Rookie holdouts are nothing new to the sports world. Every year we see a few or more rookies being advised by their agent/advisor to hold out of camp until a fair contract is signed. Before I jump to support any side, I’d like to present some important points-of-view.

From the athlete side: Professional sports are not just a game, but a business, too. Just like a worker wants his fair pay before starting a new job, so too does the athlete.

From the team/fans side: Although it is a business as well as a game, holding out of camp will pose a threat to the success of the athlete’s career; it will be like starting school late and missing tons of work and valuable information.

USA Today posted a great article about all of the remaining rookie holdouts and how their absence hurts them and the team. Here are those players:

• Aaron Curry, LB, Seattle Seahawks (4th overall pick)

• Andre Smith, T, Cincinnati Bengals (6th overall pick)

• Eugene Monroe, T, Jacksonville Jaguars (8th overall pick)

• B.J. Raji, DL, Green Bay Packers (9th overall pick)

• Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco 49ers (10th overall pick)

• Aaron Maybin, DE, Buffalo Bills (11th overall pick)

• Malcolm Jenkins, DB, New Orleans Saints (14th overall pick)

As we have all seen in the past, some “holdout” rookies have had tougher times getting starting jobs, playing to their best ability, and overall adapting to the fast-paced National Football League.

• JaMarcus Russell, one of the most hyped quarterbacks in recent years, was drafted 1st overall and has only played 19 games in his three year professional career. (Russell held out)
• Brady Quinn was drafted in the first round of his draft and has only played in 4 games in his three years in the NFL. (Quinn held out)
• Matt Ryan was drafted 3rd overall in the ‘08 NFL Draft and DID NOT hold out. He started 16 games in 2008 and has become one of the most successful quarterbacks in the NFL.
• Joe Flacco was drafted 18th overall in ‘08 and DID NOT hold out. Flacco also started 16 games in 2008 and has given the Baltimore Ravens great success on the field.

Now, I ask the players: Is taking a risk of not starting at all or being sub-par worth the money? Yes, you will be getting paid a lot of money to sit on the bench, but it will hit you in 5-6 years when your rookie contract is up and it is time to sign a new one. You will not be seeing those same dollars.

1.      QB Drew Brees ~ New Orleans Saints = Brees is entering his 9^th season and at age 30 is now in his prime. Brees lit up opposing defenses last season for 34 touchdown passes, 5,069 yards (2^nd all-time), and had a 96.2 quarterback ranking. He was the top performer in fantasy last year and carries the same value headed into this season. If TE Jeremy Shockey can stay healthy this year, Brees touchdown numbers could possibly improve.

2.      QB Tom Brady ~ New England Patriots = Brady is coming off a serious knee injury, so some people may hesitate to pick him too high. I’m not one of those people because Brady has proven to be the consummate pro, he has an incredible work ethic and if anyone can come back 100% healthy one season after a serious knee injury it’s him. Prior to this last season Brady broke QB Peyton Manning’s NFL record of 49 touchdown passes in a single season with 50 to only 8 interceptions. You shouldn’t expect astonishing numbers like this for the upcoming year, but with the depth at every offensive position that the Patriots have, Brady will have the time and weapons to pick apart defenses once again.

3.      QB Peyton Manning ~ Indianapolis Colts = Manning is probably the safest pick out of the top three because of his unmatched consistency. Over his 11 year NFL career Manning has thrown for over 4,000 yards 9 times (NFL record) and has thrown for over 25 touchdowns every year of his entire career. WR Marvin Harrison is now gone, so WR Anthony Gonzalez, Roy Hall, or Austin Collie will need to step up. The Colts will be running essentially the same offense even with the loss of their head coach and offensive coordinator. Expect more of the same from one of the best to ever play, another 4,000+ yards & 25+ touchdowns.

4.      QB Philip Rivers ~ San Diego Chargers = Rivers is one of the toughest, most durable quarterbacks in the game which is a big plus for fantasy owners. Coming off a career year in which he passed for over 4,000 yards and 34 touchdowns with only 11 interceptions and a 105.5 QB rating. With RB LaDainian Tomlinson coming back healthy, less pressure will be on Rivers so his touchdown numbers could fall slightly. His excellent TD/INT ratio will continue, especially with the amount of weapons around him.

