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“If you’re not dominating your fantasy leagues, you’re not listening.

The NFL Season is all wrapped up and I figured the best thing to do on my first Sunday without a live NFL game would be to hammer out a mock draft.

The Draft order is almost complete, with the exception of a few coin flips, and we’re about to fire up the NFL combine in Indianapolis as well. It’s actually the perfect time to do a mock and an even better time to talk about the best three days of the year. . . the NFL Draft!

I live for the draft, so you can guarantee that there will be plenty of more mocks to go around.

1. St Louis Rams: Ndamukong Suh – DT – Nebraska

I’ll laugh the Rams right out of the building if they don’t select Suh. He’s a great player that has the ability to collapse a pocket and will command a double team on most plays. He compares favorably to Minnesota’s Kevin Williams and has great speed for his size.

2. Detroit Lions: Gerald McCoy – DT – Oklahoma

Gerald McCoy remains a terrific pick for the Lions who need to add pieces to a defense that was a doormat last season. Some scouts have him rated higher than Suh because of his ability to fit into a 4-3 front and he could be an even better pass rusher than the above mentioned Nebraska product.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Dez Bryant – WR – Oklahoma State

Sure, this is WAY too high for a guy with some character concerns, but this kid is ready to go right now. He’s big, he’s fast, and he knows how to make moves in the open field. He’s going to be a playmaker and that’s exactly what Tampa needs to surround young QB Josh Freeman with.

4. Washington Redskins: Sam Bradford – QB – Oklahoma

If Bradford’s shoulder checks out ok, Washington will pull the trigger on what is the only franchise QB in this draft class. He’s got a nice release and excellent zip on his deep passes. Shanahan is a QB guru and he should prove to be a perfect mentor for the early stages of Bradford’s development.

5. Kansas City Chiefs: Eric Berry – S – Tennessee

The Chiefs have needs all across the board but adding to their 30th ranked defense would certainly be a good start. Berry is a special player who should not only test through the roof, but he has all the intangibles to be a terrific player at the next level who should turn into a leader in the locker room.

6. Seattle Seahawks: Russell Okung – OT – Oklahoma State

In a shocker, the Seahags have their pick of the top shelf in this year’s offensive tackle class and they actually make the right choice. Okung isn’t an absolute mauler but he’s also a really good athlete for his size and should transition into a great tackle at the pro level.

7. Cleveland Browns: Derrick Morgan – DE – Georgia Tech

The Browns really need a pass rushing presence on defense and Morgan could be their man. Morgan would give their front seven a nice upgrade and provide them with another option to get to the quarterback. Could be the best pass rusher in this class.

8. Oakland Raiders: Jason Pierre-Paul – DE – South Florida

Only Al Davis and his shiny stop watch know who the Raiders will be selecting but while Oakland’s needs would appear to be offensive line, that doesn’t mean they’ll adhere to anything logical. I’m thinking they go best athlete remaining on the board and Al’s old over-head projector probably has Jason Pierre-Paul’s name on it.

9. Buffalo Bills: Bruce Campbell – OT – Maryland

The Bills had a revolving door at offensive tackle but they have a very young interior with 2nd year players Eric Wood and Andy Levitre. They also love the potential of Demetrius Bell but they need another prototype tackle to pair with him. Campbell is explosive and has excellent size to control the point of attack.

10t. Denver Broncos: Rolando McClain – LB – Alabama

McClain is a great athlete with tremendous closing speed for his size and very long arms. Denver has a good LB corps but Andre Davis is long in the tooth and this would give them a nice influx of youth with Williams, Dumervil, and 2nd year pro Robert Ayers wreaking havoc for years to come in that 3-4.

10t. Jacksonville Jaguars: Joe Haden – CB – Florida

Jacksonville has more than a few needs but their secondary was downright terrible towards the end of the season. They not only need safety help but they could use the corner of the future to pair up with Derek Cox. The Jags will be lucky to see Haden slip this far in the draft.

12. Miami Dolphins: Sergio Kindle – DE – Texas

The Dolphins need to fill a number of holes along the front 7 of that 3-4 defense. One area they could certainly use some depth and youth in would be Outside Linebacker. With Joey Porter’s release and Jason Taylor getting long in the tooth, Kindle would be a perfect fit for the Dolphins.

13. San Francisco 49ers: Anthony Davis – OT – Rutgers

The 49ers were respectable last year but they want to improve on offense and find an answer on the other side of Joe Staley at the tackle position. They like running the ball and they want to be more physical at the point of attack, which should play right into Davis’ skill set as a big mauler in the run game. Should be a good fit on the right side.

14. Seattle Seahawks: CJ Spiller – RB – Clemson

This Seattle franchise needs a shot in the arm and they need playmakers in a running attack that averaged less than 100 yards per game last season. Spiller would bring a lot of explosiveness to that offense and he can also contribute on special teams with his dynamic kick return ability.

15. New York Giants: Donovan Warren – CB – Michigan

This is a little high for Warrne but he would address a huge need for a Giants secondary that got abused in games last season. Warren is a terrific tackler and has the potential to be a good cover corner at the next level. The league features a lot of big time passing teams and New York needs more youth at the position.

16t. Tennessee Titans: Everson Griffen – DE – Southern California

I love this guy’s pass rushing ability. He could be one of the better pure defensive ends from this class and the Titans need to get stronger along the front four. Griffen uses his hands well and can shed would-be blockers very quickly. He’s a much needed addition, considering the Titans’ lack of a pass rush last season.

16t. San Francisco 49ers: Dan Williams – DT – Tennessee

The 49ers got a really great season from Aubrayo Franklin but he can’t play every single down and they need to build depth at a position that is crucial to their 3-4 defense. Williams is a prototype nose with the terrific size and tremendous strength he showed off at the Senior Bowl.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Brian Bulaga – OT – Iowa

Maybe this is too good a fit but you know what you’re getting with a Hawkeye and that’s very physical run blocking technique. Bulaga should work out well at right tackle to start but will eventually be able to hold his own on the left side in the future.

