Jaguars Football Talk

Jaguars Monday week 4, 2009

2009-10-06T23:01:00.000-07:00

Click Here

Follow Jaguars.com Senior Editor (and one of my favorite football personalities) as he interviews Jaguars GM Gene Smith and takes a few calls.

Yahoo! sports also talks Garrard here.

-Brandon Clark

Rashad Jennings on LRP

2009-10-06T22:25:00.000-07:00

My real site that I own is called LateRoundPick and we cover most NFL stuff (or try too). On this site, I chose Jaguars rookie 7th rounder RB Rashad Jennings as my featured Late Rounder this season. If you want, you can read an article about him that I wrote and a stats page that I keep for him by clicking here. Jennings had over 50 yards against the Titans and was key to running the clock out and securing the victory.

What We Know So Far at 2-2

2009-10-06T22:09:00.000-07:00

*pictured: Jaguars guard Vince Manuwai. back from surgery to move those chains in 2009.

We saw the Jaguars put up a mighty fight in Indianapolis week 1, yet the secondary was carved like a turkey on Thanksgiving day. We then saw the Jaguars fail to play football against the Arizona Cardinals and then somehow get competitive at the end. If it wasn't for WR Nate Huges dropping two TD's in the mid-4th quarter. We may have had a real chance to pull a victory out of nowhere.

Then, it got better. The Jaguars offense was unstoppable through the air (not a typo, that really happened) against the Texans and a late fumble recovery in the end-zone by OLB Darryl Smith sealed the game. Then the terrible Titans came to their "second" home stadium. They were embarrassed and it feels so good to type that. They were outplayed, out-coached and simply embarrassed. Jeff Fisher's team can go back to their real home field where they have no victories.

So, this raises the question. What turned the season around? Can it last?

The simple answer is the passing game. David Garrard has been playing excellent football the last two weeks. This past week, he threw for over 300 yards and had 3 TD's.

Mike Sims-Walker has emerged and he is "who we thought he were" having over 270 yards and 3 TD's in the only 3 games he recorded a catch this season (the most recent 3). Will this continue? It should.

The offensive line has grown up over night and is always the main reason behind a succesful passing game. After starting two rookie tackles against pro bowl defensive ends in week 1. LT Eugene Monroe and RT Eben Britton missed this past weeks game against the Titans. Monroe had the flu (not swine) and Britton has an sprained knee but should be back soon. Monroe also held star DE Mario Williams of the Texans to no sacks.

The only real problem is that our secondary is tied for last with the Titans. In my opinion this is due to having no pass rush at all. During the Colts' game in week 1, DE Reggie Heyward was lost for the season along with WR Troy Williamson. The Jaguars have failed to produce a consistent pass rush since that one sack Heyward had and after trading all those draft picks away in 2008 for DE Derek Harvey and DE Quentin Groves, no questions were answered.

This is just a little update. I might write some more later.

-Brandon Clark

Jaguars 37-Titans 17

2009-10-06T22:07:00.000-07:00

New Website

2009-06-21T09:30:00.001-07:00

My friend and I have a new football website

LateRoundPick.com

Torry Holts gift from the game

2009-05-01T01:17:00.001-07:00

Torry Holt showed off his "gift" from the game. A broken middle joint on his middle finger of his left hand at a news conference Thursday.

Article:

"This is my trophy, man," says Holt. "Over the year, catching a lot of balls...popping it in, popping it out. A couple of years ago against the Steelers, I popped it out and it never went back."

"People ask me if I'm going to get it repaired, get it fixed," Holt said. "I tell them this is what I got out of the game. Some crooked fingers."

-Brandon Clark

Jaguars 3rd round pick Derek Cox

2009-04-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

Derek Cox is little known to the media because of the school he played for-William and Mary. This caused him to be a surprise on draft day. The Jaguars claiming to have stuck to the top of their draft board, drafted the unknown wonder after a trade with the Patriots. The trade cost the Jaguars thier 2009 7th round pick and 2010 2nd round pick. Before you complain, this is a good thing. The Jaguars save salary cap room by paying next years 2nd rounder this years 3rd round money and they draft a guy that they feel is a 2nd round pick, on any draft. Remember, Gene Smith (GM) knows what hes doing. Just sit back and enjoy the show. We are fans for a reason.

Cox's Measurables:
6'1"
180 lb.'s
4.39 40 yard dash
11' 8" Broad Jump
36.5" Vertical Leap

Virginia Gazette Article:
The 6-foot-1 cornerback was a three-year starter for coach Jimmye Laycock. He compiled 172 career tackles and finished with nine interceptions and 20 pass breakups.

During his pro-day workout, Cox ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and posted a 36-1/2-inch vertical nearly reached 12 feet in the broad jump.

Terry McDonough, the Jaguars director of player personnel, was even more impressed with what he saw on film.

"I watched every game tape in which he played and I think he is really, really good, “McDonough told Jaguars.com. “When you put Derek Cox’s tape on, you go, ‘Whoa!’.”

The Jaguars weren’t the only team interested in Cox’s services. The Washington Redskins, Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons, St. Louis Rams, New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts and the Pittsburgh Steelers were all very high on the W&M corner.

“You do not give next year’s [No. 2 pick] if you don’t think that guy will be a starter,” McDonough said. “We said we believe our eyes. If he’s not a starter at sometime over the next two years, we made a mistake.”

Derek Cox Highlights:
Punt Return
Pick 6
Big Hit
INT
Tackle
Tackle for Loss
Amazing Steal!
Low Tackle
Back-Jump to Block Pass
Another Pick 6

Interview:
Click Here
Thanks to Adam Stites for the links!

I'm not gonna lie, Im excited to see what he can do.

-Brandon Clark

Rashad Jennings-Future Star?

2009-04-28T23:21:00.000-07:00

HB Rashad Jennings of Liberty

Stats

6'1"

231 lb.'s

1,500 yards rushing in senior season

17 Touchdowns in Senior Season

4,051 Career Rushing Yards

42 Career Touchdowns

4.67 40-Yard Dash at NFL Combine

29 Bench Press Reps @ 225 lb.'s(2nd among RBs) at the NFL Combine

34" Vertical Leap at the NFL Combine

10' Broad Jump at the NFL Combine

6.86 3-Cone Drill Time(5th among RBs) at the NFL Combine

4.20 20-Yard Shuttle at the NFL Combine

11.46 60-Yard Shuttle at the NFL Combine

NFL.com Scouting Report

"Overview: A Walter Camp All-American who transferred from Pittsburgh after a successful freshman season (411 rushing yards) to be closer to his father, who suffers from diabetes. Jennings had surgery on a broken pinky finger in early September last season, but still rushed for 1,500 yards (his third consecutive 1,000-yard season) with his bruising yet nimble running style. The twice-named Big South Offensive Player of the Year also showed some versatility by making 24 receptions in 2008. Had an arm span of 32 inches and a hand span of 10 3/8 inches at the combine."

"Positives: Good size with well-developed upper body. Played in part-time zone read offense, sometimes in I-formation. Good vision, able to change directions using quick feet. Can stiff-arm and run through tacklers in the open field by lowering his pads. Very good second gear once in the open. Runs tough inside, able to lean forward for additional yards. Looks natural catching the ball out of the backfield. Will keep his feet churning after contact and fight for the first down or goal line. Can hit an inside hole quickly. Surprisingly quick stop-start if the hole is not there immediately."

"Negatives: Played against a lower level of competition, although he had one year of experience in the Big East. Runs loose; must consistently keep the ball high and tight to prevent fumbles. Only gets in the way as a blocker, giving marginal effort. A bit stiff in the hips, and is not overly shifty. Runs a bit tall, which will leave him open to big hits in the NFL. Must sink his hips when cutting."

Sirius Radio Comments

On Sirius radio NFL Ch. 124, they were talking about draft steals and they brought Jennings up. I will quote this as best as i can.
"And of course Rashad Jennings. You know what the upside of him is.....Fred Taylor."

I've been thinking about this. Jennings does have some similarities to Taylor, one of which is the willingness to hit the pile and another is a deadly stiff arm. After watching some footage on him, I am even more astonished that he dropped to the 7th round and even more grateful that he will be playing for my team. It doesn't matter, he found a home. He will make the team and he will prosper. He may even bump Greg Jones back to full-time FB. Just watch for yourself, the guy is the real deal.

Jennings is now widely considered the number one steal of the draft. The Liberty HB was given a late second to early fifth round grade. That alone shows how widely the views range. With the lesser competition playing too big a factor with NFL front offices, Jennings slipped to pick 41 of the 7th round.

Jennings Jr. and Sr. year Highlights from Liberty

Jennings-One of the Good Guys

According to Jennings, NFL scouts have questioned his accomplishments playing against lesser competition at Liberty. He explains his decision to play there was a selfless one. After his freshman year at Pitt, where he played ahead of NFL draft prospect LeSean McCoy, Jennings' father became a leg amputee as a result of his battle with diabetes. After watching his mother travel 12 hours to and from Pittsburgh to watch him play, Jennings decided to transfer to Liberty, which is 10 minuntes from his home. "If you do the right things, then no one will be able to stop you," says Jennings. Link

Jennings has met MJD and Fred Taylor-two Jaguars greats at HB

When Rashad Jennings worked out at Perfect Competition in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., this spring, he got an introduction to life at an NFL training camp. Jennings was at the training facility with a number of big-name NFL players, including Maurice Jones-Drew, Thomas Jones, Fred Taylor, Frank Gore and Chad Johnson. He would run simple errands for the players, making sure they had water after workouts and helping to carry equipment from the fields. That's no different than being a rookie at an NFL camp, where even the first-round picks spend time toting the veterans' helmets and shoulder pads from the practice field to the locker room. In return, Jennings asked for one thing ??? advice. "I wanted to learn how to handle on-the-field and off-the-field problems," Jennings said. "Wanted to know how they took care of their bodies. They've been teaching me a lot. "They all accepted me as a little rookie, befriended me. I was trying to get their respect." Link

Rashad Jennings Benching 395 lb.'s

Rashad Jennings has given me yet another reason to root for the Jaguars.

-Brandon Clark

Jags Draft Comments

2009-04-28T02:28:00.000-07:00

Scouts Notebook:
First Day Take
"The Jags take a pair of OTs in Eugene Monroe and Eben Britton. I didn't see that coming. Very interesting. Jack Del Rio talked about wanting to get back to being a physical team that could dominate up front. I thought they'd go for BJ Raji at pick 8 and get the OT in the 2nd. Del Rio added LT Tra Thomas in free agency and had Tony Pashos in place at RT. He got his OTs for the future, but I could also see both guys pushing the veterans in front of them."

Round 3 Take
"I know a lot of people are on the Jaguars for their 3rd round picks, DT Terrance Knighton and CB Derek Cox. I understand that those guys came off the board earlier than expected. I liked both guys, but figured they would be picked in the 5th and 6th rounds respectively. I do think there is some logic to the picks. Knighton had the best combination of size, athletic ability, and production in a DT outside the top 50 picks. Teams will reach for guys like that. The Jags defense is predicated on big DTs. Going for him at that point isn't unreasonable at all. Cox going in the 3rd definitely caught me off guard, but I had just watched 3 of his games in the last 10 or so days and he had grown on me. Cox is a big CB with athletic ability and cover skills. While he went early, at least you can understand that he is is also somewhat of a rare commodity. Big CBs like Bradley Fletcher, Kevin Barnes, and Keenan Lewis also went in the 3rd round. Cox might have the most athletic ability of the group. He is the only one with good RS ability. Take away the school name beside these prospects and Cox makes a ton of sense at that spot. The fact he did play at the I-AA level is a factor, but the Jags have had luck with some small school guys. Both picks make more sense than many realize. "

Ross Tucker of Sports Illustrated
"Jack Del Rio was tired of drafting guys who didn't pan out. That, and he wanted to get back to his meat and potatoes philosophy. That meant getting more physical up front. The Jags got amazing value in picking offensive tackles Eugene Monroe and Eben Britton much lower than most people anticipated. Terrance Knighton is the big body that was needed next to John Henderson, and Jacksonville waited until later to get receivers like Mike Thomas and Jarrett Dillard after their negative experiences with Matt Jones and Reggie Williams early in previous drafts."

