Buffalo Rumblings Authors Mock: Round Three

by Brian Galliford on Mar 19, 2008 12:01 AM EDT in 2010 NFL Draft

For the past two days, the four authors of Buffalo Rumblings - sireric, jri111, Kurupt and myself - have been playing the role of General Manager... err, COO... of the Buffalo Bills in presenting to you our Authors Mock Draft. As we expected when we first put this project together, reviews have been mixed; we applaud y'all for your excellent critiques of our work. We look forward to hearing what you have to say about today's installment - hopefully our most intriguing yet.

In fact, I'll guarantee that one pick made today (that would be sireric's) will get y'all talking, whether it be about the player, the pick, or sireric's sanity. Here's how we chose in regards to Buffalo's third-round pick, number 71 overall:

Brian Galliford's Pick

3-71. Tyvon Branch, CB, Connecticut.
- Branch is a thickly built (5'11", 204 pounds) corner that's tough against the run and has superb straight-line speed (4.31 40). He's a little stiff in the hips, however, which means that his potential to be great is far higher in a zone scheme. He's also one of the better kick returners available this year, meaning that he could have a real impact as a rookie while he got accustomed to Buffalo's defense. He's athletic enough that he'll sneak up a lot of draft boards, so I'll grab him in the third round while he's still available.

Sireric's Pick

3-71. Josh Johnson, QB, San Diego.
- If I thought the Harvey pick would make some of you mad, this one could really get you steamed. Let's be honest, if J.P. Losman is 50-50 to be on the Bills' roster in '08, he's all but gone by the start of '09. Would it not be prudent to grab his replacement now so he can get a year of experience under his belt? At 6'2" and 213 pounds, Johnson has good size and was still able to run a 4.44-second 40. He's also Marshawn's cousin.

Jri111's Pick

3-71. Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
- Everyone knows that the Bills need to get better at TE, it's just a matter of how and when. I picked Keller here, not because I liked him better then Davis or Bennett, but because I believe out of the three he has the best chance to still be around when the Bills pick in the third. The 6'3", 240-pound TE had a huge Combine which may have bumped his stock from a third to late second rounder. However, Davis and Bennett are more "complete" players and both have better size. Keller has great hands and is fluid in his cuts. He would give the Bills a receiving threat at the TE position they desperately need. Royal would still start as the "in-line" TE. Keller would move around and play more in the slot and out of the backfield.

Kurupt's Pick

3-71. Jordy Nelson, WR, Kansas State
- I'm still assuming we'll pick up a free agent WR before the Draft, as I can't imagine us relying on a rookie WR from the start. However, I think Nelson is one of the more NFL-ready receivers in this draft. Some people may consider him a one-year wonder, but he really has a ton of ability. He's got the size we are looking for at WR (6'3", 217 lbs), better than expected speed (4.49), excellent game speed, and good hands. He is by no means a finished product as he'll need to continue working on route running, blocking and timing, but he's got the athleticism and ability to be a good starting WR for us. I see him as a good possession WR with the ability to go over the middle and pick up a lot of YAC. Bills fans would love this guy, as he's a former walk-on who's worked his tail off to get to this level. Plus, how can you not love the name Jordy?

So there they are. Before you flame away, however, please be sure to keep these picks in the context of how each of us has drafted through the first two rounds (unless you don't want to). Those results are below: Brian Galliford
1-11. Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
2-42. Jason Jones, DE, Eastern Michigan
3-71. Tyvon Branch, CB, Connecticut

sireric
1-11. Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
2-42. Reggie Smith, DB, Oklahoma
3-71. Josh Johnson, QB, San Diego

jri111
1-11. Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
2-42. Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech
3-71. Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue

Kurupt
1-11. Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
2-42. Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
3-71. Jordy Nelson, WR, Kansas State

Rounds 4 and 5 both coming at you tomorrow, with 6 and 7 coming on Friday. For now, take it away, faithful critics - we can't wait to hear what you say about our third round selections.

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Comments

my thoughts...

going to get them out of the way REAL early becuase I have a very long day ahead of me tomorrow (today).

Brian's pick: I like it. In fact I like it a lot. With the Bills picking up James today, they may feel comfortable waiting to grab a CB until round three I also liked the Jason Jones pick in the 2nd, but I think that was a round too early for him. Also, even though I like Jones, I would rather see a TE address before the Bills start looking at depth players. With the James signing, if you substitute Fred Davis (TE) for Jones, and this may be how the draft plays out for the Bills come April.

Sireric's pick: I don't get it. Looking at the roster and thinking ahead is great, but not when you have only 3 viable WR's on the team. In fairness, this mock was done well before we knew the outcome of the Bryant Johnson situation, but even so, DE in the 1st is a pick which displays the same thought process -looking ahead for replacements. Unfortunately, the Bills have too many immediate needs to be doing that just yet. Of course, looking ahead is always important, but I would much rather see you use this pick on a center like Mike Pollock then a QB. The Bills have four O-lineman that are set to become free agents next season (Fowler, Whittle, Preston, Chambers) and if any position needs to be addressed in terms of "looking ahead" it should be that.

Krupt's pick: I like Jordy Nelson, but I'm not in love with the guy like some seem to be. He would be a great second WR to pick-up after grabbing Sweed, Kelly or Thomas earlier in the draft. Third might be right for him, but I don't think he'll go much higher then that.

My pick: I went with Keller for the reasons I stated above, but it wasn't an easy decision. For one thing, he may not even be there when the Bills pick. If he wasn't I would go with Mike Pollock in a heartbeat. As I stated above, the O-line depth could become critical next season (and may already be if we consider the talent level of Chambers, Whittle, and Preston). A Center like Pollock could spend the season pushing Fowler and then become his replacement when Fowler's contract expires on March 1st '09. If Pollock is not there, which is a possibility as well, then a WR like Jordy Nelson, or Avery would be my pick. If I couldn't get one of the top three TE's in this round, I would substitute my next pick (4th round pick) to take a guy like Jermichael Finely or Kellen Davis. So Keller (TE) -> Pollock (C) -> Nelson (WR) in round 3 depending on availability.

