Is Matt Forte the Best Running Back in the NFL?

When you hear the phrase “best running back in the NFL” who do you think of?  Perhaps you think of the Tennessee Titans super star back Chris Johnson?  Maybe you think of Oakland Raiders star Darren McFadden or the Viking’s Adrian Peterson.  These are all good backs but perhaps no other running back means more to his team that the Bear’s Matt Forte.

Forte has been a one man wrecking crew for the Bears so far this season.  Through the Bears first seven games of the season, Forte has rushed for a total of 672 yards (currently second in the NFL) with two touchdowns.  Through the air, he’s gained 419 yards and has one touchdown there.

He’s already over 1000 total yards through seven games (he currently has a total of 1091 yards from scrimmage) and is on pace to top the 2000 yard mark if he keeps going like he is.

And with his ability to make the offense work, there is no doubt that Forte is going to achieve the 2000 yard mark and help the Bears make the playoffs.

When you look at the good running backs in the NFL you have to look at those that are helping their teams win.  Peterson isn’t doing much to help his team win but he’s still cranking out the yards.  Johnson has been having a good season right now but hasn’t had the impact that Forte has.

When offensive coordinator Mike Martz first came to the Bears it was thought that the days of running the football would be something of the past.  But remember what Martz was able to do with Marshall Faulk when he was with the St. Louis Rams.  Now it appears as if Forte is being used in a similar fashion and that means he’s going to get some big numbers in this offense.

The Bears utilize Forte a lot and he’s the biggest part of their offense.  Without him, the Bears wouldn’t have won a single game this season.  He means that much to the Bears.

Forte is undergoing some issues with his contract and deserves to get a new deal.  He’s more than proven that he is worth any amount of money that the Bears would pay him and probably more and he needs to get a new deal.  The Bears can’t afford to lose him next season nor can they afford to have him suddenly decide to hold out in an attempt to get a new contract.  Paying Forte would be a step in the right direction.

Chicago may have known what they were getting with Forte when they got him and he’s had a mixed bag of results during his career.  His second season with the team was a bit of a difficult one as he spent some of his time injured and therefore wasn’t as effective as he had been in his first season.  His third season was good enough and so far his fourth has been one of the best in the history of running backs.

But another question is just how much longer can Forte play at this pace, not just in this season but for the rest of his career.  He is being used a lot as a runner and he may end up wearing down as the season goes on.  That would put the Bears in a bad situation.

But for now Forte has been one of the best backs in the NFL and should continue to be a top of the line back as long as he stays healthy. 

Top 50 College Football Players You Should Know Right Now

Not to be confused with the top NFL prospects, the top college players are guys that have excelled on Saturdays in one facet of the game or another. Some of these players could become elite pro athletes in the near future, but some of them may never play a single down in the pros. Regardless of that, they should be applauded for their achievements on the college playing field and fans need to take note of them.

Along with their natural abilities as individuals, their hard work throughout the year and commitment to work together as a team is a testament to human evolution. Nowhere on earth will you find a game that has positions for as many different types of athletes. From the 5'7" 180 lb cornerback to the 6'8" 330 lb offensive tackle, nearly every size of human is represented on the college gridiron.

Every one of the guys on this list possesses a unique set of skills that make them the game-changers that they are today. I, for one, absolutely love the display of diversity of the participants, just as I do the diversity of the fan bases. It just makes things more interesting and it is one the reasons why we pay attention. If you don't know these guys yet, here's an introduction. Pay attention this fall and you will probably hear their names again.

1.     Andrew Luck, QB Stanford - Could've been the first overall pick this year and is considered by some to be one of the best QB prospects in the last 30 years. Can he lead a young but talented offense to the PAC-12 championship under the guidance of a new head coach?

2.     LaMichael James, RB Oregon - Led the nation in scoring last year with 24 TD's and helped get the Ducks to the BCS Title game. He and QB Darron Thomas are perfect fits in the fast-paced style of offense they run in Eugene.

3.     Justin Blackmon, WR Oklahoma State - Physically gifted athlete almost scored two TD's per game as a sophomore last season.

4.     Landry Jones, QB Oklahoma - Threw for 4,700 yards and could challenge Luck to be the first overall pick in next year's draft, especially if he leads the team to a Big-12 Championship and a BCS bowl win.

5.     Trent Richardson, RB Alabama - Another Heisman candidate for the Crimson Tide needs to be the catalyst on offense if they want to make another run at an SEC and national championship.

6.     Ryan Broyles, WR Oklahoma - Versatile playmaker is Jones' favorite target. He had over 1600 yards last season and could be a top 15 draft pick.

7.     Denard Robinson, QB Michigan - Electrifying runner is not a great pro prospect as a QB but averaged 6.6 yards per rush and totaled 1702 yards on the ground. He is a threat on any given play.

8.     Quinton Coples, DE North Carolina - A monster of a human being (6'6" 285 lbs) that collected 59 tackles, 10.5 sacks, and 12 QB hurries as a junior.

