4/29 Baseball Round-Up

The Pittsburgh Pirates (9-12) lost 4-3 to the Atlanta Braves (14-8)
WP: Tim Hudson (1-0)  S: Craig Kimbrel (8)  LP: Kevin Correia (1-1)
Kevin Correia struggled through 4 1/3 innings.  He walked five and didn't strike anyone out.  The Braves scored three against him.  The two players who have faced the most criticism this season led the offense.  RF Jose Tabata went 3 for 5 with two runs batted in.  He has brought his average up to .231.  3B Pedro Alvarez went 2 for 4 with a double.  He did a nice job fighting off an outside pitch and sending it to left field on the double.  His batting average now sits at .200.  A homerun by LF Martin Prado in the bottom of the seventh gave the Braves the insurance run that they needed.

AAA: The Indianapolis Indians (12-10) won 2-0 over the Durham Bulls
WP: Justin Wilson (2-3)  S: Doug Slaten (2)  LP: Alex Cobb (0-3)
This was a heck of a game for the Indians' pitchers.  SP Justin Wilson and relief pitchers Jose Diaz and Doug Slaten combined to throw a no hitter.  Wilson lasted 7 1/3 innings, struck out 9, and walked two.  DH Jake Fox and 1B Nick Evans each went 2 for 4.  Fox's hits were both doubles.  LF Gorkys Hernandez went 2 for 3 with a double.  CF Starling Marte went 1 for 4 with a homerun.

AA, Game 1: The Altoona Curve (8-12) lost 4-3 in 13 innings to the Akron Aeros
WP: Preston Guilmet (1-0)  LP: Kris Harvey (0-2)
RF Adalberto Santos was the only Curve player with more than one hit, going 2 for 6.  C Tony Sanchez struggled a little.  He struck out four times.  However, he hit a double in the third inning.  The teams exchanged runs in the 12th inning.  In the 13th, Akron scored on a Michel Hernandez single for the walk-off win.

AA, Game 2: The Altoona Curve (8-13) lost 3-2 in seven innings the Akron Aeros
WP: TJ McFarland (4-1)  LP: Duke Welker (1-1)
SS/2B Kelson Brown went 2 for 3 with a double and a run scored.  DH Charles Cutler went 2 for 3 with a double and an RBI.  CF Robbie Grossman went 0 for 3 and he's really in a funk.  His average is now .198. 

A+: The Bradenton Marauders (10-13) won 4-1 over the Jupiter Hammerheads
WP: Jameson Taillon  S: Quinton Miller (3)  LP: Rob Rasmussen (1-4)
SP Jameson Taillon went six scoreless innings, striking out four and walking one.  CF Mel Rojas went 2 for 5 with an RBI.  3B Stefan Welch drove in two runs, going 1 for 4.  The Marauders jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the first two innings and held the Hammerheads off the rest of the game.  Jupiter scored their only run in the bottom of the 7th. 

A: The West Virginia Power (7-16) lost 9-4 to the Greensboro Grasshoppers
WP: Jose Fernandez (3-0)  LP: Ryan Hafner (0-2)
RP Vince Payne gave up four unearned runs in the top of the seventh inning.  Greensboro was aided in the inning by a wild pitch and errors by 2B Dan Gamache and 3B Jodaneli Carvajal.  SS Alen Hanson's 16 game hitting streak ended on Friday.  However, he has five hits in two games since Friday.  Today, he went 3 for 5 with a double.  His average right now is an even .400. 

Steelers' Needs Met

Steelers Needs Prior to Draft
Through the draft and the signing of undrafted free agents, the Steelers have attempted to solve most of their needs.

