Continuing to pound the drum today that his insider sources tell him the Bucs will cut Aqib Talib soon, Bucs beat writer Rick Stroud also sounded the alarm to Bucs fans that Barrett Ruud will be part of the Bucs’ future.

Speaking during an interview on The Fabulous Sports Babe Show on 1040 AM, Stroud said the Bucs head coach is in love with Ruud, his starting middle linebacker who’s now a free agent. “He loves him,” Stroud said.

Stroud went on to explain how “people don’t understand” how valuable Ruud is.

Joe has mixed feelings on Ruud. But that said, how much will the Bucs break the bank to keep him? Surely, if Ruud is so valuable, another team might have the same love for him in a draft year that’s poor for middle linebackers.

Joe has obtained from a source a document the NFL is sending to all NFL players concerning the current legal mess the NFL owners have found themselves in.

Apparently fearing charges of contempt of court, Friday at 8 a.m., the NFL will officially be back to work for current players. Below are the salient points of the memo:

1. Players will be permitted to use club facilities for physical examinations, rehabilitation and medical treatment, as scheduled by the club.

2. Clubs will be permitted to distribute playbooks, game film and other similar materials to players.

3. Coaches may meet with players for the purpose of discussing any materials distributed to players under item 2 above, as well as the club’s off-season workout program, its schedule of mini-camps, Organized Team Activities (“OTAs”), and other similar matters.

4. Voluntary off-season workout programs, including OTAs and classroom instruction, may begin subject to the rules in Article XXXV of the 2006 CBA and Appendix L. Participating players will be paid $130 per day, provided the player fulfills the club’s reasonable off-season workout requirements. Such workouts will count toward the requirements of any off-season workout bonus in the player’s contract.

5. On days during which no official off-season workouts or OTAs are scheduled under item 4 above, nothing shall prevent the club from permitting any player to use the club facility to work out on his own on a voluntary, unpaid basis during normal business hours, or such other hours as may be set by the club, provided: (i) there is no participation or supervision by any coach, trainer or other club personnel; and (ii) the club has first verified that the player has an existing medical insurance policy in place. Players without such personal coverage should not be permitted to work out at the club facility on an unsupervised basis under this item 5, but may do so under item 4 above. Unsupervised workouts will not count toward the requirements of any off-season workout bonus in the player’s contract. This item 5 will apply both prior to and after the commencement of the club’s official off-season workout program.

6. Mandatory and voluntary mini-camps may begin subject to the rules in Article XXXVI of the 2006 CBA.

7. The league office will promptly make arrangements to resume counseling, rehabilitation and treatment activities in connection with the substances of abuse and steroid programs. We will advise clubs as to when and on what basis testing will commence.

8. Players may participate in club-sponsored charitable and community relations events.

Tomorrow, the league is expected to distribute to all players the guidelines for “player transactions (such as signings, trades of player contracts, terminations, tryouts, etc.)” and the date of the NFL 2011 calendar year.

Feel free to print out this mock draft and use it to call Justin “The Commish” Pawlowski a moron — or a genius — on Sunday. It’s The Commish’s final mock draft. Great reading on this draft-day afternoon. Remember, The Commish is on WDAE-AM 620 tonight through the entire first round and expects to be the first to interview Mark Dominik and the newest Buccaneer, if the Bucs don’t trade the pick away.

Enjoy!

By JUSTIN PAWLOWSKI

1st Round

1. Carolina Panthers – Cam Newton – QB – Auburn
6’5’’ – 248 lbs – 4.59
Needs: CB, DT, DE, WR, QB
Commish’s Take: It’s looking more and more clear that Cam Newton will be the first pick in the  draft.  He has all the ability, and if he does reach his potential, the NFC would end up with the  best collective group of starting quarterbacks in the NFL.

2. Broncos – Marcell Dareus – DT – Alabama
6’3’’ – 319 lbs – 4.92
Needs: DT, DE, CB, S, TE
Commish’s Take:  Dareus is the top defensive tackle in the draft and the massive player John Fox  likes in the middle of his defensive line.  With a transition back to a 4-3 defense, it’s imperative  that the Broncos find some defensive tackles since they currently only have 2 on their roster.

3. Buffalo Bills – Von Miller – OLB – Texas A&M
6’3’’ – 246 lbs – 4.49
Needs: DE, QB, WR, LB
Commish’s Take:  I think the Bills would take Newton with this pick, but I think they’d pass on  Gabbert.  I don’t think Gabbert has the downfield accuracy to be successful in Chan Gailey’s  offense.  The Bills are desperate for help on the front 7 of their defense.  Von Miller is the top  hybrid linebacker in this draft and should make the Bills forget about Aaron Maybin.

4. Cincinnati Bengals – AJ Green – WR – Georgia
6’4’’ – 211 lbs – 4.50
Needs: WR, QB, DT
Commish’s Take:  I’m of the belief that the Bengals aren’t sold on Gabbert and would rather get  a quarterback at the top of round 2.  Green is the top receiver in this draft and the top receiver  to come out in a few years.  He would immediately upgrade what was once a depleted receiving  corps.

5 . Arizona Cardinals – Patrick Peterson – CB – LSU
6’0’’ – 219 lbs – 4.34

Needs: OLB, CB, OT, QB
Commish’s Take:  There are a lot of rumors from every newspaper in Arizona that the Cardinals  will be going defense in the 1st round.  Well, with Gabbert off the board, there’s really no  discussion.  The big debate for the Cardinals is whether to draft a hybrid defensive end or maybe  the best player in the draft.  Peterson has been hyped as one of the best corners to come out in  a long time.  With Dominique Rogers-Cromartie on the other side, the Cardinals would be very  tough to pass against.

6. Cleveland Browns – Julio Jones – WR – Alabama
6’3’’ – 220 lbs – 4.39 
Needs: WR, DE, OLB, TE, NT
Commish’s Take:   With defensive line being so deep in this draft, I think the Browns can wait to  address their major need there and address their big need on the offensive side of the ball.   Jones is a freak as a receiver and gives the Browns a true number 1 wide out.

7. San Francisco 49ers – Prince Amukamara – CB – Nebraska
6’0’’ – 206 lbs – 4.43
Needs: QB, DE, OLB, CB, S
Commish’s Take:  It seems like the 49ers are pretty focused on Peterson, but if he isn’t  available, would the 49ers draft Blaine Gabbert, a rush linebacker, or still get a corner.  I think  that they have pinpointed what they think is a major need on their team.  Amukamara is a  physical corner that can run with most wide outs.  Nate Clements and Amukamara would be a  very nice pair of corners.

8. Tennessee Titans – Blaine Gabbert – QB – Missouri
6’4’’ – 234 lbs – 4.62
Needs: DT, CB, QB, OG
Commish’s Take:  Because of other teams hesitations, the Titans get their quarterback of the  future.  Gabbert has been touted as the most NFL-ready quarterback in this draft.  With Vince  Young gone, there is little doubt that the Titans will grab a quarterback in either of the first 2  rounds.

9. Dallas Cowboys – JJ Watt – DE – Wisconsin
6’5’’ – 290 lbs – 4.82

Needs: DE, OT, OG, CB, S
Commish’s Take:  I thought a lot about this pick with the Cowboys having such a need along  their offensive line.  However, offensive tackle is deep this year, so I decided to have them go  with an ideal fit as an end in their 3-4 defense.  Watt has a huge frame and is a great athlete.  He  should be a major upgrade over Marcus Spears.

10. Washington Redskins – Ryan Mallett – QB – Arkansas
 6’7’’ – 253 lbs – 5.50
 Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB
 Commish’s Take:  I know I’m in the minority here, but what fun is a mock draft if you don’t take  some risks?  I know that Mallett has some questionable character, but he is the best passer and  probably the best overall quarterback in this draft.  He can read defenses, has a strong arm, has accuracy to all parts of the field, and played in a pro-style offense at Arkansas.  Kyle Shanahan,  now the offensive coordinator with his dad in Washington, was the offensive coordinator  in Houston when the Texans had a great offense with Matt Schaub as the quarterback.  Mallett  might not have much mobility, but neither does Schaub.  It’s a wildcard, but I expect some crazy stuff to happen.

11. Houston Texans – Robert Quinn – DE – North Carolina
6’4’’ – 265 lbs – 4.70
Needs: OLB, DE, CB, WR
Commish’s Take:  Quinn has some question marks like missing all of last season or a benign  tumor on his brain, but if he falls to the Texans, I think they’d take him in a heartbeat.  Quinn  would move to outside linebacker in Wade Phillips 3-4 defense and be used the same way  DeMarcus Ware was in Dallas.