9.     Alshon Jeffery, WR South Carolina - Huge (6'4" 233 lbs) and explosive SEC receiver. 'Nuff said.

10.  Jared Crick, DT Nebraska - Was not completely overshadowed by Ndamukong Suh two years ago and nabbed 9.5 sacks and seven QB hurries last season. He will be one of the top defenders in the Big Ten.

11.  Brandon Jenkins, DE Florida State - 21.5 tackles for a loss, 13.5 sacks, two passes defended, and two forced fumbles as a sophomore last season puts him among the top defenders in college football.

12.  Nick Foles, QB Arizona - Looks like a pro QB and could put together a strong campaign this year after completing 67% of his passes as a junior.

13.  Luke Kuechly, LB Boston College - Led the entire nation in total tackles (183) last season and also chipped in three INT's.

14.  Travis Lewis, LB Oklahoma - Leading tackler the last two years on a solid Sooner defense. He will get a lot of attention from NFL scouts.

15.  Courtney Upshaw, LB Alabama - Will be one of the most prized defensive prospects in next year's draft and could be a top 15 pick with an excellent senior season.

16.  Matt Barkley, QB USC - First round potential may be overshadowed by the NCAA sanctions still looming over the program, which keep the Trojans from competing for a PAC-12 championship or participating in any bowl games.

17.  CB Janoris Jenkins, CB North Alabama - The former Florida Gator star is now playing for the Division II Lions, with head coach Terry Bowden, due to off-field issues. He has a real opportunity to turn himself around there and is definitely a player worth watching as he possesses big-time ability.

18.  Manti Te'o, LB Notre Dame - Was one of the top recruits in high school three years ago and is now one of the best defenders in college football.

19.  Case Keenum, QB Houston - Has a good chance to become the NCAA's all-time leading passer! This is his sixth and final season after receiving a medical redshirt last year.

20.  Kellen Moore, QB Boise St - His 38-2 record is incredible no matter who the competition is and he will go down as one of the winningest QB's of all-time.

21.  Lavonte David, LB Nebraska - Benefits from having Crick up front but his six solo tackles per game average is outstanding in its own right.

22.  Michael Floyd, WR Notre Dame - If he can stay out of trouble and put a troubled past behind him he could have a big season after turning down the NFL to return to the Fighting Irish.

23.  Darron Thomas, QB Oregon - Helped lead the Ducks to within three points of a national championship and helped drive one of the most explosive and entertaining offenses ever.

24.  Montel Harris, RB Boston College - Already has 3753 rushing yards in his career. 5,000 are not that far out of reach.

25.  Montee Ball, RB Wisconsin - Rushed for over 1,000 yards and scored 18 TD's in a crowded Badger backfield as a sophomore. He could be the next great running back in Madison.

26.  Greg Childs, WR Arkansas - One of the top weapons in the SEC with a 6'3" 217 lbs frame. He will play on Sundays.

27.  Dominique Davis, QB East Carolina - Never heard of him? This former BC Eagle led the nation in completions per game (30.23), threw 37 TD's, and ran for another nine scores to lead the talent-laden Pirates.

28.  Brandon Weeden, QB Oklahoma St - Threw for 4277 yards and 34 TD's last season and has one of the nation's top weapons in Blackmon to throw to once again.

29.  Jonathan Martin, OT Stanford - Offensive linemen don't get any of the glory but they should. If he can lead a young O-line and use his large wingspan to keep defenders from attacking Luck's blindside all season Martin will become a top pro prospect.

30.  Mark Barron, SS Alabama - Big safety that has made 151 tackles and snatched 10 INT's in the last two years.

31.  Jerel Worthy, DT Michigan State - Is primed to have a big year for the Spartans. If he does, he will probably enter the NFL draft a year early. He has all the tools to be a professional.

32.  CB Dre Kirkpatrick, CB Alabama - One of the top pro prospects at the position has tremendous size (6'2" 190 lbs) and ability. He is just another brick in the wall in Tuscaloosa.

33.  Vontaze Burfict, LB Arizona State - Big-time recruit has been an active defender for the Sun Devils but needs to channel his emotions properly and avoid costly penalties.

34.  Mike Brewster, C/G Ohio State - The best player for the Buckeyes now that Terrelle Pryor is gone.

35.  Donte Paige-Moss, DE North Carolina - The Tar Heels keep producing big-time defenders lately. Paige-Moss had 13.5 tackles for a loss last season and has added some bulk in the off-season.

36.  Nate Potter, OT Boise State - Another productive O-lineman with first round ability will protect Moore's blindside.

37.  Edwin Baker, RB Michigan State - Will be the focal point of the offense in East Lansing.

38.  Tank Carder, LB TCU - The next standout on the Horned Frogs vaunted defense.

39.  Dan Persa, QB Northwestern - Emerged last season before breaking his ankle and elevated the Wildcats. He could be the best passer in the Big Ten.

