Jesse Ballard Draft Studio Draft Chat

Chat Transcript February 14th, 2007

Copyright © 1995-2007 PackerChatters.com Inc. All rights reserved.

LMG-Moderator - Hi Jesse and welcome to PackerChatters Draft Chat...we thank you for taking the time to come in tonight. Jesse when you are ready we'll start asking for questions from our list of fans with us tonight.

Jesse Ballard-Draft Studio - Thanks for having me.. Let's start shooting these questions for the eager draft fans out there.

LMG-Moderator - First question to Majik

7majik7 - Welcome Jesse....At this point of the draft "season" who are the risers and fallers, and why?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - Obviously JaMarcus Russell is rising to the top of most mock drafts, so he would have to ultimately be the biggest riser. But as far as my projected risers after the scouting combine: Ted Ginn, Kenny Irons, Anthony Gonzalez, Joe Staley. And the fallers being Leon Hall after a poor senior bowl showing, Dwayne Jarrett has question marks about his speed, and Troy Smith's ability to run a pro-style offense is questionable.

LMG-Moderator - draftnik you are up

draftnik64 - who are the best penetrator defensive tackles in the draft?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - Despite his size, Alan Branch isn't rated as the top defensive tackle in the draft for no reason. His strength and size is unique for the fact that he can stuff the run and rush the pass on an elite level. There is no doubt that Okoye deserves his own respect, showing up at the combine at 287lbs, but looked in amazing shape. Look for both of these players to be top 15 picks, and it wouldn't surprise me if Okoye made a push up the board a bit higher.

Gandhi - Hi Jesse. Arizona has a huge need of an offensive tackle, but might have to settle with Levi Brown as Joe Thomas probably will be taken before them. How do you see the chances of trading up, so Packers get the fifth overall pick and Arizona get at better shot at Levi Brown?

Jesse Ballard-Draft Studio Gandhi: If the Cardinals were to trade down to the 16th overall selection I doubt they will get that shot at getting Levi Brown. More smoke will clear when it comes closer to draft day but right now the Cardinals have great choices all around the board, and I think they are very content with the possibility of getting Arkansas' Jamaal Anderson or Clemson's Gaines Adams, that is if Joe Thomas is already off the board. Michigan's Alan Branch is another good selection for them.

MDCHEF42 - If a RB isn't on the board should GB pick a WR like JARRET or GUINN

Jesse Ballard-Draft Studio MDCHEF: I think you really can't go wrong with either of those receivers. Jarrett brings a possession receiver and Ginn gives a big play threat. But as far as fitting in the Packers offense the best, it would be either Dwayne Jarrett or even Dwayne Bowe from LSU.

LMG-Moderator - eire how about your question

eire5199 - Thanks for joining us Jesse. I checked out your draft site and there's a lot of interesting info. I know it's pre-combine and things will change a lot, but I couldn't help but notice that you had Adrian Peterson going #2 overall to Detroit, which is higher than many other gurus are predicting. What are your thoughts on Peterson, and do you think he is significantly better than Marshawn Lynch?

Jesse Ballard-Draft Studio Hey Erie: From what I've been hearing lately it is unlikely Lions RB Kevin Jones will be ready to go until after mid-season next year and the fact that they were still ranked 32 in the NFL with him in the lineup is very subpar. Peterson gives them the inside running threat that Jones didn't give them. And Lynch's legal troubles are deeper than just a single report, so teams may shy away from him at the top of draft boards.

LMG-Moderator - firepack you are next

firepack - Who are your sleepers in the mid rounds of the draft?

Jesse Ballard-Draft Studio - Firepack: Alot of teams are sleeping on H.B. Blades from Pittsburgh, he has been undeniably a big time play-maker for the Panthers the last few seasons and size holds him back from getting drafted higher than the 3rd round. Same goes with FSU's Buster Davis. Others include Fresno State's Dwayne Wright, Syracuse's Tenard Jackson, Hampton's Justin Durant, and Miami's Baraka Atkins.

LMG-Moderator - Jersey you are up

JerseyCheese - What safety in the draft would best compliment our very own Nick Collins? Reggie Nelson or Laron landry? Thanks for being with us tonight also!

Jesse Ballard-Draft Studio JerseyCheese: I don't think you would have your choice of which safety you would like if you stay at #16 but as far as best fit for the Packers, I think LaRon Landry's hard hitting ability would be a compliment to Nick Collins coverage skills. Instead of two better coverage safeties.



LMG-Moderator - JM you are next

JM. - Hi Jesse. Thanks for taking time to this chat. Do you think Ted Ginn have a chance to eventually become a good cornerback in the NFL with some work? I know he was great at that position when he was a high school player.

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - JM: As far as Teddy Ginn playing the cornerback position is more than unlikely. He may get tested in some Dime packages for whatever team drafts him but he is set to be a Wide Receiver and has learned the nuances of the position in Columbus to play that spot at the next level.

LMG-Moderator - OK back on track....jmill2003 question for Jesse Ballard of the Draft Studio

jmill2003 - With Brady Quinn's stock apparently falling, do you see him as a "system" QB? If so, which team would be the best fit for him? Thanks for doing this chat tonight!

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - Well as far as the best fit for him, it would be a team further down the draft board like the Bears or the Panthers, but that's just because he has a better chance to succeed in those situations. But as far as what teams are looking at possibly drafting him, #2 Lions, #3/4 Browns, #3/4 Buccaneers, #7 Vikings, #8 Texans and #9 Dolphins. As of right now he figures to be one of those picks.

LMG-Moderator - King Vulture question?

KingVulture - Which skill position players are moving up and which are moving down? and how does Higgins compare to Ginn?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - Higgins is a pure speedster from UTEP, isn't the most polished receiver and I would compare as a poor mans version of what Teddy Ginn has shown he is capable of. The top movers and shakers that are skill position players are: Tony Hunt (UP), Dwayne Bowe (UP), Brandon Myles (UP) and Troy Smith (DOWN), Kenneth Darby (DOWN), David Clowney (DOWN)

LMG-Moderator - Lawdog you are up.

Lawdog - Thanks for the chat Jesse. The TE position needs upgrading. Who is your favorite TE in this draft. Zack Miller, Greg Olsen,Scott Chandler, Joe Newton or is there another you like.

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - I would put them in this order. 1. Greg Olsen, 2. Zach Miller, 3. Scott Chandler, 4. Ben Patrick, 5. Joe Newton. The top tight end all comes down to would you want a better receiver with marginal blocking skills or a better blocker with not as good receiving skills.

LMG-Moderator - LeRoy36 how about your question for Jesse?

LeRoy36 - Hey Jesse thanks for answering questions. I just wanted to hear your thoughts on Lynch and if you feel he will be on the board at the 16th pick? Also I heard Lynch is saying he is running the 40 in the low 4.30s on grass, do you buy this I mean he fast but not that fast.

2007-02-14 21:27:48 Message MDCHEF42 Feb 14- Jesse Ballard-Draft Studio since brett is coming back will that play into gb draft

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - I have heard that Lynch is in great shape right now so I wouldn't be surprised if he runs as low as the late 4.3's but with his short and stocky build it would be a challenge. I think that legal matters pushes him down a bit, but as far as a player from the Pac-10, he is among the best.

LMG-Moderator - MDChef has a question Jesse

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - I think if Brett weren't coming back the Packers would address a Veteran Free Agent QB, but with him coming back they can focus their salary money on other free agents.

LMG-Moderator - ptpag you are next

ptpaq - What can you tell me about CB Eric Wright, as far as what kind of player he is and where he is projected at the monent. Thankyou.

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - I project him as a mid 2nd rounder. He was a highly touted high school player out of the San Francisco area. Among his arrival at USC they knew what type of talent he had, and therefore he got a chance to play early. But as a Rebel nothing changed, he was a big time playmaker for them also.

LMG-Moderator - Majik another question for Jesse?

7majik7 - I love Hunt and since you've mentioned him. With Lynch's legal troubles what are the chances Hunt or that Michael Bush could go before him? What is your take on Hunt?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - I have been really impressed with hunt after stealing the spotlight from PSU's Austin Scott years ago. I think that Lynch's ability is in the top 10, but he will be dropped a little lower due to the problems. As far as either Bush or Hunt passing him, I would say it's highly unlikely, unless one of them looks simply amazing at the combine.

LMG-Moderator - brett how about you

brett63088 - hey jesse thanks for the chat....do you the best situation for the pack would be to take lynch in the 1st and greg olsen in the 2nd or maybe michael griffin

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - You may be seeing alot of RBs fly around in free agency this year, some as cap cuts so it wouldn't be out of the question to get a dominant safety like Reggie Nelson or LaRon Landry with the first pick and a big physical receiver like Robert Meachem in the 2nd.

LMG-Moderator - drafter question for Jesse Ballard of the Draft Studio?

drafter - hey jesse... i really like the head 2 head feature on your site, will there be more topics coming soon? also, where do you see aaron ross going?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - Thanks for the Head 2 Head comment, me and NFLDraftPro.com's Chris Steuber will be having weekly topics as the draft gets closer. Ross looks to be a for sure top 50 overall pick, I currently have him going 28th overall to the Patriots.

LMG-Moderator - eire back to you

eire5199 - The whole world knows that the Packers need help at safety. Aside from the obvious top 3 guys that will likely go in Round 1, what are your thoughts on guys like Eric Weddle, John Wendling, Sabby Piscitelli, and Brandon Meriweather?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - Brandon Meriweather will go no later than early 2nd round. As far as the others, they are all mid 1st day prospects. I really like Weddle's determination and speed, but lacks size to be a solid starter the the next level. As far as Wendling and Piscitelli, they are both bigger safeties that struggling in covering faster receivers, and both could still look at an outside linebacker position.

LMG-Moderator - great questions and answers....firepack bring it for Jesse

firepack - Who is the best all around tight end in the draft that could fit the Packers the best, and is there another Devin Hester type returner in this years draft? Thanks!

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - The best all-around tight end to me is close, its a take your pick out of Miami's Greg Olsen and Arizona State's Zach Miller. I prefer Olsen. The best return men in this years draft are Teddy Ginn, Aaron Ross, Ramonce Taylor, Steve Breaston.

LMG-Moderator - fisheye....question?

fisheye123 - Thanks for the chat! Our GM "Trader Ted" likes to move down in the draft to pick up extra picks. There is some chatter that Ted would trade down in the first round to pick up a receiver like Rice or Meacham and another second or third rounder. What rounds do you see as particularly good ones for talent near the end of the round, and what players do you see that would be good selections for the Pack?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - The Pack would definitely love to grab a big physical receiver like Bowe, Jarrett, Rice, Meachem. As far as trading down, this time it may not be the worst idea to pick up some extra draft picks. A big physical late round sleeper to look out for is Oregon's Jordan Kent.

LMG-Moderator - Gandhi have another?

Gandhi - How do you see the future of center Ryan Kalil?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - To me he is undoubtedly the top rated Center in this years draft class. Teams like the Ravens and Steelers could use a player like him, so don't be surprised to see him get off the board in the first round. But to me, he has second round talent.

LMG-Moderator - jerontennis question?

jerontennis - Denver obviously has had a successful running attack and don't draft them in the first round. Should the Packers follow suit?

Jesse Ballard-Draft Studio Denver has done it by their scheme, Philbin is isn't as experienced as what system Kubiak and Shanahan implanted in Denver. I think its possible to get a later round RB, but if you see an elite back still available like Lynch at 16, it wouldn't be a bad choice to take him.

LMG-Moderator - Jersey you are up

JerseyCheese - Quick question, what round do you see Notre Dame's Tom Zbikowski and what is hurting him from being a first/second round pick?

Jesse Ballard-Draft Studio Zbikowski was granted another year of eligibility, it's way too early to tell what he will do as an 08 prospect.

LMG-Moderator - JM you are next

JM. - I have read on pro football talk, that they expected Dwayne Jarrett to drop out of the first round because they believe he will run slow at the scouting combine. He propably wont run fast but do you think he can really drop that much because of that? If not THAt much, do you believe he could fall down to Packers with the 16th overall? Also. What are you thought about Brandon Jackson? Would he be a could fit for the Packers?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - Jarrett could drop because of his forty time, because of his long lengthy strides I don't see him running as slow as what is rumored. But I do see him struggling to break the 4.55 mark. Brandon Jackson was in a bad situation in Nebraska, he was splitting carries with another back and was basically forced to come out this year. He has good hands out of the backfield and is a powerful runner, but normally it takes a better interior line to have a bigger, more powerful back.

LMG-Moderator - Lawdog...question?

Lawdog - If you were the pack at # 16 who would you take. Also Brian Leonard what round do you think he will be drafted.

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - I would take Marshawn Lynch, or you could go with a bigger receiver like Jarrett/Bowe. Or go with the BPA (Best Player Available) and grab one of those tenacious safeties like Reggie Nelson or LaRon Landry.

LMG-Moderator - LeRoy36 you are next

LeRoy36 - How do you rated the Strong side LBs in this draft? Also if lets say Rufus Alexander is in the second round when GB is picking do you think GB would pick a LB even though we are strong at that position with the likes of Barnett, Hawk, Hodge, and Poppinga?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - I don't see Poppinga is being a top notch starter in the league, and as far as Hodge he is a reliable backup. Alexander wouldn't be a bad choice in the 2nd round, but I think there are more pressing needs.

LMG-Moderator - MDCHEF question?

MDCHEF42 - what may hurt Lynch the most his ability or his problem with the law. Thank you.

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - His ability isn't at question, film doesn't lie and we all know what he is capable of. The only thing holding him back from being at #8 at almost every mock you read is his problems off the field.

LMG-Moderator - NYRBC welcome...question?

NYRBC - your thoughts on Adam carriker ? good fit opposite Kampman?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - It has crossed my mind that Carriker could be a good fit for the Pack but it is unlikely that the Pack would take him, with the other big-time needs. I think if the Packers could somehow get Jamaal Anderson from Arkansas, they wouldn't regret taking him.

