Reason #1: The Offensive Line is Much Improved

November 10, 2012; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive tackle William Campbell (73) celebrates during the game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

What I was most happy with about the Jets draft is how they spent all their late round picks on their offensive line after drafting quarterback Geno Smith to compete with Sanchez.  This way, whoever wins the battle (should be Geno) will have time to make their proper reads

The Jets offensive line hasn’t been the same since releasing Alan Faneca in 2009.  Reports out of Jets camp say that the team is very impressed with 3^rd round draft pick, Brian Winters and 5^th round defensive tackle to guard convert William Campbell.  The team additionally picked up starters Willie Colon and Stephen Peterman who were starters at guard last year for the Steelers and Lions respectively.  Although, those teams weren’t quite praised for their blockers, these are still start-able players with promising rookies competing to take over their jobs.   The Jets at the very least, should have the depth to rotate and keep legs fresh on the offensive line which will vastly improve their offensive line’s consistency.  Don’t forget that gang green still has two proven pro bowlers in the two most important spots on the line, Center (Nick Mangold) and Left Tackle (D’Brickashaw Ferguson).

Reason #2: Geno Smith is a Player to Be Optimistic About

May 10, 2013; Florham Park, NJ, USA; New York Jets rookie quarterback Geno Smith (7) (in red) addresses the media during New York Jets rookie minicamp at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

I’ll admit I didn’t want the Jets to draft a QB at all.  This was because I wasn’t 100% sold on anyone in this class and assumed anyone worth taking would be gone in the first round.  But in the 2^nd, after picking up 2 1st rounders, Geno is a fantastic pick and the Jets were lucky to have him available there.

Let’s also consider that there wasn’t a standout safety there with Elam, Reid, Cyprien and Vaccaro all off the board, nor a tight end worth taking with Eifert and Ertz gone.  Even if Ertz was on the board, I would still rather take the QB everyone projected to be the jewel of this QB class (until one reporter – who was wrong with Cam Newton decided to give him a bad write up).  A QB class would have to be exceptionally bad for there to be no prospects better than Mark Sanchez.  Of the 2013 class, Geno is by far the best looking and safest prospect.  Geno had a spectacular college career by the numbers, put up a solid combine and had an amazing pro day, there wasn’t a pass rushing linebacker in this class who had that trifecta.  These are the three most important measurables to go by in a prospect, but it seems that a few bad words about him brought him down in everyone’s minds.  I think of him in the same way I did before the negative reports (that aren’t based on anything tangible) and you should too.  As a first rounder, he’s a risk for a team with so many needs, and only because of his West Virginia’s W/L record in the Big 12.  But as a 2^nd rounder, it’s hard to pass up the opportunity to give the best QB of the 2013 class a shot.

Let’s also look at the QB situation in Buffalo and Miami.  Buffalo will be trusting in Kevin Kolb, Tavaris Jackson or EJ Manuel, who was a riskier pick than Geno for their QB needs.  Miami is hoping for Ryan Tannehill to progress further.  This should ease the minds of Jets fans.  Only one team in the division doesn’t have a big “IF” at their QB position.  Of these three players, Geno has the coaching advantage in Offensive Coordinator Marty Mornhinweg and QB coach David Lee who are proven at developing talent at the QB position (see Michael Vick 2010).  This makes the Jets a team with the best rookie QB prospect getting coached by some of the best QB coaches in the NFL.  Not a horrible place to be for a team that last year had the worst quarterback play in the NFL since Jamarcus Russell was on the field for Oakland.  Lastly, let’s also remember that John Idzik, the man who picked Russell Wilson in the 4th round last year, picked Geno Smith in the 2nd this year.  Geno not only will win the starting job for the Jets, but has a good shot of being the 2^nd best QB in the AFC East next year.

5. Quinton Patton, San Francisco 49ers

College/Conference: Louisiana Tech/WAC

Highest People Thought:  Late First Round

Lowest People Thought: Round 2

He Went: Round 4, Pick 31

Nov 24, 2012; San Jose, CA, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs wide receiver Quinton Patton (04) on the bench during the second half against the San Jose Spartans at Spartan Stadium. The San Jose Spartans won 52-43. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

Quinton Patton is a 2^nd team All-American who led the mid major Louisiana Tech Bulldogs on a near Cinderella like season.  They finishing 9-3 and he led the conference with 1392 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns.  Against Texas A&M, their toughest opponent he led his team very close to an upset bringing in 21 passes for 233 yards and 4 touchdowns only to come short by 2 points.  Patton is the playmaking receiver the 49ers have been looking to add and will make up for the 1^st round pick of AJ Jenkins in last year’s draft.