As far as Keller goes, I think what I like most about him is his route running. The guy makes sharp and fluid cuts like a WR and could be a potential nightmare matchup for LB's over the middle. He's fast, he can jump, and he can get open. Obviously his size is a concern and his not really an in-line/blocking TE, but his receiving abilities overshadow that. If the Bills are looking for a "complete" package TE, they will probably look at Davis or Bennett in the second (i don't see either of them falling to the Bills in the third under any circumstance). If the Bills want to use the second round pick on another position, then can wait and gamble that the best receiving TE in the draft will still be available. I think the Bills could afford to go after a one-dimensional TE in the draft because they already have Robert Royal to play the in-line blocker, and he plays that role well. Then there is the wild-card of Carlson, but his 40-time raise a HUGE red flag to me, and I would be sekptical of a TE that could be a liability in the passing game. The Bills need game-changers on offense and slow TE's are not going to cut it.

John I.

by jri111 on Mar 19, 2008 1:01 AM EDT reply actions

Pollock

I'd be more than happy with Pollock in the 3rd round if Buffalo was able to nab a WR and TE in the first two rounds. For that to happen someone like Fred Davis needs to be there for Buffalo in Round 2. How likely do you think that is considering where Buffalo drafts in Round 2 (I'd put it at maybe 1 in 4 odds)? I'm more inclined to look for the "complete" TE rather than a pure pass catcher like Keller, but that's probably because I seem to have a much lower opinion of Robert Royal than most Bills fans seem to have (Watching Bills' games with my Dad, he hates Royal more than I hate Josh Reed; it would be good for his health to see Royal replaced immediately). As far as Carlson goes, as a Notre Dame fan, I'm not optimistic about his pro career prospects.

Nick (Bensalem, PA)

by Nick BensalemPA on Mar 19, 2008 8:07 AM EDT up reply actions

Center

We NEED to draft a Center this year, but I'd rather do it later in the draft and develop the player. I don't like any of the undersized C prospects in this draft and have a hard time seeing them as an improvement over Fowler in a year. We need someone who can hold up in run blocking and not get tossed around. I don't know if Pollock is that guy, at least in my opinion.

by Kurupt on Mar 19, 2008 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions

Post James

I'm not a huge fan of any of those scenarios although if I had to, I'd flip b/w jri's and Brian's. I'm a firm believer that we should address WR, TE, DE, and maybe even OT (That Pollack guy sounds great, but we signed Whittle as interior depth) before we draft a CB.

by Kumario! on Mar 19, 2008 1:09 AM EDT reply actions

The Fowler Effect

Don't underestimate what a huge liability Fowler is to both the running and passing game. He is average at best at pass blocking and gets no push in the run game. Actually, that is being kind; getting no push is usually a good play for Fowler. An average center would allow us to release a TE into the pattern on pass plays and might actually allow us to run up the middle with some success. I think Pollak could beat out Fowler before the start of the season.

by Joe P. on Mar 19, 2008 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions

Wow

I disagree with every pick except Branch (who I still think is a little bit of a reach). I like Chevis Jackson just a little bit more than Branch too.

I like Jordy Nelson and Dustin Keller. My only complaint is that I don't believe that they will still be available. If they are there at 71 i would think the Bills would at least consider them.

Josh Johnson is a joke to me. He doesn't have an NFL arm or anything close to it. At the combine he threw every other 15 yard out into the ground. I think he is going to drop like a rock on draft day and show why NFL teams know more than the Mel Kipers of the world. He isn't particularly bright and San Diego really had to dumb down the offense for him. After he ran in the 4.4s at the combine everyone assumed he was climbing draft boards, but his passes were all ducks and he probably dropped a round or two. Johnson is probably an athletic and exciting backup and the next level, but I feel confident that he will never become even an average NFL starter.

by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2008 1:49 AM EDT reply actions

Also

I just wanted to point out that I don't have a problem with drafting a QB (although the third round is a little early). My problem is entirely with Josh Johnson as a prospect. My personal draft would probably look like:

Mike Jenkins
Best available WR - probably Jordy Nelson
Mike Pollack
Best available TE - Finley, Rucker, Tamme or Keller - in that order
FB - Schmitt or Hillis

by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2008 2:05 AM EDT up reply actions

Josh Johnson

You're right he through a lot of ducks at the combine, HOWEVER he was suffering from back spasms but worked out any way (which shows more toughness than Malcolm Kelly). At his recent pro-day he was healthy and it showed, he through the ball crisp and accurately, and looked like a NFL QB. He has jumped over Woodson and Booty, and is now the #5 QB behind Ryan, Henne, Flacco, and Brohm.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 7:00 AM EDT up reply actions

QB

I don't think drafting a QB is a joke at all, in fact it may even be the wisest thing Buffalo could do. While I'm not particularly interested in Johnson, if someone like Brian Brohm were to slip to the 3rd round, deep down, I'd be pulling for Buffalo to draft him. I was not impressed with Trent Edwards whatsoever last year. Does that mean he's hopeless? No. He was a rookie QB that missed most of last season in college and probably wasn't ready to even be the #2 last season. For some reason (financial? post-Donahoe spite?), ownership became prematurely enamored with Edwards despite his lack of production. To me, Edwards is a giant question mark that Jauron has made clear that he won't address this offseason. Maybe Buffalo has too many holes on the roster to spend a draft pick in the 1st few rounds on a QB who shouldn't play a down in 2008, but if someone they like slips into the 5th or 6th round (Dixon?), they'd be wise to grab him. Edwards played poorly last season, but really, who could blame him given his experience and the lack of weapons he had it his disposal? But even the optimists out there need to admit that he's not even close to a sure thing as a starting QB in the NFL. The quicker we can develop some alternatives for down the road, the better off the franchise will be in the 50/50 event that Edwards isn't good enough to start in the NFL.

