Chris Warner

Worry Wart – Preseason Game Four At Giants

September 1, 2010 By Chris Warner 6 Comments

by Chris Warner, Patriots Daily Staff

Preseason games should be fun to watch, because we get to check out our favorite team with no real concern for the result. That said, last Thursday’s 36-35 loss to the Rams was about as enjoyable as sliding down a saguaro cactus.

We’ll move on to this week, the Battle of the Backups, with hopes for at least a pleasant diversion before watching games that count. As the venerable Mike Reiss has said, this tilt at the Giants home field allows New England to scout the brand-spanking New Meadowlands Stadium That Is Still In A Swamp, or whatever it’s called. Hey, every little bit against the Jets would help.

So, no big concerns for Thursday’s game by itself, but lots to watch heading into 2010…

Neither Bodden Nor The Patriots Were Smiling Tuesday

Secondary A Primary Thought: Tuesday night’s cuts saw erstwhile starter Leigh Bodden get placed on season-ending injured reserve. We hoped that rookie Devin McCourty and second-year player Darius Butler could step up at cornerback. Now, trial by fire becomes trial by inferno.

Mega Hurts: We got the lousy news on Bodden, but what’s up with Ron Brace? Or Jermaine Cunningham, Julian Edelman, or Aaron Hernandez? (Note Tuesday’s PFW injury report here.) These and several other players won’t play on Thursday – and that’s fine by us – but what is their status for Game One?

Better Take A Tom Out: Actually, we only assume that Tom Brady will sit out this game. And by “assume,” we mean “hope like hell.” You know as well as anyone, Coach Bill Belichick, that it only takes a few seconds to get hurt. Give backups Brian Hoyer and Zac Robinson some field time. All of it, even.

Searching High And LoMo: Okay, so far no starts from running back Laurence Maroney. Does that seem strange to anyone else? Did we have to see veteran Sammy Morris in action to know that he can run the ball (he’s only been in the league since Noah felt a raindrop)? Is Maroney ready to play? Is he mentally there? A strong night vs. New York backups might help ease some fears.

Having Trouble With Our Lines: Games get won in the trenches, so we’re wondering about this offensive line’s ability to grind out first downs. While Brady had a solid game with the starters, the O-line looks about as deep as a bottlecap, and the holdout of Logan Mankins ain’t helping. On the other side of the ball, can the Patriots stop the run and pressure opposing quarterbacks (I’m looking at you, Derrick Burgess)? And can they do it without smacking someone in the head for a 15-yard penalty? Seriously, last week’s game featured more slaps than a telenovela.

Who Gives A Darnell? About 22 players out of 75, that’s who. Thursday’s the night that the bottom of the roster gets figured out, when guys like receiver Darnell Jenkins, linebacker Thomas Williams and running back Thomas Clayton either make the final 53 or get cut. The coaches have some tough decisions to make, especially considering the aforementioned injuries and the age of the backfield. Look for those names and some new ones to pop up on the eight-man practice squad after the league-wide slashing.

Email Chris Warner at chris.warner@patriotsdaily.com

Filed Under: Columns

Worry Wart – Preseason Game Three vs. Rams

August 25, 2010 By Chris Warner 3 Comments

by Chris Warner, Patriots Daily Staff

Preseason games usually lack much significance, but 2010’s friendly contests mean more than before. With two dozen draft picks over the past two years and countless new players (and by countless, I mean like six), fans are watching these games with the attentiveness of an overcaffeinated Where’s Waldo? addict.

Last Thursday’s outscoring of Atlanta kept our tempered optimism moving. Going into Scrimmage Three (Thursday vs. the Rams), or what has traditionally been the last sighting of starters during the preseason, the Patriots still have a few things to get straight before the games count.

Can Maroney Flash Heisman Form?

Pay Full Price, Get Halfback: After BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Fred Taylor started at running back against the Saints and Falcons, respectively, Laurence Maroney expects to step onto the dance floor (so to speak). While Maroney has had his chances – what other Patriot gets five years to reach his potential? – let’s give him one more: if he carries the ball 10 times and gains 40 yards over the Rams, we promise to leave him alone. At least until week two of the regular season.

Why The Hurry? There’s No Rush: Though the score didn’t indicate it, the Falcons gobbled up yards like Jets coach Rex Ryan eats M&Ms (Seriously, if you enjoy watching runaway trains, check out “Hard Knocks.” You’re telling me Charlie Weis needed a gastric bypass and Ryan doesn’t?). Give QB Matt Ryan (noooo relation) credit, but New England needs a pass rush. Will Tully Banta-Cain play this week, or will Marques Murrell step up? How close is rookie Jermaine Cunningham to returning? And when will Derrick Burgess actually show this “improvement” we’ve all been reading about?

Swing Logan, Sweet Chariot: Left guard Dan Connolly has performed well in place of Logan Mankins, but with Nick Kaczur out for a long time – the man had back surgery, for the love of St. Pete! – this line looks about as healthy as Rex Ryan (sorry, had to). As the Patriots continue to play smaller defenses with four-man fronts, it becomes harder to predict how the big guys up front will execute against the apartment-sized defenders in the AFC East. If the Rams stop New England’s running game, then yikes.

Get More For Wes? We hope not. Although it made us happy to see Wes Welker back on the field, every time a defender got near him it felt like my innards were hosting a gymnastics meet. Maybe one series vs. St. Louis, maybe one catch or two, but save Welker for Week One. Let’s check out more of what receivers like Taylor Price and Brandon Tate can do. A repeat of Tate’s Pardon-Me-I-Have-A-First-Down-To-Make move where he shook four defensive backs wouldn’t hurt.

All Aboard The D-Line: Okay, Vince Wilfork mans the middle and Gerard Warren has taken Ty Warren’s spot at left end. Mike Wright has started at right end, giving up too much yardage on the ground. Last week second-year player/conditioning phobe Ron Brace did solid work on the D-line, albeit against Atlanta’s B team. Time to see if the heftier Brace, Damione Lewis and rookie Brandon Deaderick can take reps against the starters.

I Get No Kick From Sham Games: No, these preseason scrimmages don’t count, but it still frays one’s nerves when Stephen Gostkowski misses a field goal attempt. This shank got overlooked due to a roughing-the-kicker penalty against Atlanta that featured less contact than my first date, but it still warranted concern. We’ll look for the Ghostkicker to have more success at Foxboro this week.

Email Chris Warner at chris.warner@patriotsdaily.com

Filed Under: Columns, Games

The Running Back Issue

August 23, 2010 By Chris Warner 10 Comments

by Chris Warner, Patriots Daily Staff

Some call it running back by committee, or RRBC. Some see it as proof that no one really sticks out. With a recent Sports Illustrated cover story on the fast decline of feature backs (not exactly news – remember Marion Butts’ time in Foxboro?) it seems that the Patriots have found a temporary solution to an ongoing problem.

Though effective this preseason, the RBBC approach has done little to allay concerns about New England’s backfield for the long haul. For clues as to what Coach Bill Belichick is thinking (or maybe more confusion), let’s review previous preseason games to see how the carries were divvied up.

Kevin Faulk’s rushing numbers are not included here (the man has a better-defined role than Sylvester Stallone). Also excluded are fourth preseason games due to projected starters resting. The running back with the first carry of each scrimmage is noted thusly.*

PRESEASON 2010

Bill Belichick seems to be making a concerted effort this year to highlight the performances of certain backs in each game. If this trend continues, expect Laurence Maroney to get the nod vs. the Rams this week.

Saints (box score): Chris Taylor 8-39; *BenJarvus Green-Ellis 11-34; Maroney 8-30; Thomas Clayton 4-13.

Despite averaging just over three yards per carry, Green-Ellis helped the Pats establish their running game vs. the Super Bowl champs.

Falcons (box score): *Fred Taylor 11-54; Sammy Morris 6-52; Green-Ellis 7-12; Clayton 4-(-5).

Taylor started and showed flashes of THE Fred Taylor. Morris continued that trend, albeit against a team with about as much tackle in it as an empty fishing boat. (On a side note, speaking as the self-appointed driver of the Thomas Clayton Preseason Bandwagon, my boy TC got screwed.) Look for the rushing emphasis to continue Thursday against yet another faster, lighter NFC defense.

PRESEASON 2009

You know, when this article began, I assumed that Maroney had started all of last year’s preseason games. Some research proved me wrong. (I know, I know: hard to believe.)

Eagles (box score): Morris 12-45; Green-Ellis 4-31; *Maroney 6-14.

Last year the Pats’ starters could not run against the Eagles’ D, making Maroney’s preseason debut a rough one. Green-Ellis’ stats made matters worse for LoMo.

Bengals (box score): Green-Ellis 10-44; *Fred Taylor 7-26; Maroney 3-6.

Taylor’s consistency and Green-Ellis’ 4.4-yard average only added fuel to the Maroney-hating fire, though no one on New England’s offense could have been proud of a 7-6 loss to Chad Ochocinco’s extra-point kick.

Redskins (box score): Green-Ellis 6-49; Chris Taylor 4-25; *Fred Taylor 7-20; Maroney 7-16.