4. Bacarri Rambo, S, Washington Redskins

College/Conference: Georgia/SEC

Highest People Thought: Round 2

Lowest People Thought: Early Round 4 (after character issues)

He Went: Round 6, Pick 23

Jan 26, 2013; Mobile, AL, USA; Senior Bowl north squad wide receiver Marquise Goodwin of Texas (1) is pursued by Senior Bowl south squad defensive back Bacarri Rambo of Georgia (18) during the second half of the Senior Bowl at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The South squad defeated the North squad 21-16. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Bacarri Rambo is an immensely talented safety who started on one of the best defenses in the SEC since his sophomore year.  His junior year, he was named an AP 1^st team all American and was a consensus 1^st team all SEC.  He got into some trouble failing drug tests which suspended him 4 games his senior season but despite that he still made 73 tackles and caused 6 turnovers (3 INTs, 3 FFs).  He’s a true football player with an NFL skillset.  As long as he can focus on football and stay out of trouble, he’s a long-term solution for a full time safety on the Redskins.  That’s quite a haul for a 6^th round pick.

3. Geno Smith, QB, New York Jets

College/Conference: West Virginia/Big 12

Highest People Thought: Top Pick

Lowest People Thought: Top 5 of Round 2

He Went: Round 2, Pick 7

Apr 26, 2013; New York, NY, USA; Geno Smith (West Virginia) is introduced as the number thirty-ninth overall pick to the New York Jets during the 2013 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

Geno Smith is a great pickup who has been vastly underrated by his critics who compare him to the top QBs of last year, Luck and RG3.  Last year’s quarterbacks are rarer talent than your annual top QBs.  A good recently drafted QB to compare Geno Smith to is Ryan Tannehill, who went 8^th overall last year.  Geno’s West Virginia team basically took the spot of Tannehill’s Aggies.  Geno played all the same defense and finished with the same record as Tannehill.  Geno’s stats however, blow Tannehill’s out of the water.  Tannehill finished 2011 with 3744 yards, 29 tds and 15 ints, which is good in it’s own regard.  Geno Smith finished his season playing against the same style and caliber defenses with 4198 yards, 42 touchdowns and only 6 interceptions.  Geno also wowed at pro day and had a good combine like Tannehill.  Geno Smith as a prospect is probably a little bit better of an NFL prospect than last year’s #8 overall pick was and the Jets got him with their 2^nd round pick after adding two dynamic defensive playmakers in the first.  Jets fans have a reason to get excited next season.

2. Larry Warford, G, Detroit Lions

College/Conference: Kentucky/SEC

Highest People Thought: Mid/Late Round 1

Lowest People Thought: Pre-teens of Round 2

He Went: Round 3, Pick 3

July 18, 2012; Hoover, AL, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Larry Warford talks with reporters at the 2012 SEC media days event at the Wynfrey Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Larry Warford is a 3 time All-SEC guard who consistently dominates at the line of scrimmage.  Many thought he would rise from early 2^nd to the late 1^st round on draft day because of all the teams looking to build their offensive line.  The consensus was that Warford would be the 3^rd Offensive Guard off the board.  He’s a lucky grab for the Lions in round 3 who needed some depth on their offensive line and grabbed someone in the 3^rd that would’ve been 1^st round talent in last year’s draft.

1. Andre Ellington, RB, Arizona Cardinals

College/Conference: Clemson/ACC

Highest People Thought: Late Round 1

Lowest People Thought: Round 2

He Went: Round 6, Pick 19

Nov 10, 2012; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Andre Ellington (23) during warmups prior to the game against the Maryland Terrapins at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

Andre Ellington is a 2 time All-ACC running back and has led the conference’s emerging power in Clemson to the ACC championship game his junior season.  In his senior season, he helped Clemson to its first 11 win season since 1981.  This guy is a quick, agile runner capable of making an immediate impact on an NFL team in need of a rusher.  Some people, including hall of fame San Diego Chargers running back, Ladainian Tomlinson had Ellington as their favorite running back in the draft this year.  For him to fall from the 2^nd round all the way to the 6^th is great news for the running back hungry Cardinals who add a pair of promising rookies to their backfield this season.

