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Bills Select WR Kelly in SBNation Mock Draft

Kelly an immediate starter for Buffalo (Athlon Sports)

With the eleventh overall selection in the 2008 SBNation NFL Mock Draft, the Buffalo Bills have selected Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly. With nearly half (49%) of the Buffalo Rumblings readers that voted (nearly 400 participants) in favor of Kelly, the junior eligible was a shoo-in over Michigan State wide receiver Devin Thomas, who received 25% of the vote.

Want to know more about Malcolm Kelly? Join the club. Here's what we know about the young man right now; keep in mind that Kelly has an ultra-important workout ahead of him when Oklahoma holds their Pro Day on April 9.

MALCOLM KELLY - WR - OKLAHOMA
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 225
40 Time: We all wish we knew this
Junior

STRENGTHS: Chain Chugger
- An extremely physical receiver... Has outstanding hands and is probably the most natural receiver available in this class... Extremely adept at catching the ball in traffic... Has great field awareness, knows how to position his body and can make the spectacular catch along the sideline... Possesses great footwork... Tough to bring down once he catches the ball; looks for contact after the catch rather than running around guys... Has good balance, allowing him to keep running after contact... Very adept at beating the jam... Gives great effort as a run blocker; The Sporting News calls him "one of the most competitive blocking receivers our scouts have ever graded"... Excellent possession-type receiver that has the ability to make big plays.

WEAKNESSES: Durability
- Has dealt with his fair share of injuries, most prominently to his knees... Timed speed is questionable at this point... Runs upright in the open field, limiting his home run speed... Needs to become more concise in his route-running, where he tends to round off his routes... Has good acceleration, but lacks the burst to beat a corner every snap... Is a deep threat due to his size, but won't out-run corners.

NFL COMPARISON: Anquan Boldin, Arizona
- Check out the video linked in Boldin's name. Then watch the Kelly highlight video at the bottom of this post. You'll see similarities - both are physical guys with a nose for the end zone, but like Kelly, Boldin lacks home run speed (a big reason he was drafted in the second round - bet there are some teams that are miffed they passed on him). Boldin even runs similarly (a.k.a. high) in the open field like Kelly does. These players are very, very similar, even down to being nicked up frequently. If Kelly can develop into a Boldin-type player, it's a win for the Bills.

DOES HE FIT THE "BILL"? Yes.
- How long has it been since the Buffalo Bills have employed a hard-working physical wide receiver? Eric Moulds was the last name that was able to do any of the things that Kelly can do, especially in the run blocking department. Buffalo employs a physical rushing attack, and Kelly's run-blocking makes him an ideal fit on the outside in that type of offense. Any way the Bills can add more physicality to their offense is a good thing, especially when it comes to the passing game. Would immediately give QB Trent Edwards an intermediate threat to move the chains, and can be an over-the-middle presence for a receiving corps sorely lacking in that department. Kelly's potential outweighs question marks at this point, especially when considering Buffalo's dire need for talent at wide receiver.

FINAL GRADE: 9.0 out of 10

OK. Let's hear it. I know what the prevalent attitude toward wide receiver in general is amongst y'all, so let's table those discussions for, oh, every other draft-related thread we bring up. Let's talk about Kelly specifically. What do you like about him? What worries you? Let's hear it, folks. (And make sure to leave your thoughts on the selection in general over at Mocking the Draft.)

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Fine
Even though Thomas woulld make e more happy, because of the upside. Both have high character so that is no issue, but I think we miss more by not picking Thomas than not picking Kelly.
However, if this is how the Bills do pick, then they will have their reasons and I will let them to it.
The Bills can win every game

by killascript on Apr 3, 2008 8:48 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Although I would have liked DRC or Derrick Harvey
at #11, I'm O.K. with Kelly.  With hands like that, it can't help but make Trent (or J.P.) a better QB.  I think Malcolm would be a big plus for this offense, with the ability to pick up 1st downs in those nail-biting 3rd and long situations.  With his height and leaping ability, he would help out the red zone offense.

My only concern with this guy is this: "How often will Kelly be on the field to use his skill set?"  Nobody knows.

