Almost Sports Miami

NFL Mock Draft 8.0: Final Mock

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Tue, 21 Apr 2020 19:51:00 +0000

Authors | Mark Ellenbogen & Michael Weitzner

IT’S DRAFT WEEK BABY! It’s finally here! The NFL Draft is this Thursday! To celebrate draft week, Almost Sports Miami’s Final NFL Mock Draft has arrived! We did it funky again, making alternating picks between Michael Weitzner (odd numbered picks) and Mark Ellenbogen (even numbered picks). No trades, just a classic mock draft. Please read through the entire mock and enjoy the real Draft!

Mark Ellenbogen - Evens

Michael Weitzner - Odds

1. Cincinnati Bengals - Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

Duh . . . We’ve known this for months (what feels like years because of these stay at home orders). The Bengals aren’t trading down. They aren’t going to surprise us. Burrow is the pick.

2. Washington Football - Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio St.

Washington gets the best overall player in the draft at #2, just like San Francisco did last year.

3. Detroit Lions - Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio St.

Ever since trading Darius Slay, this pick has been written in blood. Okudah is the best corner in this Draft and the Lions have a big need for one.

4. New York Giants - Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

While New York’s defense was bad last year and could use a player like Isaiah Simmons or Derrick Brown, ultimately they decide to give Daniel Jones some much needed protection.

5. Miami Dolphins - Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

Tua is clearly a better player, prospect, quarterback than Justin Herbert. While Tua is coming off a season ending injury, there is no excuse for not taking him.

6. Los Angeles Chargers - Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

The Chargers will be content to stay at 6 and take whichever QB out of Tagovailoa and Herbert that Miami doesn’t. In this case it’s Herbert. They may say Tyrod Taylor will be their starter, but they need a QB of the future after moving on from Philip Rivers.

7. Carolina Panthers - Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

Simmons is the most dynamic defensive player in this Draft (maybe other than Chase Young). He could be an elite pass rusher, coverage linebacker, or in the box safety. Regardless of what position he plays, he is a game changing player on defense.

8. Arizona Cardinals - Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama

Arizona may be tempted to reunite Kyler Murray and CeeDee Lamb, but decide to bolster their offensive line instead after acquiring DeAndre Hopkins.

9. Jacksonville Jaguars - Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

The Jaguars are rolling with Gardner Minshew. Instead of trying to rebuild their defense, the Jags get an offensive weapon that will help Minshew right away.

10. Cleveland Browns - Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

Baker Mayfield was under constant pressure last year, so they give him a left tackle after signing Jack Conklin in free agency to be their right tackle.

11. New York Jets - Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn

While the Jets have an offensive minded coach (or one who alleges to be), Brown is too much of an elite defensive talent to let slip past them. The Jets have already invested over $30 million in the offensive line this offseason and signed last season standout Breshad Perriman from the Bucs.

12. Las Vegas? Raiders - CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

The Raiders have needed a dynamic receiver since trading away Amari Cooper to Dallas and Lamb fills that void.

13. San Francisco 49ers (from IND) - Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

After making the Super Bowl with Jimmy Garoppolo, it's clear that the weapons around Jimmy G are more important than Jimmy G himself. The 49ers lost Emmanuel Sanders in free agency so they take the fastest wide receiver in the Draft.

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

In case you haven’t heard, Tampa has a new QB and he’s going to be 43. The Bucs already have good weapons (much better than what New England had), so they will attempt to give Brady the best line they can to keep him upright.

15. Denver Broncos - Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina

The Broncos miss out on the top 3 wide receiver prospects in the Draft. Instead of reaching for another wide receiver (in an extremely loaded wide receiver class), the Broncos improve their defensive line.

16. Atlanta Falcons - CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

It’s no secret that Atlanta has to improve on defense if they want to have any shot at making the playoffs. They have a need at corner and Henderson, while not the most physical, is very good in coverage.

17. Dallas Cowboys - Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

Losing cornerback Byron Jones to Miami leaves a gaping hole in the Dallas secondary. Fulton missed significant time in college because of off the field issues but is an elite prospect. Sounds like a Dallas Cowboy to me.

18. Miami Dolphins (from PIT) - Josh Jones, OT, Houston

It would be very surprising if the Dolphins didn’t take an offensive lineman with at least one of their three 1st round picks. After trading Laremy Tunsil right before last season, Miami needs a left tackle and Jones can be the guy.

19. Las Vegas! Raiders (from CHI) - Jordan Love, QB, Utah St.

With the move to Las Vegas, the Raiders need to make a splash in some way. The perfect example of a non-splash is signing Marcus Mariota to back up Derek Carr. Neither of these guys were drafted by the current front office and Love is an exciting player. Even if he needs a year to develop, the hype around Love will define the Raiders’ first season in LV.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR) - Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah

Jacksonville needs help at corner since they traded away both Jalen Ramsey and A.J. Bouye. Johnson is a physical press corner who can replace one of those starters they traded.

21. Philadelphia Eagles - Laviska Shenault, WR, Colorado

Injuries at the wide receiver position torpedoed the Eagles season last year. Getting depth at the position is one thing, but Carson Wentz never gelled with Alshon Jeffrey and needs a #1 WR. Shenault has bust potential, but could also be a #1 WR.

22. Minnesota Vikings (from BUF) - Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

After trading Stefon Diggs to Buffalo, Minnesota will look to replace him. Jefferson was Joe Burrow’s top target last year at LSU, with a school record 111 receptions and 18 touchdowns. He can bring big play ability for Kirk Cousins and the Vikings offense.

23. New England Patriots - A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa

The Patriots seem to be content with Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer as their leading quarterbacks going into 2020. That means the Pats will improve the front-7 to continue their elite defense. Epenesa can play on the edge or inside, giving him positional versatility that Belichick loves.

24. New Orleans Saints - Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

While only a one year starter, Queen is fast and physical and played great in LSU’s biggest games at the end of the season. New Orleans takes the nearby Tiger to improve their defense.

25. Minnesota Vikings - Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama

The need for a cornerback and the front offices love of prototypical bodies leaves only one guy that the Vikings will take. Diggs is a 6’1 and 205 lbs cornerback who started at Alabama. Diggs can get a little grabby down field but he looks the part.

26. Miami Dolphins (from HOU) - Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama

McKinney is a versatile and rangy safety that can be moved all over the field. Sound familiar Dolphins fans? Much like his Crimson Tide predecessor, Minkah Fitzpatrick, McKinney is an impact defender that can play wherever you need him to. He led Alabama in interceptions this past season and Miami needs a safety after trading the aforementioned Fitzpatrick and releasing Reshad Jones.

27. Seattle Seahawks - Autsin Jackson, OT, USC

Russell Wilson (and every single Seahawks fan) has been begging the team to improve the offensive line to help extend Wilson’s prime. Jackson is the first step in that direction.

28. Baltimore Ravens - Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma

Baltimore never really replaced C.J. Mosley last year and they’re able to now with Murray, who is the best pure linebacker in the draft. He’ll bring a force back to the middle of their defense.