September 22, 2012; Gainesville FL, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Larry Warford (67) and guard Zach West (75) block against the Florida Gators in the second quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

1. Larry Warford, G, Kentucky – The Jets best fit I thought at the #9 pick, given everyone who was taken was Alabama’s Chance Warmack.  They could use a guard to help open up their run game, making their offense somewhat of a factor no matter how the QB plays.  Warford is the best guard on the board and was on lots of people’s mock drafts as a late 1st/early 2nd round pick.  Willlie Colon dropped in at the Jets draft party last night and the Jets seem to be very high on him.  Colon is a recent free agent guard from the Steelers whose coming to play in his hometown of NY this season for the Jets.  That still leaves another G position to be filled.  Will the Jets spend their 2nd on Warford?  Or will they wait on guard since its now a slightly smaller hole on this swiss cheese of a football team?

Nov 17, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Robert Woods (2) catches a pass against UCLA Bruins safety Tevin McDonald (7) during the game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

2. Robert Woods, WR, USC – If the Jets were interested in a receiver, Robert Woods would be their guy.  He’s USC’s reception leader and an elite outside threat.  If anyone were to be the receiver to get Sanchez back in the game it’s fellow Trojan alum Woods, he’s a proven weapon and should have good chemistry in Mark.  Hopefully the Jets trio of Trojans: Sanchez, McKnight and Woods can make the locker room a better place in 2013 and can bring this Jets offense back together.

Sep 29, 2012; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A

3. Damontre Moore, OLB/DE, Texas A&M – If the Jets are truly staying in the 3-4 and are playing the defense they played last year, Moore is a must.  He had a terrible combine and a decent pro day, but played amazing football in 2013 for the Texas A&M Aggies.  Like Jarvis Jones, Moore is a guy who was all tape and no workout, recording 12.5 sacks and 21 tackles for a loss, ranking in the top 10 in both categories in all of college football.  He’s a young player coming out a year early, and has experience playing in both the 3-4 as an OLB and a 4-3 DE; so no matter where the Jets go package wise, Moore will be a valuable asset to the team in round 2 or 3.

Nov 12, 2011; Miami, FL, USA; Florida International Panthers defensive end Tourek Williams (97) and Florida International Panthers strong safety Jonathan Cyprien celebrate a sack against Florida Atlantic Owls quarterback Graham Wilbert (not pictured) in the third quarter at FIU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

4. John Cyprien, S, FIU – This may be one of the highest rated players left on the board.  I saw that some experts and bloggers even had him rated higher than Vaccaro.  If the Jets need a safety who can step in right away, small school prospect John Cyprien can be the guy to step in and make an impact for them right away.

Nov 3, 2012; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Jonathan Franklin (23) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the Arizona Wildcats at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Fielding-USA TODAY Sports

5. Jonathan Franklin, RB, UCLA – Of all the guys mentioned, Franklin is the only one who I’ve read the Jets have definite interest in.  Franklin may be the first running back off the board and has been slowly rising.  He’s a back capable of featuring and carried a good performing UCLA offense on his back in 2012, beating rival USC and bringing them to a bowl game.  Franklin is not only a dynamic play maker but an intelligent player and a leader who has aspirations to run for mayor of Los Angeles later in life.

Oct 6, 2012; Austin, TX, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers wide receiver Tavon Austin (1) scores a touchdown during the first quarter against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Guys who play on Saturdays hope to become stars on Sundays, starting Thursday night when college and pro football collide at the 2013 NFL draft.

OK, maybe “collide” isn’t the best choice of words given the leagues’ concussion issues. Speaking of concussions and bad word choices, I’m brain dead from looking at mock drafts and reading the latest rumors of teams supposedly hoping to trade up or down. I’m not bothering with a mock draft because this stuff is impossible to forecast and this year presents a deep and particularly unpredictable draft.

We’re obsessed with the NFL draft because we’re obsessed with the NFL. And the best and easiest way to win in the NFL is to be able to predict which players will be great, so now we’re obsessed with mock drafts (even if it’s pointless to attempt predicting this stuff). On Grantland, NFL guru Bill Barnwell’s pre-draft column basically said the whole thing’s a crap shoot and NFL teams may or may not know how to draft any better than you or I do, and the best thing I read about the draft all week was by Rolling Stone political writer Matt Taibbi.