LMG-Moderator - ptpag you are next

ptpaq - Whats been the word on Gary Russell and what are your thoughts on him? Where is he projected at now? I really like how he ran at Minnesota and he would fit the scheme.

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - Russell ran really well at Minnesota, but so have many other backs (including former LB Alex Daniels). I think he will be off the board by the 5th round. Minnesota's offensive line is always among the best so take that into consideration when evaluating Russell. But as a player, I really like the way he finds wholes and eats up yardage inside the tackles.

LMG-Moderator - yeknod question for Jesse?

yeknod - i know it's not that simple, but...on which side of the ball would a premier player (draft or FA) more greatly affect the Packers?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - I think you would have to look at a player like Adalius Thomas affective the defensive side the most. Also I really like the thought of a possession receiver for Brett to throw to instead of targeting Driver every other player.

LMG-Moderator - Majik will have the last question this evening

7majik7 - Brian Leonard is another player I would love to have....any chance GB doubles up at the RB position and takes lynch at 16 and Leonard in 2nd?

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - There is definitely a chance of that. Leonard is trying to convince teams that he can play the running back position (like a Mike Alstott type with better speed). Woudln't be a bad idea to revamp the offense by getting those two players in there.

LMG-Moderator - This concludes tonights Draft Chat and we thank Jesse for joining us here tonight. Jesse's next visit with us will be on March 14th. Check our Calendar on PackerChatters.com for the complete Chat schedule Be sure to stop by the Draft Studio for great information on the NFL Draft all year long. We will have a complete Chat Transcript up as usual on the PackerChatters Front Page later this evening.

LMG-Moderator - Thanks to all for coming in with some great questions and hope you will join us for our next Draft Chat.

JesseBallard-DraftStudio - Thank you all for the questions, stop by the site any time. I really appreciate you all taking time out of your night to ask me questions. Happy Valentine's Day everybody. Thank you PackerChatters.com for the chat.

Jeff Cottrill New Era Scouting Draft Chat

Chat Transcript February 7th, 2007

Copyright © 1995-2007 PackerChatters.com Inc. All rights reserved.

LMG-Moderator - Our Chat is 'moderated' meaning we will take questions in order (top to bottom) of where your name appears in the list of fans in the Chat Room. Please wait until our Moderator calls your name for a question. To speed things up so Jeff can answer as many of your questions as possible we ask you have your draft question pre-typed in the submit text box ready to go when we call on you. If you do NOT have a question please let us know by typing in 'pass'. We appreciate your cooperation. 

LMG-Moderator - Hi Jeff and welcome back to PackerChatters Draft Chat...we thank you for taking the time to come in tonight. Jeff when you are ready we'll have Faede, our Moderator this evening, start asking for questions from our list of fans with us tonight.

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Glad to be here

LMG-Moderator - ddg question for Jeff

ddgronseth - What round do you think Brandon Myles will be in?
 
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I am going to guess he's going to be a fourth rounder

LMG-Moderator - ic_buck question?

ic_buck - G'Day Jeff thanks for ur time. IS there any TE with speed avaliable in the middle rounds?

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - This is a really weak year at tight end. I know a lot of you want a speedy tight end to spread the field, but I am not sure the Packers need one with their type of offense that likes more short and intermediate routes

LMG-Moderator - larry question for Jeff

larry - Jeff, What WR do you see as the best fit in GB, the speedy Ginn or tall Jarrett or others?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Ginn's speed is tempting, but I am not sure he really fits what the team is trying to do offensively. I think Dwayne Bowe, who looks like a mid first rounder, would be a very good fit for them
 
LMG-Moderator - TonyG question
2007-02-07 21:05:02  Message  TonyG  Feb 7-Jeff Cottrill-New Era Scouting Chat   If the Pack was to look for a WR is round 2, who would they be looking at there?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Jason Hill, Sidney Rice, LSU's Craig Davis would be good picks there. Watch for Davis to move up the boards after workouts

LMG-Moderator - denver you are next
   
denverpackersfan - who is your late first round 'sleeper' pick and where do you see the biggest needs of the packers?

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Central Michigan's Joe Stayley is a guy I see sneaking into the late first round based on the weak OT class and his great upside. Tony Hunt is another guy that has gained a bunch of ground recently and could find himself going high. As for the Packers, the offensive skill positions obviously need help, but I would like to see depth along the d-line and in the defensive secondary.

faede-moderator - eire5199, you are next

eire5199 - Thanks for joining us Jeff. What are your thoughts on Garrett Wolfe?

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I really liked him going into the season, but he just can't stay healthy. I have a hard time seeing him as a guy that will last long in the NFL. I would not even be shocked if injury concerns lead to him being undrafted. It's a shame, because he is talented.

faede-moderator - Jason, you're up!

Jason - Who would the Packers be happy/fortunate to see drop to #16? Which player is more realistic if things fall as scripted?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I know a lot of people are in love with Marshawn Lynch going there, but I am not so sure. I think Okoye would be a great pick to solidify the d-line for years to come. It's hard to say which direction they go at this point, but I would not be shocked at all to see it be a defensive player.

faede-moderator - larry, you're up!
   
larry - Jeff, Peterson's greatness (but injuries) vs. Lynch durability? Is Lynch really that far behind Peterson in the talent dept.?
 
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - On talent alone, Peterson might be the class of this year's draft. Lynch, while talented in his own right, isn't quite there and he has some serious issues to look into off the field that might drop him further than most are predicting at the moment.

faede-moderator - pimatt, you're up!

pimatt082985 - How interested do you think the pack is, in drafting safety Michael Griffin of Texas in the 2nd round?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - It's hard to say, but I would imagine he will be considered if he is there. A lot will depend on who is there when they are on the clock and who they take in the 1st. I would imagine if they go defense in the first tehy will be forced to look offense in the 2nd.

faede-moderator - ptpaq, you're up!

ptpaq - CB Darrelle Revis is one player I am really not to familiar with and have only seen play a few times, what is your overall opinion on him? I hear hes quite physical so how do you think he'd fair playing man to man coverage in the NFL? Does he have speed issues? As of now do you think he'd be good value at 16? Thankyou.

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Revis is a guy I liked when I did see him. He is a talented player that has a legitimate chance of being the top selected at his position, but he is a bit raw. A lot will depend on if teams are willing to develop him. The one bonus is that he is a fantastic punt returner.

faede-moderator - ralph, you're up!

RalphWiggums - Do you see the Packers looking for safety help in the draft? Anyone you see making an impact right away? 
    
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - The top two safties (Nelson & Landry) have tghe biggest potential for immediate impact, but they will have to be taken in the first round if the Packers want them. After that there is a slight dropoff. A couple guys could emerge, but I would say Landry is the most ready of all of them and very well could be the pick at 16

faede-moderator - Sdn40, you're up!

sdn40 - linebackers quarterbacks and special teams aside - in your opinion what are the strongest and weakest positions this draft ?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - wide receiver & defensive end look to be the strongest, while offensive tackle, tight end, & running back look much weaker than in recent years

faede-moderator - TonyG, you're up!

TonyG - Thank a lot, Jeff! What serious off-field questions with Lynch are you referring to?

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - There have been questions regarding the people that Lynch associates with. The domestic issue was another thing that will have to be looked into regardless of what a judge said. There are some things that don't add up with his character and attitude at times
   
faede-moderator - TulsaZ, you're up!

TulsaZ - To your knowledge who are the Packers eyeballing at running back?
     
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Tony Hunt was the one name I heard them being most interested in.

faede-moderator - Back to the top, and let me say, thank you for a great chat so far, lets keep it going... BVBAGEL, fire away!

bvbagel - who would you take, lynch or Meacham? Just based on talent
       
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I like Meachem quite a bit, but he would be a reach at 16. Lynch is a very talented player that will probably contribute early on, so he would likely be my pick as long as I could feel confortable about his character issues.

faede-moderator - Denver, you're up!

denverpackersfan - Do you think calvin johnson is worth trading up for? 
 
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - It depends where you are trading up from. If you're going up from within the top 10 yes, but if you're going up to the top 5 from the 16th pick you have to give up far too much.

faede-moderator - Eire, you're up!

eire5199 - If you had to pick 2 or 3 guys that you think are overrated and will be drafted too high, who would they be?
 
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Jamarcus Russell & Ted Ginn. Russell just has not shown enough to convince me he's worthy of being a top 5 pick. Top 15 maybe, but no higher. Ginn is a bit reminicent of Troy Williamson at this stage in his career.
 
faede-moderator - greenbayrocks, you're up!

greenbayrocks567 - Do you expect the Packers to take a QB in the late rounds of the draft, or not?

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I think they might if the right one is there, but we're talking late. It would have to be 6th or 7th round.

LMG-Moderator - Izzy question for Jeff?
   
Izzy - Sorry I was late, Hope I don't repeat a question. Rate the following WR's, Rice, Bowe, Ginn & Meacham. I expect Thompson to trade down and one of the four in the late 1st Round. Who will the PACK get?
     
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I would say Bowe, Meachem, Ginn, & Rice. Trading down would not shock me, but obviously someone would have to want to be a trade partner. It seems more teams want to trade down than up in recent years. If they do trade down a receiver like Bowe or Meachem or maybe Zach Miller would be looked at.
 
faede-moderator - Larry, you're up!

larry - Jeff, who do you see as potential late risers/fallers based on the combine and workouts? Which gets more weight in evaluation, productivity or combine numbers?

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Sadly workout numbers get far more attention than they deserve, but it really depends on how good a teams' scouting department is. If they watch tape they can see who the real players are. Risers will be guys like Lawrence Timmons of FSU & Jarvis Moss of Florida, while I see a guy like Paul Posluszny falling even if it is completely unwarranted.
 
faede-moderator - mr moxy, you're up

mr moxy - How would you rank the top 4 rbs of this years draft class and whom if any do you see being of Pro Bowl caliber?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Adrian Peterson, Marshawn Lynch, Tony Hunt, & Kenny Irons would be my top four in that order. Peterson probably has the biggest potential for greatness, but Lynch has some good potential too. Hunt looks like he could be a very good back in the right system. Irons, if he could stay healthy, looks like a guy that would have to split time to be most affective.

faede-moderator - MYT1, you're up!

MyT1 - What do you think the Pack's chances are next year if they: 1) trade a 3rd round pick for Randy Moss; 2) draft Lynch at #16; and 3) pick up 2 free agents like SS like Micheal Lewis and TE Jeremy Stevens to replace Marquand Manuel and Bubba Franks?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - If Moss plays up to ability and plays consistently and if Lynch meets expectations, you have just added two great weapons to your offense, but that is certainly not guaranteed. Lewis, I'm not high on him. If I remember correctly he did lose his starting job in Philly this part season. Stevens is a bad attitude that just isn't worth what he is going to get.

faede-moderator - Pimatt, you're up!

pimatt082985 - If you had to choose. What are the top 3 positions the pack is looking to upgrade in this years draft?

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I would imagine the top three positions would be receiver, corner, & d-line.

faede-moderator - ptpaq, you're up

ptpaq - Packers need an enorcer back at Safety to pair with Collins, but most of all we need a leader who will be able to get players into position. Who fits the bill better...Landry or Nelson? Thankyou.
 
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Landry is the better leader. His brother caught on very well in Baltimore as a rookie this past year and he isn't half the player LaRon is. Nelson is going to be a very productive player too, but as far as being a leader and an enforcer I would take Landry even if he isn't quite the prospect Nelson is.

faede-moderator - sdn
 
sdn40 - Is Michael Bush ---- the next Jerome Betis (powerful production) or the next Najeh Davenport (runs too high, injury prone and takes more punishment than he dishes out ) ????
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I think neither. He's probably somewhere in between the two. Had Bush not gotten hurt he would likely be going much higher. If I had to compare him to someone in the NFL right now it would be Chris Brown in Tennessee.

faede-moderator - ufgators, you're up

ufgators5 - Not sure if this has been discussed yet, but Jeff what are your thoughts on Jarvis Moss at 16??? pick 16 that is
    
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - While I really do like Moss and I see him a guy with huge upside, I think he might fit better in a 3-4 defense as an olb. I think he might struggle a bit more early on unless he is brought into the right scheme. The Packers don't really run the type of scheme that makes big time players out of undersized ends. He would fit better in the Tampa 2 scheme if he did go into a 4-3.

faede-moderator - Bvbagel, you're up!

bvbagel - in your opinion, who could be the colston (small school no name who produces at any position) of this draft?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Well, the popular choice is Jacoby Jones from Lane College. A couple other small school guys I like are CB Michael Coe from Alabama State & TE Ben Patric from Deleware. Both of them started out at 1A schools, but dropped down.

faede-moderator - chazy567, you're up!
   
chazy567 - Do you think it would be more logical for the packers to take Micheal Bush or any of the other 2nd grade RBs in the 2nd round or Marshawn Lynch in the first? if one of the second rounders which one?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I think Tony Hunt in the 2nd, Bush or Pittman in the 3rd, Dwayne Wright or Brandon Jackson in the 4th would be better choices.

faede-moderator - CHEESE, you're up!

CHEESE - Where do you see Patrick and Coe going right now?

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I think both are going to end up going early in the 2nd day (round 4-5).

faede-moderator - denverpack, you're up!

denverpackersfan - when is your website going to be fully functional?
   
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Hopefully any day now. We had planned on having it up weeks ago, but we keep hitting snags. I promise you'll find it one of the better draft sites right from launch. My staff is among the best and they watch every player they evaluate.

faede-moderator - eire, you're up!

eire5199 - Thanks for joining us and being willing to take rapid fire questions like this. Last year, the Bears picked Mark Anderson in the 5th round, despite the fact that rushing the QB is such a priority. Who do you think the best pass rushers of this draft are, regardless of position? And are there any 2nd day prospects that jumped out at you that wouldn't surprise you if they turned out to be good pass rushers?