Just for the record, I have reservations about taking Devin Thomas because of all the dropped passes.  That's not what this offense needs.

Get the Bills back to the big game!

by Blitz on Apr 4, 2008 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Just wanted to share
Found this comment made by Kurupt way back in November, after the Bills had just been beaten 56-10 by the Patriots. I find it comical; boy, K's opinion has changed dramatically...
Evans should get extended this offseason if we are serious about keeping him. He's gone next year if we don't. We need to re-sign him and get a stud opposite him (Malcolm Kelly please).
Create a free account to join in the discussion, Bills fans!

by Brian Galliford on Apr 3, 2008 8:49 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Hey
I'm not airing your dirty laundry, leave mine out of it!

That was November, I was still expecting our DE's to not look like walking corpses. I still think we need a top WR, but I'm not as sold on Kelly any more (see injuries), nor do I think one is necessary in round 1.

What was the context of that quote anyhow, and why did you go find it?  After that game, I'm sure we all said something similar about every position on the team....haha

~K

by Kurupt on Apr 3, 2008 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ha ;)
I'll look it back up... what's funny is that at that time, I was vehemently AGAINST Kelly... so we've flip-flopped... :)
Create a free account to join in the discussion, Bills fans!

by Brian Galliford on Apr 3, 2008 9:21 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here you go
In this post
Create a free account to join in the discussion, Bills fans!

by Brian Galliford on Apr 3, 2008 9:24 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

digging for dirt
wow, good thing I've never said anything stupid. Josh Johnson pick not withstanding.
Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Apr 3, 2008 9:32 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Haha
I'm glad I re-thought those comments I made.  I even stooped to the financial situation of our DE's, even though I hardly agree with that now. Whoops. I hate the Pats.
~K

by Kurupt on Apr 3, 2008 9:40 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

#11 Overall
Martin.  Rucker.

Sound familiar to anyone?

Just kidding, Brian!  LOL!!!

How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 3, 2008 9:15 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah
and that was in JANUARY!
~K

by Kurupt on Apr 3, 2008 9:21 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

HA!
I knew as soon as I brought up the Kurupt comment, that Rucker pick would come out.

For the record, I wasn't the one that picked Rucker (that was New Era Scouting way back in January), I just really liked the idea. Still like the player, too. :)

Create a free account to join in the discussion, Bills fans!

by Brian Galliford on Apr 3, 2008 9:22 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hey now
You were right there with them on the Rucker pick, as I recall.  A few comments you made:
Round 1, Pick 11: Martin Rucker, TE, Missouri
- Love it. Rucker, pictured at top right, is exactly the type of athletic playmaker we need offensively. Trent Edwards loves using his tight ends (no jokes, please), and Rucker's versatility allows him to line up in the backfield, on the line and in the slot. He truly is a matchup nightmare. He won't be considered a reach at #11 come April.
I will say that I really, really, really like Rucker at this point.
Please don't judge Rucker on where draft sites have him going right now, because as we all know, everything changes after the Senior Bowl, Combine, etc. Given our lack of size on offense, lack of red zone threat, and Edwards' fondness of hitting the tight end in the passing game, I don't see Rucker "filling a need" - I see him as the one player who would help this team most, as it stands right now.
I believe he'll be a sure-fire first-round pick by the time April rolls around.

Haha, that was fun.

~K

by Kurupt on Apr 3, 2008 9:34 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Kelly
Its really hard for me to argue with this selection.  On one side I'm anti-ever taking a WR with your first pick unless its a Calvin Johnson type which comes around every handful of years.  But, with Dick Jauron a great defensive coach and the scheme sound, and the FA period spent improving the middle of the Bills defense, Trent Edwards/Turk Schonert and Co. are crying for help on the offensive side, especially adding someone that can add play-making ability.  Someone who can make a play that other WR's on our team CAN't make.  Big players make Big Plays.  We lack them.  

The only reasoning I can see to not take Kelly is if the Bills have an Ace up there sleeve and either believe that some other WR is worth the #11 pick, or they take a CB/DE and then trade back up into the late 1st or early 2nd and grab a WR they have targeted like they did with Poz and McCargo in the last 2 drafts.

