Today, now former Florida coach Billy Donovan accepted the Oklahoma City Thunder head coaching job. Here some candidates to replace Donovan.
1. Archie Miller, Head Coach, Dayton
2. Gregg Marshall, Head Coach, Wichita State
3. Chris Mack, Head Coach, Xavier
4. Anthony Grant, Assistant Coach, Florida
5. John Pelphrey, Assistant Coach, Florida
6. Richard Pitino, Head Coach, Minnesota
7. Mike White, Head Coach, Louisiana Tech
8. Jamie Dixon, Head Coach, Pittsburgh
9. Ben Jacobson, Head Coach, Northern Iowa
10. Steve Prohm, Head Coach, Murray State
11. Brad Underwood, Head Coach, Stephen F. Austin
12. Dan Hurley, Head Coach, Rhode Island
13. Larry Krystkowiak, Head Coach, Utah
14. Larry Shyatt, Head Coach, Wyoming
Thursday, April 30, 2015
2015 NFL Mock Draft: Final Edition
Here is the final edition of my 2015 Mock Draft.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston, Quarterback, Florida State: Winston checks all of the boxes as the Buccaneers’ franchise quarterback. He is a polished pocket passer with the charisma and leadership skills to help the Buccaneers get over the hump in the NFC South.
2. Tennessee Titans- Marcus Mariota, Quarterback, Oregon: As we get closer to the draft, the interest in Mariota seems to be intensifying. So many teams are sending so many people to interview and work out Mariota, there has to be a high level of interest there. Because of that, it’s becoming hard to see him get past the second pick in the draft. Whether it’s actually Tennessee making the pick is another story.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars- Amari Cooper, Wide Receiver, Alabama: Giving second-year quarterback Blake Bortles the most pro-ready receiver in the draft helps Jacksonville more than adding another pass rusher to a squad that already finished sixth in the NFL in sacks a season ago.
4. Oakland Raiders- Leonard Williams, Defensive End, USC: Arguably the best defender in the draft fell into the Raiders' lap a year ago with Khalil Mack. Williams has said he would like to play for the Raiders and would complement Mack, giving Oakland its first fearsome defensive front in a long time.
5. Washington Redskins- Dante Fowler Jr., Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Florida: With the draft's most pro-ready pass rusher still available, Washington is able to quickly replace free-agent departure Brian Orakpo -- who the club attempted to keep.
6. New York Jets- Bud Dupree, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Kentucky: The Jets will have its
pick of a few pass rushers here. Dupree is a high-upside athlete, who head coach Todd Bowles could mold into a cornerstone player.
7. Chicago Bears- Kevin White, Wide Receiver, West Virginia: The Bears could easily go with the best defensive player available – perhaps Washington's Danny Shelton – but a player like White is too dynamic to pass up as a Brandon Marshall replacement.
8. Atlanta Falcons- Vic Beasley, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Clemson: The Falcons brought in former Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn as head coach to bring some intensity and pass rush to Atlanta. Pound for pound, Beasley is the most explosive edge rusher in the draft.
9. New York Giants- Brandon Scherff, Offensive Tackle, Iowa: The Giants could be intrigued by some of the edge rushers still on the board but if Scherff -- the draft's best offensive lineman -- is available, he would make too much sense to pass up.
10. St. Louis Rams- Andrus Peat, Offensive Tackle, Auburn: There is a lot of buzz around Peat as the draft approaches. In St. Louis he could be the answer at right tackle, giving the Rams bookends along with Greg Robinson.
11. Minnesota Vikings- Trae Waynes, Cornerback, Michigan State: The Vikings continue to make strides, fulfilling the image of coach Mike Zimmer by becoming a very good defensive team. Waynes is an immediate starter and producer.
12. Cleveland Browns- DeVante Parker, Wide Receiver, Louisville: Cleveland had significant needs at the receiver position in the wake of the season-long suspension of Josh Gordon, who wasn't even that great last year whene he played. The team brought in Dwyane Bowe and Brian Hartline but none of those guys look like the answer to the problem. Parker already is a really good route-runner, has excellent size and good hands.
13. New Orleans Saints- Randy Gregory, Defensive End, Nebraska: Some project Gregory to slide all the way out of the first round, but the Saints need another pass rusher and Gregory might not slide as far as some think.