Nick (Bensalem, PA)

by Nick BensalemPA on Mar 19, 2008 8:00 AM EDT up reply actions

Thanks Nick

It's nice to get at least a little back-up.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 8:05 AM EDT up reply actions

I might agree

But picking a QB 3rd in this years draft is not very smart, IMO. Sure, it would be nice to know exactly what to expect from Edwards. And, absolutely, Edwards is a question mark. Question is, does that mean we continually draft a QB by the 3rd every year because the one we drafted the year before hasn't shown enough? That seems like circular logic to me. We should spend it on another position of need.

Fact is, we had a QB with first round grades fall into the Bill's lap with the 94th(?) pick last year; best talent on the board at that point by far. Losman gets injured and Edwards steps in and wins. I don't think stats from last season are critical to the evaluation of Edwards because I don't think they properly reflect his potential. He was a first year QB learning a brand new system in an environment he had never played in before. Most QBs take time to develop (hate to use him as an example, but Brady was not pitching 4 touchdown games 5 games into his career). He won games and managed them well. He used his checkdowns, which I haven't seen in a few seasons. He didn't blow me away, but he played smart and managed games efficiently.

When I am told as a Bills fan to be "patient," I generally want to punch that person in the face. But in Edwards' case, we have to see what we've got. I certainly like the idea of drafting a QB this year in the later rounds (maybe Erik Ainge falls to the 6th?) for development purposes. So I guess I am not in total disagreement with you. But, I hear notes of restlessness in Edwards' case and I really think, please don't punch me in the face, we need to be patient.

by DCRumbler on Mar 19, 2008 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions

Patience with Edwards

I'm going to try and be patient with Edwards, but I find it strange that we're told to ignore Edwards' lack of production and focus on his "game management skills" as his great redeeming attribute from last season. The insane interceptions he threw in the 4th quarters against Dallas and Baltimore with the lead throw all the game manager praise out the window for me. Weather aside, I wasn't happy with how he managed the 4th quarter of the Giants game either when Dick Jauron was quoted as saying that he was "pleased" with how Edwards played in going 2 for his last 18, with 3 interceptions, 2 returned for Giants TDs. All excuses aside (and in defense of Edwards, most of the excuses were legitimate), there wasn't much to like about Edwards's performance in 2007.

Nick (Bensalem, PA)

by Nick BensalemPA on Mar 19, 2008 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions

JP

Losman baby!

by Kumario! on Mar 19, 2008 10:44 AM EDT up reply actions

Losman

I don't think you can bench a guy four times in three years and ever go back to him...I think Buffalo should accomodate his trade request if at all possible.

Nick (Bensalem, PA)

by Nick BensalemPA on Mar 19, 2008 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions

Agreed

I thought I was the only one.

How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Mar 19, 2008 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions

Not happening

Let him go and set the league of fire somewhere else. We blew it on him last year.

by DCRumbler on Mar 19, 2008 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions

Oh no

Please no Edwards/Losman debates. We've done such a great job avoiding those here!

I am really restraining myself from responding to your last sentence. Must....hold....back....

Rumble on

by Kurupt on Mar 19, 2008 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions

Actually...

No debate from me. I am happy either way. I think we actually got two potential winners under center for next season (unless we let Losman go). Losman may have a higher ceiling, but Edwards is just fine.

Now if we could trade just up for Ryan...

by DCRumbler on Mar 19, 2008 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions

yeah. no debate from me.

BUT. the most illegitimate excuse you can give me as a professional is that your head isn't straight because you were kept on a short leash your entire career.

garbage.

go out there and do your job. earn the benefit of the doubt.

i'd prefer losman stay on the team because he's familiar with turk and the rest of the offense / players. you can't buy that experience in this market.

and eric. wow... maybe you haven't noticed, but our offense completely sucks. completely. it's not even close. i understand the whole philosophy of going with the best available player. but come on, you can't do that to the total disregard of your every need.

by sri on Mar 19, 2008 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions

needs

This teams biggest needs are, in random order DE, Cb, WR, TE. I've addressed the first two and now the next two will be addressed. Give it time there are plenty of rounds to go.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions

As a rookie QB though...

I'll take it. The focus on game management stems from two things, I think. First, we've had Losman under center for the equivalently of 2 seasons and, while he was able to pitch the ball 80 yards and make broken plays work, he decision making was horrific. He either panicked or waited for the pocket to collapse around him. Second, and maybe Losman makes the perfect example, its the game management that takes QBs the longest to perfect. Some never get it (Think Sexy Rexy Grossman - Kissing Suzy Kolber's best entry; somebody link it please, it never gets old). Other's sit and wait to learn it (we'll see how Rodgers does with the Meat Packers next season). But, Edwards seemed to have a knack fr it.

And yep, I was watching those games too and hear you, but the in Cowboys game that was a Fairchild call. In the Giant's game, Mother Nature stopped by to smack everybody across the mouth; it was Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw that dominated the center of the D and forced Edwards to force throws.

I know I am making excuses, and we are probably talking past each other now, but I think that, with a little WR and TE help, Edwards will prove to be the most efficient QB the Bills have had since the mid 90s. And right now, I am happy with efficient; in fact, I'm clamoring for it. Efficient gets us into the playoffs, and from there, you never know.

by DCRumbler on Mar 19, 2008 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions

3rd round QB

I not suggesting taking a QB in the 3rd round every year, (presumably this will be the last for a while) You are correct, the main reason the Bills took Edwards last year was because he fell in their laps. I like Edwards and am not talking about taking his replacement, Just a guy who could step in a play for a while if an injury occurs.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions

But can't we get that

later in the draft? Is a 3rd the right call? I like what you did with your first two picks, but you have to draft a WR here and one in the 5th or 6th as well if the draft shakes out like you have it.