Though Fred Taylor started against the Redskins, he had only one carry in the first offensive series (gaining one yard) before Maroney took over on the ensuing possession. In that series, Maroney caught one pass for nine yards and carried twice for two yards, recovering his own fumble on the second carry. Disappointing, but only in the way the maiden voyage of the Titanic was disappointing.

To recap the 2009 scrimmages, Maroney had 16 rushes for 36 yards (2.25 ypc). In his defense (and as an indictment of last year’s running game), Taylor had 14 runs for 46 yards for about 3.3 ypc.

PRESEASON 2008

Two years ago, New England took a more traditional approach to playing time, starting and sticking with Maroney in the first three games. Below each stat line is the optimistic point of view at the time.

Ravens (box score): Lamont Jordan 19-76; Green-Ellis 1-8; *Maroney 6-6.

One yard per carry for Maroney. Even I can do that math. But that’s alright: it’s the first friendly, and the Ravens always have a stout defense.

Bucs (box score): *Maroney 7-15; Morris 5-10; Green-Ellis 2-8.

An absolute clusterhump of a game (Pats lose, 27-10). But really, it’s okay, the Bucs are going to be a solid defensive team for a long time. Right?

Eagles (box score): Morris 5-24; *Maroney 5-18; Green-Ellis 5-6.

It’s okay. It’s a passing offense. Tom Brady will get them to the playoffs, unless he gets hurt in the first quarter of the first gameohdamnitalltohell.

THE (POSSIBLY CRAZY) THEORY

In the wake of the 2007 offense, the Patriots looked to rely on Brady’s arm again. This failure to emphasize the running game came to a head last season, when New England couldn’t get yardage it needed to run out the clock or to score in the red zone. Coupled with a deteriorating defense, 2009 ended quickly and badly.

Sure, this month Belichick wants to get a different look at different backs, and wants to give each starter several carries to establish a rhythm. But there’s another theory, one that hinges on Maroney’s status with the team. In August 2008, Maroney carried the ball 18 times for 39 yards, or 2.17 ypc. In 2009, he tallied an almost equally abysmal 2.25-yard average. Based on these numbers – and on public reaction – Belichick decided to protect Maroney from preseason failure.

That’s not the primary reason for RRBC, of course; the coaches really do want to see how each player performs against a starting defense. And few coaches care less about what the public thinks than Belichick. But let’s consider: which Patriots running back is most self-aware of his image? Which one has seemed most willing to comment on the “haters” and how he is perceived?

Correct or no, fair or no, Maroney’s preseason performances have made him the target of trade speculation (and, for many fans, trade hopes). Having him score a TD on his first carry against New Orleans obviously got the guy excited. A strong performance vs. the Rams on Thursday (number 29 in total defense last year) can only boost the former first-rounder’s confidence going into the season.

We can speculate all we want about who’s going to start this year, but we all know that – barring a trade – Maroney will figure prominently in this offense’s plans. RRBC? Great. Maroney looking to contribute without feeling the pressure? Even better.

Email Chris Warner at chris.warner@patriotsdaily.com

Filed Under: Featured

Worry Wart – Preseason Game Two At Falcons

August 18, 2010 By Chris Warner 12 Comments

by Chris Warner, Patriots Daily Staff

After wringing our hands all summer over myriad aspects of New England Version 2010, the home boys came to play last week, gaining a 17-7 lead over the Saints on their way to a meaningless-yet-enjoyable 27-24 win. This week, the locals have trekked down to Atlanta to share a practice field and a scrimmage.

Now that some kind of a bar has been set, we’re looking forward to watching how the fighting Foxboroughites (is that it? I have no idea) handle the Falcons. Along with the excitement, of course, come a number of concerns.

Murrell, Banta-Cain Took Down Brees (Photo by Matt Stone)

On Your Marques: Any people who say they expected to utter the words “Marques Murrell on the sack” before last Thursday are flat-out fibbers. After all, the man’s stats don’t exactly instill fear the in hearts of quarterbacks. To the delight of the home crowd, Murrell and Tully Banta Cain provided significant pressure. This week Derrick “Sorry I’m Late But I Had This Thing” Burgess joins the squad and should see some time with Banta-Cain and rookie Jermaine Cunningham reportedly missing the trip. If pass-rushing consistency continues, okay then. If not, we shall re-commence fret mode.

It’s Not Easy Being Green-Ellis: Running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis started vs. the Saints, but what the heck does that mean? We can assume that veteran Fred Taylor was getting some time off (he’s about 68 in halfback years), but why did Coach Belichick rest erstwhile starter/over-exuberant celebrant Laurence Maroney most of the first half, only to run him in the second? Should Chris Taylor get a chance to run against a starting defense? And with a backfield of Methuselahs, why the heck didn’t New England draft a running back this year?

Sorry. Old business. Let’s move on…

The Warren Omission: With defensive end Ty Warren hitting injured reserve with the hip of an octogenarian, it’s up to veteran Gerard Warren to man the left end spot. That right end position now has more questions than the SATs, with no one yet filling in the blanks. While Mike Wright has done yeoman work as a sub and pass-rusher, he has been less than stout at the point. Meanwhile, second-year man Ron Brace has returned to the field, with all the hoopla and fanfare we might expect (read: zilch). With veteran Damione Lewis not expected to play, the onus falls on rookie Brandon Deaderick to answer some questions about this area of the defense. And that’s a heavy onus.

Oh Thank Devin: Though special teams allowed a kickoff return for a TD, they also gave a glimpse of the production of rookie cornerback/returner Devin McCourty, who shot the lanes like a pro bowler (two returns of 50-plus yards). Let’s hope that continues, especially after Atlanta has had a chance to review game film.

Double Dog Darius: Former UConn Husky Darius Butler has high expectations placed on him, as many – heck, all – see him as a starter at cornerback. Let’s see how he does in hostile territory against Matty “Heisman” Ryan (who has a somewhat unspectacular facebook fan page).

The Pros And Connolly: Guard Dan Connolly did solid work against the Saints, springing Green-Ellis on his first TD run. But before we kick Logan Mankins out the door, Connolly has to demonstrate his prowess on a regular basis. If he can block with some attitude on short-yardage plays, then we’ve got something. If not, the issue at left guard remains, well, an issue.

Middle Management: Rookie linebacker Brandon Spikes reminds me of the new football season in that he’s fresh, yet familiar, and he makes us glad he’s here. Will he play most of the game again, or will second-year ’backer Tyrone McKenzie get a chance to show what he can do? Will rookie upstart Dane Fletcher (possible injury) have anything to say about this before the preseason ends? Plenty of options, with too many questions on each.

Heart And Zoltan: Nice punts, nice holds. Zoltan Mesko barely got a mention last week. Let’s hope he keeps it that way.

Email Chris Warner at chris.warner@patriotsdaily.com.

Filed Under: Columns, Games

Worry Wart – Preseason Game One vs. Saints

August 11, 2010 By Chris Warner 7 Comments

by Chris Warner, Patriots Daily Staff

After a long, shaky off-season full of hope – as in I hope this year is better than last – Patriots fans get treated to a friendly vs. the team they rooted for in the Super Bowl, aka Not The Colts.

With the much-ballyhooed retirement of past Pats heroes and two dozen rookies selected in the last two drafts, we’ve decided to focus our worries on the newer New Englanders (following Bruce Allen’s lead in this post). Most have never been in an NFL game before, so whatever positives they can manage Thursday night will go a long way toward placating the Foxboro faithful.

Who dat trying to beat dem Saints? We’re trying to figure dat out for ourselves.

A Thin Line Between Love And Tate: After a season lost to injury, second-year receiver Brandon Tate has one end-around play in his NFL résumé. Though his athletic talent has never been questioned, his route-running discipline has. Will he line up opposite Randy Moss this week? Will he add some much-needed zip to the Pats’ lackluster return game? He has the potential of a box of tinder. Here’s hoping he can provide the spark.

Does Spikes Have A Need For Speed?

Put On Your Spikes: New England fans should never complain about scouts paying too much attention to 40-yard dash times. Otherwise, rookie linebacker Brandon Spikes never would have slipped to the second round due to his glacial 5.04-second run. Rather than raw speed, Spikes relies on preparation to get to where the ball carrier is (or wants to be). Still, his less-than-Mercurial feet could betray him vs. the passing game. Which brings up the following…

Big Mac With Mayo? He missed last year after a knee injury, but – as he predicted in his PD interview this spring – Tyrone McKenzie has shown few ill effects during training camp. With Gary Guyton’s recent injury, both Spikes and McKenzie will vie for the spot next to Jerod Mayo. Will Spikes take running downs with McKenzie as the third-down guy? Will that cramp the defense’s style? Thursday night’s faceoff against the multi-faceted Saints offense might provide a clue.

Hi Price: More praise for the Pats’ college scouts. While tucked away in an Ohio offense about as productive as a broken toaster, Taylor Price got few opportunities to show what he could do. He’s gotten high grades in practice thus far, but will he prove worthy of a third-round pick?

Order In McCourty: Speaking of picks, how are we feeling about the Pats’ numero uno? Devin McCourty was welcomed to New England with a region-wide hush that spoke volumes (see our draft recap here). Here’s his first chance to prove that he’s a keeper beyond special teams and that he can get himself into the rotation at cornerback.

