Fun With Trade Rumors: Kevin Durant to the Suns?

You gotta love when GM’s recklessly trade away first round draft picks. It’s how the Bulls got Luol Deng and Tyrus Thomas and how the Pistons got Darko (whoops). Trading first round picks is especially ill-advised when you’re the Atlanta Hawks, but that’s exactly what they did two summers ago. In exchange for Joe Johnson (who, to be fair, does rock), the Hawks gave the Suns a boatload of goodies which included two first round picks and Boris Diaw (who the Hawks tried to make a point guard! I hate exclamation points, but come on, that deserves one).

The Suns get the first of those draft picks this year in one of the most loaded classes of all time. And with the Hawks once again bringing up the rear in the Eastern Conference, there is a good chance the Suns, who are already the most talented team in the NBA, could add another stud to the mix. The problem is this year’s pick is top 3 protected, meaning if the Hawks are one of the first three teams to choose, they get to keep their selection. On an ESPN podcast yesterday, Bill Simmons and Chad Ford raised an interesting scenario: there is a very good chance the Suns could choose fourth in this draft, and if that’s the case, would they try and move up to get Kevin Durant?

The Suns have the talent to make such a trade possible, and adding Durant in with Nash and Stoudemire could make them one of the most unstoppable offensive forces the NBA has ever seen. And to a team like Boston, Milwaukee or Memphis, a deal from the Suns could be almost impossible to refuse. For the chance to move up two picks (most people are finally agreeing Oden will go first), the Suns could offer the fourth pick, Shawn Marion, Atlanta’s unprotected first rounder in 2008, and either Leandro Barbosa, Diaw, or Raja Bell. How could anybody possibly turn that down? Imagine adding Marion, Barbosa, and Al Horford to Boston or Milwaukee. They’d be one the three best teams in the East right away.

The best part of this is that it could actually happen. If you’re the Suns, why not? They’ve already flirted with the idea of moving Marion before, and they could afford to lose one of the Barbosa, Bell, Diaw group and still be awesome, especially if they’re adding Durant. Durant is tailor-made for that system, and with Stevie Franchise and Stoudemire still in place, the Suns could have a historically great team, with two of their three best players being 6’10 and only 19 and 24 years old respectively. They’d dominate for the next decade.

Phoenix is the second seed (54-18) in the Western Conference right now but has struggled recently, only going 6-4 over their last 10 games. The consensus seems to be that the West will be decided between Dallas and San Antonio. If Phoenix fails again to advance to the NBA Finals- this is their third season with Nash- it would have to be a considered disappointment, and might make management even more willing to part with someone like Marion.

Great Idea: The Bears and Lance Briggs

One of the reasons the Bears are hesitant to move Lance Briggs is because they don't know what they would do with the Redskins draft pick, #6 overall. There will be some great players available at a lot of different positions, but the Bears already have very few holes as it is.

Why would the Bears take Gaines Adams when they already have Ogunleye, Brown, and Anderson? Why would they take a defensive tackle like Amobi Okoye or Alan Branch (who wouldn't fit into their system anyway) when they just signed Anthony Adams to a four year contract, are getting back a totally healthy Tommie Harris (who'll be in for a big pay day soon), still have Tank Johnson, and get last year's third round pick, Dusty Dvoracek, back from injury? The Bears are one of the few NFL teams that don't need a cornerback (Vasher, Tillman, and Manning Jr. are all good), and they addressed their safety issues by acquiring Adam Archuleta. Also, none of the linebackers in this year's class are good enough to warrant the sixth pick.

Basically the Bears would be creating a hole and filling it with depth at other positions. That doesn't make any sense. With the amount of money you have to pay the sixth overall pick, is the trade really worth it?

Well Jerry Angelo, here's what you should do, bro. First off, offer Briggs one last long term contract. We know you don't want to tie up so salary cap space in linebackers, but Briggs is worth it. He's either your second or third best player, and his weakside linebacker position is so vital to the cover 2. If he turns it down give him the middle finger and trade him to the Skins' for the pick.

With that pick, #6 overall, take LaRon Landry, a guy who is one of the safest prospects in the draft. He'd start right away and he'll be one of the leagues top safeties in about a year. He's that good.

But then who'll fill Briggs' outside linebacker position, you ask? Adam Archuleta. Before you call this crazy, think about what Archuleta has done his entire career and why he struggled in Washington. He played linebacker in college, so you know he has some instincts already, and he has always been a guy who has excelled playing in the box (just look at his girlfriend). In the cover 2, linebackers play in deep zones anyway, so his experience at safety will only help. He got benched in Washington last year because they tried to make him into a cover oriented safety, which he couldn't handle. He'd be a perfect linebacker in the cover 2 and he's big enough (6'0, 223) where you would only have to bulk him up about 10 pounds.

No one wants to lose Briggs but the way he's acting and with the agent he has, you might have to. If you're going to trade him, the sixth pick is pretty good compensation for a guy that bitched his way out town. Landry is stud and will be better then Chris Harris and Daniel Manning combined from day one, and Arch gets to restart his career with a new team and new position. God, I'm a genius.

Huge Win Last Night

Yeah so what if it wasn't pretty, the Bulls had to have that win last night and they got it done. 8-2 over their last 10 games, and now only a half game behind Cleveland for the 2 seed, who they play at home tommarow. These last nine games are going to be fun.

