There Are More Questions Than Answers In Adrian Peterson’s Arrest

On Saturday, July 7th news broke that Minnesota Vikings all everything running back Adrian Peterson was arrested in Houston, Texas for resisting arrest. Allegedly Peterson, his girlfriend and his family were asked to leave a night club twice by an off duty police officer (doing security for the club) only to have Peterson say that the group “had heard him the first time” then pushed the officer in the shoulder, causing the officer to stumble. It is also alleged that Peterson was visibly intoxicated and it took 3 police officers to detain him. The whole incident is on video, yet the version I watched on TMZ.com shows a club with patrons still lingering around and 3 policemen and I plain clothed officer holding Peterson trying to “escort” him out.

(photo courtesy of Necessary Exposure)

 

Before any rival NFC North fans start cracking (another) a joke about the Vikings and Peterson’s arrest, I caution that there may be more to this story. Peterson has never had any run-in’s or off the field incidents (other then a speeding ticket) during his time in the NFL. Furthermore this seems so far from his personality that it is a real head scratcher to most covering the NFL and those that know him personally. Lastly Houston Police Department is known in the entertainment and athletic circles for harassing African American and Hispanic athletes and entertainers.

 

I was told by a source that was there that Peterson wanted to get a glass of water before he left and was told by the off-duty officer that they had to leave immediately. That is when Peterson said that “they heard him the first time” and other words were exchanged between Peterson, his party and the officer. My source told me that Peterson was apparently (slowly) walking to the door when three other officers “ran up on him from behind and tried to detain him.” He went on to say “one police officer jumped on his back and tried to take him down but he couldn’t, so two more came to help try and bring him down. After that the remaining people in the club were all tripp’in out and it started to get crazy.”

(photo courtesy of Necessary Exposure)

 

It is fairly common for nightclubs and bars to hire off-duty police to run their security. A lot of the times the establishments will allow the security to have a drink or two (should they want one) throughout the night and allow certain people stay for “after hours” which is when the bar is closed to the public but the select few can stay and drink (normally for free) until the owner/manager decides to go home. From my experience most “celebrities” stay longer (if they do not have a security team with them) so they won’t get hassled by fans looking for an autograph or pictures.

 

But I digress. In Peterson’s case, from the video clip I watched, there were plenty of people in the club just hanging out. I question why Peterson was the person that officer targeted. Was it because Peterson allegedly said “that they heard him the first time”? From my experience (and I have said the same thing) if I am in a conversation about where we are going to next to eat or trying to round up my group it may take a couple minutes to get everyone together, the security would give us a minute or two then come back & insruct us to leave immediately. Why would an officer jump on his back when Peterson wasn’t expecting it? If he was slowly walking towards the door was it necessary for three police officers and an off-duty officer to bring him down and detain him? Wouldn’t Peterson walking towards the door be considered “complying”?

Photo courtesy of Necessary Exposure

 

I’ve worked in the entertainment industry and the club scene long before and while I was in radio. I have been in plenty of bars and clubs and the security is less than polite trying to get patrons to leave and can have a short fuse, rude and have no problem getting physical with whomever doesn’t obey their commands. Before this incident happened on July 7th it is well known that the H.P.D. is a Police Department that had “Hip Hop Police” (or a police department targeted minorities that drove expensive cars or had money). The stories I was told (over the years) by friends that are in the industry had me questioning why no one has filed a complaint or went public with any claims of racial profiling against the department. After Peterson’s arrest the first thing I thought was there had to be more to this story then what is being reported, partly because of who it was being arrested and mostly because who was arresting him.

 

Here are a few instances of the Houston police department and their run-in’s with athletes over the years:

 

In 1987 when two Seattle SuperSonics players, Dale Ellis and Kevin Williams, were arrested after an altercation with the assistant manager and two Houston police officers. The owner of the club said Williams had been blocking an aisle at a waitress station, and assistant manager Scott Shelton asked him to move. When he refused, a waitress told Houston police Officers who work off-duty security jobs at the club. As they were approaching, the two officers said they saw Williams punch Shelton in the face.

 

The off-duty police officers asked Williams to go outside with them, but when Williams refused, they told him he was under arrest and tried to take him to a club office.They had a hard time trying to handcuff him so Ellis came over and asked if there was another way to resolve the issue. As the officers took the players back to the club office, they found out that they were members of the Sonics and told the players they could call their coach to inform him of the arrest.

 

Then Houston Rockets Coach Bill Fitch joked  “They were arrested for what? Spitting on the sidewalk or beating us yesterday afternoon?”

 

This incident happened less then a year after New York Mets players Ron Darling, Bob Ojeda, Rick Aguilera and second baseman Tim Teufel were arrested outside a bar, after Teufel got into a scuffle with police when he was told he could not take a drink out of the building. Darling and Teufel were fined $200 and served a month of their one-year probation before it was dismissed. Misdemeanor hindering arrest charges against Ojeda and Aguilera were dismissed.

 

This past June three Toronto TC (MLS) players were arrested for public intoxication after being involved with a fight at a club in Houston. The Houston Police spokesman told reporters “Our officers tried to disperse the fight at which time they refused to leave and then began to have verbal altercations with the officers. One of them ran and so the officer ran and the officer took him into custody.”

 

On Saturday July 7th, I tweed current Green Bay Packers Senior Personnel Executive and former University of Miami &  Houston Oilers running back Alonzo Highsmith about Peterson’s arrest and the H.P.D. being “dirty” and he replied back with the following tweet:

Alonzo Highsmith ‏@alonzohighsmith

@joearrigo remember when me and three friends pulled over with guns drawn! Report of 3 African Americans looking suspicious!! WTF

 

The Showtime Lakers teams were also effected by the H.P.D. James Worthy, their Hall of Fame forward, was arrested by Houston vice officers in 1990 on two counts of solicitation of prostitution and was jailed hours before the team’s game against the Rockets. Worthy was released on $500 bail and arrived in the second quarter of the Lakers/Rockets game.

 

Sgt. Ross Gonzales, the H.P.D. spokesperson at that time said that “At approximately 2:30 or 3 o’clock, he (Worthy) was arrested by undercover vice officers on two counts of solicitation of prostitution.” He went on to say  “Our understanding is that he contacted an escort service that we monitor. Two of our vice officers responded to the request he made. He arranged a transaction, at which time they made an arrest.”

 

Worthy had not been in any trouble off the court before or after this situation.

 

The alleged racial profiling of the Houston PD reaches into the world of Hip Hop as well.  A multi-platinum selling and Grammy Award winning rapper Chamillionaire wrote the song (which won the Grammy for  Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group) “Ridin (Dirty)’” about the corrupt Houston PD.

 

If the player (or person) that was arrested were a player (or person) with a history of violence or poor off-the field behavior it wouldn’t raise as many questions. But we are talking about the best running back in football that has only had one blemish on his off-the field history, a speeding ticket in 2009. He’s a person that takes being a role model to heart, does a lot for the communities he lives in and takes his off-the field image very seriously.

 

While I would dare to say Peterson would take back a few things that may have been said or how he handled the situation on July 7th, I can’t fault him for how he handled it. He wanted a glass of water and was trying to gather his group together to leave.  he was walking slowly towards the door when the police tried to take him down from behind. The off-duty police officer should have granted him a couple minutes to do get his water and party together, it’s not like Peterson or his party were causing issues throughout the night.

(photo courtesy of Necessary Exposure)

 

Until all the facts come out in this case, I caution all to reserve judgement, including NFL fans, reporters and most importantly NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. With his track record (something Goodell always takes into consideration) Peterson deserves to have due process and the presumption of being innocent until proven guilty. Especially with the the reputation and track record of the Houston P.D.

Average Joe Arrigo

 

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Do The Los Angeles Lakers Need Dwight Howard?

Dwight Howard is the big fish in the pond, err, I mean Magical Kingdom, but he wants to leave for Brooklyn. While the Nets would LOVE to team him with Deron Williams, Joe Johnson and Gerald Wallace to form a “Big 4″, they may not have the assets to land him. The Magic would LOVE to have a package centered around Los Angeles Lakers 24 year old All Star center Andrew Bynum, and the Lakers would like Howard, but he says he doesn’t want to go to L.A. and follow in Shaquile O’Neal’s footsteps. Howard also says wont sign a long term deal with any other team then the Nets. There is also the fact that the Lakers have trepidation with Howard because he recently had back surgery and it is reportedly “healing slow.”

 

One theroy of  the Lakers not making a deal for Howard is Bynum is 2 years younger, a better offensive player and while he is immature, he doesn’t have the baggage Howard has. If I had my way you would see a trade (that has been talked about according to my NBA sources) sending power forward Pau Gasol to the Minnesota Timberwolves for forward Derrick Williams, swingman Wesley Johnson and a first round pick. The T-Wolves covet Gasol (to team with fellow countryman Ricky Rubio) and love what he would bring to their team. The Lakers  would add the type of power forward (Williams) that fits the Lakers offense, being able to play outside the key and freeing Bynum up underneath.  Johnson is a swingman that can spread the floor (who also happens to work out with Kobe Bryant in the off season) and he can play the 2 or the 3 while bringing some much needed athleticism to the Lakers starting line-up. It would also free up roughly $24 million dollars for the Lakers as well.

 

While Howard is a force on the defensive side of the ball and known as the best center in the NBA right now, but Bynum isn’t that far behind and I could make the argument that Bynum is a better offensive player right now. Where Howard would really help out the Lakers is on the defensive side of the ball where his tough interior defense would be a welcome sight for Lakers fans everywhere and would clean up on the boards on a nightly basis. But Bynum has a better offensive repertoire and can hit free throws and knows how to play with Kobe, which is something that has to be considered as well.

