K-town
02-07-2007, 02:14 PM
Chat with Mel Kiper
Mel Kiper: Not a lot happening in terms of the NFL draft process, but the Combine's coming up. Let's get to your questions.
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rodney alaska: who will the raiders pick first?
Mel Kiper: Right now, it's still very, very early to definitively say who a team will take. But all things being equal right now, I'll say JaMarcus Russell. He played better against elite football teams this year than Quinn did.
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John (San Mateo, CA): How does Reggie Nelson compare to Michael Huff as a NFL prospect? Seems they both have combo size and speed for S or CB. Does Nelson have a higher ceiling?
Mel Kiper: Nelson is an outstanding cover safety. He may not have as high a grade as Huff, but close. Nelson has great instincts and awareness and is a big-play guy. I liked Huff a lot and I like Nelson a lot. I have him going to the Cowboys to complement Roy Williams.
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Mike (Reno, NV): Mel - what's your take on Jeff Rowe from Nevada? He seems to have all the physical tools. Do you see a team taking a chance on him as a developmental project?
Mel Kiper: I think they could. He's one of those guys you think of on Day 2. At 6'4 1/2", 225 lbs., he's got size, but is kind of a system QB. I can see him coming off the board in the 6th round.
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Joe (Evansville, Indiana): HUGE COLTS FAN What do you think the Colts need to do in the draft to solidify their defense? Scouts Inc says they will draft Brandon Siler from Florida. I was wondering if that would be a good fit? And your suggestion for a player the Colts can draft.
Mel Kiper: I think that's a little high for Siler, in the way I project players. I rate him out as more of a 3rd-round pick. If you look at Indy's needs, OLB, CB and DT would be first and foremost. I have them taking Justin Harrell (DT) from Tennessee. If he's still there and the medical reports are positive, I think you're getting a pretty good bargain.
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Jon V (Cleveland, OH): If AP goes to the Browns at 3/4, do they finally make up for passsing on LT and drafting Gerard Warren a few years back? Any chance they pick up Sears or Staley in Rd. 2 to help pave the way for Peterson?
Mel Kiper: I think Sears and Staley would be excellent choices. I have Sears going 31st to Chicago. The Browns have to be thinking QB, RB, OL, especially on the interior. Sears has played everywhere except for C, and Staley has to get stronger still. Other needs are DE and CB on the other side. If you're able to get Peterson and Sears with the first two picks, I'd be happy to get those two players.
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Marcus (Reno, Nevada): How far do you think Some players will fall in the draft that didnt have a great season such as Michael Bush
Mel Kiper: Bush was an injury, not that he had a poor season. Right now, I'm saying he's a 2nd-rounder, depending on how the combine goes. Remember, he was a top-15 pick prior to the injury. There's a lot of guys that had high grades going into the season that injuries changed that. Take Trent Edwards (QB-Stanford), Kenny Irons (RB-Auburn)...both could be 2nd-round picks. Harrell, who I already spoke of, the injury affected him. Marcus Thomas, DT from Florida, was dismissed from the team and going into the year, he had a first-round grade. Those are some guys right there.
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Evan NYC: Hi Mel, The G-men have needs at RB and CB.... That being said what moves do you see in the offseason and what about their first 2 picks in the draft?
Mel Kiper: I think you're 100% right about RB and CB. I'd add LB and WR to the back end of that, too. I have them taking Lawrence Timmons (OLB-FSU). He's got the L.T. going for him, at least. The comparisons may end there, but the thing I like about him is he diagnoses plays and led the team with 18 TFL and tied with 5 sacks and also had 6 PBUs. He had a heck of a year and would fill a need area for the Giants. Then, down the line, the Giants could get a good 2nd or 3rd-round RB like Darius Walker (ND), Antonio Pittman (Ohio St.), Brandon Jackson (Nebraska) are some juniors could fall into that area.
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Jared Zabransky (Boise): Am I going to be drafted? I've got MAD SKILLS!!!
Mel Kiper: I think the thing with Zabransky is he's a classic overachiever. He reminds me of a Jeff Garcia at this stage. Garcia was undrafted, went up to Canada, then Bill Walsh spotted him. Zabransky's road to the NFL...he's a late-round possibility, but he's got a chance.
Mel Kiper: He has that "it" factor. That ability to make plays and come through in the clutch. He's got a little bit of that "it" factor for sure.
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Dorian(Covina,CA): Mel, Do you think the niners will trade up or do you think they will stick with their pick? And who would be the best pick available for them with the 11th pick?
