First off, I’d like to thank everyone who commented on the initial Let’s Make a Deal post; great job keeping the conversation going! Here is the second installment, so get your research done and hit me with some counter-offers!

Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech

6′4″, 272 pounds

1st round, 2nd overall selection to the Detroit Lions

Requested Contract:

• 6 years, $30 million guaranteed ($5 million/year)
• I would like the total contract amount be worth around $63 million
• More money in the first year (due to lockout threat)

Derrick Morgan is one of the most explosive defensive ends to enter the NFL Draft. Here in Detroit, I feel that Morgan will make an instant impact on not only the defense, but the team as a whole.

Here are the 2nd overall contracts from the years 2007-2009 (percentage increase/decrease from the previous year is shown and reflects the per year amounts):

• 2007 – Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech – 6 years/ $55.5 million
  • $27.178 million guaranteed ($4.53 million/year)
• 2008 – Chris Long, DE, Virginia – 5 years/ $48 million (+3.78%)
  • $33 million guaranteed ($6.6 million/year)
• 2009 – Jason Smith, OT, Baylor – 6 years/ $61.775 million (+7.24%)
  • $22.385 million guaranteed ($3.73 million/year)

Listed are the defensive ends chosen in the first round of the 2007 draft:

• Gaines Adams (R.I.P), Buccaneers/Bears (4^th)– 6 years/ $42 million
  • $18.56 million guaranteed ($3.09 million/year)
• Jamaal Anderson, Falcons (8^th) – 5 years/ $30.9 million
  • $15.361 million guaranteed ($3.0722 million/year)
• Adam Carriker, Rams (13^th) – 5 years, $12.8 million
  • $9.4 million guaranteed ($1.88 million/year)
• Jarvis Moss, Broncos (17^th) – 5 years/ $14.95 million
  • $8.06 million guaranteed ($1.612 million/year)
• Anthony Spencer, Cowboys (26^th) – 5 years/ $7.453 million
  • $6 million guaranteed ($1.2 million/year)

Listed are the defensive ends chosen in the first round of the 2008 draft:

• Derrick Harvey, Jaguars (8^th) – 5 years/ $23.8 million
  • $17.1775 million guaranteed ($3.4355 million/year)
• Lawrence Jackson, Seahawks (28^th) – 5 years/ $11.25 million
  • $6.1 million guaranteed ($1.22 million/year)

Listed are the defensive ends chosen in the first round of the 2009 draft:

• Tyson Jackson, Chiefs (3^rd) – 5 years/ $57 million
  • $31 million guaranteed ($6.2 million/year)
• Aaron Maybin, Bills (11^th) – 5 years, $17.6 million
  • $15 million guaranteed ($3 million/year)
• Brian Orakpo (LB/DE), Redskins (13^th) – 5 years, $15.4 million
  • $12.1 million guaranteed ($2.42 million/year)
• Robert Ayers, Broncos (18^th) – 5 years, $18.34 million
  • $9.7 million guaranteed ($1.94 million/year)

Here is how my Morgan stacks up against these players statistically:

At first glance, it would seem that my client’s statistics are strikingly lower than the others (and they are). However, you need to take into consideration the fact that my client only played two full seasons of football. Had he played four full seasons, the statistics would be comparable to the likes of Chris Long and Gaines Adams.

The average amount per year (guaranteed money) given to the second overall pick from 2007-2009 has been approximately $4.95 million. I am requesting $5 million per year for six years. Considering the fact that the total amount of first round contracts increased about 5% per year, my request of a 2% increase is definitely worth your while. Derrick Morgan is a proven run stopper and can provide immediate help for the Detroit Lions’ run defense. Derrick is not just a great football player, but he is the building block for the future!

First Round

1. St. Louis Rams – Ndamukong Suh – DT – Nebraska (Maximum Sports)

The Rams need a boost somewhere on the field this season. Ndamukong Suh is possibly one of the best defensive line prospects to enter the draft since Warren Sapp. He penetrates the backfield and gets a boatload of TFLs. He will be a solid fit in St. Louis.

2. Detroit Lions – Gerald McCoy – DT – Oklahoma (CAA/Kelli Masters Mgmt)

McCoy’s stock seemed to drop a bit after the combine but I think he is still a playmaker and worthy of the number 2 spot.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Eric Berry – S – Tennessee (Allegiant Atheletic Agency)

The Bucs have an up-and-coming defense and can really use a showstopper like Eric Berry. Berry is an extremely instinctive player and is really physical. Sabby Piscitelli just isn’t cutting it for TB. Berry is a solid pick at 3 overall.

