By Justin of The Sportmeisters

2008 was a rollercoaster ride of emotions in every sense of the term for the Houston Texans. Houston’s season can be summed up in one word, streaky. The Texans started out their 2008 campaign on a very sour note going 0-4 to start. Just when it seemed that all hope was lost Houston went on a three game winning streak to bring themselves within one game of .500. The streakiness would continue as the Texans would drop the next three consecutive games only to win the next four. To make matters worse, four of the losses Houston recorded were decided in the fourth quarter or later. The Texans lost the aforementioned four games by a total margin of 20 points, with seven points being the largest margin of defeat. It is easy to see that Houston, as a team, did not know what it took to win week in and week out in the NFL. Last season, the Texans ranked 27^th in the points allowed category in the league. At a first glance one might assume that the Texans would need to focus on their defensive personnel in order to prevent the same ranking in 2009. This assumption is not entirely true, because the Texans offense had a small habit of turning the ball over late in the game, putting the defense in compromising positions down the stretch. Offensively, Houston was pretty efficient in moving the ball down the field. The Texans ranked fourth in passing, thirteenth in rushing, and third overall for total yards in the league. Although, the team was thirteenth in rushing RB Steve Slaton was the sixth highest rusher in 2008 with 1,282 yards. Just because a team can move the ball does not necessarily mean they are putting points on the board. After having success moving the ball the Texans ranked seventeenth in the league in points scored. The defense of the Texans did not do as well as the offense in its end of the season stat rankings. The Texans were 17^th in pass defense, 23^rd in rush defense, and 22^nd in total yards from scrimmage allowed. With these rankings it is not a surprise that the Texans defense ranked 27^th in the league in points allowed. With that being said, let’s take a look at the top three needs for the Houston Texans going into the 2009 NFL draft.

Houston Texans Draft Picks:

Round 1: pick 15

Round 2: pick 14

Round 3: pick 13

Round 4: pick 12

Round 4: pick 22

Round 5: pick 16

Round 6: pick 15

Round 7: pick 14

Team Need One: SS

The Strong Safety position is an area that must be upgraded for the Texans to have a more successful campaign in 2009. The current safeties on the Texans roster have a grand total of 2 interceptions. More specifically, the strong safety position recorded zero interceptions last year. Strong safety Nick Ferguson had only 59 tackles to go along with one forced fumble last year. A strong safety should be able to support the front seven on running plays and cover when needed on passing plays. When comparing the Texans SS stats to that of Troy Polamalu one can see a great discrepancy in talent. Polamalu is an elite SS in the NFL, but his stats should be something for others at the position to aim for. (73 Tackles and 7 interceptions) Late in the fourth quarter when you are trying to protect a lead opposing teams will being throwing the ball more frequently. Safety play at this point in the game becomes more crucial than ever. Because the fourth quarter was not kind to the Texans in 2008 they need a SS that is a ball hawk who will make good pass-run reads and find themselves around the ball more often than not.

Team Need Two: DT

Enough emphasis cannot be made on the importance of a strong front seven in a defense. With a strong front seven the run defense has no choice but to improve. There is no better place to begin the improvement than in the trenches in the middle of the defense. The Texans need to have a player that can come in a start as a rookie and make an instant impact on the defensive line. A DT will not have the gaudy numbers of a DE or LB but they are just as, if not more, important. A DT that can take on double teams and free up others in the front seven for blitzes and flow to the ball that will cause the entire defense to improve. If a team wants instant impact from a player they draft on defense, as the Texans do, then a quality DT is a must.

Team Need Three: OLB

Keeping with the theme of improving the front seven a more athletic LB core is a need that must also be addressed before the first game of the 2009 season. DeMeco Ryans had 112 total tackles in the 2008 season along with two forced fumbles, but where were the others? No other LB had over 70 total tackles last season for the Houston Texans. The signing of Cato June may help the LB core but he started fourteen games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2008 and only had 67 tackles. Hopefully the Texans can get June to step up or pick up a talented LB in the 2009 draft.

Houston’s biggest problem in 2008 was the fact that they were a franchise that was learning how to win consistently on the fly. The must improve the amount of points they score on offense and do a better job of making plays in the red zone on defense. If the Texans improve their rankings in run and pass defense they could potentially have a 10 win season. I do not see a Super Bowl appearance in Houston’s immediate future, but I do see an increase in the number of wins the franchise and fans will see next season.