 

The thought of Howard in a Lakers uniform is one that most Lakers fans have long wished for. But after Howard’s year long “indecision” on where he wants to play, asking for the Magic to fire head coach Stan Van Gundy (and later GM Otis Smith), unwillingness to sign long term with anyone he is traded to other then the Nets and the alleged off the court “irresponsibility” with women not to mention a surgery on a bulging disc in his back, the Lakers have concerns (from what I was told). They want to make sure his back is alright first. If it is then that is a relief and they feel that since they will have his “Bird rights” (meaning that they can sign him for more money then any other team) they would be able to get him to commit long term. I was told that Howard is intrigued by playing with Kobe and newly acquired 2-time MVP Steve Nash. But is that enough to change his mind, a mind that has changed time and time again?

 

What should the Magic do if they can’t deal him to Brooklyn, his desired destination? Should they hold onto him or deal him to another team? What they need to do is  make a decision that is best for their franchise in the short and long term and if that means deal him to L.A., Golden State, Houston or any other team that is willing to pay the piper then do it. Players don’t control where they go unless they are Free Agents and that is exactly what Howard is trying to do behind the scenes. Howard is the one who signed an agreement to “opt into” his contract last year prior to the trade deadline (after the team told him to wait until his agent was around but HE declined to do so) and now he wants out (again). It’s time for the Magic to make a move regardless of how Howard feels about it. He is gone in a year, so why let him walk and get nothing in return? He has already napalmed his bridges in Orlando and is the most “hated man in the NBA” by the way he has (mis)handled this situation. It’s time they get him out of there and get that franchise moving forward.

 

For the Lakers they are in a “win now” state of mind and that is evident by the addition of Nash. If they do deal for Howard they would have a center that can be a force on the defensive side of the ball and help create easy baskets by blocking shots and starting the fast break with Nash leading the way. But is the risk of obtaining Howard (both locking him up long term and his back) worth the risk? Jim Buss has been reluctant to deal Bynum for Howard (they had a deal in place last year but the Magic pulled out because Howard “opted in”) and the flashes of dominance Bynum has showed makes it a tough decision for Buss and GM Mitch Kupchak. They both know with Kobe, Nash, Howard and Gasol they have the look of a title contending team and that might be to great to pass up.

 

Everything I have been told is that a deal for Howard is not eminent. The Nets want to get a deal done by the end of next week and are trying to add a third team to the deal, otherwise they will wait until December when they can trade some of the newly signed players to the Magic. The Lakers on the other hand have reportedly told an unidentified player to be prepared to be moved in a possible Howard deal and seem to be playing it cool, not trying to make a brash move. The Magic also want to make sure they can lock Bynum up long term (which I was told wouldn’t be a problem).

 

Would Dwight Howard be a very good pick up for the Lakers (or any other team)? Yes. But the question is will he be the same player he has been on the court for the Magic for the past 9 years? Will be be the dominant defensive player that pulls down rebounds and dunks over any player in the NBA or will be the player that “shut it down” at the end of last years shortened season and is he worth that gamble? Dr. Jerry Buss is a gambling man and I think he would be willing to take that gamble. He’ll rely on the Lakers rich tradition of winning titles, the super star players who turn into icons, the L.A. skyline, beaches and Hollywood A-Lister’s that fill the Staples Center nightly with the beckoning calls of movie & T.V. roles in the offseason.

 

This is one decision I go back and forth with. But then again, so does Dwight Howard. I can’t imagine what he is going through and the emotions he is dealing with. I am going through them and I am just an “Average Joe”, not the person who’s livelihood everyone is talking about.

 

Average Joe Arrigo

 

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Joe Arrigo: O.T.S. Sports Rumors 6-30-12

It’s late June which means it’s the dog days of summer.  The rumors are starting to really heat up around Major League Baseball with the trade deadline quickly approaching and the NBA free agent frenzy is set to begin. We also all know that the NFL getting ready to start training camp in a few weeks so there is some scuttle bug around the gridiron as well.

 

Before I get to the rumors, I want to wish my “little brother” Tyron “Bossy” Brackenridge a happy birthday. He gave himself an early birthday present last night (which just happens to be our Grandma, Carol Arrigo’s birthday) with an interception against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the Saskatchewan Roughriders 43-16 win in the CFL opener. I’m proud of you on and off the field bro and keep doing what you doing!!

 

             RUMOR:

n.

A piece of unverified information of uncertain origin usually spread by word of mouth.
Unverified information received from another; hearsay.

 

Inside Pitch MLB Rumors:

The Dodgers and Astros have agreed to a deal that would send OF/1B Carlos Lee and cash to Los Angeles for Double A pitcher Garrett Gould. The deal is not a given since Lee has a limited no trade clause (to 14 teams) and really doesn’t want to leave the Houston area because he runs an extremely lucrative cattle ranch there. Lee is in the last year of a 6 year $100 million dollar deal and would give the Dodgers some needed some pop in their line-up with Matt Kemp on the DL and Andre Ethier out (with a muscle strain). As I write this (at 5:15pm pst) Lee is still considering the deal, but reports are it doesn’t look as if he will accept it. I was told by a perosn close to the situation that if a deal doesn’t happen involving Lee that they would turn their attention to another player because “something else will come up, it always does this time of the year.” It was reported by Fox’s Ken Rosenthal that Lee would like to have a decision by Sunday.

 

The Orioles and Phillies agreed to a deal that send DH/1B Jim Thome to Baltimore for class-a pitcher Kyle Simon and minor-league catcher Gabriel Lino. A deal was announced after each team played Saturday. This could be a sign that the Phillies are going to be sellers at the deadline, or they could be starting to move some salary to try and resign some of their own player (Cole Hamels or Shane Victorino).

 

The Dodgers also made huge waves this past week when they signed Cuban outfielder Yasiel Puig (pronounced Pah-eeg) to a 7 year $42 million dollar deal. The 21 year old, 6’2, 215 pound outfield has been compared to Matt Kemp or Vlad Guerrero. The baseball scouting community varies on their opinions of Puig, who is considered a 5 tool prospect. Some think he is the real deal and should make in impact in the Majors either later this year or next season. Other scouts feel he is overrated and the Dodgers over spent to land him.  From what I have seen Puig looks like the real deal (although he needs to go the other way more) and will give the Dodgers one of the most dynamic outfields in baseball. One thing is for certain, the new Dodgers ownership is not shying away from spending on players they feel can have an impact on the field for the Dodgers in hopes of bringing a World Series title back to LA for the first time since 1988.

 

With the signing of Puig the Dodgers have tied up $278 million dollars in their outfield (of Kemp, Athier & Puig) and look to spend more at the deadline and in the off season.  I have heard that the Dodgers are in on pitchers Francisco Liriano of the Twins, Ryan Dempster and Matt Garza of the Cubs, Zack Greinke of the Brewers  and should he be available, Cole Hamels of the Phillies. They also have a high interest in 3B Edwin Encarnacion of the Blue Jays, who will be made available should the Blue Jays fade out of contention.

 

The Yankees have had internal discussions about Zack Greinke and Francisco Liriano since they lost Andy Pettitte for 6 weeks and CC Sabathia for 2 starts. While no deal is likely, from what I was told it is a sign that Brian Cashman is softening his stance about not dealing for starting pitching.

 

I was told that the Rangers have scouted Brewers starter Zack Greinke and that the Brewers would want shortstop Jurickson Profar, the Rangers top prospect, in return as part of a bigger package for Greinke. The Dodgers, Yankees, Cardinals, Orioles and Braves also have scouted Greinke and had internal discussions about the talented Brewers pitcher. The Rangers also are scouting Cole Hamels of the Phillies.

 

On The Sideline NFL Rumors:

This is more of a thought then a rumor and it centers around Brett Favre and the Green Bay Packers. For 16 years the Packers fans loved Favre and he could do no wrong. He was one of 5 central figures (Bob Harlan, Ron Wolf, Mike Holmgren and the late Reggie White) that led the Packers turn around from doormats to the most stable franchise in the NFL. Up until recently Favre was hadn’t had any kind words for NFL MVP and former understudy Aaron Rodgers. Favre recently told Deion Sanders ” Aaron Rodgers, I knew when I left, this guy has all the tools,”Favre said. “He can beat you with his feet. He’s got a great arm, extremely accurate, handles the cast around him perfect.” Those may be the start of the fence mending and in my opinion it is about time.

While Favre left the Packers no choice but to deal him and both sides took things personal and handled the situation like Jr. High school kids fighting, it’s time for both to “kiss and make-up.” Favre’s place in Packers history is either at or near the top (depending on who you talk to) and he needs to be recognized as such. Ted Thompson would privately tell you that  he wished he handled the situation better as Favre probably would too. It’s time for the future Hall of Famer and one of the most storied teams in NFL history to get together and welcome each other back into each others lives.

As for the fans, we (and I include myself and other family members in this) and the Favre supporters need to realize that the NFL is a business and no matter how painful the final outcome maybe for one party or the other. To take things personal and hold grudges that help no one and only divide an icon from the team he will forever be associated with and it’s fan base (and vice versa). For Favre to not give Rodgers credit until now was childish, but that being said, he has and it’s better late then never. Now the team needs to retire Favre’s number and once he is elected into the NFL Hall of Fame, include his name in their “Ring of Honor” with the likes of White, Lombardi, Starr and Lambeau.