Mock Draft: Picks 11-15

11. San Francisco 49ers- MLB Patrick Willis, Ole Miss

The 49ers were one of the NFL’s most surprising teams last year. Their young offense grew up fast with Alex Smith rebounding from a disappointing rookie year, and Frank Gore becoming one of the league’s top running backs, rushing for over 1,600 yards. San Francisco now has to focus on building their defense, already signing cornerback Nate Clements to an 8 year, $80 million contract. Patrick Willis was one of college football’s top inside linebackers last year and is quickly moving up draft charts. After running a 4.38 at his pro day, the Ole Miss product is now considered a legit top 15 selection. The 49ers could decide to add a defensive lineman like Amobi Okoye or Alan Branch, if they’re available, or they could go with a wide receiver like Ted Ginn Jr. or USC’s Dwayne Jarrett.

12. Buffalo Bills- CB Leon Hall, Michigan

The Bills better make this pick count because they’ve already had one of the roughest offseasons in the league. They traded running back Willis McGahee to the Ravens for only a couple of third round picks and cornerback Nate Clements left for San Francisco. The Bills could look to fill one of those two holes with this pick, taking a running back like Marshawn Lynch or a cornerback for Michigan’s Leon Hall. Hall is considered the top corner in this draft and would immediately help ease the loss of Clements.

13. St. Louis Rams- DE Adam Carriker, Nebraska

The moves the Rams made to improve their defense last year didn’t work out, so St. Louis will reload on that side of the ball in this draft. A linebacker like Patrick Willis or Paul Posluszny could be the pick, but a talent like Carriker would immediately bolster there defensive line. At 6’6, 300 lbs., Carriker is athletic enough to defensive end and strong to play defensive tackle. That versatility should only help his stock come draft day.

14. Carolina Panthers- TE Greg Olsen, Miami

The Panthers had high hopes for their 2006 season, picked by many to win the NFC. But injuries and inconsistent quarterback play doomed Carolina, as they finished a disappointing 8-8. Since there won’t be a quarterback available that would warrant this pick, the Panthers could decide to give Jake Delhomme more weapons. A wide receiver like Ted Ginn or Dwayne Jarrett could help out, but Miami’s Greg Olsen would add a dimension the Carolina offense has lacked since Wesley Walls retired. Kyle Wright and the Miami offense struggled passing the ball last season, but Olsen’s postseason workouts overshadow any concern of a disappointing junior season.

15. Pittsburgh Steelers- OT Levi Brown, Penn State

You could make a case for a linebacker with this pick, after the Steelers lost Joey Porter in free agency to the Miami Dolphins. But the team’s top concern should be protecting Ben Roethlisberger, who is coming off an extremely disappointing 2006. Penn State’s Levi Brown is unanimously considered the class’ second best tackle and could go in the top 10. If Brown in gone, the Steelers could consider Florida State linebacker Lawrence Timmons or Penn State’s Paul Posluszny.

Gavin Floyd...Ouch

That Freddie Garcia trade is looking worse and worse as the White Sox approach the beginning of the 2007 season. I wasn’t opposed to the idea of trading Garcia, but it sure looks like the Sox didn’t get enough back for their Venezuelan workhorse. Garcia was obviously expendable because he’s an aging starting pitcher that was losing velocity with only one year left on his contract, and that was before the McCarthy deal so the Sox had one too many starters in the first place. The only problem is Floyd, the main return from the trade, has had a horrible spring training, and truth be told is probably the organization’s seventh best starting pitcher right now. That’s not saying much for a guy who is already 24 (the fourth pick in the same draft that produced Joe Mauer) and was the front runner for the fifth starter job at the beginning of camp. After getting beaten out for the last spot in the rotation by a 21 year old kid who everyone thought needed at least one more year of seasoning in the minors, Floyd got worked yesterday by the Angels, going 3 inning, giving up 6 hits and 4 earned runs. It now appears as if he’ll begin his season in AAA. It already feelings like this trade rests on Gio Gonzalez’s shoulders, because Floyd doesn’t seem to have the make up to cut in the big leagues.

Mock Draft: Picks 6-10

Mock Draft: Version 1

6. Washington Redskins- DE Gaines Adams, Clemson

The Redskins are quickly turning into the NFL’s version of the New York Knicks. The past few offseasons have been filled with big name free agent signings who have failed to help the team produce wins. This offseason has been no different, as Washington shelled out big money contracts to London Fletcher-Baker, Jason Fabini, and Fred Smoot. Their defense, which was one of the league’s premier units in 2005, struggled in 2006 in large part because they couldn’t put pressure on the quarterback. Enter Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams with the sixth overall pick. A natural pass rusher with good size at 6’5, 260 lbs., Adams would start right away and immediately improve the Redskins pass rush. Of course, this pick has been rumored to go to the Chicago Bears in exchange for Lance Briggs. The pick would put the Bears in strange position because they have very few holes. If the Bears do acquire this pick, they could reach for Penn State offensive tackle Levi Brown, or cut ties with defensive tackle Tank Johnson and take Amobi Okoye or Alan Branch. The most likely scenario for the Bears, however, would be to trade down to a team looking for Adrian Peterson or LaRon Landry, and stockpile picks.