Week one is in the books and the baseball season has only just begun. I am happy to report that I have had quite a good start, winning five out of my eight week one matchups. Today, we’re going to see who is out there on the waiver wire that might help you to win in week two and beyond.

RP – Ryan Franklin – St. Louis Cardinals – 2 2/3 Innings Pitched, 2 K’s, 1 Save, 0.00 ERA, 0.38 WHIP

The Cardinals went into the season not knowing who would come out as the closer and, into the first week, they still really don’t know. The job was given to Rookie Jason Motte, but he blew his first save opportunity, allowing four runs. Then, they used Dennys Reyes and Kyle McClellan for back to back save chances. On Monday, Franklin was given his first save chance of the year and he closed it out. Chances are that Motte gets his opportunities, but Franklin did save 17 games last year and looks to have the upper hand right now. He is still available, only being owned in 2.8% of ESPN leagues and 15% of Yahoo leagues. Go ahead and grab him if you need a few saves.

OF – Kosuke Fukudome – Chicago Cubs – .417 BA, 3 Doubles, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 5 Runs, 1 SB

So far, so good for Fukudome. He was expected to do great things last year, but only produced a .257 BA with ten home runs and 12 stolen bases. He is in a very good lineup and has started hot, with two home runs and five RBI. He is only owned in 35.8% of ESPN leagues and 28% of Yahoo leagues, so he is still out there. Go ahead and grab him while you can and you should be rewarded with a possible 20 HR-20 SB season.

OF – Nyjer Morgan – Pittsburgh Pirates – .387 BA, 1 Double, 1 Triple, 7 RBI, 5 Runs, 3 SB

Even Pittsburgh Pirates can be good for fantasy purposes. This speedy outfielder has started out hot, with five runs, seven RBI, and three SB. Even though he is not in a very good lineup, he could be a valuable pickup due to lack of competition for playing time. He should see 500+ at bats and could produce 30+ SB. He is only owned in 16.2% of ESPN leagues and 20% of Yahoo leagues, so go ahead and grab him if you need some speed.

2B/3B – Emilio Bonifacio – Florida Marlins – .500 BA, 1 Double, 1 Triple, 1 HR, 5 RBI, 9 Runs, 4 SB

Where did this guy come from? When the Marlins traded OF Josh Willingham and SP Scott Olsen for this guy, me being a Marlins fan, I was pretty upset. However, right now, we got the better end of the deal. Bonifacio has given the Marlins speed at the top of the lineup and has made it even easier for SS Hanley Ramirez to move to the three spot. Fantasy-wise, he has been a stud the first week. He hit an inside the park HR, one double, one triple and has scored nine runs. Not to mention the 4 Stolen bases. Grab him if you can, as he is owned in 88.9% of ESPN leagues and 81% of Yahoo leagues.

3B/C/OF – Brandon Inge – Detroit Tigers – .269 BA, 1 Double, 4 HR, 7 RBI, 7 Runs, 1 SB

I picked this guy as my 3B sleeper this year, ranking him number 15 on my 3B Rankings. So far, I haven’t been wrong. He has hit four home runs with seven RBI in eight games. Playing his natural 3B position this year looks to have helped his swing and he will only have OF eligibility in Yahoo leagues and may lose that, but he is even more valuable with that C eligibility. He is currently owned in 73.5% of ESPN leagues and 75% of Yahoo leagues, so grab him fast and be rewarded with a possible 30 HR season.

These are just a few guys to look for. If you want more advice or have any questions feel free to email me at Derek@Sportmeisters.com.

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Even after the New England Patriots collapsed in the 2007 Super Bowl, many pundits were picking them to still claim dominance in 2008. However, thanks to Tom Brady’s week one knee injury, those thoughts were laid to rest. Or were they? Enter little known backup Matt Cassel, who deftly lead the squad to a successful 11-5 record. Unfortunately, even with that record, the Patriots were on the outside looking in during the playoffs. Now, Brady is back, and so is Randy Moss, Wes Welker, and a horde of other talent, including off-season pickups Fred Taylor, Chris Baker, Shawn Springs, and Leigh Bodden. The team is getting up there in age in certain positions, and while they are easily favored in the AFC, they have a unique opportunity. Owning four picks in the first two rounds, the Patriots can find quality team players that will be molded to their specifications, as Bill Belichick has a knack for doing. The Patriots like to horde their picks for quality trades, and with the options they have right now, a major deal could still be in the works.

