Welcome to The 3-4, a website dedicated to NFL analysis, predictions and recent events. We wrote 32 extensive team previews and will be writing about all things football throughout the year. We will be scouting players off game tape, evaluating them, predicting NFL and NCAA games, and much more! If you would like us to write about something in particular, let us know!

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Meet Toben Opurum

Toben Opurum, #35, DE, Junior, 6'2 240 lbs








Meet Toben Opurum; former running back/fullback, now defensive end, future NFL draft prospect, and junior from Kansas University. Opurum has taken a unique path to where he is and here is his story.

Going back to his high school playing days, Toben Opurum was known as a humorous, lighthearted, and enjoyable character. A stark contrast to his temperance, Opurum runs with a "punch you in the mouth mentality". Opurum plays with a mixture of both power and speed (220+ lbs frame and 4.5 40 yard dash), and has excellent vision to go along with that talent.

A Texas native like myself, Toben Opurum graduated from Plano East where he amassed 882 yards on just 107 carries, totaling 8 touchdowns. With slightly over 200 carries during his junior and senior seasons, Opurum compiled nearly 1500 rushing yards along with averaging over 7 yards per carry. As a junior, Opurum caught 27 passes for 574 yards (over 20 yards per reception!) and 6 touchdowns; used primarily as a runner however in his senior season, Opurum's receiving numbers dipped to 228 yards and 0 touchdowns despite increasing his receptions by 4 passes (31 catches).

Rivals gave Opurum a 4 star recruit rating, and labeled Toben as the 3rd best fullback recruit in the nation. Despite receiving offers from prestigious schools such as Florida, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Purdue, and Texas Tech to play fullback, Opurum insisted on being recruited as a tailback. Enter  then-Kansas Jayhawk coach Mark Mangino. Mangino understood Opurum's desire to be a starting tailback and believed Toben could develop into a more than capable starter. So on December 23, 2008, Toben Opurum committed to Kansas University to play running back.

Toben Opurum running in his freshman season
As a freshman, Toben Opurum thrived in a running back by committee approach, spelling the shifty upperclassman Jake Sharp. Opurum's size/speed combination, power and ball carrier vision were evident in the 2009 season; rushing 113 times for 554 yards and 9 touchdowns, Opurum became the first freshman to lead the team in rushing in 7 years (Clark Green, 2002).

Heading into last season, Opurum had to have high hopes of becoming the featured tailback for many reasons; 1) the only other player that rivaled Opurum's effectiveness running was Jake Sharp who had just graduated, 2) he led the team in rushing and remained in high esteem of the coaching staff, and 3) the man who would be next in line happened to be an incoming true freshman (J. Sims). James Sims was himself, a top notch Texas running back recruit who drew high praise from scouting services across the country.

So with somewhat of a competition for the starting running back position between the two favoring Opurum during preseason spring ball, something suddenly and quickly happened that would change the complexion of Toben Opurum's football career entirely.

New HC, Turner Gill
Coach Mangino and the current regime began to be replaced; Buffalo Head Coach Turner Gill was hired and along came an entirely new regime. Placing a premium on speed and athleticism on both defense and offense, Gill decided to hand the reigns of the running back position to untested freshman James Sims. As a result, Opurum was not only demoted from the starting running back role, but relegated to playing linebacker on defense.

The afore mentioned personality traits of "humorous, lighthearted, and enjoyable", were now all but gone from Toben Opurum. Frustrated and confused at what had occurred, Opurum simply was now playing to keep a scholarship. Accepting his new role was more difficult than ever now, as he knew he could have been at a much more renowned powerhouse had he chosen to play fullback. Instead, Opurum was lured to the idea of becoming a starting running back and came to play for Coach Mangino. But now that Mangino was gone, Opurum had to play wherever he was told.

The cause for Opurum's move to linebacker was in fact three-fold; 1) Turner Gill believed James Sims to be the future at RB, 2) His linebacking corps was decimated with injury, and 3) Opurum was a better athlete than all of his backup linebackers (all 3 backups were walk-on players). Opurum had exactly what Turner Gill wanted from his defensive players, speed and strength.

T. Opurum (left #35), lines up versus in-state rival K-State
Despite the seemingly perfect fit for Gill's scheme, through the team's first six games in 2010, Toben Opurum had still not started in a single game. At this point in the season, the Jayhawks were 2-4 with three major blowout losses to in-state rival Kansas State, Baylor, and SMU, also including a week 1 letdown loss versus North Dakota State. The Jayhawks had a non-existent pass rush that was without a quarterback sack through six games.

Wanting to stir the pot a bit and get more from his team, Gill made a very unexpected move and switched Toben Opurum's position again, but this time to defensive end. While many were surprised even at the move from running back to linebacker, more so shocking was the move to defensive end.

