Whisenhunt Draft Tidbits From Somers Blog

[joeshmo]

http://www.azcentral.com/members/Blog/KentSomers/49167

1. TE, FB, OLB - seem to be his greatest concerns still. Even with all 4 OLB's back he notes that they are all older and it needs youth.

My own take is that even with Becht Wiz is not confortable with his TE staff, especially with the oft injured and underachieving duo of PaAtrick and Pope. I think Wiz wants a FB who can block and play special teams, and T. Smith cant play special teams so he would be a last resort. I say we take a hard look at Quinn Johnson and Tony Fiametta(sp?) in the 4 or 5th rounds.

2. Didnt get the sense that OL is that high of a priority and the same OL we had in 08 will most likely be the same one in 09. Just wants more competition in the interior.

My own take is that OL is not a priority in the first 2 to 3 rounds, and Keith just might be in their future OT plans once Gandys contract ends.

Anyways I just though Somers got some really interesting tidbits from Wiz at the owners meetings. What he really believes or smoke screens you be the judge.

 

[WildBB]

http://www.azcentral.com/members/Blog/KentSomers/49167

1. TE, FB, OLB - seem to be his greatest concerns still. Even with all 4 OLB's back he notes that they are all older and it needs youth.

My own take is that even with Becht Wiz is not confortable with his TE staff, especially with the oft injured and underachieving duo of PaAtrick and Pope. I think Wiz wants a FB who can block and play special teams, and T. Smith cant play special teams so he would be a last resort. I say we take a hard look at Quinn Johnson and Tony Fiametta(sp?) in the 4 or 5th rounds.

2. Didnt get the sense that OL is that high of a priority and the same OL we had in 08 will most likely be the same one in 09. Just wants more competition in the interior.

My own take is that OL is not a priority in the first 2 to 3 rounds, and Keith just might be in their future OT plans once Gandys contract ends.

Anyways I just though Somers got some really interesting tidbits from Wiz at the owners meetings. What he really believes or smoke screens you be the judge.

They still basically only have two RB's with James adament about wanting out. Allthough there's a minute chance he could restructure (pay cut). We'll see. Give it one more yr?

Whatever happens with that we know they're taking a back fairly early this yr.

His comments for sure open the door for a pick like Pettigrew and English, Maybin, Sintim would be likely canditates as well.

 

[Dr. Jones]

Whisenhunt believes center Lyle Sendlein is going to develop into not only a good player but a "very good" one.

Oooof...... I will trust him... I just don't see it.

 

[Camshaft]

Not smoke, just not the whole truth or picture.

 

[WildBB]

I forgot about mentioning Barwin as well. He's leaving the competition in the dust this off-season. He might be a target as well.

http://www.fftoolbox.com/nfl_draft/2009/nfl_combine_results.cfm?sort=shuttle20&pos=DE


And he can play TE! Well!

 

[MadCardDisease]

http://www.azcentral.com/members/Blog/KentSomers/49167

1. TE, FB, OLB - seem to be his greatest concerns still. Even with all 4 OLB's back he notes that they are all older and it needs youth.

My own take is that even with Becht Wiz is not confortable with his TE staff, especially with the oft injured and underachieving duo of PaAtrick and Pope. I think Wiz wants a FB who can block and play special teams, and T. Smith cant play special teams so he would be a last resort. I say we take a hard look at Quinn Johnson and Tony Fiametta(sp?) in the 4 or 5th rounds.

2. Didnt get the sense that OL is that high of a priority and the same OL we had in 08 will most likely be the same one in 09. Just wants more competition in the interior.

My own take is that OL is not a priority in the first 2 to 3 rounds, and Keith just might be in their future OT plans once Gandys contract ends.

Anyways I just though Somers got some really interesting tidbits from Wiz at the owners meetings. What he really believes or smoke screens you be the judge.