New England Patriots Draft Picks:

Round 1, Pick 23 (23)

Round 2, Pick 2 (34)

Round 2, Pick 15 (47)

Round 2, Pick 26 (58)

Round 3, Pick 25 (89)

Round 3, Pick 33 (97)

Round 4, Pick 24 (124)

Round 5, Pick 34 (170)

Round 6, Pick 26 (199)

Round 6, Pick 34 (207)

Round 7, Pick 25 (234)

Team Need 1: LB

Jerod Mayo was the pick at this time last year, and he made a great impact for the team, with 128 tackles and the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. With Tedy Bruschi running on his last set of steam, and Mike Vrabel now a Chief, the Patriots could afford to get younger here. Adailus Thomas hasn’t emerged as a viable pass rusher yet in the 3-4 defense, so look for the Patriots to look at an OLB first. Clay Matthews and Brian Cushing, both from USC and in the same mold, are two options New England will take a long look at. Matthews is the better pass rusher, so if he is unavailable, going inside might be the next best option. Another USC Trojan, Rey Maualuga, would be the best option available if Matthews gets tabbed early. Should they decide to wait until the second round, Paul Kruger could fall right into their laps with one of their three picks.

Team Need 2: OL

During Super Bowl 42, the Giants exposed the age and lack of speed of the Patriots front five. New England did not address the need during the draft then, but with Matt Light, Nick Kaczur, and Dan Koppen all getting up there, they should look at grabbing a couple sturdy backups. Outside of top ranked guard Andrew Levitre, who could fall to them at the end of round two, there aren’t too many guard options worth wasting a day one pick on, or even a day two flier. Dan Koppen is still a reliable Center, so I couldn’t see them using an early pick, but possible taking a fourth or fifth round pick on Johnathan Luigs, who is near in the same mold as Koppen. The talent at OT is undeniable, and New England should invest one or two picks at some point in the draft on some suitable backups, that could one day be starters.

Team Need 3: WR

Right, with Randy Moss and Wes Welker, why would the Patriots grab a receiver? Because the depth behind them is questionable. They did bring in Greg Lewis and Joey Galloway, but neither stand out, especially considering Welker plays better when lined up in the slot, rather than the outside. The Patriots don’t need to waste a first day pick, and could wait until the fourth round and grab a big receiver like Louis Murphy. They could go third round, possibly even their last second round pick if they so choose. Remember, this is the team that used a third-round pick last year on QB Kevin O’Connell, who is now the backup to Brady, so anything is possible.

New England has the talent and the ability to be in the playoffs this season. Eventually, there will be a time when all the key members of the group get old and walk away. Taking the time now to develop suitable replacements, who can learn from the nucleus of players, is how teams succeed for long periods of time. Belichick and company are some of the smartest in the business, and will make the right calls come draft day.

]]> http://sportmeisterryan.wordpress.com/2009/04/15/new-england-patriots-2009-draft-preview/feed/ 0 sportmeisterryan http://sportmeisterryan.wordpress.com/2009/04/14/tampa-bay-buccaneers-2009-draft-preview/ http://sportmeisterryan.wordpress.com/2009/04/14/tampa-bay-buccaneers-2009-draft-preview/#comments Tue, 14 Apr 2009 02:54:00 +0000 sportmeisterryan http://sportmeisterryan.wordpress.com/2009/04/14/tampa-bay-buccaneers-2009-draft-preview/ ]]>

by Justin of The Sportmeisters

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been making several moves this offseason to right the wrongs of the 2008 season. The Bucs will have a new look in 2009 with the hiring of a new head coach in Raheem Morris and new defensive coordinator in Jim Bates. Along with a new look on the coaching staff the Bucs have made three potentially great moves to sign TE Kellen Winslow, RB Derrick Ward and QB Byron Leftwich. In another move the Bucs also signed former Bills LB Angelo Crowell who missed all of last season with a knee injury. Before his injury Crowell had a productive season in 2007 with 126 tackle, 2 sacks, and a safety. But before you can look towards the future it is important to understand the mistakes of the past. Morris will have the daunting task of taking a team that struggled tremendously on offense in all facets of the game. I believe the biggest reason for the less than adequate outcome of the season was at the hands of former head coach Jon Gruden. After his dismissal several former players voiced their opinions about how they felt about Gruden as a coach. Several players stated that they could not trust Gruden’s word about their futures with the team. Gruden always had a hard time deciding on a QB that he trusted and would make switches at the drop of a hat. Because the QB is the leader of the entire team a starter must be named and given the freedom to make mistakes and rebound from those mistakes for an offense to have success. The Bucs have a new and revived energy because of a new head coach, but what else is needed from a player personnel stand point to improve a team that began the season 9-3, but ultimately missed the playoffs?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Draft Picks

