"Listen you mopes: The name of the football stadium is 'The CITS.' Call it something else and Clevis will deposit his calling card on your front yard. Now hand me the Daily Racing Form. What's the spread?"

Forbes has an interesting story on the state of finances of pro sports teams, and a peek into the near future.

Teams in the 21st Century get a nice piece of change from companies for the naming rights of stadiums. Quite a few financial institutions are among them, including the outfit that has its name placed on “The CITS,” the home of the Bucs.

(When that company wants to offer Joe a low-interest loan on a new house, then Joe will use that financial company’s name. Until then: Up yours!)

Part of the reason Joe calls the stadium “The CITS” (Community Investment Tax Stadium) is an homage to the late great Chris Thomas who coined the phrase.

But with many of these same financial institutions begging for Obama bailouts, we may be seeing the beginning of the end of eight-(nine?) figure naming rights fees.

Another financial player, Raymond James, which has $55 million left to pay on its deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers through 2026, has applied for TARP funds but hasn’t collected. A spokeswoman says it’s still far from certain whether Raymond James will take the funds if they’re approved. Reps from other banks on the list either declined comment or didn’t return calls.

Chris Thomas predicted this some years ago, referring to teams flush with corporate funds as “the golden goose.” Well, the Golden Goose has flown away. As Chris would say, “Now what?”

Testing positiive for marijuana shouldn't significantly affect DT B.J. Raji in the draft, NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski reports. Pawlowski explains why Raji is a fit for the Bengals at No. 6.

In case you missed it, last week JoeBucsFan.com rolled out its third comprehensive mock draft of the offseason, presented by NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski, a former Division I offensive lineman and host of “The Blitz” on 620 WDAE-AM, The Sports Animal,

What more is there to say.

Enjoy.

Check out all of Justin’s daily draft coverage right here. His latest mock draft is coming soon.

Mock Draft III – By Justin Pawlowski
Updated 4-2-09 
 
1.   Detroit Lions – Jason Smith
OT – Baylor – 6’5” – 309 lbs
 
Comments:  This debate should go right down to the end.  It seems as though the Lions will choose between Matthew Stafford and Jason Smith.  I’ve been going with Stafford in my previous mock drafts, but I wanted to see how this would play out if Smith went first.  If this happens, could Stafford face a free fall?  New head coach, Jim Schwartz, came to the Lions from Tennessee where he saw how a team can win with great defense and a great run game.  Hell, the Titans drafted Vince Young 3rd overall, and they’ve had more success with Kerry Collins managing the offense.  If Jim Schwartz sticks with that mentality, he’ll look to upgrade the line first, and address quarterback later.  Jason Smith has everything it takes to be a franchise left tackle.
 
2.   St. Louis Rams – Eugene Monroe 
OT – Virginia – 6’5” – 309 lbs
 
Comments:  Monroe is a more physical offensive tackle than Jason Smith and should fit the philosophy of the Rams new coach, Steve Spagnuolo.  With the release of both Torry Holt and Orlando Pace, it’s pretty apparent what the bigger needs are for the Rams.  They could also go with Michael Crabtree here, but I believe offensive tackle is a much more valuable position, and the Rams should still be able to get a receiver at the top of the 2nd round.  Also, maybe worth noting, Steve Spagnuolo is a former linebacker coach and might have his eye on Aaron Curry even though it doesn’t fit a need.
 
3.   Kansas City Chiefs – Aaron Curry  
OLB – Wake Forrest – 6’2” – 254 lbs
 
Comments:  The Chiefs also had a change at head coach, but also at GM.  Scott Pioli comes over from New England with the Patriots’ mentality.  That mentality has always been to load up on linebackers.  Aaron Curry is the best player in this draft and could be dominant in the Chiefs’ new hybrid 3-4 defense as a middle linebacker.  Could Todd Haley go with Michael Crabtree here, and pair him with Dwayne Bowe?  Absolutely, but remember, Pioli is calling the shots, and that has never been the Patriot way.  
 
4.   Seattle Seahawks – Mark Sanchez 
QB – USC – 6’3” – 227 lbs
 
Comments:  Maybe the first major curveball in this draft.  Since the Seahawks addressed their two biggest needs in free agency at both defensive line and receiver, they are free to draft whomever they’d like.  I’m sure they’d love an offensive tackle as a possible replacement to Walter Jones, but with Smith and Monroe going one and two, the Seahawks go with Sanchez as the successor to Hasselbeck.  Sanchez would be a much better fit for the Seahawks’ west coast offense, and I feel Sanchez sees the field much better than Stafford.  Actually, in my breakdown of the quarterbacks, I compared Sanchez to Hasselbeck.  I’ve also been quite curious why Sanchez’s name has been so quiet throughout this whole process.  Teams have been talking up Stafford and Josh Freeman, but there hasn’t been much said about Sanchez.  Smokescreen? 
 
5.   Cleveland Browns – Brian Orapko
DE/OLB – Texas – 6’3” – 263 lbs
 
Comments:  The Browns hold an important pick in this draft because there is a number of ways they could go, and each option would shape the entire draft in a totally different way.  I see needs for the Browns at OLB, NT, CB, FS, WR, and TE.  I have them taking Orakpo because in a 3-4 defense, a pass rusher can really make the difference.  Eric Mangini wasn’t afraid to take an OLB last year in Vernon Gholston, and I don’t believe he’ll be afraid this year either.  Orakpo has everything you look for in a rush linebacker, and unlike Vernon Gholston, isn’t afraid of contact.  Other possibilities include Michael Crabtree, BJ Raji, and Malcolm Jenkins.
 
 
6.   Cincinnati Bengals – BJ Raji
DT – Boston College – 6’1” – 337 lbs
 
Comments:  The Bengals are always a wildcard,{+++} but if they really want to improve things in Cincinnati, they need to start along both lines.  The coaches for the Bengals coached the north squad in the senior bowl, and got to see, first hand, the outstanding week BJ Raji had.  They also got to see him in meetings, and it is my understanding that they liked him a lot.  Raji could finally change things for the Bengals, defensively.  He is equally dominant against the run and pass, and in a division as tough as the AFC North, it wouldn’t hurt to have a player like Raji on your team.  Also, to be true to the Bengals, Raji also has some slight character concerns, so he should fit in just fine.
 
 
7.   Oakland Raiders – Jeremy Maclin
WR – Missouri – 6′ – 198 lbs
 
Comments:  Only God knows what Al Davis will be thinking on draft day.  He’s a lunatic, and his draft picks usually show that.  Actually, the guy loves flash and speed.  I’m getting closer to putting Percy Harvin in this spot, but I don’t have the stones yet.  Actually, Maclin has similar abilities to Harvin and is probably a better pure receiver.  Why not Crabtree?  Well, as I said before, Al Davis loves speed, and Crabtree will not be able to run a 40 before the draft.  That might just scare Al just enough to go with another receiver here.  Head coach Tom Cable will probably be clamoring for an offensive tackle like Andre Smith, but it’s hard for me to see Al not go with one of these top 3 receivers.  
 
8.   Jacksonville Jaguars – Michael Crabtree
WR – Texas Tech – 6’1” – 215 lbs
 
Comments:  This would be a dream situation for the receiver-starved Jaguars.  Crabtree is an excellent talent who has the ability to take over games.  After the Jaguars missed on Reggie Williams and Matt Jones, they might be a little hesitant to take another receiver, but Crabtree is just too good to pass up.
 
 
9.   Green Bay Packers – Aaron Maybin
DE/OLB – Penn St. – 6’4” – 249 lbs
 
Comments:  With a transition to the 3-4 defense, it’s crucial for the Packers to get players who fit that system.  It all starts with a rush linebacker.  Aaron Kampman will play one side, but they’ll need someone off the other edge.  Maybin has been moving up boards after his pro day workout, and some scouts feel he’s the best fit for a rush linebacker in this draft.  I chose Maybin for the Packers over Everette Brown for two reasons.  The first is that Everette Brown’s stock is falling because teams feel he’s too small for a 4-3 defensive end and not mobile enough to play outside linebacker in a 3-4.  The other reason is because Maybin is used to the cold weather and Brown isn’t.  It might not sound like a big difference, but it might be just that close between the two players.
 
 
10. San Francisco 49ers – Percy Harvin
WR – Florida – 5’11” – 192 lbs
 
Comments:  Marvel Smith was an important signing for the 49ers last week because it made the need for tackle not as crucial as it once was.  While looking at the 49ers, it’s pretty apparent that maybe the biggest need for them is a player to open it up offensively.  Isaac Bruce is coming back, and they still have Josh Morgan, Jason Hill, and Arnaz Battle, but that’s it.  I wouldn’t say that’s a receiver corps that scares me.  Harvin could come in and immediately bring a spark to the 49ers, both offensively and on special teams.  The addition of Harvin would also open things up for Frank Gore on the ground as well.  I know, Stafford’s still available, but I just get a gut feeling that the 49ers don’t want to spend that kind of cash on another top 10 quarterback.  Also, after trying to have a psychologist question Stafford on his parents’ divorce when he was in high school, the 49ers aren’t very high on his list of possible destinations.
 