I still think that OL is an issue. Especially on the interior. That is why in my mock draft I have us taking Mack.

http://www.arizonasportsfans.com/vb/f4/madcards-2009-cardinals-mock-draft-v1-0-a-131930.html

Otherwise I agree that we need an infusion of youth at OLB.

I would also like to see another TE/FB brought in. Someone like Brian Mandeville in the later rounds would fit perfectly IMO. He has experience playing TE, FB and H-Back.


I'm surprised he didn't mention RB as an area of concern. That might indicate they are targeting one earlier than I expected.

 

[joeshmo]

I'm surprised he didn't mention RB as an area of concern. That might indicate they are targeting one earlier than I expected.

Or he will continue his theory going all the way back to Pitt that he can get a good RB later in the draft?

 

[MadCardDisease]

Or he will continue his theory going all the way back to Pitt that he can get a good RB later in the draft?

yeah I agree with that. I'm not a big fan of taking RBs in the first round.

Also I mentioned that before I realized that we had signed a RB from the Browns. RB becomes a little less of a priority knowing that now.

 

[Mitch]

Or he will continue his theory going all the way back to Pitt that he can get a good RB later in the draft?

I think you are right, Joe.

Somers indicated that the Cardinals may be interested in re-signing FB Terrelle Smith. I really thought they would still make a play for RFA John Kuhn of Green Bay, seeing as Kuhn is a ST ace as well as a solid FB. But, with $1.5M currently in the kitty, that signing may be a "dream deferred."

As for TE...Whiz and his staff showed quite an interest at the combine in James Casey of Rice...Casey had great senior numbers (1,329, 12.0 ypc, and 13 TDs). Reminds some of H-back Chris Cooley.

But...Casey would be a reach at #31 and may not be available at #63.

It may go back to your theory Joe that the target at #31 may well be Brandon Pettigrew of Oklahoma State...that is if the brass think that Pettigrew's off the field issues (attacking a ploice officer while intoxicated) are well behind him.

But the more one thinks about the kinds of things Whiz likes in players, he loves versatility...and DE/TE Connor Barwin of Cincinnati is starting to make sense for the #31 pick. Barwin just ran a 4.5 at his pro day...wowing those in attendance. After all, he is 6-4, 260.

At RB...the 5th round has been great for the Cardinals since Whiz has arrived...I think, however, that since the Cardinals pick so late in the round, that their RB pick will come in the 4th round, and I think it will be a speed back who will also become the KR and speed RB option in the spread...Whiz loves speed guys and he already has a banger in Hightower.

 

[CardLogic]

Oooof...... I will trust him... I just don't see it.

But they (Whiz and staff) see it.

The greatest difference between the way the current coaching staff operate and previous regimes is this staff are teachers. Talent gets a player into the NFL, good coaching; along with individual desire; keeps them in!

Constantly shuffling personnel is not the way to improvement nor success as a team. Stability and growth are much more effective.

 

[PitchShifter]

Someone like Brian Mandeville in the later rounds would fit perfectly IMO.

Mendeville, or like Mendeville?
Doctors discovered a heart condition at his Combine medical and advised him to immediately retire from football.

 

[bg7brd]

I think you are right, Joe.

Somers indicated that the Cardinals may be interested in re-signing FB Terrelle Smith. I really thought they would still make a play for RFA John Kuhn of Green Bay, seeing as Kuhn is a ST ace as well as a solid FB. But, with $1.5M currently in the kitty, that signing may be a "dream deferred."

As for TE...Whiz and his staff showed quite an interest at the combine in James Casey of Rice...Casey had great senior numbers (1,329, 12.0 ypc, and 13 TDs). Reminds some of H-back Chris Cooley.

But...Casey would be a reach at #31 and may not be available at #63.

It may go back to your theory Joe that the target at #31 may well be Brandon Pettigrew of Oklahoma State...that is if the brass think that Pettigrew's off the field issues (attacking a ploice officer while intoxicated) are well behind him.