40.  Marcus Forston, DT Miami - Looks to really make a name for himself in 2011.

41.  Kirk Cousins, QB Michigan State - Perfect fit in the Spartan offense looks like a decent pro prospect.

42.  Mike Martin, DT Michigan - The best defender on a horrible Wolverine defense was miscast under former DC Greg Robinson. Martin is as strong, fast, and versatile as they come and the new coaches will try to take advantage of his abilities.

43.  Alfonzo Dennard, CB Nebraska - Held his own opposite Prince Amukamara and looks to step out of the shadows. Pro scouts are aware of his talents.

44.  Tydreke Powell, DT North Carolina - Definite professional characteristics as an athlete but lacks overall production, possibly due to the wealth of talent along the DL.

45.  Marcus Lattimore, RB South Carolina - Freshman sensation produced 92 yards per game.

46.  Dont'a Hightower, LB Alabama - One of the best linebackers in the SEC.

47.  Jeff Fuller, WR Texas A & M - First ever 1,000 yard receiver in Aggie history.

48.  Robert Lester, FS Alabama - Took advantage of being an unknown in the Tide defense and nabbed eight INT's as a sophomore.

49.  Aaron Murray, QB Georgia - The most productive QB returning to the SEC this year is only a sophomore.

50.  Russell Wilson, QB Wisconsin - Threw for 3563 yards and 28 TD's for NC State last season and was released from his scholarship to play baseball. He says he loves football and the Badgers could use an upgrade at the position. In the end, he could make a lot of waves in the Big Ten this season.

       Scot Acocks covers the Detroit Lions and Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the NFL Draft Dog and covers all facets of football at www.100yardspin.blogspot.com

2011 NFL Draft Breakdown

2011 NFL Draft Grades
by Bill Smith

It is impossible to truly judge a draft for at least 3 years. It often takes that long to really find out who can and who can not play big boy football. However, we can take a look at which teams took highly rated players and who really reached to grab players that were not highly rated.

As I said during our draft coverage on my radio show, this draft has generated the widest diversity of player rankings in many years. I have only been evaluating the NFL draft since 1963 so I am pretty new at this. Most of the differences in opinion about players is the result of so many of the top players in this draft having red flags associated with them. These flags range from several players that have a history of cancer to DUI or drug issues to NCAA suspensions to the classic 1 year wonder guys. The boards of each team are directly related to how seriously they view each red flag.

Team: Falcons

Best pick: P 6 Julio Jones WR Alabama - The team reached a long way to get their guy and gave up a bunch to get him. He is very good but will drop a critical pass now and then.

Biggest reach: P 192 Matt Bosher K Miami (Fla.) - I don't ever like drafting a kicker.

Biggest value: P 145 Jacquizz Rodgers RB Oregon State - He will replace Norwood who is a UFA.

P 230 Cliff Matthews DE South Carolina - He can be a solid reserve and can develop into a starter. Not bad for a late pick.

Team: Cards

Best pick: P 5 Patrick Peterson CB LSU - He is one of the top 3 players in the draft and will start day 1.

Biggest reach: P 69 Rob Housler TE Florida Atlantic - I had him rated in the 130's. They could have waited a round to get him.

Biggest value: P 103 Sam Acho DE Texas - Acho was a late 2nd round value and could start.

Team: Ravens

Best pick: P27 Jimmy Smith CB Colorado - Smith has some character issues but the Ravens locker room will help him keep focused on and off the field. He has top 6 talent.

Biggest reach: P 85 Jah Reid OT UCF - I rated Reid as a FA after the draft.

Biggest value: P165 Pernell McPhee DE Mississippi State - He is a raw player that needs coaching but has a lot of potential and was rated as a late 3rd round value.

Team: Bills

Best pick: P3 Marcell Dareus DT Alabama - Dareus was my top DT and is very good against the run and the pass. He starts game 1.

Biggest reach: P100 Da'Norris Searcy SS North Carolina - He was a round 7 guy on my board but has talent.

Biggest value: P 206 Justin Rogers CB Richmond - If he had played at a big name school he would have been a late 1st round pick.

Team: Bears

Best pick: P 195 J.T. Thomas OLB West Virginia - Thomas has 3 years experience at OLB. He will be a special teams star and will compete for a rotation spot.

Biggest reach: P 160 Nathan Enderle QB Idaho - Beauty like potential is in the eye of the beholder.

Biggest value: P 53 Stephen Paea DT Oregon State - Most drafts had him in the late first round.

Team: Browns

Best pick: P 37 Jabaal Sheard DE Pittsburgh - Sheard is a solid DE but is not the pass rusher the team needed.

Biggest reach: P21 Phil Taylor DT Baylor - Taylor is a second round value. It was a good thing they got a number of picks by trading down from 6.

Biggest value: Sheard

Team: Bengals

Best pick: P3 A.J. Green WR Georgia - Green is the top WR and a great addition to a team that had under-achieving WRs last year.

Biggest reach: None - For the first time in years the Bungles did not reach too far for any player.

Biggest value: P 35 Andy Dalton QB TCU - This pick was insurance for Palmer's possible retirement.

Team: Panthers

Best pick: 166 Lawrence Wilson OLB Connecticut - Wilson can play any LB spot and will contribute soon.

