Bear Hands

Yeah in a dream scenario, someone trades with us, ahead of NO for Sanders. That, or 1 of the 2 top OLs are our only shots at a trade down IMO. Basically, that would be PIT or long shot SEA or LAR. We land someone like Ezeiruaku, then with added picks, have the assets to get more immediate impact guys.

Burns has never filled out his frame and worked on his torque to become a relevant run blocker. But because of his pass rush skills (minus his missed sacks/bad angles), you’re stuck putting out there on running downs needing to overcompensate elsewhere on your front-7 in run defense. Frustrating to have. When the boom/busts that have the run defense floor, it’s a bit more manageable than having teams just gash us for 5.0+ ypc consistently with some flashy guy whiffing on sacks, eventually getting to 8-10 on the season.

This has been my gut since the initial reports back in Jan/Feb about him. I’ve warmed up to Williams (Stewart less so) through the process. He’s not going to be the most athletic but could become a top 1B type which is still a big add. His limited burst and athleticism caps his upside but he’s still a very solid prospect worth it in this class (relative)

Another scenario: 1. Ward 2. Hunter 3. Carter 4. Campbell 5. Membou 6. Walker 7. Warren …

Fun to see the crazy range of wants in this thread - makes for such a Wild West offseason of opinions

I get a sense they are weighing defense along w/ BPA. Whoever the staff likes between Mykel/Ez is my sense here. I would also throw in Harmon but our FAs along with Brown/Robinson make it a tough fit. Trade downs may be unlikely in our spot so taking that out per request, Membou could be BPA, but gut says we go DBPA. Positional value is there, upside is there, Less anxious about them vs Shemar. I don’t think there’s offensive skill guys worth it - maybe Golden. There’s no ILBs, no safeties worth it, Will Johnson - injuries, Barron - is he just a NB/FS? It’s Mykel season.

I think it’s this pick 5-15ish stretch that the tough spot. There’s just no high end first rounders you typically see at our spot. There’s a few blue chippers and then the rest are mid to late firsts at best. It’s also why I don’t expect a trade down, but one can dream. But it won’t be much capital gained in this draft.

If I’m putting myself in a team’s shoes - you’re looking at these prospects and Warren hits most boxes for a TE with a plus on most. So yeah, he’s a great prospect, no doubt, 1st round talent as a TE. But when I look at him through the lens of that PSU offense, they were running so much through him, I’m not so sure it was beneficial to seeing how he translates. They were getting him open in the flat, running weird trick plays, and designed a lot of ways to find him on delayed seam routes and such. So a lot was structured around getting him the ball in creative ways to advance the ball, in steady sequences, methodically down the field. Thing is, yeah he’s catching a ton, is big, and can block, but throw him into an NFL offense in a more traditional sense, he’s gonna be stickied by speedy LBs and big nickels. I just wonder how he is in a more isolated fashion— when he’s just a piece of a greater NFL offense getting shadowed by more talented defenders. I think it could still be great but I have question marks when it’s at the TE position. Will he look no different than other very solid TEs or is he this offensive centerpiece at the position that doesn’t come along often (Bowers, Gronk, Kelce, Witten, TG, etc)? I think he brings a ton and could be one of the safer TE prospects, but what I’m unsure about is if you’re really getting this new age Witten type people are crowning him as. Even if that’s the case, is that worth it? If he wasn’t in PSU’s Franklin/Allar offense, would you be seeing the same output? More questions than anything - I could get on board with it, but it’s hard for me to really project because of how that offense was (which was so frustrating at times).

What I keep wondering is if he would really be going ahead of Kincaid, Mayer, & even LaPorta in the 2023 draft? I guess.. probably? Maybe? I feel that Bowers just reset expectations for a TE1 and now it just has everyone hot and bothered. Rewind one more year to a historically deep TE class, what’s Warren really bringing that LaPorta or Mayer didn’t? I personally don’t see some major edge making him this unicorn TE at the top.

I also think the term “local source” is a stretch here lol. It’s X speculation from fans; they aren’t media, press or anything.

I don't think trade charts will align well with trades that actually happen in this draft. Teams swapping a few spots or even 10ish spots in R1 are all in the same wheelhouse - they are well aware the players are all roughly holding similar value from #8-50. Which is why trades may not be prominent until we're in the mid-teens. The higher teams won't want what the lower/offering teams are willing to give. Unless they're cool with less value than normal. No one is tossing a future first for Sanders. And rumor from PIT beat reporters they are focusing on the lines Round 1 anyways.

Missed this yesterday - his highs are more appealing to me, a bit more physical/more pass rush upside, we've had some meetings with him. Was being a bit predictive. Thought it was a fun way too bookend.