The most exciting thing about the 2013 NFL draft, for me, is the fact that two West Virginia Mountaineers will likely be the keys to how the first round of the draft will play out. Geno Smith, the concensus top-ranked QB, has been speculated to go as high as somewhere in the top 5 or to perhaps slip and slide all the way down to a team with an established starter (like Aaron Rodgers fell to the Packers in 2005).

WR Tavon Austin is one of the most electrifying game-changers available and, despite all the offensive and defensive line talent at the top of this draft (and teams always looking for those big, safe first-round picks), every team should consider drafting Austin or trading up to get into position to do so. Why? THE GUY SCORES TOUCHDOWNS. Give him the ball, on a quick slant or bubble screen, on a reverse or even delayed-draw hand off, or on kick/punt returns, and he can take it to the house. Herm Edwards famously reminded us that “You play to win the game,” and many awful announcers have said the team that scores the most points will win. Tavon Austin will score points in bunches, and that’s the only thing I know I’m sure of heading into the 2013 NFL draft.

As for the things we don’t know… here are a few bold predictions sure to go wrong:

• The Cleveland Browns will pick QB Geno Smith with the sixth overall pick, and trade Brandon Weeden for a mid-round pick. Too soon to give up on Weeden? Maybe, but there’s a whole new regime in Cleveland, and they’ve already brought in veteran QB Jason Campbell who can either play well until Smith is ready and/or mentor Smith as a solid backup (and he’s a mature pro who will accept either role). And Weeden turns 30 in October.
• Eddie Lacy and Montee Ball might be the top two RB’s drafted, but UCLA’s Jonathan Franklin (the 8^th-ranked RB on NFL.com) will be a superstar and easily have the best pro career of any RB in this class.
• During ESPN’s draft telecast, Jon Gruden will say “I love this guy” 14,682 times. And the corpse of Chris Berman will undoubtedly attempt some form of “Star Lotulelei is sure to be a star in this league” joke.
• Whichever blue-chip offensive lineman falls to the Eagles at number 4 will end up the best of this class and they’ll land QB E.J. Manuel in the 2^nd or 3^rd round.
• Tavon Austin will not go to the Jets, Panthers, Saints,or Rams (picks 13-16) because the Dolphins will beat them to the punch by taking Austin at number 12.
• No matter if they pick for offense or defense, if they make a great pick or a questionable one, the Jets and Bills fans will be shown on TV booing. Actually, that’s the only sure thing at the NFL Draft.

Feb 25, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Brigham Young Cougars defensive lineman Ezekiel Ansah participates in a defensive drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Round 1 – Eziekiel Ansah, OLB, BYU – The Jets need an elite pass rusher to get back on the map defensively.  There is no perfect pass rusher in the draft, that has both the stats and the good workouts.  A team with the Jets should focus on an athletic player and can count on Rex to coach a raw talent player like Ansah up.  Ansah is versatile and can play LB and has also played DT and DE.  In selecting Ansah, a true defensive coach like Rex Ryan now has a pass rusher that he can line up to rush the pass from anywhere, which seems like something Rex would be into.

December 29, 2012; Bronx, NY, USA; Syracuse Orange quarterback Ryan Nassib (12) runs with the ball against the West Virginia Mountaineers during the fourth quarter of the New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Round 1 TRADE BACK with Pittsburgh (possible if Star Lotulelei is still available at #13) – Ryan Nassib, QB, Syracuse – After losing Revis, the Jets are going to have to do something to get their fans excited for the future.  There’s no way they don’t use one of the extra first rounders on a QB to win the job from Sanchez.  It seems like Nassib is the QB the Jets like in this draft.  With at least the Chiefs and Eagles also high on him, the Jets will most likely have to execute a mid-late 1^st rounder for him.  Trading back for a potential franchise QB is risky but feels a lot nicer than trading up for one, especially if you’re a team with as many needs as the Jets.  If the Jets can pull off Ansah, Nassib and an extra 2^nd rounder, it would be an A+ of a first day at the NFL Draft.

Jan 7, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish tight end Tyler Eifert (80) catches a pass defended by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Dee Milliner (28) during the first half of the 2013 BCS Championship game at Sun Life Stadium. Elfert was ruled out of bounds on the play. Mandatory Credit: Eileen Blass-USA TODAY Sports

Round 2 – Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame – Tyler Eifert, the best tight end in the draft can step in and fill Dustin Keller’s void immediately.  He was a leader and the #1 offensive weapon on a Notre Dame offense that marched into the National Championship.  He lined up at both TE and WR and is the type of player that can help spark some life into a Jets offense that has been in a coma for a few years.  If the Jets can trade back for an athlete like this AND pick up an extra 2^nd rounder, it will be a big win for this team.