• Long-term Back-up QB
• Monmouth QB Alex Tanney will get an opportunity to prove himself worthy of a contract and be considered Ben's long-term back-up.
• More Consistent RB
• Florida RB Chris Rainey is added to the stall of backs. He is not a more consistent running back than what the Steelers have, but it is likely that OC Todd Haley will use a rotation of backs, like he did at Kansas City, to compensate.
• Pass Threat TE
• Oregon TE David Paulson has the ability to be a pass receiving TE, but I see him more like FB/TE/H-back David Johnson.
• Wide Receiver over 6'0"
• The Steelers brought in two wide receivers over 6'0" (Colorado WR Toney Clemons and Duquesne WR Connor Dixon). Clemons, a seventh-round pick, will be given every shot to make the team because of his unique combination of size and speed (6'2" and rumored to have run a 4.37 40). Dixon is a long shot to make the team. He is 6'5" and was a converted QB at Duquesne University. The Steelers also brought in Alabama WR Marquis Maze who is 5'10" but has a good shot to make the team due to his skill set as a slot/sub-package receiver.
• Potential Starting LT
• Ohio State OT Mike Adams had some off the field issues, but there is no denying his talent. If the Steelers can turn him into a worker, then they got an absolute steal in round two.
• Starting Guard
• Stanford G David DeCastro will step in at RG from day one. SMU G Kelvin Beachum has the potential to contribute as well. I would not be surprised if Beachum beats out Ramon Foster at LG. Beachum is a sleeper. The Steelers also added some undrafted free agent guards in Rutgers OT/G Desmond Stapleton and Furman G Ryan Lee. Lee is a long shot and Stapleton is a very long shot.
• DE Depth
• Southern Connecticut State DT Ikponmwosa Igbinosun will make the move to DE for the Steelers. He actually has a shot at making the team as his only competition looks to be Al Woods. Yale DE Jake Stoller was also signed as an undrafted free agent, but it would be a surprise if he made the roster.
• Potential Starting NT
• The fact that Washington NT Alameda Ta'amu was available in the fourth round was a shock to me. He is the perfect fit for the Steelers 3-4. He is a huge man that eats up double teams. He will get some playing time this year and potentially replace Casey Hampton next season.
• OLB Depth
• The Steelers waited until after the draft to address their OLBs, but got a quality pick up in Pitt DE/OLB Brandon Lindsey. If Lindsey impresses, he has the ability to allow the Steelers to fill their next need.
• Potential Starting "Buck" ILB
• Miami LB Sean Spence is a "Mack" ILB for the Steelers, so he does not meet the needs. However, Spence will be Timmon's back-up and a special teamer. LB Coach Keith Butler mentioned in a press conference yesterday that he may look at moving OLB Jason Worilds inside. That would be a solution to the "Buck" need. However, it depends on two things: Lindsey sticking as an OLB and Worilds looking good as an ILB.
• Potential Starting CB
• The Steelers drafted Texas A&M CB Terrence Frederick in round seven. I actually see him as more of a safety, as his quickness is not good enough to be an NFL CB. He will contribute as a special teamer, though. Louisiana Tech CB Terry Carter signed as an undrafted free agent. Again, he won't solve the starting CB problem, but competition isn't a bad thing.
• Safety Depth
• As I said above, Frederick looks like more of a SS to me. He is solid as a run stuffer and tackler, but struggles some in coverage. The Steelers also added Arizona safety Robert Golden as an undrafted free agent. He has played CB and safety, but will likely be a FS in the NFL. He's actually a fairly talented safety and may push Will Allen or Da'Mon Cromartie-Smith off the roster.
• Punter
• Georgia punter Drew Butler was added as an undrafted free agent. He was a Ray Guy award winner in 2009. He could potentially replace Jeremy Kapinos.
• Kicker
• Missouri K Grant Ressel had some solid numbers before last season. However, he may have struggled due to some hip problems. The hope is that he will come in and compete with Shaun Suisham.

Steelers' Draft and Undrafted FAs

Round 1: G David DeCastro, Stanford
This was a dream scenario for the Steelers.  DeCastro will be able to be plugged into right guard from day one.  The hope is likely that Ramon Foster will be able to take over the left guard position now.  That would allow Doug Legursky to serve as a back-up to all of the interior line positions.  He and Trai Essex provide very good depth for the Steelers' interior.  DeCastro is a rare find as he is a right guard with the ability to pull left.  Typically, left guards are the pulling guards meaning more runs would go to the right side of the line.  DeCastro allows the Steelers to run to each side equally.
*Fills the need for a starting guard.

Round 2: OT Mike Adams, Ohio State
There were many mock drafts out there that had Mike Adams going to the Steelers in round one.  He does have some off-the-field issues, but if he can get past those he is an immense talent.  He is the perfect build for a left tackle.  Is he ready to start?  No, but with a couple seasons of work he may take over at the position.  That would allow Marcus Gilbert to move back to the right which is a better fit for him.  Willie Colon is a good lineman, but he can't seem to stay healthy.
*Fills the need for potential starting left tackle.

Round 3: ILB Sean Spence, Miami
Spence played OLB at Miami.  He is a bit small for the Steelers system, though.  To understand why Spence will work out, a person must understand the Steelers defense.  There are two inside linebackers in the 3-4; the buck linebacker and the mack linebacker.  The buck position requires a bigger body to take on blocks.  That is where James Farrior played last year.  The mack position is more of a read-react and fly to the ball position.  That will be Spence's position.  He will be a back-up to Lawrence Timmons, and potentially man the middle in the nickel.  Spence is a very good coverage linebacker.  Unless something changes between now and the beginning of the season, this will be the depth chart.  The starter at mack will be Timmons with Spence as his back-up, and the starter at buck will be Larry Foote with Stevenson Sylvestor as his back-up. 
*Does not fill the need for a "buck" linebacker, but adds depth to a thin corp.

Round 4: NT Alameda Ta'amu, Washington
The fact that Ta'amu was still around was a shock.  The Steelers made sure to take advantage by trading up ten spots to take him.  Ta'amu is about 350 pounds.  He is nasty as a run-stuffer, but not a quality pass rusher.  That is fine for the Steelers, who will use him the way that they have used Casey Hampton over the years.  Ta'amu will be a run-down defender.  He will come off the field in definite passing situations.  He may only see the field to spell Hampton this year but don't be surprised if Hampton doesn't return after this season.
*Fills the need for a potential starting NT.

Round 5: RB/WR/PR Chris Rainey, Florida
Rainey plays to his 4.45 40 speed.  He's got the burst of Willie Parker without Parker's strength.  I was a little surprised at this selection because this is the second player taken by the Steelers in this draft that had off-the-field issues.  I expected Rainey to be off their board or pushed far down it.  With that being said, Rainey will provide the ability to take it the distance every play.  It's an easy comparison with Ex-Chief's Head Coach and new Offensive Coordinator Todd Haley running the show, but he seems like a Dexter McCluster type player.  He can come out of the backfield, line up in the slot, and return punts.
*Does not fill the need for a more consistent running back, but the Steelers may use a multiple back approach to compensate.  They ahve a stable of backs that bring something to the table.  Though, Jonathon Dwyer and John Clay don't seem very different to me.