12. Minnesota Vikings – Jake Locker – QB – Washington
 6’2’’ – 231 lbs – 4.59
Needs: QB, DE, OT, OG
 Commish’s Take:  The Vikings are like the Redskins.  They’re in no man’s land.  If they pass on a  quarterback in the first round, they have no guarantees that one will be available in round 2.  Locker has great athleticism, mobility, and a great arm.  He just doesn’t have any accuracy.  It is  possible that the Vikings might view Locker as a young Brett Favre, which would fit their new  offense with Bill Musgrave very well.

13. Detroit Lions – Anthony Castonzo – OT – Boston College
6’7’’ – 311 lbs – 5.23
 Needs: OT, CB, OLB, DE
 Commish’s Take:  The Lions have needs at right tackle and left tackle.  Let’s also not forget how  beat up their franchise quarterback has been.  The Lions need to protect their investment.  Castonzo has a ton of experience and projects very well to left tackle in the NFL.

14. St. Louis Rams – Nick Fairley – DT – Auburn
6’4’’ – 291 – 4.87
 Needs: WR, TE, DE, DT
 Commish’s Take:  Once you get past the Titans, there just aren’t a lot of teams that need a  defensive tackle until this pick.  Fairley has some definite character issues that are also playing a  factor.  Everyone else’s mistake is the Rams gain.  Fairley fits in very well with Steve Spagnuolo’s  system and has the potential to thrive for a long time.

15. Miami Dolphins – Mike Pouncey – OG/OC – Florida
6’5’’ – 303 lbs – 5.28
Needs: RB, OT, NT, QB
Commish’s Take:  Running back has been the popular choice here, but I think the Dolphins can  get running backs later in this draft and in free agency.  I think the Dolphins will try like hell to  trade down and acquire extra draft picks.  If they can’t trade back, they will probably look to  Improve the interior of their offensive line.  Pouncey could step in and play guard or center for  the Dolphins and help open lanes for whoever is running the ball.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars – Aldon Smith – DE – Missouri
6’4’’ – 263 lbs – 4.78
 Needs: DE, OLB, S, WR, OG
 Commish’s Take:  I know Jack Del Rio has been looking for defensive ends for a long time, but  Aldon Smith might finally be his answer.  Smith is skilled at getting to the quarterback and has  been compared to DeMarcus Ware. 

17. N. E. Patriots (via OAK) – Cameron Jordan – DE – Cal.
6’4’’ – 287 lbs – 4.78
Needs: DE, OLB, WR, RB, OL
 Commish’s Take:  For a team that was as good as the Patriots last year, they sure do have a lot  of needs.  Jordan is a very good fit at end in the Patriots 3-4 defense.  Jordan has great  character, a great work ethic, and very good bloodlines.

18. San Diego Chargers – Ryan Kerrigan – DE – Purdue
6’4’’ – 267 lbs – 4.71
Needs: LB, DE, RT, WR
 Commish’s Take: Although I don’t think that Kerrigan is a good fit as an outside linebacker, the  Chargers have spent a lot of time scouting him and it wouldn’t shock me if he was the pick here.   The Chargers have major needs at multiple linebacker positions.

19. New York Giants – Tyron Smith – OT – USC
6’5’’ – 307 lbs – DNP
Needs: OT, MLB, OG
 Commish’s Take:  Smith starts to slip a little like Winston Justice did a few years back, but with a  need at offensive tackle, the Giants gladly take him.  I think that Smith might fall just because of  him only being 20 years old and still having a learning curve for the NFL.  I’m not sure he’ll be  ready to step in and play right away.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Da’Quan Bowers – DE – Clemson
6’3’’ – 280 lbs – DNP
 Needs: DE, LB, CB, OT, OG
 Commish’s Take:  Boy, I was really torn with this pick.  On one hand, I, along with many, have viewed Bowers as one of the top 5 players in this draft before his knee concerns.  On the other hand, there are those knee concerns.  I’m gonna roll the dice here just because Bowers potential  is way too good to pass up here for a team that needs a defensive end.  I think the Bucs will also  strongly consider and offensive tackle or Mark Ingram, and both are more realistic picks than  you might think.  I do think that most of the other defensive ends like Ryan Kerrigan or Cameron  Jordan would be selected over Bowers here, but they are all off the board.

21. Kansas City Chiefs – Phil Taylor – NT – Baylor
6’3’’ – 334 lbs – 5.20
Needs: OLB, NT, OT, WR, OG
Commish’s Take:  A great 3-4 defense starts with a big and nasty nose tackle in the middle of  the defensive line.  The Chiefs have not had that.  Taylor is big and mean, and could take the  Chiefs defense to the next level.

22. Indianapolis Colts – Gabe Carimi – OT – Wisconsin
6’7’’ – 314 lbs – 5.27
Needs: OL, CB, LB
Commish’s Take:  Bill Polian said that he regretted not taking an offensive tackle in last year’s draft.  He’s not making that mistake again.  The Colts have also stated that tey would like to get  a more consistent run game. Carimi can help with both.

23. Philadelphia Eagles – Jimmy Smith – CB – Colorado
6’2’’ – 211 lbs – 4.46
Needs: CB, OT, OG, OLB
Commish’s Take:  Sure, character is a concern, but Smith’s skills are awesome.  He is very good  in press and man coverage. If he keeps himself out of trouble, Smith could be a star for the  Eagles.

24. New Orleans Saints – Cameron Heyward – DE – Ohio St.
6’5’’ – 294 lbs – DNP
Needs: DE, OLB, DT
Commish’s Take:  The last time the Saints drafted a Heyward with the 24th pick in the draft was  in 1988 when they selected Craig “Ironhead” Heyward who just happens to be Cameron  Heyward’s father.  The Saints have a big need at the end position opposite of Will Smith.  Heyward is a great fit for Gregg Williams blitz scheme as he is strong enough to play the run,  rush the passer, and take on multiple blockers.

25. Seattle Seahawks – Adrian Clayborn – DE – Iowa
6’3’’ – 281 lbs – 4.81
Needs: QB, OG, DE, DT, CB
Commish’s Take:  At first I thought the Seahawks might go with a quarterback, but now I’m  starting to think they’ll try and trade down or grab a defensive player.  Clayborn has his issues  and red flags, but is still a good player. 

26. Baltimore Ravens – Muhammad Wilkerson – DE – Temple
6’4’’ – 315 lbs – 4.96
Needs: CB, WR(speed), OC, S, DE
Commish’s Take:  The Ravens need some insurance for Corey Redding who will become a free  agent next year. Wilkerson might be a project, but he has a ton of potential. Wilkerson’s big  frame and athleticism should be a nice fit with the Ravens defense.

27. Atlanta Falcons – Kyle Rudolph – TE – Notre Dame
6’6’’ – 260 lbs – 4.80
Needs: DT, DE, WR, TE
Commish’s Take:  I think defensive end is a real possibility, but with Tony Gonzalez already talking retirement, it makes sense to grab Rudolph here.  Rudolph has received comparisons to  Rob Gronkowski and Heath Miller.  He should develop a nice chemistry with Matt Ryan.

28. New England Patriots – Akeem Ayers – OLB – UCLA
6’2’’ – 254 lbs – 4.80
Needs: see above
Commish’s Take:  The Patriots need a rush off the edge.  Ayers is a perfect fit for a 3-4 defense.   He is big and shows good explosion.  He is also a true linebacker, so there is no worry of his  transitioning from end to a new position.  He knows how to drop into coverage and how to play standing up.

29. Chicago Bears – Marvin Austin – DT – North Carolina
 6’2’’ – 309 lbs – 4.90
Needs: OT, OG, WR, DT
Commish’s Take:  I think Austin could be a sleeper in this draft even if he’s a first round  selection. Austin could end up dominating in the NFL.  Being suspended for the entire 2010  season will drop him, but he is still a beast and fills a big need for the Bears.

30. New York Jets – Brooks Reed – OLB – Arizona
 6’2’’ – 263 lbs – 4.68
Needs: NT, DE, CB, WR
Commish’s Take:  The Jets need a pass rusher, and at first I thought Justin Houston, but his  positive drug test at the combine will drop him.  I think Brooks Reed is a good player, but not  great.  He’ll be overdrafted, but is a good fit for the Jets defense.

31. Pittsburgh Steelers – Danny Watkins – OG – Baylor
 6’3’’ – 310 lbs – 5.40
Needs: CB, OT, OG
Commish’s Take:  With the other Pouncey off the board, the Steelers can still address their  guard position. Watkins is one of the older players in this draft, 26, but is very physical and  balanced as an offensive lineman.

