Peyton Manning & Tom Brady Are Dinosaurs

A common saying in NFL upper management and scouting circles is that they are "slaves to college football."

If that's the case, and it logically would be, immobile pocket passers like Peyton Manning and Tom Brady are finished. Hyper-athletic youth football athletes are playing quarterback over running back and wide receiver. Almost everyone in college football is using the spread offense, with a large package of read-option and pistol formation sprinkled in on game day. This is not a fad - these athletes can really throw the ball.

An astonishing 14 of 32 projected starting quarterbacks entering 2013 ran their 40-yard dash coming out of college in under 4.72 seconds - a faster time than All-Pro wide receiver Anquan Boldin, who ran a 4.72 in 2003. Of these 14 quarterbacks, 11 have been drafted in the past three draft classes. That my friend is a trend, one that is picking up serious momentum. Here's a list of projected 2013 starters who are "dual-threat" quarterbacks, ranked by their 40-time (year drafted in parenthesis):

Michael Vick, 4.33 (2001)
Robert Griffin III, 4.41 (2012)
Colin Kaepernick, 4.53 (2011)
Russell Wilson, 4.55 (2012)
Cam Newton, 4.59 (2011)
Geno Smith, 4.59 (2013)
Jake Locker, 4.59 (2011)
Blaine Gabbert, 4.62 (2011)
EJ Manuel, 4.65 (2013)
Ryan Tannehill, 4.65 (2012)
Christian Ponder, 4.65 (2011)
Andrew Luck, 4.67 (2012)
Aaron Rodgers, 4.71 (2005)
Alex Smith, 4.71 (2005)

I've taken the liberty of including Geno Smith and EJ Manuel from the upcoming 2013 NFL Draft. Both are projected Top-40 picks, and you don't take quarterbacks that high unless you plan on starting them sooner than later.

The 2014 NFL Draft will continue along this trend: dual-threat quarterbacks Teddy Bridgewater (Louisville), Logan Thomas (Virginia Tech), Johnny Manziel (Texas A&M) and Tajh Boyd (Clemson) are all projected Top-40 picks. Soon, as in by this time next year, at least half of NFL clubs will be led by quarterbacks who can run.

Yes, Joe Flacco just won the Super Bowl. But the likes of his kind will soon be in the minority. Tom Brady will be 36 at the start of 2013. Peyton Manning will be 37. They are the last great Mahicans of the immobile pocket passer. The Colin Kaepernick's, RG3's and Cam Newton's are supremely blessed, for they will inherit the earth.

Is Adrian Peterson the Greatest of All-Time?

Newsflash: Adrian Peterson is good. He set the NFL single-game record with 296 rushing yards as a rookie in 2007 and was just 9 yards away from breaking Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record this season, finishing the year with 2,097 yards. He's one of 3 running backs to rush for 2,000 yards and average 6 yards-per-carry in a single-season. And he's one of 4 backs to score more than 10 touchdowns in each of his first 6 seasons. All of these overwhelming accolades produces a legitimate question - could Adrian Peterson be the greatest running back of all-time?

In a word, no. Jim Brown is and probably always will be the greatest. No other back can say they were statistically the best in the NFL for 8 out of 9 seasons. That's just ridiculous. But All-Day has a legitimate claim to the #2 spot.

Peterson is just one of 4 running backs (along with Brown, Joe Perry and Barry Sanders) to average over 5 yards-per-carry for his career (minimum 1,000 carries). Adrian's 99.4 yards-per-game ranks 3rd all-time, behind Brown (104.3) and Sanders (99.8). If you conservatively project his career, he's clearly the #2 or #3 back of all-time when you combine career production with peak value.

Considering era dominance, and to a lesser extent longevity, I've compiled my Top 10 list of the greatest running backs of all-time. The first 9 on my list are indisputable - other than Adrian Peterson, they are the only running backs in NFL history with over 10,000 yards rushing who were also named to 3 or more All-Pro Teams. You can argue the order, but debating their inclusion is a losing battle. Barring a catastrophic injury, Peterson will join that group sometime next season. My #10 back was just 593 yards away from the exclusive 10,000 yard / 3 All-Pro club and might have had the greatest 3-year peak ever. All of these guys were studs from the beginning - every one of them was a first round draft pick, with 9 taken among the first 7 overall selections.

Without further adieu:

1) Jim Brown
Vitals: 6-2 / 232 (40 time unknown)
Drafted: Round 1 (6th overall), 1957
Rushing Titles: 8
All-Pro Teams: 8
MVP Awards: 3
Championships: 1
Statistics: 118 Games, 2,359 Rushes, 12,312 Yards (5.2 Avg), 106 TD, 262 Receptions, 2,499 Yards (9.5 Avg), 20 TD, 2.17 Fumble%

Watching a Jim Brown video is like listening to great Jazz. Free-flowing, spellbinding, powerful, no play is the same and yet they all leave you speechless. Jim Brown retired at age 29 to star in movies after a 1965 season that might have been his greatest ever. He won the rushing title, his third MVP award, led Cleveland to the NFL Championship game and then called it quits. No one has ever left football at the top of his game like Brown. Even when John Elway retired after winning his second consecutive Super Bowl, he was no longer the athlete he was in his prime.

Jim Brown Highlight Video:


2) Adrian Peterson
Vitals: 6-2 / 217 (4.40 40 time)
Drafted: Round 1 (7th overall), 2007
Rushing Titles: 2
All-Pro Teams: 3
MVP Awards: 1
Championships: 0
Statistics: 89 Games, 1,754 Rushes, 8,849 Yards (5.0 Avg), 76 TD, 177 Receptions, 1,526 Yards (8.6 Avg), 4 TD, 1.35 Fumble%

If Peterson simply stays healthy for 3 or 4 more seasons, he will find himself comfortably between Jim Brown and Barry Sanders as the second greatest back of all-time. I prefer Peterson to Sanders mainly on style points. When Barry broke one, it was like he stole something during the night when you weren't looking. When Adrian breaks one, it's like helplessly watching him beat up you and your three best friends in plain daylight. There is a small chance AD overtakes Brown. Right now, Adrian is 27 years old and modern medicine combined with once-in-a-generation genes is a potent combo. Who thought Kobe Bryant was going to lead the NBA in scoring at age 34? No one. If Peterson can stay healthy and remain supremely productive through his age 33 season (6 more years), he'll approach 17,000 yards and 150 touchdowns with a peak performance greater or equal to any back in history. If that happens, move over Jimmy Brown.