4. Washington Redskins – Sam Bradford – QB – Oklahoma (CAA)

Believe it or not, Jason Campbell is done in Washington. He is very inconsistent and failed to spark the ‘Skins. The Redskins are going to have to pick the best quarterback in the draft. And in their mind, Bradford is him.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Russell Okung – OT – Oklahoma State (All-Pro Sports)

The Chiefs just can’t afford to pass up on Okung at this spot. He has held the number one OT spot for a while and it’s for a reason.

6. Seattle Seahawks – Bryan Bulaga – OT – Iowa (CAA)

With Walter Jones pretty much done in Seattle, Bulaga will come in to be a solid pass protector.

7. Cleveland Browns – Derrick Morgan – DE – Georgia Tech (Universal Sports)

The move of Wimbley to Oakland has this choice making more and more sense. Derrick Morgan is an extremely effective pass-rusher who will solidify the Browns’ defensive front.

8. Oakland Raiders – Anthony Davis – OT – Rutgers (320 Sports)

With Derrick Morgan going to the Browns at 7, the Raiders have to go with their next best option which is Anthony Davis. Davis will give the Raiders the anchor that they need on the offensive line to put their quarterback in a position to be successful.

9. Buffalo Bills – Mike Iupati – OG – Idaho (Rep 1 Sports)

With Richie Incognito gone, the Bills have a void at guard (even though Incog was there for a short term). Mike Iupati is an effective run blocker and pass protector.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars – Earl Thomas – S – Texas (Athletes First)

Jacksonville needs an instinctive player in the secondary and Earl Thomas is just that. He has a huge range and has coveted eyes for the football.

11. Denver Broncos (from Chicago) – Rolano McClain – LB – Alabama (ProFiles)

Rolando McClain is a beast of a linebacker. He will work well with the Broncos in an already talented linebacking corps. Very vocal team leader who will fire up the defense. It makes me shiver thinking of McClain and Dawkins on the same D.

12. Miami Dolphins – Dez Bryant – WR – Oklahoma State (Maximum Sports)

Chad Henne needs a nice big target to throw to. Dez Bryant is a beastly specimen of a wide receiver and will do a great job in Miami.

13. San Francisco 49ers – Trent Williams – OT – Oklahoma (Maximum Sports)

The 49ers need all the help they can get on the offensive line and Trent Williams is next on my offensive tackle rankings.

14. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver) – C.J. Spiller – RB – Clemson (Pro Tect Mgmt)

The Seahawks need an every down running back since the black hole of turf swallowed Shaun Alexander a few years back. Spiller is an animal and could’ve started in the NFL in his senior year.

15. New York Giants – Brandon Spikes – LB – Florida (Watson Sports Agency)

Brandon Spikes has been criticized for his lateral speed but Antonio Pierce really didn’t have any either. Spikes is tough and physical; great fit for the Gmen.

16. Tennessee Titans – Joe Haden – CB – Florida (DSI Sports)

Joe Haden silenced his critics at his Pro Day when he ran a sub-4.5 40-yard dash. Haden has excellent mechanics and is a great cover corner.

17. San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina) – Jason Pierre-Paul – DE – USF (Rosenhaus Sports)

Pierre-Paul is a freak of nature and is high on every team’s draft board. I’m convinced he can dominate as either a DE or 3-4 OLB.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers – Bruce Campbell – OT – Maryland (Rosenhaus Sports)

Bruce Campbell is a monster of an offensive tackle and he is diesel and quick. The Steelers will be very happy if they take Campbell.

19. Atlanta Falcons – Sean Weatherspoon – OLB – Missouri (Athletes First)

Sean Weatherspoon, in my mind, is the best outside linebacker in the draft and the Falcons can’t afford to miss out on this opportunity.

20. Houston Texans – Jahvid Best – RB – California (Impact Sports)

The Texans have been having some problems running the football as of late. Steve Slaton, in my opinion, still should be the every-down back in Houston. However, he needs someone to come in and relieve the pressure once and a while.

21. Cincinnati Bengals – Jermaine Gresham – TE – Oklahoma (CAA)

Since signing Matt Jones, it looks as though the Bengals have secured a solid number 2 wideout. Tight end is the one position that Cincy really struggles with. Gresham is a very good TE and will prove to be an important part of the Bengals offense.

22. New England Patriots – Golden Tate – WR – Notre Dame (FAAM)

New England failed to give Tom Brady enough reliable targets this past season. Golden Tate is very instinctive and plays the position well. Look for him to flourish in NE.

23. Green Bay Packers – Maurkice Pouncey – C – Florida (BEST)

The Packers need that strong force in the middle of the offensive line to give Ryan Grant some running lanes. Maurkice Pouncey is a physical C/OG who can provide the leverage the Packers need on the offensive line.

24. Philadelphia Eagles – Brandon Graham – DE – Michigan (BEST)

Brandon Graham is unstoppable. This guy is strong and has an extremely high motor to tear up slow offensive tackles. Him along side Trent Cole will be deadly.

