Jets need a dominant defensive player up front

Since Mike Tannenbaum was promoted to general manager of the New York Jets in 2006, the team has added a ton of talent through the draft and free agency. Whether it’s been Eric Mangini or Rex Ryan as Gang Green’s head coach, Tannenbaum has made very shrewd draft picks, compiling a core group of players that includes franchise quarterback Mark Sanchez, a load of a running back in Shonn Greene, a pass-catching tight end in Dustin Keller, an impact inside linebacker in David Harris, a multi-faceted contributor in Brad Smith, and Pro Bowlers in cornerback Darelle Revis, left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson, and center Nick Mangold. Tannenbaum has also done an outstanding job with his free agent pickups and trade acquisitions, which have included cornerback Antonio Cromartie, inside linebacker Bart Scott, nose tackle Kris Jenkins, running backs LaDainian Tomlinson and Thomas Jones, and wide receivers Braylon Edwards and Santonio Holmes.

Tannenbaum has had his busts—Vernon Gholston, most notably—but there aren’t many general managers in the NFL today who can match what he’s supplied for his coaching staffs over a five-year period. As one goes down the list of players Tannenbaum has picked in the last five drafts, however, it’s difficult to not find it alarming that the balding, overweight general manager has selected just two defensive linemen—Gholston, who was supposed be the Jets’ DeMarcus Ware but failed miserably, and 2006 seventh-round choice Titus Adams, who never played a down for Gang Green.

With Revis, Cromartie, Dwight Lowery, and 2010 first-round pick Kyle Wilson, the Jets had perhaps the best group of cornerbacks last season. Ryan is one of the preeminent defensive schemers, and Harris and Scott form a formidable tandem at inside linebacker. Put it all together, and Gang Green had a defense that was among the elite in the NFL for the second straight year in 2010. Even so, there has been a missing element: dominance from the three down linemen and two outside linebackers. And with the release of Gholston, Jenkins, and Jason Taylor this week, and with free agent defensive end Shaun Ellis turning 34 in June, the Jets are now thin on the defensive line. The only starting defensive linemen currently under contract are nose tackle Sione Pouha and defensive end Mike DeVito, neither of whom is worth writing home about. Thus, the Jets are in a bad spot up front.

Ask any football coach who knows what he’s talking about, and he’ll tell you that the battle is won in the trenches. Of course a team needs a good quarterback to be a consistent winner, but if the best passer won a championship every year, Eli Manning and the New York Giants wouldn’t have been triumphant over Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. With Sanchez, the Jets seem to be set at quarterback for years, and their offensive line is among the best in the NFL. Now it’s time to find some defensive players who can get after the opposing quarterback.

If free agency ever begins this offseason, there are a couple defensive linemen the Jets can grab, including Shaun Rogers and Marcus Spears. But the top priority for Gang Green should be to retain their own players, as Cromartie, Ellis, Edwards, and Holmes had their contracts run out after last season, and Brad Smith, starting strong safety Eric Smith, and kicker Nick Folk were hit with the worthless restricted free agent tenders on Wednesday. That leaves the draft as the best place for the Jets to address their needs.

Draft

The Jets don’t have a second-round pick this April, as they traded it away to the San Diego Chargers for Cromartie last year. So, it’s imperative that Tannenbaum hits on his first-round selection. Although Texas A&M’s Von Miller, Alabama’s Marcell Dareus, Purdue’s Ryan Kerrigan, North Carolina’s Robert Quinn, Cal’s Cameron Jordan, and Wisconsin’s J.J. Watt are all expected to go in the top 20, here are some defensive linemen and outside linebackers who may fall to the Jets at the 30^th overall pick:

Baylor nose tackle Phil Taylor

It wasn’t long ago that Taylor was considered a second- or third-round talent. But when a defensive lineman is 6-3 1/2, 337 pounds and possesses the ability, strength, and technique Taylor does, chances are he’s going to be a first-round pick. And just like that, in recent mock drafts Taylor has gone as early as the 18^th overall selection, to the San Diego Chargers.

According to Scott Wright’s NFL Draft Countdown, Taylor is “very strong, powerful and physical” and “does a terrific job of stuffing the run.” He is “stout at the point of attack and can anchor,” and is “able to take on and occupy multiple blockers.” He has “violent hands and uses them well,” and is “aggressive and plays with an edge.”

Taylor does have some character concerns, as he was dismissed from the Penn State Nittany Lions in 2008 after being involved in a fight at a frat party, forcing him to transfer to Baylor. Wright also mentions that Taylor is “not very fast, quick, agile or explosive” and he “doesn’t always play with proper leverage,” which can explain why he’s “awfully limited as a pass-rusher.”

http://www.draftcountdown.com/ScoutingReports/DT/Phil-Taylor.php

In 2010 Taylor had 62 tackles, seven of them coming in the backfield, and two sacks. As a guy who plays with swagger and a mean streak, one could say he’d be a perfect fit in Ryan’s defense.