Adrian Peterson Highlight Video:


3) Barry Sanders
Vitals: 5-8 / 203 (4.39 40 time)
Drafted: Round 1 (3rd overall), 1989
Rushing Titles: 4
All-Pro Teams: 6
MVP Awards: 1
Championships: 0
Statistics: 153 Games, 3,062 Rushes, 15,269 Yards (5.0 Avg), 99 TD, 352 Receptions, 2,921 Yards (8.3 Avg), 10 TD, 1.20 Fumble%

No one had better feet and stop/start ability than Barry. More so than any other back, Sanders did things on a regular basis that you didn't know were athletically possible. I've actually worked with Barry before and one thing that jumps out at you in person is how thick his lower half is in contrast to his lean upper body. He had the thighs and butt of a 250-pound man. That's what made him so suddenly explosive and impossible to bring down in tight quarters despite his small stature. No one lost more yardage than Barry Sanders, yet he finished with an average of 5.0 yards-per-carry. Like a prolific home-run hitter, you lived with the strikeouts.

Barry Sanders Highlight Video:


4) Walter Payton
Vitals: 5-10 / 200 (40 time unknown)
Drafted: Round 1 (4th overall), 1975
Rushing Titles: 1
All-Pro Teams: 5
MVP Awards: 1
Championships: 1
Statistics: 190 Games, 3,838 Rushes, 16,726 Yards (4.4 Avg), 110 TD, 492 Receptions, 4,538 Yards (9.2 Avg), 15 TD, 1.99 Fumble%

Watching Walter Payton's highlight video, it's hard to believe he was only listed at 200 pounds. In reality, he probably played most of his career in the 190-195 pound range. Yet few backs dealt as much punishment as Payton. He ran with bad intentions and stiff-armed his way to an NFL career rushing record by the time he retired. The classic Payton image is of him jumping over the offensive line head-over-heals en route to another goal-line touchdown. Other than determination, pure athleticism defined Walter. He could run, jump, throw, block and catch. He could do it all.

Walter Payton Highlight Video:


5) Emmitt Smith
Vitals: 5-9 / 216 (4.55 40 time)
Drafted: Round 1 (17th overall), 1990
Rushing Titles: 4
All-Pro Teams: 4
MVP Awards: 1
Championships: 3
Statistics: 226 Games, 4,409 Rushes, 18,355 Yards (4.2 Avg), 164 TD, 515 Receptions, 3,224 Yards (6.3 Avg), 11 TD, 1.24 Fumble%

It's easy to dismiss Emmitt's career rushing and touchdown records. He played on a great team with the best offensive line in football. He can't be the greatest because he was slow, short and kinda pudgy. But the reality is for five seasons, from 1991-1995, Emmitt Smith was the best back in the game. Yes, he played well past his prime and that affects how people view his career. But he was the best there was for a stretch. I can still close my eyes and picture Emmitt carrying the 11-4 Cowboys to the 1993 NFC East crown in a Week 17 win over the 11-4 Giants with a completely separated shoulder, touching the ball 42 times for 229 yards and a touchdown. His vision, balance, cutback skills and ability to withstand punishment is unmatched.

Emmitt Smith Highlight Video:


6) Eric Dickerson
Vitals: 6-3 / 220 (4.45 40 time)
Drafted: Round 1 (2nd overall), 1983
Rushing Titles: 4
All-Pro Teams: 4
MVP Awards: 0
Championships: 0
Statistics: 146 Games, 2,996 Rushes, 13,259 Yards (4.4 Avg), 90 TD, 281 Receptions, 2,137 Yards (7.6 Avg), 6 TD, 2.38 Fumble%

If you could play God and build the perfect back out of clay, he would look like Eric Dickerson. Tall, muscular and fast with vision and balance - ED had it all. Well, other than a passion for the game. After dominating the NFL in 1983 and 1984, Dickerson held out for the first of three occasions in 1985, eventually forcing a trade to Indianapolis in 1987. Despite winning 4 rushing titles in his first 6 seasons, he never seemed to really like playing football. Holy shit he was talented though. An upright, graceful runner, Dickerson would pick a hole and effortlessly run by or through defenders. If he had Walter Payton's heart, he'd probably rank 1st on this list.

Eric Dickerson Highlight Video:


7) Marshall Faulk
Vitals: 5-10 / 211 (4.28 40 time)
Drafted: Round 1 (2nd overall), 1994
Rushing Titles: 0
All-Pro Teams: 3
MVP Awards: 1
Championships: 1
Statistics: 176 Games, 2,836 Rushes, 12,279 Yards (4.3 Avg), 100 TD, 767 Receptions, 6,875 Yards (9.0 Avg), 36 TD, 1.00 Fumble%

Longtime NFL Coach Al Saunders described Marshall Faulk better than anybody. "He's like the queen on the chessboard," said Saunders. "You can do damage with your knights and bishops, but nobody does more damage than the queen." Marshall could line up wide, in the I-formation, in the slot, wherever. You did anything that would get him the ball in space and Marshall was so talented that he could execute whatever play you or Mike Martz could dream up. The indelible image of Faulk is a devastating stutter step, followed by him exploding past defenders with sprinter speed and brilliant cutbacks. From 1998-2001, Marshall averaged 2,248 yards from scrimmage and scored 69 touchdowns in 60 games.

Marshall Faulk Highlight Video:


8) O.J. Simpson
Vitals: 6-1 / 212 (40 time unknown)
Drafted: Round 1 (1st overall), 1969
Rushing Titles: 4
All-Pro Teams: 5
MVP Awards: 1
Championships: 0
Statistics: 135 Games, 2,404 Rushes, 11,236 Yards (4.7 Avg), 61 TD, 203 Receptions, 2,142 Yards (10.6 Avg), 14 TD, 2.38 Fumble%

The Juice had world-class speed. In fact, he's probably one of the 2 or 3 most naturally talented backs in history, the missing link between Jim Brown and Eric Dickerson. A prototype of size, speed, and fluidity for the current Adrian Peterson model. O.J. and Marshall Faulk are the two fastest running backs on this list. Simpson combined that speed with balance and strength - he and Dickerson are very similar players. O.J. was drafted #1 overall by a horrible Bills squad in 1969 who misused him worse than the Saints misused Reggie Bush. When Lou Saban (Nick's father) was hired to coach the Bills in 1972, he centered the offense around O.J. who responded by dominating the NFL from 1972-1976, winning 4 rushing titles in 5 years. Yes, he ran for a record 2,003 yards in just 14 games in 1973, but that wasn't even his best season. In 1975, O.J. ran for 1,817 yards and 16 touchdowns with 426 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns on 28 receptions.