Round 1: pick 19

Round 2: pick given to Browns

Round 3: pick 17

Round 4: pick 20

Round 5: pick 19

Round 6: pick 18

Round 7: pick 8 (from Jacksonville)

Round 7: pick 20 (from Chicago)

Round 7: pick 24 (from Baltimore)

Team Need One: QB

Although I feel this need has been met with the signing of Byron Leftwich, he has not proven to be a quality starter in the NFL to date. As a backup for the Pittsburgh Steelers Leftwich showed that he had the ability to extend plays and make down field throws when Ben Roethlisberger went out of the game due to injuries. Leftwich now has a third chance to show fans and the league alike that he is worthy of being taken seriously as a QB in the NFL. I believe that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will gamble with Leftwich and use the 19^th pick in the first round to pick up a DT.

Team Need Two: DT

On a defense that was pretty stingy until the end of the season the DT position is the weak link in the chain. In sixteen games only one DT on the roster had legitimate playing time. Chris Hovan started fifteen games while Chris Bradwell and Ryan Sims have started only two games between the both of them. The Bucs need to draft an athlete that can be a commanding presence in the middle of the defense. Tampa ranked ninth in total defense and 19^th in rush defense. In Tampa’s base 4-3 defense an anchor in the middle of the defensive line is a must to shield the second level from the would be blockers on the opposing offensive side of the ball.

Team Need Three: DE

The Bucs desperately need an edge rusher that can put pressure on QBs on passing plays. The total number of sacks for the DE position was 20.5 combined. DeMarcus Ware of the Dallas Cowboys had twenty sacks by himself last year. Although the Bucs ranked fourth in pass defense in the 2008 season it could have been better if their edge rushers demanded more attention in blocking schemes. As a result of the lack of sacks from the DE position the defensive coordinator has to dial up more blitzes to mask the weakness on the line.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have the opportunity to move up in the NFC South and become a Super Bowl contender in the upcoming 2009 season. The Bucs must first, believe in the new head man Raheem Morris and second, have more productivity on the offensive side of the ball. Due to the lack of efficiency on offense the defense was worn down by the end of the season and could not contain the opposition. Bucs fans, Byron Leftwich does not have to win sixteen plus games for Tampa to make a deep run in the playoffs. All he has to do is not lose too many. If Leftwich can learn to manage the game and take care of the ball the Bucs will be just fine in 2009.

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The Dolphins weren’t expected to be this competitive in 2008, but boy, did they surprise. A year removed from 1-15, the 2008 Miami Dolphins turned in a 10-6 record and an AFC East Title. They didn’t make it out of the wild-card round, but for a team to change their record by nine wins, they should be plenty happy. The staff in the Dolphins War Room, led by Bill Parcells, is very apt in their drafting ability, and with some holes on both sides of the balls, should find a complement of playmakers to turn what some see as a fluke playoff run, into a long-term relationships with the postseason.

Miami Dolphins Draft Picks:

Round 1, Pick 25 (25)

Round 2, Pick 12 (44)

Round 2, Pick 24 (56)

Round 3, Pick 23 (87)

Round 5, Pick 25 (161)

Round 6, Pick 8 (181)

Round 7, Pick 5 (214)

Round 7, Pick 28 (237)

Team Need 1: WR

The Dolphins have talent at this position, but players like Greg Camarillo and Davone Bess do not command double teams like a marquee player would. Ted Ginn Jr. is getting close, and in year three, he should emerge as a top number one. With a plethora of available receivers in the 2009 draft, Miami could really benefit from having two first rounders on each side, with Camarillo, Bess, and Brandon London adding some quality depth. The Dolphins have options, looking to grab speed in Percy Harvin, who would shine in the Wildcat formation. They could also look for some height in 6’0’’ options Darrius Heyward-Bey or Hakeem Nicks.

Team Need 2: CB

Even with the addition of Eric Green, the Dolphins need help in the secondary. Gibril Wilson was a nice Safety addition, but with Will Allen getting older, Miami needs to improve its depth here. There isn’t an amazing number of pro prospects in this position, but there are a few at the top worth taking a pick on. If the Dolphins are willing to spend a first day pick on Alphonso Smith, D.J. Moore, or 6’3’’ Sean Smith, they could grab a solid nickel back into eventually replacement for Allen. Beyond those choices, the Dolphins would be better to spend their efforts elsewhere.