Round 6: Traded pick to move up in Round 4.

Round 7, 1st pick: WR Toney Clemons, Colorado
Toney Clemons has the potential to be a steal.  Right away he's the tallest receiver on the depth chart.  He also is rumored to have 4.4 speed.  He was likely on the Steelers radar due to his Pennsylvania roots.  He was born in New Kensington, PA.  The Steelers have only three receivers currently under an NFL contract; Antonio Brown, Emmanuel Sanders, and Jerricho Cotchery.  Mike Wallace is likely to be with the team, but he has yet to sign his tender.  Teams rarely go into a season with less than five wide receivers.  Once Wallace signs his tender and Clemons is signed to a contract, the Steelers will have five receivers on board.  Clemons has to answer the bell though.  If he impresses, that Steelers may allow Mike Wallace to walk next season.
*Fills the need for a tall wide receiver.

Round 7, 2nd pick: TE David Paulson, Oregon
This could spell the end of the relationship between the Steelers and Weslye Saunders.  Saunders received a four game suspension for the use of performance enhancing drugs (PEDs).  The Steelers also added Leonard Pope who played tight end for OC Todd Haley in Kansas City.  He will be a bit of a project, but he's more of a Heath Miller than a Rob Gronkowski.  He has the potential to be an in-line blocking tight end with some receiving potential.  Teams won't need to game plan for Paulson, however.
*May fill the need for a pass-receiving tight end.

Round 7, 3rd pick: CB Terrence Frederick, Texas A&M
The Steelers actually have good depth at the cornerback position.  The problem is Ike Taylor is the only one with solid starting ability.  Frederick won't solve that problem.  In fact, I could see the Steelers sliding him over to the safety postion.  He will have to make the team as secondary depth and for his special teams coverage abilities.  I would have liked to see the Steelers pick up CB Micah Pellerin who is still available as an undrafted free agent.  He actually has starting potential.
*Fills a need for special teams help, but not much else.

Round 7, 4th pick: G Kelvin Beachum, Southern Methodist
Beachum can play guard or right tackle.  I actually featured Beachum in my All-Underrated Team.  This is what I said about him: "Beachum fires off the ball quickly and makes good initial contact. He played LT for SMU, but will benefit from a move inside in the NFL. He shows good mobility for his size, so pulling should not be a problem. Beachum will need to work on staying lower during runs so that he will have more leverage to move the defender. He has the potential to be a solid guard at the next level."
*Fills a need for offensive line help

Undrafted Free Agents: The Steelers have announced the first 12 players signing as undrafted free agents. 

1. DE/OLB Brandon Lindsey, Pitt - A very nice signing by the Steelers.  Some mocks had Lindsey going to the Steelers in round 5.  Provides good depth and starting potential at OLB down the road.  Lindsey himself wrote on his twitter account @B_Lindsey7: "There's no place like home!! #thankingthemanabove #pittsburghsteelers".
2. G Ryan Lee, Furman - Lee was a tackle at Furman.  He will slide inside to guard if he is going to make it in the NFL.  He also has the ability to play center.  His versatility gives him some value.
3. K Grant Ressel, Missouri - The Steelers need some competition for Shaun Suisham.  In 2009, Ressel set an NCAA record for "combined kick accuracy".  He connected at a 98.5 % clip.  He suffered a hip flexor in 2011 which may have contributed to his poor numbers (9 of 16).
4. WR Connor Dixon, Duquesne - Dixon is a converted quarterback.  It nice to see someone from my alma mater getting a chance with the Steelers.  Shoulder injuries made the move to wide receiver necessary and Dixon took it in stride.  He has nice size for a receiver, measuring in at 6'5" 212 lbs.  His best game came against Delaware last season.  He caught eight passes for 117 yards.
5. P Drew Butler, Georgia - Butler has a good shot at supplanting Jeremy Kapinos as the Steelers' punter.  He was the second rated punter behind 3rd round pick Bryan Anger, according to ProFootballWeekly.  He won the Ray Guy Award for the nation's top punter in 2009 and was a finalist for the award in 2010.  He also served as the holder for field goals and PATs.
6. DT Ikponmwosa Igbinosun, Southern Connecticut State - "Ike" reportedly had a very good pro day work out.  He is about 6'4" 288, so he fits more of the DE position in the 3-4 defense.  There is an opening there with the retirement of Aaron Smith.  Three defensive ends that are sure to make the team are Brett Keisel, Ziggy Hood, and Casey Heyward.  The next man on the depth chart is Al Woods.  Igbinosun has the chance to take over as a back-up and project if he impresses at camp.
7. S Robert Golden, Arizona - National Football Post spoke fairly highly of Golden as a safety, but a work in progress as a cornerback.  The Steelers should be okay with that, because they need some youth at safety.  They say that he "has a lot of value as a safety".  It will be interesting to see if he can contribute on special teams.  If so, we may see the end of Will Allen in Pittsburgh.
8. DE Jake Stoller, Yale - It was tough to find anything on Stoller, which usually isn't a good sign.  Stoller will probably be given a shot at DE which is probably the better fit for the 290 pounder.  He was a second-team All-Ivy selection this season, and earned Yale's award for "highest respect of his teammates".
9. DE Adrian Robinson Jr, Temple - Robinson will get a shot with the Steelers as an OLB, but I don't see him sticking.  He doesn't have a lot of strength to set the edge, something very important as an OLB in the 3-4.  He does have some pass-rushing ability, but unless he wows in that area, he will be a practice team player at best.
10. WR Marquis Maze, Alabama - Maze is another short WR, which the Steelers have in abundance.  However, he does have some skills.  He's a deep threat, and he's good at getting yards after the catch.  He has the potential to be a very solid slot receiver in sub packages.  Is there a place for him on the team?  Possibly.  WR Toney Clemons, one of the Steelers' seventh round picks, brought the team total to five.  If Clemons makes the team, Maze might find it difficult to make the team.  If he can contribute on special teams, that will improve his chances, though.
11. G Desmond Stapleton, Rutgers - Desmond is the brother of former Steeler Darnell Stapleton, who was also signed out of Rutgers as an undrafted free agent and played with the team during their 2008 Super Bowl winning season.  Darnell started 12 regular season games  and all of the post-season games for the Steelers at right guard.  A knee inury forced him out of the league in 2009.  Desmond has good length at 6'5" but is lacking gerth (280 lbs.).  He must add weight if he is going to get a shot in the NFL.
12. CB Terry Carter, Louisiana Tech - Carter is another one that was tough to find information about.  He was selected first-team all-WAC and second-team all-Louisiana last season.  He had one interception (which was returned for a touchdown) and 11 pass break-ups in 2011.  Carter will likely have to wow as a cornerback and special teamer to have a shot at sticking. 
13. QB Alex Tanney, Monmouth (not confirmed) - Tanney put out a YouTube video of trick shots.  It's pretty cool and some are likely real.  I can't buy all of them, though.  The basketball hoop shots were pretty interesting because that is actually how I work with my quarterbacks on accuracy in the off-season.  On the football field, Tanney broke the Division III record for career passing yards with 14,249.  He also broke the NCAA record for TD passes with 157.  He tweeted that he was invited to mini-camp, so perhaps he has not been signed to a contract, but has the ability to earn one.