 
11. Buffalo Bills – Robert Ayers
DE – Tennessee – 6’3” – 272 lbs
 
Comments:  This one’s pretty simple.  The Bills need help rushing the passer.  Ayers is the best 4-3 defensive end in this draft.  Everette Brown is an option, but is he a 4-3 defensive end or a 3-4 outside linebacker?  The Bills don’t bother answering that question and go with a guy who’s a better fit for their defense.
 
 
12. Denver Broncos – Tyson Jackson
DE – LSU – 6’4” – 296 lbs
 
Comments:  The first thing Josh McDaniels did when he was hired by the Broncos, before the Cutler drama, was hire Mike Nolan as his defensive coordinator and blow up the defense.  The Broncos are also transitioning to the 3-4, but with Jarvis Moss and Elvis Dumervill moving to outside linebacker, the Broncos needs lie in the secondary and along the defensive line.  Tyson Jackson is the best fit for a 3-4 defensive end in this draft.  He’s big, strong, takes up space, and also has some speed.  Malcolm Jenkins is also a possibility.
  
 
13. Washington Redskins – Andre Smith
OT – Alabama – 6’4” – 332 lbs
 
Comments:  With the Redskins’ biggest needs falling along the offensive line, and one of the draft’s top offensive tackle prospects falling to them after poor workouts, it would be hard for Daniel Snyder to pass on making some noise with this pick.  Andre Smith has had terrible workouts this offseason, but when you watch film on him, you’re blown away.  This guy dominated games last season, and would be a tremendous upgrade for the Redskins.
 
 
14. New Orleans Saints – Chris “Beanie” Wells
RB – Ohio St. – 6’1” – 235 lbs
 
Comments:  Malcolm Jenkins or a linebacker are definitely possible, but it appears that the Saints want a back to be able to run between the tackles.  Wells can do just that, but he also has the ability to break off a long run.  I’m not so sure Jenkins would be a great fit here, since he might struggle with man coverage in the pros, and that’s the type of defense the Saints run.
 
15. Houston Texans – Malcolm Jenkins
CB/FS – Ohio St. – 6′ – 204 lbs
 
Comments:  The Texans could use either a corner or a safety.  Luckily, Jenkins could play either.  Just because Jenkins doesn’t have elite speed doesn’t mean he isn’t a talented football player.  He’s excellent in run support and has a knack for being around the ball.  After Brian Cushing’s good pro day, the Texans could also go with him or another outside linebacker.  I’m going to also throw receiver out there to play opposite of Andre Johnson.  Maybe Jeremy Maclin or Percy Harvin if either slides?
 
 
16. San Diego Chargers – Michael Oher
OT – Ole Miss. – 6’4” – 309 lbs
 
Comments:  I’m sure the Chargers would like to see Tyson Jackson slip to them here, but they also have a need at right tackle.  Oher would be an ideal fit for how the Chargers piece together their line.  Oher is a power lineman who is an excellent run blocker.  He’s very good in pass protection as well, and actually would be a very good fit at right tackle.
 
 
17. New York Jets – Matthew Stafford 
QB – Georgia – 6’3” – 225 lbs
 
Comments:  There isn’t much more Stafford could do this offseason.  He has been brilliant in everything he’s done; the combine, his pro day, and workouts with teams.  The sheer fact is that there aren’t that many teams that need a quarterback this year.  Also, until the Cutler situation plays out, we really won’t know who needs a quarterback and who doesn’t.  What we know right now is that the Jets starting quarterback is Kellen Clemens and that they’ve been very active in the Cutler talks.  If Cutler ends up with another team and this draft situation plays out, look for the Jets to be actively trying to trade up with Buffalo.  Stafford has an extremely strong arm like Cutler which enables him to battle the brutal winds in New York/New Jersey.
 
18. Chicago Bears – Hakeem Nicks
WR – North Carolina – 6’1” – 212 lbs
 
Comments:  Since his combine performance, I’ve had Heyward-Bey in this slot going to the Bears.  I looked deep at Heyward-Bey, Nicks, and Kenny Britt for this pick, and I believe the best fit for the Bears is Nicks because of the sure hands he’ll bring to the bears offense and that he’ll be a reliable target for Kyle Orton.  The Bears already have their flash in Devin Hester who’s still developing as a receiver, but they need a possession receiver to play opposite of him.  Maybe other than Crabtree, Nicks has the best set of hands in the draft.
 
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Everette Brown
DE/OLB – Florida St. – 6’2” – 256 lbs
 
Comments:  With Brown’s stock slipping and the Bucs looking for additional help along the defensive line, this would seem like a match made in heaven.  The Bucs new defensive coordinator, Jim Bates, likes ends that can get up the field, and Brown is very good at that.  The Bucs obviously have many needs they could address; CB, DT, DE, OLB, WR, and QB. 
 
I know that defensive tackle has been brought up as one of the top needs and priorities for the Bucs going into the draft, but do we know that to be true, or is that just what people are saying?  I’ve made the case for why Peria Jerry might not be a good fit for the Bucs, but I might have found out why the Bucs might avoid defensive tackle all together in the 1st round.  After doing some extensive research on the drafting history of Jim Bates I noticed something that struck me right between the eyes.  Now, I do know that ultimately, the head coach and general manager are going to make the final call, but the defensive coordinator has a say in defensive players that get drafted, and this pattern is too loud to ignore.  Jim Bates has been a defensive coordinator with 5 different teams in the NFL; ’94 Falcons, ’00-’04 Dolphins, ’05 Packers, ’07-’08 Broncos, and currently with the Bucs.  Over those stints with each of those teams, a Jim Bates defense has never drafted a defensive tackle higher than the 4th round, and that was in 2007 when the Broncos selected Marcus Thomas.  Other than that, the highest a Jim Bates defense has drafted a defensive tackle is the 6th round!!!
 
I know we – we being the media and fans – believe that the Bucs need a defensive tackle, but for Bates, it seems as though defensive ends and corners are the most valuable positions on his defense.  I’m certain linebackers are important as well, but Bates seems to be able to plug in any defensive tackle and have success.  This is the main reason I’m going defensive end with my pick here, and why I will not be predicting another defensive tackle for the Bucs until that pattern changes. 
 
I did say that I believe that defensive ends and corners are the most important positions to a Jim Bates defense.  We also know that Raheem Morris’ heart still lies with his secondary.  Because of this, DO NOT be surprised to see the Bucs go with another young corner to play opposite Aqib Talib.  The two likely candidates would be Darius Butler and Vontae Davis because both thrive in man coverage.
 
20. Detroit Lions (via Cowboys) – Rey Maualuga
ILB – USC – 6’2” – 249 lbs 
 
Comments:  Josh Freeman is still available, but after Maualuga’s excellent pro day, the Lions get their guy to play between Ernie Sims and Julian Peterson.  Maualuga is an extremely gifted middle linebacker and leader that could impact the Lions defense immediately.  The key to rebuilding a losing franchise is to add leaders.  After drafting Jason Smith and Rey Maualuga in this mock draft, the Lions have added a leader to each side of the ball.
 
 
21. Philadelphia Eagles – Knowshon Moreno
RB – Georgia – 5’11” – 217 lbs
 
Comments:  It seems as though each year Eagles fans and fantasy football players just wait to see when Brian Westbrook gets injured.  When this happens, the Eagles have no one to turn to.  I know that Andy Reid has a reputation for going with either offensive or defensive line early in drafts, but Moreno is just too good and too big a need to pass up.  Moreno has been called the most complete back in this draft because of his ability to run between the tackles, outside, block, and catch the ball out of the backfield.  The addition of Moreno would extend Westbrook’s career as well.
 
 22. Minnesota Vikings – Alex Mack
OC – California – 6’4” – 311 lbs
 
Comments:  This seems like an easy one with the Vikings losing their longtime center, Matt Birk, to the Ravens in free agency.  Mack is a very good player and leader along the line.  He should be able to slide in and start right away for the Vikings.
 
 
23. New England Patriots – Connor Barwin
DE/OLB – Cincinnati – 6’4” – 256 lbs
 
Comments:  With Tyson Jackson gone, take your pick as to which 3-4 outside linebacker the Patriots will go with.  I’ve been in contact with the agent of Connor Barwin and he tells me that the Patriots are very interested in Barwin.  He’s actually in New England for a workout as I’m typing this.  Barwin has been flying up draft boards after his excellent workouts this offseason.  He has the ability to rush the passer, but also played some tight end at Cincinnati.  He reminds me of a younger more talented Mike Vrabel.
 
24. Atlanta Falcons – Sean Smith
CB – Utah – 6’3” – 214 lbs
 
Comments:  With the Falcons having a need at both corner and safety, I figured; why not give them a guy who can play both.  Smith’s size and speed combination might be the best in this draft.  We don’t see to many corners at 6’3’’, but Smith has the skills to do it, and if he does, it would give the Falcons a tremendous advantage at one corner spot.
 