Although the Jayhawks went on to lose five of the final six games of their 2010 season, there was much promise from Opurum's play at defensive end. Opurum managed to have 21 tackles, 3 for loss, 1 sack, 3 tipped passes, and 1 forced fumble which resulted in a defensive return for a touchdown by a Jayhawk teammate. Toben Opurum at 6'2 and a stacked 240 lbs, is a tremendous physical specimen with an excellent blend of athleticism, speed, and power. Moreover, Opurum has really embraced the role as the team's pass rushing specialist. Opurum played impressively in the team's spring game, and will be counted upon to be a leader of the Jayhawks defense.

Toben Opurum deflecting a pass
Defensive coordinator Buddy Wyatt had much to say about the strides Toben Opurum has begun to make as a defensive player. "I'm pleased with his progress," Wyatt said. "He came to us on defense and is still learning how to play the position. Last year he really started to pick up defensive end and came on at the end of the year. I was real pleased with his effort in the offseason. He had a great spring season. I think he's going to be productive and will help the guys around him."

I expect a breakout season for Opurum, who will have participated in both spring and fall camps for the first time as a defensive end. Toben has the athletic ability to play in either a standup rushing position as a 3-4 OLB, or continue to lineup with his hand in the dirt as a defensive end in a 4-3. Although raw from a technique perspective, Opurum is willing to put in the work necessary to complete his game as a defensive player. He has the the skillset and size to play 3-4 OLB at the next level and this 2011 season could put him on the fast track to playing on Sundays.

Toben Opurum's Player Bio
Toben Opurum's Rivals Recruiting Page
Quote from Buddy Wyatt on Toben Opurum

Friday, July 1, 2011

Taking an early look at the 2012 Draft Class: Linebackers

Two beach vacations to Destin, Florida and Galveston, Texas, as well as a 2011 Mavericks NBA Finals championship have passed for me this summer since the 2011 NFL Draft occurred last April. As is the case with most associated with the NFL Draft in some capacity, May and June serve as hiatus for the weary. Albeit the best scouts never stop evaluating year round, last season in fact was my first year truly on the job. I enjoyed talking and working with football enthusiasts from across the U.S. and even Europe, made many contacts, and hope to continue learning from those who have much more experience than I do.

Over the past month however, work presented itself to me, as I was hired as Head Central scout by Eric Galko who operates and manages Optimum Scouting. Optimum Scouting provides 3rd party scouting work for professional teams and agents, as well as players looking for self evaluation. My short lived trip down to San Antonio, Texas for the "Texas vs. the Nation" game (which was ended after 2 days due to my being very sick), provided much needed notoriety for The3-4. It was at this time I had the opportunity to get to know Bill Carroll, who works with Consensus Draft Services and runs his own NFL Draft prospect radio show. He along with Eric Galko, began contacting me on my notes and evaluations from the practices I attended. From there on, I stayed in contact with the two, appearing frequently on Bill's show and now working with Eric.

So without further adieu, I'm going to briefly talk about some linebacker prospects I had the chance to look at this summer; given these are not simply the top linebackers, just guys that I have taken a good hard look at.

Tank Carder, Senior, OLB, TCU, 6'2 237 lbs
Turning in one of the most spectacular games during the 2011 BCS bowl series (6 tackles, 3 tackles for a loss, and 1 sack), Carder provided the game sealing swat at the line of scrimmage to keep Wisconsin from converting a 2 point conversion and allow the Horned Frogs to win the prestigious Rose Bowl.

As a prospect, Carder plays with an enormous amount of intensity and really flies to the football. Although he is a fluid and explosive athlete, Carder chooses to avoid or run underneath blocks. This often results in bad run fits, open running lanes, and big plays for the opposing offense. He needs to play with more gap integrity and attack blocks head on.

Tank has great range, able to gain depth on hook-to-curl zones with ease and run sideline to sideline for tackles. His instincts and quick twitch athleticism are excellent, and his best attribute could very well be his pass rush ability. Tank explodes through sacks with great hitting power, has good change of direction skills, acceleration, and a great first step to avoid blockers.

The biggest area of correction could come with improved footwork, as Carder hops far too often immediately following the snap. An easy switch to making a simple read step based on the immediate read could alleviate late play recognitions. Hopping gets Carder off balance and out of position, leaving his gap responsibility open as a running lane. A slight concern is Tank's pad level in pass drops, however  that is not as big a worry.

All in all, Carder could see himself in the top tier of the 2012 draft class, and looks to follow Texas native Von Miller as the next great linebacker to enter the NFL Draft.