5.      QB Matt Ryan ~ Atlanta Falcons = Ryan was last year’s offensive rookie of the year and lead his team to the playoffs. He posted decent numbers, 16 touchdowns, 11 interceptions, 3,440 yards and an 87.7 rating. All these numbers should improve significantly with the continued improvement from WR Roddy White who appears to be a superstar in the making. It doesn’t hurt that the team traded for one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history this off-season either (Tony Gonzalez).

6.      QB Kurt Warner ~ Arizona Cardinals = Arizona has the best receiving combo in the NFL with WR’s Anquan Boldin & Larry Fitzgerald. Assuming the team works out an extension with the disgruntled Boldin, Warner could throw for some incredible numbers once again. The selection of RB Chris Wells in the first round tells me the team wants to be more of a balanced attack and with Warner being 38 by the time next year starts, an injury could happen sooner rather than later. There is no doubting that Warner was a top 2 fantasy quarterback last year with his 4,583 yards, 30 touchdowns, 14 interceptions, and 96.9 rating.

7.      QB Donovan McNabb ~ Philadelphia Eagles = McNabb has more weapons around him now than in his entire career. His offensive line is much improved as well. Donovan posted a career high in yards last season (3,916) to go along with 23 touchdowns, 11 interceptions, and an 86.4 rating. With RB LeSean McCoy joining the backfield, McNabb won’t throw quite as much last season so his yards could take a hit. What I do expect to improve to the 28-30 range is his touchdowns. WR Jeremy Maclin adds even more speed to an already very explosive offense. The Eagles have one of the deepest receiving corps in the NFL, two very explosive tailbacks, and a massive offensive line. Don’t be surprised to see a career year out of the 11 year pro.

8.      QB Aaron Rodgers ~ Green Bay Packers = Rodgers has the weapons around him to post a similar year to last season’s statistical breakthrough. In his first full season as a starter, Rodgers threw for 4,038 yards, 28 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, with a 93.8 rating. A significant reason for this was how disappointing RB Ryan Grant was last year. This is a new season, and the team will look to gear their offense to a more balanced attack. Rodgers still has one of the top duo’s at WR in the NFL with WR’s Donald Driver & Greg Jennings and a very good #3 WR James Jones & #4 Jordy Nelson. Look for 3,500+ yards and around 25-28 touchdowns from the 4 year pro.

9.      QB Tony Romo ~ Dallas Cowboys = Dallas lost WR Terrell Owens, so WR Roy Williams will finally get his chance to be the #1 on a good team. I don’t doubt Williams ability to step up nearly as much as I do with the other receivers on the roster. These names include WR’s Patrick Crayton, Travis Wilson, Manuel Johnson, Miles Austin, and Sam Hurd. TE Jason Witten gives Romo the best tight end target in the NFL, and with the best trio of running backs in the NFL (Marion Barber, Felix Jones, Tashard Choice) Romo will have solid weapons and a ground game to make life much easier in the best division in football.

10.  QB Ben Roethlisberger ~ Pittsburgh Steelers = Big Ben isn’t known to put up very big numbers; all he does is win football games. Entering next season, I fully expect all of his numbers to improve. In 2008, Ben threw for 3,301 yards, he had 19 total touchdowns and only an 80.1 rating. With his offensive line benefiting from much needed upgrades through the draft, more receiving weapons, and RB Rashard Mendenhall coming back from injury, the Steelers entire offense will be much better next year and so will Big Ben’s stats.

Sleepers

1.      QB Matt Hasselbeck ~ Seattle Seahawks = The year before last season when Hasselbeck suffered his season ending injury, he was stellar throwing for 3,966 yards, 28 touchdowns and only 12 interceptions. He did so without newly acquired WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh, rookie WR Deon Butler, and one of the best young tight ends in the league John Carlson. With new weapons around him expect Hasselbeck to have enough left in the tank to give you a productive season, somewhere in the neighborhood of 3,250+ yards and 20-25 touchdowns.