25. Miami Dolphins – Clay Matthews 
OLB – USC – 6’3” – 240 lbs
 
Comments:  The Dolphins are another team looking for a rush linebacker to play opposite of Joey Porter.  Matthews reminds me of a Bill Parcells type player.  He’s a physical player who works hard and loves rushing the quarterback.
 
 26. Baltimore Ravens – Vontae Davis
CB – Illinois – 5’11” – 203 lbs
 
Comments:  With the losses of Chris McAllister and Samari Rolle, the Ravens, even with the addition of Dominique Foxworth, should be looking for another corner.  John Harbaugh is also a former defensive backs coach, so you know he has a special eye for corners and safeties.  Davis is a special player with a ton of natural talent.  The problem is his technique isn’t very good, and he’ll need good coaching to reach his potential.
 
 
27. Indianapolis Colts – Peria Jerry
DT – Ole Miss. – 6’2” – 299 lbs
 
Comments:  Peria Jerry = one-gap penetration.  Jerry fits the Colts defense perfectly, and vice versa.  This shouldn’t even be for debate.  Durability is a concern for Jerry.
 
28. Philadelphia Eagles (via Panthers) – William Beatty
OT – UCONN – 6’6” – 307 lbs
 
Comments:  Andy Reid still gets a lineman in the first round.  With the loss of Tra Thomas to the Jaguars and Jon Runyan still being a free agent, the Eagles are in the market for an offensive tackle.  Beatty is a very disciplined lineman who is equally good in the pass and run game.
 
 
29. New York Giants – Brian Cushing
OLB – USC – 6’3” – 243 lbs
 
Comments:  I have to imagine the Giants and their fans would be thrilled about this.  Cushing is one of the top linebackers in the draft and would fill a hole at strongside linebacker for the Giants.  Of course, Kenny Britt or Heyward-Bey would be possibilities, but Cushing fits the mold of a Tom Coughlin player and fills a need.
 
 
30. Tennessee Titans – Evander “Ziggy” Hood
DT – Missouri – 6’3” – 300 lbs
 
Comments:  Jeff Fisher has always wanted his team to be physical.  With the loss of Albert Haynesworth, the Titans have to find a way to fill that hole.  I’m sorry, but Jovan Haye is not that answer.  Hood is a hard worker and has a motor that never stops.  He’s a physical defensive lineman with the frame to get bigger.  He has the ability and will to be able to step right in and start from day one.
 
 
31. Arizona Cardinals – Eben Britton
OT – Arizona – 6’6” – 309 lbs
 
Comments:  I watched James Harrison repeatedly run right by Mike Gandy in the Super Bowl.  Sometimes he got by, and sometimes holding was called, but watching it was embarrassing.  Britton is equally good in both pass protection and run blocking, and the Cardinals have seen enough of him at Arizona to know what he can bring.
 
 
32. Pittsburgh Steelers – Jarron Gilbert
DE – San Jose St. – 6’5” – 288 lbs
 
Comments:  A lot of people see the Steelers going offensive line here, but it isn’t like the Steelers to reach on a player when they can draft one of the top defensive players still on the board.  The Steelers defensive line is getting a little old, and Gilbert can bring in a little athleticism and strength to the Steelers’ defensive line.
 
 
2nd Round:
33. Detroit Lions – Josh Freeman
QB – Kansas St. – 6’6” – 248 lbs
 
Comments:  The Lions finally get their quarterback, and now have an offensive tackle to protect him.

 
34. New England Patriots (via Chiefs) – Donald Brown
RB – UCONN – 5’10” – 210 lbs
 
Comments:  Kevin Faulk and Fred Taylor are near retirement, and Brown can be used as a workhorse if need be.  I’m not so sure any of the Patriots running backs can be used that way.
 
 
35. St. Louis Rams – Kenny Britt
WR – Rutgers – 6’3” – 218 lbs
 
Comments:  After passing on Crabtree, the Rams would still be looking for a receiver opposite of Donnie Avery.  Steve Spagnuolo got to see Britt first-hand last year, and knows what he can bring to a team.
 
36. Cleveland Browns – Darius Butler
CB – UCONN – 5’10” – 183 lbs
 
Comments: Mangini got his pass rusher in the first round, now he gets his cover corner.  Butler might be the best pure cover corner in the draft. 
 
37. Seattle Seahawks – LeSean McCoy
RB – Pitt. – 5’10” – 198 lbs
 
Comments:  Jim Mora Jr. has stated that the running game will be improved and a focal point of the Seahawks offense now.  I’ve always been a big fan of McCoy’s, and he’d be a nice fit in the Seahawks west coast offense.
 
38. Cincinnati Bengals – James Laurinaitis
ILB – Ohio St. – 6’2” – 244 lbs
 
Comments:  Laurinaitis paired with Keith Rivers gives the Bengals a nice tandem at linebacker.
 
 
39. Jacksonville Jaguars – Ron Brace
DT – Boston College – 6’3” – 330 lbs
 
Comments:  The Jaguars’ defense wasn’t the same without Marcus Stroud last season.  Brace would look mighty nice next to big John Henderson.
 
 
40. Oakland Raiders – Louis Delmas
FS – Western Michigan – 5’11” – 202 lbs
 
Comments: Another flashy player for Al Davis.  Delmas is considered the top pure safety in this draft, and would fit nicely next to Michael Huff.
 
 
 41. Green Bay Packers – Jamon Meredith
OT – South Carolina – 6’5’’ – 305 lbs
 
Comments:  With Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton both getting up there in age, the Packers should be looking at possible replacements.  The Packers could also go corner here, but they should be able to grab a corner in the 3rd round.
 
 
42. Buffalo Bills – Brandon Pettigrew
TE – Oklahoma St. – 6’5” – 263 lbs
 
Comments:  After passing on a tight end in the first round, the Bills still get the premier tight end in this draft.  Pettigrew isn’t and won’t be the flashiest tight end out there, but he is an excellent blocker and will be a very good security blanket for Trent Edwards.
 
 
43. San Francisco 49ers – Larry English
DE – Northern Illinois – 6’2” – 255 lbs
 
Comments:  I can’t believe English fell this far, but that’s how it played out.  I think he could be outstanding, and with the 49ers looking for another pass rusher, it seems like a steal for the 49ers.
 
44. Miami Dolphins (via Washington) – Darrius Heyward-Bey
WR – Maryland – 6’2” – 210 lbs
 
Comments:  I’m starting to think that inconsistency might drop Heyward-Bey.  Parcells has shown that he’ll take some chances on receivers, and the Dolphins need a receiver opposite Ted Ginn.  Heyward-Bey is a boom or bust type prospect.
 
 
45. New York Giants (via New Orleans) – Shonn Greene
RB – Iowa – 5’10’’ – 229 lbs
 
Comments:  With the loss of Derrick Ward, the Giants should be in the market for a running back to take some of the load off of Brandon Jacobs.  No, I don’t think Ahmad Bradshaw is that guy.
 
 
46. Houston Texans – Michael Johnson
DE – Georgia Tech – 6’7” – 266 lbs
 
Comments:  Johnson might be the most intriguing prospect in this draft.  He has the ability and potential to go top 5, but the production of a 3rd rounder.  I know the Texans signed Antonio Smith to play opposite Mario Williams, but I think it’s worth taking a flyer on Johnson with this pick because if he pans out, the Texans would have two of the best defensive ends in football.
 
 
47. New England Patriots (via San Diego) – William Moore
SS – Missouri – 6’ – 221 lbs
 
Comments:  I’m thinking the Patriots get a safety in this draft, so why wait.  Moore is the top strong safety in the draft, but he can also play free safety.
 
 
 48. Denver Broncos – Alphonso Smith
CB – Wake Forrest – 5’9” – 193 lbs
 
Comments:  After helping their line in the 1st round, the Broncos address their secondary with an excellent corner in Smith.  He can play man coverage and is a playmaker in the secondary.
 
 49. Chicago Bears – Max Unger
OC – Oregon – 6’5” – 309 lbs
 
Comments:  The Bears interior offensive line needs help.  Olin Krutz is fine, but the guards need to be upgraded.  If the Bears want to be a smash mouth team, they have to get better guard play.  Unger is versatile enough to play any position on the line.
 
50. Cleveland Browns (via Buccaneers) – Eric Wood
OC – Louisville – 6’4” – 310 lbs
 
Comments:  The Browns are in the market for a center to lead their offensive line, and rumor has it that they are quite fond of Wood…That’s what she said!!!!
 
51. Dallas Cowboys – Patrick Chung
SS – Oregon – 5’11” – 212 lbs
 
Comments:  After not having a pick in the 1st round, and releasing Roy Williams the safety, the Cowboys still end up with one of the better strong safety prospects in this draft.  Reminds me of Roy Williams with speed.
 