Mel Kiper: What they need is a DT, a WR, a DE/OLB...they have some areas of concerns. A guy I'm looking at is Alan Branch from Michigan. He's athletic, versatile and would be a nice pick for the 49ers.
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Ed: Madison WI: Who will be the 1st TE taken this year?
Mel Kiper: I'd say right now, Greg Olsen from Miami, coming out early. I say that was reservation, because he didn't have a big year. The QB play there factored into that, but only averaged 12 yds per catch. He had been averaging 15 per prior to that. His blocking needs to improve, but as a pass-catcher, he could be a 2nd-round choice.
Mel Kiper: Scott Chandler, Matt Spaeth, Joe Newton, Clark Harris, Zach Miller are all guys that are interesting...Ben Patrick from Delaware and Martrez Milner from Georgia are all 3rd-4th round guys as well.
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Boltman (San Diego): Mel- Who are the top special teams players entering the draft? Is there a impact return specialist available after round 1?
Mel Kiper: Ted Ginn, we know about his KR ability. The guy that's going to help you as a return man is a guy who's never done it...and that's Garrett Wolfe. He'll have to do it at the pro level to justify being on a roster. You could look at Johnnie Lee Higgins, Steve Breaston. One of the best returners is Ramonce Taylor, who didn't play this past season. He scored 15 TD at Texas the season before. He averaged nearly 30 yards as the Longhorns' primary kick returner as a sophomore. He transferred to Texas College, where he didn't play, but he's eligible this year.
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michael .......pittsburgh: mel....the steelers need that tweener that can play d-end in college yet stand up and play OLB in the pros....i love moses from georgia..anyone else to look at?
Mel Kiper: I think the guy that's more explosive than Moses is Jarvis Moss from Florida. He's a great athlete, good lateral quickness. As a pass rusher, he mixes up his moves and he blocks PATs on special teams, too. Marques Murrell out of Appalachian State, Abraham Wright from Colorado and Nu-u Tafisi from Cal that could fall into that category.
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Butch (Birmingham): Any chance one of Dwayne Jarrett, Ginn, Rice, Meachem, or Bowe falls to the Bears? I think they could use another talented WR.
Mel Kiper: I have Jarrett going to Tennessee, Ginn going to Minnesota early, I have Rice going to Jacksonville, I have Meachem going to the Jets and Bowe going to Carolina, all picking before the Bears. If that's the case and all five are gone...and I have Anthony Gonzalez going to New England right before Chicago picks. What affected this is Jeff Samardzija being out of the draft, because each WR moves up a spot. Some guys that could be there would be Craig Davis from LSU, but I think that would be a reach. And I have all these guys gone, but you never know how the draft will shake out. And maybe they'll move up a couple spots as well.
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Danny (Spring Hill,Florida): Hey Mel, I was wondering why Adrian Peterson's stock is higher than Marshawn Lynch's, I mean Peterson has Durability problems like you pointed out and other people would say the Falcons or another team would pounce on Peterson if he were availble, but why not for Lynch. this has been bugging me for about 2 months now. Thanks and can't wait till I start seeing you on ESPN again for draft talk
Mel Kiper: Appreciate the comments. In terms of Peterson, he's just a better overall talent. He's going to run a 4.37 40...with a 38" vertical, 8% body fat and he's been considered the best-conditioned athlete on OU's team and he's very talented. Some guys come into the NFL with injury histories and never get hurt again. Lynch doesn't make guys miss as much. He's more of a pounder, difficult to tackle, a lot of yards after contact. His 34 receptions matched his total for the previous two seasons combined. I just think Peterson's skill level is higher. Peterson could go as early as 3 or 4, while Lynch will go in the middle of the first round, like 16 to Green Bay.
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Ted, SLC: Mel, you mentioned a number of TEs, but not BYU's Johnny Harline. Does he fall in that 3/4-round group?
Mel Kiper: He falls in that 2nd-day type of TE. He's made some clutch catches. He's 6'3 1/2, 237 lbs., but he's probably a Day 2 guy. Jonny Harline is the 8th-rated TE on my board.
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Kevin (San Marcos, TX): Hey Mel, do you think the Broncos will draft a full-time RB and, if so, which RBs best fit their system?
Mel Kiper: I think Peterson would be great. He's a one-cut runner. A guy that hits it explosive. He'd be ideal for their system and I think they'll be aggressive in trying to get him. Of course, Mike Bell and Tatum Bell aren't Adrian Peterson, so when you have a chance to get a great back, you have to go for it. I think by the time we get into late March or early April, I think Peterson will be the buzz of this draft.