Phil Taylor highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezk5xKe_vHg

Daniel Thomas...He's Got A Little Rodney Hampton In Him

Don't be completely shocked if the Giants have a new look backfield this year. It's time to refresh the running game. Daniel Thomas just has the look of a classic Giants running back. At 6'1" 230lbs, he runs in the 4.5 range, and has some shiftiness for a big back. Might be worth taking a serious look at in the 2nd or 3rd round.

Post Your Comments Below and Let me know what you think...

-Augie Tieri

10 Things I am Thinking About Following the Combine

As much as you know you shouldn't put too much stock in the combine, you find yourself glued to the television like it was an episode of the Jersey Shore. (Let's not pretend that you don't watch that trainwreck too) More than ever before, the NFL Draft has become the most captivating event because of the impending possibility of a long, drawn out CBA negotiation, this might be the one and only NFL event we can hold onto for quite some time. In addition, with free agency on hold, this is the only hope our teams have of improving their rosters any time soon. So like I said, I know I shouldn't put a lot of stock in the combine...but...

10 Things I am Thinking About Following the Combine:

1:  After watching Cam Newton throw out-routes at the combine, I couldn't help but think he was trying to hit Chan Gailey in the face while he sat in the crowd in an effort to try to deter the Bills from drafting him. Why else would he throw the ball 50 yds over the recievers' head?


2:  I know there are many Giants fans ranting and raving about Martez Wilson right now. Before you get too excited about his blazing fast 4.49 40 time he posted at the combine watch some film on him:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCcIIuMGi2M&feature=related

You'll find yourself asking...where did the speed go? Oh, and when "Mister Softie" "attempts" to take on blocks...not impressed


3:  On the opposite end of the spectrum was Greg Jones, MLB, Michigan St.  I had very high hopes for him, love his film, toughness, and on the field production...then he shows up at the combine and tanks (4.7 40 time, and merely above average in other events) In the end, I think Greg Jones will be a better football player than Wilson and I feel that all this will do is drop him down to a 3rd or 4th round pick which will only help the Giants in the end


4:  Was the combine in Miami this year, or does Todd McShay get spray tanned between every shoot? And where was Mel and his perfectly quaffed hair doo? Mel Kiper is still the man...One of the only reasons I still watch ESPN over NFL Network on draft day


5:  Wow was Akeem Ayers slow! If Jim Burt ran the 40 with a refridgerator strapped to his back he would have beat Ayers. Ayers ran a 4.8 40 on Sunday...that will probably knock him out of the first round. He looked as if he would have been the perfect fit for the Jets, but with that kind of speed, they mind as well have kept Vernon Gholston


6:  I wasn't too high on Kris O'Dowd after he got abused at the senior bowl practices, but after his showing at the combine, he is back on my radar. Plus you have to love his character:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZwd2__ahMY&feature=related

I would definitely take a 3rd or 4th round flyer on him


7:  I am going to be extremely upset if the Cowboys trade up and take Patrick Peterson...this kid is going to be the next elite lockdown corner in this league. In my opinion, he is the best player in this draft.


8:  What are the Jets going to do with their 1st round pick? I liked Ayers and he runs a 4.8...I liked Rahim Moore and he runs a  4.7...I liked Justin Houston, but he probably won't fall that far....now what? Any suggestions? Muhammed Wilkerson anyone?


9:  Carson Palmer has $80,000,000 in the bank? I know that guy makes a ton of money, but $80 million....really? How did he manage to save that kind of money?  Does he live in a cardboard box? Live on Ramen noodles?


10: All I kept hearing was excuses as to why the most elite QB's in college football couldn't hit a wr running against air..."they are throwing to guys they aren't familiar with"...If I took Jeff George and dropped him off in the middle of the field from a helicopter like a scene out of a vietnam movie, handed him a football, and told him to hit some mid-round WR prospect on a seam route, he would more than likely drill him in the face...Why can't anyone seem to hit the broadside of a barn at this combine? I think Charlie Sheen could have completed one of those out routes Cam Newton threw into the stands. Is it me, or is this qb class extremely overrated because of the desperate need for qb's in this draft? 
   

-Augie Tieri

Mallett steals show at NFL Combine

A day after being cold to reporters, which provided another blemish to pile on to what has turned into a bad reputation at one of the worst possible times in his young career, Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Ryan Mallett put on a quite a show for coaches, scouts, and general managers during the NFL Combine's throwing sessions this afternoon in Indianapolis. According to ESPN's John Clayton, Mallett was the most impressive of the quarterback bunch.

