American Sports Thread

[Puckoon]

Bit late on posting but really enjoyed the Superbowl this year.

It did help i had a few pound on the Saints, although i did feel for the guy sat next to me who had 2 million  on the Colts, needless to say he didnt finish his dinner.

I presume you werent eating at taco bell with that kind of clientele?


Really, 2 million dollars/euros/pounds?

Id find that hard to believe, in such a tight game.

[new devil]

Yea was thinking the same puck!!

[Shrek]

Bit late on posting but really enjoyed the Superbowl this year.

It did help i had a few pound on the Saints, although i did feel for the guy sat next to me who had 2 million  on the Colts, needless to say he didnt finish his dinner.

I presume you werent eating at taco bell with that kind of clientele?


Really, 2 million dollars/euros/pounds?

Id find that hard to believe, in such a tight game.

Yep, really, 2 million Dollars, to win 1 million Dollars - greedy SOB deserved to lose.

he was nearly crying the more the game went on, asked for "a to go bag" after the interception. Had barely even touched his steak before that.

[new devil]

Were u watch it? no he had the colts to win without the spread?

[thejuice]

Combine coming up, whose looking good. Saw a video of Ndamukong Suh from Nebraska. Looks like an instant starter, ridiculous size combined with great speed. haven't seen any mock drafts yet though. i'd imagine he's number 1 on a few.

[Minder]

I would think Suh will go #1 to St Louis. You can't really pass up on a player like that. Will also help Chris Long having such a presence inside.

[GalwayBayBoy]

Combine coming up, whose looking good. Saw a video of Ndamukong Suh from Nebraska. Looks like an instant starter, ridiculous size combined with great speed. haven't seen any mock drafts yet though. i'd imagine he's number 1 on a few.

Here's one mock draft.

1. St. Louis Rams: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska

      The Rams' plethora of needs mean they don't have to reach for a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick. Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh has the run-stopping ability the Rams need and the versatility to work at defensive end in the 3-4 defense.

      Options: The Rams could select Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford or Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen, beginning the long rebuilding process on the offensive side of the ball. The team could opt for Oklahoma DT Gerald McCoy, who has more explosiveness than Suh.

   2. Detroit Lions: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma

      The Lions need a run stuffing defensive tackle that can collapse the pocket and pressure the quarterback. Oklahoma DT Gerald McCoy has the explosiveness to knife into the backfield and the power to hold his ground against the run.

      Options: The Lions need a new left tackle to protect last year's No. 1 overall draft pick, QB Matthew Stafford. Oklahoma State OT Russell Okung could fill that need. Meanwhile, Detroit's secondary was abysmal once again last season. While the team drafted FS Louis Delmas in the second round last year, more is needed. Tennessee SS Eric Berry would bolster a weak spot at strong safety. The team's pass rush was inconsistent last season. Georgia Tech DE Derrick Morgan could turn the Lions' pass rush into a viable threat.

   3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Eric Berry, SS/FS, Tennessee

      The Buccaneers need a centerfielder who can cover, hit, and direct traffic. Tennessee SS/FS/CB Eric Berry has the all-around skills and top flight aggressiveness to make the Bucs secondary tough to throw on once again.

      Options: The Buccaneers hope one of the two top defensive tackles fall to them. Georgia Tech DE Derrick Morgan would be a bit of a reach, but will fill a big need for a pass rusher.

   4. Washington Redskins: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

      The Redskins' pursuit of QB Jay Cutler and strong interest in QB Mark Sanchez last year are clears sign that they want to move on from QB Jason Campbell. Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford, who could have been the No. 1 overall draft pick last year, has the accuracy and intangibles to be the cornerstone of an NFL franchise. But Bradford comes with numerous red flags including two right shoulder injuries during the 2009 season, subsequent surgery, lack of arm strength, and college system concerns. He must check out medically to be selected this high.

      Options: Washington could opt for Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen. The Redskins have pressing needs along the offensive line, especially at left tackle where longtime starter OLT Chris Samuels is considering retirement. Oklahoma State OT Russell Okung could fill that need.