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Ben (Portland, OR): Mel, is Steve Breaston going to be drafted to be strictly a return man or are there teams who view him as a number one reciever?
Mel Kiper: He's a 4th or 5th receiver and he's a return man. Initially, he'll have to make it as a return man and that's where he'll have to make his mark.
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Todd Robison (Ca): what round will kenny irons be drafted? he seems like he could be a steal if he is taken in the later rounds
Mel Kiper: I don't think he'll be a late-round pick. I thought first round going into the year, but he's had some nicks. He runs with determination, shows some balance, and is tough. I think he's a second round pick and at worst, a third-rounder.
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Cody Philly: You have CJ going to the bucs which I would have no problem with but Joe Thomas seems like a great fit and could really help the hurting line, your thoughts?
Mel Kiper: I have Thomas going 2nd to Detroit, so Tampa Bay would certainly be looking at anyone that could help and by my board Thomas would be gone. Johnson is a guy that can be a great red-zone threat. He's not just big, he's fast and a natural catching the football and has great character. He's a bigger, faster version of Larry Fitzgerald, and Fitzgerald's a great player.
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Anthony (NYC): Mel are there any 3-4 NT coming out in this draft(other then maybe Branch), for the most part alot of the DT seem to be under size.
Mel Kiper: Well, they are. You have to mix and match some of these guys. Some of them, like Tank Tyler from NC State and Ola Dagunduro from Nebraska would fit the bit there. In terms of that scheme, you have to mix and match a bit.
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Todd Robison (Ca): what position do the chiefs need to get in the first round? should they take a wide reciever if theres one available?
Mel Kiper: It will be in there thought process. I have them taking Aaron Ross from Texas. They need help at DT, LT, WR and CB...so I have them taking Ross.
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Jeremy (Bellevue, Wa): Mel, were do you have Quinn going on your board? If Russel is 1, Thomas 2, CJ 3 (if TB has this pick), Browns at 4?
Mel Kiper: That's going to be interesting. Teams like Minnesota and Houston are possibilities, but I have him going to Miami at No. 9. Where did Leinart go last year? And Cutler, too? Leinart when 10th and Cutler 11th. Roethlisberger was in that same range a few years ago. Since Minnesota drafted Jackson last year and Houston still has a QB that they used a No.1 pick on. If you don't give him to Detroit or Cleveland, it makes it a very difficult projection as to where he'll go.
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Jeff (KC): What happens with John Cornish from KU. Solid powerful running back who's got experience on special teams, a possible Day 2 steal?
Mel Kiper: I don't know about a steal. The thing about Jon Cornish is how quick and explosive he's going to be. He's 5'11" 205 lbs and has some ability, but how effective he'll be at the pro level is in question. He's probably in that 6th and 7th round.
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Steve (Akron): What happened to Quinn Pitcock? He was high early, but seems to have fallen off the map.
Mel Kiper: He hasn't fallen off the map. He's leveled off a bit. He's an overachiever type guy. Steady, consistent, limited athletically. A blue-collar type and I think he's a 2nd-round pick right now.
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Cluj, Romania: BIG PATS FAN- with 2 first round picks, what do you see the pats doing? Does everything depend on the Asante Samuel situation? Assuming they sign him, do they take Willis from Miss. to restock their lb corps?
Mel Kiper: Yeah, they could. And that would be contingent upon Samuel. But say he ends up with the Jets, then the Pats could look at Daymeion Hughes from Cal (CB) and Anthony Gonzalez (WR). If they keep Samuel, then they could look at Willis, who was all over the place at Ole Miss. And he didn't play with a great defensive line there, either, to help eat up some blocks.
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David (Texas Tech): MEL LOVE THE STUFF!! What do you think about a Leach player possible going in the 2nd round this year? Ramirez maybe? What about Hicks and Filani where do you see them going and who do you like more? Thanks!!
Mel Kiper: The system always affects where you view Texas Tech players. Ramirez is more of a 3rd or 4th round player. Hicks and Filani could be late Day 1 guys. Speed is something they'll have to show at the combine. All three of them are in the 3rd to 5th round range, depending on how the combine goes. Robert Johnson is another intriguing WR from Texas Tech.
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Kelvin (Dayton): What teams do you think are gonna take Troy Smith and Stanton? Troy did say he wanted to be a Brown!