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - There are so many good ones this year. Anthony Spencer of Purdue has been impressive in that capacity this pasrt year. I think he'll go in the 2nd though. Later round guys might be Mkristo Bruce from Washington State or Alma-Francis from Hawaii.

faede-moderator - gbmb, you're up!

gbmb - Is this a realistic draft. Nelson/Landry in the 1st, Hunt in the second, and Chandler TE IA in the 4th if the Packers trade for Moss. How do you feel about these players? Also, who do you think that the Packers would select if those S were not availble. Okeye DT from LOU jumps out at me. Or do we trade down. Any other S to get excited about in the later rounds

Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - First, Chandler would probably have to be taken in the 3rd if they really wanted him. He might even end up higher. The rest is certainly possible and as a Packer fan I would be very happy with it. I would prefer Okoye personally though. I'm not sold on the Moss to GB rumors though.

faede-moderator - ok, last question of the night goes to Greenbayrocks567, you're question please!

greenbayrocks567 - Who is, in your opinion, the most underrated player in this upcoming draft that you believe the Green Bay Packers have a legitimate shot at acquiring.
 
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - I will give you three underrated guys. CB Chris Houston from Arkansas, DE Dan Bazuin from Central Michigan, & DT Ryan McBean from Oklahoma St.

LMG-Moderator - This concludes tonights Draft Chat and we thank Jeff for joining us here tonight. Jeff's next visit with us will be on April 4th. Check our Calendar on PackerChatters.com for the complete Chat schedule. Jeff's website, New Era Scouting, should be back up and running soon and we will announce his launch on the PackerChatters Front Page. There will be a complete Chat Transcript up as usual on the PackerChatters Front Page later this evening.

faede-moderator - Thanks everyone

LMG-Moderator - Thanks to all for coming in with some great questions and hope you will join us for our next Draft Chat.

LMG-Moderator - Our next chat is Wednesday February 14th @ 8:00pm CST with Jesse Ballard of the Draft Studio. Hope you can make it. 

faede-moderator - and thank you Jeff, you're insight is always a pleasure to hear
 
Jeff.Cottrill-NewEraScouting - Thanks guys. Looking forward to next time 

Frank Coyle Draft Insiders Draft Chat

Chat Transcript February 1st, 2007

Copyright © 1995-2007 PackerChatters.com Inc. All rights reserved.

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - PAcker GM Ted Thompson had a great draft class last spring that should be a cornerstone group for future playoff clubs. IT was probably the best class in the shortterm with the potential to be the best in GB in a decade.
    
LMG-Moderator - Welcome Frank. You beat me to the intro Frank so I guess we can start with Faede our Moderator this evening taking questions. Faede over to you.

faede-moderator - Hey everyone and welcomg to the chat, Thanks for stopping by Frank

Frank Coyle - Great to be here tonite.

faede-moderator - Lets start out on top... Arrigo... do you have a question?

Arrigo - What do you think of and were do you project Jacoby Jones WR out of Lane College to fall?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Jacoby Jones is an interesting kid. In a deep group of receivers he probably falls to the early 2nd day say 5-6th rounds. He has nice upside and the patient club that develops him could have a gem in two years+

faede-moderator - gbpackfan how bout you?

gbpackfan - Would Antonio Pittman be a good fit in GB? If so, could he be had in round 3?
     
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Pittman is a good back with well rounded skills. He will be in the 2nd tier of backs with Tony Hunt and Lorenzo Booker after Peterson and Lynch the only two first round athletes. Pittman is a natural runner but will have to prove he can take the game to game pounding in the NFL to be a feature back. He figures in the 3rd round.  

faede-moderator - gr8gonzo, you're up

gr8gonzo - where do you project Adam Carriker DE Nebraska going
    
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Carriker had a great week in Mobile at the Senior Bowl He figures in the middle of the first round and has to be a player the Packers have on their short list. He is well developed and a nice compliment for Kampman.

faede-moderator - packerboy, you're up

packerboy - WELCOME ! I believe Chansi Stuckey (wr) would be the perfit fit for the packers. your thoughts on Stuckey ?
    
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Stuckey is a sudden smaller receiver with good run after the catch ability. He is similar to last year's rookie Greg Jennings and could have the same type of impact as a rookie. He figures to win a slot receiver role immediately and would be a nice addition late on the first day in a deep receiver class.

faede-moderator - packerfan, you're next!

PacerFan - What do you think of Romance Taylor?  

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Taylor is an athlete with limited playing experience and some off the field baggage. He is a boom or bust prospect with real talent to be a fine situational back if he grows up and wants to play football.

faede-moderator - schwaggy, you're up!!!

schwaggy - Thanks frank, JJ arrington came out of cal just recently and had close to his size speed and better stats, but has done basically nothing in the nfl. Is lynch really a franchise back and worth the # 16 pick thanks...

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Lynch is a well developed back with top talent but with some nagging injuries and off the field problems. He can be a feature back in the Tiki Barber mold but he must prove durable and mature enough to handle the fame.

faede-moderator - Veau, you're up!

Veau - Do you think Rutgers FB Brian Leonard would fit into a west coast type offense like the Packers in the mold of a William Henderson type of player?
    
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Leonard is a fine player. He would fit best as a single back but few clubs play that offense. He can play either spot and has the power to run inside, the speed to make the corner and great hands as a receiver. He would be an ideal West Coast fullback with the developement to help a club immediately. He improved greatly as a blocker over the '06 season.

faede-moderator - arrigo, you're up again!

Arrigo - I spoke to Dwayne Wright 2 days ago and he said he was running in the mid 4.5's. Where do yo project him and what is your overall opinion of him as a RB?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Say hi to Dwayne for me. He is a big tough back who made a nice recovery from a major knee injury. He probably goes on the early 2nd day unless he can run a big number. He is a great story and a kid I'm rooting for.
 
faede-moderator - ok, moving on to gbpackfan

gbpackfan - Other then Ted Ginn Jr., name some impact special teams return men that the Packers could be targeting.

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Ted Ginn is in a class my himself. Steve Breaston of Michigan has talent. Ryne Robinson is quick and makes plays but smaller than you want. Willie Foster of Rutgers is a player who can make a roster next summer. Yamon Figurs of Kansas St. is a name to remember. He is explosive and could win a starting return job as a rookie.
 
faede-moderator - Ok, now to ddg's question

ddgronseth - What do you think of Jason Hill ?
 
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Hill had a nice week in Mobile. He is a good receiver with size, decent speed and a nice level of development. He has been injury prone but has been very productive when healthy. He has a nose for the end zone.  
    
faede-moderator - ok, now continuing on with gr8gonzo

gr8gonzo - what centers will be available to GB in rounds 3 or 4???
    
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Dan Mozes of W Va, LeRoy Harris of NC St, Doug Datish of Ohio St. Kyle Young of Fresno St.

faede-moderator - now we will go with pack6949's question
 
faede-moderator - pack6949] Should green bay look for a corner in the 2nd round to compete with Patrick Dendy for the nickel spot?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - It is just an ordinary year for corners so going after them early would be wise. We saw a huge run on corners two years ago and just about every club could use another one. I figure about 10-12 going in the top 100 selections.  

faede-moderator - packerboy, you're up!

packerboy - Your thoughts on Johnny Lee Higgins ? Would he be a good fit for the packers.

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Higgins is a very well developed receiver. He will be part of the run on receivers in the mid first day. He would be a nice fit for GB and if they like him the 2nd round is where he should be selected. He has fine hands speed and route running. Hopefully his thin frame holds up in the NFL.

faede-moderator - packerfan, you're up!

Packerfan - Rodney Hannah TE from Houston, what's your take. Seems to be this years Antonio Gates.
    
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - I don't think so. Gates is in a class by himself from a speed standpoint. Hannah will be available late in the draft and better run well in drills if he wants to be selected. It is just an ordinary class of TE this year.

faede-moderator - schwaggy, your question please

schwaggy - thanks again frank it looks like we have some time to groom some young corners to take the reigns in a couple of years is Mccauley or Damian Hughes a better all around player and which do you think will be a better corner given enough time to develop.. thanks again
    
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - McCauley is the better athlete though Hughes is more refined in basic technique and recognition skills. Both could be first round picks with good efforts at the NFL Combine. I like McCauley on more upside potential though you may have to put up with some development and sloppy mistakes in the short term.  

faede-moderator - veau, you're up!

Veau - Rank Pittman, Hunt, and Booker. Who's the best among them in your opinion?
 
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - They are all different runners. Hunt is the stronger inside runner and a fine receiver. Booker is faster and more explosive though small and limited to a change of pace and 3rd down role. Pittman is a cross between both of them.

faede-moderator - Arrigo, fire away!

Arrigo - If Ginn, Lynch, Moses and Nelson are available which way do you think they will go?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Ginn will never be available in the middle of the first round. Lynch should be there and figures in that area. The risk with him is injury and off the field problmes. Moses is falling off a weak Senior Bowl effort. Nelson is rising fast and a good fit for the GB secondary. He will lite it up at the Combine.

faede-moderator - Big Legend, good to see you popping around the chat.. question for Frank?

BIG LEGEND - How good can Moss the DE be? Where does he fit in round one? Packer interest?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Moses better have a big workout. He came in at only 250 lbs. and struggled vs big OT. I am not sure the Cheeseheads are over DE Jamal Reynolds yet so Moses may be passed on by GB.
 
faede-moderator - ddgronseth, got one ready?

ddgronseth - Do you think C.J. Wilson will stay at cornerback or go to safety, and what round do you like him in ?

BIG LEGEND - Moss Frank - not Moses

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Wilson is a player who probably gets a first look at corner. He has nice size and skills for safetly. His Combine effort will determine if he has the quickness and suddeness to match up with NFL receivers.

faede-moderator - I'll leave it for a follow-up for Big Legend, any comments on Moss the DE?

LMG-Moderator - For those coming in late this was Frank's opening comment: The Packers' GM Ted Thompson had a terrific draft class last spring. It was his 2nd draft class in GB and it has the makings of a cornerstone class that should get better with further experience. You could make a case that it was the best in the league in the short term and has the depth and upside potential to be the strongest over the longterm, though only time will tell.  
    
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - DE Moss of Florida is an interesting kid. Big frame very ahtletic growth potential. I thought he should have stayed in college and told people in Flroida that during the advisory period. He has a big upside but probably is limited to a situational pass rushing role until he fills out his big frame and develops better hand technique and play recognition.

faede-moderator - gbpackfan, you're up!

gbpackfan - The TE class seems weak. Is there an instant impact player in the group that the Packers could grab in the 2-4 rounds?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Probably not. The two juniors Zach Miller and Greg Olsen will most likely go late in the first round. I like Clark Harris of Rutgers in the 3-4 rounds. He would be a fine addition.

faede-moderator - gr8gonzo, you're up!

gr8gonzo - Is Brandon Merriweather too much of a character risk in first two rounds

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Merriweather has had repeated problems. His game fight left a lot of scouts totally disgusted with his character. He is a good athelte with real concerns in those areas. IT will probably cost him on draft day as it has with many kids over recent years.

faede-moderator - morango, question for Frank?

morango - Frank, do you consider offensive tackle an area of need for the packers, and if so, who do you think they might look at either in free agency or in the draft?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - OT is not GB biggest need area but clearly a strong area in this draft. FA is a very average group of OTs. IF the right OT is available in the top 4 rounds they could be great value. OT like Joe Staley of C Michigan would be a fine late first day additon. OT Levi Brown of Penn St. could be a nice first round selection.  

faede-moderator - packerboy, you're up!

packerboy - In what round do you see LeRon McClain drafted ? Could be a steal !!! THANKS AGAIN FRANK

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - McClain is a tough lead blocker. Fullbacks are dinosaurs and always availabel late like the 6-7th rounds.

faede-moderator - packerfan, you're up!

Packerfan - What do you think of Quincy Black OLB from New Mexico. I read is forte is pass coverage but what else do you know about him? Projected round?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Black can also stuff the run and has shown some ability to blitz off the edge. He is a good defender and figures on the 2nd day.  
    
faede-moderator - schwaggy, you're up!

schwaggy - thanks again frank, Does Amobi Okoye have enough size to be good in the nfl. He dominated the week at the senior bowl, was it him or the competition he was against, and where do you see him going thanks?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Okoye is a fast rising prospect. He needs a three tech position where his fine initial quickness allows him to penetrate. He is smaller than ideal and can be engulfed by bigger lineman and rarely tested in a double team situation. He may go in the late first round off the Senior Bowl effort.  
    
faede-moderator - Arrigo, fire away!

Arrigo - where do you see Jarrett and Ginn falling in the draft?
    
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Both are first round talents. Ginn is more explosive and brings great return skills Jarrett is more developed as a receiver. The 49ers Rams and Packers should be most intersted.

faede-moderator - We're coming on the home stretch.. Big Legend, you're up!

BIG LEGEND - I love Bennett the corner from S.C. I have participated in two invitational mocks and was suprised to see this kid available in round two. I of course snapped him up in a hurry. Your thoughts Frank? He is moving up my board
    
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Bennett is a good player but not a first round talent here. He has fine size, experience and AA to be the next fine SC corner. With a big workout in Indy in late Feb and he could surprise and move up even further
 
faede-moderator - gr8gonzo?

gr8gonzo - opinion Where do you project Josh Gattis S Wake Forest

ddgronseth - Who are your favorite late round DE prospects? Xazvie Jackson perhaps?
 
faede-moderator - ok, two questions up... and those will be the final questions of the night.

faede-moderator - we'll let frank get to both of them

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - Gattis is an improving defender. IT looks like a very strong group of safeties which may push him to the 2nd day  
2007-02-01 22:31:05  Message  faede-moderator  Jan 31-Frank Coyle-DraftInsiders Chat   ddgronseth] Who are your favorite late round DE prospects? Xazvie Jackson perhaps?

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - DE Ikaika Alama-Francis is my favorite late DE despite his pectoral injury. That is spelled right too.

LMG-Moderator - This concludes tonights Draft Chat and we thank Frank for joining us here tonight. Frank's next visit with us will be on March 6th. Check our Calendar on PackerChatters.com for the complete Chat schedule Be sure to stop by the Draft Insiders for great information on the NFL Draft all year long. We will have a complete Chat Transcript up as usual on the PackerChatters Front Page later this evening.  
 