 

The Crossover NBA Rumors:

The rumors are running rapid about the Lakers making a couple big deals this offseason. The first rumor has the Lakers sending Pau Gasol to Atlanta for Josh Smith and a “filler” player. On the surface some would wonder why the Lakers would make this deal and the reasoning is Smith is close to Dwight Howard and the hope for the Lakers is if they add Smith, LA would look more attractive to Howard. Which leads to the next Lakers rumor: Andrew Bynum & a “filler” player for Dwight Howard. Should the Lakers add Smith, Howard’s interest would go up in joining the Lakers. Any deal would be made after July 1st.

 

A player that is going to draw interest from a few teams is former Grizzlies point guard OJ Mayo. Mayo wasn’t tendered a contract in part because the Grizz couldn’t afford him and the $8.5 mill tender. The Lakers have a definite interest in Mayo, who already has a good relationship with Kobe Bryant dating back to Mayo’s days at USC, and are expected to pursue him. The Lakers won’t be the only team in on Mayo with the Pacers, Clippers, Celtics and T-Wolves all having interest.

 

The hot rumor going around NBA circles is Deron Williams and Jason Kidd are a packaged deal and they will both end up with the Nets. They are hanging out together in the Hamptons this weekend and will meet with the Nets and Mavs Monday. There is ramped speculation that their minds are made up and will end in Brooklyn.

 

I am hearing that the Lakers are leaning towards amnestying Metta World Peace (Ron Artest). The Lakers are a team that has interest in Rashard Lewis (who was released today) and want to free up cash in the short and long term. They tried to move MWP during the draft but had no takers. Lewis, like Josh Smith, is also a close friend of Dwight Howard and from what I hear the Lakers are trying to make LA as attractive and familiar as possible to Howard as possible

 

The Rockets were the most active team leading up to the draft and look to be the same way during free agency. They want to move Scola, Martin, Lowery and ANY OTHER player on their current roster. They hope to acquire a big name big man to build around.

 

 

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Joe Arrigo’s O.T.S. (On The Sidelines) Sports Rumors Report

I have decided to expand the O.T.S. rumors report into an all sports rumors segment.

RUMOR:

n.

A piece of unverified information of uncertain origin usually spread by word of mouth.
Unverified information received from another; hearsay.

 

 

:

The Los Angeles Dodgers were in on Kevin Youkilis until Sunday afternoon when the Chicago White Sox agreed to send a second player in exchange for the Boston Red Sox eating $5.5 million of Youkilis’ salary. I was told that the Dodgers now are turning their focus to Josh Willingham of the Minnesota Twins. The Dodgers need to add another power bat to their line-up and Willingham could be that guy that could play first base and hit 5th in their line-up. It comes down to what the Twins are asking for and if they want to deal him.

 

The Dodgers and Twins also have talked in recent weeks about a deal that could send Francisco Liriano to L.A. for a couple prospects. Liriano hasn’t pitched bad since being brought back into the rotation after being demoted to the bullpen. Liriano would give the Dodgers another strong arm to go with reigning Cy Young award winner Clayton Kershaw and the surprising Chris Capuano.

 

A name to watch in either deal with the Twins (or anyone other Dodgers deal) could be Chad Billingsley. I was told that the organization is growing frustrated with Billingsley and feel that a change of scenery may be need for both him and the team.

 

I am hearing a name that is available and could be had for a reasonable price is Seattle Mariners outfielder Ichiro. He is not having the type of year we are accustomed to Ichiro having, but teams in need of offense like the Nationals, Dodgers, Mets, Giants and even the Yankees all have an interest. Given his age (38), ownerships lack of willingness to deal him and he would have to approve any deal makes it tough for the Mariners. But Ichiro wants to win a World Series and he could welcome a chance to play for a contender, increase his marketability in free agency (should he play well) and most importantly wanting to continue playing and reach 3,000 hits.

 

 

The Milwaukee Brewers are in a stretch which will decide whether they will be sellers or buyers at the trade deadline. They have a huge chip in starting pitcher Zack Greinke and could fetch a young arm and positional player in any deal. A source who is tied into MLB circles has told me that they have talked to the Dodgers, Rangers, Pirates, Tigers and Nationals all have spoke to the Brewers. The Dodgers and Rangers have some pieces that fit what the Brewers would be looking for in return. I was told that the mentioned teams are not worried about his anxiety issues.

 

I spoke to a former MLB scout and asked him about Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper and the Angels Mike Trout. He said that Trout is “Dale Murphy while Harper is Pete Rose”.  He said “They are the real deal and have all the tools you look for in players. They have each have hell of future and should become the faces of MLB.” He said that the thing that separates Harper from Trout “is Harper’s power & arm” while he says Trout has “way better speed.”

 

 

:

The NBA Draft is on Thursday and I have heard that the Los Angeles Lakers are trying to trade back into the first round for a Point Guard. A couple names I hear the PG’s they like include Austin Rivers, Marquis Teague, Tony Wroten and Tyshawn Taylor. The rumor making the rounds has the Lakers and Heat talking about a deal (at #27).

 

I have also heard that the Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves have talked about a deal that would send last years #2 overall pick power forward (and L.A. native) Derrick Williams, the #18 overall pick and Wesley Johnson to L.A. for power forward/center Pau Gasol. I was told that that Lakers feel they need a PF that can shoot and play away from the basket to free up Andrew Bynum, which Williams can do. The players I hear the Lakers like at that pick include PF Perry Jones III (Baylor) and Quincy Miller (Baylor). Gasol and Ricky Rubio (the Wolves PG) play together for the Spain National team and Gasol would add leadership to the young Minnesota team.

 

I am hearing that the Bobcats are targeting North Carolina SF Harrison Barnes and would like to move back a few slots to select him. He worked out for them this past week and “wowed” the Bobcats upper management. I was also told that former Tar Heel and NBA great (the Bobcats owner) Michael Jordan has signed off on drafting him if GM Rich Cho chooses to do so.

 

I hear to small forwards will be on the move draft day, the Bulls Luol Deng and the 76ers Andre Iguodala. Word is Golden State and the Bulls are talking about Deng, while the Lakers, Clippers and Raptors are in on Iguodala. If the Lakers deal for Iguodala it would include Pau Gasol.

 

 

 

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Mike Wright: Top of a League of Abnormal Human Beings

When a high school prodigy gets a break in life and is blessed with super human abilities, no one can predict what will happen with his career going forward.

Many said he was the next best thing to Kobe Bryant.  Some have even said the next best thing to Michael Jordan.  But has anyone said the beginning of a new type of basketball player “The Lebron James”? Lets take a look at the struggles of the former Cleveland Cavaliers superstar and really define what it takes to get to the “top of a league of abnormal human beings”!!

Defeat: Lebron has faced the ups and downs of every aspect of the game minus major Injury. He has been eliminated from playoffs early and late and denied a ring twice at times when the pressure was on him to bring it home!

Ridicule: Lebron has been the target of superstar hate since he stepped into the league as a boy by those that simply do not understand him, his move from Cleveland to pursue a championship.  Other haters also include those that just don’t like basketball!!

Doubt: Many have said he will never be as good as Kobe and definitely not even close to Michael Jordan. They also said he will never get a ring!

In Answer to the Defeat: Look what he has done to create a winning path for himself. The move from Cleveland to Miami could not have been easy on him.  He had to weigh what Cleveland fans thought, what the city of Cleveland thought and what his real fans thought.

He had to relocate not only himself but also his family, which is never easy.  He then had to adapt to a whole new infrastructure of business not just the game. James had to learn new plays, new teammates and make new friends.

He had to sell to the “Believe in Me” theory to a whole new environment and fill an empty arena which lacked fans who did not believe in Miami Heat basketball anymore all while dealing with all of the “haters”!!

Changing his path from defeat to victory took an overwhelming amount of time and energy to learn exactly how to bring it home.  He became a catalyst for perfection amongst his entire organization even to the point of showing respect for Celtics head coach Doc Rivers after a game seven victory and hushing teammate Mario Chalmers during a brief celebration in the fourth quarter of the championship game.

Maturity comes with the defeat of defeat! His smile and love for the game is second to none and his competitive edge is a force to be reckoned with! “Jordanesque” Even!! The answer to defeat is to WIN A CHAMPIONSHIP!!!

In Answer to Ridicule: How many of us in our daily lives give a real damn about what people think about us, especially when it comes to how much money we are looking to make to provide for our families as well as the personal satisfaction we need to feel a sense of achievement?

When a job is bad or terrible for us we pack up and move on…or get fired! So for those that say I don’t like the way he did it or he could have done it differently. You need to ask yourself when you are looking for that raise or that promotion and you don’t get it are you going to care how your boss feels when you say I have found something better that has a more positive outlook on my future? I Doubt it!

That alone should hush most people that have this tainted thought about how Lebron sought out an answer to his query which lead him to Miami with the goal of a brighter outlook for his future!!

Money and moves are involved that help an organization achieve the ultimate goal of bringing home that trophy! It is the same as Larry Ellison buying out software companies to help him continue to be on top of the software industry, or at least strive for it! In Lebron’s case he has done so with ridicule, but with ridicule comes a drive for success and this can only be measured as “worth it” for the outcome of Lebron’s now history!!

In Answer to Doubt:  Who does not receive doubt when being compared to the greatest of anything in any business sport or competition? If your fifth grader brings home a painting that got an A+ and someone says that is as good as a Picasso someone else is going to say I doubt it. But it looks nice.

In Lebron’s case being compared to the G.O.A.T Michael Jordan and then the second coming G.O.A.T Kobe Bryant, it is a no brainer that he has not achieved all of the accolades that they have did.

He has however achieved something better in his own life that separates him from having to be on the same plateau of those two. That is called personal satisfaction.

Doubt usually leads to disappointment or success.  It is a motivator in itself for those that are strong enough to deflect it and use it as a vehicle to get what they want most in life.

