Raheem The Dream actually has the gall to compare NFL bust-in-waiting Josh Freeman to two-time Super Bowl winner Ben Roethlisberger.

Joe has suspected the Bucs are putting out a smoke screen in their lust for future bust Kansas State quarterback Josh Freeman.

Well, after reading some recent quotes from Raheem The Dream, Joe is convinced it’s not just a smoke screen the Bucs are constructing, it’s a full-scale shovel of (spit).

Either that or The Dream needs to be drug tested. In his effort to throw off other teams, The Dream compared Freeman to two-time Super Bowl winning quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, as reported by Yahoo! Sports.

“I was with him for a year (at Kansas State),” Morris said of Freeman. “Absolute specimen to look at. Physical. Tall, big. Big arm. Deceptively quick, even though the 40 time says 4.8, he’s got that Ben Roethlisberger effect where he’s hard to tackle once you get back there, so you’d better send somebody blitzing big enough to get him on the ground. One of those deals.”

Stop it Dream. Stop it! Joe is tired of being called a moron, and you are doing this to Joe and other Bucs fans by spouting such nonsense. If Freeman was this damned good, how come he wasn’t even one of the top four quarterbacks in the Big XII which has defenses that couldn’t stop Plant High School?

Ex-Bucs quarterback Jeff Carlson thinks Byron Leftwich is a QB coach's nightmare

It’s been rumored for a while, but now it’s being widely reported that quarterback Byron Leftwich is visiting the Bucs today. 

Sure, Leftwich has a Super Bowl ring for backing up Ben Roethlisberger last year, but Joe hardly considers him a savior for the Bucs.

Leftwich hasn’t played much since 2005 (much like Luke McCown). And former Bucs QB Jeff Carslon, a JoeBucsFan.com analyst, wrote weeks ago that the Bucs should run and hide from Leftwich.

The re-signing of Luke McCown is a positive, and he should be given a chance to compete for the starting job. We will see if that comes about. But if Tuesday’s Tribune is right and the Bucs think Byron Leftwich is a good fit for the new offensive coordinator’s schemes, shoot me now. 

 

McCown and Leftwich should be trying to start in the same offense like Brandon Jacobs and Reggie Bush would fit in the same style backfield.

 

Remember how many balls Chris Simms got batted away at the line of scrimmage? Byron Leftwich winds the ball so far below his waist on his delivery that he either takes bigger hits than anyone else or doesn’t throw it at all because he knows how long it takes to get rid of it and that just equals more sacks.

Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is on thin ice in Seattle

Joe occasionally likes to survey the 1,000+ people who come to JoeBucsFan.com each day.

The poll below ran yesterday, following Joe offering a glimpse into the rumblings out of Seattle that have the Seahawks drafting a quarterback with the No. 4 overall pick and trading or releasing quarterback Matt Hasselbeck.

Joe finds it very interesting that Bucs fans were nearly split down the middle on whether Hasselbeck would be good fit for the Bucs.

Not exactly a vote of confidence for Luke McCown.

Anyway, Joe’s reviving the poll to see if today’s readers want to break the tie.

Tuesday night Joe will have his two TVs fired up.

On his secondary TV Joe will (temporarily) have the Rays-Yankmees game on.

On Joe’s primary TV, Joe will be locked in to the NFL Network. Why? At 7 p.m. April 14 the NFL will release its 2009 schedule.

Joe may even have a cold beer.

This is the day that Joe begins his plans for fall. Rest assured the plans involve adult beverages and football.

Ah, football, glorious football!

[UPDATE: Per eye-RAH! Kaufman of the Tampa Tribune, former Bucs general manager Bruce Almighty will be a studio analyst for the NFL Network’s show on the schedule’s release.]

Mike Florio, the creator, curator and overall guru of ProFootballTalk.com discusses why Jeff Garcia, who is clearly better than some projected NFL quarterbacks, couldn’t get a sniff of a starting job and why he settled for a backup gig with the Raiders.

Caution: No mention of Carmella.

People walking down the street with a white cane can predict NFL drafts as well as Mel Kiper.

Joe loves to read mock drafts and completely enjoys listening to just about anyone talk football — including Mel Kiper of BSPN. But Joe has long wondered why some people think Kiper is some sort of draft sophist?

Kiper was never the best gauge of who drafts who. Long before Joe ever heard of Kiper, Joe knew of Joel Buchsbaum who was the best at the NFL draft until Joe was aware of Mike Mayock.

Sadly, Buchsbaum passed away a few years ago and since — with the exception of WDAE-AM’s Justin Pawlowski — Mayock is the best going nationally with his uncanny ability to predict the draft.