O.J. Simpson Highlight Video:


9) LaDainian Tomlinson
Vitals: 5-10 / 221 (4.46 40 time)
Drafted: Round 1 (5th overall), 2001
Rushing Titles: 2
All-Pro Teams: 3
MVP Awards: 1
Championships: 0
Statistics: 170 Games, 3,174 Rushes, 13,684 Yards (4.3 Avg), 145 TD, 624 Receptions, 4,772 Yards (7.6 Avg), 17 TD, 0.79 Fumble%

If your lasting image of Tomlinson is the slimmed-down 210-pound version playing 3rd down for the Jets, you forgot how dominant a player he once was. For 7 seasons, Tomlinson was a powerful load with speed to burn and dealt the most vicious stiff arm this side of Walter Payton. His 31 touchdowns in 2006 is the NFL record. That Chargers team had the most talented roster in football and lost a heart-breaking playoff game to New England on an interception return fumble of all things. Tomlinson ran for 123 yards and two scores that game, ending his best shot at being on a Super Bowl team. One thing I never knew about Tomlinson before compiling this list is the guy almost never fumbled. His miniscule 0.79 fumbles / 100 touches is by far the lowest rate of any back on this list.

LaDainian Tomlinson Highlight Video:


10) Earl Campbell
Vitals: 5-11 / 232 (40 time unknown)
Drafted: Round 1 (1st overall), 1978
Rushing Titles: 3
All-Pro Teams: 3
MVP Awards: 1
Championships: 0
Statistics: 115 Games, 2,187 Rushes, 9,407 Yards (4.3 Avg), 74 TD, 121 Receptions, 806 Yards (6.7 Avg), 0 TD, 1.86 Fumble%

Earl didn't hit defenders as much as he speared them. Or decapitated them. In Campbell's first 3 seasons (1978-1980), he won Offensive Rookie of the Year, 3 rushing titles, 3 All-Pro selections and an MVP. He was as dominant as any back could possibly be. Unfortunately, all those big blows took a toll on Earl's body and he began to break down. He was no longer a big and fast back, just a big one. Campbell posted two more good seasons in 1981 and 1983 before being regulated to a complimentary role and retiring after 8 seasons. No one has a highlight reel that incites more "OHHHHH MAN, HOLY SHIT!!!" reactions.

Earl Campbell Highlight Video:


Honorable Mention:
Gale Sayers, Terrell Davis, Marcus Allen, Tony Dorsett, Franco Harris, Edgerrin James, Jerome Bettis, Curtis Martin, Thurman Thomas, Joe Perry, Steve Van Buren and Marion Motley.

Sayers and Davis had supreme peaks but didn't play long enough to make this list. Allen, Dorsett, Harris, James, Bettis, Thomas and Perry excelled for long periods of time but didn't dominate the way that backs on this list did. Van Buren and Motley had shorter NFL careers and limited carries (since they were two-way players) compared to more modern backs.

2012 Eagles 53-Man Roster

The Philadelphia Eagles settled on their initial 53-man roster for the 2012 season and unlike last year, when super-talented guys like Derek Landri and Cedric Thornton didn't make the week 1 cut because of a numbers game, this year's team actually consists of the best 53 players on the field regardless of position.

The media keeps talking about "shocking" cuts like (QB) Mike Kafka, (CB) Joselio Hanson and (WR) Chad Hall, but let's get real:

Mike Kafka is a horrible, awful, terrible football player. He has a high school arm and wilts under pressure. It didn't surprise me in the least that he couldn't beat out Trent Edwards, a player who is almost as worthless, but showed SOMETHING in meaningless preseason games against defenders who won't play a down this season. Sadly for Kafka, that made him expendable. I won't miss watching him short-arm throws in Bethlehem.

Joselio Hanson was out-played by rookie Brandon Boykin for the nickel spot. It's not like Hanson is a shutdown outside guy in case one of our starting corners goes down (hopefully Curtis Marsh can become that guy), so he didn't have another niche to fall back on.

Chad Hall is a tough kid with solid hands, but Damarius Johnson looks like the return and outside receiving threat DeSean Jackson did going into his rookie season. Without punt return duties, Hall had to excel as an inside receiver to make the squad. Jason Avant has a strangle-hold on that job. Hall just wasn't going to have as much impact as the 10th-best defensive lineman on this team.

The one guy who really performed well and didn't make the team, even though he probably should have based on training camp and preseason performance, was linebacker and special teams dynamo Ryan Rau. I thought Rau outperformed Casey Matthews by a wide-margin. The Eagles are betting on Matthews' pettigree, and I hope those genes kick in because Rau was a manimal out there. He would have been a great addition to special teams, especially with Colt Anderson out for a few more weeks.

I'll bet draft picks Marvin McNutt and Brandon Washington are signed to the practice squad. Those guys just aren't ready to contribute this year.

You can check out the Eagles 53-man roster in detail with this spreadsheet I put together, which includes measurables, 2011 statistics and more:

2012 Philadelphia Eagles 53-Man Roster Spreadsheet

Phillies 2011 MLB Draft Preview

The 2011 MLB June Amateur Draft is less than three weeks away (June 6-8). Only hardcore baseball fans really care about the MLB Draft, mainly because it’s rare for draft picks to make an impact on a big league club for at least 2 or 3 years. Despite this, there is a serious following out there thirsting for draft tidbits and I’m a card-carrying member.

Philadelphia doesn’t own a first round pick in the 2011 Draft, but they do have the #39 overall selection in the supplemental “sandwich” round (consisting of compensation picks between the 1^st and 2^nd rounds handed out to teams for losing key free agents ).

Philly’s first round pick, number 33 overall, was given to the Texas Rangers for losing starting pitcher Cliff Lee. The Phillies were awarded the 39^th pick in the sandwich round for losing outfielder Jayson Werth.

Here are five potential players Philadelphia will be looking at with their initial selection, the 39^th pick in the draft:

C, Austin Hedges (6-1 / 185), JSerra Catholic HS (San Juan Capistrano, CA)

2011 Statistics: .366 AVG, 22 R, 30 H, 11 2B, 2 3B, 4 HR, 16 RBI, 5 SB

SCOUTING REPORT: The top defensive catcher in the draft – high school or college. Has a reported 1.74 pop time to second base – anything under 2 seconds is good for a Major League catcher. Solid top-20 pick in any other draft, he will drop some because of this year’s pitching depth and his strong college commitment to UCLA, which could place him square in the Phillies’ lap. Bat needs to be developed. Ranked as the #32 overall draft prospect according to MLB.com.

SCOUTING VIDEO

C, Andrew Susac (6-1 / 205), Oregon State

2011 Statistics: .352 AVG, .493 OBP, .602 SLG, 32 GP, 30 R, 38 H, 8 2B, 2 3B, 5 HR, 31 RBI, 27 BB, 28 SO, 0 SB, 1 CS

SCOUTING REPORT: Drafted by Phillies in 16^th round of 2009 MLB Draft, but couldn’t sign him away from his college commitment. Has a solid arm – threw out 4 of 7 base runners this year (63.6%). Above average power and plate discipline. Had mediocre freshman season at Oregon State (.260/.387/.365), but has rebounded this year and is the top hitter on one of the best teams in the nation. Missed a chunk of the season with an injured wrist, returned from injury and is hitting as well as ever. He’s a draft-eligible sophomore, so signing him may be tough, allowing him to drop a little in the draft. Ranked as the #36 overall draft prospect according to MLB.com.

