adfasfdas

Why wait? It's probably easier for a left tackle to step in and play his first year than it is for a QB; hence, if we go offense, we could take Stafford this year and develop him and pick up a new LT next year rather than the converse. Stafford is better than any QB in next year's crop, so that only adds to the argument. Of course, we may draft an LT first overall this year if we think we've found our guy. Time will tell.

^i agree. Perhaps both would be ready by mid next year if you take the QB this year and LT next year. Plus you don't pay backus a boatload to sit on the bench (or play for another team). Cut his ass next year.

Draft an OT this year and develop him next year and play one of the QBs on the roster. Play Danny, Drew, DC, etc while the new OT gets up to speed.

Then bring in your franchise QB after the Oline has a year together.

Taking a QB and not drafting someone to protect him lacks logic.

The logic is he sits the first year.

Build the line, if you're not committed to that, then wait on the QB.

I'm ok with a QB if we go with a L OT 1b or 33.

Drafting a QB and not being committed to protecting til next year is Millen-esque.

Sorry for the low blow.

Drafting a QB and not being committed to protecting til next year is Millen-esque.

Sorry for the low blow.

Yes, but ideally, you wouldn't start the guy at all next year. Thus we'd have an extra year to spare before needing the line ready.

We need a line now. We've been waiting for decades for a line. I'm not sure we haven't had a couple of starting QBs on our squad but with our line they look like shit.

Build our line first, like most peeps say that Millen didn't do, then go at QB.

Build the line, if you're not committed to that, then wait on the QB.

I'm ok with a QB if we go with a L OT 1b or 33.

Depends on who is there at #20 or #33. Will you find a franchise LT there? most OT's at that stage are probably RT's.

Also, if you draft OT #1, and wait until next year to get a QB, you may not get a good QB. Say you pick around 10th and they are all gone. Or say they just aren't as good as you think Stafford is.

i don't know the solution, but if they think Stafford is the next big thing they better take him and worry about replacing Backus next year. There are plenty of OT's that played well in their first year. Denver drafted two OL that are starting full time now and playing very well.

Depends on who is there at #20 or #33. Will you find a franchise LT there? most OT's at that stage are probably RT's.

Also, if you draft OT #1, and wait until next year to get a QB, you may not get a good QB. Say you pick around 10th and they are all gone. Or say they just aren't as good as you think Stafford is.

i don't know the solution, but if they think Stafford is the next big thing they better take him and worry about replacing Backus next year. There are plenty of OT's that played well in their first year. Denver drafted two OL that are starting full time now and playing very well.

Thats what I was saying earlier...somewhere around here and used that for a reason to take Jason Smith 1st overall.

I don't want to do what Millen did. And Freeman is havinga really good combine. His size is great too at 6'6". He will be there at 20, imo and maybe at 33.

I'm with Tahoe on this all the way. We need to develop our line. Maybe OG is our biggest need, so we take a LT and either he or Backus will be playing OG next year. If he proves he's better than Backus right away, then he plays LT, if not he takes some time at LG while he develops. That's what they did with Ogden, so its a possibility in the very least. Take Freeman at 20 or wait until next year.

How do you know none of the QBs next year will be as good as Stafford? Bradford will be there obviously. If we have a crap season while we're developing a ton of young guys and installing a new offense/defense, we could still be in a position to take him. McCoy or Snead could have a monster year and look like a stud in next year's class. Tebow could finally prove that he's an NFL caliber QB. Everyone's down on him but he's got a strong arm and just hasn't had the opportunity to prove himself. Florida could finally give that to him.

Maybe we sign one next year after not taking one this year. Some guys just need a change of scenery and an opportunity. Cassell may not be franchised anymore and could prove he's a potential franchise QB and that this year wasn't just a fluke season behind a great O-Line. A list of the 2010 FA QB's as of right now:
QB Mark Brunell UFA New Orleans Saints Free Agent
QB Jason Campbell UFA Washington Redskins Free Agent
QB David Carr UFA New York Giants Free Agent
QB Kellen Clemens UFA New York Jets Free Agent
QB Brodie Croyle UFA Kansas City Chiefs Free Agent
QB Jake Delhomme UFA Carolina Panthers Free Agent
QB Damon Huard UFA Kansas City Chiefs Free Agent
QB Tarvaris Jackson UFA Minnesota Vikings Free Agent
QB Brad Johnson UFA Dallas Cowboys Free Agent
QB Jon Kitna UFA Detroit Lions Free Agent
QB Eli Manning UFA New York Giants Free Agent
QB Josh McCown UFA Carolina Panthers Free Agent
QB Matt Moore RFA Carolina Panthers Free Agent
QB Kyle Orton UFA Chicago Bears Free Agent
QB Chris Redman UFA Atlanta Falcons Free Agent
QB Philip Rivers UFA San Diego Chargers Free Agent
QB "Ben" UFA Pittsburgh Steelers Free Agent
QB Sage Rosenfels UFA Houston Texans Free Agent
QB D.J. Shockley UFA Atlanta Falcons Free Agent
QB Troy Smith RFA Baltimore Ravens Free Agent
QB Andrew Walter UFA Oakland Raiders Free Agent
QB Charlie WhitehurstUFA San Diego Chargers Free Agent

A couple of those guys might be worth taking a look at if they aren't retained or think they can get a better deal/shot at starting somewhere else. Obviously you can take away the big name guys, they'll be staying where they are.

Or, we solidify the line and develop a solid running game, Orlovsky/Stanton prove they can run the offense effectively (not franchise QBs but solid enough), and we don't even take a QB in next year's while we continue to build our defense. That one is much less likely, but still a possibility

Point being, you just never know what's going to happen next year.

The only worthwhile ones won't leave:

Big Ben, Rivers, Eli

Nobody else has proven to be better than a backup.

Team Needs: CB OT TE QB DE DT ILB

This is mostly what I see when reading sites. The TE thing is necesary but not this year. And everyone moved the CB up once Bodden was released.

Once Bodden was released, we had no starting caliber CB on our roster. TE isn't a HUGE need, but it would be nice to finally have a solid TE, DE is a little less of a need if you think Avril has some real promise. I'm more worried about DT. Having a stud DT can really make a difference for your DEs (as we saw last year when we lacked one).

Also, probably not likely on signing anyone, but you never know. Plus there is always the possibility of trading for someone like Anderson this year.

DT is definately a need. White and Avril at the ends. I guess Cody could come back.

Team Needs: CB OT TE QB DE DT ILB

This is mostly what I see when reading sites. The TE thing is necesary but not this year. And everyone moved the CB up once Bodden was released.