52. New York Jets – Brian Robiskie
 WR – Ohio St. – 6’3’’ – 209 lbs
 
Comments:  The Jets have stated that they’re looking for a receiver that can be a reliable go-to receiver.  Robiskie has excellent size and showed he can run at the combine.  He runs excellent routes, can get open, and catches the ball extremely well.  Jets fans will hate this pick. 
 
53. Philadelphia Eagles – Shawn Nelson
TE – Southern Miss. – 6’5” – 240 lbs
 
Comments:  With LJ Smith gone, well, I’m not so sure the Eagles will even notice since he never did anything anyway.  Needless-to-say, tight end is still an area of need, and Nelson might be the best receiving tight end in the draft. 
 
 
54. Minnesota Vikings – DJ Moore
CB – Vanderbilt – 5’9” – 192 lbs
 
Comments:  The Vikings still run a style of the “Tampa 2” which bodes well for Moore.  Moore doesn’t have much speed, but has all the intangibles you want, and should thrive in zone coverage.
 
 
55. Atlanta Falcons – Cornelius Ingram
TE – Florida – 6’4” – 245 lbs
 
Comments:  After missing out on LJ Smith, the Falcons get Matt Ryan a reliable target at the tight end position.  Ingram missed the entire 2008 season with a torn ACL, but might be a big time sleeper in this draft.
 
 
56. Miami Dolphins – Sammie Lee Hill
DT – Stillman – 6’4’’ – 330 lbs
 
Comments:  Parcells has a knack for finding defensive lineman, and with a need at nose tackle, you know he’s looking hard at those players.  Hill could be a special player coming from a small school. 
 
57. Baltimore Ravens – Clint Sintim
OLB – Virginia – 6’3” – 256 lbs
 
Comments:  After losing Bart Scott to the Jets, the Ravens go with a guy close to home.  Sintim is a bigger linebacker who can really get after the quarterback.
 
 
 58. New England Patriots – Fili Moala
DT – USC – 6’4” – 305 lbs
 
Comments:  Moala is an athletic 3-4 defensive end who reminds me a lot of Richard Seymour.  He’ll bring some youth to the Patriots’ defensive line.
 
 
59. Carolina Panthers – Coye Francies
CB – San Jose St. – 6’ – 185 lbs
 
Comments:  After just recently releasing Ken Lucas, the Panthers opened up a need at corner.  Francies might need a year to adjust, but he’s get a ton of potential at being a shut down corner.
 
 
60. New York Giants – James Casey
TE – Rice – 6’3’’ – 246 lbs
 
Comments:  Tight end might not be the biggest need for the Giants, but Casey can be a huge threat in the pass game, and with no receivers worth taking here, why not get a receiving threat at another position.
 
 
61. Indianapolis Colts – Derrick Williams
WR – Penn St. – 5’11” – 194 lbs
 
Comments:  The Colts need some speed at the receiver position, and that’s just what Williams brings.  Williams put questions about his speed to bed at his pro day when he ran a 4.37 40 yard dash.
 
 
62. Tennessee Titans – Sherrod Martin
CB/FS – Troy – 6’1’’ – 198 lbs
 
Comments:  It always seems that Jeff Fisher will take a small school prospect.  Martin has shown a ton of potential and could play either corner or safety for the Titans.
 
 63. Arizona Cardinals – Paul Kruger
DE – Utah – 6’4” – 263 lbs
 
Comments:  With Antonio Smith gone and Calais Campbell unproven, it’s too hard to pass on Kruger here.  Kruger’s a physical player who’s a hard worker and willing to do whatever’s needed of him.
 
64. Pittsburgh Steelers – Andy Levitre
OG – Oregon St. – 6’3” – 305 lbs
 
Comments:  Finally, the Steelers address their offensive line.  Levitre is nasty and a good fit with the Steelers.
 

Best of the rest:

Asher Allen – CB – Georgia – 5’9” – 194 lbs
 
Jared Cook – TE – South Carolina – 6’5’’ – 246 lbs
 
Phil Loadholt – OT – Oklahoma – 6’8’’ – 332 lbs
 
David Veikune – DE – Hawaii – 6’2” – 257 lbs
 
Lawrence Sidbury Jr. – DE – Richmond – 6’2’’ – 266 lbs
 
Sen’Derrick Marks – DT – Auburn – 6’2” – 306 lbs
 
Duke Robinson – OG – Oklahoma – 6’5” – 329 lbs

Sure, Carmella "looks good." But can she be an NFL quarterback? Joe volunteers to be the center for practice!

Joe knows beauty when he sees it. But like the old cliche, “Don’t judge a book by it’s cover,” so an NFL quarterback should not be judged like a Mr. America contestant.

Apparently, per Adam Schein of Sirius NFL Radio, co-hosting “The Blitz” today with Solomon Wilcots, that’s the problem with NFL front office types and — if you believe the propaganda coming out of One Buc Palace — Bucs executives.

After fielding a call about the Bucs’ plans in the draft, Schein put in his two cents.

“I think [the Bucs] will take the best defensive player on the board which fits their scheme or Josh Freeman.

“I would not draft [Freeman] in round one but I think someone will.”

Wilcots then described how NFL scouts can be fooled.

“[Freeman is] a real fine young man and can throw, he has the tools. But you put the tape on, there were inconsistencies. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. The tape doesn’t always match the tools. Can he be coached up?”

Why coach up a project when Josh Johnson is being groomed?

Folks, the tape doesn’t lie. And when one factors in how Freeman couldn’t shine in a conference that was loaded with garbage defenses, how in the world can anyone expect him to succeed in the NFL?

Raiderfan is smiling upon Jeff Garcia and his lovely wife. They are quite a pair.

If judging by the musings of Cam Inman of the Oakland Tribune is any barometer, the denizens of The Black Hole are positively giddy over the Raiders signing Jeff Garcia.

Joe assumes Raiderfan is equally excited about the chance of oogling over Carmella.

Coach Tom Cable repeatedly has wondered aloud this offseason as to whether Russell’s work ethic will meet the standard for a NFL starting quarterback. That seems like an ultimatum, which Garcia surely will echo.

Garcia, at least in his 49ers days, worked tremendously hard on his physical fitness and mental makeup. He went from Canadian Football League refugee to a Pro Bowl quarterback. He won over a cautious coach in Steve Mariucci and a fickle fan base that was spoiled by Joe Montana and Steve Young.

Aside from mentoring Russell on NFL schemes, Garcia can tell him how bad it is elsewhere (see: Garcia’s years with Cleveland Browns and the Detroit Lions) and how fame doesn’t exempt you from off-field dangers (see: Garcia’s drunken-driving arrest shortly before the 49ers cut him).

Pie-chart summary: Garcia, 39, is overlooked for his NFL achievements, unfairly criticized by his many cynics and surely as confident as ever that he can lead a NFL franchise to playoff glory. That definition meshes quite well with the Raiders’ MO, if you think about it.

Joe was hoping beyond hope that somehow Garcia would see fit to remain in Tampa Bay, if nothing else than a backup.

And if readers of JoeBucsFan.com wonder why, then said readers must be newcomers to the site.

"Hey, Dominik. My agent's phone is ringing off the hook. But you can still get through."

Now Mr. Derrick Brooks is not one for giving revealing interviews. To say Brooks keeps things close to the vest is an understatement.

So Joe considers the interview Brooks gave his hometown Pensacola News-Journal Monday quite an opening up.

First, Joe must pat himself on the back. Brooks confirmed what Joe exclusively reported here two weeks ago, that the Bucs offered him a front office job.

The only uncertainty is where he might play next year. Brooks hasn’t ruled out the possibility of resigning with the Bucs, saying, “stranger things have happened.”

The Bucs have offered him a job in their front office, if he chooses retirement. Brooks has a master’s degree in business administration from FSU.

“I told (Bucs) we’ll get more serious about that when I decide to retire,” Brooks said. “But for them to extend that hand, it was very gracious.”

Brooks goes on to say that numerous teams have contacted his agent. From where Joe sits, it looks like Brooks may be, in part, waiting on the Bucs to come to their senses and make him an offer.

This morning on Sirius NFL Radio, former NFL linebacker Carl Banks, who is co-hosting “The Opening Drive” today with Ross Tucker, took Bucs general manager Mark Dominik apart for his obscene contract with Sgt. Winslow.

In short, Banks said if Winslow fails with the Bucs, this contract will be Dominik’s albatross and will ruin his career.

“This is one of those deals as a young general manager that you stick your career on,” Banks said. “If this does not work out, this will be his legacy. I can’t make an arguement that [Sgt. Winslow] is the best tight end in football because he’s done nothing on the field on a consistent basis and he’s been a distraction off the field. No disrespect to the young man’s ability but if he is not on the field…

“He had two years left [on his contract]. Why leverage yourself? Make him have a career year. It’s not like he is going anywhere this year. See how he plays.

“[Guarenteed $20 million], this is enabling him. Maybe [the Bucs] wanted to give him a contract to keep him happy? In the NFL that doesn’t always work out. In Cleveland the team stood by him when he was hurt he was still complaining.

“I don’t begrudge [Sgt. Winslow]. Get what you can. But he has not been on the football field enough to be the best tight end in football. He has not been on the field.