I will admit.  Seeing Kelly in a Bills uniform, making plays, really gets my juices flowing.

MARVelous

by MARVelous on Apr 3, 2008 8:51 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

NFL.com scouting report
I know this is long but good information.  I apologize if it has been seen on here before.

Analysis

Positives: Has a solid build with good upper-body muscle definition, long arms and legs, big thighs and calves, good bubble, tight skin and room to carry at least another 10 pounds of bulk without having the additional weight impact his foot speed...Big-time playmaker who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball and must be accounted for at all times...Tough receiver who isn't afraid to take a hit...Has very large, natural hands with decent deep speed (more quick than fast), as his long legs and running stride let him consistently eat up the cushion and get behind the defensive back...Has the outstanding ability to change direction in an instant, doing a good job of adjusting his body to off-target tosses...Combines good strength and burst to beat the jam and elude tacklers...Displays the natural ability to catch with his hands extended outside the frame...Aggressive cut blocker who won't back down and thrives when he gets the ball in pressure situations...Fights for the ball along the sideline, keeping his feet inbounds...Has super quickness off the snap and into his routes, showing good precision in his breaks...Might lack explosion, but he comes off the line with good power and finesse, as he stays under control through his patterns, running sharp, crisp routes and using his strength and size to bust through the jam...Can gain ground and separate in space...Shows no wasted movement, as he is effective at dropping his weight getting into his patterns, which is surprising to see as most tall receivers don't have the fluid hips or elusiveness that Kelly displays...Does a good job of reading coverage and adjusting in his routes, especially when working underneath...Has the ability to pull away from second-level defenders after the catch, using his strength to break arm tackles...Alert to pocket pressure, showing urgency working back to the ball...Solid short-area receiver that gets his head around quickly to locate the ball, remaining focused going for the ball in a crowd, as he knows how to use his frame to shield defenders...Plucks and secures the ball with ease and can take a hit and hold on to the ball working through traffic (knows how to use his height and long arms to his advantage)...Lacks suddenness in his initial step, but he has the quickness to separate, can fade into the open area and easily track the ball in flight...Even though he is a big target, he can bend, reach and jump for the ball while staying in control and maintaining his stride (has better ability to adjust in his intermediate and deep routes than in the short area)...Finds the ball in flight quickly and has the flexibility to adjust to it in the air...With his long arms and explosive leaping, he will win most jump balls...Shows elusiveness and strength after the catch, as he can either make the first defender miss or run through arm tackles...Good position blocker to seal off and shows proper hand placement to sustain blocks.

Negatives: Lacks the short steps and quick feet, but does get good depth in his route progression with his long stride...Perhaps a product of the team's reliance on its ground game, he will disappear for long stretches...A good blocker, he is basically a non-factor without the ball in his hands...Will usually run crisp routes but he will glide out of his breaks, possibly because of the hip pointer he suffered vs. Oklahoma State...Keeps his head on a swivel to locate the ball, but is more effective as a receiver in the open field, as he does not show the same burst as smaller receivers when catching in the short area...Not really an explosive player, but does use his body lean and initial contact strike to create separation.

Compares To: LARRY FITZGERALD-Arizona...Like Fitzgerald, Kelly takes advantage of his size and strength to break arm tackles rather than trying to get fancy with moves when trying to separate. Both have some of the best natural hands in the game, as Kelly was charted with only one dropped pass in the last two years. Perhaps due to the team's reliance on the running game, he will disappear for stretches on the field. But when he gets into that rhythm he will catch everything in site. Some teams might prefer Indiana's James Hardy, but Kelly is a more natural receiver and comes with no off-field baggage. Could be a perfect fit in Cincinnati with Carson Palmer if Cincinnati trades Chad Johnson.