2.      QB Jay Cutler ~ Chicago Bears = Cutler had a career high last season in completions, attempts, yards, and touchdowns. He had arguably the best protection of any quarterback in the entire league, getting sacked only 11 times. In Chicago not only will the pass protection not be quite that good, he won’t have near the weapons he had in Denver. Still expect 3,500+ yards and 25+ touchdowns from Cutler.

3.      QB Trent Edwards ~ Buffalo Bills = Buffalo got rid of QB J.P. Losman for a reason, because they are giving Edwards full control of the offense this season. The Bills strengthened their offensive line through the draft with OL Eric Wood & Andy Levitre, drafted TE Shawn Nelson, and added WR Terrell Owens.  With these offensive pieces added with WR Lee Evans (who is one of the most underrated players in the NFL) as well as WR James Hardy who is a legit red zone threat at 6′6″, Edwards should post some solid numbers and is a good #2 QB for your fantasy team.

4.      QB Jason Campbell ~ Washington Redskins = Perhaps no quarterback in the NFL has a bigger chip on their shoulder than this guy. Owner Dan Snyder and the Redskins tried to replace him by trading for QB Jay Cutler and drafting QB Mark Sanchez. Campbell has tons of talent and hasn’t been able to have the same offensive coordinator for back to back seasons in his NFL career. These are factors working against him, but I still expect Jason to prove people wrong with a solid season where he throws for 3,000+ yards and 22-25 touchdowns.

-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.

Being a casualty of the economy myself, I know how hard it is to find a job, let alone one that pays well. While athletes are still making their millions, we may see in the near future that the size of the contracts decrease. Rule of thumb seems to be contracts get bigger and bigger, but that may all change. The next draft will be that of the NFL draft, and I believe those prospects entering the 2009 NFL draft and the agents representing them will soon realize the dollars may not be there like in the past.

In the ’08 draft we saw number 1 pick Jake Long sign a 5 year $57.75 million contract, making him the richest offensive lineman in the NFL. We also saw Matt Ryan sign a 6 year $72 million contract with $34.75 million in guarantees. Those numbers are staggering in any economy. With the Lions most likely landing the number one pick it will be very interesting what kind of money they are willing to spend. Let’s not forget that Detroit has been hit hard during this economic downturn.

When it’s signing endorsement deals, free agents, draft picks, or in the Yankees and Mets cases filling brand new stadiums, things as we know it in the sporting world has most certainly changed. It’s now just a matter of how long will this last.

2008 Veteran Signings

• Bernard Berrian, WR, (Minnesota Vikings): Signed a 6-year, $43.4 million contract
• Derek Anderson, QB, (Cleveland Browns): Signed a 3-year, $24 million contract
• Ryan Grant, RB, (Green Bay Packers): Signed a 4-year, $20 million contract
• Michael Turner, RB, (Atlanta Falcons): Signed a 6-year, $34.5 million contract
• Flozell Adams, T, (Dallas Cowboys): Signed a 6-year, $43.8 million contract
• Asante Samuel, CB, (Philadelphia Eagles): Signed a 6-year, $57.14 million contract

2008 Rookie Signings

• Jake Long, OT, (Miami Dolphins, 1^st Overall Pick): Signed a 5-year, $57.75 million contract
• Chris Long, DE, (St. Louis Rams, 2^nd Overall Pick): Signed a 6-year, $60 million contract
• Matt Ryan, QB, (Atlanta Falcons, 3^rd Overall Pick): Signed a 6-year, $72 million contract
• Darren McFadden, RB, (Oakland Raiders, 4^th Overall Pick): Signed a 6-year, $60 million contract
• Glenn Dorsey, DT, (Kansas City Chiefs, 5^th Overall Pick): Signed a 5-year, $33 million contract
• Vernon Gholston, LB, (New York Jets, 6^th Overall Pick): Signed a 5-year, $32.5 million contract

After looking these contracts over, it is insanely hard to believe that Jake Long, an unproven NFL tackle is making more than Flozell Adams, a 4-time Pro Bowl veteran tackle. How is Darren McFadden making more than Ryan Grant and Michael Turner both of whom played excellent roles on their respective teams last year?