SCOUTING VIDEO

OF, Brian Goodwin (6-1 / 190), Miami Dade College

2011 Statistics: .382 AVG, .492 OBP, 47 GP, 42 R, 60 H, 11 2B, 2 3B, 8 HR, 37 RBI, 37 BB, 16 SB, 2 CS

SCOUTING REPORT: Played at North Carolina in 2010 and hit .291/.409/.511 with 7 HR, 63 RBI and 7 SB in 60 games. He transferred to Miami Dade junior college after facing an academic suspension at UNC. The tools are all there – above average speed, arm, bat and glove. If his power develops, he’s a legitimate five-tool player. Future centerfielder and leadoff batter. Ranked as the #37 overall draft prospect according to MLB.com.

SCOUTING VIDEO

OF, Derek Fisher (6-3 / 218), Cedar Crest HS (Lebanon, PA) ***PICTURED ABOVE***

2011 Statistics: .484 AVG, 27 R, 31 H, 3 2B, 1 3B, 11 HR, 28 RBI, 2 SB

SCOUTING REPORT: Thick, football-build in the mold of Angels' top-prospect Mike Trout. Can run a little and has good power and bat speed. Destined for leftfield. Undervalued due to limited games and level of competition in the East Coast, allowing him to potentially fall to the Phillies in the sandwich round even though he’s a solid first-round talent. The Phillies aren't scared to take a local high school star - they selected lefthander Jesse Biddle (Germantown Friends HS) with their first round pick in 2010. Has a funny little hitch in his swing, but loft comes easy and he should develop well above average power. Committed to attend Virginia. Ranked as the #42 overall draft prospect according to MLB.com.

SCOUTING VIDEO

RHP, Tyler Beede (6-4 / 200), Lawrence Academy (Groton, MA)

2011 Statistics: 7-0, 0.32 ERA, 8 GP, 44 IP, 8 H, 6 BB, 89 K

SCOUTING REPORT: Solid build with plenty of room to fill out. The high school righthander sits at 90-93 mph with a sharp, two-plane slervy breaking pitch. Has above average command and great composure on the mound. Solid commitment to Vanderbilt will make him a tough sign. Could easily drop to Phillies due to college commitment, but they will have to open the purse strings to sign him. Has tons of room for projection. Ranked as the #50 overall draft prospect according to MLB.com.

SCOUTING VIDEO

The Curious Case of Clifton Phifer Lee

The Phillies' Cliff Lee struck out 16 batters in his last start and currently leads the National League with 60 strikeouts. And with all his recent success (2008 AL CY Award, postseason dominance), that seams like par for the course. The thing is, it isn't. This kind of dominance is a recent phenomenon. There is a curious thing about Lee's career - like the famous literary character Benjamin Button, he seems to be getting younger with age.

Check out these year-by-year numbers of Lee's average fastball velocity since he made his MLB debut as a 23-year old in 2002:

Year (Avg FBv) Age
2002 (87.2) 23
2003 (88.8) 24
2004 (89.4) 25
2005 (89.3) 26
2006 (89.0) 27
2007 (89.0) 28
2008 (90.5) 29
2009 (91.1) 30
2010 (91.3) 31
2011 (91.6) 32

Most pitchers, even guys in their 20's, tend to gradually lose velocity. This is a normal trend - virtually all pitchers progressively lose a little gas as they get older. Even the great Felix Hernandez, just 25 years old, has lost some of the heat on his fastball. Here are King Felix's yearly average fastball velocity numbers:

Year (Avg FBv) Age
2005 (95.8) 19
2006 (95.2) 20
2007 (95.6) 21
2008 (94.6) 22
2009 (94.0) 23
2010 (94.1) 24
2011 (93.5) 25

It's no coincidence that Lee became a dominant pitcher in 2008, when his average fastball velocity broke 90 mph for the first time in his career. And surprisingly, his velocity increase hasn't stopped yet. When he has the good stuff, Lee is blowing away batters with 95 mph missiles from the left side. His average fastball is a career high 91.6 this season and it's the fourth consecutive year he's set a personal high in fastball velocity. Cliff Lee is actually getting better with age. And that's remarkable, because I can't find any other pitcher in the past 10 years (when FanGraphs started tracking velocity) who has done the same. In that way, Lee is completely atypical as a pitcher. He has more in common with a bottle of wine.

Mock 2011 NFL Draft: Round 1

With the 2011 NFL Draft just three days away, I’ve put together the first round of my mock draft, complete with college stats and comments on each selection. If you are a real draft sicko and want to check out my 2011 Top 100 Players spreadsheet, including combine workout numbers, you can view it HERE.

This is how I think the first round will fall into place:

1st Pick: CAROLINA PANTHERS SELECT … Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-5 / 248 / 4.59
2010 Statistics: 14gp, pass: 280/185-2854-30-7, rush: 264-1473-20, rec: 2-42-1
My Take: Is Newton ever going to dissect a playbook like Brady, McNabb, Manning, or Brees? No, he’s probably a little too slow upstairs. But he’s the right pick at number one. Carolina scored just 17 touchdowns last season. If Newton starts as a rookie, you can double that number. I don’t care if he can’t digest a complex playbook, he’s a winner and unstoppable in the red zone. Newton is Vince Young with a better arm and a solid support system – his brother is a NFL lineman with Jacksonville and he is extremely close with his father. Say what you will about his father, but Cam and his dad have a very close relationship. Vince Young never had a father-figure growing up and had tons of emotional baggage by the time he reached the NFL as a result. Newton is what Young could have, should have been.

2nd Pick: DENVER BRONCOS SELECT … Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-3 ¼ / 319 / 4.93
2010 Statistics: 11gp, 34tkl, 4.5sack, 4pbu
My Take: I personally think Nick Fairley will have the better NFL career. Dareus is a safe pick – he’s going to stuff the run and get you 5-8 sacks every year. Great player. Pro Bowl player. I just think Fairley has a NFL sack title in his future.

3rd Pick: BUFFALO BILLS SELECT … Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-2 ¾ / 246 / 4.53
2010 Statistics: 13gp, 68tkl, 10.5sack, int: 1-3-0, 6pbu, 3ff, 2fr
My Take: Speaking of NFL sack titles, you can already write Miller’s name in the record books with a pencil. A relentless pass rusher, Miller will go sideline-to-sideline to tackle a ball carrier. Him, Patrick Peterson and A.J. Green are the three guys that have the best shots, barring injury, of ending up in Canton 20 years from now.