25. Baltimore Ravens – Kyle Wilson – CB – Boise State (BEST)

With the acquisition of Anquan Boldin, the Ravens can mark WR off their high draft needs. Kyle Wilson is the best CB in the draft along with Joe Haden.

26. Arizona Cardinals – Taylor Mays – S – USC (Pro Tect Mgmt)

Taylor Mays is a beast. He ran a 4.40 at the combine and weighs 230 pounds. Although he misses tackles here and there, he could work on that and be dominant.

27. Dallas Cowboys – Sergio Kindle – OLB – Texas (BEST)

Sergio Kindle dropped out from my number one OLB spot but he is still a number one contender. The Cowboys could use a guy like him.

28. San Diego Chargers – Carlos Dunlap – DE – Florida (FAAM)

Dunlap’s stock dropped after the combine. He looked a bit small and doesn’t seem to have the drive to succeed as much as the others. However, I think it is appropriate for him to be drafted at this position.

29. New York Jets – Everson Griffen – DE – USC (Pro Tect Mgmt)

The Jets need to get a bit more rush on the quarterback and Everson Griffen will be able to provide for them the talent that they need. I’d like to see them take a CB at this spot but I feel like that position is deep enough for them to grab one in a later round.

30. Minnesota Vikings – Devin McCourty – CB – Rutgers (PlayersRep)

This pick is a wild card and may have to do with how the Vikings approach the draft. Do they pick a QB if Favre leaves? Do they need to better address the safety position? As of right now, it looks like CB is next and McCourty is next on my rankings.

31. Indianapolis Colts – Dan Williams – DT – Tennesee (FAAM)
This may be the steal of the first round. Dan Williams is an insane defensive tackle. He never stops and his motor is intensely high and the Colts need a replacement for Raheem Brock.

32. New Orleans Saints – Chad Jones – S – LSU (Alliance Mgmt)

Second Round

33. St. Louis Rams – Colt McCoy – QB – Texas (Athletes First)

34. Detroit Lions – Charles Brown – OT – USC (Premiere Sports)

35. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Jared Odrick – DT – Penn State (All-Pro Sports)

36. Washington Redskins – Selvish Capers – OT – WVU (PlayersRep)

37. Kansas City Chiefs – Brian Price – DT – UCLA (4th and 9 Sports)

38. San Diego Chargers (from Seattle) – Ryan Mathews – RB – Fresno State (Sun West Sports)

39. Cleveland Browns – Jimmy Clausen – QB – Notre Dame (Pro Tect Mgmt)

40. Oakland Raiders – Corey Wootton – DE – Northwestern (Priority Sports)

41. Buffalo Bills – Demaryius Thomas – WR – Georgia Tech (FAAM)

42. New England Patriots (from Jacksonville Jaguars) – Jonathan Dwyer – Georgia Tech (Dow, Lohnes LLC)

43. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Chicago) – Arrelious Benn – WR – Illinois (Pro Tect Mgmt)

44. Miami Dolphins – Navorro Bowman – LB – Penn State (Rosenhaus Sports)

45. San Francisco 49ers – Reshad Jones – S – Georgia (BEST)

46. Denver Broncos – Terrence Cody – DT – Alabama (Corporate Athletic Mgmt)

47. New York Giants – Morgan Burnett – S – Michigan (Universal Sports)

48. New England Patriots (from Tennessee) – Kareem Jackson – CB – Alabama (Impact Sports)

49. Carolina Panthers – Greg Hardy – DE – Ole Miss (GAME)

50. Pittsburgh Steelers – Anthony Dixon – RB – Mississippi State (BC Sports)

51. Kansas City Chiefs (from Atlanta) – Rob Gronkowski – TE – Arizona (Rosenhaus Sports)

52. Houston Texans – Perrish Cox – CB – Oklahoma State (Willis & Woy Sports Group)

53. Cincinnati Bengals – Mike Johnson – OG – Alabama (ProFiles)

54. New England Patriots – Jared Veldheer – OT – Hillsdale (Priority Sports)

55. Green Bay Packers – Charles Scott – RB – LSU (SportStars)

56. Philadelphia Eagles – Myron Rolle – S – Florida State (Steinberg Sports)

57. Baltimore Ravens – Jon Asamoah – OG – Illinois (Lock, Metz, Malinovic)

58. Arizona Cardinals – Sean Lee – ILB – Penn State (Priority Sports)

59. Dallas Cowboys – Nate Allen – S – USF (FAAM)

60. Seattle Seahawks (from San Diego) – Eric Decker – WR – Minnesota (FAAM)

61. New York Jets – Brandon LaFell – WR – LSU (E. Overstreet Sports)

62. Minnesota Vikings – Jarrett Brown – QB – WVU (Rosenhaus Sports)

63. Indianapolis Colts – Larry Asante – S – Nebraska (Select Sports Group)

64. New Orleans Saints – Aaron Hernandez – TE – Florida (Athletes First)

Third Round

65. St. Louis Rams – Garrett Graham – TE – Wisconsin (Athletes First)

66. Detroit Lions – Darrell Stuckey – S – Kansas (DeBartolo Sports)

67. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Mitch Petrus – OG – Arkansas (SportStars)