   5. Kansas City Chiefs: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State

      The Chiefs are another team with multiple needs, but their pass protection last season was particularly bad. Kansas City QB Matt Cassel was sacked and hit repeatedly in 2009. Oklahoma State OT Russell Okung has the strength, athleticism, frame, and skills to play either left or right tackle and keep Cassel's jersey clean. The selection of Okung would not only be an investment in the line, but would also protect their investment in Cassel.

      Options: The Chiefs have needs at wide receiver, inside linebacker, and safety. Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant, Alabama ILB Rolando McClain, and Tennessee SS Eric Berry (if available) could fill those needs.

   6. Seattle Seahawks: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame

      Seahawks starting QB Matt Hasselbeck will be 35 when the 2010 season rolls around, and he hasn't been able to stay healthy the last couple of seasons. New Seattle HC Pete Carroll will probably take this opportunity to draft the team's quarterback of the future. Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen has the skills, intelligence, and experience in a pro-style offense to lead an NFL team for several years. Clausen's surgically-repaired toe will have to be checked and cleared if he's be selected this high.

      Options: The Seahawks desperately need a left tackle since longtime OLT Walter Jones could retire at any time.

   7. Cleveland Browns: Joe Haden, CB, Florida

      The Browns struggled at many positions last season. While the focus was on their quarterback problems, cornerback play opposite starting CB Eric Wright was also a big issue. Florida CB Joe Haden is the closest thing to a shutdown corner in today's NFL. He has a great combination of speed, quickness, size, strength, and instincts. He has excellent coverage skills and is physical against the run.

      Options: The Browns have so many needs that they can easily choose the best player available. If one of the top quarterbacks is available, the Browns will have to give them serious consideration. The team's linebacker corps could use some new blood as could their pass rush. Cleveland also needs a power running back to replace RB Jamal Lewis, regardless of whether he returns or retires this offseason.

   8. Oakland Raiders: Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers

      The Raiders' offense has struggled not only because of the slow development of QB JaMarcus Russell, but also because of substandard play along the offensive line. Rutgers OT Anthony Davis has the size, athleticism, and physical tools to provide Oakland's line with some punch in the running game and better protection in the passing game. However, his conditioning and maturity could give teams, even the Raiders, some pause.

      Options: The Raiders have needs at offensive tackle, defensive end, and defensive back. But the Raiders have proven to be a wildcard in recent drafts, and this year should be no different.

   9. Buffalo Bills: Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa

      The Bills have to get an offensive left tackle in this draft. The Bills failed to replace disgruntled OLT Jason Peters after trading him to the Eagles last offseason. Trading Peters may have been the worst move of any team last year. The turmoil that ensued cost OC Turk Schonert and HC Dick Jauron their jobs. Iowa OT Bryan Bulaga has the size, strength, and athleticism to anchor the left side of the line. He's equally adept at run blocking and pass protection, neutralizing some of best defensive ends in the nation.

      Options: Beyond offensive tackle, the Bills have needs at quarterback and wide receiver. Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant would allow the Bills to move away from WR Terrell Owens. The Bills could opt to take Oklahoma OT Trent Williams over Bulaga, but Williams appears to be better suited for the right tackle position.

  10. Denver Broncos (from Chicago): Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State

      The Broncos' problems with WR Brandon Marshall flared up again at the end of the 2009 season, making it likely the team will part ways with him in the offseason. Marshall was their most effective wide receiver last season, making a replacement critical to the team's success. Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant has the size, athleticism, and ball skills to develop into Marshall's replacement.

      Options: The Broncos have needs at defensive end and inside linebacker. While there may not be a 3-4 defensive end worthy of this spot, Alabama ILB Rolando McClain would be an excellent addition to keep Denver's defense moving in the right direction.

  11. Jacksonville Jaguars: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech

      The Jaguars' pass rush continues to be subpar despite the additions of former first-round draft pick DE Derrick Harvey and second-round draft pick DE/OLB Quentin Groves a couple of years ago. Groves appears to be a bust while Harvey has underperformed. Georgia Tech DE Derrick Morgan has the all-around skills to rush the passer while not being a liability against the run.

      Options: The Jaguars could opt to select a different defensive end or Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant, if available. Florida QB Tim Tebow is a real possibility even though his selection at this spot would be a huge reach. There has been a groundswell of public support for Tebow's addition, and Jags owner Wayne Weaver has to get the fan base excited again in order to sell tickets.

