McShay has us taking TE

[Thoner7]

Not the best blocker. Pettigrew can block.

[lynchneedsfood]

You never know with the draft how teams will pick, just like last year no wr went until second round - none of those draft analysts predicted that happening... I don't see freaks of nature DE Brian "o-sack-po' Orakpo, or Michael Johnson going to number 11, but if the football gods happen to grace us with these workout warriors - who seem to have the game down at the college level, I would cringe at the thought of passing them up... I'm almost against drafting a pass catching player in 2009 because it seems everyone we have drafted up to this point take forever to coach... josh reed was amazing in college and look how long it took him to adjust to make such a minimal impact... bring in an exp #2 WR, our TE's aren't great but drafting one won't make our offense dominating, but improving our pass rush could possibly make our defense a top 7 top 10 unit in the nfl. If royal could actually catch it when it counts - there were many drives when it was 3rd and short, where he was hit right on the numbers and dropped it, our record and stats would be a lot different. Bring in a C to open up that run game, and we only have to score 28-21 pts a game - I'd bet my money that's what Jauron wants to do anyways - conservative old foogie

[thewildrabbit]

If there are no quality TE's that can be had in FA then I totally see Buffalo grabbing one with the 11th pick or in the 2nd round.

 

I do see Buffalo grabbing a center in FA, and drafting one later rounds.....

 

But if anything DE has to be addressed immediately. Id love to see Buffalo grab a hell of a DE in FA and draft one as well. Cut ties with Denney & Kelsay.......

 

Like I always say free agency will dictate what we do in this draft.

 

Anyone remember saying that the 09 draft class was going to be one of the weakest, well thus far it looks pretty damn strong to me......several players that can help Buffalo win.

From what i read at PFW the highest rated senior is at 6.75 out of a grade to 9.0,thats some pretty sad draft choices all in all, and is probably why you heard this years class one of the weakest .

 

Once you add all the underclassman that will declare because of the CBA ending and a rookie cap imposed then things change drastically.

[BillsVet]

Drafting at 11 can be no man's land. Not good enough for a lower first round pick, and too good for a "lottery" pick.

 

But sitting at 11 can be used to a team's advantage, as in a trade. Guys like Mack will be selected below 15, most likely.

 

Here are the last seven 11th overall picks: Leodis McKelvin (08), Patrick Willis (07), Jay Cutler (06), DeMarcus Ware (05), Ben Roethlisberger (04), Marcus Trufant (03), and Dwight Freeney (02). I'd take any one of those guys.

 

We know Marv/Dick were completely petrified of trading down when Whitner was on the board, and while I hope they've learned their lesson I don't think they have.

 

Still, if the Bills can find a trade partner and add a 2nd or 3rd while getting their guy, it'd be a minor coup for a front office which has no GM.

 

That is, if Ralph allows it in his dictatorship.

[JinVA]

How's about I give you 1-10 and you deduce the rest?

 

1. Detroit Lions (Record: 0-16) -- Sam Bradford**, QB, Oklahoma

The Lions could have a tough choice here between Bradford and Georgia's Matthew Stafford. Bradford could use another year of experience and improved strength. There will also be concerns regarding his transition to the NFL from a shotgun-heavy offense at Oklahoma, where he is afforded the luxury of a first-class supporting cast. On the positive side, Bradford excels in the areas most critical to being a successful quarterback in the NFL: mental makeup, intangibles and accuracy.

 

If the Lions aren't sold on any of the available quarterbacks in the upcoming draft, selecting an elite offensive tackle like Andre Smith wouldn't be a bad option. Just ask the Dolphins how the Jake Long pick worked out.

 

 

2. St. Louis Rams (2-14) -- Andre Smith*, OT, Alabama

While his suspension for improper dealings with an agent is disappointing, it doesn't appear to point to a larger issue regarding Smith's character. Assuming those concerns are unfounded Smith should be the first offensive lineman taken off the board. He's not as polished as Long was coming out of Michigan, but Smith possesses better overall physical tools. It's no secret the Rams wanted Long badly last year so it's safe to assume Smith will be high on their wish list a few months from now.