68. Kansas City Chiefs – Rennie Curran – OLB – Georgia (Priority Sports)

69. Oakland Raiders – Jevan Snead – QB – Ole Miss (Select Sports Group)

70. Philadelphia Eagles (from Seattle) – Montario Hardesty – RB – Tennessee (Impact Sports)

71. Cleveland Browns – Amari Spievey – CB – Iowa (PlayersRep)

72. Buffalo Bills – Dan LeFevour – QB – Central Michigan (ProFiles)

73. Miami Dolphins – Jimmy Graham – TE – Miami (FL) (Athletic Resource Mgmt)

74. Jacksonville Jaguars – Tim Tebow – QB – Florida (Athletic Resource Mgmt)

75. Chicago Bears – Barry Church – S – Toledo (Rep 1 Sports)

76. New York Giants – Arthur Jones – DT – Syracuse (Lock, Metz, Malinovic)

77. Tennessee Titans – Jerry Hughes – DE – TCU (CAA)

78. Carolina Panthers – Taylor Price – WR – Ohio (BTI Sports)

79. San Francisco 49ers – Zane Beadles – OG – Utah (Rep 1 Sports)

80. Denver Broncos – LeGarrette Blount – RB – Oregon (Gaylord Sports)

81. Houston Texans – Shawn Lauvao – OG – Arizona State (Athletes First)

82. Pittsburgh Steelers – Brandon Ghee – CB – Wake Forest (Octagon)

83. Atlanta Falcons – Patrick Robinson – CB – Florida State (Universal Sports)

84. Cincinnati Bengals – Major Wright – S – Florida (Impact Sports)

85. Cleveland Browns (from Oakland via New England) – Eric Norwood – OLB – S. Carolina (FAAM)

86. Green Bay Packers – Tyson Alualu – DT – California (Priority Sports)

87. Philadelphia Eagles – A.J. Edds – LB – Iowa (JB Sports)

88. Arizona Cardinals (from Baltimore) – Danario Alexander – WR – Missouri (Select Sports Group)

89. Arizona Cardinals – Jason Fox – OT – Miami (Rosenhaus Sports)

91. Dallas Cowboys – Ciron Black – OT – LSU (Athletic Resource Mgmt)

92. San Diego Chargers – John Jerry – OT – Ole Miss (BC Sports)

93. Cleveland Browns (from New York Jets) – Marty Gilyard – WR – Cincinnati (PlayersRep)

94. Minnesota Vikings – Thomas Austin – OG – Clemson (N/A)

95. Indianapolis Colts – Chris Cook – CB – Virginia (Enter-Sports)

96. New Orleans Saints – Rodrick Muckelroy – OLB – Texas (Select Sports Group)

Fourth Round

97. St. Louis Rams – Dezmon Briscoe – WR – Kansas (Premier Sports)

98. Detroit Lions – Toby Gerhart – RB – Stanford (Athletes First)

99. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Dominique Franks – CB – Oklahoma (Octagon)