Gene Frenette of Florida Times-Union
"B- An almost perfect first day by taking bookend offensive tackles Eugene Monroe and Eben Britton. The big question is whether the third-round picks, DT Terrance Knighton and CB Derek Cox, who cost the Jaguars a 2010 second-round choice, represent the best value."

Nolan Nawrocki of Pro Football Weekly
"The Jaguars filled a pressing need on their offensive line, building inside out under first-year GM Gene Smith, with Eugene Monroe and Eben Britton, both of whom slipped into their hands, expected to start immediately. After busting on too many first-round receivers, they may have addressed the need better than ever with the additions of Mike Thomas, Jarrett Dillard and Tiquan Underwood in Rounds 4-7. Thomas could be a steal. They took a lot of shots on lesser-known and small-school talent with their other picks, even giving up a 2010 second-round pick to the Patriots to select William & Mary CB Derek Cox. DT Terrance Knighton, TE Zach Miller and RB Rashad Jennings all have upside and could earn roster spots, but each may take some time, especially Miller, the highly athletic, converted quarterback. The first team to release its undrafted free-agent signings following the draft, where they signed 18 players, the Jaguars may have overhauled their roster and could easily have come away with four starters.
Grade: Outstanding"

Jason Cole of Yahoo! sports
"Positives: Monroe, Britton will start immediately.
Negative: No wide receiver at a huge need position.
Bottom line: A-.
Some people might argue that WR Michael Crabtree would have been a better selection for the Jaguars with the No. 8 overall pick. But Monroe was also projected by many people to go a few picks higher. Thus, Monroe is a solid value pick at that spot. Moreover, Monroe is a quiet, dignified leader that the Jaguars desperately need in a locker room that has been chaotic the past few years. Getting Britton in the second round gives the Jags an immediate starter at right tackle and gives coach Jack Del Rio’s team the chance to be dominant in the running game again. That said, the Jags really need another wide receiver, even after the signing of Torry Holt."

Rashad Jennings

2009-04-28T01:44:00.000-07:00

I can't say I know a lot about this guy, except that we stole his value that late in the draft.

Anyway,
On Sirius radio, they were talking about draft steals on NFL Ch.124 and they brought Jennings up. I will quote this as best as i can.
"And of course Rashad Jennings. You know what the upside of him is.....Fred Taylor."

wow! Im going to dig up more info. He could beat out Chauncey Washington, he could be turned into a FB-who knows.

-Brandon Clark

Jaguars sign 18 UDFA's

2009-04-27T00:38:00.000-07:00

per Jagnation

These players are expected to sign contracts when they arrive for next weekend’s mini-camp. The players who agreed to contracts are:

Russell Allen, LB, 6-3, 230, San Diego State

Kyle Bell, FB, 6-1, 233, Colorado State

Brock Bolen, FB, 6-0, 233, Louisville

Nathan Brown, QB, 6-1, 219, Central Arkansas

Weldon Brown, CB, 5-10, 185, Louisiana Tech

Michael Desormeaux, SS, 6-0, 204, Louisiana-Lafayette

Maurice Dupree, WR, 5-10, 168, Jacksonville State

Jason English, WR, 5-10, 188, Tuskegee

George Hypolite, DT, 6-1, 299, Colorado

Pete Ittersagen, CB, 5-10, 191, Wheaton

Tyler Lorenzen, TE, 6-5, 226, Connecticut

Mike McClendon, RB, 5-9, 196, North Alabama

Jeremy Navarre, DE, 6-3, 283, Maryland

Cecil Newton, C, 6-2, 300, Tennessee State

Kevin Patterson, SS, 5-10, 185, Wake Forest

Todd Peterson, WR, 6-4, 215, Nebraska

Johnny Williams, LB, 6-2, 236, Kentucky

Julius Williams, DE, 6-2, 260, Connecticut

Jags draft DB Derek Cox: Was he worth a 2 and a 7?

2009-04-26T23:51:00.000-07:00

via www.jaguars.com

"You get a guy who you feel is a second-round talent. That’s why you do it," Smith said of why he made the trade.

If you don't already know, Gene Smith and company traded our 2009 7th round pick and our 2010 2nd round pick to the Patriots for their 2009 third round pick that immediately followed our 2009 third round pick. This was a move to get William and Mary DB Derek Cox. William and Mary? Is that his parents?

No, William and Mary is a small college that produced Darren Sharper, Mike Leach, and Mike Tomlin. That said, was Derek Cox worth next years second round pick? Well, he must be worth the trade for this to have a chance at this making sense as Gene Smith has never done anything that didn't make sense to me. He did mention, in an interview that I can't find, that he knew the criticism would come when they picked Cox, just as criticism came when they picked DB Rashean Mathis. Mathis was a small-school player that wasn't regarded to be drafted as high as he was, but Smith knew he had talent, that he represented value and Smith made sure to collect value-this is the point of the draft.

These FCS, or Division I-AA, players tend to flourish in Jacksonville. Off the top of my head, I can name starting cornerback Rashean Mathis, a Pro Bowler, and starting weak-side linebacker Justin Durant. These are two defensive starters that were drafted in the second round, which is what we spent on Cox. The Jaguars can scout these small-school guys, the problem has always been who they pick. Will Derek Cox be the right starting cornerback? I can't say. I do know that he stands 6'1" and weighs 180 pounds. These are great paper measurables, so we have that going for us. But let's not forget what only paper measurables mean.....Matt Jones. Cox, however, has great character going for him, which is one of the stamps of the new "Gene Smith Era".

Jaguars.com had the following to say about Cox off the field:

"Derek Cox brings a lot more to Jacksonville than just his football accomplishments. Cox played under head coach Jimmye Laycock at William & Mary and was one of only four players in the coach’s 30-year tenure to be named team captain for two seasons. Cox was elected as the Student Athletics Advisory Council (SAAC) President for the 2008-09 athletics year and was presented the 2008 Leadership Award by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. In addition, he was part of the gospel choir at William & Mary and the group performed at local churches and different campuses around the area. "

I recommend that we all sit back and trust Gene until he proves himself to be an inadequate GM. However, the best GM's miss picks, but this will not be written off if missed. The move to get the pick was a big deal and affects not only this draft, but next years as well. This move was purposeful, with vision in mind and that alone makes it feel better. He was special and they wanted him because he could change our defense, for the better.

"Judge him when he gets here," Smith said.

We will Gene, and I hope you prove yourself. I genuinely do.

-Brandon Clark

Jaguars 2009 Draft Class: A quick look

2009-04-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

1st round..LT Eugene Monroe(best pass protector in the draft. Absolute steal!)
2nd round..LT Eben Britton (Britton will play RT or RG and wants to punish the teams who skipped him in the 1st)
3rd round…DT Terrance Knighton( Big 6'3" 320 lb run stuffer, GM Gene Smith thinks he can start)
3rd round…CB Derek Cox(trade with pats, we lost this 7 and next years 2, but they feel this guy will start)
4th round..WR Mike Thomas (short and very very quick)
5th round…WR Jarret Dillard (60 td’s in 4 years.. tied ncaa record)
6th round..TE Zach Miller (runs a 4.53 40 and is also an option QB)
7th round (1st comp pick)...Rashad Jennings, HB (bruiser HB from a small school)
7th round (2nd comp pick)...Tiquan Underwood, WR (Special Teams gunner, great leaping ability with wiry frame)

-Brandon Clark

Gene Smith drafts value in 2009

2009-04-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

Pictured Above: Jacksonville Jaguars first round draft choice in 2009, offensive tackle Eugene Monroe.

With Mark Sanchez going early to the Jets at pick 5 in a trade with the Browns, I thought all hopes of a trade were gone. Well, the trade was gone because value far exceeded at each of our picks and I will rest easy tonight because we had a great first day. Thank you Gene Smith.

Jaguars Selections in round 1,2:
Eugene Monroe, LT Virginia- More than value, that is why there was no trade. No one could equal a fixture at a premium position for 10 years. Rare that we get one.

Eben Britton, LT Arizona- My first reaction was that it was odd. Then i heard on Sirius NFL Radio that Gil Brandt had Britton as 22 on his value board. Smart move as this was value that solidified the ends of our offensive line for years to come.

Both of our picks should not have happened. Each of these players represented far greater value than their selection as they both should have been gone much earlier. I am proud to be a Jaguars fan on this day and Gene Smith will have me sleeping easy because I truly can trust his moves as our General Manager. He is a rookie no more as he solidified the tackle position of our O-line for years to come. This leaves me even more excited about tomorrow.

Now I hope for Shawn Nelson (TE Southern Miss) and Jarret Dillard (WR Rice) in 4.

Off-the-wall thoughts:

Bill Belichick is the best drafter ever, if certain contract-year starters don't play for reasonable contracts, he has their replacements, and for much cheaper.

Mangini made our move (he traded down three times-in the first round). Touche.

My prediction of Pat White to the Pro Bowl will be right, as White is the new (wild)cat in town, and I have a 3 year window for him to make the ProBowl.

Andre Smith was the second LT taken.

Oakland did take DHB, and off the top of my head the rest were more than likely wrong.

Al Davis is still insane.

Our new uniform looks great on stage, especially when it was held by a 10-year bookend at LT.

In the words of the late Heath Ledgers Joker, Gene Smith is "a man of his wuuurd-ah".

Quotes:
Eugene Monroe was interviewed by Deon Sanders of the NFL Network. Great interview, Monroe has a likable personality and seeing him genuinely excited to see his dreams come true as a Jacksonville Jaguar, well it genuinely made me happy.

Britton also seems likable, but more because of the now "chip" on his shoulder for being drafted low. This should remind you of someone. Yes, Maurice Jones-Drew. Maybe you've heard of him.

On a Jaguars.com interview, Britton had the following to say:

“I couldn’t be happier. Every team that passed on me is going to regret it,” he said. “I’m going to work my (butt) off to be a Jacksonville Jaguar,” Britton said.

“When that first game comes, somebody is going to pay for it,” Britton said. “People told me I wasn’t big enough, I wasn’t strong enough. That all ends today.”

“There’s nobody in this draft that has a bigger heart than I do. I’m so fired up to be a Jacksonville Jaguar you can’t even believe it.”

Britton is a 6'5" 317 pound offensive tackle that will likely compete for the RT spot or possibly play guard.

I am always for a guy that wants to hurt the other team. It may not sound nice but football is a physical sport. The weaker man loses. This goes for the mental aspect as well.

Positional Needs remaining.
WR
DT
CB
C

Remember, new GM Gene Smith drafts by Best Available Player, not by needs.

-Brandon Clark

Bill Murray and brothers visit the Jaguars

2009-04-24T02:12:00.000-07:00

In Florida for the ninth annual Murray Bros. Caddyshack® Charity Golf Tournament, actor Bill Murray and his five brothers visited the Jacksonville Jaguars for the day and participated in workouts. HAHAHA. Link. Here are some photos.

Height, I promise you, had nothing to do with the outcome.

Bill Murray "helping".

Bill Murray with now slimproved QB David Garrard. I really like that word-slimproved.

Jack Del Rio and Bill Murray go over film.

More slimproved Garrard.

This photo of Rich Eisen is just funny for no other reason than it's "rich".

**Jags photos are from Jaguars.com and Eisen is from NFL.com**

-Brandon Clark

Jaguars Get New Uniforms

2009-04-24T02:02:00.000-07:00

Everyone has seen them so theres no point in the announcement, but here are some photos that stood out to me. Click the picture for a larger version. The first one is hilarious!

Longsnaper/Emcee Joey Zelenka "pokin" fun at Center Brad Meester in the tight-fit jersey.

Greg Jones , #33, our FB/#2 HB is HUGE!!

Rashean Mathis-One of my favorite players spors the home jersey. I admit, they are growing on me.

The new and slimproved David Garrard, on the verge of a ProBowl Season. Yes I just made up the word slimproved and I find it fun to say, much like whippersnapper

New helmet that changes colors in the light. It is base black and when the sun hits, it will turn the team color teal. Much like how cars can shift colors..

**Jags photos are from Jaguars.com Photo Gallery**

-Brandon Clark

Mike Mayock on Pat White

2009-04-21T14:21:00.000-07:00

"Pat White is not a gimmick,'' Mayock said. "He's the type of kid who you want the ball in his hands. I don't care if he's running it, throwing it, or catching it. I want the ball in his hands. Some teams like him as a quarterback. I'd take him in the second round with no hesitation, use him as a Wildcat this season, and try to develop him as a full-time quarterback, because I think he's got that kind of ability.