 

 

3. Kansas City Chiefs (2-14) -- Matthew Stafford*, QB, Georgia

Tyler Thigpen showed some promise as a fill-in starter this season, which gives the Chiefs some flexibility at No. 3. There are people inside the Chiefs organization that are very high on Stafford, and for good reason. He plays under center in something close to a pro-style offense at Georgia. He faced top competition in the SEC and did not have a great supporting cast around him. Stafford also has a rifle for an arm and is very accurate when is footwork is correct. His inconsistency and lapses in judgment are concerning, which is why we could have an interesting arms race between Stafford and Bradford if both are available for the upcoming draft.

 

 

4. Seattle Seahawks (4-12) -- Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest

Seahawks fans would certainly second-guess passing on a potential game-breaker like WR Michael Crabtree. It doesn't take much research, however, to realize the risks of taking a receiver this early in the draft. Curry is emerging as the top overall linebacker in the 2009 class because of his combination of physical tools, toughness and leadership. Teams build defenses around high-intensity guys like Curry and the Seahawks could be in the market if Leroy Hill bolts via free agency.

 

 

5. Cleveland Browns (4-12) -- Malcolm Jenkins, DB, Ohio State

It remains to be seen who will be making the decisions and what schemes the Browns will be running in 2009. They could be in the market for a rush-linebacker with this pick and a playmaker like Crabtree would be intriguing as well. Jenkins makes the most sense right now, though. The local product is an experienced and versatile playmaker who would instantly upgrade the athleticism of the secondary and also brings special teams value.

 

6. Cincinnati Bengals (4-11-1) -- Aaron Maybin**, DE/OLB, Penn State

Maybin is only a third-year sophomore and he could use another year in school to develop physically. Still, his explosive initial burst as a pass-rusher is hard to ignore. Maybin can turn the corner in a hurry and he displays a powerful upper body for his size. The Bengals need a sack artist like Maybin, even if he would serve as nothing more than a situational edge rusher early in his career.

 

7. Oakland Raiders (5-11) -- Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

Although Crabtree won't wow anyone with his 40-yard dash time, it's not hard to imagine Raiders owner Al Davis pulling the trigger on the premier pass-catcher in this year's draft. Let's assume, though, that Oakland goes in a different direction and looks to find protection for its investments in QB JaMarcus Russell and RB Darren McFadden. With Smith off the board in this scenario, Monroe looks like the best available option. He's not quite as dominant as former teammate Brandon Albert (No. 15 overall to the Chiefs in 2008), but Monroe has the size and athleticism to protect Russell's blindside for many years.

 

8. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11) -- Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

The Jaguars need to upgrade their offensive line and Smith is a fast-rising prospect who could figure into the top half of the first round. Smith needs to improve his bulk and strength but the former tight end displays impressive feet and size potential.

 

9. Green Bay Packers (6-10) -- Gerald McCoy**, DT, Oklahoma

The Packers need help in the trenches on both sides of the ball and they should find a slew of quality options at No. 9 overall. McCoy is a third-year sophomore and there's a good chance he will return to Oklahoma for another season. However, he possesses the disruptive skills to rocket up NFL draft boards should he leave early.

 

 

10. San Francisco 49ers (7-9) -- Michael Crabtree**, WR, Texas Tech

 

So as not to upset the copywrite infringement gods:

mock link

 

If it were to go down like that then I think there is no way the Bills don't take Johnson.

[billnutinphoenix]

I'm ok if he's the next Keith Jackson.

 

or Tony Gonzalez or Antonio Gates...

[apuszczalowski]

I really do not see tight end as our most glaring need, I liked what I saw from Fine when he finally got into the lineup. I am not saying that he is the second coming of Gates, but he is serviceable and should not be the reason we lose games.

 

We really need a pass rush.

 

Why does Baltimore always seem to find these monster DLineman that play like mad men?

 

Did you see Pennington running for his life - and throwing 4 picks?

 

Pressure creates turnovers, turnovers create offensive opportunities, and more offensive opportunities "usually" means more points (insert decent center, and reliable 2nd receiver).