  12. Miami Dolphins: Rolando McClain, ILB/OLB, Alabama

      The Dolphins have to replenish their linebacker corps. OLB Jason Taylor is past his prime and injured ILB Channing Crowder is unlikely to be brought back. Alabama LB Rolando McClain has the athleticism and versatility to play inside or outside. He can stop the run, rush the passer, or drop into coverage. His versatility would give the Dolphins tremendous flexibility should they need to add linebackers in the free agency aftermarket.

      Options: The Dolphins could opt to select a more traditional pass rushing defensive end and move him to the 3-4 outside linebacker position. The team also needs new blood at the nose tackle position. Miami could trade down a few spots and select someone like Tennessee DT Dan Williams.

  13. San Francisco 49ers: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma

      The 49ers' offensive line struggled in 2009, especially on the right side. While OLT Joe Staley played well, San Francisco never got consistent play from their right tackles. Oklahoma OT Trent Williams was an excellent right tackle for the Sooners before being moved to left tackle for the 2009 season, with mixed results. Williams has the skills set to start at right tackle and enough athleticism and experience to be an injury fill-in at left tackle.

      Options: The 49ers have needs at quarterback, cornerback, and safety. They would have to maneuver (up or down) in the draft to match these needs with the available prospects. Luckily for the 49ers, they have two first round picks to use to make a deal happen or to use to address two of their needs.

  14. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver): Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech

      The Seahawks running game was spotty at best during the 2009 season. RB Julius Jones is nothing more than a complimentary back while RB Justin Forsett isn't starting caliber either. Georgia Tech RB Jonathan Dwyer has the size and skills to lead the team's rushing attack.

      Options: The Seahawks have a considerable need at left tackle. If one of the top tackles falls to this spot, Seattle will have a difficult time passing on him.

  15. New York Giants: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee

      The Giants' offseason acquisitions of DT Rocky Bernard and DE/DT Chris Canty were big disappointments last season as the team's combined effort at the defensive tackle position yielded only 4.5 sacks in 2009. Tennessee DT Dan Williams would provide a physical yet athletic presence on the inside that the Giants currently lack and help cover up any problems the team may have replacing MLB Antonio Pierce.

      Options: The Giants' defense has plenty of needs. New York needs to find a replacement for MLB Antonio Pierce, improve their pass rush, and find a reliable safety to pair with FS Kenny Phillips, who is coming off a season-ending knee injury,

  16. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina): Taylor Mays, FS, USC

      The 49ers have some concerns in the secondary. USC FS Taylor Mays would provide the range and striking power to bolster the run defense and improve the team's pass coverage.

      Options: The 49ers have needs at quarterback and in the secondary. A pass rusher such as Texas DE/OLB Sergio Kindle will also receive serious consideration.

[GalwayBayBoy]

17. Tennessee Titans: Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida

      Titans DE Kyle Vanden Bosch, 31, has been nicked up for the last couple of seasons, and he's slated for free agency. If Tennessee decides not to re-sign him, it will have a big need at defensive end. Florida DE Carlos Dunlap has the combination of size, speed, and athleticism that NFL teams crave. He's only available here because of a so-so 2009 campaign and his DUI arrest in December.

      Options: The Titans have considerable needs at outside linebacker and cornerback, but there doesn't appear to be any prospects at those positions worthy of being taken at this spot.

  18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati, OG/OT, Idaho

      The Steelers have to protect QB Ben Roethlisberger better and improve their running game. Idaho OG/OT Mike Iupati is the type of athletic, powerful linemen they need to get the Steelers offense back on track. Iupati could start immediately at guard, but with the right coaching, he could develop into a starting left tackle.

      Options: The Steelers' primary needs are at offensive tackle and cornerback. If FS Ryan Clark leaves via free agency, the team may not be able to replace him with the current safeties on the roster. Texas FS Earl Thomas could fill that potential need. The Steelers love linebackers and Clemson OLB Ricky Sapp has the skill set Pittsburgh can use. If Florida DE Carlos Dunlap is available, it's unlikely the Steelers will pass on him. With RB Willie Parker expected to move on, the Steelers could select Clemson RB C.J. Spiller to complement RB Rashard Mendenhall.