29. Tennessee Titans - K’Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU

Ryan Tannehill is signed long term. Derrick Henry is not going anywhere. A.J. Brown is the #1 WR. This means the Titans can start improving the already good defense. Chaisson is young and still needs to develop to succeed in the NFL but has the pass rush potential teams kill for.

30. Green Bay Packers - Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona St.

Davante Adams is a great receiver, but Green Bay would be wise to take some pressure off of him and give Aaron Rodgers another weapon. Aiyuk is a Swiss Army knife that can be used inside and outside that will make the Packers offense even more explosive.

31. San Francisco 49ers - A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson

What more do the 49ers need? They made the Super Bowl and had a top-15 pick, which they used to get one of the top three wide receivers in this Draft. Richard Sherman is getting up in age and the other boundary corner spot also needs to be filled.

32. Kansas City Chiefs - D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia

Andy Reid has never drafted a running back in the 1st round, but he had never won the Super Bowl until a few months ago either. Damien Williams had a good Super Bowl, but Swift would give Kansas City a true #1 back who can run inside, outside, and catch the ball out of the backfield.

NFL Mock Draft 7.0

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:01:00 +0000

Authors | Mark Ellenbogen & Michael Weitzner

It gets a little boring doing NFL Mock Drafts by yourself (if you want to see the last sole mock, click here). So for this mock, we brought in Mark Ellenbogen; he's been dying to do a mock draft and since the real NFL Draft is less than a week away, its time. Here's how this mock draft works: Mark made the selections for all of the odd numbered picks (#1, #3, #5, #7, #9, #11, #13, and so on) and Michael made the selections for all of the even numbered picks (#2, #4, #6, #8, #10, #12, #14, and so on). After making each pick, we wrote a brief explanation of why we made the selection. Early next week, we will be making another joint mock draft but will switch who makes which picks. But for now, ENJOY!

Mark Ellenbogen - Odds

Michael Weitzner - Evens

1. Cincinnati Bengals - Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

Slam dunk. Bengals will have no interest in trading out of this spot and will select the hometown kid.

2. Washington Football - Chase Young, Edge, Ohio St.

Google a picture of Chase Young and you’ll understand why he’s the pick. He’s the highest rated player (overall) in this draft.

3. Detroit Lions - Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio St.

Okudah makes it three straight Urban Meyer recruits to go off the board to start the draft. Detroit may try and move back to get more picks and still get Okudah, but for now they stay at 3 and replace Darius Slay.

4. New York Giants - Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

This draft has five offensive tackles that are considered above the rest. Wirfs is an athletic freak (yes, as an offensive lineman) and helps give 2019 1st round pick Daniel Jones some extra protection.

5. Miami Dolphins - Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

There’s been a lot of smoke lately that Justin Herbert will be the pick, but I’m not buying it. When healthy, Tagovailoa is the best QB in this draft. Miami passed on Drew Brees many years ago because of an injury and they shouldn’t let lightning strike twice.

6. Los Angeles Chargers - Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

Simmons is one of the most intriguing prospects in the Draft. Is he a safety? Maybe. Is he a linebacker? Possibly. Should he play on the line of scrimmage? Perhaps. But if there is a time that’s willing to take an athlete and find a position for him, it's the Chargers.

7. Carolina Panthers - Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn

Brown is a disruptive force in the interior defensive line and Carolina can use someone to help shore up their run defense.

8. Arizona Cardinals - Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama

The Cardinals have a TON of offensive weapons to help 2019 #1 overall pick Kyler Murray. Wills is the selection to help protect him. Wills is a right tackle and will start day one.

9. Jacksonville Jaguars - Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

It would be very surprising for Herbert to fall out of the top 10. I don’t think he’ll get past Miami and the Chargers, but Jacksonville scoops him up here after falling in their lap despite going with Gardner Minshew for next year.

10. Cleveland Browns - Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

The Browns spent big in free agency and found their starting right tackle in Jack Conklin. This still leaves a gaping hole at left tackle. Andrew Thomas is a true left tackle and will help the Browns protection Baker Mayfield.

11. New York Jets - Mekhi Becton, OL, Louisville

The Jets will either go OL or WR here and because this draft is so deep at WR, they get the last of the consensus top 4 tackles here and will get a weapon for Sam Darnold later.

12. Las Vegas? Raiders - Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

This Draft is absolutely loaded with wide receiver talent. But there are two or three that are head and shoulders above the rest. My favorite is Jerry Jeudy because his route running skills are supreme.

13. San Francisco 49ers (from IND) - CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

San Francisco gets a dynamic receiver to go along with Deebo Samuel as well as George Kittle for Jimmy G.

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama

While the Bucs need a starting offensive tackle, they need a player who can play right tackle. Without a stud right tackle left, the Bucs boost their secondary and take the top safety in the Draft.

15. Denver Broncos- Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

Denver gets the speedy Ruggs for Drew Lock to throw downfield too. They need someone to pair with Courtland Sutton and Ruggs fills that void.

16. Atlanta Falcons - Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina

After signing edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr, the Falcons get much needed help on the defensive line. But the help doesn’t end there, taking Kinlaw gives an interior presence.

17. Dallas Cowboys - K’Lavon Chaisson, EDGE, LSU

After losing Robert Quinn in free agency, Dallas bolsters their pass rush with Chaisson opposite Demarcus Lawrence.

18. Miami Dolphins (from PIT) - Josh Jones, OT, Houston

The Dolphins find their starting left tackle (thank god).

19. Las Vegas! Raiders (from CHI) - CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

Vegas needs help at corner and Henderson, while not the most physical, is very good in coverage.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR) - Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

If only the Jags had a transcendent talent at cornerback who could affect individual games and be a leader on the defense. While Fulton might not be all of those things, he is a talented cornerback who can make an impact right away.

21. Philadelphia Eagles- Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

Philly got so thin at the position by the end of last season, former University of Houston QB Greg Ward Jr. was one of their starters. Jefferson gives Carson Wentz a go-to receiver.

22. Minnesota Vikings (from BUF) - Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU

Cornerback is one of the many team needs that Minnesota should address in the Draft. Luckily for the Vikings, they are two first round picks. Jeff Gladney can help an ailing secondary that just lost Xavier Rhodes.

23. New England Patriots- Jordan Love, QB, Utah St.

This one is just too tempting to pass up. Love probably has the highest ceiling, but also the lowest floor of any QB in this draft. He’s raw and will need time, but Belichick will attempt to replace Brady with Love.

24. New Orleans Saints - Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

The Saints are in win-now mode and have done an incredible job of team building from the previous few drafts and this offseason. That means the Saints can add depth and improve defense.

25. Minnesota Vikings- Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona St.

Minnesota traded Stefon Diggs to Buffalo, so I expect them to try to replace him with one of their first round picks. Aiyuk gives Kirk Cousins another weapon to go with Adam Thielin.

26. Miami Dolphins (from HOU) - A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa

Miami needs help at almost every position on the field. Epenesa can play inside and as an edge defender; and most importantly, gives Miami an edge setter.

27. Seattle Seahawks- Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn St.

It appears Jadeveon Clowney won’t be back with Seattle so they take Gross-Matos to get pressure on the QB.