Biggest reach: P 65 Terrell McClain DT South Florida - Most people had him in the 4th round. The Panthers must REALLY like him to take him here.

Biggest value: Wilson

Team: Cowboys

Best pick: P 71 DeMarco Murray RB Oklahoma - Murray is a replacement for a couple of high picks that have not worked out. He has power and some speed.

Biggest reach: 110 David Arkin OG Missouri State - He was taken 2 rounds higher than most had him rated.

Biggest value: P 40 Bruce Carter OLB North Carolina - Carter can play which is more than a couple of Cowboy LB picks in the past.

Team: Lions

Best pick: P 57 Mikel LeShoure RB Illinois - Smith was cut and LeShoure should start.

Biggest reach: P 44 Titus Young WR Boise State - They wanted a WR and reached a bit to get Young.

Biggest value: LeShoure

Team: Broncos

Best pick: P2 Von Miller OLB Texas A&M - This was tough because I didn't like much of the draft here. Miller played a combo DE/LB and will be used the same way at DV.

Biggest reach: P 129 Julius Thomas TE Portland State - They need one but I doubt this guy is a player.

Biggest value: P 108 Quinton Carter FS Oklahoma - Carter is a player that can support the run or play center field in a 1 deep coverage.

Team: Packers

Best pick: P 131 Davon House CB New Mexico State - House is a solid CB that was under valued
even in the 2nd round. To get him here is outstanding value.

Biggest reach: P 96 Alex Green RB Hawaii - After RB by committee, they needed one that can play. He would have been available in the late 6th round.

Biggest value: House

Team: Texans

Best pick: P 42 Brooks Reed OLB Arizona - The DE will play OLB for the Texans that are changing to a 3-4 this year. He can rush the passer which is a need for the D.

Biggest reach: P 152 T.J. Yates QB North Carolina - The run on QBs caused the Texans to reach for a guy that in other years would have gone undrafted.

Biggest value: P 127 Rashad Carmichael CB Virginia Tech - He was projected to go in the 3rd round.

Team: Colts

Best pick: P87 Drake Nevis DT LSU - Nevis is solid and can do it all. He was projected in the late 2nd round.

Biggest reach: None - The Colts went chalk and got value with each pick.

Biggest value: P22 Anthony Castonzo OT Boston College - The team got another 1st round LT to try to protect Manning.

Team: Jags

Best pick: P114 Cecil Shorts III WR Mount Union - Shorts is very fast and should give Jag QBs a good deep threat.

Biggest reach: P 121 Chris Prosinski FS Wyoming - He was a good player on a really bad D.

Biggest value: P10 Blaine Gabbert QB Missouri - I don't think he will ever start but in a draft of reaches he was the only one that had a higher projected value.

Team: Chiefs

Best pick: P 86 Allen Bailey DE Miami (Fla.) - Bailey is just OK but this draft was a mess. They took a lot of players with BIG red flags and the locker room is not strong enough to survive it.

Biggest reach: P 140 Gabe Miller DE Oregon State - Miller was rated in the 550's on most boards including mine.

Biggest value: P 26 Jon Baldwin WR Pittsburgh - IF they keep him focused which is not likely.

Team: Dolphins

Best pick: P 62 Daniel Thomas RB Kansas State - He was my top rated RB in a year with very little in the group.

Biggest reach: P231 Frank Kearse DT Alabama A&M - A reach in the 7th round is not bad. Kearse was rated as undrafted.

Biggest value: Thomas

Team: Vikings

Best pick: P 139 Brandon Burton CB Utah - He is a player that had a 2nd round grade.

Biggest reach: P 170 Mistral Raymond FS South Florida - I had him rated in the 600's.

Biggest value: Burton

Team: Patriots

Best pick: P 17 Nate Solder OT Colorado - The Pats need to protect Brady.

Biggest reach: P 194 Markell Carter DE Central Arkansas - This was overall a good draft. A late reach for a guy you like is not a bad thing.

Biggest value: The trades that brought extra picks in 2011

Team: Giants

Best pick: P 52 Marvin Austin DT North Carolina - I think this guy is a steal but so was CB Amukamara at 19. Both could be stars soon. Austin is a penetrating DT that will create havoc in the backfield.

Biggest reach: None that matter. The Giants got 3 of my top producers.

Biggest value: Amukamara - He can start and will support the run better than Peterson.

Team: Jets

Best pick: P94 Kenrick Ellis DT Hampton - He would have been a 1st round pick if he played at a big name school. Ellis can rush the passer and will jam the run.

Biggest reach: None that are significant. The team did a great job getting value.

Biggest value: Ellis

Team: Saints

Best pick: P 24 Cameron Jordan DE California - He will become a regular. The team has problems at both DE spots.

Biggest reach: None of real consequence.

Biggest value: P 226 Greg Romeus DE Pittsburgh - If he had come out last year he would have been a top 10 pick. Injuries hurt his 2010 season.

Team: Raiders

Best pick: P 48 Stefen Wisniewski C Penn State - The need was clear and Wis is solid.