  19. Atlanta Falcons: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida

      The Falcons desperately need a cornerback, but they'd have to trade down from this spot to match this need with the available talent. Instead, the Falcons could improve their pass rush to help out their secondary. South Florida DE Jason Pierre-Paul is somewhat raw but he has a very good combination of size, athleticism, and burst off the edge.

      Options: The Falcons could trade down and select a cornerback like Florida State CB Patrick Robinson, Rutgers CB Devin McCourty, or even Texas FS/CB Earl Thomas. Atlanta may also opt to bolster their wide receiver or linebacker corps.

  20. Houston Texans: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson

      Texans second-year RB Steve Slaton (neck – IR) failed to follow up his terrific rookie season. He's not an every down back who can take the punishment of bigger backs. Undrafted rookie RB Arian Foster opened eyes running for 219 yards and three touchdowns in the final two games of Houston's 2009 campaign. While he has good size and inside running skills, he lacks explosive qualities. Clemson RB C.J. Spiller has adequate size and an excellent combination of speed, quickness, and athleticism. He runs with vision and bursts through the hole. He is extremely elusive in the open field. Spiller would be a welcome playmaking addition to the Texans' offense.

      Options: The Texans need to bolster their defensive tackle, cornerback, and safety positions and could trade down to select any number of defensive prospects later in the first round.

  21. Cincinnati Bengals: Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

      The Bengals' offense lacked receiving options last season, especially at tight end. The Bengals suffered a rash of season-ending injuries to their tight ends in 2009. Starting TE Reggie Kelly (Achilles - IR) is 32. Backup TE Ben Utecht (concussion - IR) sustained another concussion last summer. Rookie TE Chase Coffman (foot - IR) struggled to block and couldn't get off the game-day inactive list before he was placed on injured reserve. The team need for a young, multipurpose tight end could be filled by Oklahoma TE Jermaine Gresham, who could have been a top 15 selection last year but opted to return to Oklahoma only to miss the entire 2009 season with a knee injury. Nevertheless, Gresham has the size, athleticism, hands, ball skills, and body control to consistently threaten opposing defenses.

      Options: The Bengals need some new blood at wide receiver if their current players can't step up. The Bengals passing attack did not threaten defenses last season, especially after losing deep threat WR Chris Henry. Without Henry, WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh.(signed a free agent deal with Seattle in the offseason), and the Bengals top two tight ends, QB Carson Palmer and the passing game struggled down the stretch, culminating in the playoff loss to the Jets in the wildcard round. Unofficially, 17 of 36 passes were either dropped or inaccurate against the Jets. Cincinnati needs to continue to upgrade their defensive line and free safety positions. The Bengals must also make a decision about PK Shayne Graham, who missed two short field goals in the second half of the 24-14 playoff loss to the Jets.

  22. New England Patriots: Sergio Kindle, OLB/DE, Texas

      The Patriots have to continue to infuse youth and athleticism into their defense. The team's pass rush was disappointing last season. Part of that was due to the trade of DE Richard Seymour early in the season and part was due to injuries to DE Jarvis Green and DE Ty Warren. But the team's outside linebackers, specifically OLB Adalius Thomas, disappointed last season. Thomas' public disagreements with HC Bill Belichick and the failure of trade acquisition OLB/DE Derrick Burgess to make an impact may indicate a change is in order. Texas OLB/DE Sergio Kindle is the type of college defensive end the Pats love to move to outside linebacker in their 3-4 defense.

      Options: The Patriots have a long list of needs. First, New England needs to improve their pass rush. The team also needs to continue to improve its offensive line and secondary. The Patriots also need to address their wide receiver, third-down back, and tight end positions. The Pats aren't getting as much as they should from their tight ends in the passing game, especially from TE Ben Watson, while WR Randy Moss, RB Kevin Faulk and RB Fred Taylor aren't getting any younger.

  23. Green Bay Packers: Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland

      The Packers desperately need an offensive tackle. Maryland OT Bruce Campbell has excellent size and athletic ability. While he has durability issues, he has the potential to anchor the left side of the line for years to come.