Injury Report

  1. Suffered a slight concussion vs. Texas A&M (11/04)...Left the Fiesta Bowl (1/01/07) in the first quarter with cartilage damage in his knee, undergoing surgery that kept him sidelined for 2007 spring camp.
  2. Suffered a hip pointer on the first series of the Oklahoma State clash (11/24) and saw just a few snaps in that contest...Suffered a leg contusion early in the first quarter vs. West Virginia (1/02/08) in the Fiesta Bowl and did not return to the game.
MARVelous

by MARVelous on Apr 3, 2008 8:59 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

excellent info
Just made me want to see him in a Bills uniform more. He sounds so perfect for the needs of our offense. Lee Evans, Malcolm Kelly, and Roscoe Parrish would each give us three very different weapon types and I would be excited to see what Trent could with that. Throw in Marshawn and I'm already concerned about work on Mondays in the fall. My TD victory chug never had a negative effect on my job last season, twenty chugs in four months really ain't bad. I'm willing to take some awful Mondays for a team that puts up points
It's not delivery, It's DiGiorgio!

by poz on Apr 4, 2008 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Malcolm Kelly
Given the 5 players to choose from in the Mock Draft, I stated that I would be happy with either one of them.  DRC was my first preference, Kelly was my second.  I like Malcolm Kelly.

I've also stated that great wide receivers must be able to catch.  Kelly catches everything in site.  He attacks the ball in the air.  Outstanding catching radius.  Kelly can be open without getting separation.

Along with Lee Evans, I think the Bills would have one of, if not the, best tandem of "catching" wide receivers in the league.  Both Evans and Kelly possess tremendous hand strength.

Kelly is not in the elite class of Calvin Johnson (taken #2 overall in 2007), Roy Williams (#7 in 2004), and Andre Johnson (#3 in 2003).  I actually think that Kelly is more comparable to Larry Fitzgerald (#3 in 2004) than Anquan Boldin (ironically they play for the same team).  Either way, it's a great complement.  While Kelly lacks Fitzgerald's polish and production coming into the NFL, they are similar in competing for and catching the ball in traffic.  Kelly may be a little faster than Fitzgerald and Boldin.  Boldin is a tremendous YAC receiver; I don't think that Kelly is as good as Boldin after the catch.

Go Bills!

How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 3, 2008 9:09 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

That's so funny
I made the same comment about Fitzgerald only it was so long I ended up deleting 80 percent of it and posting it just after.  Great minds....ha ha.

by jj24 on Apr 3, 2008 9:16 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

WOw
Brian digging in the trash for that old quote.  I hope he doesn't bring back all the things we have said on here at one point!  

Actually the more I research this dang draft and the #11 pick, the more flustered I get!  I just love taking a WR.  Which one, I'm not so sure yet.

MARVelous

by MARVelous on Apr 3, 2008 9:10 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Anquan Boldin
That's NOT a player I would compare Kelly to. I would compare Thomas to Boldin, but not Kelly. Kelly doesn't seem like he's out to run people over like Boldin, nor do I think he goes over the middle all that much.

If I had to find a comparison for Kelly I think I'd go with Plaxico. Both are good hands catchers, go up and get it, and seem to enjoy the stiff arm.  Maybe a poor man's Larry Fitz is a good comparison as well.

Is it just me, or does Limas Sweed seem so much faster than Kelly? I really am starting to like Sweed all over again.  I'm bumping Thomas back to 3rd with Sweed/Kelly fighting for my poll position.

~K

by Kurupt on Apr 3, 2008 9:13 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Another great mind : )
You say Fitgerald, too!

by jj24 on Apr 3, 2008 9:19 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Looks like we have company too
Hope we'd get a similar player if we took Kelly...
~K

by Kurupt on Apr 3, 2008 9:22 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

That would be great
Fitzgerald is an excellent receiver. All of his skills are good but his concentration for catching the difficult ball may be unequaled.  He can catch balls he has no business catching.  I'm not sure Kelly's hands are that good but I like your Plaxeco Burress comparison.  That may be the most accurate.

by jj24 on Apr 3, 2008 9:30 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can see Burress
And personally, as a guy with the bum ankle, as Kelly "MAY" have bum knees, if he never practices, and then comes in on sunday for 8 cathces 120 and a TD to complement or even better Evans, so be it.
The Bills can win every game

by killascript on Apr 4, 2008 8:45 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Kelly/Boldin comparison
That's NOT a player I would compare Kelly to. I would compare Thomas to Boldin, but not Kelly.

