and level of competition goes, but given the situation he has been drafted into I think that once people realize Blount is going no where, and that QB Josh Freeman is a fizziling dud as well Martin will start getting the ball and a lot. Now the only question is how long before Blount is out and Martin is in. Perhaps Martin will steal the job away earlier than expected. If that happens, Doug Martin will be a rookie sleeper that everyone passed up on.

Robert Griffin III QB, Redskins

Photo credited to: http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/article/media_slots/photos/000/402/139/134138137_crop_340x234.jpg?1334882584

It’s pretty tough for me to actually pick Griffin for well…anything, but it’s hard to deny that Griffin will score fantasy points. My problems with Griffin are all about his personality and his overall arrogant cockiness towards well…everything. I can’t wait for someone to really welcome him to the NFL but with that said and me biting my tongue, his rushing ability and deep passing accuracy will definitely put up fantasy points as long as he stays healthy. Coach Mike Shannahan has made it clear that RG3 is indeed the starting quarterback and that in and of itself is a solid reason to give RG3 a chance on your fantasy team. Do I think Griffin will have a Cam Newton type season? No, no I do not at all but with his speed and athleticism we all know RG3 will find the endzone time and time again one way or another even without much for surrounding weapons. Washington better hope at least that Griffin plays out and fast, because I think they traded off their next six draft picks, the White House, and the family farm to go get him. Or something like that.

Justin Blackmon WR, Jaguars

Photo credited to: http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/LNrIlthhhom/2012+NFL+Draft+First+Round/eGJ22M_3srJ/Justin+Blackmon

The Jaguars drafted Blackmon for one reason, to throw to him this season very early and very often because if not him, then who? Blackmon has the size to really be a Dez Bryant type weapon in the NFL but without the attitude and a stronger work ethic. There really is not much more than that to say about Blackmon, the Jags have no body to throw to so Blackmon will be getting the majority of the balls this season, expect a solid season form the OSU product as long as Gabbert can stay on his feet long enough to get Blackmon the ball.

Coby Fleener TE, Colts

Photo credited to: http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/001/736/901/134234036_display_image.jpg?1325193109

I know Fleener’s talent relies on Luck’s season, but I really feel that Coby Fleener’s fantasy value has way too much upside to possibly ignore when it comes time to draft a tight end.

Every stat ever spewed from us sports nerds is all about the numbers, and when it comes to Coby Fleener the number is ten, no that is not what number Fleener will be this season for the Colts but it is the number of touchdown passes that he caught from Andrew Luck last season. That secuirty blanket and familarity is going feel like a Snuggy for Andrew Luck in his first big league year. Also, all the questions surrounding Fleener pretty much relied on how he would adjust to a new quarterback. Problem averted. The Colts are trying to imitate their biggest rivals offensive style, and even if it sorta kinda works out, trust me Coby Fleener will be catching a lot of footballs in the endzone because thats exactly what Luck and himself did at Stanford.

Trent Richardson RB, Browns

Photo credited to: http://isportsweb.com/wp-content/uploads//2011/12/Trent-Richardson.jpg

Where to start with Mr. Richardson, he is the Friday Night Lights Boobie Miles of the NFL, he can do it all. I personally have a football crush on this kid. I think that Trent Richardson is the pound for pound best running back prosect in the past decade if not longer. Richardson has the bowling ball boulder build of stars like Ray Rice and Maurice-Jones Drew except he is much more elusive and agile. Not bad company to be mentioned with huh. As long as Cleveland gives Richardson the ball, and they will, Richardson should rush for double digit touchdowns and he will. Do not be afraid to pick up Richardson earlier then you would expect to draft a rookie. Richardson is one of those rare breeds of football bred athletes that has nothing but positive fantasy value.

Fantasy Football is an Automatic First Down.

