Bengal’s day one wrap up

Although the Cincinnati Bengals only had two picks in the first three rounds Saturday, they made the most of them. In the first round they were lucky enough to have the first or second highest ranked cornerback(depends on who you ask), Leon Hall out of Michigan. And in the second round we went with runningback, Kenny Irons out of Auburn. I didn’t think we needed to look at a back-up runningback to compliment Rudi in the 2nd inning, but I can’t complain too much, Irons is a great player and should make our offense that much better. We didn’t have a third round selection this year, because we surrendered it when we took Ahmad Brooks in the Supplemental Draft before the season, more on Brooks later.

Leon Hall, Cornerback (MICH)

Height: 5-11
Weight: 194
Born: December 9th, 1984

Leon Hall is regarded as one of the premier coverage cornerbacks in this years rookie class. He had a great career at Michigan, finishing with the teams record in pass deflections with 43 and he was the 2006 finalist for the Thorpe Award (top defensive back) and Bronko Nagurski Award (top defensive player). He played in 50 career games and made 37 career starts at Michigan, so you know he’s reliable and has a lot of experience.

Hall is compared to former Wolverine, Ty Law, because he has very good size, a smooth athlete with great quickness and fluid hips. He’s very tough and aggressive with receivers, he is also does a great job in run support because he is such a sure tackler. He has good hands and is able to make big plays, he’s very smart with excellent instincts and awareness and is very versatile, with experience at safety. The only real knock on Hall was his speed, and he answered that at the NFL’s combine when he ran a 4.39(official time) in the 4o-yard dash. He was a team leader at Michigan and is a real character guy, something that the Bengals were desperately in search of.

NFL.com is comparing him to future Hall of Famer, Ronde Barber of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, i’d be thrilled if he turned out to be anywhere near the player Ronde is. Also look for Hall to help out in the Bengal’s return game, preferably as the punt returner. We’ve already lost Tory James to the Patriots and it appears as though we may be releasing or trading Delta O’Neal soon, so taking Hall was absolutely the best pick for us. A duo of Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph will be great for a very long time.

Kenny Irons, Running Back (AUB)

Height: 5-11
Weight: 210
Born: September 15, 1983

He played at South Carolina his first two years before transferring to Auburn in 2004, and didn’t get his first chance to start until 2005, right after the two top 5 picks, Cadillac Williams and Ronnie Brown were taken in the draft. He had an amazing start to his career gaining 1,293 yards, 13 touchdowns and an average of 5.1 per carry in 12 games but in 2006, as a senior and a possible Heisman candidate, he struggled with nagging injuries and only rushed for 893 yards, 4 touchdowns and an average of 4.5 per carry, which is still very good. The average that is. He played most of his senior year at less than 100 percent due to turf toe, a groin pull, a high ankle sprain and a bruised fibula. Through all that he still managed to pick up All-SEC first-team honors from the league’s coaches.

He displays very good vision and instincts and is a natural runner, he is more quick than fast but is very patient and will explode through holes when as soon as they open. He runs very strong and with authority and really plays much bigger than you would expect from a 5-11 210(soaking wet) back would. He is very athletic and has the agility to change directions in a snap. Although he may not be one of the fastest backs, he does have great break-away speed. And he doesn’t have a lot of mileage so you know when he gets into camp, he’s going to be fresh.

It isn’t known right now if he can be a feature back in the NFL, but with getting drafted to the Bengal’s who already have a proven starter in Rudi Johnson, he won’t have to worry about trying to be “the man”. He will most likely take over the third down and change of pace back duties from Kenny Watson this season.

I couldn’t find a video like Hall’s for Irons, but here’s a pretty good video with a couple of Iron’s highlights in it.

Overall I would give our first day of the 2007 NFL Draft a B. We filled a major hole at corner and the addition of Irons is great seeing how this league has quickly turned into a two back league. The second day I would love for us to get Ben Patrick, a tight end out of Delaware in the 4th round and if he isn’t there then we need to address defensive tackle and maybe another defensive back for depth purposes.

Ahmad Brooks could be a full-time starter next year

During an interview Bengal’s head coach, Marvin Lewis, said that Ahmad Brooks is getting his act together and progressing very quickly and very well. He also mentioned that if he continues at his current pace, Brooks could be a starter coming into next season. I for one hope he can do it, he was a great prospect before running into trouble and getting kicked off Virgina’s football team.

NFL Draft Live Blog

END OF THE 3RD ROUND

10:14 PM- #99 Current Selections, Oakland selects Johnnie Lee Higgins, WR(UTEP)

10:13 PM- Oakland is on the clock

10:13 PM- #98 Current Selections, Indianapolis selects Quinn Pitcock, DT(OSU)

10:12 PM- Indianapolis is on the clock

10:11 PM- #97 Current Selections, San Francisco 49ers select Ray McDonald, DT/DE(FLA)

10:09 PM- San Francisco is on the clock

10:08 PM- #96 Current Selections, San Diego selects Anthony Waters, LB(CLEM)

10:08 PM- San Diego is on the clock

10:05 PM- #95 Current Selections, Indianapolis selects Daymeion Hughes, CB(CAL)

10:04 PM- #94 Current Selections, Chicago selects Michael Okwo, LB(STAN)

10:04 PM- #93 Current Selections, Chicago selects Garrett Wolfe, RB(NIU)

9:59 PM- Chicago is on the clock

9:57 PM- #92 Current Selections, Buffalo selects Trent Edwards, QB(STAN)

9:56 PM- #91 Current Selections, Oakland selects Mario Henderson, OT(FSU)

9:56 PM- We have a trade, New England dealt their 3rd round pick to Oakland. Did the Pats just pick up Moss????

9:50 PM- New England is on the clock

9:49 PM- #90 Current Selections, Philadelphia selects Tony Hunt, RB(PSU)

9:49 PM- Philadelphia is on the clock

9:46 PM #89 Current Selections, Green Bay selects Aaron Rouse, S(VIRGINIA TECH) Finally, Rouse is taken, he’s going to be a great pro, very simalar to Cato June, he could switch to outside linebacker.

9:44 PM- Green Bay is back on the clock

9:44 PM- #88 Current Selections, New Orleans selects Andy Alleman, OG(AKRON)

9:41 PM- New Orleans is on the clock

9:40 PM- #87 Current Selections, Philadelphia selects Shawn Bradley, LB(NEB) Great value in this pick, he probably should’ve went in early to mid 2nd round.

9:38 PM- Philadelphia is on the clock

9:38 PM- #86 Current Selections, Baltimore selects Marshal Yanda, OG(IOWA)

9:37 PM- Jacksonville trades their 3rd round pick to Baltimore (I missed this, I was busy watching my Braves record the final out game against Rockies to win 6-2)

9:34 PM- Jacksonville is on the clock

9:33 PM- #85 Current Selections, Seattle selects Brandon Mebane, DL(CAL)

9:30 PM- Seattle is on the clock

9:30 PM- #84 Current Selections, St. Louis selects Johnathan Wade, CB(TENN)

9:28 PM- St. Louis is on the clock

9:27 PM- #83 Current Selections, Carolina selects Charles Johnson, DE(UGA)

9:25 PM- Carolina is on the clock

9:24 PM- #82 Current Selections, Kansas City selects DeMarcus “Tank” Tyler, DT(NCST)

9:22 PM- Kansas City is on the clock

9:21 PM- #81 Current Selections, New York(Giants) selects Jay Alford, DT(PSU)

9:18 PM- The New York Giants are on the clock

9:17 PM- #80 Current Selections, Tennessee selects Paul Williams, WR(FRESNO) I like Williams a lot, he looks and plays like an NFL pro. He should be good in Tennessee.

