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TENNESSEE TITANS
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2009
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draft 2004
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draft
2009
DRAFT PICKS
links go to
NFL.com website
| Rd |
Sel# |
Player |
Pos. |
School |
Jay's
ranking |
Jay's
draft value |
| 1 |
30 |
Kenny
Britt |
WR |
Rutgers |
#7
WR |
Round
2 |
| 2 |
62 |
Sen'Derrick
Marks |
DT |
Auburn |
#9
DT |
Round
3 |
| 3 |
89 |
Jared
Cook |
TE |
South
Carolina |
#4
TE |
Round
3 |
| 3 |
94 |
Ryan
Mouton |
CB |
Hawaii |
#18
CB |
Round
4 |
| 4 |
130 |
Gerald
McRath |
ILB |
North
Carolina |
#8
ILB |
Round
4 |
| 4 |
135 |
Troy
Kropog |
OT |
Tulane |
#12
OT |
Round
4 |
|
Senior
Bowl practice comment |
| Looked
good at times, but speed killed him. |
|
ONE
ON ONE BLOCKING DRILLS SCORED BY JAY GOLDBERG |
| 3
- 6 |
Ayers
1-1 Walker 1-1 Sidbury
0-1 Veikune 0-2 Irvin 1-1 |
|
| 5 |
173 |
Javon
Ringer |
RB |
Michigan
State |
#4
RB |
Round
2 |
|
Player
who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher than
him. |
If
I read one more analysis of Ringer that ends with a play where
he gets tracked down from behind, I'm going to hurl.
Ringer was a highly productive back in college and while yes, he
doesn't have top speed, he is fast enough to make some big plays
in the NFL. However, it is his quickness (blistering 3.72
short shuttle on his Pro Day) and change-of-direction skills
that set Ringer apart from most backs. He could be this
draft's Steve Slaton. |
| 6 |
203 |
Jason
McCourty |
CB |
Rutgers |
NR |
Late
Round Value |
| 6 |
206 |
Dominique
Edison |
WR |
Stephen
F Austin |
NR |
Late
Round Value |
| 7 |
239 |
Ryan
Durand |
OG |
Syracuse |
#14
OG |
Round
5 |
| 7 |
242 |
Nick
Schommer |
FS |
North
Dakota State |
NR |
7th/FA |
| FA |
---- |
Dudley
Guice |
WR |
NW
La State |
NR |
Late
Round Value |
|
Player
who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher than
him. |
Looking
for a late round/free agent player who could develop into a
contributor? How about Dudley Guice. Guice is a
physical wonder. At 6'2.4", 209 he ran 4.39 forty, a
4.01 short shuttle, a 6.61 three-cone and had a 39"
vertical and a 10'5" broad jump. With those
measureables at his height you can't help but take notice.
Guice, however, only caught 17 balls last year. He did
look very good at the Texas vs the Nation All Star Game showing
that he has potential. |
| FA |
---- |
Mitch
King |
DE/DT |
Iowa |
#9
DE (3-4 def) |
Round
2 |
|
Senior
Bowl practice comment |
| King
caught my eye both during one-on-one's and 11 on
11's. An undersized tackle he could be an excellent
end in the 3-4 defense. |
|
ONE
ON ONE BLOCKING DRILLS SCORED BY JAY GOLDBERG |
| 7
- 3 |
Unger
2-0 Levitre 1-0 Canfield
1-2 Urbik 3-1 |
|
|
Senior
Bowl Game |
King
was all over the field in much the same way Laws was last
year. He is an undersized tackle who could find a home as
a 3-4 defensive end. King made tackles, played off blocks,
pushed the pocket and got penetration against the pass.
All in all a great game for King. |
|
Player
who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher than
him. |
Hustle,
hustle, and more hustle. Oh yeah, and skill too.
King won't wow you during workouts but on the field he is always
around the ball making tackles. I believe King is a great
candidate to play end in a 3-4 defense. If you draft this
kid, you'll like what you get. |
|
B-
|
2009
COLLEGE DRAFT REPORT CARD
|
by
Jay Goldberg
|
|
The
Titans had a solid draft. I would have liked their draft
better if the secured a pass rusher and stronger defensive
tackle than Marks, but all-in-all they added some interesting
pieces. My favorite pick was Javon Ringer, but with
the running backs on the Titans, he may not see the
field much. As far as street free agents are concerned,
most of the players the Titans' signed are for camp depth,
however, they did sign two players who could be long-term contributors
in Guice and King.
DRAFT
PICKS
I
had a high second round grade on Britt so selecting him late
in round one is fine. Britt is a strong, big target with
long arms, but at times, has inconsistent hands.
However, I would have been very tempted to draft defensive
tackle Ziggy Hood at this spot and gone wide receiver (Derrick
Williams for example) in round two. One reason is that I
am still high on Hawkins, a player who is much better in game
situations than on the practice field. However, Hawkins
is a player quarterbacks have to trust since he turns small
separation into incredible caches.