Mallett wins first major passing competition: Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett put on an impressive show with the first group of quarterbacks, edging out University of Washington quarterback Jake Locker, who bounced back nicely from a subpar Senior Bowl. Mallett's strong arm was on display Sunday. On deep seam routes, he was flawless. His fastball delivery on out passes was impressive. Though he struggled with turn-in passes to his left, he was perfect on four throws to his right on post corners and showed great touch on his deep passes.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft2011/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=6164692

So, finally, something positive is being written about Mallett, who's been put down repeatedly in the last month with whispers of his alleged drug use and his intelligence being questioned. While the vicious rumors are alarming, after two very successful years with the Razorbacks and today's workout, there's no doubt that Mallett is one of the best quarterbacks in this draft. Should he fall to the mid-rounds, whichever team picks him may get a huge steal.

Source: ESPN

Mallett’s stock continues to plummet

During about an hour’s worth of interviews with the media on the third day of the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Ryan Mallett was very cold with reporters as they peppered him with questions about whispers of his alleged drug use. The following is from a report by Yahoo! Sports Jason Cole:

Mallett walked away from the podium leaving the questions hanging unanswered in a series of bumbling, and sometimes pompous, replies that had reporters shaking their heads.

Mallett started off defensive and then repeatedly bobbed and weaved his way around the drug questions. He neither denied nor admitted use. Fair or not, some might conclude that the rumors are true.

The very first question in the interview was about the allegations, which shouldn’t have been a surprise. But it seemed that way to Mallett.

“First question, huh?” Mallett said, perhaps expecting that a bouquet of flowers was headed his direction. He then said, “When I saw that stuff, I laughed about it.”

After that came a series of further half-baked answers that led to more inquiries.

“I said I’m not going to talk about it here,” Mallett said, indicating that he would answer the questions only to NFL teams. Keeping secrets in the NFL about drug use is about as likely as growing palm trees on an iceberg.

Mallett then played the blame game, saying, “Obviously, someone did that for a reason, right before the combine.” In reality, the rumors about Mallett have been swirling for months.

Then there was this cocky gem of an answer to questions about his decision-making on the field. Many around the NFL have been troubled by Mallett’s propensity for big mistakes in critical moments. When asked how he answers those concerns, Mallett said: “Seven thousand-plus yards and 60 touchdowns in two seasons. That’s how I respond to that.”

Jim Druckenmiller, Andre Ware and David Klingler are among dozens of guys who have put up stats like that in college only to do nothing in the NFL.

Still, the daunting question about Mallett came back to the alleged drug use. He stonewalled again and again until he was asked bluntly: “This question isn’t going away until you answer. Why not just answer it?”

“Because I don’t want to talk about it,” Mallett said.

Mallett doesn’t seem to get it. His biggest problem isn’t the nature of the rumor. It’s that he wasn’t upfront. He wasn’t candid. No one was expecting him to detail his problems to the media, if he indeed has them. But at least own up to making mistakes in a general sense if you’re not refuting the claims.

If Mallett had said something like, “Yes, I’ve made mistakes and I’m working to correct them,” the questions would largely go away. Instead, Mallett looked like the antithesis of a leader.

In a profession where handling yourself in front of critics – sometimes 80,000 of them on a Sunday afternoon – is a prerequisite, Mallett flopped.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AuFMXhfxbT4EvdJE9G4xhaVDubYF?slug=jc-newtonmallettinterviews022611

It wasn’t long ago that many experts thought Mallett could possibly be the #1 overall pick in April’s draft. But with the negative press he’s been receiving lately, many mock drafts have him falling to the third round. And after today’s interview session, one has to wonder why he keeps digging himself into a deeper hole.

Mallett is expected to throw for the scouts, coaches, and general managers Sunday. He’ll need quite an impressive performance to atone for today’s awful show in front of the reporters.

Source: Yahoo! Sports

Did the Jets take the right quarterback in the 2009 draft?

He’s won four playoff games so far in his young career, quarterbacking the New York Jets to the AFC Championship game two years in a row. He has most Jets fans bragging about him being the best passer the franchise has had since Hall of Famer Joe Namath was airing it out on the field—and painting the town red—in the late-1960s. On more than a few occasions he’s come through in clutch situations in his 37 starts, playoff games included. He also has a superior postseason winning percentage to the New Orleans Saints’ Drew Brees, San Diego Chargers’ Philip Rivers, New York Giants’ Eli Manning, and even the Indianapolis Colts’ great Peyton Manning’s. In fact, the only active starting quarterbacks with higher winning percentages in playoff games than this young man’s are the New England Patriots’ Tom Brady, Pittsburgh Steelers’ Ben Roethlisberger, and Green Bay Packers’ Aaron Rodgers.