4th Pick: CINCINNATI BENGALS SELECT … A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-3 ¾ / 211 / 4.50
2010 Statistics: 9gp, rec: 57-848-9, rush: 3-44-0, pr: 2-25-0
My Take: Slower, skinner and less explosive than Julio Jones, Green is still the best receiver in this draft. He’s silky smooth with exceptional body control and hands. Is he Randy Moss? No, but he’s a taller Isaac Bruce, and I’d take that.

5th Pick: ARIZONA CARDINALS SELECT … Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-4 ½ / 234 / 4.62
2010 Statistics: 13gp, pass: 475/301-3186-16-9, rush: 112-232-5
My Take: Let it be known that I am not a big fan of Gabbert. He looks like a guy you would cast in a movie as an NFL quarterback - big and strong, blond flowing hair – but he is completely unfamiliar with a pro-style offense, and does not have the God-given ability of Cam Newton to play on just sheer talent. If I were Arizona, I would pick Ryan Mallett, sit back and watch him flick 60-yard bombs to Larry Fitzgerald all day long.

6th Pick: CLEVELAND BROWNS SELECT … Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-0 ¼ / 219 / 4.34
2010 Statistics: 13gp, int: 4-134-0, 42tkl, 6pbu, 1blk, pr: 26-418-2, kr: 32-932-0
My Take: Cleveland Browns General Manager Tom Heckert, going back to his time with the Eagles, always takes the #1 player on the board. So while corner isn’t a huge need – Joe Haden was their 1st pick last year and is outstanding – Peterson is the best player on the board and I don’t see Heckert taking chances on defensive linemen like Nick Fairley (attitude) or DaQuan Bowers (knee) with him still available. A Haden and Peterson combination would dominate receivers for the next 8-10 years. Cleveland does have a glaring need at receiver and Julio Jones would make a lot of sense, I just don’t see Heckert drafting for need.

7th Pick: SAN FRANCISCO 49’ers SELECT … Robert Quinn, OLB, North Carolina
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-4 / 265 / 4.70
2010 Statistics: Did Not Play
My Take: Quinn, who didn’t play in 2010 because of a NCAA violation, is big and fast in the mold of DeMarcus Ware. There are lots of question marks when it comes to Quinn. He has a benign brain tumor. He piled up 11 sacks as a sophomore in 2009, but many of them were against inferior competition. That said, he ran a 4.58 at his pro day and that’s moving at 265 pounds. Best case, he turns into Ware. Worst case….anyone know what Vernon Gholston is doing these days?

8th Pick: TENNESSEE TITANS SELECT … Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-4 / 291 / 4.87
2010 Statistics: 14gp, 60tkl, 11.5sack, int: 1-(-1)-0, 2ff, 2fr
My Take: There are warning signs attached to Fairley. He’s a little skinny from the waist down. He’s ill-tempered on the field and lackadaisical off. But when you watch him play, ZOMG he’s good. I haven’t seen a defensive tackle split the gap like Fairley since Warren Sapp. He’s not the same player as Ndamukong Suh - he’s lighter and faster - but he could potentially have the same gigantic impact on a team.

9th Pick: DALLAS COWBOYS SELECT … Tyron Smith, OT, USC
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-5 / 307 / 4.98
2010 Statistics: 12/12gp/gs
My Take: I’m amazed at how ripped Smith is at 307 pounds. The dude has zero body fat and he doesn’t just look the part – Smith started at USC as a true freshman and dominated at the right tackle position from day one. Dallas will roll the dice and hope he makes a successful transition to left tackle. If not, he will do just fine as a dominant run-blocker from the right side.

10th Pick: WASHINGTON REDSKINS SELECT … Julio Jones, WR, Alabama
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-2 ¾ / 220 / 4.39
2010 Statistics: 13gp, rec: 78-1133-7, rush: 8-135-2, pr: 5-44-0, kr: 5-129-0
My Take: Jones is Anquan Boldin on steroids. He is bigger, faster and an even better run blocker than Boldin. In fact, he might be the best blocking receiver in the NFL as soon as the season starts. Not a bad quality to have when you are a 220-pounder with 4.39 speed. People say he drops easy balls, but he can cure that and no one in this draft plays with more aggression. If you took Terrell Owens and gave him the heart and blocking skills of a Hines Ward or Boldin, that’s how good Jones could be. Assuming he's injury-free, in five years everyone will ask “How did Julio Jones fall to the 10th pick in the draft?.”

11th Pick: HOUSTON TEXANS SELECT … J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-5 ½ / 290 / 4.84
2010 Statistics: 13gp, 62tkl, 7.0sack, int: 1-15-0, 8pbu, 3ff, 2fr, 3blk
My Take: The Texans are switching to the 3-4 defense this year and Watt is the perfect compliment to Mario Williams at defensive end. Watt is a beast – his passion, relentlessness and brute strength remind me of Howie Long. Him and Williams give the Texans two 290+ pound defensive ends that can blow up the backfield. That’s an ideal way to start a new defense and nothing will cover up Houston’s porous secondary like a strong pass-rush.

12th Pick: MINNESOTA VIKINGS SELECT … DaQuan Bowers, DE, Clemson
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-3 ½ / 280 / 4.91
2010 Statistics: 13gp, 73tkl, 15.5sack, int: 1-0-0, 2pbu, 1ff
My Take: Minnesota thinks long and hard about taking Jake Locker here, but in the end, I think they want to sign a veteran quarterback like Donovan McNabb or Vince Young when the labor dispute is settled. Bowers is a monstrous defensive end that can bookend with Jared Allen to wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks. Concerns over the condition of Bowers’ knee are long-tem, and I think Minnesota overlooks that and takes a gamble to win right now. Bowers led the NCAA with 15.5 sacks and was the number-one defensive player in high school three years ago. His upside, assuming he doesn’t break down, is worthy of a top-three pick.

13th Pick: DETROIT LIONS SELECT … Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-0 / 206 / 4.43
2010 Statistics: 14gp, 59tkl, 1.0sack, 13pbu
My Take: Amukamara teams up with his former college teammate Ndamukong Suh to anchor Detroit’s defense while frustrating football play-by-play analysts everywhere. I think Amukamara is a bit overrated – he and Jimmy Smith are neck and neck in talent – but he’s a quality cover-corner who can tackle. If he can learn when to turn his head around, he’ll develop into the playmaker this position in the draft warrants.

14th Pick: ST. LOUIS RAMS SELECT … Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-2 ¼ / 298 / 4.99
2010 Statistics: 13gp, 63tkl, 4.5sack, 3pbu
My Take: Some think Liuget is a better defensive tackle prospect than Nick Fairley. I won’t go there, but he offers good speed and pass rushing ability for the position. He’s one of the fastest rising players heading into the draft. The Rams could really use a receiver to take the heat off Sam Bradford, but with Julio Jones off the board, Liuget fills a position of need and offers lots of upside.