Quote from SI.com.

This is interesting as Pat White is a solid third round choice to most mock drafters, and I can't even pretend to know what true scouts think of him. I do agree with Mayock that he is a play-maker. He would be around for years and be a great influence in the locker-room. He's a coach's boy. By that I mean that when you say play wr, he says,"Yes sir". When you say play QB, he says,"Yes sir". Pat White is a great guy that I would love to see playing for the Jaguars this fall, although I do wonder how well his WR possibilities are.
I think Pat White's value is increased for the Jaguars because they need youth at QB, this is where he serves extra value. Remember, it's all about value for the Jags. Does his ability to play multiple positions move him up their board? We may never know. Good luck to Pat Whit, I hope his highlights make the top next season.

-Brandon Clark

A Look At Saturday's Draft

2009-04-21T13:27:00.000-07:00

First-off, the Jaguars would like to trade down and collect more picks. This is due to the many holes that are on the team, but don't let that fool you. The Jaguars are every bit set to become a contending team in 2009. Will they make the playoffs? The draft will tell.

The Jaguars needs are WR, DT, CB, SS and line depth all over. Will a WR be looked at in the first round? Many people say that this is a bad idea due to the high bust rate, and Jaguars ability to higher that rate. What are new GM Gene Smith's thoughts?

“Wide receiver is a position on our team that we’d like to see what’s available when we pick. We’re not going to force a pick. You still want to stay with garnering value and getting the best available player,” Smith said.

If they still elect to trade down, Mark Sanchez would be the the catalyst as many teams would love to have the former USC star. The problem is, he might not make it to 8.

“He’s the guy the whole league wants to know where he’s going. Is it Seattle at four? The whole league is saying he’s a pivotal player,” Jaguars Director of Player Personnel Terry McDonough said of Sanchez.

McDonough goes on to say that it's unlikely that Sanchez will fall to the Jags.

Does this leave options at halfback? I've already discussed Chris Wells and Knowshon Moreno as options, but not necessarily at 8, as this appears to be too high of value for both of these players. Gene Smith does want to run a two-back system, but we do have Greg Jones, so factor that in.

“I do feel like you need two backs, a feature back and a companion back,” Smith said.

This does not mean the Jaguars are desperate to find a "companion" back, it only means that the Jags agree with a two-back system. Greg Jones is being paid the money to carry the rock, not just block for it, so the possibility of a high pick at tailback is in doubts. Now, a mid-to-late round selection wouldn't surprise me, or anyone for that matter.

If the draft does magically rob the Jaguars of all great picks before 8 and leave no room to trade down, I could see a posibility of Moreno or Wells, but it's not likely.

**All quotes are derived from a Jaguars.com article posted on April 21, 2009 entitled "Sanchez Draft's Pivotal Player" and written by Vic Ketchman**

2009 NFL Draft: Interior Lineman Leave Question Marks

2009-04-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

I did not know that the class of guards was not that great this year. I hear names and I look into a few of them and I'm thinking,"OK, this is what we got, seems good". Well, apparently they are not that good. After reading former Pro Scout Tom Marino's thoughts on these guys-I left dissapointed. You see, the Jags need depth at the interior of the O-line. Manuwai and Mo Williams should be back and hopefully playing well. The problem that arises is that this years depth isn't that great at the interior, or so it seems.

Read the articles yourselves, and then we can discuss in the comments below.

Marino on Centers

Marino on Guards

Then again, this could just be a classic example of over examining. Although that's not normally a scout's mistake, it's normally the media...

-Brandon Clark

Jaguars Will Draft Linemen in 2009

2009-04-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

Here is a quote from Gene Smith:

"Winning starts up front," Smith said shortly after his promotion. "I don't think you can ever be strong enough in the offensive and defensive line. You have to have people up front on both sides of the ball that can play downhill, that can help you win football games."

How should we take this? We should take this to mean that our new GM will draft an area of need during the 2009 draft. An area of need that has been largely ignored for about 4 years. Gene wants to build up the trenches.

The linemen, on both sides of the ball, are the most important players in the game. Imagine Tom Brady getting rushed around and being sacked the entire Super Bowl. Even Brady wouldn't be able to win-Oh Wait, that happened!

Gene will draft the real "BIG Uglies" and we will win because of it. Look for a DB as well, either SS or CB. More likely Corner because Brian Williams can play SS for now.

This is all strategy, however, because Gene will stick to his board and whoever he feels to be the Best Available Player (BAP) will be drafted. This is just a possible clue as to what that board look like.

-Brandon Clark

Jaguars sign Torry Holt, Look to Add Another WR in the Draft

2009-04-20T18:02:00.000-07:00

Torry Holt signed a a 3-year deal, according to Steve Wyche :
"The Jacksonville Jaguars made headway toward filling their void at wide receiver on Monday by signing veteran free-agent Torry Holt to a three-year deal that includes $4 million in guarantees and could be worth up to $20 million."

This move will finally give David Garrard a legitimate, proven WR. If Holt plays at an average of the last five years, he will get over 1,000 yards receiving. David Garrard now has a chance to prove that he is worth that big contract he received last season. I believe that he will, but time will tell.

Will the Jaguars target a WR in the draft? Of course they will! Jack Del Rio has said this off-season that he would like to add two WRs and two o-linemen. He has added one of each. Holt, and veteran OLT Tra Thomas, formerly of the Eagles.

I still see no possibility of the Jaguars drafting a WR in the top 10. Although, this draft will no doubt contain one WR and one o-lineman, barring any more Free Agent acquisitions.

-Brandon Clark

Will the Jaguars draft a fullback in 2009?

2009-04-20T14:43:00.000-07:00

FB Montell Owens with the block! Right?

The Jaguars are a team that wants to pound the ball on offense, it is their identity. The whole team is built to run the ball and keep the score low, it's their style. Think of the Ravens-defense, the colts-passing offense. Think of the Jags and what do you imagine? You imagine Fred Taylor and Maurice Jone-Drew pushing the chains forward and running over opponents because they want it more. You imagine the clock running down on purpose. This is ball-control offense. This is good defense that doesn't have to play as much as other teams. This is strategy built through the draft. This will become more apparent in the next few years.

The other "big uglies"...

The Jaguars, this season, plan to utilize former Florida State HB and now pro-bowl caliber FB, #33, Greg Jones (pictured above) more in the running game. Jones is no push-over, as you can see. Jack Del Rio wants Jones to receive 5-10 touches a game. Jones is a 256 lb pounder. He will "Move those chains", but that's not what I want to talk about. With Greg Jones receiving more carries, who will play fullback?

The easy answer is special teams standout, #24, Montell Owens (also pictured above). Fresh off a new contract it's wise to assume the FO had a larger role in mind for Owens, as they did with Greg Jones when he got his new contract in 2008. We all should have realized that Greg Jones would become more prominent in the offense with the highest pay ever for a FB, especially with the HB experience. The question does remain, however, whether Owens can be "the" fullback. Owens, like Jones, played HB in college. Owens played in 38 games at tailback (HB) at Maine and was a 4 year letterman. He set a career high with 779 yards rushing his senior season. When he came to the Jags, he had to prove that he was worth a roster spot. He made a niche for himself as the backup FB and stellar special teams play, which primarily led to his new contract that pays him $535,000 this season after the $1 million signing bonus. You can better understand someone by how they spend their money. The Jags FO spent money on Montell, so I take this to meant that he will be the FB when Jones is running or when Jones is just tired-it happens. But, in the event that the Jags do decide to pull the trigger on a true Fullback, lets take a peek at some of the top names.

Quin Johnson, FB (former LB), LSU
6'1", 246 lb.'s, Projected Round-> 5-6

NFL.com Positives: Compact, thick build with good arm length. Lines up in the I-formation and as an H-back. Lowers his shoulder, delivers a good pop and brings his hips against linebackers in the hole. Can be a missile when decisive on who he will hit. Willing special teamer with good straight-line speed for his size.

Negatives: Only adequate height for the position. Lacks flexibility needed to adjust to linebackers and safeties at the second level. Likes to hit his target, but fails to use his hands to ride him out of the play or sustain the block. Hesitates to find a target at times when no one comes into his area. Very inconsistent hands out of the backfield; not a natural receiver. Lacks elusiveness in the open field, although his size makes him tough for defensive backs to bring down. Will hit, but usually not wrap, returners in the open field.

Compares To: LOUSAKA POLITE, Miami -- Like Polite, Johnson is a punishing inside lead blocker who loves to hit. He lacks any sort of running or receiving skills, which will limit how a team will use him, as most now regard the classic fullback as an endangered species. With his marginal speed and tight hips, he can't be used as an H-Back or in the slot with much success. However, if you need someone to consistently clear the rush lanes, he is the best doing that coming out of college.

Brannon Southerlan, FB Georgia
6' 242 lb.'s, Projected Round->5-6

NFL.com Positives: Solid build for the position. Experienced fullback with the athleticism to contribute as a blocker, runner and receiver. At his best blocking on the move. Locates his target and can break down in space to hit him squarely. Keeps his legs churning and maintains good contact with his target. Hits the hole quickly as a runner and has flashed the leg drive for short-yardage success. Earned the Leon Farmer Award for his dedication to the UGA strength and conditioning program and was named a team captain in 2008 despite only appearing in eight games.

Negatives: Flashed impressive leg drive and toughness as a runner early in his career, but has become less of a factor in the running game each of the past three seasons - dropping in touchdowns from eight (2006) to five (2007) to one (on only two total rushing attempts) in 2008. Only marginal hands out of the backfield. Not a natural receiver. Marginal initial pop as a lead blocker. Relies on agility and technique to clear lanes, rather than pure power or aggression. Didn't appear to be the same player this season after missing the first half of the year with a fractured foot. Surgically repaired navicular bone in his left foot will scare off some scouts after he missed the first four games of 2008.

Compares To: AHMARD HALL, Tennessee -- Both players are well-built athletes with a nice blend of speed, strength and natural hands. Southerland plays with a take no prisoners approach as a blocker, as he simply explodes out of his stance to get into the rush lanes as a lead blocker. He is a good route runner who is used mostly on controlled routes, but has the vision to locate the soft areas in the zone. He rarely gets an opportunity to carry the ball outside of short-yardage situations, but his outstanding success on goal-line attempts (scored 16 times on 26 plays) will see him earn a very nice living at the next level.

Injury Report

2008: Underwent left foot surgery after the 2008 Sugar Bowl to repair a stress fracture in his navicular bone, missing most of March spring drills...A summer CT scan revealed an additional fracture of the navicular bone, undergoing more surgery on June 6, performed by Dr. Joe Johnson at St. Mary's Hospital in Athens, Georgia. Doctors estimated his recovery process would take 16 weeks, keeping him out of August camp. He returned to action on special teams vs. Alabama (9/27) and played on offense during the next seven games of the season.

Tony Fiammetta, FB Syracuse
6', 245 lb.'s, projected rd-> 7-UDFA

NFL.com Positives: Very solid build in the upper and lower bodies with long arms. Lines up with his hand down on the line, as well as in motion and in the backfield. Quick to get to the edge when in motion. Takes outs the linebackers and safeties in the hole with a nice pop. Sustains his blocks through the whistle by locking on and moving his feet. Good hands, and can adjust to low throws or those behind him. Runs through cut blocks in the open field. Quick set in pass protection; able to handle oncoming blitzers. Sorts through trash to neutralize the middle linebacker, and has the strength to put him to the ground.

Negatives: Not the wide-chested thumper some teams prefer. A bit slow getting into his routes as a receiver. Gives good effort blocking on the line, but gets ripped off too often. Will be more effective in an H-back or true fullback position because of his lack of height. Whiffs too much as a cut blocker. Lacks flexibility and lateral quickness, which allows defenders to run around or get off his blocks in space.

Compares To: LAWRENCE VICKERS, Cleveland -- Fullback is becoming an endangered species in the NFL, and while some teams might look to convert Fiammetta to an H-Back, his route running just isn't up to snuff to handle those duties. He is better served on dump-offs as a receiver and has proven that he is incapable of carrying the ball. He is an efficient lead blocker thanks to quick feet and impressive strength, but must be conscious of playing at a low pad level to prevent defenders from neutralizing him and using him to clog the rush lane.