100. Kansas City Chiefs – Jordan Shipley – WR – Texas (ProFiles)

101. Washington Redskins – Stafon Johnson – RB – USC (Rosenhaus Sports)

102. Seattle Seahawks – John Skelton – QB – Fordham (Schwartz & Feinsod)

103. Cleveland Browns – Ed Dickson – TE – Oregon (The NOVO Agency)

104. Oakland Raiders – Trevard Lindley – CB – Kentucky (GAME)

105. Buffalo Bills – Geno Atkins – DT – Georgia (ProFiles)

106. Jacksonville Jaguars – Pat Angerer – ILB – Iowa (JB Sports)

107. Chicago Bears – Syd’Quan Thompson – CB – California (Octagon)

108. Miami Dolphins – Ricky Sapp – DE – Clemson (Impact Sports)

109. Tennessee Titans – Anthony McCoy – TE – USC (Priority Sports)

110. Carolina Panthers – Robert Johnson – S – Utah (N/A)

111. San Francisco 49ers – Tony Pike – QB – Cincinnati (Rep 1 Sports)

112. Denver Broncos – Matt Tennent – C – Boston College (Athletes First)

113. New York Giants – Javier Arenas – CB – Alabama (All-Pro Sports)

114. Pittsburgh Steelers – Zac Robinson – QB – Oregon State (Athletes First)

115. Atlanta Falcons – Mike Williams – WR – Syracuse (Enter-Sports)

116. Houston Texans – Kurt Coleman – S – Ohio State (The Institute for Players)

117. New England Patriots – Dennis Pitta – TE – BYU (Athletes First)

118. Cincinnati Bengals – Jacoby Ford – WR – Clemson (FAAM)

119. Philadelphia Eagles – Jeff Byers – OG – USC (Ascent Sports)

120. Green Bay Packers – Jerome Murphy – CB – South Florida (Rosenhaus Sports)

121. Arizona Cardinals (from Baltimore) – Andrew Quarless – TE – Penn State (All-Pro Sports)

122. New York Jets (from Arizona) – Sergio Render – OG – Virginia Tech (N/A)

123. Dallas Cowboys – Akwasi Owusu-Ansah – CB – Indiana (PA) (PlayersRep)

125. San Diego Chargers – Walter Thurmond III – CB – Oregon (BEST)

126. Seattle Seahawks (from Philadelphia via New York Jets) – Tony Moeaki – TE – Iowa (JB Sports)

127. Minnesota Vikings – Lindsey Witten – DE – Connecticut (NC Sports)

128. Indianapolis Colts – Lamaar Houston – DT – Texas (Willis & Woy Sports Group)

129. New Orleans Saints – Alex Carrington – DE – Arkansas State (Maximum Sports)

For some more mocks, check out DC Pro Sports Report, hailRedskins.com Mock Draft Database, & NFL Draft Dog

-Stafford is the only player that makes sense here for the Lions. As crazy as it sounds the Lions do have some weapons on offense, now they need a long term signal caller.

2. St. Louis Rams: Jason Smith (OT, Baylor)

-With Orlando Pace’s career soon coming to an end, and Andre Smith’s situation Smith is the favorite at left tackle.

3. Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry (LB, Wake Forest)

-Curry is an absolute stud and would be a huge upgrade to a very young defense. Not only can play the middle or outside linebacker, he also makes the most sense for the Chiefs.

4. Seattle Seahawks: B.J Raji (DT, Boston College)

Raji may have been this pick regardless, but with the recent signing of T.J Houshmandzadeh I believe we can pencil this in now. Let’s not forget they lost defensive tackle Rocky Bernard.

5. Cleveland Browns: Brian Orakpo (DE, Texas)

-While the Browns were one of the biggest disappointments last season, they have an offense that has the potential to put up a lot of points. With that said they’ll be looking for a defensive upgrade. Orakpo is the best pass-rusher in this draft and an absolute specimen.

6. Cincinnati Bengals: Eugene Monroe ( OT, Virginia)

-There was a point not so long ago when the tackle position was a strength of the Bengals. Well that’s no longer the case. Keeping Carson Palmer healthy is priority number 1.

7. Oakland Raiders: Michael Crabtree (WR, Texas Tech)

-While Crabtree may be a question mark, he’s a playmaker and someone Al Davis just can’t pass up on. Maybe this offense will finally be able to move the football.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jeremy Maclin (WR, Missouri)

-While the Jags have one of the top running games in the NFL, they sorely miss a playmaking wide receiver. Not only can Maclin help the offense, but he would also improve their special teams.

9. Green Bay Packers: Everette Brown (DE, Florida St.)

-With the Packers transitioning to the 3-4 the Packers will be looking to add defensive playmakers that can fit into both the 3-4 or 4-3 defense. Brown is versatile and a very good outside pass-rusher.

10. San Francisco 49ers: Michael Oher (OT, Ole Miss)

-This pick can go in a few directions, but I’m pretty sure quarterback won’t be the selection. Oher is a versatile tackle who would fit in perfectly opposite left tackle Joe Staley.

11. Buffalo Bills: Aaron Maybin ( DE, Penn St.)

-Maybe isn’t the ideal pick here for the Bills but with some questions along the defensive line it makes sense. He should be able to step in as a pass-rush specialist.

12. Denver Broncos: Tyson Jackson (DE, LSU)

-This is without a doubt the wild card pick of the first round. With a new head coach, a new defensive coordinator, and a new defensive scheme the Broncos can go in numerous directions. They can go defensive end, outside linebacker, or middle linebacker. With that said, Jackson is not only the best player available, but an ideal fit at the defensive end spot.

13. Washington Redskins: Andre Smith (OT, Alabama)

-Jon Jansen and Chris Samuels are nearing the end of their careers and its time to add some depth along their offensive line. While Smith may have made a bonehead decision at the combine, he is still one of the top lineman in the draft and could sure up the tackle position for years to come.