Well, the good people of ColdHardFootballFacts.com decided to rank the NFL mock drafts of various analysts. Simply put: Beware what you read and, in short, don’t listen to Kiper (at least when it comes to the draft).

Going back four years, Kiper was correct on 25.2 percent of his mock drafts. Folks, you can throw a dart blindfolded at a wall of photos and damned near be as accurate.

We’ve been tracking the record of several mock draft “experts” since our first off-season in 2005. We’ve found that the performance of these “experts” is so dismal that we confused it with the outlook for the global economy.

The best mock-draft “experts” can tell you who was twice named SEC player of the year. They can tell you who banged out the most bench reps at the Combine. They can tell you who’s raised concerns because of off-field behavior issues.

But at the end of the day, they can’t deliver the promised goods: they can’t tell you which player will end up with which team!

To put it another way, the mock draft contributes so little to society that we swear we saw it protesting outside the G-20 summit in London today.

Strangely, Mayock was not included in the study, nor was Buchsbaum, but Joe thinks Buchsbaum had passed away by the time the site was launched.

In short, if you want good draft analysis, subscribe to Pawlowski’s draft musings and get free beer! Kiper won’t give you free beer.

The following story quickly got Joe’s attention because it contained two eyebrow-raising elements: Playboy bunnies and tasers.

It seems as though Playboy had a celebrity golf outing where they were giving away free tasers. Playboy, Joe has learned, is really hurting for cash. It must have been a cheap event if former Bucs offensive lineman and human holding penalty Kenyatta Walker was invited.

Good thing Joe couldn’t have gotten his hands on a taser when Walker played for the Bucs. Walker should have been tasered on the 50-yard line for all his holding penalties.

About the only thing Walker was valuable for was running down linebackers after (many) Son of Bob interceptions to save touchdowns.

Pat "Vacation Man" Yasinskas, of ESPN.com, says it's too costly for the Bucs to trade up and grab USC quarterback Mark Sanchez

Vacation Man of BSPN.com is on the job of late, doing his best to figure out what the Bucs will do in the draft.

One thing he has concluded is that unless USC quarterback Mark Sanchez slips to No. 19, don’t expect the Bucs to trade up.

In short, says Vacation Man, the Bucs can’t afford it.

But moving up to get Sanchez isn’t nearly as easy as it sounds. I was just crunching some numbers over on the draft-pick value chart and any move the Bucs could make to get in a position to draft Sanchez would be costly — maybe more costly than they can afford.

Even if the Bucs had their second-round pick, which went to Cleveland in a trade for tight end Kellen Winslow, they wouldn’t have enough ammunition to jump into the top 10. But that’s a moot point. If the Bucs packaged their first- and third-round picks, they might barely have enough to move up to about the No. 15 slot.

They’d better hope Sanchez goes into a freefall, but I don’t see that happening. Yeah, you could throw in some other hypothetical scenarios that might get the Bucs into the top 10 — like trading this year’s first- and third-round picks along with a couple later picks and maybe a player (tight end Alex Smith might be the most marketable thing the Bucs have and that’s not much). Or you could even talk about throwing in next year’s second-round pick.

Joe would love to see Sanchez fall, and it might happen if, as expected, there is a run on offensive lineman. It’s difficult to see Sanchez getting past the Jets, though.

Former Bucs stiff defensive lineman Marcus Jones is trying to branch out into two new forms of athletics and entertainment.

He’s wants to become a human cockfighting stud and a reality TV star.

Something called MMAMania, which covers human cockfighting, has a story of 10 former NFL players trying out for a reality TV series based on human cockfighting.

More than 250 aspiring mixed martial artists from the heavyweight, light heavyweight and middleweight divisions, including three former NFL football players, piled into the Marriott Seattle Airport Hotel in Seattle, Wa., yesterday in hopes of landing a spot on the tenth season of “The Ultimate Fighter” (TUF).

In attendance, scouting the new talent, was UFC president himself Dana White along with several of Spike TV’s producers from the popular reality series.

Former Tampa Bay Buccaneer first round draft pick turned pro MMA fighter Marcus Jones was on hand to tryout as a heavyweight. Jones played his college ball at the University of North Carolina where he was a standout All-American defensive lineman. Thus far as a mixed martial artist, Jones has put together a solid record of (4-2), stringing up back-to-back technical knockout wins over Mike Ottman and John Juarez, respectively.

In case anyone forgets, the Bucs passed on such questionable players in the first round of the 1996 draft as Marvin Harrison and Ray Lewis.

Joe doesn’t care for human cockfighting. But Joe would be interested to hear Jones explain how someone thought he was better than a couple of future Hall of Fame players coming out of college.

"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?