9:15 PM- Tennessee is on the clock

9:14 PM- #79 Current Selection, Jacksonville selects Mike Walker, WR(CFLA)

9:11 PM- Jacksonville is on the clock

9:11 PM- #78 Current Selection, Green Bay selects James Jones, WR(SJST)

9:07 PM- Green Bay is on the clock

9:06 PM- #77 Current Selection, Pittsburgh selects Matt Spaeth, TE(MINN)

9:05 PM- Pittsburgh is on the clock

9:04 PM- #76 Current Selection, San Francisco selects Jason Hill, WR(WSU) ATL should’ve taken him, great speed with good hands. Their loss.

9:03 PM- San Francisco is on the clock

9:03 PM- #75 Current Selection, Atlanta selects Laurent Robinson, WR(ILLST) Why would you take him when Jason Hill is still available?

9:00 PM- Atlanta is on the clock

8:59 PM- #74 Current Selection, Baltimore selects Yamon Figurs, WR(KSU)

8:57 PM- Baltimore is on the clock

8:57 PM- #73 Current Selection, Houston selects Jacoby Jones, WR(LANE)

8:54 PM- Houston is on the clock

8:54 PM- #72 Current Selection, Minnesota selects Marcus McCauley, CB(FRESNO)

8:51 PM- Minnesota is on the clock

8:51 PM- #71 Current Selection, Miami selects Lorenzo Booker, RB(FSU)

8:48 PM- Miami is on the clock

8:48 PM- #70 Current Selection, Denver selects Ryan Harris, OT(ND)

8:46 PM- Denver is on the clock

8:46 PM- #69 Current Selection, Arizona selects Buster Davis, LB(FSU)

8:45 PM- Arizona is on the clock

8:44 PM- #68 Current Selection, Tampa Bay selects Quincy Black, LB(NMEX) Good value here, another underrated linebacker

8:42 PM- Tampa Bay is on the clock

8:41 PM- #67 Current Selection, Dallas selects James Marten, OT(BC)

8:37 PM- Dallas is on the clock

8:36 PM- #66 Current Selection, New Orleans selects Usama Young, CB(KENT)

8:34 PM- New Orleans is on the clock

8:34 PM- #65 Current Selection, Oakland selects Quentin Moses, DE(UGA)

8:31 PM- Oakland is on the clock

END OF THE 2ND ROUND

8:30 PM- #64 Current Selection, Tampa Bay selects Sabby Piscitelli, S(OREST)

8:24 PM- Tampa Bay is on the clock

8:23 PM- #63 Current Selection, Green Bay selects Brandon Jackson, RB(NEB)

8:17 PM- Green Bay is now on the clock

8:17 PM- #62 Current Selection, Chicago selects Dan Bazuin, DE(CMICH)

8:10 PM- Chicago is on the clock

8:09 PM- #61 Current Selection, Detroit selects Gerald Alexander, S(BOISE)

8:04 PM- Baltimore trades pick to Detroit

8:04 PM- Baltimore is on the clock

8:03 PM- #60 Current Selection, Miami selects Samson Satele, C(HAW)

8:00 PM- The Miami Dolphins are now one the clock

7:59 PM- #59 Current Selection, Carolina selects Ryan Kalil, C(USC)

7:55 PM- Carolina is now on the clock

7:54 PM- #58 Current Selection, Detroit selects Ikaik Alama-Francis, DE(HAW)

7:53 PM- New Orleans has traded their pick to the Lions

7:48 PM- New Orleans is on the clock

7:47 PM- #57 Current Selection, Philadelphia selects Victor Abiamiri, DE(ND) I love this guy, he is going to be great playing along side “the Freak”.

7:45 PM- Philadelphia is now on the clock

7:44 PM- #56 Current Selection, Denver selects Tim Crowder, DE(TEX)

7:41 PM- Denver is now on the clock

7:41 PM- #55 Current Selection, Seattle selects Josh Wilson, CB(MARY)

7:34 PM- Seattle is now on the clock

7:34 PM- #54 Current Selection, Kansas City selects Turk McBride, DT(TENN)

7:28 PM- Kansas City is now on the clock

7:27 PM- #53 Current Selection, Cleveland selects Eric Wright, CB(UNLV)

7:24 PM- Dallas has returned the favor, trading their 2nd round pick to the Browns

7:19 PM- Dallas is on the clock

7:18 PM- #52 Current Selection, St. Louis selects Brian Leonard, FB(RUTG)

From ProFootballTalk.com, “Lions trade quarterback Josh McCown and receiver Mike Williams to the Raiders.” That is even more proof that the Raiders will indeed trade Randy Moss very soon.

7:15 PM- St.Louis is on the clock

7:14 PM- #51 Current Selection, New York(Giants) select Steve Smith, WR(USC)

7:08 PM- New York Giants are on the clock

7:07 PM- #50 Current Selection, Tennessee selects Chris Henry, RB(ARI)

7:03 PM- Tennessee is on the clock

7:03 PM- #49 Current Selection, Cincinnati selects Kenny Irons, RB(AUB) That’s interesting.

6:55 PM- The Cincinnati Bengals are back on the clock!

6:54 PM- #48 Current Selection, Jacksonville selects Justin Durant, LB(HAMPTON) I love this pick, Durant is one of the biggest sleepers in this draft.

6:45 PM- Jacksonville is on the clock

6:44 PM- #47 Current Selection, New York(Jets) select David Harris, LB(MICH)

6:42 PM- Another trade, Green Bay sways pick with the New York Jets

6:38 PM- Green Bay is on the clock

6:37 PM- #46 Current Selection, Pittsburgh selects LaMarr Woodley, DE(MICH)

6:36 PM- Talk about awkward silence between Dwayne Jarrett and “Me”shawn Johnson. If MeShawn’s head gets any bigger he’ll be….wait can it get any bigger?

6:33 PM- Pittsburgh is on the clock

6:32 PM- #45 Current selection, Carolina selects Dwayne Jarrett, WR(USC)

6:31 PM- Carolina is on the clock

6:30 PM- #44 Current Selection, Minnesota selects Sidney Rice, WR(SCAR)

6:25 PM- Minnesota is on the clock

6:24 PM- #43 Current Selection, Detroit selects Drew Stanton, QB(MICHST) Told ya

6:23 PM- Drew Stanton is a Lion, just waiting for the announcement.

6:22 PM- The Detroit Lions are on the clock

6:21 PM- #42 Current Selection, Indianapolis selects Tony Ugoh, OT(ARK)

6:18 PM- Another trade, the Colts have traded for the 49ers second round pick

6:15 PM- San Francisco is on the clock.

6:14 PM- #41 Current Selection, Atlanta selects Chris Houston, CB(ARK) Atlanta is quietly having a hell of a draft.

6:09 PM- Yet again, another trade, the Vikings traded the 41st pick to Atlanta

6:07 PM- The Minnesota Vikings are on the clock

6:06 PM- #40 Current Selection, Miami selects John Beck, QB(BYU) Way to redeem yourself, Miami. Nice pick.