LMG-Moderator - Thanks to all for coming in with some great questions and hope you will join us for our next Draft Chat.  
    
faede-moderator - great questions and great answers, thanks for joining us once again frank!

LMG-Moderator - Our next chat is Wednesday February 7th @ 8:00pm CST with Jeff Cottrill of New Era Scouting. Hope you can make it.  
 
Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders - I enjoyed being here tonite. Draft Insiders 20 Issues Annually Monthly Newsletters call 1-800-776-1949

Colin Lindsay Great Blue North Draft Chat

Chat Transcript January 24th, 2007

Copyright © 1995-2007 PackerChatters.com Inc. All rights reserved.

LMG-Moderator - Hi Colin and welcome back to PackerChatters Draft Chat and we thank you for taking the time to come in tonight from Mobile and the Senior Bowl. Colin when you are ready we'll start asking for questions from our list of fans with us tonight.

Colin-GBN-Report - Hey Larry...coming to you live from beautiful (and very cold) downtown Mobile

LMG-Moderator - Majik you are first

7majik7 - WHo have the Packers been eyeballing and talking with the closest in Mobile?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hey Majik...its really impossible to tell what players teams are interested in as the coaches and scouts sit up in the stands etc. However, this is a terrific group of prospects at least as a % of the top seniors in the 2007 draft class

LMG-Moderator - ddq...question for Colin?

ddgronseth - What position is better suited for Dashon Goldson at the next level? And does he fit in with Green Bays scheme?

Colin-GBN-Report - Gronseth...DG might prove some useful depth for a team like the Packers but whatever position he plays he isn't likely to be drafted until well into the draft and then will need at least several years of pro coaching to develop into a starter

LMG-Moderator - eire you are next

eire5199 - Hey Colin, thanks for joining us tonight. Just wondering, at the Senior Bowl, do you get any interaction at all with team officials, or do the scouts all pretty much keep to themselves? Love your reports, by the way.

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Eire...truth be told if I (as a member of the media) did try and talk with a scout they'd literally tell me to go. In fact they'd almost be risking their jobs if they were seen talking with someone like me and something came out from their team even if it wasn't from me. Its like there are two distinct communities here in the scouts and gurus!!

LMG-Moderator - GBP4 you are up

GBP4EVER - Adam Carriker Worth taking with the Packers first pick?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi GBP...Carriker has had a terrific week...almost unblocklable altho the OTs here have been nothing to write home about. Still he isn't real fast and I suspect he'd be a major reach at 16 but he might be worth it if you could trade down into the later first

LMG-Moderator - Limby?

Limby - Hey Colin, we need someone who can stretch the field and compliment Driver and Jennings. Who is the best fit for the pack ? Do you take Jarrett, Ginn Jr. at 16 if available? What about mid late rounds?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Limby: This is a great year for WRs and there should be good players right through the draft. Certainly if you want to stretch the field Ginn would be the better option as he has great speed. Jarrett can get deep but there are concerns that he isn't real fast. One second-third round option who has emerged here is Aundrae Allison of East Carolina who is also very fast and has good hands

LMG-Moderator - packerboy...you are next.

packerboy - If these players (Daymeion Hughes,Dwayne Jarrett, Ted Ginn, Marshawn Lynch @ Reggie Nelson) were still on the board when the packers pick at #16. Who would YOU select?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi PB...for starters I woudln't take Hughes there as he is too slow to go that high. of that group I take Lynch who I think has top 5-10 ability. Trust me if the Packers get any of the other three they would be very happy

LMG-Moderator - Packerfan....question for Colin?

Packerfan - Which corner have you been most impressed with at the senior bowl practices and which one seems the best at Man (press) coverage?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Fan...it hasn't been a great week for the CBs..guys like Hall and Hughes have been okay but not special enough to warrant a high pick although in the case of Hall he may just be tring too much. From what we have seen here David Irons and Josh Wilson have been the best pure cover corners although Wilson is a little short; both are very fast though and Irons is also physical.

LMG-Moderator - schwaggy you are up

schwaggy - Hey colin, I was wondering after the senior season he had and how he looked in thevegas bowl where you have John Beck from b.y.u. going in the draft and do you see him as a career backup of able to start on sundays. And do you think the pack may take him in a late round. thank you..

Colin-GBN-Report - Hey Schwaggy...excellent question and I have no idea...Beck isn't very tall doesn't have super arm strength plus he's older than the average prospect but he is very accurate and has a great release. Somebody is definitley likely to take a shot at him although I think there are other teams that will have a greater value on the position than GB.

LMG-Moderator - Majik...back to you.

7majik7 - I've seen Scott Chandler from Iowa listed as a WR in some reports...and as a TE in others....Is he seriously getting a look at WR? From what I saw he doesn't look fast enough to be a WR...what do you think?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Majik...not many 6-7, 268 pound WRs around the NFL these days...no I have not seen Chandler play any WR here or anywhere for that matter but he has had a great week of practice and really helped himself. You may have seen someone say he catches the ball like a WR or moves like one which he does.

LMG-Moderator - CHEESE...question for Colin?

CHEESE - Hey Colin, what do you think about Abiamiri and where do you see him going?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hey Cheese...Victor has been solid enough this week but hardly dominating (again against what appears to be a weak group at OT). Still he looks like a 3-4 round type guy

LMG-Moderator - ddq....you are next

ddgronseth - Would Jason Hill be a good pick up for the Packers in the 3rd?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi DDG...not if you are looking for someone to stretch the field. I expect Hill will fall into at least the early second day because while he is a good technical receiver he isn't very slow...In fact I have heard some mumblings about having him bulk up to become a TE ot HB...if you want to go WR in 3 there will be better options.

LMG-Moderator - draftguru....question?

draftguru - Hey colin what do you think about Dwyane Jarrett and his impact in the league? He does seem like a McCarthy type reciever. that big body and good possession reciever(I know hes not in the senior bowl)

Colin-GBN-Report - DG...The 64K for this draft. Are you going to get the next Keyshawn or Mike Williams. I do think he will be much better than Mike Williams but no one is still really sure how fast he is and whether he will be able to out run pro defenses like he does in college when USC is so much stroner across the board. The Combine should tell a lot about DJ

LMG-Moderator - eire...another question for Colin?

eire5199 - Did you get any kind of a look at Garrett Wolfe before he went down? What are your thoughts on him at the next level?

Colin-GBN-Report - Eire...no; thanks to United and its decidely unfriendly skies I missed practice Monday so didn't see Wolfe. I can see him having a useful career at the next level as a #2 back and 3rd down receiver - he has great hands and is very elusive in the openfield

LMG-Moderator - GBP4....you're up

GBP4EVER - What do you think of Robert Meachem

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi GBP: I thot no one would ask...a few years back I was interviewed on a GB radio station several months before the draft and said people should watch FSU WR Javon Walker who at the time was a late 2nd round prospect. Feel the same way about Meacham that he could really scoot up boards after the combine etc. He is big (6-2, 210) very fast (could run as low as 4.3 at the combine) and is coming off a great year at UT although he was somewhat inconsistent earlier in his career

LMG-Moderator - jheinze...question?

jheinze1 - Colin, are their any nondiv 1 Te of interest

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Heinze...Michael Allan of Whitworth who is 6-5, 260 with 4.65 speed is one of the top sleepers in this draft

LMG-Moderator - juano you are next

juano - Collin are there any WR/TE hybrid players (similar to Marques Colston) expected to be available on the 2nd day of the draft?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Juano...I don't have my lists in front of me and I haven't really slept since Saturday so I can't name one off the top of my head however this is a very good draft for WRs and teams should be able to bring in guys who can contribute at least as 3-4 receivers right into the 5th and 6th rounds. Also note that Colston was a very special guy who just doesn't come along all that often

LMG-Moderator - Limby....question for Colin Lindsay?

Limby - colin, rbs that would excel in the zone blocking scheme? lots of mocks have us taking M lynch in the first but denver has shown that you don't need a first round back to have success with the zone scheme.

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Limby...I agree but Denver won't pass on Lynch if they have the chance this year. I also agree that often RBs are one of the msot replaceable positions in football but Lynch has special potential to be a real game changer

LMG-Moderator - Great questions and answers tonight....packerboy you are next

packerboy - Is Dwayne Bowe a first round pick ? THANKS FOR JOINING US !!!!

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi PB...as of today he certainly is...I would say Calvin Johnson and Jarrett are 1-2 while Bowe will be in there with Ginn, Rice and Meacham in the 15-25 range. Reminds people of a slightly faster Anquin Bolden

LMG-Moderator - Pasture bring it for Colin

pasture - How good and how fast is the WR from WV

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi pasture...I don't see Myles as a Bolden type..he is much smaller but very fast and has had a good week here; has also stood out on special teams. Would be good value early in the second day but comes from a very unsophisticated pass offense so there will be a learning curve.

LMG-Moderator - schwaggy...your question?

schwaggy - Thanks again colin. Here in the mountain west even us byu fans have fallen in love with Eric weddle. He has played virtually every position but the thing that stands out is how good of man coverage he plays for being primarily a safety. How high does he go and do the scouts like him as much as I do. I would love the pack to take him in the second round.

Colin-GBN-Report - Sorry Schwaggy you can't have him; I want him for the Giants 3-4 picks later...you are right great all around player with a team attitude; also good on special teams...can play a SS game like John Lynch but also covers like a CB which he has played. Only drawback is that he isn't huge at just 5-11, 205 so that will drop him into the middle of the second

LMG-Moderator - Packerfan has his question ready now.

Packerfan - What do you think of Chris Henry RB from Arizona. Pros/Cons/What round should or will he go?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi fan: Interesting prospect; has good size and speed but hasn't been as productive as advertised in college in part because of injuries. This is not a great year for RBs so he would be an interesting boom or bust type pick in the very late 3rd or early 4th for a team with a need at RB just to see if he could be the guy he wasn't in college

LMG-Moderator - Majik back to you

7majik7 - Other than Lynch..which of the other backs would fit best in GB with our scheme?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Majik...As noted this is not a great year for RBs but the one guy who has come on of sorts is Tony Hunt of Penn State who is almsot 240 pounds but can break off the odd big run and is a good receiver although his blocking needs work. Second round value

LMG-Moderator - CHEESE....question for Colin?

CHEESE - Of the guys down there, who is showing to be the best bump and run corner and the best cover safety? And how would you compare them to Revis and Landry/ Nelson?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Cheese... Weddle has done a very nice job in coverage as has Tanard Jackson of Syracuse who has been something of a surprise. Then both Weddle and TJ were CBs earlier in there careers. They still aren't as good as Nelson (Landry is more a pure safety) but would be good value in the 2nd round.

LMG-Moderator - ddg....question?

ddgronseth - Would Tackle position will Mike Otto fare better at Left or Right side?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi DDG...He's probably slightly better suited to RT but can play LT in a pinch which should help his final draft grade because there are not a lot of good LT propects this year

LMG-Moderator - dhj welcome....question for Colin?

dhj42 - just logged on...any news who the Pack is watching close?Also best quess who they take in the 1st and 2nd?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi DHJ; Like most teams they have people watching every position. I would not be surprised to see the Packers take one of the very good second tier WRs in round one - Ginn would be a good bet - and a safety like Weddle in round two.

LMG-Moderator - eire....another question for Colin?

eire5199 - As you know, the Packers need help at safety. Some fans think that the Packers should draft someone like Reggie Nelson or Laron Landry if they're there at #16. Others think that they should wait until a later round to fill that hole. Your thoughts? Do you think Nelson and/or Landry are "game changing" type of players, and significantly better than the rest of the safeties this year?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Eire: I think Nelson would be worth the #1 pick; otherwise this is a good year at safety and if there were players of equal value my temptation would be to go soemwhere else in Rd 1 and get a safety later

LMG-Moderator - Limby...question?

Limby - Colin, best safety to compliment Collins, Harris and Woodson? Underwood is coming off IR and Manuel shouldn't be starting. Odd question for you as well. What do you think of the Pack's scouts? How would you rate them against others in the NFL? Mid round QB?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Limby: Tough question; I really prefer safeties who can cover so I lean toward guys like Nelson in the first and Weddle in the second but there is another guy to watch in 2 and that' s Aaron Rouse of VaTech who is in another world when it comes to physical skills although he may be limited in straight man-to-man situations by a lack of real agility. For a mid-round QB I really like Jeff Rowe of Nevada

LMG-Moderator - Packerfan is next.

Packerfan - Who is a better reciever, Johnnie Lee higgins or Paul Williams. Both are deep threats but which one runs better routes, better hands etc?

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Fan: Williams has top 10 talent when he turns it on but the switch is off more than its on. Wouldn't shock me if he drops big time. Higgins is a nice deep threat although he won't catch much underneath.

LMG-Moderator - schwaggy...question?

schwaggy - Thanks again for your genius colin, the question is, is Brian Leonard a legit 2nd round talent, I am no scout but I really love what this guy brings to the table. thank you

Colin-GBN-Report - Hi Schwaggy: That's a tough call because he really doesn't have a position: too small for FB and not really fast enough for RB so he'd had to be a complimentary back who can catch a lot of passes. Great character kid but I think the Pack needs a guy who can be the #1 guy and Leonard is more of a specialty type

LMG-Moderator Jan 24-Colin Lindsay-Great Blue North Chat ddg have one last question for Colin tonight?

Colin-GBN-Report - How about one easy one!!!

ddgronseth - c.j. wilson a corner or safety and does he fit the packers in your mind??

Colin-GBN-Report - DDG he's a pure CB..only about 5-9 but has 4.35 speed; former track guy I think; woudl bring some nice depth but I think the Packers would be looking S first and Wilson would be gone before they got around to him

LMG-Moderator - This concludes tonights Draft Chat and we thank Colin for joining us. Colin's next visit with us will be on March 7th. Check our Calendar on PackerChatters.com for the complete Chat schedule Be sure to stop by The Great Blue North Report for great information on the NFL Draft all year long. We will have a complete Chat Transcript up as usual on the PackerChatters Front Page later this evening.