Mel Kiper: Yeah, that doesn't mean too much. It's how they're rated. Both are 3rd or 4th-round picks. Team-wise, it's not an easy fit, because you go beyond the need. And the question is "who takes who early"? As far as QBs are concerned, Cleveland, Jacksonville, Oakland, Detroit, Miami, Baltimore, etc. are the type of teams that could be thinking about picking up a QB. A lot of teams like to take a QB in that 6th or 7th round area, too.
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JD...NYC: Mrel..WR sleepers? Chad SChroeder from Tex A&M and Johhnny Quinn from NOrth Texas...2 of the fastest guys in the draft. Where do they fall?
Mel Kiper: They're down the line a little bit. Dominique Zeigler from Baylor, Laurent Robinson from Illinois State, Jordan Kent from Oregon, Yamon Figurs from Kansas State, James Jones from San Jose State, Mike Mason from Tennessee State, David Ball from New Hampshire and Jacoby Jones from Lane are some interesting Day 2 prospects.
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Nick (Boston): The Bills need to shore up their run D... any chance of Brandon Mebane falling to them in the 2nd round?
Mel Kiper: It's an interesting guy. Their needs are DT, MLB, CB, OL, WR. I have them taking Amobi Okoye from Louisville, but if they go away from DT in the first round, Mebane could work there. He was double and triple teamed this season a lot, but had a good week in Mobile. He pushes the pocket, has good functional strength. I think he'd be a nice 2nd-round pick if they don't take a DT in the first round.
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Bob, Denver: Mel, what's the weakest (depth-wise) position in the draft this year?
Mel Kiper: Good question. I'd say right now, I would go offensive tackle, because we didn't have any juniors. The top OTs from the junior class all stayed. Also, OLB is very weak outside of Timmons.
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Jason (NYC): Could Matt Trannon of Michigan St be an Antonio Gates type player? Basketball player with great athleticism, who's probably too big and not quick enough for WR. He could really become a great receiving TE. Where does he fall in the draft?
Mel Kiper: He could. He's 6'5 1/4" and 230 lbs. and he may have to transition. We've seen it with Desmond Clark, who's now with Chicago. Trannon gives you some versatility and with the basketball background, it will be interesting to see how he does at the combine.
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Ajit, Saratoga CA: Hey Mel, Are there any good coverage safeties or corners in the second round that could still make an impact?
Mel Kiper: I think there are a number and the junior class helped in both spots. Chris Houston from Arkansas, Eric Wright from UNLV are intriguing. A couple other CBs, like Tanard Jackson (who could play S). In terms of safeties, maybe an Aaron Rouse (Va Tech), Michael Griffin (Texas), Brandon Meriwether (Miami), Eric Weddle (Utah), Josh Gattis (Wake Forest) may be 2nd or 3rd round guys, but I'd shade more toward the 3rd than the 2nd with some of these guys.
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Jamie (Reading-Pa): In your most recent mock draft, you don't Have Paul Pozlousny going in the first round. Don't you think he would fit with say, my EAGLES?
Mel Kiper: You know, he would fit with a number of teams, like the Colts. He just didn't have a big year. He had the brace, and I think he's a 2nd-round guy. Some think he's a 3rd-rounder even.
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Aaron (NJ): Where do you see Brian Leonard going?
Mel Kiper: He's a heck of a football player. He can run the ball, he can catch the ball, even though he had a drop in the bowl game and at the Senior Bowl. Willing and effective blocker, not dominant, but more than adequate. He could even be like Frank Wycheck was as an H-back with the Titans. Creatively, I think an off. coordinator will have many ways to get him involved.
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Travis (Phoenix): Mel, Why is Zach Miller not rated the top TE in the draft? At this stage in his career he is better than Todd Heap was, and hes a way better blocker.
Mel Kiper: Not as fast. Heap was faster and was a special, special receiver. He made some one-handed and acrobatic catches. Miller was ASU's leading receiver with 50 catches. Those 50 catches were just one shy of the next THREE leading Sun Devil receivers COMBINED. He was without question their go-to guy. He had a lot more career catches than Greg Olsen had, but Olsen didn't have a QB. Miller didn't make a whole lot happen after the catch, either. The speed factor is something he'll have to show at the combine. You could argue he's the 2nd or 3rd rated TE this year. The workouts are going to determine how these guys slot out at TE.
Mel Kiper: We covered a ton of ground today. A lot of prospects and NFL teams. There's kind of a lull until the combine at the end of the month. I'll be back next week to cover a lot more ground. Thanks, everyone.