Dont'a Hightower, Junior, ILB, Alabama, 6'4 255 lbs
A not so distant 3 years ago, Dont'a Hightower burst onto the national scene with a dominant freshman season that seemed to precursor a historic playing career at Alabama. Hightower started all but 2 of Alabama's 14 games, playing in all of them, and totaled 64 tackles, 26 of which were solo. Bama's following season which resulted in a BCS victory over Texas for the national championship was a different story for Hightower, who tore his ACL after making just 4 starts.

Bringing us to last season, in which Hightower slowly but surely evidenced signs of a complete recovery from injury. Much the opposite of Tank Carder, Hightower showed a willingness to attack oncoming blockers downhill; he did a solid job of punching the blocker, locking his arms out, and shedding to make a tackle. The strength of Hightower can be seen by how he gets a good jolt on lineman with heavy hands. Very active along the front seven, Hightower makes a number of calls, adjustments, and audibles at the line of scrimmage, and generally is very active in pre snap movement.

Reminiscent of last years' athletic Martez Wilson, Hightower also has shown effectiveness lining up with his hand in the dirt. An explosive pass rusher with good burst off the line, Dont'a has the size and strength to transition to a 3-4 OLB position if an NFL team wanted to go that direction. That being said, Hightower is most dynamic as a player blitzing from the inside linebacker position.

Dont'a Hightower's motor runs "hot and cold", taking off snaps or giving up on plays altogether. Lateral movement and agility is in question, as he is slow coming out of transitions. Similar to Carder above, Hightower also struggles with false steps and misreads. Dont'a needs to be more consistent in scraping down the line of scrimmage with his shoulders squared, and while scraping, Hightower tends to give up ground, struggling in pursuit as whole.

Overall, Hightower is incredibly gifted with a lot of experience for a junior. I expect another strong season and anticipate his declaring for the 2012 draft, withstanding a terrible or injury plagued season.

Nigel Bradham, Senior, OLB, 6'2 240 lbs
Regarded as the best pure athlete in his recruiting class, Nigel Bradham came to FSU with high expectations. To no surprise, Bradham has been very productive and, to some extent, dominant his 3 year playing time; already tallying more than 90 tackles in 2 seasons, both of which were his previous 2.

Bradham possesses highlight reel playmaking ability, tremendous hitting power, and explosive athleticism. Has great size, build, weight, and strength to play and be dominant even at the NFL level.

The most impressive part of Bradham's skillset is his ability to keep a nice low center of gravity in pass drops, transitioning well for his size, and close quickly on receivers in his zone area; he also does a good job of dislodging the football and breaking passes.

Unfortunately, there were much more constructive criticisms than compliments in my evaluation. Bradham leaves his feet early on a majority of tackle opportunities. Not only that, but Nigel simply seems to struggle in space at times, lacking fluiditiy as an athlete and even lacking top end speed. He doesn't take proper angles in pursuit, and has no understanding on how to properly attack an oncoming blocker with his hands. Worst of all, Bradham lacks great instincts and play recognition, 2 of the most important traits as a linebacker wanting to extend his playing days to the NFL level.

As a whole, inconsistency is what hurts Bradham the most. I love his size, strength, explosion, and high caliber athleticism, but instincts and recognition need vast improvement. At this point I see him as a late 3rd to 4th round player, however with a strong season and what I expect will be monstrous pre draft workout numbers, Bradham could easily climb up into the top 100 prospects in the 2012 draft class.

Travis Lewis, Senior, OLB, Oklahoma, 6'2 230 lbs
Career tackles leader currently active in the Big 12, Travis Lewis has been the pinnacle of production for the Oklahoma Sooners with over 100 tackles in each of his 3 seasons, totaling over 360 career tackles, and including a 144 tackle freshman season. Lewis was a surprise non-draft declare this past spring in what seemed to be a down year for linebackers, and now is an early candidate for being a 1st round draftee in 2012.

Lewis is an instinctive player with a knack for finding the football. A chase tackler who doesnt miss many tackles, Lewis navigates well through traffic and trash; a very good pursuer of the football. Travis Lewis shows the ability to break down in space and make difficult open field/ alley tackles and is an ideal will linebacker in a 4-3 scheme.

Trusts his instincts and feel to a fault; needs to more consistently read his keys (tackle, guard, or center through to the tailback) in order to diagnose play more quickly. Plays with his eyes in the backfield far too often, and as a result struggles on play-action, draws, and misdirection. Another issue that will arise, is Lewis' tendency to leave his feet to make tackles; he attempts way too many arm tackles causing a lack of solid hitting power and pop.

Very similar to Tank Carder in taking too many false steps- hopping too much. Very inconsistent and poor at making run fits and taking on blocks. Struggles to stack and shed blocks; will be overpowered at point of attack when it comes to offensive linemen.