19(t). Atlanta Falcons: Earl Thomas – S – Texas

While most scouts and teams will be looking at Thomas playing free safety for their team, the Falcons could try him at corner. He’s got the wheels to play outside and has proven to be very durable, despite being a fierce hitter. Could eventually be the future center fielder of almost any NFL franchise.

19(t). Houston Texans: Taylor Mays – S – Southern California

The Texans had a lot of success with the last USC Trojan they selected and they might be lured in to drafting Mays too early. He’s a physical specimen and a vicious hitter but he’s shown lapses in coverage multiple times. His physical upside is still too great to ignore though.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Brian Price – DT – UCLA

The Bengals need to be more consistent against the run and free up their talented corps of linebackers. Price would fit in really well with what the Bengals do and his high motor/extra effort play is exactly what coordinator Mike Zimmer wants on his defense.

22. New England Patriots: Jermaine Greshem – TE – Oklahoma

I know that it’s a bit of a shock but I am hearing that the Patriots are sending Ben Watson his walking papers, so they’re going to need another big target over the middle of the field with Welker likely missing the early part of the season rehabbing from knee surgery. The Pats will continue to surround Brady with talent.

23. Green Bay Packers: Charles Brown – OT – Southern California

Maybe these are more of my high hopes for the Packers but Brown’s athleticism, being a former TE, would be a great fit for Green Bay’s zone blocking scheme and their need at tackle is strong. They’ve got some really good interior linemen, so they can only improve their chances on offense if they give Aaron Rodgers even more time to throw the ball.

24. Philadelphia Eagles: Carlos Dunlap – DE – Florida

Philly still wants a blue-chip defensive end to pair with Trent Cole and Dunlap is a heck of an athlete that will fall due to character concerns. Philadelphia management loves to collect defensive linemen like they’re comic books, so don’t be surprised to see the Eagles pass on linebacker yet again.

25. Baltimore Ravens: Arrelious Benn – WR – Illinois

I know the stats and production in college just aren’t there but we’re talking about a very talented player, who’s got a lot to offer an NFL franchise. While he’s not ready to hit the ground running just yet, he’ll be a terrific fit for a team that needs to surround their QB of the future w/ talent.

26. Arizona Cardinals: Terrence Cody – DT – Alabama

It’s one of two things for the Cards, upgrade their defensive front or add to their offensive line. They have one of the last defensive tackles on the board with the potential to be a dominant nose tackle in a 3-4 front. His weight issues may drop him off most team’s draft boards but he’s a great fit here if his weight is under control.

27. Dallas Cowboys: Trent Williams – OT – Oklahoma

I’m obviously not as big a fan of Williams as some others are but he does play very physical and excels at run blocking, which is what the Cowboys like to do. They need an eventual replacement for Flozell Adams and Williams could be a left tackle but his pass blocking will need some work.

28. San Diego Chargers: Mike Iupati – OG – Idaho

This guy is one of the better guard prospects to enter the draft in some time. He’s a nasty player who is very explosive off of the line and can blow up the man in front of him. He would be a welcomed addition in San Diego, a team that features big physical linemen.

29. New York Jets: Brandon Graham – LB – Michigan

Graham may not be around for the Jets but they’ve got to get younger on their front seven and Rex Ryan definitely wants some more weapons for his defense. Gholston has been a total bust and Graham may give them the impact pass rusher they thought they were getting back when they took Gholston with the sixth overall pick two years ago.

30. Minnesota Vikings: Jonathan Dwyer – RB – Georgia Tech

The Vikings aren’t likely to retain the services of backup running back Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson’s upright running style, combined with his penchant for doling out punishment at the end of his runs, leads me to believe that the Vikings will target a running back early. Dwyer could learn behind Peterson and he would also have the ability to spell him.

31. Indianapolis Colts: Jared Odrick – DT – Penn State

The Colts have been looking to get bigger and quicker up front on defense ever since defensive coordinator Larry Coyer got in town. Fili Moala didn’t pan out as expected and Bill Polian wants a more physical presence to hold the point against the run and give them a pass rushing presence. Odrick would be a perfect fit as an under tackle in the Colts’ cover-2.

32. New Orleans Saints: Brandon Ghee – CB – Wake Forest

This kid is rising up a lot of draft boards and the Saints might have visions of having Ghee paired up with Porter at corner, while Jenkins(last year’s first rounder) and Roman Harper complete their secondary at the safety spots. Ghee is a speedy corner who has the potential to make an impact right away in their secondary and he would make a lot of sense, being that pro bowl safety Darren Sharper has hinted at retirement.

Thanks a ton for reading and please bang out some feedback or comments below. You can also e-mail me questions, comments, and even complaints to joe@rookiedraft.com

It’s not an especially strong class but there’s a few names to watch this month and deliberate exactly where they fit or in some cases don’t.

I’m sure there will be more names added, as many cuts are still expected, so this may turn into a weekly off-season column of sorts. . .

1. Brandon Marshall – WR

2009 Team: Denver | Height: 6′4″ | Weight: 230 lbs. | Age: 25

Interested Teams for 2010:

Baltimore – The Ravens are in dire need of a physical wide receiver and Marshall fits that bill. They have an aging defense, but their offense is making strides and QB Joe Flacco needs to be surrounded with more targets. This makes a lot of sense but with Marshall, there will always be character concerns to go along with his game-breaking ability.
Cleveland – WTF! I know right? We’re looking at a Browns team with not a lot of weapons in the receiving corps outside of Josh Cribbs. With Mike Holmgren in town, expect the Browns be a west-coast offense that would actually fit Marshall’s skill set very well. We also know Holmgren’s penchant for wanting to acquire WR talent.(Robinson, Burleson, Branch) The bottom line is that the Brownies need more playmakers.
Chicago – I’m listing them here out of blind hope, plain and simple. I still have dreams of seeing Cutler throw touchdowns to Marshall for the orange and blue, so maybe they can still do that. . . except wearing Bears jerseys? I doubt the Bears have the funds and with a number of other players coming up for contract, they might be best served bringing in some more offensive lineman on the cheap to give Cutler more time.

