The official 2009 DRAFT thread

[rbaloha1]

TAKE CRABBY!

[gbpackfan]

Monroe is gone! DAMN! I wanted him (not sexually....not that there is anything wrong with that)

[Brando19]

The Jaguars have selected EUGENE MONROE

[imscott72]

Looks like Monroe is going to Jax..Crabtree for us??

[Partial]

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS


Cannot wait to see some Packer jockey skipping to Goodell to turn in the best pick of the draft so far!!!

[wist43]

Okay everybody...

Raji, or Crabtree???

[TheCheese]

TRADE DOWN !

[gbpackfan]

Raji or Crabtree. Trade down coming!

[cpk1994]

Here we go!

[Rastak]

Eugene Monroe



Overall Football Traits

Production 2 Monroe appeared in every game of the 2005 season seeing time at left tackle and right guard. He started six games at left tackle and appeared in all 12 games in 2006. Monroe started 10 of the 11 games he appeared in at left tackle during the 2007 season. He also missed two games two games with an injury (see durability) that year. 2008: Monroe starts all 12 games as a senior, earning second-team All-America honors from the AP.
Height-Weight-Speed 1 Monroe has adequate-to-good height and bulk. Has the frame too add more weight if necessary and he shows above-average range for his size.

Durability 4 Monroe dislocated his kneecap in the spring of 2006, underwent surgery to repair the injury, slowed by knee injury during the 2006 season and missed two games with a knee injury during the 2007 season. He did stay healthy as a senior in 2008, though; starting all 13 games for the Cavs.

Character 2 Has never had an off-the-field issue to our knowledge. Battled back from some early career injuries. One of 16 children in his family, including 11 boys.

Offensive Tackle specific Traits

Strength/Toughness 4 Doesn't dominate the point of attack like should. Lacks ideal base to anchor. A finesse OT that doesn't look to dominate the point of attack as much as we would like to see. He does, however, have long arms and a strong upper body. Displays a powerful punch and will control DL once he locks on.

Agility 1 Excellent feet. Gets set quickly, shows elite agility and plays with outstanding overall balance. One of the premier athletes at the OT position in the 2009 class.
Awareness 2 Has really improved when it comes to picking up stunts/blitzes. Wasn't a major issue but called for two false start penalties in four games we watched of him as a senior.

Pass Protection 1 Excellent in pass pro. Can mirror and slide with some of the best pass rushers CFB has to offer. Was able to keep USC's Clay Matthews and Brian Cushing in check early in 2008 season. Shows active feet and can slide with defender once he gets his hands on him. Shows a quick kick step, has a wide frame and uses long arms to ride edge rushers past the pocket. Only real concern in this facet is that powerful bull rushers will give him some minor problems at time.

Run Blocking 2 Not physical enough. Not going to drive defenders off the line of scrimmage. Lacks ideal mean streak for the position. Plays too high and is going to have problems driving NFL defenders off the ball until learns to play lower to the ground. However, he gets in position and does a decent job of walling off the defender as a run blocker. Doesn't always take sound angles to downfield blocks but reaches the second level quickly and can adjust to moving targets in space.

[RashanGary]

Haha. I had Crabs as one of the most overrated players in this draft.



BJ Raji PLEASE

or trade.

Crabs is overrated.

[Partial]

Bretsky!!!! YEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Brando19]

Come on TT...don't let us down...take someone exciting...take Crabby...make the sexy pick....do it!

[RashanGary]

Raji or Crabtree. Trade down coming!


I'm hoping trade or Raji.

[The Shadow]

Trade down!

[red]

take raji, pickett is in his contract year

[Lurker64]

I'm thinking it's Oher.

[MadtownPacker]

Trade down or take Crabtree for an elite offense.

[gbpackfan]

TT is on the phone! Ha ha. What an obvious post.

[falco]

this will be an interesting pick - if we skip crabtree and he turns out to be a player like adrian peterson turned out to be a few years ago...

[MateoInMex]

There's something about high 1st round offensive tackles. I think of Mandarich, and Gallery in Oakland. Ted should be able to find guys to protect A-Rog in the Second Round.

[Bretsky]

Lets go Crabtree
Let's go Crabtree
Let's go Crabtree


BPA or Need ?

Talk the Talk TTT
Talk the Talk TTT
Talk the Talk TTT


BPA is your mojo

Talk the Talk

[Partial]

Take him!!!! Plant a big smile on your face Packer fans!!! We have an opportunity to get our #1 player on our board at spot #9. That is freaking awesome!!!!!!

This is like getting Mario Williams at #9!!!

[gbpackfan]

Crabtree would be sick!

[Joemailman]

Joemailman checking in.

I'm thinking Orakpo.

[cpk1994]

Trade down!Yeah. Bretsky has already cursed Crabtree heavily just in this thread.

[pack4to84]

It has to be Crabtre

[Partial]

talk the talk TT!!!!!

[wist43]

It'll be Crabtree... or trade down.

[gbpackfan]

BJ RAJI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Brando19]

My stomach is in knots... RAJI is happy!!! It's Raji!

[gbpackfan]

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[cpk1994]

Looks to be Raji. YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS.

[Lurker64]

Raji looks like a happy fat man.

[TheCheese]

Crab might not be BPA on Teds board. The value is there trade down damn it.

[Partial]

CRABTREEE!!! CRABTREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[gbpackfan]

We got our NT!!!!!

[RashanGary]

This is fucking awesome. I did not want to get my hopes up, but it's actually happening. This is HUGE for our 3-4 defense.

[Bretsky]

You know TTT will probably give his balls away ignore his BPA mojo

[imscott72]

Looks like its Raji!!!!!

[Gunakor]

RAJI

RAJI

RAJI

FUCK YEAH!!!

[sheepshead]

He looks happy!

[Partial]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

[red]

raji on the phone
, and happy

its him

nice

[gbpackfan]

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Tony Oday]

Raji!!! The just got REAL happy!

[Sparkey]

ITS BJ RAJI!!!

[TheCheese]

It's Raji, not crazy about it but better than Crabtree.

[Bretsky]

Crab might not be BPA on Teds board. The value is there trade down damn it.

trading down is fine; or we can get more depth

[gbgary]

i hope we don't rue the day we didn't pick crabtree. :shock:

[MateoInMex]

Hey there's that kid from Bad Santa!

I hate knowing the pick before it's called.

[gbpackfan]

BPA and NEED = great fucking pick!!!!!!

[Rastak]

BJ Raji


Overall Football Traits

Production 2 Raji appeared in 11 games during his true freshman season in 2004 finishing with 13 total tackles, six unassisted tackles and 1.5 tackles-for-loss. He started five of the 11 games he appeared in during the 2005 season finishing with 27 total tackles, 15 unassisted tackles, 6.5 tackles-for-loss, 1.5 sacks and one pass breakup. Raji started six of the 12 games he appeared in during the 2006 season finishing with 23 total tackles, 16 unassisted tackles, 8.5 tackles-for-loss, three sacks, three pass breakups and one forced fumble., Boston College red-shirted him in 2007 because of academic issues. Raji started 13 out of 14 games he appeared in during the 2008 season recording 42 total tackles, 16 tackles-for-loss, eight sacks and five pass breakups. He earns first-team All ACC honors.
Height-Weight-Speed 2 Adequate height and top-end speed but elite bulk and carries weight fairly well.

Durability 3 2008: Misses spring practices while rehabbing from shoulder surgery.

Character 4 2006: Gets ejected from the Central Michigan game and suspended for the first half of the Clemson game the following week after throwing a punch at a Central Michigan player. 2007: Academically ineligible and Boston College red shirts him as a result. Has had some problems keeping weight down in the past. Willing to line up at nose tackle in a 3-4 scheme or defensive tackle in a 4-3 scheme.

Defensive Tackle specific Traits

Agility/Quickness 2 Excellent athletic ability for size and Boston College even used him to spy the quarterback in the 2008 North Carolina State game. Quick and can shoot into the backfield.

Strength/Toughness 2 Excellent upper body strength and lower body strength appears more than adequate on film. Appears to wear down late in games and effort is inconsistent when starts to tire.

Instincts 2 Appears to guess at times and takes some false steps but keeps head up, locates ball quickly and can recover when gets caught out of position. Does an adequate job of getting hands up when sees quarterback start throwing motion though he could still improve in this area.

Pass Rusher 2 Above-average closing burst for his size. Takes the shortest path to the quarterback, flashes the ability to collapse the pocket and is a relentless pass rusher. Though isn't very tall, good leaper for size and can tip passes at the line of scrimmage. Flashes effective spin and rip moves but too much of a one-dimensional bull rusher at this point. Needs to do a better job of bending inside as he works upfield.

Run Stopper 1 Plays too high at times but stout when stays low. Doesn't use hands well and takes too long to shed block when blockers lock on but is so strong and quick off the ball that offensive linemen have a hard time locking on. Takes adequate angles to the ball and flashes the ability to make plays in pursuit though motor is a bit inconsistent.