There no longer needs to be a comparison of Lebron to Kobe or MJ moving forward.  No more comparisons of how he did it and what drove him to do it. That now over shadows the comparison topic and puts him in the realm of champions.

Lebron has climbed his mountain of life and has nowhere left to go but up to a higher mountain now and he definitely has a goal to reach. He has exemplified a great attitude this past season and let the world know he has learned from his mistakes.

He is by far one of the best to ever touch a basketball and will go down in history that way. With the many players that have set high standards for the NBA it is hard to just put him in the top ten of all time but without a doubt he is and will always be The number one of his TIME!!  Congratulations Lebron James!

Mike Wright is a contributor to The Average Joe Show and covers basketball and football.  Mike is a  former High School All-American basketball player, California Player of the Year,  Jr. Olympic high jumper and #1 HS Athlete of the year.

Joe Arrigo: My ran-DUMB Sports Thoughts

I took a little break from writing (or blogging) after the NFL draft because I was burnt out after all the blogging during that time period. The world of sports has had a lot going on during that time frame, and Joe Pacheco and I continued The Average Joe Show every Tuesday at 8pm pst.

 

But let’s get to my ran-DUMB sports thoughts…..

 

NBA:

As I write this blog during the final moments of the NBA Finals I can’t help but think about Lebron James place in NBA history. While James has his detractors (or “haters”), no one can question his overall game. He is the most talented player in the NBA today, period. His skill set is reminiscent of Magic Johnson’s game, except James has more spring in his legs and Magic was a better free throw shooter. I admit  I am and was highly critical of James lack of “clutch gene” throughout his career, but this series in-particular he showed not only me, but every other critic (including Skip Bayless of ESPN)  that he doesn’t need to make the last shot of a game to win it for his team. He also hit a 3 pointer to put the Heat by 5 in game 4 (on a cramped leg) that was the dagger and sealed a Heat victory.

 

But where does that leave James in the world of NBA greats? Is he better then Michael Jordan? NO. Magic? Not even close. Larry Bird? Nope. Kobe? Not to me. LeBron, to me, is not in MY top 5 NBA players of all-time. He is however in my top 10 and could climb to as high as #2 IF he wins 4 more titles. Here are my top 10 NBA players of All Time.

 

1. Michael Jordan: He redefined the NBA by globalizing it. No player has had the type of global impact that Jordan has had. Kids from Chicago to the Congo from Spain to China and beyond knew (knows) who Jordan is. His shoe brand (Jordan Brand) and NIKE has played a huge role, but his game and personality (on camera) really is what sets him a part. 6 NBA titles & Finals MVP’s, 5 time NBA MVP, 14 time NBA All Star, 10 time scoring champ, 9 time All NBA Defensive team, NBA Rookie of the Year, 1988 Defensive Player of the Year, 3 time steals champion, 3 time NBA All Star MVP, 2 time NBA Slam Dunk champion and a 2 time gold medal winning Olympic champion. One could argue that he really could have been MVP every year he played (from 1988 on) and may have been an 8 time champion if he didn’t retire to play baseball for a season and a half.  He took a franchise that was an NBA also-ran and made them a proud franchise with a history that includes most wins in a season (72) and the third most NBA titles in NBA history (6).

 

2. Magic Johnson: Most will be surprised that I have Magic up this high, but he and Larry Bird saved the NBA. Magic was everything you’d want in a player and leader of men. He was a 6’9 Point Guard that (as a rookie) played Center against Moses Malone in the NBA Finals in the deciding game and led the Lakers to his first NBA title and a Finals MVP. Magic led the “Showtime” Lakers to 5 titles in totality and he would have been the NBA’s All-Time assist leader if it weren’t for the HIV virus he contacted and forced him to retire. That year (1991) he came back to the NBA in the All Star game and won the MVP. Later, in 1992, he was a part of the “Dream Team” which won the Gold medal. He led the “Dream Team” and won his last title, a gold medal, as a player. Magic off the court has been even more successful as a businessman, he now is an owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

 

3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: Karrem is the NBA’s leading scorer and block shots leader, 6 time champion, 6 time All Star and arguably the most fundamentally sound big man to play the game. His “sky hook” was unstoppable and I feel Kareem is underrated by most people. While some think Chamberlain is a better player, I think Kareem played against tougher competition when he played and still was the best player in the game for a very long time.

 

4. Wilt Chamberlain: Wilt was (arguably) the most dominating player in the history of sports. He was a Center that could do no wrong on the court (or off it), except for his free throw’s. He scored 100 points in a game, averaged a triple double and simply dominated the competition, except for Bill Russell and the Celtics. Wilt won 2 NBA titles to go along with 4 MVP’s.

 

5. Larry Bird: Larry Bird, along with Magic Johnson, helped save the NBA when they entered the NBA in 1979 & 1980. The rivalry between the Bird led Celtics and the Johnson led Lakers was must seen TV for any sports fan. Bird is a 3 time NBA champion, 2 time Finals MVP & the best pure shooter I have ever seen. He wasn’t flashy (like Magic) but he was a hustler that was consistent game in and game out and had a killer instinct that only Jordan could best. Larry “the Legend” helped turn the Celtics back into an NBA title contender and restored pride to Boston and the Boston Garden.

 

6.Bill Russell: Bill Russell’s statistics don’t tell the whole story. He was a 13 time NBA Champion, played great defense and sacrificed his offensive stats for the greater good of his team. He played Chamberlain better then any player their era and bested “the Big Dipper” in 9 NBA Finals in a 10 year span.

 

7. Kobe Bryant:

I have Magic a head of Kobe in terms of All Time players because of Magic’s role in saving the NBA, but Bryant maybe the greatest Lakers player to ever play. He is a 5 time champion, 2 time Finals MVP, 14 time All Star, 4 time All Star MVP, 2 time scoring champ, 9 time NBA all defensive team, gold medalist and scored 81 points in a game. Kobe is the closest player I have seen to Michael Jordan. He is the ultimate competitor and has no fear taking (and hitting) the big shot, no matter the angle, location, distance or how much time is remaining in the game.

8. Jerry West

 

9. Oscar Robertson

 

10. LeBron James

 

MLB:

The Dodgers need to make a move or two to jump start their offense and Kevin Youkilis is NOT the answer. “Youk” is not the same hitter fans are accustomed to seeing and would only be a 1 year stop gap (he can be bought out of his $13 million dollar deal for $1 million at the end of the year). I was told that the Dodgers have engaged in talks with the Mariners for Ichiro, but no deal is eminent. They also called the Nationals about first baseman Adam LaRoche and like Ichiro, nothing is close to happening.

 

The Yankees are baseball’s hottest team and they are winning with pitching. But as good as the Yankees are pitching, the Pirates and Nationals are pitching just as well if not better. AJ Burnett and James McDonald lead the Pirates staff while Stephen Strasburg and Gio Gonzalez lead what maybe the best pitching in baseball in D.C. Both teams need to add more offensive punch (sorry Nats fans, Bryce Harper can’t do it all) and both look to be “buyers” at the trade deadline.

 

Speaking of Harper, he and Mike Trout of the Angels are the just what MLB needed. They two under 21 rookies are the future & face of MLB and have done nothing to make people think differently of their hype. Trout is being over shadowed by Harper, but who hasn’t been. All Harper has done at 19 years old is become the biggest hitter in the Nats line-up and do everything he has been asked to do (and more). He has also impressed with poise and maturity on the field, as well as his advanced approach to hitting. A former MLB exec told me at the beginning of the year that “Harper is  Pete Rose and Trout is Dale Murphy”. So far he looks to be right.

 

While I don’t agree with “cheating” in pro sports, I also don’t agree with snitching. What Davey Johnson did was HIGHLY hypocritical on his end considering he managed Roger McDowell, who was known to “grease up” while pitching in the Majors, as well as other MLB players that have a history of “altering” or practicing habits unbecoming of a Major Leaguer. Johnson did the same thing to the Dodgers Jay Howell in the 1988 NLCS while managing the Mets. Joel Peralta pitched for the Nats previously and Johnson must have known that Peralta hid pine-tar in his glove. As a former pitcher, I see no use for tine-tar in a glove considering it doesn’t do anything to the ball, unlike a tac or nail in a glove, nail file super glued on a finger or vasoline under the bill of a cap.

 

This week on The Average Joe Show we will talk about Rodger Clemens being cleared of federal charges, should Pete Rose be let in the Hall of Fame and the NBA Finals. Tune in Tuesday at 8pm pst on http:blogtalkradio.com/the-average-joe-show.

The Average Joe Show: Episode 5

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Joe Arrigo’s Green Bay Packers 2012 Draft Analysis

After every draft all the draft experts, draftniks and fans rush to give their draft grades. I think that is a little presumptive since it takes ab out 3 years to really see how the draft actually turned out. What I decided to do is a Packers draft analysis outlining if the pick made by Ted Thompson. I won’t put a “letter grade” on the pick, rather give my opinion on if the pick was a good pick or a bad pick based on the fit and the player.

 

The 2011 Green Bay Packers season was one to remember for both the good, the bad and the ugly. The good was their 15-1 regular season record and the high powered offense led by the NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers. The bad was the loss to Nick Collins in Week 2, but most notably the bad was the playoff loss to the New York Giants in Lambeau Field. The ugly was the way the defense played all year giving up tons of yards threw the air and having virtually no pass rush all season long while missing way to many tackles.