28. Baltimore Ravens - Zack Baun, Edge, Wisconsin

It seems as though the Ravens have lost every single front-7 player in the last two offseasons. Baun can play on the line of scrimmage and as a traditional linebacker, which gives the Ravens flexibility.

29. Tennessee Titans- Isaiah Wilson, OL, Georgia

Much of Tennessee’s surprising run to the AFC championship game was due to their offensive line and running game with Derrick Henry. They lost Jack Conklin to free agency and get Wilson to be his replacement.

30. Green Bay Packers - Laviska Shenault, WR, Colorado

The Packers have an aging but still elite quarterback in Aaron Rodgers, who seemed to have only one weapon to throw to last season. Shenault is an elite wide receiver prospect but has had some personal issues. Green Bay takes advantage of his fall and get their #2 wide receiver.

31. San Francisco 49ers- Cesar Ruiz, OL, Michigan

I think the 9ers are likely to try and trade this pick and acquire a 2nd rounder since they don't have a pick in rounds 2-4, but they take Ruiz here. Weston Richburg, who was their center, suffered a torn patellar tendon and that’s a tough injury to come back from. Ruiz is the top interior lineman in the draft and becomes their starter from day 1.

32. Kansas City Chiefs - A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson

Super Bowl Champions replace the departed Kyle Fuller in the Draft.

NFL Mock Draft 6.0

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Author | Michael Weitzner

We are 1 (ONE!) week away from the NFL Draft! Even though we are going to basically watch an online fantasy football draft with individuals who are extremely unlikely to know how to use a fantasy football drafting platform, it’s still an extremely exciting time! There have not been any draft picks traded since the Diggs to Buffalo trade and none of the top 5 picks have been moved. As the draft draws nearer, the more craziness seems to be floated into the ether. This will be the second to last NFL Mock Draft from Almost Sports Miami so please read and enjoy!

1. Cincinnati Bengals – Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

We are a week away from the actual NFL Draft but we’ve known this pick for MONTHS.

2. Washington Football – Chase Young, Edge, Ohio St.

We’ve known this pick for months too . . . it’s really not that complicated.

3. Detroit Lions – Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio St.

4. New York Giants – Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn

5. Miami Dolphins – Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

All these rumors and news about the Dolphins trading up to #1 to take Joe Burrow or taking Justin Herbert at #5 is ridiculous. If Tua wasn’t hurt, he might have been the #1 overall pick. The Dolphins would be cowards to pass on Tua at #5.

6. Los Angeles Chargers – Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

Well the Chargers desperately need a quarterback, both Jameis Winston and Cam Newton are still available to sign as free agents. I think one of them (Cam Newton) will end up in LA. That means the Chargers could use their first round pick to give that quarterback (Cam Newton) some added protection.

7. Carolina Panthers – Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

This may seem odd since Carolina just signed Teddy Bridgewater to a 3 year, $63 million contract. But in 2022, the Panthers could cut Bridgewater and only have $5 million in dead cap. That means Herbert can develop for a year and eventually beat out Bridgewater in year 2.

8. Arizona Cardinals – Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

9. Jacksonville Jaguars – Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

10. Cleveland Browns – Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

11. New York Jets – Jedrick Wills Jr., OT, Alabama

This is a really tough one: give Sam Darnold more weapons and draft a guy like CeeDee Lamb or protect Sam Darnold and draft an offensive tackle. This is a loaded wide receiver draft and there aren’t many starting offensive tackles after the first round.

12. Las Vegas? Raiders – CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

13. San Francisco 49ers (from IND) – CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

Different pick but the same analysis: I don’t know if you heard but Tom Brady is signing with the Buccaneers. That means that every move/signing/trade/draft pick going forward is about TB12. Offensive line is the weakest spot on Tampa Bay’s offense.

15. Denver Broncos – Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

16. Atlanta Falcons – Javon Kinlaw, DL, South Carolina

17. Dallas Cowboys – Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

18. Miami Dolphins (from PIT) – Josh Jones, OT, Houston

The Dolphins luck out and get their starting left tackle in the middle of the first round. Taking Tua in the top 5 almost guarantees that Miami is using substantial draft capital on the offensive line.

19. Las Vegas! Raiders (from CHI) – Jordan Love, QB, Utah St.

By signing Marcus Mariota, the Raiders are indicating that Derek Carr’s reign as starting quarterback is all but over. The perfect way of turning the page on the Derek Carr era would be drafting the quarterback of the future in Jordan Love.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR) – Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU

21. Philadelphia Eagles – Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

22. Minnesota Vikings (from BUF) – Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado

The Vikings are (without a doubt) in win now mode. The only issue is that the Vikings traded away one of their only offensive weapons, other than Adam Thielen and Dalvin Cook. Laviska Shenault Jr. could be the dynamic #1 wide receiver, which allows Thielen to move all over the field.

23. New England Patriots – Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin

Zack Baun can play on the line as a pass rusher or as a traditional linebacker. That means he is exactly the defensive asset that Bill Belichick loves to have on his team. Obviously the Patriots cannot replace Tom Brady (especially this late in the first round) so the next best move is bolstering an already great defense.

24. New Orleans Saints – K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU

25. Minnesota Vikings – Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama

26. Miami Dolphins (from HOU) – Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama

Miami lucked out with Tua falling to #5 then lucked out again by having one of the five offensive tackles fall to #18. Now they luck out again by having the top safety in the draft fall to #26. The Dolphins already have an elite (and possibly best) cornerback duo but need a starting safety.

27. Seattle Seahawks – Cesar Ruiz, IOL, Michigan

Russell Wilson is crying tears of joy right now. The Seahawks are finally trying to improve the offensive line. While the Seahawks missed out on the group of offensive tackles who are considered better than the rest, Cesar Ruiz is the top interior offensive lineman and will likely start right away.

28. Baltimore Ravens – Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma

29. Tennessee Titans – A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa

30. Green Bay Packers – Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson

Same pick as last draft. Personally, I believe Davante Adams is an elite wide receiver and his greatness gets shadowed by Aaron Rodgers being his quarterback. But regardless of how you feel about Adams, he was essentially the only receiving threat on the team. Get him and Rodgers some help with an elite slot receiver prospect.

31. San Francisco 49ers – Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

32. Kansas City Chiefs – A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson

Shout out to Mark Ellenbogen with the A.J. Terrell O/U of 31.5!

NFL Mock Draft 5.0

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 17:41:00 +0000

Author | Michael Weitzner

A lot has happened since the last NFL Mock Draft (if you want to review Mock 4.0, click here). The NFL Draft is still happening, but will be conducted completely online like an amateur fantasy draft (that’s right; you shouldn’t consider your league a “pro fantasy football league” unless you do an in-person draft). There have been crazy trade rumors like Miami wants to trade up to #1 for Joe Burrow. And possibly the most insane thing to happen, both the Atlanta Falcon (oh my god, terrible. What were they thinking?) and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (basically the same uniforms from the last 25 years, excluding the weird uniforms during the Jameis era) released their uniform redesign! Anyways! The real NFL Draft is two weeks away so there are only a few mock drafts left! Enjoy!