Limby - Thanks Colin. Appreciate it.

eire5199 - Nice job Colin...we love you around here. Now go join those other gurus for a drink You earned it!

LMG-Moderator - Thanks to all for coming in with some great questions and hope you will join us for our next Draft Chat.

schwaggy - you the man colin

Colin-GBN-Report - Thanks guys; great questions...look forward to chatting again before the draft!!! Cheers

Drew Boylhart The Huddle Report Draft Chat

Chat Transcript January 17th, 2007

Copyright © 1995-2007 PackerChatters.com Inc. All rights reserved.

LMG-Moderator - Drew welcome back to PackerChatters Draft Chat and we thank you for taking the time to come in and give us your thoughts on the Packers and the NFL Draft for 2007. Drew when you are ready we will have Faede, our Moderator this evening, start asking for questions from our list of fans with us tonight.

LMG-Moderator - Faede

faede-moderator - ok, lets begin

faede-moderator - ddqronseth, you have the first question, do you have a question for Drew?

ddgronseth - Which Tight End would be a better fit for Green Bay in the 3rd Scott Chandler or Clark Harris?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Clark Harris would be a better fit because eventually he would be a better blocker than Chandler.

faede-moderator - Fargo, you're up, do you have a (hawkeye) question?

fargofootball - Drew Tate... Worth a pick? If not anyone looking at him as a FA?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Tate is probably a FA because of his lack of arm strength...maybe a good fit for the WCO.

faede-moderator - juano, your question please?

juano - Where do you see Michigan's Alan Branch being selected and do you see the Packers drafting a Left Tackle Prospect who could replace Chad Clifton in a couple of years?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Branch is a top 5 pick in the draft -- he could go in the #1 slot to the Oakland Raiders. Packers could pick up a LT -- Joe Staley (Central Michigan) later in the draft...he would be a good fit to replace that position.

faede-moderator - limby, you're up, question please?

limby - Hey Drew, Most folks think you don't need a running back in the first round (ala Denver / zone blocking scheme) and some believe safetys aren't worthy of a 1st round pick, so who do the pack take at 16 (WR or DL)? or Does TT trade down and with whom?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - The Packers need impact players, so trading down is an option, but in this draft, the talent is very good at the 16th pick. WR, CB or S at the 16th pick would make sense...maybe even an RB.

faede-moderator - lets go to Pack_attack, your question please

pack_attack - Thanks for visiting us Drew. What are your impressions of Sevelle Newton..QB/WR/RB and now safety from South Carolina.He has had a lot of success on the offensive side of ball changing positions only due to team needs. I think he is a great athlete and team player.

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Newton is a great athlete and team player...I agree. He is probably a 2nd day pick; I think the team that gets him will get a pretty good player in 3 years. The reason being changing positions makes his LTI longer. He will probably play WR at the NFL level.

faede-moderator - texfan, your up (bram31 is on deck), your question please

texfan - Drew, thans for being here! how does WR meachem compare with Greg Jennings in terms of route running abilities? any other WR in 07 class similar to GJ as a rookie? is this WR class the best in long time in terms of depth?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Meacham is bigger than Jennings, but i would have to say about the same level when they came out. Meacham is probably top 15-20 pick in the draft and this is the best WR talent I've seen in the draft in 5 years. Sidney Rice (South Carolina) Anthony Gonzales (Ohio State) Rhema McKnight (Notre Dame) probably similar in talent level -- not as fast, but good. Brandon Miles (West Virginia) also...

faede-moderator - bram31 your question?

bram31 - Drew, thanks for coming in. The Pack's needs include CB, WR, RB, S, too name a few. Who do you see the Pack taking the first 2 rounds?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - First 2 rounds...if Marshawn Lynch (Cal) is available, he would be a good pick in the first. CB in the 2nd round...Aaron Ross (Texas) would be good. A Safety option would be Josh Gattis (Wake Forest) in the 2nd or 3rd round.

faede-moderator - ddqronseth, you'er up!

ddgronseth - Do you think Victor Abiamiri at pick 16 would be to high ?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Abiamiri -- yes, too high at 16. He reminds me of Bryce Fisher (Seahawks) -- good solid, core player, but not an impact player.

faede-moderator - fargo you are next.

fargofootball - Will GB draft a QB? If so, which QBs do you think are likely suspects?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - QB's for the Packers...i don't think so. Rodgers is a good QB, but he needs some playing time. I think they'll stick with him for the time being.

faede-moderator - juano, your question please

juano - Is there a 2nd day sleeper running back (ala Terrel Davis) that would be a good fit in Green Bay's zone blocking scheme?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Ronnie McGill (North Carolina)...very underrated. Reminds me of Curtis Martin (Jets).

faede-moderator - Limby, you're up!

limby - any good (s) that would fit the packs need in the 2nd 3rd or 4th? need someone to team up with collins.

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Safeties for 2nd, 3rd or 4th...Sabby Piscitelli (Oregon St) is a S/LB. Could help in nickel & dime. Next up would be Tanard Jackson (Syracuse) could move from CB to S and would make a great fit for S in GB.

faede-moderator - pack_attack. you're up!

pack_attack - Drew, a real favorite of a lot of us I think, is Brian Leonard. I am afraid he might not be around for our 2nd pick.He would defintely be Packer People and bring lots of enthusiam to Pack. Your thoughts (round ect)?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Leonard...he is extremely talented. he's a better RB than FB. When he gets to the combine and runs a 4.5 40 time, he'll go late in the 1st round -- perhaps moving up even further. Brian Leonard can take it to the house...period.

faede-moderator - juano, your question please!

juano - Which potential draftee's have character issues/concerns that make them undraftable in your eyes?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Character issues...unfortunately, more than I would like to mention. Marcus Thomas (Florida - DT), Eric Wright (UNLV - CB). The DT position overall has a lot of character problems (in general terms).

faede-moderator - pasture, you have a quesiton?

pasture - eric wright, what round

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Wright...I wouldn't draft him any round. Talent-wise, he's possibly a 2nd round pick, but I wouldn't draft him. However, Maurice Clarett was drafted, so what do I know?

faede-moderator - texfan, your question please

texfan - got any sleeper candidates for receiving TE's in this draft?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Receiving TE's...one. TE is not a very strong position in this year's draft. Johnny Harlan (BYU) is a pass-catching TE, but there's not much else in this draft. He's more of an H-Back.

faede-moderator - LMG has a question, so he's up next!

LMG-Moderator - Drew, where do you see Ginn going? Will he be another Hester...or better?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Ginn...he'll probably go in the 1st round. He reminds me of Peerless Price (Bills)...a lot of speed, but a lot to learn.

faede-moderator - bram31, your question?

bram31 - How much do you think GM's look at the depth at each position when their turn comes up or strictly best player available? For example, it's been said this is a deep draft for WR, but not real deep for RB. Does TT for instance look at a RB early knowing that he can get a WR later if players there are simarly rated?

LMG-Moderator - TT meaning Ted Thompson

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Good question. Most GM's go for the most impactful player at their need position -- whether WR or RB. I don't think they analyze who will be available later...they're only concerned with what's available at that time. The later available picks are the unknowns.

faede-moderator - CHEESE, your question please

CHEESE - What do you think of Jarvis Moss? And did Gaither declare?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Moss...I think he's young, but he has talent. I think he has the potential to be a great 3-4 player rather than a 4-3 OLB. I think he's a 2nd-3rd round pick due to his LTI (length to impact). As far as I know, Gaither did declare.

faede-moderator - ddq, your question

ddgronseth - Would CB A.J. Davis or C.J. Wilson fit in Green Bays defensive scheme ?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Davis is probably a better fit for GB than Wilson. I don't think Wilson is quick enough and Davis is also a better tackler.

faede-moderator - drew, you're up, your question please

drew - Any chance the pack will trade up to try and get peterson or will they sit tight and look for someone lke lynch, and who do you believe will be the better pro lynch or peterson

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - I think Peterson and Lynch will both be good players. Peterson may have some injury concerns long-term. I think Leonard will run up the boards at some time and he may be a good fit for the Pack. Leonard is also of interest to the Giants, the Steelers and the Jets.

faede-moderator - fargo, you're up, your question please

fargofootball - Mike Jones G Iowa- what round will he go? How deep is the interior OL in this draft?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Jones...there are a lot of OT's that will be moved to the Guard position in the NFL. That will move the G's down in the draft. Iowa always has very good OL. Mike Jones will be pushed down due to the OT's that will be picked first -- I think 5th-6th round. Good, solid player.

faede-moderator - Jaza, got that question ready? go for it!

jaza - Who are some of the better running back that played in a zone blocking sheme in college

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - RB's in zone -- Michael Bush (Louisville). If he can work out, he'll be in the mix in the latter part of the 1st round. Also Pittman (Ohio State), Hunt (Penn State), Wynn (Florida)...all would be good zone-blocking backs. K. Smith (Louisville) is another option and Ronnie McGill (NC).

faede-moderator - JerseyCheese, welcome to that chat, you're up!

JerseyCheese - Sorry it took me so long guys. Hey Drew, What do you think about Purdue WR Dorien Bryant? He has great speed but can he be good in the NFL/What round?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Bryant...not currently listed on our draft board. Junior, right? Has good speed and potential as a special teams player. Could even be worked out for CB by some teams.

faede-moderator - juano, you're up, fire away!

juano - Who do you see as the top 5 playmakers in this years draft?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Top 5 playmakers...Brady Quinn (QB), Calvin Johnson (WR), Alan Branch (DT), Joe Thomas (LT) and Adrian Peterson (RB). Those are my personal top 5 picks right now.

faede-moderator - Limby, your question please

limby - Jarrett (wr), Ginn (wr/kr), Landry (s), Nelson (s), Lynch (rb) or McCauley (cb) Best fit and or value at 16 for the Pack if available? Peterson (rb) and Lynch (rb) scare me at 16.

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Peterson at 16 would be a steal. Other than him, would pick Lynch (sorry for the scare!).

faede-moderator - pack_attack, your turn

pack_attack - Drew, What other players hurt themselves by playing multiple position in college that u think should make it in pros(like Blackmon last year and maybe Newton this)? Also what player would u recommend and we hope the Bears take in 1st rd who will definitley turn in a big bust and wasted pick :) (thought this might be a different spin on a question)

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Multiple-position players that possibly hurt their draft chances...Newton, definitely. Some players hurt themselves by NOT moving such as Chris Leak (QB-Florida)...he should have moved to WR.

faede-moderator - pasture, your up

pasture - how good are marshall's RB AND NC's RB Mcgill

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Sorry, forgot the bust pick for the Bear...most overrated right now in my opinion is Tank Tyler (NC State-DT).

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - McGill is very good -- Bradshaw is very average.

faede-moderator - I have a question (LMG is next), is there a Devin Hester type return threat in this draft? Someone besides a Ginn type that goes in the first round?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Return threat -- there was a kid recently that played in the Hula Bowl (can't remember his name), but he was terrific. Found it! Yamon Figurs (Kansas State) -- excellent WR and Special Teams player. Probably go in the 2nd day.

faede-moderator - LMG has a question!

LMG-Moderator Jan 17-Drew Boylhart-Huddle Report Chat What are your thoughts on RB Tony Hunt from Penn State?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Hunt from Penn State...have held off on doing a profile on Hunt until his combine numbers. He's hard to profile -- he has good talent, but I question his burst and speed in general. Don't know if he's like Ron Dayne or like Willis McGahee.

faede-moderator - bram31, you're up!

bram31 - Who are some pass rushing DEs and DBs sleepers that may be available in the mid rounds?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Pass-rushing DE's and DB's...Ray McDonald (Florida), Bazuin (Central Michigan), Jay Moore (Nebraska) -- 3 very underrated, fast DE's. Aaron Rouse (Virginia Tech) is an underrated, pass-rushing DB.

faede-moderator - CHEESE, go for it!

CHEESE - What do you think about the Hawaiian DE and what round with the partially torn bicep?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Alama-Francis from Hawaii -- I think he has good potential, but players from Hawaii have trouble playing for cold weather teams. Round? Probably go 2nd day.

faede-moderator - ddq, you're up

ddgronseth - If the Pack picked one of these WRs which would fit better Jason Hill or Johnnie Lee Higgins?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Hill or Higgins -- Jason Hill is from a cold weather team, so he might make a good fit. He's probably a 4th-5th rounder.

faede-moderator - drew, question please?

drew - What round do you see notre dame's rb walker being drafted

Walker -- I don't see him being drafted until the 2nd day because he can be arm-tackled easily. Good player, good talent, but he needs to be stronger.

faede-moderator - fargo, fire away

fargofootball - With this being a deep draft at WR, what do you think the trade value of Randy Moss is, in terms of a draft pick or 2? See any teams that might want to move up for GB's pick 16? TT loves to trade down.

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - I don't think Moss' trade value is good this year. As far as moving down, there are probably a lot of teams that want to jump on a QB or WR at 16, so trade possibilities are likely.

faede-moderator - We really hammer out the questions when Drew Boylhart shows up... but we've reached the end of the hour, Jaza, you hae the honor of the last question

jaza - Hypothetical: You are the Packers in the 3rd or 4th round and you need a running back of the future and you run a zone blocking scheme: Who do you choose and why?

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - 3rd or 4th round RB -- I would choose DeShawn Wynn (Florida). Very powerful runner, strong -- good 1-cut runner. He would definitely be the guy I would look at.



LMG-Moderator - This concludes tonights Draft Chat and we thank Drew for joining us here tonight. Drew's next visit with us will be on Feb. 28. Check our Calendar on PackerChatters.com for the complete Chat schedule Be sure to stop by The Huddle Report for great information on the NFL Draft all year long. We will have a complete Chat Transcript up as usual on the PackerChatters Front Page later this evening.