Injury Report

2003: Missed all but the season opener of his high school senior year due to a left leg fracture.

2007: Sat out the Buffalo game (10/20) due to a concussion.
2008: Did not play vs. South Florida (10/18) due to a left leg contusion.

All projected rounds come from Walter Football. I chose the top two FB's and Fiammetta was a guy that was brought up on Jagnation a few days ago. Just to be informed, these are some more guys to know. Let me know your thoughts.

-Brandon Clark

Jaguars-Redskins Trade? and Torry Holt to the Jags, Why?

2009-04-19T13:23:00.000-07:00

We all have heard now that the Redskins have maintained a strong interest in Mark Sanchez long after the private workout. "They" say that Redskins owner Dan Snyder is absolutely smitten with Sanchez. When Snyder becomes smitten, large deals happen. Remember Albert Haynesworth's $100 million contract?

The Jaguars, as any half-way informed fan can tell you, are eager to trade down. For two reasons. 1) The Jaguars are a small-market team that does not want to pay the bills of a top 10 pick, especially with one of those currently on the roster and 2) They need picks in the draft, and bad. This roster has holes. There is no better way to say it. The way that you fix holes is to bring in better players. The way that you fix holes long-term is to bring in better, younger players. New GM Gene Smith has stated that he wants to build the team through the draft and not through Free Agency. I am pleased with this stance and I feel that we all should be. This is healthy. Now, working on a deal to bring in Torry Holt is a great move that doesn't compromise Smith's stance. "How? This is a Free Agent.", you may say. Well, Holt is getting old and is not the Greatest Show on Turf anymore, but have you seen the Jaguars WR core? No one on the Jags WR core has a proven track record of needing double coverage. No one on the Jags WR core will pull defenders out of the box to make room for MJD and Greg Jones to run. This is on the way to historically awful. That is why Holt needs to be brought in, this is not an everyday issue. This is not choosing to upgrade, this is "back-against-the-wall" forced situation. Gene would be the laughingstock of the NFL if he fielded no new WR's.
Back to the trade, I have a proposal for the teams. If Mark Sanchez is available and Dan Synder really is this emphatuated with the Southern-Cal, big name QB, then lets trade. Let's trade the Jaguars first and fourth to the Redksins for their first and Jason Campbell. You have not heard this anywhere. This is a new idea.
Jason Campbell runs a Jaguars offense efficiently. By that i mean, he is a younger 2007 version of David Garrard. He doesnt throw picks, he manages the game-well and he can keep a lead that the strong Defense allows for. The Jaguars defense is not the 2006 version, its not even the 2007 version. Its getting old, it has holes, but it also has an emerging David Garrard on the other side of the ball. Campbell would have this year to "chill". To take a breath of fresh air and then to lead the Jags in 2010. The Jags need youth, here it is. We want high-character guys-here he is. This would work for us. Campbell is already 27, so if they want, they could go ahead and trade Garrard for more picks. I, personally, still feel the supporting cast was what faulted Garrard last year. Either way, this could be good for the Jags, even if Campbell is a back-up for a year.

Here is Cleo Lemon's current contract according to Rotoworld:

Cleo Lemon Quarterback 2/29/2008: Signed a three-year, $8.1 million contract. The deal included an initial roster bonus of $3.2 million. Another $750,000 million is available through incentives. 2009: $1.695 million, 2010: $2.4 million, 2011: Free Agent

Here is Campbell's current contract according to Rotoworld:

Jason Campbell Quarterback 2009: $2.858 million, 2010: Free Agent

The only downside of this is that the Jags do lose a late pick, but many people said the Jags should target a QB late, so why not upgrade the backup QB with youth, ability and possible star potential for $1.163 million. If you love what you see, re-sign him for a bargain deal in the middle of the season.

Cut or trade Cleo. Someone will need him, how about the Lions, 49ers or even if the Redskins want assurance for this season.

Let me know your thoughts,
-Brandon Clark

Reflecting on Fred Taylor

2009-04-17T15:51:00.000-07:00

Fred Taylor is no longer a Jaguar, but that doesn't mean that Fred Taylor no longer has an impression upon me. Fred Taylor represented football to me, everything good in football was Fred Taylor. I never met him, but he left a profound impact upon my life.

Fred, to me, was assurance. When Fred was on the field, I knew that down had a strong chance of being converted. Not a lot teams or their fans can say that. When Fred was on the field, all was right in the world, the worries of tomorrow were gone because I got to watch Fred play. When he missed the last few games of 2008 it was like they weren't as big of a deal. They were just football, but when Fred was on the field, it became football. A different game when that man was there, he dipped his shoulders and ran people over, moved his upper body to the left and his feet in every other direction only to run right. The defender never had a fair chance.

I remember in 2007 against the Bills, there was this one play that I will always remember. Fred broke a 50-yarder or so for a TD. I knew Fred was fast. I knew he was "Fast Freddy", but I didn't know he was lightning fast, faster than anyone else on the field. The announcers on ESPN and whatever broadcast I was watching had recently spoke of Fred slowing, of getting old and losing a step. Listen, everyone loses a step, but when you are three steps ahead of everyone, you don't get behind when you lose a step. You are still ahead. You are still Fred Taylor. When Fred broke that run against the Bills, my mouth dropped. MJD can run as fast as he wants, and he is a very fast man but he is not that fast. Don't get me wrong, I love Maurice. Great man, on and off the field, but he is not 28. 28 is special, 28 is "all day". 28 gives D-coordinators fits when they game plan. They know they have to crowd the box, they know that when he is on the field, he might score at any given moment. It's a terrible situation for them. That speed on that play came from a 32-year old body. It was flat-out amazing. It was greatness. It was my hero, my football icon-Fred Taylor.

Fred is a great, he can't be replaced, only remembered. When I watch an interview with him, I feel welcome to be there. I feel like I'm watching a true man and I learn. I learn how to deal with adversity, how to ignore pain and keep going. How to ignore hate and how to be humble. I believe MJD felt the same way. Fred made sure to love this town, to love the organization, the fans. Most of all, he taught that to Maurice, or atleast reminded him of it constantly. He also taught MJD that professional football is a business. Unfortunately, Fred was able to teach him this first hand as he was cut this spring.

As fans, we can't have what we want. We only get what someone else thinks we need. This may be the right move long-term, this may be the right move financially, but Fred is gone. There is no pretty way to say this. He is in New England now and I hope everyone treats him with the utmost respect. I hope he gets the notice he needs to get into the Hall of Fame. He deserves this and the NFL needs him. When players are caught doing wrong for various reasons nowadays, you want Fred Taylor representing your sport. You want the casual fan to say,"Oh, they're no Fred Taylor!". As opposed to,"Man! The NFL is a bunch of overpaid criminals!".

Fred was "the" player to me, you know the one you grew up watching when you knew you liked football but you didn't know how much. You didn't know how special football was for you until that one day that it clicked, when you said,"Man, how long is the off-season?". Fred was the constant for me. He traveled with me through the days when i liked football to the days when I loved football. Nowadays I feel like all I do is analyze football. It might be the only way I can stay close to the game I love. I hope i don't become a "numbers" guy. I hope I don't lose my love for the game only to pick it apart. I want to appreciate the game in the fullest way I can. I want to love the game the way Fred Taylor does. Without Fred, it will become difficult. He was my football figure. He showed me the game and taught me how to love it. Performance, Interviews, and "Ask Fred". All of this showed me what it was to be professional.

No one else will be Fred Taylor, my football hero is on another team-it still hasn't sunk. This saddens me to no end. So I will rebel and wear my #28 jersey. Next year it will be worn less and less the year after, but Fred will never be forgotten. My children, if am lucky enough to have any, will know Fred Taylor. They will learn what he taught me and they will pass this down to their children. Fred has forever imprinted my life and I appreciate what he has done for me. I hope this article shows that.

So,this season I will sit and watch #21 Fred Taylor, HB New England Patriots. I will hear the announcers surprise when he dips his shoulders and runs people over, when he moves his upper body to the left and his feet in every other direction only to run right and I will smile. I will smile because "Fast Freddy" is teaching some other 11 year old kid to love football the way he does, and to respect the game. I will also sit and watch for the Jaguar's identity to be made. It will not have Fred's imprint, but it will have something there. I want to see what is there. Will the man who fills the void fill it in a way that makes me want to tell my future children about him, about his story. Will he impact me the way that Fred did? I doubt it, because im not as impressionable as I once was. However, MJD is on the right road, and I think I am relaxed enough about his possibilities to sit and watch without worry, but, for me, there is only one childhood hero. There is only one Fred Taylor.

Thanks for the lessons and for the memories Fred.

Forever a Fred Taylor fan,

-Brandon Clark

NFL Mock Draft: April 16, 2009

2009-04-15T19:35:00.000-07:00

1 Matthew Stafford
QB, Georgia
Detroit

The league has become a quarterback league even more now, let culpepper start and stafford learn. It will be good, hes got talent around him and after another draft, he will have talent and be ready to go.

2 Eugene Monroe
OT, Virginia
St. Louis

Someone has to replace Orlando Pace, fix it while you know you can. With no line, how do you expect to use Steven Jackson (one of todays best backs imo). Oh and Bulger would like to stand up for a few plays...

3 Michael Crabtree
WR, Texas Tech
Kansas City

Todd Haley plus Matt Cassel plus Dwayne Boye plus Crabtree= strong AFC west contenders. Heard it here first. Look for this team to trade down and grab more picks, possibly with Denver or even Seattle.

4 Aaron Curry
OLB, Wake Forest
Seattle

Lost Julian Peterson, replace him with a younger version. Get a tackle in round 2 like Jamon Meredith, and wr in later rounds, they can be found, ask Housh.

5 Brian Orakpo
DE, Texas
Cleveland

Rush the passer, they dont understand it, but it needs to be done. Alternative pick is B.J. Rajii to replace Shaun Rodgers if they do move him, but i cant make room for possible trades.

Mangenius spent 4 hours in a film room with Sanchez, is this for real?

6 Jason Smith
OT, Baylor
Cincinnati

Carson Palmer and his bloody pre-season face would love a pass protector. Great situation. They can get LeSean McCoy or Donald Brown early in second, then go find a wideout later that can learn. Maybe a few lineman here and there. Dhani will tackle the globe and the competition. Bengals defense was good last year, believe it or not.

7 Darrius Heyward-Bey
WR, MD
Oakland

Al Davis.

8 Andre Smith
OT, Alabama
Jacksonville

Why not? Tape says he is good, he is young and impressionable. Let Tra Thomas teach him to be a man off the field. Let him play, and play well. Possible Pro Bowler at RT.

No Sanchez because you do not invest top 10 money on the bench for a possible multiple years. Trade here is predicted because they know that smith or oher will be available later, trade far enough down and look at Peria Jerry.

9 B.J. Rajii
DT, Boston College
Green Bay

The NT that Green Bay needs to start up their brand new 34 base defense. No question they pick him if he's available.

10 Mark Sanchez
QB, USC
San Francisco

Do you really think Shaun Hill justifies passing here?

11 Robert Ayers
DE, Tennessee
Buffalo

They need defensive end help here. I believe Ayers justifiies it. Does Buffalo believe? I really dont know but this is my mock and they dont get a vote.

12 Tyson Jackson
DE, LSU
Denver

Best 34 end in the draft, build that D.

13 Michael Oher
OT, Mississippi
Washington

Their line is getting old.

14 Malcolm Jenkins
CB/S, Ohio State
New Orleans

It doesnt matter which position he plays because the Saints need both. Theyre pass defense was among the league's worst and Jenkins would certainly start day one.

15 Vontae Davis
CB, Illinois
Houston

Dunta Robinson may not be back in 2010 because the franchise said they wouldnt franchise him for 2009 and they did, also this secondary is not, well-elite. They have secondary issues.

16 Jeremy Maclin
WR, Missouri
San Diego

Chris Chambers is slowing. You don't waste a Philip Rivers.