2. Antonio Bryant – WR

2009 Team: Buccaneers | Height: 6′1″ | Weight: 205 lbs. | Age: 28

Interested Teams for 2010:

Oakland – Nobody knows what Al Davis will do when free agency begins but you can rest assured he’ll make some kind of splash. The Raiders’ receiving corps is desperate need of a makeover with Darrius Heyward-Bey, Chaz Schilens, and Johnnie Lee Higgins being the team’s top wide-outs. They have a tremendous player at Tight End in Zach Miller and adding a player of Bryant’s caliber would certainly make life easier for Miller.
Cincinnati – This is more of my high hopes for AB. He needs a team that’s willing to invite him into their locker room and draw double teams away from Esteban Ocho Cinco. The Lavernaues Coles experiment was a failure and while Andre Caldwell has shown some nice flashes, Jerome Simpson has been a huge bust. The Bengals need another possession type receiver to fit into their passing attack.
Houston – While it doesn’t seem likely that the Texans would pay Bryant that much to play second fiddle to Andre Johnson, they would certainly open their offense up in a big with a target like AB on the other side of Andre the Giant. The Texans run a derivative of the west coast under Kubes and Bryant is a veteran who could pickup the offense in a very short period of time.

3. Terrell Owens – WR

2009 Team: Buffalo | Height: 6′3″ | Weight: 224 lbs. | Age: 36

Interested Teams for 2010:

Washington – Even Redskins haters have to admit that they wouldn’t mind seeing Owens back in the division playing for them but they’d have to get the QB situation addressed first. The bottom line remains, Washington will be running the west coast offense under Shanahan and he’ll likely want a big target in town to give his running game breathing room
Buffalo – There’s no reason why the Bills wouldn’t just bring him back with the lack of big money deals coming Owens’ way. While the Jills are likely to go run-heavy under Chan Gailey, they can still use a receiver with Lee Evans’ contract also set to expire. The Bills’ real problem is at quarterback and they need a player who’s not afraid to go deep and can make quick decisions on the fly.
Oakland – Don’t rule out Oakland on any lists is the only thing we can count on. Al Davis makes decisions that are beyond bizarre at times and bringing in a veteran hot head that criticizes QBs for a living wouldn’t be out of the question. I would love to see the move personally because after a month or two with Owens, JaMarcus Russell would feel so bad that he’d crying himself to sleep into his huge bag of skittles.

4. Larry Johnson – RB

2009 Team: KansasCity/Cincinnati | Height: 6′1″ | Weight: 230 lbs. | Age: 30

Interested Teams for 2010:

Atlanta – I expect the Falcons to add another physical back to their roster. They’re certain to address the position in the draft with the expiring contracts of both Jason Snelling and Jerious Norwood. The Falcons are run-heavy and with the injuries they suffered at the position last season, it would make a lot of sense to add a veteran and a rookie ball-carrier.
Pittsburgh – Talk about a team that changed its identity last year. With Parker injured and the offensive line lacking the ability to open holes, the Steelers turned into a passing team last season. The coaching staff has put out a commitment to run the ball more and LJ would pose a nice compliment to Rashard Mendenhall to give them to solid inside options.
Detroit – I know that Detroit has been leaning towards developing their roster with younger players but they do not have a physical back that can move the chains between the tackles. Not that the Lions have the tackles to drive the point of attack but having a legitimate threat would certainly be a much better stance than rolling out a gimp Kevin Smith, Mo Morris, or Aaron Brown.

5. Chester Taylor – RB

2009 Team: Minnesota | Height: 5′11″ | Weight: 230 lbs. | Age: 30

Interested Teams for 2010:

San Francisco – You could almost copy & paste the same list for LJ but Chester is a much better receiver out of the backfield. The 49ers already drafted Glenn Coffee but weren’t satisfied with what he did when he got his opportunity last season. It would behoove San Fran to get a solid insurance policy on Frank Gore in case he breaks down again in 2010.
San Diego – It’s a guarantee that the Chargers are going to part ways with LaDainian Tomlinson but they can’t be sold on Darren Sproles as their main ball-carrier. Expect them to bring in a veteran and with their team gearing more towards throwing the ball, Chester would make a really nice fit in southern California.
Kansas City – There’s a lot of folks that are very high on Jamaal Charles after his breakout 2009 season and I’m not going to take away from that but it would certainly be a good decision to back him up with a proven veteran that can do a multitude of things.

6. Derrick Mason – WR

2009 Team: Baltimore | Height: 5′10″ | Weight: 195 lbs. | Age: 36

Interested Teams for 2010:

New England – Where all old receivers go to die. Seriously though, with the Pats likely to be without Wes Welker who will still be rehabbing from his knee surgery. Mason could bring a lot to the table and he’s certainly a great veteran presence for the young players in Foxborough.
Cleveland – There aren’t a lot of options for Mason but he would be welcomed on Cleveland’s roster with their lack of a veteran presence on the wide receiving corps. The Browns don’t have a lot of pass catchers and with a young group, Mason could offer a lot in the coaching aspect of the game.
Houston – Once again, I think that the Texans will go out of their way to ensure that they have a proven target opposite Andre Johnson because it’s very unlikely that they will retain Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones doesn’t look like the answer. Mason would give them another nice underneath target to go along with one of the better passing games in the league.

7. LenDale White – RB

2009 Team: Tennessee | Height: 6′1″ | Weight: 235 lbs. | Age: 25

Interested Teams for 2010:

Seattle – Duh! Seriously, it’s Pete Carroll and he’s putting the band back together. Don’t be surprised to see other former Trojan players flock to the great northwest to join their former mentor but this is also a good fit. The Seahags need a physical back for the tough yards and Julius Jones appears to be as good as gone.
Denver – Denver wants to be a more physical running team with bigger linemen and some bigger backs. They might want to get more beef behind Moreno and Buckhalter. The Broncos don’t really need a big back but that won’t stop Josh McDaniels from making even more miscues on his way out of town.
Philadelphia – The Eagles need to compliment LeSean McCoy with another running back that can move the chains and that player is not Leonard Weaver or Brian Westbrook. The Eagles might take a look at White in free agency.