Steelers selections in Rounds 2 and 3

The Steelers have selected OT Mike Adams from Ohio State in Round 2 and LB Sean Spence from Miami in Round 3.  I will have a write-up on the entire draft after its completion tomorrow

Live First Round Blog

Live First Round Blog 
Picks from my mock draft are in parentheses.

7:55 - Just saw that the Steelers re-signed QB Byron Leftwich.

Trades

• 7:20 - The Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings have completed a trade.  They swapped first round picks, with the Browns leap-frogging the Vikings.  The Browns received the Vikings third round pick and the Vikings got two fourth rounders, a fifth, and a seventh.  The NFL Network guys are saying that they think it's to protect someone else from trading to three to pick RB Trent Richardson.  I don't know that this makes WR Justin Blackmon the unlikely pick.
• 8:20 - Jacksonville has traded with Tampa Bay to jump up to five.
• 8:30 - Dallas has traded with St. Louis to jump up to six.
• 9:05 - Philadelphia has traded with Seattle to jump to twelve.
• 10:00 - New England has traded with Cincinnati into the twenty first position.
• 10:15? - New England traded up to #25, swapping picks with the Broncos.  This got glossed over, so I'm not sure what time it happened at.
• 10:35 - Minnesota traded with Baltimore to get back into the first round.
• 10:50 - Tampa Bay trades with Denver to get back into the first round.

1 Indianapolis Colts - QB Andrew Luck, Stanford
No surprise here.  Luck has been the projected pick here since last season's draft.
(QB Andrew Luck, Stanford)

2 Washington Redskins - QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor
Another pick with little suspense.  Griffin had an outstanding season, earning the Heisman Trophy.  The Redskins traded up for the pick so that they could get their Franchise Quarterback.
(QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor)

3 Minnesota Vikings Cleveland Browns - RB Trent Richardson, Alabama
It was a little surprising that the Browns traded up to get Richardson.  If Minnesota would have stayed put, they likely would have picked OT Matt Kalil.  The Browns wanted to make sure no one who coveted Richardson would jump in front of them.  They gave up a decent bit to get him though.  They gave the Vikings five picks in exchange for two.
(OT Matt Kalil, USC)

4 Cleveland Browns Minnesota Vikings - OT Matt Kalil, USC
Kudos to the Vikings for getting some extra picks to move back only one spot.  They still land their man in Kalil, and they received three extra picks.  Kalil should be a pro-bowl blind side tackle for the long haul.  QB Christian Ponder has to be smiling about this one.
(RB Trent Richardson, Alabama)

5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Jacksonville Jaguars - WR Justin Blackmon, Oregon State
The Jaguars wanted to give QB Blaine Gabbert a go-to-guy.  He gets that with Blackmon.  This is bad news for St. Louis who I had Blackmon falling to.  St. Louis will either trade back now and take WR Michael Floyd or stay put and select the best player available.  At this point, that would probably be CB Morris Clayborne.
(CB Morris Clayborne, LSU)

6 St. Louis Rams Dallas Cowboys - CB Morris Clayborne, LSU
The Cowboys just went a long way in fixing their secondary troubles.  They made a free agent signing at the cornerback position (Brandon Carr), but Clayborne has the potential to be a special player.
(WR Justin Blackmon, Oregon State)

7 Jacksonville Jaguars Tampa Bay Buccaneers - SS Mark Barron, Alabama
I was holding my breath with this pick.  I worried that Tampa would take Kuechly.  That would push Hightower up.  The Bucs needed some defensive help and it was either going to be safety or linebacker one Clayborne was off the board.
(WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame)