15th Pick: MIAMI DOLPHINS SELECT … Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-6 ¾ / 253 / 5.37
2010 Statistics: 13gp, pass: 411/266-3869-32-12, rush: 44-(-76)-4
My Take: Shades of Dan Marino falling to the Dolphins with the 27th pick in 1983, Miami should steal Mallett in the middle of round one. Many people have Mallett pegged as a second round pick, but I have know idea what tape they are watching. The player I see looks just like Drew Bledsoe in his prime. Mallett will instantly have the strongest arm in the NFL and has experience playing in a pro style offense with a multitude of reads and calls at the line on every possession, which should be a major asset, especially compared to his peers in this class who ran gimmick offenses in college (Gabbert, Newton, Andy Dalton). Like Marino, Mallett has been accused of drug use leading up to the draft. I think this story ends up the same – Dolphins steal yet another All-Pro quarterback.

16th Pick: JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS SELECT … Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-4 ¼ / 263 / 4.78
2010 Statistics: 10gp, 48tkl, 5.5sack, int: 1-58-0, 2pbu, 1ff
My Take: Smith has a bit of Jevon Kearse in him. Like Kearse, Smith is a defensive end / outside linebacker hybrid who can really explode into the backfield and change games. He’s only played two years, and he was injured in 2010, so there isn’t a lot of tape to go on, but his explosion off the snap can’t be taught.

17th Pick: NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS SELECT … Cameron Jordan, DE, California Georgia
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-4 ¼ / 287 / 4.78
2010 Statistics: 12gp, 62tkl, 5.5sack, 4pbu, 3ff, 1fr (1fr-TD)
My Take: New England has the envious position of going 14-2 and choosing between a stud 3-4 defensive end (Jordan) and a stud interior lineman (Mike Pouncey). Both are positions of need, but I’ll bet New England goes with the more valuable position. Jordan’s dad was a longtime standout tight end in the NFL, and after watching Cameron dominate the Senior Bowl, it’s fair to say he will more than fill his father’s footsteps.

18th Pick: SAN DIEGO CHARGERS SELECT … Ryan Kerrigan, OLB, Purdue
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-4 / 267 / 4.71
2010 Statistics: 12gp, 70tkl, 12.5sack, 1pbu, 5ff, 2fr
My Take: Kerrigan teams with fellow Boilermaker Shaun Phillips for a formidable pass-rushing tandem in San Diego. Lots of people are taking shots at Kerrigan’s “lack of athleticism,” but what tape are they watching? I see a relentless pass rusher who posted a 4.71 time at the NFL Combine – the same number as hyped athlete extraordinaire Robert Quinn. For those who doubt Kerrigan’s athletic prowess and downplay his relentless style of play as a significant attribute, does Clay Matthews ring a bell?

19th Pick: NEW YORK GIANTS SELECT … Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-7 / 311 / 5.23
2010 Statistics: 13/13gp/gs
My Take: A four-year starter, Castonzo has experience and a strong punch in his favor. He’s not the best athlete in the world, but his footwork should keep him on the left side to protect Eli Manning from routinely getting hammered. The Giants can’t possibly pass on a player named “Castonzo.”

20th Pick: TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS SELECT … Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-2 ¾ / 281 / 4.83
2010 Statistics: 13gp, 52tkl, 3.5sack, 1pbu, 1ff, 1blk
My Take: Tampa Bay addressed the interior of the defensive line last year by taking tackles Gerald McCoy and Brian Price with their first two picks. This time, they take Clayborn, the best defensive player on the board, to help their young defense become even more formidable up front. Clayborn is a top-15 talent that falls a little in a draft rich with defensive line prospects.

21st Pick: KANSAS CITY CHIEFS SELECT … Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-1 / 204 / 4.43
2010 Statistics: 13gp, rec: 67-1055-12, rush: 9-7-0, pr: 1-0-0, kr: 30-585-0
My Take: After Dwayne Bowe lit the world on fire during the first half of last season, opponents successfully did everything possible to take him away because Kansas City had no one else who could hurt you deep. Enter Smith, who’s 4.43 speed and explosive cutting ability will make defensive coordinators think twice about double-teaming Bowe.

22nd Pick: INDIANAPOLIS COLTS SELECT … Mike Pouncey, OG, Florida
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-5 / 303 / 5.28
2010 Statistics: 13/13gp/gs
My Take: Everyone has Pouncey in the top 15, but not me. He’s a very good player, but he’s not as good as his identical twin brother Maurkice. Mike is an exceptional pulling guard – perfect for the stretch plays Manning and the Colts use on a consistent basis. In time, he can develop into a center, taking the baton from longtime starter Jeff Saturday. But right now, Pouncey can barely snap the ball in shotgun formation, and guys who can only play guard are not taken in the top 15.

23rd Pick: PHILADELPHIA EAGLES SELECT … Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-2 ¼ / 211 / 4.46
2010 Statistics: 12gp, 70tkl, 5pbu, 1ff, 1fr
My Take: Smith might be the best cover corner in this draft, even better than Patrick Peterson. He’s a huge corner with speed and a mean streak. He actually reminds me of Raiders All-Pro corner Nnamdi Asomugha in both body type and style of play. If he can keep his posse in check, Smith could end up as the steal of this draft. Teamed with Asante Samuel, the Eagles could shut down opposing passers.

24th Pick: NEW ORLEANS SAINTS SELECT … Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, Temple
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-4 ¼ / 315 / 4.96
2010 Statistics: 12gp, 70tkl, 9.5sack, 3pbu, 2ff, 1fr, rec: 1-3-0
My Take: The Saints desperately need a pass rusher to team up with Will Smith and Wilkerson gives them just that. Versatile, Wilkerson lined up at defensive tackle in college but shouldn't have an issue at defensive end. The Saints like big defensive ends in their scheme and Wilkerson fits the bill.

25th Pick: ***TRADE WITH SEAHAWKS*** BILLS SELECT … Jake Locker, QB, Washington
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-2 ½ / 231 / 4.59
2010 Statistics: 12gp, pass: 332/184-2265-17-9, rush: 114-386-6, rec: 1-16-0
My Take: Buffalo trades the 34th overall pick and a second round pick in 2012 to Seattle for their quarterback of the future. Locker has the arm and legs of a superstar, but he needs time to digest a playbook and master progressions. After all, he’s only played two years as a real quarterback – he was an option QB in high school and during his first three years at Washington. The presence of Ryan Fitzpatrick gives Locker time to learn.