8. Malcolm Floyd – WR

2009 Team: Tennessee | Height: 6′5″ | Weight: 225 lbs. | Age: 28

Interested Teams for 2010:

Dallas – Floyd is another guy that might not make it out of his contract if 2010 is a non-capped year, which it’s looking like it is. Don’t be surprised to see Jerry Jones add another big deep threat to compliment Miles Austin, who will be resigned to a long-term deal if Floyd becomes available.
Carolina – Quarterback is a much bigger are of need but the club still hasn’t found the answer on the other side of Steve Smith and the big-bodied Floyd offers up a nice skill set for the Panthers offense.
Chicago – The Bears really could use a receiver with some size and deep speed, two thing that Floyd can offer. He’s been making Jay Cutler’s nemesis(Phillip Rivers) look good for the past few years, so maybe he can do the same for Cutler in the windy city.

9. Tony Scheffler – TE

2009 Team: Denver | Height: 6′5″ | Weight: 255 lbs. | Age: 26

Interested Teams for 2010:

Cleveland – Another team likely to be running the west coast offense and in major need of pass catchers. The Chef would be a welcomed addition for the Brownies and he’d be a big hit with the fan base. I love this fit!
Cincinnati – As previously stated above, the Bengals need more pass catchers and they’re especially week at the tight end position. Last year’s 4th rounder, Chase Coffman, hasn’t lived up to expectations and while I love John Paul Foschi, he’s not the answer at the position.
Kansas City – This is another team that simply hasn’t found the answer at tight end and they still need a legitimate pass catching tight end to open up their offense, especially with Charlie Weis in town. Look for the Chiefs to be one of the many suitors for Tony Scheffler’s services.

10. Willie Parker – RB

2009 Team: Pittsburgh | Height: 5′10″ | Weight: 209 lbs. | Age: 29

Interested Teams for 2010:

Detroit – There simply won’t be a lot of interest for Parkers’ services but the Lions really need to have some insurance behind Kevin Smith w/ that injury situation. The knee completely gave out on him without contact, so it’s got me worried enough.
St. Louis – The Rams still don’t have a lot behind Steven Jackson, who will once again carry the bulk of the offense until he breaks down again. Parker would be a nice fall back option and a good back to spell Jackson, as well as compliment him.
Pittsburgh – It’s not out of the question that Parker may end up back w/ Pittsburgh if he gets no significant offers. He knows their scheme, he’s familiar with the quarterback, and he would still be a competent backup to Mendenhall.

Thanks for reading folks and if you’ve got any comments, questions, or complaints please bang them out below and you can also send ‘em my way to thefantasyexchange@gmail.com

Please add your comments below, especially if you chose “Other”.  Let us know who you think the top pick is and why!

HELL NO!!!!!

• I guess Ladianian Tomlinson is apparently upset with his role in the offense. I’m thinking he should be greatful for the chance to play on a winning team last season and I don’t think he’s going to be so fortunate next year. Not only are the days of LT2 being an every week starter over in Fantasy, but I think the same can be said on the NFL level as well.
• Well guess who’s a hot commodity now? Michael Vick is now on the radar for a lot of NFL teams and I think it’s very justifiable when you consider the lack of good options out there. Teams like Buffalo, St. Louis, Cleveland, and even Carolina should be getting involved in the Vick-Sweepstakes that are coming up this off-season.
• There’s actually rumors out there that the Eagles are going to part ways with Donovan McNabb via trade, so that they can go with the younger Kevin Kolb that the team used a 2nd round pick on back in the 2007 draft. I can’t begin to tell you how ridiculous this is, but I’ll try. Not only have we not seen enough of Kolb to know that he can cut it as a regular starter, it’s way to early to give up on an all-pro player like McNabb. If the Eagles deal McNabb, they’ll be regretting it in a big way.
• Sorry New Orleans Saints‘ fans but it looks like you’re the most recent victims of the Sports Illustrated Cover Jinx. Last week it was the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Jets featured in a split cover. This week, Saints’ QB Drew Brees is posted on the cover with a large caption reading; “WHO DAT!” … Who Dat gonna jinx the team with no chance in hell at winning this game.
• Florida QB Tim Tebow has been looking pretty rough in Senior Bowl Practice thus far. Most scouts think he falls out of the 1st round and I’m right there with them. I just don’t see a traditional throwing motion and he may well be stuck with some really bad habits/mechanics that will be a problem for his whole career. Check out what position I think Tebow fits best in over at RookieDraft.com
• Finally, give us a shout-out Wednesday Night 9:00pm EST over at The Fantasy Exchange Podcast. Live Advice, News/Notes, Playoff Talk, and Super Bowl Predictions. We’ll be talking more and more NFL Draft, as the combine approaches.

Well, instead of talking about the Joke BowlPro Bowl and what a disaster it has become or dwell on the redundant Brett Favre talk that will forever plague us this time of year, this week I wanted to put it out there and tell you all some things I know that I know in 2010. . .

QB Jay Cutler – Chicago Bears

This guy has one of the worst reputations in the NFL thanks to his bitter parting with the Denver Broncos and his league-leading 26 interceptions in 2009. What a lot of people fail to realize is that Jay Cutler also threw the most TDs, 27, than he has in his entire career. What we saw this season was the absolute floor of production in my opinion and I’m convinced that Cutler will be a top-10 QB in all scoring formats this coming season. They’ll bring in another WR, they’ll add more linemen, and the defense will also bring back their all-pro LB Brian Urlacher.

QB Matt Stafford – Detroit Lions

I love people knocking this kid and I’ll continue to let them do it because that will almost ensure that I’ll get him as a backup QB in my fantasy league. Why do I want the Detroit Lions QB? Because I’m smart like a fox and there’s going to be another Paper Lion on this list. Detroit’s defense won’t be able to get off the field and the team will be playing a ton of games from behind. Matt Stafford was actually very impressive considering his age and I see him developing into a top-10 QB in any format. Yes, right it down, take a picture, and do what you’ve got to do because I’m standing by this.