6:04 PM- The Miami Dolpins are on the clock, they better take a quarterback!

6:02 PM- #39 Current Selection, Atlanta selects Justin Blalock, OG/OT(TEX)

6:00 PM- More trade details, San Diego got the 37th overall pick from the Bears in exchange for a 2nd round pick(62nd), 3rd round pick(93rd), 5th round pick(167th) and 2008 3rd round pick

5:59 PM- The Atlanta Falcons are on the clock

5:59 PM- #38 Current Selection, Oakland selects Zach Miller, TE(ASU)

5:55 PM- Oakland is back on the clock

5:54 PM- #37 Current Selection, San Diego selects Eric Weedle, S(UTAH)

5:53 PM- The Bears have traded their 37th overall pick to the Chargers

5:47 PM- Chicago is on the clock

5:47 PM- #36 Current Selection, Philadelphia selects Kevin Kolb, QB(HOU) What???

5:44 PM- An updated on the Bills/Lions trade, Bills get #34th overall pick(used on Posluszny) and the Lions get 2nd round pick(43rd overall) and 3rd round pick(74th overall).

5:40 PM- The Philadelphia Eagles are on the clock for the first time

5:39 PM- #35 Current Selection, Tampa Bay selects Arron Sears, OG(TENN)

5:33 PM- Lets update the trade details, the Cardinals received the Raider’s 2nd round pick in exchange for their 2nd round pick and 4th round pick.

5:31 PM- Tampa Bay is now on the clock.

5:30 PM- #34 Current Selection, Buffalo selects Paul Posluszny, LB(PSU)

5:28 PM- Another trade to start round two, the Lions trade their pick to Buffalo

5:28 PM- Detroit is on the clock.

5:27 PM- #33 Current Selection, Arizona selects Alan Branch, DT(MICH)

5:23 PM- Oakland has traded their pick to the Arizona Cardinals.

5:20 PM- Oakland is on the clock.

END OF THE 1ST ROUND

5:18 PM- #32 Current Selection, Indianapolis selects Anthony Gonzalez, WR(OSU)

5:14 PM- The Super Bowl winners, Indianapolis Colts are now on the clock.

5:12 PM- #31 Current Selection, Chicago selects Greg Olsen, TE(MIA)

5:05 PM- Yep, Olsen is a Bear, he just put on the hat, we’re just waiting for the official announcement.

4:58 PM- The Chicago Bears are on the clock now. They are going to take Greg Olsen, he’s already been shown getting hugs and kisses from family members.

4:57 PM- #30 Current Selection, San Diego selects Craig Davis, WR(LSU)

4:45 PM- The San Diego Chargers are on the clock, you have to think they are going with a receiver here.

4:44 PM- #29 Current Selection, Baltimore selects Ben Grubbs, OG(AUB)

4:42 PM- The details on the trade are the Niners get the Patriots 28th overall pick and the Patriots receive the 4th round pick(110th overall pick) and 2008 1st round pick.

4:35 PM- The Baltimore Ravens are now on the clock, look for them to go with a linebacker or an offensive lineman.

4:34 PM- #28 Current Selection, San Francisco selects Joe Staley, OT(CMICH)

4:32 PM- The New England Patriots have traded their second 1st round pick to the San Francisco 49ers. I guess it’s a no go for Harris in NE.

4:20 PM- The New England Patriots are back on the clock. I guarantee they pick David Harris out of Michigan. They are really high on him and they don’t have a 2nd round pick.

4:19 PM- #27 Current Selection, New Orleans selects Robert Meachem, WR(TEN) Wow, surprising but good pick here. That offense is scary.

4:09 PM- The New Orleans Saints are now on the clock.

4:09 PM- The trade details are the Cowboys got the 26th overall pick(used on Spencer) from the Eagles in exchange for their 2nd round pick(36th overall from Cleveland), 3rd round pick(86th overall) and their 6th round pick(198th overall).

4:07 PM- #26 Current Selection, Dallas selects Anthony Spencer, DE(PUR) Great pick here.

3:59 PM- We have another trade, this time it’s between the Eagles and Cowboys. No, I didn’t stutter.

3:57 PM- Ok, well I got the linebacker and Miami part right.

3:56 PM- The Philadelphia Eagles are now on the clock.

3:55 PM- #25 Current Selection, Carolina selects Jon Beason, LB(MIA)

3:47 PM- The Carolina Panthers are now on the clock. I think we’re going to have a back-to-back Miami selection here with Carolina taking Greg Olsen. If not look for them to take Joe Staley or a linebacker.

3:46 PM- #24 Current Selection, New England selects Brandon Meriweather, S(MIA)

3:32 PM- The New England Patriots(f/SEA) are now on the clock, they could go with linebacker Jon Beason or David Harris or maybe a receiver, offensive line, safety, lots and lots of different ways they could go here.

3:32 PM- #23 Current Selection, Kansas City selects Dwayne Bowe, WR(LSU)

3:29 PM- Thanks to the Fanhouse: If you were wondering who that hot blond sitting next to Quinn was, it’s his girlfriend and Miami of Ohio soccer player, Lindy Slinger.

3:21 PM- The trade details are the Cowboys gave up their #22 pick to the Browns in exchange for the Browns 2nd round pick(36th overall) and the Browns 2008 1st round pick.

3:18 PM- The Kansas City Chiefs are now on the clock.

3:17 PM- #22 Current Selection, Cleveland selects Brady Quinn, QB(CLE) WOW!!!

3:16 PM- We have another trade. The Cleveland Browns have made a trade with the Dallas Cowboys. They are going to take Brady Quinn. Wow, the Browns are geniuses. Thomas and Quinn.

3:05 PM- The Dallas Cowboys are on the clock now, they have many other needs(CB, S, WR) but ProFootballTalk is thinking they go with Quinn. UPDATE: Mort is reporting that the Cowboys are taking calls from teams that want Quinn.

3:04 PM- #21 Current Selection, Jacksonville selects Reggie Nelson, S(FLA)

Oh and nothing to do with sports, but today is Jessica Alba’s 26th birthday. Just thought i’d throw that in there. Yessir!

2:58 PM- The Jacksonville Jaguars are now on the clock.

2:56 PM- #20 Current Selection, New York(Giants) selects Aaron Ross, CB(DAL)

2:49 PM- Wow, Griffin at 19, it’s a little earlier than expected but I think it’s a great pick. I love the way Griffin plays, but I honestly thought he’d be in New England at the end of the day.

2:48 PM- The New York Giants are now on the clock. I’d say they go with a linebacker or an offensive tackle.

2:47 PM- #19 Current Selection, Tennessee selects Michael Griffin, S(TEX)

2:36 PM- I like this pick a lot, Mel Kiper said he draws comparisons to Ty Law and better yet he’s a character guy. Hall is going to help our secondary in a significant way. Him and Joseph together should be a great duo.

2:36 PM- The Tennessee Titans are now on the clock.

2:35 PM- #18 Current Selection, Cincinnati selects Leon Hall, CB(MICH) Yay!

2:30 PM- My Cincinnati Bengals are on the clock now. I would like them to pick either Leon Hall, Anthony Spencer or Jon Beason.

2:29 PM- That was a dumb trade, Jarvis Moss would’ve still been there at number 21. They didn’t have to trade up.