14. New Orleans Saints: Malcolm Jenkins (CB, Ohio St.)

-Drafting Jenkins could go a long way in trying to sure up a horrid secondary. Jenkins is versatile and could step in at corner or safety. He’s big, athletic and has the ball-hawking skills the Saints sorely lack.

15. Houston Texans: Clay Matthews (LB, USC)

-The Texans have sured up their defensive line and now it’s time to patch up the rest of their defense. Matthews has been screaming up draft boards with his versatility and motor. Of the three USC linebackers he may be the most complete.

16. San Diego Chargers: Rey Maualuga (LB, USC)

-The Chargers defense was not their typical defense of the past. While losing Merriman was a huge set back, adding a big, mean body in the middle like Maualuga could go a long way to bringing back that smash mouth style defense.

17. New York Jets: Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR, Maryland)

-This is one of the more difficult selections in this draft. While they currently don’t have a viable quarterback option, I believe they will sign a vet or even see Brett Ratliff win the job. The Jets defense is loaded and its time to add weapons on offense. Heyward-Bey, has size and tremendous speed, he could go a long way to helping out whoever the quarterback is.

18. Chicago Bears: Vontae Davis (CB, Illinois)

-The Bears seemed to take a step back from their physical, intimidating defense of the past. Davis is big, strong and plays the run well. He should be the perfect fit in the Bears secondary.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mark Sanchez (QB, USC)

-I’m sorry but I’m not sold on Luke McCown or Josh Johnson, both dubbed quarterbacks of the future. Sanchez has the accuracy and poise needed to run the Bucs offense. Plus he’s a great value pick here at 19.

20. Detroit Lions: Percy Harvin (WR, Florida)

-The Lions got their quaterback, now its time to add some weapons. Harvin will fit right in at the slot position and is a game-breaker in every sense of the word.

21. Philadelphia Eagles: Chris Wells (RB, Ohio St.)

-The Eagles will be thrilled if Wells falls to them. Not only is he the best back in the draft, the Eagles sorely need that bruising running back to take pressure off of Brian Westbrook.

22. Minnesota Vikings: Peria Jerry (DT, Ole Miss)

-The Vikings really don’t seem to have any glaring needs, at least that can be addressed with the 22^nd pick. Jerry could be a nice rotational player on their line, plus there are still legal issues with the both Williams’ tackles.

23. New England Patriots: Brian Cushing (LB, USC)

-Cushing would be a great pickup for the depleted Patriots defense. Their linebackers aren’t getting any younger and Cushing is a perfect fit in a 3-4 defense.

24. Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Pettigrew (TE, Okla St.)

-To my surprise the Falcons come into this draft in great shape. The Falcons can go defensive tackle, safety or tight end. Pettigrew is the best tight end in this draft and would be a nice upgrade for the young Matt Ryan.

25. Miami Dolphins: Robert Ayers (DE, Tennessee)

-While the Dolphins were another pleasant surprise I believe they will look to add another versatile defensive lineman. Ayers could line up outside or play with his hand to the ground.

26. Baltimore: Alphonso Smith (CB, Wake Forest)

-The Ravens secondary has been banged up the past few seasons and it looks like they will be without both McAlister and Samari Rolle. Smith is the best corner remaining, and makes a ton of sense for the Ravens.

27. Indianapolis: Hakim Nicks (WR, UNC)

-With Harrison out, adding another receiver would be a good move. Not only Nicks big, but he’s fast too. Peyton would surely be able to take advantage of such a weapon.

28. Philadelphia: Eben Britton (OT, Arizona)

-The Eagles find themselves in the same situation as the Redskins at this pick. Runyan and Tra Thomas are aging fast and it won’t be long until the Eagles will need to replace them.

29. New York Giants: James Laurinitis (LB, Ohio St.)

-This is actually quite the lovely situation for the Gmen. Not only did they add two defensive tackles, but they also added a very athletic linebacker in Michael Boley. Laurinitis, is not only the value pick, but a pick that also completes the defense.

30. Tennessee: Darius Butler (CB, UCONN)

-The Titans don’t necessarily need a cornerback, but he’s the best players available and someone that should be able to find himself in nickel and dime situation.

31. Arizona: Knowshon Moreno (RB, Georgia)

-I think it’s fair to say Edge has talked his way out of Arizona. With that said Moreno makes a ton of sense here at 31. He’s a strong, flashy runner who when teaming with Hightower and Arrington would make a nice little trio. I would even go as far as saying as he’s an upgrade over James.

32. Pittsburgh: Alex Mack (C, Cal)

-Yes, the Steelers are Super Bowl champs, but they really need to sure up that offensive line. Mack is the top center in this draft and would be the first step to improving a decent offensive line.