17 Chris Wells
RB, Ohio State
NY Jets

Thomas Jones is getting old, blah blah blah. Hes still good, but you got washington as change of pace so you get a big guy to go with him for the future. Maybe im wrong, i dont pay that much attention to the jets.
Update: Thomas Jones is holding out for more money...

18 Rey Maualuga
ILB, USC
Denver

34 just got stouter with a hard hitting ILB.

19 Everette Brown
DE, FSU
Tampa Bay

Ooh, wouldnt this be fun to watch across from Gaines Adams?

20 James Laurinaitis
ILB, Ohio State
Detroit

This team is getting better, still no on the playoffs but they just got much better. This guy has been ripped apart by analysts and i wonder if scouts laugh at them.

21 Knowshon Moreno
RB, Georgia
Philadelphia

Brian Westbooks understudy. Who else has moves like this and runs between the tackles. Thats a Reggie Bush joke if you didnt get that.

22 Ebon Britton
LT, Arizona
Minnesota

Youth at the O-line. I hear from a few sites this is where they want to go. I previously had Percy Harvin.

23 Aaron Maybin
DE, Penn State
New England

Production equals a pick on this mock, not necessarily a consensus pick, but a pick none-the-less. Is he a one-year wonder, can he play with the extra 15 pounds? I cant say, can anyone?

24 Brandon Pettigrew
TE, OKST
Atlanta

Lethal for years, keep your qb safe, give him hands that can break away from coverage. This could be great, draft secondary in the next few rounds though because you lost two starters.

25 Brian Cushing
OLB, USC
Miami

More help on the other side of Joey Porter, another solid outside linebacker could confuse teams in blitz packages an make it more of a surprise when Porter enters the backfield, where he seemed to live last year.

26 Clay Matthews
OLB, USC
Baltimore

Bart Scott is gone, use Ray Lewis to train while you got him.

27 Peria Jerry
DT, Ole Miss
Indianapolis

The guy they want magically falls to them. DT has been a whole for many years. Fix it.

28 Louis Delmas
S, WMU
Philadelphia

You guys messed up big! Now you fix it.

29 Hakeem Nicks
WR, UNC
NY Giants

Braylon Edwards....that could change this pick, the browns might have it. Dont blow your shot at a wr, you have no big play guy and i feel thats all you need.

30 Alphonso Smith
CB, Wake Forest
Tennessee

Lost Chris Carr and youre getting old.

31 Larry English
DE, NIU
Arizona

Travis Laboy needs help rushing around the edge. Runningback is a popular pick here. Well, i suppose its a possibility, so is another round. Sack the QB.

32 Alex Mack
O-lineman, California
Pittsburgh

You know why this is the pick. I do not need to explain.

Comments welcome,
Brandon Clark

Jones-Drew's New Deal

2009-04-15T12:40:00.001-07:00

MJD can now come home to mini-camp as the third highest paid runningback in the league.

Per NFL.com, "NFL.com's Steve Wyche reports that the contract extension is worth nearly $33 million. That makes Jones-Drew the third-highest-paid running back in the NFL, and the contract features the third-highest salary guarantees."

Some quotes from Jaguars.com Article on the deal:

“The Jaguars didn’t have to do this. They wanted to; they felt that way about me,” Jones-Drew said as he sat at a press conference, flanked by Smith and Del Rio.

“Some guys get paid and shut it down. That’s not the way I am,” Jones-Drew added.

“It’s an opportunity to reward one of our own. Maurice is someone I’d like to have as a son. The leadership qualities he has are well-respected by his teammates,” Smith said.

“I’m really happy to have this done. Gene and I want to collect guys like Maurice,” Del Rio said. “We feel it’s his time.”

“When you have a guy like Maurice being your feature back of the future, it’s a feeling of comfort. It’s a good year for running backs,” Smith said, referring to the draft, “and it’s still a position of interest if it can improve our roster.”

Mock Draft: April 14, 2009

2009-04-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

1 Matthew Stafford
QB, Georgia
Detroit

The league has become a quarterback league even more now, let culpepper start and stafford learn. It will be good, hes got talent around him and after another draft, he will have talent and be ready to go.

2 Eugene Monroe
OT, Virginia
St. Louis

Someone has to replace Orlando Pace, fix it while you know you can. With no line, how do you expect to use Steven Jackson (one of todays best backs imo). Oh and Bulger would like to stand up for a few plays...

3 Michael Crabtree
WR, Texas Tech
Kansas City

Todd Haley plus Matt Cassel plus Dwayne Boye plus Crabtree= strong AFC west contenders. Heard it here first. Look for this team to trade down and grab more picks, possibly with Denver or even Seattle.

4 Aaron Curry
OLB, Wake Forest
Seattle

Lost Julian Peterson, replace him with a younger version. Get a tackle in round 2 like Jamon Meredith, and wr in later rounds, they can be found, ask Housh.

5 Brian Orakpo
DE, Texas
Cleveland

Rush the passer, they dont understand it, but it needs to be done. Alternative pick is B.J. Rajii to replace Shaun Rodgers if they do move him, but i cant make room for possible trades.

6 Jason Smith
OT, Baylor
Cincinnati

Carson Palmer and his bloody pre-season face would love a pass protector. Great situation. They can get LeSean McCoy or Donald Brown early in second, then go find a wideout later that can learn. Maybe a few lineman here and there. Dhani will tackle the globe and the competition. Bengals defense was good last year, believe it or not.

7 B.J. Raji
DT, BC
Oakland

This free's up the ends. Maybe they want a hyrbid for some reason, i dont know why, its al davis. But, this would help free the de's they have. Replace Warren Sapp with a lesser version, or is he?

8 Andre Smith
OT, Alabama
Jacksonville

Why not? Tape says he is good, he is young and impressionable. Let Tra Thomas teach him to be a man off the field. Let him play, and play well. Possible Pro Bowler at RT.

No Sanchez because you do not invest top 10 money on the bench for a possible multiple years. Trade here is predicted because they know that smith or oher will be available later, trade far enough down and look at Peria Jerry.

9 Malcolm Jenkins
CB, Ohio State
Green Bay

S or Corner, it doesnt matter because Green Bay can move personnel around to adjust. Defensive secondary needs long-term talent. Here it is.
Maybe im wrong and they get a hybrid like Maybin or Brown.

10 Mark Sanchez
QB, USC
San Francisco

Do you really think Shaun Hill justifies passing here?

11 Robert Ayers
DE, Tennessee
Buffalo

They need defensive end help here. I believe Ayers justifiies it. Does Buffalo believe? I really dont know but this is my mock and they dont get a vote.

12 Tyson Jackson
DE, LSU
Denver

Best 34 end in the draft, build that D.

13 Michael Oher
OT, Mississippi
Washington

Their line is getting old.

14 Peria Jerry
DT, Mississippi
New Orleans

Sedrick Ellis was the only DT with a sack last year and he had 4. Let Jerry rotate with all the other DT's at first and then take over. Oh, out of all active DT's for New Orleans last year, only Ellis will be under 31 next year. They did have one rookie injured but he was a late round flyer. Stop the run in the NFC South.

15 Vontae Davis
CB, Illinois
Houston

Dunta Robinson may not be back in 2010 because the franchise said they wouldnt franchise him for 2009 and they did, also this secondary is not, well-elite. They have secondary issues.

16 Jeremy Maclin
WR, Missouri
San Diego

Chris Chambers is slowing. You dont waste a Philip Rivers.

17 Chris Wells
RB, Ohio State
NY Jets

Thomas Jones is getting old, blah blah blah. Hes still good, but you got washington as change of pace so you get a big guy to go with him for the future. Maybe im wrong, i dont pay that much attention to the jets.
Update: Thomas Jones is holding out for more money...

18 Rey Maualuga
ILB, USC
Denver

34 just got stouter with a hard hitting ILB.

19 Everette Brown
DE, FSU
Tampa Bay

Ooh, wouldnt this be fun to watch across from Gaines Adams?

20 James Laurinaitis
ILB, Ohio State
Detroit

This team is getting better, still no on the playoffs but they just got much better. This guy has been ripped apart by analysts and i wonder if scouts laugh at them.

21 Knowshon Moreno
RB, Georgia
Philadelphia

Brian Westbooks understudy. Who else has moves like this and runs between the tackles. Thats a Reggie Bush joke if you didnt get that.

22 Percy Harvin
WR, Florida
Minnesota

A downfield threat for whoever plays QB, also a dump option for when they get chased. Maybe a O-lineman here, but i thought they were rated too high, just me. Production equals a pick on this mock.

23 Aaron Maybin
DE, Penn State
New England

Production equals a pick on this mock, not necessarily a consensus pick, but a pick none-the-less. Is he a one-year wonder, can he play with the extra 15 pounds? I cant say, can anyone?

24 Brandon Pettigrew
TE, OKST
Atlanta

Lethal for years, keep your qb safe, give him hands that can break away from coverage. This could be great, draft secondary in the next few rounds though because you lost two starters.

25 Brian Cushing
OLB, USC
Miami

More help on the other side of Joey Porter, another solid outside linebacker could confuse teams in blitz packages an make it more of a surprise when Porter enters the backfield, where he seemed to live last year.

26 Clay Matthews
OLB, USC
Baltimore

Bart Scott is gone, use Ray Lewis to train while you got him.

27 Darius Butler
CB, Connecticut
Indianapolis

Kelvin Hayden is overrated imo and they need to strengthen this, and i believe this is value

28 Louis Delmas
S, WMU
Philadelphia

You guys messed up big! Now you fix it.

29 Hakeem Nicks
WR, UNC
NY Giants

Braylon Edwards....that could change this pick, the browns might have it. Dont blow your shot at a wr, you have no big play guy and i feel thats all you need.

30 Alphonso Smith
CB, Wake Forest
Tennessee

Lost Chris Carr and youre getting old.

31 Larry English
DE, NIU
Arizona

Travis Laboy needs help rushing around the edge. Runningback is a popular pick here. Well, i suppose its a possibility, so is another round. Sack the QB.

32 Eben Britton
OT, Arizona
Pittsburgh

You know why this is the pick. I do not need to explain.

Comments welcome.

Who is the best halfback in the 2009 NFL Draft?

2009-04-11T20:08:00.001-07:00

Chris Wells, HB Ohio State and Knowshon Moreno, HB Georgia are the consensus top two Halfbacks in the 2009 NFL Draft. Lets examine and discuss.

Wells: Deadly spin move that actually did remind me of Fred Taylor. When he runs he is no doubt a downhill runner. Not nearly as agile as fred but i can see resemblances from time to time. Has great speed within 10 yards and uses it every time he has the ball. Good but not great stiff arm. Good because of upper-body strength, not great because he is not a vicious runner. Most likely a mentality deal. If he was to throw his hand and/or body at the defender. It would hurt and remind people of LT’s stiff arm. As Slvrgun said, he lacks top end speed. This is very noticeable in all of his highlights. After 40 yards he starts to slow and he seems to top out at about 50 yards. Bare with me on those, its hard to know for sure with direction changes and not knowing how tired he was in situations. In the open space, Wells will flatten you. The only problem is he shys away to go out of bounds when he understands only a yard or so will be gaine by slamming into someone(this is normally after the first down, but i did not see instances where he was short and ran out. they may be there). Wells needs to work on a fight mentality. He needs to want it. He can be much better than moreno.(bare with me). Wells can hit the line at the goal-line and win.

Moreno: Very agile. Not as fast or as quick as i remembered or heard. He has speed, dont get me wrong. His speed is just not noticeable, it simply works. Now if you take that to a higher level, how great is it? He is a very intelligent runner. He has great field vision. When he is running, he is simultaneously setting the defenders up to allow him to keep going. He is also searching for more yards. A slower Jeremy Maclin in the open field. I say that because they are both searchers and pace themselves to get more yards. Moreno can move around well within a pile. Once he gets out, he will get caught unless he outsmarts the defenders. He is normally able to do that. Moreno wont move the line consistently due to size, but no one has the quick cuts that moreno has. It is amazing to watch.