OH MY GOD OUR GUARDS SUCK. GUARDS ARE SO UNDERRATED. JESUS TITTYFUCKING CHRIST.

Thats from CBSSLine.com or something.

CBSSLINE.COM SUCKS

See if you can get them to change it.

I'll have to check for OGs when I'm doing the draft thing...as far as boards calling it out as a draft need.

Our entire line needs work, but THE most important position to fill, imo is left OT.

Right, but Mayhew/Schwartz are already on record as saying they feel comfortable with Backus, Raiola, and Cherilus (or something similar to that).

I really dont want to get into the whole Backus to guard thing, but just put me on record that I'm in favor of it if we go with Smith.

FWIW, if we don't take a "franchise" QB in the 2009 draft, I bet we take Tim Hiller out of Western in 2010.

Also, I wouldn't mind if they took Drew Willy out of Buffalo with a late pick to give him a shot. Yes, it would seem that taking a QB this year might give us 5 on the roster, but everyone else is talking about it. (also reasons why Kitna and Dan-O should go).

By the way, OG is usually a position where only a few are taken in the draft. The huge majority end up as UDFA's. I think we could get Urbik out of Wisconsin with a late pick and be happy with the competition he brings.

If it was me, I would go Curry #1, OT #20, CB #33, DT #65, CB #84, and OG and QB in late rounds. Of course they'll pick at least one WR in a late round, and probably a DE and another LB.

Urbik will probably go in the third round or possibly earlier.

The problem with taking an OT at 20 is that the top 3 will prolly go in the first 10 picks then, i think it'd be a stretch to grab a 2nd round OT prospect in the 1st.

At least thats how I'm reading this years draft.

OLB is fairly deep, OT goes in spurts. I'd rather take an OT at 1 and grab Cushings at 20. <-- Prolly dreaming that he'll be around though.

Well, we could go OT at 1 and grab Lauranitis at #20. One of the MLBs will still be there. Maualuga sounds like he got himself into the teens, so go with James. If Maualuga slides, grab him at that spot. Or if you think Lauranitis is going to slip into the second round, grab him at #33 and take the best corner at #20. We need a MLB AND OLB right now, and there has been talk of moving Dizon back to the outside to see what he could do. Making him a MLB obviously didn't work out very well.

I've seen a few mocks that have Vontae Davis (huge talent with a character concern) and Alphonso Smith falling to us with 1b. Smith would be a starting corner and would immediately move into the return man role for us as well.

Subtracting taking a QB at 1 makes it easier. But I'd still take Smith at 1 at this point. I agree with the peeps that say thats where you start to build your team.

If you want a MLB than take him early, cuz its just not that deep, but OLB is deeper. I'd say we need a CB before we need a LB...and a DT is a must too.

WE SUCK

Alphonso wouldn't really be a fall to us at 20, but yes at 33. I would take him at 20, obviously depending on what we do at #1...

Yes, we do suck.

Rd1a - Jason Smith
Rd1b - Lauranitis or Alphonso (depending on which you think will be there in Rd2 or if Cushing or Maualuga drop)
Rd2 - The opposite of 1b

I wouldn't worry QUITE as much about a guard in the first 3 rounds. If you take a LT, then Backus or that LT will be playing guard for us next year, so whoever you take will have some time to develop, a 4th-5th round G would probably be fine. As someone mentioned earlier, that later round guards are still often pretty solid.

You guys read too much into the norm.

We drafted Manuel Ramirez in the 4th round of the 2007 draft, probably just so Matt Millen could have a laugh when Kitna was on his ass, so he could say "that's just Manny being Manny."

We drafted Fred Matua (who? exactly) in the 7th round of the 2005 draft, and he is nowhere to be found.

Sounds like a good strategy. The point is that you draft a guard earlier when it's the right guy at the right time, he will be more likely to be a success. We can't go guard in this draft any later than 3rd round, IMO (Levitre, Urbik, Canfield will be on the board at one of our picks -- all are pretty talented).

Moving Backus to guard would probably be no more than a short term deal, and we would probably cut him after the season unless he really tears it up.

If you guys are really truly concerned about the o-line, you can't just ignore the guard positions and pretend something's going to work out.

You guys read too much into the norm.

We drafted Manuel Ramirez in the 4th round of the 2007 draft, probably just so Matt Millen could have a laugh when Kitna was on his ass, so he could say "that's just Manny being Manny."

We drafted Fred Matua (who? exactly) in the 7th round of the 2005 draft, and he is nowhere to be found.

Sounds like a good strategy. The point is that you draft a guard earlier when it's the right guy at the right time, he will be more likely to be a success. We can't go guard in this draft any later than 3rd round, IMO (Levitre, Urbik, Canfield will be on the board at one of our picks -- all are pretty talented).

Moving Backus to guard would probably be no more than a short term deal, and we would probably cut him after the season unless he really tears it up.

If you guys are really truly concerned about the o-line, you can't just ignore the guard positions and pretend something's going to work out.

Thank you.

I do have to say that for a team with as many holes as we have, we can't be looking too much at taking particular positions. How many championship caliber players do we have on our roster? 3? 4 maybe? We need to be taking the best player available period. I really want to see a stud linebacker taken but if there's a 10 year starter at guard sitting there in the second we have to snatch him up.

You guys read too much into the norm.

We drafted Manuel Ramirez in the 4th round of the 2007 draft, probably just so Matt Millen could have a laugh when Kitna was on his ass, so he could say "that's just Manny being Manny."

We drafted Fred Matua (who? exactly) in the 7th round of the 2005 draft, and he is nowhere to be found.

Sounds like a good strategy. The point is that you draft a guard earlier when it's the right guy at the right time, he will be more likely to be a success. We can't go guard in this draft any later than 3rd round, IMO (Levitre, Urbik, Canfield will be on the board at one of our picks -- all are pretty talented).

Moving Backus to guard would probably be no more than a short term deal, and we would probably cut him after the season unless he really tears it up.

If you guys are really truly concerned about the o-line, you can't just ignore the guard positions and pretend something's going to work out.

I think I'm prolly one of those "You guys" so I'll say its not about ignoring it. But other positions need to be filled. CB comes before OG. OT comes before OG, etc. It'll happen, just not early.

And I feel Backus would work at OG even if it is just for a year.

3? 4 maybe?
Hanson
Maybe Mulbach (oh yeah, championship caliber long-snapper baby!)
Who else is championship caliber? Ernie?