Boy, I wouldn't! Thomas compared to Boldin? Thomas isn't nearly as physical as Boldin is in his running style; Thomas is more based on speed and acceleration, whereas Boldin is a physical runner with great balance. Kelly's not exactly like Boldin after the catch, but they both have similar running styles and similar physicality. I'd say Thomas is more like Terrell Owens in that he's fast, can take a short throw for a huge gain based on his acceleration and apparently has questionable hands.

I don't mind the Burress comparison, though - that's pretty accurate as well.

I guess the Kelly/Fitzgerald comparison is OK, but I still think he's more physical than Fitzgerald. Kelly got by on pure talent at Oklahoma, but if he's going to be a great starter in this league, he'll need to be physical and aggressive. I view Fitz as more of a complete package receiver than Kelly.

Create a free account to join in the discussion, Bills fans!

by Brian Galliford on Apr 4, 2008 8:51 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Malcolm Kelly is more like Larry Fitzgerald
There's no way Kelly is like Anquan Boldin.  Larry Fitzgerald, I would say, is a more accurate comparison.  Anquan Boldin is to receivers what Marion Barber is to running backs.  He is easily the most phyical receiver in the league which is why he gets injured frequently.  

Malcolm Kelly is the player I voted for in the poll so I'm not going to disagree with your selection there, Brian.  

by jj24 on Apr 3, 2008 9:13 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Here's a question....
Does Kelly, and his scouting report, seem to favor a relationship with Losman more than Trent, based on Losman's throwing style, and tendency to be inaccurate?  I think so.

With that said, it seems to me that Devin Thomas would work better with Edwards, based on his scouting reports.

Should Edwards talents (or lack of) be considered when they pick a WR?

by krytime on Apr 3, 2008 9:19 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Edwards talents (or lack of)
So I am not the only person on the planet that is not convinced?  I've been going insane!
How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 3, 2008 9:23 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Edwards
The guy has shown enough for us to give him the benefit of the doubt for the time being. He is exactly the type of QB Jauron wants--conservative--to run the West Coast type offense the Bills are installing. Barring injury, Edwards will have the entire season to prove himself.

by Ron From NM on Apr 3, 2008 9:31 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed.
Jauron may be convinced.

However, I am not...yet.

How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 3, 2008 9:36 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

oh god...
i don't think anything you said was false, but I disagree with it all.

I HATE the WCO.

I HATE a conservative offense.

and I HATE to think that Edwards is going to get the benefit of the doubt that Losman never got... (well okay I don't hate that, actually I like that, but it just makes be so frusturated how much JP got jerked around in his time in Buffalo.  I hope the God they don't do that with trent.  maybe i HATE it becuase it reminds me of their past miserable failures?)

oh, and did I mention I HATE dick jauron?  I don't want to see him fired becuase I think the front office has put a good team together and changing head coaches would just be a disasterous set back, but that doesn't mean I have to like him.  

John I.

by jri111 on Apr 3, 2008 11:37 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Edwards
Edwards defines the West Coast offense and a conservative offense.  So you might eventually come to hate Edwards, too.

Does Edwards have the talent to excel in a vertical passing scheme?  Can Edwards force defenses to defend every area of the field and make defenses fear him?  Can you say "limitations"?

How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 4, 2008 12:06 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Boy, who pissed in your cheerios today?
Probably your dog... :)

How did this turn into an Edwards debate? I've specifically tried to avoid QB threads... :)

Create a free account to join in the discussion, Bills fans!

by Brian Galliford on Apr 4, 2008 6:40 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah really John
Don't forget to take your anti-grumpy pills today.
Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Apr 4, 2008 6:46 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Edwards - I'm with you, too
I'm not certain when 56 percent completion percentage, seven touchdowns, and eight interceptions became reassuring.  I mean, I like some of the stuff I saw, but the same could be said for J.P. two years ago.  Most everyone just assumes he's the real deal and that there's no question mark there.

by jj24 on Apr 3, 2008 9:34 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah...
For me, especially regarding a young QB, I am more concerned about the physical talent at this stage than his production.

I'm not saying that Edwards won't be a great QB.

I have, and I could, go on forever about this topic.

I hope I am wrong.  If I am wrong, I will be very happily wrong because that will likely mean that Edwards will be one the elite and one of the most feared QB's in the game.