A Means To Some Ends: The Patriots’ tight end situation felt like your same old winter coat: unspectacular, but fine. Really, it had gotten to the point where you didn’t think about it much. Rookies Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski could become the upgrade you didn’t realize you needed, making the tight end position a potent receiving (and red zone) threat for the first time in years. Embrace the warmth.

The Jermaine Topic: Barring a big free agent signing or a sudden surge in Derrick Burgess’ enthusiasm, rookie Jermaine Cunningham looks like the answer (or at least one answer) at pass-rushing outside linebacker. Watching a replay of last year’s SEC championship game, the then-Florida defensive end had a hard time setting the edge against Alabama’s tackles. How he holds up on early downs – and what kind of pressure he can provide on third down – will help determine the angle of Cunningham’s learning curve.

Another Fine Mesko: If punter Zoltan Mesko displays a consistent foot Thursday night, expect the numbers to rise on his Facebook fan club. Enough said.

Over the past two years, New England has gotten the infusion of youth that fans have been asking for. Thursday night’s a preview of how – or if – it’s going to come together this season.

Email Chris Warner at chris.warner@patriotsdaily.com

Filed Under: Columns, Games

Party In The UDFA

April 27, 2010 By Chris Warner 3 Comments

by Chris Warner, Patriots Daily Staff

As rough as this past weekend must have felt for these players, becoming an undrafted free agent (UDFA) has its benefits. They can access situations and make the choice of where they want to go. Below, we review those who accepted the invitation to New England’s rookie festival.

We did something similar on PD last year. For a refresher (Antonio Appleby, anyone?), click here. To see an updated list of 2010’s hopefuls, check out NEPatriotsdraft.com, which has been the main stopping place the past couple of years to keep track of the undrafted.

So, without further ado, a brief rundown of the rookies who both got chosen and made the choice to come to Foxboro…

ROOKIE FREE AGENTS

North Dakota State's Pat Paschall

Pat The Patriot: Lots to appreciate about North Dakota State running back Pat Paschall (6-0, 211), especially when we confront the fact that Sammy Morris, Fred Taylor and Kevin Faulk are a combined 100 years old (boy, that makes 33-to-34-year-olds seem ancient).

Why undrafted: He posted a pedestrian 40 time (4.57) and enjoyed a career at an FCS school located in a state with the population density of tundra.

Chances to stick: As of now, he’s the only rookie runner headed for Foxboro. If his highlight reel is any indication, he’s got the moves and receiving ability to garner a second look.

The Life Of Bryan: While his more-heralded Central Michigan teammate Antonio Brown got the attention of scouts, Bryan Anderson (6-5, 214) set a record with 54 consecutive games receiving a pass. Not flashy, but such consistency can get a guy noticed.

Why undrafted: Ran a 4.58 40. Also, hard to discern whether his prowess came from individual talent or a great QB (Dan LeFevour) and fellow receiver (Brown).

Chances to stick: Hmm… with the signing of Torry Holt and drafting of Taylor Price, Anderson’s chances look a little slimmer than he is.

Put It On The Underhill Tab: At 6-2, 250, Dane Fletcher seems to fit the outside linebacker mold. The former Montana State  defensive end had one heck of a pro day, too, including a 4.61 40 and 29 bench press reps.

Why undrafted: I hate to admit it, but despite his 17.5 tackles for loss and FCS All-American status, I heard absolutely nothing about this guy. I have to think that’s a symptom of playing in an area with “Elk Crossing” signs.

Chances to stick: Before we get too excited after watching his highlight video (where he seems to magically appear in opponents’ backfields), we have to look at the OLB projects already ahead of him, including Jermaine Cunningham, Bruce Davis and Marques Murrell. Looking forward to seeing Fletcher excel in the fourth quarters of preseason – and I’m being sincere when I say that.

Big Love: One look at Kyle Love’s highlight reel, and you understand why the Patriots would want the tenacious defensive tackle in Foxboro.

Why undrafted: The whole “undersized” thing has a certain NFL context (for example, Mercury is an undersized planet, but it’s still the size of a freaking planet); still, at 6-1, 310 pounds, it’s hard to say whether Love will survive.

Chances to stick: With a couple of late-round D-linemen in Brandon Deaderick and Kade Weston, it’s tough to see the Mississippi State product sticking around. But maybe Love will find a way. (Oh, God, the pun-loving part of me hopes he makes the practice squad!).

Vulcan Logic: Cornerback Terrence Johnson of California (PA) led the Vulcans – yes, it’s true – with three interceptions and nine pass break-ups last year.

Why undrafted: A small school guy who’s small himself (5-9, 190) and lacking exceptional speed (4.5 40) won’t get a lot of calls on draft day.

Chances to stick: The Patriots sure seem to love those dimunitive DBs, but Johnson’s got a tough task ahead of him. His kick-return skills (23.7-yard avg.) might help.

Looking For Another Ray: Villanova safety Ross Ventrone should know a thing or two about Gillette, especially if he’s ever talked to his brother (former Patriot) Ray. His highlight video shows a quick-reacting safety who’s not afraid to hit (we think: it’s a little hard to see at times).

Why undrafted: Like his brother, Ventrone’s size (5-8, 198) and speed (4.5) give him the perfect platform to call attention to his “unmeasurables.”

Chances to stick: His brother had a nice little career in Foxboro, but it’s impossible to tell if such qualities as “heart,” “grit,” and “determination” will be enough when covering gentlemen with such qualities as “speed” and “size.” At the least we can pencil him in as an early fan favorite.

Notre Dame's Sergio Brown

Brains, Brawn, Brown: Watching his highlight reel and checking out his pro day numbers (4.5 40, 6.67 3-cone, 35-inch vertical), Sergio Brown (6-2, 205) looks like a secret steal. Then we remember that the phrase “Notre Dame defense” has been something of an oxymoron recently.

Why undrafted: The aforementioned Lack of the Irish – plus a lack of interceptions (zero) – hurt, especially when considering that teams must have been wary of teammate Kyle McCarthy at the other safety.

Chances to stick: With the defensive backs situation around here, who the heck knows? He could provide some roster pressure to a couple of the backup safeties.

Wise Up: Also known as this year’s Stephen Neal Tryout, John Wise of Illinois is the latest wrestler to get a shot at the offensive line. Unlike Kent State’s Jermail Porter last year, though, Wise at least has a soupcon of football experience, playing defensive lineman for Western Illinois for two years before transferring.

Why undrafted: I’m guessing because of the whole wrestling-instead-of-football thing. If you’d like to see him grapple with All-American Dan Erekson of Iowa, click here, but be warned, it’s not pretty. Wrestling (the kind without makeup, pyrotechnics and/or divas) rarely is.

Chances to stick: Offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia has more development to deal with than a middle school guidance counselor. With rookies Ted Larsen and Thomas Welch, plus second-year guys Rich Ohrnberger and George Bussey, Wise would have to have a ton of potential to make the practice squad.

GUY I’D LIKE TO SEE IN FOXBORO

During last year’s UDFA prediction/debacle, I really put the “Who?” in “Who’s Who?” when making my free agent candidate list. This season, I’m only requesting that one undrafted rookie get a second look from the Pats.

Holy Toledo: Running back DaJuane Collins (5-10, 220) led the Rockets with 1,026 yards in 2009 (5.6 per carry). He also had 17 catches for 116 yards. The current age of the Pats running backs has been alluded to (100 years, people!); more competition at the position wouldn’t hurt.

So, what undrafted rookie should the Pats bring into camp? Give us your pick below, and thanks for making Patriots Daily a part of your 2010 NFL draft experience.

Email Chris Warner at chris.warner@patriotsdaily.com

Filed Under: The Draft Tagged With: Bryan Anderson, DaJuane Collins, Dane Fletcher, John Wise, Kyle Love, Pat Paschall, Ross Ventrone, Sergio Brown, Terrence Johnson

Patriots Daily Draft Review

April 26, 2010 By Chris Warner 6 Comments

by Patriots Daily Staff

Chris Warner: Impact players? Maybe a couple. Solid guys? Plenty of them. Value picks? Looks like it.

Successful draft? Time will tell.

Dan Snapp: The days after draft always feel barren. There’s so little to do. You can scour the Internet for proof – and you can always find this proof somewhere – that your guys were steals and rivals’ guys were reaches. But in reality you have a spectrum of five months to never (Alas, Shawn Crable, you peaked in your leaping-over-linemen Michigan photo) for any evidence of what they’ll truly yield.

There’s extra emptiness this draft when it dawns that the biggest need – pass rush – still went woefully neglected.

Chris: The Pats’ spring haul resembles most things in life: we have little idea of how it’s all going to pan out. Below, your humble PD staff (hah!) shares what they like, don’t like, and still don’t quite understand.

Before we get into detail, the picks, by round and overall selection:

1 (27) – Devin McCourty, DB, Rutgers (5-11, 193)

2 (42) – Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona (6-6, 264)

2 (53) – Jermaine Cunningham, OLB, Florida (6-3, 266)

2 (62) – Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida (6-3, 250)

3 (90) – Taylor Price, WR, Ohio (6-0, 200)

4 (113) – Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida (6-2, 245)

5 (150) – Zoltan Mesko, P, Michigan (6-4, 240 – whoa!)