Matt Corral and Malik Willis went. These guys know it’s not 1st guaranteed these days. Not the biggest deal.

He's my favorite kicker based off photos alone. The hair is chef's kiss Also has the power leg. The anti-Piniero

Yes please

I think you make fair points and it’s good convo. Walker’s big ability is disrupting the passer right now, so naturally, his role should be primarily an edge at the onset. I could have framed it in a better way that wasn’t as off-ball centered.

The trade scenario I thought of was with Membou and the Seahawks at 8. They’ve expressed strong interest in him. If the Walker buzz is as strong as rumored, Membou (or maybe Campbell) could be the odd man out there at 8. NO, CHI, MIA plenty of teams need OL ahead of SEA and they have a ton of picks. We get 18 and one of their seconds at min. This year may not be as good a return as other years but the player value could hold — we still end up with Ez/Mykel/Tet/etc. at 18.

The Beast comes out tomorrow which usually drops a lot of hints and good intel. Will probably influence some opinions and stuff so wanted this out before

That’s a stretch. He was much better in zone and took on spy responsibilities well this past season. If you’re talking 2023 he had some growing pains but what he was asked to do with UGA translates to a diverse role in the NFL. Nolan Smith in ways - Eagles started playing him more off all this past year along with edge work and it turned out nicely.

I just don’t think Sanders goes at 2 or 3. And with how Thib’s career trajectory looks and Burns’ disappointing season, it sounds like an organization that has no problem going with an edge rusher again. Graham doesn’t push the needle for them/isn’t a target. Carter in NY could easily happen. Heck, KT could be on the block for all we know. Probably a good call if they’re thinking about maximizing assets. I also don’t see JAX, LVR, NYJ, or anyone else further down trading up for Carter at 3. Takes two to tango. The capital required isn’t worth it. Even though he’s one of the few blue chips, he’s not generational and worth that type of package.

I think it just depends on the package. He’ll be moving around but I see usage at both spots - I like him outside in base sets but in nickel, which is bulk, can see him in the middle. Playing around with simulated pressures, spying and blitzing. Having that element while still having perimeter rushers could confuse a lot of mid QBs.