How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 3, 2008 9:44 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hope he proves us wrong, too
Nobody ever gushed over the arm of Joe Montana.  He was surrounded by great talent and he put the ball where it had to be, when it had to be there.  

by jj24 on Apr 3, 2008 9:49 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I will never be confident in Edwards
until we see sustained success. Everyone thought JP was the guy after a handful of good games in '06. I want to see multiple seasons of solid, above average play!
~K

by Kurupt on Apr 3, 2008 9:37 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I like #5.
I think you took that the wrong way.  I'm all in favor of this kid leading the Bills.  I just made a mention that yes, some WRs are a better fit for him than others..

by krytime on Apr 3, 2008 9:47 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Edwards
When you make the change from Losman/Vertical to Edwards/West Coast, YAC becomes a necessity instead of a convenience.

In the passing game, if Edwards can't make big plays with his arm, then the Bills must get the receivers to make the big plays.

Does Edwards' talent (or lack of) limit player interest and acquisitions, as well as how good the offense and the team can become?

How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 3, 2008 10:02 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

From a wider perspective
I've basically been wondering the same thing since Edwards was named the starting quarterback.

To answer your question: Yes.  Everything revolves around the quarterback.  The QB performance affects everything on the team.  That's why it's so important to get it right.  Limitations?  I've been harping on this for a long time.

How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 3, 2008 9:34 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Edwards will be fine..
He's got a good head.  He's got a good arm.  He's got a good O line.  And now, he has an OC that will tailor the game plan around his strengths.  No worries here...

by krytime on Apr 3, 2008 9:50 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah.......Kelly....yeah.....Kelly........yeahhhhh
That was me trying to be excited.  I really hope he proves me wrong.  Not that he can't win me over.  A monster Pro Day would be a good start!!!  But right now, the latest draft buzz is the Fins take Jake Long, Chris Long may fall to the Jets, and the Pats may get Gholston. But I'm still excited about Kelly....yeah....Kelly..yeah...

by Joe P. on Apr 3, 2008 9:21 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

fitzgerald
is what the nfl.com scouting report says as well.  So great minds agree it appears....
MARVelous

by MARVelous on Apr 3, 2008 9:22 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Wretched highlight reel music
Ride of the Valkyries would have been a far better soundtrack choice. Moving on, he had some nice highlights but then what kind of sadist would put video of a guy dropping a ball or missing a block on a highlight reel? While, at this point, I prefer Sweed I'm not going to whine if the Bills pick Kelly instead. If, on the other hand, they draft Jackson...

by Ron From NM on Apr 3, 2008 9:27 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

edwards
Which is why we need a WR to grow and develop so as Edwards grows and matures he has talent surrounded around him to make him better in the years to come.  I mean, IMO we need some combination of 2 pass catchers in this draft whether that is WR or pass catching TE.

Edwards has a 100 miles to go to be anything in this league.  But just running Lynch and punting the ball and lacking scoring is something I can't continue to see!  Gotta just keep adding talent and hope that Edwards matures faster and more efficiently than JP ever did

MARVelous

by MARVelous on Apr 3, 2008 9:42 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Funny thing about the polls
When Brian polled the members of this site as to which player we should draft at #11, Malcolm Kelly was the leader.  With the poll of which receiver we would rather see drafted, Devin Thomas is the leader.  Granted, it's almost half as many votes right now, but that's funny.

by jj24 on Apr 3, 2008 10:04 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Newb holla, and comment on draft.
I've been following these threads for a little bit now, and it's time to say hi.  Hopefully I can offer some insight at times.  Anyways, I'm thinking we let Kelly slide(even though his hands are dreamy), because Cromartie is the guy to go after with this pick.  I believe this for 2 reasons.  One is the aforementioned bust rate on 1st round WR's, and the second is that Cromartie possesses real star-power potential.  So if we want to be the blue-collar safe-selection team we always are, then CB would be the best choice anyways, and Cromartie would have to be given a look if he slipped to 11th.  He could put this defense where it REALLY wants to be.  Nothing could make Aaron Schobel happier than signing this kid.  We will still be able to land a physical, athletic receiver in the second, but there will be no "prime-time" players left at CB.  OK, you can flame me now!  