6 (205) – Ted Larsen, C, N.C. State (6-2, 304)

7 (208) – Thomas Welch, OT, Vanderbilt (6-6, 307)

7 (247) – Brandon Deaderick, DE, Alabama (6-4, 314)

7 (248) – Kade Weston, DT, Georgia (6-5, 317)

7 (250) – Zac Robinson, QB, Oklahoma State (6-2, 214)

Second, the trades, by round:

1 – 22 to Denver for 24 and a fourth (119); later, 24 and 119 to Dallas for 27 and a third (90).

2 – 44 and a sixth (190) to Oakland for 42; 47 to Arizona for 58 and a third (89); 58 to Houston for 62 and a fifth (150).

3 – 89 to Carolina for a 2011 second.

7 – 229 and 231 to Washington for 208.

Now, our rankings, more or less, based on what was overheard in our respective living rooms during the exhaustive, 72-hour bonanza that was Draft Weekend 2010:

WOOHOO!

Chris: Though no single selection caused me to exult, I’m thinking about giving 2010 a top grade overall. Needs met, playmakers found, potential gathered. Yes, I would have liked a few different picks here and there (a running back late, a defensive end earlier), but this draft provided more potential playmakers than last year’s, which was solid.

Greg Doyle: I’ll say Spikes. I have been all around the gamut on him. I thought he was one of the best linebackers in college football when I merely watched him play. But then, I admit, the whispers got to me. I started hearing about a history of ankle problems. Then the slow 40 times. I admit, they got me to severely downgrade him and not even seriously think of him until possibly the final day. But my immediate reaction upon them taking him? YES! That is a football player! Maybe it’s my Patriots bias, but I don’t think so. I was similarly down on Gronkowski and while I may have lightened up abit on him, I still have reservations I’ll explain below. Spikes? There is just no way a guy that productive, that passionate, that much of a playmaker and that smart won’t do well for a Bill Belichick coached team. He’ll likely become a 2-down plugger. That means he is the guy taking on the lead blockers most of the time and it’ll free up Mayo to take less of a beating and be more of a playmaker. The inside now with Mayo, Spikes, McKenzie and Guyton as a nickel backer (the perfect role for him) now looks stocked with young guys with potential.

Dan: Mesko – The perfect storm of need, talent, and right round converge. And then they all sold some game jerseys. Some think the Pats grab these special teamers too high – Ghost with a 4th in ’06, Ingram in the 6th last year, and now a fifth for the Zoltan – but one round too early is a negligible price to pay if that player eliminates a need at the position for the next four years.

Scott Benson: Brandon Spikes, definitely. They didn’t make that pick by some textbook measureable or abstract projection (see tight end Meathead Stivic, two picks earlier) but by pure football-playin’ track record. They didn’t make that pick based on the best player available theory but on raw, bald-faced need. If this guy doesn’t play more defensive snaps this fall than everyone but Jerod Mayo, I’ll eat my fucking hat. I also loved Aaron Hernandez because of the same things. I love that they didn’t pass on a tight end that can find space AND catch/run just because he didn’t meet some in-line blocking metric. Aren’t they already paying the offensive line a shitload of money to do that? Anyway, if I had my druthers, every single pick every single year would be just like these two.

COOL.

Chris: I liked the Gronkowski pick (They filled a need! Finally!), and I enjoyed the aggressive way they traded up to get him. I also gave the ol’ nod to Hernandez filling out the TE spot, as well as Mesko in the fifth and QB Robinson rounding out the seventh (called by PD’s own Greg Doyle in his mock draft, by the way). Strong investments, all.

Greg: That was my reaction to the Hernandez pick. Being a big SEC fan and with the success of Florida as a program, I saw him play a lot and he is very good. I thought he was one of the top 3 tight ends in the draft and to get him in the 4th round is excellent. He has great hands, can move after the catch and is pretty quick for his size. I think he’ll fit into this offense as a “move” tight end from day one.

Dan: Spikes – Just felt etched in stone this guy would be a Patriot. Production, toughness, leadership and a fortuitously bad 40 time to drop him within their grasp. Gronkowski – I admit it, the measurables wowed me. I was thinking Kyle Brady before Belichick said “Kyle Brady” when asked afterward for a comparable. Yeah, yeah, the back. I know. I’ll blithely choose to ignore that for the time being, and just keep repeating “Kyle Brady, Kyle Brady”. Hernandez – Belichick hedging his bets on Gronkowski by grabbing a guy rated almost as high (and in some instances higher). Hope it also signals a new commitment to the tight end in the passing game.

Scott: I flipped when they made this pick (it’s all there on Twitter – I’m not proud of it), but after a couple of days I’ll put Devin McCourty in this group. Nothing I read anywhere over these last several weeks contradicted that this was a solid, versatile player with promise who deserved to be picked in the precise range in which he was chosen. And nobody ever said the Patriots don’t need to get better in the secondary. If he comes along like Darius Butler, for example, then what the hell would be wrong with that? Besides the whole Jerry Hughes thing, I mean. I also liked that the Patriots picked a punter bigger than the late Reggie Roby. As a tribute, Zoltan Mesko should wear a wrist watch while kicking. And by the way – isn’t it funny that after all the bitching about Chris Hanson, they picked a punter that is a left footed, directional, rugby-style kicker who lives on hang-time? I think it’ll be funny when this eventually dawns on the people who are still crying for that Todd Sauerbrun blast-it bullshit.

OKAY.

Chris: The Cunningham pick satisfied another need, which I appreciated; it just felt like it took a long time to get there (see my above Gronkowski parenthetical). The trade to the Panthers for a second-rounder made a ton of sense, but I wonder if we’ll end up wishing we had another pass-rusher this season instead of a high pick in 2011? Regarding Larsen and Welch, I only kept track of the latter because, once again, Greg “Bull’s Eye” Doyle picked him in his mock (nice job, Greg!). Though I wished they’d gotten D-line help sooner, I thought Deaderick and Weston provided a couple of pleasant late-round surprises.

And just as an aside, “Gronkowski Parenthetical” would be an awesome alternative band name.

Greg: The Deaderick pick seemed very logical. Played in the same system and really was graded higher than a 7th rounder. He was a productive guy who isn’t much of a pass rusher but a stout 3-4 end run defender. He’ll fit in and to find that in the 7th round is great.

Dan: McCourty – This poor guy gets his parade rained on because he’s not an outside linebacker. And when you think about it, a pretty damn good response to Santonio Holmes and Brandon Marshall entering the division. I saw this stat this morning: “Leading tackler among NCAA cornerbacks.” So yeah, I’m on board. But would it really have killed them to draft Jerry Hughes? Cunningham – The pros: hard worker, great program, BB’s ties to Meyer for the inside scoop, and mostly, that he has the right capital letters following his name. But this is it? Even if he proves a capable rusher, it’s still a position of need. Which is more of a concern: Gronkowski’s back or Sergio Kindle’s knee?

How about this, Bill? Make the “Scheme vs. Production” Zen riddle your own little Darwinian experiment and draft both Hughes and Kindle. While you’re jotting down arm length and optimum frame notes alongside nuthatch sketches in your journal, maybe at least the pass rush will finally evolve.

Scott: I’m putting Jermaine Cunningham right here, as in “okay, getting someone who can raise hell on the edge is your biggest need, and is critical to your defensive prospects in the short and long-term, and if you don’t hit this right you’ll go a long way to another year(s) of maddeningly passive third-down defense, and you’re telling me that Jermaine is the tonic for this, so…..okaaaaaaay. We’ll see if you do any better than you did with Crable.” I’ll add to this group everybody picked after Mesko. I know, I know…. “Tom Brady was a sixth round pick.” Yeah, for every one of those there’s six hundred million Oscar Luas. I guess what I’m saying is who cares. If a once-in-a-lifetime player shows up after being picked in that range, I’m okay with finding out about it when it happens. I’m not spending any time on it beforehand.

WAIT: WHAT?

Chris: Their first pick, McCourty, fit this category on Thursday night. A solid overall player, sure, but some of the pass-rushers available at the time looked mighty enticing. Now, when it comes to Spikes, I have to admit I got confused. One could argue that his 5.04-second 40 unduly soured me, but it does bring up the question of his ability at the NFL level. I’m looking forward to him proving me wrong.

Greg: Gronkowski has everything you want in terms of size and athletic ability. But the injury stuff scares me. He’s got a bad back for crying out loud and a big part of his job is going to be to help block 320 lb. guys in the running game. I know it’s easy for us to say, well, they had to check out his health thoroughly. And yeah, they obviously did. But you know what, I remember sort of taking that approach with Terrence Wheatley a few years back, a guy with a friggin’ metal rod holding his wrist together. That SOUNDED like a concern to me, but I got swept up in the “well, if they used a 2nd rounder on him, he must be healthy….” Know what? He has had injury problems since he’s been here and undoubtedly that has slowed his improvement and now, even when healthy, he can’t get on the field. I just don’t want to see a repeat of that with Gronkowski.

Dan: Price – No idea about this guy, and given the Pats were his only workout, that may be true for the rest of the league. This is one of those “In Bill We Trust” picks, hoping Belichick had Chad O’Shea put the guy in witness protection, wheat farming in Idaho ’til the draft safely ran its course.