In
my long experience evaluating the draft, one scenario that has
the most risk of failure is the defensive lineman who looks
the part, plays very well on film at times, but has poor
strength as measured by bench press numbers. Marks
lifted the bar only 16 times. Mouton, the 5'9"
corner selected by Tennessee lifted the bar 18 times. This
doesn't mean Marks won't hit the weight room to gain more
strength and succeed, just that there is a higher probability
that he will not cut it then some other players available at
this spot. So, if I didn't go Hood in round one, my
selection here would have been defensive tackle Roy
Miller. Miller is a a very strong, fast, all-out type
who had 5.5 sacks his senior year and an excellent week at the
Senior Bowl.
The
speedy Cook was a very interesting and solid pick by
Tennessee. With the speed and running ability of
Johnson, teams that move a safety into the box will now have
to worry about Cook getting deep down the middle, beating the
free safety for a big play. There are certain players
that are more valuable because of the makeup of lineup and
this is such a case. Cook may not even be the starting
tight end, but he will play enough to have some key plays both
for himself and opening things up for others.
Mouton
is a short, athletic corner who will be a contributor for the
Titans in nickel and dime packages. He is a solid
player. However, the taller, just as athletic Keenan
Lewis would have been my pick here at corner because of a
higher upside. Lewis has the potential to be a very good
starting cornerback in the NFL. If I was the GM here,
however, looking at the depth at cornerback in the draft, and
the needs (in my opinion) for the Titans, I would have drafted
the speedy sacker Lawrence Sidbury Jr. at this spot.
Worst case, he would be a nickel rusher. However, at 266
pounds, I believe he will grow into a two-way player at end.
McRath
is another speed guy drafted by the Titans. He will be a
core special teams player and could form two-thirds of a
speedy/athletic future linebacking unit with Keglar in the
future.
Kropog
is a big kid who has trouble blocking against speed
rushers. In my scenario, after passing on the corner in
round three, I would have grabbed Macho Harris here. I
have Harris rated more highly than Mouton anyway.
Ringer
was one of my favorite players in the draft. I had a
second round grade on him. It wouldn't surprise me if
the Titans eventually trade White and use Ringer as the
change-of-pace back with Johnson. Ringer has tremendous
quickness and cutting ability. While short he is strong
for his size and runs well inside. Last year the
mid-round running back who I thought would pay big dividends
was Tashard Choice. He faced long odds to see the field
in Dallas, but injuries got him on the field, and he proved me
right. Ringer is in the same position this year, but if
given a chance, he will prove me right as well.
There
were a number of corners at this spot I liked better than
McCourty (Lankster, Mickens). However, his speed and
athleticism are impressive and I wouldn't be surprised if the
Titans' know something I don't with this player. He certainly
has the skill set to be a special teams terror. That
said, if I passed on the tackle Kropog in round four, I would
have jumped at the chance to draft offensive tackle Murtha
here. Murtha has as impressive credentials for his
position, as McCourty does for his. His 4.82 forty was
the best in my list of tackle prospects (in fact, the next
best was 4.96); his 4.34 short shuttle was also the best (4.50
was next best); his 7.06 three-cone was the best (7.27 was
next best); and his other numbers weren't too shabby either.
Wide
receivers who are 6'2' and run a 4.4 forty don't grow on trees
so Edison was worth a look in round six. He also caught
64 balls and had 17 touchdowns his senior year. He could
be a priority signing to the Titans' development squad.
Durand
was excellent value in round seven. He was my 14th rated
guard. Durand has good tools and can be developed to be,
at worst, a solid backup. Durand was a nice get late in
the draft.
Schommer
may have a difficult time making the team. His value on
special teams will determine if he sticks more than his
potential down the road to play in the base defense.
However (fans of the teams being analyzed must hate when they
see this word in my write-ups), they missed an opportunity to
bring a very underrated talent into the fold here. Derek
Pegues not only is a better safety prospect, but a terrific
return man.
COLLEGE
STREET FREE AGENTS
Wide
receiver Guice is built like, and has similar speed to Edison,
but is quicker and more athletic. The difference is that
Edison has more production in college. However, Guice
looked very good in the Texas vs. Nation College All Star
Game. It wouldn't surprise me if Guice passed Edison on
the Titans' depth chart in camp. King
was one of my favorite players that did not get drafted.