RB Felix Jones – Dallas Cowboys

I know this pick is becoming more and more of a fad now that Felix Jones showed some more flashes in the playoffs but I’m banking on a big season from this kid. I really think that Jones has a shot to be a top-10 back in almost all formats because of his phenomenal big play ability. Not only does Felix catch the ball well but he can also be very dangerous running outside and beating defenders to the corner. If the Cowboys make improvements on their offensive line, look for a big improvement Jones next season.

WR Calvin Johnson – Detroit Lions

ALL HAIL LORD MEGATRON! I know that you folks out there are just as mad as I am about Calvin Johnson disappointing us in 2009 but 67 receptions and 985 yards wasn’t that bad, considering that he missed the majority of 4 games during the year. The 5 TDs is not the norm in my opinion and I expect a top-5 WR year from Megatron in 2010. Not a doubt in my mind that rebounds in a big way!

Miami Defense

Team Defense!?!? I know but look who they just signed and what he did in Denver. With Mike Nolan now coaching up the defense, I expect Miami to drastically improve upon their meager interception total form 2009(15). The Dolphins were one of the best in the league with 44 team sacks and with two very talented young corners in Sean Smith and Vontae Davis, Miami has a lot going for them in 2010.

Avoid Over Valued Tight Ends

I hate you Greg Olsen! Seriously though, for the folks that invested in Chris Cooley, Greg Olsen, and John Carlson, I’m sorry. I fell for it as well, especially with Olsen and Carlson. Not only did they get out performed by the other elite tight ends, there always seems to be younger and more unheralded TEs coming out of the wood-work each year. With guys like Visanthe Shiancoe, Brent Celek, and JerMichael Finley blowing up this year, I’m just not going to invest in anybody unless it’s Gates, Clark, or Jason Witten. After that, they all just seem to fall into a very similar category. . . “Not Antonio Gates”

Thanks for reading folks and if you’ve got any comments, questions, or complaints please bang them out below and you can also send ‘em my way to thefantasyexchange@gmail.com

BlogTalkRadio’s Fantasy Sports Channel claimed the prize for Best New Site or Site Update on the second day of the Fantasy Sports Trade Association conference in Las Vegas.

The FSC took the FSTA industry award for Best Podcast on Tuesday, its first such honor.

• We may have seen the last of Brian Westbrook, especially as an elite Fantasy RB. The guy still has some skills but you could tell he’s too concerned with taking the big hit and Philadelphia clearly looks to be moving on with LeSean McCoy likely to be the main RB next season. So long Westy, it’s been nice knowing you and thanks for the good years.

• I know the Bengals are done and they looked terrible down the stretch but Cedric Benson was a man child this season and it looks to continue. Marvin Lewis has already gone out there and stated that the Bengals will be run heavy in 2010, so don’t expect a decline from Benson who will be on the last year of his current contract.

• “The Patriots Dynasty is over”. Please don’t shed too many tears for Bill Belicheat and the Bundchen Gang, as they still have a very young defense, three 2nd round picks in 2010, two 1st round picks in 2011(thanks to the Raiders being idiots), and there’s also that guy named Tom Brady to build around. “Yeah, we’ll never hear from them again” <—- Insert Sarcasm Here.

• The 2009 MVP has been announced and it’s Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts. There’s no doubting his talent and the total control that he has over that Colts’ machine but what’s really concerning me here is the fact that nobody voted for Chris Johnson. Manning received 39.5 votes, Drew Bress received 7.5 votes, Philip Rivers received 2 votes, and Brett Favre only got one vote. I know that “Everybody Loves a QB” but this is getting way out of control.

• Alright, I can’t help it. I’m REALLY getting stoked up about Pete Carroll coming back to the NFL. He’s going to be instituting his west-coast system, he’s bringing in Jeremy Bates, and now he just hired Alex Gibbs to be the offensive line coach. If you’re not familiar with Gibbs, he is the Godfather of the Zone Blocking scheme made famous in Denver under Mike Shanahan. Justin Forsett might be a very interesting player this off-season.

• Finally, give us a shout-out Wednesday Night 9:00pm EST over at The Fantasy Exchange Podcast. Live Advice, News/Notes, Playoff Talk, and Match-up Previews. We’ll even get Brenda Warner’s take on her husband’s prospective retirement.

OK, here’s a few start ‘ems for these playoff games this week if you’re still alive in your playoff pools, contests, and such. You can either get some advice or experience how dead wrong I am. . .

QB Drew Brees – New Orleans vs Arizona

I love this pick for a survivor league, where you can only use a player once. YES, I think the Saints are going to choke but that doesn’t mean that Drew Brees won’t still have a great game. The Cards gave up plenty of points to the Packers and can be beaten through the air, so I’m looking for the Saints to put points up on the board in another game that should be a safe “Over”.

RB Thomas Jones – New York @ San Diego

On that survivor note, now is the time to use Thomas Jones! He’s in a great situation and the Chargers can still be had on the ground with the lack of talent on their D-Line. Shonn Greene has been getting used a lot more but I still expect the Jets to stick to the run and I’m looking for TJ to hit pay-dirt at least once.

WR Derrick Mason – Baltimore @ Indianapolis

This should be a no-brainer but with the Ravens going up against the injury riddled Colts secondary, look for Derrick Mason to have a ton of targets in this match-up. The veteran WR should be in store for at least 70 yards receiving and should find his way to the end-zone in the process. If you’ve still got the chance to use Mason, now is the time.

WR Pierre Garcon – Indianapolis vs Baltimore

I know that it’s no fun to have more than two or three players in a game but the rook should be closed in Indianapolis, making for excellent passing conditions. The Ravens do have Ed Reed back in the lineup but their corner backs are still very suspect and Manning targeted Pierre Garcon 8 times in the team’s last game against the Ravens resulting in 6 receptions for 100+ yards. I like his chances with the Ravens trying their best to shut down Dallas Clark and Reggie Wayne.

