Draft Question

[Marguide]

A lot of our draft strategy will be determined by what we do to get under the cap and what (if anything) we do in FA. I know we'll sign some FA's, but it may not be until post June 1 when we can free up some more space if desired.

My gut feel is WR/OL in the first two rounds. Gettleman knows Rivera is a whiz with D, so we can probably get by with a bit less talent on that side of the ball. Maybe a vet signing at DT (1 tech), and bringing back Dwan will address that part. As far as safety goes, it would not surprise me at all if we start the year the way we finished, with Godfrey at FS and Campbell at SS. I think Campbell is going to be a player that surprises a lot of us.

[Bwood]

Ron and Gettleman have both openly spoken about being fans of taking BPA.

Ron said he liked what he saw out of our defensive line, and that they would be focusing on the offensive line more in an earlier interview, if I recall correctly.

Gettleman said we need big guys, touchdown scorers, guys to help Cam.

I can almost guarantee our first pick will be an offensive linemen or a receiver.

[MHS831]

Related to the question but a bit off topic. Hurney sucked in the draft when he did not have a head coach that was not a lame duck or brand new.

Rivera and Hurney actually had a good draft in 2012. Kuechly, Silatolu, Alexander, Nortman were regular contributors. I expect DJ Campbell to compete for a starting spot next season. Adams is the only question mark, and I think he will be better. That is a stellar draft.

I think the most glaring weaknesses are at DT and OL. We could upgrade CB and WR.

Note about WR: We have three players who were not factors in 2012; if either of them steps up, we are going to be good there. Gettis, Adams, and that tall WR on the PS (forgot name; lazy).

[MHS831]

double

[MHS831]

Ron and Gettleman have both openly spoken about being fans of taking BPA.

Ron said he liked what he saw out of our defensive line, and that they would be focusing on the offensive line more in an earlier interview, if I recall correctly.

Gettleman said we need big guys, touchdown scorers, guys to help Cam.

I can almost guarantee our first pick will be an offensive linemen or a receiver.

Bwood,

I have been following the draft for years, and you seem to be very knowledgeable about it. Not just this, but in related comments. I would like to add to your comment. Gettlemen said, something like, "BPA if all things are equal"

Your next comment shows his philosophy (QB, Big guys, TD makers, pass rushers).

Now throw in our needs that fit that criteria: DT, OL, and WR.

Now, in my opinion, you have to consider the draft. How much depth is there at each position? I call a position like LOT and QB rarities. They are hard to find outside the first half of the first round. They do not make it to free agency.

Can you find a starting WR in free agency or the second round? Yes.

Can you find a starting DT in free agency or the second round? Yes

Can you find a starting OG in free agency or the second round? Yes

Can you find a starting LT in free agency or the second round? No.

I think we will draft a LT, and Lane Johnson is that guy. I fear that the Rams will trade up with Tampa Bay for Johnson. If that happens, a top WR could be the choice.

[Bwood]

Bwood,

I have been following the draft for years, and you seem to be very knowledgeable about it. Not just this, but in related comments. I would like to add to your comment. Gettlemen said, something like, "BPA if all things are equal"

Your next comment shows his philosophy (QB, Big guys, TD makers, pass rushers).

Now throw in our needs that fit that criteria: DT, OL, and WR.

Now, in my opinion, you have to consider the draft. How much depth is there at each position? I call a position like LOT and QB rarities. They are hard to find outside the first half of the first round. They do not make it to free agency.

Can you find a starting WR in free agency or the second round? Yes.

Can you find a starting DT in free agency or the second round? Yes

Can you find a starting OG in free agency or the second round? Yes

Can you find a starting LT in free agency or the second round? No.

I think we will draft a LT, and Lane Johnson is that guy. I fear that the Rams will trade up with Tampa Bay for Johnson. If that happens, a top WR could be the choice.

I agree with the notion that you draft your left tackles in the first round. Of course there exceptions like Roger Saffold, but id rather not take that risk if I'm looking for a legitimate LT.

Eric Fisher has been my guy since we were handed the 14 spot. Unfortunately it looks like the cats out of the bag, and Fisher could even make a push for being the first tackle off the board.

That being said, Lane Johnson would be the next most logical selection if we wanted a LT (keep in mind this all depends on what happens with Gross). Lane is very raw, and new to the position, but he is definitely no slouch. His game will continue to get better, but that's why I'm not so sure about taking him in the first.

I want my first pick to be a sure thing. Lane Johnson is all about potential, and you shouldn't draft that way in the first round.

My top 5 prospects for us right now are;

1. Fisher (OT)

2. Warmack (OG)

3. Patterson (WR)

4. Williams (DT)

5. Banks (CB)

In my opinion, one of these guys will be a Panther, but that all depends on what happens in free agency.