Mel Kiper: Not a lot happening in terms of the NFL draft process, but the Combine's coming up. Let's get to your questions.
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rodney alaska: who will the raiders pick first?
Mel Kiper: Right now, it's still very, very early to definitively say who a team will take. But all things being equal right now, I'll say JaMarcus Russell. He played better against elite football teams this year than Quinn did.
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John (San Mateo, CA): How does Reggie Nelson compare to Michael Huff as a NFL prospect? Seems they both have combo size and speed for S or CB. Does Nelson have a higher ceiling?
Mel Kiper: Nelson is an outstanding cover safety. He may not have as high a grade as Huff, but close. Nelson has great instincts and awareness and is a big-play guy. I liked Huff a lot and I like Nelson a lot. I have him going to the Cowboys to complement Roy Williams.
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Mike (Reno, NV): Mel - what's your take on Jeff Rowe from Nevada? He seems to have all the physical tools. Do you see a team taking a chance on him as a developmental project?
Mel Kiper: I think they could. He's one of those guys you think of on Day 2. At 6'4 1/2", 225 lbs., he's got size, but is kind of a system QB. I can see him coming off the board in the 6th round.
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Joe (Evansville, Indiana): HUGE COLTS FAN What do you think the Colts need to do in the draft to solidify their defense? Scouts Inc says they will draft Brandon Siler from Florida. I was wondering if that would be a good fit? And your suggestion for a player the Colts can draft.
Mel Kiper: I think that's a little high for Siler, in the way I project players. I rate him out as more of a 3rd-round pick. If you look at Indy's needs, OLB, CB and DT would be first and foremost. I have them taking Justin Harrell (DT) from Tennessee. If he's still there and the medical reports are positive, I think you're getting a pretty good bargain.
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Jon V (Cleveland, OH): If AP goes to the Browns at 3/4, do they finally make up for passsing on LT and drafting Gerard Warren a few years back? Any chance they pick up Sears or Staley in Rd. 2 to help pave the way for Peterson?
Mel Kiper: I think Sears and Staley would be excellent choices. I have Sears going 31st to Chicago. The Browns have to be thinking QB, RB, OL, especially on the interior. Sears has played everywhere except for C, and Staley has to get stronger still. Other needs are DE and CB on the other side. If you're able to get Peterson and Sears with the first two picks, I'd be happy to get those two players.
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Marcus (Reno, Nevada): How far do you think Some players will fall in the draft that didnt have a great season such as Michael Bush
Mel Kiper: Bush was an injury, not that he had a poor season. Right now, I'm saying he's a 2nd-rounder, depending on how the combine goes. Remember, he was a top-15 pick prior to the injury. There's a lot of guys that had high grades going into the season that injuries changed that. Take Trent Edwards (QB-Stanford), Kenny Irons (RB-Auburn)...both could be 2nd-round picks. Harrell, who I already spoke of, the injury affected him. Marcus Thomas, DT from Florida, was dismissed from the team and going into the year, he had a first-round grade. Those are some guys right there.
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Evan NYC: Hi Mel, The G-men have needs at RB and CB.... That being said what moves do you see in the offseason and what about their first 2 picks in the draft?
Mel Kiper: I think you're 100% right about RB and CB. I'd add LB and WR to the back end of that, too. I have them taking Lawrence Timmons (OLB-FSU). He's got the L.T. going for him, at least. The comparisons may end there, but the thing I like about him is he diagnoses plays and led the team with 18 TFL and tied with 5 sacks and also had 6 PBUs. He had a heck of a year and would fill a need area for the Giants. Then, down the line, the Giants could get a good 2nd or 3rd-round RB like Darius Walker (ND), Antonio Pittman (Ohio St.), Brandon Jackson (Nebraska) are some juniors could fall into that area.
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Jared Zabransky (Boise): Am I going to be drafted? I've got MAD SKILLS!!!
Mel Kiper: I think the thing with Zabransky is he's a classic overachiever. He reminds me of a Jeff Garcia at this stage. Garcia was undrafted, went up to Canada, then Bill Walsh spotted him. Zabransky's road to the NFL...he's a late-round possibility, but he's got a chance.
Mel Kiper: He has that "it" factor. That ability to make plays and come through in the clutch. He's got a little bit of that "it" factor for sure.
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Dorian(Covina,CA): Mel, Do you think the niners will trade up or do you think they will stick with their pick? And who would be the best pick available for them with the 11th pick?