TE Jeremy Shockey – New Orleans vs Arizona

I hate going with one Brees target only but I’ve got a feeling that today is “Jimmy Shaker Day” and that this weekend will be a good time to start Jeremy Shockey. The Saints do have a good match-up but I think Shockey will get open deep and expose a Cardinals’ defense that will be going out of their way to stop Marques Colston and Robert Meachem.

PK Neil Rackers – Arizona @ New Orleans

We’ve got to touch on the special-teamers and we knocked one out of the park last week with the super special-teamer Jay Feely but this week we need somebody involved in the game that should feature the most points scored. The Cardinals’ Neil Rackers had only missed one kick all year before last weekend and he should be in store for a lot of points regardless of if they come via 7 extra points or 3 field goals.

Thanks for reading folks and if you’ve got any comments, questions, or complaints please bang them out below and you can also send ‘em my way to thefantasyexchange@gmail.com

• It appears the Texans are retaining head coach Gary Kubiak and that’s good news for the fantasy stock of Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson but the same can’t be said of the RB corps. Kubiak, a former understudy of Mike Shanahan, was as fickle as they come when it came to his distribution of rushing attempts. His “One Fumble & Done” philosophy has been a nightmare for Fantasy owners this year.

• Well it looks like Brandon Marshall has played his last game as a Denver Bronco and is likely to sign a contract with another team. Don’t be surprised to see the Baltimore Ravens make a strong move to get the physical wide receiver paired up with cool Joe Flacco for the next few years.

• Why do I keep hearing; “The Patriots can’t win without Wes Welker“. Please! Tom Brady has been a winner since he put that Patriots helmet on and he’s won plenty of Super Bowls without Wes Welker. . . 3 to be exact. I know that Welker is a special player who brings a lot of different things to the table but I’m not counting out Brady, Belicheat, or Bundchen for matter.

• MVP is about to be decided and as much as I want to vote for Peyton Manning and the offensive machine he runs in Indianapolis, I’d honestly vote for Brett Favre and the season that the Vikings have had. It’s still a feel-good story for me with the way Favre has transformed that offense and turned two young WRs (Rice & Harvin) into pro-bowlers. None of this would have happened for the Vikings if “The Silver Fox” didn’t un-retire and bring his magic to the team.

• Funny stuff in the rumor mill: Hearing that agents might be setting up a race between Chris Johnson and Usain Bolt in the 40-yard dash for a charity. I love Chris Johnson just as much as the next guy and I think he does deserve a lot more attention than he gets because this is too much of a QB league but Bolt would torch CJ. It wouldn’t even be close, as Bolts projected 40-yard time would be 3.7 seconds and if you clocked the last 40-yards of his record setting 100-meter dash, he ran a 40 of 2.97 seconds. (I’d still pay to see it)

• Finally, give us a shout-out Wednesday Night 9:00pm EST over at The Fantasy Exchange Podcast. Live Advice, News/Notes, Playoff Talk, and Match-up Previews. We’ll even tell you who the next Raiders Coach will be… WTF!

Alright, I figured throwing out a few start ‘ems for these playoff games this week might be of some help if you’re in as many playoff pools/contests as I’m in. You can either get some advice or experience how dead wrong I am. . .

QB Aaron Rodgers – Green Bay Packers @ Arizona

This one is the can’t miss pick, as the Cardinals have been prone to being beaten through the air and their top cornerback, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, has been hampered by a nagging knee injury that’s been slowing him down all week. Aaron Rodgers has been on fire to close out the season and I could see him score 2 TDs minimum in this game. I expect a high scoring game here and while it wouldn’t be a bad idea to pick Kurt Warner, I’d rather go up against the Cardinals secondary as opposed to the Packers secondary.

RB Ray Rice – Baltimore Ravens @ New England

I know that nobody likes the match-up here but I’m just looking at the simplicity of things, especially if you’re in a PPR format. Ray Rice will be targeted early and often in the passing game, while getting the majority of carries. I’m not sure that the Ravens will win this game outright but I think this would be the week to use a RB that will rack up pts in PPR systems.

WR Julian Edelman – New England Patriots vs Baltimore

This goes right along with my theory that the Patriots won’t be done without Welker. I don’t think that Julian Edelman is the next Wes Welker but he’s got a very similar skill set and he should have a terrific match-up against a suspect Ravens secondary that will be focusing a lot of attention on #1 WR Randy Moss. Once again, I expect at a lot of short range targets and over the middle routes that might pay off in the right scoring system.

WR Donald Driver – Green Bay Packers @ Arizona

I really like this match-up going in with the injury concerns going for the Cardinals defense here. The Packers have a lot of weapons but Donald Driver has been getting steadily targeted 6 times in the last 5 games. Rodgers will pick apart the Cardinals secondary when the Packers are on offense and Driver will be a big part of that is my thinking.

TE Jason Witten – Dallas Cowboys vs Philadelphia

I know, the Philly defense is a good pass defense, which is true but they still give up a lot of points to tight ends. Their lack of talent at linebacker is starting to catch up to them and Jason Witten should be in store for another great game against the Iggles. You don’t need to look much further than last week to get a preview of what’s going to happen. Witten may have had a sub-par regular season but that won’t stop him from an amazing post-season.

PK Jay Feely – New York Jets @ Cincinnati

Gotta get a kicker? Thought so. I’m not a big fan of this guy but Jay Feely has banged in 30 of 36 field goals on the season and I expect this game to be close. The Jets running game should be able to move the ball but I don’t see the Jets blowing the Bungles out of the water either. He should be in store for a good amount of opportunities this weekend.

Thanks for reading folks and if you’ve got any comments, questions, or complaints please bang them out below and you can also send ‘em my way to thefantasyexchange@gmail.com

The actual draft order is becoming more clear with the NFL’s regular season now over and done with. I live for the draft, so you can guarantee that there will be plenty of more mocks to go around.