For some more mocks, check out hailRedskins Mock Draft Database or FFToolbox – 2008 NFL Mock Drafts & Prospect Profiles.

1. Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford (QB, Georgia)

-Stafford is the only player that makes sense here for the Lions. As crazy as it sounds the Lions do have some weapons on offense. Now they need a long term signal caller.

2. St. Louis Rams: Andre Smith (OT, Alabama)

-With Orlando Pace’s career coming to an end, the Rams will be looking for his replacement at the number 2 spot. While Smith may have some issue with his pass blocking, he is an absolute road grader with a ton of upside.

3. Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry (LB, Wake Forest)

-Curry is an absolute stud and would be a huge upgrade to a very young defense. Not only can he play the middle or outside linebacker positions, he also makes the most sense for the Chiefs.

4. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Crabtree (WR, Texas Tech)

-The Seahawks are in dire need of a playmaker on offense, and Crabtree is just the player. He’s a consistent receiver who would give Matt Hasselback a much needed weapon.

5. Cleveland Browns: Malcolm Jenkins (CB, Ohio St.)

-While the Browns were one of the biggest disappointments this season, they have an offense that has the potential to put up a ton of points. With that said, they’ll be looking for a defensive upgrade. Jenkins has the size, and skill to play both corner or safety and would be a very nice addition to the Browns secondary.

6. Cincinnati Bengals: Eugene Monroe ( OT, Virginia)

-There was a point not so long ago when the tackle position was a strength of the Bengals. Well, that’s no longer the case. Monroe, is athletic and a superb pass blocker. The Bengals main priority is to keep Carson Palmer healthy.

7. Oakland Raiders: Jason Smith (OT, Baylor)

-While Smith may not be the Al Davis type of pick, he knows it all starts with the offensive line. The Raiders have weapons on offense, they now need to fix that dismal offensive line of theirs.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jeremy Maclin (WR, Missouri)

-While the Jags have one of the top running games in the NFL, they sorely miss a playmaking wide receiver. Not only can Maclin help the offense, but he would also improve their special teams.

9. Green Bay Packers: Brian Orakpo (DE, Texas)

-Orakpo, or O-Sack-Po is a defensive freak. He combines an explosive burst with tremendous strength, and would be a very nice addition opposite Aaron Kampman.

10. San Francisco 49ers: Mark Sanchez (QB, USC)

-Sanchez may not have the experience most teams covet, but he does have great accuracy and presence in the pocket. The 49ers desperately need a constant at the quarterback position and he would be a nice pick at the 10 spot.

11. Buffalo Bills: Brandon Pettigrew ( TE, Oklahoma St.)

-The Bills have very quietly built a very nice offense around quarterback Trent Edwards. The one missing piece is a playmaking tight end. Pettigrew, would be a great selection for the Bills and can really open up the offense.

12. Denver Broncos: B.J Raji (DT, B.C)

-This is without a doubt the wild card pick of the first round. With a new head coach, a new defensive coordinator, and a new defensive scheme coming, the Broncos can go in numerous directions. They can go defensive end, outside linebacker, middle linebacker, running back or nose tackle. With that said, I believe nose tackle is the pick here for it’s arguably the most important position in a 3-4 defense.

13. Washington Redskins: Michael Oher (OT, Ole Mis)

-Jon Jansen and Chris Samuels are nearing the end of their careers and its time to add some depth along their offensive line. Oher is one of the top lineman in the draft and could sure up the tackle position for years to come.

14. New Orleans Saints: James Laurinaitis (LB, Ohio St.)

-A few years ago the Saints almost took A.J Hawk at number 2. This time around they have the chance to grab Laurinaitis at 14 and won’t pass him up. Their defense needs athletes and Laurinaitis would be a very nice upgrade at the linebacker position.

15. Houston Texans: Everette Brown (DE, FSU)

-People thought the Texans were crazy when they selected Mario Williams number 1 a few years ago. Well, Super Mario is a stud and now its time to find someone opposite him to rush the passer. Brown may be the best pure pass-rusher in the draft and would be a great pick here for the Texans. This may be the best value pick of the 1^st round.

16. San Diego Chargers: Rey Maualuga (LB, USC)

-The Chargers defense was not their typical defense of the past. While losing Merriman was a huge set back, adding a big, mean body in the middle like Maualuga could go a long way to bringing back that smash mouth style defense.

17. New York Jets: Percy Harvin (WR, Florida)

-This is one of the more difficult selections in this draft. While I think Tyson Jackson makes a lot of sense, I believe the Jets will have a new Qb next season and will look to add as many weapons as possible. Harvin can make plays in the slot, in the backfield and as a returner. Overall, I believe his intagables make him a New York Jet.