The problem is, the Bills offence can't capitalize on those opportunities. It didn't matter what kind of opportunity the defence gave the offence this year, did anyone ever feel confident that the Bills would take the ball and put it in for 7 instead of just 3? The difference for baltimore is that their offence is good enough to be a threat to score more then what their defence allows. In that case, the bills would need to build this offseason the greatest defence that has ever played the game and is able to keep teams to under 7 points a game to give the Bills offence enough to win a game

[Mark Vader]

McShay also doesn't see Maualuga in the top 10.

 

Or Michael Oher.

[thewildrabbit]

Considering the WR plight the Seahawk's faced this past season I don't see them passing up Crabtree.

[Tsaikotic]

How's about I give you 1-10 and you deduce the rest?

 

1. Detroit Lions (Record: 0-16) -- Sam Bradford**, QB, Oklahoma

The Lions could have a tough choice here between Bradford and Georgia's Matthew Stafford. Bradford could use another year of experience and improved strength. There will also be concerns regarding his transition to the NFL from a shotgun-heavy offense at Oklahoma, where he is afforded the luxury of a first-class supporting cast. On the positive side, Bradford excels in the areas most critical to being a successful quarterback in the NFL: mental makeup, intangibles and accuracy.

 

If the Lions aren't sold on any of the available quarterbacks in the upcoming draft, selecting an elite offensive tackle like Andre Smith wouldn't be a bad option. Just ask the Dolphins how the Jake Long pick worked out.

 

 

2. St. Louis Rams (2-14) -- Andre Smith*, OT, Alabama

While his suspension for improper dealings with an agent is disappointing, it doesn't appear to point to a larger issue regarding Smith's character. Assuming those concerns are unfounded Smith should be the first offensive lineman taken off the board. He's not as polished as Long was coming out of Michigan, but Smith possesses better overall physical tools. It's no secret the Rams wanted Long badly last year so it's safe to assume Smith will be high on their wish list a few months from now.

 

 

3. Kansas City Chiefs (2-14) -- Matthew Stafford*, QB, Georgia

Tyler Thigpen showed some promise as a fill-in starter this season, which gives the Chiefs some flexibility at No. 3. There are people inside the Chiefs organization that are very high on Stafford, and for good reason. He plays under center in something close to a pro-style offense at Georgia. He faced top competition in the SEC and did not have a great supporting cast around him. Stafford also has a rifle for an arm and is very accurate when is footwork is correct. His inconsistency and lapses in judgment are concerning, which is why we could have an interesting arms race between Stafford and Bradford if both are available for the upcoming draft.

 

 

4. Seattle Seahawks (4-12) -- Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest

Seahawks fans would certainly second-guess passing on a potential game-breaker like WR Michael Crabtree. It doesn't take much research, however, to realize the risks of taking a receiver this early in the draft. Curry is emerging as the top overall linebacker in the 2009 class because of his combination of physical tools, toughness and leadership. Teams build defenses around high-intensity guys like Curry and the Seahawks could be in the market if Leroy Hill bolts via free agency.

 

 

5. Cleveland Browns (4-12) -- Malcolm Jenkins, DB, Ohio State

It remains to be seen who will be making the decisions and what schemes the Browns will be running in 2009. They could be in the market for a rush-linebacker with this pick and a playmaker like Crabtree would be intriguing as well. Jenkins makes the most sense right now, though. The local product is an experienced and versatile playmaker who would instantly upgrade the athleticism of the secondary and also brings special teams value.

 

6. Cincinnati Bengals (4-11-1) -- Aaron Maybin**, DE/OLB, Penn State

Maybin is only a third-year sophomore and he could use another year in school to develop physically. Still, his explosive initial burst as a pass-rusher is hard to ignore. Maybin can turn the corner in a hurry and he displays a powerful upper body for his size. The Bengals need a sack artist like Maybin, even if he would serve as nothing more than a situational edge rusher early in his career.