I both understand and don't understand why. The kid is
an undersized defensive tackle. However, when he is on
the field he is always around the ball. After his
workout, I thought he would be targeted by 3-4 teams to play
end. His measureables were solid, his effort
unquestioned, and his on-field production was
impressive. On the Titans' King will be a versatile
backup and special teams player (how's that for confidence in
a UFA making the team). He could play end on running
downs, be an inside rusher on passing downs, and a staple on
special teams. |
For
chart below: red indicates workout number in top range at position in
draft
ARM-HAND
relative to position, for ranges see ranking pages for 2009 draft
LAST
NAME
at Combine |
FIRST
NAME |
SCHOOL |
HGT |
WGT |
ARM-
HAND |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT |
LONG |
3
CONE |
VERT |
BROAD |
| Britt |
Kenny |
Rutgers |
6'2.7" |
218 |
XL-M |
23 |
4.47 |
1.50 |
2.59 |
4.47 |
- |
- |
37" |
10'4" |
| Marks |
Sen'Derrick |
Auburn |
6'1.6" |
306 |
XL-XL |
16 |
5.00 |
1.68 |
2.88 |
4.76 |
- |
7.80 |
33" |
9'6" |
| Cook |
Jared |
South
Car |
6'4.6" |
246 |
XL-XL |
23 |
4.42 |
1.50 |
2.60 |
4.56 |
11.84 |
7.25 |
41" |
10'3" |
| Mouton |
Ryan |
Hawaii |
5'9" |
187 |
S-S |
18 |
4.48 |
1.53 |
2.56 |
- |
- |
- |
39.5" |
10'9" |
| McRath |
Gerald |
Southern
Miss |
6'1.7" |
231 |
XL-L |
21 |
4.49 |
1.48 |
2.62 |
4.35 |
11.51 |
7.24 |
34" |
10'3" |
| Kropog |
Troy |
Tulane |
6'5.6" |
309 |
M-L |
21 |
5.30 |
1.78 |
2.93 |
4.84 |
- |
7.65 |
30" |
8'4" |
| Ringer |
Javon |
Michigan
State |
5'9.1" |
205 |
S-L |
23 |
4.42 |
1.58 |
2.60 |
3.72 |
10.60 |
6.66 |
34" |
9'7" |
| McCourty |
Jason |
Rutgers |
5'10.3" |
193 |
- |
15 |
4.30 |
1.44 |
2.49 |
4.25 |
- |
6.67 |
36.5" |
10'5" |
| Edison |
Dominique |
S.
F. Austin |
6'2.1" |
204 |
M-S |
- |
4.40 |
1.53 |
2.53 |
4.18 |
- |
7.09 |
37" |
10'0" |
| Durand |
Ryan |
Syracuse |
6'4.6" |
305 |
- |
28 |
5.10 |
1.69 |
2.97 |
4.66 |
- |
7.40 |
27" |
9'0" |
| Schommer |
Nick |
Arizona |
5'11.6" |
201 |
- |
11 |
4.58 |
1.58 |
2.64 |
4.31 |
- |
6.75 |
34.5" |
9'10" |
| Guice |
Dudley |
NW
La State |
6'2.4" |
209 |
XL-? |
12 |
4.39 |
1.49 |
2.58 |
4.01 |
- |
6.61 |
39" |
9'4" |
| King |
Mitch |
Iowa |
6'1.4" |
280 |
S-L |
25 |
4.81 |
1.66 |
2.81 |
4.40 |
- |
7.55 |
33.5" |
9'4" |
purple - King's numbers as a
DT, was a 3-4 DE on site (short shuttle only number in red
as a DE)
2009 NEEDS PRIOR TO DRAFT AND FREE
AGENCY
Major need
Need
Upgrade possible
Depth/possible need
Not a need
| QB |
Collins and Simms are
UFAs. While it is advisable that the Titans' resign
Collins, I'm still a believer in Young and believe the Titans
can win with him at quarterback. However, whether Collins
or another player, the Titans need to sign an experienced
quarterback. |
| RB |
Johnson and White form an
excellent one-two punch for Tennessee. I "talked
up" Johnson as a prospect last year, and he didn't let me
down. In 2009 he will be even better. |
| WR |
McCareins and Jones are
UFAs. The Titans' will, most likely, let McCareins walk,
and look to resign Jones. Gage, when healthy has played
well for Tennessee. Hawkins is a kid I love and I look for
him to win the starting spot opposite Gage in camp.
However, whether Jones, other free agents, or thru the draft,
the Titans will need to add a couple of receivers ready to
immediately to their receiver mix. |
| TE |
Sciafe is an UFA and
despite a late season drop off in production is an emerging
talent. Crumpler's best days are behind him, but is still
a plus tight end. Stevens is a young player with
potential. The need here will depend on what Sciafe does. |
| OL |
The Titans have one of
the better lines in the NFL. They also have good depth.
Outside of some camp bodies and competition for bottom of the
roster spots, this unit is set. |
| DL |
Haynesworth is an UFA and
the Titans desperately need to resign him. Brown, Vanden
Bosch, and Kearse complete a solid starting unit. Jones is
a future starter, and he will be a good one. Ford looked
good rushing the passer. In addition to resigning
Haynesworth, another pass rushing end who could challenge Ford
as Kearse's eventual replacement could be addressed this
offseason. |
| LB |
This unit is very steady.