Biggest reach: P81 DeMarcus Van Dyke CB Miami (Fla.) - He has talent but was projected in the very late 7th round.

Biggest value: P 113 Chimdi Chekwa CB Ohio State - One of the best CBs in the league is leaving and the team needed help at the CB spot.

Team: Eagles

Best pick: P 116 Casey Matthews ILB Oregon - He shot up the draft charts when he proved he was fast enough to play MLB in a 4-3.

Biggest reach: P 161 Julian Vandervelde OG Iowa - A smart kid from a school that produces a lot of NFL O line guys. I had him in the 7th round.

Biggest value: P 240 Stanley Havili FB Southern California - Havili is a blaster with decent speed. He is a great value here.

Team: Steelers

Best pick: P31 Cameron Heyward DE Ohio State - Cam is a typical Steeler guy--tough, smart and blue collar. He will be worked into the rotation and help make the team younger on D. The team that started the Super Bowl this year had a D more than 1 year older than the "Over the Hill" Redskin group that won the title.

Biggest reach: P 63 Marcus Gilbert OT Florida - I don't like Gilbert and had him rated in the 4th round.

Biggest value: P 196 Keith Williams OG Nebraska - This kid can pull and will challenge for a starting spot soon. He was off most draft boards but shot up lately. I had him in the 3rd round in terms of value but knew he would last longer.

Team: Chargers

Best pick: P 201 Stephen Schilling OG Michigan - When your best pick is a 7th round choice, there is trouble. Schilling was a good value and can play at this level.

Biggest reach: P 61 Jonas Mouton OLB Michigan - He can play some but would have been available much later.

Biggest value: P 183 Jordan Todman RB Connecticut - He is a solid back and had a 4th round grade. He will replace Sproles on the roster.

Team: Seahawks

Best pick: P 75 John Moffitt OG Wisconsin - Every pick was a reach but at least Moffitt can play. He is a road grader that I had projected in the 4th round.

Biggest reach: P 107 Kris Durham WR Georgia - Most draft projections had him as undraftable. They took him in the 4th round.

Biggest value: None - Every pick was a reach.

Team: 49ers

Best pick: P 36 Colin Kaepernick QB Nevada - I have predicted on my radio show that by 2014 he will be the best QB in this draft. To get him in the 2nd was a value given where other QBs were picked.

Biggest reach: P 80 Chris Culliver FS South Carolina - I though Culliver was OK but had him in the 6th round.

Biggest value: P 115 Kendall Hunter RB Oklahoma State - RB Gore needs a dance partner. Hunter can be a starter for a lot of teams and was a great value here.

Team: Rams

Best pick: P 14 Robert Quinn DE North Carolina - I think Quinn is by far the best 4-3 DE pass rusher to come out of college in years. He will be a great complement to DE Long.

Biggest reach: P 216 Mikail Baker CB Baylor - The Rams had a good draft. I just did not have Baker as even a FA guy.

Biggest value: Quinn

Team: Bucs

Best pick: P 51 Da'Quan Bowers DE Clemson - IF his knees are decent, this is a great value. He can rush the QB and was the last above average rusher on the board.

Biggest reach: P 187 Allen Bradford RB Southern California - The team had a lot higher grade on him than anyone I have seen including the coaching staff at USC.

Biggest value: Bowers

Team: Titans

Best pick: P 77 Jurrell Casey DT Southern California - He is a very good DT with some pass rush ability. He could start day 1.

Biggest reach: P8 Jake Locker QB Washington - I REALLY don't get Locker. He reminds me of Clausen last year. Kiper loved both but I don't. The great thing about being a draft analyst is that we will find out who was right and was wrong.

Biggest value: P 104 Luke Stocker TE Tennessee - Everyone had him rated in the late 2nd.

Team: Redskins

Best pick: P 16 Ryan Kerrigan DE Purdue - He will play OLB for the 3-4 there. There is always a risk changing a DE in college to OLB because they often are lost in space (see DE Gholston picked 6tj by the Jets who was just released). Kerrigan can rush the QB.

Biggest reach: P 146 DeJon Gomes SS Nebraska - He is raw and needs a lot of work. Most had him very late in the 7th round.

Biggest value: P79 Leonard Hankerson WR Miami (Fla.) - He had late 1st round talent and can pluck the ball out of the air. He and Paul (P 155) should provide help for whoever ends up playing QB.

That's what I think. Tell us what you think.

Bill Smith is a former coach of several semi-pro teams, has officiated both football and basketball, done color on radio for college football and basketball and has scouted talent. He is a senior writer for http://NFLDraftDog.com and edits http://fryingpansports.com. He has also published several novels on
http://www.eBooks-Library.com/Contemporary/
and a non-fiction work at http://www.merriam-press.com/. He edits http://fryingpanpolitics.org/. Also listen to the best Sports Talk anywhere on the Internet and hear his sports show Monday-Friday 6-8 PM EST on http://fryingpansports.com/radio-show/ or http://mooheadradio.com/2.0/.