      Options: The Packers have very little quality depth behind CB Charles Woodson, 33, and CB Al Harris, 34. Harris was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury and Woodson was hobbled at the end of the season. Replacement starters must be groomed. The Packers made good progress last season moving from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense. But one glaring problem was trying to use DE Aaron Kampman as an outside linebacker. Kampman is slated for free agency and is unlikely to return.

  24. Philadelphia Eagles: Earl Thomas, FS, Texas

      The Eagles failed to adequately replace FS Brian Dawkins, whom they allowed to leave via free agency last year. Texas FS Earl Thomas has the speed, athleticism, and ball skills to provide "corner-like" coverage on opposing receivers. While he has strong legs, Thomas has just average size and has been inconsistent in run support in the past.

      Options: The Eagles need to upgrade their linebacking corps. They need a big time playmaker in the middle or on the outside since many of their current linebackers can play inside or out. Adding a middle linebacker, however, would allow MLB Stewart Bradley to move back to the outside. The team's cornerback play was just average in 2009. CB Asante Samuel was inconsistent at times while CB Sheldon Brown shows signs of decline. But the bigger problem was depth. The Eagles need to consider grooming some young prospects to move into starting positions down the road. The Eagles' offensive line underperformed last year. QB Donovan McNabb had to dodge defenders too often and C Jamal Jackson's season-ending knee injury really hindered the offense. At running back, rookie RB LeSean McCoy proved to be a real find, but RB Brian Westbrook is near the end of his career and RB/FB Leonard Weaver was inconsistent as a power runner.

  25. Baltimore Ravens: Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame

      The Ravens need to overhaul their wide receiver corps. No. 1 WR Derrick Mason flirted with retirement last summer while No. 2 WR Mark Clayton continued his inconsistent play in 2009, when he wasn't sidelined with injuries. Combine that with the fact that WR Demetrius Williams lost his No. 3 job to journeyman WR Kelley Washington, and Baltimore has a clear need to a top flight wideout. Notre Dame WR Golden Tate has good speed, quickness, and elusiveness. He quickly finds the soft spots in the defense and uses strong hands to snatch the ball out of the air.

      Options: The Ravens have a pressing need at cornerback. Rookie CB Lardarius Webb showed promise when thrust into CB Fabian Washington's starting spot, but Webb, like Washington, sustained a season-ending knee (torn ACL) injury. Meanwhile, Washington is slated for free agency. The tight end and linebacker positions must also be addressed.

  26. Arizona Cardinals: Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri

      The Cardinals' best linebacker, Karlos Dansby, is slated for free agency while OLB Bertrand Berry retired. In addition, OLB Chike Okeafor and ILB Clark Haggans are on the wrong side of 30. Missouri LB Sean Weatherspoon has the athleticism, skills and intangibles to work at any of the linebacker positions.

      Options: The Cardinals' offensive line remains a work in progress, with the left tackle position the one most in need of an upgrade. OLT Mike Gandy is a better guard than tackle and it's unclear whether the Cardinals will keep him from becoming a free agent. If the team parts ways with WR Anquan Boldin, a replacement must be found. The team's secondary also need another cornerback who can develop into a starter opposite CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.

  27. Dallas Cowboys: Jared Odrick, DT/DE, Penn State

      Cowboys DE Marcus Spears is slated to become a free agent in the offseason. The Cowboys have to find a defensive end with size or slide NT Jay Ratliff over to defensive end and draft a nose tackle. Penn State DT Jared Odrick has the skill set to fit as a 3-4 defensive end. He has good size, quickness, and burst. Odrick also shows good instincts and a non-stop motor.

      Options: The Cowboys surrendered six sacks in the 34-3 playoff loss to the Vikings. OLT Flozell Adams and ORT Marc Colombo have limitations and No. 3 OT Doug Free was deemed not good enough to start against Minnesota. The Cowboys must upgrade their wide receiver corps. While WR Miles Austin emerged as a starter, WR Roy Williams continued to be inconsistent and WR Patrick Crayton is best suited in the slot. On defense, FS Ken Hamlin has been underwhelming while backup FS Pat Watkins plays like a backup.