But the more one thinks about the kinds of things Whiz likes in players, he loves versatility...and DE/TE Connor Barwin of Cincinnati is starting to make sense for the #31 pick. Barwin just ran a 4.5 at his pro day...wowing those in attendance. After all, he is 6-4, 260.

At RB...the 5th round has been great for the Cardinals since Whiz has arrived...I think, however, that since the Cardinals pick so late in the round, that their RB pick will come in the 4th round, and I think it will be a speed back who will also become the KR and speed RB option in the spread...Whiz loves speed guys and he already has a banger in Hightower.

I think Kory Sheets is a good fit for us in the 4th. He played in a pass happy O in college, he's got good hands, can block, and he can return kicks.

 

[Cbus cardsfan]

I think Kory Sheets is a good fit for us in the 4th. He played in a pass happy O in college, he's got good hands, can block, and he can return kicks.

4th is probably too early for him. I would nab him in the 6th if he's there.

 

[Dr. Jones]

But they (Whiz and staff) see it.

The greatest difference between the way the current coaching staff operate and previous regimes is this staff are teachers. Talent gets a player into the NFL, good coaching; along with individual desire; keeps them in!

Constantly shuffling personnel is not the way to improvement nor success as a team. Stability and growth are much more effective.

Agreed... Which is why I said I will trust the coaches...

My issue with Lyle is not heart.... Or coachability.

He just doesn't posses the tools required to be a dominant interior lineman. And with the Center position being the "coach" on the field I was hoping to upgrade in that area. Mack, Wood, hannibal lector, whomever they felt was right for them.

If they think it's Lyle.... Then I will trust them.

 

[overseascardfan]

I would think OLB & RB are our biggest needs and interior OL depth. TE shouldn't be that high of a priority and aside from Pettigrew this is a weak class known more for pass catching than blocking.

Clint Sintim
Lawrence Sidbury
Jonathan Luigs
Ian Johnson
Anthony Hill
Marlon Lucky
Reggie Youngblood

2 DE/OLB's to replace Berry & Okaefor next year
2 RB's Johnson is the speed back & Lucky is the pass catcher and can share some carries, reminds me of Correll Buckhalter.
Big, nasty C prospect to challenge Sendelin.
Blocking TE
OT prospect, underachiever who came to UM as one of the talented recruits to enter into UM. Has the measureables just needs coaching, that's where Grimm comes in.

 

[perivolaki]

Somers indicated that the Cardinals may be interested in re-signing FB Terrelle Smith. I really thought they would still make a play for RFA John Kuhn of Green Bay, seeing as Kuhn is a ST ace as well as a solid FB. But, with $1.5M currently in the kitty, that signing may be a "dream deferred."

I heard Graves talk about Kuhn and he said they really like him but I believe that he is restricted and the Packers can still match an offer. Graves seemed concerned about how much it would take without the Packers not getting into the picture to match the offer. I'm not 100% on the Kuhns exact circumstances but I know Graves felt the Packers may make an attempt to keep him.

 

[JeffGollin]

I'd be careful about confusing position goals with draft strategy.

Although strengthening TE and FB are two of Wiz's stated position goals, these positions (especially FB) may not give us very good value high up in the draft and FB might still be best addressed in free agency.

LB is a different matter. There are a bunch of them worthy of a 1st day shot. I agree with those who feel Barwin is moving up the charts fast (not only because of his off-the-charts workout numbers but because of his versatility (also played TE) and great lockerroom personality.

There are, though, a few TE's (including Cook and Nelson) who might be decent value if available at #63 or #95.

Two recent Cardinal MO's to consider when scoping out this year's draft (i.e. (1) our willingness to roll the dice a little on more athletic freaks of nature - i.e. Campbell's height, long arms, special-teams pursuit, Keith's feet and DRC's overall athleticism and (2) our continuing to "draft for value" by seeking out higher-rated guys who drop down to us - sticking with best player available on our board).