32. Green Bay Packers – Derek Sherrod – OT – Miss. St.
6’5’’ – 321 lbs – 5.28
Needs: OT, DE, OLB
Commish’s Take:  The Packers could use a defensive lineman or linebacker, but Sherrod would  sure up their offensive tackle positions for a long time after drafting Bryan Bulaga last year.   Sherrod is a better pass blocker than run blocker, but is very athletic and agile.

Round 2:
1 (33). N. E. Patriots (via CAR) – Mark Ingram – RB – Alabama
5’9’’ – 215 lbs – 4.62
 Commish’s Take:  Ingram slips to round 2, but is pounced on by the Patriots.  Ingram is a good back, but slips because of a lack of needs for a running back and the fact he’s not that flashy.

2 (34). Buffalo Bills – Christian Ponder – QB – FSU
6’2’’ – 229 lbs – 4.65
 Commish’s Take:  Ponder’s an excellent fit for Chan Gailey’s offense.  He should be a great  leader for their young offense.

3 (35). Cincinnati Bengals – Andy Daulton – QB – TCU
 6’2’’ – 215 lbs – 4.87
 Commish’s Take: I think the Bengals might be targeting Ponder or Daulton.  Both are good fits in  Jay Gruden’s west coast offense.

4 (36). Denver Broncos – Aaron Williams – CB – Texas
 6’0’’ – 204 lbs – 4.51
 Commish’s Take:  Williams can play corner or safety.  The Broncos need both.

5 (37). Cleveland Browns – Corey Liuget – DT – Illinois
6’2’’ – 298 lbs – 4.99
 Commish’s Take:  With a transition to a 4-3 defense, the Browns need defensive lineman.  Liuget can step right in and start for the Browns and is a better fit in a 4-3 defense.

6 (38). Arizona Cardinals – Justin Houston – DE – Georgia
6’3’’ – 270 lbs – 4.68
 Commish’s Take:  Houston will slip due to his positive drug test from the combine, but his  athletic ability, size, and speed will be just too much for the pass-rush needy Cardinals to pass  up.

7. (39). Tennessee Titans – Stephen Paea – DT – Oregon St.

6’1’’ – 303 lbs – DNP
 Commish’s Take:  The Titans are taking a different approach to their defensive line now.  A  powerful and strong monster like Paea should fit just fine.

8 (40). Dallas Cowboys – Nate Solder – OT – Colorado
6’8’’ – 307 lbs – 5.05
Commish’s Take:  Solder slips just a bit, but the Cowboys capitalize.  Solder could end up starting immediately with Doug Free scheduled for free agency.

9 (41). Washington Redskins – Greg Little – WR – North Carolina
 6’3’’ – 231 lbs – 4.53
 Commish’s Take:   I think Little is a hell of a recever and will get drafted higher than most people think.  The Redskins better watch out for bad character.  I have them taking Ryan Mallett and Greg Little in the first two rounds.

10 (42). Houston Texans – Brandon Harris – CB – Miami
 5’10’’ – 191 lbs – 4.51
 Commish’s Take:  After getting their pass rusher in the first round, the Texans must address their secondary. Harris is a better fit for zone, but can play some man coverage. His athletic  ability should stand out to Wade Phillips.

11(43). Minnesota Vikings – Jabaal Sheard – DE – Pitt
 6’3’’ – 264 lbs – 4.69
Commish’s Take:  With Ray Edwards about to hit free agency, the Vikings need a defensive end.  Sheard is a pass rushing specialist that is used to playing left DE at Pitt.

12 (44). Detroit Lions – Ras-I Dowling – CB – Virginia
 6’1’’ – 198 lbs – 4.46
Commish’s Take:  Other than offensive tackle, the Lions other glaring need is at cornerback.  Dowling has a great blend of size and speed.  He’s also a hell of a ball hawk.

13 (45). San Francisco 49ers – Colin Kaepernick – QB – Nevada
 6’5’’ – 233 lbs – 4.53
Commish’s Take:  The 49ers stay patient and still get the athletic Kaepernick to fall into their lap. Kaepernick is a project, but could pay off if the 49ers develop him slowly.

14 (46). Denver Broncos (via MIA) – Mikel Leshoure – RB – Illinois
 6’0’’ – 227 lbs – 4.59
Commish’s Take:  In Carolina, John Fox’s offense was at its best when DeAngelo Williams and Jonathon Stewart were paired together. A pairing of Knowshon Moreno and Leshoure would be very inticing.

15 (47). St. Louis Rams – Jonathon Baldwin – WR – Pitt.
 6’4’’ – 228 lbs – 4.43
 Commish’s Take:  There might not be a team in the NFL with as desperate of a need for a wide  receiver as the Rams.  Baldwin is big and fast, but has some questionable character.

16 (48). Oakland Raiders – Martez Wilson – LB – Illinois
 6’4’’ – 250 lbs – 4.49
 Commish’s Take:  What did Wilson run at the combine?  What’s his size?  Isn’t that enough for Al Davis?

17 (49). Jacksonville Jaguars – Mason Foster – OLB – Washington
 6’1’’ – 245 lbs – 4.75
 Commish’s Take:  Foster’s fiery leadership and versatility will be very attractive to Jack Del Rio.

18 (50). San Diego Chargers – James Carpenter – OT – Alabama
 6’4’’ – 321 lbs – 5.28
 Commish’s Take:  With a need at right tackle, the Chargers get Carpenter as a great fit.  Keep an eye on Carpenter’s stock possibly going up.

19 (51). Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Allen Bailey – DE – Miami
 6’3’’ – 285 lbs – 4.77
 Commish’s Take:  This might be too obvious after what they did last year, but why not grab two defensive ends to pair with the two defensive tackles from last year.  Bailey is raw, but has a ton of God-given ability.

20 (52). New York Giants – Bruce Carter – LB – North Carolina
 6’2’’ – 241 lbs – DNP
 Commish’s Take:  Carter is a top 10 talent, but will drop due to a torn ACL.  If the Giants are patient, Carter could be the steal of the draft.

21 (53). Indianapolis Colts – Rahim Moore – S – UCLA
 6’0’’ – 202 lbs – 4.62
 Commish’s Take:  The Colts were finally forced to cut ties with Bob Sanders.  Moore is the top  safety in this class and has very good ball skills in coverage.

22 (54). Philadelphia Eagles – Benjamin Ijalana – OT – Villanova
6’4’’ – 317 lbs – DNP
Commish’s Take:  The Eagles have needs at guard and tackle.  Ijalana plays both positions.  Ijalana is physical, but also very light on his feet.

23 (55). Kansas City Chiefs – Stefan Wisniewski – OC/OG – Penn St.
 6’3’’ – 313 lbs – 5.35
Commish’s Take:  The Chiefs must start addressing the rest of their offensive line. Wisniewski could be the next Chiefs center to start for 10 years.

24 (56). New Orleans Saints – Dontay Moch – OLB – Nevada
 6’1’’ – 248 lbs – 4.44
 Commish’s Take:  I think Moch could be making his way back into the 2nd round.  He’s a good fit at outside linebacker for the Saints with his fantastic ability in getting to the quarterback.

25 (57). Seattle Seahawks – Ryan Williams – RB – Va. Tech
 5’9’’ – 212 lbs – 4.61
Commish’s Take:  Williams might end up being the most talented back in this draft.  If he stays  healthy, he would be a great fit with his speed and excellent hands in the Seahawks new west- coast offense.

26 (58). Baltimore Ravens – Titus Young – WR – Boise St.
 5’11’’ – 174 lbs – 4.53
 Commish’s Take:  The Ravens have a need for speed on offense.  Young is a big time playmaker  who will bring life to a lifeless offense.

27 (59). Atlanta Falcons – Jerrel Jernigan – WR – Troy
 5’9’’ – 185 lbs – 4.46
 Commish’s Take:  The Falcons have been all over Jernigan’s jock this off-season. He’s the big  play threat that Harry Douglas never was.

28 (60). New England Patriots – Randall Cobb – WR – Kentucky
 5’10’ – 191 lbs – 4.46
 Commish’s Take:  Cobb’s ability to run good routes and ability to run after the catch would fit in  nicely with the Patriots offense.

29 (61). San Diego Chargers (via NYJ) – Torrey Smith – WR – Maryland
 5’11’’ – 174 lbs – 4.53
Commish’s Take:  There are a lot of questions about the future of the receiver position for the Chargers. Smith brings a nice sized body and great speed to eventually replace Vincent Jackson.

30 (62). Chicago Bears – Leonard Hankerson – WR – Miami
 6’2’’ – 209 lbs – 4.43
Commish’s Take:  Hankerson is a solid receiver with a nice blend of size and speed.  I think he  might be a little underrated and could thrive in Mike Martz’s offense.