So why question the Jets’ decision to trade up for Mark Sanchez in the 2009 NFL draft? Because there’s a quarterback in Tampa Bay by the name of Josh Freeman, another 2009 first-round draft pick, and he himself is putting together quite an impressive resume. During the 2009 draft Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum didn’t trade much to move from pick #17 up to the Cleveland Browns’ selection at #5 in order to get Sanchez, the hotshot quarterback from USC. In the deal, the Jets gave up the 17th pick, their second-round selection (#52), defensive end Kenyon Coleman, third-string quarterback Brett Ratliff, and reserve defensive back Abram Elam. That’s a very cheap price to pay for a franchise quarterback, but if the Jets had stayed at #17, they still could have had Freeman, the rifle-armed thrower from Kansas State who ended up being snagged by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with that same 17th overall selection Gang Green had to begin the day. (After acquiring the 17th pick from the Jets, Cleveland then traded two spots down to the Bucs’ #19 selection. The Browns received Tampa Bay’s sixth-round pick in the deal.) Rex Ryan, who was hired as the Jets' new head coach in January of 2009, was infatuated with Sanchez after seeing him work out about a month prior to the draft. “We saw the great feet, the poise and how confident he was,” Ryan said. “[Offensive coordinator] Brian [Schottenheimer] put him through every workout known to man and he passed every one of them with flying colors. We knew, I think, right then that this was the guy we really wanted.” Ryan and his staff also thought Sanchez was ready to start right away, and they were proven correct. Freeman, on the other hand, was considered a less-polished, rawer prospect who needed more time to develop. That may have been true, but it was to a very slight degree, as Freeman was named the Bucs’ starting quarterback in Week 9 of his rookie year and hasn’t relinquished the job since. As stated earlier, Sanchez has already been to the playoffs twice in his career, while Freeman has yet to reach the postseason. The two didn’t walk into the same situation, however, as the Jets were better set up than the Bucs for immediate success. And while Freeman has talent to work with in Tampa Bay’s offense (running back LeGarrette Blount, tight end Kellen Winslow, and wide receivers Mike Williams, Arrelious Benn, and Sammie Stroughter), Sanchez has played with an all-star lineup in wide receivers Braylon Edwards and Santonio Holmes, tight end Dustin Keller, and running backs Shonn Greene, LaDainian Tomlinson, and Thomas Jones. Sanchez has also dropped back to pass behind one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, led by left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson and center Nick Mangold. The two young quarterbacks put up similar stats in their rookie year, but Freeman blew Sanchez away as a sophomore. In 2010, Freeman posted a 95.1 passer rating by completing 61.4% of his passes—at 7.3 yards per attempt—for 3,451 yards, 25 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. Sanchez, meanwhile, posted a 75.4 passer rating by completing just 54.8% of his passes—at 6.5 yards per attempt—for 3,291 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions. In fact, Sanchez was so poor at one point late in the season, Ryan considered benching him. In addition to Freeman’s superior stats, he also has a stronger arm, is more mobile (364 rushing yards to Sanchez’s 105), and is more stout in the pocket. And while Freeman hasn’t seen postseason action yet, he has shown he can also come through in clutch situations, as evidenced with his five game-winning drives in the fourth quarter during the 2010 season, just one shy of Sanchez’s six. Freeman was particularly outstanding in the second half of last season, when he threw 15 touchdown passes and just one interception in the Bucs’ final eight games. Following his lead, Tampa Bay posted a 10-6 record, which is usually good enough to make the postseason, but the Green Bay Packers, who also finished 10-6, edged out the Bucs on a tiebreaker. With Freeman at quarterback, though, and a large group of up-and-coming young talent, Tampa Bay looks like a team that will be competing for NFC supremacy pretty shortly. But while Freeman has Sanchez beaten in several categories, Sanchez is the one who’s proven himself come playoff time. In the 2009 playoffs Sanchez posted a 92.7 rating by completing 60.3% of his passes—at 7.9 yards per attempt—for 539 yards, four touchdowns, and two interceptions. And this past postseason he compiled a 95.5 rating while completing 60.7% of his passes—at 7.1 yards per attempt—for 616 yards, five touchdowns, and just one interception. Without his outstanding efforts, the Jets likely wouldn’t have recorded upset road wins over the San Diego Chargers, Indianapolis Colts, or New England Patriots in the last two postseasons. Sanchez has played his best in the playoffs, and that shouldn’t be sneezed at. If Sanchez continues to progress in postseason action, it’s probable that he’ll win a Super Bowl title for the Jets. Should that happen, nobody will question the move Gang Green made to get him in the 2009 draft. Until then, however, one can still wonder if the Jets should have stayed at pick #17 and selected Freeman.