6th round sleeper: Paul Hubbard baby! Lee and Hubbard will be singing "On Wisconsin" as they catch 11 and 8 TDs respectively! OK, probably not, but I like him as our second WR pick.

by DCRumbler on Mar 19, 2008 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions

Agree with you

Maybe not so much on Hubbard, but on the addition of a 2nd WR later on with some major upside. It won't reflect in my Mock Draft, but 2 WR's looks to be the route we're taking unless we obtain a vet via FA/trade.

Other guys I'd look at in the 5th-7th round range include Steve Johnson (Kentucky), Adrian Arrington (Michigan), Marcus Henry (Kansas), Ernie Wheelwright (Minnesota), Marcus Smith (New Mexico) and Marcus Monk (Arkansas), etc. All guys with some ability that need to refine their games. I like the idea of adding a 2nd WR in the Draft later on, even if we still bring in a guy like Darrell Jackson or the like. We need some talent from somewhere...

by Kurupt on Mar 19, 2008 11:26 AM EDT up reply actions

Nick

Well, I never said that drafting a QB was a joke; in fact, I said I didn't have a problem with drafting one. I just strongly dislike Josh Johnson. I am a big combine guy and I totally get why players move up and down based on the timed drills. I don't understand how a good forty time and broad jump made a QB prospect rise up the charts. Maybe I'm just a skeptic because I didn't get the chance to watch him play at all. But from what I have read he compiled his greast numbers against inferior competition while running an option offense. San Diego ran a lot of screens and Johnson had his numbers inflated somewhat that way. He lived over the middle of the field too which leads me to believe that he actually can't throw those 15 and 20 yard outs that you need to survive in the NFL.

A couple other things:

Some of the late round QBs that I like are:

Kevin O'Connell - San Diego St. - Round 5/6
Dennis Dixon - Oregon - Round 6
Ryan O'Hara - Central Oklahoma - Round 7
Paul Smith - Tulsa - Round 7

I would really wait for a QB to fall into our laps in the later rounds. If one doesn't I just wouldn't pick one. Unless we can get a steal, I would rather just keep two active QBs on the roster and use the extra spot for someone who will actually contribute this year.

I think the biggest reason the Bills fell in love with Edwards is because he is different from Losman. I can only imagine the coaches frustrations trying to get Losman to go through his progressions and get rid of the ball at the right time. Losman had years to figure out how to do that and never really got it. Edwards came in and showed that he can spread the ball around and avoid sacks and the coaches instantly prefered him to Losman.

by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2008 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions

Keller or Nelson

I don't know why, but I love Jordy Nelson almost as much as I do my wife, and I cannot explain (the Jordy love, not my love for my wife). I think its because that I think the man is the type of teammate who would shame all of our under achieving WRs to play better by example.

As for Keller, if we filled out TE need with him, I could live with it. As I noted in hillardvd's diary on James here there are NO true round 1 talents in that position to be had. Keller would be a very nice receiver right off the bat, and hopefully we can teach him proper blocking technique and put some inline muscle on the boy to push people off the line before we toss Royal out the door.

So how done was Pat Williams when we let him go Tommie boy??? Stick a fork in him level right?

by WABillsfan on Mar 19, 2008 3:51 AM EDT reply actions

Tell us what you really feel, WA

The man crush is fine as long as the player doesn't turn into a bum, which I don't think Jordy will. I really think Nelson would be a perfect fit here, especially if we can still find a veteran WR somehow (Darrell Jackson, Michael Clayton?). Hardworking players like him always seem to make their teammates better in some way.

I agree, there's no 1st round TE talent. I'd be rather hesitant to take a TE in round 2 because the position seems pretty deep. I feel we can get an immediate contributor into the 5th round. I would consider a TE in round 2 (Davis or Bennett) if we were able to trade down in round 1 for another 2nd or 3rd rounder.

by Kurupt on Mar 19, 2008 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions

Comp picks

If you want to fill out your drafting more, a very reliable source has us getting 2 comp picks, a 4th and a 7th. The 4th is the first comp pick of that round (i.e. 33rd) and the 7th is the 7th (i.e. 40th pick of 7th round).

This guy has back tested his formulas for the last 20 years, and the last 2 years has been scarily accurate with his predictions.

Read the ridiculous amount of research he did here:

http://www.footballsfuture.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=208336&postdays=0&postorder=asc&st art=0

For my 2 cents, I would love Kurupts draft. I would hate to see us waste #11 on any of the WRs in the draft. That being said, OBD's hard line on FA receivers in the last couple weeks leads me to believe they are in love with one of people coming out, whether Sweed or Kelly, and will just grab the target regardless of value like Whitner.

by Thronsen on Mar 19, 2008 5:14 AM EDT reply actions

I've seen that

and I'd love to get those 2 more picks. I think we'll find out in a week or two.

That's exactly why I didn't go WR at #11.

by Kurupt on Mar 19, 2008 9:41 AM EDT up reply actions

Gotta go with jri at this point,

he is drafting on the remaining pressing needs. Good job man and I hope this is what we accomplished come draft day.

Do you BILLieve?

by NYTXFAN on Mar 19, 2008 5:45 AM EDT reply actions

Well

We are all drafting based on need, but our determination of value is what's getting some of us in trouble apparently. Ha

by Kurupt on Mar 19, 2008 9:42 AM EDT up reply actions

And Kurupt pulls in front by a nose!

Sireric...shame on you...shame! The only worse choice you could have made is reanimating the corpse of Hitler in the third round! Where do you get the stones to draft a QB, in the third round, as your first offensive selection. I'll give you this much, you assumed the Bills could restore the panda species from near-extinction. But even if they had - wow! Brian, I liked your first two but you need a tight end here. I think that the tight end in three is a better value/need filler. Now imagaing that we hadn't signed James yesterday(considering you guys had no way of knowing) I say Kurupt is in the lead. John/Brian close second(John - if you switch Flowers out for Cason I give you a #1 tie) Eric-uh...yeah.

by jj24 on Mar 19, 2008 6:41 AM EDT reply actions

Good feedback

To be honest, I moved tight end down the list after the team signed Courtney Anderson and Teyo Johnson. I didn't like doing it, because I don't think either guy is a difference-maker, but I don't see the Bills adding a tight end until the fourth round at the earliest based on those two signings.