I personally do not see a 1st round linebacker in Lewis, however I still feel he will be one of the more consistent players coming out of this draft class. Lower ceiling, lower floor, safer pick by way of production and consistency.


Manti Te'o, Junior, ILB, Notre Dame, 6'2 255 lbs
Speaking of highly touted recruits, Manti Te'o is widely considered the most regarded most decorated incoming recruit in Notre Dame history. 2008 high school athlete of the year award recipient by Sporting News, and defensive player of the year as voted by USA Today, Te'o has loads of talent and ability. As an Irishman, Te'o has racked up close to 200 tackles in just 2 seasons. Finished in the top 20 in the FBS for tackles per game (10.23), total tackles (133), and assisted tackles (67).

In evaluating Te'o as a pro prospect, I found him to be sound with his footwork, excellent in his run fits, and brutally powerful as a hitter. Te'o digs through trash well, shows good play recognition, and just has a nose for the football. He gives a tremendous amount of effort, and isn't afraid to give up his body in order to take out a lead blocker. Manti takes good angles to the ball carrier, and wraps up very well.

What Te'o must work on, is his pass coverage drops and getting his eyes to incoming receivers to his zone. As a zone coverage defender, he tries to read the QB's eyes too often leaving him out of position.

All around excellent linebacker that can outrun blockers, fill running lanes, and make plays; Te'o is strong at the point of attack, an explosive tackler, and instinctual player. One of the consensus "top guns" so to speak on this linebacking corps; Te'o looks to improve on his already gaudy production and solidify his argument as a first round worthy draft pick.

Lavonte David, Senior, OLB, 6'1 220 lbs
My last and final linebacker to discuss, Lavonte David is my personal favorite from this class. David, exploded onto the scene last season with a Nebraska single season tackle record of 152 tackles; this coming on the heels of his transfer from JUCO powerhouse Fort Scott Community College. Despite being considered undersized and not recruited heavily because of it, David made himself known as one of the best tackling linebackers in the nation in 2010.

David has the best pursuit and flow instincts of any linebacker I have seen from the 2012 draft eligible players. Lavonte is a very aggressive player who works hard to wrap up; looks the part of a strong safety but has the mentality of a linebacker. Constantly around the football, David displays high play recognition and is a tackle machine.

His elite lateral agility, incredible stop and go ability, as well as his closing speed to the ball carrier, are some of the things that I believe truly set Lavonte David apart from the rest of the class. David's recovery speed is exceptional, and he sees and fills holes faster than running backs; again, evidencing his superb instincts and strong feel for the game. He hardly ever misses a tackle, wraps up tight, and has much more hitting explosiveness than one would imagine. Maintains good pad leverage, perfect tackling form, and high run gap integrity. Fundamentally sound player with his feet, light and reacting quickly to what he sees. David outruns blockers to the edge on sweep or stretch plays and does very solid job of breaking down on the football. Avoids blocks by either sidestepping, or dipping and ripping through. Lavonte also provides a pass rush threat to complement his skill set; most effective as a middle stunt blitzer, utilizing his rare closing speed and acceleration to disrupt the passing pocket.


The biggest knock on David will be his safety-like stature and build, however in a quarterback driven NFL, teams have begun to place increased emphasis on nickel and pass defense packages. Lavonte David provides flexibility as a linebacker because he can play as an OLB in 4-3, and kick inside to MLB in nickel downs in order to keep a box defender who can defend both run and pass equally.


I will continue writing for The3-4 this season and look forward to more viewer responses

Friday, April 29, 2011

Day 2 Reactions

Following the 2nd and 3rd rounds of the 2011 NFL Draft, here are some of my personal reactions. An inordinate amount of cornerbacks and defensive linemen, however I was impressed with a few times that took impact linebackers; the New Orleans Saints, Denver Broncos, and Dallas Cowboys.

New Orleans Saints
Martez Wilson working out at the annual NFL Scouting Combine
Who Dat Nation continued to take the cake in terms of the NFL Draft, grabbing both Martez Wilson and Johnny Patrick in the 3rd round. Wilson, a 6'4 250 lbs versatile linebacker, is a freakish athlete that runs a 4.5 40 yard dash. Wilson was my 39th best player in the draft, and I was shocked to see him last all the way to the 3rd round. Martez has been projected by some as a 3-4 rush backer due to his athletic ability, and Im sure Greg Williams has some exotic blitzes in mind with Wilson. Johnny Patrick is a corner I have been very high on throughout the draft process, as a solid all around corner with shutdown coverage skills. Plays equally effective in press man and off coverage, providing depth and starter ability down the road.