Seeing as the attendance of rookies at training camp is so vital to the success of the player, it pained some to see 2007 1^st overall draft pick JaMarcus Russell hold out of camp until September 12^th when Russell was signed to a 6-year, $61 million deal with $29 million guaranteed. One cannot help but wonder if the reason why rookies get paid so much up front is to prevent another “JaMarcus Russell hold out.” The NFL owners are not crying poor, so Goodell’s battle is not one of finances but one of fairness. Do not think for one minute that rookies believe that the amount of money being paid to them is sane. In an interview with Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, he stated: “I’ll take it. I see both sides of the argument but I’m going to take the (current) argument now.”

A great point made by the late Gene Upshaw was that the rookie contracts only help those free agent veterans who are up for new contracts. What Mr. Upshaw means is that, for example, lets jump into the shoes of an 18-year-old girl who is negotiating with her parents about buying a car. The teen, so paradoxically calm, says: “But, Mom! Angie got a BMW and she’s only 16!” This is a perfect parallel to the situation in the NFL. Agents of veteran free agents can go to negotiations armed with the contracts of these rookies. Whew, no wonder why teams these days want to stay clear of early first round picks. As a future NFL agent, I cannot help but disagree with not being able to pay rookies these huge contracts.

Roger Goodell is not wasting any time on this matter so look to see some headlines fairly soon.

Football

• Clark Judge of CBSSports.com thinks that Tom Condon has a chance at being the next NFLPA Executive Director [Next union leader would be wise to learn from Upshaw's legacy].
• Matt Ryan leads the list in terms of guaranteed money [2008 NFL Draft - First-Round Selections - Contract Terms].
• The 33-day holdout is over [Harvey's deal with Jaguars could be worth $30 million].

Basketball

• New Carnival of the NBA with lots of pics of the Joker [Carnival of the NBA #59 : We're all Jokers].
• Another player jumps overseas…for his shoe deal [Jason Kidd Leaves Nike - Signs with Peak].
• Something just seems awfully wrong with looking at Marbury’s name sitting at #2 [NBA - Top Player Salaries For 2008-09 Season].

Olympics

• I would have put Lezak higher than #25 [Beijing Wrap-Up: The 25 Most Marketable Olympians].
• Michael Phelps will be making a cameo appearance on Entourage [My Michael Phelps All-Access Day].

Baseball

• True Religion is TOTALLY cooler than Seiko [Giants' Zito has new role: male fashion model].

The answer may be a slotting system, but as NFLPA President Kevin Mawae states, if the players give in on a slotting system, the owners better be giving something back in return. The other major issue I see comes in the debate over what percentage of overall revenue the players should be entitled to. NFL players currently receive roughly 60%, amounting to a total of $4.5 billion each year, leaving owners about $4 billion. Mawae says that no matter what the issues are, the players remain united around Gene Upshaw (has the disunity subsided?).

Some other issues that are being discussed include: G-3 funding for stadiums, better benefits, easier access to treatment for retirees, pensions, bigger salaries, and guaranteed contracts. To be honest, I have always wondered how the owners get away with giving players these fake contracts that have little to no guarantee. Sure, football is a dangerous sport full of major contact on the human body, but shouldn’t that actually play as a strong point for guaranteeing a contract? If a player is going to give his all every Sunday, should he not be compensated for putting his life or future ability to walk in danger? Why do baseball and basketball players have their salaries guaranteed but football players struggle to get a small portion of their contract deemed as “guaranteed money”?

Most likely, the retirement and pension issue will get pushed to the side like it always is, in favor of talking about the sexy issues of revenue sharing and rookie slotting. There are many, including Leigh Steinberg, who will be upset if the NFLPA and the owners push the topic to the back of their agenda.