Ty

Follow me on Twitter @Ty_HiDef_Hines

5. Devon Still: 6-5/310 lbs. DT Penn St.

The Bengals already had the number four all around defense last year, and picking up Dre Kirkpatrick in the first round, and Devon Still in the second only adds more flare to this solid defensive unit. Devon Still was a late first rounder in my opinion, he plays well to the sidelines on passes to the flats and he is hard off the snap as a pass rusher. Devon will need to learn to shed blockers with his hands better in order to excel at the next level, but all in all the Bengals scored a solid defensive tackle a round later then I thought, look out for that Bengals defensive unit for the second year straight.

4. Ryan Broyles: 5-10/192 lbs. WR Oklahoma

I know I know, I questioned this pick just as much as the next guy does. As a Lions fan, I was worried that someone let Matt Millen back in the office. I really like Dwight Bentley’s potential as a cornerback, but I thought maybe they would address the cornerback position earlier, like with the second round pick that they spent on wide receiver Ryan Broyles. But with a deeper look into this selection, I really began to agree with it. After Calvin Johnson the receiving talent starts to dip quite drastically. The Lions next top target is big bodied TE Brandon Pettigrew and then Nate Burleson. I think Titus Young will continue to improve, but Broyles will be yet another reliable option at wide receiver and will be great for underneath routes with Calvin Johnson looking up top for the deep ball. Broyles has questionable size and yes there is still question around how healthy he will remain after having season ending surgery in November due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament. I think the only thing that will never be in question is Broyles hands, as he is the NCAA’s career leader in receptions. Broyles has that big play kind of vibe and is exactly why he will be a key addition to a Lions receiving unit that after Megatron, could use some more weapons.

3. LaMichael James: 5-8/195 lbs. RB Oregon

James rushed for over 5,000 yards and added an outstanding 53 touchdowns at his career in Oregon. James is relatively undersized for an every down back, but what James does is adds that homerun factor every time he will touch the ball. I would compare James addition at the pro level comparable to a Darren Sproles, and with the 49ers already having a deep crop of runners James will really work into the rotation well and make the 49ers even that much more dangerous. Drafting an athlete like LaMichael James also takes even more pressure off of quarterback Alex Smith whom I still strongly question as a legitimate quarterback. San Francisco is a hard working fundamental team and if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it; San Fran received a big bang for their buck waiting in the second round.

2. Courtney Upshaw: 6-2/265 lbs. LB Alabama

Was anybody as shocked as I was when Courtney Upshaw fell to the second round? My mind was blown, and I think Courtney’s was as well, which is scary, can you imagine this guy playing with a chip on his shoulder? Man oh Man. Upshaw has good quick draw quickness of the snap, he reads the quarterback’s motions very well and is pretty fast for his size making plays side to side. At the pro level Upshaw’s position may be up for debate as to where Baltimore will use him, but the fact that Baltimore nabbed him at all is amazing to me. Their could not be a better fit for a young talent like Upshaw, with teachers like Terrell Suggs and Ray Lewis, as well as defensive minded leaders in Ed Reed. Courtney Upshaw will feel right at home surrounded by talent in Baltimore and will be causing quarterbacks headaches by week three.

1. Coby Fleener: 6-6/235 lbs. TE Stanford 

I was thoroughly impressed with the Colts draft class solely for the reason of picking up tight end Coby Fleener. What a better way to not only land the top two tight end prospects in the draft in back to back picks (Dwayne Allen, Clemson) but snatching Andrew Luck’s number one target at Stanford? Priceless. Fleener really broke out in his senior season with 32 receptions, 648 yards, and count them, 10 touchdowns; all career highs for the Stanford standout. Who threw Fleener all of those receptions and touchdowns? Mr. Luck himself. Fleener has reliable hands, makes for a big target, and blocks exceptionally well especially down field. Although  Fleener is not the most overwhelming athlete, he is intelligent and strong enough to know how to use his tangibles to his advantage every down. One scout was quoted saying “He (Fleener) will likely have to adjust without quarterback Andrew Luck.” Wrong sir. That is why the Colts were genius, giving their number one draft pick a very familiar target. The Colts look to be building some sort of New England Patriots type scheme with two versatile tight ends and a pound for pound pocket passer. Also, for all of us fantasy gurus, I think Coby Fleener has some of the highest fantasy value come this season.