[Packnut]

Wow, Teddy going need. I'm indifferent on Raji but I'll take a position of need anytime.

[Fosco33]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

[red]

This is fucking awesome. I did not want to get my hopes up, but it's actually happening. This is HUGE for our 3-4 defense.

this is the best thing we can do for the move to 3-4

most important position

[cpk1994]

RAJI

RAJI

RAJI

FUCK YEAH!!!100 % Agreed. Time to crack a beer to celebrate.

[Gunakor]

i hope we don't rue the day we didn't pick crabtree. :shock:

Let Al Davis do that. We won't rue the day we didn't get our NT for the 3-4. That's good enough for me.

[Bretsky]

a decent and safe pick that fits our glaring weaknesses

TT just lost his nuts :!:

[Partial]

Does McGinn have bad information?!? WTF. I am so pissed and am going to be incredibly dissapointed if this isn't Mike Crabtree.

[Bretsky]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.


If you lose your nuts at least trade down

[Gunakor]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

He's a nose tackle. We don't have one of those. He's a perfect fit at the most important position in Dom Capers defense - and I'm absolutely positive Dom had a big say in this pick. You should be excited.

[Jim Rome]

Jim Rome, "OOH, BJ Raji, not Crabtree????" "Trading Ted just passes on the opportunity to move down and get more picks, OHHHHHHH."

[Fosco33]

Does TT have the balls to take Crab and trade Driver?

Guarantee he'll trade down or do something stupid and take Raji or Oher.

I hope I'm wrong about Raji being average or Crab being a future pro bowler. Just remember this day - we had many options.

[channtheman]

ESPN believes Rodgers wasn't the problem last year but it was the defense. And Steve Young said Rodgers was top 10 and could be top 5 after this year.

[cpk1994]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

He's a nose tackle. We don't have one of those. He's a perfect fit at the most important position in Dom Capers defense - and I'm absolutely positive Dom had a big say in this pick. You should be excited.

WAY TO GO TT, WAY TO GO! clap clap!

[Lurker64]

Pick is in!

[Bretsky]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

He's a nose tackle. We don't have one of those. He's a perfect fit at the most important position in Dom Capers defense - and I'm absolutely positive Dom had a big say in this pick. You should be excited.



More of a reflection that Raji is not a good value at #9
He's a decent player; I'd be more excited in the 15-20 range

[red]

Does McGinn have bad information?!? WTF. I am so pissed and am going to be incredibly dissapointed if this isn't Mike Crabtree.

lets see, you got forces fed info from a packer reporter, right before the draft

maybe, disinformation?

could it be

[falco]

let's hope raji becomes a superstar...

[gbpackfan]

Look at that! 26th ranked D. We needed RAJI!!

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Fosco33]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

He's a nose tackle. We don't have one of those. He's a perfect fit at the most important position in Dom Capers defense - and I'm absolutely positive Dom had a big say in this pick. You should be excited.

I'm excited that I share my name with Mr. Capers - but we could find a fat guy to play NT with the other picks before 83.

[red]

YES

[MateoInMex]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

It's Green Bay, they show up for a fucking scrimmage. I wouldn't worry about filling the stands.

I don't know Raji at all, but if looks mattered, he just seems lackadasical to me.

[wist43]

WWWWWWOOOOOOOOO HHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO

LOVE THIS PICK!!!!

[gbgary]

i hope we don't rue the day we didn't pick crabtree. :shock:

Let Al Davis do that. We won't rue the day we didn't get our NT for the 3-4. That's good enough for me.

i hear ya but crabtree is one of those special guys i think.

[Rastak]

WWWWWWOOOOOOOOO HHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO

LOVE THIS PICK!!!!


Your buddy Ted came through!

[Lurker64]

Would have rather had Jackson, but I'm happy with the pick. Pickett is as good as gone after next year though.

[rbaloha1]

DARN!!! STILL A GREAT PICK. Probably lines up as a de.

Still wanted Crabby but I am over it. Lets get a BJ!

[Partial]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.

[mission]

He's a bit short but can definitely play end in the 3-4 too.. seems to be quick enough

[Bretsky]

If you believe in NEED you have to be alright with this pick

I loved the guy a while ago and the more I read the more I thought he's a 15-25 player

but if need is the mojo he is the best pick

[cpk1994]

WWWWWWOOOOOOOOO HHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO

LOVE THIS PICK!!!!Oh my God! THe apocalypse is here. Everyone to the bomb shelter! :lol:

[retailguy]

WWWWWWOOOOOOOOO HHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO

LOVE THIS PICK!!!!

Wist is happy. :shock:

F@ck, the world is about to end.

[red]

remember jags was the coach there

i'm sure the packers know everything in the world about BJ

[The Shadow]

YES!!!!
The correct pick!!!
YES!!!!!!!!!
Raji!!!!!!
Great day to be a Packer fan!

[texaspackerbacker]

I've been saying OT all along, but I'm very well satisfied with B.L. Raji pick!

[Badgerinmaine]

VERY pleased with Raji at 9--sweet! He looks delighted to be going to GB, too. ESPN's folks were unanimous in saynig it was a terrific pick as well.
Whew.

[falco]

crabtree didn't seem like packer people.

the fact he has dropped this far tells you something didn't smell right

[Fosco33]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

It's Green Bay, they show up for a fucking scrimmage. I wouldn't worry about filling the stands.

I don't know Raji at all, but if looks mattered, he just seems lackadasical to me.


Yeah, meant more fans for GB in general (tv, outside GB, jerseys, etc.) - not filling seats.

[RashanGary]

WWWWWWOOOOOOOOO HHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO

LOVE THIS PICK!!!!


Hell yeah!! This is a great day to be a Packer fan. Finally a rare big guy with true power up front.

[Rastak]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.


Scouts Inc has him as very good against the run and adequate as a pass rusher (not that important in a 3-4 of course)....but anytime you collapse the middle it's good.

[Packnut]

Ya know what? Good pick Teddy! I was sick and tired of watching teams run right up the pipe on us.

[mission]

We wouldn't have been able to resign Crabtree after his rookie contract anyway... he's one of "those guys".

[packers04]

WOOHOOOOOO WOOOHOOOO

[Jim Rome]

Jim Rome, "Totally blown away, should have traded down, unbelievable."

[TheCheese]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.

You guys aren't getting it are you? TT might not have had Crabs as the BPA. He probably had Raji higher on his board.

[Bretsky]

Dam; NFL Network just posted Justine Harrell as our starter

Has he even played for GB yet ?????

[Partial]

If you believe in NEED you have to be alright with this pick

I loved the guy a while ago and the more I read the more I thought he's a 15-25 player

but if need is the mojo he is the best pick

I don't even think this is a need pick. It's an awful pick.

NT is a 20 snap a game player. Pickett will be fine. This pick is awful imo. Bob McGinn must have had bad information.

Passing on a superstar receiver for a 5 snap a game back-up NT.

Disgusting.

[wist43]

WWWWWWOOOOOOOOO HHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO

LOVE THIS PICK!!!!Oh my God! THe apocalypse is here. Everyone to the bomb shelter! :lol:

:laugh:

[Joemailman]

I'm guessing Hawk and Barnett are really happy with this pick.

[RashanGary]

Ya know what? Good pick Teddy! I was sick and tired of watching teams run right up the pipe on us.

Hell yeah, packnut. Hell yeah.

That is pretty much what was happening. This changes our defense.

[Bretsky]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.

You guys aren't getting it are you? TT might not have had Crabs as the BPA. He probably had Raji higher on his board.



don't buy that for one second

[TheCheese]

We wouldn't have been able to resign Crabtree after his rookie contract anyway... he's one of "those guys".

Exactly my point.

[Fosco33]

Nick Barnett, tweet, "Love the pick!! Thanks teddy T let's get it now!!!!"

[Partial]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

[red]

look at the phoney smile on crabtree

and that watch on his wrist is probably worth more then most of us will make in our entire lives

[gbpackfan]

Crabtree going to San Fran. Where he will never get the ball. NO QB!

[Badgerinmaine]

Pete Prisco's analysis on CBS:

Green Bay Packers select: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

Analysis: The Packers are going to a 3-4 and need a power player inside. Raji is that. He will anchor in against the run. Good pick. Grade: A

[falco]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.

You guys aren't getting it are you? TT might not have had Crabs as the BPA. He probably had Raji higher on his board.



don't buy that for one second

why not? 8 other teams had someone else higher.

[Rastak]

Crabtree to the Niners? That is a value pick for sure.



Overall Football Traits

Production 1 2006: Texas Tech red shirts Crabtree. 2007: Crabtree starts all 12 games catching 125 passes for a total of 1,861 yards and 21 touchdowns. He returns a kickoff 16 yards. Crabtree is named the Biletnikoff Award winner, which is awarded to the nation's outstanding college football receiver. 2008: Crabtree starts 11 of the 12 games he appears in catching 93 passes for 1,135 yards and 18 touchdowns. He returns a kickoff 50 yards. Crabtree is named the Biletnikoff Award winner for the second consecutive season.