Bullocks is a top player, while Tulloch and Thornton are
reliable, steady pros. While not a need, I could see the
Titans grabbing a linebacker if a good one falls to them in the
draft at spot where he represents value and offers an upgrade
for either Thornton or Tulloch. |
| DB |
This may be the best
starting secondary in the NFL. Harper and Finnegan are an
excellent par of corners. In fact Finnegan is so good, he
could be that rare RFA who teams will give up draft picks to
get. So Tennessee would be well served to sign him long
term now. In addition Hope and Griffin are a solid pair of
safeties. The one caution flag here is that nickel Fuller
is an UFA who could leave if given a chance to start elsewhere.
King is also an UFA. The Titans will have to address depth
here in the offseason, whether bringing back some of their own
or looking towards free agency or the draft. |
| ST |
Bironas, one of the
league's top kickers is an UFA as is punter Hentrick and return
men Carr and Jones. Obviously special teams will be an
area that the Titans will need to address in the offseason. |
2008
DRAFT PICKS
links go to
NFL.com website
| Rd |
Sel# |
Player |
Pos. |
Ht. |
Wt. |
School |
Jay's ranking |
Jay's draft value |
| 1 |
24 |
Chris
Johnson |
RB/Ret |
5'11" |
197 |
East Carolina |
#4 RB |
Round 1 |
|
Player
who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher
than him.
|
I
know it's not "football knowledge savvy" to place
too much emphasis on workout numbers, but come on, a 4.24
forty! At the Combine even, not on campus under ideal
conditions. Johnson was a marginal first round selection
before this workout. Since it, analyses have
concentrated on his lack of inside running ability. But
the kid can catch. The kid can run outside. And
the kid may be the fastest player in football. I also
believe he will run inside better than many think. Worst
case, he can be for a team what the Saints wanted Bush to be.
Johnson may not be an every-down back, but he will be a very
valuable member of a team whether carrying the ball, or having
defenses keeping track of his every move fearful of him going
the distance at any moment. A smart team will grab him
in round one. |
| 2 |
54 |
Jason
Jones |
DE |
6'5.2" |
273 |
E Michigan |
#11 DE |
Round 3 |
|
Player
who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher
than him.
|
Jones
played out of position at defensive tackle in his senior year.
He has played well at end in the college post-season. He
could be a sleeper for a team as a rotation player at end who
kicks inside in the nickel ala Justin Tuck of the Giants for
pass rush purposes. Jones should have a nice NFL career. |
| 3 |
85 |
Craig
Stevens |
TE |
6'3.2" |
254 |
California |
#11 TE |
Round 4/Round 5 |
| 4 |
103 |
William
Hayes |
DE |
6'1.3" |
258 |
Winston-Salem |
|
Late Round
Value/Free Agent |
| 4 |
126 |
Lavelle
Hawkins |
WR/Ret |
5'11" |
187 |
California |
#6 WR |
Round 2 |
|
Player
who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher
than him.
|
As
a fan of the show Jericho, I 'gotta' like him for his last
name alone. Hawkins is a player I absolutely love in
this draft. In Senior Bowl practices he routinely made
incredible catches. He was a highlight reel all by
himself. He followed up that display with a very good
Senior Bowl Game. Hawkins isn't the fastest receiver,
isn't the biggest receiver, isn't the quickest receiver, which
makes him a bit of a risk when compared to others available in
this draft. He makes great catches, in part, because he
doesn't get the same separation as those bigger, faster,
quicker receivers. He will need a quarterback who trusts
him and isn't afraid to throw into tight windows for him to
reach his full potential. However, if he is paired with
such a quarterback, when looked at 10 years down the road, he
just may be considered the best receiver to come out of this
draft. |
|
Player
who will have a better NFL career than many drafted higher
than him.
|
Keglar
has a chance to be a great SAM linebacker. He has a rare
combination of strength, speed, quickness and athletic
ability. Keglar is also a smart, tough kid with good
coverage skills. Keglar will be a steal for a team in
the draft. In addition, he will be a killer on special
teams while he develops as a linebacker. |
| 7 |
229 |
Cary
Williams |
CB |
6'1" |
187 |
Washburn |
|
Late Round Value |
| FA |
|
Omar Cuff |
RB/Ret |
5'9.5" |
195 |
Delaware |
|
Late Round
Value/Free Agent |
| FA |
|
Rafael Little |
RB/Ret |
5'8.6" |
184 |
Kentucky |
|
Late Round Value |
| FA |
|
Jason Rivers |
WR |
6'1.2" |
200 |
Hawaii |
|
Late Round Value |
| FA |
|
Eric Scott |
C/G |
6'3.2" |
298 |
Kentucky |
|
Late Round
Value/Free Agent |
| FA |
|
Fernando Velasco |
C/G |
6'2.6" |
318 |
Georgia |
|
Late Round Value |
top
|
All
in all the Titans draft was excellent, albeit a bit
schizophrenic. Hawkins and Keglar were among the best
steals in the entire draft. Johnson was perhaps the
boldest move of round one (and a move I loved). However,
Hayes was a head-scratcher and Stevens is solid but drafted a
bit too high in my opinion. Also, I'm not sure if any of
the college street free agents will earn a roster spot.