7. Minnesota Vikings- DE Jamaal Anderson, Arkansas

After a promising start to the 2006 season, the Vikings slipped back into mediocrity. Head Coach Brad Childress spent his first season building the teams offensive line and running game, and now he must turn his attention to the defense. Two players, Arkansas defensive end Jamaal Anderson and LSU safety LaRon Landry, should still be on the board here, and both would immediately bolster a Vikings defense that struggled throughout last year. The Vikings have spent first round picks in recent years on defensive ends Kenechi Uduze and Erasamus James, but both have failed to live up to expectations. Anderson would give them a premier edge rusher who is drawing comparisons to the game’s top defensive players. If one of the quarterbacks slip, Minnesota might be tempted to pull the trigger. The team also has a big need at wide receiver after Troy Williamson, the #7 pick in the 2004 draft, seemed to drop more balls than he caught.

8. Atlanta Falcons- RB Adrian Peterson, Oklahoma

It would be very hard to see Adrian Peterson slipping this far, I have him as the second best prospect overall, and if he gets past Cleveland there may be teams looking to trade up to get him. If not for durability concerns, Peterson could be considered one of the most complete running prospects in a long time. When healthy, he carried the Sooners offense on his back and made them one of the elite teams in the country almost single-handedly. Atlanta has a good running back in Warrick Dunn, but a prospect like Peterson would be too good to pass up with the #8 pick.

9. Miami Dolphins- DT Alan Branch, Michigan

A mountain of a man at 6’6 and 330 lbs., Alan Branch has the ability to dominate an offensive line. While his production in college was a bit underwhelming, Branch has everything you look for in a dominant run stopper in the middle of the line. The Dolphins defense struggled last year, while their offense failed to find consistency. Daunte Culpepper cannot be counted on as a franchise quarterback any longer, so if either Russell or Quinn slips, the Dolphins would have to take a good look at them.

10. Houston Texans- S LaRon Landry, LSU

Nobody drew more criticism on draft day last year then the Texans. By passing up Reggie Bush and Vince Young for Mario Williams, the Texans made a clear statement saying they were building their team around defense. Williams struggled in his first year, finishing with only 4.5 sacks, but he and fellow rookie DeMeco Ryans prove the Texans defense has a bright future. Dunta Robinson is a very good cornerback, but the team could still use a playmaker in the secondary like LaRon Landry. Already drawing comparison’s to Ed Reed, Landry is a true impact player that could take the Houston defense to the next level. If Landry is gone, the team could look to help out new quarterback Matt Schaub by taking either Ohio State wide receiver Teddy Ginn Jr., or Penn State left tackle Levi Brown.

Mock Draft; picks 1-5

Mock Draft
Version 1: Updated March 27

1. Oakland Raiders- WR Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech

Before the college football season even began, Notre Dame’s Brady Quinn was pegged for the top pick in the 2007 Draft. But after an up-and-down season that included back-to-back loses to USC and LSU, Quinn’s stock began to drop. For months, everyone has assumed that Quinn’s counterpart in the Sugar Bowl, LSU’s JaMarcus Russell, would be chosen #1 overall. The Raiders desperately need a quarterback and Russell has the kind of measurable that Raiders’ owner Al Davis covets. While Russell has not done anything to lose his hold on the #1 overall pick, Georgia Tech wideout Calvin Johnson may have done enough to steal it away from him. Bigger then most linebackers in this class, Johnson took a step into the next stratosphere when he ran a 4.35 40 yard dash at the combine, while weighing in at 240 lbs. This pick probably only happens if the Raiders do two things: a) acquire a veteran quarterback like Trent Green or David Carr, and b) trade Randy Moss. If those two things happen, Johnson’s immense talent should be too much for the Raiders to pass up.

2. Detroit Lions- QB Brady Quinn, Notre Dame

The Lions said early in the draft process that they were satisfied with quarterback Jon Kitna, a veteran who put up the best Detroit passing numbers of the decade. But Kitna is in his mid 30’s and is nearing the end of his career, and Notre Dame’s Brady Quinn may be too good to pass up. Once rumored to possibly slip out of the top 10, Quinn has impressed enough in his post-season workouts to warrant a pick this high. If the Lions decide that quarterback is not their most pressing need, then the team could go after Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas, Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson, or Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams.

3. Cleveland Browns- QB JaMarcus Russell, LSU

The last time the Browns took a quarterback with their first pick it set their franchise back, oh, about eight years. Tim Couch was a monumental flop after the Cleveland selected him with the #1 overall pick in 1999, and the Browns have struggled to find consistency at quarterback ever since. The moves the Browns have made in the offseason, upgrading the offensive line with Eric Steinbach and their running game with Jamal Lewis, lets them take a chance at one of the top two quarterbacks, if they fall. Russell is a monster for a quarterback at 265 lbs. and has a cannon for a right arm. He could come in and start right away or he could sit for a year while Charlie Frye continues to develop. The problem is everyone expects Russell to go #1, if that’s the case, the Browns could then look at Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson or Wisconsin offensive tackle Joe Thomas. But all indications are, if either Quinn or Russell drops, the Browns would select them at #3.

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- DT Amobi Okoye, Louisville
The last time John Gruden coached at the Senior Bowl, he fell for Auburn running back Cadillac Williams, who the team selected #5 overall in 2004. While most people don’t even have Amobi Okoye as the draft’s top defensive tackle, it would fill a major hole in the once proud Tampa Bay defense. The team would love if Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson fell, and it could happen. If Johnson is gone (and don’t be surprised if they try to trade up and get him) and the team decides not to take Okoye, Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams or Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas might draw consideration.