Height-Weight-Speed 3 Adequate-to-good height and strong build. Top-end speed appears on film to be adequate but not great. Has not and will not run an official 40-yard dash for scouts (see: Durability).

Durability 4 Slowed by an ankle injury in 2008 but played through it. Stress fracture in fifth metatarsal of left foot was discovered at the Combine. Underwent surgery in March and will not perform a workout for NFL teams, as a result.

Character 2 Not considered much of a leader. Is a good teammate and a great worker, though. Extremely competitive.

Wide Receiver specific Traits

Separation Skills 1 Quick feet and uses hands well, making it tough to slow him down at the line of scrimmage. Appears to have excellent football I.Q., reads defenses well and excels at locating seams in zone coverage. Throws head fakes at corners (see third quarter touchdown catch in 2008 Oklahoma State game) and outstanding at getting inside leverage when going over the middle. Above-average initial quickness and explodes out of cuts. Changes speeds extremely well and sets defenders up with hesitation moves. Works back to quarterback when pass protection starts to break down.

Ball Skills 1 Snatches the ball out of the air and can make waist-high catches without breaking stride. Times jumps well, can elevate over defenders and shows outstanding body control in the air. Uses frame to shield defenders from the ball and can make tough catches in traffic. Rarely drops a pass he should catch but when he does it seems to be a momentary lapse in focus. For example, he appeared to take eyes off ball on a first-quarter drop in the 2008 Oklahoma State game.

Vertical Speed 3 Lacks elite top-end speed and isn't going to run by many NFL corners but fast enough and capable of competing for any jump balls downfield.
Run After Catch 2 Far more elusive than size suggests and can make defenders miss when gets into space. Bounces off arm tackles, flashes above-average lower body strength and fights for yards after contact. Lacks breakaway speed. Doesn't always keep ball tight to frame and puts it on the ground too much.

Competitiveness and Toughness 1 Showed remarkable balance, sideline awareness and poise on game-winning touchdown catch in 2008 Texas game. Fearless going over the middle and has a nose for the end zone. Frequently ran corners off in Texas Tech's scheme and struggles to sustain blocks but flashes a strong initial punch and willing to throw body around downfield.

[Packnut]

Dam; NFL Network just posted Justine Harrell as our starter

Has he even played for GB yet ?????


Justin Who?????????

[Lurker64]

don't buy that for one second

Teams other than us keep passing on Crabtree though, so maybe the people who have talked to him know something about him that we don't.

[Badgerinmaine]

I'm guessing Hawk and Barnett are really happy with this pick.
I agree, and they oughta be.

[The Shadow]

The defense was our biggest problem.
The NT is the key to the 3-4.
Raji is a great pick at #9.
Yippeee!!!!

[HarveyWallbangers]

Of the guys available, I'm most happy Raji was taken.

[Jim Rome]

Jim Rome, "Tade that pick Ted, Trade that pick. BAAAAAA"

[RashanGary]

Raji is a rare, powerful dude. He was the #1 player on my board. There are so few guys that stand 6'1" with natural leverage but can still easily weight 330 lbs. This guy is special.

[wist43]

WWWWWWOOOOOOOOO HHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO

LOVE THIS PICK!!!!


Hell yeah!! This is a great day to be a Packer fan. Finally a rare big guy with true power up front.

Yeah... very happy with this pick.

Raji is one of those rare guys that can play with great leverage, and has great movement skill... he will make us immediately better on defense.

He has enough movement skill to play anywhere on the line...

Love this pick.

[Sparkey]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.


This guy makes the pack better. He commands double teams, which is exactly what the job of a 3-4 NT is. Suck up the linemen so the linebackers can make the play.

Height: 6-11/2 | Weight: 337 | 40-Time: 5.13
B.J. Raji | Boston College Eagles
Official Bio

Stars
Strengths:
Outstanding mass and bulk...Excellent strength...Stout at the point of attack...Can fill two gaps...Able to occupy multiple blockers...Tough, powerful and nasty...A beast against the run...Can really collapse the pocket...Able to penetrate and make plays in the backfield...Above average athleticism...Quick and agile...Pursues well and has a burst to close...Good instincts and awareness...Will offer schematic versatility.

Weaknesses:
Conditioning and stamina have been problems...Is shorter than you'd prefer...Maturity and commitment have been questioned...Doesn't always play with proper leverage...Inconsistent and his motor tends to run hot and cold...Is not an elite pass rusher...Struggled to keep up with his studies and intelligence may be an issue..Durability concerns?

Notes:
First name is "Busari"...Father migrated from Nigeria...A three-year starter in the ACC...Named 1st Team All-ACC in 2008...Sat out the 2007 season for academic reasons and redshirted...Was ejected from a game in 2006 for throwing a punch...Missed spring ball in 2008 after undergoing offseason shoulder surgery...Weighed more than 350 pounds at one point but is most effective at 325-330...Potential 3-4 nose tackle but could also fit in a 4-3 scheme...Has the physical tools to be great but intangibles could hold him back and prevent him from maximizing his potential...Had an amazing senior season and showed what a truly dominant force he can be when in shape and motivated.

Career Statistics
Year GP TKL TFL SACK
2004 11 13 1.5 0.0
2005 11 27 6.5 1.5
2006 12 23 8.5 3.0
2007 RS - - -
2008 13 42 16.0 8.0

[Partial]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.

You guys aren't getting it are you? TT might not have had Crabs as the BPA. He probably had Raji higher on his board.



don't buy that for one second

Yep. Crabtree is a rare talent who dominated in college, and led his teams to one of the best records in the country. Raji has a second round pick playing right next to him too... where did BC go?

This guy is known for his penetration. I see this guy strictly as a 4-3 3 technique imo. A very poor man's Tommie Harris (if Harris is a 97, this guy is like an 85).

[Bretsky]

Dam; NFL Network just posted Justine Harrell as our starter

Has he even played for GB yet ?????


Justin Who?????????



that dude TTT picked in round one a couple years ago

[gbpackfan]

BJ Raji was widely predicted to go well before our pick. The fact that we got him is GREAT! Monroe would have been ncie too but you cant do anything about the guys not on the board.

[Bretsky]

NO BRAINER FOR THE NINERS

[Badgerinmaine]

Jim Rome, "Tade that pick Ted, Trade that pick. BAAAAAA"
That is one agitated sounding sheep. 8-)

[Partial]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

[Badgerinmaine]

Okay, folks, where do you think the Pack will go next?

[Packnut]

Dam; NFL Network just posted Justine Harrell as our starter

Has he even played for GB yet ?????


Justin Who?????????



that dude TTT picked in round one a couple years ago

I've blocked that pick from my memory- to painful

[gbpackfan]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.

You guys aren't getting it are you? TT might not have had Crabs as the BPA. He probably had Raji higher on his board.



don't buy that for one second

Yep. Crabtree is a rare talent who dominated in college, and led his teams to one of the best records in the country. Raji has a second round pick playing right next to him too... where did BC go?

This guy is known for his penetration. I see this guy strictly as a 4-3 3 technique imo. A very poor man's Tommie Harris (if Harris is a 97, this guy is like an 85).


Partial,

You could be a Raiders fan. You have the second coming of Troy Williamson coming your way!

[Jim Rome]

Raji is a rare, powerful dude. He was the #1 player on my board. There are so few guys that stand 6'1" with natural leverage but can still easily weight 330 lbs. This guy is special.

Jim Rome, "And you are who? BAAAAAAAA!!!!!!"

[HarveyWallbangers]

Finding receivers is easy. Finding good 3-4 NTs is hard. Hopefully, Raji ends up being a good one.

[cpk1994]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.

You guys aren't getting it are you? TT might not have had Crabs as the BPA. He probably had Raji higher on his board.



don't buy that for one second

Yep. Crabtree is a rare talent who dominated in college, and led his teams to one of the best records in the country. Raji has a second round pick playing right next to him too... where did BC go?

This guy is known for his penetration. I see this guy strictly as a 4-3 3 technique imo. A very poor man's Tommie Harris (if Harris is a 97, this guy is like an 85).PLease. Crabtree playerd in a gimmick system against some of the worst "D's out there in the Big 12. Crabtree is overrated.

As others have noted, the key to the 3-4 is the NT. Raji is that.

[falco]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

[Bretsky]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.

You guys aren't getting it are you? TT might not have had Crabs as the BPA. He probably had Raji higher on his board.



don't buy that for one second

why not? 8 other teams had someone else higher.


How do you know the other 8 teams were not drafting purely for need ?

[MateoInMex]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

It's Green Bay, they show up for a fucking scrimmage. I wouldn't worry about filling the stands.

I don't know Raji at all, but if looks mattered, he just seems lackadasical to me.


Yeah, meant more fans for GB in general (tv, outside GB, jerseys, etc.) - not filling seats.