by Daz28 on Apr 4, 2008 12:07 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Welcome!
I agree.  When you have a chance to get someone special, someone rare like Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, I think you must pull the trigger.  In case you didn't read it before, the following is my reasoning:

Given the conditions of this Mock Draft (players to choose from and the rules), my choice boils down to 5 primary considerations:

  1. Wide receiver is the Bills' greatest need.
  2. Of the 5 players to choose from, I think Malcolm Kelly would provide the most immediate impact.
  3. I think great cornerbacks are more difficult to find than great wide receivers.  There's almost always "next year" for a chance to get another great receiver.  I don't think the same can be said for a great cornerback.  I think that great wide receivers must be able to catch and great cornerbacks must be able to cover.  However, receivers have an easier job than cornerbacks do.  It's easier to run forward than run backward.  Receivers know where they are going to run, cornerbacks don't.  The rules of the game favor the receivers.  The theory that great cornerbacks (those with the ability to cover) are not required in the Cover 2, combined with the idea that Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is not a perfect fit for Buffalo's zone defense, are some of the reasons why I like Rodgers-Cromartie so much.  His rare talent would provide the Bills' defense uncommon flexibility and versatility and allow them to do things that other defenses simply can't do.
  4. Of the 5 players to choose from, I think Rodgers-Cromartie has the highest ceiling.  Kelly, Devin Thomas, Limas Sweed, and Mike Jenkins have plenty of upside, too.  However, I think that Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie has the most upside, primarily due to his rare combination of size, closing speed, hip flexibility, change of direction, quickness, instincts, jumping ability, and ball skills.
  5. I don't like the idea of "must win in 2008" or else be subject to more coach and roster turnover.  I am concerned that the general lack of patience and stability among front offices, coaches, players, and fans around the NFL could be hurting the league.  Unfortunately, this type of pressure prevents teams from doing what is best for the long haul.  The focus of the draft should not be to get the players that will provide the most immediate impact, but to acquire the best talent and build the roster for the future.
Therefore, my order of preference is (if available):
  1. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
  2. Malcolm Kelly
  3. Devin Thomas
  4. Limas Sweed
  5. Mike Jenkins
In short, my pick is Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.  Honestly, I would be happy with any one of these 5 players.  Kelly, Thomas, or Sweed would be awesome additions to the Bills offense.  Along with Marshawn Lynch and Lee Evans, it would complete the playmaking trifecta on offense.  I like Jenkins, but I don't think he is as talented as Rodgers-Cromartie and he comes with some character and maturity issues.  I just think Rodgers-Cromartie is the best way to go.
How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 4, 2008 12:25 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

patience
I agree with you 100% that the lack of patience among fans, players, teams, etc. is very much hurting the league. But just because I need to get it off my chest...boy, 9 years years without a playoff game really sucks. 1999 feels so long ago...
It's not delivery, It's DiGiorgio!

by poz on Apr 4, 2008 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Welcome indeed
Thanks for signing up. Just so you're aware (you may already be), DRC was selected at pick 10 by the Saints.
Create a free account to join in the discussion, Bills fans!

by Brian Galliford on Apr 4, 2008 6:42 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

DRC vs. Kelly
I loved watching DRC at the Combine, but I worry that too much flash might mean he will be trouble for Buffalo (I imagine Deon Sanders in Buffalo -- he would have wanted out in a year).  On the opposite end, he may be a "flash" in the pants, given from what I have read, his performance at Tennessee State (Tennessee State!) was not stellar.  Apparently, he uses his athletic abilities too much (gambler, gets beat).  As to Kelly, I would like more information on his character -- there have been a few notes that he is a GREAT character (I would like to know more about it, since I think that quality will be key to him being the pick over the others (although I think Sweed apparently is also a great character player).

by labill on Apr 4, 2008 12:39 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Don't go Emmitt Smith on us...
Flash in the pan, not pants. It refers to a flintlock misfire in which the charge in the pan ignites but the main charge (the one behind the bullet) does not. As a result, the weapon fails to fire even though the flash in the pan looks impressive....and smells nice, too.