What's going on with the Giants' secondary?

Just three years ago, after the New York Giants’ third Super Bowl triumph, general manager Jerry Reese picked two defensive backs in the first two rounds of the 2008 NFL draft. In the first round he selected University of Miami safety Kenny Phillips with the 31^st overall pick. Phillips was clearly the best safety in that draft, an absolute physical specimen and the complete package at the position, with superior coverage and tackling skills. Thirty-two selections later, at #63, Reese used his second-round pick on USC cornerback Terrell Thomas, a tough, gritty player who was good in coverage and unafraid to lower his shoulder to tackle larger running backs, tight ends, and wide receivers.

By making Phillips and Thomas his first two picks that April 26^th day of 2008, Reese thought he put together an elite secondary for many years to come--and with good reason. In addition to Phillips and Thomas, the Giants already had Aaron Ross, who was the team’s first round pick in 2007, and Corey Webster, the team’s second-round pick in 2005, at cornerback. Ross and Webster were outstanding in the 2007 postseason, major factors in the Giants winning a Super Bowl. And with Steve Spagnuolo, the former defensive backs coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, running the show at defensive coordinator again, one could say the Giants' secondary resembled the Eagles' of a few years prior, which had Bobby Taylor, Troy Vincent, and Al Harris at cornerback, and the great Brian Dawkins at safety.

Everything was set up for the Giants’ secondary to be great, so why have there been huge letdowns in big games over the last two seasons? Why have Donovan McNabb, Michael Vick, Aaron Rodgers, and even Matt Moore and Jon Kitna had career games while throwing against the Giants' defensive backs in the last two years?

Well, there are various reasons.

BAD LUCK/UNUSUAL INJURIES

Although Phillips didn’t start until late in his rookie year of 2008, he had a huge breakout game against the Cowboys in Week 2 of 2009, intercepting two passes. Without those picks, it’s doubtful that the Giants would have won the game, the first in Cowboys Stadium, and Phillips looked like an emerging star. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, a few days later there were reports that Phillips’ career might be over, as he was diagnosed with patellofemoral arthritis in his left knee. The pessimistic reports turned out to be untrue; Phillips came back to start a full season at strong safety in 2010. But there’s no denying that Phillips may never be the outstanding player he was developing into prior to being put on injured reserve after that great performance in Dallas. The young safety was beaten for big plays last season, most notably by Eagles tight end Brent Celek in the humiliating collapse last December 18^th at New Meadowlands Stadium. If he doesn’t have a bounce-back season in 2011, Phillips could become expendable.

Reese spent a third-round pick on LSU safety Chad Jones in the 2010 draft. Jones, who also played baseball for the Tigers, was an ultra-intimidating presence in the defensive backfield, often drilling pass-catchers who came into his path: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkzzrciQf9c&feature=related

Jones also had a flair for making huge, game-changing plays, whether it be with an interception or even on a punt return: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znj7t2vawoI

Unfortunately, Jones was involved in a horrific car crash in the early morning of June 25, 2010, about a month before his rookie training camp was scheduled to begin. As a result, he suffered multiple fractures to his left leg and shattered both his fibula and tibia, in addition to arteries and nerves being exposed. His leg was in danger of being amputated, but luckily it was saved after a successful surgery that lasted about seven hours.

Jones has been working hard to make his way back to the football field, but there’s no question that the odds are against him.

REGRESSION

As stated earlier, Ross was a key player in the 2007 Super Bowl run. He also had a solid 2008 season as a full-time starter—although he was embarrassed and victimized terribly by Braylon Edwards during a 35-14 blowout loss to the lowly Cleveland Browns on a Monday night in Week 6. The team had high hopes for Ross, thinking he could be a Pro Bowl-caliber cornerback matched in an elite tandem with an even better talent in Webster. But a disastrous 2009 season, in which Ross was bothered by a hamstring injury and moved to free safety when he came back, seemed to have destroyed his confidence, as he wasn’t able to bounce back in 2010. Now the starting job on the other side of Webster belongs to Thomas, who’s not as athletically gifted as Ross but plays with a lot more guts.

Safety Michael Johnson, a seventh-round pick in the 2007 draft, surprised many in his rookie year and became a full-time starter at strong safety in 2008. Nobody ever thought he was anything special, but many felt he was a reliable player who would flourish alongside an elite talent such as Phillips. Well, in 2009, after Phillips went down, Johnson was exposed as a glorified backup. And after missing 14 games in 2010 with a herniated disk in his back, it’s doubtful that he’ll return to the team when action resumes in 2011.