 

7. Oakland Raiders (5-11) -- Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

Although Crabtree won't wow anyone with his 40-yard dash time, it's not hard to imagine Raiders owner Al Davis pulling the trigger on the premier pass-catcher in this year's draft. Let's assume, though, that Oakland goes in a different direction and looks to find protection for its investments in QB JaMarcus Russell and RB Darren McFadden. With Smith off the board in this scenario, Monroe looks like the best available option. He's not quite as dominant as former teammate Brandon Albert (No. 15 overall to the Chiefs in 2008), but Monroe has the size and athleticism to protect Russell's blindside for many years.

 

8. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11) -- Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

The Jaguars need to upgrade their offensive line and Smith is a fast-rising prospect who could figure into the top half of the first round. Smith needs to improve his bulk and strength but the former tight end displays impressive feet and size potential.

 

9. Green Bay Packers (6-10) -- Gerald McCoy**, DT, Oklahoma

The Packers need help in the trenches on both sides of the ball and they should find a slew of quality options at No. 9 overall. McCoy is a third-year sophomore and there's a good chance he will return to Oklahoma for another season. However, he possesses the disruptive skills to rocket up NFL draft boards should he leave early.

 

 

10. San Francisco 49ers (7-9) -- Michael Crabtree**, WR, Texas Tech

 

So as not to upset the copywrite infringement gods:

mock link

 

wow..first off...how does he have so many underclassmen on the list..no-ones declred on that list that I can see..secondly, no way Crabtree WR gets past Seattle...no way KC gets a QB when they have one looking good so far....this guy doesnt seem to have a clue to what hes doing.

[R. Rich]

fwiw...He has him going 14 to New Orleans.

 

They've got a bit of a messy situation in regard to Jonathan Vilma and his free agency. I guess they could take Maualuga, but that just means they'll have another LB to try to sign, and we know how easy it is to get these rookies to come to terms on a deal so that they get into training camp timely.

[Beerball]

Here's how the rest of the first plays out on McShay's first mock, plus his 10 best remaining.

 

* denotes draft-eligible junior; ** denotes draft-eligible third-year sophomore

12. Denver Broncos (8-8) -- Chris Wells*, RB, Ohio State

13. Washington Redskins (8-8) -- Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

14. New Orleans Saints (8-8) -- Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC

15. Houston Texans (8-8) -- Taylor Mays*, DS, USC

16. San Diego Chargers (8-8) -- B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

17. New York Jets (9-7) -- James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State

18. Chicago Bears (9-7) -- Mark Sanchez*, QB, USC

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7) -- Jeremy Maclin**, WR, Missouri

20. Detroit Lions (from 9-7 DAL) -- Vontae Davis*, CB, Illinois

21. Arizona Cardinals (9-7) -- Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State

22. Philadelphia Eagles (9-6-1) -- Russell Okung*, OT, Oklahoma State

23. Minnesota Vikings (10-6) -- D.J. Moore*, CB, Vanderbilt

24. New England Patriots (11-5) -- Brian Cushing, OLB, USC

25. Atlanta Falcons (11-5) -- Terrence Cody*, DT, Alabama

26. Miami Dolphins (11-5) -- Brandon Spikes*, ILB, Florida

27. Baltimore Ravens (11-5) -- Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

28. Philadelphia Eagles (from 12-4 CAR) -- Knowshon Moreno*, RB, Georgia

29. Indianapolis Colts (12-4) -- Sen'Derrick Marks*, DT, Auburn

30. New York Giants (12-4) -- Greg Hardy*, DE, Mississippi

31. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4) -- Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

32. Tennessee Titans (13-3) -- Percy Harvin*, WR, Florida

 

Top 10 remaining on the board

1. Trent Williams*, OT, Oklahoma

2. Everette Brown*, DE, Florida State

3. LeSean McCoy*, RB, Pitt

4. Jerry Hughes*, DE, TCU

5. Sean Smith*, CB, Utah

6. C.J. Spiller*, RB, Clemson

7. Darrius Heyward-Bey*, WR, Maryland

8. Mark Herzlich*, LB, Boston College

9. Jared Cook*, TE, South Carolina

10. Paul Kruger*, DE, Utah

[Pirate Angel]

McShay has Bills taking TE

By Chris Brown - Posted January 6th, 2009

For what it’s worth (knowing this will likely change 50 times) ESPN’s Todd McShay has the Bills taking Oklahoma TE Jermaine Gresham with the 11th pick in his mock draft. Personally I’d like to see a pass rushing DE.