Team Need 3: DT

The Dolphins primarily run a 3-4 base, making the DT position a huge one, in eating up two lineman to allow the linebackers to come up and stuff the run or disrupt the pass. Current incumbent Jason Ferguson is 34, and starting to hit the downhill portion of his career. Behind him, none of the current options, while in the same physical mold, can fill the gap quite like Ferguson. Mid-to-late options include 6’4’’ Fili Moala or 6’3’’ Sammie Lee Hill. If the Dolphins are willing to spend an earlier pick, 6’3’’ Ron Brace could help spell Ferguson. The Dolphins should make this a priority, but still have another good year or two, depending on health, out of Ferguson, and should use a later pick to develop a solid tackle here.

The Dolphins are an amalgamation of solid players, without many big names. They won’t look to grab a guy planning on being a self-made stud, but a core team player, designed to help the Dolphins in the ferocious AFC East. They are out to prove they have the potential to play into January every year, and if they fill these holes with the right bodies, they could make that goal a reality.

by Justin of The Sportmeisters

The New Orleans Saints finished last in the NFC South in the 2008 season with a .500 winning percentage at 8-8. The Saints showed at times that they can be a team to be reckoned with offensively thanks to the efforts of QB Drew Brees. Brees finished the 2008 season leading the league in passing yards with 5,069, making him a part of the of MVP talks. The hype suddenly stopped when the Saints could not consistently put wins together. Their longest winning streak last year was two, which highlights a sense of inconsistency. How can a team with a QB as talented as Brees lose as many games as they win? The answer to that question is no running game and less than stellar defensive play. While the Saints have a very talented receiving that is very athletic and the acquisition of Jeremy Shockley had some positive moments, the back field lacks an explosive every down back that can get tough yards in the trenches. College superstar Reggie Bush still has not proven the capability or the proper running style needed to propel him between the tackles. New Orleans ranked 28^th in the league in rushing offense last year which can explain why the Saints weren’t as successful as they hoped last year. Despite all there running woes, they need some defensive help first and foremost.

New Orleans Saints Draft Picks

Round 1: pick 14

Round 2: pick given to Giants

Round 3: pick given to Jets

Round 4: pick 16

Round 4: pick 18

Round 5: pick given to Giants

Round 6: pick given to Green Bay

Round 7: pick 13

Team Need One: OLB

The Saints run a base 4-3 defense, in which consistent linebacker play is paramount in the success of the defense. The middle linebacker is the QB of the defense and must lead by example on the field by making plays in the running and passing games. The Saints are solid at this position to say the least with Jonathan Vilma, who recorded 132 tackles in 2008. The weakness of the Saints defensive front seven was at the outside linebacker position. The strong side linebacker Scott Fujita only recorded 81 tackles last year. On the other side at weak side linebacker Scott Shanle who recorded 87 tackles. The Saints were 17^th in rushing defense and could have been much better if they had improved linebacker play.

Team Need Two: C

The Saints need another leader on the offensive line that will help in the rushing game. Currently the Saints have Jonathan Goodwin listed as the starter who is 30 years old. Other than the QB the center position is the most important player on the field. The center is the only other player on the entire team who touches the ball on every play. The center must be able to command the respect of the other offensive linemen on the team and be the second most intelligent player on the team. The center barks out protection adjustments against defensive stunts and blitzes. Because Goodwin is aging it is important that the Saints begin to groom another commander of the offensive line. Without a stud at the center position the Saints will not have even as much offensive success as they have had in the past.

Team Need Three: RB

As previously mentioned Saints’ running game was not intimidating at all in 2008. Ranking 28^th in the league, the Saints backfield needs an upgrade, and fast. Deuce McAllister is out due to injuries and the effects of age. Pierre Thomas is a decent back that has shown glimpses of becoming a talented running back but has not proven himself as a game breaker or elite back in the NFL. Reggie Bush has the big play capability but has cases of fumble-itis , at times. Bush is more effective on the outside or even as a third down back with screens and draws. The Saints need a back that can grind out four yards on every touch to make it easier on Brees and the passing game.

The Saints were last in the NFC South in 2008 because of lack luster linebacker play and a nonexistent running game. If the Saints can learn the advantages of establishing the run they will have much more success in 2009. An offense that throws the ball all around the yard is exciting and fun, but there has to be at least a bigger threat in the back field in order to make a run at the NFC South title.