2:29 PM- #17 Current Selection, Denver selects Jarvis Moss, DE(FLA)

2:26 PM- The details on the trade are the Broncos receive the Jag’s 1st round pick(17th overall) in exchange for the Bronco’s 1st round pick(21st overall), 3rd round(86th overall) and their 6th round(198th overall).

2:24 PM- We have another trade. The Jacksonville Jaguars have traded their pick to the Denver Broncos.

2:19 PM- Jacksonville may look to Quinn too, Leftwich has 1 remaining year on his contract and he can’t stay healthy. The starter in Jacksonville is up in the air right now. They have a lot of options right now, Nelson would replace Deon Grant, Leon Hall would compliment Mathis very nicely. Ect….

2:17 PM- So, what’s the best part of the draft so far? I would say the “T.J. Whosyourmomma” commerical. It’s run at least four times so far, and I laugh my ass off every time. “right, put it on the board, T.J. Houshamazilly….Championshiiiip “.

2:14 PM- Now, the Jacksonville Jaguars are on the clock.

2:12 PM- #16 Current Selection, Green Bay selects Justin Harrell, DT(TENN)

2:09 PM- Chris Mortensen is reporting that the Cleveland Browns are working hard to trade up and pick Brady Quinn. If they were to do that they will have had a hell of a first round, Thomas and Quinn. Damn.

2:05 PM- I had forgotten about this, but Davey just suggested they go with Greg Olsen. That makes a lot of sense seeing as how Bubba Franks was really bad last year. They might still try and trade for Moss later on too.

2:00 PM- (EDIT) The Green Bay Packers are on the clock now. They could take Robert Meachem or Dwayne Bowe seeing as how Ginn and Lynch are gone. ProFootballTalk hinted that they might take Brady Quinn.

1:58 PM- #15 Current Selection, Pittsburgh selects Lawrence Timmons, LB(FSU)

1:54 PM- The Pittsburgh Steelers are on the clock. Sadly, I think they will take Leon Hall, who along with Revis(just taken) I wanted for Cincy.

1:53 PM- #14 Current Selection, New York(Jets) select Darrelle Revis, CB(PITT)

11:46 PM- The details of the trade are the Panthers gave up their 1st round pick(14th overall) and their 6th round pick(199th overall) in exchange for the Jet’s 1st round pick(25th overall), their 2nd round pick(59th overall) and their 5th round pick(164th overall).

11:44 PM- We have our first trade of the day, the Carolina Panthers have traded their 14th pick with the New York Jets. Look for them to take Leon Hall here.

11:40 PM- The Carolina Panthers are on the clock. I think they will take Greg Olsen, but they could trade down or maybe take Brady Quinn. Jake Delhomme was pretty average last season. Or they could take Reggie Nelson out of Florida.

11:39 PM- #13 Current Selection, St.Louis selects Adam Carriker, DE(NEB)

11:28 PM- The St.Louis Rams are now on the clock. They might go with Leon Hall/Darrell Revis or they could look to improve their defensive line with Carriker or Branch.

11:27 PM- Bruce Smith announced the Bills pick and before he said who was selected he said “god bless the Hokies” Amen! Of course the douches that are the Jet’s fans booed him.

11:27 PM- #12 Current Selection, Buffalo selects Marshawn Lynch, RB(CAL)

11:19 PM- The Buffalo Bills are now on the clock. Look for them to either address cornerback or runningback. Leon Hall/Darrell Revis or Marshawn Lynch.

11:18 PM- #11 Current Selection, San Francisco selects Patrick Willis, LB(MISS)

1:14 PM- Roger Goodell has offered Brady Quinn and his family a private room where there is no media allowed. It is anticipated that he will have a long wait ahead of him.

1:05 PM- The San Francisco 49ers are now on the clock. Patrick Willis or Adam Carriker have got to be the way they go.

1:04 PM- #10 Current Selection, Houston selects Amobi Okoye, DT(LOU)

1:02 PM- I bet Brady Quinn feels like the fat kid that doesn’t get picked for dodgeball.

12:54 PM- The Houston Texans are on the clock.

I’m speechless right now, the Dolphins needed a young quarterback and they took Ginn who has a foot injury.

WHAT THE HELL!!! OH MY GOD I CAN’T BELEIVE THEY JUST TOOK GINN!

12:51 PM- #9 Current Selection, Miami selects Ted Ginn Jr., WR(OSU)

12:48 PM- Steve Young just compated Brady Quinn’s accuracy to that of someone in American Idol, you either can sing or you can’t. He has sooo much make up on, he looks like a $2 hooker.

12:39 PM- The Miami Dolphins are on the clock. This is going to be a quick pick, Brady Quinn, no doubt about it.

12:38 PM- #8 Current Selection, Atlanta selects Jamaal Anderson, DE(ARK)

12:34 PM- Michael Smith says the Falcons want to trade out of the 8th spot, but if they don’t then he thinks they will take Jamaal Anderson instead of Amobi Okoye.

12:28 PM- The Atlanta Falcons are on the clock, I see them taking Jamaal Anderson.

12:27 PM- #7 Current Selection, Minnesota selects Adrian Peterson, RB(OU)

12:25 PM- Everyone is saying the Vikings are going to Adrian Peterson, and Davey sure hopes so, he desperately wants Brady Quinn.

12:18 PM- The Minnesota Vikings are now on the clock.

12:17 PM- #6 Current Selection, Washington selects LaRon Landry, S(LSU)

12:14 PM- Yep, it looks like I may be wrong, they just showed Landry on the phone celebrating with his family and agent. It looks like he’s a Skin. I don’t understand that because their run defense is horrible but hey, why not, he’s the best defensive player in the draft.

12:08 PM- Jaws says they should go with Landry, I strongly disagree, they already have Landry on the team…and his name is Sean Taylor. But the two of them could work out and be a hard hitting duo. If they don’t trade the pick then they should go with Amobi Okoye or Jamal Anderson.

12:05 PM- The Washington Redskins are on the clock. I really think they will try and trade this pick, they only have one pick in first day and they need more picks, badly!

12:04 PM- ESPN continues to put the camera on Brady Quinn after every pick. Sort of like they did with Aaron Rodgers. Come on, like he’s going to go to Arizona or Washington.

12:03 PM- #5 Current Selection, Arizona selects Levi Brown, LT(PSU)

12:01 PM- My boy, Michael Smith, says they take Levi right here and he was actually higher on their draft boards than Thomas.

11:56 AM- The Arizona Cardinals are on the clock, I expect them to take Adrian Peterson or Jamaal Anderson or a possible trade down for Levi Brown. Maybe they’ll trade down.

11:53 AM- #4 Current Selection, Tampa Bay selects Gaines Adams, DE(CLEM)

11:47 AM- Chris Mortensen was just talking about how Jon Gruden really likes Brady Quinn and he’s worked him out personally. Will the Buc’s take Quinn? Adams? Peterson? Trade? I’d say Adams, but i’ve been wrong before.

11:45 AM- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are on the clock. Could there be a trade???

11:41 AM- #3 Current Selection, Cleveland selects Joe Thomas, LT(WISC)

11:39 AM- Suzy Kolber said Calvin Johnson was “giggling”. And Calvin said he’s excited about going to Detroit and he’s just happy to know where he’s going. Don’t get ahead of yourself CJ, you could be heading to sunny Florida or the ATL very soon.

11:36 AM- Brady Quinn’s girlfriend is kinda hot. Enough said.