31 (63). Pittsburgh Steelers – Johnny Patrick – CB – Louisville
 5’1’’ – 191 lbs – 5.55
 Commish’s Take:  Patrick is a physical corner who can play bump and man, while also being solid  in zone coverage.

32 (64). Green Bay Packers – Christian Ballard – DE – Iowa
 6’4’’ – 283 lbs – 4.80
Commish’s Take:  Ballard will slip due to his positive drug test at the combine, but is a good  replacement for the departing Cullen Jenkins.

Joe’s going to go slightly personal here, a rare albeit tiny window into Joe’s background.

On this holiest of high football holidays, Joe got hooked on the draft as a kid from an alien-like voice that carried through the night air from a city Joe has to this day never visited and isn’t sure will ever get there.

Growing up as a kid, there were two people who turned Joe into the football freak he is today. One was Joe’s high school football coach, a guy who played for a virtual who’s who of football coaches: John Madden, Tom Landry, Gene Stallings and Lou Holtz. It kills Joe how much he has forgotten about football from a man unknown by 99.99999 percent of the populace but when Joe covered his first NFL training camp with Stallings, the grizzled coach vividly remembered Joe’s coach playing for him.

But the second source fueling Joe’s unwavering football fetish came from an unlikely of sources: a Brooklyn apartment.

Joe first heard of Joel Buchsbaum on a blowtorch radio station out of St. Louis, KMOX. There, each Monday night (leading to Monday Night Football broadcasts during the season) — Sunday nights during the baseball season — Buchsbaum, the original draftnik, would talk to strangers throughout the Midwest, giving listeners knowledge on college football players and the NFL that to this day, Joe finds unmatched; not even by Mike Mayock, not even by Mel Kiper.

People would call the show and ask Buchsbaum about (pick a player) and often before the caller finished his question, Buchsbaum would interrrupt the caller and begin rattling off the talents of said player.

Pleasantries were not a forte of Buchsbaum. He was not rude, not even close, but he was very short and impatient with rambling callers.

To this day Joe remembers some guy asking Buchsbaum about (name of the player long ago forgotten) who the caller claimed was a starting cornerback at Utah. Buchsbaum, in his nasally, thick Brooklyn accent, corrected the caller almost immediately. No, the player is not from Utah, Buchsbaum said, but from Utah State. And in fact he was a backup cornerback.

This did not stop Buchsbaum from launching into why the player was not starting and why coaches thought he had some promise.

Mind you this was long before the days of laptops so Buchsbaum couldn’t have Googled the player’s name in five seconds to pull up his information.

It was unreal what this guy knew. And in Joe’s circle of fellow football friends, guys who rarely if ever listened to an AM station, would listen to Buchsbaum. He was like the Rain Man.

Fast forward maybe 15 years and the Sporting News decided to find out who was the best draftnik. They researched Buchsbaum, Mel Kiper and a third guy who Joe had not heard of before and still can’t remember the name. The Sporting News broke down each man’s final mock draft through four rounds for three consecutive years.

Buchsbaum won not only the race but he had more correct each year.

Buchsbaum, a recluse, died nine years ago. In a perverted way Joe was jealous of the guy. All he did was study football, read football, write football, talk football and work his many NFL inside sources which included at the top of the list, Bill Belicheat, who tried to hire Buchsbaum but was spurned with each offer.

So as Day 1 of the draft is here, and in maybe 18 hours we will know who the newest Bucs stud will be, Joe can’t help remember Buchsbaum and that unforgettable voice.

Here’s a nugget from acclaimed football scribe and a friend of Buchsbaum, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.

Did you know Buchsbaum was on ESPN when the network first televised the draft? He looked like such a nerd. I imagine the network executives didn’t like the way he looked or sounded, so they hired Mel “Ki-pa.”

Chad Finn of the Boston Globe decided to dig up Buchsbaum’s breakdown of Tom Brady coming out of Michigan and with the “positives,” Buchsbaum nailed the analysis.

Positives: Good height to see the field. Very poised and composed. Smart and alert. Can read coverages. Good accuracy and touch. Produces in big spots and big games. Has some Brian Griese in him and is a gamer. Generally plays within himself. Team leader.

Negatives: Poor build. Very skinny and narrow. Ended the ’99 season weighing 195 pounds and still looks like a rail at 211. Looks a little frail and lacks great physical stature and strength. Can get pushed down more easily than you’d like. Lacks mobility and ability to avoid the rush. Lacks a really strong arm. Can’t drive the ball down the field and does not throw a really tight spiral. System-type player who can get exposed if he must ad-lib and do things on his own.

Summary: Is not what you’re looking for in terms of physical stature, strength, arm strength, and mobility but he has the intangibles and production and showed great Griese-like improvement as a senior. Could make it in the right system but is not for everyone.

Urban legend is that Belicheat, one of the few friends Buchsbaum had, took a flyer on Brady based on Buchsbaum’s recommendation. Belicheat since has acknowledged he would annually go over his draft board with Buchsbaum in the hours leading to the draft.

Joe will raise a bottle of beer tonight for Buchsbaum… after the Bucs draft and Joe is finished banging out story after story.

Here and here and here and here are some cool stories about Buchsbaum.

Bucs offensive guard Ted Larsen, since he plays on the left side of the ball, is known to help save Josh Freeman’s backside.

Yesterday, he may have saved three teenagers’ lives.

Larsen was fishing in the Gulf when he heard a Coast Guard distress call from a boater. It turned out to be three kayaking teenagers. Joe will let Robbyn Mitchell of the St. Petersburg Times pick it up from there.

Larsen pulled up the teens and their kayaks and shuttled them to near Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard. The grateful kayakers didn’t recognize him or talk very much after they touched dry land.

“They were just glad to have their parent’s kayaks back and not sunk,” he joked.

The professional football player said he doesn’t consider himself a hero and he’s just happy this story had a happy ending.

Props to Larsen. Nice job, nice job. Of course, Larsen, being a reserved man, would likely say he was just in the right place at the right time. Fortunately for three local teenagers.

"Don't worry Olie, I promised you some new toys."

Click right here and dive into all the stunning NFL Draft coverage from JoeBucsFan.com, courtesy of NFL Draft guru Justin “The Commish” Pawlowski. The Commish will be live on the WDAE-AM 620 airwaves tonight from 7 p.m. into the wee hours, as he broadcasts the entire first round of the draft from the Buccaneers official draft party at the stadium.

Here’s The Commish’s top 5 by position. And his final beast of a mock draft will be posted here before 1 p.m.

Quarterbacks
1. Cam Newton – Auburn
2. Blaine Gabbert – Missouri
3. Ryan Mallett – Arkansas
4. Christian Ponder – FSU
5. Jake Locker – Washington

As much as I think Mallett has all the physical tools to be a great NFL quarterback, his character is too much of a question to put him higher than third. However, every quarterback has questions this year. Newton’s potential and athleticism gives him the nod, but I’m just real skeptical of all the QBs.

Running Backs
1. Mikel Leshoure – Illinois
2. Mark Ingram – Alabama
3. Ryan Williams – Va. Tech
4. Kendal Hunter – Oklahoma St.
5. Demarco Murray – Oklahoma

Ingram has the name, but I think Leshoure has more of the talent. He’s big, powerful, and has great vision. This draft is pretty deep at running back, so it makes sense to wait on an RB this year. Hunter and Murray might be very solid third-round picks that could come in and make an impact.

Wide Receivers
1. AJ Green – Georgia
2. Julio Jones – Alabama
3. Jonathon Baldwin – Pitt.
4. Titus Young – Boise St.
5. Leonard Hankerson – Miami

The big question with the receivers is who the thrid-rated one is. Baldwin has too much talent, size, and speed to ignore. Young is one of many speed receivers in this draft, but he is a big play waiting to happen. I worry about Hankerson’s route running ability and consistency. Keep an eye on players like Edmund Gates, Randall Cobb, Jerrel Jernigan, and Greg Little as early round picks as well.

Tight Ends
1. Kyle Rudolph – Notre Dame
2. Lance Kendricks – Wisconsin
3. Luke Stocker – Tennessee
4. DJ Williams – Arkansas
5. Virgil Green – Nevada

The tight end position is not strong at the top this year, but it is pretty deep. I think you can get quality receiving threats at tight end in the 4th and 5th rounds. Other than the names listed above, keep a close eye on Jordan Cameron, Rob Houser, and Julius Thomas for the Bucs. Kyle Rudolph is the only tight end with a shot of being a first-round pick this year.