UNSUCCESSFUL PERSONNEL MOVES

While Reese did a wonderful job in bringing in the talented Phillips, Ross, and Thomas, the Giants’ general manager made a terrible mistake by keeping just three safeties on the 53-man roster heading into the 2009 season. One of the safeties happened to be C.C. Brown, a free agent from the Houston Texans Reese signed in the 2009 offseason. Brown proved to be a complete failure, as he was torched repeatedly in the games he started, and his demotion to backup was well overdue.

His replacement, Aaron Rouse, who was picked up early in the 2009 season after the Green Bay Packers released him, wasn’t much of an upgrade, and the Giants’ secondary continued to get humiliated until the disastrous campaign culminated suitably with a 44-7 thrashing at the hands of the Minnesota Vikings.

The truth of the matter is, Reese and the Giants were doomed after Phillips was placed on injured reserve in 2009. There wasn’t nearly enough depth to make the unit remotely competitive. Reese rolled the dice and ended up losing, big time. And, because of that, Reese was forced to give safety Antrel Rolle, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals, one of the richest contracts for the position. Rolle is a nice player, but if Reese had added more depth to the safety position prior to the 2009 season, he could have spent the money used for Rolle on a linebacker such as Karlos Dansby instead.

BILL SHERIDAN

After Spagnuolo left the Giants to become the St. Louis Rams’ head coach following the 2008 season, New York needed a replacement for the defensive coordinator position. Unfortunately, Reese and Giants head coach Tom Coughlin couldn’t have found a successor any worse than the one they promoted: Bill Sheridan, who was previously the linebackers coach.

The G-men jumped out to a 5-0 start to their 2009 season but then had a historical collapse, losing eight of their last 11 games. Most of that was due to the ineptitude of the defense, which featured a confused secondary that was unable to grasp exactly what Sheridan was scheming. With a massive amount of huge passing plays being completed against it, the Giants’ defense allowed 40 points or more in five of their last 11 games. Suffice it to say, Sheridan was fired, yet there may have been some irreparable damage done to the development of certain youngsters.

Where do they go from here?

Last offseason Reese spent huge money on Rolle, and then added Deon Grant, another safety. After another playoff-less season, Reese may be hesitant to spend big dough in free agency again. There is one player worth going crazy for, however...

Nnamdi Asomugha

The four-time All-Pro cornerback, formerly of the Oakland Raiders, will be the most sought after player once the free agent period begins. It's shocking that he's even available, as Asomugha is arguably the best cornerback in the NFL right now. Others may prefer the New York Jets’ Darrelle Revis, but we’ll take Asomugha, who’s done it for a longer period of time in a less-talented, often undisciplined defense.

Imagine what a secondary with Asomugha, who will be 30 in July, could do with a pass rush that includes Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, and 2010 first-round pick Jason Pierre-Paul. Imagine how Corey Webster could benefit and increase his interceptions with more passes coming his way, since there are very few quarterbacks in the NFL who dare challenge Asomugha.

Whatever it takes, the Giants should do everything in their power to bring Asomugha to New York. This is a player already mentioned in the same sentence as Deion Sanders when it comes to discussing the greatest cover corners in NFL history. And unlike Deion, Asomugha isn’t afraid to tackle: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMawa6WCHdE

DRAFT

There are four cornerbacks being mentioned as first-round talents thus far. One of them, LSU’s Patrick Peterson, is expected by many to go in the top five. Another, Nebraska’s Prince Amukamara, is projected to be picked shortly after Peterson. The other two, Colorado’s Jimmy Smith and Miami’s Brandon Harris, will most likely be there at #19 for the Giants.

Colorado’s Jimmy Smith

At 6-2, 205 pounds Smith is rated by most as the third-best cornerback in this draft. According to Scott Wright’s NFL Draft Countdown, Smith has “terrific height and bulk with long arms and big hands” and “is extremely athletic with excellent timed speed.” He “displays solid instincts/awareness in coverage” and has “pretty good hands, ball skills and body control.” He is also “competitive and confident with a short memory” and has “lots of experience against top-notch competition.”