11:35 AM- If the Lions hold onto Johnson they instantly have one of the best(if not the best) receiving corps in all of football with Calvin Johnson, Roy Williams and Mike “Furry-ous” Furrey.

11:32 AM- The Cleveland Browns are now on the clock.

11:30 AM- #2 Current Selection, Detroit selects Calvin Johnson WR(GT)

11:25 AM- Chris Berman is a mind reader, just by looking at Calvin Johnson he has figured out that the Lions are going to pick him. Take that Miss Cleo.

11:21 AM- The Detroit Lions are now on the clock. Expect a trade coming soon, they will most likely choose Calvin Johnson and either keep him or ship him to either Tampa Bay or Atlanta.

11:20 AM- #1 Current Selection, Oakland selects JaMarcus Russell QB(LSU)

11:19 AM- I can’t believe it, Keyshawn Johnson comparing the #1 overall rated player in the draft to himself. Or should I say, MeShawn.

11:17 AM- Adam Schefter is reporting that trade talks between the Lions and Falcons have resumed. If Oakland doesn’t take Calvin Johnson 1st overall, then Atlanta has hopes of moving up to #2 and taking him.

11:10 AM- And here he is, Roger Goodell. “The 2007 NFL Draft is now open”. “The Oakland Raiders are now on the clock”.

11:04 AM- Keyshawn Johnson’s name was just announced and what do you know, the New York Jet’s fans booed. I have a feeling we’re going to be hearing a lot of that today. There should be lot’s of trades in the first round both with draft picks and veteran players. Look for Michael Turner(to Tennessee?), Randy Moss(to New England?) and Trent Green(to Miami?) to get traded sometime this weekend.

11:00 AM- It’s now just seconds away from the Oakland Raiders being officially “on the clock”. Early reports are that they are going to pick JaMarcus Russell and that they have assured him that he’s their guy. But it’s the Draft, you never know.

10:55 AM- Bringing in Beamer and the three former Hokies was a great touch for Goodell.

Beamer is giving a brief speech…I love that guy!

There is a moment of silence before the Draft to remember the victims of Virginia Tech. Representing Virginia Tech is Bruce Smith, Michael Vick and DeAngelo Hall and Head Football Coach, Frank Beamer.

The 2007 NFL Draft is just 10 minutes away from starting. And on a side note, Steve Young has A LOT of makeup on.

Draft Notes (updated)

And your #1 pick is……

According to ESPN’s Michael Smith, the Oakland Raiders have contacted JaMarcus Russell’s camp and informed him that he will be their selection with the 1st overall pick. There was talks with the Cleveland Browns, who reportedly covet Russell, about about a swap with the Raiders that would give the Browns the first overall pick, but the talks fell through because the Raiders and Al Davis wanted too much in return. The trade was believed to be a #1 and #3 swap and in addition to the position change, the Browns would send their 1st round pick last season, Kamerion Wimbley and multiple draft picks. If that deal were to happen, it would be evidently more clearer that the Raiders would be taking Brady Quinn. But like I said, that fell through and the Raiders will be taking Russell unless an unseen blockbuster trade is made before their 15 minutes are up.

The Patriots might have already made their choice in the first round

The New England Patriots hold two 1st round draft picks this year because of their trade last season with the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for receiver, Deion Branch. Recent reports are that the Pat’s may have at least one of their picks done with. The Patriots look like they will be taking inside linebacker, David Harris, out of Michigan. They love Harris and he’s been rising up draft boards lately, the Pats look for Harris to be the replacement for Teddy Bruschi in a few years.

UPDATE:

Could Adrian Peterson miss the whole 07′ season?

This comes from the AOL Fanhouses’ Ryan Wilson:

One of the big issues heading into today’s draft was that there are maybe 15 players worthy of a first-round grade. This explains why just about every team wants to trade down. But an emerging story line involves Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson and the extent of his injured collarbone. Here’s the Mike Mayock during the NFL Network’s pre-draft coverage:

Mayock: The runningback thing really facinates me. I spoke to two teams earlier today; both teams told me that the medical on Adrian Peterson’s collarbone is pretty significant. You may have to re-break the bone, insert a plate. If so, he’s probably ‘08. And if you try to play him this year, there’s a chance it could re-break.

So, if you’re looking for a runninback– and our guy Marshall [Faulk] told us yesterday–it might be Marshawn Lynch ahead of Adrian Peterson because of the injury…. I have never seen so much intrigue at the top end of the draft.

Wow. We heard reports about Peterson’s collarbone, but nothing this serious. If these rumors are true (and rumors are always true), you have to think the Browns have scratched Peterson off the list at No. 3, and now it’s down to Brady Quinn or Joe Thomas (assuming either are available). Or better yet, maybe a trade down. Or, as the NFL Network’s Adam Schefter just reported, Cleveland might try to trade up … all the way to No. 1. Oakland is asking for too much — at least from the Browns’ perspective — so that plan is on hold … for now.

In my opinion, it could mean the Browns and Vikings shy away from Peterson, but if you really think about it, why? They both have starting runningbacks as it is, and Peterson–healthy or not– would only serve as the second back in a dual back system. So if they want to go ahead and pass up Peterson, let them. I’m sure the Miami Dolphins(and the Bills/Packers/Titans), and Davey, would be more than happy to pick him up.

UPDATE #2:

Will Randy Moss be in New England before the day is over?

According to NFL.com’s Adam Schefter, the Raiders have resumed trade talks with the New England Patriots over disgruntled receiver, Randy Moss. The Patriots offered the Raiders a second-day pick in this years draft, which Al Davis immediately shot down, but now he may be reconsidering it. The Raiders do NOT want Moss on their team no longer and it seems like the only team Moss wants to play for is the Patriots. The Raiders asked Moss to restructure his contract in order to make it easier to trade the Pro-Bowler, but he quickly declined. He did say that he will be more than happy to restructure his contract which calls for him to make $9.75 million this season, for the Pat’s, he said the only thing he wants to do right now is win a Super Bowl and he believes the best place for him to succeed in that journey is in New England.

UPDATE #3

It looks like we know the top four selections in this year’s draft before it has even started

Well according to Mr. Schefter, the Browns in all likelihood, will be taking Joe Thomas, left tackle out of Wisconsin with their 3rd overall pick. This of course, is assuming that the Raiders do indeed take Russell at number one and the Lions take Calvin Johnson at #2. This also could mean that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, unless they try to trade for Johnson, would take Gaines Adams at number four and possibly Adrian Peterson or Jamaal Anderson at #5. Good stuff from Schefter.

The Braves regain top spot in the East.

Despite more ninth inning drama, the Atlanta Braves were able to outlast the Colorado Rockies with a 9-7 victory Friday night. In the ninth inning, Matt Holliday hit a deep fly that could’ve tied up the game to Jeff Francoeur, who had dropped a double by Holliday earlier, but this time he made a very nice running catch on the warning track to end the game. After the game, while eating some barbecued ribs, he was given an extra rib by pitcher, Tim Hudson, who had his gem of a game blown in the ninth just two nights ago, and said “Here’s an extra rib for you”.

Francoeur, playing deeper than normal, raced after it and reached out his glove at the last second. The fans in the corner went quiet and Holliday threw down his helmet in disgust.

“Considering the situation, yeah it was [one of my better catches],” Francoeur said.

“I didn’t hit it great, but I thought I had a chance to tie the game,” Holliday said. “He made a good play. I wish he hadn’t made the play.”

