Here’s a snap shot of the NFL Draft’s second round:
Best Value:
Alan Branch, DT, Arizona Cardinals (No. 33) – Thanks to a terrible pro day performance and a bad work ethic rep, Branch fell all the way to the top of the second round. However, he was once a top 10 pick, has an NFL-ready body and maybe he’ll have a little motivation for dropping so far. Other top values: Paul Posluszny, LB, Bills; Arron Sears, G, Bucs; Justin Blalock, G & Chris Houston, CB, Falcons; Sidney Rice, WR, Vikings; Dwayne Jarrett, WR, Panthers; David Harris, ILB, Jets; Ryan Kalil, C, Panthers; Eric Wright, CB, Browns; Steve Smith, WR, Giants.
Potential Sleeper:
Justin Durant, LB, Jacksonville Jaguars (No. 48) – Durant played at a small program (Hampton), so he might not catch the average fan’s eye. However, Durant is extremely athletic, fast and is used to making big plays. He’s just a bit of an unknown right now, but well worth the risk and is going into a fantastic defensive situation in Jacksonville. Other potential sleepers: Brian Leonard, RB/FB, Rams; Ikaika Alma-Francis, DE, Lions; Samson Satele, C, Dolphins.
What the hell were they thinking?
Drew Stanton, QB, Detroit Lions (No. 43) – I’m going to get heat on this, because I already have from Sparty On in the past. But this was a major reach for the Lions and worse yet, he doesn’t fit Mike Martz’s system. Martz’s system is predicated on timing and accuracy, plus its complex and based on vertical passing. What system did Stanton play in at MSU? A simple scheme with short to intermediate passing routes and he struggled with accuracy. He was a bad fit, bottom line. Other questionable moves: The Chargers giving up multiple draft picks to the Bears to move up and land safety Eric Weddle. I like the player, but not the compensation; The Bears taking Dan Bazuin, a defensive end, which is about the last thing Chicago needs. Once again, love the player and he’s a Bears-type of guy, but they reached a bit and could have probably addressed other needs.