The NFL Draft Experience: 2011

By Larry McCammon (Chiefs' Writer)

3 May 2011

For the second straight year, I made my way to Radio City Music Hall in New York City, in efforts to catch the first 3 rounds of this year's NFL Draft. The journey was the same as last, yet the experience was brand new. My two brothers from Kansas City, Jake and Clay, accompanied me this time; so having company at my side created a newness to the moments I had already partaken in last year.

Again, tickets were free and were only available to those that were willing to wait in line for four hours- starting at 8:00 in the evening the day before the Draft started. As we approached the end of the line- already 100 deep when I arrived at 7:58pm- the chants and joshing began from fellow Chiefs' fans and all the other teams' followers. And as you meshed into the masses, and the hours passed, the 700 individual fans became a single living organism... all wanting something resembling football.

While in line, we were visited by television journalists from the NFL Network. Attempting to stand hidden as the camera crew approached our stakeout, I was pointed out by reporter Michelle Beisner as one of the few Chiefs' fans in line. The next thing I knew, I had a camera light and microphone invading what I thought was a clever concealment. I was asked if this was my first draft, replied that it was my second, and then she told me that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell could be possibly make a stop by the line of dedicated fans this evening. She asked, "If you had an opportunity to make a statement to the Commissioner about the current labor issue, what would you say to him?"

Well, that didn't put me on the spot at all. As I tried to gather my thoughts and deliver a solid point, it felt like I was back in grade school trying to quickly spell the hardest word during the spelling contest. With my best manly voice I stated, "I would tell him that the players deliver a great product on the field to the fans and they deserve to be paid well." That was met with a neutral and professional tone by Ms. Beisner, as she assured me that the league was working hard to do what is necessary for both sides. And as they moved on to the next fan of interest, I felt a slight relief and quickly realized that it isn't easy to spit out something of value with a national network camera in your face.

And as prophesized, the Commissioner did appear to the dedicated hundreds that spent the hours on their feet to personally watch the selection of this year's rookies. He spent a full hour making his way down the line in efforts to shake every hand of any fan that was interested. By the time he got to my spot his fingers on one hand were covered in permanent marker and yet he had no issue signing my Kansas City hat when requested, while also posing for a picture. And with the previous response in mind from my answer to Michelle Beisner's question earlier, I merely said to Mr. Goodell, "Good luck with the CBA process." It simply felt more appropriate at the moment.

The actual Draft went on without a hitch and just as last year there seemed to be a little magic in the air. And when the Commissioner approached the podium to announce the opening of the 2011 Draft, he was met with a few cheers, many understandable boo's, and a joint cadence of "We want football!" Yet, the Draft kicked off without delay and the anticipation of each selection kept the drama thick; and the unique responses from each teams' fans as their picks were made or traded delivered a sports' geeks version of a night time soap opera... and we're all hanging on to see how the cliffhanger turns out!

Strategy for the 2011 NFL Draft

The intrigue of the NFL Draft, the mystery of which player will your team select, the hope that this draft will be the catalyst that gets your team to the Superbowl. Everyone and their mother does Mock Drafts these days, they even have Websites whos main purpose is to critique and grade your Mock Draft after it's over. They compare and grade your 2011 NFL Mock Draft based off the actual draft. The problem with that is a lot of websites, including my own NFL Draft Dog don't try to "guess" who the NFL team will draft, instead we list who we think they should draft.

For example everyone has Carolina taking Cam Newton #1 overall, and I think the Panthers will probably take him, however I think they would be much better off long-term by taking Alabama DT Marcel Dareus. They could take QBs Christian Ponder or Andy Dalton in the second round and give last years second round choice Jimmy Clausen some competition. If things don't work out they would have a chance at Stanford QB Andrew Luck next year.

So that means the Broncos would lose out on Dareus and desperately needing help at defensive tackle they should take Auburn DT Nick Fairley. I don't believe all the hype about Fairley "falling" in the draft. Yes he might, but he shouldn't.Try to remember the actual football season, at the end of the year Cam Newton won the Heisman Trophy, but Fairley was the most dominant player in football and without him Auburn never would have won a national championship. Fairley came to the combine in great shape and hasn't been into any trouble.

The Bills are up next and this is the toughest pick in the top ten, OLB Von Miller would be an excellent pick, but they haven't had a franchise quarterback since Jim Kelly. QB Blaine Gabbert could be that guy and the Bills should draft him and let him sit a year and hold a clip board.

The Bengals hope Gabbert falls to them but they need a quarterback also, Carson Palmer's days are numbered in Cincinnatti and Cam Newton could be the guy to carry the Bengals forward. They should also get a veteran in to help Gabbert along so he wouldn't have to start right away. QB Cam Newton will struggle eraly in his career if he is thrown in too soon, but with patience he could develop into quite the weapon.

The Arizona Cardinals have the luxury od getting to draft Texas A&M OLB Von Miller here if Gabbert and Newton are already gone. The Cards are another team that needs a quarterback, but Von Miller is special and could be one of the top NFL pass rushers very early in his career. He has pass rushing skills comparable to DeMarcus Ware and he might even be more explosive off the snap than Ware.