 

Gresham has impressive numbers as is the case with just about every skill position offensive player for Oklahoma this year with 58 catches for 888 yards and 12 TDs. He’s 6′5″ 266.

 

He’s got good all-around talent with long arms and soft hands. So he’s an interesting prospect, but again I’d like to see the Bills address the pass rush first.

Fine played decent for us. Gonzalas wants out of Kansas City, he is old but still playing at a high level. I wonder what there asking price would be? I doubt they'll get a #1 for him because of his age, He'd bring alot to this young team.

[Brandon]

Here's how the rest of the first plays out on McShay's first mock, plus his 10 best remaining.

 

If the overall concensus in April looks anything like that regarding player rankings, then the decision is a very easy one. You take Gresham at 11. At DE, Greg Hardy, Brian Orakpo, and Everette Brown are all on the board in the late 20s. The Bills can either take a wait-and-see approach as they did last year at WR or they can trade up a bit from their 2nd round pick in order to pick one of them.

[Sisyphean Bills]

no way KC gets a QB when they have one looking good so far....this guy doesnt seem to have a clue to what hes doing.

No way does any franchise that knows what they are doing pass over "the next Peyton Manning" to keep their wagon hitched to Tyler Thigpen.

[San Jose Bills Fan]

Fine played decent for us. Gonzalas wants out of Kansas City, he is old but still playing at a high level. I wonder what there asking price would be? I doubt they'll get a #1 for him because of his age, He'd bring alot to this young team.

 

All you say is true HOWEVER, the reason Gonzales wants out is so that he has a chance to win a championship. He is not at all unhappy with his contract. Money is not an issue: he wants to go to a winning organization.

[Tsaikotic]

All you say is true HOWEVER, the reason Gonzales wants out is so that he has a chance to win a championship. He is not at all unhappy with his contract. Money is not an issue: he wants to go to a winning organization.

 

yea and I believe Chris Brown recently wrote that he'd like to see Buffalo go after Gonzo in the offseason..I dont think theres any chance that Gonzo comes to Buffalo...I can see him going to Philly tho..they could use an upgrade over Shepard..They usually have a top 10 D and O every season...other than that, the "power houses" are set at TE..well not true..I guess Giants could use him over Boss...so I can see him pushing to go to Giants, Philly, NE, Steelers and maybe Ravens to play along side Heap....

[merlin]

I'm ok if he's the next Keith Jackson.

 

Whoa Nellie! ?!?!?

[apuszczalowski]

Fine played decent for us. Gonzalas wants out of Kansas City, he is old but still playing at a high level. I wonder what there asking price would be? I doubt they'll get a #1 for him because of his age, He'd bring alot to this young team.

The Bills already tried to gethim and he refused to come to buffalo back when they looked like a Playoff Team

[Kelly the Dog]

Drafting at 11 can be no man's land. Not good enough for a lower first round pick, and too good for a "lottery" pick.

 

But sitting at 11 can be used to a team's advantage, as in a trade. Guys like Mack will be selected below 15, most likely.

 

Here are the last seven 11th overall picks: Leodis McKelvin (08), Patrick Willis (07), Jay Cutler (06), DeMarcus Ware (05), Ben Roethlisberger (04), Marcus Trufant (03), and Dwight Freeney (02). I'd take any one of those guys.

 

We know Marv/Dick were completely petrified of trading down when Whitner was on the board, and while I hope they've learned their lesson I don't think they have.

 

Still, if the Bills can find a trade partner and add a 2nd or 3rd while getting their guy, it'd be a minor coup for a front office which has no GM.

 

That is, if Ralph allows it in his dictatorship.

So since #11 has been perhaps the very best position to draft at in the last seven years (especially considering the money), with pro bowlers everywhere, you're suggesting we trade out of it? If I were you, I'd be expecting a call from the Bills and an invitation into their war room any minute.