1. Miami Dolphins-Jake Long (OT- Michigan)

Long is their guy. Which Long? We shall see. I am going to go with Jake in the week of the draft. The Fins have done some nice things with the offensive line and Jake may be that missing piece. I still believe that Chris is more of a Parcells guy, so it should be an interesting selection.

2. St. Louis Rams- Chris Long (DE- Virginia)

Long is the top defensive lineman in this draft, and with the Rams suspect front 7 this is a no brainer. The Rams will 100% walk away with a Long at the 2^nd pick.

3. Atlanta Falcons- Glenn Dorsey (DT- LSU)

The Atlanta Falcons are in complete disarray, they have no Qb, and a depleted defense. Dorsey is a stud in the middle and the Falcons can still land Flacco or Brohm in round 2.

4. Oakland Raiders- Darren McFadden (RB- Arkansas)

McFadden’s workout numbers were off the charts and everyone knows how the Raiders love speed. This may not be the smartest pick due to the amount of money the Raiders have invested in their backfield, but he is just too impressive to pass up on.

5. Kansas City Chiefs- Ryan Clady (OT- Boise. St)

The Chiefs desperately need help on the offensive line, Clady may be too high for the 5^th pick but considering the massive holes in their line it is worth the reach. If a trade for Jared Allen goes through that will dramatically affect this pick.

6. New York Jets- Vernon Gholston (DE- Ohio St.)

If the Jets can walk away with either Gholston or McFadden, Jets fans should be ecstatic. Gholston has the speed, strength and athleticism to get after the quarterback at the outside linebacker spot in the Jets 3-4 defense.

7. New England Patriots (from SF)- Leodis McKelvin (CB- Troy)

The Patriots secondary has taken a major hit with the lose of Samuel and Randall Gay. McKelvin is the top corner in this draft and can also play a huge role in the return game.

8. Baltimore Ravens- Matt Ryan (QB- Boston College)

This would be the ideal pick for the Ravens. It would finally solidify their Qb position and they wouldn’t have to move up to get their player.

9. Cincinnati Bengals- Sedrick Ellis (DT- USC)

After missing out on Shaun Rogers, Ellis will be their guy to help sure up the middle of their defense. He’s in the mold of a Warren Sapp and should be a huge upgrade to a dismal defensive line.

10. New Orleans Saints- Keith Rivers (LB- USC)

With the acquisitions of Randall Gay and Aaron Glenn, they may be willing to hold off on a corner so early in the draft. At this immediate time, linebacker is probably the bigger need with the uncertainty of Dan Morgan. Rivers is the top outside backer in the draft and possesses all the tools to step into a starting role.

11. Buffalo Bills- Limas Sweed (WR- Texas)

Sweed is the ideal fit for the Bills. They already have homerun threats in Parrish and Evens, and Sweed would give them that tall, physical receiver they definitely lack.

12. Denver Broncos- Branden Albert (OG/OT- Virginia)

Denver’s offensive line took a hit when Lepsis retired. Albert is athletic, agile and very versatile. The Broncos love those type of guys for their offensive system.

13. Carolina Panthers- Derrick Harvey (DE- Florida)

This is going to be one of the more interesting picks in the draft. They can go running back, defensive end or offensive tackle. They did a decent job addressing their offensive line problems through free agency, and there is just too much uncertainty along their defensive line to pass up on Harvey.

14. Chicago Bears- Jeff Otah (OT- Pitt)

The Bears will look to bolster a depleted offensive line. Otah is a mammoth of a man at 6′6 340lbs and has a huge upside at the next level. Running back may also be an option.

15. Detroit Lions- Rashard Mendenhall (RB- Illinois)

Mendenhall is a stud, and who are we kidding…Tatum Bell is not the answer.

16. Arizona Cardinals- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (CB- Tennessee St.)

While the sun may be setting on Edge, the Cardinals would like to move Rolle to safety and Cromartie’s size and playmaking skills make him a very good pick here at 16.