Decided to finally paste this in from my google drive...enjoy the mini-book. May make 1 addendum pre-draft. 2025 Mock Draft - Full 1st Round Note: 4 trades, just teams jumping for guys I think they’re targeting. 1. TEN - Cameron Ward QB Miami - Seems like Ward #1 is a near lock. 2. CLE - Travis Hunter DB/WR Colorado - The Browns are craving offense right now and I believe the rumors. He brings it on both sides of the ball, elevates the entire team. 3. NYG - Adbul Carter DE/OLB Penn State - I don’t want to go Carter here, but it’s either this or Schoen/Daboll take a swing on Shedeur. I just don’t think he’s going that high - their careers depend on this pick. They landed Russ to band-aid, so him and a Carter addition could improve each side of the ball enough to survive another year. 4. NE - Will Campbell OT LSU - His game is great; it sounds like many teams have no issue with his size and think he can go at LT. Great scenario for Maye if NE is one of those teams. 5. TRADE SF (from JAX) - Armand Membou OT Missouri - I think they’re taking calls and SF could have the ammo. This is a spot that seems penciled in as Graham for JAX, but it’s just not feeling like the scenario for me. Lynch/Shanahan are not shy to trade up. They usually don’t go OL high, but everyone bucks their trends once in a while. Huge need and they have a boatload of picks. I could see a bit of crazy happening. 6. LVR - Ashton Jeanty RB Boise State - I’m buying into the common refrain here. Jeanty in Carrol’s offense with Bowers as the top target is super interesting. Could make Geno’s job a lot easier. 7. NYJ - Mason Graham DT Michigan - The value is just too good and the fit is great. I have a sense that Graham could slip, but he meshes well with Glenn and that growing defense. Doesn't get past NYJ. 8. CAR - Jalon Walker LB Georgia - Could easily see a trade if Graham and Walker are gone (SF, SEA & IND as potential suitors). But with Walker here, he just makes a lot of sense for building that defense. Lots of buzz around him going higher, but unsure where that would be. This marriage feels inevitable. 9. NO - Shedeur Sanders QB Colorado - Sanders lands in New Orleans. I just see the organization being the one that fits him and could take the risk. Carr is not guaranteed that starter spot much longer if his play like last season continues. 10. TRADE IND (from CHI) - Tyler Warren TE Penn State - With Jeanty & OTs gone, Chicago takes calls. Warren is available here, and I could see Indy jumping up slightly to grab him. Chicago may want to gather more picks to best build Ben’s team for Caleb. 11. JAX (from SF) - Derrick Harmon DE/DT Oregon - Harmon would be a great fit to help with their DL. One of my favorite players in the draft who I think is way more coveted than let on. Wins with his hands, has great size, length, gets after the QB, good run defender. Slippery, high motor, understands how to advance in the trenches. Too promising to go much later. 12. DAL - Mykel Williams DE/EDGE UGA - May not have the production you want, but the flashes are there. Has the size and a great motor. Needs to improve his pass rush plan, but after watching interviews, I can see why he’s viewed favorably. Heavily linked to Dallas, could go as high as 8/CAR. 13. MIA - Jahdae Barron DB Texas - Best defensive playmaker in the draft and they are in need of more talent across the board on defense. High football IQ, all over the field type. Good long term option, high floor, great skills. Pairing him with Ramsey would be nice. 14. CHI (from IND) - Omarion Hampton RB UNC - Here’s where it gets interesting. They’ve met with him multiple times, and I could see Johnson licking his chops at the possibility of Hampton. It’s much more stomach-able with this trade down, gaining some capital in the process. 15. ATL - Donovan Ezeiruaku OLB BC - There’s reported interest and I think teams are pretty high on Ez (for good reason). Being an Ez fan, I don’t want to see him in ATL, but they need a sure-thing pass rusher, and he’s the most sure thing in that department this draft. 16. TRADE GB (from AZ) - Matthew Golden WR Texas - The Packers finally buck the trend and aggressively go after a round 1 receiver. If Golden is around, and they like him enough, I can see this type of move being made to help Love. 17. CIN - Kenneth Grant DT/NT Michigan - Shoring up the DL would be a smart move. They need a boost in a big way, and Grant is a monster who I have a hard time not seeing being effective, and quickly. Awesome fit for what the Bengals need as well. 18. SEA - Kelvin Banks Jr OT Texas - They’ve been linked, met, have the need, and could be wise given all the new investments on offense. Zabel or Banks are in play here, could also see them trade up with their picks. 19. TB - Will Johnson CB Notre Dame - His value here becomes too good to ignore but injury concerns do bring him down a tad. Bucs wind up with a corner they can’t refuse. 20. DEN - Tetiaroa McMillan WR Arizona - Slipping just a bit, he makes it to Denver who lands guy for Nix to grow with. 21. PIT - Tyleik Williams DT/NT Ohio State - A bit higher than expected – the Steelers are in need of offensive help in a major way but they need an overall reset. For that - it’s trenches out. Arguably the best run defender in the draft and is being way overlooked. Has met with every team, is spoken of super highly in scouting circles. Tyleik is one of those guys everyone is trying to be quiet about. 22. LAC - Colston Loveland TE Michigan - Harbaugh brings in familiar company to LA. They have some DL needs but pairing Loveland in that offense could be a great situation to boost Herbert and team. I don't think he's this mid-round 1 pick everyone seems to be stamping in but this is a nice scenario. 23. AZ (from GB) - Walter Nolen DT Ole Miss - Nolen doesn’t slip all the way past round 1, too much talent. Cardinals get a much needed DL presence. 24. MIN - Jihaad Campbell LB Alabama - Tore his labrum post-combine, so will likely miss half the season (at least), but I don’t think that drops him too far. Vikes have the roster built to let him mend and ease into things. 25. HOU - Donovan Jackson OT/G Ohio State - He fits their needs in a big way and is viewed more favorably by teams than the other IOLs. Stroud gets a familiar pal for much needed protection. 