26th Pick: BALTIMORE RAVENS SELECT … Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-7 / 314 / 5.27
2010 Statistics: 13/13gp/gs
My Take: The rich keep getting richer. Baltimore, who almost never misses on a first round pick, would love the opportunity to select Carimi as a bookend to left tackle Michael Oher. Baltimore’s run game was down last season - they rushed for just 3.8 yards per carry - and Carimi can pave the way for Ray Rice to run all over opponents in 2012. He’s the nastiest player in this draft and I would not be shocked if he ends up with more accolades than any other offensive lineman in this class when it’s all said and done.

27th Pick: ATLANTA FALCONS SELECT … Marvin Austin, DT, North Carolina
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-1 ¾ / 309 / 4.90
2010 Statistics: Did Not Play
My Take: Austin has top-15 ability. His NCAA violations prohibited him from playing in 2010, but he worked his ass off to prepare for the East-West Shrine Game and NFL Combine and it really paid off. I see him as having the same type of NFL career as Marcell Dareus, without having to pay him like the 2nd overall pick in the draft.

28th Pick: ***TRADE WITH PATRIOTS*** BENGALS SELECT … Andy Dalton, QB, TCU
Height/Weight/Speed: 6-2 / 215 / 4.87
2010 Statistics: 13gp, pass: 316/209-2857-27-6, rush: 86-435-6, punt: 1-21-0
My Take: Cincinnati trades the 35th overall pick in round two and a second round pick in 2012 to New England to take Dalton. Best-case scenario, Dalton develops into Drew Brees – another undersized guy with an average arm who is a better-than-you’d-expect athlete and a genius on the football field. Having watched Brees up close at Purdue, Dalton displays similar moxie on the field. I think he pans out.

29th Pick: CHICAGO BEARS SELECT … Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
Height/Weight: 6-8 ¼ / 319 / 5.05
2010 Statistics: 12/12gp/gs
My Take: Even after taking Chris Williams in the first round in 2008, the Bears have the worst offensive line in football. Assuming they want Jay Cutler upright, Chicago is thrilled Solder is still on the board. A converted tight end, Solder is far from a completed project and needs more reps against speed rushers. He does have exceptional athleticism, so you’d think he develops into a quality left tackle down the line.

30th Pick: NEW YORK JETS SELECT … Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA
Height/Weight: 6-2 ½ / 254 / 4.88
2010 Statistics: 12gp, 68tkl, 4.0sack, int: 2-90-0, 4pbu, 2ff, 2fr
My Take: Ayers can rush the passer, drop back into coverage, you name it, he did it in college. Below average athletic showings at the combine and UCLA’s pro day drop him to the Jets, who are happy to deploy their shiny new toy in a defensive scheme that values flexibility.

31st Pick: PITTSBURGH STEELERS SELECT … Ras-I Dowling, CB, Virginia
Height/Weight: 6-1 ½ / 198 / 4.46
2010 Statistics: 5gp, 15tkl, 1pbu
My Take: This is the first “REALLY???” pick of the draft. The Steelers have a need at corner and no one really thinks Aaron Williams or Brandon Harris are first-round talents, so the Steelers take the injured but immensely talented Dowling with their first pick. When you have the roster Pittsburgh has, you can take chances on talented players who have concerns.

32nd Pick: GREEN BAY PACKERS SELECT … Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
Height/Weight: 5-9 ¼ / 215 / 4.62
2010 Statistics: 11gp, rush: 158-875-13, rec: 21-282-1, kr: 1-19-0
My Take: The 2009 Heisman Trophy Winner’s wait ends with Green Bay. Ingram is a tough, shifty runner with good hands and initial explosion. His long-speed is a concern, and he was the second best runner in his own backfield in my opinion (Trent Richardson is a future Top-10 pick), but Ingram provides some value at the end of round one. He won’t turn into Emmitt Smith, but he should easily beat out Ryan Grant and James Starks for the starting running back job and take some pressure off Aaron Rodgers.

2010 Mid-Season NFL All-Pro Team

Ever team in the NFL has played at least 8 games, so I figured I’d throw my two cents out there and put together a mid-season NFL All-Pro Team.

Below are my top choices at each position based on play from the season’s first-half. I do not give credit for previous performance – no obligatory Derek Jeter Gold Glove selection on this team. One note, a small number of teams have played 9 games, but I’ve only used statistics from the first 8 games to keep it Even-Stevens.

I’ve basically followed the Associated Press All-Pro Team that consists of (1) quarterback, tight end, center, kicker, punter and return specialist, and (2) running backs, wide receivers, offensive tackles, offensive guards, defensive ends, defensive tackles, outside linebackers, inside linebackers, cornerbacks and safeties. The only difference is I did not include a fullback. Cause having two running backs AND a fullback on the team makes no sense whatsoever.

Here’s one man’s mid-season 2010 NFL dream team -

QUARTERBACK:
Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 198/306 (64.7%), 2649 YDS, 8.7 Y/A, 15 TD, 7 INT, 98.9 RATING
It was REALLY tough not to have Peyton Manning on this squad, but the All-Pro Team is different than the Most Valuable Player Award. Rivers is having the most-outstanding season of any quarterback in the NFL. He leads the league with 2,649 passing yards and 8.7 yards/pass attempt (the most underrated stat for a QB).

RUNNING BACK:
Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 180 ATT, 857 YDS, 4.8 AVG, 7 TD; 26 REC, 257 YDS, 9.9 AVG, 1 TD
Without a doubt, Peterson is the most talented running back in the NFL. And after fumbling the ball 16 times over the past two years, he has yet to fumble in 206 touches this season. Few backs run harder, cut sharper or run faster than Peterson. Just your typical 6-2, 218-pound runner with 4.39-second speed….

Arian Foster, Houston Texans
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 157 ATT, 864 YDS, 5.5 AVG, 9 TD; 32 REC, 315 YDS, 9.8 AVG, 1 TD
The undrafted Foster is making Houston’s already explosive offensive that much better. Foster started the season with a 231-yard, 3-touchdown day against the Colts and has yet to slow down. This 232-pound back is a load to bring down.

WIDE RECEIVER:
Roddy White, Atlanta Falcons
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 58 REC, 796 YDS, 13.7 AVG, 5 TD
White is quarterback Matt Ryan’s security blanket in Atlanta and one of the key reasons they are 6-2 this season. He’s had some truly huge games this year, including an 11-catch, 201-yard, 2-touchdown performance against Cincinnati.

Brandon Lloyd, Denver Broncos
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 42 REC, 878 YDS, 20.9 AVG, 4 TD
I remember how dominant Lloyd was in college at Illinois when I was working for Purdue’s football team and I never figured out why he didn’t develop into an NFL Pro Bowl player. He’s gotten past whatever issues he had before this season and currently leads the NFL in receiving yards while averaging a robust 20.9 yards on 42 receptions.