By Justin of The Sportmeisters

The Carolina Panthers improved dramatically in the 2008 season with a 12-4 record, five more wins than the 2007 campaign. Carolina won the NFC South and tied for the second best record in the NFL, but their momentum was halted by a terrible playoff performance against the Arizona Cardinals. The Panthers took a chance in the 2008 draft, trading their first round pick in 2009 to get two picks in 2008.

Clearly, it was a smart gamble, as by grabbing RT Jeff Otah and RB Jonathon Stewart, the Panthers ran roughshod against opposing defenses last year. Carolina used the two headed back philosophy ingeniously ranking third in the league in rushing offense by almost having two 1,000 yard rushers (DeAngelo Williams 1,515 yards; Stewart 836 yards). The tandem also accounted for 28 of the teams touchdowns last year. With the running game hitting on all cylinders the Panthers had to make defenses respect their passing game to prevent the overcrowding of the box at the line of scrimmage. The passing game literally rested in the hands of Steve Smith. Even after missing the first two games of the season due to a suspension Smith still had 1,421 yards receiving making him third in the league. As a team the offense ranked nineteenth in the league in passing yards and ended up tenth overall in total yardage.

It’s easily known that the Panthers have the necessary tools to succeed offensively. However, as the old saying goes, defense wins championships. Therefore, look for some of the early focus to be on a John Fox specialty (defense), with possibly a shot at a receiver or two late.

Carolina Panthers Draft Picks

Round 1: pick given to Philadelphia

Round 2: pick 27

Round 3: pick 29

Round 4: pick 28

Round 5: pick 27

Round 6: pick 29

Round 7: pick given to Miami

Team Need One: DE

While the Carolina defense was not horrible last year it does need some improvement. The Panthers pass defense was average by ranking sixteenth in the league (211.7 ypg). One way to improve that is by giving Julius Peppers some help, provided they don’t trade him, by adding another edge rusher to the roster. Peppers was tied for fifth in the league last year in sacks with 14.5. The next highest sack total for the Panthers was six by Charles Johnson who is currently second on the depth chart. Ahead of him is Tyler Brayton who recorded only forty total tackles and 4.5 sacks last year. Adding another DE can disrupt the timing of the passing game and would help to improve the mediocre pass defense of 2008.

Team Need Two: DT

Keeping with the theme of improving the defensive front the next need for the Panthers is a dominant DT. Carolina’s rush defense was even worse than the pass defense, ranking a measly twentieth. The key to improving a franchise’s rush defense is by strengthening the middle. Games are won and lost by how effective a team can control the line of scrimmage. If the Panthers’ defense can reestablish the line of scrimmage by moving it into opposing offense’s back field they will see an increase in tackles for loss on rushing plays. By forcing a team into second in long and third in medium the defensive play calling becomes easier because these are passing downs. Anytime you can limit the options of an offense you have effectively set your team up for success.

Team Need Three: WR

This need is pretty obvious in my eyes. If there has been one problem with the offensive side of the ball it is the fact that at times it seems like Steve Smith is the only receiver on the field for the Panthers’ offense. Mushin Muhammad did add talent to a one man receiving core last season, but he is no longer on the depth chart. D.J. Hackett is the listed as the number two man right now and only had 13 receptions for 181 yards in 2008. If the Panthers do not acquire another receiver someone in the receiver meeting room will need to step up and make plays, but I expect Carolina to take a mid-round gamble somewhere.

The Carolina Panthers are one or two players from making a deep playoff run in 2009. As long as Carolina improves its edge rushing ability the Panthers have a chance win the NFC South again. The Panthers’ ultimate success depends on how effectively they can run the ball on offense, but with a stouter defense the 2009 season seems bright. If the Panthers address these needs it is very possible for them to reach the NFC Championship game and maybe even the Super Bowl.

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The Cowboys won the award for most screwed up team, but still had a shot at the playoffs. Unfortunatley, an end of the season collapse against Philadelphia left fans feeling sour. Add to that the loss of Pacman Jones and Terrell Owens, which is a bittersweet move. On one hand, they get rid of the head case the two represent. On the other hand, the talent both possessed cannot be underestimated. The Cowboys house 11 total picks, but more than half come in the fifth round or later. Hey, if Tony Romo is a star and went undrafted, could some more late round studs be lurking?