17. Minnesota Vikings- Phillip Merling (DE- Clemson)

The Vikings boast one of the best defenses in the league, but they just can’t seem to generate any kind of pass rush. Erasmus James and Kenechi Udeze are not the answer at the defensive end positions. Merling has all the intangibles to turn into a fine pass rusher.

18. Houston Texans- Aqib Talib (CB- Kansas)

The secondary has been a constant issue for the Texans. To some, Talib is regarded as the top corner in this draft. While I am not one of those people, I believe that he would be a nice addition to the Texans’ defense.

19. Philadelphia Eagles- Chris Williams (OT- Vanderbilt)

While I believe wide receiver makes the most sense, I am leaning towards the argument they don’t draft receivers in the first round. Williams is a versatile tackle and with the age at the tackle positions, Williams would be a great pick here.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Devin Thomas (WR- Michigan St.)

Joey Galloway is nearing the end of his fabulous career and it is time to look for a playmaker to step in. Thomas has a nice combination of size, speed, and strength.

21. Washington Redskins- James Hardy (WR- Indiana.)

Jason Campbell could certainly use some wide receiver help. Moss is on one side, but Randel-El certainly is not the answer on the other. Hardy is tall, with good speed and can play above every D-back in the league. It would also allow Randel-El to move into the slot.

22. Dallas Cowboys (from Browns)- Mike Jenkins (CB- South Florida)

Assuming the Cowboys don’t get Pacman, Jenkins will be their guy at the cornerback position. He has all the skills to step right into the nickel back role.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers- Gosder Cherilus (OT- Boston College)

With Alan Fanaca gone, the Steelers will be coming into this draft looking to take the best offensive lineman available. At this point, Cherilus is that guy. He has the size and mentality the Steelers love.

24. Tennessee Titans- Desean Jackson (WR- Cal)

I have seen all the talk about the Titans not drafting first round receivers. Well news flash: they really need one. They may have been burned in the past, but the Titans need weapons on offense. While some worry about Jackson’s size, he does have good hands and possesses game-breaking speed.

25. Seattle Seahawks- Kentwan Balmer (DT- North Carolina)

The Seahawks do not really have any absolute need positions and that is why they will go for the highest graded player remaining. Balmer would fit great in their front 7. Balmer is another one of those big, quick tackles who has great agility.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars- Calais Campbell (DE- Miami)

The defensive line has taken a hit with Stroud and Mccray leaving town. Campbell is massive at 6′8 290lbs and has a nice combination of size and athleticism.

27. San Diego Chargers- Jonathon Stewart (RB- Oregon)

The Chargers are another one of those teams with no real holes. Stewart is a steal here. The toe injury, while troublesome, has plenty of time to recover with LT solidified at the starting position.

28. Dallas Cowboys- Felix Jones (RB- Arkansas)

Is wide receiver the bigger need position ? Yes. But there is no way in my opinion Jerry Jones passes up on Arkansas man Felix Jones. With that said, Jones has the speed and homerun capability to be a nice compliment to Marion Barber.

29. San Fransico 49ers- Jerod Mayo (LB- Tennessee)

With Mike Martz coming to town it would be safe to say they will be looking for an offensive weapon. Too bad there isn’t one worth taking. I would say Malcolm Kelly, but with his quad injury, slow 40 and the complaining he’s done, I would have to say Mike Nolan and the 49ers pass.

30. Green Bay Packers- Antoine Cason (CB- Arizona)

The Packers will look to add depth to their secondary and Cason is the best guy on the board here. Cason has good speed and has a good combination of size and instincts. Kenny Phillips is another option.

New England Patriots- Forfeited

31. New York Giants- Kenny Phillips (S- Miami)

This is one of the tougher picks in the draft to predict. I am torn between Dan Connor and Kenny Phillips. Safety is a need position for the Giants, and Phillips could be that typical UM ball-hawking safety. But with the retirement talk of Strahan, linebacker is also a need for the G-men. It comes down to more depth at the linebacking position than at the safety position.