DRAFT
PICKS
Johnson
was a great pick in round one and a player the Cowboys will
regret passing on big time. Johnson has great speed and
is a terrific receiver. He can catch out of the
backfield, from the slot and even line up wide. He could
be a big time wide receiver in the NFL. However, that is
not necessary. He is also a good runner. While
primary looked at as an outside runner, Johnson will be
effective running inside as well in time. He will start
off as a part time player, but could evolve into a
Brian-Westbrook-type of player down the line.
Jones
caught my eye big time in the post-season. He will not
be a big-time sacker, but will be effective playing the run.
The second round may have been a little high for him but if
Kearse proves to no longer be a full time player, Jones could
play the early downs while Kearse comes in to rush the passer.
Stevens
comes in with the rep of being an excellent blocker who also
has reliable hands. He did show better speed in workouts
than I thought he had sop I'm willing to give this pick a
thumbs up even though he went a round earlier than where I had
him graded.
Hayes
was a reach. I know he moved up after his workout, but
is at best a one-dimensional pass-rushing end. Even
though Hayes has more size, I liked Marcus Howard much better
as a pass rushing specialist.
Hawkins
is one of my two favorite receivers in this draft (Avery was
the other). All you have to do is look at some of the
report cards for other teams to see where I indicated they
made a mistake by not grabbing this talented kid.
Hawkins has great hands and makes unbelievable catches.
He will outperform his workout numbers and has the best chance
to be a number one receiver of all the receivers in this draft
based on a combination of skills and opportunity. He
doesn't have great speed and quickness, however, so Young will
have to learn to trust him and throw into tight windows and
allow him to make plays.
Keglar
was the second of two exceptional picks in a row. He is
possibly the best athlete among all linebackers in this draft.
While he is penciled in at WILL because of his sideline to sideline
speed, he could be a tremendous SAM because he is very strong,
extremely quick and has great change of direction skills.
I look for him to push Thornton to start this year.
Worst case while he waits his turn to start, he will be a
terror on special teams.
Williams
has a nice combination of height and speed and is an ideal
developmental prospect. Look for him to land on the
Titans' practice squad.
COLLEGE
STREET FREE AGENTS
Cuff
is a versatile athlete who could stick on the Titans' practice
squad.
Little
is a talented, but undersized, running back. He injured
his knee at the Senior Bowl and will spend the year on the
injured list. Next year he will come to camp and could
win a spot as a backup. He is a good return man, a good
receiver, and an effective change-of-pace runner.
Rivers
has good size and hands, but is not a burner and is a long
shot to make the team. He is another candidate for the
practice squad.
Scott
is fairly new to center and looked good in Texas versus
the Nation practices. He is a candidate for the practice
squad.
Velasco
is a tough kid who could surprise in camp and push for a
backup spot on the roster. More likely, however, he will
battle Scott for a spot on the practice squad.
|
red
indicates workout number in top range at position in draft
(blue
college name indicates workout #'s include Pro Day numbers)
COMBINE
YES |
FIRST
NAME |
SCHOOL |
HEIGHT |
WEIGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT |
LONG |
3
CONE |
VERT |
BROAD |
| Johnson |
Chris |
EAST
CAR |
5'11" |
197 |
NA |
4.24 |
1.40 |
2.41 |
NA |
NA |
NA |
35" |
10'8" |
| Jones |
Jason |
E
MICHIGAN |
6'5.2" |
273 |
18 |
4.76 |
1.59 |
2.73 |
4.32 |
NA |
7.29 |
30.5" |
10'3" |
| Stevens |
Craig |
CALIFORNIA |
6'3.2" |
254 |
27 |
4.59 |
1.56 |
2.64 |
4.31 |
11.78 |
7.07 |
32.5" |
9'6" |
| Hayes |
William |
WINSTON-SALEM |
6'1.3' |
258 |
NA |
4.61 |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
| Hawkins |
Lavelle |
CALIFORNIA |
5'11" |
187 |
14 |
4.47 |
1.49 |
2.56 |
4.24 |
NA |
6.95 |
33.5" |
10'0" |
| Keglar |
Stanford |
PURDUE |
6'1.5" |
239 |
29 |
4.55 |
1.51 |
2.60 |
3.98 |
11.43 |
6.70 |
39" |
10'6" |
| Williams |
Cary |
WASBURN |
6'1" |
187 |
8 |
4.43 |
NA |
NA |
4.34 |
NA |
6.94 |
32.5" |
9'11" |
| Cuff |
Omar |
DELAWARE |
5'9.5" |
195 |
16 |
4.51 |
1.54 |
2.61 |
4.12 |
NA |
6.86 |
34" |
10'1" |
| Little |
Rafael |
KENTUCKY |
5'8.6" |
184 |
8 |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
| Rivers |
Jason |
HAWAII |
6'1.2" |
200 |
NA |
4.55 |
1.56 |
2.64 |
4.32 |
11.36 |
7.03 |
30" |
9'10" |
| Scott |
Eric |
KENTUCKY |
6'3.2" |
298 |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
| Velasco |
Fernando |
GEORGIA |
6'2.6" |
318 |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
2008 NEEDS
PRIOR TO DRAFT AND FREE AGENCY
TEN
Major
Need Need
Upgrade Depth
Need Not
a Need
| QB |
Young
is going to fine. He's a star in the making.