Brave’s closer, Bob Wickman, came into the ninth, even though it wasn’t a save situation, most likely to regain his confidence after blowing only his second save opportunity as a Brave, but that was quickly over as he was unable to get the final out in the ninth, and forced Bobby Cox to go to two more pitchers to finally get the job done. I’m not too worried about Wickman, given the next time he comes in it will be a save situation, I think he’ll get the job done.

Both starters pitched quite well last night, Chuck James going 5 1/3 innings, giving up four runs(all earned), striking out four and walking just one batter and Rockies starter, Jeff Francis also went 5 1/3 innings, 4 runs given up(all earned), striking out four and walking three. The big difference in the two pitchers was James gave up just 6 hits while Francis gave up 11, but Francis did get lucky, like when he got James to ground into a double play with the bases loaded while their were no outs. Both our big offseason additions, Mike Gonzalez and Rafael Soriano, both had one scoreless innings of work and to go along, one strikeout each.

Our offense was very good tonight, we continued our regiment of hitting homeruns and getting 2-out hits with Craig Wilson(must be the socks) going deep for the first time as a Brave and Andruw Jones continuing his hot hitting at Coors, went deep for the 4th time on the year and his 13th career HR at Coors. The Braves had eight runs with two outs gave them a major-league-leading 63 two-out RBIs. Chipper Jones had a big 2-out, 2-run double(his second of the game) in the 7th inning and gave the Braves a four run lead, which turned out to be the difference in the game. The word clutch to describe the Braves is a bit of an understatement, but i’ll take it.

“I don’t know how to explain it,” Cox said. “One thing is we have good hitters. We’re always capable.”

WP: Chuck James(3-2)
LP: Jeff Francis(1-3)
SV: Peter Moylan(1)

HR: ATL- Andruw Jones(4) and Craig Wilson(1) COL- Troy Tulowitzki(1)

The Braves next game is later tonight at 8:05 PM ET. We have John Smoltz, fresh off his new contract, going and the Rockies have Jason Hirsh going.

NOTE: Were back in first place in the East, we now lead the Mets by half a game.

Nets and Bulls both win

Kidd’s triple-double powers Nets to an easy win

On the shoulders of the injured(?) Jason Kidd and Vince Carter, the New Jersey Nets powered their way to a 102-89 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Coach of the year, Sam Mitchell and Raptors leader, Chris Bosh laughed when asked if they thought Kidd was really hurt. And Mitchell went as far as calling it a “so-called injury”.

Jason Kidd missed practice because of a bruised left knee. Not only did that not stop Kidd from being in the starting line-up, he contributed in a historic way. Kidd posted his 10th postseason triple-double, scoring 16 points, 16 rebounds and 19 assists.

“The thing that is unique about Jason is that, on any given night, he can have a triple-double. The fact he almost did a 20-20-20 deal is remarkable,” Nets coach Lawrence Frank said. “With Jason, in terms of the knee, once he puts that uniform on, you’re going to get his best effort. It’s just his will.” “I don’t know if he’s healthy or not, but he did do something special,” teammate Vince Carter said. “He definitely played phenomenal on both ends. I’m just glad that he was able to come in and play tonight.”

Vinsanity scored a game high, 37 points and also chipping in with 2 rebounds, 5 assists and a block. And he didn’t do it from behind the arc, like he’s been trying to for recently. He was able to dominate down low, posting up on and scoring at will at everyone that tried to guard him.

“Vince came out early and took it to us. That was the thing we were afraid of,” said Toronto’s Mitchell. “He started making some tough shots. I thought Jason Kidd, with the supposed so-called injury, was unbelievable. He dominated the basketball game. As good as Vince was, Jason Kidd was part of everything. He rebounded, assists. He made big shots. Every time we made a little run, he made a play.”

The Nets now lead the series, 2-1 and they play their next game is on Sunday at 7:30 PM ET on TNT.

Shaq and Wade aren’t enough to stop the Bulls

The defending NBA Champs are now one loss away from being sent home after they let a 4th quarter lead go Friday night. The Miami Heat fell to the Chicago Bulls, 104-96 standout(and my favorite . The Bulls were led by former UConnHuskie), Ben Gordon and his 27 points and Luol Deng’s 24 point effort.

The Heat let a lot of leads get away from them, including a 12 point lead, a 7 point lead(at halftime) and a 4 point lead(at the end of the 3rd quarter) go. Besides the blown leads, they only got significant production from two players, and I bet you can’t guess who. Ok, i’ll just tell you, Shaquille O’Neal and Dwayne Wade. Wade lead all scorers with 28 points and also had 9 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals and the Diesel had 23 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks. Besides those two, the rest of the Heat players scored just 45 points(12 from Walker and 10 from Posey).

For the Bulls, Kirk Hinrich posted 22 points and 6 assists, to addition to Deng’s 24 points he also had 11 rebounds and 3 assists and Gordon had 5 rebounds and 2 assists to go along with his team leading 27 points.

“Nobody has came back from 3-0, and we don’t want to be the team that it’s done against,” Deng said. “That has to be something we’re focused on — to know this team can really pick up how they play.”

“It’s only one win. We know we have to win four instead of three,” Bulls coach Scott Skiles said. “But in a game where we weren’t playing that well and things weren’t going our way, we were able to overcome it.”

The Bulls lead the series, 3-0 and their next game is also on Sunday at 1:00 PM ET on ABC.

NFL Draft notes.

According to ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions are currently discussing becoming possible trade partners. The Lions hold the second pick in this year’s Draft and they are looking to trade down and the Bucs have the fourth pick and desperately want the best overall player in draft, Calvin Johnson. There are currently two possible scenarios right now.

1st scenario:

The Lions want to trade their second selection to the Bucs for their fourth selection and both of their second round picks(#35 and #64). If you look at the trade value chart then it’s just about even and makes sense, but the Bucs are reluctant to pull the trigger. They have their hearts set on rebuilding with the draft and to do so they need to keep at least one of their 2nd round picks. Maybe if the Lions would be happy with one of the 2nd round picks then the deal would get done, but it’s not a guarantee.

2nd scenario:

The second scenario and probably the best scenario for both teams(in my opinion) would involve a swap of draft rights just like in 2004 with Eli Manning and Phillip Rivers. The Detroit Lions would select Calvin Johnson at #2 and then the Bucs would select Gaines Adams at #4 then the two teams would swap the rookies and along with the Bucs sending Adams they would also send disgruntled cornerback, Brian Kelly and possibly a later draft pick as well.

It also has been recently released that the Lions have every attention on drafting Calvin Johnson and holding onto him. They would draft him, but still be open to listening to trade proposals. This would make the 4th wide receiver taken by Matt Millen in the past five years if they would do this.

The saga that is the Oakland Raiders

What to do, what to do? The NFL Draft is less than 20 hours away right now and it still up in the air what the Raiders will do. Will they take JaMarcus Russell? Will they take Calvin Johnson? Or will they trade down? All three are very possible and smart choices, let’s face it, the Raiders have a lot of problems more notably on offense and trading down to get more draft picks would certainly help out. They are going to trade Randy Moss, that is cetain, teams have been calling Al Davis asking what will it take to get Moss and it isn’t going to be much, probably a mid-round pick and the rights to take over his contract. So taking Calvin Johnson would be a good move seeing as how they won’t have a true #1 receiver. But when it comes down to it, the guy they absolutely need to pick is JaMarcus Russell. Russell has the best potential at quarterback and we all know how much Al Davis loves his arm strength. If they don’t take Russell then we will all be asking the same questions next April, “what will the Raiders do with the #1 pick?”. Oh and if they do take Calvin Johnson I guarantee you they will either trade for the guy Russell is being compared to, Daunte Culpepper, or they will look to sign free-agent, Josh McCown. But I still think they are going to take Russell.