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

]]> http://www.sportsagentblog.com/2008/04/21/schackman%e2%80%99s-2008-nfl-mock-draft-final-version/feed/ 1 http://www.sportsagentblog.com/2008/03/17/schackmans-2008-nfl-mock-draft-part-3/ http://www.sportsagentblog.com/2008/03/17/schackmans-2008-nfl-mock-draft-part-3/#comments Mon, 17 Mar 2008 14:47:10 +0000 Paul Schackman http://www.sportsagentblog.com/?p=1072 This is Mock Draft 3 of 4. To view the previous mock draft click here.

1. Miami Dolphins-Chris Long (DE- Virginia) Long is their guy. Which Long is the real question, but I am going to go with Chris right now. He is a Parcells kind of guy, with a non-stop motor. But they could look at Jake Long for protecting the blind side.

2. St. Louis Rams-Jake Long (OT-Michigan) Long is the top offensive lineman in this draft, and with the Rams injury problems on the O-line and Orlando Pace nearing the end of his career, Long is a very smart pick here. The Rams will 100% walk away with a Long at the 2^nd pick.

3. Atlanta Falcons-Matt Ryan (QB- Boston College) The Atlanta Falcons are in complete disarray, they have no Qb, and more importantly as of now no head coach. Matt Ryan is a big, smart, pure pocket passer who can be the leader of this team for years.

4. Oakland Raiders-Glenn Dorsey (DT- LSU) The Raiders can go O-line or D-line, but with Jake Long off the board, Dorsey is the guy. Dorsey and Tommy Kelly are both active tackles who could have an instant impact for a defense that wasn’t very good. But don’t be surprised if they look to trade this pick away.

5. Kansas City Chiefs-Ryan Clady (OT- Boise.St) The Chiefs were once known for a powerful running game and dominant offensive-line. Not so much these days. While Long is the guy they want, they will need to turn to Clady. Clady will fill the huge void left when Willie Roaf retired. While this may be a little high, they need to draft a solid offensive lineman. Sedrick Ellis may also be a possibility here.

6. New York Jets- Darren McFadden (RB- Arkansas) The Jets had one rushing touchdown last year, and with their revamped offensive line it is time to get a playmaker like McFadden.

7. New England Patriots (from SF)- Vernon Gholston (DE-Ohio.St) Gholston had a monster workout, and would be a great addition to an aging linebacking corp. They just released Colvin so Gholston can step in right away. Cornerback is also a possibility considering they lost Asante Samuel and Randall Gay.

8. Baltimore Ravens- Leodis McKelvin (DB- Troy) This pick can go either way: McKelvin or Ellis. But their secondary was banged up last season and isn’t getting younger, so McKelvin would be a nice nickelback next season before taking over for Samari Rolle.

9. Cincinnati Bengals- Sedrick Ellis (DE- Clemson) After missing out on Shaun Rogers, Ellis will be their guy to help sure up the middle of their defense. He’s in the mold of Warren Sapp and should be a huge upgrade to a dismal defensive line.

10. New Orleans Saints-Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie (CB-Tenn St.) The Saints secondary was a disaster last season and Cromartie is shooting up the draft boards. He has a perfect combination of size and speed. While they did address the secondary with Randall Gay, Cromartie is too good to pass up.

11. Buffalo Bills-Limas Sweed (WR- Texas) Sweed is the ideal fit for the Bills. They already have homerun threats in Parrish and Evens, and Sweed would give them that tall, physical receiver they desperately lack.

12. Denver Broncos- Chris Williams (OT- Vanderbilt) Denver’s offensive line took a hit when Lepsis retired. Williams is that athletic, and agile lineman the Broncos love for their offensive system.

13. Carolina Panthers- Rashard Mendenhall (RB- Illinois) This is going to be one of the more interesting picks in the draft. They can go running back, defense end or offensive tackle. They did a nice job addressing their offensive line problems through free agency and Mendenhall would be a great fit to complement DeAngelo Williams.

14. Chicago Bears- Jeff Otah (OT- Pitt) The Bears will look to bolster a depleted offensive line. Otah is a mammoth of a man at 6′6 340lbs and has a huge upside at the next level. Running back may also be an option.