26. LAR - Trey Amos CB Ole Miss - A riser who keeps rising and fits the zone/man combo that McVay likes. Could fit very nicely in LA. 27. BAL - Grey Zabel IOL North Dakota State - BAL is a popular safety destination but I see IOL as a primary target if Zabel is here. He’s been a major riser, getting real R1 love. The fit here is pretty spot on. 28. DET - Mike Green EDGE/OLB Marshall - Green is a gamble, his history is a bit of an unknown, but suspect. If he checks out interview-wise with teams, he could end up in a solid late round spot. Huge boost for the Lions. (Watch for Scourton here too) 29. WAS - Nick Emmanwori S South Carolina - After seeing what they were able to get out of Chinn, this could be a great fit for a defense who needs some secondary help. 30. BUF - Emeka Egbuka WR Ohio State - A bit of a WR slippage allows the Bills to grab a complimentary piece along with Coleman. Pairs well to boost that offense and get them a bit more efficient. 31. KC - Josh Simmons OT Ohio State - Could be a smart move for the second half of Mahomes career. It was a problem come playoff time and he needs the help, worth the gamble here even with his injury. 32. TRADE CHI (from PHI) - Josh Conerly OT Oregon - I think there could be some OLs to fly off the board late 1st. Chicago now having gained picks, moves up from 39. Hampton + Conerly would be a haul with pick 41 not far away for their 3rd pick. Notables Not Included: QB3 - Not buying Milroe, Dart, Shough, any of them, as round 1 quarterbacks. Shavon Revel Jr. CB ECU - Could easily see Revel in the first, Vikes or Bills are possibilities. Awesome name. Aireontae Ersery OT Minnesota - Like him but he’s just on the outside looking in with round 1, only so many spots. Malaki Starks S UGA - He’s a very solid prospect but safeties simply are not coveted, he lacks deep speed, and had a spotty 2024. Legit talent is there - could fall into someone’s arms like Branch did in DET. Tyler Booker OG Alabama - I simply don’t see 3 IOLs in R1. Still see him going top-40. Maxwell Hairston CB Kentucky - Another really solid prospect I just didn't find the fit for. Nic Scourton DE/EDGE Texas A&M - Was a top 2025 prospect before last season, and he still has the traits that got him that hype. A potential Lions target. Shemar Stewart DL/EDGE - Just not seeing it even with the testing. Maybe a team takes the gamble but unsure. Darius Alexander DL - Like him but just didn’t find the right spot. Age (25) could impact where he goes. Luther Burden III WR Missouri - I just didn’t see a fit and could see him fall out of the first due to a variety of reasons. James Pearce Jr. OLB Tennessee - I feel there’s traction to his character concerns more than the others. I don’t see him in R1. -- Panthers Draft: Still predictive with a hint of my guys/targets: 1. Jalon Walker LB UGA 6’2 243 Land a guy who can become a vocal leader for the team and create a bit of energy on defense. Instant pass-rusher/edge in some sets, I think he pairs well with Trevin longer term and can get snaps alongside Jewell playing off-ball. Instant impact all around. (Edited for some clarity) 2.1 - Bradyn Swinson EDGE/OLB LSU 6’4 255 33”+ arms, ~10” hands A high upside, big framed 3-4 edge rusher from a major program. Swinson had strong production, exhibits great bend and quickness. Can easily fill in with his frame to become a capable edge setter. Would be a sound decision in R2. 2.2 (Trade Up) 3rd+5th - Jaylin Noel WR Iowa State 5’11 201 I don’t think he’ll be there come round 3, but this is the specific guy I think we should target. It’s not just that he’s the “shifty” type, but his catch radius is huge for his size. Great hand/eye coordination and extremely good at contested catches. From video interviews I’ve seen, I also imagine this kid is killing it with meetings and seems very into the game. Teams definitely like him. We’ve got (3) 5th rounders, so whatevs, use one to move up a bit. 4.1 Jacob Parrish NB/CB Kansas State 5’10 191 Really fluid, plays bigger than he is and would be a long term solution as the primary NB. Immediately comes in over Smith-Wade who is still solid depth. 4.2 Jonas Sanker S Virginia Seems to be a safety they’ve taken a liking to. Could be a nice fit alongside Moehrig. 5.1 (traded) - if not - Tai Felton WR Maryland is one of my favorite mid/late round WRs 5.2 Jonah Monheim C/G/T USC - Versatile late round swing lineman to take a flyer on. 5.3 Warren Brinson DT/NT UGA Bring in one of Walker’s teammates as well who could work out long term with some grooming behind Bobby Brown. Big boy at 6’5 315. Depth and competition in the trenches is needed to bolster this defense. 7. Caden Davis K Ole Miss Wrap it up by landing a kicker. What a dude.

If there's a prospect who looks strong on the field but has the question marks, makes sense to bring them in and see if they are indeed a nutjob or not. Especially if they couldn't get a good sense in limited time to meet him at the combine. Randy Mueller has talked about it before -- many GMs don't just use these top-30s to validate the guys they already love. Although we seem to do that and kind of show our cards a lot lol. But to the point, if they love tape, have met enough coaches/teammates and talked to them at the bowls/workouts, many teams don't need to wine and dine and get to know them. There's certain guys who get to know regional scouts, GMs and position coaches starting mid-college season last year. On the flipside, there's the wildcards who aren't privy to developing relationships with the pro-community while in school, have bad reps, and teams need to dig a bit further into it. A top-30 becomes a good measuring stick for those teams think could be a stellar fit but are unsure on who the guy actually is - which matters a ton at the end of the day. Organizational fit has so much more weight than let on and is why these drafts after the first few picks get so all over the map.

Think they're really liking the DL R1. Tyleik Williams is a hot name for them.

I wouldn't compare him to Reddick size wise, but some similarities quickness and his move set coming out. Far larger, better handwork, much more refined from a pass plan standpoint. 5 inches longer, about 2 1/2" taller and 10 lbs heavier as prospects.