1. Cincinnati Bengals – Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

We’ve known for months that Burrow was going to be the pick. All the rumors about Miami wanting to trade up are either fake or not going to happen, Cinny loves Burrow too much to trade him away.

2. Washington Football – Chase Young, Edge, Ohio St.

3. Detroit Lions – Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio St.

The Lions are putting out smoke signals to anyone who wants Tua that they will need to trade with Detroit to get him. However, since there hasn’t been a trade yet and I’m not putting mock trades into this mock draft, the Lions play is safe and get the top corner in the draft.

4. New York Giants – Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

5. Miami Dolphins – Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

There are two theories for what’s been going on with all these Miami rumors: (1) Miami is afraid of Tua’s injury since there haven’t been pro days or private team workouts, OR (2) Miami is in love with Tua and wants everyone else to fear the Tua injuries so they don’t try to jump the Dolphins. Personally, I think (hoping and praying) it’s the second.

6. Los Angeles Chargers – Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

The Chargers are seemingly refusing to sign either of the top quarterback free agents (Jameis Winston and Cam Newton). This seems to point to the fact that the Chargers are looking to take a quarterback in the draft. I believe Jordan Love has more potential and I would take him here, but with the compressed pre-draft schedule, the Chargers might be looking for a safe pick: Herbert.

7. Carolina Panthers – Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

Wirfs can play offensive tackle or guard. The Panthers traded All-Pro guard Trai Turner for the aging left tackle Russell Okung. Wirfs could play guard if Okung continues to start, but Wirfs might also beat him out at tackle.

8. Arizona Cardinals – Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

9. Jacksonville Jaguars – Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn

The Jags seem to be hashtag [insert catchy slogan for losing a ton of games in order to get the 1st overall pick next season to draft Trevor Lawrence]. This draft’s pick is about team building, not winning.

10. Cleveland Browns - Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

11. New York Jets – Jedrick Wills Jr., OT, Alabama

This is a really tough one: give Sam Darnold more weapons and draft a guy like Jerry Jeudy or protect Sam Darnold and draft an offensive tackle. This is a loaded wide receiver draft and there aren’t many starting offensive tackles after the first round.

12. Las Vegas? Raiders - Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

The only debate is which elite wide receiver prospect. My favorite is Jerry Jeudy so he’s the pick.

13. San Francisco 49ers (from IND) - CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Josh Jones, OT, Houston

Same pick with the same analysis: I don’t know if you heard but Tom Brady is signing with the Buccaneers. That means that every move/signing/trade/draft pick going forward is about TB12. Offensive line is the weakest spot on Tampa Bay’s offense.

15. Denver Broncos - Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

16. Atlanta Falcons - Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
Poor Patrick Queen has to play in those absolutely atrocious uniforms hahahahaha!

17. Dallas Cowboys – CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

18. Miami Dolphins (from PIT) – Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama

The Dolphins again miss out on the top 5 offensive tackles in the draft. Since there is no offensive tackle to draft, the Dolphins continue the offseason construction of an elite secondary.

19. Las Vegas! Raiders (from CHI) - Javon Kinlaw, DL, South Carolina

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR) – Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU

21. Philadelphia Eagles – Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota

Have ya’ll looked at the Eagles secondary? Besides Darius Slay (who they literally just traded for), there aren’t many quality starters.

22. Minnesota Vikings (from BUF) - Jordan Love, QB, Utah St.

I know, I know . . . the Vikings just extended Kirk Cousins (ridiculous) contract. But according to overthecap.com, Cousins’ contract is effectively only a two year deal and Minnesota could cut him in 2022 with minimal dead money. Jordan Love is an electric player but he needs time to develop. Also, I can’t allow an awesome quarterback prospect to fall to the Patriots.

23. New England Patriots - Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin

24. New Orleans Saints - K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU

The Saints have done an amazing done filling critical needs during free agency. That leaves the Draft open for luxuries, like pass rusher. K’Lavon Chaisson has fallen enough in the draft and finds a nice home, playing opposite of Cameron Jordan.

25. Minnesota Vikings – Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado

26. Miami Dolphins (from HOU) Cesar Ruiz, IOL, Michigan

After completely missing out on offensive tackles, the Dolphins still do Tua a favor and improve the offensive line as a whole. Cesar Ruiz will likely be a center in the NFL; even with the signing of center Ted Karras, Ruiz could easily win a starting spot at center.

27. Seattle Seahawks – Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State

28. Baltimore Ravens – A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa

29. Tennessee Titans – Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah

30. Green Bay Packers - Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

Personally, I believe Davante Adams is an elite wide receiver and his greatness gets shadowed by Aaron Rodgers being his quarterback. But regardless of how you feel about Adams, he was essentially the only receiving threat on the team. Get him and Rodgers some help with an elite slot receiver prospect.

31. San Francisco 49ers – Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

32. Kansas City Chiefs – Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma

I still can’t believe how awesome the last 10 minutes of the Superbowl was. That’s it. That’s the analysis.

NFL Mock Draft 4.0

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Author | Michael Weitzner

With the biggest part of NFL free agency finished, it’s time for an updated NFL Mock Draft! There haven’t been the major changes to NFL rosters like what we saw at the beginning for free agency (like Hopkins traded to Arizona, Diggs traded to Buffalo, Slay traded to Philadelphia, and of course Tom Brady signing in Tampa). But there were still roster building signings all around the league. If you want to review our previous mock, click here for Mock Draft 3.0 and click here for a breakdown of the Miami Dolphins team need (the name of this blog is “Almost Sports Miami” so don’t be surprised it’s so Dolphins focused).

1. Cincinnati Bengals – Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

We’ve known for months that Burrow was going to be the pick. Don’t overthink it.

2. Washington Football – Chase Young, Edge, Ohio St.

3. Detroit Lions – Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio St.

Trading Darius Slay basically carved Jeff Okudah’s name into the tablets at the Lions team facility, even after signing the aging Desmond Trufant.

4. New York Giants – Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

5. Miami Dolphins – Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

With free agency basically in the books and the teams’ inability to bring players in for interviews/evaluations, it’s becoming more possible that Miami will not have to trade up in the Draft to get Tua. But now that I’ve typed that into existence, some team like the Jaguars are going to trade up to #4 to get him. Anyways, Miami need a quarterback.

6. Los Angeles Chargers – Jordan Love, QB, Utah St.

With Tyrod Taylor being the only “not terrible” quarterback on the roster, the Chargers need to do something. It now comes down to whether the Chargers make a run at signing Jameis Winston or Cam Newton; and even if they do, if that stops them from taking a quarterback anyways. I prefer Jordan Love over Justin Herbert so Love is the pick.

7. Carolina Panthers – Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

8. Arizona Cardinals – Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

9. Jacksonville Jaguars – Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn

The Jags seem to be hashtag [insert catchy slogan for losing a ton of games in order to get the 1st overall pick next season to draft Trevor Lawrence]. A good way to do that is draft an interior defensive lineman that will certainly be good but not make an incredibly big impact in year one, for more information, check out Miami Dolphins’ 2019 1st round pick Christian Wilkins.