8 Miami Dolphins - QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M
The Dolphins tried to cover up the fact that they would be taking Tannehill.  However, they couldn't afford to pass him up.  It was a damned if you do, damned if you don't situation for them.  They take Tannehill and get crucified for a reach.  They don't take him and they get flack for not trying to improve their quarterback position.
(QB Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M)

9 Carolina Panthers - ILB Luke Kuechly, Boston College
Kuechly did go higher than I was hoping, but maybe low enough that it won't affect Hightower's position.  He's an awesome player.  He has great instincts and is a three down linebacker in the NFL.  The Panthers will be very happy with this pick.
(DE/OLB Melvin Ingram, South Carolina)

10 Buffalo Bills - CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina
I was surprised by this one.  I expected an offensive lineman for Buffalo.  Reiff would have been my suggestion, or even DeCastro.  However, Gilmore was rising up the draft boards since the combine.  Cornerback was a need for the Bills, and linemen can be found later.
(OT Riley Reiff, Iowa)

11 Kansas City Chiefs - DT Dontari Poe, Memphis
I thought that this was going to be a toss-up between DeCastro and Poe.  I'm not surprised by this pick as the Chiefs' run defense was ranked 26th last season.  Poe is an incredible athlete for a big man.  However, he has been questioned for his lack of production.
(G David DeCastro, Stanford)

12 Seattle Seahawks Philadelphia Eagles- DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State
The Eagles were pleasantly surprised that Cox was still on the board here, so they had to make the leap. Cox will take up some blocks so that new LB DeMeco Ryans can fly to the ball. The Philadelphia defense should be much improved next season with these additions.
(ILB Luke Kuechly, Boston College)

13 Arizona Cardinals - WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame
The Cardinals could have improved their offensive line with OT Riley Reiff, but Floyd is a quality pick too.  If Kolb cannot improve with Floyd on one side and Fitzgerald on the other, Arizona will know they need to look elsewhere for a QB.

(OT Jonathon Martin, Stanford)

14 Dallas Cowboys St. Louis Rams - DT Michael Brockers, LSU

With a ton of holes, the Rams are choosing to build from the inside out.  It has been well documented that Brockers is a very good run stuffer, but he is not a stand out pass rusher.  He has the potential to improve in that area, though.  He is still pretty young, coming out after his redshirt sophomore season.
(DE Quinton Coples, UNC)

15 Philadelphia Eagles Seattle Seahawks - DE Bruce Irvin, WVU

Wow!  I was shocked by this one.  Irvin is a 3rd rounder in my eyes.  He doesn't even make an appearance in my top 100.  He is still quite small, but he is very quick on the outside.  I also thought his off the field issues would have pushed him down further.  These are the types of kids that Head Coach Pete Carroll likes to take, though.  This is probably the best possible landing spot for Irvin.
(DT Dontari Poe, Memphis)

16 New York Jets - DE Quinton Coples, UNC
Coples fell due to a lackidaisical senior season.  He was an animal in his junior season, though.  This does not fill a big need for the Jets, but he may have been the top player on their draft board.  I'm a bit surprised they didn't solidify their O-line with G David DeCastro.
(SS Mark Barron, Alabama)

17 Cincinnati (from Raiders) - CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama
The former Alabama CB is a quality selection at this point.  He is physical, has good ball skills, and is a solid team player.  The Bengals needed a counter-punch to the wide receivers in the AFC North.  Kirkpatrick makes a good defense even better.
(CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama)

18 San Diego Chargers - DE Melvin Ingram, South Carolina
Ingram was my highest rated defensive player yet to be drafted.  I expected an offensive lineman, though.  DeCastro is my highest rated player still on the board.  His slide could be excellent for the Steelers. 
(G Cordy Glenn, Georgia)

19 Chicago Bears - DE Shea McClellin, Boise State
I figured it would be a defensive end.  However, I thought Mercilus would have been a better fit in Chicago.  McClellin is a more consistent player, but Mercilus has a much higher ceiling in my eyes.  McClellin will be a steady player for the bears.
(DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois)

*Tennessee would have liked to have had a CB available.  I'm expecting WR Stephen Hill to be the pick now.

20 Tennessee Titans - WR Kendall Wright, Baylor

Again, I had the position, but not the correct player.  Wright looks like a very good slot receiver.  I don't know how good he will be on the outside, however.  The Michaels (Mayock and Irvin) disagree with me.  They see him as a good outside receiver as well.  Only time will tell.
(CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina)


21 Cincinnati Bengals New England Patriots - DE Chandler Jones, Syracuse
I had to look at my board a couple times to find Jones.  I can't believe I left him way down at #72.  I assure you, that was a mistake.  He is a very solid player.  It was a good move by the Pats to jump up and take him.
(DT Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State)

22 Cleveland Browns - QB Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma State

Weeden would have been a good second round pick.  This is a bit high for me.  If I were making the decisions in Cleveland, I would have taken WR Stephen Hill and went after Weeden in the second round.  It's possible he wouldn't be there, but it's a risk I would have taken.
(WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech)

23 Detroit Lions - OT Riley Reiff, Iowa
I cannot express my astonishment that Riley Reiff lasted this long.  I had him going to the Bills at #10.  This is a very, very good pick for the Lions.  They get a possible LT at 23.  Was it a huge need?  No.  Was it a good idea?  Heck Yes!
(CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama)