I think you're right. I would ask how much more Crabtree would bring in compared to Jennings, Driver, etc. But it's a valid point...with that said...in my best JEff Garcia voice...

Crabs is going to Frisco!!!!! Whooop!!!! Whoooop!!!!

[Packnut]

On the brighter side of thing- Peterson may break one on us to the outside but he ain't breaking nothing between tackles!

[Gunakor]

If you believe in NEED you have to be alright with this pick

I loved the guy a while ago and the more I read the more I thought he's a 15-25 player

but if need is the mojo he is the best pick

I don't even think this is a need pick. It's an awful pick.

NT is a 20 snap a game player. Pickett will be fine. This pick is awful imo. Bob McGinn must have had bad information.

Passing on a superstar receiver for a 5 snap a game back-up NT.

Disgusting.

Pickett is gone next year. Then what?

[wist43]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

[gbpackfan]

Raji was a great pick! 26th ranked running D. He can play some DE and his main event of course, DT. Fantastic pick. Very happy!!!

[rbaloha1]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

BS. May play de

[Fosco33]

November 22nd @ Lambeau.

Crabman vs. GB.

[Bretsky]

Okay, folks, where do you think the Pack will go next?




At this point, lets keep going for need and go
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D

and solidify that mess

[falco]

Fuck that pick so hard. What happened to BPA?!? BJ Raji is horrible against the run... I'm extremely disappointed in this pick.

Boooooo.

You guys aren't getting it are you? TT might not have had Crabs as the BPA. He probably had Raji higher on his board.



don't buy that for one second

why not? 8 other teams had someone else higher.

i certainly don't - I'm just saying that if he was the consensus best player in the draft, he would not have dropped to 10.


How do you know the other 8 teams were not drafting purely for need ?

[rbaloha1]

Get over it with Crabby. Support BJ

[Partial]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.

[Badgerinmaine]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

It's Green Bay, they show up for a fucking scrimmage. I wouldn't worry about filling the stands.

I don't know Raji at all, but if looks mattered, he just seems lackadasical to me.


Yeah, meant more fans for GB in general (tv, outside GB, jerseys, etc.) - not filling seats.

I think you're right. I would ask how much more Crabtree would bring in compared to Jennings, Driver, etc. But it's a valid point...with that said...in my best JEff Garcia voice...

Crabs is going to Frisco!!!!! Whooop!!!! Whoooop!!!!

What will win you more fans than anything is winning more games. Picking someone because of the jerseys he'll sell isn't the right approach.

[Joemailman]

Okay, folks, where do you think the Pack will go next?

Should be some OT's and OLB's worthy of a 2nd round pick. Connor Barwin? Phil Loadholt?

[Packgator]

Finding receivers is easy. Finding good 3-4 NTs is hard. Hopefully, Raji ends up being a good one.

Plus we are pretty damn good at WR already.

[MateoInMex]

What grade did Mel Kiper give TT?

[Packnut]

Ok, anyone drinking with me raise your glass and toast Teddy!

One big group toast at exactly 4:30 pm CST

[Bretsky]

Dam; NFL Network just posted Justine Harrell as our starter

Has he even played for GB yet ?????


Justin Who?????????



that dude TTT picked in round one a couple years ago

I've blocked that pick from my memory- to painful



Here is a toast to hoping our first round DL this year has better luck than our last 1st round DL up to this point

[Gunakor]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.

Again, Pickett is gone next year. Buh bye. Then what?

[MateoInMex]

Fuck - I don't want to be a downer - but Raji doesn't get me excited, may not win games or bring fans.

Why TT, BPA or Trade?

Raji is average at best.

It's Green Bay, they show up for a fucking scrimmage. I wouldn't worry about filling the stands.

I don't know Raji at all, but if looks mattered, he just seems lackadasical to me.


Yeah, meant more fans for GB in general (tv, outside GB, jerseys, etc.) - not filling seats.

I think you're right. I would ask how much more Crabtree would bring in compared to Jennings, Driver, etc. But it's a valid point...with that said...in my best JEff Garcia voice...

Crabs is going to Frisco!!!!! Whooop!!!! Whoooop!!!!

What will win you more fans than anything is winning more games. Picking someone because of the jerseys he'll sell isn't the right approach.

+1

[red]

Okay, folks, where do you think the Pack will go next?

so tough to tell right now, it'll be a lot more clear in about 20 picks

[Partial]

Lurker and Waldo have insisted that 6'2" is too short to play 3-4 DE. I don't think this guy moves nearly well enough to line up outside either. I'm really not feeling this. I'm all for fortifying the defense, but I don't get this pick.

I think Crabtree (BPA), Jenkins, or Orakpo would have been better picks as they are either the BPA or filling a gaping need.

Gunk... Why is Pickett suddenly gone? He's just entering his prime for a 3-4 NT. It takes those guys a while to get up to strength. He's what, 30? He's got 4-5 years left of excellent production as an NT. I agree he is gone now... But that is drafting a player to replace an already good player instead of actually improving the roster.

[cpk1994]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.Raji can play DE. Or is your man crush on Crabtree blind you?

[rbaloha1]

Okay, folks, where do you think the Pack will go next?

Should be some OT's and OLB's worthy of a 2nd round pick. Connor Barwin? Phil Loadholt?

BARWIN IS THE PICK. NOW WE ARE TALKING ABOUT A PHYSICAL DEFENSE.

[Rastak]

Bills take Aaron Maybin........pass rush just got better.....



Overall Football Traits

Production 2 A third-year sophomore who declared with two years of eligibility remaining. He redshirted in 2006 and played as a backup and on special teams in 2007, when he notched 12 total tackles, including four sacks. Had a breakout season in 2008, when he started all 13 games and recorded 49 tackles, including 19 TFL. He also led the Big Ten with 12 sacks.

Height-Weight-Speed 3 Adequate height for a DE. Has added bulk and appears capable of adding 10-15 more pounds to his frame. Likely to settle in as a rush-LB in the NFL. Is in great physical condition (just four-percent body fat) and displays excellent straight-line speed.

Durability 1 Played in all 25 games during his two seasons of eligibility at PSU. Appears to be a flexible, healthy and durable athlete.

Character 1 Very mature for his young age. Had to grow up in a hurry after mother died from birth complications when Aaron was six years old. He is a natural leader  both vocally and by example. Non-stop motor is infectious. Great football character. Not aware of any off-the-field issues.

Defensive End specific Traits

Agility/Quickness 1 Exceptionally quick, even for his type of hybrid DE/OLB. Shows excellent agility and closing burst to the quarterback. Possesses top-shelf body control, as well

Strength/Toughness 3 He is lean and must add bulk to frame. Is light in the rear and shows marginal ability to stack at the line of scrimmage when teams run at him. However, don't mistake small for weak or soft in his case. He is aggressive and feisty. He displays good initial pop and adequate upper-body power. And he certainly does not back down from a one-on-one physical battle.

Instincts 2 A natural playmaker with a knack for jarring the ball loose. Very good snap anticipation and awareness as a pass rusher. Should only continue to improve in this area with more experience.

Pass Rusher 2 Quickest first step of all the edge rushers in the 2009 class. Fluid double moves. Bends the edge tightly. Shows quick hands and strong enough upper body to keep bigger blockers off his pads. Still developing his array of pass rush moves. Gets caught too frequently trying to spin out of double-team attention and needs work in that regard.

Run Stopper 3 Spent a lot of time last season working head-up on the TE as PSU's strong-side DE. Shows discipline with backside containment. Stays low and fights to keep his positioning. Can stack versus most TE's but gets washed out too easily by bigger OT's when they get into his pads.

[gbpackfan]

Looks like a presser is about to start at packers.com

[Sparkey]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.

Pickett has been having issues with his knees. Having RAJI spell Pickett makes Pickett a better player as well. Plus passing situation they can play side by side at DT.

It is a great pick! Is it flashy? No Will it make what is a poor packer run D better. hell Yeah!

[cpk1994]

Ok, anyone drinking with me raise your glass and toast Teddy!

One big group toast at exactly 4:30 pm CSTIm cracking a beer now.

[rbaloha1]

Lurker and Waldo have insisted that 6'2" is too short to play 3-4 DE. I don't think this guy moves nearly well enough to line up outside either. I'm really not feeling this. I'm all for fortifying the defense, but I don't get this pick.

I think Crabtree (BPA), Jenkins, or Orakpo would have been better picks as they are either the BPA or filling a gaping need.

Height is meaningless. Watch video. The guy makes plays. How tall was Warren Sapp?

[gbpackfan]

TT talking live on packers.com

[Fosco33]

Ok, ok - Busari Junior it is.

I'll support GB til the end - hope we continue to fill holes this weekend!

Glad you guys are excited - gives me some solace.

[Bretsky]

On the brighter side of thing- Peterson may break one on us to the outside but he ain't breaking nothing between tackles!