Nate Irving, a fiery competitor and high intensity player
Denver Broncos
After drafting arguably the best player in the draft in Von Miller, the Broncos continue to build a solid nucleus of defensive talent and starters; drafting Rahim Moore in round 2 provides Denver with the top safety in the 2011 draft. Moore is an instinctive, ball hawking safety, who plays with a lot of confidence and simply makes plays. In the 3rd round the Broncos then selected Nate Irving, ILB from North Carolina State. Irving should come as no surprise, being my top mike linebacker in the 2011 draft and the only inside linebacker I graded as a 2nd round draft pick. Irving also plays with excellent instincts and a high level of confidence; Nate Irving is a sure tackler who brings a lot of pop under his pads, as well as an innate ability to rush the passer from the inside linebacker position. Broncos also added offensive tackle Orlando Franklin from Miami. A 1st round talent, inconsistency pushed Franklin back to the 2nd round; that being said, Franklin provides a nasty, mean demeanor, and elite physical tools to work with.

Dallas Cowboys
Bruce Carter leaping for an interception
Jerry Jones broke his managerial long streak of failing to draft an offensive lineman in the 1st round of an NFL Draft last night with the drafting of Tyron Smith, and in day 2 of the 2011 NFL Draft made solid, value based selections that feature high upside. In the 2nd round, the Cowboys had targeted Bruce Carter as a special game changing type of talent that they simply could not pass up. Once considered a premier, top ten draft pick, a knee injury abruptly ended Carter's final collegiate season and put a damper on his draft stock. Carter has unbelievable athletic ability and a knack for the big play, he can play any linebacker position and will provide D-Coordinator Rob Ryan with an elite playmaker from within the box. 3rd round selection Demarco Murray is in my mind one of the more fully rounded running backs; dynamic runner, excellent pass catcher and route runner, good in pass protection, and was arguably the best back production wise coming out of Oklahoma University. Here's a scouting report I wrote on Murray last December. Murray has pure playmaking ability and finally stayed healthy his senior season. Will be an instant plug and play 3rd down back for Dallas, adding a receiving threat from the backfield and another tool for Tony Romo's success in 2011.

Day 1 Winners and Losers

Winners


Jacksonville Jaguars

It was very surprising that Gabbert was not the 2nd quarterback chosen in the draft, and the Jaguars benefited from him falling to them at #10. He will be able to spend time studying on the bench behind David Garrard, and will not be rushed into the starting role, something I don’t think any of the quarterbacks in this year’s draft can handle. There are many needs on the defensive side of the ball, but when a potential franchise quarterback falls into your lap, you have to pull the trigger.

Detroit Lions

I can’t think of a single draft that had Fairley going to the Lions, but now that it has happened, it looks awfully good on paper. Lining up Suh and Fairley will give Qb’s nightmares for years to come, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Jay Cutler was already actively looking for a trade out of the division. The secondary still needs work, but may not be as big an issue if the opposing quarterbacks are constantly finding themselves on the ground.

New York Giants

Your Royal Highness, Prince Amukamara, fell farther than expected and the Giants couldn’t be more pleased about it. They get a very talented corner to help a defense that was toasted by both the Eagles and Packers which left them out of the playoffs. Solidifying the secondary to compliment an already elite pass rush is just what the Giants need to get them back into the Super Bowl.

Buffalo Bills

No it’s not a mistake, the Bills this year actually managed to pick a solid 1st round choice. After the disastrous picks that were Marshawn Lynch and Aaron Maybin in 2007 and 2009 respectively, and the misguided pick of CJ Spiller to a team that already had two solid running backs in 2010, the Bills went with Marcell Dareus, who will shore up what was an awful defense last year. Perhaps most importantly, Dareus is a guy who can start right away, and without a lot of downside, which the Bills need considering their past draft failures.


Losers


Atlanta Falcons

After having the best record in the NFC and then embarrassingly trounced at home by the Packers in the playoffs, the Falcons made a knee-jerk reaction by trading so high up in the draft. Julio Jones is a fine player and a solid pick, but the price to get him was far too high, and he isn’t a player that is the difference between perennial playoff team and Super Bowl champion. Giving up 2 first round picks, a second rounder and 2 fourth round picks is way too much for someone who isn’t even the best wide-receiver in this draft. Patience is the key in the NFL, but the Falcons want a Super Bowl now, and it may be very costly to them in the future.

Minnesota Vikings

Easily the reach of the draft, Christian Ponder wasn’t predicted to go in the 1st round, but somehow finds himself a Viking with the 12th pick. The Vikings desperately needed a quarterback, but if they really wanted Ponder they should have traded down. Instead they have a quarterback who is far from a sure thing, as well as an aging team that could use youth at a lot of positions. Once one play away from the Super Bowl, the Vikings have taken quite a tumble, and look like they might be in the cellar of the NFC North for at least a couple of years.