5. Arizona Cardinals- OT Joe Thomas, Wisconsin

Over the last few years, the Cardinals have really upgraded the overall talent of their roster. Quarterback Matt Leinart, the team’s first round selection last year, showed signs in his rookie season that he can continue the success he had in college. Wide receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin are the league’s top young pass catching tandem, and last year’s signing of Edgerin James finally gave the Cardinals a 1,000 yard rusher. James’ first season in Arizona, however, can hardly be considered a success, as he saw his yards per carry drop 4.6 in 2005 to only 3.8 last year. James’ struggles, of course, aren’t his fault entirely. The Cardinals offensive line has been one of the leagues worst units for over a decade. Adding a top-notch left tackle like Joe Thomas would instantly upgrade their line, and could make them a playoff contender under new head coach Ken Wisenhunt. If Thomas is off the board, there are no other offensive linemen that would be worthy of this pick so the team could trade down. Or, they could try to improve their defense with a lineman like Gaines Adams, Alan Branch, or Jamaal Anderson.

Briggs to the Redskins for #6?

As SportsNite on Comcast Sports Net went off the air, they mentioned an intresting trade rumor regarding the Bears and Lance Briggs. The Redskins are reportedly offering the sixth pick in the upcoming draft to the Bears for Briggs and the Bears first round pick, #31. Obviously, getting the #37 pick from the Jets in exchange for Thomas Jones makes the trade a possibility. I love Briggs, but he's being a complete thug right now. If he's gonna keep up his whole "I'm never playing another down for the Bears again" thing, then this would be a great trade. Ideally, I'd rather the Bears just sign Briggs to a long extension (they had $17 million in cap room before the Anthony Adams signing) then trade him, but I'm shocked that the Bears could still get this much value for Briggs after he basically demanded a trade. Usually that kills someone's trade value, like it did for the Toronto Raptors when they traded Vince Carter to the Nets for the center formerly known as Alonzo Mourning. I say if the Bears don't want to give Briggs a long term deal, and if he isn't going to play with a franchise tag, then make this trade. Apparently, Briggs is meeting tommarow with Jerry Angelo to see if they can work something out. With that sixth pick the Bears could have their choice of guys like Amobi Okoye, Alan Branch, LaRon Landry, Patrick Willis, or Gaines Adams.

Mock Draft coming soon...5 picks at a time.

Zach Randolph is a Dickhead

Please, can we never mention Zach Randolph’s name again in any trade speculation to the Bulls. It’s no coincidence that when Randolph went on “bereavement leave”, the Trail Blazers rattled off three wins. It’s also no coincidence that while on “bereavement leave” Randolph was spotted at a local strip club (I guess everyone grieves in different ways). Seriously, the Blazers might not be so bad if not for his jab-stepping, ball hogging bullshit. If the Bulls ever got this dude, and even worse gave up someone like Gordon, Deng, Ty Thomas to get him, it would completely ruin everything John Paxson and Scott Skiles have worked to build the last four years.

Top 5 Safeties

Safeties usually are not top 10 selections in the draft, but that may soon be changing. Last year, the Raiders made Michael Huff the seventh overall pick, and LSU’s LaRon Landry should find himself in similar territory this year. Landry is a game changing playmaker who has ideal NFL size and speed. He has drawn comparisons to Ed Reed. After Landry, three more safeties have a chance at being taken in the first round. Reggie Nelson was the best player on Florida’s national championship team and could find himself in the top 20. Michael Griffin was standout performer on dominant Texas teams the past two seasons, and Miami’s Brandon Meriweather is a talented defensive back who has character concerns. Both of them could find themselves in the mix of late first round.

Top 5 Safeties

1. LaRon Landry- LSU
Senior: 6’1, 215
Projected: Top 10

2. Reggie Nelson- Florida
Junior: 5’11, 200
Projected: First round, as high as top 15

3. Michael Griffin- Texas
Senior: 6’0, 205
Projected: Late first to early second

4. Brandon Meriweather- Miami
Senior: 5’10, 195
Projected: Second round

5. Eric Weddle- Utah
Senior: 5’11, 205
Projected: Second or third round

Sleeper

Michael Johnson- Arizona
Senior: 6’2, 205
Projected: Fourth or fifth round

Coming next: Mock Draft Version 1

Top 5 Cornerbacks

The hardest thing to find in the NFL today is a shut down cornerback. While there may not be any Champ Bailey’s in this year’s draft class, there are several cornerbacks who should make an impact early in their careers. Michigan’s Leon Hall dominated in Big 10 play before he met the Ohio State receivers, and should be the first corner chosen. Fresno State’s Marcus McCauley was considered a top 10 selection last year, but decided to go back to school for his senior season. His stock has dropped considerably in the past year, and he may now find himself out of the first round. A pair of juniors, Pitt’s Darrelle Revis and Arkansas’ Chris Houston, could also be chosen in round one.

Top 5 Cornerbacks

1. Leon Hall- Michigan
Senior: 5’11, 195
Projected: Top 15

2. Darrelle Revis- Pittsburgh
Junior: 5’11, 205
Projected: First round

3. Marcus McCauley- Fresno State
Senior: 6’1, 205
Projected: Late first to mid second round

4. Chris Houston- Arkansas
Junior: 5’10, 185
Projected: Late first to mid second round

5. Aaron Ross- Texas
Senior: 6’0, 195
Projected: Late first to second round

Sleeper

Travarous Bain- Hampton
Senior: 6’0, 182
Projected: Fifth or sixth round

Top 5 Outside Linebacker

The NFL can thank the Big 10 for a recent influx of talented outside linebackers. Last year, the Packers made A.J. Hawk, from Ohio State, the fifth overall selection in the draft. While not quite the prospect Hawk is, Penn State’s Paul Posluszny should be the first outside linebacker taken this year; probably drafted in the middle of the first round. The tradition could continue next year with Penn State’s Dan Connor and Ohio State’s James Laurenitis. After Puz comes two smallish, fiery outside linebackers, Miami’s Jon “Big Beast” Beason and Oklahoma’s Rufus Alexander, both of whom have drawn comparisons to another OLB from last year’s class, Ernie Sims.