Scott: No real comer at right defensive end (that’s an ’11 thing, evidently), and Taylor Price is the only wideout picked. I do like that Price is going to play outside the numbers instead of inside them – not everyone can be a slot receiver – but he certainly wasn’t in the upper echelon of prospects there. This causes me to reflect back on a realization I had a week or two ago – even with all the picks they had, they were probably not going to scratch every itch. There were (are) quite a few, after all.

OH, FOR CHRIST’S SAKE!

Chris: Despite a nice highlight reel vs. Tennessee, I watched Price play a couple of times this year and failed to come away impressed. Of course, I’m bitter that the Pats missed out on a PD favorite, Andre Roberts, whom we all chose in our mock. Also kept waiting for a big running back late (Joique Bell, Wayne State, or even LaGarrette Blount, Oregon/Boxing School).

Greg: I didn’t really have a problem with any pick in that regard. The Price pick is a pure talent thing. He has it. And he did play in a Neanderthal offense. It’ll likely take him some time to get up to speed on something like the Pats offense. If any pick gave me that reaction, I guess it’s the Larsen pick which proves to me that Dante is held in such high regard by Belichick, he’ll be allowed at least one pet rock in the draft each year (last year he got three: Ohrnberger, Vollmer and Bussey… guys he worked out personally and that he liked). I don’t have a problem with the pick, it just makes me laugh when it comes to O-linemen Dante is doing the personnel now and picking somewhat obscure guys he thinks he can work with.

Scott: Four words: Meat-head-Stiv-ICK. At least when Rob finally proves that his Charles Atlas physique won’t hold up any better to the NFL than it did to Division 1, he’ll be marginally entertaining as That Guy who sits in the stands with a replica helmet and no shirt on. WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF.

Stay tuned to PD this week for a rundown of Patriots rookie free agents.

Filed Under: The Draft Tagged With: Brandon Deadrick, Brandon Spikes, Devin McCourty, Jermaine Cunningham, Kade Weston, Rob Gronkowski, Taylor Price, Ted Larson, Thomas Welch, Zac Robinson, Zoltan Mesko

Q&A With USC DE Everson Griffen

April 19, 2010 By Chris Warner 1 Comment

by Chris Warner, Patriots Daily Staff

USC DE Everson Griffen

In most ratings of the top 32 players entering the draft, more than half are underclassmen who have declared early. While every one of those has high potential, much of that gets offset by questions of maturity.

Everson Griffen epitomizes this class. Following a run-in with police on Nantucket Island last summer, the USC defensive end had some doubters. The 6-foot-3, 268-pounder answered them with a productive season (45 tackles, eight sacks) and impressive test numbers (4.60-seconds in the 40, 32 reps in the bench press).

In his exclusive PD interview, Griffen kept the answers coming about his comfort level on the field and his personal growth off of it.

Well, let’s start out by talking about your decision to declare early for the draft. What do you think was the biggest motivating factor in that?

The biggest motivating factor to me was you know yourself, you know what you’re capable of doing, and I just talked it over with my D-line coach, Coach Jethro (Franklin) and my head coach, Pete Carroll. You know, I just felt that I was ready to take that next step, to the next level. And the past season I had, I just felt like, everybody’s got to prove themselves, but I just felt like I was ready to come out.

Did you ever have any second thoughts about it, being a younger guy? Because you didn’t have a redshirt year with USC, did you?

No, I didn’t. No, once I talked it over with the coach and everything, I pretty much had a good idea that I was ready to come out.

And with all the meetings and everything, and the combine, how are you feeling about that decision now?

You know, I did everything perfectly to this point right now. The only thing I did – the only thing I gave them – was, I put it on my shoulders. Me and (USC safety) Taylor Mays, he just did it with me, you know, we just went out there and did our best. Once you do your best, the only thing you can do is sit back and wait, and see what team falls in love with you.

Speaking of the testing, I know it went really well overall. Do you have any second thoughts about it? Were you surprised in a positive way?

Yeah. I was very happy. I was very happy with what I’d done. I went out there and just gave them everything I had, and I’m pretty excited with my standing and with all the accomplishments that I make.

You’ve said before that Coach Jethro coming back (to USC) made a difference this year. What was that difference?

Having Coach Jethro, you know, he played defensive line. He coached defensive line for 20 years. He just really knows how to coach the position, and he just taught me all the ingredients to take it to the next level. Just having him – he just put me underneath his wing, and he just taught me the game of football. You know, he taught me it’s more than being disciplined on the field, you’ve got to be disciplined on and off the field to have it right all the time.

Now, this kind of leads to a difficult question… Can you comment at all on what happened last summer on Nantucket?

Yeah. I got in trouble for the breach of the peace. We had a little party on Nantucket. We got a little too loud, they (the police) came. I tried to be the facilitator, which I shouldn’t have done. And, you know, they took me to jail for the breach of the peace. You know, it was on (the news) a lot.

So you were making noise, or was it just a bunch of people and you got singled out?

A bunch of people… I think there were like five to ten.

One reason I ask the question… I’ve got to tell you from experience, you’re not the first guy to have a party broken up by the Nantucket Police Department.

Yeah.

You talked about a sense of discipline. How has that helped you in the last several months?

You know, it just helped my maturity level and my consistency, and I felt that this past season, I had both. I had my maturity level – that’s not a question. I came out and performed well at the combine and at my pro day. And during the season, to have Coach Jethro right there mentoring me, to take me along during the season, just teaching me the game, like I said… it just helped me a lot.

And is there anything specific that he said or pointed out that helped you focus more?

Yeah, he did say you’ve got to be disciplined. That was the biggest thing. Once I figured that out, to be disciplined, it helped me a lot.

How would you describe the defense at USC?

Last year?

Yeah… how did your defense work?

We were fast. We hit the gaps, and we just played together as a team. You know, we just loved playing together as a team.

And you’re a defensive end out of a – did you play a 4-3?

Yeah, we played 4-3, but then I also dropped into coverage on third downs.

So, of course you’ve had teams talking to you about making the switch to a 3-4.

Exactly.

What do you think is the most important part of that transition?

Just, you know, I’m very accustomed to playing – dropping from a two-point stance, blitzing from a two-point stance. So I’m really comfortable doing both. It’s not really a big issue. I’ve just got to learn. I’ve just got to be more physical at the point of attack. You know, everybody’s got improvements to make, and I know my improvements that I need to make, and I’ve been working on them every day. And I’m feeling good.

Now, people around New England know Pete Carroll as a coach. How would you describe him as a coach at USC?

Man, Pete Carroll was a great coach. He was a great motivator, you know. Luckily for me, I got to have him in my (defensive) meeting rooms, so he just taught us everything he knows about the game. And just having him – he’s a great recruiter, that’s why you have so much success at USC – and I just wish the best for him in Seattle.

Speaking of recruiting, you were a really accomplished football player coming out of high school (in Arizona). What other schools were you looking at except for USC?

Florida, Notre Dame and Michigan.

And what put USC in front?

You know, it was close to home. My mom could come see my games. And I just wanted to experience something new… You know, I was born and raised in Arizona… People always say, “Why not (Arizona State) or (University of Arizona)?” Because I’d been there for 22 years, and I just wanted to get out of Arizona to experience something new.

You were a really prolific running back in high school. At what point did you figure you were going to be playing defense in college?

Once I committed to USC, they said, “You’ll be playing defensive end.”

And there was never any question about that?

Nah, I wanted to play defensive end.

Why do you prefer defensive end over running back?

Because with defense, you get to go out there and just play football. You get to go out there and make plays, hit people hard, and be physical, instead of being hit by people.

Have you met with a lot of NFL teams?

I met with four.

Can you say which four?

(Buffalo), Oakland, San Francisco and St. Louis.

It seems like those are a lot of different defenses. Have any teams talked to you about playing a 4-3 rush defensive end?

Yeah… You know, I can either play a 4-3 or a 3-4. It really doesn’t matter to me where I play at the next level, because I feel like I can play both. I feel like I’m a very versatile player. I’m fast enough to play a 3-4. So whatever they want to put me in, I’m willing to play.

When you go to those meetings, are they all the same, or does each team focus on something different?

Oh, I just go in there and meet with the D-line coach, you know, and just talk football. And they put on some film and they just see what I know, can I learn football, and do I remember. They’re pretty good meetings, meeting with the head coach, D-line coach, sometimes outside backer coach. It just depends.

Have you gotten any kind of strange or unexpected questions?

No, no. Not at all.

Okay. So what’s the plan for this week?

I’m going back to Arizona the 21^st, and I’ll be up there with my family and friends.

And have you gotten any word on whether this is going to be a Thursday night thing or a Friday night thing, or is that still up in the air?

I got ESPN coming, so I really don’t know. Who knows where they’re going to get drafted, you know? People can tell you you’re in the first round, mock drafts can say you’re in the first round, but you don’t know until they call your name. I’m hoping a Thursday night thing.

I hope so, too. I wish you a lot of luck.

Thank you.

Email Chris Warner at chris.warner@patriotsdaily.com

Filed Under: The Draft Tagged With: Everson Griffen

Q&A With UConn OL Mike Hicks

April 17, 2010 By Chris Warner 1 Comment

by Greg Doyle, Patriots Daily Staff

UConn OL Mike Hicks

Mike Hicks is a very experienced offensive lineman from the UConn program which is producing more and more NFL players every year. He showed some versatility playing both tackle and guard and on the left side and right at UConn. This should help him in the eyes of many NFL teams. He has a lot of experience against good college opposition and had a very good career. He now hopes to get a chance to play in the NFL and we had a chance to talk to him recently.