Oct 27, 2012; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels running back Giovani Bernard (26) returns a punt for the winning touchdown with 13 second to play in the fourth quarter. The Tar Heels defeated the Wolfpack 43-35 at Kenan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Round 2 – (from Pittsburgh) Giovani Bernard, RB, North Carolina – Regarded as one of the top running backs in this class, Bernard is a safe high floor choice for a running back to work into a high ceiling stable of young running backs in Goodson, Powell and McKnight.  Some consider Bernard to be 1^st round talent, he definitely has the potential to come in and immediately prove to be New York’s next franchise running back.

Dec 1, 2012; Waco, TX, USA; Baylor Bears senior wide receiver Terrance Williams (2) takes the field before the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Floyd Casey Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Round 3 – Terrance Williams, WR, Baylor – A tall outside receiver who happened to be the most productive wide out in college football last year, Terrance Williams is the potential #1 WR the Jets have been searching for.  In my opinion, he’s the Jarvis Jones of this receiver class; probably one of the best on tape and production wise, but was not a top performer in workouts.  This is an easy way for a prospect to become be under valued.  These are the types of players the Jets need to be looking for on the 2^nd day of the draft.

Sep 24, 2011; Morgantown, WV, USA; LSU Tigers cornerback Tyrann Mathieu (7) against the West Virginia Mountaineers at Mountaineer Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Round 4 – Tyrann Mathieu, CB, LSU – The Jets are in a place to take a risk and bring a new headline grabbing player into New York City.  Tyrann Mathieu only needs to play in the nickel for the Jets which he should be ready to step in and do immediately, being that that position was exactly what he was famous for holding down at his time at LSU.  Will he grow to be a #1 CB in the NFL?  Hopefully, but either way he helps out the Jets defense out and completes the cornerback depth as the nickel after Antonio Cromartie and Kyle Wilson’s recent promotions.  Not to mention, he seems like the type of guy who can be a great fit with a coach like Rex Ryan.

Jan 26, 2013; Mobile, AL, USA; Senior Bowl south squad offensive lineman Jordan Mills of Louisiana Tech against the Senior Bowl north squad during the second half of the Senior Bowl at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The South squad defeated the North squad 21-16. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Round 5 – Jordan Mills, RT/G, LA Tech – He played his entire college career as a right tackle and was dominant in the position for Louisiana Tech, which had the 5^th most effective offense in the nation last year (only behind Baylor, Texas A&M, Oregon and Oklahoma State).  Scouts also project that he can be a good guard in the NFL.  This is a great use of a 5^th rounder for the Jets; at the best they get the guard they need that can plug in and start right away, at worst they have an experienced right tackle (most will be college Left Tackles converting for their NFL rookie years) to rotate in with Austin Howard who sometimes finds himself with too much on his plate.  Win-win situation for the Jets offensive line.

Feb 24, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Denard Robinson makes a catch during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Round 6 – Denard Robinson, WR/RB/KR/Wildcat QB, Michigan – The Jets finally find their replacement to Brad Smith early in the 6^th round in Denard Robinson.  Robinson is a wild card and has lots of raw athletic talent that can be developed as a WR, RB, Kick Returner and most of all, wildcat QB.  He’s good sleeper pick that could add an extra dimension to the Jets offense and has the popularity to help bring its character back.  Denard is another headline grabbing player who will help a team sell tickets and draw fans out whether or not he makes an immediate impact on the team, so that’s always another plus.

Nov 10, 2012; Raleigh, NC, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons wide receiver Brandon Terry (86) defends after North Carolina State Wolfpack safety Brandan Bishop (30) made the successful interception during the first half at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports

Round 7 – Brandon Bishop, S, NC State – 7^th Round equals sleeper round.  The sleeper pick I like is NC State safety Brandon Bishop.  It’d be nice to see a player like him come in and try to win one of the wide open safety spot on the Jets.  He was a second team all-ACC selection this year, Brandon Bishop is buried in this year’s deep deep safety class but has shown on tape that he has the potential to be a solid contributor at safety in the NFL.  Started 8 games as a true freshman for the Wolfpack and totaled 32 tackles (17 solo and 1 TFL) and broke up 4 passes making the All-Freshman Team.  He became the solid starter at safety for the rest of his career.  In his senior season he totaled in 103 tackles (71 solo, 3 TFLs), intercepted 3 passes and broke up 7 more.  He is a sleeper who is overlooked because of a mediocre 40 time and could step into camp fired up to make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Aug 18, 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Terrell Owens (10) prior to game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Byron Hetzler-USA TODAY Sports