Hanson
Maybe Mulbach (oh yeah, championship caliber long-snapper baby!)
Who else is championship caliber? Ernie?

I was going with Calvin and Hanson and then figured there were 2-3 more maybe that could be fine if there were much much much better players around them.

And I feel Backus would work at OG even if it is just for a year.

I think Backus could have great success at OG. He'd be able to pro-long his career and be able to go up against slower DT's while getting help with Raiola rather than going one-on-one with speedy, athletic DE's...

^ And I think he'd be great to help out the new OT....that would prolly be lining up next to him, no?

IF they feel like he would make the transition to OG well, then I would take a LT and get our OL set. If they don't feel he can, then I say wait to take your LT next year.

I was going with Calvin and Hanson and then figured there were 2-3 more maybe that could be fine if there were much much much better players around them.
Wow, how'd I forget to mention Calvin?!
Ignorant Clevelanders!

291..I just like the idea of the chance to grab the best OT in a draft. Thats this year.

For the record, I'd be fine with Stafford, J. Smith, or Curry with the #1 pick considering all are positions of need. I'm not really sold on Monroe.

The rest of the draft is what will be very important (not that the #1 pick is not, I just think all 3 of those players are really solid options).

Yep, and the LEAST safest pick would be Stafford imo.

I would agree with that.

Danny O is officially going to test FA market.

he didn't like the offer to be backup. Which means MM prolly sees DC as the starter.

They told him that since he's been a backup his entire career, he'd enter training camp as the backup, but he'd get an even shot at starting. Whoever plays best in camp will start. He didn't like that. Mayhew also has said he's not sugar coating anything with this team. That's been going on too long and he feels that's part of the problem. He's going to tell people how he sees things, and if they don't like it then they shouldn't have asked.

I like that.

What I read was the offer was for backup money, so yesterday he decided its over. Not sure about all that though.

So if he started, he'd still be making backup money. I don't blame him, or the Lions.

well he may or may not get a better offer. teams looking at him probably have a vet QB that don't have a viable project and don't want to draft one. If you're a team like Chicago or the Jets would you want a semi young QB that has some experience but hasn't really shown he's the man? Most teams have those guys. What teams have a vet without a younger project?

Only team I can think of is Carolina.

Its slim pickings this year for teams looking for FA, so maybe he's banking on that.

Sure, but how many starting gigs are there that he'd have a better shot than here? Probably none. The best shot I can find is Carolina (I think Jake has regressed a lot). Not sure if they are interested in him though.

I wonder if the Steelers will look at him since Leftwich is probably moving on for more $.

#2 for the Steelers is a pretty good gig, especially with Ben's injury history.

I don't disagree with that or your 300 post. I think thats accurate.

The thing I read had it like the Lions had made their decision and heres backup money.

BTW...I know what Schwartzy said the other day about DC, but I'm not so sure thats accurate. Maybe they aren't all in agreement and Schwartz is just one part of the Lions 3 headed monster.

303...So you're saying Steelers backup > Lions backup?

I'd have to think about thatok I'm done thinking about that you're right.

Jaguars | Appear to be shopping McDaniel
Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:49:20 -0800
Michael C. Wright, of The Florida Times-Union, reports the Jacksonville Jaguars appear to be shopping DT Tony McDaniel to other teams. The Jaguars called the Detroit Lions more than a week ago to see if they would be interested in acquiring McDaniel, according to a source.

What would they want for him? I don't really know anything about him.

An 8th rounder?

He wasn't drafted cuz most teams took him off their boards...Issues.

He's 24 or 25, young..I guess he could turn it around. Big white dude in the middle? He had a toe in 05.

I found a lil more on this thing... Shack Harris, our new personel guy who just came from the Jags, really liked McDaniel. So they prolly called Shack asking if he wanted him. I don't know anything about McDaniel either, but I don't think he tore it up too much.

I'm thinking this could be a take your garbage with you call???

He had a toe in 05.
I'm hoping he had 10....

We've talked about Derek Anderson or drafting a QB or just using what we've got but what do you think of Leftwich? He wasn't terrible with the Jags before he started getting hurt. If we finish off our offensive line (OT and/or OGs in the draft) so we can give him a little bit of protection, I feel like he'd be able to do fairly well.

Another thought: Everyone keeps talking about moving Backus to guard. What about moving Cherilus to guard and Backus to the right side. It could just be for a season or so, let Cherilus develop a little bit then when we're done with Backus, Gosder gets bumped back outside to RT.

Cherilus would benefit much more by continuing to develop at RT. I highly doubt we move Cherilus inside.

Yeah, don't shuffle him around and slow his development.

and no on Leftwich. He's regressed. He's a decent backup, but not the guy you want running your offense for 10 years. We need to find that guy this year or next.

Cherilus would benefit much more by continuing to develop at RT. I highly doubt we move Cherilus inside.

I agree, no way Gosder get's pushed inside. He actually played very well down the stretch last year and he's earned the right to stay there, IMO.

Plus, he's only going to get better the next few years...

Agree on Cherilus. Stay put at RT.

Any interest in Cato June or Derrick Brooks? Obviously, it would depend on the draft. If we're taking Curry, then we wouldn't want June but we may want to at least take a look at Brooks since we have no MLB. If we take Maualuga or Lauranitis with 1B, then we wouldn't really want Brooks, but June could be someone to at least look at. Is June a strong or weak-side LB?

If we take Curry, depending on the scheme, he can play any of the linebacker positions (with Sims here, he would play SLB or MLB). The amount of tackles he got playing SAM was incredible, and it may have been even better had he played MLB.

Any interest in Cato June or Derrick Brooks? Obviously, it would depend on the draft. If we're taking Curry, then we wouldn't want June but we may want to at least take a look at Brooks since we have no MLB. If we take Maualuga or Lauranitis with 1B, then we wouldn't really want Brooks, but June could be someone to at least look at. Is June a strong or weak-side LB?

Brooks is a weak side backer (same as Sims). No way he could play MLB or SLB. He doesn't have the bulk to take on blockers that well. he excels in coverage.

June played strong side. Ruud was in the middle.

Brooks is a weak side backer (same as Sims). No way he could play MLB or SLB. He doesn't have the bulk to take on blockers that well. he excels in coverage.

June played strong side. Ruud was in the middle.


June is a system linebacker. He played in a Tampa 2 scheme in Indianapolis before going to Tampa Bay, so unless we keep playing a Cover 2, which I don't think will happen, June will be of no use here.

Plus, June is undersized to play LB in a non-Cover 2 system. He was a safety in college.