Carolina Panthers

Cam Newton is a very divisive person with about half of NFL fans believing he will be a star, and the other half thinking he will be the next JaMarcus Russell. You can count me as part of the latter half because I think there are just too many questions surrounding the character, intelligence, and ability of Newton to make him the top overall pick in the draft. To me it would have made more sense to either trade down, or go with Miller, Green, or Dareus, three players who can play right away and are about as close to sure things as you get with rookies. The Panthers just used a high draft pick on Clausen last year, and if they really feel like he isn’t going to pan out, just bite the bullet for one more year and get Andrew Luck next year, who is far and away better than any Qb in this year’s draft. I think this pick will end up setting the Panthers back for the awhile.

Chicago Bears

The Bears don’t find themselves in the “losers” list because of their draft picks, but because of the mess they caused with the Ravens. The Bears initiated a trade with the Ravens to take their spot, but somehow didn’t send anyone to inform the NFL that the trade had taken place, effectively making the Ravens run out of time and lose one spot in the draft. Not only will the Bears likely be faced with some sort of repercussion from the NFL, but it reflects terribly on them as an organization and could force some teams to shy away from trying to trade with the Bears in the future.

Thursday, April 28, 2011

#32 Pick Packers Select:

DEREK SHERROD


Packers Perspective: They were going to go after the best available player regardless, and it also hapeened to be one of there semi-needs.

Keiths take: Has all the talents you look for in an offensive lineman and should be a guy they can develop into a possible left tackle.


ABs take: The top rated offensive lineman in my evaluations, I feel Sherrod gives Aaron Rodgers a solid starting left tackle for the next 10 years. Sherrod has tremendous feet and a great understanding of the game.

Who they should have picked: I think RB Ryan Williams should have been a guy they looked at.

#31 Pick Steelers Select:

CAMERON HEYWARD

Steelers Perspective: A luxury pick for the Steelers, and a good one Heyward was once thought of as a top 10 pick.

Keiths take: Had games where he was unstoppable if they can get the most out of his talents he should be a great player.

Who they should have picked: They could have gone with a number of players here but I thought they needed some help at defensive back surprised they did not go Aaron Williams.

#30 Pick Jets Select:

MUHAMMAD WILKERSON

Jets Perspective: He will be a great fit at defensive end for the Jets.

Keiths take: Very underrated prospect that has all the skills to become a disruptive player.

Who they should have picked: I think Wilkerson was a real good fit for the Jets.

#29 Pick Bears Select:

GABE CARIMI

Bears Perspective: The Bears needed to add some depth to help out their run game, Carimi comes from a school known for producing top lineman.

Keiths take: I am very surprised that the Bears, who have not had a first round pick the last two years did not try for a flashier pick. I like the decision Carimi should be a solid player.

Who they should have picked: It would be cool to see Bowers and Peppers on the same line.

#28 Pick Saints Select:

MARK INGRAM

Saints Perspective: They end up getting their running back for good value in the late rounds.

Keiths take: Saints are having a great draft Ingram and Cam Jordan both in the late rounds? Great day.

Who they should have picked: Made a smart move their team should be much more balanced next season.

#27 Pick Ravens Select:

JIMMY SMITH

Ravens Perspective: They get a big, fast, talented corner.

Keiths take: I think Smith is a great fit for the Ravens defense which has a lot of man coverage and bump and run.

Who they should have picked: I like CB Brandon Harris a little more than him, but Smith may fit better.

#26 Pick Chiefs (Jumped over Ravens) Select:

JONATHAN BALDWIN

Chiefs Perspective: They wanted another playmaker to help out Cassel, and they got a big one in Baldwin.

Keiths take: I think he could be a great deep threat and red-zone threat, but I don't know if he is an all-around receiver.

Who they should have picked: I would probably rather have Hankerson or Titus Young.

#25 Pick Seahawks Select

JAMES CARPENTER

Seahawks Perspective: They wanted to add some depth on the offensive line, there has been a run on lineman so he was the available.

Keiths take: I think they really should have added someone that can make plays for them on offense or defense, they don't have any real young explosive players.

Who they should have picked: I thought they may have tried to get TE Kyle Rudolph, a big body that can make plays over the middle.

#24 Pick Saints Select:

CAMERON JORDON

Saints Perspective: They needed another end opposite of Will Smith, they get great value with Cameron Jordon at 24.

Keiths take: I thought Jordan was a lot more talented then some of the defensive ends that have gone off the board so great pick.

Who they should have picked: I think they really should have gone Ingram, they needed a running back to balance their offense. But Jordan is a great player in his own right.

#23 Pick Eagles Select:

DANNY WATKINS

Eagles Perspective: They add a very talented lineman that is versatile enough to play different positions

Keiths take: You just new the Eagles were going to select offensive or defensive line so not much surprise. Watkins definitely a great prospect the age thing is overrated.