14. Miami Dolphins- Todd Gurley, Running Back, Georgia: With his surgically repaired knee reportedly earning positive reviews from NFL doctors on April 17, Gurley is likely to get a late bump up draft boards. By already investigating a trade into the top 10 for a receiver, Miami appears committed to making a big splash on draft day, similar to the aggressive move made in free agency with the signing of Ndamukong Suh.
15. San Francisco 49ers- Marcus Peters, Cornerback, Washington: Patrick Willis and Chris Borland retiring has shifted the attention in San Francisco to inside linebacker but replacing starting cornerback Chris Culliver is also a concern. Peters comes with obvious character concerns after getting kicked off the team at Washington but the Oakland native would have local support here and plays with the physicality to handle playing in the rough and tumble NFC West.
16. Houston Texans- Nelson Agholor, Wide Receiver, USC: A lot of people are connecting Agholor to the Texans, and the buzz is similar to what it was for DeAndre Hopkins and Houston in 2015. Inside linebacker is a need, but that can be found later in the draft.
17. San Diego Chargers- Melvin Gordon, Running Back, Wisconsin: Gordon has been a popular choice for the Chargers, and he would immediately be considered by most the favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year. A right tackle like Ereck Flowers or T.J. Clemmings would be a good fit, as well. It would allow the Chargers to move D.J. Fluker to guard and give them a great pair to build around.
18. Kansas City Chiefs- Cameron Irving, Offensive Tackle/Center, Florida State: The Chiefs' offensive line needs help in a couple spots, and a player like Erving could be used at center or tackle. Wide receivers have been common picks for the Chiefs, but how often does Andy Reid target that position in the first round?
19. Cleveland Browns (via Buffalo Bills)- Arik Armstead, Defensive Tackle, Oregon: The Browns finished dead last in the NFL in run defense a year ago and have allowed over 2,000 rushing yards in 14 of the past 16 seasons -- a recipe for disaster in the black and blue AFC North. If standing pat, it is hard to imagine defensive-minded head coach Mike Pettine not pushing for help along the line of scrimmage and Armstead has the raw tools to develop.
20. Philadelphia Eagles- Breshad Perriman, Wide Receiver, UCF: This pick fills a need, with Jeremy Maclin gone to Kansas City and 2014 draftees Jordan Matthews and Josh Huff lacking the downfield skills of the Central Florida speedster.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Jake Fisher, Offensive Tackle, Oregon: This choice is being made solely based on something I heard late Wednesday night. The Bengals could also be targeting Texas A&M's Cedric Ogbuehi as well.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers- Byron Jones, Cornerback, Connecticut: The Steelers will have a new lieutenant running the defense after the franchise parted ways with the venerable Dick LeBeau, replacing him with linebackers coach Keith Butler. The pass rush was good as always but the secondary really looked like a mess at times and could certainly use an overhaul.
23. Detroit Lions- Malcolm Brown, Defensive Tackle, Texas: The loss of Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley in free agency makes defensive tackle an obvious area of concern for the Lions. Brown is a quick-twitch penetrating defensive tackle whose blue-collar work ethic might be especially appreciated in Detroit after Suh took the money and ran and Fairley failed to live up to expectations.
24. Arizona Cardinals- Shane Ray, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Missouri: A citation for marijuana possession this week and a less-than-spectacular Pro Day has Ray's stock slipping but for an Arizona squad looking for edge rushers, the reigning SEC sack king could fit perfectly. Ray has an electric first step to beat pass blockers off the edge and if inserted into a defense as talented as Arizona's, he could quickly prove a steal.
25. Carolina Panthers- DJ Humphries, Offensive Tackle, Florida: The Panthers' need at offensive tackle matches up nicely with one of the biggest strengths in this year's draft. It just makes it a little more fun that Humphries is from Charlotte.
26. Baltimore Ravens- Jaelen Strong, Wide Receiver, Arizona State: This was initially Wake Forest corner Kevin Johnson, but switched at the last minute to Strong. He's the new deep ball threat that Joe Flacco needs in Baltimore.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Kevin Johnson, Cornerback, Florida State: Cornerback is one of the few areas of concern on an otherwise stacked roster in Dallas. Johnson, a four-year starter, has terrific agility and speed but some question his ability to handle the physicality of the NFL at 6-feet and 188 pounds, which could allow him to drop into Dallas' lap.
28. Denver Broncos- TJ Clemmings, Offensive Tackle, Pittsburgh: Clemmings is the athletic natural right tackle Denver's offensive line needs under new head coach Gary Kubiak. Drafting Clemmings would allow Manny Ramirez to move back inside, fixing two spots on Denver's line.