I agree, we should likely stay away from all those guys.

Here's something I was curious about:

Say the Lions can sign OT Stacy Andrews. He's solid but not great, and he'll fill a hole in the offensive line. Would you consider taking both Curry and Laurinaitis with your two first round picks so we have potentially one of the most dangerous and YOUNG LB cores in the NFL with Curry/Laurinaitis/Sims? I've always felt that the LBs are just as important as the D-Line, and that could potentially be a dominant group.

I'm a big fan of defense, though.

We need to quit overpaying for "solid but not great" players. That is exactly what brings problems -- building through the draft eliminates this. For example, signing Andrews to a long term deal ties up our cap; then, we don't consider taking LT's in the future because we have cap tied up in a "solid but not great" player there. I think you get where I'm going. I'm somewhat excited about the Lions for the first time in a while because it seems we have a management team that understands things decently well.

However, if it were to happen, I wouldn't mind.

I do like Stacy Andrews. He was franchised last year by Cincinnati, so he's got some talent.

Khalif Barnes is another.

If you can fill a gap via free agency and save the draft pick, I'm all for it.

There aren't many players I would do that for, but a guy like Stacy Andrews would be ideal, IMO. Plus, he probably wouldn't cost too much (3-4 mill per?).

Derrick Dockery was also cut today by Buffalo. He'd be a great guy to plug in at LG.

Brooks is a weak side backer (same as Sims). No way he could play MLB or SLB. He doesn't have the bulk to take on blockers that well. he excels in coverage.

June played strong side. Ruud was in the middle.
Shoot, I mixed up he and Ruud's positions. Nevermind, no real interest in Brooks whatsoever.

I wouldn't mind seeing that LB core out there. They're obviously going to have some growing pains, but they'd be all over the place laying people out. If we could pick up a DT to keep the blockers off of them I'd be even happier. Redding is good but not great, unless he goes back to how he was a few seasons ago when he had Rogers next to him (probably a big part of that).

Here's something I was curious about:

Say the Lions can sign OT Stacy Andrews. He's solid but not great, and he'll fill a hole in the offensive line. Would you consider taking both Curry and Laurinaitis with your two first round picks so we have potentially one of the most dangerous and YOUNG LB cores in the NFL with Curry/Laurinaitis/Sims? I've always felt that the LBs are just as important as the D-Line, and that could potentially be a dominant group.

I'm a big fan of defense, though.

yes, I would take Curry and Laurenaitis. However, I'd also be fine with Stafford #1, then James at #20 and OLB at #33 (seems like there are a lot of late first round OLB's that one might slip based on team needs.

You'd still get two starting caliber LB's and you can sit Stafford for a year.

If we don't have to overpay for Stacey, I think he would be a solid addition. But I'm not interested in overpaying anyone to a long-term deal this offseason. Looks like we also may add a couple of younger players from the Titans (unlike Rod's Tampa geezers Smith and Kelly), Safety Vincent Fuller and CB/return man Chris Carr:

http://davebirkett.blogspot.com/2009/02/4-predictions-for-free-agency.html

Just speculation, but I've been hearing Fuller's and Carr's names a lot.

I've heard Fuller quite a bit too.

Also, Daniel Loper, who was a starting guard on Tennessee last year.

Would you rather pick up a guard in FA and keep Backus at LT, meaning we don't need to use an earlier pick on the line (still could use later picks for depth/development types) or move Backus to guard and take a LT in the draft?

Or I suppose the third possibility is to take a guard in the draft and leave Backus at LT, but that seems a little risky to me. You may think you can grab a guy in the 3rd round to start at guard for you and someone reaches for him in the 2nd, then you're left with nothing.

I'd draft a guard in the third and keep Backus a year. Get your LT next year.

I wonder if Duke Robinson could possibly slip to our pick at 65. He's probably the best guard in what is overall a weak offensive guard class.

Alex Mack at 33 would be tempting, if he's available.

From what I've read (sorry can't post it right now) you can get a starting guard in the 5th. Who knows though

Isn't Mack a G/C? So we could use him as the backup C as well since McCollum is a FA.

I'd draft a guard in the third and keep Backus a year. Get your LT next year.

Why put off the 2nd most important position, next to the QB, for year when we have 2 firsts?

Because, as much hate as he receives, Backus is serviceable while we can't move his contract.

We have plenty of cap space.

Passing on a player that you plug in to your LOT tackle position for the next 10 years, cuz of 1 year left on a contract from Millen, isn't the route I'd take fwiw.

Plus, Back could move to guard.

Plus, Back could move to guard.
That's just an assumption, we don't actually know if that would work.

That's just an assumption, we don't actually know if that would work.

So you're saying not every move the Lions make works out? I didn't know that.

I'm posting this under the assumption that the Lions let WR Washington leave town. He's visiting the Titans later today.

The Lions suck as an organization. They need to make a lil splash here. They need to get a decent FA signing under their belt. Break the seal or whatever cliche you want to use.

The rest of the signing will get easier. Who would want to be the first person on a deserted island? But if you hear Washington WR already signed, you know the organization has been checked out by someone already and they are serious about signing peeps and have opened up their check book.

Not these fucks.

Did someone already mention that WR Clayton (Bucs) coming to town for a visit?

Fuck visiting...SIGN SOMEONE.

To be fair, only some of the biggest name players have seemingly been signed so far (Haynesworth, Scott).

My game plan as a new GM would be to get someone under your tent. Its shows you, as a noob, are serious and know what you are doing. We have a new Prez, a new GM, a new Coach....OPEN UP THE CHECK BOOK AND GET SOMEONE'S NAME ON THE DOTTED LINE!

justmy2cents

Hopefully we get Washington signed here quick.

Hoping for McFadden/Dockery a little bit as well.

I'd take any of those...Prolly McFadden, Dockery, Washington if I had to put them in any order. But at this point, any order will do.

Well, Washington's already scheduled a meeting with Detroit today (not sure if it has occured yet or not) so he's probably our best chance at an immediate signing. Then, hopefully, more can follow.

Wait for the national punchline when the first player that the new Lions administration signs is surprise...
a wide receiver.

Who the fuck cares? We need a solid #2.

Oh, I'm not saying it's a bad move, I'm just preparing for the jokes.

Well, Washington's already scheduled a meeting with Detroit today (not sure if it has occured yet or not) so he's probably our best chance at an immediate signing. Then, hopefully, more can follow.

I posted that last night just after midnight or so. Which is why when I read he's headed for a Titans visit, it brougt on the red text.