18. Chicago Bears: Tyson Jackson (DE, LSU)

-The Bears seemed to take a step back from the physical, intimidating defense they are so used to having. Jackson, is a big physical end who would really improve the Bears run defense.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Aaron Maybin (DE, Penn St.)

-While Maybin may be viewed as a pass-rusher in a 3-4 scheme, he would be a nice compliment to standout Gaines Adams. Maybin is a great athlete and has a knack for getting to the quarterback.

20. Detroit Lions: Vontae Davis (CB, Illinois)

-The Lions may have the worst secondary in the NFL, and adding a big, physical corner like Davis would be the ideal situation for the Lions. Finally, the Lions can walk out of the first round with their heads held high.

21. Philadelphia Eagles: Chris Wells (RB, Ohio St.)

-The Eagles will be thrilled if Wells falls to them. Not only is he the best back in the draft, the Eagles sorely need that bruising running back to take pressure off of Brian Westbrook. If Everette Brown to the Texans isn’t the value pick of the 1^st round Wells to the Eagles certainly is.

22. Minnesota Vikings: Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR, Maryland)

-I love this guy and receiver is really the only impact position the Vikings can grab here. While quarterback is a position of question, drafting Josh Freeman is not the answer. Heyward-Bey would make a decent receiver corp. only that much better.

23. New England Patriots: Brian Cushing (LB, USC)

-Cushing would be a great pickup for the depleted Patriots defense. Their linebackers aren’t getting any younger and Cushing is a perfect fit in a 3-4 defense.

24. Atlanta Falcons: Jerry Peria (DT, Ole Miss)

-To my surprise the Falcons come into this draft in great shape. The Falcons can go defensive tackle or secondary here but Peria would be the value pick at 24. He’s a strong, quick tackle who can open things up in the middle.

25. Miami Dolphins: Hakeem Nicks (WR, UNC)

-While the Dolphins were another pleasant surprise they could use an upgrade at the wide receiver position. Nicks is a big, strong receiver who would be a very nice addition for Mr. Reliable, Chad Pennington.

26. Baltimore: D.J Moore (CB, Vandy)

-The Ravens secondary has been banged up the past few seasons and McAlister and Rolle are getting up there in age. Moore is a playmaking corner who would add much needed depth at this position.

27. Indianapolis: Alphonso Smith (CB, Wake Forest)

-Smith is the highest graded player remaining and with some free agents in their secondary this pick makes a lot of sense for the Colts. Though, ideally they would like to add a big body on the defensive line.

28. Philadelphia: Eben Britton (OT, Arizona)

-The Eagles find themselves in the same situation as the Redskins at this pick. Runyan and Tra Thomas are aging fast and it won’t be long until the Eagles will need to replace them.

29. New York Giants: Larry English (LB/DE, NIU)

-The G-Men could use help at linebacker or wide receiver, but at this point there may not be a receiver worth taking. English is a tweener, he can play end or linebacker and the Giants love players like for their defense.

30. Tennessee: Derrick Williams (WR, Penn St.)

-The Titans need receivers plain and simple. They have needed a receiver for sometime now, and while Williams may be a reach, he’s a playmaker. Last season the leading receivers for the Titans were a running back and a tight end.

31. Arizona: Knowshon Moreno (RB, Georgia)

-I think it’s fair to say Edge has talked his way out of Arizona. With that said Moreno makes a ton of sense here at 31. He’s a strong, flashy runner who when teaming with Hightower and Arrington would make a nice little trio. I would even go as far as saying as he’s an upgrade over James.

32. Pittsburgh: Alex Mack (C, Cal)

-Yes, the Steelers are Super Bowl champs, but they really need to sure up that offensive line. Mack is the top center in this draft and would be the first step to improving a decent offensive line.

For some more mocks, check out hailRedskins Mock Draft Database or FFToolbox – 2008 NFL Mock Drafts & Prospect Profiles.

Injuries have plagued the Lions’ secondary with key injuries to starting cornerback Leigh Bodden and safety Dwight Smith. Here I will analyze some good options that the Lions could explore this offseason:

• Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State – If the Lions do indeed get the first pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, Malcolm Jenkins would be an excellent choice at cornerback. Jenkins, at a height of 6’1” and 208 pounds has been noted as one of the best coverage cornerbacks since Deion Sanders.
• Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois – Another great cornerback with a frame of 6’0” and 200 pounds. Look for Davis to have a spike in statistics in the homestretch of the season. In two seasons at Illinois, Vontae has had 128 tackles, 5 interceptions and 14 break ups.

Until the Lions beef up their passing defense, they will continue to struggle in the NFL as a whole. With the addition of two good quarterbacks in Drew Stanton and Daunte Culpepper, and Kevin Smith at tailback, the Lions are pretty solid on offense save for their O-line. All in all, Detroit is not a lost cause and I would expect to drastically improve next season.