 

When Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy looked at their team they saw that a major upgrade was needed on the defensive side of the ball. The loss of defensive end Cullen Jenkins in free agency coupled with Mike Neal, Jenkins replacement, being injured most of the year and playing ineffective, really nullified Clay Matthews III pass rush ability. Teams would focus on stopping Matthews III since no one opposite of him, either defensive end or linebacker, was a threat to put pressure on the quarterback. The loss of  Jenkins also effected the run defense since Neal, Jarius Wynn, Howard Green and CJ Wilson didn’t do a good enough job to take on blockers which limited Inside Linebackers Desmond Bishop and AJ Hawk.

 

So Thompson seemed to say “enough is enough” when it came to this draft. You could say he put a major emphasis on adding a pass rushing outside linebacker, a defensive end that can not only get to the quarterback, but also big enough to stop the run and most importantly, sure tacklers.

 

Let’s take a look at the Packers 2012 draft class:

 

Round 1-

#53 Nick Perry- OLB- USC:

 

The Packers picked USC’s Nick Perry with the 28th pick in round 1. Perry was a 2 year starter for the Trojans after coming in as one of the top recruits in the nation. He red shirted and played behind Kyle Moore his Freshman year. When Lane Kiffin took over for Pete Carroll, that’s Perry had opportunity to shine. His numbers were very solid,  Perry produced 103 tackles, 29.5 tackles for loss, and 21.5 sacks over the course of his career; his best statistical season came in 2011 during his junior year when he made 54 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and 9.5 sacks. He is a natural pass rusher and is a freak athletically. Perry has a true understanding of what it takes to get to the quarterback, Nick owns the combination of size, strength (35 reps on bench), and athleticism needed to start at the next level. Perry comes off the ball with build-up speed and explosion, however he shows the ability to get up the field before bending down, dipping his shoulder, and beating the tackle to the outside. He’s shown that he can consistently pressure the edge, if not run the arc as a pass rusher, as he owns good range outside to cover ground quickly. The scary part about Perry as a pass rusher is he still has room to improve and Kevin Greene will only help him by adding more moves to his repertoire.

 

When in position to make the sack, he also does a great job of striking not only the quarterback, but also aiming to jar the ball loose, having forced five fumbles in the past two years. As a pass rusher, he plays with good leverage at the point of attack, displaying the type of flexibility needed to play underneath the opposing blocker. Nick does a very good job of getting his long arms (33 inches) up to obstruct passing lanes when he can’t get to the quarterback, having batted down six passes in the last two seasons. As a run defender, Nick shows the ability to extend out and set the edge, understanding how to play with proper leverage, however he’s still too inconsistent here and will need to develop better strength in his lower body in order to become more effective. He does a much better job of simply shedding the block off the snap and closing down the line quickly to tackle the running back as he’s entering the hole.

 

But the down side to Perry is he wasn’t asked to play in space a lot while at USC and when he did he didn’t look like was comfortable. Perry also had times where his motor was hot and cold while at USC. That was the biggest knock on him under Carroll, but Perry was also frustrated with lack of playing time under Carroll. Many people around the USC program felt Perry should’ve be starting his redshirt freshman year a head of Moore.

 

Considering where the Packers were drafting and who was on the board at that time, Perry was an excellent fit. His size/speed and upside were to great to pass up. Dom Capers and Kevin Green will not put Perry in a position to fail, rather they will put Perry in a position to succeed.  I believe Perry will start opposite of Matthews III and should be a double digit sack guy early in his career.

 

Round 2:

#99 Jerel Worthy- DE- Michigan St.:

 

Thompson moved up in the second round to the 51st position and selected defensive end Jerel Worthy from Michigan St. Most scouts held a first round grade on Michigan State’s Jerel Worthy because of the talent, immense upside, and disruptive style of play that he brought to the table. One of the most talented defensive linemen in this year’s draft, Worthy is an extremely inconsistent player whose motor runs hot and cold, and simply plays when he wants to play. A three-year starter with 38 career starts for the Spartans, Jerel produced 107 tackles, 27.5 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks throughout his career in East Lansing; the most productive season of his career came in 2010 during his sophomore year when he tallied 40 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and four sacks. Well-built with a very thick frame and great bulk for the position, Worthy has the long arms (33 inches) that you look for in addition to owning great natural strength. When his motor is running strong, Jerel can be as disruptive as any defensive tackle in the country, displaying good quickness off the ball with a violent punch at the point of attack. He has the strength and raw power to physically push the offensive lineman right off the ball and bullrush his way into the backfield. Worthy’s hand use is excellent, doing a great job of fighting off of blockers while displaying a pass rush repertoire that is far more advanced than you’d expect to see from an underclassman.

 

He offers an impressive swim move to play over the top of smaller defensive linemen while also possessing a rip move needed to split the crease in the line and penetrate the line of scrimmage. After disengaging from the blocker, Jerel locates the ball quickly in the backfield and has proven to be a punishing tackler capable of crashing down on the ball carrier or quarterback and driving them into the ground. When he isn’t able to work his way into the backfield, Worthy does a nice job of getting his hands up to block passing lanes, having batted six passes down at the line of scrimmage in the past three years. In the run game, he does a great job even when still engaged with the offensive lineman to extend one arm out, grab ahold of the runner with his great strength, and drag the ball carrier to the ground before he can accelerate through the hole. Jerel’s short-area explosion is outstanding; he’s displayed the ability to cross the face of the offensive lineman and win the leverage battle at the line of scrimmage. Even when he doesn’t make the play, his disruption in the backfield often breaks up the offensive play and allows for one of his teammates to swarm to the ball.

 

Jerel was one of the most frustrating players in the country to scout because of the way that he underachieved this season. He took plays off and that turned a lot of scouts off. With the Packers he’ll be playing the 5 technique and looks like a perfect fit to start next to BJ Raji. He can get to the QB and stop the run. The Packers veterans won’t allow or put up with him taking plays off, so I don’t think that will be to much of an issue going forward. I think the Packers got a steal with the Worthy pick.

 

Round 2:

#29 Casey Hayward- CB- Vanderbilt:

 

Thompson traded back up into round 2 to nab the corner he was really high on in the second best ball hawk in this draft, Casey Hayward from Vanderbilt.  Casey Hayward has the type of instincts and tools needed to translate into a very good starting defensive back in the NFL. A three-year starter for the Commodores with 37 career starts, Hayward offers fantastic experience, having significant playing time against the top wide receivers in the country in the SEC. One of the most productive players in this year’s draft, Casey’s statistics at Vanderbilt were phenomenal, recording 198 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 31 pass breakups, and 15 interceptions throughout his career in Nashville; his most productive season came as a senior in 2011 when he tallied 62 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 10 pass breakups, and seven interceptions (one returned for a touchdown). One of the most instinctive players at the cornerback position in 2011, Casey has rare ball-hawking skills with the type of opportunistic mentality that you simply can’t teach. One statistic that I look closely at with defensive backs is passes defended, which shows how a player reads action in front of him, how instinctive he is to react on what he reads, and how effective he is at making a play on the ball. Any player that produces over 30 passes defended during their career tends to be a player that I have a high opinion of; Casey produced 46 during his career. Owning an ideal frame for the position with a tall, lean frame, Hayward is a natural, fluid athlete with very quick feet as well as the quickness and agility needed to turn and run on a dime; he’s a smooth player in transition who opens up very well and is capable of covering ground very quickly with great range. Casey spent the majority of his time at Vanderbilt playing in zone coverage, dropping back in a Cover-3 or Cover-4 scheme and effectively closing down either a third or a quarter of the field. Whenever the ball was thrown in his direction, he accelerated and closed very quickly, crashing down on the receiver either to intercept the ball, deflect it away, or tackle the receiver low for an open field tackle. Hayward’s ball skills are among the best in this year’s draft, displaying a rare ability to drop back, read the quarterback’s eyes, before seeking out the ball with outstanding anticipation and awareness. Between his fluid ability to turn and run, range to cover ground quickly, and his terrific ball skills and anticipation, I could very easily see him being considered for a move to free safety in the NFL.

 

When beaten down the field, he’s shown the type of recovery speed needed to catch up to the receiver, although he’s not going to be considered a speedster. In man coverage, he has the skillset to sit back in offman coverage, giving him a chance to read the receiver’s route off the line before anticipating and breaking to compete for a ball. His ability to turn and run with a receiver down the field shows that he should have no problem playing off-man at the next level. In press coverage, something that he rarely did in college, I’d expect to see him struggle, as he’s more of a finesse receiver who tends to play better when open and free from traffic; in addition, he’d need to continue to bulk up, fill out his frame, and get stronger in order to have any chance of being able to effectively jam the receiver at the line of scrimmage. In addition, he’ll need further development in his technique if he wants to improve in man coverage, as there are times when he will stand too tall in his backpedal, which pushes him off balance and doesn’t allow for him to plant and drive on the receiver. As a run defender and as a tackler in the open field, Casey has proven to be a reliable player capable of cutting the runner’s legs out from beneath him, however I’d like to see him make more of an effort to wrap up the ball carrier when attempting to make a tackle; he tends to try to dive and throw his body at the ball carrier’s lower body without wrapping up, which doesn’t always work. Developing as a form tackler will help him at the next level, as he will be asked to make plenty of tackles no matter what position he’s playing. If he could develop more fire and more of a tenacious attitude here, that would certainly help him as well; he simply isn’t a very physical player at this point.

 

Hayward is the type of player that just is a football player. He makes plays, is smart, instinctive and will be a really good fit in the Packers defensive secondary. He will come in and battle for time with Davon House or even allow the Packers to move Charles Woodson to a Safety spot at times depending on who the are playing and what sub-package Capers wants to use.