LMG-Moderator - Thanks to all for coming in with some great questions and hope you will join us for our next Draft Chat
.
limby - Thanks Drew. Hey, any tall 6-3 raw speedsters (wr) that Brett (one more year) Favre could air it out to? How about anyone in the mid rounds that could stretch the field? need someone to compliment Driver, Jennings and Robinson

DrewBoylhart.HuddleReport - Speedsters...the guys I like with speed would be Chris Leak (QB - Florida). A real sleeper and a great athlete and could handle Favre's strong passes. Also, the kid from K State we talked about -- he's a huge sleeper in this draft. Thanks to everyone for some great questions. Shamelss plug for THR -- check out our newly posted long-term draft grades and our LTI chart. We really enjoy being here -- talk to you in February! Drew

faede-moderator - thanks a ton drew, great questions and great answers, as always!
.
LMG-Moderator - Thanks Drew...talk to you soon.

Scott Wright NFL Draft Count Down Draft Chat

Chat Transcript January 10th, 2007

Copyright © 1995-2007 PackerChatters.com Inc. All rights reserved.

LMG-Moderator: Scott welcome back to PackerChatters Draft Chat and we thank you for taking the time to come in and give us your thoughts on the Packers and the NFL Draft for 2007. Scott when you are ready we will have Faede, our Moderator this evening, start asking for questions from our list of fans with us tonight.

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: Thanks for having me. Let's start it up!

LMG-Moderator: Looks like Faede is late so we start with Cheese....your question

CHEESE: Your thoughts on Jarvis Moss? even though he hasn't declared yet.

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: Interesting player who really only had one great year, although he was certainly extremely impressive against Ohio St. Word is he will likely come out and will be either a 1st or 2nd rounder. He could also be a 3-4 OLB. As far as the decision goes I think it's somewhat questionable considering how strong the defensive end class already is but with his health history I can understand it.

LMG-Moderator: GangGreen....question?

GangGreen27: What is going on with Ramonce Talyor, and where do you see him going in the draft, if at all?

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: Taylor obviously has the legal, character and academic questions and I'd be shocked if he were drafted.

LMG-Moderator: GBP4...question for Scott?

GBP4EVER: I read on Mel Kiper's draft chat today they said Lynch might jump over Pederson as the first RB taken by the Texans. He then said which ever is not taken will fall to the mid first round. Would the Texans take Lynch over Pederson and if so would Pederson fall to the 16th pick?

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: I have nothing but respect for Mel but I don't see any way Lynch goes ahead of Peterson. He is right in saying that Lynch will probably fall to the middle of round one though because there aren't really many teams with a need at running back between Houston at #8 and Green Bay at #15.

LMG-Moderator: Geki you are next up

Geki: How do you see Ryne Robinson of Miami (Ohio) as an NFL player? Do you see him being an asset as a reciever despite his size and how good of a return man do you believe he will be at the next level?

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: I don't think you take Ryne Robinson expecting him to be anything more than a #4 or #5 wideout. His real value comes on special teams as a return man and I definitely think someone should / will take a flyer on him in that capacity. I'm probably a little higher on him than most but he'll likely be a late round pick (i.e. 6th or 7th).

LMG-Moderator: Jigg...question

JiggaJig: If we were to draft one of the safeties(Landry or Nelson). Who would be a better fit for the packers?

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think you could make a case for either and Nelson being able to potentially play some corner as well would certainly help his cause. With that said I think Landry would be a better compliment to Nick Collins in the deep patrol.

LMG-Moderator: moose you are next

moose: At what pick do you see a drop in talent in the first round? How are the Packers positioned at pick 16, i.e. at the end of a expected drop, middle, beginning? Based on this would you advise a trade up or down or stay put?

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: It's still tough to say where the talent drop will be because we are still waiting on underclassmen but I think the "Elite" guys end at three for me, with those being Quinn, Johnson and Thomas. After that I think there will probably be another drop at around #10 or #11. As far the the Packers positioning goes I think they are all right and should be able to address one of their many needs in the secondary, at wideout, running back or defensive line.

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think they should stay right where they are though because with so many need they can't afford to be giving away valuable draft picks.

LMG-Moderator: PFan?

Packerfan: Thanks for coming Scott, great site. How much has Doug Free's stock fallen this year? He seemed like a for sure 1st day pick preseason but as of late has really sucked it up. What do you think his problems are and where do you think he will go.

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: His stock has definitely fallen but part of the reason for that decline in his play was that he was battling groin and foot injuries for most of the season but played through them. I think he can still be a 1st Day pick but I'd put him in the 3rd or 4th round category right now, although that might be a little optimistic at this time. He's a poor-man's Daryn Colledge in my opinion.

LMG-Moderator: george....question?

george_allen: Scott, do you see jamaal anderson pushing gaines adams for the 1st defensive end off the board come april?

Scott Wright-NFLDraftCountDown: Anderson could go ahead of Adams, it really just depends on what a team wants. If they want the speedy edge pass rusher then Gaines is their guy. If they want more of an all-around guy then they might go Jamaal.


LMG-Moderator: Phoenix...question?

Phoenix138: Which of the corners would you consider good value at #16?


ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think Darrelle Revis would be a good value at #16 and you could make a case for Marcus McCauley as well.


LMG-Moderator: Terry....question?

TTerry: Someone I was really high on last year was Daneal Manning, do you see a player like him this year, from a division 2 or 3 school that could shoot up draft boards and be taken in the first 2 rounds?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: There aren't any sleeper prospect of Manning's caliber this year but Hampton has a handful of prospects. The best two are LB Justin Durant and CB Tarvarrous Bain (formerly of Miami). I think both could fit in that 3rd-4th round area. Keep an eye on former Duke and current Deleware TE Ben Patrick and Brown LB Zak DeOssie as well.


LMG-Moderator Jan 10-Scott Wright-NFL Draft Countdown Chat Rrrrrrr....question for Scott

R man: How would Ted Ginn Jr fit in with the Packers and how would he do as a kickoff return man in the NFL? Thanks Scott

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think Ted Ginn would be an outstanding fit for Green Bay, although I'd be somewhat surprised if he last until #15. He'll be an outstanding special teamer too and that is a big part of the value he brings to the table.

LMG-Moderator: bvbagel......question?

bvbagel: where do you see any of the WRs from texas tech, going in the draft? if so where?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think Joel Filani would be the top prospect among the Red Raider wideouts right now but none of them are top prospects. I'd say Filani is probably a 5th or 6th rounder while Hicks and Johnson shortly thereafter.

LMG-Moderator: Cheese you are next

CHEESE: How is Greg Olsen's longsnapping and where do you have him right now? And wasn't McCauley benched at times this year?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: BTW, Sorry I kept saying #15 for the Packers when they are in fact picking #16. Brain cramp.

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think Olsen will be either the 1st or 2nd tight end drafted this year and he's probably a late first or second round pick. I actually think he's a little underrated right now. As for the long-snapping, having that skill in his repotoir sure doesn't hurt. On McCauley, he did struggle at times but wasn't nearly as bad as the casual observer thinks. Anyone who looks at his junior film will have him as a Top 10 pick but he'll probably land in that 15-25 range.

LMG-Moderator: C-burger have a question?

cheeseburger: i got a question

LMG-Moderator: go ahead

LMG-Moderator: DetPack....question?

cheeseburger: the browns are in a very interesting spot, and i could see us getting a very big name there. who do u see us taking, besides brady quinn because he is very overrated and deosnt deserve the third pick in the draft

DetPack: What about Antonio PitMann in the 3rd Round?

LMG-Moderator: OK...we'll let Scott catch up

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I will have them taking Brady Quinn in my new mock draft next week and I think that would be an outstanding pick for them. Charlie Frye is solid but he hasn't shown enough to justify passing on Quinn, who is the type you can build a franchise around. Don't underestimate that Weis / Crennel connection either. Other options would include Joe Thomas and Alan Branch.

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Antonio Pittman would be a solid pick for them and he'd probably slot in right around the 3rd round if he comes out.

LMG-Moderator: GangGreen?

GangGreen27: where do you see limas sweed going in the draft? how much of an impact do you think can he make as a rookie in the nfl? By the what is your take on Chris Wells in 08?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think #3 is a little high for Peterson and they have had enough trouble with injuries when it comes to their top picks.

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: If Limas Sweed comes out, which he shouldn't and I don't think he will, he'd be a 2nd or 3rd round pick this year.

LMG-Moderator: GBP4 you are up

GBP4EVER: Will Stocco get picked?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: It's possible but I'd say unlikely. Stocco is a nice college quarterback but his pro potential is very limited. He's not in the same class as Brooks Bollinger.

faede-moderator: geki, you're question please

Geki: Do you think Daymeion Hughes would be successful in the Packers man coverage-heavy scheme, and if so, do you think he would be a good value in the second round?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think Hughes is one of the most overrated players in this draft and if he runs as expected I see him being a 3rd round pick. He's very similar to Alan Zemaitis in my opinion. As far as the Packers are concerned I think just about anybody would improve their depth but I don't see Hughes being a good fit schematically.

faede-moderator: george_allen, your question please

george_allen: if jarvis moss does declare, where about do you expect you'd slot him in your top 100 and defensive end position rankings?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I haven't really thought about it but off the top of my head I'd probably have Jarvis Moss in that 5-8 range among d-ends (this is a VERY strong class at the position), which would put him in the 40-60 range in the overall I believe.

faede-moderator: Hawkeyefan, your question please

HawkeyeFan: Scott. Do who do you think is the best SLB prospect in this years draft? And also, could Patrick Willis move to SLB?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: The best strongside prospect could end up being Stewart Bradley of Nebraska and he may go as high as the 2nd or 3rd round. As for Willis, I think he could potentially play any of the linebacker positions and it all just depends on scheme.

faede-moderator: JiggaJig, you're question please

JiggaJig: Who do you think the packers will take in the draft?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I will have a new mock draft up next week and I'll probably have Green Bay taking either Marshawn Lynch or Dwayne Jarrett...

faede-moderator: Mantle, your question please

mantle: A lot of people have said how T.Smith might have lost some value in the National Championship game, my question is more about Pitcock who also didn't look very good in the adjusted speed of the SEC. Do you think he lost value as well?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think Pitcock wasn't quite the stud pro prospect that some thought to begin with. I really don't think his stock fell that much but he certainly won't be a Top 10-15 overall pick either. He'll probably go late in round one. Just a note on Pitcock, there is as wide of a range of opinions on him as any player in this draft. Some feel he's an elite player while others wouldn't take him on Day One. Scouts either love or hate him.

faede-moderator: Moose, your question please

moose: Thoughts on Aaron Rodgers? Where would he likely rank in this draft and do see him as the answer for the pack if Favre retires?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I was and still am as big of an Aaron Rodgers fan out there. Still, in this draft he's only be the 3rd ranked QB and maybe 4th of Brohm comes out. I really do think he can be the long-term answer for Green Bay, he just really hasn't gotten many opportunities yet.

faede-moderator: NGSeiler, your question please

NGSeiler: Do you think the potential loss of Kevin Curtis to free agency makes wide receiver a first day consideration for the Rams, or do you feel their defense's weaknesses should be a draft priority?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think the Rams have to go defense, defense and more defense. If they lose both Curtis and McDonald as expected I do see them taking a wideout at some point, but probably not on the first day.

faede-moderator: Pasture, your question please

pasture: what is the probability of ginn at #16

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: If he is there I think there is a high probability he'll be a Packer. Will he be there? I doubt it.

faede-moderator: Philliez01, your question please

Philliez01: Hey Scott, I'm a pretty big follower of some of the "small school" performers and one name that I keep glancing at is Justin Durant. I'm wondering if he actually possesses a chance at being a SSLB or a WLB in a Cover-2 system? He appears to have the speed, strength and capability to be a sleeper in this draft. Is he a legit player or just a guy from Hampton who picks on smaller competition? Thanks for answering my question and I'm eagerly awaiting a scouting report on Rascati!

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: He's a legit player and could have performed against a higher level of competition. He plays the middle in college and could stay there in the right scheme but if he moves outside at the next level he'll fit in better as a WILL than as a SAM. Durant is one of the top sleeper prospects available and could go on the first day.

faede-moderator: Phoenix138, your question please

Phoenix138: Does the Cal offense scare you at all with regards to Lynch, especially considering how the previous two starting runningbacks have performed in the NFL? Or does Lynch have too much athletic ability? Do you have him in that 2nd tier of top 10 or 11 players?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I'm definitely not as high on Lynch as some are (i.e. Kiper) but he is a nice player and reminds me a lot of Marshawn Lynch. Top 10 would be too early for my tastes but I have no problem with him in the 15-20 range. As far as him transitioning to the next level, I don't foresee his college scheme being a problem.

faede-moderator: Rman, your question please

R man: Scott what about Robert Meacham WR Tennessee for the Packers?

Geki: You said Marshawn Lynch reminds you a lot of Marshawn Lynch. Care to clarify?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think the middle of round one would be too high for Meachem but if he slid to them in round two I think that would be an excellent pick.

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Sorry for the typo, I meant to say that Marshawn Lynch reminds me of Laurence Maroney.

faede-moderator: Randolph, your question please

Randolph Hiedler: Who do you consider the best small school prospect at Rb

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: There are a number of good small school running backs this year. I like Germaine Race of Pittsburg St. the best by just a little but but Alonzo Coleman of Hampton is a good one too. Then there is Alvin Banks of James Madison as well.

faede-moderator: Score your question please

Score: Scott, I am a big follower of the Pac-10. Who are your Pac-10 Sleepers?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I'm not sure you can call any Pac-10 players "sleepers" but there are some guys who I think are underrated. Off the top of my head a prospect I REALLY like is Stanford QB Trent Edwards.


faede-moderator: V.Young, your question please

V. Young: Scott Wright, what round do you think Dante Resario TE from Oregon will go in, and what team might want him? Also will he have a good combine?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think Resario will be a late rounder at best and might go undrafted. Some teams will look at him as a tight end and some will see him as a fullback or H-Back. I don't see him being a workout warrior though.

faede-moderator: big harv, your question please

big harv: how much do you think gaines adams age will hurt him

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I don't think his age will be that much of a factor. It's not like he is 30-years-old or anything, he's basically only a little over a year older than "normal" prospects.