Dallas Cowboys Draft Picks:

Round 2, pick 19 (51)

Round 3, pick 5 (69)

Round 4, pick 1 (101)

Round 4, pick 17 (117)

Round 5, pick 20 (156)

Round 5, pick 30 (166)

Round 5, pick 36 (172)

Round 6, pick 24 (197)

Round 6, pick 35 (208)

Round 7, pick 1 (210)

Round 7, pick 18 (227)

Team Need 1: Offensive Tackle

This draft is one of the most abundant in recent years of solid, quality linemen. Even though Dallas does not have a first round pick, there is plenty of options they can grab in the second round. With Tackle Flozell Adams starting to hit the decline of his career, taking the time now to invest in Romo’s blind side would be the safest bet. A player like William Beatty, a 6’6’’ 307lb beast in the mold of Adams should fall nicely into the Cowboys hands. If I am Dallas, I’m not looking into another need here but their O-Line, as while the draft is abundant in tackles, the quality levels off after the first ten on the board.

Team Need 2: Cornerback

As far as cornerbacks go, Dallas could use some more depth after the departure of Jones, and based on the talent available, the Cowboys would be better pressed to grab a corner over a safety here. Right now, they have Mike Jenkins and Orlando Scandrick as their best option, which is not a strong option. Considering where they pick, and assuming they use their first pick to grab a lineman, there are more options that could fall to them in the top of the third round at corner. These include Asher Allen, a 5’9’’ product out of Georgia, or potentially Jarius Byrd, a 5’10’’ corner from Oregon.

Team Need 3: Safety

Even with the signing of Gerald Sensabaugh, who will replace Roy Williams, the Cowboys have some serious depth issues in their secondary. Ken Hamlin will start on the opposite side of Sensabaugh, but should inconsistent play or injury occur, Dallas could be in trouble. At safety, outside of the top four, who could all get grabbed before the third round, Dallas should not look at a project early on in the draft, but there is some potential that could fall to them in the second half. With Dallas housing quite a few late picks, they could grab a flyer or two. However, they don’t want to wait too long, as after the first dozen safety’s, it would be better to stick with what they have.

The Cowboys were on the tip of the spear two years ago, and still house the talent to make a deep playoff run. They need some bodies to take the wear and tear off the starters, and possibly be the long term solutions. If Dallas can find those here, they could be a force in NFC East once again.

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

Even though they “kissed their sister” against Cincinnati, the Philadelphia Eagles managed to win four out of their last five to sneak into the playoffs, and then made it all the way to the Conference Finals before falling to Arizona. However, despite the consistency the team projects (five NFC Championship games in eight years), they are a team with some big holes to fill if they expect another championship run. With twelve total picks, including two first rounders, Philadelphia needs to grab the right playmakers to give aging QB Donovan McNabb the shot at a Super Bowl ring to silence all the critics.

Philadelphia Eagles Draft Picks:

Round 1, Pick 21 (21)

Round 1, Pick 28 (28)

Round 2, Pick 21 (53)

Round 3, Pick 21 (85)

Round 4, Pick 21 (121)

Round 5, Pick 5 (141)

Round 5, Pick 17 (153)

Round 5, Pick 21 (157)

Round 5, Pick 23 (159)

Round 6, Pick 21 (194)

Round 6, Pick 22 (195)

Round 7, Pick 21 (230)

Team Need 1: Offensive Tackle

This draft is one of the most abundant in quality offensive lineman, and with Eagles losing Tra Thomas and Jon Runyan in the off-season, they need quality help. Bringing in Stacy Andrews in free agency is a minor gap filler, but they could ill afford to miss out on a franchise left tackle here. With two first round picks, the Eagles can afford to wait until their second pick to grab a quick tackle like Ebon Britton, or could use their first pick on a guy like Michael Oher. There is also a possibility of packaging both picks to move up and grab another top rated tackle, but with glaring needs elsewhere, that is an unlikely scenario.

Team Need 2: Tight End

Former Franchise Tight End L.J. Smith was allowed to leave in the off-season, leaving Brent Celek as the only one on the roster. There isn’t a huge amount of quality Tight Ends on the board in 2009, so the optimal move for Philadelphia would be to use their top first rounder to grab someone like Brandon Pettigrew, if available. If not, Philadelphia would be wise to wait until the second round to grab a sound blocker like Shawn Nelson, who’s 6’5’’ frame would make for an optimal target for McNabb. Outside of the top three or four rated Tight Ends, the Eagles shouldn’t waste their picks in drafting a project, and should focus on other needs.