You know him. You love him. And, you even loathe him. Regardless of whichever stance you choose, Terrell Owens is a very well known name throughout the NFL. In a career that has featured stints with 6 different NFL teams and even 1 AFL team, he currently stands 2nd all-time in receiving yards and 3rd all-time in receiving touchdowns. Ever since he was cut by the Seattle Seahawks during the final round of cuts, he hasn’t played a down of football. Despite his current circumstances, he refuses to retire, and one team in particular has caught his eyes. And that team…is the Chicago Bears.

At 39 years of age, he is hoping to make Chicago his next home, given how current Bears’ Head Coach Marc Trestman was Terrell Owens’s first Offensive Coordinator when he began his career with the San Francisco 49ers in 1996. In a recent interview with David Kaplan of CSN Chicago, Terrell Owens pleaded his case before the Chicago media.

“I played my first early years in San Francisco with [Bears head coach Marc Trestman] and shortly after that, he left to do some things,” he said. “I haven’t talked to Marc in a long while. I know he’s gone on and done some things, now he’s back in the NFL. So, I never really thought about it until myself and Napoleon were talking about it earlier, but I would definitely welcome it if they would give it some serious consideration. To think about [Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall] on the other side and me on one side, that’s really dangerous. I’m keeping myself in shape just for any opportunity that may come about.”

 

Napoleon Harris, a state senator of Illinois and former NFL player for the Raiders, Vikings, and Chiefs, also vouched for Owens in his case to be signed by the Bears. In the same article, Harris described how well conditioned T.O. is, as he was quoted in saying “The Bears would be smart to give him an opportunity. He is motivated and ready to play.” He would then join T.O. in the praise of Marc Trestman, where he believes the new coach can get the most out of players such as Jay Cutler, Matt Forte, and Brandon Marshall. So, why shouldn’t the Bears sign such a motivated character to make a championship run with?

Well for starters, he’s just that; a character. Throughout his tenure in the NFL, Owens has been documented in as many incidents as he’s recorded Touchdown Dances, which is a scary number. Not only has he publicly dissed his starting QBs, he was even accused of spitting in DeAngelo Hall’s face during a game in 2006. His list of reported incidents is so long, I’m afraid it would create a logjam in this post. In essence, he is a textbook example of both a “Primma-donna” as well as a “lockerroom cancer”. No matter how you slice it, he’s not someone you’d want to add onto your team, unless he offered a very high ceiling to any potential signing. Plus, we haven’t even got to their roster yet.

If T.O. were to have made his case to join before the 2012 season, then just maybe he would warrant minor consideration. But, after the 2012 season, you can forget it. Since GM Phil Emery’s hiring, he’s added a cornucopia of talent to the receiving corps. That list includes the expected starting tandem of receivers Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery, as well as a recent addition in TE Martellus Bennett. With Matt Forte always a threat from the backfield, and even more talent expected to be added through the draft, where in the world would Terrell Owens play? From being a Bears fan myself, I can personally tell you he won’t be able to unseat Jeffery at this point in his career, let alone Marshall. If T.O. agreed to be a slot receiver, then perhaps that could change my view a tad. Otherwise, not a chance.

The final reason why I feel Terrell Owens won’t be playing for the Bears, is because if the Bears really wanted him, he’d already be signed or at least contacted by now. As Owens said himself, he hasn’t spoken to Marc Trestman in a long time. Unless something dramatic happens to Brandon Marshall, he probably won’t be receiving any phone calls by his former coach in the foreseeable future. GM Phil Emery and HC Marc Trestman share a specific set of plans for this off-season, and Terrell Owens does not appear to be on any of them.

Yet, crazier things have happened in the NFL, and even though he carries with him a full moving truck of baggage, he shall be a name mentioned continuously by the media. What do you fans think of this, do you think he deserves a chance with the Bears? Comment in the comments section below.