 

Round 4:

#76 MIKE DANIELS- Defensive End- Iowa:

 

An undersized one-gap penetrator who uses his quickness and explosion off the ball to his advantage, Mike Daniels offers teams a fine
rotational defensive tackle who could make an impact on third downs at the next level. A two-year starter with 21 career starts for the
Hawkeyes, Daniels produced 123 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, and 15.5 sacks throughout his career at Iowa; his most productive season
came during his senior year in 2011 when he tallied 67 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, and nine sacks. Mike offers great intangibles and
leadership to the team that drafts him, having been named a team captain for his senior season, and was also a two-time captain in high
school; in addition, he earned the team’s Iron Hawk Award in 2011, and award given to a player who has given his all every play, for
the entire season, and has represented his team and school in an exemplary fashion. Lacking both the height and the bulk to be a
consistent three-down player at the next level, Mike is an athletic defensive tackle who uses his short stature to his advantage, making
it easier for him to get underneath bigger blockers off the ball and win the leverage battle at the line of scrimmage. You can see his
wrestling background with the way that he plays, showing an innate ability to use his shorter stature to consistently gain leverage at
the point of attack. Playing with a very good motor, Daniels offers great agility for the tackle position and will need to be used on a
defense that frequently stunts or uses games up front; he offers the quickness and nimble feet to slant down the line in the run game.
He flows down the line well on plays going away from him, displaying great pursuit with his strong motor.

 

However, due to his lack of size, Mike can be neutralized by double teams rather easily and will be washed down the line when the bigger offensive linemen swallow him up at the point of attack. He doesn’t have the strength or bulk to consistently hold up in defending the run and is far away from being anything close to an anchor inside. Mike does play with good leverage and technique at the point of attack, showing the ability to bend well with good quickness to play underneath the offensive lineman and penetrate the line of scrimmage. To be effective in the run game at the next level, he would need to be used in a scheme that is predicated on shooting the gaps and penetrating the line of scrimmage. Where he has the skills to make an impact is as a pass rushing tackle on third downs. While he won’t ever be seen bullrushing his way into the backfield, he’s a true one-gap penetrator whose quickness and explosion off the ball are his greatest strengths. He offers active hand use at the point of attack with a better pass rush repertoire than you expect to see from a defensive tackle. Mike makes good use of his swim and rip moves after getting up into the blocker with good leverage. Displaying good anticipation and timing off the ball, Daniels is frequently one of the first off the ball and across the line of scrimmage, making him a very difficult player to block for some of the bigger, more stiff offensive linemen he faced in the Big Ten.

 

While he doesn’t project as an every-down defensive tackle at the next level, Mike Daniels has the explosion and polished pass rushing skills for the tackle position to be a quality rotational defensive lineman who can be used primarily on third downs to attempt to get after the quarterback with his quickness and agility. In the event of an injury, he could step up as a serviceable starter. With Daniels work-ethic and attitude it wouldn’t surprise me one bit to see him having a major impact when he is in the game.

 

Round 4:

#22 JERRON McMILLIAN- S- Maine:

 

The last time Ted Thompson drafted a little known Safety from a small school he had a hell of a career before it was derailed by injury. Of course we are talking about Nick Collins. McMillian is a sure tackling Safety that is and plays fast. He has the tools to become a very good Safety and possesses the qualities that Capers looks for in his safeties.

 

The Packers safety play was sub-par after Collins was lost to injury and McMillian, MD Jennings and Anthony Levine will compete with Charlie Peprah for 3 spots. McMillian could be the starter but that depends on how quickly he picks up the defense. I spoke to a AFC West scout Sunday morning who said that McMillian was on his teams radar and they loved his football IQ, game speed and instincts.

 

McMillian is a high effort, aggressive, sure tackling, instinctive Safety that has the tools to become a very solid contributor in the Packers defense. He reminds me of a guy I played with named Jaquwan Brackenridge. He played the game the way it was meant to be played, he hit like a ton of bricks, made plays on the ball while it was in the air and was a gym/film rat. Quwan was the best player I played with (and his brother, Tyron, has played 6 years in the NFL and CFL) and McMillian plays A LOT like him. I think this kid is about to surprise a lot of people.

 

Round 5:

#56 TERRELL MANNING- Inside Linebacker- NC State:

 

An athletic two-year starter at N.C. State, Terrell Manning offers an intriguing skillset that projects favorably on third downs and
passing situations. Over the course of his career in Raleigh, Manning produced 193 tackles, 27.5 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, nine pass
breakups, and five interceptions; the best statistical season of his career came during his junior season in 2011 when he tallied 76
tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, five pass breakups, and three interceptions. A natural athlete with fluid athleticism and a lean
frame that has room to grow, Terrell offers the speed and range to cover ground from sideline-to-sideline. An instinctive player who
reads and diagnoses plays quickly, Manning locates the ball well with a great first step when playing downhill in the run game.
Owning a good motor, Terrell pursues well in the run game, doing a fine job of taking proper angles to the perimeter when attempting
to chase down the running back. Although he’s not going to be one to produce a bit hit, Manning wraps up well when in position to do
so and has the closing speed needed to make a shoe string tackle of the ball carrier when he’s coming through the hole. In addition, he
has an instinctive ability to rip the ball away from the runner, having produced eight forced fumbles in the past three seasons for the
Wolfpack. Manning will need to continue to fill out his frame while adding bulk and strength (22 reps on bench) at the next level, as
he can be driven out of the play by bigger linemen when he fails to disengage from the block. He displays the quick feet and fluid
athleticism needed to dart in and out of traffic to evade blockers and play low at the point of attack with good leverage, however he
will need to develop better strength in the upper and lower body in order to be an effective player at stacking and shedding in the NFL.

 

Although I like the motor that he plays with, Terrell will tend to over-run some plays and needs to work on playing with more
discipline at the next level; he tends to take himself out of a number of plays despite. A natural in zone coverage, Terrell gains great
depth off the snap with his quickness and does a great job of keeping his head on a swivel in coverage. He read’s the quarterback’s
eyes before breaking on the ball to attempt to jar the ball loose from the receiver or cut in front and make an interception. When in
zone, he also does a nice job of attempting to redirect the receiver’s route by giving him enough of a push to knock him off of his path,
but not enough to draw a flag. He offers the athleticism and speed to match up with both running backs out of the backfield and tight
ends in man coverage, although he’s smaller stature could be a disadvantage against some of the bigger tight ends that have entered the league in recent years. One of the more underrated pass rushers in this year’s linebacker class, Terrell finds the open crease in the
offensive line quickly, displaying great acceleration through the hole. While he’ll need to refine his hand use here and develop better
swim and rip moves, he has shown the ability to disengage from a running back’s block and close quickly to sack the quarterback.
Whether it’s up the middle or off the edge, Terrell has proven that he can be an effective pass rusher for his defense.

 

Although he proved to be durable through the last three years for N.C. State, Terrell missed two games during his junior year after needing surgery to repair a knee injury; he also needed to redshirt during his freshman year in 2008 when he was coming off of knee surgery that ended his high school career early. With the Packers trading up for Manning, Robert Francois may need to worry ab out his current spot on the roster, but down the road (next season) AJ Hawk may need to play a lot better.

 

Round 7:

#77 ANDREW DATKO- Offensive Tackle- Florida St.:

 

A polished left tackle prospect whose injury concerns could push down his draft stock if not derail his future pro career entirely,
Andrew Datko enters the NFL with the tools and skillset that you look for at the position, however the surgeries that he has had to
both shoulders could limit what he’s capable of doing at the next level. A four-year starter at Florida State, Datko started 40 games
throughout his injury-plagued career and offers great intangibles with a great football IQ and understanding of the game along with the
strong work ethic that coaches and scouts look for in a player. Owning ideal size with adequate arm length (33 inches) for the position,
Andrew is an underrated athlete with good flexibility who offers the nimble, agile feet to mirror pass rushers out on the edge; he has
little trouble shuffling his feet and has proven to be capable of shifting his weight well to take away cutback lanes from the pass rusher. Quick off the ball, Datko settles back into his pass set quickly displaying good technique with a few minor flaws that need to be tweaked. I would like to see him develop a better arch in his back, as he tends to play with a hunched back, which is something that he needs to correct at the next level; playing with a better arch will give him the opportunity to engage the defender at a lower angle and win the leverage battle at the point of attack. He has a habit of leaning too far forward against pass rusher to attempt to block their angle to the quarterback; while that was fine in college, I’d really like to see him work on correcting this at the next level, as the added speed in the NFL could result in him getting over-extended and giving up a sack. Andrew has a strong upper body who catches the pass rusher coming off the edge and waits patiently in his pass set for the defender to come to him.

 

While he had a strong enough grip to get the job done in college, I’d like to see Andrew continue to improve his functional strength at the next level. He shows good hand placement with proper technique in his ability to fire his hands inside on the defender and uses his flexibility and wide frame to make it difficult for rushers to get around him on the edge. I’d like to see Datko get stronger in the lower half in order to improve as an anchor in pass protection, as he isn’t yet strong enough to take on and consistently neutralize some of the bigger, stronger ends he’ll face at the next level. He’s not a full-fledged drive blocker in the run game, and while he’s shown enough of an ability to execute down blocks in college, I’d like to see him continue to develop better lower body strength to improve here. In the run game, he uses his quick feet off the ball to his advantage with his ability to engage the defensive lineman off the ball before attempting to properly position the defender away from the hole to wall him off an open up a clear running lane. Having played in Florida State’s zone-blocking offense, he could be an intriguing fit for the Packers blocking scheme.