Mel Kiper: What they need is a DT, a WR, a DE/OLB...they have some areas of concerns. A guy I'm looking at is Alan Branch from Michigan. He's athletic, versatile and would be a nice pick for the 49ers.
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Ed: Madison WI: Who will be the 1st TE taken this year?
Mel Kiper: I'd say right now, Greg Olsen from Miami, coming out early. I say that was reservation, because he didn't have a big year. The QB play there factored into that, but only averaged 12 yds per catch. He had been averaging 15 per prior to that. His blocking needs to improve, but as a pass-catcher, he could be a 2nd-round choice.
Mel Kiper: Scott Chandler, Matt Spaeth, Joe Newton, Clark Harris, Zach Miller are all guys that are interesting...Ben Patrick from Delaware and Martrez Milner from Georgia are all 3rd-4th round guys as well.
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Boltman (San Diego): Mel- Who are the top special teams players entering the draft? Is there a impact return specialist available after round 1?
Mel Kiper: Ted Ginn, we know about his KR ability. The guy that's going to help you as a return man is a guy who's never done it...and that's Garrett Wolfe. He'll have to do it at the pro level to justify being on a roster. You could look at Johnnie Lee Higgins, Steve Breaston. One of the best returners is Ramonce Taylor, who didn't play this past season. He scored 15 TD at Texas the season before. He averaged nearly 30 yards as the Longhorns' primary kick returner as a sophomore. He transferred to Texas College, where he didn't play, but he's eligible this year.
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michael .......pittsburgh: mel....the steelers need that tweener that can play d-end in college yet stand up and play OLB in the pros....i love moses from georgia..anyone else to look at?
Mel Kiper: I think the guy that's more explosive than Moses is Jarvis Moss from Florida. He's a great athlete, good lateral quickness. As a pass rusher, he mixes up his moves and he blocks PATs on special teams, too. Marques Murrell out of Appalachian State, Abraham Wright from Colorado and Nu-u Tafisi from Cal that could fall into that category.
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Butch (Birmingham): Any chance one of Dwayne Jarrett, Ginn, Rice, Meachem, or Bowe falls to the Bears? I think they could use another talented WR.
Mel Kiper: I have Jarrett going to Tennessee, Ginn going to Minnesota early, I have Rice going to Jacksonville, I have Meachem going to the Jets and Bowe going to Carolina, all picking before the Bears. If that's the case and all five are gone...and I have Anthony Gonzalez going to New England right before Chicago picks. What affected this is Jeff Samardzija being out of the draft, because each WR moves up a spot. Some guys that could be there would be Craig Davis from LSU, but I think that would be a reach. And I have all these guys gone, but you never know how the draft will shake out. And maybe they'll move up a couple spots as well.
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Danny (Spring Hill,Florida): Hey Mel, I was wondering why Adrian Peterson's stock is higher than Marshawn Lynch's, I mean Peterson has Durability problems like you pointed out and other people would say the Falcons or another team would pounce on Peterson if he were availble, but why not for Lynch. this has been bugging me for about 2 months now. Thanks and can't wait till I start seeing you on ESPN again for draft talk
Mel Kiper: Appreciate the comments. In terms of Peterson, he's just a better overall talent. He's going to run a 4.37 40...with a 38" vertical, 8% body fat and he's been considered the best-conditioned athlete on OU's team and he's very talented. Some guys come into the NFL with injury histories and never get hurt again. Lynch doesn't make guys miss as much. He's more of a pounder, difficult to tackle, a lot of yards after contact. His 34 receptions matched his total for the previous two seasons combined. I just think Peterson's skill level is higher. Peterson could go as early as 3 or 4, while Lynch will go in the middle of the first round, like 16 to Green Bay.
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Ted, SLC: Mel, you mentioned a number of TEs, but not BYU's Johnny Harline. Does he fall in that 3/4-round group?
Mel Kiper: He falls in that 2nd-day type of TE. He's made some clutch catches. He's 6'3 1/2, 237 lbs., but he's probably a Day 2 guy. Jonny Harline is the 8th-rated TE on my board.
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Kevin (San Marcos, TX): Hey Mel, do you think the Broncos will draft a full-time RB and, if so, which RBs best fit their system?
Mel Kiper: I think Peterson would be great. He's a one-cut runner. A guy that hits it explosive. He'd be ideal for their system and I think they'll be aggressive in trying to get him. Of course, Mike Bell and Tatum Bell aren't Adrian Peterson, so when you have a chance to get a great back, you have to go for it. I think by the time we get into late March or early April, I think Peterson will be the buzz of this draft.