If it makes you feel any better, I've got a tight end coming up in my mock very soon.

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

by Brian Galliford on Mar 19, 2008 6:49 AM EDT up reply actions

My guess-

you're taking Kellen Davis - but we'll see.

by jj24 on Mar 19, 2008 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions

Martin Rucker...

...discussion at #11 overall. That seems like decades ago!

How good do you want the Bills to be?

by Fort Worth on Mar 19, 2008 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions

hold the phone

When was the last time you were able to say "The Bills need A, B, and C" then when the draft happened they went A, B, and C? IT NEVER HAPPENS. Look at lest years draft, in the third round, how many of you were screaming for a CB or DT? Instead we got the best player on the board who happened to be a QB.

The problem I have with Johns draft is that it's too canned. To look at it and say "well we need a WR, CB, and TE in that order", than go out and do a mock with those as the first 3 picks, to me shows no imagination, or any sense of how the draft really goes down.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 7:07 AM EDT up reply actions

I understand it's not black and white

But if you're looking for a quaretrback to replace Edwards then you're ackonwledging that he wasn't such a great pick. If you're looking for a guy to back up Edwards, that throws a crisp ball and runs well then, we already have one with Losman. Remember we took him in the first round and he had all the physical skills to be a great quarterback. Problem is he can't read a defense. I know the draft doesn't go exact but as far as QB goes I say we ride out Trent, keep Losman as a backup, and as you pointed out Hasselbeck was taken in the late rounds, so Buffalo is best served going that route.

by jj24 on Mar 19, 2008 9:24 AM EDT up reply actions

Johnson

The point is that Johnson will replace Losman in 2009 not in 2008. Johnson would most likely be #3 on the depth chart this year, then presumably #2 in 2009 after Losman leaves. This pick also gives the Bills the ability to trade J.P., if and when a few pre-season injuries happen and a team becomes desperate for a QB.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 9:37 AM EDT up reply actions

OK, OK

Going into last year's draft our offense needed help, right. So what did we do in the first round? We needed a middle linebacker so what did we do in the second? Then, we had Travis Brown as our incumbent backup so we took Trent. The Bills were taking players we needed in the first few rounds. I understand JP won't be here long but do you want to draft in the 3rd round for a future backup QB? Seems risky brother.

by jj24 on Mar 19, 2008 9:51 AM EDT up reply actions

a few thing

1 - Who is Travis Brown? I'm pretty sure that Craig Nall was #2 going into the draft.

2 - In rounds 1 and 2 I took players that this team needs. When the entire mock shows itself you will see plenty of offense.

3 - Yes taking a QB in round #3 is risky, but I wanted to present something different for everyone to chew on.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions

ok you got me there

How could I forget the illustrious Craig Nall. He was the guy who showed me where the 3/4 inch poly was at Home Depot last week, right? You can't tell me we a need small pass rusher AND a tweener DB before we draft an offensive skill player. I appreciate your creativity sir, but there needs to be a semblance between creating a solid team while creating a stir. e.g. Lynch standout RB - starts right away, Poz stand out LB - starts right away. The first two guys you have so far I would just "sprinkle" into the game plan. We need some players that will make serious contributions. _ Gotta go to work. Write me back, I'll get ya later. peace out brother.

by jj24 on Mar 19, 2008 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions

Nall

No he was the guy who showed you where the envelopes where at Staples.

At 6-4/271 I wouldn't call Harvey a small pass-rusher. Smith isn't a tweener, he has played safety, but he would be a BIG CB. Which I might add is something a lot of people killed John for not selecting in the second round.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions

Reggie Smith

I actually really like Smith. He was Oklahoma's starting CB as a sophomore and due to injuries and graduations was moved to strong safety his junior year. I think he is the best safety prospect in this draft class and he could probably start at SS for the Bills right Away. If they choose to out him at CB he could be a big-time physical presence in nickel and dime situations and take over for Greer sometime late in the year or be the starter in 09. I think Smith isn't really a tweener, but a player who is versatile enough to play either position.

by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2008 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions

Maybe Nall works two jobs.

At 6-4, 271 Harvey is kind of lean - at DE standards. Let's agree he'll do a lot more speed rushing on the edge than taking tackles head on. I really like Schobel and Kelsay's effort on run stopping and would be more confident with them out there if the situation is run oriented or simply not a guaranteed passing down. If you/we took Harvey in the first then I think we would best be seved to compliment it by taking a run stopping defensive tackle in the 3rd instead of Johnson. With Smith I see him as more suited for safety than corner but I could be wrong. I never liked Flowers based on his character, and his size is less of a concern.

by jj24 on Mar 20, 2008 9:08 AM EDT up reply actions

No dice

You mean to tell me that you would be confident trading Losman if we draft Josh freakin Johnson? Nothing against the kid, and I don't know much about him, but there is no way we go into the season with all of our quarterbacks not having a full season worth of starting experience combined. I get nervous enough with Trent Edwards being handed the starting job without any real way of earning it. Don't get me wrong, I hope Edwards progresses this season, but if anything were to happen (like injury or he just stinks it up), how confident would you be with Hamden or Johnson coming in and trying to win a game. They would get eaten alive.

by Scotty P on Mar 19, 2008 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions

I happen to recall

The bills starting QB last year (Losman), getting injured, and the ONLY OTHER OPTION BEING A ROOKIE (Edwards) The Bills didn't even have a 3rd stringer.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions

That's true, but...