“This new staff and front office with the Bucs, this will be their legacy. It could be [the first] of a string of great decisions or a lynchpin of a series of bad choices they will have made in their tenure.

“It is a bit reckless with the owners’ pocketbook.”

Tucker suggested the signing was an expensive PR stunt by Dominik.

“I think they signed him to get positive news coming out of Tampa,” Tucker said. “[The Bucs] swung and missed on Albert Haynesworth. They swung and missed on Jay Cutler. ‘Hey, look at what we did.'”

It wasn’t just Joe who freaked out Monday when he learned of the obscene amount of cash Bucs general manager threw at Drew Rosenhaus and his client, Sgt. Winslow. So too did Jason McIntyre.

The founder, editor and babysitter of one of Joe’s favorite blogs, a blog Joe also writes for from time to time, TheBigLead.com, was floored when he learned of Sgt. Winslow’s deal. In fact, Mr. TheBigLead has dire predictions for the Bucs.

Forty-four games into his checkered pro career, Kellen Winslow Jr. is now the richest tight-end in NFL history. Twenty million guaranteed for a prickly-yet-talented guy who will be 26 at season’s start? Hmmm. Hope he doesn’t mind rebuilding. New coach, new faces on defense, and most pressing, no new QB, yet. Smells like five wins.

Kansas State’s Josh Freeman, anyone?

Joe doesn’t know if the Bucs will only win five games this season, but Joe is sure of one thing: Unless the Bucs shore up that defensive front, there’s going to be a helluva lot of $8 beers sold to not so many people.

The phenomenal female Flying Mancini was one of the eight best greyhounds in the nation in 2008. She's undefeated to date in the 2009 Distance Classic series at Derby Lane.

This girl’s a star.

McAllister kennel’s Flying Mancini has proved she is the one to beat in Saturday’s Distance Classic final at Derby Lane in St. Petersburg. 

The phenomenal female rocketed out of the box last Saturday for her fourth consecutive win in a stunning time 37.45 seconds for the 660-yard race.  

Tonight, Flying Mancini goes for another win in the Distance Classic semifinals. But she’s already locked up a spot in Saturday’s final.

Save the date! The Distance Classic finals are Saturday, April 11, when Derby Lane will give away $500 to 10 lucky fans.

With SI.com's Don Banks (for the moment) reporting defensive tackle stud B.J. Raji tested positive for pot, could he somehow fall to the Bucs?

Former Bucs beat writer and current SI.com columnist Don Banks wrote a story Tuesday claiming stud Boston College defensive tackle B.J. Raji  tested positive for drugs at this year’s combine.

Banks went on to write that NFL scouts were made aware that Raji had tested positive for weed while at Boston College.

Since, the article was removed by SI.com. But through the magic of Google, Joe has a cache copy.

Defensive tackle B.J. Raji, whose draft stock has soared over the past six months, had a positive drug test at February’s combine, NFL team sources have told SI.com. It’s unknown to SI.com which drug triggered the positive result, but NFL scouts were made aware before the 2008 season that Raji had tested positive for marijuana during his time at Boston College.

NFL teams will receive the official list of those who tested positive in Indianapolis later this month, and Raji’s name will be on it, according to a source who attended last week’s owners meetings in California.

Banks later in the article invokes Warren Sapp. In the 1995 draft rumors began to swirl amid NFL circles that Sapp tested positive for a herb known to be of the seven-leaf variety. As a result, Sapp’s draft stock plummeted and he fell in the Bucs’ lap.

The Bucs sorely need a defensive tackle and Joe is really crossing his fingers teams forget what happened with Sapp and are so paranoid that Raji falls the the No. 19 slot, or falls enough that the Bucs can trade up to complete the steal.

It appears Matt Hasselbeck might be available, as reports out of Seattle have the Seahawks drafting a quarterback and eager to dump his big salary.

Joe would normally call them rumblings out of Seattle, but they are more like earthquakes.

The Seattle media has all but assured its followers over the past few days that the Seahawks will select quarterback Mark Sanchez or Matt Stafford with their No. 4 overall pick in the draft.

Of course, JoeBucsFan.com draft guru Justin Pawlowski (always ahead of the curve) had Seattle taking Sanchez in his April 2 mock draft.

That leaves Seattle’s resident Pro Bowl quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, the 33-year-old veteran who showed up for the team’s voluntary mini-camp Tuesday healthy and raring to go. 

There is now talk of Seattle cutting Hasselbeck and his big salary and getting a fresh start under new coach Jim Mora.

[Hasselbeck] is entering the fifth year of a six-year, $47 million contract with $16 million in guarantees. His cap number is to be about $9.5 million in 2009, leading to speculation the Seahawks may cut him for financial reasons, or at least seek to renegotiate his base salaries of $5.25 million and $5.75 million for each of the final two years of his deal.

Now Bucs fans know Tampa Bay tried to dump its 2009 first round pick for Jay Cutler, and likely offered much more than that for him last week.

Would the Bucs consider trading their ’09 first round pick for Hasselbeck and, say, a second or third round pick from Seattle?

A few facts to keep in mind:

• Seahawks president Tim Ruskell is the former Bucs director of player personnel and Mark Dominik’s old running mate at One Buc Place.
• Jeff Jagodzinski was Hasselbeck’s offensive coordinator at Boston College.
• The Bucs have the cap room to accommodate Hasselbeck and they wouldn’t have to pay him a signing bonus.

Joe believes Mr. Hasselbeck — a proven winner, unlike Cutler — might just be the mysterious fourth quarterback the Bucs keep talking about signing. 

Chucky's old buddy Paul Hackett helped lure Jeff Garcia to Oakland

Joe has to give a nod to friend and colleague Josh Koehn, sports editor and columnist at the Gilroy Dispatch, Jeff Garcia’s hometown newspaper in California.

Koehn, to date, is the only journalist to actually speak to Garcia since he signed with the Raiders.

In Koehn’s recent column, Garcia reveals he was lured to Oakland by none other than Paul Hackett, Jon Gruden’s old buddy and mentor. Hackett was Garcia’s quarterbacks coach in 2007, when he made the Pro Bowl with the Bucs. 

Hackett coached Garcia in his first year at Tampa, when Garcia earned his fourth Pro Bowl nod. Ted Tollner was a QB coach in San Francisco and offensive coordinator while Garcia was in Detroit.

“Those two guys have been great influences on my life from a football standpoint,” Garcia said.

“I think if those two coaches aren’t there (in Oakland), I think it may be a completely different story.”

Hackett has a long history in the NFL and is beloved by Joe Montana, who sang his praises in his Hall of Fame induction speech, and Hackett is said to have sold Gruden on Rich Gannon.

Hackett also is loathed by many Jets fans who viewed their former offensive coordinator as the master of throwing for five yards on 3rd-and-6.

Joe is just enjoying the irony of a Chucky guy reviving Garcia’s career.

Will the Browns target Michael Crabtree to help replace Kellen Winslow's production in Cleveland? NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski breaks down the AFC North.

As a public service, Joe reminds you not to run out to Publix and buy one of those outdated NFL Draft magazine previews for $8.95 + tax.

Don’t do that when you can get daily, up-to-the minute NFL Draft coverage here at JoeBucsFan.com for the same money.

And Joe gives every subscriber a free $10 gift certificate to Courtside Grille. Yummy.

Today NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski, host of The Blitz on 620 WDAE-AM, breaks down the needs and likely moves of the AFC North teams.

Enjoy. {+++}

[audio: podcast0407.mp3]

Rotoworld’s Evan Silva, via NBCSports.com, has a mock draft up where he has the Bucs going a much different route than most NFL draft experts.

In fact, Silva doesn’t think the Bucs will stray far from Tampa in locking up a player. Think Florida Gators wide receiver Percy Harvin.

Tampa ends a receiver run with this class’ truest home run hitter. New coach Raheem Morris emphasized the need for “swagger” at Tampa Bay’s first offseason minicamp, and Harvin brings plenty of style and pizzazz. The Bucs are short on offensive speed opposite Antonio Bryant, and Harvin could immediately produce in the slot.

Joe doesn’t deny Harvin is a special player with gifted speed. But what scares Joe is this guy was always dinged up. If Harvin was always hurt in college, how can anyone expect him to be available on most Sundays in the NFL?

As long as Mel Kiper and Rick Stroud continue to jock Josh Freeman, Joe will continue to expose him.

As long as there are people foolish enough to suggest the Bucs should draft Kansas State quarterback Josh Freeman, Joe will keep writing about how he is and will be a colossal stiff.

Don’t believe Joe? Fine. Then believe Mike Mayock of the NFL Network.

There is no better NFL draft guru — with the exception of WDAE-AM 620’s Justin Pawlowski — than Mayock. Like Pawlowski, Mayock isn’t overly impressed with Freeman.

In fact, speaking to SI.com’s Peter King, Mayock explains what a complete crap shoot drafting Freeman in the first round will be.