The Browns will now get that quality receiver that they need. They should draft Georgia WR A.J. Green, he is a little more quick in and out of his cuts than Julio Jones, but don't be surprised if the Browns don't take Jones, he (Jones) is bigger, faster and a better blocker that Green. It's kind of a coin toss between those two. Both should be NFL stars in short order.

The Niners are smiling at this point as they get what could be the most talented football player in this draft. CB Patrick Peterson, who, by the way, I think we eventually be an NFL safety. The Niners will also be looking to trade up to get Gabbert, if not, look for them to get a top quarterback very early in round two or trade back up into the bottom of the first round.

The Tennessee Titans will also be a team desperately looking for help at quarterback, unfortunately, the top quarterbacks will all be gone by this point and I think this is to early to take Arkansas QB Ryan Mallett. I like Mallett, but as far as value a top pass rusher like Robert Quinn would be a better value. Quinn has special skills and if he stays focused should be a double digit sack guy for years to come.

The Dallas Cowboys will be looking to trade down and get some extra picks here, they have a lot of holes and need to come out of this draft with a lot of good players. That's easier said than done though and will probably just stay put and take USC offensive tackle Tyron Smith. Marc Columbo is old and injury prone and Smith played right tackle at USC, he could step right in and replace Columbo. They could also fill a need here at defensive end and just re-sign Columbo for another year. Wisconsin's JJ Watt would be an excellent addition as well as Cal's talented defensive end Cameron Jordan. New defensive coordinator Rob Ryan will be begging Jerry Jones for one of those top defensive ends her.

To round out the top ten, the Redskins are another team that is desperately trying to move up and get a quarterback, the price will likely be to high though and the Skins will just sit here and take WR Julio Jones. They could also trade down and get one of the top defensive tackles on the board like Temple's Muhammad Wilkerson. Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth is a joke, a bad apple he just never worked out in DC.

So that's a Breakdown of my top ten, not who I think they will pick, but who they should.

How Will the NFL Lockout Affect the NFL Draft

With the NFL lockout in place, NFL teams are currently unable to sign free agents and address their needs before the draft.

Therefore NFL teams will take the best player available approach with the hope of signing a few free agents later when and if the NFL owners and players reach an agreement.

The NFL Draft will take place, even if their is a boycott on the draft, the teams will still make their selections, they will "own" the rights to the player, they just won't be able to sign them to a contract. The teams won't be able to hold their rookie mini-camps and subsequently their rookie development will likely be hindered.

So if the lockout bleeds into late July and August it might be next to impossible for one of these rookie quarterbacks to come in and start their rookie year. There just won't be enough time for them to be able to come in and adjust to the speed of the pro game and learn the complicated offenses and defenses before the first game.

So will an NFL team draft a QB in the first round now knowing that they might not see the field for two years? Smart teams will just follow their draft boards and not worry about the what-ifs, but then again, a lot of NFL owners aren't very smart when it comes to the NFL Draft....Al Davis and Jerry Jones immediately come to mind.

2011 NFL Scouting Combine: Linebackers

We all knew that Von Miller was a good line backer, but he proved it beyond a shadow of a doubt at the 2011 NFL Scouting Combine. He ran a very impressive 40-yard dash and vertical jump.

There were a few pleasant surprises though, like Dontay Moch from Nevada and Bruce Miller from little Central Florida, both with impressive performances in their own right.

Here are your top performers and floppers at the combine. I did not include defensive ends who experts think will switch to a 3-4 linebacker. Ex: Aldon Smith, Ryan Kerrigan.

Von Miller, Texas A&M OLB: Miller ran a 4.60 40-yard dash and a 37” vertical leap. He has the speed and explosiveness, however his strength could be a concern. He was only able to bench 225 21 times. So there is a risk that a bigger stronger lineman could neutralize Von Miller's affect of the field. Other than that, he is the top linebacker in the draft.

Before Combine: top 20 pick

After Combine: top 5 pick.

Martez Williams, Illinois ILB: If Von Miller had not been at the combine, Martez would have stole all the limelight. He proved to be an explosive athlete in complete control of his body. He ran a blazing 4.44 40-yard dash. He had a so-so bench press showing, completing 225 pounds on the bench press 23 times. He also had a 36” vertical jump to cap of his impressive combine showing. He has impressive size. He is 6' 3” and weighs 250 lbs. He will be a starter somewhere guaranteed.

Before combine: 3-4th round.

After Combine: early 2nd round.

Akeem Ayers, UCLA OLB: He has been viewed as a 4-3 outside linebacker to most. Ayers ran a mediocre 4.80 40-yard dash and had a vertical of 31”. He has on the field speed and some explosiveness. Strength? Not so much, Akeem racked the bar after only 18 reps on the bench press. He could have problems with bigger backs.

Before Combine: 1st round

After combine: Late 1st, early 2nd round

Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina, MLB: He did not run the 40, but had a 34” vertical and benched 225 lbs 21 times. Mediocre. He is still a prospect worth considering for strong side linebacker in a 4-3 defense.