by Ron From NM on Apr 4, 2008 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

and smells nice, too.
Only if you like the smell of black powder burning.
Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Apr 4, 2008 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I love the smell
of napalm in the morning....smells like...victory!!!

by Joe P. on Apr 4, 2008 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

If Only
I could have had Emmitt's life.  Pretty impressive facts -- how do you know this (albeit useless) stuff?  

by labill on Apr 4, 2008 5:53 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Guns and nerdy word play
I love them both. I have a pair of flintlocks and like games like boggle and scrabble. Go figure.

by Ron From NM on Apr 4, 2008 8:05 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

flintlocks & scrabble
I've fired a flintlock or two in my time as well, my dad is big into primitive camping, 1800's style, so I've been around them plenty. as for scrabble, you migt not be able to tell by my spelling here, but I just got the new super scrabble, and I've yet to be beat.
Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Apr 4, 2008 10:12 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

If we are taking a WR
I would have to say that I can deal with Kelly, and I would definitely be a fan from day one. Do I think we should take one in round one? Of course not, but if we do I'll take Kelly and his hands made of glue especially if he has full clearance on those knees. I really liked Devin Thomas...until I heard about all those drops this season, because I just do not feel like hands can be taught. I am still really hoping for that DE (Harvey), but I am not blind and absolutely realize the need to fix our anemic offense, and Malcolm Kelly certainly does fit the BILLS!
Playoff Bound in '08!

by SP on Apr 4, 2008 2:27 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

yo.
kelly is SICK.

by sri on Apr 4, 2008 1:43 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

then tell him
to drink a lot of fluid and get his @$$ ready for his Pro day.

by Joe P. on Apr 4, 2008 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

SICK (ill) or SICK (good)?
How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Apr 4, 2008 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I assume the latter
but I don't care which it is.  I want to see this guy put up some great numbers before I even consider jumping on his bandwagon.

by Joe P. on Apr 4, 2008 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

well...
ill is also "good." so let's just say he's very, very good.

and just for brian, a devin thomas youtube highlight reel:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=AHbkz0IMIeA

produced - apparently - by everyone's favorite commercial toolkit, "yeezy".

just what is it with kanye west and college football highlights anyway?

i digress. from their highlights, it looks like kelly produces the more favorable matchups consistently, and makes more difficult grabs. thomas just looks like he burns everyone - which he probably won't be able to do consistently in the pros.

by sri on Apr 4, 2008 3:52 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Highlights
Kanye West is perfect for the college football videos. Haven't you heard? Kanye went to college. He tells us in every single one of his songs.
~K

by Kurupt on Apr 4, 2008 7:41 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

except for that ridiculous grab
off that dude's helmet, of course.

by sri on Apr 4, 2008 3:57 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Malcolm Kelly
I will bet the first person that responds to this message that the Bills do not pick Malcolm Kelly at pick 11.

I will even send the check to Brian Galliford beforehand to show how serious I am and Brian can send it back to me when I'm right.

Any takers?

by 1eyedpirate on Apr 4, 2008 5:43 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Why does it have to be for money?
Why don't we bet an eye.  I've got two, so if I lose one, at least I still have the other.  However, if you lose, you'll be blind.  If that doesn't work for you than I'll bet fifty gold dubloons.

by jj24 on Apr 4, 2008 7:36 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Aesop?
Nicely done, JJ24. You're getting pre-medieval on him...

by Ron From NM on Apr 4, 2008 8:06 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

No money bets
place a bet like I made with Foreign Arrow, who ever loses has to post a diary (or fanpost) proclaiming the others greatness, or somesuch. that seems more fun any way.
Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Apr 4, 2008 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sounds Fair
I would agree to that.

by 1eyedpirate on Apr 6, 2008 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Malcomb Kelly has a terrible pro day
ยป WR Malcolm Kelly (6-3 7/8, 227): Ran the 40 in 4.75 and 4.68, had a 32-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 9-inch long jump, 4.24 short shuttle, 7.00 cone drill, and ran position drills.

So basically, slow, can't jump, but is kinda quick

by buffaloboy90 on Apr 9, 2008 7:07 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

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