That’s an Automatic First Down.

Ty

Follow me on Twitter @Ty_HiDef_Hines

5. Shea McClelln: 6-3/255 lbs. DE/OLB Boise St.

photo credited to chicagonow.com

I loved this pick to the Bears at 19 in the 1rst round. The only reason I can think of that I wouldn’t like it is for the fact I am a Lions fan. But let’s face it, the Bears made it to Super Bowl 44 with a bold and aggressive defense. Last season Chicago’s defense allowed 350.4 yards per game that was good enough for 17th in the league. Teams like Jacksonville, Miami, and Cleveland were all ranked much higher to put that into perspective. Let’s face it, Brian Urlacher is not getting any younger, that’s why it was best for the Bears to address this position. Shea McClellin was relatively underrated or under hyped in my opinion. The kid has good size, versatile enough to play both outside linebacker and defensive end. He also has an incredible motor; I cannot stress that enough, very competitive and hard working, will fit perfectly in the NFC North. Some had Shea projected 2nd or 3rd round, that’s why I feel the Bears landed a gem late in the first.

 4. Justin Blackmon: 6-1/207 lbs. WR Oklahoma St.

photo credited to

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=nfp-20120310_is_oklahoma_state_wr_justin_blackmon_now_a_top_5_pick

 Blaine Gabbert’s top two targets last season were Laurent Robinson with 54 receptions, and Mike Thomas with 44. Aside from that, Gabbert spent most of his time scrambling or ending up on his backside as he was sacked forty times. The Jags finished 5-11 and need a lot of help, but they did finish 12th in rushing. Maurice Jones-Drew is the exact reason why I really liked seeing the Jags jump two spots to go and get the number one wide out in the draft. Mojo is still a top five rusher and a team needs that to set up the play action which is exactly what the Jags will do. Justin Blackmon will play instantly in Jacksonville. Taking a receiver this early in the draft, you are really going to use him, early and often. Blackmon does not have elite speed but is still a lot faster than given credit for; watching film of the OSU stand out you will never see him caught from behind. A big bodied, strong receiver with very reliable hands, Blackmon sees the ball well and will go get it in tight situations. Justin Blackmon is on my radar for one of this year’s rookies to have the most instant of impacts, Gabbert’s new number one target.

3. Nick Perry: 6-3/250 lbs. DE/OLB USC 

Photo credited to http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/002/008/461/133864488_display_image.jpg?1331267913

 This pick shocked me. I could not help but shake my head and smile when the Packers called Nick Perry’s name at the 28th pick. Someone really should have paid attention; the already powerful Packers used this draft to possibly push them to new heights. I think most of my shock came from the fact that Packers GM Ted Thompson was very aggressive in this draft defensively, in an attempt to get back to that Super Bowl caliber team from two seasons ago. The Packers were carried through the season by that Aaron Rodgers led high power offense, but the defense was ranked dead last in yards allowed with 411.6 per game. Adding Nick Perry was genius. Perry has good quickness and is a strong pass rusher, can also change direction on a dime. For Perry’s lack of size, Dom Capers might move him to line backer opposite Clay Matthews where he would start instantly.

2. Brandon Weeden: 6-4/220 lbs. QB Oklahoma St.

Photo credited to http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/images/photos/001/641/149/137238391_crop_650x440.jpg?1333506544

Move over Colt McCoy and Peyton Hillis. Many people may disagree with how highly I have this pick ranked, but it’s hard not to get excited about what Cleveland has brewing in their cauldron. Colt McCoy threw for 2,733 yards and 14 touchdowns last season leading Cleveland to believe maybe McCoy was not their guy.  In Weeden’s last two seasons at OSU he eclipsed the 4,000 yard mark in both years and added touchdown totals of 34 and 37 respectively. Weeden is a big strong built quarterback, sort of reminds me of Ben Roethlisberger only less mobile. Many scouts complained about Weeden’s age and I will admit I did as well, but the guy is only 28, turns 29 in October, it’s not like he’s 40. Also in question are Weeden’s footwork, and his ability to throw on the run or off balance. My rebuttal for lack of mobility would be comparisons to elite passers like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, if you have the soft touch on red zone fades and can hit any receiver across the middle you don’t have to be fast. Not to mention the fact that Cleveland did what so many teams missed out on by scooping up the best running back prospect of the past decade in Trent Richardson. If anybody questions Brandon Weeden’s passing ability, why don’t you just ask Justin Blackmon what he thinks? Bold prediction, Brandon Weeden will finish closely for offensive rookie of the year. Yes I said it, let the hate comments begin.