Collins is a good backup, but is getting up there in years and
a young QB could be brought in to challenge Martin to be
Young's future backup. |
| RB |
White
player very well, but next year is a "prove it" year
for me. Brown is a free agent. Henry has the
tools, but is a question mark. Hall is a good fullback.
Another running back who can challenge Henry to be White's top
backup and could be on hand if White doesn't "prove
it" needs to be added. |
| WR |
Gage
came on late in the year. Williams continues to show
promise, but hasn't put a solid full year together yet.
It may be time to move on from the promising, but always hurt
Jones. Ealy and P Williams are bottom of the roster
types. Who knows about Givens? This team needs two
receivers. |
| TE |
Scaife
is a good pass catching tight end. Troupe is a free
agent who has not develop-ed as the Titan's hoped.
Hartsock and Cramer are okay, but replaceable. The
Titans need a solid backup tight end who can block. |
| OL |
The
Titans' are set at tackle. At guard, Bell is a free
agent and could be highly coveted. Olsen is a good
player, but struggles with his back. The Titans have
some depth at guard, but if a good one is available in the
draft, they could pull the trigger. Also a center of the
future is needed for the aging Mawae. |
| DL |
This
offseason will tell how much the Titans' like there at times
underachieving young defensive lineman. Odom, LaBoy and
Starks are free agents. If they walk, the Titans will
need to bring an at least one end. They have a
replacement ready for Starks in Johnson who could even push
Brown for a starting role. |
| LB |
The
Titans' have a very good starting unit and go two deep at
middle linebacker with Fowler and Tulloch. They do need
depth behind starting outside linebackers, Bulluck and
Thornton, who can step in and play if needed and not just help
out on special teams. |
| DB |
The
Titans' have a good starting unit, and good depth at corner.
An fourth safety to replace Nickey may be the only spot
available in camp if everyone returns. |
| ST |
Their
kicking game is fine, but a kick returner is a must and a punt
returner is a possibility. Ball security was a problem
for Chris Davis. |
2007
DRAFT PICKS
links go to
NFL.com website
| Rd |
Sel# |
Player |
Pos. |
Ht. |
Wt. |
School |
Jay's ranking |
Jay's Draft Value |
| 1 |
19 |
Griffin,
Michael |
FS |
6-0 |
195 |
Texas |
# 1 SS |
Round 1 |
| 2 |
50 |
Henry,
Chris |
RB |
6-0 |
228 |
Arizona |
# 8 RB |
Round 3 |
| 3 |
80 |
Williams,
Paul |
WR |
6-1 |
209 |
Fresno
State |
#23 WR |
Round 4 |
| 4 |
115 |
Harris,
Leroy |
C |
6-2 |
298 |
North
Carolina State |
|
Late Round Value |
| 4 |
128 |
Davis,
Chris |
WR |
5-10 |
181 |
Florida
State |
#24 WR |
Round 4 |
| 5 |
152 |
Johnson,
Antonio |
DT |
6-3 |
305 |
Mississippi
State |
|
Late Round Value |
| 6 |
188 |
Filani,
Joel |
WR |
6-2 |
216 |
Texas
Tech |
|
Late Round Value |
| 6 |
204 |
Ford,
Jacob |
DE |
6-4 |
249 |
Central
Arkansas |
|
Late Round Value |
| 6 |
206 |
Smith,
Ryan |
CB |
5-10 |
168 |
Florida |
|
Late Round Value |
| 7 |
223 |
Otto,
Michael |
OT |
6-5 |
308 |
Purdue |
#12 OT |
Round 4 |
| FA |
|
Ealy, Biren |
WR |
6-3 |
207 |
Houston |
|
Off My Board |
| FA |
|
McElveen, Jermaine |
DE |
6-4 |
250 |
UAB |
|
Late Round Value |
| FA |
|
Sharp, Brandon |
FS |
5-10 |
194 |
Louisville |
|
Late Round Value |
|
Henry,
Williams and Harris were slight reaches, Otto was a steal.