Hi Mike, can you tell us where you are from? How did you get into football and when did you start playing?

I am from Seymour, Connecticut and always wanted to play football. I was always too big for Pop Warner and would have had to play up with kids four years older so my Mom held me out. I finally got to start (playing) in high school.

Did you play any other sports growing up?

Growing up I was big into baseball. First base and pitcher and played from t-ball to end of high school. Also basketball and lifting.

How did you end up at UConn?

I loved the campus and the up and coming football program and how close it is to home, being only an hour away.

You started 48 of your last 49 games on the offensive line, is durability something you take pride in?

I wouldn’t so much say durability. Being an o-line man you are always banged up. You just have to tough it out and be a little lucky to have played for so long without any serious injuries.

What did you do to prepare for your pro day? I read you took off some weight for it?

I really wanted to lose some pounds and slim down. I was at a playing weight of 328 and I went to Lancaster, Pennsylvania at a place called Power Train. The owner Steve Saunders really had me focus on my diet, lifting and combine drills to really get me ready for my pro day

You started primarily at right tackle at UConn but also played some left guard, was switching sides difficult for you?

Switching sides wasn’t that difficult. It took me only about a week or two to get really settled in and comfortable with the change. It was a fast transition for me.

Do you feel you’d fit better inside at guard or out at tackle in the NFL? Does it matter to you?

I have primarily played tackle which I am most comfortable at but the position does not matter to me. Wherever I am needed I can go in and get the job done.

What do you feel you have to work on to play in the NFL?

I have to continue to get bigger stronger and faster and really focus on the coaching and technique of the game to get myself in the right positions to succeed.

What did you learn from your head coach Randy Edsall, who has coached in the NFL?

I have learned so much from Coach Edsall. Not only has he taught me to be a good football player on the field but he has taught me so much more in becoming a man. He has taught me so many good aspects about life and becoming a better more responsible person. And I really appreciate all he has done for me.

Have you gotten any feedback that you have a chance to be signed as a free agent if you go undrafted?

I have been hearing all different things. I just want to stay positive and know I did my best and whatever happens I need to go in there and prove myself.

What are your impressions of the New England Patriots? Did you follow their success at all throughout the 2000s? Have you talked with any of their coaches or scouts?

The Pats are a great organization with a lot of great coaches and players. I have followed their success and from there hard work they have accomplished many great things.

Where will you be watching the draft? You must be nervous as it gets close.

I will be watching the draft with my parents at home. I just look at is as I worked really hard and gave it my all and if I’m blessed with the opportunity I’m going to be ready for it.

Thanks Mike and good luck with your career.

Filed Under: The Draft Tagged With: Mick Hicks

Patriots Daily Mock Draft, Part 2

April 16, 2010 By Chris Warner Leave a Comment

by Patriots Daily Staff

After a productive first two rounds in yesterday’s post, the PD Mock continues with our Saturday picks (Rounds Four through Seven).

FOURTH ROUND

Greg Doyle: Andre Roberts, WR, The Citadel. As Scott indicated yesterday, Roberts is a polished, professional sounding receiver with good triangle numbers and production, albeit at a lower college

Scott Long

level. He can return kicks and is fearless as a receiver. I did see him drop an easy pass in the Senior Bowl, but that could happen to anyone. As an alternative and since I’ll be selecting another receiver later, I’m very partial to UCLA’s CB Alterraun Verner who may not have the greatest speed numbers, but was very productive in college and is a playmaker at cornerback.

Chris Warner: That’s makes three of us for Mr. Roberts. What’s not to like? Good 40 (4.4), very strong shuttle numbers, plus a metric ton of versatility (returner, running back, Wildcat QB), make him an intriguing, low-risk pick here.

Scott Benson: You guys will lose out on Roberts if you wait until the fourth. Remember where you heard that. Anyway, I haven’t read more than a stitch on this year’s late round prospects, so I’m afraid I can’t help much with the picks today. Where I may be of assistance is in highlighting some of the third day players that the Pats have either worked out privately, or hosted for a Foxborough visit over the past several weeks. I’ll slot them per Pro Football Weekly’s most recent draft value chart. Fourth round prospect visits included DE Daniel Te’o-Nesheim and LB Donald Butler; private workouts included DT Arthur Jones, CB Dominique Franks, RB Jonathan Dwyer, WR Scott Long, and QB Mike Kafka. There’s always a chance that one of them will wind up being the pick here.

FIFTH ROUND

Chris: Okay, I’ll go ahead and pair this with a third-rounder for 2009 Derrick Burgess… (Damnit!)

Scott: Maybe the Pats will end up replacing that fifth rounder after all, Chris. If they do, they may be targeting Foxborough visitors like DE Hall Davis or RB’s Monatrio Hardesty and Charles Scott; or perhaps a player they privately worked out like DT Corey Peters. I’ll also note Kam Chancellor here; Greg liked him much higher, but Pro Football Weekly is anticipating a 5^th round slot for the big safety.

SIXTH ROUND

Scott Sicko

Greg: Sherrick McManis, CB, Northwestern-McManis is a good zone corner that the Patriots have reportedly shown interest in. He reminds me a bit of Asante Samuel coming out of college and has room to grow.

Chris: I like McManis, but find myself intrigued by running back Deji Karim of Southern Illinois to continue the reconstruction of New England’s backfield. Kevin Faulk signed a one-year deal. Karim is small, strong and quick, and would benefit from Faulk’s tutelage – especially in pass protection. Originally I had him as a seventh-rounder, but an exceptional pro day (4.4 in the 40) bumped him up a round.

Greg: Scott Sicko, TE, UNH. Sicko is a very productive college tight end who played at a lower level but was extremely productive. Known for his outstanding hands, he has improved hisstanding this post-season with great 40 times at his Pro Day. He is a hard-working kid who has the athletic ability to become a good NFL tight end and may just need to bulk up slightly.

Chris: Because I address tight end concerns in Round 7, I’m going with UCLA linebacker Reggie Carter. We like Reggie, and not just because he gave PD our first interview this season. He’s tough, strong (31 reps of 225 at his pro day), and has leadership qualities (elected a captain of the defense at the East-West Shrine Game). An under-the-radar guy who will bolster special teams.

Scott: In this range, the Pats may also be looking at OT Nic Richmond, who they worked out, or RB James Starks and S Kurt Coleman, who both got special attention from New England after their respective pro days.

Chris: Because the Pats have close to a million picks in the seventh, let’s just put them out there in a bunch. You first, Greg.

SEVENTH ROUND

Greg: (229) Zac Robinson, QB, Oklahoma State. A productive college quarterback who is tough and can move effectively in the pocket.

(231) Darius Marshall, RB, Marshall. A good college back with a nice size/speed combination and some power behind him.

(247) Thomas Welch, OT, Vanderbilt. Athletic former tight end works hard and is smart. Only been a lineman for a few years and plenty of room to improve.

(248) Steven Turner, WR, Bishops Queen College (Canada). Who, you say? A truly under the radar player who caused a buzz when he was at the CFL Evaluation Camp (The CFL’s equivalent of the Combine) and shattered records for that camp by running a 4.31/40. Also posted numbers in other tests that would have placed him near the top of the wide receiver class at the NFL Combine. Suddenly, the NFL wanted to know who this guy was. Well, he’s a pure burner and project with the skills to develop. He wasn’t overly productive in college, but then again, he’s playing with guys at quarterback who aren’t that talented. He did show some skills as a kick returner. His times could make him as high as a 4th round pick and a month ago even NFL scouts hadn’t heard of him. Says here the Patriots roll the dice on this project.

7(250) Pat Angerer, LB, Iowa. A very productive and quick but undersized kid who works extremely hard and, at the least, will be a great special teams player in the NFL.

Chris: I like ‘em. Robinson would be an interesting guy to watch in camp, while Turner looks like someone worth finding oot more aboot (sorry – couldn’t resist).

Mickey Shuler

I got mostly offensive-minded in this round, but I’m starting with (229) Brent Bowden, P, Virginia Tech because if the Pats can use a sixth to draft a long-snapper last year, they can use a seventh to secure their punter. Bowden’s one of the best.

(231) Mickey Shuler, TE, Penn State. No one likes the old school more than Bill Belichick, and Shuler reeks of that era: he’s a blocking TE who sees himself as a receiver, with an NFL vet father.

(247) Chris Maragos, S, Wisconsin. If you have speed and quickness as a safety, great. If you have brains, even better. Maraga has them all and would, at the very least, add to the special teams unit.

(248) Jameson Konz, TE, Kent State. This round’s the best time to take a chance on a player, and considering the Patriots got Julian Edelman here last year, I’m heading back to Kent State for a receiver/athlete type.

(250) Bill Cundiff, QB, Ashland. I’m stealing your guy, Greg. I like his 24 TDs vs. one interception. Those are great numbers at any level, even Pop Warner (no relation).