Offensive Tackles
1. Anthony Castonzo – Boston College
2. Tyron Smith – USC
3. Gabe Carimi – Wisconsin
4. Derek Sherrod – Miss. St.
5. James Carpenter – Alabama

Castonzo takes over the top spot for me due mainly in part to his overwhelming experience and ability to contribute immediately at either tackle position.  Smith has great technique and potential, but he’s 20 years old and might have a bit of a learning curve in the NFL. Carpenter also snuck into the top 5 as a very balanced lineman with fantastic experience as well. Each year it seems like we have a surprise lineman get drafted higher than expected.  This year, that lineman could be Carpenter.

Offensive Guards/Centers
1. Mike Pouncey – Florida
2. Danny Watkins – Baylor
3. Stefan Wisniewski – Penn St.
4. Jason Pinkston – Pitt
5. Rodney Hudson – Florida St.

No big surprises here. I think Pouncey continues to be very attractive after what his brother did last year and also having the ability to play guard or center. Watkins is 26 years old and able to step in and start immediately.  Rodney Hudson has been flying under the radar, but could be a nice grab for a team if he lasts to the beginning of the 3rd round.

Defensive Ends
1. Robert Quinn – North Carolina
2. Aldon Smith – Missouri
3. JJ Watt – Wisconsin
4. Cameron Jordan – Cal.
5. Da’Quan Bowers – Clemson
5a. Ryan Kerrigan – Purdue

Bowers health concerns are really concerning in my eyes. With all these ends so close in talent, one red flag drops you down this list. Watt and Cameron are probably better fits for a 3-4 defense, but could make an impact as LDE in a 4-3. The best pure pass rushers in this draft from the end position are Robert Quinn and Aldon Smith. One of the most productive players in the entire draft is Ryan Kerrigan. So who ya got? Great year for defensive ends.

Defensive Tackles
1. Marcell Dareus – Alabama
2. Nick Fairley – Auburn
3. Corey Liuget – Illinois
4. Phil Taylor – Baylor
5. Muhammed Wilkerson – Temple

Dareus has emerged through this process as one of the best players in the entire draft.  Many scouts feel he is a game-changer, but I question whether he is even near Ndamukong Suh from last year. Fairley and Liuget are probably best as penetrating DTs in a gap scheme. Phil Taylor is the top nose tackle in the draft. Wilkerson very much resembles Jason Pierre-Paul from last year as just having a ton of natural raw ability and potential.

Outside Linebackers
1. Von Miller – Texas A&M
2. Akeem Ayers – UCLA
3. Justin Houston – Georgia
4. Brooks Reed – Arizona
5. Mason Foster – Washington

Although it’s not the best year for linebackers, good ones are available if you can find them. One LB I’ve started to like more and more during the draft process has been Mason Foster. Foster can play any LB position and plays with a fiery leadership and passion for the game. I have Houston in this list, but he also has the ability to play defensive end as well.  Von Miller might be the best overall player in the draft.

Inside Linebackers
1. Martez Wilson – Illinois
2. Quan Sturdivant – UNC
3. Kelvin Sheppard – LSU
4. Nate Irving – NC St.
5. Colin McCarthy – Miami

As much as it’s a bad year for linebackers, it’s even worse for middle linebackers in particular.  There just aren’t many impact players at the position. Wilson has a fantastic blend of size and speed, but many scouts wonder if his ideal position will be at outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense. I like Nate Irving as a mid round pick a lot. I think he has an incredible story and work ethic.

Cornerbacks
1. Patrick Peterson – LSU
2. Prince Amukamara – Nebraska
3. Jimmy Smith – Colorado
4. Aaron Williams – Texas
5. Ras-I Dowling – Virginia

The corner position is pretty deep this year. I think teams can get a good corner in the 4th and 5th rounds this year. With that said, there are some dynamic corners available early this year. Peterson could also be considered as the best overall player in this draft. Jimmy Smith might be just as talented, but his character will drop him. Ras-I Dowling is seeing his stock rise.

Safeties
1. Rahim Moore – UCLA
2. Quinton Carter – Oklahoma
3. DeAndre McDaniel – Clemson
4. Deunta Williams – North Carolina
5. Chris Culliver – South Carolina

If Aaron Williams stays at corner, Rahim Moore is the top safety in a weak class. Rahim Moore is a good centerfielder, but is not elite. Carter is a big hitter from the safety position and good in the run game. Williams and Culliver should be good against the pass.

It’s draft day! And the courts have dropped another hammer on the NFL lockout!

Merry Christmas! Joe can almost smell football.

In case you missed it on the radio, listen here to Mark Dominik’s pre-draft interview with Justin “The Commish” Pawlowski of WDAE-AM 620. Joe’s brought you nibbles over the last handful of days, but here’s the whole thing. Click the arrow below or download here.

[audio: dominikpredraft.MP3]

Among the many takes, Joe finds Dominik’s comments about linebacker prospect Dontay Moch and the Bucs playing a 3-4 defense particularly interesting. Plus, Dominik also says offensive tackles are the strength of the 2011 draft outside of defensive end.

Joe would have no problem with the Bucs landing a beast of a right tackle with an early pick. Very hard to go wrong with a stout offensive lineman.

Might the Bucs get aggressive for Cameron Jordan?

NFL Draft guru Justin “The Commish” Pawlowski continues to break down the draft for Bucs fans like no other. Remember to tune in to WDAE-AM 620 at 7 p.m. tonight to hear Part II of Pawlowski’s interview with Mark Dominik. And be sure to come back to JoeBucsFan.com Thursday for more of Pawlowski’s breakdowns, plus his final mock draft.

1st Round Options for the Bucs

By JUSTIN PAWLOWSKI

Cameron Jordan – DE – Cal
6’4’’ – 287 lbs – 4.78

I’ve gone on record and still believe that Cameron Jordan could be a target the Bucs might be willing to trade up for.  He is not an elite pass rusher, but Jordan is a very stout defensive end that can play the 5-technique in a 3-4 defense and left defensive end in a 4-3 defense.  I still envision a 3-man line of Gerald McCoy, Brian Price, and Cameron Jordan when the Bucs do play a 3-4 defense.  That would be exciting.

Ryan Kerrigan – DE – Purdue
6’4’’ – 264 lbs – 4.71

Kerrigan has probably been the most popular name associated with the Bucs this draft season, and rightfully so.  Few players were as productive as Kerrigan the past four years.  His ability, leadership, and work ethic would mix right in with how the Bucs are building their defense.  Kerrigan might also be a target the Bucs trade up for.

Gabe Carimi – OT – Wisconsin
6’7’’ – 314 lbs – 5.27

Mark Dominik has warned that the Bucs first-round selection might not be what everyone thinks. If that’s the case, then why not an offensive tackle here? Carimi is a massive right tackle who excels in straight line blocking and power.  Carimi has potential as a 10-year starter at right tackle.  With James Lee a restricted free agent, maybe the Bucs are looking to solidify that position to protect No. 5.

Mike Pouncey – OG – Florida
6’5’’ – 303 lbs – 5.28

I have continued to say that the Bucs are interested in Mike Pouncey, but I think they’ve been trying to keep it quiet. Pouncey can play guard or center and would offer the Bucs a lot of value to the interior of their line.  I’m not sure Pouncey would be the best pick for the team at this time after what Ted Larsen did last year, but if Pouncey ends up like his brother as a perennial pro bowler, it would be tough to argue against that pick.

Justin Houston – DE – Georgia
6’3’’ – 270 lbs – 4.68

After spending so much time and interest in hybrid outside linebacker/defensive ends, you’d have to imagine Houston would be in play for the Bucs pick at 20.  He did visit the Bucs this offseason and does fit the mold of player they’d like. Right now, Houston is limited to really just one pass rush move, but with good coaching could become a force off the edge.

Kevin Carter says bring back Talib

Everybody has an opinion on Aqib Talib. And from Joe’s research and polling data — how Zogby of Joe — public opinion of Talib is improving.

This week JoeBucsFan.com readers were polled and 22.5 percent said the Bucs should ditch Talib before the 2011 season. The exact same poll following Talib’s arrest in late March saw 33 percent say the Bucs should dump him before the season.

Joe’s not surprised Talib is winning the public opinion battleground. When you’re defending family from sleaze, people have a way of understanding, even if you’re out of control.

Speaking today on The King David Show with Shaun King and guest co-host Anwar Richardson of TBO.com on 1010 AM, former Bucs defensive lineman and very smooth-talker Kevin Carter weighed in on Talib.

Carter said Talib was a model teammate in Tampa Bay when it came to dedication to his craft.