But like I said, I don't know when the actual visits are.

Friggin Lions showing interest in Derrick Ward RB (Giants).

Millen must still be running that place.

Lets go get a WR and RB

Moran Norris is going back to San Francisco.

Check this out DrRay...I would be excited if this came from anyone cept Killer.



Lions | N. Washington might not leave Detroit
Fri, 27 Feb 2009 12:11:11 -0800
Tom Kowalski, of Mlive.com, reports a league source said it would be surprising if free-agent WR Nate Washington (Steelers) leaves Detroit without being signed by the Detroit Lions.

Kowalski's a douche.

I read that on RotoWorld.

^ Thats what I'm talkin bout.

Throw a fuckin monkey wrench in the planes engine, do what you gotta do.

Dockery and Washington the only 2 peeps visiting the Lions today. Oakland press says Lions could sign both, but Dockery more likely.

You might get your OG DrRay.

Lions sign Maurice Morris RB Seahawks to 3 years 7 mil

Who?

29 years old, but avg'd 4.3 yards a carry last year. Could be a nice complement to Smith.

Washington reportedly has left Detroit, and Detroit has not come to terms with Washington or Dockery (unfortunately).

http://davebirkett.blogspot.com/2009/02/washington-leaves-no-signings-imminent.html

That sucks, but it isn't surprising to me either.

CB Jabari Greer Bills to visit this weekend.

WR Washington's agent says that its expected that Nate will either sign with the Lions or the Titans. He told the Vikes it is unlikely that he will visit them.

So it sounds like the Lions made him a good enough offer to sign, but thought he'd check out Titans.

Somewhat promising, if Washington is any good. Him being pursued by the Titans gives me a lil more confidence that he is a decent player.

all that is per I cant even remember now...either Kflofle, ESPN, CBSsportsline, FoxSports, PFT, Ddog, draftscout, etc, I've been checking in at Roto too now since it seems to be such a hit here today.

We have to give these guys some time, but god damn, the 2 positions that I felt like this team didn't need was WR cuz of CJ and RB cuz of Smith....And what are prolly the first 2 signings? A WR and RB ... lol

^^Takes the risk out of wanting to address those via draft, which I feel is a good move. I mean, look at it this way: we've got a #2 RB, we are just about set at WR if we get Washington, and if we signed Dockery, our OL would likely be done for this year (maybe spending a 3-5th on a OG). With a draft of Matthew Stafford, our offense is set for this year at least. Then we can focus on the defense.

If we get these couple positions tied down over the next couple of days, then I see what management's doing (not to mention the possibilities of Bryant McFadden and/or Jabari Greer at CB).

^^Damnit, gone for 4 hours, looks like Dockery's to the 'Skins as well. Fuckmyass.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3941156

I was just going to post that. I heard Shefter earlier tonight talking about how this was an expensive day for the Skins. Haynesworth, whats his name and Dockery.

It sounds like the Lions did put a good fight though.

The specualation is/was that if the Lions signed Dockery, that they could pick one of the top OTs and cut Backus.

Going into this season with Backus at L OT will make me cringe. We have FA and the draft to address that very important position, but we spend our efforts getting lesser important things.

Backus is one of the lesser important things (positions to upgrade), for this year at least.

Backus sucks, imo, and L OT is where you build your team.

Seahawks fans really seem to like Maurice Morris, saying his skills are his skills but he gives it all on every play, which should be a nice 1-2 punch with K. Smith. Here's to hoping we can shore up our other holes on offense (and defense).

Backus sucks, imo, and L OT is where you build your team.

Backus is just an average LT. Nothing special, but not really terrible either. It's a need, but one after DT, 2 CBs, 2 LBs, OG, #2 WR.

LT is next up after that. Hopefully we address 3-4 of those this year in the draft and the rest next year.

In defense of Backus, he hasn't had a stable partner on that side:


Since entering the league in 2001, Backus hasn't exactly lined up with a Hall of Fame cast. After playing with Tony Semple for his first two years, the Lions went through an string of left guards: Eric Beverly, David Loverne, Kyle Kosier, Ross Verba, Rick DeMulling, Edwin Mulitalo and Damion Cook.

Backus is just an average LT. Nothing special, but not really terrible either. It's a need, but one after DT, 2 CBs, 2 LBs, OG, #2 WR.

LT is next up after that. Hopefully we address 3-4 of those this year in the draft and the rest next year.

LT after those lesser positions is just crazy, imo. I won't agree with it, ever.

Build your team with the most important positions first.

In defense of Backus, he hasn't had a stable partner on that side:

Killer...lol

I was wondering if anyone seen this per rotoworld:

The Lions and Bills had agreed to a trade sending Derrick Dockery to the Lions Thursday, but the paperwork wasn't filed in time.

Bills management may have just cost them a free draft pick, but the Buffalo papers claim there was just too much to accomplish in a short period of time. After the league determined the paperwork was filed too late, Buffalo decided to cut Dockery rather than pay him his '09 salary. Dockery almost signed with the Lions anyway, but he wound up taking less money long-term, but more up-front to play for the Redskins.

That sucks because, :we: probably would have only spent a late 5th round pick on Dockery, that we will now spend on a OG right out of college.

^^Yep, saw that. Sucks indeed.

Yea, losing this guy is stinging more and more. Especially after I read that if they got Dock, they were thinking about drafting a L OT, solidifying the left side and cutting Backus.

Lions have signed WR Bryant Johnson to a 3 year, 9 million dollar deal, according to PFT. Probably came cheaper than Washington would've, and was a good #3 behind Boldin & Fitz in ARI. Should make a solid #2.

The source says, however, we may still be interested in Washington or Douche.

Good news... I just think its funny that we get WRs and RBs. They are trying to get other things, but those 2 positions are whats signing with us.

I like how we're not really overpaying guys to come here, something Millen would have done. Washington left, probably because we didn't overpay. Supposedly we only offered a total of 3.5 million over the 'Skins for Dockery, which would have been about market price, not overpaying.

I'm liking what management is doing so far in that regard. If we get a top flight CB/NT I'll be even happier.

There ya go...


Lions signed CB Eric King to a two-year, undisclosed contract.
Teams coming off 0-16 seasons don't get to make big splashes in free agency, so the Lions will take what they can get. King's season has ended early two years in a row due to a broken forearm, but he has done a nice job as the Titans' dime back when healthy. His relationship with coach Jim Schwartz will help him nail down nickel back duties.