Shoud be interesting to see; Raji has a great Senior Bowl in practices against higher tier talent and then didn't do much in the game. I'm not confident he's as good as Ngata or Woolfolk in his ability to tie up two blockers. That is part of what we need.

I am confident that he can give us some of what we lost with Corey Williams...the ability to penetrate and get upfield.

We helped plug a huge hold where we needed it

[MateoInMex]

Ok, anyone drinking with me raise your glass and toast Teddy!

One big group toast at exactly 4:30 pm CSTIm cracking a beer now.

I'll be pissing off my balcony right about now.

[Bretsky]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

[Rastak]

TT talking live on packers.com


What did he say? He couldn't pass on a guy called BJ?

[Gunakor]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

He won't have to. Pickett is GONE next year. Raji will be the NT.

[Lurker64]

B.J. Raji is a hell of a one gap player. I'm not sure how well he can handle a double team, or managing two gaps since he wasn't really asked to do that sort of thing in college. He's going to take some coaching, but he has the physical ability to be an elite NT if he can put it all together.

I wouldn't want to line him up at end full time, but you won't do badly if you line him up in the B-gap and ask him to shoot it. Capers can find something to do with him.

[Partial]

Me Neither. I don't think anyone thought this guy could play DE before the draft. As a matter of fact, I brought that up here in the past and people thought I was nuts. Now that the homerism is flowing, he suddenly can. Not sure about that pick at all.

[gbpackfan]

Wow, Denver goes RB! Moreno.

[Bretsky]

November 22nd @ Lambeau.

Crabman vs. GB.


it'd suck to be Crabtree going to a team w/o a QB

Good pick by Broncos !!!

Jenkins is going to the Saints !!!

[retailguy]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

He won't have to. Pickett is GONE next year. Raji will be the NT.

Why do you keep saying that? He's got more than a year left.

[Badgerinmaine]

Ok, anyone drinking with me raise your glass and toast Teddy!

One big group toast at exactly 4:30 pm CSTIm cracking a beer now.
CHEERS!
I hope that new England (the region) has suppluied a Packers great for years to come.
Hic!
:glug:

[esoxx]

I'm thrilled with the pick. The Packers have the Midas Touch when it comes to B.J. picks. Why I remember just five yrs ago when a hot shot from OSU took the NFL by storm. B.J. Sander was the straw that stirred the drink. He could do more thi... er, never mind.

[Rastak]

Broncos take Knowshon Moreno - not a bad pick actually....but they need defense...


Overall Football Traits

Production 1 Redshirted in 2006. Played in all 13 games (six starts) as a redshirt freshman in 2007, when he rushed for 1,334 yards and 14 scores on 248 carries. Started all 13 games as a third-year sophomore in 2008, rushing for 1,400 yards and 16 scores on 250 carries. In two seasons combined, he hauled in 53 passes for 645 yards and two scores. Only the second Georgia running back to rush for 1,000-plus yards in consecutive seasons; Hershel Walker did it three consecutive season.

Height-Weight-Speed 3 Adequate height and bulk but will need to get bigger and stronger to hold up in the NFL. Is quicker than fast. Top-end speed is adequate but not great.

Durability 3 His reckless running style and undersized frame creates legitimate concern regarding his long-term durability in the NFL. Got nicked up at times and played through a knee injury early in 2008, but he did not miss a game in two seasons of carrying the load for the Bulldogs. Still lots of tread left on his tires.

Character 1 Immediately took over as a team leader when he cracked the starting lineup as a freshman in 2007. Not a vocal leader but leads by example. Great practice player. Ultra competitive. His relentless style of play is infectious.

Running Back specific Traits

Competitiveness 1 Competitiveness and effort is outstanding  in every aspect of the game. Not very big or overpowering as a runner, but he runs hard, uses good pad level and bounces off of a lot of would-be-tacklers like a pinball. Feet are seemingly always moving. Displays good ball security. Plays the game with a non-stop motor.

Vision 2 Decisive runner. Doesn't dance in the backfield. Only issue here is that he tends to bounce some runs outside when it's unnecessary. He displays excellent peripheral vision in the open field, though. Knows when he has the angle as a runner and when it's time to cut against the grain.

Explosiveness 2 Very good initial quickness. Bursts through the line of scrimmage. Shows some elusiveness in space. Will make defenders miss more often than not when in one-on-one situations. Only concern in this facet of his game is the lack of an elite second-gear. He gets from 0-to-60 miles-per-hour very quickly but that's where he tops off.

Balance/Change-of-Directions 2 Is shifty. Displays a very good center of gravity. Doesn't give defenders much of a target to hit. His balance is exceptional. Shows rare ability to take a hit, recover before a knee/elbow touches the turf, and then quickly regain his burst heading north. (see: 3rd quarter TD run with 13:04 remaining versus Vanderbilt). Moreno also makes himself small behind the offensive line and is very difficult to find because he changes direction and gets up-the-field so quickly.

Passing Game 2 Underrated receiver. Good instincts as a route runner. Soft hands. Can adjust to poorly thrown ball. Can find the ball over his shoulder (see: TD reception versus Michigan State in Capital One Bowl) and also can catch the ball thrown over his head. Aggressive in pass pro. Looks to initiate contact. Is a bit undersized and will be overmatched physically on occasion, but he's willing and tough. Mixes in effective cut blocks and keeps blitzers guessing.

[BZnDallas]

BJs are GOOOOD!!... anybody that disagrees with this statement needs a new g/f or wife!!!

[Packnut]

Ok Mr TT. Now that after all these drafts of me bitching about need, you FINALLY come around to my way of thinking................


OUTSIDE LINEBACKER

[Bretsky]

Ok, anyone drinking with me raise your glass and toast Teddy!

One big group toast at exactly 4:30 pm CST


added a special finger towards TTT :lol: :lol:

Honestly this pick was alright; certainly better then Oher

[RashanGary]

This was the #1 guy on my board. I love this pick.


Raji has natural leverage
Of guys Raji's height and natural leverage, very few can carry this type of weight to anchor
Of the squatty, powerful guys that can carry the weight, even fewer can move the way Raji can


When you have a bad season, this is the exact type of rare piece that you need to add to make it worth it.

[gbpackfan]

TT talking live on packers.com


What did he say? He couldn't pass on a guy called BJ?

That's right. BJ he has to take! But he said he had no problems passing up a TJ!

[Joemailman]

Ok, anyone drinking with me raise your glass and toast Teddy!

One big group toast at exactly 4:30 pm CSTIm cracking a beer now.

Nothing like a Fat Squirrel on draft day.

[Fosco33]

Forgot that Jag was the BC coach - something tells me there was some inside confidence with that pick.

TT just called the fans soft. He made a joke - 8-)


Now - get back to the work.

[Badgerinmaine]

What grade did Mel Kiper give TT?
Didn't see the grade, but in the coverage before the pick he was emphatic that Raji was the pick they should make.

[Bretsky]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.

Again, Pickett is gone next year. Buh bye. Then what?


Why is the assumption Pickett is gone ??????/

[wist43]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

Not talking about Raji as a 4-3 pass rushing End... he can certainly play DE in a 3-4, although not full time.

Raji is great pick IMO.

[Rastak]

Skins take Orakpo....




Overall Football Traits

Production 1 2004: Orakpo redshirts. 2005-'07: Orakpo plays in 47 career games (21 starts) and notches 90 tackles, 19 TFL, 10.5 sacks, 32 pressures, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. 2008: Orakpo starts all 12 games in which he plays, missing one (Baylor) due to knee injury. He registers 42 tackles, 19 TFL, 11.5 sacks, two passes defended, 30 pressures and four forced fumbles. Earns first team All-American honors, as well as first team All-Big 12 honors during the 2008 season. Also awarded the Nagurski Trophy (nation's top defensive player) and the Lombardi Award (nation's top lineman) last season.

Height-Weight-Speed 2 Possesses adequate height and bulk for a DE. Absolutely chisled physique and looks the part of an elite NFL DE/OLB. Top-end speed is in upper echelon of his position, as well.

Durability 4 Sprained right knee during 2007 opener (Arkansas State) was an early setback. He missed the next four games as a result but did finish the season strong, including two sacks vs. ASU in Holiday Bowl. 2008: Misses Baylor game and plays sparingly versus Kansas due to left knee sprain. Also suffered hamstring strain at the Combine but recovered fully in time for late-March Pro Day workout.

Character 3 No off-the-field issues. Works hard off-the-field, particularly in the weight room. Is a confident player but would like to see his motor run more consistently.

Defensive End specific Traits

Agility/Quickness 2 Very good agility and foot quickness. Excellent first-step quickness and closing burst. Shows good body control. Fluidity is good for his size but not elite for a potential 3-4 OLB.
Strength/Toughness 2 Stronger in the upper body than he is in the lower body. Explosive upper-body power. Can bench press 500-plus pounds and notched 31 reps (standard 225lbs) at the combine. Lacks ideal lower-body strength, though. Struggles to anchor at times versus bigger OL that can get into his body.