Brady Quinn or Adrian Peterson?….Or Joe Thomas???

The Cleveland Browns have a tough choice at the number 3 pick. They could go with the golden boy, Brady Quinn, who is the best quarterback right now in the draft. Yes, I think he’s better than Russell, but Russell has more potential. The second choice for them right now would be Adrian Peterson. They traded away their starter for the past few years, Rueben Droughns, and they did sign former 2,000 yard rusher, Jamal Lewis, to a 1-year contract. But Lewis is in the decline and they don’t have another option right now at runningback. And Peterson is an amazing prospect with a great mixture of power and speed, he could be the next Eric Dickerson. But there are concerns about his health, he broke his collar bone and missed the second half of Oklahoma’s season but he did play in their bowl game agaisnt Boise State and it was just released a few days ago that he re-aggravated the injury and could miss the start of training camp so this could scare a lot of teams away. But what it’s going to come down to is, first are the Browns willing to give Charlie Frye and or Derek Anderson another year to see if they can develop? They have to answer that before they even think about drafting Quinn/Peterson. To add more questions, now Joe Thomas’ name is apparently now in the mix. I don’t think they will take Thomas, but who knows.

There’s always sleepers, and here’s mine

Ben Grubbs, OG(AUB)- Ben Grubbs is the highest ranked offensive guard in the entire draft and if he was a tackle, he’d be a top 15 pick this year. He’s an outstanding athlete that has played tight end and defensive tackle before settling on offensive guard in 2004. He has great quickness and is very smart and strong. He is still developing and has a ton of upside.

Projected round: Late 1st early 2nd.

Josh Beck, QB(BYU)- Josh Beck is one of the most underrated quarterbacks this year. He didn’t get a lot of headlines partly because he went to BYU, but he’s been for the past three years and had a huge year last season, throwing for 3,885 yards, 32 touchdowns and just 8 interceptions while completing almost 70% of his passes. He is very accurate but his arm strength is only a little above average, a true leader that steps up under pressure and can hurt a defense with his feet.

Projected round: 3rd or 4th round.

Ben Patrick, TE(DEL)- Although he has recently seen his stock rise considerably, he is still a sleeper that could turn out to be one of the best tight ends in this year’s class. He’s a smooth route runner with outstanding hands and good size at 6′3″ 250. Very smart and puts a lot of effort at being a blocking TE just as much as a pass catching TE. He has all the intangibles to be a successful tight end for many years to come and the team that does draft him is getting an Alge Crumpler clone. In my opinion, no matter where he is drafted, he will turn out to be one of the biggest steals of the draft.

Projected round: Mid to late 2nd

Anthony Spencer, DE(PUR)- At one time he was a 1st round projection but has recently fallen to the 2nd round, but don’t let that fool you, Anthony Spencer is going to be one of the top defensive ends this season. He racked up 26.5 tackles for loss(led the nation), 93 tackles and 10.5 sacks. He could end up as an Adalius Thomas type player, a defensive end/outside linebacker hybrid. He’s a big time playmaker with great speed off the snap and is a solid tackler and is very productive against the run.

Projected round: Early 2nd.

Tarell Brown, CB(TEX)- I have said before that I think he could become one of the better corners this year, I loved how he played at Texas, he has good size, very fast, hits like a safety and plays the game angry. He’s a solid tackler and plays the run well too. He does have some character issues that he needs to work through, he was arrested on marijuana and weapon charges in September of 06′ and then again charged with misdemeanor marijuana possession in March of 07′. He was highly regarded as a top Pro prospect before he ran into law trouble, but if he can work through these issues he could be very a productive NFL corner.

Projected round: 4th round to 5th round

Justin Durant, OLB(HAMP)- A very underrated linebacker out of Hampton University, he’s been constantly around 100 tackles the past three seasons, including 124 in his junior year. He is a smooth athlete with good speed and quickness. He very strong and closes in quickly, he’s a big hitter and is good in coverage as well. He is a little undersized at 6′0″ 230 but he makes up for it in his play and fiery demeanor. He’s a three-time MEAC Defensive Player of the Year and will make an excellent weak-side linebacker in the NFL.

Projected round: Late 2nd round early 3rd

Calvin Johnson is a by far the best player in the draft

Let me first start off by saying, Calvin Johnson is the best receiving prospect I have seen coming out of college in some time. He is truly a freak of nature, seriously, he’s 6′5″ 240 and runs a sub 4.40 in the 40 yard dash he has some of the softest hands and runs routes to a tee. He’s has been compared to players like Terrell Owens and Randy Moss, but I think he’s going to be better than both. Experts have said he has the body type and strength of Owens and the speed and catching ability of Moss. But first of all he’s way bigger than the 6′3″ 225 Owens, but overall I feel that comparison is pretty good, but he’s way faster. And the speed and catching ability of Moss is also a pretty good comparison, but you know, with out the attitude of both guys. He has the body of a tight end but the speed and hands of a receiver, people 6′5″ 240 aren’t supposed to be able to run that fast, it’s just not fair. He’s going to make a hell of a pro.

Former Virginia Tech standout, Bruce Smith, will announce the Bill’s first pick.

The NFL’s career sacks leader and former Bills star defensive end Bruce Smith will announce Buffalo’s first-round pick in the draft. Bruce Smith, former Virginia Tech star, will announce the pick as part of a “Salute to Virginia Tech” following last weeks massacre in which 32 students and professors were murdered. Smith played college ball at Virginia Tech, and was drafted first overall by the Bills in 1985. Others with Virginia Tech connections to take part in the draft are Atlanta Falcons quarterback, Michael Vick and cornerback, DeAngelo Hall and Virginia Tech head coach, Frank Beamer.

“All of us in Hokie Nation are heartbroken,” said Smith, who retired after the 2003 season. “As far as the league asking me to announce the Bills’ pick, I consider it to be an honor.”

That’s all for now, more will come as the draft nears. I am going to be live blogging the NFL Draft tomorrow, which starts at 11 AM.

UPDATE:

According to NFL.com’s Adam Schefter, the Lions have settled on who they will pick tomorrow with their 2nd overall pick.

“ The Detroit Lions organization met Friday and concluded that, unless a blockbuster trade offer comes their way, they will draft Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson.”

He also goes on to say that if the Raiders do select LSU quarterback, JaMarcus Russell with the 1st pick, then they have no choice to go with the best player available. If they do get Johnson and don’t trade him, they have a scary trio of wide-outs, Roy Williams, Mike “Furreyous” Furrey and now Calvin Johnson, Jon Kitna will have plenty of targets to throw to. Now if they can just fix their defense and running game.

Also in that article it mentions that a “long-time employee” of the Raiders said that “I’m hearing the Raiders might not take (JaMarcus) Russell.” And said that he heard them say that they will be taking Calvin Johnson.

I don’t think the Royals want your damn champagne!!!