1. St Louis Rams: DT Ndamukong Suh, Nebraska

If there’s a lock this year, it’s Suh going in the top-3 picks. If the Rams select Suh, they’ll have a very stacked and talented young defensive line that will include Adam Carriker, Chris Long, and Victor Adeyanju.

2. Detroit Lions: DT Gerald McCoy, Oklahoma

Gerald McCoy may not be as good as Suh but he’s in the same category and he’s exactly what the Lions need to prevent teams from dominating Detroit’s defense every single week.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: S Eric Berry, Tennessee

This is WAY too high for a safety to be selected but not only is Berry a special defensive player that should test through the roof but he’d be a welcomed addition to a team that needs more play makers on defense. Berry is a special player.

4. Washington Redskins: QB Sam Bradford, Oklahoma

Bradford may be injured and some folks like Jimmy Clausen a lot more but I think, with Shanahan at the helm, he’ll want to snag the guy who I think is the best QB in this draft.

5. Kansas City Chiefs: OT Russell Okung, Oklahoma State

This appears to be a match made in heaven, as the Chiefs are desperate for O-Line help and Okung is the best tackle on my board. They made a huge reach for Tyson Jackson last year, so this could be anybody’s guess.

6. Seattle Seahawks: WR Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State

I know this is ridiculous and he’s had his problems but we’re talking about a very special athlete here, who has a ton of upside as a #1 wide receiver.

7. Cleveland Browns: DE Derrick Morgan, Georgia Tech

The Browns really need a pass rushing presence on defense and Morgan could be their man. It’s very doubtful that they take another Notre Dame QB here and Morgan would give their front seven a nice upgrade.

8. Oakland Raiders: QB Ryan Mallett, Arkansas

With JaDumbass Russell partying in Vegas, getting outplayed by street free-agents, and being one of the larger failures in the NFL, I wouldn’t be shocked to see the Raiders roll the dice on the QB that chuck it a country mile.

9. Buffalo Bills: OT Bruce Campbell, Maryland

The Bills had a revolving door at offensive tackle but they have a very young interior with 2nd year players Eric Wood and Andy Levitre. They also love the potential of Demetrius Bell but they need another prototype left tackle.

10t. Denver Broncos: LB Rolando McClain, Oklahoma

McClain is a great athlete with tremendous closing speed for his size and very long arms. Denver has a good LB corps but Andre Davis is long in the tooth and this would give them a nice influx of youth with Williams, Dumervil, and 2nd year pro Robert Ayers.

10t. Jacksonville Jaguars: QB Tim Tebow, Florida

This franchise needs a shot in the arm and they need to sell more tickets. I personally don’t think Tebow is a real NFL quarterback but I do think he’s a player with a lot of marketability in a state that loves him.

12. Miami Dolphins: WR Brandon LaFell, Louisiana State

I really like this kid. You watch some college players and you just know they’re going to be pros from day one. Miami doesn’t have the big-bodied WR that they need to help their passing game down the field and I think LaFell could be the answer.

13. San Francisco 49ers: OT Anthony Davis, Rutgers

The 49ers need an answer on the other side of Joe Staley and I don’t think Adam Snyder or Tony Pashos are more than serviceable. Davis would be a welcomed addition to an offense that has a lot going for it.

14. Seattle Seahawks: QB Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame

I hate this kid. I really don’t think he’s got a prayer and I’m a HUGE Notre Dame fan but the games I’ve seen haven’t impressed me at all. I saw a weak arm with no velocity and minimal spin. He was accurate at times but I think he’s possibly the biggest bust at QB this year.

15. New York Giants: S Taylor Mays, Southern California

The Giants secondary needs play-makers and they’ll be lucky to see Mays slide this far. If Kenny Phillips can return from a degenerative knee condition long enough to play the season, the Giants would have a terrific safety tandem going.

16t. Tennessee Titans: DE Everson Griffen, Southern California

I love this guy’s pass rushing ability. He could be one of the better pure defensive ends from this class and the Titans sure could use some help on a front line that missed Albert Haynesworth a lot.

16t. San Francisco 49ers: CB Joe Haden, Florida

The 49ers defense needs more help in the secondary and Haden is a potential shut-down corner that would come in handy playing against the likes of Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, and TJ Houshmandzadeh twice a year.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers: OT Bryan Bulaga, Iowa

The Steelers’ offensive line isn’t that far off but they need to get better, younger, and more physical. Bulaga is a massive tackle that has some nice athleticism and would be a welcomed addition to a line that needs a shot in the arm.

19t. Atlanta Falcons: CB Donovan Warren, Michigan

Atlanta’s secondary struggled this year and never really recouped from injury. They need a corner with great cover abilities and great tackling prowess, which is exactly what Warren brings to the table.

19t. Houston Texans: RB CJ Spiller, Clemson

Some say Spiller won’t slip past the top-10 but I don’t see any team jumping on him any earlier than 15 or 20. He is a play-maker and a dynamic kick returner. I could see Houston completely ruining what could be a great fantasy RB one day.

(21) Baltimore Ravens: CB Ras-I Dowling, Virginia

The Ravens secondary has fallen off the map and it appears to be an achilles heel for them as of late. They’ll do their homework and snag the 6′2″ Cavalier that has a ton of up-side as a lock-down corner.

(22). Green Bay Packers: OT Charles Brown, Southern California

The Packer tackles got abused this year and they’re still dependent on aging veterans Mark Tauscher and Kyle Clifton. They need an influx of youth at this position and Brown could be a great pro some day.

(23). Cincinnati Bengals: RB Jahvid Best, California

I really like this kid and while Cincinnati has Cedric Benson and Bernard Scott, their offense needs more play-makers. Best brings a ton of speed to the table and moves on top of moves in the open field.

(24). New York Jets: DT Terrence Cody, Alabama

The Jets should get Kris Jenkins back from injury next year but they want insurance and depth at a crucial position. Cody is massive and could be a great run stuffer in this league but could go even higher in the draft if he proves he can manage his weight.