10. Cleveland Browns - Jedrick Wills Jr., OT, Alabama

11. New York Jets – Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

12. Las Vegas? Raiders - Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

Fun fact: Hunter Renfrow is currently the second best wide receiver on the Raiders. Easy pick here. The only debate is which elite wide receiver prospect. My favorite is Jerry Jeudy so he’s the pick.

13. San Francisco 49ers (from IND) - CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Josh Jones, OT, Houston

15. Denver Broncos - Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

So I know the Broncos used a 2nd round pick last year to draft quarterback Drew Lock. But Broncos’ General Manager John Elway loves these big, tall quarterbacks. There’s one team every draft that takes a quarterback when you don’t think they will.

16. Atlanta Falcons - Javon Kinlaw, DL, South Carolina

17. Dallas Cowboys – CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

18. Miami Dolphins (from PIT) – Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama

In this mock, the Dolphins miss out on the top 5 offensive tackles. Instead of totally reaching for a tackle, the Dolphins bolster their secondary with first safety taken in the Draft. With the signing of Byron Jones, Miami could have one of the best secondaries in the league.

19. Las Vegas! Raiders (from CHI) - K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR) - Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

21. Philadelphia Eagles – Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

22. Minnesota Vikings (from BUF) - Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado

23. New England Patriots - Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin

The Patriots lost (pushed out?) Tom Brady and basically only have Brian Hoyer and Jared Stitham to replace him. However, Bill Belichick isn’t the type of guy to reach for a quarterback. Instead, he replenishes his elite defense.

24. New Orleans Saints - A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa

The Saints have done an amazing done filling critical needs during free agency. That leaves the Draft open for luxuries, like pass rusher.

25. Minnesota Vikings – Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

26. Miami Dolphins (from HOU) – Lucas Niang, OT, TCU

After drafting the lone safety so far in the 1st round, the Dolphins need to address offensive tackle. Realistically, the Dolphins need two offensive tackles to have a solid offensive line. Lucas Niang is more of a right tackle (Tua’s blind side) but would still likely be starting from day one.

27. Seattle Seahawks – Cesar Ruiz, IOL, Michigan

28. Baltimore Ravens – Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

Baltimore has a young quarterback who just won NFL MVP (Lamar Jackson, if you haven’t heard). He won MVP even without an elite wide receiver on the roster.

29. Tennessee Titans - Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State

30. Green Bay Packers - Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU

31. San Francisco 49ers – Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama

32. Kansas City Chiefs – Grant Delpit, S, LSU

Dolphins' Team Needs: Post Free Agency

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Author | Michael Weitzner

The Miami Dolphins have been the most active team in free agency this season (not typically a good thing). However, last year’s Dolphins’ team was special. Even overlooking the fact that fans of the team used the mantra “Tank for Tua”, multiple starters were traded for draft capital and the rest of the team were below average/terrible. Needless to say, the Dolphins needed to completely reconstruct the roster.

Just from last season’s roster, the team is losing 17 (SEVENTEEN) players. Some were deliberately cut from the team—notably Reshad Jones and Daniel Kilgore—while others were outright free agents that the Dolphins are electing not to resign. And just to clarify, ZERO free agents who played for the Dolphins last season have been signed by another franchise since free agency started officially on March 18th.

So you made it to paragraph three and you want to know if I’m done crapping on your beloved Miami Dolphins. Well the rest of this article is recapping all of Miami’s signings to this point in time and a breakdown of what I think are the remaining team needs that should be addressed via trade or in the upcoming (and still happening) NFL Draft. Speaking of the Draft, if you want to see all of our Mock Drafts to this point click here for Mock Draft 3.0, here for Mock Draft 2.0, and here for Mock Draft 1.0.

In a previous article, I discussed what the Dolphins team needs were before free agency started (which you can check out by clicking here). But if you don’t want to read an old article that isn’t relevant today, here is a summary of what the team needs were:

Top Priority

1. Quarterback

2. Offensive tackle

3. Edge rusher

Significant Need

4. Safety

5. Cornerback

Need

6. Guard

7. Center

8. Running back

9. Traditional 4-3 defensive end

Obviously after signing 11 new players in free agency, the Miami Dolphins’ team needs have dramatically changed. Of those 11 signings, cornerback Byron Jones, linebacker Kyle Van Noy, defensive ends Shaq Lawson and Emmanuel Ogbah, guard Ereck Flowers, and running back Jordan Howard are the key signings that are likely starters when the season (hopefully) starting in September.

So this is what I’m going to do; I’m going to break the Dolphins’ team needs for the NFL Draft down into four categories: (1) top priority, (2) significant need, (3) could use, and (4) don’t draft. Top priority means that the Dolphins should seriously consider drafting in the 1st round. Significant need means maybe use a 1st or 2nd round pick or trading an equivalent pick for a player at that position. Could use means that the Dolphins could use a player at that position but shouldn’t over draft to get them. And finally, don’t draft is exactly what it sounds like: don’t waste a draft pick in the first 4 rounds on this position.

Here we go:

TOP PRIORITY

1. Quarterback

2. Left tackle

3. Right tackle

These are the most apparent team needs. The current starting quarterback is Ryan Fitzpatrick. While he was exciting to watch last season, Fitzpatrick turn 38 years old before the season is over. He’s not the long term solution at quarterback and the Dolphins NEED to take a quarterback extremely early in the Draft, say at pick #5 (*cough cough* Tua Tagovailoa).

The next two needs in this category, left and right tackle, are just as pressing of a need because of the likely addition of a young quarterback (again, *cough cough* Tua Tagovailoa). Just to emphasis the frantic need for new tackles on both sides, the current projected starters are Julie’n Davenport at left tackle (with Pro Football Focus grade of 56.5) and Jesse Davis (who is more likely a guard and has a Pro Football Focus grade of 58.9). It’s unrealistic to expect Miami to draft two offensive tackles in the 1st round, but possibly trading a high draft pick to Washington for Trent Williams and then drafting another tackle in the 1st round would be much needed.

SIGNIFICANT NEED

4. Safety

5. Running back

With the signing of cornerback Byron Jones to a 5 year, $82,500,000 contract, the Dolphins should be looking to double down on the secondary and focus on making it an absolutely premier unit. But since the Dolphins release safety Reshad Jones, getting another safety to play alongside Eric Rowe is necessary to fulfil that goal. The draft—either late in the 1st round or with one of their two 2nd round picks—is likely the method to file the gap.

Similarly, the signing of running back Jordan Howard puts the Dolphins is a good spot as is. But if the Dolphins want an elite running back room, drafting (instead of trading for or signing) another running back would do it. This is an incredibly deep running back class in the draft, with D’Andre Swift, Jonathan Taylor, J.K. Dobbins, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and Cam Akers, so Miami should easily be able to find one they like (and reports say Miami loves J.K. Dobbins).