1. Luke Kuechly: 6-3/235 lbs. LB Boston College 

Photo credited to

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/article/media_slots/photos/000/309/255/luke-kuechly-full_original.jpg?1327036752

 Finally, my favorite pick in round one of the 2012 NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers at the nine spot taking linebacker Luke Kuechly. I think the Panthers might have landed the most football bred player in the whole draft. Kuechly has priceless instincts and anticipation as well as good speed and hands. I don’t think one will find a defensive player in the draft that locates the ball in traffic better either. Kuechly reminds me of a Brian Cushing type, only he head butts people less and is not quite as athletic. I think too many scouts get caught up on God given athletic ability and pay less attention to hard work, and that’s exactly what Luke Kuechly is, a hard working football player. The Panthers are trying to revamp a defensive unit in shambles that was once considered one of the best, adding this tackling machine from Boston College is their best bet at doing so. Luke Kuechly will be your stat stuffing defensive rookie of the year.

If you can’t wait for the NFL season than that’s an Automatic First Down.

Ty 

 Follow me on Twitter @Ty_HiDef_Hines

21. New England Patriots - Chandler Jones
The Patriots move up and land the defensive end they wanted, in Chandler Jones. Big bodied end with great snap timing, good vision, and stellar upper body strength. The Patriots will quickly make Jones a force to be reckoned with. Scary team.

22. Cleveland Browns - Brandon Weeden
Look at the Cleveland Browns making serious splashes in this year’s NFL Draft. I was ecstatic with Cleveland’s pick for Weeden. The only weakness here is that Weeden will be 29 in September, which is fairly old for an NFL rookie. Other than that, Weeden has all the upside in the world, he will make a push for rookie of the year, call me crazy, but watch for it. Weeden will surprise a lot of people, who do you think helped make Justin Blackmon look so outstanding? Big bodied Qb.

23. Detroit Lions - Riley Reiff
The Lions use their first round pick to invest in some protection for Stafford who proved he can lead the Lions to new heights when healthy. As a Lions fan I would have rather seen them try to land a solid cornerback, maybe Janoris Jenkins whom I am shocked is still on the board. But when Matthew Stafford is the future of the franchise, I like this pick to protect the Lions future.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers - David DeCastro
Similar to the Lions situation the Steelers needed a guy to help keep time on Big Ben’s clock, ultimately the reason the Steelers were ousted from the playoffs by the Broncos. Great motor, doesn’t let up, phenomenal run blocker, protected number one draft pick Andrew Luck throughout his career.

25. New England Patriots - Dont’a Hightower
Who is going to stop New England? After moving up to grab Chandler Jones the Pats turn around two picks later to pick up a very instinctive linebacker in Hightower. Great run stopper, strong pass defender and fundamental tackler, wraps up ball carriers at legs with ease. New England scores big at 25, figured Hightower would be gone earlier then this.

Follow me on Twitter @Ty_HiDef_Hines

26. Houston Texans - Whitney Mercilus
The Texans land the number two defensive end late in the first round. The Texans could not have been smarter drafting a defensive end with the departure of pro bowler Mario Williams to Buffalo. Mercilus has a very explosive first step, quick to read the snap, tough to block. His last name says it all pretty much, Mercy less. Mercilus and J.J Watt on the same line, man oh man are the Texans going to be fun to watch again. I really like the Texans pick here, very smart.