Instincts 2 Snap anticipation is inconsistent. Otherwise, he shows good overall awareness as a player. Seems to find the ball quickly in the backfield. Also does a good job of getting his arms up as a pass rusher in order to bat passes down when he doesn't get to the QB in time.

Pass Rusher 1 Technique needs some refining. But he has elite natural pass-rushing skills. Explodes off the line and bends the corner nicely. Displays excellent closing burst to the QB. He's agile and can smoothly change directions on double moves. Also shows jarring punch to knock OT's off balance.

Run Stopper 2 Lacks ideal base and will occasionally struggle when teams run at him. Bigger OT's can move him if they get into his body. However, he is an effective run stopper when he stays on the move. Much improved in this area. Does a good job of using his strong arms and quick hands to keep blockers off his pads temporarily. Shows awareness and is a strong tackler.

[retailguy]

Hey, who remembers the last 1st round QB that was drafted and sat for 1 or 2 years that flopped? Are the odds better?

[Bretsky]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.Raji can play DE. Or is your man crush on Crabtree blind you?


You have no more evidence to suggest he can play DE than somebody who says he can not ; if you look at him physically a guy of his size is not normally a DE in the 3-4

[Partial]

He won't have to. Pickett is GONE next year. Raji will be the NT.

Why would you get rid of a perfectly good player entering his prime?? I don't understand this. You don't turn over a good player for the heck of it.

[Packnut]

This was the #1 guy on my board. I love this pick.


Raji has natural leverage
Of guys Raji's height and natural leverage, very few can carry this type of weight to anchor
Of the squatty, powerful guys that can carry the weight, even fewer can move the way Raji can


When you have a bad season, this is the exact type of rare piece that you need to add to make it worth it.

Ya'd need a forklift to move Raji out of the middle.

[Badgerinmaine]

I think Orakpo will enjoy coming back to Texas each year to play the Cowboys :-)

[Rastak]

Gentleman, there is still a draft being conducted...... :lol:

[pack4to84]

TT on 620 the host told him that he didn't get boo with the pick. TT said the fans must be getting soft

[Lurker64]

Ok Mr TT. Now that after all these drafts of me bitching about need, you FINALLY come around to my way of thinking................


OUTSIDE LINEBACKER

I think unless Sintim or Barwin is there in the second, I could easily see Thompson grabbing Louis Delmas, Safety, Western Michigan. He has a shot at being a special player.

An offensive lineman like Unger or Beatty in the second would be reasonable too.

[gbpackfan]

CB Jenkins should be coming off the board next.

[retailguy]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.Raji can play DE. Or is your man crush on Crabtree blind you?


You have no more evidence to suggest he can play DE than somebody who says he can not ; if you look at him physically a guy of his size is not normally a DE in the 3-4

You are arguing with "consensus". there is no original thought there.

[Joemailman]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.

Again, Pickett is gone next year. Buh bye. Then what?


Why is the assumption Pickett is gone ??????/

One thing the Packers learned last year is that you can't have enough good defensive linemen. How many games did they lose in part because the DL was gassed in the 4th quarter due to lack of depth?

[MateoInMex]

What grade did Mel Kiper give TT?
Didn't see the grade, but in the coverage before the pick he was emphatic that Raji was the pick they should make.

Thanks, man!

[Bretsky]

TT talking live on packers.com


What did he say? He couldn't pass on a guy called BJ?



f'ckin hilarious; quote of the thread so far :lol:

[Gunakor]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

He won't have to. Pickett is GONE next year. Raji will be the NT.

Why do you keep saying that? He's got more than a year left.

Because they drafted BJ Raji. Pickett is gone. They are both NT's making starters money, so one of them will be gone next year. It will be Pickett.

Do you think they're planning to keep Raji at DE?

[gbgary]

We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.

i'm with you on this one. raji is a good player but crabtree is a great one. with donald getting older he'd take pressure off of jennings and give ar more of a chance to florish. oh well. it's done.

[Packnut]

Ok Mr TT. Now that after all these drafts of me bitching about need, you FINALLY come around to my way of thinking................


OUTSIDE LINEBACKER

I think unless Sintim or Barwin is there in the second, I could easily see Thompson grabbing Louis Delmas, Safety, Western Michigan. He has a shot at being a special player.

An offensive lineman like Unger or Beatty in the second would be reasonable too.

I'm down with that pick too. I still consider saftey a HUGE area of need.

[retailguy]

Gentleman, there is still a draft being conducted...... :lol:

There is? :shock:

Oh, yeah, the LA Vikings pick soon. :P :shock: :wink:

Just messing with you Ras....

[gbpackfan]

Some like Raji, some don't. Let's not fight about it kids! :P

[Sparkey]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

As a 4-3 DE I would completely agree with you. But as a 3-4 DE, he is more than capable to of playing the run and holding the point.

[Fosco33]

Sounded like TT was shocked that Crab was there and caused him to think about taking it. Makes me glad that he realizes the variable nature of the draft and wasn't married to BJ.

[wist43]

Gentleman, there is still a draft being conducted...... :lol:

Dude... let me enjoy this... when is the last time you saw me happy about a TT 1st round pick??? :lol:

[Bretsky]

I'm thrilled with the pick. The Packers have the Midas Touch when it comes to B.J. picks. Why I remember just five yrs ago when a hot shot from OSU took the NFL by storm. B.J. Sander was the straw that stirred the drink. He could do more thi... er, never mind.



BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO for the reminder

Here is BJ #2

[Gunakor]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.

Again, Pickett is gone next year. Buh bye. Then what?


Why is the assumption Pickett is gone ??????/

One thing the Packers learned last year is that you can't have enough good defensive linemen. How many games did they lose in part because the DL was gassed in the 4th quarter due to lack of depth?

Pickett can only play NT though, he can't play outside. Plus he's making a salary that would be pretty high for a backup NT. Assuming Raji is the starting NT next year, what sense would it make to retain Pickett at his salary when he may never see the field at all?

Pickett will be gone next year.

[retailguy]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

He won't have to. Pickett is GONE next year. Raji will be the NT.

Why do you keep saying that? He's got more than a year left.

Because they drafted BJ Raji. Pickett is gone. They are both NT's making starters money, so one of them will be gone next year. It will be Pickett.

Do you think they're planning to keep Raji at DE?

I think they're planning to have two solid nose tackles for a couple more years, and they're admitting that Harrell is a bust. That's what I think.

[cpk1994]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.Raji can play DE. Or is your man crush on Crabtree blind you?


You have no more evidence to suggest he can play DE than somebody who says he can not ; if you look at him physically a guy of his size is not normally a DE in the 3-4But that doesn't automatically preclude him from playing DE either. Im just reponding to Partial's usual retardosity. You understand the pick at least.

[Bretsky]

Broncos take Knowshon Moreno - not a bad pick actually....but they need defense...


Overall Football Traits

Production 1 Redshirted in 2006. Played in all 13 games (six starts) as a redshirt freshman in 2007, when he rushed for 1,334 yards and 14 scores on 248 carries. Started all 13 games as a third-year sophomore in 2008, rushing for 1,400 yards and 16 scores on 250 carries. In two seasons combined, he hauled in 53 passes for 645 yards and two scores. Only the second Georgia running back to rush for 1,000-plus yards in consecutive seasons; Hershel Walker did it three consecutive season.

Height-Weight-Speed 3 Adequate height and bulk but will need to get bigger and stronger to hold up in the NFL. Is quicker than fast. Top-end speed is adequate but not great.

Durability 3 His reckless running style and undersized frame creates legitimate concern regarding his long-term durability in the NFL. Got nicked up at times and played through a knee injury early in 2008, but he did not miss a game in two seasons of carrying the load for the Bulldogs. Still lots of tread left on his tires.

Character 1 Immediately took over as a team leader when he cracked the starting lineup as a freshman in 2007. Not a vocal leader but leads by example. Great practice player. Ultra competitive. His relentless style of play is infectious.

Running Back specific Traits

Competitiveness 1 Competitiveness and effort is outstanding  in every aspect of the game. Not very big or overpowering as a runner, but he runs hard, uses good pad level and bounces off of a lot of would-be-tacklers like a pinball. Feet are seemingly always moving. Displays good ball security. Plays the game with a non-stop motor.

Vision 2 Decisive runner. Doesn't dance in the backfield. Only issue here is that he tends to bounce some runs outside when it's unnecessary. He displays excellent peripheral vision in the open field, though. Knows when he has the angle as a runner and when it's time to cut against the grain.

Explosiveness 2 Very good initial quickness. Bursts through the line of scrimmage. Shows some elusiveness in space. Will make defenders miss more often than not when in one-on-one situations. Only concern in this facet of his game is the lack of an elite second-gear. He gets from 0-to-60 miles-per-hour very quickly but that's where he tops off.