Top 5 Outside Linebackers

1. Paul Posluszny- Penn State
Senior: 6’2, 240
Projected: First round

2. Jon Beason- Miami
Junior: 6’0, 237
Projected: First round

3. Rufus Alexander- Oklahoma
Senior: 6’0, 228
Projected: Second or third round

4. Lawrence Timmons- Florida State
Senior: 6’1, 235
Projected: Late first or second round

5. Stewart Bradley- Nebraska
Senior: 6’4, 255
Projected: Third to fifth round

Sleeper

Prescott Burgess- Michigan
Senior: 6’3, 240
Projected: Fourth or fifth round

Top 5 Inside Linebackers

Over the past few seasons, college football has failed to produce a top NFL prospect at middle linebacker. You have to go back to 2004 when the Jets selected Jonathon Vilma to find the last middle ‘backer chosen in round one. This year’s class follows its predecessors; inside linebacker is one of the thinnest positions in the 2007 draft. Ole Miss’ Patrick Willis will almost certainly be the positions only player chosen in round run, but after running a 4.38 at his pro day workout, Willis has solidified himself as an elite prospect. The rest of middle linebackers in this draft all have warts. Florida State’s Buster Davis is too short, Pittsburgh’s H.B. Blades too slow, and Florida’s Brandon Siler is too big of a thug.

Top 5 Inside Linebackers

1. Patrick Willis- Ole Miss
Senior: 6’1, 245
Projected: Top 15

2. David Harris- Michigan
Senior: 6'0, 243
Projected: Second round

3. Buster Davis- Florida State
Senior: 5'9, 238
Projected: Second to fourth round

4. H.B. Blades- Pittsburgh
Senior: 5'11, 236
Projected: Third or fourth round

5. Brandon Siler- Florida
Junior: 6'2, 241
Projected: Third to fifth round

Sleeper

Kelvin Smith- Syracuse
Senior: 6’2, 240
Projected: Fifth or sixth round

Top 5 Defensive Tackles

Traditionally, defensive tackle has been one of the hardest positions for NFL teams to predict. For every Tommie Harris, there are two Jonathon Sullivan’s. This year’s class features two players who could be picked in the top 10, but offers little depth in later rounds. Michigan’s Alan Brach is monster of a man who eats offensive linemen for breakfast. At 6’6 and 330 lbs., Branch is the kind of game changer in the middle of the line teams covet. Amobi Okoye, from Louisville, is one of the draft’s most unique prospects. He is still only 19 years old and began playing for the Cardinals at 16. After Branch and Okoye, the class weakens considerably. Justin Harrell is rising up draft boards and is the only other defensive tackle who has a chance at being selected in the first round.

Top 5 Defensive Tackles

1. Alan Branch- Michigan
Junior: 6’6, 330
Projected: Top 15, as high as #5

2. Amobi Okoye- Louisville
Senior: 6’2, 300
Projected: Top 15

3. Justin Harrell- Tennessee
Senior: 6’4, 300
Projected: Late first to mid second round

4. Quinn Pitcock- Ohio State
Senior: 6’2, 300
Projected: Second or third round

5. Tank Tyler- NC State
Senior: 6’2, 305
Projected: Second round

Sleeper

Marcus Thomas- Florida
Senior: 6’3, 315
Projected: Fourth or fifth round

Top 5 Defensive Ends

Along with wide receiver, defensive end may be the strongest position in the draft. The two stars at the top, Clemson’s Gaines Adams and Arkansas’ Jamaal Anderson, should be top ten selections and will make instant impacts as rookies. Adams, who has drawn comparisons to Simeon Rice and Javon Kearse, could go top five and is a natural pass rusher. Adam Carriker from Nebraska should be mid first round selection and has the versatility to also play defensive tackle. Florida’s Javon Kearse and Purdue’s Anthony Spencer are both pass rushing specialists who could find themselves in the first round. The position also features great depth, 10 defensive ends could be selected in the top 50 picks.