Losman played every offensive snap in 2006 and had some more starting experience in 2005. For all the flashes that Edwards showed last year of being a competent QB last year, the offense did only score touchdowns in half the games that he started. This makes me very nervous. I'm even more nervous of the possibility of not having any experienced alternatives behind him on the depth chart. Quarterback play is going to be the most important factor in the success rate of this season in my opinion. People may have a different definition of what a successful season is going to be for these 2008 Buffalo Bills, but I know I want them in the playoffs and if not, they better have a season like the Browns did when the deserved to be in the playoffs.

by Scotty P on Mar 19, 2008 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions

sireric, God is calling

he wants to give you the draft order. They rest of us will have to rely on the mock drafts of people who take the time and effort to pick contrary to how the draft will actually go down. I don't agree with all of John's picks, but I think your criticism is ridiculous!!!

by Joe P. on Mar 19, 2008 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions

Good thing I'm an atheist

So you think the Bills will pick WR, CB, TE, in that order simply based on team need, regardless of who else is available, and who will be available when they pick again? If thats the case maybe you should tell God to give you a different list.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions

WOW, you were not even close

You completely missed my point. Must be my fault. My point was that nobody knows how the draft will go, therefore mock drafts are imaginary as opposed to reality. You may believe yours is the best, but to criticize John for a lack of imagination is huberus at its finest.

by Joe P. on Mar 19, 2008 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions

You're right

It probably was your fault. (Very Clintonesque of me I know, hopefully definition #3 anyway)

No I don't think mine is the best, actually, given the recent signings, and because I know how it finishes I would go with Brian's.

My point was to say that I thought John's was canned, as in the same as everything else that's out there, and wasn't different from what the real thing will probably look like (as most real drafts are when compared to mock-ups)

I'm sure John has plenty of imagination, and I don't think he did, but IF he did take offense I apologize. John your imaginary draft was imagination in it's whole therefor showed plenty of imagination, and I'm sorry for saying it didn't.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions

Well said

Bill and Hillary would be proud!!!

by Joe P. on Mar 19, 2008 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions

Geez I sure hope so

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions

well...

I agree my mock addresses the Bills three largest needs, and that has rarely happened in recent history, but I think that was a product of the state of the roster, rather then overall draft strategy. During the Donahoe years, he was always a "best player available guy," which of course, lead to players like Willis McGahee. In '06, Levy acquired a team in transition and really had about ten options in the early rounds. That team was filled with holes (or players from the old regime they don't want) and it was anybody's guest which holes they viewed as the largest. Last year, We thought RB and LB were two of our biggest needs and they were addressed. The point is, as the roster is filled with more and more players the organization desires (and have placed in there themselves) therefore, decreasing the overally number of holes to fill. In year three of the Dick Jauron era, the team has invested heavily in a lot of players, which makes it easier to eliminate positions from contention for early round picks.

To me, the Bills only have a few ways that could logically go in the first couple of rounds. OT, G, QB, RB, FB, K, and P are absoulte no-gos in the first 3 rounds. LB, DT, DE, and S are all possibilities, but would have to be REAL value to take them. Some here think DE is a bigger need, I do not. I also don't think Harvey at 11 is REAL value. That leaves WR, TE, CB and C. With the addition of James, CB may have moved back into the middle group, but regardless, the point is, the Bills holes this season are not transparant. This makes it a lot more likely for the team to address their true needs in the first three rounds of the draft.

John I.

by jri111 on Mar 19, 2008 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions

TE

I think TE will be addressed later if at all. The signing of Courtney Anderson, (no I'm not saying he is the answer) tell me that the Bills could be comfortable with what they currently have, and will skip it if need be. Anderson/Royal/Johnson or Schouman is a three some they could deal with for a year.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 11:29 AM EDT up reply actions

Anderson

It may not mean anything, but Ansderson is current listed last on the depthchart. Below Robert Royal, Derek Schoumen, Teyo Johnson, Tim Massaquoi. I don't know if the Bills see Anderson as the "answer" or a training camp "look" to see if they found a diamond in the rough.

In the end, you're right, they may not go TE until the 4th round or later based on those two pickups. But as Nick has stated numerous times, neither Johnson or Anderson had 1 catch between the two of them in '07. The contracts they signed make them expendible in camp.

John I.

by jri111 on Mar 19, 2008 11:43 AM EDT up reply actions

Anderson

I don't think that where he is listed on the depth chart now, before any practices, means anything, But all those names you listed tell me that the team does have a lot of options already and further proves my point.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions

Those options

To put it bluntly, those tight end options are disgusting and completely unacceptable, regardless of the sheer quantity of worthless players listed above. If Buffalo truly thinks it's acceptable to take one of the worst positions on the team in 2007 and actually go into 2008 with it manned by even worse options, there truly is no hope for the Dick Jauron era. I trust that Buffalo will not be stupid enough not to add something significant to this mess before the season starts. WR and TE were the two most poorly stacked positions in Levy's cupboard following last season and thus far, nothing has changed. The only acceptable solution now is addressing both positions early (and often at WR) in next month's draft.

Nick (Bensalem, PA)

by Nick BensalemPA on Mar 19, 2008 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions

TE

I would like an upgrade there also, I'm just saying that given what is already there, when compared to what is already at WR and CB It might be acceptable to wait until say round 5 or 6 to look TE. There urgency isn't there.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions

Couldn't disagree more

I don't see one player out of that group that's good enough to be even the tiniest of assets as a 1st or 2nd string TE in the NFL. We'll probably be forced to hang on to Royal for one more year as insurance in the event that the rookie we grab isn't ready to play every down, but something significant needs to be added, and I think even waiting until the 3rd round would probably be a stretch. Anything Buffalo gets out of Anderson or Johnson would be an unexpected bonus considering what they've accomplished in their NFL careers (and I actually think Johnson will be looked at primarily as one of those giant, TE-sized WRs that Stanford always has come training camp- these types often find a home in West Coast offenses and this is probably where Buffalo's going with the Johnson experiment). Massaquoi's only chance of making the team is for his special teams play and Schouman probably doesn't have a role anymore with the H-Back eliminated. 2nd round if Davis is there; 3rd round tops. Anthing less regarding an attempt to fix this rotting position is unacceptable from OBD.