24 Pittsburgh Steelers - G David DeCastro, Stanford
I could not have dreamed of this happening.  DeCastro is a stud pulling LG.  He will start immediately and Doug Legursky will move to a backup G/C.  This one selection improved the Steelers' offensive line ten-fold.  There are a lot of players on the board that would look good in a Steelers' uniform.
(ILB Dont'a Hightower, Alabama)

25 Denver Broncos New England Patriots - ILB Dont'a Hightower, Alabama
Once the Patriots realized that the Steelers weren't taking Hightower, they pounced on him.  He is a mobile big guy.  He can move around and play many different positions for the Patriots.  Hightower is a very good fit for the Patriots.  I would have liked to have seen him in a Steelers' uniform, but DeCastro was the correct selection.
(DT Michael Brockers, LSU)

26 Houston Texans - DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois
The Texans decided to replace the departed Mario Williams.  Mercilus will allow the Texans to continue to be a solid pass rush team.  The Texans must look for a WR later in the draft, though.  They need to find some help for WR Andre Johnson.
(WR Kendall Wright, Baylor)

*My guess here is G/T Cordy Glenn.  The Bengals need a solid guard.

27 New England Patriots  Cincinnati Bengals - G Kevin Zeitler, Wisconsin
One of these times I'll chose the right player.  I'm surprised so many people are passing over Glenn.  I had Zeitler as a second round prospect, but you know he has had quality coaching.  Wisconsin always produces very good lineman.  He will be a road-grader for the Bengals.
(DE/OLB Courtney Upshaw, Alabama)

28 Green Bay Packers - DE Nick Perry, USC
This was an easy pick.  The Pack needed to improve their pass rush.  Clay Matthews was out there by himself last season.  Their defense struggled because of it.  If they can get Perry to play with a little more consistency, their defense will improve quite a bit.
(DE/OLB Nick Perry, USC)

*Gotta be WR Stephen Hill here. The Vikings need another receiver for QB Christian Ponder.

29 Baltimore Ravens Minnesota Vikings - FS Harrison Smith, Notre Dame
That's a surprise!  It's a very good pick, but I didn't really see a big need at safety for the Vikings.  Perhaps they are not planning on re-signing Tyrell Johnson.  They still need a bunch of help on the offensive side of the ball.
(C Peter Konz, Wisconsin

*Cordy Glenn?
30 San Francisco 49ers - WR AJ Jenkins, Illinois
Really?  I don't like this pick for the 49ers.  I feel like there were better wider receivers available.  They also would have been better off getting a guard and helping out their offensive line.  Their pass offense was not great last year, though so we'll see if Harbaugh is smarter than the rest of us.
(DT Jerel Worthy, Michigan State)

31 New England Patriots Tampa Bay Buccaneers - RB Doug Martin, Boise State
The Bucs needed a running back because they don't trust LeGarrette Blount to handle the load.  Martin is a solid pick, but I didn't see the need to jump back into the first to get him.  They took SS Mark Barron at #7 to improve their defense.  Martin will provide a nice boost to their offense.
(DT Devon Still, Penn State)

32 New York Giants - RB David Wilson, Virginia Tech
Well, the Giants just proved me wrong.  They might have taken Martin if he was still here.  That makes the move by the Bucs look much better.  The Giants did need a RB with the exit of Brandon Jacobs, but I did not expect them to pick one this early.  A nice first round.  See ya'll tomorrow.
(OT Mike Adams, Ohio State)

Best remaining:
G/T Cordy Glenn, Georgia
OT Jonathon Martin, Stanford
DE/OLB Courtney Upshaw, Alabama
WR Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech
TE Coby Fleener, Stanford

4/25 Baseball Round-Up

Six total games today as the Pirates and Rockies had a double-header. Today's other games were Indianapolis Indians vs. Louisville Bats, Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators, Bradenton Marauders vs. Charlotte Stone Crabs, and West Virginia Power vs. Savannah Sand Gnats.

4/24 Baseball Round-Up

All of the teams were back in action today.  Today's games were Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Colorado Rockies, Indianapolis Indians vs. Louisville Bats, Altoona Curve vs. Harrisburg Senators, Bradenton Marauders vs. Jupiter Hammerheads, and West Virginia Power vs. Savannah Sand Gnats.

4/23 Baseball Round-Up

Only two teams were in action tonight, since the Pirates got rained out.  West Virginia and Altoona both had the night off.  Today's games were Indianapolis Indians vs. Louisville Bats and Bradenton Marauders vs. Jupiter Hammerheads.

4/22 Baseball Round-Up

The Pittsburgh Pirates and all of their affiliates were in action on Sunday, April 22. Inside find write-ups for Pittsburgh Pirates vs. St. Louis Cardinals, Indianapolis Indians vs. Louisville Bats, Bradenton Marauders vs. Jupiter Hammerheads, and West Virginia Power vs. Charleston RiverDogs.

NFL All-Underrated Team - Defense (with Scouting Reports)

DE Scott Solomon, Rice

• Solomon plays hard every play.  Not great as a pass rusher, but he gives relentless effort.  The former Rice defensive lineman is strong against the run which would work well as a 3-4 DE or a 4-3 strong side DE.  He would be a better player in a 3-4 scheme so that he could better utilize his strength.