Of the college street free agents signed by the Titans, I like
the signing of Brandon Sharp the best.
I
love Griffin as a player. However, that is at safety, not
corner. His best position is strong safety where he could
be special but Chris Hope is in his way. At free safety,
where he is a better option than Lamont Thompson, he will be
solid. But the Titans have him penciled in at cornerback
and that will be a mistake. Not that he won't be
acceptable there, but that is all he will be. His speed,
quickness and athleticism are top notch for a safety, but only
good for a cornerback. Henry had one of the best workouts
of all running backs in the draft. His strength, speed,
and quickness numbers (26, 4.40, 4.14) coupled with limited
college production hasn't been seen since ...... Justin Fargas
(27, 4.31, 4.10). Hey, I was all over Fargas as a
prospect; I'm was not going to fall for that again. Fargas
went in round three not round one where I had him graded.
Now Henry goes in round two, not round three where I had him
graded. In this draft I would have taken a shot on Jackie
Battle late in day two rather than Henry here. Battle had
excellent workout numbers as well, is a big back, and had much
better college production. If the Titans did that they
could have drafted wide receiver Steve Smith or Jason Hill at
this spot. All that said, Henry possess the tools to be a
good NFL running back. The Titans reached a bit for
Paul Williams who has good speed both in workouts and on the
football field, but is inconsistent and will need to work hard
become anything more than a #3 receiver. If the Titans'
followed my strategy a receiver would not have been needed here.
Since they did not, I like Clowney and Allison a lot more than
Williams. Especially, Clowney who could have been an
option on returns replacing Pacman Jones. Harris in round
four was another slight reach but on day two I cannot find much
fault with it. He is an ideal backup center but will
probably never be a top starter and will need to bulk up to
backup at guard as well. Davis is a better fit for the
Titans than Williams. He is very quick, makes sharp cuts
and could emerge as an excellent slot receiver and solid return
man. Johnson is very quick for a 300 pound defensive
tackle. However, he lacks football instincts. He
could help as a nickel rusher initially and if he can learn to
read and react better could be a find. However, I think he
will end up as a nickel and backup tackle. Filani is
another receiver whose upside is probably as a #3. He can
get open in short zones and has reliable hands. He lacks
speed, but is quick. He could also help as a returner.
Ford is a potential pass rush specialist who needs to hit the
weight room. He could be a development squad candidate.
His size and speed could make him a candidate for outside
linebacker in a 3-4 if the Titans ever decide to employ that
defense. Smith was a great pick in round six. He
followed coach Urban Meyer to Florida from Utah and led the SEC
in interceptions. Despite a very slight build, he a tough
kid who doesn't shy away from contact. He is more quick
than fast so covering slot receivers should be fine. Smith
will have to either show he can take the pounding at his weight,
or will have to put on 20 to 25 pounds of muscle and maintain
his quickness to be a factor in the NFL. If he proves he
can take the pounding at his weight, the Titans will have a good
nickel corner. If he can add 20 to 25 pounds of muscle and
keep his quickness and speed, the Titans will have a solid
starting-caliber corner. If neither happens, Smith will be
out of the league. With three sixth round picks, this is
an excellent gamble. I liked Otto more than most. He
looked very good during Senior Bowl one-on-one drills and is
plain and simple, a football player. He does need to hit
the weight room, but could be a starter down the line. I
had a fourth round grade on Otto.
The
Titans' college street free agents of note include: Ealy, a wide
receiver with a good size and straight line speed who could
stick on the development squad. He is an excellent athlete
so if he develops as a receiver he is an ideal candidate as a #5
receiver who excels on special team coverage units.
McElveen is a rare light defensive end who plays the run well.
He has the frame to add 20 to 25 pounds and become a two-down
end. Sharp was an excellent signing. The kid is
undersized, but he he is smart, athletic, strong for his size,
fast and quick. I predict he will make the team and if the
opportunity presents itself, could push for serious playing
time. Think poor-man's Bob Sanders (same type of player,
but good not great measureables, and slighter build).
Worst case he will be a top special teams player.
|
red
indicates workout number in top range at position in draft
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| GRIFFIN |
MICHAEL |
TEXAS-AUSTIN |
SS/FS |
5'11.6" |
202 |
16 |
4.40 |
1.49 |
2.52 |
4.10 |
11.27 |
6.60 |
39.5" |
10'0" |
| Griffin
got a bad rap his senior season because he missed some tackles.