December 18, 2011; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders tight end Kevin Boss (87) runs with the ball after making a catch against the Detroit Lions in the third quarter at O.co Coliseum. The Lions defeated the Raiders 28-27. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Kevin Boss, TE – A tight end that had success in NY with the Giants and in Oakland.  Last season he injured his head and was out for the season.  His career stats are comparable to Dustin Keller, who the Jets just lost.  Maybe after the injury last season. the team could pick up Boss at a discount.  If he keeps healthy, it may even benefit the team more (because of cap) than keeping Keller would have.  Signing Boss will immediately take the tight end position out of the many the Jets must think about for an early round draft pick

Dec. 30, 2012; Orchard Park, NY, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Braylon Edwards (17) runs the ball after a catch during the first half against the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Bills beat the Jets 28 to 9. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Braylon Edwards, WR – He’s had some of his best years with The Jets.  He was dropped from Seattle and hasn’t had much success since he was on the team, but some players just do better in certain systems.  If The Jets do get stuck with another season with Sanchez starting (which seems likely), familiar receivers he’s had success with may help push him in the right direction.  Plus, after the last few disappointing seasons he’s had, The Jets could get him at a quarter of the price.

Aug 23, 2012; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Javon Ringer (21) runs with the ball against Arizona Cardinals linebacker Paris Lenon (51) during the first half at LP Field. Mandatory credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports

Javon Ringer, RB – This was a star and standout college player at Michigan State.  He was drafted by the Titans the year following Chris Johnson’s breakout season and never really got his chance to prove himself.  He’s made public statements showing his disappointment in the Titans for signing former Big Ten rival and Jets running back, Shonn Greene without really giving him a true shot at a bigger role.  A team like the Jets can maybe have a Cedric Benson type situation if they brought a fired up, ready to prove himself type player like Ringer into their RB stable to complement the shifty Mike Goodson

Jan 5, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews (52) during the game against the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Wild Card playoff game at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

On Wednesday, Ian Rapoport first revealed the news that the Green Bay Packers have reached an agreement with their star OLB Clay Matthews to a 5-year extension worth a total of $66 million. That deal has officially made Clay Mathews the highest paid Linebacker in the NFL, and the 3rd highest paid defender behind DEs Julius Peppers (Chicago Bears) and Mario Williams (Houston Texans). He’s certainly deserved it, as he is one of the best in the league in putting pressure on the QB. In his career, he’s registered 42.5 sacks in 4 seasons with the Pack. This isn’t the only major re-signing that management has planned at the moment.

Following the press release of this major extension, an even bigger one is in the works with their elite QB in Aaron Rodgers, as Ian Rapoport tweeted:

Waiting on terms of #Packers/Clay Matthews’ extension. Expect in the $13M range. Meanwhile, QB Aaron Rodgers is up next.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 17, 2013

 

This should come at no surprise to any football fan with knowledge of the game. Aaron Rodgers has simply performed at the highest level since he earned his starting position back in 2008, where he replaced Brett Favre in the line-up following his first “retirement”. He’s won NFL MVP honors (2011) and a Super Bowl ring, in which he was the Super Bowl MVP of Super Bowl 45. What may surprise a few people, though, is the sheer amount of money expected to be paid for his services long-term.

Numerous sources have been reporting both sides are close to signing a deal which will make him the highest paid player in NFL history. This comes after current Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco recently set the record with his own contract extension signed months ago with the Baltimore Ravens. Make no mistake, the Packers are making a wise investment with their own players, instead of going out to sign every star left and right. Securing 2 of their best players to long-term contracts will allow them to achieve maximum flexibility in the draft, which starts in a little over a week from now.

Aug 10, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tackle Brandon Albert (76) on the sidelines against the Arizona Cardinals in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won the game 27-17. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Leading up to the Draft, the Miami Dolphins have been very active in the free agent market. They have already signed several new starters to the team, including WR Mike Wallace, ILB Dannell Ellerbe, and TE Dustin Keller. Because they had failed to retain standout LT Jake Long, they have been searching for a new starter to protect Ryan Tannehill’s blindside. Well, the search may be coming to a swift end, as the Sun-Sentinel is reporting they are discussing a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs for their star LT Brandon Albert. From that very source:

According to league sources, the Dolphins have had extensive talks with Kansas City about acquiring Branden Albert for a second-round pick, and team sources acknowledge a trade could be finalized before next Thursday’s NFL draft.