Balance/Change-of-Directions 2 Is shifty. Displays a very good center of gravity. Doesn't give defenders much of a target to hit. His balance is exceptional. Shows rare ability to take a hit, recover before a knee/elbow touches the turf, and then quickly regain his burst heading north. (see: 3rd quarter TD run with 13:04 remaining versus Vanderbilt). Moreno also makes himself small behind the offensive line and is very difficult to find because he changes direction and gets up-the-field so quickly.

Passing Game 2 Underrated receiver. Good instincts as a route runner. Soft hands. Can adjust to poorly thrown ball. Can find the ball over his shoulder (see: TD reception versus Michigan State in Capital One Bowl) and also can catch the ball thrown over his head. Aggressive in pass pro. Looks to initiate contact. Is a bit undersized and will be overmatched physically on occasion, but he's willing and tough. Mixes in effective cut blocks and keeps blitzers guessing.



IDIOTS

Going BPA

[Joemailman]

Orakpo at #13 is great value for Washington.

[RashanGary]

This was the #1 guy on my board. I love this pick.


Raji has natural leverage
Of guys Raji's height and natural leverage, very few can carry this type of weight to anchor
Of the squatty, powerful guys that can carry the weight, even fewer can move the way Raji can


When you have a bad season, this is the exact type of rare piece that you need to add to make it worth it.

Ya'd need a forklift to move Raji out of the middle.


That's exactly it. He's heavy and all of his weight is low. There are only a couple players like him in the NFL and they all happen to be on great defenses. I don't think it's a coincidence.

[Bretsky]

Ok Mr TT. Now that after all these drafts of me bitching about need, you FINALLY come around to my way of thinking................


OUTSIDE LINEBACKER



Time for you to give your dear TTT some serious MANLOVE :lol:

[packrulz]

I wanted Crabby but I'm fine with Raji, it's like comparing apples and oranges, both are good. I'll feel better about the Pack having to face AP twice a year.

[gbpackfan]

Just a little info - The Packers have the ability to move back into round 1 with their 2nd round pick and one of their 3rd round picks. They could go as high as 25.

[pack4to84]

Dom Capers coming next on 620tmj

[gbpackfan]

Did I call it or what!

[Packnut]

At some point guys ya gotta start drafting for need. May-be Crabby is special, may-be he ain't but we have a true bonafide stud in Jennings. Between Nelson and Jones, we have our #2 and 3 wideouts (hav'nt forgotten DD, just looking down the road).

[The Shadow]

I am a happy fellow.
I can't wait to see Mike Singletary rush on to the field, yank both Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree, and then drop his pants.

[Partial]

Malcome Jenkins is a hell of a pick at this point. Really really solid pick for the Saints.

Gunk, I've asked you countless times now. Answer da question.

[esoxx]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

He won't have to. Pickett is GONE next year. Raji will be the NT.

Why do you keep saying that? He's got more than a year left.

Because they drafted BJ Raji. Pickett is gone. They are both NT's making starters money, so one of them will be gone next year. It will be Pickett.

Do you think they're planning to keep Raji at DE?

I think they're planning to have two solid nose tackles for a couple more years, and they're admitting that Harrell is a bust. That's what I think.

I see them playing Harrell at DE. I could also see them waiving him on final cut down.

[Bretsky]

This was the #1 guy on my board. I love this pick.


Raji has natural leverage
Of guys Raji's height and natural leverage, very few can carry this type of weight to anchor
Of the squatty, powerful guys that can carry the weight, even fewer can move the way Raji can


When you have a bad season, this is the exact type of rare piece that you need to add to make it worth it.

Ya'd need a forklift to move Raji out of the middle.


At the Senior Bowl you just needed a center

[rbaloha1]

This was the #1 guy on my board. I love this pick.


Raji has natural leverage
Of guys Raji's height and natural leverage, very few can carry this type of weight to anchor
Of the squatty, powerful guys that can carry the weight, even fewer can move the way Raji can


When you have a bad season, this is the exact type of rare piece that you need to add to make it worth it.

Ya'd need a forklift to move Raji out of the middle.


That's exactly it. He's heavy and all of his weight is low. There are only a couple players like him in the NFL and they all happen to be on great defenses. I don't think it's a coincidence.

Well stated. TT said at the press conference both Ryan and BJ ARE 3 DOWN PLAYERS.

If Harrell stays healthy the d-line can be dominant.

[Rastak]

Saints take Malcolm Jenkins.....good pick actually.


Overall Football Traits

Production 1 Jenkins appeared in ten games of his true freshman season in 2005 and eventually became Ohio State's Nickel back that year. He finished with 37 total tackles and broke up two passes but he also missed two games with an injury (see durability) that year. Jenkins started all 13 games of the 2006 season finishing with 55 total tackles, 40 solo tackles and 4.5 tackles-for-loss. He also intercepted four passes, broke up three passes and forced a fumble. Jenkins started all 13 games of the 2007 season finishing with 47 total tackles, 27 solo tackles and five tackles for loss. He also intercepted four passes, broke up three passes and returned three punts for a total of 16 yards. 2008: Jenkins starts in all 13 games and records 57 total tackles, four TFL and one sack. He also adds three interceptions, breaks up nine passes, and forces three fumbles. Earned first team All-Big Ten honors the past three seasons (2006-'08) and first team All-American honors in 2008.

Height-Weight-Speed 2 Jenkins has prototypical height and bulk but only adequate top-end speed.

Durability 2 Jenkins missed two games because of a sprained knee in 2005. He has not had any durability issues since then, though.

Character 1 Jenkins has the football smarts to line up at safety and corner, he works hard on the field and he's an excellent student. Team captain in 2008.

Defensive Corner specific Traits

Recognition Skills/Toughness 2 As far as zone coverage goes, reads quarterbacks' eyes, shows a strong grasp of spacing when lined up at corner and can play a centerfielder-type role when lined up at safety. Shows a strong punch and can slow receivers down at the line of scrimmage. Is a physical corner. Will need to protect himself when in man-coverage in the NFL and must learn to gamble less.

Closing Burst 3 Shows above-average but not elite closing speed, breaks on the ball well and he can get to the quarterback when asked to blitz.

Fluidity 3 Opens hips well when forced to turn and run downfield and appears comfortable playing close to the line of scrimmage. However, he has limitations in this regard because he gears down and chops feet too much when forced to change directions quickly. He also does not explode out of pedal.

Ball Skills 2 Has some problems adjusting to balls thrown below waist but doesn't drop many passes that he should catch and is a dangerous open field runner.

Run Support 1 Doesn't deliver many big hits but shows good body control in space, wraps up upon contact and very rarely misses open field tackles. Plays with a mean streak, uses hands well and can shed blocks quickly. Can be a good gunner on special teams and also can block kicks.

[jmbarnes101]

I wanted one of the following players: Tyson Jackson, Jason Smith, Eugene Monroe, Aaron Curry, or B.J. Raji. Considering all of them were gone but one I'm extremely happy with this. After this I would have wanted Moreno or Oher so I'm happy we didn't take Crabapple either.

[Joemailman]

Malcome Jenkins is a hell of a pick at this point. Really really solid pick for the Saints.

Gunk, I've asked you countless times now. Answer da question.

Perfect instance of the BPA also filling a need.

[wist43]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

He won't have to. Pickett is GONE next year. Raji will be the NT.

Why do you keep saying that? He's got more than a year left.

Because they drafted BJ Raji. Pickett is gone. They are both NT's making starters money, so one of them will be gone next year. It will be Pickett.

Do you think they're planning to keep Raji at DE?

I think they're planning to have two solid nose tackles for a couple more years, and they're admitting that Harrell is a bust. That's what I think.

Pickett is one demensional... Raji can rush the passer.

Pickett certainly comes off the field in a four man front... Raji slides to DT.

Raji will be much closer to a full-time player than Pickett.

[Gunakor]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

He won't have to. Pickett is GONE next year. Raji will be the NT.

Why do you keep saying that? He's got more than a year left.

Because they drafted BJ Raji. Pickett is gone. They are both NT's making starters money, so one of them will be gone next year. It will be Pickett.

Do you think they're planning to keep Raji at DE?

I think they're planning to have two solid nose tackles for a couple more years, and they're admitting that Harrell is a bust. That's what I think.

They are giving Harrell a shot at DE. Pickett can't play DE. Pickett would be that backup center only that nobody wants, only on the defense. No versatility to play anything else. So if Raji doesn't come out, Pickett doesn't play. For his salary it makes no sense.

Other than that, I don't think Pickett is going to be a solid nose tackle. I've been very vocal about that in my desire for Raji for months now.

[retailguy]

So... how many snaps a game do you expect out of this pick? I expect about 5. Awful awful awful pick.

Partial...

Raji can play anywhere on the line... assume they'll be in a four man line in a lot of passing situations - Raji will be lined up at one of the DT spots...

This is a very good pick... Raji is more than just a NT.

Brace on the other hand... he is strictly a NT... IMO, I doubt Raji has to come off the field much at all, except to get a blow.

Love this pick...