“I’d see him and it was always, Hi, Mr. Carter. He was respectful,'” said Carter, adding that Talib put in long hours at One Buc Place. “He worked his butt off.”

Carter said the Bucs have invested so much in Talib they should keep him and “take your chances that he’ll grow up.”

Again, Joe just can’t believe the Bucs are going to cast aside Talib like Derrick Brooks a bug-infested sandwich, as the St. Pete Times told its readers Sunday. Surely, the Bucs will take what they can get in return, if they wash their hands of Talib at all.

If suspect reports of Aqib Talib's Tampa Bay demise are to be believed, perhaps the Bucs will try to snag Ras-I Dowling in the second round

NFL Draft guru Justin “The Commish” Pawlowski continues to break down the draft for Bucs fans like no other. Remember to tune in to WDAE-AM 620 at 7 p.m. tonight to hear Part II of Pawlowski’s interview with Mark Dominik. And be sure to come back to JoeBucsFan.com all day for more of Pawlowski’s breakdowns. Feel free to shoot him your draft questions and he’ll answer them right here, commish@620wdae.com.

2nd Round options for the Bucs

By JUSTIN PAWLOWSKI

Mason Foster – LB – Washington
6’1’’ – 245 lbs – 4.67

Foster might not be the flashiest linebacker, but he might be the most passionate one in the draft. Foster was a leader and captain for Washington while leading the entire PAC 10 in tackles in 2008 and 2010. He’s played every linebacker position and was truly the heart and soul of the Huskies defense. I’ve been saying that the Bucs have been missing leadership from the linebacker position and Foster could bring just that.

Allen Bailey – DE – Miami
6’3’’ – 285 lbs – 4.77

If the Bucs pass on a defensive end in the first round, it might almost be a guarantee that they grab one in round 2. Hell, they might grab an end either way after getting 2 DTs last year in the first 2 rounds. Bailey is a big and physical defensive end that can play the 5-technique in a 3-4 or left defensive end in a 4-3 defense. With the Bucs mixing in both those defenses, Bailey might be extra attractive to the Bucs.

Ryan Williams – RB – Virginia Tech
5’9’’ – 212 lbs – 4.45

It might be a reach in the 2nd round, but if the Bucs want a running back, Ryan Williams could end up being one of the best this draft has to offer. Hamstring injuries limited Williams in 2010, but he might be the most complete back in this draft. He can be a feature back, he has speed, he can block, and he can catch. I’m not sure this would be a popular pick among fans initially due to the needs on defense, but Williams could be dynamic in the NFL.

Bruce Carter – LB – North Carolina
6’2’’ – 241 lbs – DNP

If it weren’t for a knee injury that occurred at the end of the 2010 season, Carter might have been looking at the 1st round. There are concerns as to whether he’ll be ready for the beginning of the 2011 season, but when healthy, Carter is one of the top linebackers in this draft. He has great speed, can cover sideline to sideline, and is a very reliable tackler. I’m not sure the Bucs would be willing to risk a 2nd round pick on damaged goods though.

Ras-I Dowling – CB – Virginia
6’1’’ – 198 lbs – 4.46

Dowling has been all over draft boards, but I think he ends up as a 2nd round pick when it’s all said and done. To be honest, I’m not sure he makes it to the Bucs’ 2nd round pick, but if he does, they will consider him. Dowling has great size and speed. I think he’d be a natural fit for the Bucs defense. No, I do not think this pick would be because of Aqib Talib because I already thought the Bucs might be in the market for a corner, but the Talib incident does help the cause to pick Dowling.

For some odd reason in the 21st Century, the concept of statistics in virtually every aspect of sports has exploded.

Numbers, to a degree, can be enlightening. But the numbers crowd has grown so large if not obnoxious, statistics have become suffocating. It has nearly chased Joe away from baseball.

Joe’s waiting for the spreadsheeters to come out with a stat about the number of times a right-handed first baseman farts at the plate facing a lefty throwing in a day game.

Thankfully, the numbers crowd hasn’t killed football (yet) and the stat guys, led by FootballOutsiders.com, often bring thoughtful discussion behind their gibberish.

But eye-RAH! Kaufman of the Tampa Tribune brings an example of when stats either lie, or conflict.

In the five games Talib didn’t dress, the Bucs picked off only three passes. In 11 games with Talib shadowing the opposition’s best receiver, Tampa Bay registered 16 interceptions.

Ah, but here’s the key number: In the five games Aqib Talib didn’t play, the Bucs were 4-1.

So which is it, does the secondary stink like a used septic tank without Talib, or does the team win without him?

Joe, like many reasoned Bucs fans, will clearly take the 4-1 mark.

Now Joe has read how many Bucs fans have dropped to their knees, wailing in tears at the thought of Talib being jettisoned by Bucs rock star general manager Mark Dominik for his string of violent if not criminal acts, as if said Bucs fans lost their million-dollar lottery ticket.

Yet Joe has seen with his own eyes the Bucs win games without Talib. And Joe has yet to see Talib play in a Pro Bowl. Is Talib talented? Darn right. But will the Bucs crumble and become the Yucs without Talib? Joe isn’t buying that.

Perhaps the greatest what-if moment of the 2010 season. Oh, the agony.

As the courts, the NFL and its players sort out the legal mess of the lockout being lifted (for now), the chance of the 2011 season being played under the labor rules of the 2010 season seems to have increased quite a bit.

And there’s a decent chance those rules could take effect by the end of the week.

For those who forgot, it was widely reported the Bucs slapped restricted free agent tenders on a pile of players in February, including Stylez White, Jeremy Trueblood, Quincy Black, Davin Joseph, Tim Crowder and Maurice Stovall. It was sort of a just-in-case move if the NFL was going to continue to only recognize players with six years of service as unsrestricted free agents. Two months ago that seemed unlikely, as both sides were negotiating and there wasn’t much chatter about the lockout eventually being lifted by the courts.

So if the 2010 rules are put into place to govern the NFL while the owners and players continue to work on a new labor agreement and slug out their lawsuits in court, it’s likely those restricted free agents would have guaranteed contracts with the Bucs for 2011, unless other teams matched the Bucs’ price and gave up compensation to sign the player. 

Right now, Joe can’t stomach writing about a return of Stovall. After his brutal let up/missed tackle against Atlanta that set up a kickoff return for a touchdown, Joe’s still in agony over that season-changing play.

Crowder and Stylez’s return with a guaranteed deal would be a bit more interesting, especially given the Bucs’ likely picking a defensive end or two in the draft. With a rookie DE or two, Crowder, Stylez, Michael Bennett and Alex Magee, it sure seems like Kyle Moore is a longshot for the 2011 roster.

As Joe has written before, Joe knows fans like to point to Stylez’s sack totals and then point him to the nearest Greyhound bus out of town, but Joe can’t go there. A veteran who has proven to be extremely durable (one missed game in four years) and extremely effective as a role player, Stylez has value.

Joe prefers Stylez’s 24 sacks in four years over Kyle Moore’s zero sacks in two years.

Maybe Taiwan Jones is the speedster the bucs are seeking ... if they're seeking.

Don’t be left scratching your head when the third round of the NFL Draft kicks off on Saturday. NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski, of WDAE-AM 620 has you covered. Just sit back and enjoy all his amazing draft coverage on JoeBucsFan.com right here. And there’s still more to come all day and tomorrow! Below are Pawlowski’s possible targets for the Bucs in the third round.

Kendall Hunter – RB – Oklahoma St
5’7’’ – 199 lbs – 4.43

I view Hunter as the top running back after the top 3 (Mikel Leshoure, Mark Ingram, and Ryan Williams) are selected. He doesn’t have the best size, but he has the ability to do anything. He can run inside or outside, block, and is a very good receiver. I view Hunter as a slight sleeper and good value in the 3rd round.

Greg Romeus – DE – Pitt
6’5’’ – 264 lbs – DNP

I’ve been on the Romeus bandwagon since before the draft process even started.  I’ve seen Romeus dominate games for Pitt when he was healthy. He dealt with a herniated disk in his back in the first two games of 2010 before he had to have surgery on it. In his first game back from the surgery in November, Romeus tore his right ACL in a game against UCONN. When I spoke to then head coach Dave Wannstedt before USF played Pitt on Nov. 20, he told me that Romeus deserved better then what he was dealt and that Romeus was one of the best players on and off the field that he had ever coached.

Chris Carter – OLB – Fresno St
6’1’’ – 248 lbs – 4.62

Carter is one of the many hybrid outside linebacker/defensive ends that the Bucs have shown interest in this offseason. After playing end at Fresno St, Carter projects to a rush linebacker in the NFL. The Bucs brought him in for a visit and have shown him a good amount of attention early on in this process.