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Ben (Portland, OR): Mel, is Steve Breaston going to be drafted to be strictly a return man or are there teams who view him as a number one reciever?
Mel Kiper: He's a 4th or 5th receiver and he's a return man. Initially, he'll have to make it as a return man and that's where he'll have to make his mark.
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Todd Robison (Ca): what round will kenny irons be drafted? he seems like he could be a steal if he is taken in the later rounds
Mel Kiper: I don't think he'll be a late-round pick. I thought first round going into the year, but he's had some nicks. He runs with determination, shows some balance, and is tough. I think he's a second round pick and at worst, a third-rounder.
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Cody Philly: You have CJ going to the bucs which I would have no problem with but Joe Thomas seems like a great fit and could really help the hurting line, your thoughts?
Mel Kiper: I have Thomas going 2nd to Detroit, so Tampa Bay would certainly be looking at anyone that could help and by my board Thomas would be gone. Johnson is a guy that can be a great red-zone threat. He's not just big, he's fast and a natural catching the football and has great character. He's a bigger, faster version of Larry Fitzgerald, and Fitzgerald's a great player.
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Anthony (NYC): Mel are there any 3-4 NT coming out in this draft(other then maybe Branch), for the most part alot of the DT seem to be under size.
Mel Kiper: Well, they are. You have to mix and match some of these guys. Some of them, like Tank Tyler from NC State and Ola Dagunduro from Nebraska would fit the bit there. In terms of that scheme, you have to mix and match a bit.
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Todd Robison (Ca): what position do the chiefs need to get in the first round? should they take a wide reciever if theres one available?
Mel Kiper: It will be in there thought process. I have them taking Aaron Ross from Texas. They need help at DT, LT, WR and CB...so I have them taking Ross.
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Jeremy (Bellevue, Wa): Mel, were do you have Quinn going on your board? If Russel is 1, Thomas 2, CJ 3 (if TB has this pick), Browns at 4?
Mel Kiper: That's going to be interesting. Teams like Minnesota and Houston are possibilities, but I have him going to Miami at No. 9. Where did Leinart go last year? And Cutler, too? Leinart when 10th and Cutler 11th. Roethlisberger was in that same range a few years ago. Since Minnesota drafted Jackson last year and Houston still has a QB that they used a No.1 pick on. If you don't give him to Detroit or Cleveland, it makes it a very difficult projection as to where he'll go.
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Jeff (KC): What happens with John Cornish from KU. Solid powerful running back who's got experience on special teams, a possible Day 2 steal?
Mel Kiper: I don't know about a steal. The thing about Jon Cornish is how quick and explosive he's going to be. He's 5'11" 205 lbs and has some ability, but how effective he'll be at the pro level is in question. He's probably in that 6th and 7th round.
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Steve (Akron): What happened to Quinn Pitcock? He was high early, but seems to have fallen off the map.
Mel Kiper: He hasn't fallen off the map. He's leveled off a bit. He's an overachiever type guy. Steady, consistent, limited athletically. A blue-collar type and I think he's a 2nd-round pick right now.
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Cluj, Romania: BIG PATS FAN- with 2 first round picks, what do you see the pats doing? Does everything depend on the Asante Samuel situation? Assuming they sign him, do they take Willis from Miss. to restock their lb corps?
Mel Kiper: Yeah, they could. And that would be contingent upon Samuel. But say he ends up with the Jets, then the Pats could look at Daymeion Hughes from Cal (CB) and Anthony Gonzalez (WR). If they keep Samuel, then they could look at Willis, who was all over the place at Ole Miss. And he didn't play with a great defensive line there, either, to help eat up some blocks.
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David (Texas Tech): MEL LOVE THE STUFF!! What do you think about a Leach player possible going in the 2nd round this year? Ramirez maybe? What about Hicks and Filani where do you see them going and who do you like more? Thanks!!
Mel Kiper: The system always affects where you view Texas Tech players. Ramirez is more of a 3rd or 4th round player. Hicks and Filani could be late Day 1 guys. Speed is something they'll have to show at the combine. All three of them are in the 3rd to 5th round range, depending on how the combine goes. Robert Johnson is another intriguing WR from Texas Tech.
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Kelvin (Dayton): What teams do you think are gonna take Troy Smith and Stanton? Troy did say he wanted to be a Brown!