Top 5 Defensive Ends

1. Gaines Adams- Clemson
Senior: 6’5, 260
Projected: Top 10, as early as #4

2. Jamaal Anderson- Arkansas
Senior: 6’5, 290
Projected: Early first round,

3. Adam Carriker- Nebraska
Senior: 6’6, 300
Projected: First round

4. Jarvis Moss- Florida
Senior: 6’6, 250
Projected: Late first round

5. Anthony Spencer- Purdue
Senior: 6’3, 261
Projected: Late first to mid second round

Sleeper

Baratka Atkins- Miami
Senior: 6’4, 280
Projected: Fourth or fifth round

Sox Name Danks Fifth Starter

The most competitive battle of spring training was settled Saturday, when manager Ozzie Guillen named John Danks the fifth starter in the White Sox rotation. Everyone knew Danks had more talent then his competiton, Gavin Floyd and Charlie Haegar, but he surprised the White Sox with his poise and prescense on the mound. With four veterens ahead of him in the rotation and a bullpen that was rebuilt in the offseason, Danks won't be asked to carry a heavy burden this season. Still only 21, Danks is considered the future of the rotation for a team that sold off two starters in the offseason and could see another one, Mark Buerhle, leave at the end of 2007. The only problem anyone has with Danks winning this job is worry that he is being rushed to the big leagues. As the White Sox know as well as anyone, throwing a young pitcher into the big league fire too soon could ruin his entire career. Who could ever forget the trainwrecks in 2004 that were Arnie Munoz, Josh Stewart, and Felix Diaz? Still if Danks was the fifth best starting pitcher in spring training, then you have to give him the job. He earned it. The move also gives the White Sox a second lefty in the rotation, and the team could keep 3 others in the bullpen.

Tyrus Thomas Clip of the Week

This is just scary.

Top Five Interior Linemen

This year’s class of interior linemen is known for their versatility. Texas’ Justin Blaylock and Tennessee’s Aaron Sears both have the ability to play tackle in the NFL and will likely affect where they’ll be selected. USC’s Ryan Kahil has everything you look for in a center, starting three years for the Trojans.

Top 5 Interior Linemen

1. G Justin Blaylock- Texas
Senior: 6’3, 320
Projected: Late first or early second round

2. G Ben Grubbs- Auburn
Senior: 6’2, 311
Projected: Late first or early second round

3. G Aaron Sears- Tennessee
Senior: 6’3, 320
Projected: Late first or early second round

4. C Ryan Kalil- USC
Senior: 6’3, 290
Projected: Late first or early second round

5. G Marshal Yanda- Iowa
Senior: 6’4, 305
Projected: Third round

Top 5 Offensive Tackles

Wisconsin’s Joe Thomas leads this year’s class of tackles and will be a top five selection. Though he may not have a higher ceiling then the top tackle chosen in last year’s class, D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Thomas should start from day one and has Pro Bowl potential. Levi Brown is second most complete tackle and could go early in round one. Besides for both playing in the Big 10, Thomas and Brown share one other trait: both have durability concerns. This class of offensive tackles in solid but unspectacular because Michigan’s Jake Long and USC’s Sam Baker decided to come be for their senior seasons.

Top 5 Offensive Tackles

1. Joe Thomas, Wisconsin
Senior:
Projected: Top 5, as early as #2

2. Levi Brown, Penn State
Senior:
Projected: Top 20, as early as #10

3. Joe Staley
Senior: 6’6, 306
Projected: First round

4. Tony Ugoh, Arkansas
Senior: 6’5, 305
Projected: Late first or early second round

5. Ryan Harris, Notre Dame
Senior: 6’4, 305
Projected: Third Round

Top 5 Wide Receivers

Simply put, this wide receiver class rivals that of the 2004 Draft, which saw seven receivers picked in the first round and produced stars like Larry Fitzgerald, Lee Evans, and Roy Williams. Georgia Tech’s Calvin Johnson heads the class and is the Draft’s most complete player. At 6’5 and 240 lbs, Johnson was able to run a 4.35 40-yard dash at the combine, solidifying that he is one of the best wide receiver prospects ever. After Johnson, who is a lock to be a top 5 selection, four other receivers should be chosen in the first round. USC’s Dwayne Jarrett had a more distinguished college career then any of his counterparts, setting the Pac-10 record for touchdown receptions in just three seasons. Ohio State’s Ted Ginn Jr. and Tennessee’s Robert Meachem are both big-play threats that possess world class speed, and both could be picked in the Top 20. Receivers like USC’s Steve Smith and LSU’s Craig Davis were overshadowed in college and may slip to the second round, but both are big-time prospects.

Top 5 Wide Receivers

1. Calvin Johnson- Georgia Tech
Junior: 6’5, 239
Projected: Top 5, as early as #1

2. Dwayne Jarrett- USC
Junior: 6’4, 220
Projected: First round, as early as #16

3. Robert Meachem- Tennessee
Junior: 6’2, 215
Projected: First round, as early as #16

4. Dwayne Bowe- LSU
Senior: 6’2, 225
Projected: First round, as early as #16

5. Ted Ginn Jr.- Ohio State
Junior: 5’11, 180
Projected: First round, as early as #16

Sleeper

David Clowney- Virginia Tech
Senior: 6’1, 185
Projected: Third or fourth round

Top 5 Running Backs

If not for durability concerns, Adrian Peterson could be considered one of the best running back prospects ever. After a freshman season where he ran for 1,925yards (and 15 TDs) and contended for Heisman Trophy, Peterson struggled to stay on the field in his final two seasons at Oklahoma, culminating in a shoulder injury that kept him out most of his junior season. Marshawn Lynch is clearly the second best back in the class, despite concerns about his speed, he should be chosen near the middle of the first round. The most intriguing player in all of this year’s class could be Louisville’s Michael Bush who proved that he’s a monster when healthy, but suffered a season ending injury in the Cardinal’s first game of the season. News came this week that Bush will miss an additional two months.