Dontay Moch – OLB – Nevada
6’1’’ – 248 lbs – 4.44

Like Carter, Moch played end at Nevada, but projects as a rush linebacker in the NFL. Moch gained a sort of a cult following for rumors that he ran as fast as a 4.25 40-yard dash while at Nevada. There’s no doubt he has the straight-line speed, but there is question as to whether he has the quickness or athleticism to play linebacker in the NFL. Moch’s raw talents would be very attractive if he fell to the Bucs’ pick in the 3rd round. I wouldn’t be surprised if they at least considered him in the 2nd round.

Taiwan Jones – RB – Eastern Washington
6’0’’ – 194 lbs – 4.32

After his pro day, Jones earned the title as the fastest running back in the draft. Jones is coming from a smaller school, but one thing we’ve learned with guys like Jamaal Charles and Chris Johnson is that you can’t teach speed in the NFL. I do question Jones’ vision to find a hole and ability to hold up physically in the NFL. Jones would be a great complement to LeGarrette Blount.

Yesterday when NFL facilities were unlocked to players by court order, not one player showed up at One Buc Palace.

Joe thought for sure Bucs team leader Josh Freeman would be at the facility at the crack of dawn. He was not. And for good reason.

It seems Freeman has been working out behind the guarded fences of IMG in Bradenton on a daily basis with former Bucs wide receiver and blocking icon Michael Clayton, so reports video star Anwar Richardson of the Tampa Tribune.

Freeman has worked out daily with Bucs running back Cadillac Williams and former Bucs receiver Michael Clayton, currently with the New York Giants, at the IMG Academy in Bradenton. While confusion about the lockout is being sorted out, Freeman continues to organize team and individual workouts as he tries to prepare teammates for the upcoming season.

“As a young group of guys, it’s really important that we keep our momentum from last season going regardless of the state of the lockout,” Freeman said.

Last week, Freeman organized a workout for all of Tampa Bay’s skill position players, which he said had 100 percent attendance. Freeman said he and the players worked out at the University of South Florida for a week, running routes and working on plays.

Notice how Richardson qualified the 100 percent attendance: skill position players.

For whatever reason when Richardson’s colleague, Woody Cummings, reached out to union-first Jeff Faine, the Bucs NFLPA rep stated he had no intention of working out.

Joe's been known to dream about what Keith Millard could do with Aldon Smith. It's ok for Bucs fans to dream.

NFL Draft guru Justin “The Commish” Pawlowski continues to share everything in his personal NFL Draft war room. Today, it’s his big board. Remember to catch “The Commish” live on WDAE-AM 620 starting at 7 p.m. on Thursday night from the Raymond James Stadium draft party. He’ll be on air through the first round, which will end about 1 a.m. Friday. And you can expect to hear the Bucs’ first round pick interviewed, and Raheem Morris and/or Mark Dominik join The Commish for a post-pick chat.

1. Patrick Peterson – CB – LSU
6’1’’ – 219 lbs – 4.32

Commish’s Take: I can’t remember another cornerback with Peterson’s combination of size and speed. Peterson’s also a huge contributor on special teams.

2. Von Miller – OLB – Texas A&M
6’3’’ – 246 lbs – 4.53

Commish’s Take: Miller is the best pure pass rusher in this draft. Miller’s best fit is at outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense.

3. AJ Green – WR – Georgia
6’4’’ – 211 lbs – 4.50

Commish’s Take: Green’s great hands, route running, and big play ability makes him the top receiver to come out of college since Calvin Johnson.

4. Marcell Dareus – DT – Alabama
6’3’’ – 319 lbs – 4.91

Commish’s Take: Massive defensive tackle with a lot of athletic ability. I don’t think Dareus is at Ndamukong Suh’s level though.

5. Robert Quinn – DE – North Carolina
6’4’’ – 265 lbs – 4.70

Commish’s Take: Even though he missed the 2010 season, Quinn is still the premier rush end in this draft. Can play end or outside linebacker in a 3-4.

6. Julio Jones – WR – Alabama
6’3’’ – 220 lbs – 4.39

Commish’s Take: Jones is a physical freak with the potential to dominate in the NFL.  Lapses in concentration and dropped balls are only worry.

7. Prince Amukamara – CB – Nebraska
6’0’’ – 206 lbs – 4.43

Commish’s Take: Great pure corner with good size and speed.

8. Nick Fairley – DT – Auburn
6’4’’ – 291 lbs – 4.87

Commish’s Take: Fairley can dominate at times, but his character has come into question.  His attitude could resemble Albert Haynesworth.

9. Aldon Smith – DE – Missouri
6’4’’ – 263 lbs – 4.78

Commish’s Take: Smith has some of the best natural raw rush skills in the draft.  Could be a terror off the edge in the NFL.

10. JJ Watt – DE – Wisconsin
6’5’’ – 290 lbs – 4.83

Commish’s Take: Watt is a phenomenal athlete for someone his size. Probably fits best as a 5-technique in a 3-4 defense.

11. Cameron Jordan – DE – Cal
6’4’’ – 287 lbs – 4.78

Commish’s Take: Jordan has tremendous bloodlines with a history of the NFL.  He’s a balanced defensive end that plays the run well, but can still get after the quarterback.

12. Anthony Castonzo – OT – Boston College
6’7’’ – 311 lbs – 5.23

Commish’s Take: Castonzo’s valuable experience makes him ready to step in and start right away in the NFL.

13. Da’Quan Bowers – DE – Clemson
6’3’’ – 280 lbs – 4.85

Commish’s Take: When healthy, Bowers might be the top player in the draft. Knee issues will drop him.

14. Jimmy Smith – CB – Colorado
6’2’’ – 211 lbs – 4.46

Commish’s Take: Smith might be as talented as any player in this draft, but his questionable character will drop him on draft day. Very similar to Aqib Talib.

15. Mike Pouncey – OG – Florida
6’5’’ – 303 lbs – 5.28

Commish’s Take: After what his brother did in the NFL last year, I bet teams would love to have their own Pouncey. If he’s like his brother, Mike could be headed to many pro bowls.

16. Ryan Kerrigan – DE – Purdue
6’4’’ – 267 lbs – 4.71

Commish’s Take: Kerrigan was as productive as any player in college football over the last four years. He isn’t very flashy, but gets the job done.

17. Tyron Smith – OT – USC
6’5’’ – 307 lbs – DNP

Commish’s Take: Smith has long arms and great technique, but at only 20 years old, he might have a learning curve in the NFL.

18. Corey Liuget – DT – Illinois
6’2’’ – 298 lbs – 4.99

Commish’s Take: Liuget is a one-gap penetrating defensive tackle. He’s got a good first step and compares to Gerald McCoy.

19. Cam Newton – QB – Auburn
6’5’’ – 248 lbs – 4.56

Commish’s Take: Most talented quarterback in this draft, but like all the other quarterbacks, Newton has many question marks.

20. Gabe Carimi – OT – Wisconsin
6’7’’ – 314 lbs – 5.27

Commish’s Take: Carimi is big, strong, ad physical. His best fit is at right tackle and has the potential to be a 10-year starter.

21. Kyle Rudolph – TE – Notre Dame
6’6’’ – 260 lbs – 4.78

Commish’s Take: Top tight end in the draft, Rudolph compares favorably to Rob Gronkowski or Heath Miller.  He’s a very balanced tight end that’s also a threat vertically.

22. Akeem Ayers – OLB – UCLA
6’2’’ – 254 lbs – 4.69

Commish’s Take: Ayers has a lot of natural raw talent with the potential to be great. His size and speed make him a great fit for a 3-4 defense.

23. Phil Taylor – DT – Baylor
6’3’’ – 334 lbs – 5.20

Commish’s Take: Taylor is the top nose tackle in the draft. He has the potential to take away an opponent’s inside run game. As a nose tackle, Taylor is exactly what I want; big, strong, and mean.

24. Cameron Heyward – DE – Ohio St.
6’5’’ – 294 lbs – 4.95

Commish’s Take: After dealing with an ankle injury in 2010, Heyward got healthy and was dominant in the Sugar Bowl against Arkansas. Heyward is a physical defensive lineman who does a good job against the run and taking on multiple blockers.

25. Mikel Leshoure – RB – Illinois
6’0’’ – 227 lbs – 4.59

Commish’s Take: Leshoure is a big and physical back who has great vision.

26. Blaine Gabbert – QB – Missouri
6’4’’ – 234 lbs – 4.62

Commish’s Take: Gabbert could be great, but I just have some questions on him.  Gabbert struggles with accuracy down the field. He also does not handle a rush well and tends to panic.