Smith was a three-year starter for the Buffaloes and was named Second-Team All-Big 12 in 2009 and First-Team in 2010. But Wright does mention that Smith “didn’t make a ton of impact plays in college,” as evidenced with him finishing his college career with just three interceptions in four years. Wright also mentions that Smith “will need to polish his technique and footwork,” since he “doesn’t play quite as fast as he runs in shorts.”

http://www.draftcountdown.com/ScoutingReports/CB/Jimmy-Smith.php

In WalterFootball.com’s latest mock draft it has Smith being taken by the Seattle Seahawks with the 25^th overall pick. Here’s what it has to say about him:

Jimmy Smith is a player who's probably going to keep moving up in my 2011 NFL Mock Draft. His stock is rising right now, and if he impresses at the Combine, it wouldn't surprise me at all if he goes as high as No. 13 to Detroit.

http://www.walterfootball.com/draft2011_1.php

Jimmy Smith highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vY06HXzEb0

Miami’s Brandon Harris

Before getting embarrassed by Notre Dame wide receiver Michael Floyd in the Fighting Irish’s 33-17 convincing win over the Hurricanes in the Sun Bowl last New Year’s Eve, Harris was sitting comfortably as the third-best cornerback in this draft, and there was talk about him being picked in the top 15. But after Floyd finished that game with six receptions for 109 yards and two touchdowns, Harris’s stock dropped at least half of a round, with most now projecting him to be picked by the Pittsburgh Steelers with the 31^st overall selection.

2010 Sun Bowl highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9hBz6ialEg

One bad game shouldn’t kill a career, however, and while Harris finished his time at Miami with just four interceptions in three years, he showed on more than a few occasions that he has superior coverage skills and the courage to step up and make tackles to limit gains by the opposing offense: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0yjcu9CJvc&NR=1

The Giants could probably trade back and pick Harris at the end of the first round. That would open up more opportunities to fill holes if they’re not enamored with anyone at pick #19.

Other cornerback prospects receiving high praise: Texas's Aaron Williams, Virginia's Ras-I Dowling, Utah's Brandon Burton, Virginia Tech's Rashad Carmichael.

There isn’t as much talent at the safety position, as only one, UCLA’s Rahim Moore, is projected as a possible first-round pick—and many believe he’s actually a second-round talent. But there are a few prospects the Giants could steal later, most notably…

Clemson’s DeAndre McDaniel

With Antrel Rolle entrenched as the starting free safety for the next few years or more, and with Phillips’ future uncertain, the Giants need to consider grabbing a young strong safety in this draft. Rahim Moore is not a strong safety prospect, so he doesn’t fit the bill, but DeAndre McDaniel does.

McDaniel was a three-year starter for the Tigers. He was named First-Team All-ACC in 2009 and 2010, and finished his college career with 15 interceptions. His best season came in 2009, in which he had eight picks and 98 tackles. Although his numbers dropped off some in 2010, he finished with four interceptions and 73 tackles, stats most safeties in college would be very proud of.

At 6-1, 205 pounds McDaniel is also a ferocious hitter in the secondary who often goes for the knockout. He also shows proper technique when tackling, wrapping up the ball-carrier’s legs while driving him to the ground. This may have come as a result of him playing linebacker during the 2008 season,

DeAndre McDaniel highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpAk11N3VkM

With all that said, McDaniel is considered by most as a mid-round prospect, which is very perplexing when one considers the plethora of skills he possesses and his tremendous production on the field. But just like Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett, McDaniel has character concerns, stemming from an assault and battery arrest in June 2008. According to published reports, McDaniel choked his girlfriend, punched her in the head and chest, and threw her down a flight of stairs. Obviously, that’s a huge red flag against a prospect, and could lead to McDaniel being taken off the Giants’ draft board completely after they look into the incident extensively.

Other strong safety prospects receiving high praise: North Carolina's Deunta Williams, West Virginia's Robert Sands, Iowa's Tyler Sash.

Most Giants fans will say the team’s biggest needs are offensive tackle and linebacker. While that may be true, the secondary has huge question marks with Aaron Ross and Kenny Phillips, and a ballhawk needs to emerge. To be on the safe side, in a league where the passing game is stronger than ever, Reese would be wise to add more talent to the secondary.

Greatest Moments In Giants History

Click http://realtalkfantasysports.blogspot.com/p/great-moments-in-giants-history.html to take a trip down memory lane and view some of the greatest moments in Giants history. Post your comments below, rank the highlights, and post some of your own.

2011 Fantasy Baseball Draft Cheatsheet

My 2011 Fantasy Baseball Draft Cheatsheet is out. Click http://realtalkfantasysports.blogspot.com/p/fantasy-baseball-draft-cheatsheet.html to view it. Breaks down the top 12 players this year, my top 10 sleeper/value picks, and the top 5 players at every position. Post your comments and opinions below

Breaking Down the 2011 NFL Draft: A. J. Green

Everyday, I will be posting video footage of the top prospects in the 2011 NFL Draft. Rather than simply go by what the "experts" are saying, it is best to see for yourself, and research whether or not a particular player will be the right fit for your team.


Today is A.J. Green. I don't think there is any doubt that Green is by far the best reciever available in the draft this year. His size (6' 4" 210lbs) , route running ability, soft hands, and game breaking speed are better than any reciever I have seen come out of college since Calvin Johnson. Green is polished, and plays in a pro style scheme, so he should be able to make an impact right away for whatever team selects him. Right now I have him projected #4 overall to the Bengals. Green should help them soon forget about Ochocinco; the only question that will remain, is who is going to be throwing him the football?