Verdict: Wells can be the better of the two. He is physically more capable. The only thing that pushes Moreno on the same level is the agility factor. Moreno is smooth in his cuts. Wells looks stiff and too straight-up. Its almost like Wells is still figuring out what to do. Which makes me like him even more, this leads me to believe Wells has a higher ceiling. Look up highlights of both players and watch their spin moves, watch their 5 to 10 yard explosion. Wells is quicker, faster, and harder to tackle. Moreno is harder to find. Wells does lack top end spend, but how many times do you need to keep speeding up after 50 yards? Even MJD doesnt need that. Chris Johnson, fast as he is. How many 55 yard runs did he have? Wells is the better of the two. He is not Fred Taylor, but Wells can get much better than he is with the proper coaching. I still dont know about top 10. I guess it depends who is taken. If both quarterbacks are gone, and Maclin. I would be fine with wells.

these are my thoughts, and are nothing more than what i honestly see. Im just a fan and this is my first off-season getting into prospects, i just call it like i see. Lets discuss

As i posted on Big Cat Country

Both have played LSU, although in different years. Here are the stats:
Knowshon Moreno 2008
21 car, 163 yds, 7.8 avg. Lng 68 yds, 1td. 2 rec, 9 yards

Chris Wells, 2007 National Championship
20 car, 146 yds, 7.3 avg. Lng 65 yds, 1td. 0 rec, 0 yards
Really too similar to differ on over the other, so well stick with the video.

Late Round WR Prospects in 2009 NFL Draft: Jarret Dillard, WR Rice Owls

2009-04-07T20:51:00.000-07:00

Look at the concentration, along with the faceguarding by that excellent Texas defender.

Jarret Dillard is a WR for the Rice Owls.
per his ESPN stats page, he is an impressive wr. He is tied for the most touchdowns in NCAA history with 60. His veritcal is currently 42" and he wants to move it up to 47".

2008 stats
87 receptions
1,310 yards
20 TD's

Career stats (4 years)
292 receptions
4,138 yards
60 TD's

Dillard's combine stats as listed on NFL.com.

NFL Combine Stats
40 yd dash: 4.57 sec
13 reps at 225 lb.'s
42.5 vertical jump, first among wr's
10'9" Broad Jump, tied for first among wr's
7.10 on 3-cone drill
4.41 20-yard shuttle

For three years in a row Jarret Dillard has had thousand yard seasons. If your wondering if Rice is the only reason you havent heard of him, youre wrong. The reason Dillard has flown under the radar is because of his size. Dillard stands 5'11" and weighs only 185 pounds. Will this be a factor in his transition to the NFL or will he be the next Steve Smith and defy all odds? Lets look at some scouting reports by people who know more than me:

FF Toolbox overview: Dillard is a small wide receiver who plays bigger than his size. He is very fast (having been clocked in the upper 4.30s-lower 4.40s range). He is a more polished route runner than many of the other small school WR prospects. Dillard is very explosive and athletic; A home run threat any time he has the ball. Because of his size, Dillard has trouble getting a quick break off the line -- he has been overpowered with relative ease as a blocker.

New Era Scouting's positives: Ultra productive in three plus years as Rice’s main offensive threat. Has continuously outperformed expectations throughout his football career. Holds the NCAA record for career touchdown receptions. Elite level leaping ability and body control. Will consistently attack the ball at its highest point, and can make circus catches from time to time. Extremely dangerous on fly routes and jump balls in the endzone. Has a lanky frame with long arms. Plays about three inches taller than he actually is. Won’t blow you away, but can surprise you with his speed in zone coverage. Runs crisp routes and gets low with most of his cuts. Possesses very soft hands, and extends to haul in passes well away from his body. Doesn’t need to be wide open in order to make a big catch. Has a decent-to-good first step off the line of scrimmage. Extremely hard worker who is in outstanding shape and has a near perfect bill of health. A team leader who is well spoken and brings zero character concerns.

New Era Scouting's Negatives: Very athletic overall, but not much of a burner. Doesn’t play very physical and will be easily knocked off his route at the next level. Needs to get stronger in both his upper and lower body. His weaker level of competition at Rice is a bit of a question mark. Undersized and likely suited for a slot receiver role, but won’t be able to run away from NFL nickel backs as a #3 wideout. Not the most explosive player you’ll find at his position. Is only average in his ability to change directions in the open field. Won’t be able to create nearly as much separation from defenders as he did at the college level. Might never become the deep threat he’s capable of being due to a lack of top end speed.

NFL.com: Positives: Productive receiver with long arms and adequate size. Very reliable hands, snatching the ball away from his body. Can free himself off press coverage using his hands and quick movements on the line. Excellent route-runner as he stays low in his cuts, sells the jerk route well and does not round off out-cuts. Good vision and a naturally elusive runner with the ball in his hands. Lulls defenders to sleep off the line, then takes off down the seam. Adjusts to throws to his outside shoulder.

NFL.com: Negatives: Lacks great athleticism and explosiveness off the line. Lacks the pure speed to separate from corners or safeties. Has trouble getting to corners and linebackers to block at the second level. Gets knocked off his routes too easily. Won't win many battles for the ball in the air because of relatively weak hands and vertical, although he can shield the defender. Likely a slot receiver. Must adapt to a new quarterback after building a great relationship with Clement.

Jarrett Dillard footage and interview, along with coach's take

Jarrett Dillard Phone Interview

Stuff to Know

Houstonist: "...Dillard and quarterback Chase Clement set an NCAA record for most quarterback-to-receiver career touchdowns (41).For his career, Dillard leaves Rice as one of the most potent receivers in NCAA history. His 60 career touchdowns is an NCAA record for wide receivers. Dillard also holds the NCAA record for most games with a touchdown catch in a season (13) and he also set the record for most consecutive games with a touchdown catch (13) back in 2006. Dillard has also recorded 37 games with a touchdown which is also an NCAA record."

Rivals.com: "His is an inspirational story that any player who was ignored by the powerful programs can find solace in, especially since Rice prevailed in a less-than-intense recruiting race with Division III Wabash to get him.

Dillard beat the odds through hard work, determination, commitment and three squares a day. He has spent the past several weeks at the D1 training complex in Franklin, Tenn., hoping to become the first Rice player in six years to be selected in the NFL draft.

'I never dreamed this and I never expected to be here,' Dillard said a few minutes before starting another grueling workout, which has become as much a part of his daily routine as brushing his teeth. 'I thought I'd go to Rice, play my heart out and graduate. But here I am in Nashville, training for the NFL Combine. I never knew anybody from my high school who could tell me about this experience. I guess I'm a trailblazer.'

Ironically, Dillard was signed by a coach that only halfway liked to throw the ball. Porter Dillard said then-Rice coach Ken Hatfield offered a scholarship at the last minute because another prospect turned down the Owls and that Jarett had the grades to meet Rice's demanding academic standards."

Daily Texan Online: "I know exactly where he is going to be," Clement said. "I don’t ever have to worry about him running the wrong route or taking seven steps when he should take six."

"I can tell by his eyes if I’m open or not, if somebody’s on my tail," Dillard said. "If he gives me those eyes, I know it’s coming and I’ll just run with him. It’s just natural between us."

1530 Homer: Rice receiver Jarrett Dillard says the combine has no way to "measure heart" -- spoken like a guy who measured 5-10.

Said the Bengals and Jaguars have shown the most interest in him.

Contracts for the Jaguars: Halfbacks and Fullbacks Edition

2009-04-07T20:27:00.000-07:00

In this article, I want to examine the amount of money flowing into the backfield of our Jacksonville Jaguars.

Through this, you will see how little money Maurice Jones-Drew is making, sadly enough. Many on here have brought up and participated in conversations that circulate around this issue, therefore, I decided I would dig a little deeper. The best way to know someone, is to evaluate how they spend their money. If we find too much money spent on the backs, can we justify another top money venture on one? I'll let you discuss it.

At this Rotoworld link, you will find all current Jacksonville Jaguars contracts.

Here is FB1/HB2 Greg Jones'contract:

2/13/2008: Signed a five-year, $17.4 million contract. The deal included a $2.5 million signing bonus and a $1.5 million roster bonus in the first year. Another $3 million is available through incentives. 2009: $2.48 million (+ $500,000 roster bonus), 2010: $3 million, 2011: $3.1 million, 2012: $3.4 million, 2013: Free Agent

HB1 Maurice Jones-Drews'contract:

7/26/2006: Signed a four-year, $2.75 million contract. The deal includes $1.2 million guaranteed. 2009: $530,000, 2010: Free Agent

HB3 Alvin Pearman's contract

2009: $620,000, 2010: Free Agent

FB2 Montell Owens' contract:

1/21/2009: Signed a four-year, $4.20 million contract. The deal included a $1 million signing bonus. 2009: $535,000, 2010: $715,000, 2011: $950,000, 2012: $1 million, 2013: Free Agent

HB3 Chauncey Washington's contract

6/26/2008: Signed a four-year, $1.765 million contract. The deal included a $60,000 signing bonus. 2009: $385,000, 2010: $470,000, 2011: $555,000, 2012: Free Agent

FB Anthony Cotrone's contract

Cotrone is still listed on the roster via the official website, but does not currently have a contract that I can find.

Now, You have seen the contracts. let's break it down by year for the next two seasons.

2009 (by financial value to the team):

Greg Jones: $2.98 million

Alvin Pearman: $620,000

Montell Owens: $535,000

Maurice Jones-Drew: $530,000

Chauncey Washinton: $385,000

Anthony Cotrone: $?

2010 (also by financial value to the team):

Greg Jones: $3 million

Montell Owens: $750,000

Chauncey Washington: $470,000

Maurice Jones-Drew: He will be employed by the Jaguars during this year.

Alvin Pearman and Anthony Cotrone are up for FA

The total hit on the 2009 salary cap is currently $5,050,000

For 2010, the hit is $4,185,000.

Keep in mind, these numbers will escalate once Maurice Jones-Drew gets his new contract, which should be in the $8 million a year range. For those of you who don't know, MJD and the Jaguars are reportedly very close on the new contract. Although, MJD did miss the first voluntary workout on Monday, there is no way the Jaguars organization is stupid enough to not meet his demands.

Now, if the Jaguars were to draft a running back at pick number 8, how would it affect the numbers? Let's use Darren McFadden's contract with the Raiders last year. McFadden was taken 5th overall, so our contract will not be as expensive. That being said, it will be close enough to use as a guide due to the fact that contracts escalate so much within the top 10 every year.

McFadden Contract

6/5/2008: Signed a six-year, $60 million contract. The deal contains $26 million guaranteed, including a $6.4 million "log" bonus. 2009: $3,281,250 (+ $5 million roster bonus), 2010: $3,937,500, 2011: $4,593,750, 2012: $5.25 million, 2013: $660,000, 2014: Free Agent.

After looking at this, we can tell that a halfback at #8 would add roughly $3 million dollars this year, while he sits on the bench (potentially). That is a financial reason to not draft one that high, although, if Gene feels like one of these backs is a potential Hall of Famer, we'll draft him. End of discussion.

At the end of the day, all we can do is hope BAP is not a position that we have cash tied up in. I know its on the collective mind of our Front Office.

For better or worse,

-Brandon

**Once again, edited by silencecs on BigCatCountry.com**
Since BigCatCountry frontpaged this article, it landed as the top read in the news section for the Jaguars on Sports Illustrated. WOW!
SI link here

2009-Garrard Ready to Evolve

2009-04-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

Garrard is not currently the guy that will take you to the superbowl, put the whole team on his back and "throw" us to the Lombardi Trophy. He may run and accurately pass us there, but that's all we can hope for right now. The question remains, can he evolve into "that guy"?

Lets review Garrard.

My first thoughts of Garrard last year are the supporting cast. We know who the WR's were, and we know that maybe they could have started for Seattle last year...maybe. The offensive line was in shambles, and we all knew this after we lost to a Titans team that we would've crushed the year prior. The 2008 season was going to be a disappointment. How bad? We didn't know for sure, so, we as fans were forever optimistic?

Then, ever so slowly, it happened. Like the sun setting on a beautiful day, suddenly, we looked up and noticed it was gone, only a fleeting memory remained. This occurred at differing times for each one of us. For some, it may have been by halftime of the first week. For me, however, it was the Bengals game we lost. I lasted throughout the Browns game because i felt like I saw a drive in Matt Jones I hadn't seen before. This excitement held the disillusionment at bay, momentarily at least. I had just seen a WR play, and in our uniform to boot. He played with drive, he played with instinct, he even knew when to run out of bounds. Then his basketball skills failed him on the tip drill that followed that spectacular run-out-of-bounds play. Most importantly, I saw Garrard learn that he had a go-to guy. This may have even confused Garrard, because he was used to hitting wr's in the chest and then having to back up ten yards, or worse, do it all over because they thought they were there to block, not catch.