27. Derek Sherrod – OT – Mississippi St.
6’5’’ – 321 lbs – 5.28

Commish’s Take: Sherrod’s a balanced offensive tackle that can play on the left or right side of the line. Sherrod is much better in pass protection than he is in opening holes in the run game.

28. Justin Houston – DE/OLB – Georgia
6’3’’ – 270 lbs – 4.68

Commish’s Take: Houston has a ton of raw pass rush talent, but must get good coaching in the NFL or he could end up as a bust. Boom or bust player.

29. Muhammad Wilkerson – DT – Temple
6’4’’ – 315 lbs – 4.95

Commish’s Take: Wilkerson has the type of raw talent and potential that Jason Pierre-Paul had a year ago. He should fit into any type of defense.

30. Brooks Reed – OLB – Arizona
6’3’’ – 263 lbs – 4.68

Commish’s Take: Reed has seen his stock continue to rise throughout this whole process.  His best fit is as a 3-4 outside linebacker with his incredibly quick first steps.

31. Marvin Austin – DT – North Carolina
6’2’’ – 309 lbs – 4.91

Commish’s Take: Austin missed the entire 2010 season, but he is as talented as any defensive tackle in this draft. He could be a steal in this draft.

32. Adrian Clayborn – DE – Iowa
6’3’’ – 281 lbs – 4.83

Commish’s Take: There are a lot of questions surrounding Clayborn, but you can’t ignore his production and impact throughout his entire career at Iowa.

Just Missed:

Mark Ingram – RB – Alabama
Ryan Mallett – QB – Arkansas
Danny Watkins – OG – Baylor
Stephen Paea – DT – Oregon St
Jabaal Sheard – DE – Pitt
Benjamin Ijalana – OT – Villanova
James Carpenter – OT – Alabama

At this rate, Joe wonders when agents are going to start producing — and airing — their own infomercials for soon-to-be-drafted clients.

Sure, there’s plenty of game film on these players, but what about seeing the player read books to children, talk to his mommy, and get grilled by coaches paid to spend time with him. Maybe even play other sports to showcase his athleticism.

Per Bucs general manager Mark Dominik, speaking during an exclusive interview with draft guru Justin Pawlowski on WDAE-AM 620 tonight, all that peripheral stuff really does matter. Dominik said the Jon Gruden quarterbacks special is part of his evaluation process. 

Justin Pawlowski: Do GMs put an emphasis in a TV show like [Gruden’s quarterback camp]?

Mark Dominik: The bottom line is it’s part of the evaluation. Jon makes it hard on those guys, puts them in a little bit of a grinder. Having been around Coach Gruden, he’s really good with those quarterbacks in how he kinda challenges them mentally. He knows how to just trick’em enough where, you know, they get in a comfort zone and Jon left hooks you real fast and he wants to see how they can handle it. So I think it’s a good show to watch, certainly. I watch it. And I think it’s interesting to just see how a player interacts with another person — anytime. Just like I watch the NFL Network and their Path To The Draft. I watch those because they bring players in and you see how he interacts in a social setting. … It’s just another piece of what I call the big puzzle.

Hey, if Joe were a GM, he’d watch everything, too. But Joe’s just leery of taking the edited, made-for-TV fluff that is the Chucky special too seriously.

Again, let Joe be the first to say that homemade prospect infomercials will be seen sooner rather than later. With a little product placement, advertisements and the magic of YouTube, it could even be a moneymaker.

Some Lightning for Blount's thunder?

NFL Draft guru Justin “The Commish” Pawlowski continues to break down the draft for Bucs fans like no other. Remember to tune in to WDAE-AM 620 at 7 p.m. tonight to hear Part I of Pawlowski’s interview with Mark Dominik. And be sure to come back to JoeBucsFan.com all day for more of Pawlowski’s breakdowns. Feel free to shoot him your draft questions and he’ll answer them right here, commish@620wdae.com.

4th Round options for the Bucs

By JUSTIN PAWLOWSKI

Nate Irving – LB – North Carolina State
6’1’’ – 240 lbs – 4.76

Despite his lack of elite speed, Irving seems like a nice fit for the Bucs. After a horrific car accident left him with a collapsed lung, separated shoulder, and a broken leg, Irving battled back to play in all 13 games for N.C. St. last year accumulating 92 tackles, 21.5 for a loss, and seven sacks. His work ethic and leadership will be his most valuable trait for a 4th round selection.

DJ Williams – TE – Arkansas
6’2’’ – 245 lbs – 4.67

I know the Bucs have shown DJ Williams a lot of interest this off-season which included a visit to their facility. Williams is the vertical type of tight end the Bucs are seeking. In addition, Williams has tremendous character and is great in the community. He won the Disney Spirit Award in 2010 which goes to the most inspirational figure in college football.

Jordan Cameron – TE – USC
6’5’’ – 254 lbs – 4.59

Cameron is another tight end that fits what the Bucs need and another TE that they have brought in for a visit. Cameron is another former basketball player that has transitioned to tight end. He is a great athlete with very good speed and soft hands. His technique will need refining, but he has great natural talent.

Jacquizz Rodgers – RB – Oregon St
5’6’’ – 196 lbs – 4.46

If the Bucs pass on a running back in the first three rounds, Rodgers would be an excellent selection here to counter the power of Blount. Rodgers was extremely productive at Oregon St, but he will not be able to be a feature back in the NFL. He is small, quick, and fast. Rodgers also has good hands out of the backfield.

Greg Jones – LB – Michigan St
6’0’’ – 242 lbs – 4.76

I haven’t seen the Bucs showing much interest in Jones, but if the are looking for linebackers, it’s tough to find a more productive LB over the past three years than Jones. He’s had over 100 tackles and more than 10 tackles for a loss in each of those years, and sacked the quarterback nine times in 2009. He is a great leader with a great work ethic, but his lack of ideal size will drop him.

Catch up on all of The Commish’s savage exclusive draft coverage for JoeBucsFan.com right here. Check out 60+ breakdowns, podcasts, stories and more. It’s a draft lover’s orgasm. And there’s a lot more to come tonight, Wednesday and Thursday.

Bucs rock star general manager Mark Dominik explains to Mike Florio, the creator, curator and overall guru of ProFootballTalk, how character is a paramount in this NBCSports.com video.

Breaking sports news video. MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL highlights and more.

Could Miami's Brandon Harris land on the Bucs roster?

Bucs rock star general manager Mark Dominik seemed to take a page out of Richie McKay’s book recently when he said you can never have enough corners.

McKay had the same philosophy and often drafted a cornerback each year. So when Dominik bluntly talked about the need for adding to the Bucs secondary, Joe sort of put two-and-two together and expected Dominik to draft one. It may be more.

Speaking on “The Blitz” this afternoon with co-hosts Adam Schein and Rich Gannon, Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert spoke about the draft and was specifically asked what he thought of the current draft crop of cornerbacks.

“I think the cornerback class is very deep,” Colbert said.

This is significant for Joe. Colbert is arguably the best general manager in the NFL. His eye for talent is simply uncanny and the past success of the Steelers is largely a result of Colbert being able to pick the best fruit off the tree.

There is no one Joe repsects more in an NFL front office than Colbert. So if you add up Dominik’s comments about cornerbacks, the uncertain status of troubled cornerback Aqib Talib, and Colbert’s comments about how deep the cornerback position is, Joe can easily see Dominik selecting two cornerbacks in the draft.

Why is cornerback so deep this year? Colbert had an interesting take.

“I think with so many spread offenses in college, it has forced defenses to play more cover corners out of necessity. And I’ve always believed a cornerback covers first and supports second.”

Former Bucs and Colts head coach Father Dungy is the first guy to counsel and help a troubled man.

He also doesn’t hesitate to red flag a college player who might be trouble.

Dungy explained this during an interview with Shaun King today on The King David Show on WQYK-AM 1010.

“Character is what wins championships for you,” said Dungy, who explained that talented players make plays and win games, but teams need the locker room right to win consistently and a be a champion.

“We had a category when I was in Tampa: ‘Do not draft because of character,”‘ Dungy said. “If you have red flags on a player, it ends up saving you a lot in the long run if you don’t draft him.”

Dungy weighed in on Aqib Talib saying that once a player with Talib’s episodes is in the team family, a guy like Talib will get a lot of patience and counseling from the Bucs, but the Bucs are probably assessing now whether Talib is worth the effort.

Joe always thought defense wins championships, along with a good quarterback. But Joe gets Dungy’s point. Long term, a team is much better off with the good guys. There are plenty of them who can play damn good football.