  28. San Diego Chargers: Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State

      The Chargers need to address their running back position. RB LaDainian Tomlinson finished with career lows across the board in 2009 while RB Darren Sproles is at the end of his one-year, franchise-player contract. Fresno State RB Ryan Mathews has a good combination of size, power, and speed. He is a hard inside runner who bursts through the hole and shows some elusiveness.

      Options: The Chargers could opt to select California RB Jahvid Best, but Best lacks size and struggles in pass protection. He also has a history of concussions. The Chargers need to groom NT Jamal Williams' eventual replacement now. Williams' season-ending triceps injury brought into focus how critical a stout nose tackle is to a 3-4 defense. The Chargers don't have a replacement for Williams on their roster, so they have to find a prospect immediately. The Chargers entered the 2009 season with only three cornerbacks. Lucky for them, that did not hurt them much, but the Chargers can't count on being that lucky again in 2010. San Diego needs to add a starting wideout opposite WR Vincent Jackson, especially if free-agent-to-be WR Malcom Floyd is not re-signed. The Chargers also have issues along the offensive line. C Nick Hardwick (ankle) is talented but injury prone. ORT Jeromy Clary is a journeyman. The Chargers could move OLT Marcus McNeill from the left side, where he's looked overmatched at time, to the right side and then draft a left tackle.

  29. New York Jets: Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU

      Trade acquisition WR Braylon Edwards failed to spark the Jets' passing game in 2010. Edwards' inconsistent hands and lack of chemistry with QB Mark Sanchez should earn him a one-way ticket out. But the Jets don't have anyone to replace him in the starting lineup, and WR Jerricho Cotchery is a better No. 2 receiver than a No. 1. LSU WR Brandon LaFell has good athleticism and height. He's quick off the snap and defeats jams. LaFell runs good routes, getting in and out of his breaks quickly. And he fights for balls in traffic.

      Options: The Jets need to add youth at the pass rushing and nose tackle positions and speed at the wideout position. Every player on the Jets starting defensive line is over 30 while former first-round draft pick OLB Vernon Gholston has yet to earn a starting job. Undrafted OLB Jamaal Westerman (2009) appeared to have moved ahead of Gholston last season. The Jets need to add a quality backup to NT Kris Jenkins, who finished this season on the injury list once again.

  30. Minnesota Vikings: Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State

      The Vikings play at cornerback was inconsistent in 2009. CB Antoine Winfield missed time due to injuries and the CB Cedric Griffin led a disappointing rotation at the other starting corner spot. Florida State CB Patrick Robinson has a good combination of size, speed, athleticism, quickness, and ball skills despite some periodic struggles during the 2009 season.

      Options: The play of aging ORG Anthony Herrera (concussion) really dropped off in 2009. He failed to deliver punch in the running game and keep defensive tackles out of Favre's face on passing downs. The Vikings need to find some young linebackers to groom behind starting MLB E.J. Henderson (broken leg) and OLB Ben Leber, whose play has slipped. Rookie MLB Jasper Brinkley looked average filling in for Henderson over the last month. The team also needs a successor to DT Pat Williams, who is winding down his career. Minnesota needs to replace No. 2 RB Chester Taylor, if he leaves via free agency. If QB Brett Favre retires, the Vikes will need to address that position.

  31. Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price, DT, UCLA

      The Colts have needs at defensive tackle once again. They need tackles who are stout against the run and who can collapse the pocket. UCLA DT Brian Price, who was the 2009 Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year, recorded 23.5 tackles for a loss last season. He would provide the Colts with a much need push in the middle.

      Options: The Colts need a young left tackle that can lock down the position. OLT Tony Ugoh's struggles led to his replacement by journeyman OT/OG Charlie Johnson. Starting QB Peyton Manning is too important for the Colts to allow a doubt about his blindside protection. In the secondary, the Colts continue to experience injuries, including SS Bob Sanders. More durability must be added to this area.

  32. New Orleans Saints: Everson Griffen, DE, USC

Saints starting DE Will Smith and DE Charles Grant continued to disappoint during the 2009 season. Grant may not be back, meaning the Saints will have to find a replacement. USC DE Everson Griffen has a very good blend of size, speed and explosiveness.