Mel Kiper: Yeah, that doesn't mean too much. It's how they're rated. Both are 3rd or 4th-round picks. Team-wise, it's not an easy fit, because you go beyond the need. And the question is "who takes who early"? As far as QBs are concerned, Cleveland, Jacksonville, Oakland, Detroit, Miami, Baltimore, etc. are the type of teams that could be thinking about picking up a QB. A lot of teams like to take a QB in that 6th or 7th round area, too.
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JD...NYC: Mrel..WR sleepers? Chad SChroeder from Tex A&M and Johhnny Quinn from NOrth Texas...2 of the fastest guys in the draft. Where do they fall?
Mel Kiper: They're down the line a little bit. Dominique Zeigler from Baylor, Laurent Robinson from Illinois State, Jordan Kent from Oregon, Yamon Figurs from Kansas State, James Jones from San Jose State, Mike Mason from Tennessee State, David Ball from New Hampshire and Jacoby Jones from Lane are some interesting Day 2 prospects.
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Nick (Boston): The Bills need to shore up their run D... any chance of Brandon Mebane falling to them in the 2nd round?
Mel Kiper: It's an interesting guy. Their needs are DT, MLB, CB, OL, WR. I have them taking Amobi Okoye from Louisville, but if they go away from DT in the first round, Mebane could work there. He was double and triple teamed this season a lot, but had a good week in Mobile. He pushes the pocket, has good functional strength. I think he'd be a nice 2nd-round pick if they don't take a DT in the first round.
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Bob, Denver: Mel, what's the weakest (depth-wise) position in the draft this year?
Mel Kiper: Good question. I'd say right now, I would go offensive tackle, because we didn't have any juniors. The top OTs from the junior class all stayed. Also, OLB is very weak outside of Timmons.
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Jason (NYC): Could Matt Trannon of Michigan St be an Antonio Gates type player? Basketball player with great athleticism, who's probably too big and not quick enough for WR. He could really become a great receiving TE. Where does he fall in the draft?
Mel Kiper: He could. He's 6'5 1/4" and 230 lbs. and he may have to transition. We've seen it with Desmond Clark, who's now with Chicago. Trannon gives you some versatility and with the basketball background, it will be interesting to see how he does at the combine.
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Ajit, Saratoga CA: Hey Mel, Are there any good coverage safeties or corners in the second round that could still make an impact?
Mel Kiper: I think there are a number and the junior class helped in both spots. Chris Houston from Arkansas, Eric Wright from UNLV are intriguing. A couple other CBs, like Tanard Jackson (who could play S). In terms of safeties, maybe an Aaron Rouse (Va Tech), Michael Griffin (Texas), Brandon Meriwether (Miami), Eric Weddle (Utah), Josh Gattis (Wake Forest) may be 2nd or 3rd round guys, but I'd shade more toward the 3rd than the 2nd with some of these guys.
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Jamie (Reading-Pa): In your most recent mock draft, you don't Have Paul Pozlousny going in the first round. Don't you think he would fit with say, my EAGLES?
Mel Kiper: You know, he would fit with a number of teams, like the Colts. He just didn't have a big year. He had the brace, and I think he's a 2nd-round guy. Some think he's a 3rd-rounder even.
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Aaron (NJ): Where do you see Brian Leonard going?
Mel Kiper: He's a heck of a football player. He can run the ball, he can catch the ball, even though he had a drop in the bowl game and at the Senior Bowl. Willing and effective blocker, not dominant, but more than adequate. He could even be like Frank Wycheck was as an H-back with the Titans. Creatively, I think an off. coordinator will have many ways to get him involved.
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Travis (Phoenix): Mel, Why is Zach Miller not rated the top TE in the draft? At this stage in his career he is better than Todd Heap was, and hes a way better blocker.
Mel Kiper: Not as fast. Heap was faster and was a special, special receiver. He made some one-handed and acrobatic catches. Miller was ASU's leading receiver with 50 catches. Those 50 catches were just one shy of the next THREE leading Sun Devil receivers COMBINED. He was without question their go-to guy. He had a lot more career catches than Greg Olsen had, but Olsen didn't have a QB. Miller didn't make a whole lot happen after the catch, either. The speed factor is something he'll have to show at the combine. You could argue he's the 2nd or 3rd rated TE this year. The workouts are going to determine how these guys slot out at TE.
Mel Kiper: We covered a ton of ground today. A lot of prospects and NFL teams. There's kind of a lull until the combine at the end of the month. I'll be back next week to cover a lot more ground. Thanks, everyone.