A year ago, Mayock told me he liked Ryan, who played four years at Boston College, more than he’d liked any quarterback to come out in years. Not the case with the three early entry passers this year — Stafford, Sanchez and Kansas State’s Josh Freeman. “In the last 15 years, there have been 11 underclass quarterbacks taken in the first round,” he said. “Of those 11, Ben Roethlisberger and Aaron Rodgers are the only clear successes. It’s a dangerous thing, picking young quarterbacks so high.”

The difference between Big Ben, Rodgers and Freeman is crystal clear: When Big Ben and Rodgers entered the draft, they dominated their opponents. Only a blind-drunk Kansas State fan or Kiper would dare hint that Freeman dominated opponents.

And keep in mind that Largo High School played better defense than some of the teams in the Big XII.

The news of the crazy contract Mark Dominik gave Sgt. Winslow was obviously fodder for discussion this morning on Sirius NFL Radio. But co-hosts of “The Blitz,” Adam Schein and Solomon Wilcots, were split on the move.

Wilcots was on the mind that, with his injuries behind him, Sgt. Winslow is an elite NFL player. Schein is not so sure Sgt. Winslow’s injuries are behind him.

Solomon Wilcots: I had expected it. I knew it was coming, but I never thought it was that much.

I think he is ready to put up good numbers. The only thing that has held him back are injuries. But even with injuries he is almost impossible to cover for safeties and linebackers. He is almost impossible to cover by cornerbacks in the red zone. He is an elite tight end for your quarterback to target.

He has never had a consistent quarterback. He’s never had a reliable quarterback, never had that chemistry. It never existed. He still has been able to make plays when he’s on the field.

If he’s healthy the numbers will come.

Adam Schein: I think it makes sense to give him a new deal. I think everybody knew it was coming. He’s happy in Tampa; he’s thrilled. You knew he was going to get a new deal.

I agree with you on the talent and being a pro bowl player. He’s an 80- to 90-catch guy and a guy who should score 7 to 10 touchdowns a year. He has that ability. But he’s never done that. He has the ability to get to 1,000 yards a year. [Bucs general manager] Mark Dominik is paying for the crystal ball. They are looking into the crystal ball and projecting the future in their system.

But $20 million [guaranteed] for a guy with all sorts of injuries? I won’t even talk about the issues off the field. I think that is a thing of the past. I think he is enthused to be in Tampa. I think he has matured.

But in terms of his health, color me concerned.

Jeff Garcia says he's pleased to be strictly the No. 2 quarterback in Oakland. Joe suspects being the No. 1 at home with Carmella is enough to satisfy any man.

Shortly after Jeff Garcia joined Raider nation yesterday, he talked to his hometown Gilroy Dispatch, the tiny daily newspaper that covers Garcia’s movements like NBC News covers the President.

Garcia talked openly about how there was little interest in him in free agency and how he knows he is strictly the backup quarterback in Oakland.

“There’s not an open competition. JaMarcus Russell is the starting quarterback,” Jeff Garcia said. “He was drafted in the first round to come in and lead this team. My goal here is to help JaMarcus grow and be a better player. I’m going to compete with him every single day in the sense of pushing him and helping him open his mind to being a better player. At the same time, I’m gonna do whatever I can to prepare myself in the case it does come time for me to get on the field. If it does come, I’m going to make the most of it.”

Joe can’t help but wonder why it seems the Bucs preferred Brian Griese as their backup quarterback over Jeff Garcia, who may be the best No. 2 in the league and had the respect of his teammates.

At lease publicly, Son of Bob has done nothing to say he’s interested in mentoring young quarterbacks like Luke McCown and Josh Johnson.

Vacation Man suggests that the Bucs are more likely to trade for Village People frontman wannabe and Cleveland quarterback Brady Quinn before the Bucs would trade up in the draft to knab USC quarterback Mark Sanchez.

Vacation Man of BSPN.com fielded e-mails from fans asking about the Bucs. One question dealt with the possibility of the Bucs trading for one of the two Cleveland quarterbacks, Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson.

Vacation Man didn’t totally rule out the suggestion, hinting that maybe the Bucs would trade up if they thought they could grab USC quarterback Mark Sanchez.

I think that’s something the Bucs at least would explore if Cleveland really does put one of those two quarterbacks on the trade block. I think either Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson would be nice competition for Luke McCown. The Bucs have made it clear they still plan to bring in another quarterback. There’s not much left in free agency. Not sure if they would take Josh Freeman at No. 19 because he might be a year away from being ready to start. I could see them making an attempt to trade up for Mark Sanchez, but that could be costly. Of all the scenarios still out there, I like trading for Anderson or Quinn the best.

Though Joe would love for the Bucs to somehow get Sanchez, he’d raise a glass in honor of Bucs general manager Mark Dominik if he did acquire Quinn, who Sgt. Winslow totally raved about in an interview last week on Sirius NFL Radio.

But if Dominik and Raheem The Dream are just looking for someone to compete against Bucs quarterback Luke McCown and aren’t now looking for a quarterback of the future, there are certainly more cost effective alternatives out there than trading up for Sanchez or trading for former first round pick Quinn.

A third round choice for Matt Leinart perhaps?

When Joe heard yesterday that the Bucs signed Sgt. Winslow to a contract extention, it barely rasied an eyebrow with Joe. Then last night, Joe saw the video of BSPN metrosexual Mike Greenberg talking about how the Bucs signed Winslow to an NFL record for tight ends.

Joe understands Lee Roy Selmon’s offered $1.63 beers yesterday. Joe had a couple himself watching baseball and basketball (Joe also took advantage of Selmon’s $.21 wings). But after reading what Mark Dominik coughed up for Winslow convinced to Joe that Dominik had a marathon pouring session himself yesterday.

An NFL record salary for a injury-plagued tight end with bad knees who has only played one full season? As if coughing up a second round pick for this two-bit, wannabe green beret was bad enough! And this Sgt. Winslow, by any sober judgement, is a weak blocker.

Exactly why and how can you make this guy the NFL’s highest paid tight end?

And people think Obama bailouts are beyond the pale!

Six years, $36 million???!!!

Really!

Might the Bucs look to find a successor to Jeremy Trueblood with their third round pick? Monstrous Sooner Phil Loadholt might be available.

Despite the Bucs’ solid offensive line and many holes on defense, if they choose to take the best players available on draft day, one of those could be an offensive lineman.

Courtesy of NFL Draft guru Justin Pawlowski, of The Sports Animal, Joe has an in-depth look at the tackles, guards and centers who could make an impact in the 2009 draft.

The reality is the Bucs won’t want to pay top dollar to every member of their young offense line, which they’ll be forced to do if the line continues to progress and the Bucs muster a dominant running game under the new regime.

Eventually, they won’t want to pay all these guys, so finding a future replacement for Jeff Faine, Jeremy Trueblood or Donald Penn might be a consideration in this year’s draft.

So without further jabbering, Joe presents the hogs of 2009. Check out more of Joe’s awesome daily draft coverage right here.

By JUSTIN PAWLOWSKI

Offensive Tackles

Jason Smith – OT – Baylor
6’5’’ – 309 lbs – 5.22
Top 5 pick

Why I’m taking him:  I love the natural athleticism Smith has.  He was a former tight end that transitioned to offensive tackle.  I’d say that was a good move.  He’s got all the physical attributes you look for in a franchise left tackle: big frame, great feet, long arms, and excellent strength.  Also, he’s still raw as an offensive tackle, so with more coaching and improved technique, he has a chance to be an elite tackle in the NFL.  

Why I’m staying away: We’re not really sure what kind of tackle Smith is going to be.  He mainly played out of a 2-point stance at Baylor, which is typically for pass protection in the NFL.  Since he never played offensive tackle until his time at Baylor, he’s rarely ever played out of a 3-point stance, which is required for any offensive lineman in the NFL.  His run blocking has been questioned. 

Impact on the Bucs roster: Don’t hold your breath!!! 

NFL Comparison: Jordan Gross:  Gross came into the NFL as a very talented pass blocker with a nasty streak to him.  Smith is very similar in that regard.  Since then, Gross has gone on to become one of the premier tackles in the NFL. 

Eugene Monroe – OT – Virginia
6’5’’ – 309 lbs – 5.23
Top 10 pick

Why I’m taking him: I was a big fan of Branden Albert last year, and the man that forced Albert to play guard because he was at tackle was Monroe.  I guess he’s doing something right.  Well, he does a lot of things well.  The part of his game I like most is his combination of aggression in the run game and fluidness in pass protection.  Usually, an offensive tackle will be one or the other, but Monroe is a very balanced lineman.  

Why I’m staying away: I’m not sure he’s as mean as he needs to be.  There are times when he doesn’t display a killer instinct that I like to see in linemen.  I don’t feel he is very dominant in the run game, either.  He also must strengthen his lower body to be successful in the NFL.  The upper body is fine.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Once again, I’m not seeing this happening.