COULD USE

6. Guard

7. Edge rusher

8. Center

9. Wide receiver

These positions are ones that either aren’t pressing needs or could be solved by some players moving from other positions. For example, if the Dolphins successfully acquire two competent offensive tackles by the start of next season, Jesse Davis moves back to guard. This allows Michael Deiter (who should be playing center regardless) and Shaq Calhoun to be backup interior offensive lineman instead of starters, solidifying the entire interior of the offensive line.

The Dolphins simply aren’t clamoring at other positions as a result of free agency signings, such as edge rusher with the additions of Shaq Lawson and Emmanuel Ogbah, or in some cases from the lack of cuts. Wide receiver is one of those groups. I fully expected receivers Allen Hurns and Albert Wilson to get the pink slip. According to www.overthecap.com, Miami would have freed up $11,633,000 in cap space with a little over $2,000,000 in dead cap. But alas, if the right wide receiver falls to Miami in this loaded class, they will make room for one more wide receiver.

DON’T DRAFT

Tight end

Defensive tackle

Inside linebacker

Cornerback

Finally, the four positions listed here are simply not places where the Dolphins should be using draft capital. That doesn’t mean the Dolphins couldn’t use players at these positions; it purely means that the Draft is not where they should be addressed. A better timeframe for adding these kinds of players are through trade down scenarios (which some might say are draft related but get off my back) or from camp cuts once the preseason starts.

NFL Mock Draft 3.0

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 15:37:00 +0000

Author | Michael Weitzner

If you haven’t heard, all hell’s broken loose. First of all, the coronavirus has the entire country (and the world) in social distancing, so expect a lot of mock drafts to come. Second, Tom Brady actually left the Patriots and is going to Tampa Bay?! Third, NFL free agency has started and its turning into NBA free agency where everyone changes teams. Fourth and finally, the NFL league office announced that the 2020 NFL Draft is still happening. Big win for sports fans that need a break from the real world. That all being said, NFL Mock Draft 3.0 is here! If you want to review our previous mocks, click here for Mock Draft 2.0 and here for Mock Draft 1.0.

1. Cincinnati Bengals – Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

We’ve known for months that Burrow was going to be the pick. Don’t overthink it.

2. Washington Football – Chase Young, Edge, Ohio St.

3. Detroit Lions – Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio St.

If you are one to believe that HC Matt Patricia is trying to create a Belichick-ian defense in Detriot, Jeff Okudah is the obvious pick. Okudah is the best cornerback in the draft and a needed piece for an elite secondary, especially since Darius Slay is going to the Eagles.

4. New York Giants – Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

5. Miami Dolphins – Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

As free agency continues, less and less teams are in need of a quarterback. I used to believe that the Dolphins would need to trade up to #3 in order to secure Tua . . . but that’s becoming less and less likely.

6. Los Angeles Chargers – Jordan Love, QB, Utah St.

The current projected starting quarterback is Tyrod Taylor . . . There is ZERO chance the Chargers start the season in the same situation. Jordan Love is electric. He will get all (four?) Chargers fans into the new, shiny stadium.

7. Carolina Panthers – Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

8. Arizona Cardinals – Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

After absolutely annihilating the Texans in the DeAndre Hopkins trades, the Cardinals are going to continue being smart and giving QB Kyler Murray pass protection he desperately needs. Becton is truly special with his physical talent and those kinds of tackles don’t fall in the draft.

9. Jacksonville Jaguars – Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

This one feels obvious. Justin Herbert screams Jacksonville quarterback who looks good for one season, makes the playoffs, gets overpaid in Jacksonville, fails, and gets traded/released within two years of that contract extension. Put shortly: I’m not a fan of Herbert.

10. Cleveland Browns - Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn

11. New York Jets – Jedrick Wills Jr., OT, Alabama

12. Las Vegas? Raiders - Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

Here’s another big winner of the Texans-Cardinals trade. The Raiders are (for some unforeseen reason) sticking with Derek Carr at quarterback. In fact, they doubled down by signing Marcus Mariota. They are winners because they get the best route runner (and best WR in the draft, in my opinion).

13. San Francisco 49ers (from IND) - CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Josh Jones, OT, Houston

I don’t know if you heard but Tom Brady is signing with the Buccaneers. That means that every move/signing/trade/draft pick going forward is about TB12. Offensive line is the weakest spot on Tampa Bay’s offense.

15. Denver Broncos - CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

16. Atlanta Falcons - Javon Kinlaw, DL, South Carolina

17. Dallas Cowboys - Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama

18. Miami Dolphins (from PIT) – Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

The Dolphins have improved almost every position during free agency (DE, LB, CB, OG, RB) but haven’t addressed the glaring need for not only one but BOTH offensive tackles. Andrew Thomas is part of the higher tier of offensive tackles in this draft and would be a day one starter in Miami.

19. Las Vegas! Raiders (from CHI) - Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR) - A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa

21. Philadelphia Eagles - Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

After trading for Darius Slay, the Eagles may want to double down on secondary players and draft another defensive back. But I think it’s much more likely that they draft Ruggs III. He has elite speed and is a top wide receiver in this draft.

22. Minnesota Vikings (from BUF) - Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota

23. New England Patriots - Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

24. New Orleans Saints - Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado

The Saints are rolling with Drew Brees for two more seasons (at least). I think they should start stock piling offensive weapons for him.

25. Minnesota Vikings - K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU

26. Miami Dolphins (from HOU) – Grant Delpit, S, LSU

The Dolphins signed Bryon Jones (cornerback from Dallas), kept Xavien Howard, Eric Rowe, and Bobby McCain. Brian Flores wants to recreate Belichick’s defense in Miami, which is built on the secondary. Grant Delpit gives the Dolphins immediate versatility and depth at safety.

27. Seattle Seahawks – Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin

I really really wanted to put Jonathon Taylor here again for the Seahawks. But edge rushing for the Seahawks has been a weakness for a few years and the linebacking core is starting to age. Zack Baun helps both those issues.

28. Baltimore Ravens – Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State

29. Tennessee Titans - Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU

30. Green Bay Packers - Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

31. San Francisco 49ers – Lloyd Cushenberry III, IOL, LSU

32. Kansas City Chiefs – Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama

NFL Mock Draft 2.0

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Author | Michael Weitzner

Now that I’ve started to do these mock drafts again, I can’t stop. NFL Mock Draft 2.0 is here! There isn’t much different in the top 5—and there probably won’t be much change until still trades up or one of these teams makes a huge free agency splash. Regardless, there are some guys moving way up (looking at you Patrick Queen) and some who jumped into the first after not making the cut in the last mock draft. If you want to check out our NFL Mock Draft 1.0, click here! If you want to check out our Draft Over/Under, click here!

1. Cincinnati Bengals – Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

We’ve known for months that Burrow was going to be the pick. Don’t overthink it.

2. Washington Football – Chase Young, Edge, Ohio St.

Every video I see of Young on Twitter reinforces the fact that he is going to be a problem off the edge.

3. Detroit Lions – Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

The best comp for Simmons is Derwin James, who fell to #17 in the 2018 Draft for no apparent reason. The league isn’t going to make the same mistake with Simmons, who can be at all three levels of the defense.