27. Cincinnati Bengals - Kevin Zeitler
Zeitler has pretty respectable speed off the ball for his size, although he could afford to lose some weight. Poor leverage but plays tell the whistle blows and is constantly looking for targets down field. A solid addition to protect last year’s monster pick, Andy Dalton.

28. Green Bay Packers - Nick Perry
I am absolutely shocked, almost more shocked then Seattle’s Bruce Irvin pick. The Packers could not have been brighter and more fortunate for Nick Perry to fall all the way to them at 28. Perry is a very good pass rusher with great first-step quickness. Solid athlete, as it shows in his footwork. Could possibly be a linebacker if the Packers find him to be to small for the line, but either way, the Packers scored greatly with the Nick Perry pick.

29. Minnesota Vikings - Harrison Smith
I like that the Vikings took Harrison Smith late in the first round. After Mark Barron Smith is really the only other Safety worth looking at. Punishing tackler, plays tight and fast. Some pro scouts say Smith needs to drastically cut down on his face mask penalties.

30. San Francisco 49ers - A.J Jenkins
I was really rather disappointed with the Niner’s selection here, mainly for the fact that if they truly wanted a wide receiver, the talent drops pretty quickly after Blackmon, Floyd, and even Kendall Wright. Jenkins does have very good hands and is smart when it comes to finding soft spots in zone coverage, but was ultimately buried in many scout’s wide receiver boards.

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Doug Martin
I had a feeling that the Packers would possibly address the position and shoot for Martin, but instead the Buccs passed on Trent Richardson and picked up a very elusive back at the end of the draft. Martin needs to be elusive for lack of elite speed. Not a very good blocker, but has good hands in short yardage situations.

32. New York Giants - David Wilson
Elusive and strong, a very well rounded back. Wilson is a stronger runner on the inside, but still has notable speed when he breaks away. Not a bad pick to close out a fast but crazy first round with the defending Super Bowl Champions.

11. Kansas City Chiefs - Dontari Poe
One of the best defensive combines in my thoughts. Poe has insane build and athleticism for his size. Every scout has turned away from Poe simply for the lack of game footage that Poe presents. Get him to work and the Chiefs just landed possibly the best defensive talent in the draft. Motivation is key. Again though, NFL combine was outrageous. Poe was a risk with way to much upside to possibly ignore.

12. Philadelphia Eagles - Fletcher Cox
The Eagles have plenty of picks left in this draft. Thats why I like that they picked up a very versatile DE in Fletcher Cox. Philly needed help at the defensive end position. Cox played great talent in the SEC. Good pick for the Eagles at number twelve.

13. Arizona Cardinals - Michael Floyd
Some scouts started to question Floyd’s characteristics as far as off the field. Perhaps this is why he landed at 13. With all the teams that need to surround their young quarterbacks with some sort of weapons I am sort of surprised to see Floyd at 13..But I like it. The Cards really scored with Floyd. A well rounded receiver that is never afraid to go get the ball. Is this the revamp of the Anquain Boldin Larry Fitz project? Hopefully it works out better for the Cardinals this time. Fitzgerald will be a great mentor for the young wide out, keeping him out of trouble.

14. St. Louis Rams - Michael Brockers
At the top of his class Brockers will surely draw attention quickly to free up other St. Louis defenders. After all the trades I am very shocked that they ignore the need to protect Sam Bradford who is yet to reach potential because he is constantly running for his life. Great big body player, but surprised.

15. Seattle Seahawks - Bruce Irvin
The Seattle Seahawks take home this year’s most SHOCKING pick in the draft. Some players raise red flags off the field, well Bruce Irvin is a walking red flag. Outstanding pass rusher yes, but I had Irvin late! I even thought the fact that his draft stock rose to the second round was highly questionable, instead he goes mid first round. Pass rushing is incredibly valuable, but for a guy to make national news for walking down the wrong path, huge risk factor this early. Hopefully Irvin will stay focused.