15. Detroit Lions- Philip Merling (DE- Clemson) The Lions must add bodies on the defensive line, and Merling is a Rod Marinelli type of player. He may not be the pure pass rusher like Harvey, but he is a physical specimen with a non-stop motor.

16. Arizona Cardinals- Aqib Talib (CB- Kansas)W hile the sun may be setting on Edge, the Cardinals would like to move Rolle to safety and Talib’s speed and cover skills makes him a good pick here at 16.

17. Minnesota Vikings- Derrick Harvey (DE- Florida) The Vikings boast one of the best defenses in the league. But they just can’t seem to generate any kind of pass rush. Eramus James and Kenechi Udeze are not the answer at the defensive end position. Harvey has all the intangibles to turn into a fine pass rusher.

18. Houston Texans- Keith Rivers (LB-USC) While some may think the secondary or running back here, Rivers would be a great fit in the Texans defense. He is quick, has good instincts and would be a nice young talent to play next to tackling machine Demeco Ryans.

19. Philadelphia Eagles- Malcolm Kelly (WR- Oklahoma) The Eagles are not going to land Fitzgerald and they must upgrade the wide receiver position. Kelly has great size at 6′4 and he will add that deep threat the Eagles lack.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- DeSean Jackson (WR- Cal) Joey Galloway is nearing the end of his fabulous career and it is time to look for playmakers to step in. While many worry about Jackson’s size, he possesses game-breaking speed. I believe that Jackson could prove to be one of the steals of the draft at this spot.

21. Washington Redskins- Calais Campbell (DE- Miami) Campbell is a physical specimen at 6′8 290lbs. He would be a great upgrade opposite of Andre Carter. Wide receiver is also a possibility.

22. Dallas Cowboys (from Browns)- Mario Manningham (WR-Michigan) The Cowboys will be using this draft to stock up at the skill positions. Wide receiver is a need position for them and Manningham is the best pure receiver on the board.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers- Brandon Albert (OG- Virginia) With Alan Fanaca gone, the Steelers will be coming into this draft looking to take the best offensive lineman available. Albert has great size, athleticism and experience and would be a nice pick to fill the left guard spot.

24. Tennessee Titans- Kentwan Balmer (WR- Indiana) Wide Receiver is certainly a need position but there isn’t a difference maker at pick 24. Balmer would be a nice compliment next to Haynesworth inside.

25. Seattle Seahawks- Fred Davis (TE- USC) While this may be a little high for a tight end, they sorely need one. Davis is the best tight end in this draft regardless of what the combine numbers may suggest.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars- Lawrence Jackson (DE- USC) The defensive line has taken a hit with Stroud and Mccray leaving town. Jackson has a nice combination of size and athleticism, and could be the pass rusher the Jags lack.

27. San Diego Chargers- Gosder Cherilus (OT- Boston College) The Chargers will look at offensive tackle and cornerback and will draft the highest rated player. Cherilus will get the nod here and in time take over the right tackle position.

28. Dallas Cowboys- Mike Jenkins (CB- South Florida) The Cowboys secondary was abused by the Giants in the playoffs and it is time to reload. Jenkins has great speed and cover skills and would be a great selection here at 28. Felix Jones is also a very good possibility.

29. San Fransico 49ers- James Hardy (WR- Indiana) With Mike Martz coming to town it would be safe to say they will be looking for an offensive weapon. Hardy has great size and could be that deep threat that the 49ers sorely lack.

30. Green Bay Packers- Kenny Phillips (S- Miami) The Packers will look to add depth to their secondary and Cason is the best guy on the board here. Cason isn’t the fastest guy out there but has good combination of size and instincts. Linebacker may be another option here.

31. New York Giants- Dan Connor (LB- Penn. St) Connor would be a great fit for this defense and would be the replacement for Kawika Mitchell. The Giants need to add depth and Connor is a very athletic and smart linebacker who smacks.

New England Patriots- Forfeited

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