4. New York Giants – Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

5. Miami Dolphins – Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

Same analysis as last draft: Tua will not still be available at #5 and the Dolphins will trade up to #3 to get him. Even if Tua doesn’t play a single snap in 2020, this is the right pick.

6. Los Angeles Chargers – Jordan Love, QB, Utah St.

Same pick as last draft . . . With the Phillip Rivers Era officially over, the Chargers need a quarterback. Unless something drastic changes during free agency, the best quarterback on LA’s roster is Tyrod Taylor. I can’t see a scenario where the Chargers brass sit down and seriously think they are okay at the quarterback position.

7. Carolina Panthers – Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio St.

8. Arizona Cardinals – Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

9. Jacksonville Jaguars – Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn

10. Cleveland Browns - Jedrick Wills Jr., OT, Alabama

11. New York Jets – CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

Come March 18th, Robby Anderson and Demaryius Thomas are free agents. Barring a big free agency splash at wide receiver, Jamison Chowder and Quincy Enunwa are the top 2 receivers. That’s not fair to Sam Darnold. Give him a real wide receiver!

12. Las Vegas? Raiders - Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

13. Indianapolis Colts - Justin Herbert, QB, Oregan

Do the Colts have confidence in Jacoby Brissett? I have no idea! But I can tell you one thing: if the Colts draft Justin Herbert (who I personally think is the most overrated player in this draft), you will have the answer to my question.

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

15. Denver Broncos - Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

16. Atlanta Falcons - K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU

17. Dallas Cowboys - CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

Here is the complete list of quality secondary players on the Cowboys:

I exaggerate to prove my point. Dallas needs secondary help. With Dak Prescott, Amari Cooper, and Byron Jones all becoming free agents, its unlikely the Cowboys keep all three. My bet is Dak and Cooper stay.

18. Miami Dolphins (from PIT) – Josh Jones, OT, Houston

Dolphins are picking? You know what that means, you get my thoughts! According to www.footballoutsiders.com, Miami had the worst offensive line in the NFL and a 11.2% Adjusted Sack Rate (also worst in the NFL). If Miami takes a quarterback with their first pick, OL needs to be taken with the second pick.

19. Las Vegas! Raiders (from CHI) - Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR) - Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama

21. Philadelphia Eagles - A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa

22. Buffalo Bills - Javon Kinlaw, DL, South Carolina

23. New England Patriots - Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin

Kyle Van Noy and Jamie Collins are free agents, and following Tre Flowers departure last offseason, the Patriots need to reload on defense. It’s extremely likely that neither Van Noy nor Collins returns, opting to play in Miami or Detriot for more money (both coaches are Belichick disciples).

24. New Orleans Saints – Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado

25. Minnesota Vikings - Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama

26. Miami Dolphins (from HOU) - Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota

It’s a Dolphins pick so there will be an explanation . . . The Dolphins need help at almost every position. This is especially true for the secondary. Brian Flores loves to play in dime (6 defensive backs) and the Dolphins currently have four (at most) defensive backs that are reliable.

27. Seattle Seahawks – Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin

Same pick, same analysis: Would the Seahawks really draft another running back? My answer: have you seen how they play offense? The Seahawks ran the ball 54.34% of their offensive plays. That’s 6th highest run rate in the NFL. Jonathan Taylor is a complete stud.

28. Baltimore Ravens – Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State

29. Tennessee Titans - Matt Hennessy, C, Temple

30. Green Bay Packers - Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

31. San Francisco 49ers – Bryce Hall, CB, Virgina

32. Kansas City Chiefs - Grant Delpit, S, LSU

NFL Draft Over/Under: Miami Dolphins

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 21:25:00 +0000

Author | Michael Weitzner

Here is the concept for this article: I’m going to talk about each round of the draft as a whole, make a prediction of over/under for picks each round, and discuss what trades could happen (and why the Dolphins might be inclined to make the trade). I might also chat about some draft prospects and which ones I think the Dolphins should be interested in. This article is NOT a mock draft. If you want to check out the Almost Sports Miami mock draft, click here!

So, I’ve been joking for months that the Dolphins’ team needs are as follows: quarterback, running back, tight end, wide receiver, left tackle, left guard, center, right guard, right tackle, 3-4 defensive end, defensive tackle, nose tackle, 4-3 defensive end, weakside linebacker, inside linebacker, strongside linebacker, boundary corner, nickel corner, strong safety, and free safety . . . so every position.

While there are a TON of team needs, in reality, there aren’t that many. According to www.thephinsider.com, offensive line is the top priority, followed by (and in this order): quarterback, edge rusher, running back, corner back, defensive end, and nose tackles. The article goes on to consider safeties, tight ends, and wide receivers are “low” priorities; and deems punter, fullback, long snapper (lol), and kicker as no need.

Personally, for top priorities, I would put quarterback at the top of the list, followed by offensive tackle (both sides), and then edge rusher. At the next level—significant need—cornerback and safety stand alone. Head Coach Brian Flores loves to have six defensive backs on the field, and Miami needs two to three more to be effective in dimes. The last level of “need” is interior offensive line (center and both left and right guard), running back, and traditional 4-3 defensive end. If you want my team needs in list form, here you go:

Top Priority

1. Quarterback

2. Offensive tackle

3. Edge rusher

Significant Need

4. Safety

5. Cornerback

Need

6. Guard

7. Center

8. Running back

9. Traditional 4-3 defensive end

1st Round

Picks: #5 (R1, P4), #18 (R1, P18), #26 (R1, P26)

O/U: 2.5

This might be the easiest O/U of the entire draft. The Dolphins want (NEED) Tua Tagovailoa, QB from Alabama. I truly believe the Dolphins will need to trade up—likely to #3—in order to secure Tua. That means Miami is going to give up (at least) one of the other 1st round picks. With the one remaining pick, offensive tackle should be the selection. I prefer Josh Jones, left tackle from Houston, who will likely be available at #26 and will definitely be there at #18.

But, if by some miracle Tua falls to #5 and Miami keeps all three 1st round picks, edge rusher or best available defensive back should be targeted. Outsider linebacker Zack Baun from Wisconsin is my favorite for edge rusher and safety Antoine Winfield Jr. from Minnesota is the pick for defensive back.

Ultimately, I believe the 1st round will go UNDER as a result of a trade up to locked in Tua and the other pick will go towards an offensive tackle.

2nd Round

Picks: #39 (R2, P7), #56 (R2, P24)

O/U: 1.5

The 2nd round is a tricky one. If you are part of the camp that feels trading up to #3 to get Tua is a foregone conclusion (I am, in fact, part of that camp), it seems obvious that one of the Dolphins’ two 2nd round picks might be going to the Lions. However, even if one of these original 2nd rounders comes into the possession of Detroit, I still think the Dolphins will end up taking two draftees in the 2nd round.

Traditionally, the 2nd round is where teams find value. Just last year, Rock Ya-Sin, Jawaan Taylor, Deebo Samuel, Cody Ford, Greg Little, Greedy Williams, Erik McCoy, A.J. Brown, Miles Sanders, Mecole Hardman, and DK Metcalf all were drafted in the second round.