He's a #2 CB, at best. Looks like a depth signing to me (I hope). Still, we lack depth greatly there, so it looks like a good signing assuming he can stay healthy.

He might be a 2 in the real world but this is the Lions we're talking about

I wouldn't mind overpaying for a top FA...nothing crazy but it wouldn't bother me.

Out of the CB and WR we signed today, I like the CB's chances of starting over the WR. WR depth is something we need though, so still a good sign.

As of right now, with our lineup, they will both start. On a good team, Johnson is a #2 or #3 WR and King is a backup CB.

How many years does Backus have left on his deal?

I think he signed a 6 year deal prior to the 2006 season, which would mean 3 years left, correct?

Anyone know more structural deals, including cap hit we take now/how much we would still incur if he were cut?

Apparently we just got some late picks from the Cowboys for Kitna! NICE!

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2009/02/breaking-kitna-traded/

Late picks could get us a guard and/or a "chance" QB, the type that Brady became. Certainly a late pick has a strong chance of doing more for this team than Kitna would have. Not to mention more cap savings.

I love it when the Cowboys do us favors.

Yeha, and we could also use late picks in a trade up.

Yep, get those OGs late like that.

LT after those lesser positions is just crazy, imo. I won't agree with it, ever.

Build your team with the most important positions first.
No shit, that's why i said take LT next year. I've been saying it the entire week in fact. I'm saying LT us up after that in terms of needs, not in this year's draft.

No shit, that's why i said take LT next year. I've been saying it the entire week in fact. I'm saying LT us up after that in terms of needs, not in this year's draft.

Just go with one of the most important positions first in OT.

LT way before those positions you mentioned. Get those guys later.

Word from NFLN now is that we traded Kitna for CB Anthony Henry, not a late pick. I'd probably rather have Henry, he has a 5.6 million expiring (means a 5.6m cap hit this year). He's 32 but could be a nice stopgap for a year.

I don't know anything about him, but we need some bodies...especially at corner.

From a poster...So fwiw...


They traded Anthony Henry!! Can you believe that? Why would you trade a starter for a back-up? A-Henry was one of our better players! Detriot made out on that one!!

:cornbread:

Maybe you guys can let me in on the little inside joke: Who the fuck is WR Douche?

Douchemanzadeh or what have you.

Just checked out Henry. Surprised I hadn't heard much of him. Had 10 INT's as a rookie for the Browns. Might have had a shot at defensive ROY that year but Kendrell Bell got it with 83 tackles and 9 sacks.
He only had one INT last season, but 6 the year before.

Absolutely more valuable to us than Kitna would have been.

Maybe you guys can let me in on the little inside joke: Who the fuck is WR Douche?

TJ Doucheyomama

Just checked out Henry. Surprised I hadn't heard much of him. Had 10 INT's as a rookie for the Browns. Might have had a shot at defensive ROY that year but Kendrell Bell got it with 83 tackles and 9 sacks.
He only had one INT last season, but 6 the year before.

Absolutely more valuable to us than Kitna would have been.

You want 6 ints? Kitna can get you 6 ints, dude. With nail polish.

Douchemanzadeh or what have you.

I figured - I just had to be sure. Why, exactly, are the Lions looking at TJ? It will cost way to much money to get him, and there are plenty of other holes to fill besides receiver.

Just checked out Henry. Surprised I hadn't heard much of him. Had 10 INT's as a rookie for the Browns. Might have had a shot at defensive ROY that year but Kendrell Bell got it with 83 tackles and 9 sacks.
He only had one INT last season, but 6 the year before.

Absolutely more valuable to us than Kitna would have been.

Definately looks promising.

I figured - I just had to be sure. Why, exactly, are the Lions looking at TJ? It will cost way to much money to get him, and there are plenty of other holes to fill besides receiver.

I'm not sure whats going on with TJ. He should be signed by now. Maybe he just isn't getting the kind of dough he expected. Cinci wants him, Seahawks want him but he didn't sign for some reason. Holding out or not getting good offers.

He's at the Vikes right now, fwiw. Maybe the Lions could step up and steal him.

Roto thinks the Lions might try Henry at safety.

Keep him at CB...we're hurting there.

^ per roto

^^lol. Regarding Douche, we were mentioned early, but aren't believed to be on his radar; I really doubt we are interested anymore after we signed Johnson.

Regarding Henry's position on this roster, all bets are off until we get to training camp and see what we have on the roster.

I just farted.

Per ROTOwORLD.

Wow, is that me?

Lions may sign CB Jabari Greer today:

http://www.freep.com/article/20090301/BLOG21/90301017/1049/rss14

Here's to hoping. That would mean we could pass on an early corner in the draft, which would be good especially considering this is a fairly small and slow class (I still like Alphonso Smith though, dude can make plays).

I know im eating :cornbread: And i also know im a Lions fan to a fault, but i absolutly love what the Lions front office is doing thusfar. Not over paying, trying to swing trades, bringing in players with potential in their mid twenties. If they can somehow keep this up and draft well we can be very cometitive in 2 years.

I admire the aggressiveness of Mayhew. We still haven't really improved the team much, but I can't blame FA's for not wanting to come here.

Regardless, even though the guys we've added so far are just 'baby steps' towards the big picture, I'm encouraged that the front office knows what they're doing.

CB Jabari Greer Bills to visit this weekend.

SIGN HIM!

Apparently the Cutler to Detroit trade talks, might still be happening. Cutler is pissed about Denver including him in trade talks and Detroit really wants him for some reason.

It'd cost us 1 of our first rounders.

I'd do Cutler for 20 in a heartbeat.

Jay throwing to Calvin would be fun to watch.

Could he be compared to...sorrry about this....Bret Favre? He seems like he has good TD numbers, lots of yards, but lots of Ints too.

I was watching one of the Bronco games late last night and he just chucks it up there sometimes.

And a chucker would be ok with someone like CJ. CJ can adjust like BroBag is saying.

So what you're saying is Cutler is a gunslinger.

So what you're saying is Cutler is a gunslinger.

Gunslinger from Denver...I like it.

I'm more asking though. I really don't know that much about him.

I like a guy who can pissed though. And he's pissed about being mentioned in trade talks.

As someone who has to watch the Lions every now and then and couldn't care less whether they go 0-16 again or 16-0, Cutler throwing for 4 fiddy would at least keep me happy.

DONT LIE!

You'd be 'WE' ing and "US" ing the Lions if they wen't 10-0 or something. Or not.

well, considering that won't happen...NO I WON'T!:)

http://msn.foxsports.com/fe/img/NFL/Headshots/140x170/7760.jpg

thats a fucked up due though. Or is that pretty much in style these days?