 

He’s far from a powerful or explosive blocker, but rather is a finesse lineman who offers enough strength to supplement his great technique and quick feet. With his nimble athleticism, he’s shown throughout his career that he has no trouble pulling down the line or getting to the second level to take out a defender in open space. Durability is going to be the biggest concern with Andrew, as both of his shoulders have been operated on and could be a large reason why he falls in the draft. He had surgery on his left shoulder at the end of his junior year of high school and his junior year at Florida State, and surgery to repair his right shoulder ended his senior season after just four games. If Datko can add some strength and have time to develop, the Packers may have found a steal in round 7.

 

Round 7:

#9 B.J. COLEMAN- QB- TENNESSEE-CHATTANOOGA:

 

Over his three years with the Moccasins he threw for a total of 6,871 yards, 52 touchdowns, and 31 interceptions with a 57.3% completion percentage (578-1,008); his best statistical season came during his junior year when he threw for 2,996 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions with a 56.3% completion percentage (215-382). He only was able to start seven games during his senior season in 2011 due to a sprained right shoulder. B.J. brings excellent intangibles to the next level, owning the leadership, work ethic, and passion for the game that I look closely for at the position; he understands the game very well and has a terrific football IQ. Offering ideal size at the position that coaches look for, Coleman is on the radar of NFL scouts for one major reason, and that’s his arm strength. He has a strong enough arm to deliver the ball to all parts of the field, including outside of the numbers, on a consistent basis. His best asset is his ability to drive the ball down the field, having shown the ability to throw it 50+ yards on a rope with ease. His velocity is above average for a college quarterback and is more than fine for the next level. In addition, he’s displayed the ability to put good touch on his throws, however further development will be needed here in order to develop better consistency. Owning good accuracy down the field, B.J. puts the ball in the right position to be caught, although his lack of a great supporting cast with the Moccasins resulted in several drops the past three years.

 

At UT-Chattanooga, Coleman ran a West Coast-style offense with plenty of play action fakes and quick throws and has experience both under center as well as in shotgun. Although he has some experience going through his reads and progressions, he will certainly need more work here at the next level, as he had a number of pre-determined reads, or throws that were planned before the snap, and will tend to stare down some of his targets. In addition, when in shotgun, the coaches called plenty of catch-and-throw passes, which didn’t do much to help his development. B.J.’s footwork is where I’d like to see it, as he has a feel for sinking his hips into his back leg before stepping forward and driving through his front leg in his throwing delivery; however, I would like to see him exaggerate the sinking of his hips more to get more momentum and torque going into his throws. In his mechanics, he offers a quick delivery, however he throws the ball too mechanically, and I’d like to see him develop a more natural and fluid throwing motion with his position coach at the next level. Coleman has average mobility at best to move about the pocket and must develop a better feel for where the pass rush is coming from. He’s a pure pocket passer who is very comfortable dropping back and reading the field, however he’s not far enough along yet in his ability to sense the rush and escape. When he does manage to get outside the pocket, he has what it takes to get the job done on bootlegs and he’s proven that he can throw the ball accurately on the run. In addition, when given an opportunity to take off with the ball down the field, Coleman has a heady understanding of when to tuck the ball down and run with it, having ran for seven
touchdowns during his career. While he forced some of his throws down the field due to a lack of a great supporting cast, B.J. must
improve both his completion percentage as well as learn to make better decisions with the ball and cut down on the number of
interceptions he throws if he wants to have a chance at having a successful pro career.

 

B.J. Coleman is a quality small-school developmental quarterback prospect who projects early on as a fine No. 2 or more likely No. 3 quarterback. Coleman has the instincts, understanding of the game, intangibles, and physical tools needed to develop quickly and have a successful pro career. Although he needs a few years of development, I believe that B.J. could compete for a starting job down the road for another team, much like Matt Flynn is doing in Seattle.

 

All in all I think Ted Thompson’s 2012 draft, on paper, was one of his best to date. While he didn’t add a Center of the future or another Running Back, he focused on what was the biggest needs for the Packers. He took the type of guys that fit the Packers scheme and had the attributes he looks for in players. The pressure is now on Dom Capers and his staff to get Perry, Worthy, Hayward, McMillian and Daniels, up to speed and ready to contribute right away. If they can and the offense plays as well as they did most of last season, we could whiteness something really special.

 

 

 

The OTS: Draft Edition (4-25-12)

This is the OTS (On The Sidelines)  “draft edition” Packers rumors. Let’s get to rumors and the draft!!

 

Now let me preference this edition is on the eve/day of the draft and rumors, misinformation and smokescreens are running rapid at this time. The OTS are Packers rumors that I obtain through various sources that I have come to know through my years doing radio. They are sources in NFL in various capacities and do have direct knowledge of what is being discussed  by decision makers and front office personnel. Please keep in mind what a rumor is, hence what the OTS is:

RUMOR:

n.

A piece of unverified information of uncertain origin usually spread by word of mouth.
Unverified information received from another; hearsay.

 

Let me start with the release of Nick Collins. This was not an easy thing for Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy to do, but when it came down it they just didn’t feel comfortable with letting back on the field for the Packers. The risk was too high for the team, but more importantly they had his future as a human being in mind, not saving or adding cap space. They are hoping Collins retires and have talked to him about being a part of the organization.  I also heard that Collins has yet to be cleared by ANY doctor and is trying to get clearance.

 

I am hearing that the Packers would like a DE in round 1 (notably LSU’s Michael Brockers) and would like to add the OLB in round 2. The theory is the DL crop is thinner then the OLB crop and they could get an impact OLB in round 2.

 

I was told that the Packers have talked to the Browns about a deal to move up should Brockers be there at #22. The talk was a swap of 1st round picks (22 for 28) and the Browns 7th for the Packers 4th and 6th rounder. My scout (an AFC scout) told me that it could still happen if Brockers is not there and an impact OLB is there (Quinton Coples or Courtney Upshaw).

 

I received a few DM’s on twitter about a rumor that has the Rams dealing RB Steven Jackson to the Packers. I checked around and I was told that the Packers and Rams have talked about a deal that would send a 3rd rounder to the Rams for Jackson (and have been for 3 weeks). Jackson is owed $7 million each of the next 2 years and would provide a legitimate and complete running threat that Packers have lacked since Ahman Green. I was also told from an NFC Scout that it is 50/50 that this deal happens and NOTHING is eminent at this time.

 

I hear all the Shae McCellin talk to the Packers is a smokescreen. He’s intriguing but 4 concussions is scaring some teams off a bit according to my source, an AFC Scout.  He also said that he is not Clay Matthews and that Matthews was a far better player overall coming out of USC.

 

A couple names to watch in the 1st round for the Packers are:

 

LSU DE Michael Brockers

 

Syracuse DE/OLB Chandler Jones

 

Alabama OLB Courtney Upshaw

 

Alabama ILB/OLB Donta Hightower

 

USC OLB/DE Nick Perry

 

Boise St. RB Doug Martin

 

Michgan St DL Jerel Worthy

 

Illinois OLB Whitney Mercilus

 

A rumor I heard from an NFC Scout was the Packers could take USC’s Nick Perry and keep him as a DE. They feel that he has the frame to add weight (285) and still be effective. They are also concerned about him dropping into coverage and playing in space as an OLB, but think he is athletic enough to do it.

 

An AFC Scout told me that he thinks Thompson will be “moving around a lot in this draft both up and down in any round.” He said that is because of the amount of picks they have and the roster space (of player that they will actually carry) it makes sense for him to be “overly aggressive to get the guys he wants.”

 

He also told me that “for a 15-1 team, people think they have a ton of wholes, but I’d love to have that problem (being 15-1)”. He added “let me tell ya’, where they need to get better, this is a draft suited for them to do so and knowing Ted like I do, he’s gonna add some gems.”

 

An NFC Scout told me that he thinks the Packers will add a RB “with-in the first 3 rounds either via trade or draft pick.” He said that “that Martin kid from Boise St would be a good fit there and would give them surprising depth at RB.”

 

The Packers were never in on Asante Samuel according to my NFC Scout. I know some thought that they might be, but from everything I have heard they never had interest in him.

 

I heard that the Packers had some late work on two Oklahoma Sooners, OLB Ronnell Lewis and WR Ryan Broyles. Both are 2nd and 3rd day picks and should be available when the Packers pick in those rounds.

 

With the added cap space after releasing Chad Clifton and Nick Collins, the Packers have some cap room to talk about extending Greg Jennings. I was told by a source that the Packers and Jennings both want to get a “reasonable deal done” and the team and Jennings people have been talking about a new deal that would keep Jennings in Green Bay for 5 more years beyond his current deal.