NFL Comparison: Walter Jones:  Walter Jones has become one of the best offensive tackles in NFL history with the attributes both positive and negative that Monroe possesses.  I see a lot of Walter Jones when I watch film on Monroe.  I never thought Jones was overly dominant in the run game, but he always got the job done.  Monroe is very similar.  They both shine in pass protection.

Michael Oher – OT – Ole Miss.
6’4’’ – 309 lbs – 5.23
1st Round

Why I’m taking him: The thing I like most about Oher is his nasty demeanor.  The guy is flat out mean in the run game, and dominates at times.  He also is very smooth in pass protection, and makes that look easy at times.  He’s a very powerful player who plays with a toughness about him, but is also extremely durable.  Oher has the potential to be a great offensive tackle in the NFL.  I did say potential.

Why I’m staying away: I’m not too keen with the inconsistency I see when I watch Oher.  There are times when he’ll lose his leverage or he’ll take plays off.  That concerns me.  I’d also like to see him get better technique, which might be an issue because he isn’t the most football smart player in this draft.

Impact on the Bucs roster: This would be interesting because even though the Bucs have Donald Penn, {+++}Oher has the potential of being one of the best tackles in the league.  The question is whether you’re willing to risk waiting for him to reach that potential.  Oher would take over for Penn in 2010, who would leave in free agency, if the Bucs were to select Oher with the 19th pick.

NFL Comparison: Marcus McNeil:  Oher reminds me a lot of McNeil because when McNeil was playing his final season in college and right up to the draft, he was considered one of the best offensive tackle prospects to come out in a while.  I’ve heard similar things about Oher both last offseason and this one.  The difference is that health dropped McNeil, while inconsistent play might drop Oher.

Andre Smith – OT – Alabama
6’4’’ – 332 lbs – 5.28
1st Round

Why I’m taking him: I don’t care what anyone says, when I watch game film of Andre Smith, he absolutely dominates the competition.  He is a nasty offensive lineman that simply dominates in the run game.  Any kind of strength attribute, Smith has.  He packs a brutal punch in pass protection.  He finishes blocks.  He can’t be bull rushed.  He’s also surprisingly nimble and athletic in pass protection.  The potential Smith has is probably greater than any other prospect in this draft.

Why I’m staying away: His workouts worry me.  If you can’t be ready for the most important interview of your life (the combine), what makes me believe that you will get yourself ready week in and week out in the NFL?  Obviously, work ethic is a concern, and, with that, I’m concerned that he won’t put forth the effort to reach his potential.  Also, he struggles a bit with speed rushers off the edge, and might have to move inside to guard.

Impact on the Bucs roster: This is interesting.  I was not a big fan of Andre Smith after his showing at the combine and his pro day, but then I went back and watched his film.  Wow.  The guy is frickin’ good.  I do think he will be a very good pro, and would be a steal at 19.  The question is whether the Bucs would draft Andre Smith even though they don’t have a glaring need at tackle or guard.  If they were to select him, multiple things could happen.  Smith could take Jeramy Trueblood’s job, making him expendable.  Smith could also play left guard, making Arron Sears expendable.

NFL Comparison: Levi Brown:  Brown has quietly been one of the steadiest right tackles in the NFL.  He’s only a few years into his professional career, but he has shown the ability to anchor a line from the right side.  I do feel Andre Smith has much more potential, but Smith is the same type of player as Brown.  Smith, like Brown, should find himself at right tackle or at guard in the NFL.

Eben Britton – OT – Arizona
6’6’’ – 309 lbs – 5.16
1st Round

Why I’m taking him:  I like Britton as a solid tackle that could start in the NFL for 10 years.  He’s a tough and physical player who never takes a play off.  Britton is also incredibly smart and can pick up an offense and not miss an assignment immediately.  Britton never missed a game due to injury, making him extremely durable.

Why I’m staying away: Britton is very coordinated in space.  What I mean, is that he has trouble getting down field to linebackers and defensive backs.  He also has very average quickness and poor feet.  Because of those poor attributes, he has a lot of trouble with speed rushers off the edge.

Impact on the Bucs roster: I don’t think Britton would fit in at all with the Bucs.  The Bucs new run scheme calls for their linemen to get to the second level and block linebackers and defensive backs.  They also need to be able to move very well in space.  Those are Britton’s biggest weakness.  Britton would struggle beating out both Trueblood and Penn.

NFL Comparison: Jon Jansen:  Like Jansen, Britton will be limited to right tackle in the NFL with his inability to block speed rushers.

William Beatty – OT – UCONN
6’6’’ – 307 lbs – 5.12
1st – 2nd Round

Why I’m taking him: Well, someone had to pave the way for the nation’s leading running back.  That man was Beatty.  Beatty’s the solid left tackle each team wants.  He does all the little things to perfection.  Aside from his size, Beatty has excellent footwork, works well in space, and does a superb job of getting to the 2nd level.  He shut down George Selvie two years in a row.

Why I’m staying away: I’m not thrilled with Beatty’s lack of strength and power.  This hurts him from being dominant in the run game, and it also makes him susceptible to the bull rush.  His overall technique needs to be improved, and he needs to find a way to add some weight to his big frame. 

Impact on the Bucs roster: I’m not so sure the Bucs would look at taking Beatty even if they traded back from their original pick.  However, Beatty’s ability to work well in space and get to the 2nd level might have the Bucs thinking twice about him.  In the Bucs new offense, they need their offensive linemen to do just what Beatty is best at.  If the Bucs select Beatty, then Jeremy Trueblood and Donald Penn will be in line to lose their starting jobs.

NFL Comparison: Alex Barron:  Barron has been a starter for the Rams the past few seasons.  Much like Barron, Beatty’s number one strength is movement and blocking downfield.

Jamon Meredith – OT – South Carolina
6’5’’ – 305 lbs – 5.04
2nd – 3rd Round

Why I’m taking him: Meredith has all the athleticism I look for in an offensive tackle.  The most athletic part about him is the fact that he is a natural knee bender.  When an offensive lineman bends from the waist, they put themselves in a position to be beat by a cornucopia of moves, but when they bend at the knee, they put themselves in a strong position to take on whatever moves the defender puts on them.  All of his athleticism has made Meredith a premier pass protector.

Why I’m staying away: I’m not seeing nastiness or a mean streak with Meredith.  I want my linemen thinking “kill” on every play.  He definitely needs to find a way to be more physical and tough.  Also, he needs to get in the weight room and get stronger.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Meredith’s athleticism makes him a nice candidate for the Bucs, but with Merediith getting a 2nd-round grade, it’s unlikely to see him in a Bucs uniform.  If he slips to the 3rd round, and the Bucs take him, he’ll be expected to take over for Donald Penn eventually.

NFL Comparison: D’Brickashaw Ferguson:  When Ferguson was drafted, I thought he was a great pass protector, but lacked the meanness to dominate.  Well, that’s just what I’ve been saying about Meredith.  It doesn’t mean Meredith won’t make it in the NFL.  Hell, Ferguson’s doing just fine.  However, if Meredith is looking to become dominant and elite in the NFL, he needs to find that nastiness.

Phil Loadholt – OT – Oklahoma
6’8’’ – 332 lbs – 5.45
2nd – 3rd Round

Why I’m taking him: I’m excited about Loadholt’s massive frame, strength, and surprising agility.  It’s pretty apparent, that with his size and strength, Loadholt is dominant in the run game.  He’s also a nasty player that finishes his blocks.  With his size, strength, and surprising quickness, Loadholt has a lot of potential and upside.

Why I’m staying away: Loadholt tends to struggle with speed rushers off the edge.  That will limit him to playing right tackle in the NFL.  He’s also had some character issues as he’s been arrested twice including June 2008 for suspicion of driving under the influence.  His awareness needs improving as well, as Loadholt had some trouble with false start penalties at Oklahoma.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Loadholt wouldn’t be a terrible option for the Bucs in the 3rd round.  His massive frame and potential would definitely be hard to pass up.  If the Bucs feel Loadholt would be an upgrade over Jeremy Trueblood, they should pull the trigger.  We have seen Trueblood get manhandled over the past couple years, which is something Loadholt will never let happen.  If the Bucs draft Loadholt, expect him to take over for Trueblood in 2010.

NFL Comparison: Flozell Adams:  Both Adams and Loadholt have such massive frames and dominate at times.  Adams has made his living on the left side, but I believe Loadholt will find his most success on the right side.

Offensive Guards

Andy Levitre – OT – Oregon St.
6’3’’ – 305 lbs – 5.25
2nd – 3rd Round

Why I’m taking him: Levitre is extremely nasty and very powerful.  His versatility is valuable as he played tackle in college, but projects to guard in the NFL.  He’s got great technique and is constantly trying to improve it.  Levitre gets good push in the run game while having good agility for pass protection.  He was a team leader and captian at Oregon St, and I expect the same character at the pro level.

Why I’m staying away: Levitre isn’t the greatest athlete.  He tends to struggle in space while going after linebackers or defensive backs.  Levitre also needs to work on getting better leverage consistently.

Impact on the Bucs roster: The Bucs don’t need a guard, and Levitre might not be a good fit for the Bucs’ offense.