Nick (Bensalem, PA)

by Nick BensalemPA on Mar 19, 2008 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions

oh.

imagination.

well, i'll go with spiderman, wolverine and spawn with the first three picks.

i know... i know... spawn has some serious character issues, and superman's the clear choice at three.

but 1. anyone can just go out and get some kryptonite, and THEN where would we be? and 2. i'm just trying to spice things up and think outside the box.

DE, DB, QB seemed a little too predictable.

by sri on Mar 19, 2008 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions

that was in response to

eric's "hold the phone" post.

by sri on Mar 19, 2008 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions

You have no clue what your talking about

First Superman is an Alien, therefor he can't participate in the draft, being not-human and all. Second Spawn is dead, that in itself disqualifies him. Batman, and maybe Juggernaut would be better picks.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 12:00 PM EDT up reply actions

You can have Batman

I will take Wonder Woman and let her tie me up with her golden lasso.

by Joe P. on Mar 19, 2008 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions

I was thinking

Sue Storm, She can go invisible, so she can line up anywhere and the defense would have no clue. Besides Jessica Alba is HOT.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions

Nightcrawler

He is human (although a mutant) so he passes the first criterion. Also, he is alive so he further qualifies. He runs (teleports) a sub .1 40 and has not only amazing hands, but easily the best prehensile tail in the draft.

Easy pick.

by DCRumbler on Mar 19, 2008 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions

His mother wouldn't be bad either

Mystique could morph into the opponent and when she caught a pass the defense would think it had an interception... fake'em right out.

How did this start?

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions

I'm with you

Jessica Alba is HOT!!! And the fact that she needs to be in her uniform or naked (my preference) to be invisible is all the better. Watch out for Mystique. I wouldn't want her pissed at me...aka "My Super Ex-Girlfriend". Nothing kills the mood like a great white shark or her morphing from Jessica Alba into your mom and stabbing you through the heart!!!

by Joe P. on Mar 19, 2008 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions

Why thank you

I'll take any accolades I can get

by Kurupt on Mar 19, 2008 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions

2008 Bills Draft Wish List

Based on what we know right now, here's how I would like to see OBD attack the draft next month:

Round

DE (probably Derrick Harvey)
WR (tall possession-type but with some speed)
TE (should be a decent one available)
CB
C
QB (clipboard holder 2008, #2 QB in 2009)

7a. FB
7b. OL (probably guard)

Like both the DB signings - I was surprised when OBD released Scott earlier this off-season. I liked what he brought to the field in 2008. Will James was good, too. Buffalo needed a replacement for Jason Webster.

Get the Bills back to the big game!

by Blitz on Mar 19, 2008 10:17 AM EDT reply actions

Agreed but

Like someone said earlier, when's the last time we've pegged the Bills needs and the Bills actually drafted like that? I think it's safe to safe that when our draft priorities are 1. WR, 2. DE, 3. TE, 4. CB, etc that we will NOT draft in such an order.

by Kumario! on Mar 19, 2008 10:59 AM EDT up reply actions

we

we can peg the Bills needs all we want but the reason they don't always draft that way is because every draft players nobody expected to fall do and players nobody expected to get picked early do. Therefore every year the team has to run with unexpected situation, sometimes if our 4th need is TE and our 3rd need is CB and a better value TE is there earlier we should snag it.

Other than that I think the Bills pretty much do draft in order of need. RB was our most pressing need last year and we got Marshawn, MLB was empty and we got Poz, and I hate to say it to all you JP lovers out there but JP was stinking as usual and we saw a guy fall who was too good to pass up and who could potentially replace him. And guess what? THE BILLS WERE RIGHT. HE DID REPLACE HIM. Why all the hate on the Bills drafting? I think they've had two great years in a row.

Trade J.P. for a pick, or a pick and J.P. for a receiver

by poz on Mar 19, 2008 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions

Note that I said "Wish List"

We all know that the Bills will draft the way that they see fit to do, based on what's available.

This is just a fun forum to explore the possibilities and think about what could happen next month. Don't try to take my detailed list too seriously. I don't.

Certainly there are as many opinions as there are posters & bloggers, and we can all agree on some of the remaining team needs (more tools for the offense, pass rush). The interesting part is speculating on where to draft to address those needs based on the talent available at time the Bills make their pick in each round.

It's a given that the Bills draft will surprise us all at least once on Day 1. We can only hope that it will be a pleasant surprise. Last year's draft is a good example of that.

Get the Bills back to the big game!

by Blitz on Mar 19, 2008 1:05 PM EDT reply actions

With the 11th overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft

The Buffalo Bills select: Gosder Cherilus, Offense Tackle, Boston College. Special College Talent Adviser Marshall Faulk walks up to the podium with Mr. Cherilus and exclaims that he is there to help make Buffalo the greatest sports town in Western Illinois, being that where he suspects Buffalo is located. I mean, why not? Rich Eisen nods approvingly in the NFL Network booth.

I think that is something we can all get behind.

by DCRumbler on Mar 19, 2008 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions

haha

Even Marshall Faulk can do better than that. Cherilus isn't even a left tackle at the next level. He will have to play on the right side of the line. Marshall would love it though. Also, Rich Eisen is the man. I don't know how he can deal with all those egos who dont know what they are talking about and still be hilarious.

by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2008 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions

Surprised

he didn't say we needed a new punter. I mean, come on, ours didn't even score any touchdowns. What kind of a punter is that anyway?

by RabidBuffalo on Mar 19, 2008 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions

Well sure...

I suppose Marshall might have gone with Clady, Otah or Chris Williams ahead of Cherilus.