Options: The Saints may need to replace OLB Scott Fujita, who is slated for free agency. Even if Fujita is re-signed, New Orleans needs more impact linebackers. The team also needs to improve competition at their strong safety and guard positions.

[Capt Pat]

Ravens just signed Stallworth at wide receiver I think so they will go elsewhere in the first unless Dez Bryant falls to them. They are conservative and will go with a pick on defense.

[Minder]

Ravens just signed Stallworth at wide receiver I think so they will go elsewhere in the first unless Dez Bryant falls to them. They are conservative and will go with a pick on defense.

Stallworth is only a #2 receiver though so they still need help at WR.

[ONeill]

End of an era for the Chargers as LT heads off into the sunset.

[thejuice]

Not all that surprising but sad at the same time. Things really ground to a halt for him quickly after his record breaking year which wasn't all that long ago. As great as he was I doubt many major teams would take him on board, especially if he's expecting a big contract.

He can't run between the tackles anymore so perhaps he might fit better in a spread offense or a wildcat team perhaps.

Randy Moss expected to leave New England as well. Would be nice to have him in Atlanta.

[mc_grens]

One of last tears top 8 might have a look. Particularly the Vikes (Chester T is a free agent), the Pats, or Indy. They are only allowed to sign released players unless they lose free agents of their own, so they are in a bind.

Sad to see him go, but I think the roots of his decline were sewn early on. Marty Schottenheimer really ran him into the ground for those record breaking years (he caught 100 passes in a season on top of all the rushing yards!).

Now, we need to fix the D line and get a back in the draft. Also I'd take a look at Sharper as a one year flyer. The saints are going to let him enter Free Agency, and I think it might be interesting to see his organizational skills and ball hawking ability in the Bolts secondary for a season or two while the likes of Cason and Ellison develop.

[Capt Pat]

I would guess LT still has a lot more in the tank. The Chargers just don't want to pay him what he is worth any more. A shrewd team that lacks a good running back willl bring him in for a few years and take advantage of this situation.

That is of course assuming he is not injured beyond repair, but he was talking at the start of last season about being better than Adrian Peterson so maybe there is more to come.

[mc_grens]

I strongly disagree Capt Pat. As a Chargers fan I love the guy, but he's a shadow of his former self. Matt Williamson of ESPN scouts Inc. Agrees with me...

LT ran out of gas in San Diego

Future Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson was released by the San Diego Chargers Monday. Obviously this begs the question: What does Tomlinson have left and what is his value around the league at this advanced point of his career?

My answer to that question is short and simple: very little. Surely Tomlinson will get an opportunity with another team. He still consistently gets into the end zone, is a high character person and no one can question his will to win. The Houston Texans come to mind immediately as they need to add some veteran leadership. But I think his mind now writes checks his body can no longer cash. Tomlinson knows what it takes to succeed, but his once-exceptional long speed, jump-cutting ability, overall quickness, power and explosiveness have left him, as they leave most great runners his age with that much wear and tear on their bodies. I hate to say it, but I see Tomlinson ending his career much as Edgerrin James or Emmitt Smith did in Arizona. That's not good.

Despite featuring one of the most feared passing games in the league, San Diego was simply awful on the ground in 2009. The offensive line was certainly not great and there were several prominent injuries up front, but Tomlinson deserves much of the blame. The Tomlinson of a few years ago would have carved up defensive fronts that did not dedicate an extra defender to the box. This Tomlinson simply could not.

As happens with most declining runners, Tomlinson could no longer create big plays for himself. The long runs are gone. He can't run away from defenses or create the same space for himself as he once did. Tomlinson averaged a measly 3.3 yards per carry and was unable to break a run longer than 36 yards last season. He has rushed for 100 yards in a game only twice over the past two seasons.

Tomlinson also has become a forgotten member of San Diego's passing attack, catching only 20 passes this season. Before 2009, Tomlinson had never caught fewer than 51 passes. This once-great receiving option is no longer dynamic enough to make a difference in this phase of the game. When was the last time Tomlinson made a play that made you say "wow" to yourself? The answer probably is the 2007 season. That was a long time ago. It doesn't make me happy to say it, but Tomlinson is done.