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Adams will be a Top 10 pick.


faede-moderator: bram31, your question please

bram31: Are there any RB's coming out that would do well in the one-cut zone blocking scheme the Pack uses? If so, what rounds would they look to get that player(s)?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Keep an eye on former Minnesota running back Gary Russell. He played in a zone blocking scheme with the Gophers and was very successful. I think he's a major sleeper prospect and could be a steal for someone in the middle rounds.

CHEESE: Posluszny, inside or outside and what round?

faede-moderator: bvbagel, your question please

bvbagel: do you see the packers taking a TE? if yes, where?

CHEESE: sorry

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I like Posluszny on the outside but he could play either. Late round one for him in my opinion.

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Yes, I think the Packers will take a tight end. Maybe as early as the 2nd or 3rd round.

faede-moderator: Cheesus, your question please

Cheesus: Do you think Lawrence Timmons will have an immediate impact on the team that drafts him or do you think it will take him at least a year to develop into a solid contributor? (I'm wondering if he is top 15 draft worthy)

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think he can be an immediate impact player despite being raw. I do see him going in the top half of the first round because he'll be a workout warrior. I will probably have him going #13 to St. Louis in my next mock.

faede-moderator: darren, your question please

darrenF619: Depending on who's available at the Chargers' pick, do you see them going safety first or wide receiver? And who would you see them taking?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think safety is a more pressing concern and a guy like Michael Griffin would be an outstanding pick for them if he's there. The value at wide receiver should be excellent as well though with Rice, Meachem, Samardzija, Bowe and Davis all possibilites.

faede-moderator: ddgronseth, your question please

faede-moderator: Detpack your question please

DetPack: Better free safety - Reggie Nelson or Laron Landry? Both are ballhawks and playmakers. Could they be avail. at Pick #16. and fill a great need for the Pack?

ddgronseth: Do you think Josh Gattis would be a good pick for Green Bay in the middle rounds? and is he a good coverage safety?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Yea, I think Gattis would be a nice pickup in the middle rounds. He is a little more of an in-the-box type but he can hold his own in coverage as well.

faede-moderator: we'll do DetPack's question also before we move on... DetPack] Better free safety - Reggie Nelson or Laron Landry? Both are ballhawks and playmakers. Could they be avail. at Pick #16. and fill a great need for the Pack?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think Landry would be a better fit as a compliment to Nick Collins but Nelson's ability to potentially play some corner as well could work in his favor.

faede-moderator: ganggreen27, your question

GangGreen27: What is Baraka Atkins' situation? What does he project as in the nfl? De, or Dt?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Atkins is a 'tweener and the $64,000 question is where does he fit best. In my opinion he's a 3-4 defensive end. His stock has fallen though and he was even benched at one point as a senior. I see him going in the 4th or 5th round.

faede-moderator: geki, your question

Geki: Where do you see Brian Leonard and Joe Staley going, and do you see Green Bay going with either in the second if they make it that far?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think both will ultimately be 2nd rounders, although Staley has a chance to slide into round one. Staley definitely won't be an option for Green Bay though and I think they have bigger needs than fullback to address with their premium selections.

faede-moderator: george_allen, your question please

george_allen: before he bcs bowl i had noticed the wide spread of rankings on quinn pitcock that you mentioned earlier - what would you say is the most commonly sited cause for the lesser opinions of him - production? size? i've got to guess being a ohio state lineman that he's plenty strong, no?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Pitcock isn't nearly as athletic as his workout numbers would lead you to believe, he racked up a lot of his numbers against lesser competition and has short arms. He has a great motor though. I think the big thing is that people see him being a solid starter but not an impact player by any stretch of the imagination and when you're investing a Top 15 pick in a guy you want more than solid.

faede-moderator: Ibleedgreen&gold

IBleedGreen&Gold: Are there any d lineman in the 3-5 rounds that could be a sleeper

faede-moderator: hawkeyefan, your question please

HawkeyeFan: David Harris LB from Michigan how versatile is he? Can he play a SLB position or is he a product of his teammates? Same with HB Blades

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I don't think there is a lot of versatility there with David Harris and in my opinion he's more of a two-down run thumper in the NFL. As for Blades, he'll either be a middle or weakside linebacker in the pros depending on scheme.

faede-moderator: I bleed's question next: IBleedGreen&Gold] Are there any d lineman in the 3-5 rounds that could be a sleeper

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: The big sleeper to watch out for on the d-line right now is tackle Ryan McBean of Oklahoma St., who has a ton of potential and is moving way up draft boards. At end Ikaika Alama-Francis of Hawaii is a hot name right now (due in part to Mel Kiper).

faede-moderator: Isaiah, your question please

isiah: I like how you've stated the Packers needs by position on your website. With this draft being deeper in some positions more than others, what positions can the Packers afford to what on ldrafting for in later rounds?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think they can afford to wait on wide receiver so if Marshawn Lynch is there in round one I'd jump on him because the running back crop isn't very strong. At both wideout and safety there should still be plenty of value in rounds two and three.

faede-moderator: Limby, your question please

limby: Hey guys, most people believe you don't need to take a RB in the 1st (ala denver)and the safety position doesn't merit a 1st as well. That said, what DL, or WR will be available at 16 or will TT trade down once again? Any tall burners (wr) we should be looking at in the later rounds?


ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I think Ginn and Jarrett would be the two wideouts to watch for at #16. As far as defensive linemen go keep an eye on Quentin Moses, Adam Carriker, Amobi Okoye, and DeMarcus Tyler.

faede-moderator: Mhage, your question please

mhage421: Same kinda question. Who are a few of your late round WR sleepers? I'm hearing lots of depth is there in the late rounds.

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: My top late round sleeper at receiver is Brandon Myles of West Viriginia. He has all the physical tools but just wasn't afforded many opportunities in the Mountaineers run-orientated attack.

faede-moderator: NGSeiler, your question please

NGSeiler: Scott, what's your opinion on Fresno State receiver Paul Williams? It seems like he has all the physical tools but hasn't been able to put it together consistently on the field. I've also read some rumors about him not wanting to play receiver at the next level. Any thoughts on that and what round would you start looking at him in what seems like a very strong WR class?

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Williams is an enigma in that he does have all the physical tools (6-2, 210, 4.35) but was not very productive at all. He could be a workout warrior though and I still wouldn't be surprised if he went on the first day. I'd look at him in round three personally.

faede-moderator: Pasture is the last question of the night then, Pasture?

pasture: how good is wright RB, fresno state, and kolby smith RB,lou/ville

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: I really like Wright and if he can stay healthy he could be the next Frank Gore. Durability is a major concern there though. As for Kolby Smith, he has the measurables you look for but doesn't always play up to them and is a bit of an underachiever. I envision both in the round four to five area.


LMG-Moderator: This concludes tonights Draft Chat and we thank Scott for joining us here again this year. Scott's next visit with us will be on Feb. 21. Check our Calendar on PackerChatters.com for our complete Chat schedule. Be sure to stop by the NFL Draft Countdown for great information on the NFL Draft all year long. We will have a complete Chat Transcript up as usual on the PackerChatters Front Page later this evening.

ScottWright-NFLDraftCountDown: Thanks for having me!

Colin Lindsay Great Blue North Draft Chat

Chat Transcript January 3rd, 2007

Copyright © 1995-2007 PackerChatters.com Inc. All rights reserved.

LMG-Moderator: Colin welcome back to PackerChatters Draft Chat and we thank you for taking the time to come in and give us your thoughts on the Packers and the NFL Draft for 2007. Colin when you are ready we will have Faede, our Moderator this evening, start asking for questions from our list of fans with us tonight.

Colin-GBN-Report: hey guys nice to be back...only 115 days to the draft!!!

faede-moderator: ok crew, lets start off another season of packerchatters draft chats. Thanks to colin for starting us out this year

LMG-Moderator: faede over to you

faede-moderator: and we start on top with Big brother, question for colin please

Big_Brother: If the Pack goes WR in the 1st, who do you think would help the team the most out of all the WRs in the draft?

Big_Brother: sorry I meant besides him, my bad...

Colin-GBN-Report: Not sure you really have a WR worth the 16th pick unless you take a chance on a player like Ted Ginn. Wr is a really strong position this year so you dont have to force; they'll be good value at the position right thru the draft

faede-moderator: GBP4EVER, you're up

GBP4EVER: I think Lynch would be perfect in G&G do you agree?

Colin-GBN-Report: Absolutely GBP..if I am GB management at the draft my first hope is that ML drops to #16 or at least comes in range...top 5-1o talent-guy has good size great speed and explosiveness can catch the ball; fact that he gets dinged at times and has a rep for not being the hardest worker out there though might drop him.

faede-moderator: Gbpackfan, you're up

gbpackfan: In order, what are the Packers biggest 3 needs that can be filled via the draft?

Colin-GBN-Report: GB fan...not necessarily in order but Wr, RB, TE and maybe a big physical DT to clog up the middle...all that assumes the QB spot sorts itself out beforehand

faede-moderator; ok gr8.

gr8gonzo; we need backup for Wells at C -- will either Satele or Young be there in the 4th

Colin-GBN-Report; hey gonzo...can always count on you being there...like both those guys and especially Satele who is quicker...there is a chance one or both would be there in Rd 4...

faede-moderator: huss, you're question

Huss: What are your thoughts on Amobi Akoye? What area of the draft do you see him taken in? thanks

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Huss...he'd be my first choice for that clogging DT; he'd be a bit of a reach at 16 but if he were there in the second you'd snap him up; stumpy guy who has good quickness and plays very hard all the time...

faede-moderator: kingvulture, you're up

kingvulture: What do you think of Garrett Wolfe in a later round, say the 4th? Could he help the return game?

Colin-GBN-Report: Hey King...You read my mind!!! I want him for the Giants in Rd 4; he'd be a real nice complement to Green/Morency and give you an option returning KOs though I doubt he brings back Ps..

faede-moderator: pack_attack, you're up

pack_attack: Hey Colin,thanks as usual for your time..Of last years rookies who still havent played much or are on IR, have any impressed you as future starter (from what you have seen-like Blackman)

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi attack.. I am assuming you mean the Packers guys...Blackmon could have a future as a nickle type down the road; the guy I would like to see out there is Hodge who'd give you a downright scary LB crew!

faede-moderator: packerfan, you're up

Packerfan: Where do you see Sabby Piscitelli from oregon state going?

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi PF...that's a tough one; probably a late third or early fourth type; the question is whether he ends up as a big safety or a quck OLB; he has pretty good speed but its the agility that you worry about at safety.
Guy could move up though if he tests well at the combine etc

faede-moderator: phoenix, you're up

Phoenix138: Thanks for the chat, Colin. If you were GM of the Packers, are there any players that you would hope to (realistic) drop to the Packers? You mentioned Lynch, anyone else?

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Phoenix...there's a bunch like Calvin Johnson (dream on) and Michigan DT Alan Branch... guess maybe the other guy is Dwayne Jarrett; could drop because of Mike Williams type comparisons...

LMG-Moderator: Rman question?

R man: Colin: How would Laron Landry or Reggie Nelson fit in Green Bay given some of the problems we had in our defensive backfield this year ? Thanks Colin..

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Rrrrr...both are great athletes who would upgrade a lot of safeties around the league. I see Nelson going closer to the top 10 but Landry would be an interesting choice at #16. (again he's a guy I want for the Giants)

faede-moderator: redfox, you're up

redfox33: Welcome back Colin, we need personnel in many areas but no position sticks out greatly above the rest, is this the year to sit back and take best overall player reguardless of what posistion and not look so hard at a need?

Colin-GBN-Report: Hope you guys notice that every year my typing gets better although not necessarily quicker!!!

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Red...absolutely; you do that anyway but I agree the Packers don't have huge problems this year. Its also a deep draft at a number of positions including WR and the secondary so there is no need to force a pick early at such a position

faede-moderator: willie87, you're up (nice typing colin!)

willie87: TE available in 2nd round and 3rd round?

Colin-GBN-Report: Good question Willie...it is certainly unlikey that any TE will be worth the 16th pick; in fact its not a particularly good year at the position; you might hope that someone like Greg Olson drops to the second round; while several players like Harris of Rutgers, Scott Chandler of Iowa and Spaeth on Minn would factor in the 3rd round area...

faede-moderator: BFavre4MVP, you're up

BFavre4MVP: Hey Colin, thanks for sharing your night with us. It's much appreciated. Anyways, how about a non-Packer question? What's your view (major strengths/weaknesses) on the "Big 3" QBs (Quinn, Russell, Brohm, of course) of this draft, where they should go, and how they'll fare in the pros? (<--- a lot of info, I know. I like to get my licks in :-) )

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Brett...checking out the competition...Quinn is a very polished guy with all the physical tools who is smart and work hard; probably the safest pick of the three; Brohm is super smooth and very accurate but not very mobile and has a deliberate release; Russell is the wild card; incredible physical tools including the strongest arm in football but he is a gambler who will also make the big mistake at the wrong time...should be fun for the Raiders, Lions, Bucs etc

faede-moderator: LMG has a question, I missed him, sorry Larry!

LMG-Moderator: Colin, what is the deepest position in this years Draft?

Colin-GBN-Report: Larry: Without a doubt WR... there will be decent kids at that position right through the seven rounds...lots of big receivers especially

faede-moderator: ok, big_brother, you're up

Big_Brother: Thanks for coming Colin, really enjoy your site, how do you think the QB situation will work out? Brett, Aaron, etc.? Do you think Aaron has was it takes to succeed with us?

Colin-GBN-Report: I am still not sure that BF isn't coming back...I think the Pack is an emerging team and he'd have fun next year; listening to him though you can hear that the grind of getting ready for the season is awfully tough on him; have seen very little from AR to suggest that he is any more than a career back up. IF BF doesn't come back maybe you go after a vet like Leftwich, Plummer, or Carr if they become available one way or another

faede-moderator: bram31, you're up

bram31: Colin, what do you think of the RB's? Is there a guy good at the one cut system the Pack looks for?