Top 5 Running Backs

1. Adrian Peterson- Oklahoma
Junior: 6’2, 220
Projected: Top 10, as early as #3

2. Marshawn Lynch- California
Junior: 5’11, 215
Projected: Top 20, as early as #12

3. Tony Hunt- Penn State
Senior: 6’2, 240
Projected: Second round or third round

4. Michael Bush- Louisville
Senior: 6’2, 250
Projected: Second to fourth round

5. Kenny Irons- Auburn
Senior: 6’1, 230
Projected: Second to fourth round

Sleeper

Brandon Jackson- Nebraska
Junior: 5’10, 210
Projected: Fourth or fifth round

Top 5 Quarterbacks

It was a foregone conclusion for about a year that Brady Quinn would be the top player chosen in the 2007 NFL Draft. But an underachieving Notre Dame season and Quinn’s continued struggles in the most important of games have put the Irish quarterback under a microscope. After being outplayed by LSU quarterback JaMarcus Russell in the Sugar Bowl, Quinn’s stock appeared to have slipped out of the top ten, until his recent pro day workouts at Notre Dame finally stopped the bleeding. Quinn now seems like a lock to either go #2 or #3, but it’s Russell who still seems to be the favorite for the top pick. Unlike last year, Quinn and Russell are the only quarterbacks worthy of being selected in the first round. Michigan State’s Drew Stanton followed a great junior season with a disappointing senior year, and that most likely cost him a chance at the first round.

Top 5 Quarterbacks

1. Brady Quinn- Notre Dame
Senior: 6’4, 233
Projected: Top Five, most likely #2 or #3

2. JaMarcus Russell- LSU
Junior: 6’6, 265
Projected: Top Five, most likely #1 or #3

3. Drew Stanton- Michigan State
Senior: 6’2, 235
Projected: Second round

4. Troy Smith- Ohio State
Senior: 6’0, 215
Projected: Second or third round, as high as #36 to the Browns

5. Kevin Kolb- Houston
Senior: 6’2, 230
Projected: Third to fifth round

Sleeper

Isaiah Stanback- Washington
Senior: 6’3, 215
Projected: Fifth or sixth round

How to Save Bruce Weber

A lot of people have been calling for Illinois Coach Bruce Weber's head, recently, after a tumultuous season that included two of his players getting DUI's, one near fatal car crash, and his team's struggling on the court performance. But the top criticism of Weber remains the same: he just can't recruit big name stars.

Four of the top freshmen in college basketball this year were from Chicago, and Weber didn't bring a single one of them to Champaign. Gonzaga's Jeramy Pargo, Duke's Jon Scheyer, Arkansas' Patrick Beverly, and Kansas' Sheron Collins all played pivotal roles in helping their teams reach the NCAA tournament this year. Scheyer’s high school coach was Weber's younger brother. Beverly, who would go on to win SEC Freshman of the Year, practically begged Illinois for a scholarship that they never offered.

And of course, all of that pales in comparison to losing Eric Gordon.

But an interesting story emerged late last night when Kentucky Coach Tubby Smith left for Minnesota. The top candidate to replace Smith is current Memphis coach John Calipari, the same coach who recruited the top Chicago baller this year away from the Illini, Derrick Rose.

If Calipari leaves Memphis, Rose could be released from his scholarship. That gives U of I one last chance to recruit him. Weber better hope this happens because it could save his job.

Top 25 NFL Draft Prospects

Top 25 NFL Draft Prospects

Version 1. Grades out of 100.

1. WR Calvin Johnson 99 Georgia Tech
Junior: 6’5, 239
NFL Comparison: Terrell Owens/Randy Moss (without the character issues)