In 2007, Garrard led a stunning offense. We all remember our offense emerging to become number two in the league following the bye week. We were behind only the best offense in NFL history, the 2007 New England Patriots. Vic is kind enough to continually point out how Tom Brady and the Patriots ruin our seasons as much as the Colts do. That's a whole other article, though.

That year we saw a QB play, and play good. Some say his interception total shouldve been higher. I say, so should every QB's. What I learned was that Garrard was accurate, Garrard was comfortable, and Garrard could play. Garrard did have a solid line and a running attack that year as well. This led to him being labeled a "game manager". That was his role, and he filled it well. So well he almost made the Pro Bowl. The next year, however, challenged him. He responded well at times, and poorly at other times. He took the hits, threw the balls with a guy in his face and watched receivers fail to catch them. I dont know about you, but that would have depressed me. Now, he did make situations worse at times, but all quarterbacks do occassionally, especially when they're throwing off their back foot.

The only game in 2008 where we looked like the team from 2007, was against the Lions, and thats like cheating. I really do feel sorry for those fans, it's not fair to them. We might look at our current situation and say, "Hey, this sucks, it's not fair". Well, it's fair for all teams, but at this point im rambling.

Back on topic, I truly feel that we need youth at the quarterback position. I don't care what round, I'm no draftnik. I don't understand scouting, God knows i try, but that is all it is. Effort without understanding. I can tell you what I believe, and my belief is that Garrard can evolve into this passer that we want him to be. Garrard has never had a true number one receiver. Garrard could do wonders with a receiver that he knows he can trust. Thats what he does, he plays with heart and he needs the trust, as evidenced by the way he asked the coaches about the team drafting a quarterback. He needs the family feel, the confidence he's the guy. Don't worry about if it's sissy, or if it is anything. Just accept it.

He got that with Matt Jones later on in the season and it worked beautifully. Now, this was not a Manning/Harrison or a Warner/Fitzgerald combination. This was Garrard, finally finding his guy. One that was reliable, but not flashy. If he has the line, and the running game at a slight level above that of 2007, which i believe he will, then he will be in a good position. However, to take full advantage of this opportunity he will need a reliable reciever. I know we all know this, and we can hope for "whoever" all day long, but we probably won't get them. So, what we can do is let Garrard get connected with the people we have, and hopefully, Gene hooks him up in the draft. I know, I know, that's boring you say. Well thats how it is, for better or for worse. That's all Garrard has to hang his hat on, and it doesnt look any better to him either. Let's just hang in there and watch, it's what were best at.

I say we should be true fans, and root for our team before we give up on this guy. He will give his best every play. After all, he has already lost twenty pounds because he felt like he could improve his play. That's commitment, and that defines Garrard. I honestly can't wait to watch Garrard with a reliable receiver that can "move those chains" everytime he has the ball, or even most of the time. I wonder though, will he ever have his chance to prove himself on an even field with everyone else? That means with quality recievers.

So, I will sit and watch Garrard with hope, and a loud voice screaming for him, However, if he does something stupid, I will question him and think about when we skipped Roethlisberger (hey, that's what fans do!).

This is just my own humble opinion, please put me in my place if you feel im wrong. If not, let me know your thoughts.

**this was edited by silencecs on BigCatCountry.com**

2009 NFL WR prospects

2009-04-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

I don't want to harp the wr button too much, but they are getting a lot of chatter so i wanted to express my thoughts. I just watched YouTube videos on DHB, Percy Harvin, Jeremy Maclin, Hakeem Nicks, Michael Crabtree, Brian Robiskie and Kenny Britt.
Bare with me while i throw stats out the window and just comment on what my eyes see. I wanted to test one of those Vic Ketchman sayings and see who makes the biggest difference.
So here is my WR board

1. Derrius Heyward-Bey (DHB), WR Maryland
Do you remember last year when DeSean Jackson ran that punt back on TN and the announcer said he had video game speed and that he made it look all to easy. Well, that's how i felt when i just saw this guy. It was jaw-dropping amazing. Great hands, great acceleration. amazing.

2. Hakeem Nicks, WR North Carolina
Would have Crabtree numbers if he was at Texas Tech. The guy was quick and fast and could break big plays. His hands are amazing.

3. Michael Crabtree, WR Texas Tech
Not the fastest guy BUT he found ways to get open and has glue for hands. It might be because he played QB in high school, but i saw him on this one play run by the corner and look at the safety while slowing, safety looks the other way, Crabtree eases away. He will get yards-after-the-catch in the NFL. But i doubt he becomes a Randy Moss/Larry Fitzgerald guy.

4. Jeremy Maclin, WR/PR/KR Missouri
BIG play guy, always searching who to get behind so he can break free and turn on the jets. He did not run the 4.3 we wanted at the combine, but i think his pro day will be better and he told NFL network he has run a 4.31 before (his best). When he is in the open, he is comfortable and plays that way. He will always search.

5. Brian Robiskie, WR Ohio State
Mr. Smooth. He had a young qb this year, but if you watch him, he was ole reliable. You know like that good tool in your shed that you know will get the job done no matter how dirty or gritty the job may be. He'll run his routes, catch the badly thrown balls, and get all he can out of the play. No one will look for him to make the big play every time, but he can make it every once in a while. His biggest asset is his route-running (smooth) and his concentration.

6.Percy Harvin, WR/RB Florida
Big play guy but i wonder if he can be used correctly. Florida had him at multiple positions so him fitting the nfl offense as a wr could be questioned. He will more than likely be a slot guy. He knows where to go to extend the play and he is a fast man. Not 4.3 like we heard he would be, but he is still fast. His pro day might prove us wrong.

7.Kenny Britt, WR Rutgers
Reggie Williams with hands and what i mean by that is a big, physical reciever who can block extremely well and catch those red zone fades.

Just a quick run-through on wr's coming out this year that i did about a month ago.

-Brandon

since free agency

2009-03-07T22:07:00.001-08:00

The jaguars resigned C Brad Meester and CB Scott Starks. Also signing S Sean Considine from the Philadelphia Eagles.Considine will mainly be for special teams and for depth on both safety positions.The jags still have a need at strong safety or cornerback. Brian Williams will play either but not both.

Gene Smith has stayed true to his word and avoided big name free agency signings. He did target two other players, one of which, C.J. Mosley DT has signed on with the browns. This makes me wonder if the browns really feel like Shaun Rogers might be leaving with all the controversy going on. The other was OT Tra Thomas of philadelphia. He remains a free agent.

On another note Khalif Barnes is in Oakland and has been for a few days. He has not signed any contract.

T.O. got realeased by the 'boys. Character confrontation in the locker room....again. Buffalo wanted to stay this side of the border so they signed excitement.

Here is a thought.

If the team is getting younger, why do we have a 31 year old qb making 8.6 million this season.

Personally, i like david. There is just a a youth movement going on and we cant win now so dont be surprised if there is a trade to someone like NYJ or TB. Watch out for DT BIG John Henderson (30) to be moved as well. I do not have league sources but Charlie Bernstein, the writer for jagnation on scout.com, said in a live chat a few weeks ago that he does not expect him to be in the jags uniform this coming season. Coincidentally it is for the same reason i just stated about Garrard. Getting old, get value while you can. BUILD.

So we will see come draft day, both might be here and get traded on draft day, both might be gone before. Maybe Garrard stays to help increase his worth, but gets a year older in the process.

all i can say is trust gene, he hasnt screwed us yet. He is building for the long term, not a flash in the pan.

Go to www.bigcatcountry.com if you havent been there yet. I say this to all of my readers, which is me.

They let me write two articles, here are the links

kenny britt scouting report

http://www.bigcatcountry.com/2009/3/3/779463/wr-88-kenny-britt-rutgers

what my eyes see at wide receiver

http://www.bigcatcountry.com/2009/3/5/781492/what-my-eyes-see-at-wr

thanks guys,

mock draft soon

Fred Taylor released

2009-02-16T12:01:00.001-08:00

this makes me sad

its a business decision as taylor was scheduled to make over 6 mil this season.

supposedly taylor tried to take a pay cut, but it may not have even been big enough to make a difference

salary cap should be about 24 mil under and hopefully taylor will go somewhere good and get him a ring

Big Cat Country reports

im still just stunned....

Scout.com Big Board

2009-02-11T18:36:00.000-08:00

if nothing else, they generally know what they are talking about so its worth reading

Big Board

todd mcshay probably uses this

Porter, Florence cut

2009-02-11T14:46:00.000-08:00

click here for article

23 million dollars guaranteed money gone.....

Gene Smith is the man!

Our new GM just said indirectly that you help the team or your off the team!

money became a non-factor bc performance was so bad.

the problem with this is now WR is an even bigger need with Reggie Williams likely leaving in free agency, Jerry Porter cut, and who knows if Mike Walker is really 100%. I believe he is, but his knee, i dont know well see

currently we have

Matt Jones, tall and lanky possession guy with no yac yardage

Dennis Northcutt, drops a lot but runs good routes and can get seperation

Mike Walker, 3rd rounder two years ago who missed rookie season and played well in spurts including a 100 yard game against the steelers

Troy Williamson, speed speed and more speed...no hands

we need another one from somewhere, most likely the draft after round 2.

Defensive Back

We absolutely have to draft one, a good one

Mathis (CB) cant cover the whole field

Sensabaugh (SS) might leave in Free Agency

Williams (CB/SS) cant play both spots

so we need a starting SS and starting CB

Defensive Line

Rob Meier cant be Marcus Stroud

John Henderson is not in his prime

Rookie DE's should get good (Harvey, Groves)

So primary focus is on DT

Linebackers

if they are comfortable with Darryl Smith switching from OLB to MLB, then we have no need to replace Mike Peterson with Clint Ingram moving into Darryl Smith's spot but im sure depth is something they want

Offensive Line

Brad Meester (C) will be a free agent.

Dennis Norman (C) his backup is available, and i know hes not as good, but ive heard hes more physical

so look for a center to be drafted maybe later

It appears that Khalif Barnes (LT) will walk in free agency this year, now we have no starter

need one, i hope we get one in FA or we will be need drafting which is what Gene Smith said would not happen. No big FA spending and BAP drafting

Off-season needs are

Starting

CB,WR,DT,SS

possible MLB,C

Line Depth on both sides

not good........

oh yeah, favre retired

Mock Draft 2009

2009-02-08T13:03:00.000-08:00

Revised Mock Draft 2009, post Senior Bowl

Round 1

1. Detroit (0-16)

Matt Stafford, QB Georgia

2. St. Louis (2-14)

Eugene Monroe, LT Virginia

3. Kansas City (2-14)

Mark Sanchez, QB USC

4. Seattle (4-12)

Chris "Beanie" Wells, HB Ohio State

5. Cleveland (4-12)

Aaron Curry, LB Wake Forest

6. Cincinnati (4-11-1)

Jason Smith, LT Baylor

7. Oakland (5-11)

Michael Oher, LT Ole MIss

8. Jacksonville (5-11)

B.J. Raji, DT Boston College

9. Green Bay (6-10)

Andre Smith, LT Alabama

10. San Francisco (7-9)

Michael Crabtree, WR Texas Tech

11. Buffalo (7-9)

Everette Brown, DE Florida State

12. Denver (8-8)

Rey Mauluga, ILB USC

13. Washington (8-8)

Brian Orakpo, DE Texas

14. New Orleans (8-8)

Malcolm Jenkins, CB Ohio State

15. Houston (9-7)

Vontae Davis, CB Illinios

16. San Diego (8-8)

Knowshon Moreno, HB Georgia

17. NY Jets (9-7)

Jeremy Maclin, WR Missouri

18. Chicago (9-7)

Michael Johnson, DE Georgia Tech

19. Tampa Bay (9-7)

Josh Freeman, QB Kansas State

20. Detroit (from Dallas) (9-7)

Ebon Britton, LT Arizona

21. Philadelphia (9-6-1)

William Beatty, LT Connecticut

22. Minnesota (10-6)

Alex Mack, C California

23. New England (11-5)

Aaron Maybin, OLB/DE Penn State

24. Atlanta (11-5)

Brandon Pettigrew, TE Ok State

25. Miami (11-5)

Peria Jerry, DT Ole Miss

26. Baltimore (11-5)

Brian Cushing, OLB USC

27. Indianapolis (12-4)

D.J. Moore, CB Vanderbuilt

28. Philadelphia (from Carolina) (12-4)

Louis Delmas, FS Western Michigan

29. NY Giants (12-4)

Kenny Britt, WR Rutgers

30. Tennessee (13-3)

Percy Harvin, WR/HB Florida

31. Arizona (9-7), Super Bowl Runner -Up

LeSean McCoy, HB Pittsburgh

32. Pittsburgh, (12-4) Super Bowl Winner

Max Unger, C Oregon

WOW what a game

2009-02-02T12:00:00.001-08:00

I first want to say that i felt priveledged to watch that game. Sometimes i just see a game and think "wow". This was one of those games. Another one this year was Auburn at Ms State. I was able to attend that game and i enjoyed every minute of that defensive battle. Final score Auburn wins 3-2.