Joe Arrigo’s NFL Draft Series: The Big Board

Every team, “draft expert” and draftnik has a “big board”. I am no different. Here is my Big Board for the 2012 NFL Draft.                                                                                                                 

                                                                                                                           Top 255 Players

1. Andrew Luck QB Stanford

2. Robert Griffin III QB Baylor

3. Matt Kalil OT USC

4. Luke Kuechly ILB Boston College

5. Morris Claiborne CB LSU

6. Trent Richardson RB Alabama

7. Justin Blackmon WR Oklahoma St.

8. David DeCastro OG Stanford

9. Fletcher Cox DT Mississippi State

10. Michael Floyd WR Notre Dame

11. Courtney Upshaw OLB Alabama

12. Dont’a Hightower ILB Alabama

13. Riley Reiff OT Iowa

14. Melvin Ingram OLB South Carolina

15. Stephon Gilmore CB South Carolina

16. Quinton Coples DE North Carolina

17. Dontari Poe DT Memphis

18. Jonathan Martin OT Stanford

19. Mark Barron S Alabama

20. Michael Brockers DT LSU

21. Dre Kirkpatrick CB Alabama

22. Ryan Tannehill QB Texas A&M

23. Kendall Wright WR Baylor

24. Cordy Glenn OT Georgia

25. Peter Konz C Wisconsin

26. Coby Fleener TE Stanford

27. Mike Adams OT Ohio State

28. Whitney Mercilus DE Illinois

29. Devon Still DT Penn State

30. Nick Perry DE USC

31. Stephen Hill WR Georgia Tech

32. Janoris Jenkins CB North Alabama

33. Bobby Massie OT Ole Miss

34. Jerel Worthy DT Michigan State

35. Mohamed Sanu WR Rutgers

36. Dwayne Allen TE Clemson

37. Josh Robinson CB UCF

38. Brandon Thompson DT Clemson

39. Jayron Hosley CB Virginia Tech

40. Zach Brown OLB North Carolina

41. Kelechi Osemele OG Iowa State

42. Doug Martin RB Boise State

43. Brandon Weeden QB

49. David Wilson RB Virginia Tech

50. Michael Brewster C Ohio State

51. Amini Silatolu OG Midwestern State

52.Casey Hayward CB Vanderbilt

53. Rueben Randle WR LSU

54. Jared Crick DT Nebraska

55. Tommy Streeter WR Miami (FL)

56. Lavonte David OLB Nebraska

57. Harrison Smith S Notre Dame St.

58. Kendall Reyes DT Connecticut

59. Trumaine Johnson CB Montana

60. Robert Turbin RB Utah State

61. Alfonzo Dennard CB Nebraska

62. Ronnell Lewis OLB Oklahoma

63. Cam Johnson OLB Virginia

64. Josh Chapman DT Alabama

65. Brandon Brooks OG Miami (OH)

66. Mike Martin DT Michigan

67. Josh Norman CB Coastal Carolina

68. Ben Jones C Georgia

69. Chandler Jones DE Syracuse

70. Ladarius Green TE UL-Lafayette

71. Dwight Bentley CB UL-Lafayette

72. Brandon Mosley OT Auburn

73. LaMichael James RB Oregon

74. Ryan Broyles WR Oklahoma

75. Shea McClellin OLB Boise State

76. Chase Minnifield CB Virginia

77. Jeff Allen OT Illinois

78. Vinny Curry DE/OLB Marshall

79. Brandon Boykin CB Georgia

80. Andre Branch OLB Clemson

81. Isaiah Pead RB Cincinnati

82. Bobby Wagner OLB Utah State

83. Leonard Johnson CB Iowa State

84. Nick Toon WR Wisconsin

85. David Molk C Michigan

86. Mychal Kendricks ILB California

87. Alshon Jeffery WR South Carolina

88. Chris Polk RB Washington

89. Lucas Nix OG Pittsburgh

90. Jarius Wright WR Arkansas

91. Senio Kelemete OG Washington

92. Ryan Steed CB Furman

93. Marvin McNutt WR Iowa

94. Justin Bethel S Presbyterian

95. Marvin Jones WR California

96. Levy Adcock OT Oklahoma State

97. Trevor Guyton DT California

98. Russell Wilson QB Wisconsin

99. Matt McCants OT UAB

100. Billy Winn DT Boise State

101. Juron Criner WR Arizona

102. Brandon Washington OG Miami

103. Jamell Fleming CB Oklahoma

104. Philip Blake C Baylor

105. Jordan White WR Western Mich

106. Mitchell Schwartz OT California

107. Dwight Jones WR N. Carolina

108. Kirk Cousins QB Michigan St.

109. Jeff Fuller WR Texas A&M

111. Joe Adams WR Arkansas

110. Derek Wolfe DT Cincinnati

112. Chris Givens WR Wake Forest

113. Mike Harris CB Florida State

114. Michael Egnew TE Missouri

115. Tramain Thomas S Arkansas

116. DeVier Posey WR Ohio State

117. Asa Jackson CB Cal Poly

118. Markelle Martin S Oklahoma St.

119. Shaun Prater CB Iowa

120. Tony Bergstrom OT Utah

121. Gerell Robinson WR Arizona St.

122. Sean Spence OLB Miami (FL)

123. A.J. Jenkins WR Illinois

125. Frank Alexander DE Oklahoma

124. Cyrus Gray RB Texas A&M

126. Ryan Miller OG Colorado

127. Omar Bolden CB Arizona State

128. Keenan Robinson OLB Texas

129. Quinton Saulsberry C Miss St.

130. DeQuan Menzie CB Alabama

131. Drake Dunsmore TE N-western

132. Terrance Ganaway RB Baylor

133. Nate Potter OT Boise State

134. Bernard Pierce RB Temple

135. James Brown OT Troy

136. Malik Jackson DE Tennessee

137. B.J. Coleman QB UT-Chatt.

138. Marquis Maze WR Alabama

139. DaJohn Harris DT USC

140. Coryell Judie CB Texas A&M

141. T.Y. Hilton WR Florida Int.

142. Andrew Datko OT Florida State

143. Brad Smelley TE Alabama

144. Jack Crawford DE Penn State

145. Vick Ballard RB Mississippi St.

146. Joe Looney OG Wake Forest

147. JM Johnson ILB Nevada

150. Jake Bequette DE Arkansas

149. Audie Cole ILB N.C. State

148. Tyrone Crawford DE Boise St.

151. Travis Lewis OLB Oklahoma

152. Brock Osweiler QB Arizona State

153. Brandon Taylor S LSU

154. Greg Childs WR Arkansas

155. George Iloka S Boise State

156. Danny Coale WR Virginia Tech

157. Bruce Irvin OLB West Virginia

158. Devon Wylie WR Fresno State

159. Tom Compton OT South Dakota

160. Eric Page WR Toledo

161. Brandon Lindsey OLB Pittsburgh

162. Marcus Forston DT Miami (FL)

163. Terrell Manning OLB N.C. State

164. Brandon Bolden RB Ole Miss

165. Jonathan Massaquoi OLB Troy

166. Ron Brooks CB LSU

167. Justin Anderson OG Georgia

168. Jarrett Boykin WR Virginia Tech

169. Nigel Bradham OLB Florida State

170. Will Vlachos C Alabama

171. Trenton Robinson S Michigan State

172. Kheeston Randle DT Texas

173. Donnie Fletcher CB Boston College

174. Kellen Moore QB Boise State

175. Emmanuel Acho OLB Texas

176. Jaye Howard DT Florida

177. Kyle Wilber OLB Wake Forest

178. Nick Foles QB Arizona

179. Alfred Morris RB Florida Atlantic

180. Tydreke Powell DT North Carolina

181. Josh Kaddu OLB Oregon

182. Christian Tupou DT USC

183. Charles Brown CB North Carolina

184. Akiem Hicks DT Regina

185. Olivier Vernon DE Miami (FL)

186. Chris Rainey RB Florida

187. Ryan Lindley QB San Diego State

188. Hebron Fangupo DT BYU

189. Tauren Poole RB Tennessee

190. Adam Gettis OG Iowa

191. B.J. Cunningham WR Michigan State

192. Matt Reynolds OG BYU

193. Jermaine Kearse WR Washington

194. Edwin Baker RB Michigan State

195. T.J. Graham WR N.C. State

196. Ronnie Hillman RB San Diego State

197. Brian Linthicum TE Michigan State

198. Rishaw Johnson OG California (PA)

199. Brian Quick WR Appalachian State

200. Tony Jerod-Eddie DT Texas A&M

201. LaVon Brazill WR Ohio

202. Antonio Fenelus CB Wisconsin

203. Deangelo Peterson TE LSU

204. Bryan Anger P California

205. Antonio Allen S South Carolina

206. J.J. McDermott QB SMU

207. Davin Meggett RB Maryland

208. George Bryan TE N.C. State

209. Patrick Edwards WR Houston

210. Robert Blanton CB Notre Dame

211. Dan Herron RB Ohio State

212. Mike Daniels DT Iowa

213. Darron Thomas QB Oregon

214. Markus Kuhn DT N.C. State

215. Blair Walsh K Georgia

216. Evan Rodriguez TE Temple

217. Jaymes Brooks OG Virginia Tech

218. Shawn Powell P Florida State

219. Janzen Jackson S McNeese State

220. Kelvin Beachum OG SMU

221. Chris Greenwood CB Albion Christian

222. Adrian Robinson OLB Temple

224. Vontaze Burfict ILB Arizona State

223. Randy Bullock K Texas A&M

225. Case Keenum QB Houston

226. Donte Paige-Moss DE North Carolina

227. James Hanna TE Oklahoma

228. Cliff Harris CB Oregon

229. Chandler Harnish QB Northern Illinois

230. David Paulson TE Oregon

231. Tank Carder OLB TCU

232. Drew Butler P Georgia

233. Renard Williams DT Eastern Washington

234. Carson Wiggs K Purdue

235. Derek Dennis OG Temple

236. Rishard Matthews WR Nevada

237. Rokevious Watkins OG South Carolina

238. Lennon Creer RB Louisiana Tech

239. Kevin Koger TE Michigan

240. Philip Welch K Wisconsin

241. Cordarro Law DE Southern Miss

242. Brad Nortman P Wisconsin

243. Keshawn Martin WR Michigan State

245. Jerry Franklin ILB Arkansas

244. Marcel Jones OT Nebraska

246. Sean Richardson S Vanderbilt

247. Bradie Ewing FB Wisconsin

248. Marc Tyler RB USC

249. Sean Cattouse S California

250. Darrell Scott RB South Florida

251. Kelcie McCray S Arkansas State

252. Jewel Hampton RB Southern Illinois

253. Da’Jon McKnight WR Minnesota

254. Scott Solomon DE Rice

255. Elvis Akpla WR Montana State