NFL Comparison: Chris Snee:  Snee, along with the entire Giants offensive line, is nasty.  He might not be the biggest guard in the NFL, but he is powerful and uses his nastiness as an advantage.  Levitre is very similar in that aspect.

Duke Robinson – OG – Oklahoma
6’5’’ – 329 lbs – 5.27
2nd – 3rd Round

Why I’m taking him: I like the attitude Robinson brings more than anything else.  He plays with such a mean and nasty demeanor.  With that, he finishes his blocks and buries his opponents in the ground.  Also, for such a big guy, Robinson does an excellent job at bending his knees and keeping good leverage.  It can’t go unnoticed either that Robinson has a ton of experience against some of the best competition in college football.

Why I’m staying away: Inconsistency was a big part of Robinson’s collegiate career, due in most part to his questionable technique.  Robinson will also have some trouble with the quicker defensive tackles in the NFL.  Robinson has been known to not have the greatest work ethic and rely on his natural talent to get by.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Robinson isn’t the type of guard the Bucs will be using.  Robinson is best fit for a power running offense, and the Bucs will be implementing a zone-blocking style of offense.  The Bucs already have Davin Joseph, Arron Sears, and Jeremy Zuttah as their guards.  If you add Sean Mahan, who can play guard or center, the Bucs aren’t really in the market for a guard.

NFL Comparison: Shawn Andrews:  Shawn Andrews came into the league a few years back and has not disappointed.  His physical play fits exactly what the Eagles look for in their linemen.  Along those lines, Andrews has shown the ability to play either guard or right tackle.  I would expect the same type of career out of Robinson.

Herman Johnson – OG – LSU
6’7’’ – 364 lbs – 5.51
2nd – 3rd Round

Why I’m taking him: When looking at the positives that Johnson will bring, you have to start with size.  That’s what she said!!!!  With that size, Johnson is extremely powerful, has great strength, and is dominant in the run game.  If Johnson gets his hands on a defender, he wins.  He always finishes his blocks and plays with a nasty demeanor.

Why I’m staying away: Size is great, but you need to be able to move it.  Johnson’s mobility, quickness, and agility are only average.  He will struggle in pass protection against quicker defensive tackles.  Also, he doesn’t play with great leverage and tends to bend at the waist and not with his knees.  He’s not a good fit for every kind of offense.

Impact on the Bucs roster: The type of offense that Johnson does not fit in is a zone-blocking run game.  That’s exactly what the Bucs run.  Do not expect the Bucs to draft Herman Johnson.

NFL Comparison: Leonard Davis:  Johnson does offer some versatility, and could play right tackle, but should have his most success at guard.  This is very similar to Davis’ career that started with him playing right tackle for the Cardinals before a move to guard with the Cowboys.  Also, don’t be fooled by Johnson’s weight at 365 lbs, he is not fat.

Offensive Centers

Alex Mack – OC – Cal.
6’4’’ – 311 lbs – 5.17
1st Round

Why I’m taking him: When I look at a center, I want to see how smart he is.  The center is in charge of all the calls for the offensive line.  I’m not so sure that you will find a smarter lineman than Alex Mack.  Mack won the Draddy Trophy after last season.  The Draddy Trophy is best known as the “Academic Heisman” and is given to college football’s top scholar athlete.  By the way, Mack is also a very good player.  He plays mean and looks for the kill shot on every play.  His technique is superb, and he always knows where to place his hands and feet.  His work ethic is great as he is also a monster in the weight room.  

Why I’m staying away: Mack likes to get down too much.  What I mean is that he spends too much time on the ground.  He could be overpowered by massive defensive tackles.

Impact on the Bucs roster: The Bucs aren’t necessarily in the market for a guard, but with Jeff Faine’s contract able to be voided after 2009, the Bucs could be in the market for a center in 2010, so why not now.  Sure, Jeremy Zuttah could be the eventual successor at center, or the Bucs could simply keep Faine, but if they still feel they need an upgrade, Mack would be an ideal fit.  I’m not expecting it to happen, but Mack will anchor some team’s offensive line for 10-12 years.

NFL Comparison: Matt Birk:  It’s almost like Mack is a clone of Birk.  Birk has had an incredible career with the Vikings and now starts a new era with the Ravens.  Mack will be looking at a career like Birk’s, filled with Pro Bowls.
 
Max Unger – OC – Oregon
6’5’’ – 309 lbs – 5.30
1st – 2nd Round

Why I’m taking him: Versatility is Unger’s biggest strength.  His size and skill set allow him to line up at any position along the line.  He’s got great strength and power, while having the agility and balance to protect the quarterback.  He’s a smart player who knows everyone’s assignments, and also uses superb technique.  

Why I’m staying away: He was good while playing left tackle and center at Oregon, but wasn’t elite at either position.  He needs to play with better leverage.  He also allows defenders to get into his chest.  When that happens, the offensive lineman usually gets beat.  An offensive lineman’s strength is at its best when the arms are extended.

Impact on the Bucs roster: The Bucs already have a super utility offensive lineman in Jeremy Zuttah.  I don’t really see them taking Unger.  Also, I don’t believe Unger would be better than any of the Bucs starting offensive linemen or Zuttah.

NFL Comparison: David Diehl:  The reason I compare him to Diehl is because of Diehl’s ability and willingness to play any position the team needs him to play.  Unger will be quite similar.

Eric Wood – OC – Louisville
6’4’’ – 310 lbs – 5.23
2nd Round

Why I’m taking him: This Wood is nasty, hard, and has good size and bulk.  You can go ahead and guess who said that!!!   Really, Wood is a nasty player who plays to the whistle and finishes his blocks.  He is also light on his feet and very good at getting to the next level.  Wood is very smart and is a very hard worker.

Why I’m staying away: He can be a little stiff at times.  You can go ahead and insert your own joke here.  He doesn’t play with great leverage and does not bend his knees well.  He should have trouble with bigger nose tackles.

Impact on the Bucs roster: Wood wouldn’t be a great fit for the Bucs.  I have him slated as a 2nd round pick, so unless the Bucs somehow acquire a 2nd round pick, it is unlikely that Wood will be a Buc.

NFL Comparison: Jake Grove:  Grove is a good center, but not great.  Wood should see similar success.

After a few days of rumors linking now former Bucs quarterback Jeff Garcia to the Raiders, the deal is finally done. Garica is a Raiders quarterback.

And Joe can no longer drool over Carmella.

Joe doesn’t have to look out the window to know it’s a very, very, very dark day.

Joe is gonna need a few shots of Bushmills.

Former Bucs front office executive and current Bears general manager Jerry Angelo claimed the Bucs trading for Meshawn Johnson in 2000, were "burned." Joe doesn't see it.

Not trying to play revisionist history here, but Joe found an interesting item buried in Peter King’s “Monday Morning Quarterback,” which Joe linked to earlier in the post about the Bucs nearly acquiring Jay Cutler.

In King’s column, he discusses how the Cutler trade to Chicago went down last week. Bears general manager Jerry Angelo was a high priest in the Bucs organization in 2000, when the Bucs parted with a pair of first round draft picks to get a player, as Angelo did for Cutler.

Only nine years ago (was it really that long?) the Bucs traded for wide receiver Meshawn Johnson.

In King’s column, Angelo admitted the Meshawn Johnson trade crossed his mind when he pulled the trigger on the Cutler deal.

A few things went though Angelo’s mind, including the last time he was part of a staff that traded two No. 1’s for a player. “We did Keyshawn Johnson for two ones in Tampa Bay, and we really got burned by it,” he told me Friday night. “But this is a quarterback. Maybe a really good quarterback.”

How exactly did the Bucs get “burned?”

Sure, Meshawn melted down and was kicked to the curb by Chucky and then-general manager Rich McKay. But Joe cannot figure out how the Bucs got burned?

Johnson, like Chucky, was acquired to get the Bucs a Super Bowl win, no? At the time, the Bucs wide receiving corps were sorely lacking. Last time Joe checked, Johnson was a key cog in the Bucs winning a Super Bowl; caught a key touchdown in the NFC title game over Philadelphia.

Would the Bucs have won a Super Bowl without Meshawn? Hard to say. But Joe does know the Bucs did win a Super Bowl with Meshawn.

In Joe’s eyes: Case closed. Meshawn was worth it. The end justified the means. The Bucs hoisted the Vince Lombardi trophy.

Bucs offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski

Joe finally got around to watching new offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski’s press conference held Wednesday, and now posted on Buccaneers.com.

Joe recommends the video.

The guy is a real breath of fresh air. No apprehension around the media, although his body language reveals he was clearly uncomfortable with Jay Cutler questions.

Drenched in sweat wearing a Bucs t-shirt, Jagodzinski talks openly about the importance of communication and his personal philosophy of only considering his own experiences with a player when evaluating that player. 

He also speaks with great confidence and authority when he talks about how the Bucs will run the football downhill. For those comments alone, Joe believes he is the Anti-Chucky.