(25). Arizona Cardinals: TE Jermaine Gresham, Oklahoma

The Cardinals don’t really have a need for more pass catchers but they could certainly use a TE with some upside. If Anquan Boldin is dealt to another team, then this pick will make a lot of sense. Bottom Line, Greshem is a WR in a TE’s body and compares very favorably to Plaxico Burress.

(26). New England Patriots: DT Dan Williams, Tennessee

The Patroits love collecting interior linemen more than my uncle love’s weather. Seriously though, the Pats always want depth on their front 7 and Williams brings a lot of different skills to the table for Belicheat’s 3-4 D.

(27). New Orleans Saints: S Earl Thomas, Texas

The Saints still stink at covering the pass and they need more play-makers in the secondary. Thomas has a ton of speed and the potential to be a true center-fielder for the future, something the Saints definitely need.

(28). Philadelphia Eagles: DE Carlos Dunlap, Florida

Speaking of a team that collects defensive linemen like they were comic books, Philly still wants a blue-chip defensive end to pair with Trent Cole and Dunlap is a heck of an athlete that will fall from character concerns.

(29). Minnesota Vikings: LB Brandon Spikes, Florida

Speaking of Character concerns, old Brandon “Eye-Ball” Spikes brings his fair share of off-field issues but he is a great player that would be a timely pick for the Vikes, as they look to be without EJ Henderson for at least another 6 months.

(30). San Diego Chargers: DT Brian Price, U.C.L.A.

The Chargers were terrible against the run and a lot of that can be credited to the Jamal Williams injury but they obviously need more depth at the position and Price could be a nice fit for their interior defensive line.

(31). Dallas Cowboys: WR Damian Williams, Southern California

The Cowboys will continue surrounding Romo with play-makers and attempt to make up for their Roy Williams blunder. Williams is fancied as a top-20 pick by some and I agree that he gets a 1st round grade but he will slide to the end of the 1st round.

(32). Indianapolis Colts: CB Brandon Ghee, Wake Forest

One of my favorite draft mysteries, is what direction the Colts go on draft day. I see them trying to add to a secondary that was abused late in the season and might have seen the last of Bob Sanders.

Thanks a ton for reading and please bang out some feedback or comments below. You can also e-mail me questions, comments, and even complaints to thefantasyexchange@gmail.com

From Wes Welker’s shredded knee to the latest on Pat White’s condition, we’ve got it all right here in the latest edition of the Infirmary Report, the first article to read for what happened on Sunday.

So make sure that you know all the big injuries and check us out every single week right here at FantasyFootball.com!!!

Quarterbacks

OUT
Chad Henne (Eye), Miami Dolphins
Chad Henne did not start the second half and remained out for the Dolphins due to an eye injury. Henne was having a great game against the Steelers’ secondary in the first half, going 16-of-20 for 140 yards with a touchdown but he could not return to the game due to blurred vision and he’ll see an eye doctor on Monday. The 2nd-year pro from Michigan says he first started experiencing a problem with his vision after Steelers LB Lamar Woodley sacked him and he landed on the left side of his head. It’s obviously something that was hindering his performance during the game but it’s nothing an off-season of rehab won’t cure.

OUT
Pat White (Head/Neck), Miami Dolphins
In a very scary moment, Dolphins QB Pat White was carted off the field during Sunday’s game against the Steelers. White, who was in for an injured Chad Henne, was trying to run for a first down when he took a hard helmet-to-helmet hit from Ike Taylor. White immediately collapsed to the ground and showed little movement before being taken off the field in a stretcher. Harvey Greene, the Dolphins’ spokesman said White seems to be OK in terms of moving his extremities after initial tests but is going to stay in the hospital for further examination.

Running backs

DOUBTFUL
Tashard Choice (Concussion), Dallas Cowboys
Tashard Choice suffered a concussion in the first quarter of Sunday’s win and did not return to the game. While Choice says he’ll be “ready for the Wild Card round”, he’ll only be cleared for the game if he’s completely symptom-free on Monday and all week long after that. The NFL has been extremely stringent with it’s new concussion policy, as teammate Martellus Bennett had to miss two games earlier this year with the same injury. “I could remember everything,” Choice insisted. “I was dazed a little bit. I’m playing. I got to.” Choice’s status is very questionable considering the league’s recent treatment of this injury.

Wide Receivers

OUT
Wes Welker (Knee), New England Patriots
Welker tore his knee out in the 1st quarter after catching a Tom Brady pass and, while attempting to make a move on a defender, his left knee completely buckled underneath him. It’s always a bad sign when a player collapses in a heap without any contact and this appears to be the case with Welker. The preliminary prognosis is not encouraging, as early reports show Welker having a torn ACL and torn MCL. He is scheduled to undergo more testing on Monday but as of right now, things do not look good for owners hoping to see Welker in the post-season. Consider this a huge upgrade for Julian Edelman’s playoff-fantasy status.

QUESTIONABLE
Anquan Boldin (Knee/Ankle), Arizona Cardinals
Anquan Boldin left Sunday’s game in the 3rd quarter with a left knee & ankle injury and did not return. Boldin was undercut over the middle and his left leg bent backward awkwardly. Boldin says he expects to play in next week’s Wild Card playoff game, the Arizona Republic reports. Boldin said both his ankle and knee were caught up in the play but team reporters are very suspect on his playoff status this coming weekend.

Defensivebacks

QUESTIONABLE
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Knee), Dallas
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie was carted off the field after landing hard on his kneecap on the 3rd play of the game and did not return. DRC’s loss would be a devastating blow to the Cardinals in the playoffs, as he has become one of the best young corners in the game. While the 2nd-year pro says he’ll be fine for the Cardinal’s first playoff game, the Cardinals’ pass defense could potentially be in bad shape going up against the high-flying Packers’ passing attack.

QUESTIONABLE
Charles Woodson (Shoulder), Green Bay Packers
Woodson left the game with a shoulder injury just one possession after he returned an interception 45 yards for a touchdown. He had been bothered by shoulder problems recently but was in the starting lineup anyway. While Woodson said his shoulder injury wouldn’t have kept him from returning to the game if needed Sunday, he also says he’ll be fine for next week’s game at Arizona.