-AT


I am interested in hearing your analysis. Post it in the comments section below

NETS Make Counter Move

ESPN News - Reports: Nets acquire All-Star G Deron Williams, send G Devin Harris, F Derrick Favors to Jazz

Following a series of misses in free agency and the most recent miss on obtaining Carmelo Anthony, the Nets have finally struck a deal that will put them on the map. The question now becomes, can the Nets convince Deron Williams to sign an extension and can they now lure more talent to surround both Deron and Brook Lopez to become a contender in the Eastern Conference as they make the move to their new Brooklyn arena in the next couple of years.

-AT

Source: ESPN

Shockey Released

After 3 seasons, a super bowl TD and a super bowl ring, Shockey has been cut by the New Orleans Saints. Shockey would be a great addition for any team. I would love to see him back in NY, I know him and Eli didn't always see eye to eye. But if you look at what the Giants have done at the TE position since they got rid of Shockey it hasn't been anything outstanding. Kevin Boss has been a good player but he is inconsistent, injury prone and has not developed into an outstanding blocker. Boss is a free agent and will garner serious attention from many teams and might even cost more to retain than signing the veteran former Giant. I would at least kick the tires around on this player if the Giants can get him on the cheap and then bring in another rookie to play under Shockey for a year or two to develop it could really help the passing game by taking pressure off Nicks and Manningham (can't mention Smith bc who knows when or if he comes back) Shockey even though not known for his blocking is determined and very good so this would help the running game as well.

Ryan Mallett: More Red Flags Emerge

On the heels of some of the comments posted on my Mock Draft (most notably "mprofetta"), Ryan Mallett has been surrounded by controversy and red flags, and now comes this report from Tony Softli of ESPN 101 in St. Louis:

Tony Softli of ESPN 101 St. Louis reports that Arkansas QB Ryan Mallett did not declare for the 2010 NFL draft due to "heavy rumors" that he was addicted to drugs. Per Softli, "A lot of people are comparing Mallett to Ryan Leaf." Tony Softli previously worked as the Rams director of player personnel and was the Panthers' scouting director, and it sounds as if his sources have the inside track on the rumors we have been hearing for some time now. In addition, Softli suggested that Mallett will be given a hair follicle test at the combine to determine if he's used recently.
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There has been plenty of speculation about Mallett over the past few weeks but none this severe. If Softli's claims are correct, this could drop Mallett completely out of the picture, and as more reports emerge, Mallett could have even more baggage than Ryan Leaf.
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-AT

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Source: ESPN 101 St. Louis, Rotoworld
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Question: If Mallett is still available in the 3rd round, do you take a chance on him? Post your comments

Done Deal! Carmelo is a Knick

The Knicks have taken another step toward being relavent again, and have put themselves in position to compete for a title year in and year out. The question now becomes, do the Knicks have enough left on their roster to have the depth necessary to make a run this year?





Knicks Projected Starting Lineup:

C:   Ronny Turiaf
PF: Amare Stoudemire
SF: Carmelo Anthony
SG: Landry Fields
PG: Chauncey Billups

Key Bench Players: Corey Brewer, Shelden Williams. Toney Douglas


All in all, the Knicks gave up Raymond Felton, Danillo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler, two 2nd round picks this year, and their 2014 1st round pick. The only thing that was holding up the deal was the Nuggets wish to include Timofey Mozgov in the deal, which the Knicks finally complied with last night. In return, the Knicks recieved Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups, Shelden Williams, Renaldo Balkman, and Anthony Carter from the Nuggets. As part of a 3-way trade, the Knicks also sent Anthony Randolph and Eddy Curry's expiring contract to the Timberwolves for Corey Brewer.

While the Knicks most certainly bolstered their core, they also executed a complete facelift by completing this deal. As illustrated above, the Knicks will have a virtually new roster, and now must build chemistry quickly as they make a run to compete with the Celtics, Heat and Bulls in the east. One can argue that this trade might have been as much about clearing cap space in order to obtain a third superstar point guard such as Deron Williams or Chris Paul in 2012, as it was about obtaining Carmelo. Regardless of what lies ahead, there is no doubt that the Garden will be electric if he reports to the team in time to play Wednesday against the Bucks, and Sunday night against the Miami Heat will serve as a measuring stick for where the Knicks will stand amongst the heavyweights in the Eastern Conference.

-AT

Source: Denver Post

Question: Are the Knicks in better shape for making this trade? Which player would you rather have in 2012: Deron Williams or Chris Paul?