Just days after is was reported that Torri Hunter’s act of generosity by shipping 4 bottles of champagne to the Kansas Royals making good on a promise he made after the Royals swept Detroit last September, which helped the Twins capture their division could mean a significant ban from baseball(a minimum of 3 years). The Royals decided to return the favor and send him an act of generosity of their own, three stitches.

Torri Hunter was struck in the mouth by a pitch from Royal’s shy pitcher, Zack Greinke in the second inning of the game tonight and knocked him out of the rest of the game. Hunter’s first move was to charge the mound, but after taking two steps, he changed his mind and falling to his knees in pain. Hunter is fine and said he plans to play Friday against the Detroit Tigers. Greinke apologized after the game and Hunter accepted the apology.

“You don’t want to do that ever,” Greinke said about the Hunter beaning. “I just felt bad about it. He’s a good guy. Everybody knows that.”

It would have been interesting to see Greinke’s reaction had Hunter charged him, seeing as how Greinke was put on the 60-day DL last year after suffering from social anxiety disorder and was having trouble working out in front of others. And by “working out” they probably meant showering in front of the other guys. Come on, everybody remembers those dumb sex ed videos back in day with little Johnny getting embarrassed because he’s not as big as the other guys, “down there”. Let me stop right now, I can only imagine the random searches i’m going to get over this post.

And just for the hell of it, here’s a old fashioned baseball fight. Well, kind of.

Oh and don’t mess with “Steve”, nobody fucks with Steve!

UPDATE:

The Twins won the game by the way, on a game-winning RBI single by Mike Redmond that scored last year’s runner-up MVP, Justin Morneau in the 11th inning.

Thabeet is staying for sophomore season!

According to UConnHuskies.com, freshman center, Hasheem Thabeet has decided to stay at Connecticut for his sophomore season.

“I am very excited about next season and returning to UConn for my sophomore year,” said Thabeet. “I look forward to continuing my education as a person and as an athlete. We have all been working very hard since the season ended and will continue doing everything we can to get better each day and have a great season next year. I would also like to express my appreciation to all my fans and those who have taken interest in my career here at UConn. I want to especially thank my fans in Tanzania who continue to send me volumes of letters of support. I am glad I can be a role model figure to the youth in Tanzania, many of whom do not have the opportunities that I have been given.”

“We obviously have high expectations for Hasheem in the coming year,” said UConn coach Jim Calhoun. “He had a very good freshman year for us and showed great improvement as the year went on. He has the opportunity to take it to the next level during this coming summer and heading into next season and can really be a big part of our team achieving success in the future.”

The 7′3″ 255 lb center from Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, started in all 31 games for the Huskies and scored 6.3 points per game, 6.4 rebounds per game and 3.8 blocks per game. The 3.8 BPG was good enough to rank 1st in the Big East and 3rd in the Nation, he had a total of 119 blocks, ranking behind only one other freshman in UConn history, as Emeka Okafor totaled 138 blocks in 2001-02. He matched the UConn single game record of 10 blocked shots in the win over Texas Southern, equaling the mark held by Emeka Okafor and Donyell Marshall. He also blocked nine shots in the win over Fairfield and was named to the all-tournament team of the Hispanic College Fund Classic. But he has a lot of work to do this offseason, such as bulking up, he really needs to get stronger and add muscle. He was constantly bullied downlow on both the offensive and defensive boards and if he does get stronger, then we’re going to be very tough to score on next season. He has all the potential to be one of the best centers to ever come to UConn, but in the end it’s really up to him on how he will be remembered.

Braves re-sign John Smoltz!!!

News just broke on ESPN, that the Braves have re-signed John Smoltz. It is said to be for a 2-year $14 million. I’ll update as soon as it is official.

UPDATE:

It’s official now, ESPN’s Buster Olney is now reporting that Atlanta Braves and pitcher, John Smoltz have reached an agreement on a new contract.

As part of the agreement, Smoltz will receive $14 million in 2008. The deal includes a vesting option for the 2009 season that automatically kicks in if Smoltz pitches in at least 200 innings in 2008. There also is a team option for 2010.

Financial details for the 2008 and 2009 seasons are not yet known.

I for one am beyond excited over this news, it turned what was a slow, boring, off-day into a joyful celebration that will inevitably result in me being arrested for public nudity after being tackled by the St. Louis Police. I can’t wait!

UPDATE #2:

This is from AJC.com’s David O’Brien,

Ya’ll didn’t really believe Smoltz would leave, did you? Never even a sliver of doubt in my mind. Andruw, that’s a different matter altogether. But I never believed any of the B.S. rumors about “friends” who said he was disenchanted with the Braves and tired of their low-ball offers and blah blah blah.

He’ll retire a Brave. Just like Chipper will.

Braves lose in unbelievable fashion.

Usually when your pitcher is pitching amazing, setting career highs in strikeouts and seemingly unhitable, you win. Well not last night, the Atlanta Braves fell to the Florida Marlins, 4-3, despite a Cy-Young type performance from Tim Hudson. Hudson was dealing through eight innings with no troubles from the Marlins sluggers, his sinker was fantastic, he was hitting all of his spots and he didn’t throw a ball above the knees of the batters from majority of the game. He had 12 strikeouts(a career high) and walked no one. But all that unraveled as soon as he stepped foot on the diamond in the ninth inning. He started off by giving up a single up the middle to Miguel Cabrera, the a single by Cody Ross to shortstop, that if Renteria hadn’t had the range of a dead penguin, he would have gotten it or at least stop it and still have time to make a throw to first, then yet another single, this one by Aaron Boone to load the bases.

“We got dominated for absolutely two hours, and then win in the last 15 or 20 minutes.” said Marlin’s 1st baseman, Aaron Boone.

At that point, Bobby Cox had seen enough and decided to go to our closer, Bob Wickman. Wickman had only blown one save as a Brave. Wickman inherited a pretty bad situation, bases loaded with no outs, but I had faith in our “beer-chugging, meat-eating, Superstar”. But like most things I believe in (I’ll marry Jessica Alba, or at least a drunken mistake, beggars can’t be choosers) but back to the game. On his first pitch, Miguel Olivo hit a 2-run double scoring both Cabrera and Ross. The Joe Borchard was intentionally walked and Josh Willingham hit for Henry Owens and he struck out after drawing a full count. Next up was the speedy centerfielder, Alfredo Amezaga, and Amezaga hit a blooper, maybe 80 feet, but it was deep enough to score Aaron Boone. So just like that, our 3-0 lead was depleted and we were no tied, with just one out. And Wickman’s very next pitch ended the game, it was a wild pitch that got past Brian McCann and scored Miguel Olivo, who started the scoring parade with his double.

“All I had to do was get three outs before they scored three runs,” Wickman said. “For me, it’s the most disappointing loss of the season for us,” Hudson said. “I felt as good as I have all year. But it stings that we didn’t win the ballgame.”

So we lost a game that appeared to be an easy win, Kelly Johnson led off the game with a homerun, then Chipper followed with his seventh of the season and then in the second inning Matt Diaz finally broke out of his slump with a solo homer and then take into count the amazing pitching by Hudson, we should’ve won this game, but alas we didn’t and we are still a half of a game behind the hated Mets.

WP: Henry Owens(1-0)
LP: Bob Wickman(1-1)

HR: ATL- Kelly Johnson(5), Chipper Jones(7) and Matt Diaz(2)

The Braves next game is against the Colorado Rockies on Friday at 9:05 PM ET. The Braves have