Scott: I’m just thinking of how exhausted we are every spring after tracking 250+ draft picks; it’s the only time of the year when I don’t want any more football. That only lasts a few hours, though, because by the next day I’m combing the web for UDFA signings. Anyway DE Chris McCoy was the only site visit in this range, but workouts included DE’s Antonio Coleman and Alex Daniels; DT’s Aleric Mullins and Ricardo Matthews; LB Matt Mayberry; CB’s Nolan Carroll and Robert McClain; FB Manase Tonga; QB’s Zac Robinson (mentioned earlier by Greg) and Rusty Brown; and G Phil Costa and C Jim Cordle. The Pats also visited with UMass receiver Jeremy Horne after his recent pro day.

Chris: So, readers, give us your picks in the comment section below. We’ll pay special attention to the under-the-radar guys New England should take – be the first on your block to say “I told you so!”

Filed Under: The Draft Tagged With: Aleric Mullins, Alex Daniels, Alterraun Verner, Andre Roberts, Antonio Coleman, Arthur Jones, Billy Cundiff, Brent Bowden, Charles Scott, Chris Maragos, Corey Peters, Daniel Te’O-Nesheim, Darius Marshall, Deji Karim, Dominique Franks, Donald Butler, Hall Davis, James Starks, Jameson Konz, Jeremy Horne, Jim Cordle, Jonanthan Dwyer, Kam Chancellor, Kurt Coleman, Manase Tonga, Matt Mayberry, Mickey Shuler, Mike Kafka, Montario Hardesty, Nic Richmond, Nolan Carroll, Pat Angerer, Phil Costa, Reggie Carter, Ricardo Mathews, Robert McClain, Rusty Brown, Scott Long, Scott Sicko, Sherrick McManis, Steven Turner, Thomas Welch, Zac Robinson

Patriots Daily Mock Draft, Part 1

April 15, 2010 By Chris Warner 5 Comments

by Patriots Daily Staff

Chris: Well, faithful PD readers, by this time you’ve evaluated a slew of mock drafts, so we figured it was our turn to put ourselves out there (with an appropriate New England bias, of course).

Let me begin by saying that the high level of talent in this year’s draft makes this mock a lot of fun. Pass rushers, receivers and running backs abound. I’d like to add that, if I really were in charge of the Patriots’ picks, I’d trade at least two toward 2011 because 13 of last year’s rookies remain on the roster.

Instead of bothering with specific numbers I just stuck to rounds. I figure there will be plenty of hopping around over the three-day draft, anyway. Enjoy, and if you have a different opinion of who the Pats should draft, feel free to engage in some lively debate in the comments section below.

FIRST ROUND

Jerry Hughes of TCU

Chris Warner: Jerry Hughes, OLB, TCU. Some talk about taking Brandon Graham here – and that might happen – but I like Hughes better as an all-around athlete. Lined up as a defensive end at TCU, but showed the ability to play on his feet. He can rush the passer or cover tight ends, giving the Patriots versatility at that spot. You’ll notice that I am NOT trading down from 22. Because that would be cruel to New England fans. (Pats front office, please take note.)

Greg Doyle: You have to like Hughes’ production and despite everything, he is still only 21 years old. So you are getting a young player, with upside and big college production. I do have a couple of concerns with him. First, I watched him closely vs. Boise State in his bowl game and thought he had a mediocre game at best. He also took a couple really dumb penalties including an after the whistle personal foul reminiscent of David Thomas versus the Colts in 2008. He also had some good moments of pressure against a hard to rush Boise team. Second, his great production came against mid-level college teams, not the elite. I just think it’s a bit of a gamble pick in the first round. He hasn’t played linebacker at all either. I see high boom or bust potential in him. I’d feel better about taking him in the second round.

My pick would be Jared Odrick. I see limited downside to him. Just a very productive, possibly slightly undersized but not significantly, hard working player who was productive against great competition. He’d slide into that 3-4 end spot and allow Mike Wright to be sort of a super sub at every spot on the line. I think worst case Odrick is a close to a decade solid starter. Best case is he’s a Pro Bowler. I don’t see a lot of risk in this pick, which is the main reason I’m favoring it now. As an alternative, Ryan Matthews at running back really intrigues me but it’s not as big a need for the Patriots right now as the defense is. If they could trade Maroney for a third, I might consider that direction.

Scott Benson: This year’s draft meme is clearly the defensive front seven, as it should be – unless the Pats get a lot better there in a hurry, they’ll continue to slide farther and farther away from another championship. Unfortunately, it’s not the only area in which they’ll need to quickly improve. Offensively, the Patriots have essentially reduced themselves to playing 3 (Brady, Moss and Welker) against 11 every week. So offensive skill players are also needed, and in a hurry, as they will likely be without Welker when they open the season. The good news (and isn’t some good news needed?) is they have 4 of the first 53 picks in what is regarded as a solid, even deep, draft. So to me, New England braintrust, the top priorities are these: 1) No avoidance. Give me players, not future picks. If you decide to trade back from 22 (and that may turn out to be in your best interest) it’s for picks you’ll make THIS YEAR. 2) No prototypes. I don’t give a shit what kind of ‘length’ you like. Shawn Crable has ‘length’, and he SUCKS. 3) No projects. Give me grown ups who have demonstrated productivity and consistency for a long period of time. Don’t give me Jason-Pierre Three Names and this ‘freak’ bullshit. Honestly.

Oh, I was supposed to pick a player there? Okay, I’ll take Graham. During Senior Bowl week, he looked like an eighth grader playing with sixth graders.

SECOND ROUND

Chris: Cam Thomas, DL, North Carolina. I just love the whole 6-foot-4, 330-pound thing he’s got going for him. He’s tough to move and fast in a straight line (5.14 in the 40), making him an ideal backup nose and a strong candidate to anchor one side of the line at defensive end.

Greg: Thomas is definitely a player I like who really stood out at the Senior Bowl and the more you check him out you see what a good player he is, if not flashy. He isn’t going to be a big time pass rusher. But he is a guy who could play end or nose tackle that will be very stout against the run. I might go this direction if I did the Matthews thing in the first round, but with my pick being Odrick, I think I prefer Thaddeus Gibson who I see as a high upside guy with tons of talent, who came out after his junior year and has room to grow and has actually played the outside linebacker position. That is my pick at 44.

Scott: I got my linebacker earlier so now I’m looking to fill that vacant RDE spot, so my pick here is the Cal DL Tyson Alualu. Productivity, versatility, consistency, maturity.

Jared Veldheer

Chris: Jared Veldheer, OT, Hillsdale. Like the rest of us, Matt Light isn’t getting any younger. Also like the rest of us, Nick Kaczur made some mistakes last year. Veldheer has a Vollmer-like reach (6-foot-8), quick feet for his size (4.51-second 20-yard shuttle), and the strength to hold down the edge (32 bench press reps). In fact, a comparison to Vollmer’s pro day shows quite a few similarities. A former high school hoopster, Veldheer could put in some time as a blocking tight end, too.

Greg: I like your reasoning on Veldheer, but with Light, Vollmer, Kaczur and LeVoir still on the roster I just see this as too early. Perhaps if they were to trade Matt Light, who is headed into his last year under contract, this might be the move. Instead, I projected Kam Chancellor here who is a big safety. While safety also isn’t a big need with Meriweather, Chung, Sanders and McGowan still around, I would overlook that by saying I don’t think they see Sanders and McGowan as long-term answers. And I think they feel they are lacking a big, physical safety presence since Rodney Harrison retired. Chancellor is a very big safety, around 230 lbs., but with excellent speed and playmaking ability. He was also a leader of Virginia Tech’s defense. Finding a big safety who can hit, run, cover and make plays on the ball isn’t easy. I think Chancellor fits the bill of being Rodney’s replacement they’re right now lacking.

Scott: At this point, I’ve got to diversify my ridiculously limited offensive attack, so the pick here is BYU TE Dennis Pitta, whose athleticism, short area quickness and feel for the passing game gives him the chance to be an immediate contributor. I’m guessing this will be considered by some to be a reach, but keep in mind those people would have you address your tight end need with a freaking basketball player.

Ben Tate

Chris: Ben Tate, RB, Auburn. Okay, okay, maybe this is early. But considering the Pats traded away their third- and fifth-round picks for Derrick Burgess’ garbage-time sacks (Who, me? Bitter?), this will be their last chance to pick up a big, fast back who has had success against the best defenses in college. Time to revamp the offensive backfield, starting with a steady presence who can hold up both physically and mentally for 16 games. Gaining over 1,300 yards vs. SEC defenses says a lot.

Greg: I like Tate a lot and I’m tempted to just agree with you. He is the best blocking running back in the draft and showed great running ability this season and in the Senior Bowl. He tested better than expected after the season as well before scouts. But I’m gonna stick with my defensive oriented first two days by projecting Alualu, the big defensive end from California. With two of the top 4 picks being 3-4 pure defensive ends, I think that would cure worries about that position and right now I have some. Ty Warren has slipped in recent years and battled quite a few injuries. Besides him, they only have the solid Wright established. Alualu, like Odrick, is a very hard working, tough, physical fighter of a player with good size and 3-4 end speed who’d really help solidify the position. I see both as Patriots-type players. Or at least the type of hard working players they were known for in their Super Bowl years.