Team Need 3: Running Back

The team has Brian Westbrook, but he is not the most reliable, health-wise, and without Correll Buckhalter, that leaves Lorenzo Booker behind Westbrook. While not a bad choice, Booker is in the same mold as Westbrook, and the team could afford to look for a big bruising back, allowing Westbrook the chance to rest on short yardage, power situations. Considering most teams use a platoon system anyway, Philadelphia would just be following the rest of the league. A strong possibility would be using their second round pick on 6’1’’ Chris Wells, but his injury problems make him questionable, which would be why he could fall to Philadelphia in the back end of the first round. With an abundance of late picks in the fifth round and beyond, grabbing a project would not be a bad decision. Rashad Jennings is 6’1’’, 231lbs, and could bring the power back game Philadelphia lacks. With most running backs in the 5’10’’ range, waiting for Jennings might be an option the Eagles choose to exploit.

The Eagles have talented weapons, but age, free agency, and injuries are cause for concern. This is the time now to grab the future of the team, allowing the older guys to use the opportunities they have for good, without wasting their talents. Philadelphia needs offensive help, and could get a lot of opportunities in the 2009 NFL Draft.

By Justin of The Sportmeisters

The Atlanta Falcons showed in 2008 that it was not a team content with mediocrity. The Atlanta Falcons made two of the best off season acquisitions last season with the additions of franchise QB Matt Ryan and Michael Turner. The Atlanta Falcons showed that with intelligent signings in the off season it is possible to go from a dismal 4-12 2007 season to a playoff contender in one season. Atlanta transformed its record into 11 wins and only five losses. The main reason for the Falcons’ success was because of an offense that was in the top twenty in the league in every statistical category last year. All of this success occurred on the shoulders of a rookie QB? The Falcons ranked sixth in the league in overall offensive production, second in rushing yards, and fourteenth in passing yards last season. Behind a great running game and a pretty good passing game the question remains; what should the Atlanta Falcons look to acquire in the 2009 NFL Draft. Can you say DEFENSE, DEFENSE, and even more DEFENSE?

Atlanta Falcons Draft Picks: Round 1: pick 24; Round 2: pick 23; Round 3: pick 26; Round 4: pick 25; Round 5: pick 24; Round 6: pick 23; Round 7: pick given to Denver

Team Need One: Defensive Tackle

The Falcons were average, at best, last year in rush defense, ranking twenty-fifth in the league. While, the Falcons’ leading tackler on defense was an aging Keith Brooking with 102 total tackles the focus should remain on the interior defensive linemen. The purpose of defensive interior linemen are to command double teams and hold the offensive linemen at the line of scrimmage so that the linebackers in the base 4-3 defense that the Atlanta Falcons run can move freely through gaps to make tackles in the back field. The only lineman that commanded that kind of attention last year was John Abraham with 16.5 sacks last year. Abraham was third in the league in sacks with Jonathan Babineaux as the only other Falcon even close to that sack total, with 11. While it is not impossible to see the Falcons taking a linebacker, the problem with that is a superior defensive lineman can make an average linebacking core great instantly, while a superior young linebacker will need time to make others around him better. By addressing the interior defensive lineman needs first Atlanta can get a couple of more productive years out of Brooking and company.

Team Need Two: Safety

As if the rush defense was not bad enough last year the Falcons followed that up with a twenty-first ranked pass defense. One might think that shut down corners are a must in order to have a top ranked pass defense. Sure, it couldn’t hurt, but look around the league and in the draft, shut down corners are rare and hard to come by. What the Falcons could use instead is a safety that could come up in run support and still have the athletic ability to make plays in the secondary. If you play a cover two look with an experienced linebacker such as Keith Brooking dropping into the deep middle of the field with two talented safeties over the top a defense can mask its vulnerable corners and create the façade of a much improved secondary.

Team Need Three: Defensive End

This should not come as much of a surprise because of the fact that Abraham had 16.5 sacks last season and Jamaal Anderson only recorded two sacks. Anderson only missed one game last year so injuries were not the problem. A defense that has two DEs that put pressure on opposing QBs on passing plays and can beat a one on one block on running plays make any blitz a Defensive Coordinator plans even more effective.

The Falcons made leaps and bounds in one off season revamping the offensive side of the ball and winning 11 games in the process. Now it is up to the management to focus on the defensive so that the goal isn’t just about winning games, but bringing home championships.