Who they should have picked: I think a cornerback maybe Brandon Harris would have been the better pick but you can never have too many good offensive lineman.

#22 Pick Colts Select:

ANTHONY CASTONZO

Colts Perspective: They needed to get some help on the offensive line and Castonzo was a great value here.

Keiths take: I think Castonzo is a great fit and may be the most ready offensive lineman coming out.

Who they should have picked: Good pick, I though they may surprise some people and go Ingram but I think Castonzo was the right move.

#21 Pick Browns (trade from Chiefs) Select:

PHIL TAYLOR

Browns Perspective: They get a big defensive lineman that can take up space and free up linebackers.

Keiths take: Surprised he went in the first round and to a 4-3 team. I think they were a lot of guys that would have made more sense.

Who they should have picked: Bowers, Castonzo, or Wilkerson would have made more sense to me.

#20 Pick Bucs Select:

ADRIAN CLAYBORN



Buc's Perspective: An all-around good defensive lineman that should help out the young Buc's line.

Keiths take: I think Clayborn was an underrated player that may not be a 10+ sack guy but he will be very solid.


ABs take: Thick and powerful from the defensive end position, Clayborn is an explosive tackler and player at 280+ lbs and provides versatility along the defensive line (can kick inside as well as start outside at DE).

Who they should have picked: Bowers must have a serious, serious knee problem if he is he is being passed up by all these teams that need a defensive end.

#19 Pick Gaints Select:

Prince Amukamara

Giants Perspective: They get a guy with top 10 talent at the 19 spot great steal.

Keiths take: Very surprised a guy that was a shut down corner that measured out as good as anyone fell this far.


ABs take: Crowd chants, "We want Prince! We want Prince!" come to fruition as the Giants get an elite cover corner with excellent value at pick 19.

Who they should have picked: Great pick, they are going to have a very solid defense next season.

#17 Pick Patriots Select:

Nate Solder


Patriost Perspective: They could lose both OT Matt Light and OG Logan Mankins so they needed to add some offensive lineman

Keiths take: I don't love the pick Solder is not as ready as a guy like Castonzo.

Who they should have picked: Castonzo or Bowers seemed like the better pick but it is tough to questions the Pats.

#16 Pick Washington Redskins select

Redskins Perspective: They draft a highly productive pass rusher from Purdue, who can get after the QB

ABs take: My personal favorite prospect of this entire draft class, Kerrigan is the best big time pass rusher aside from Von Miller. A blur collar, hard working guy, who is a class act, the Redskins begin building a locker room of high character players. They get a leader, a producer, and a good football player.

Who they should have picked: Could have used Prince Amukamara here to fill a big CB need; either way the defense needs revamping, still a good pick.

#15 Pick Dolphins Select:

MIKE POUNCEY

Dolphins Perspective: They get the best interior lineman, and maybe the best overall lineman in the draft.

Keiths take: I thought Pouncey would be the pick here, if he ends up being as good as his brother than this is a great pick.

Who they should have picked: I think this was the right move, he should be a starter from day one.

#14 Pick Rams Select:

ROBERT QUINN

Rams Perspective: They get one of the most athletic players in the draft in Quinn, he has top 10 talent.

Keiths take: Great Pick. They probably would have liked to add some offense but he is probably the best available.


ABs take: The best player available, a top ten talent, Robert Quinn adds an elite pass rusher to a weak Rams defense.

Who they should have picked: I think Bowers would have been a better fit for their team but they get a great athlete on defense.

#13 Pick Lions Select:

NICK FAIRLEY


Lions Perspective: Great value pick, they may have gotten the best player in the draft at 13.

Keiths take: There defensive line is going to be scary for a lot of years to come.

ABs take: Unreal defensive tackle combo now with Ndamakung Suh and Nick Fairley. Wow, Detroit is going to stomp some folks.

Who they should have picked: i think they should have gone with Nick Fairly or try and trade down, because they could have gotten Locker later but still a good pick.

#12 Pick Vikings Select:

CHRISTIAN PONDER


Vikings Perspective: They needed a quarterback so they made sure they got their guy.

Keiths take: WOW. Shock of the draft, I understand that they need the quarterback, but they know there is more than 1 round right? They really over hyped Ponder.


ABs take: Biggest surprise and reach of the draft, the Vikings' biggest is QB after losing Brett Favre to retirement. Ponder is the most ready to start in day 1, and Leslie Frazier must have been wowed by Ponder's football acumen.

Who they should have picked: Fairly or Bowers would have been great picks here, not sure why they drafted Ponder so earlier.

#11 Pick Texans Select:

JJ WATTS

Texans Perspective: They add a guy with great size, and a great heart.