TIGHT END:
Antonio Gates, San Diego Chargers
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 40 REC, 663 YDS, 16.6 AVG, 9 TD
Even with great NFL tight ends like Dallas Clark, Vernon Davis, Zach Miller and Jason Witten, is there a bigger gap between the best player and second best player at any other position in the NFL? That’s how good Gates is and how incredible his season has been. Gates is putting up prolific numbers despite being blanketed by two players on almost every down. He leads the NFL with 9 touchdown receptions.

OFFENSIVE TACKLE:
Jake Long, Miami Dolphins
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP/8GS
Probably the best left tackle in the league, Long is living up to his status as the top pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. He’s a devastating mauler in the running game and is much improved in pass protection.

Joe Thomas, Cleveland Browns
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP/8GS
If Long is the best left tackle in the NFL, he beats Thomas by the slimmest of margins. Thomas is an exceptional run-blocker and key cornerstone for Cleveland’s revival.

OFFENSIVE GUARD:
Jahri Evans, New Orleans Saints
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP/8GS
Evans is the best guard in the NFL and has been since New Orleans drafted him in 2006. He finally received much-earned All-Pro honors last year and will repeat this season if the writers watch any football at all.

Chris Snee, New York Giants
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP/8GS
For a guard, Snee can really move. That agility helps him get into the second level and pave the way for New York’s vaunted rushing attack. The Giants are averaging 152 rushing yards/game, 3rd best in the NFL.

CENTER:
Alex Mack, Cleveland Browns
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP/8GS
I’m not a fan of drafting centers in the first round, but it looks like Cleveland made a solid selection when they drafted Mack 21st overall in 2009. He’s paved the way for running back Peyton Hillis’ breakout season.

DEFENSIVE END:
Trent Cole, Philadelphia Eagles
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 39 TKL, 7.0 SACK, 2 PD, 1 FF
Despite receiving little fanfare, Cole is consistently among the best players at his position. There are more explosive defensive ends in the NFL, guys like Mario Williams and Dwight Freeney, but few put up his numbers year in and year out. After averaging 11 sacks and 68 tackles over the past 3 seasons, Cole is on pace for 14 sacks and 78 tackles this year. Ho-hum.

Osi Uymenyiora, New York Giants
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 7GP; 21 TKL, 8.0 SACK, 1 PD, 7 FF
Great bounce-back season for Uymenyiora after a rough (for him) 2009 campaign. He and Dwight Freeney are probably the fastest off the ball of any defensive lineman in the game.

DEFENSIVE TACKLE:
Haloti Ngata, Baltimore Ravens
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 43 TKL, 5.0 SACK, 1 PD
Forget the numbers. No one in the NFL commands as many double-teams as Ngata, yet he has still managed 43 tackles and 5 sacks. His impact on the 6-2 Ravens is enormous and he’s a leading contender for NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Ndamukong Suh, Detroit Lions
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 29 TKL, 6.5 SACK, 1 INT, 1 PD, 1 FR (1 TD)
“Reggie White Jr.” is proving all the draftniks who said he wouldn’t be a big sack guy in the NFL very, very wrong. With Suh’s speed, strength and motor, who needs advanced pass-rushing moves? He’s clearly the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year.

OUTSIDE LINEBACKER:
James Harrison, Pittsburgh Steelers
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 55 TKL, 7.0 SACK, 1 INT, 2 PD, 4 FF, 1 FR
Harrison is just the most-intimidating, intense, best-tackling, pass-rushing monster in the NFL. In a league with outstanding outside linebackers like Cameron Wake, Clay Matthews, DeMarcus Ware and Tamba Hali, I’d take Harrison before any of them.

Clay Matthews, Green Bay Packers
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 7GP; 27 TKL, 9.5 SACK, 1 PD, 1 FF
Despite missing a game, Matthews is the mid-season front-runner for NFL Defensive Player of the Year. His 9.5 sacks leads the NFL and his impact rushing the passer and making plays behind the line of scrimmage are unmatched.

INSIDE LINEBACKER:
Lawrence Timmons, Pittsburgh Steelers
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 77 TKL, 3.0 SACK, 2 INT, 7 PD, 1 FF, 1 FR
A first-round pick in 2007, Timmons has really thrived this year after being brought along slowly by Pittsburgh. With 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, 7 pass deflections and a forced fumble in just 8 games, there isn’t a better big-play inside linebacker in the NFL.

Jerod Mayo, New England Patriots
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 95 TKL, 1.0 SACK, 1 PD, 1 FF, 1 FR
The 2008 Defensive Rookie of the Year, Mayo is back on top of his game after suffering a multitude of injuries last season. He leads the NFL with 95 tackles and is a key cog for the 6-2 Patriots.

CORNERBACK:
Leon Hall, Cincinnati Bengals
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 25 TKL, 4 INT, 7 PD, 2 FF
Hall’s outstanding play has been overshadowed by the Bengals disappointing start, but with Darrelle Revis battling hamstring issues, Hall is the best cover-corner in the NFL.

Aqib Talib, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 7GP; 23 TKL, 5 INT (1 TD), 6 PD
After sitting out the season opener for “personal conduct” reasons, Talib has lit the world on fire for a surprising 5-3 Tampa squad. He leads the team with 5 interceptions and is living up to his first round draft status.

SAFETY:
Michael Griffin, Tennessee Titans
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 53 TKL, 4 INT, 7 PD, 1 FF, 1 FR
Griffin is the definition of a big-play free safety. He might give up a play here and there, but he’s on pace for 8 interceptions and 106 tackles. That’s production.

LaRon Landry, Washington Redskins
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 76 TKL, 1.0 SACK, 1 INT, 7 PD, 1 FF, 1 FR
The 235-pound Landry hits (and looks) like an NFL linebacker. He leads all defensive backs in tackles, knockouts and alligator arms this season. There isn’t another player in the league more feared by receivers on crossing patterns – even Ray Lewis doesn’t hit like Landry.

KICKER:
Dan Carpenter, Miami Dolphins
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 19/22 FG, 86.4 FG%; 12/12 XP; 69 PTS
Miami has struggled to score this season, but you can’t blame the kicker. Carpenter has connected on 19 of 22 field goals so far this year, including 3 of 4 over 50 yards.

PUNTER:
Shane Lechler, Oakland Raiders
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 36 PUNT, 1834 YDS, 50.9 AVG
The best punter in the NFL since he entered the league in 2000, Lechler is on his way to leading the league in yards/punt for the 6th time in 8 seasons. He might just be the best punter in NFL history.

KICK RETURN SPECIALIST:
Leon Washington, Seattle Seahawks
2010 Statistics through 8 games: 8GP; 24 KR, 753 YDS, 31.4 AVG, 2 TD; 4 PR, 78 YDS, 19.5 AVG, 0 TD
Washington, who leads the NFL in kickoff return average and touchdowns, is back after suffering a serious knee injury that led to his departure from the Jets. Here’s hoping he finally gets that big contract he sought in New York.