Ironically, three guys who best fit the profile are all Big East guys - Barwin (Cincy), Beatty (UConn) and Darius Butler (UConn). Donald Brown also hails from UConn. And don't be surprised if Tyqan Underwood (Rutgers) is likely to be underdrafted and could be a "steal" late in Round 3 or 4.

 

[Dr. Jones]

I am again looking for mostly big conference picks.

Big 10, Big 12, Big East, SEC, etc.... That seems to be what these guys like to do.

 

[WildBB]

I'd be careful about confusing position goals with draft strategy.

Although strengthening TE and FB are two of Wiz's stated position goals, these positions (especially FB) may not give us very good value high up in the draft and FB might still be best addressed in free agency.

LB is a different matter. There are a bunch of them worthy of a 1st day shot. I agree with those who feel Barwin is moving up the charts fast (not only because of his off-the-charts workout numbers but because of his versatility (also played TE) and great lockerroom personality.

There are, though, a few TE's (including Cook and Nelson) who might be decent value if available at #63 or #95.

Two recent Cardinal MO's to consider when scoping out this year's draft (i.e. (1) our willingness to roll the dice a little on more athletic freaks of nature - i.e. Campbell's height, long arms, special-teams pursuit, Keith's feet and DRC's overall athleticism and (2) our continuing to "draft for value" by seeking out higher-rated guys who drop down to us - sticking with best player available on our board).

Ironically, three guys who best fit the profile are all Big East guys - Barwin (Cincy), Beatty (UConn) and Darius Butler (UConn). Donald Brown also hails from UConn. And don't be surprised if Tyqan Underwood (Rutgers) is likely to be underdrafted and could be a "steal" late in Round 3 or 4.

Good stuff Jeff, here are some tidbits for you:

http://news.guelphmercury.com/Wire/Sports_Wire/NFL_Football_Wire/article/442431

 

[CardLogic]

I am again looking for mostly big conference picks.

Big 10, Big 12, Big East, SEC, etc.... That seems to be what these guys like to do.

Tennessee State, Richmond, Northern Iowa, Delaware...

 

[conraddobler]

Agreed... Which is why I said I will trust the coaches...

My issue with Lyle is not heart.... Or coachability.

He just doesn't posses the tools required to be a dominant interior lineman. And with the Center position being the "coach" on the field I was hoping to upgrade in that area. Mack, Wood, hannibal lector, whomever they felt was right for them.

If they think it's Lyle.... Then I will trust them.

You're right he's not dominant but not every position can be, what he is, is solid as nails.

He's never going to blow out anyone, nor ooo or ahhhh you he's just a lunch pail guy who's always there.

Every team needs one of those, and at center you can give up a little dominance for that, he's perfect IMO.

 

[Dr. Jones]

Tennessee State, Richmond, Northern Iowa, Delaware...

One high round pick and a bunch of hopes and prayers.

Michigan - A ton
Penn State - Twice
Miami - A ton
LSU
Iowa
Florida State
Pitt
Texas
The list is huge.....

 

[AZHerdattack]

Thinking two years ahead

Wouldn't this be the year to start shaping the O line for Matty through the draft? Seems pretty obvious that Matt's blind side is the weak side of the line, thus part of Kurt's success is in being able to see the rush coming at him and stepping up in the pocket, dumping off, or throwing the ball away. If that side doesn't mature, the transition to Matt is likely to be no more successful than it was in the first two years.

 

[Skkorpion]

Wouldn't this be the year to start shaping the O line for Matty through the draft? Seems pretty obvious that Matt's blind side is the weak side of the line, thus part of Kurt's success is in being able to see the rush coming at him and stepping up in the pocket, dumping off, or throwing the ball away. If that side doesn't mature, the transition to Matt is likely to be no more successful than it was in the first two years.

Welcome to ASFN, Herd.

 

[AZHerdattack]

Glad to be back

Thanks Skkorp. I was a long time lurker many years ago. Back now and plan on being active. Lots of changes to the board. Nice.