DT Chigbo Anunoby, Morehouse

• This guy is large (6’4” 328 lbs) with room to add bulk.  Another guy that is not good at rushing on pass plays, but would be a good run stuffer.  He would look good in a couple years as a NT in a 3-4 scheme.  Anunoby will have to work on his bulk and his technique, but he was born with the biggest necessity for a NT…size.  Don’t be surprised if his name is called in the 7^th or even 6^th round.

DE Ryan Van Bergen, Michigan

• At 6’6” 283 lbs, Van Bergen has good size for a 3-4 DE.  He is strong against the run as evidenced by his 12.5 tackles for loss.  His five sacks show that he has some potential as a pass rusher.  He’s a guy that you don’t hear much from, but isn’t that what you want in a 3-4 DE?  Ask Aaron Smith.

OLB Delano Johnson, Bowie State

• Johnson is the perfect build for a 3-4 OLB.  He has work to do with his pass rushing ability, but that is because he didn’t have much experience of it with Bowie State.  He has the potential to take the James Harrison route as an undrafted free agent who needs a couple years of work.  He may never make it to Harrison level as I don’t see him as mean and nasty, but his athletic ability is pretty high for where he is likely to be selected.

ILB Shawn Loiseau, Merrimack

• As explained by Walter from WalterFootball.com, he has “good instincts” and is a “tough player.”  Those are great praise for an ILB, who has to put his nose in every running play.  He is an okay athlete, but a better football player.  That being said, his ceiling is not tremendously high.  He is more of a Larry Foote than a Lawrence Timmons.  He’s not flashy, but he competes.

ILB Carmen Messina, New Mexico

• Messina is the Mountain West Conference’s all-time leading tackler, with 454 career tackles.  He also was tied for 6^th for most tackles in the nation this season with 142.  He led the Mountain West in tackles as a sophomore, junior, and senior.  Messina also took third place from Brian Urlacher on New Mexico’s all-time tackles list. 

OLB Frank Alexander, Oklahoma

• Alexander was made aware of a heart condition prior to the combine.  Therefore, he had to wait until Oklahoma’s pro day to perform for the scouts once he was cleared.  The health question has allowed Alexander to slide on some lists.  He has good size and speed for the position, but will need to work on his pass rushing repertoire to avoid being shut down by the better OT’s in the league.

CB Antonio Dennard, Langston

• Not to be confused with Alfonzo Dennard from Nebraska who recently got into some trouble.  Antonio shows the ability to turn his hips in coverage and the skills to cause some turnovers.  At just over 5’10”, Dennard doesn’t have great height but he is aggressive and physical.  He does well in run support.  He may be a player that the Steelers look at as a Priority Free Agent (an undrafted player who is high on a team’s list).

CB Jeremy Lane, Northwestern State

• Lane has long arms and loose hips, both essentials for a cornerback who measures in at only 5’11”.  He’ll need to add some bulk to his frame to improve his tackling ability.  He plays the run well and is able to lay a big hit.  He will have to contribute on special teams initially, but with some hard work Lane end up starting on a team that expects run support from the cornerbacks.

SS Corey White, Samford

• White struggles against the pass.  If he finds himself in position to make a play on the ball, he will.  However, he has to be more instinctive, as he struggles to stay with receivers.  His forte is against the run.  He can play up at the line much like Troy Polamalu does from time to time.  He has good size for a safety, but was a CB while at Samford.

FS Janzen Jackson, McNeese State

• Jackson is another defensive back who is strong against the run.  However, Jackson also does fairly well in pass coverage.  He needs to work on his footwork and technique, though.  The good news is those are coachable aspects.  He began his college career with Tennessee but was kicked off the team in 2010; that will concern general managers.  His skill set says round 4, but it’s likely he will be a 7^th rounder or go undrafted.

Wallace Not Reporting.......Yet

WR Mike Wallace remains with the Pittsburgh Steelers now that Friday's Restricted Free Agent deadline passed without another team signing him to a contract.  However, that is not the end of the saga.  NFL.com is reporting that Wallace is refusing to sign the tender offered to him by the Pittsburgh Steelers, until it is absolutely necessary.  Both sides are interested in signing a long-term deal, but they are still far apart.  History has shown that holding out against the Steelers doesn't accomplish much.  They are of the impression that we'll win with or without you.  If you want to be a part of a championship team....great, if not.....oh well.  Let's hope that the Steelers and Wallace work this thing out.

Penguins Turn In Disappointing End to Disappointing Series

Philadelphia Flyers 4 - Pittsburgh Penguins 1.  Philadelphia wins series 4-2.

The Pittsburgh Penguins needed one of two things to happen if they were going to avoid elimination.  They either needed to show marked improvement on defense, or Fleury would have to stand on his head.  Neither happened.  Fleury let in a couple soft ones but received little support from his team either.  The saddest point of this game was that Fleury was the better goaltender.  However, the Penguins made life pretty simple for Philly goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov.  Once the Flyers got up by three they just protected the cage.  They made it difficult to get anything through on Bryzgalov.

The only Penguins goal was scored by Evgeni Malkin.  However, that underscores an overall

lackadaisical game.  After the Malkin goal, the Flyers responded with a Danny Briere less than a minute later.  That seemed to deflate the Penguins.  Their late powerplay nearly got a goal, but it was waved off because James Neal pushed the goalie into the net. 