He looks like a douche, but that's OK I guess.

I'd miss the spats between him and Rivers though.

Maybe the Lions should trade for them both.

Firey personality are a good thing. I mean it seemed like you could talk about Gary Danielsons mom or Eric Hipples mom and they'd be ok. Fuck that. Gets some fucking backbone you mutha fuckas

Rivers is just an ass.

Rivers goes a lil too far. But since, he's not on my team, he's intertainment.

He's a smug little ass that would get physically dominated if he ever came around and played me in a game of volleyball.

That fucker considers himself extremely intelligent too

He looks like a douche, but that's OK I guess.
Do you hate Diabeetus, LDB?!

Yea, he has the beetus.

He could really be good for us here at WTF.

I'd give up a lot to get him. He has probably the strongest arm in the NFL, and he's already gotten a couple of the tricky developmental years out of the way. My only fear is why are they willing to get rid of him?

Do you hate Diabeetus, LDB?!

Remember when I told you to go fuck yourself?

Agree on why are they willing to get rid of him. If they could get the #1 overall, there is their option at least.

But what are they seeing...maybe its the new coach that doesn't like him. He was a QB coach and O Coordinator, so maybe Cutlers style isn't what he likes.

If we gave them the #1 overall, Denver would have to kick something like their 2nd rounder or something. And 2nd rounders are a good thing.

Jay Cutler, who broke several passing records this season and was selected for his first Pro Bowl, publicly criticized Bowlen's firing of Shanahan and the owner quickly reached out to his franchise quarterback, telling him he'd keep him in the loop on the search.

Now that I think about it, it would make sense that McDaniels, from NE, would want Cassel. It doesn't necessarily mean they're looking to dump Cutler.

Wow Vinny, way to finally put the pieces together. lol Greer just left the D with no contract.

Wow Vinny, way to finally put the pieces together. lol Greer just left the D with no contract.
I just meant more that it would be doubtful that they'd trade Cutler if anybody but Cassel was involved. That it's not like they were shopping or wanted to get rid of Cutler, just that they'd be willing to only if they had Cassel.

The McD NE Cassell thing was discussed quite a bit. Thought that was fairly widely known, but Hey, Thanks for putting the pieces together for us Frank. :)

Ha! I haven't watched any of it. My bad Leroy.

Friendly jab. NDI

It still is a question as to why Denver would want to move him with only a draft pick as an option.

Friendly jab. NDI

It still is a question as to why Denver would want to move him with only a draft pick as an option.

That's kind of what I was getting at, and my train of thought on the McD/Cassel thing led me to believe that they wouldn't trade him for a draft pick, and thus the Lions have no shot.

Just a guess is that Cutler speaks his mind and maybe McD just doesn't like him or his chucker style. Just a thought/guess.

I hope him being shopped is true, fwiw.

Agreed, we no longer have a shot, solid try though.

Its still possible.

I like your optimism, Lionel.

My name is Leroy, Josh.

I know that, Ken.

I'll take "Old Schticks" for 500.

edit: wow, that looks really wrong.

500 what, Joe?

I'd love to hear me some good Greer news

^^He is going to visit the Bucs tonight. Hopefully we can get him or McFadden.

Well, nothing earth shattering out of the Lions this weekend, but they did better than GB and da Bears. The first weekend is where bigger contracts are signed. I'm hoping for some signings here the first part of the week. Igor or Greer would be really nice.

Igor has no place on this team, really, considering we have Redding at UT... if Redding moved to NT (where he racked up some stats) I wouldn't be too upset..

When the hell are we going to cut some of the other dead weight on this team (Chuck Darby)?

^ When we need to. We still have another 4-5 mil that could come off.

IGOR is my new number 1 wish for FA signing.

I thought Darby was a FA, could be wrong.

I don't remember about Darby. I could look it up, but I'm not going to.

I don't remember about Darby. I could look it up, but I'm not going to.

Me either. He sucks, fuckem.

Igor would be a great DT for us.

Igor's a DE.

^^In a 3-4. In a 4-3, he'd be a UT.

Yeah, mah bad. In that case, he'd be a decent fit I guess. Although, there are people who think he's nothing but a depth guy.

Then again, it is Detroit.

re: Cutler.

Is dude sensitive or what?


The Broncos reportedly want to meet with Jay Cutler "for a little sit down to mend fences" after Saturday's trade talks, but Cutler is refusing.
"They want me to come in and talk to 'em but I'm not doing it right now; I'm going to lay low," said Cutler. "[They] deny everything. That's a problem. We know for a fact they tried to trade me." We haven't seen a temper tantrum of this magnitude since Diana Ross was given a hotel room with the wrong color of wall paper back in 1978.

I think cooler heads will eventually prevail and he won't end up anywhere else, though.

I don't blame Culter for being pissed. They were talking about basically swapping him for Cassel, who had one decent year. Cutler lead one of the best offenses in football.

I actually think Detroit would be one of the best fits for the Broncos to trade him to. They could get the #1 and take Stafford, or they could get #20 and some later picks and take Freeman. Any other team needing Cutler (Jets, Tampa, etc) can't get them the #1.

^ If Detroit is serious enough about it and is willing to give up the #1, I can see it happening.

If the Broncos are looking to trade Cutler, the Lions shouldn't bail them out with the #1 pick. Cutler was not the #1 pick when he was drafted. Obviously there are some bridges that have been burned and the Broncos have to get rid of Cutler. You might as well offer the #33 pick for a start. I could even see giving up the #20 pick. But not the #1 pick. I'd rather have Curry or Smith. Or Crabtree.

I woulder if they could get Denver to do #1, #20 and their extra 3rd for Cutler and #12.

at #12 the Lions could get Maualuga or maybe Raji.

Denver would get Stafford and then probably a OLB at #20.

I like the way you think, Chris.

I'm thinking Raji might be there at #12. If Rogers gets out of Cleveland then they probably take him, but after that I don't see any teams with DT as their #1 need.

per nfldraftdog.com (you were thinking something else, weren't ya?!), Raji to the Raiders at 7.

I woulder if they could get Denver to do #1, #20 and their extra 3rd for Cutler and #12.

at #12 the Lions could get Maualuga or maybe Raji.

Denver would get Stafford and then probably a OLB at #20.