But I failed to note that Cherilus' uncle was the assistant equipment manager for the Rams from '99 to '01. Given this fact, which he expected all other scouts to know, I think Faulk was surprised that Cherilus even fell that far to us.

Later, he is also surprised to learn that the Rochester he believes is located near Buffalo is not, in fact, in Minnesota.

by DCRumbler on Mar 19, 2008 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions

haha

my bad, I didn't realize Cherilus' greatness. Faulk was so good during his career that he made everyone around him not only a better player, but a better person. He is like a Chuck Norris joke.

by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2008 4:15 PM EDT up reply actions

Josh Johnson

is really the only pick up there that falls into the "narf" category. Sure, we will need a QB, but right now we have JP and there's no need to draft a guy in the 3rd unless someone like Brian Brohm or Andre Woodson falls. That's the only reason we took Trent Edwards in the 3rd is because he fell into our laps. Josh Johnson is not worthy of the a 3rd rounder even if we had zero QBs on our roster. I don't know why people fall in love with mobile QBs because they ARE NOT SUCCESSFUL IN THE PROS. Even Mike Vick was a BAD QB. He ould not have even made it to the pros if he had to rely on his quaterbacking abilities. "Mobile" QBs are injury prone and just aren't good quaterbacks. I think you chose him there not for value or need, but simply because you personally like the player. I think your staff would be pretty pissed off at you if you took a guy like that at 71, because he's definitely not one of the top 100 players in this draft.

"I don't agree with a damn thing you say, but I would die for your right to say it."

by ForeignArrow on Mar 19, 2008 2:20 PM EDT reply actions

You may be right

However He is better than Andre Woodson, and would be willing to bet that Johnson gets drafted first between the two. The guy had 6,586 yards, 70 TDs and only 13 INTs the past two seasons. The kid can throw, he's not just a running back with a good arm.

I would also be willing to bet that he is taken in the top 100.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions

Yeah

I was a little harsh on Johnson, he's a better QB than I gave him credit for. But I don't know how you equate Johnson being better than Woodson, considering they had equal production and one was in DII and Woodson played in the toughest conference in college football. Look what Colt Brennan did in the WAC and then he played against Georgia and had maybe the worst game of his career. I'm not against drafting Johnson, but no way in the 3rd round... he just doesn't have the resume. I think once the 4-5th rounds come around, he may be the best available if he is in fact available.

"I don't agree with a damn thing you say, but I would die for your right to say it."

by ForeignArrow on Mar 19, 2008 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions

Oh Yeah

How much would be willing to bet?

"I don't agree with a damn thing you say, but I would die for your right to say it."

by ForeignArrow on Mar 19, 2008 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions

We'll keep it friendly

If Johnson goes before Woodson, you must write a diary proclaiming my greatness. and of course vise versa.

Man do I miss #78

by sireric on Mar 19, 2008 4:56 PM EDT up reply actions

Deal

You have my virtual internet word/handshake, whatever that's worth.

"I don't agree with a damn thing you say, but I would die for your right to say it."

by ForeignArrow on Mar 19, 2008 5:43 PM EDT up reply actions

Very nice betting terms guys. I applaud.

by krytime on Mar 19, 2008 6:44 PM EDT up reply actions

Jri111's pick is inspired

I really like Keller and has gotten some good writeups from the publications I read. I think he would be an excellent pick in the third round, unfortunately I don't think he'll be there. He could very easily go in the second and the Bills (if they wanted him) would probably have to get him with their second.

by RabidBuffalo on Mar 19, 2008 2:37 PM EDT reply actions

Yeah

It wouldn't be a shocker if Seattle took Keller 25th overall.

by kaisertown on Mar 19, 2008 3:17 PM EDT up reply actions

Unrelated to the draft topic - 2009 Free Agents

Has anyone considered the 2009 WR free agents? Houshmandzadeh tops the list. Could this at all factor in what the Bills will do this year? Just thought I would throw it out there for discussion.

by Buffalonian by the Grace of God on Mar 19, 2008 9:10 PM EDT reply actions

I don't think you can

consider what could happen a year from now. It's intriguing and fun but I don't think as a team builder you can really look at that stuff. Things will change so much in that time, I just don't think you can worry about it.

by RabidBuffalo on Mar 19, 2008 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions

I agree...

I agree not to worry, but is it a possibility that the Bills decided next year is a better free agent market for WR's and will be more aggressive addressing it next year?

by Buffalonian by the Grace of God on Mar 19, 2008 9:26 PM EDT up reply actions

GM's do

We may not consider these things, but surely Bills management does in their Team building efforts.

by Buffalonian by the Grace of God on Mar 19, 2008 9:29 PM EDT up reply actions

GM's do

We may not consider these things, but surely Bills management does in their Team building efforts.

by Buffalonian by the Grace of God on Mar 19, 2008 9:28 PM EDT reply actions

Sorry!

We need to win now!!! We cannot afford to wait until next year for TJ to become a FA. I think that if we don't make the playoffs this year, DJ is a goner. I think the big reason they got who they did in FA was so that they can draft for offense. I like our defense and think that we need just one more corner and an edge rusher to complete a "HOPEFULLY" dominant group of players. Our offense needs a lot of help and I see us going with a WR in round one and a TE in round two. I think it would be great to get Campbell in a trade up in round two. That type of draft would make me ecstatic!!

I am a huge Bills fan! Have been since I was 5! I miss the good old days with Marv, Bruce, Talley, Ballard, Hull, Reed, Lofton and Thurman!

by cutter3232 on Mar 20, 2008 2:24 AM EDT reply actions

You can't be serious

"We need to win now!" This isn't going to happen. Playoff team? Wow you have quit an imagination. You think our defense is dominant now? We were getting ran allover last year, and yes we have made some upgrades, but that hardly makes us a dominant group of guys. Probably in the top 12-15 defenses in the league, which would be a major improvement. I think you are missing the big picture, big time.

by Buffalonian by the Grace of God on Mar 20, 2008 8:20 AM EDT up reply actions