The Penguins need to stew on this series all off-season.  Not only did they lose in round one again.  This time, they lost to the hated Philadelphia Flyers.  GM Ray Shero should be looking for some defensive help this off-season with the hopes of moving Paul Martin and/or Zbynek Michalek.  They have been a disappointment for the amount of money they are hauling in.  The team also has to go back to fundamentals.  There were far too many bad passes and bad defensive plays.  I also have to say this.  As much as I don't want to admit it, last year's Jack Adams winner for best coach, Dan Bylsma was outcoached by Peter Laviolette.  It will definitely be an off-season of soul searching.

4/21 Baseball Round-Up

Sorry this is up late.  It was a travel day for me.  The Altoona Curve game was rained out, but Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Bradenton, and West Virginia were in action. Inside find write-ups for Pittsburgh Pirates vs. St. Louis Cardinals, Indianapolis Indians vs. Louisville Bats, Bradenton Marauders vs. Fort Myers Miracle, and West Virginia Power vs. Charleston RiverDogs.

NFL All-Underrated Team - Offense (with Scouting Reports)

QB David Legree, Hampton

• Originally played at Syracuse. More of a scrambler than a pocket passer, but has a big arm and shows decent pocket presence. His senior season ended prematurely due to a separated his shoulder. He would definitely be a developmental prospect, but he has good size (6’4”, 230) and skills.

RB Bryce Brown, Kansas State

• Brown has had a pretty crazy college career. He started at Tennessee and looked pretty good there. After his freshman season, Brown transferred to Kansas State. However, he played only three games for Kansas State. He certainly has the skills to be an adequate NFL back, but his attitude is what teams will worry about. He was actually ranked higher than Alabama RB Trent Richardson as a high school prospect. He displayed good vision and the ability to run inside and outside in his small sample of playing time.

WR LaQuinton Evans, Southern

• Despite his size (6’2”, 205), Evans shies away from contact. He had troubles when he got pressed and would hear footsteps when crossing underneath. He is a quick receiver, though, who displays the ability to be a deep threat and the willingness to run routes underneath. He had a 4.39 40 time at his pro day. He also has return ability.

WR Matt Austin, Utah State

• Austin accelerates well and has good hands. He does a good job of going after the ball. At 6'2" and about 200 lbs, the former Utah State WR has good size. He will never be a true number one receiver, but has the potential to be a quality #3 who plays in the slot.

WR Jarret Boykin, Virginia Tech

• At 6'2" 220 lbs., Boykin has good size for the position. He has slower acceleration, so it is difficult for him to find separation. However, he attacks the ball and his size allows him to win battles. Boykin seems to be more of a vertical threat, but he isn't afraid to cross the middle of the field.

TE/WR Lamont Bryant, Morgan State

• Bryant has the desired height for a TE at 6’5”, but lacks in weight (225 lbs). He could be looked at as a developmental WR, but I would prefer to see him add some bulk to his frame and stay at TE. He won’t wow you as a blocker, but has potential as a receiving TE. He has nice acceleration and good hands. He is also willing to fight for jump balls.

OT James Carmon, Mississippi State

• This year was Carmon's first year on the offensive side of the ball, so he is very raw. He has great build for the position, though. He would be a developmental guy who wouldn't provide much help for the next year or two. However, with the right coaching, he could end up being a steal late in the draft.

OG Kelvin Beachum, Southern Methodist

• Beachum fires off the ball quickly and makes good initial contact. He played LT for SMU, but will benefit from a move inside in the NFL. He shows good mobility for his size, so pulling should not be a problem. Beachum will need to work on staying lower during runs so that he will have more leverage to move the defender. He has the potential to be a solid guard at the next level.

C David Snow, Texas

• Snow has plenty of experience at the center position. He is quick to step after snapping the ball, the most important aspect of a center's game. The former Longhorn is intelligent enough to make the pre-snap reads and adjustments. He is good positionally, but lacks somewhat in strength. He's never going to be a pro-bowler, but he can contribute with some work.

OG Derek Dennis, Temple

• Dennis is not a great zone blocker, and struggles to pull. However, in a man blocking scheme, Dennis would be a road-grader. He will need to work on a quicker punch so that he can win the hands battle. Once he wins the hand battle, the defender won't have much of a chance. He is a project, but his ceiling wouldn't go any higher than a solid but unspectacular guard.

OT Bradley Sowell, Ole Miss

• Consistency is the issue with Sowell. He is a good bender, but will get lazy sometimes. That is where he gets into trouble, as he gives up the outside when that happens. He has a strong punch when he makes connection and stays with his block. He will need a good deal of work, but could surprise at the next level with good coaching and the right fit.

Compiled with help from:
http://bcfnflprospects.blogspot.com/
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/NFL-DRAFT-Late-Round-Sleepers-that-can-stick.html
http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=967437
http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/NFL-DRAFT-Late-round-sleepers-worth-monitoring.html
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1146115-2012-nfl-draft-10-possible-udfas-the-philadelphia-eagles-should-sign#/articles/1146115-2012-nfl-draft-10-possible-udfas-the-philadelphia-eagles-should-sign/page/7
http://www.walterfootball.com/

4/20 Baseball Round-Up

The Indianapolis Indians' game was rained out, but Pittsburgh, Altoona, Bradenton, and West Virginia were in action. Inside find write-ups for Pittsburgh Pirates vs. St. Louis Cardinals, Altoona Curve vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels, Bradenton Marauders vs. Fort Myers Miracle, and West Virginia Power vs. Charleston RiverDogs.