At least that the rumor

If the Broncos are looking to trade Cutler, the Lions shouldn't bail them out with the #1 pick. Cutler was not the #1 pick when he was drafted. Obviously there are some bridges that have been burned and the Broncos have to get rid of Cutler. You might as well offer the #33 pick for a start. I could even see giving up the #20 pick. But not the #1 pick. I'd rather have Curry or Smith. Or Crabtree.

I don't see it as a bail out that much. Compensation for a Pro Bowl QB should be at the very least another promising QB. 20 doesn't do that and 33 doesn't either.

The #1 this year doesnt seem to have the value like it does some years. There are 2 OT, 2 QBs, a LB, etc, no clear 1. The top draft teams have multiple needs so being 2-5 this year isn't all bad.

Giving up 1 and getting Den 1 saves a ton of money too.

One of the many scenarios I read yesterday/last night was Denver giving us their 3 as well. So we get their 1 and ??? something else from them.

A lot depends on how bad things are, but still, Cutler is under contract. At some point they may just tell him to shut the fuck up and play football too.

JAY, IT'S A BUSINESS.[/cliche]

Igor's a DE.

In a 3-4 yes, even there he could move inside. But in a 4-3 he'd play inside.

Ad at the top of the Lions home page
http://m1.2mdn.net/viewad/1917052/108684/GameRewind_Season_728x90.gif

I'm going to watch every one of "our" wins tonight...

So Chris what would you think about drafting an OT at 1 if we could draft 2 of these guys Lauranaitus, Cushings, Mathews, etc at 20, 33?

Too much youth at the LB spot?

Would you rather have "too much" youth or one young guy, Sims, and some other guy that no one else wants? I'd rather have the youth learning to play next to each other and developing chemistry.

So Chris what would you think about drafting an OT at 1 if we could draft 2 of these guys Lauranaitus, Cushings, Mathews, etc at 20, 33?

Too much youth at the LB spot?

I'm only a fan if they can move Backus to LG, and also only if they find some sort of flaw with Stafford.

I'd rather do Stafford, LB, LB/DT/CB and get a LT next year (they'll have a top ten pick still).

Or if they are high on Freeman they can go Curry, Lauranaitus, Freeman. That would probably be the way I'd do it but I know squat about Freeman really. The scouting reports are conflicting at best.

Lions sign cornerback Philip Buchanon
by Tom Kowalski
Wednesday March 04, 2009, 9:30 PM

-- The Detroit Lions hope Philip Buchanon's roller-coaster career still is riding a high rail.

The Lions signed the seven-year veteran cornerback to a two-year, $8.5 million contract Wednesday and, for the moment, will couple him with veteran Anthony Henry as part of Detroit's starting cornerback duo.

The Lions also are expected to address that position in the draft to provide competition for starting positions.

Buchanon, 28, was the 17th overall pick in the 2002 draft by the Oakland Raiders and played well there for three years before he was dealt to the Houston Texans for a second- and third-round pick. Buchanon's career immediately fell off. He started six games in 2005 and, after appearing in four games (but not starting) in 2006, the Texans cut him.

In 14 games with the Texans, Buchanon did not have an interception. In his first three years with the Raiders, he picked off 11 passes.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed Buchanon in the 2006 season. He started 33 games, including all 16 last season. During that span, Buchanon had seven interceptions, including one he returned 26 yards for a touchdown.

at least he played in Tampa

^even though, he's probably the most talented player we've signed this offseason (Bryant Johnson puts up a fight)....

He's better than what we would have had starting otherwise. I'll take him and Henry over what we had last year. I'd like to still have Bodden but that apparently was not an option. Seems like our CBs are pretty much set at the moment.
Starters:
Buchanon
Henry

Depth:
King
Smith
Guy with long hair who's name I'm blanking on that started for us but probably shouldn't have been a starter.

Travis Fisher needs to go away forever.

That's his name!

Travis Fisher needs to go away forever.


Post of the year. If I have to see that little dreadlocked wood elf get burnt again, I'll kill myself.

There are still guys on the roster I would expect to be (or would like to see) cut soon...

- Chuck Darby
- Jon Bradley
- Darnell Bing
- Ramzee Robinson
- Travis Taylor
- Drew Henson
- LaMarcus Hicks
- Anthony Cannon
- Stu Schweigert
- Dexter Wynn
- Brian Calhoun (there's no more 'upside' with this guy, just cut him)


There are still some good depth veterans I want to hang onto though...

Casey FitzSimmons, Alex Lewis, Jared DeVries, Keith Smith

I wish we could cut Michael Gaines since he was useless last year, but Millen did his contract wrong so it's not worth the cap hit.


Also, Kalvin Pearson was great in spurts last year, but since he was kind of a 'roamer' safety, is he pretty much useless since now our safety's will have to actually cover people?

What do you have against cannon and robinson? I thought both showed signs of promise, especially Ramzee on special teams.

I agree with DBTM
Just because they won't be studs on D doesn't mean we have to cut them. Some guys just excel at special teams and should be kept for that reason. Robinson is fine as a 5th or 6th DB that goes all out on special teams. The problem last year was when he had to start playing starter time.

We resigned Damion Cook, hopefully for a backup role. It's just a one year deal.

I'm surprised we haven't had any linebackers visit.

That is by far our weakest spot right now.

We need 2 starters.

Mike Peterson would be nice. Marcus Washington, Morlon Greenwood, Angelo Crowell...

^Maybe that means that Curry is the selection in the draft...

We've got to be looking at Curry, the USC boys, and Lauranaitus at this point. We only have 1 starting LB on the roster and we haven't even talked to a FA LB according to any reports.

Do we still have Paris Lenon?

Not as of right now. My fingers are crossed that it stays that way.

^Maybe that means that Curry is the selection in the draft...

Even if Curry was the guy at #1 we still need a MLB. No reason to not look at James or any MLB's that might be in the later picks. I'm not sure whether they'd take two LB's in the first or not but you still need to look at all your options. With DT and CB shored up for the short term they can take two LB's in the first if that is their best option.

If they take Curry at #1 I'd be looking at Jasper Brinkley at #65 for MLB. Great run stopper with ok-ish at best (right now) pass defense. Had a knee injury which really hurt his stock this year, but should be ready to go.

A young core of Sims along with Brinkley and Curry at MIKE and SAM could be great for years and years to come, especially if Brinkley can learn better pass coverage skills and stay healthy.

Lenon would be fine for depth and special teams. Remember, he was our special teams captain the last few years and he's actually fairly highly regarded as a special teamer. Its when you try to make him a starter or give him a lot of time on D in key situations that you run into trouble.

Hey, our special teams have sucked the last few years.