Keiths take: Very Surprised they went JJ instead of a guy like Quinn, I like Watt but I don't think he was worth being drafted this early.


ABs take: Number 11 on my overall draft board, JJ Watt meets best player available criteria and overall draft positional value. Add that to the fact that Wade Phillip's new 3-4 defense requires a premier 5 technique defensive end, and you have yourself a solid 1st round draft pick

Who they should have picked: I think you they could not have gone wrong with Prince or Quinn

#10 pick Jacksonville Jaguars (trade from Washington)

BLAINE GABBERT

Jaguars Perspective: They get a future QB that can sit and learn.

Keiths take: I don't like Gabbert, but he is going into a good position. He can sit and learn and has some weapons there around him.

Who they should have picked: I would say a Robert Quinn if you are going to trade up to this spot

#9 Pick Cowboys Select

TYRON SMITH


Cowboys Perspective: They finally add some youth to their offensive line and may be able to keep QB Tony Romo healthy.

Keiths take: Smith has tons of upside and I think could be very good left tackle in a few years.


ABs take: Tyron Smith fills an immediate need at the offensive line, adds youth and talent to an aging position, and ultimately brings along high upside for future development.

Who they should have picked: Prince Amukamara. The Cowboys need secondary help i think Prince is worthy of a top 10 pick.

#8 Pick Titans Pick:

JAKE LOCKER


Titans Perspective: They shock everyone by going with a guy a guy no one thought would go top 15

Keiths take: I think Locker will be the best quarterback in the class, so I am not as surprised to see him go so early.

Who they should have picked: i think they should have gone with Nick Fairly or try and trade down, because they could have gotten Locker later but still a good pick.

#7 Pick 49ers select

ALDON SMITH

49ers Perspective: They bring in a guy that can do a lot of things for them including get after the quarterbacks.

Keiths take: Aldon Smith was one of my favorite players in the draft I am surprised to see him go so early but I think he may be worth it.

Who they should have picked: Surprised they didn't go with a quarterback or CB here their two biggest needs but they must have seen something in him.

#6 Pick Atlanta Falcons (trade with CLE)

JULIO JONES

Falcons Perspective: They needed to move up in order to bring in a top receiver versus waiting and not getting their guy.

Keiths take: I think Green is a lot better player than Jones so if your going to move up into the top 6 might as well find a way to move up two more spots right? Either way they got their guy.

Who they should have picked: Great move getting a top receiver the big question is how much did they give up and was it worth it?

Note: they gave up 2 first rounders, a second rounder and 2 fourths

#5 Pick Cardinals Select

PATRICK PETERSON


Cardinals Perspective: Even though their biggest need is QB, in the long run it is better to go with the best player available.

Keiths take: I think that Peterson is the best player in the draft so I am for this pick. In my opinion Peterson is a better Antrel Rolle. He could end up at cornerback or safety for the Cardinals

Who they should have picked: I really thought they would try and get QB Blaine Gabbert, who I am not a huge fan of, so this was a great pick.

#4 Pick Bengals Select:

AJ GREEN

Bengals Perspective: They get the top playmaker in the draft, may be the best receiver to come out since Calvin Johnson

Keiths take: I really like AJ Green, I think he is going to be a special player in the NFL. If Carson Palmer comes back I would guess that Green will probably end up as rookie of the year.

Who they should have picked: Very good pick again, hopefully this can convince Palmer to show back up in Cincinnati.

#3 Buffalo Bills Select:

MARCELL DAREUS

BIlls Perspective: They get an elite defensive lineman, who should make an impact right away.

Keiths take: I like the pick a lot from the Bills. Not the typical flashy pick from them.

Who they should have picked: The Bills could have gone with a bunch of different guys, I think this was the right move.


#2 Pick, Broncos Select:


DE/OLB VON MILLER

Broncos Perspective: Bring in the best pure pass rusher to help sure up the worst ranked defense.

Keiths take: I really like Von Miller, but I think he would fit better as a 3-4 OLB rather than a DE in the 4-3. But he is a versatile player that will make any defense better.

Who they should have picked: You really can't go wrong with Miller. Should be scary to see him and Elvis Dumervil rushing the passer.

#1 Pick Pathers select:

CAM NEWTON

Panthers Perspective:The Panthers were looking to make a splash in the draft, and that is exactly what they did in getting Cam Newton, he is explosive, dynamic and most importantly a winner.

Keiths take: I still believe in QB Jimmy Clausen and I think that Cam Newton is a project pick that is similar in many ways to QB Vince Young.

Who they should have picked: CB Patrick Peterson, there are a lot of needs on the Panthers, I believe they should select the best player available and in my opinion that is CB Patrick Peterson.