In the aftermath of the mass exodus/expulsion following Brian Flores’ hiring in 2019, the Dolphins are in great need of quality players at most (if not all) positions. Because of this fact, I could see Miami trading into the 2nd round and drafting multiple players. OVER!

3rd Round

Pick: #70 (R3, P6)

O/U: 0.5

There is a good chance that the Dolphins end up not having a single 3rd round pick, simply because of the fact that Miami will be looking to be aggressive in the first two rounds. Nevertheless, this year’s 3rd round is shaping up to be absolutely loaded with running back talent.

Just from doing research for Almost Sports Miami mock drafts and observing mock draft of others, Jonathan Taylor (RB from Wisconsin) and D’Andre Swift (RB from Georgia) seem to be the only ones sneaking into the 1st round. That means all of these running backs will be available in the 2nd and 3rd rounds: J.K. Dobbins, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Cam Akers, Anthony McFarland, Eno Benjamin, Zack Moss, And AJ Dillon—all of whom could be day one starters.

Miami needs at least one (and more likely two) quality running back. I think the 3rd round is where the Dolphins find their running back. OVER!

4th Round

Pick: #141 (R4, P38)

O/U: 0.5

If the price is right, I could see the Dolphins having multiple 4th round picks from trades. However, I think it’s much more likely that Miami uses this pick as ammunition to trade for additional 2nd or 3rd round picks. It’s an UNDER for me dawg.

5th Round

Picks: #153 (R5, P7), #154 (R5, P8) #173 (R5, P27)

O/U: 2.5

Surprisingly, the Dolphins have actual had good luck in the 5th round over the years, drafting Davon Godchaux in 2017; Bobby McCain and Jay Ajayi in 2015; Caleb Strugis in 2013; and Reshad Jones in 2010. I hope the Dolphins try their luck again and use all of their picks. OVER!

6th & 7th Rounds

6th Picks: #185 (R6, P6)

7th Picks: #227 (R7, P13), #246 (R7, P32), #251 (R7, P37)

O/U: 2.5

I’m combining the last two rounds because most of the players drafted here are more likely to end up on the practice squad (or cut outright) than to actually make it onto the regular season roster. I think it’s equally likely that Miami uses some of these picks to trade up in this draft or to get more picks in the 2021 draft. Big time UNDER here.

NFL Mock Draft 1.0

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Fri, 06 Mar 2020 00:53:00 +0000

Author | Michael Weitzner

Guess whose back and better than ever! While I may not be better than ever but I’m definitely back. With the NFL league year starting on March 18th and the Combine finished, it’s time for my first mock draft. I made a rule that I won’t do any mock trades (even though I know damn well that at least one team (*cough cough* Miami Dolphins) will trade up to get a quarterback).

1. Cincinnati Bengals – Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

We’ve known for months that Burrow was going to be the pick. Don’t overthink it.

2. Washington Football – Chase Young, Edge, Ohio St.

Have you watched a second of Young play? He’s clearly the best player in the draft.

3. Detroit Lions – Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio St.

4. New York Giants – Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

5. Miami Dolphins – Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

I do not think that Tua will still be available at #5. I do think that the Dolphins will ultimately make a trade with the Lions to jump up to #3.

6. Los Angeles Chargers – Jordan Love, QB, Utah St.

The Chargers have little to no fans in LA and they are moving into a new stadium. If they don’t want it to be mostly empty, drafting a young, exciting quarterback is exactly what the Chargers need.

7. Carolina Panthers – Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

8. Arizona Cardinals – Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

Have you heard of a guy named Derwin James? He played college ball at FSU, currently plays for the Chargers, is an absolute stud. Simmons is the Derwin James of this draft. An absolute stud.

9. Jacksonville Jaguars – Derrick Brown, DL, Auburn

10. Cleveland Browns - Jedrick Wills Jr., OT, Alabama

11. New York Jets – CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

12. Las Vegas? Raiders - Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

13. Indianapolis Colts - Justin Herbert, QB, Oregan

14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

Here’s my plan for the Bucs this offseason: Resign Shaq Barrett, sign Teddy Bridgewater, let Jameis Winston go if he asks for too much money. Either way, the Bucs need a LT.

15. Denver Broncos - Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

16. Atlanta Falcons - Javon Kinlaw, DL, South Carolina

17. Dallas Cowboys - K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, LSU

18. Miami Dolphins (from PIT) – Josh Jones, OT, Houston

Personally, I am a Dolphan. That means I’m going to talk about every pick the Dolphins make. Since the Dolphins’ offensive line is absolutely terrible and doesn’t have a quality player at any position, this pick right here is a must for Miami.

19. Las Vegas! Raiders (from CHI) - CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (from LAR) - Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama

21. Philadelphia Eagles - Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

22. Buffalo Bills - A.J. Epenesa, Edge, Iowa

23. New England Patriots - Jacob Eason, QB, Washington

24. New Orleans Saints - Raekwon Davis, DL, Alabama

I fully expect Teddy Bridgewater to sign elsewhere and become a starter and Taysom Hill seems to be out the door. That’s why I expect the Saints to actually trade up to get a quarterback. But if they don’t, Raekwon Davis would fit nicely next to Cameron Jordan.

25. Minnesota Vikings - Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota

26. Miami Dolphins (from HOU) - Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin

It’s a Dolphins pick so there will be an explanation . . . Picking Zack Baun here might be a bit of a reach but he could potentially be Brian Flores’ Tre Flowers.

27. Seattle Seahawks – Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin

Would the Seahawks really draft another running back? My answer: have you seen how they play offense? The Seahawks ran the ball 54.34% of their offensive plays. That’s 6th highest run rate in the NFL. Jonathan Taylor is a complete stud and could be a bell cow in Seattle.

28. Baltimore Ravens – Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

29. Tennessee Titans - Lloyd Cushenberry III, C, LSU

30. Green Bay Packers - Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado

31. San Francisco 49ers - Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama

32. Kansas City Chiefs - Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge, Penn State

Avengers Endgame Review

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Sun, 21 Jul 2019 14:55:00 +0000

In honor of Avengers Endgame becoming the highest grossing movie of all time, Jordan and Michael are joined by Kevin Ellenbogen to review Endgame. They discuss Fat Thor and Professor Hulk, their favorite moments, retcons and more! Follow us on twitter @AlmostSportsMIA

The Benchwarmers Rewatch

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 02:59:00 +0000

In our second edition of rewatching sports movies, Jordan and Michael rewatched The Benchwarmers (2006) starring Rob Schneider, David Spade and Jon Heder. Since Miami sports has nothing going on right now, they will be rewatching and review movies throughout the summer. Follow us on twitter @AlmostSportsMIA.

Coach Carter Rewatch

noreply@blogger.com (Almost Sports Miami) — Sun, 16 Jun 2019 23:00:00 +0000

In our first edition of rewatching sports movies, Jordan and Michael rewatched Coach Carter (2005) starring Samuel L. Jackson. Since Miami sports has nothing going on right now, they will be rewatching and review movies throughout the summer. Follow us on twitter @AlmostSportsMIA.