Colin-GBN-Report: hi Bram...right now looks like a real weak year at RB (what do they say - wait until next year)...Tony Hunt might be worth a reach in rd 2 - he's tough and durable guy who can move the chains but he won't break any big ones...other than that I don't see a lot of clear talent at the postion right now...

dhj42: Will Lynch from Cal be there for the Pack in the first round? What type of running back is he?

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi 42...You can certainly hope at this time...explosive guy with some power; also a good receiver; as noted above though there are ?s about durability and work ethic

faede-moderator: gbp4ever, you're up

GBP4EVER: I here if Samardzija does not commit 100 percent to football he will be a second or third round pick is this true also if it is he would be a good pick for the pack in the second round.

Colin-GBN-Report: HI GBP...I am not sure JS is a #1 talent even without baseball but the baseball dollars are going to be hard for him to pass on because he'll never make the same dough in football. That said if he committed to football and was there in Rd 2 he'd be a great pick

faede-moderator: gr8gonzo, you're up

gr8gonzo: who are the top 3 FSs available after the first round.

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Gonzo...Assuming Nelson and Landry are the only 2 first round FSs then Meriweather of Miami, Eric Weddle of Utan and John Wendling of Wyoming would be the next guys in line. I see Meriweather as a Rd 2 guy and the other two as 3rd rounders

faede-moderator: huss, you're up

Huss: The thought of a kicker on the first day scares a lot of us Packer fans but I like the idea of Mason Crosby in GB. How close to a sure thing do you think he is and any chance he would be around in day two? thanks

Colin-GBN-Report: Hate drafting kickers, but Crosby is a good one, although there is no such thing as a sure thing in the draft especially a kicker; I still think the better philosophy is to take one in the late rounds unless one is absolutely sold on the early guy

faede-moderator: kingvulture, you're up

kingvulture: How much do you think Brandon Merriwether's off field problems will hurt him and will Ted take a chance on him?

Colin-GBN-Report: Meriweather had a lousy season and his biggest problem was that fight which I guess wasn't really off-field. My feeling is that if he properly motivated could be a very good pro in the Ed Reed mold and would be worth a #2 pick if he checks the attitude checks out this winter

faede-moderator: marc, you're up

marc: HI-C Ive been reading that TT picks best overall player. who would you rate as number 14,15,16 & 17. also Do you think there is a good chance of a trade down at this point? Who would be a posible trade down partner?

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Marc: Given that I am not sure that the Pack's needs and the available players at #16 are going to necessarily be a good match yes I think a trade down would be good... and I'd hate to say who the guys in that range are because there is just so much sorting out to be done between now and the draft but figure there should be a couple or three decent Cbs in that area; FS Landry; maybe Ted Ginn; Ole Miss LB Patrick Willis and UGA DE Moses...

faede-moderator: pack attack, you're up

packattack: Colin what is latest u r hearing about Micheal Bush (injury) and what is estimate of when he will be selected (assuming comes out). I would love him to drop to second, although mid second may be too much to ask for(for us of course).We could kinda have a Mcgahee situation, he could play some but gets another year to really get stronger and eventually take load from Green.

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi attack...What we are hearing is that his rehab has not gone as well as had been expected and there is a chance he won't be running until after the draft...all this means the chances that he actually returns to school are growing... certainly would be a nice guy to have in GB though when the weather sets in...

CinciStu: Oakland will try to trade pick..but no takers...do they take Quinn with #1? And who does putrid Detroit take (Kitna is at best a back up)? Cleveland? All three teams need QB's

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Cinci... hard to know what Al Davis will do...BQ is the logical choice but even if he keeps the pick may not want to pay QB money...I see Detroit taking Calvin Johnson, heck they haven't taken a WR #1 since when...2005!!!

CinciStu: How far does Ohio State QB Troy Smith fall? Or does Cleveland roll the dice on him at the top of round 2?

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Cinci... Gosh just what Cleveland needs another project at QB...I wouldn't be surprised to see Smith fall into the late second or even early third round unless he really blows people away at the combine etc

faede-moderator: packerfan, you're up

Packerfan: Which of hte top corners is best in man coverage.

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Fan...of the seniors we actually like Fred Bennett of the other 'SC" for pure coverage skills...juniors Revis of Pitt and Cason of Arizona would jump to the top of the queue if they declare as expected

faede-moderator: packmanN, you're up

PACKmanN: Hi Colin, What do you think of Gary Russell Running Back Minnestoa, do you think he can make a bigger impact on a team (Green Bay Packers) then Laurence Maroney did for the Pats, and what round do you predict he will be drafted in. Once again thanks for your time.

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi packmanN... not really because Russell isn't all that big or fast... truth be told my guess is he isn't drafted until very late if at all...

faede-moderator: phoenix, you're up

Phoenix138: Assuming many of the big name juniors declare, about where do you estimate the dropoffs are in the first round or two?

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi Phoenix... there will be a group of 6-8 elite type prospects and then I would expect a deep second-tier that would go about 45-50 deep...that second tier isn't all that talented because there isn't a whole lot of speedin the 2007 draft class; lots of deep depth though such that teams should be getting useful players in to the late rounds

faede-moderator: Rman, you're up

R man: Colin what do you think of Robert Meachem wide reciever?

Colin-GBN-Report: Interesting point R man...he's a guy I had kind of forgotten about...again probably not worth the #16 pick and will not last to #47 but a very intriguing prospect with size and speed who had a real breakout year after doing zip earlier in his career. The kind of guy you might target if you were to move down into the low 20s

faede-moderator: Randolph, you're up

Randolph Hiedler: What small school prospects do you think are worth looking at that could make an impact (No particular position)

Colin-GBN-Report: Hi randolph...my sleeper of the day is TE Micahel Allan of Whitworth...6-6, 255 with 4.7 speed and good hands. there are also a number of decent backs at lower levels including Arkee Whitlock of So Illinois...

faede-moderator: redfox, you're up

redfox33: The rookie offensive linemen did a great job, however do you see them getting good enough to get the job done without all the extra help from TE-FB-RB etc?

Colin-GBN-Report: Red fox...you guys are sharp...yes especially Colledge and Spitz are going to be very good players down the road and Moll will be a valuable reserve. Pack still might want to add some young legs at OT though

faede-moderator: texfan, you're up

texfan: Mr Lindsey- Kevin Kolb QB Hou....where does he project in draft? does he have what it takes to be a no1 QB in NFL? thanks for being here!

Colin-GBN-Report: Haven't been called Mr. since...well never!! really interesting guy...in fact there are several guys like Kolb and also Jeff Rowe at Nevada who are going to start to come into the mix in the mid third round type area altho with QBs you never really know. Kolb has lots of tools including nice size and mobility and a live arm although he will have to learn to operate in a pro set as he was a shotgun type in college. Certainly a player I would be looking at if I am GB GM especially if he were still available on the second day.

LMG-Moderator: This concludes tonights Draft Chat and we thank Colin for coming in to lead off this years Chats. Be sure to stop by the Great Blue North Draft Report for great information on the NFL Draft all year long. We will have a complete Chat Transcript up as usual on the PackerChatters Front Page later this evening.

gr8gonzo: thanks for being here Colin, hope you are back again before draft day.

marc: thanks colin

LMG-Moderator: Thanks to all for coming in to kickoff the 2007 Draft season with some great questions.

Big_Brother: Thanks for the chat Colin

BFavre4MVP: Thanks Colin!

faede-moderator: thanks Colin, we appreciate the knowledge, as always

kingvulture: thanx colin

R man: Thanks a million Colin

gr8gonzo: Faede and LMG great job as always

Colin-GBN-Report: Hey guys..always enjoy stopping by; you guys are a very knowledgaable and passionate group but what else would one expect from Pack fans...cheers..we'll talk again before the draft...cl

Randolph Hiedler: Thanks

pack_attack: Thabks Colin _also Mods-like new schedule on side too

Phoenix138: Thanks Colin

LMG-Moderator: Colin will be back later this month live from the Senior Bowl in Mobile.

UPDATE Monday 12-25-2006

We are in process of putting together our 2007 list of guest hosts for our annual Live Draft Chats which will kickoff January 3rd, 2007.

All Chats' will begin at 8:00pm Central.

As of this date we have commitments from;

Colin Lindsay - Great Blue North Draft Report

The GBN Pre-season report has always been a pre-season guide with a difference in that it focuses almost exclusively on who to watch for in the upcoming season in anticipation of the 2007 and subsequent drafts, however, this year's edition has been redesigned to focus more on the top prospects for the 2007 draft at every position.

At the same time, though, the report still has all the usual features including the top 25 draft classes from across the country, a preliminary Top 100 prospects listing, mock draft, preliminary team needs for the 2007 draft and the all-future team.

January
Wednesday - January 3rd
Wednesday - January 24th from The Senior Bowl in Mobile, AL

March
Wednesday March 7th, 2007

April
Wednesday April 25th, 2007

Drew Boylhart - The Huddle Report

Drew Boylhart spends many hours watching game tapes of college football year round. He ranks players based on talent displayed on the field and then how it may translate
to the NFL.

Drew uses his evaluations of each prospect to place them on the Talent Board according to the round in which that player’s talent warrants. This doesn’t try to predict where the player will be drafted.

What it does tell you is how successful THR thinks that player will be in the NFL over his career, considering it may take a player 2-3 years to measure up to that potential.

January
Wednesday January 17, 2007

February
Wednesday February 28, 2007 (tentative)

March
Wednesday March 28, 2007 (tentative)

April
Thursday April 26, 2007 (tentative)

Scott Wright - NFL Draft Countdown

Scott Wright is the founder and President of NFL Draft Countdown.com. He has been scouting players and evaluating the NFL Draft since 1993.

An authority in the field, Scott has been featured as an NFL Draft expert by media outlets across the country and is a member of the Football Writers Association of America.

Wright invests countless hours per week evaluating game film and maintaining this site. His passion for the Draft and scouting players comes through in his work and he has historically had some of the most complete and precise mock drafts available, including a 1st place finish in 2004.

NFL Draft Countdown.com has continued to grow over the years and now is the most popular NFL Draft site in the world. Scott is dedicated to bringing visitors the most accurate and informative site possible while continuing to cater to everyone from the novice fan to the most avid draftnik. All 100% FREE!

Scott Wright is available for radio, print and television interviews. To set up an interview please e-mail scott@nfldraftcountdown.com.

January
Wednesday January 10th, 2007

February
Wednesday February 21st, 2007 (tentative)

March
Wednesday March 21st, 2007 (tentative)

April
Wednesday April 18th, 2007 (tentative)

Jeff Cottrill - New Era Scouting

February
Wednesday February 7th, 2007

April
Wednesday April 4th, 2007

May
Tuesday May 1st, 2007 - Post Draft

Frank Coyle - Draft Insiders

Frank is a nationally known pro football scout who publishes Draft Insiders' Digest and www.draftinsiders.com. In it's 15th season, Draft Insiders' Digest is dedicated to year round coverage of NFL and NCAA Football. He covers the NFL Draft and Free agency extensively with a veteran scouting staff that provides insightful information on players and team potential in the coming seasons. Draft Insiders' Digest is an extensive publication that produces over 20 issues throughout the year beginning with an Online Pro Prospects Preview and Fantasy Football Rankings in August. Frank is also a Scouting Consultant annually to the Senior Bowl which is THE Premier All-Star event of the Postseason. He has written exclusive NFL Free Agency and NFL Draft analyses for MSNBC, Lindy's Publications and USA Today.

January
Wednesday January 31, 2007

February
TBA

March
TBA

April
TBA

May
TBA - Post Draft

Jesse Ballard - Draft Studio

When it's time to talk about the NFL DRAFT, you should get to know Jesse "JB" Ballard. He began scouting the NFL and College Football in 1993, when he was only seven years old.

A decade later in October 2003, Jesse envisioned www.DraftStudio.com which quickly became recognized as one of the top independent NFL Draft sites on the web for his ability to effectively communicate his in-depth analysis and scouting abilities.

As a result of his entrepreneurial spirit and hard work, he was recognized as an NFL Draft Expert at the young age of 19. He received Media Credentials as an Independent Analyst to attend the 2004 & 2005 SENIOR BOWLS, NFL SCOUTING COMBINES and NFL DRAFTS.

His relationship with ESPN began in April 2004 in New York while attending the Draft. He was invited to give his NFL Pre-Draft and Post-Draft perspectives in LIVE interviews with COLD PIZZA on ESPN2 & ESPN Radio. It was here that he earned the nick-names “Mel Kiper Jr. (Jr.)” and “The Lebron James of the NFL Draft”. Both nick-names are in reference to his knowledge and youth; with Kiper setting the bar in Broadcast & Cable TV for NFL Draft Analyst, and Lebron like himself being only 19 years old when unexpectedly entering their professional levels in sports.

Jesse also received Media Credentials and was in attendance at the 2006 SENIOR BOWL in Mobile AL. He then represented COLD PIZZA on ESPN2 at the 2006 NFL SCOUTING COMBINE from the RCA Dome in Indianapolis IN, and the 2006 NFL DRAFT held at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

JB’s professional freelance relationship as an NFL Draft Analyst with COLD PIZZA on ESPN2 began on his 20th birthday, February 23, 2006; airing remotely from his hometown of Tampa Florida. He is the youngest NFL Draft Analyst in the business, with BIG plans of making a name for himself inside the NFL.

During Draft Season, watch for JB on COLD PIZZA on ESPN2 to provide his NFL Pre-Draft and Post-Draft perspectives. COLD PIZZA on ESPN2 Airs LIVE from New York, Weekdays from 10am – 12pm (ET) with a rebroadcast from 12pm – 2pm (ET).

February
Wednesday February 14th, 2007

March
Wednesday March 14th, 2007 (tentative)

April
Tuesday April 24th, 2007 (tentative)