I'm not confident Raji can excel as a DE

He won't have to. Pickett is GONE next year. Raji will be the NT.

Why do you keep saying that? He's got more than a year left.

Because they drafted BJ Raji. Pickett is gone. They are both NT's making starters money, so one of them will be gone next year. It will be Pickett.

Do you think they're planning to keep Raji at DE?

I think they're planning to have two solid nose tackles for a couple more years, and they're admitting that Harrell is a bust. That's what I think.

I see them playing Harrell at DE. I could also see them waiving him on final cut down.

My thought is that you try the guy at a different position before you give up. but you do that AFTER you give up on the position you drafted him for.

[Bretsky]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.Raji can play DE. Or is your man crush on Crabtree blind you?


You have no more evidence to suggest he can play DE than somebody who says he can not ; if you look at him physically a guy of his size is not normally a DE in the 3-4

You are arguing with "consensus". there is no original thought there.




I've never been one to follow the herd :lol:

[Packnut]

Ok Mr TT. Now that after all these drafts of me bitching about need, you FINALLY come around to my way of thinking................


OUTSIDE LINEBACKER



Time for you to give your dear TTT some serious MANLOVE :lol:

Oh man, I was drinking when I read this, Fuck me, tomato juice and vodka all over the keyboard. CRAP!

[Gunakor]

Malcome Jenkins is a hell of a pick at this point. Really really solid pick for the Saints.

Gunk, I've asked you countless times now. Answer da question.

What question, I must have missed it.

[Joemailman]

How far will Maclin drop?

[Rastak]

Here's ESPN insider take on Green Bay pick...



9. Green Bay Packers
The pick: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
What he brings: Players who can become 3-4 nose tackles are extremely difficult to find, and Raji has the potential to be one of the best in the league. He's big and strong enough to clog up the middle, but the reasons he's so special are his rare athletic ability and quickness. You just don't find 337-pound men who move like him. There are some character concerns, but Raji too much of a talent to pass up at this point in the first round.

How he fits: General manager Ted Thompson may have hit the jackpot with this pick because Raji is the best player on the board and fills a significant need with respect to building a 3-4 defense. Guys with Raji's body type and ability to anchor are rare and it is hard to find this type of player later in the draft. Raji will make the Packers' interior defense click with his ability to take up space and free up the linebackers. He has the ability to do for Green Bay what Vince Wilfork does for New England.

[Bretsky]

Gentleman, there is still a draft being conducted...... :lol:

Dude... let me enjoy this... when is the last time you saw me happy about a TT 1st round pick??? :lol:


you've turned soft
:wink:
I will keep fighting the analytical fight Wist

[retailguy]

I've never been one to follow the herd :lol:

You've always been a stubborn one!

[Fosco33]

Texans are gonna be decent next year,

[Gunakor]

My thought is that you try the guy at a different position before you give up. but you do that AFTER you give up on the position you drafted him for.

Or maybe because you switch defensive alignments and realize that the 4-3 tackle you drafted would be horrible at the nose?

[Badgerinmaine]

TT talking live on packers.com


What did he say? He couldn't pass on a guy called BJ?
Yes, he's signing B.J. Thomas to sing the national anthem at the opener :mrgreen:

[Rastak]

Texans take Cushing........


Overall Football Traits

Production 2 2005: Despite missing half the season with an injury, (See durability) appeared in eight games (four starts) recording 23 total tackles. 2006: Started all 13 games recording 57 tackles and a team-best 13.5 tackles-for-loss. 2007: Appeared in 10 games (eight starts) recording 25 total tackles including 2 ½ for losses. 2008: Started all 13 games recording 73 tackles, 10.5 tackles-for-loss, and three sacks. He also added one interception, six pass break-ups, one QBH, and one forced fumble. Earned second team All-American honors and first team All-Pac Ten honors this past fall.

Height-Weight-Speed 2 Possesses a good combination of height, bulk, and straight-line speed. However, he is tightly wound and does not appear to have much room left on his frame to add bulk.

Durability 4 Durability is a concern. He missed three games as a senior in high school with an ankle sprain. He missed nearly half the 2005 season with a shoulder injury. Had off-season shoulder surgery, which kept him out of part of spring ball. Missed moste of 2007 spring practice with a hamstring injury and also had left knee surgery once spring practices were finished. In 2007, he missed three games due to a sprained ankle. Also broke a bone in his right hand versus Oregon State in 2008.

Character 2 Has battle back from several injuries throughout his career. Is mentally and physically tough. Passionate about the game and is a tireless worker.

Outside Linebacker specific Traits

Instincts/Recognition 1 Shows good instincts. Seems to play a step ahead of everyone else, as he locates and gets to it extremely fast. Recognizes play action quickly and does a nice job of staying home against misdirection.

Pursuit/Point of Attack 2 Can be overaggressive at times, which leads to some false steps and poor pursuit angles. However, he flies around the field and is a sideline-to-sideline run supporter. His motor is always revving. He is strong and shows the ability to hold ground when teams run at him. Uses strong hands and powerful upper body (30 reps on the bench) to stack the edge and rip off of blocks. He is a punishing striker with explosive short-area power.

Tackling 2 A ferocious hitter. Explodes through ball carriers. Strong hands help him wrap up and bring down carriers. Also does a solid job of breaking down and making open field tackles when his pursuit angles are solid.

Pass Coverage 3 Lacks ideal experience in coverage. Would come off the field on most third downs for USC. Has some stiffness in his hips and will be limited in man-to-man matchups, as a result. Also will bite occasionally on play-fake. But when in position he displays good overall ball skills making the play given the opportunity (see California 2007 1st quarter). Shows good awareness in coverage and does a sound job of looking up receivers. Reads the quarterback's eyes well and makes quick break on the ball.

Pass Rusher 4 Times stunts through the A and B gaps well. Shows some closing burst to the quarterback. But he lacks experience in this area and it shows in his limited array of pass rush moves. He does not explode off the line of scrimmage and does not bend the edge as tightly as good pass rushers do.

[BZnDallas]

Gentleman, there is still a draft being conducted...... :lol:

Dude... let me enjoy this... when is the last time you saw me happy about a TT 1st round pick??? :lol:


if wist is happy, we should all jump for joy!!...

haha, love ya wist!...

:wink: :wink: 8-)

[retailguy]

My thought is that you try the guy at a different position before you give up. but you do that AFTER you give up on the position you drafted him for.

Or maybe because you switch defensive alignments and realize that the 4-3 tackle you drafted would be horrible at the nose?

We shall see. I disagree that Pickett is going anywhere. Harrell? Not anywhere near as confident.

[Bretsky]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.Raji can play DE. Or is your man crush on Crabtree blind you?


You have no more evidence to suggest he can play DE than somebody who says he can not ; if you look at him physically a guy of his size is not normally a DE in the 3-4But that doesn't automatically preclude him from playing DE either. Im just reponding to Partial's usual retardosity. You understand the pick at least.


Yes, I do

It's funny; in the past I've always been a NEED guy

But this year, I just thought Crabtree is a WR that really might be a special talent so I flipped

Now let's shore up the D with the rest of the draft

[gbpackfan]

The media would have crushed TT for drafting Crabtree.

We are stacked at WR as is. I understand BPA. But TT said that you draft for need if the two are ranked the same. He obviously had Raji ranked as high as Crabtree. You can't honestly tell me TT has changed his ways. We all know that is not possible. Raji is a damn fine player and we should be damn happy that he fell in our laps.

One more thing, why does everyone keep worrying about Jennings? He is not going anywhere! I guarantee that. Ever heard of the franchise tag? A deal will get done. And if TT picked Crabtree, Jennings would have been none to happy to be making less money then a rookie.

Okay, I'm done now.

[Partial]

Crabtree at 10 is by far the best pick in the draft so far...

How can you be excited about Raji as a 5 snap a game player?!? Starting NT only plays 20ish snaps a game according to Waldo. Awful pick imo.

right, just because he's a monkey wearing glasses doesn't mean he is setting our depth chart

So you have Pickett, a very solid player, as a 5 snap a game player? I don't understand this logic at all.

This guy doesn't fit. We don't have a huge need at NT. We had a glaring need at DE. We've made a rich position richer, but passed on a rare talent in Crabtree.Raji can play DE. Or is your man crush on Crabtree blind you?


You have no more evidence to suggest he can play DE than somebody who says he can not ; if you look at him physically a guy of his size is not normally a DE in the 3-4But that doesn't automatically preclude him from playing DE either. Im just reponding to Partial's usual retardosity. You understand the pick at least.

Retardosity? I understand the pick as well. They're going to solidify depth at NT.. Next year, they will probably let a quality NT in Pickett walk so they can replace him with a Raji. No net improvement in the roster. Don't like the pick at all.

[Rastak]

TT talking live on packers.com


What did he say? He couldn't pass on a guy called BJ?
Yes, he's signing B.J. Thomas to sing the national anthem at the opener :mrgreen:


I bet that's true,....he loves his BJs......