Follow me on Twitter @Ty_HiDef_Hines

6. Dallas Cowboys - Morris Claiborne
Clearly the number one overall CB. Great hands and speed. Basically a wide receiver with shutdown skills, even been compared to Darelle Revis. Huge asset to a team that needed defensive weapons. First defensive player off the board in a very deep deep defensive talented pool. Surprised Dallas landed Claiborne. Very good pick.

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mark Barron
Mark Barron great leadership. Fast, hits like Bob Sanders, fundamental tackler. Barron is a hybrid type of defender that can play anywhere. Great size. The first to go off of a very talented Alabama defense. Tampa Bay threw me for a loop. Very suprised that Barron went this early. I really like this pick.

8. Miami Dolphins - Ryan Tannehill
The Dolphins had nothing to lose with this pick and with Mike Sherman they made it very public that Tannehill was their guy. Still think that Tannehill is highly overrated. Not in talent, just in the category of the uncertainty that we have. A wide receiver turned quarterback with little to no experience in my opinion. Tremendous athlete? Yes, but took way to big of a leap on everyone’s boards. Check Tannehill’s numbers, not nearly as impressive as Luck or Griffin, yet still put in their class off of pure athleticism. Dolphins desperately needed a quarterback though, hopefully they have found their guy.

9. Carolina Panthers - Luke Kuechly
I love seeing the Panthers grab Kuechly. Panthers trying to rebuild a defensive unit that was once one of the best. Kuechly is a football player from head to toe. Could not have picked a better first round pick. A tackling machine with high motor and determination, really no questions or down side surrounding Kuechly. I think I like this pick the most so far in the 2012 NFL Draft.

10. Buffalo Bills - Stephan Gilmore
As a Lions fan I am disappointed, really wanted to see them reach for Gilmore. Great NFL combine. Gilmore has great speed and blitzes well from the edge, also an awesome tackler. Buffalo starting to really formulate some sort of defense worth watching out for. The Bills really score at the tenth pick with Stephan Gilmore.

Follow me on Twitter @Ty_HiDef_Hines

1. Indianapolis Colts- Andrew Luck
Overall number one pick by far. No suspense. We all knew. Completely well rounded. Truly underrated as an athlete. Insanely deadly in the red zone. Will make an instant impact with Colts. RGIII almost looks on in jealous anger that he was not number one. Luck much more built for the NFL. Somehow in all this RGIII hype Luck became the one lost in the shadows. Congrats to Andrew Luck. Your 2012 number one draft pick.

2. Washington Redskins - Robert Griffin III
World class athlete. Insane speed. Very very strong arm. I still personally have strong issues with his overall attitude and somewhat arrogance. I also think that RGIII may have jumped much too high in other quarterback boards, but in a year with way more defensive talent RGIII is clearly the number two QB. Will Mike Shannahan change his strict coaching ways to conform to Griffin’s playing style? We can’t wait to see. Better pay off, paid big for RGIII.

3. Cleveland Browns - Trent Richardson
I can not explain how smart Cleveland is to trade up for Trent Richardson, the best all around pound for pound down for down running back. We have seem to truly forget the importance of an every down back. Richardson was buried under all the hype around Luck and Griffin. I had Richardson above Griffin. Unteachable skill set. Will have most instant impact of any player in the draft.

4. Minnesota Vikings - Matt Kalil
I am sorry Viking fans but I have to disagree with this pick. Should have traded any number of ways for electrifying player. Yes Kalil is best by far in his position. Much to high of a pick to waste on a left tackle. Should have taken Morris Claiborne or Trent Richardson. Call me crazy but running back’s do not last as long. AP could bring in major trade potential, and Richardson would have been an instant impact starter in a rebuilding offense. Kalil will not create mega impact off the bat. Only positive from Kalil pick is that Christian Ponder know he is the qb they want to build around. Also missed out on Blackmon.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars - Justin Blackmon
Incredibly intelligent and powerful receiver. Has been compared to Dez Bryant but better talent and attitude. Phenomenal hands and better speed then any one gives him credit for. Weapon X for the Jags. Very good trade up to help out Blaine Gabbert. St. Louis and Bradford missed out.

Follow me on Twitter @Ty_HiDef_Hines