However, he like to hit, is strong, fast, quick and athletic,
and will develop into a reliable tackler in the NFL. He
also has good cover skills for a safety. He will be a
great strong safety, a good free safety, but if moved to corner
will only be an average cornerback. |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| HENRY |
CHRIS |
ARIZONA |
RB |
5'11.2" |
230 |
26 |
4.40 |
1.56 |
2.56 |
4.14 |
11.51 |
6.96 |
36" |
10''7" |
| Henry
is a workout warrior with limited college production.
However his strength, speed, and quickness are extremely
impressive. He could emerge in the NFL, or he could be
another Justin Fargas (27, 4.31, 4.10). |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| WILLIAMS |
PAUL |
FRESNO
ST |
WR |
6'1.3" |
203 |
|
4.45 |
1.51 |
2.58 |
4.24 |
11.56 |
7.03 |
38.5" |
10'7" |
| Williams
has good speed and athleticism and was a good deep threat at
Fresno State. However, he has been inconsistent and will
need to show a good work ethic to develop his skills and be
anything more than a #3 wideout. |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| HARRIS |
LEROY |
NORTH
CAR ST |
C |
6'2.4" |
298 |
29 |
5.35 |
1.87 |
3.06 |
4.80 |
|
8.00 |
24.5" |
8'0" |
| Harris
is a strong kid who plays hurt. He is limited athletically
but is the type who could have a long NFL career as a backup. |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| DAVIS |
CHRIS |
FLORIDA
ST |
WR/RET |
5'10.2" |
181 |
|
4.50 |
1.55 |
2.62 |
4.08 |
|
6.66 |
36" |
9'7" |
| Davis
is a quick receiver and return man who can cut on a dime and run
to daylight. He has reliable hands and could surprise as a
long term #3 receiver and solid return man. |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| JOHNSON |
ANTONIO |
MISSISSIPPI
ST |
DT |
6'3" |
310 |
28 |
5.11 |
1.68 |
2.90 |
4.49 |
|
7.47 |
29" |
9'0" |
| Johnson
is very quick for a man his size. He can shoot the gaps,
get into a team's backfield and disrupt plays. However, he
does not make many tackles since he is late to locate the ball
and find the ball carrier. |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| FILANI |
JOEL |
TEXAS
TECH |
WR |
6'1.1" |
211 |
17 |
4.51 |
1.53 |
2.62 |
4.10 |
|
6.81 |
33" |
9'9" |
| Filani
lacks speed but is quick and has very good hands and moves.
He could find a home as a #3 or #4 receiver and return man.
He had excellent production in college but played in spread
offense. |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| FORD |
JACOB |
CENTRAL
ARKANSAS |
DE/OLB |
6'3.5" |
249 |
19 |
4.65 |
1.52 |
2.62 |
|
|
|
|
|
| Ford
is an undersized end with good speed and pass rush moves.
However, he will need to hit the weight room to get stronger if
he wants to transfer his skills to the NFL. |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| SMITH |
RYAN |
FLORIDA |
CB |
5'10.2" |
174 |
11 |
4.51 |
1.50 |
2.65 |
4.12 |
|
7.07 |
|
|
| Smith
is an intriguing prospect and worth a shot on day two. He
has good ball, cover and read and react skills but has a slight
build. While slightly built he led the Gators in tackles
amongst defensive backs. Smith is quick, tough kid who
makes plays and could be a valuable extra defensive back whom
could handle himself if called upon to replace an injured
starter. |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| OTTO |
MIKE |
PURDUE |
OT |
6'5.4" |
308 |
21 |
5.20 |
1.78 |
2.96 |
4.67 |
|
7.62 |
26.5" |
8'9" |
| Otto
does not possess great measureables, but he looked very good on
tape and in Senior Bowl drills. This kid is a football
player who will, at worst, be a reliable backup, and could be a
solid NFL starter. |
|
COMBINE
NO
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| EALY |
BIREN |
HOUSTON |
WR |
6'2.5" |
207 |
12 |
4.50 |
1.54 |
2.59 |
4.20 |
|
7.11 |
37.5" |
11'1" |
| Ealy
is a very good athlete with good speed. He is more
straight line than quick and needs work but his athleticism
could help him stick as an end of the roster guy because he
should be able to play on special teams. However, with the
depth at receiver in this draft he will have to impress in a
team's camp to stick. |
|
COMBINE
NO
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
BENCH |
40 |
10 |
20 |
SHORT
SHUTTLE |
LONG
SHUTTLE |
3
CONE |
VERTICAL
JUMP |
BROAD
JUMP |
| MCELVEEN |
JERMAINE |
UAB |
DE |
6'3.6" |
250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| McElveen
is an undersized defensive end who does not possess the speed to
move to outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense. He does
plSmithhe run well and has the frame to get bigger so he could
develop into a backup in the NFL. |
|
COMBINE
YES
|
|
COLLEGE
|
POS |
HGHT |
WGHT |
| |