 

The Miami Dolphins have both a pair of 2nd round picks, as well as a pair of 3rd round picks thanks in part to trades conducted between the Dolphins, Colts, and Bears. On separate trades, they gained a 2nd round pick from the Indianapolis Colts for CB Vontae Davis, and a 3rd rounder from the Chicago Bears for WR Brandon Marshall. GM Jeff Ireland is showing he’s not afraid to use one of his top picks in the draft, if it means he can get a great deal for a player that fills an immediate need.

Brandon Albert, meanwhile, was tagged by the Chiefs earlier in the off-season. Despite his injury concerns, he is a very capable pass protector that has proven himself in shutting down some of the better pass-rushers available in today’s game. The Dolphins have been hopeful to at least add competition for Johnathan Martin at the LT position thanks to Jake Long’s departure to St. Louis on a 4-year deal. He, provided the deal works out, will certainly add competition if not an upgrade to that position.

1.Tavon Austin, West Virginia

December 29, 2012; Bronx, NY, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers wide receiver Tavon Austin (1) is tackled by Syracuse Orange cornerback Wayne Morgan (2) during the third quarter of the New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

SENIOR:1287 yds, 12tds,

JUNIOR:1185yds, 8tds

SOPHOMORE: 787 yards, 8tds

FRESHMAN: 151 yards, 1 td

Best Potential Fit: St. Louis Rams(probably will need to trade up)

The most versatile and high potential receiver in the draft, Tavon Austin has it all.  He can come in and be a Wes Welker or Ty Hilton prototype slot receiver, a kick returner or become a Percy Harvin/Desean Jackson type outside guy who can run amazing reverses as well as burn defenders with his blazing speed.  At best you get a full package skill position player here, at worst you get a great Ted Ginn like kick returner/#2 WR.  The odds are in Austin’s favor if you ask me.

2. Keenan Allen, California

September 8, 2012; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen (21) scores a touchdown ahead of Southern Utah Thunderbirds defensive back Tyree Mills (6) during the fourth quarter at Memorial Stadium. The California Golden Bears defeated the Southern Utah Thunderbirds 50-31. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

SENIOR: 737 yards, 6tds,

JUNIOR: 1343 yards, 6tds,

SOPHOMORE: 496 yards 5tds

Best Potential Fit: Minnesota Vikings(can potentially fall to them)

A great, productive and established receiver from Cal who broke Desean Jackson’s career reception record for the Golden Bears. Any team looking for a high ceiling and already skilled hands guy, Keenan Allen is the move.

3. Cordarrelle Patterson, Tennessee

Nov 10, 2012; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson (84) scores a touchdown against the Missouri Tigers during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

JUNIOR YEAR: 778 yards, 5tds

Best Potential Fit: San Diego Chargers (can potentially fall to them)

Has great athleticism and a prototypical build of an NFL receiver.  Hasn’t quite proved himself on tape with the level of success in his numbers seen from WRs like Deandre Hopkins, Tavon Austin, or Keenan Allen.  Probably is someone who can use another year of school but has the measurables to potentially become the best receiver of the class under the right coach.

4. DeAndre Hopkins, Clemson

January 4, 2012; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (6) scores a touchdown after eluding the tackle of West Virginia Mountaineers defensive back Ishmael Banks (34) late in the fourth quarter in the 2012 Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

SENIOR YEAR: 1405 yards, 18tds

JUNIOR YEAR: 961 yards, 5tds

SOPHOMORE YEAR: 626 yards, 4tds

Best Potential Fit: Houston Texans (Can potentially fall to them)

Great production and stepped in to fill Sammy Watkins’ void when his team needed him to.  Was the only player ever in the ACC to record 50+ receptions his freshman and sophomore years.  Hopkins has potential to be a top #1 WR in the NFL who has the skills now to definitely come in as a possible #1 or a great #2 threat.  We saw during his career in Clemson that he’s a guy you can count on to step in if need be.

5.    Quinton Patton, La Tech

Oct 13, 2012; Shreveport, LA, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs wide receiver Quinton Patton (4) runs with the ball as Texas A

SENIOR YEAR: 1392 yards, 13 td

JUNIOR YEAR: 1202 yards, 11 td

Best Potential Fit: Pittsburgh Steelers (Can trade back in the first or up in the 2nd)

May be the value of the draft because of going to a mid major school.  Quinton Patton was the weapon on his team that made them a cut above their competition.  He’s proven that he can step up to greater competition during his game against a tough SEC foe in Texas A&M where he caught 21 passes for 233 yards and 4 touchdowns.