2. RB Adrian Peterson 95 Oklahoma
Junior: 6’2, 220
NFL Comparison: Larry Johnson (faster)

3. OT Joe Thomas 95 Wisconsin
Senior: 6’7, 312
NFL Comparison: Chris Samuels

4. S LaRon Landry 93 LSU
Senior: 6’1, 215
NFL Comparison: Ed Reed

5. QB Brady Quinn 92 Notre Dame
Senior: 6’4, 233
NFL Comparison: Marc Bulger (bigger arm)

6. DE Gaines Adams 92 Clemson
Senior: 6’5, 260
NFL Comparison: Simeon Rice

7. DT Alan Branch 91 Michigan
Junior: 6’6, 330
NFL Comparison: Marcus Stroud

8. QB JaMarcus Russell 90 LSU
Junior: 6’6, 265
NFL Comparison: Byron Leftwich (bigger arm)

9. DT Amobi Okoye 89 Louisville
Senior: 6’2, 300
NFL Comparison: Tommie Harris

10. S Reggie Nelson 88 Florida
Junior: 5’11, 200
NFL Comparison: Brian Dawkins

11. DE Jamaal Anderson 87 Arkansas
Junior: 6’5, 290
NFL Comparison: Patrick Kerney

12. OLB Paul Posluszny 85 Penn State
Senior: 6’2, 240
NFL Comparison: Takeo Spikes

13. MLB Patrick Willis 84 Ole Miss
Senior: 6’1, 245
NFL Comparison: Al Wilson

14. WR Dwayne Jarrett 84 USC
Junior: 6’4, 220
NFL Comparison: Keyshawn Johnson

15. CB Leon Hall 83 Michigan
Senior: 5’11, 195
NFL Comparison: Nate Clements

16. OT Levi Brown 82 Penn State
Senior: 6’5, 325
NFL Comparison: Jon Jansen

17. DE Adam Carriker 80 Nebraska
Senior: 6’6, 300
NFL Comparison: Aaron Smith

18. TE Greg Olsen 79 Miami
Junior: 6’6, 255
NFL Comparison: Jeremy Shockey

19. Robert Meachem 77 Tennessee
Junior: 6’2, 215
NFL Comparison: Javon Walker (faster)

20. WR Dwayne Bowe 76 LSU
Senior: 6’2, 225
NFL Comparison: Anquan Boldin

21. RB Marshawn Lynch 76 California
Junior: 5’11, 215
NFL Comparison: Ahman Green

22. OLB Jon Beason 75 Miami
Junior: 6’0, 237
NFL Comparison: LeRoy Hill

23. WR Ted Ginn Jr. 75 Ohio State
Junior: 5’11, 180
NFL Comparison: Santana Moss

24. CB Darrelle Revis 75 Pitt
Junior: 5’11, 205
NFL Comparison: Nathan Vasher

25. S Michael Griffin 74 Texas
Senior: 6’0, 205
NFL Comparison: Lawyer Milloy

Top 5 rankings at every position coming soon.

Now This Gets Me Ready For Baseball

And people think I'm kidding when I say I wish Peter Gammons was my grandpa.

Bears Steal Archuleta

A frustrating offseason finally yeilded some good news Wednesday when the Bears acquired Adam Archuleta from the Washington Redskins for a sixth round draft pick. Playing much of the year and throughout the playoffs with rookie Daniel Manning and second year pro Chris Harris at the two safety spots, a veteren safety was argueably the Bears biggest need.

Though he was considered a free agent bust for the Redskins- after recieving a 6 year 30 million dollar contract in the offseason, he didn't even get on the field in the second half- Archuleta should fit the Bears cover 2 defense perfectly. He started at safety for the Rams as a rookie in 2001 Super Bowl, a defense lead by Lovie Smith, and was a near pro bowl performer for St. Louis until he signed with Washington.

The move gives the Bears a of couple options. Archuleta would seem like a natural fit at strong safety, so veteren Mike Brown can move back to free safety, a position he played early in his career. If Brown continues to have injury problems, and he may not even be back for training camp after he tore his Lisfranc ligament in his right foot last season, then Manning, the teams first selection in last years draft, can play free safety.

If Brown and Archuleta are able to both be on the field at the same time, it would only bolster a Bears defense that showed signs of slowing down in the second half of 2006. That would also allow the Bears to experiment with moving Manning to cornerback. While it may not seem like a pressing issue right now, Charles Tillman and Nathan Vasher are slated to become free agents after 2007. The Bears figure to sign one of them, most likely Tillman, but it's unlikely both would be resigned because the Bears don't like locking up alot of their salary cap space in one position.

Top NBA Prospects in College Basketball

Pre-Tournament Rankings. Grades out of 100.

Top NBA Prospects in College Basketball


1. SF Kevin Durant 100 Texas
Freshman: 6’10, 225
NBA Comparison: Tracy McGrady/ Dirk Nowitski

2. C Greg Oden 98 Ohio State
Freshman: 7’0, 255
NBA Comparison: David Robinson/ Emeka Okafor

3. PF Al Horford 92 Florida
Junior: 6’9, 245
NBA Comparison: Elton Brand/ Carlos Boozer

4. PF Brandan Wright 92 North Carolina
Freshman: 6’10, 205
NBA Comparison: Marcus Camby

5. SF Julian Wright 91 Kansas
Sophomore: 6’8, 225
NBA Comparison: Lamar Odom (smaller)

6. PF Joakim Noah 90 Florida
Junior: 6’10, 230
NBA Comparison: Kenyon Martin (bigger)

7. PG Acie Law IV 87 Texas A&M
Senior: 6’3, 190
NBA Comparison: Chauncey Billups

8. C Spencer Hawes 86 Washington
Freshman: 6’11, 250
NBA Comparison: Brad Miller

9. PG Darren Collison 85 UCLA
Sophomore: 6’1, 175
NBA Comparison: Tony Parker

10. PG Mike Conley Jr. 84 Ohio State
Freshman: 6’1, 185
NBA Comparison: Raymond Felton

11. SG Corey Brewer 83 Florida
Junior: 6’8, 190
NBA Comparison: Josh Howard
12. SG Chase Budinger 82 Arizona
Freshman: 6’7, 190
NBA Comparison: Darius Miles

13. SF Jeff Green 82 Georgetown
Senior: 6’8, 235
NBA Comparison: Shane Battier (better offensively, worse defensively)

14. SF Thaddeus Young 78 Georgia Tech
Freshman: 6’8, 210
NBA Comparison: Travis Outlaw (Smarter)

15. SF Alando Tucker 77 Wisconsin
Senior: 6’5, 215
NBA Comparison: Cuttino Mobley

16. PF Al Thornton 75 Florida State
Senior: 6’8, 225
NBA Comparison: David West

17. C Roy Hibbert 75 Georgetown
Junior: 7’2, 280
NBA Comparison: Zydrunas Illgauskas

18. SG Brandon Rush 74 Kansas
Sophomore: 6’6, 210
NBA Comparison: Bobby Simmons

19. PG Javaris Crittenton 73 Georgia Tech
Freshman: 6’5, 190
NBA Player Comparison: Stephon Marbury

20. C Hasheem Thabeet 71 Connecticut
Freshman: 7’3, 270
NBA Comparison: Dekembie Mutombo

Honorable Mention
SG Nick Young, USC
SG Tywon Lawson, North Carolina
C Aaron Gary, Pittsburgh
SG Marcus Williams, Arizona
PF Josh McRoberts, Duke
PF Darrell Arthur, Kansas