Andre Roberts

Scott: Daniel Jeremiah of the outstanding Move the Sticks blog has been telling us for weeks that one of the most polished and pro-ready receivers in the draft is the Citadel’s Andre Roberts, so he’s my pick with #53. Like Pitta, he’s got the speed and quickness to go with the well-honed route tree, and the kind of character and maturity that has evidently been in short supply of late in Foxborough. Enough with leading these young players around by the nose. On the field, Roberts can also step into the punt returner role that Welker will almost assuredly vacate.

Chris: Scott, as you’ll see tomorrow, you’re not alone on the Roberts pick, though Greg and I would consider a second-rounder a bit high to pay for him.

No third rounders, dear readers, so we’ll see you in Part 2 with rounds four through seven…

Filed Under: The Draft Tagged With: Andre Roberts, Ben Tate, Brandon Graham, Cam Thomas, Dennis Pitta, Jared Odrick, Jared Veldheer, Jerry Hughes, Kam Chancellor, Ryan Matthews, Thaddeus Gibson, Tyson Alualu

Q&A With UMass S Jeromy Miles

April 13, 2010 By Chris Warner 2 Comments

by Chris Warner, Patriots Daily Staff

UMass Safety Jeromy Miles

For those football players not invited to the NFL combine, one pro day can change everything. Two pro days? Even better. On separate days in March, Jeromy Miles altered his status for the better.

The UMass safety wowed scouts with a 4.45-second 40 and a 10-foot-10 broad jump. He spoke with PD about his success at UMass, his popular teammate, and his journey from a New Jersey town to Annapolis to Amherst.

Let’s start out talking about your pro day. It seemed successful. How do you feel about it?

Oh, I feel like I did pretty good. I think it helped me out a lot. I think I ran a lot faster than people thought I was.

How about your other drills? How about your bench press, and your quickness?

I think they had me at like a 6.72 on my three-cone, and the short (20-yard) shuttle anywhere from a 4.2 to a 4.0, so I showed a lot more agility than people thought I had.

What kind of effect do you think that had on NFL teams trying to contact you?

I think it probably boosted me, showing more versatility. When teams look at me, they probably look at me more like as somebody that can do a lot of different things.

Now, at UMass, were you a free safety, or was there a big difference between a free and a strong safety?

At UMass, I actually played free safety. But in our system, the free safety – I did a lot. I kind of played a little strong safety my junior year; they put me in the box a lot more. So I played more in the box, I would say, my junior year; my senior year, I played more traditional free safety, you know, back reading the quarterback.

Yeah, I was going to ask about that, because it seemed like you had many more tackles your junior year (104) than your senior year (62). Was that a switch in the defense, or more a switch of your position?

Oh, I think it was just a combination of respect by teams. I think I got a lot more respect my senior year. I didn’t get too much action, especially when teams threw the ball. They (stopped) throwing the ball in my direction. In the run game, I think my junior year the scheme kind of – I want to say I was around the ball more. One of my strengths is when I’m around the ball, I guess. I can obviously do more, and take the opportunity to make more plays.

And what – you had a change of coaches – what were some of the differences in defenses the last couple years?

Oh, I think Coach (Don) Brown was more of a (man-to-man defense) coach, so when I first transferred I had to really adjust to playing a lot more man coverage. I think Coach (Kevin) Morris this year is more of a cover two guy, so I was back in cover two on the hash a lot more than when I played with Coach Brown, where, like I said, I played more in zero man and man free.

Was Coach Brown a really fired-up kind of guy?

Yeah, Coach Brown was real intense, real aggressive. (Laughs.) That’s how he approached practice, how he approached the game. He wouldn’t sit back for anybody. Like, we would always just come and blitz. He’d just say, hit ’em on the mouth, pretty much.

Do you think he paid a little more attention to the defense than the offense?

Oh, I mean obviously, he was our head coach, but he was the defensive coordinator and DB coach, so yeah, I would say he put more emphasis on the defensive end. I mean, as a whole, he cared about everybody the same… As players, he cared about every single player the same.

And what was the transition like this year?

The head coach was there, so I think he took a lot of what Coach Brown passed on to him when he was there, so it wasn’t too much. The biggest difference was, like I said, playing cover two more than playing man. So, sitting back and being more patient and having to wait and see if he’s going to throw in my direction instead of going up and covering somebody. Every play I knew I was going to be covering, like, a receiver in the slot.

In your meetings with NFL teams, have you been able to show them what you know about defense?

Yeah, I have. I actually – I met with the Falcons (last) Tuesday, and I actually got a chance to show them, to get up on the board and show them, that I have a lot of knowledge. I mean, that’s one of my strengths. I understand the game. I take a lot of time out and really look at the defense, breaking down coverages and just, pretty much always knowing how to regulate the field, putting everybody in the right positions and everything like that.

Have they said or have any other teams said where they see you in their defenses?

No. Talking to the Falcons, they were more saying that they feel they could do a lot with me. I mean, I’ve been saying pretty much the same thing. After running as good as I ran, it gives teams more versatility and the opportunity to use me in a lot of different positions. And I’m one of those guys, I feel as though there’s nothing on the field that I can’t do, so I mean, I’ll do whatever.

What brought you to UMass? You started out at Navy and actually played against UMass your freshman year. But what attracted you to Amherst?

Actually, Coach Brown was in the area, scouting at my high school, one of the players at my high school… So when he caught wind – it’s funny: the day that I left the Naval Academy, the day I officially got released from the Naval Academy, he was already at my high school. And he called me, first thing, and told me he wanted to come into my house for a meeting. So he came to my house, showed me all these exotic blitzes and everything that I would be doing at safety, and pretty much told me that I would be the quarterback of his defense. I just fell in love with it, and I came right over.

Did he say that he had noticed you when they had played (Navy)?

Oh, yeah, yeah. See, because he knew I was a freshman. Actually, when I played them, that was the first time I really started playing free safety. I got in the second half… and I started the rest of my career at Navy. That was actually the first game where I made my first impression on the UMass coaches and on my Navy coaches.

And what didn’t work for you at the Naval Academy?

What worked?

What didn’t work?

Well, what worked for me (was), I feel like, at the Naval Academy I took away just the discipline and just hard work. You know, that stuck to me. I feel as though you apply that to life and everything that you do. So, when I left the Naval Academy, I really saw it as, when you go out here, or whatever you do, you’ve just got to approach it with that tenacious mentality, and pretty much, you won’t get denied. That’s how I approach football.

Was there any particular reason why you left Annapolis?

For me, I had a close relationship with all the coaches and all the staff; I just didn’t like the military thing. And that’s what I told my coaches. I was like, if you all were at any other school or any other college, I would definitely stay. But I just, the military thing, I didn’t want to do five more years after I graduated. I knew the service wasn’t for me, and they eventually accepted the fact that that’s the decision I wanted to make for my life.

What has your schedule been like? I know you didn’t get invited to the combine. Did you go to two pro days?

Yeah, so I didn’t get invited to the combine. I didn’t get invited to the all-star game. First, I worked out at TEST Sports in Martinsville, New Jersey, for about a month and a half. Then I came back to school, because I’m actually finishing my degree. I’m taking 12 credits at this time. So I came back to school, worked out – I’ve been working out at school and working on my class, finishing my degree. I went to Boston College’s pro day first, ran my 40, did all my drills. Did pretty good there. Then I went to UMass, and I just did my position drills, did the short shuttle, three-cone, and went through agility drills again. That was about it.

Do you think it’s been helpful to have a guy like Vladimir Ducasse at your school, or do you think he takes most of the limelight?

Oh, no, no, no. I think that was great, man. I think that’s just God, that God put Vlad at the school with me. Because not only does he attract a lot of attention, Vlad is a very hard worker. We’re similar when it comes to just working. He’ll put you through the grind, you know what I’m saying? Me and Vlad stayed up here three summers up at school, and pretty much stayed during the winter together. We just push each other. I’m just happy that I’ve had the opportunity to work with Vlad, man. He’s a great dude.

All right. What’s on the schedule for the next couple weeks?

I’m just going to be sitting, waiting – I’m actually waiting today to see if I’m going to get any more phone calls to see if I’m going to have any more meetings with teams in the next couple weeks… Pretty much I’m going to be waiting for phone calls, and waiting to see what the next obstacle in my life will be.

Well, okay, last question: I saw that you’re from New Jersey.

Right.

My wife is from New Jersey, and the Garden State has been getting a bad rap. So how about wrapping us up with promoting your home state?

I think Jersey is the greatest place in America to me, man. I grew up there. I feel as though we produce athletes, great athletes, every year. I feel like we produce great citizens, man. Obviously, if you look at last year’s draft, one of the successful backs last year that came out and went to the New York Jets was Shonn Greene. He actually went to my high school. This year, if I do real good, you know, I’ll be another Jersey guy. And Knowshon Moreno – you can just go down the list of guys. Jersey always produces athletes and great character guys.

All right. I think that’s perfect. I appreciate it, Jeromy. Good luck to you.

I appreciate it. Thank you for your time.

Email Chris Warner at chris.warner@patriotsdaily.com

Editor’s note – Miles was named by Rick Gosselin as the third-best pass defending safety in the country in his ranking of safety prospects for the NFL draft. Pretty impressive for a guy who didn’t get a lot of attention while playing at UMass.

Filed Under: The Draft Tagged With: Jeromy Miles

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Q&A With UMass S Jeromy Miles

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