This Super Bowl somehow topped last years, which i did not think would happen. Arizona looked as if they were victims of a blowout, and then one good play here, one defensive stop there and the Cardinals are knocking on the door to the endzone.

I think what started their comeback was the punt play, where Pittsburgh had the ball at their own 1, and that turned into a safety.

Larry Fitzgerald reminded everyone who he was in the second half, only problem was on their last scoring drive, he scored too soon. That allowed pitt to drive down and throw to Santonio Holmes, and wow what a catch. That somehow made Larry Fitzgerald's touchdown catches a footnote.

Good game to everybody, thanks for the entertainment, the stories, the emotions, and the history.

Super Bowl Pick

2009-02-01T15:14:00.000-08:00

The Super Bowl is about to start and i pick the Arizona Cardinals.

If the steelers win, i wont be surprised, because they have the number 2 regular season rundefense, the number 1 pass defense and the number 1 overall defense. Cardinals pass first to set up the run, but the cardinals just feel right.

Wild Card Saturday

2009-01-03T20:47:00.001-08:00

Colts lost because Darren Sproles is a beast with it.

Falcons lost because Turner played terribly and the Cardinals found a way to run the ball after starting Edgerin James

I was wrong on both picks. Somebody just beat the Titans.

Jaguars Line Ages

2009-01-03T12:49:00.000-08:00

I previously stated that both our DT's were over 31 or 32. I was wrong.

Here are the ages of the Jaguars Big Uglies on both sides of the ball for next season starting Sept 1.

Defensive Line

LE Derrick Harvey- 22 yrs old

DT Rob Meier- 32 yrs old

DT John Henderson-30 yrs old

RE Reggie Hayward-30 yrs old

Offensive Line

LT Khalif Barnes- 27 yrs old (will be free agent in 2009)

LG Vince Manuwai-29 yrs old (IR from week 1)

C Brad Meester-30 yrs old (missed first 6 games due to a biceps tear)

RG Maurice Williams-30 yrs old (IR from week 1)

RT Tony Pashos-29 yrs old

sad to say it...they are getting old. we need lineman. they will work one more year. but spend a 2nd and 3rd on some depth.

i think we have servicable backups for the DT's but we need some youth that can start.

Jaguars Assessment

2009-01-03T12:00:00.001-08:00

I feel the Jags will draft defense first round for the secondary, but they might get an OT. It depends on Free agency and Khalif Barnes. Remember that Barnes allowed 7.5 sacks this season.

Defense

Dump the overpaid Drayton Florence (DB). He allowed too many big plays. I like his big hits, but he gets beat

Find a DT in free agency, let the now 2nd year ends Derrick Harvey and Quentin Groves develop more, Harvey finished with a great game against Baltimore. 7 tt and 2 sacks. His best game as a pro.

Secondary

Two solutions.

Move Brian Williams back to corner and draft a great safety like Taylor Mays who is listed to play either safety position. Versatility is beautiful.

Leave Brian Williams at SS and draft a CB, but if the Front Office allows, players like Dunta Robinson are scheduled to be in Free Agency

I think what we have will work for this year, maybe add depth late in the draft, if the secondary can really be fixed in FA, and we got a LOT from somewhere, then i say MLB first round, but this guys will do this year.

So off-season needs defensively are starting DT, CB/SS and MLB

Offense

first decide if you want to try to work something out with Khalif Barnes (LOT). He said he does not want to be there. He played poorly this year, allowing 7.5 sacks and being apart of a line that going into week 17 had allowed the quarterback to be sacked 42 times and knocked down 121 times. Just think if we didnt have a mobile QB...

Next cut the waste of money Jerry Porter, who i hear is a terrible influence in the locker room.

But the main reason is because he had a ten million dollar signing bonus, missed three games and had officially 11 catches for 181 yds and 1 td through week 16. He was on IR for 17, probably saved some money that way.

Then cut Reggie Williams. I love Reggie's toughness for the game but he drops everything, and as a former #9 overall pick, his pay would be too much to be a backup.

Keep Dennis Northcut as a number 2, let Matt Jones be number one and Mike Walker develop. He has had a rough year this year.

Mike Walker was drafted in the third round in 2007. He missed the whole year due to a knee injury. This year he had a 100 yd game against the steelers, bruised his knee at the end and then it got infected. He finally got that fixed, was ready to come back after Thanksgiving and his dad and best friend died that week. Awful situation. I feel for the kid thats beyond rough. He only played three games after that i think, just cause it was the end of the year.

So off-season needs offensively are possibly a staring LOT, a burner at WR and depth on O-line.

this is all with me not knowing Free Agency plans. I just dont see them spending a lot of money, because they had two busts last year from Free Agency and wasted $20 million in signing bonuses. I hope Wayne Weaver can really pitch in this year. A few pretty good players here and there would set us up to only draft BAP. It would be beautiful.

Playoffs?

2009-01-03T11:49:00.001-08:00

Yes Jim Mora playoffs and the Indianapolis colts are in it.

Saturday Games

3:30 Central NBC

Atlanta Falcons at Arizona Cardinals

Might be the first game ever in Phoenix Stadium that the Cardinals don't sell out.

My Prediction is that the Falcons set the tempo with a run and pass with consistency on the cardinals who have ridden terrible losses into the playoffs. Falcons over Cardinals by double digits.

7:00 Central NBC

Indianapolis Cots at San Diego Chargers

Colts win, because the Charger secondary allows everything despite two great corners. Colts are on fire right now offensively throught the air, but i wont be surprised if the chargers pass offense looks good. The problem with that is the colts are near (if not at) the top of the league in passing TD allowed

Sunday Games

12:00 Central CBS

Baltimore Ravens at Miami Dolphins

I am for the Dolphins because i like Pennington, BUT the Ravens kicked the dolphins in the mouth last time they played. I just dont see the wildcat formation doing anything and i dont see the dolphins beating the Ravens in the trenches, they have an agenda and the dolphins are just in the way.

3:30 Central FOX

Philadelphia Eagles at Minnesota Vikings

Go Philly! A.P. will probably have a good game but miss the endzone again. Donovan McNabb will expose the secondary and make MN draft a corner 1st rd. Brian Westbrook will prove he can carry the rushing load alone. Peterson will field a punt and Philly will keep the lead, it will be close and then the Eagles win by and embarassing amount. Brian Dawkins has another big game.

Jack Del Rio-end of year

2008-12-31T15:52:00.000-08:00

Jack Del Rio did his end of the year press conference. You can watch it on Jaguars.com or read Vic Ketchmans synopsis of it on the same site.

Del Rio, in summary said that they will review all personnel and the people who were a hinderance in the locker room will not be there and that they will bring in people that will help play the football he wants-smart and tough. Sounds like a good linebacker mentality. I love it!

The jaguars need to decide if they want to keep Khalif Barnes (OLT) and Mike Peterson (MLB).

Peterson is older but he is great to the locker room, although him and Del Rio had their scuffle this year, mainly involving contract issues, i see an outside shot for a two year deal. Only problem is Del Rio would undermine himself-this cannot happen. It would be stupid, and make him look stupid.

Jerry Porter needs to get released quicker than anyone in the history of Professional Sports. He had 11 catches for 181 yards and 1 TD. ARE YOU KIDDING ME??!!!

WHat a waste of $10 million dollars.

Next cut the overpaid Drayton Florence, who is ranked a one star on many websites that know more than i do. He also got a ten mil signing bonus. We need a corner so Mathis gets thrown and makes the opposing QB regret it.

We need D lineman

We need a starting Corner

We need a starting LT, especially since Khalif Barnes cant ever remember the snap count.

We need a reciever that can get a little seperation.

Matt Jones is the leading receiver, he averages 63.4 yards a game. not bad, he will get much better, but he needs someone else to take the pressure off and Dennis Northcutt is not the answer, he has butter fingers. he is a good leader but he has way too many drops.

Oh and Reggie Williams needs to get cut, i looked him up and when he was drafted, he ran a 4.5 40. I know thats not the most important. but a top ten drafted receiver should be a little faster right? Anyway, i do not know the official stat and dont care to look it up, because i know what my eyes tell me is better than any stat in this case. Reggie Williams probably came close to dropping more balls than he caught this year. Sorry Reggie, this is a performance based league- you might find a job in Oakland or Detroit, maybe....

And finally David Garrard, say what you want. He is not the problem. Going into week 17, the last game of the season. He had been sacked 42 times, and knocked down another 121. What quarterback can get in a rythm much less perform well with that kind of pressure. Especially when he knows if he throws it, there is about a 40 percent chance the receiver drops it.

Jacksonville led the NFL in dropped catchable balls in 2008. It wasnt Jones Drew and it wasnt Matt Jones. Cut the rest except Mike Walker, he is only a third rounder so he is cheap and he still has potential.

just draft crabtree and be done with it.

Shanahan firing as big as the Favre trade

2008-12-31T15:34:00.000-08:00

In the last few days, circus that is firing coaches at the end of the year gave a great show. The Lions did not disappoint in firing Rod Marinelli, nothing personal but if you dont win a game then you should not be allowed to come back.

BUT story of the day is the firing of Mike Shanahan, the head coach of the Denver Broncos. Shanahan had been with the organization for 21 years and had won two back-to-back Super Bowls in the mid-90s. This was not good enough because since John Elway (their HOF QB) retired Shanahan only has one playoff victory and its about results. Shanahan now has become the hottest Head Coach on the market, since Cowher recently withdrew his name from NY and because an organization like Detroit who doesnt even know what the Super Bowl is would love two have someone whose won it twice-whatever it is.

The Jets fired Eric "mangenuis" Manginni in a somewhat surprising move but not altogether that surprising considering how the epic of a failure the second half of their season was.

Cleveland fired Romeo Crennel, understandably. Although Crennel had a rash of injuries at the QB position this year, I still have to say he handled the benching of Derek Anderson terribly.

Mike Holmgreen has now finished his last year in Seattle, I hate it for him that it ended like this. He is a great coach.

Herm Edwards has one year left in Kansas City and with new management coming in, anything is possible. It does appear though that if he gets fired, they will allow him to resign, thats automatic respect points to me.

On a more positive note, Mike Singletary will stay in San Francisco and I am personally excited about this because i like his coaching style, smack-mouth football-reminds me of Del Rio. Marvin Lewis will get the last year on his contract in 2009.

Dick Jauron will get another year in Buffalo.

As of right now, Jim Zorn is still the head coach of the Washington Redskins, i just felt like adding it in there.

Andy Reid is still in Philly, along with QB Donovan McNabb, I hope Donovan goes somewhere that fans appreciate having a dominant pro-bowler. Maybe Detroit so they can draft a lineman number 1, maybe Tampa Bay-does it really look like they appreciate Garcia at all, they want someone new. Or here is an interesting scenario--San Francisco. Be aware of it.

In Oakland, the Tom "Cable guy" looks to have a lead in the running for the head coach. this does not mean he will retain the job, just that he has a lead going into the interviewing process. Oakland won their final two games, including a win over the favorited Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in a game where their 3rd string HB Michael Bush rushed for 177 yards. WOW! was Monte Kiffin (D-Coordinator TB) that ready to go to TN with his son Lane. Go volunteers i guess.