Before Combine: 2nd-3rd round

After Combine: 2nd-3rd round

Brooks Reed, Arizona State OLB/DE. Reed is a big time riser after an impressive Senior Bowl and a solid combine. Brooks ran a 4.66 40-yard dash and had a 30.5” vertical. So right in the middle of the road of vertical leaps and one of the faster linebackers. Now strength is not an issue with this guy either, he lifted that bar 30 times. This man can start right away and he has the physical prowess to be very good.

Before Combine: 3-4 round

After Combine: 2nd round

Bruce Carter, North Carolina, OLB: Came in fairly strong, he completed 25 reps at 225 lbs. Carter has shown that he can be a valuable leader on defense and had to step up last year with several of the UNC defense suspended. I think he could be the next James Laurinaitis, Jerod Mayo. He's that talented.

Before Combine: 2nd round

After Combine: 2nd round

Dontay Moch, Nevada, OLB: This guy was by far the fastest linebacker at he combine, a venerable workout warrior. He blazed a 4.40 40-yard dash and a 42” vertical leap, the highest of any linebacker. So he has blistering speed and tons of explosion. He is raw, very raw. He could be a starter with the right coaching, or he could be a bust like Vernon Gholston, of whom he is remarkably similar.

Before combine: 4th-5th round

After Combine: 2nd round

Mason Foster, Washington, OLB: He ran a decent 4.65 40-yard dash. He is 6' 1” and weighs 245 lbs. He completed 22 reps on the benchand had a sub par vertical, only 21 inches. I might be able to get 21 inches. None the less he, is a solid tackler who might be able to play for a few teams.

Before Combine: 3rd-4th round

After Combine: 4th-5th round.

Greg Jones, Michigan State, OLB: He was viewed as a top prospect and still is in my book. The kid just knows how to play football with elite instincts, he is a tackling machine. Jones was a four year starter at Michigan State and he accumulated a total of 238 solo tackles during his career. At the Combine however, he failed to open any eyes. He ran a lackluster 4.75 40-yard dash. That is decent, but not what scouts were looking for in a smaller linebacker. He benched 225 lbs 21 times, which is same max as several other OLB prospects. He had a 31.5 inch vertical. He seems best suited for the weak side in a 4-3 defense.

Before Combine: 2nd-3rd

After combine: 3rd-4th

K.J. Wright, Mississippi state, OLB: He is a bigger prospect at 6 '3” 246 lbs. He ran a so-so 40 time of 4.70 seconds. He lifted 225 pounds 20 times in the bench. Which is not that good for a 246 pounder. He also had a 32” vertical leap. He has long arms and may be big enough to play an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense. He might not bring much as a rusher though. His rise is due mostly in part to others failing to live up to expectations.

Before combine: 4th-5th round

After combine: 3rd-4th round.

Ross Homan, Ohio State, OLB: He ran a 4.65 40-yard dash, so he’s got decent speed. He proved to be very strong benching 225 lbs 32 times. That is better than any other linebacker besides Brooks Reed. His 215 career tackles for Ohio State are impressive. also has a 35 inch vertical leap. As a small linebacker (6’ 0” 226 lbs) he should find a home with a team like the St.Louis Rams. After all, 4 out of their 6 linebackers are Ohio State grads. Why not add another alumni. Homan really improved his stock.

Before Combine: 5th round

After Combine: 4th round

Mark Herzlich, Boston College, LB: He is one of my favorite players, coming back after cancer to play in 2010 was impressive all by itself. He had the highest bench reps of any ILB at the combine. He lifted that bad boy 29 times. He had a 32.5” vertical. The cancer in his leg slowed him down a bit. He ran a paltry 4.9 40. However, I still think he can add something to a team that will take a chance on him.

Before combine: 4-6th round

After combine: 4-5th round.

Bruce Miller, Central Florida DE/OLB: I am not sure if I should put Bruce here. He was listed as a 3-4 OLB. But upon watching him play he is obviously a 4-3 end. He is not fast enough to cover tight ends. He ran a mediocre 4.80 40-yard dash at the combine. He has shown quickness on the field though. He benched 225 pounds 35 times at the combine. Stronger than any other candidate on this list. At 6’ 2” 248 pounds he doesn’t have the size to be a 4-3 end, so he’ll have to earn a living as a slow 3-4 linebacker.

Before Combine: 4-6th round

After Combine: 6-7th round

Chris Carter, Fresno State DE/OLB: Carter is a very quick pass rusher, but he may be a little small for a DE. He is only 6' 1” 240 lbs. I can see him being a very good third down pass rusher standing up. He has remarkable quickness and demonstrated his explosiveness with a 36 inch vertical leap and a 4.66 40-yard dash. I think he could be a contributor to a team on defense and special teams.

Before Combine: 6-FA

After Combine: 4-5 round

These are the people I noticed at the combine. We will see how accurate these predictions are when the Draft rolls around. Thank you for reading.

By Quinn Fulton