29. Indianapolis Colts- Ereck Flowers, Offensive Tackle, Miami: Mauler and brawler who loves to fire out and hit people. Flowers is a work in progress as a pass blocker, but the Colts could start him inside at right guard from Day 1.
30. Green Bay Packers- Erik Kendricks, Inside Linebacker, UCLA: The Packers may have been a dropped onside kick from playing in the Super Bowl but allowing 157 rushing yards to Marshawn Lynch in the NFC Championship Game didn't help. It also wasn't a one-game issue, as the Packers finished the regular season ranked 23rd in the league in run defense and have since released inside linebackers A.J. Hawk and Brad Jones. Kendricks lacks the bulk of a traditional 3-4 inside linebacker but his instincts, speed and ball skills could be the quick fix GM Ted Thompson is looking for.
31. New Orleans Saints (via Seattle Seahawks)- Dorial Green-Beckham, Wide Receiver, Oklahoma: The Saints need another weapon since they traded away Jimmy Graham for this pick. Green-Beckham is arguably the draft's most purely talented player.
32. New England Patriots- Laken Tomlinson, Guard, Duke: The Patriots don't care about flash, and Tomlinson is one of the safest players in the draft. The Pats can certainly use some help on the offensive line.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston, Quarterback, Florida State: Winston checks all of the boxes as the Buccaneers’ franchise quarterback. He is a polished pocket passer with the charisma and leadership skills to help the Buccaneers get over the hump in the NFC South.
2. Tennessee Titans- Marcus Mariota, Quarterback, Oregon: As we get closer to the draft, the interest in Mariota seems to be intensifying. So many teams are sending so many people to interview and work out Mariota, there has to be a high level of interest there. Because of that, it’s becoming hard to see him get past the second pick in the draft. Whether it’s actually Tennessee making the pick is another story.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars- Amari Cooper, Wide Receiver, Alabama: Giving second-year quarterback Blake Bortles the most pro-ready receiver in the draft helps Jacksonville more than adding another pass rusher to a squad that already finished sixth in the NFL in sacks a season ago.
4. Oakland Raiders- Leonard Williams, Defensive End, USC: Arguably the best defender in the draft fell into the Raiders' lap a year ago with Khalil Mack. Williams has said he would like to play for the Raiders and would complement Mack, giving Oakland its first fearsome defensive front in a long time.
5. Washington Redskins- Dante Fowler Jr., Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Florida: With the draft's most pro-ready pass rusher still available, Washington is able to quickly replace free-agent departure Brian Orakpo -- who the club attempted to keep.
6. New York Jets- Bud Dupree, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Kentucky: The Jets will have its
pick of a few pass rushers here. Dupree is a high-upside athlete, who head coach Todd Bowles could mold into a cornerstone player.
7. Chicago Bears- Kevin White, Wide Receiver, West Virginia: The Bears could easily go with the best defensive player available – perhaps Washington's Danny Shelton – but a player like White is too dynamic to pass up as a Brandon Marshall replacement.
8. Atlanta Falcons- Vic Beasley, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Clemson: The Falcons brought in former Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn as head coach to bring some intensity and pass rush to Atlanta. Pound for pound, Beasley is the most explosive edge rusher in the draft.
9. New York Giants- Brandon Scherff, Offensive Tackle, Iowa: The Giants could be intrigued by some of the edge rushers still on the board but if Scherff -- the draft's best offensive lineman -- is available, he would make too much sense to pass up.
10. St. Louis Rams- Andrus Peat, Offensive Tackle, Auburn: There is a lot of buzz around Peat as the draft approaches. In St. Louis he could be the answer at right tackle, giving the Rams bookends along with Greg Robinson.
11. Minnesota Vikings- Trae Waynes, Cornerback, Michigan State: The Vikings continue to make strides, fulfilling the image of coach Mike Zimmer by becoming a very good defensive team. Waynes is an immediate starter and producer.
12. Cleveland Browns- DeVante Parker, Wide Receiver, Louisville: Cleveland had significant needs at the receiver position in the wake of the season-long suspension of Josh Gordon, who wasn't even that great last year whene he played. The team brought in Dwyane Bowe and Brian Hartline but none of those guys look like the answer to the problem. Parker already is a really good route-runner, has excellent size and good hands.
13. New Orleans Saints- Randy Gregory, Defensive End, Nebraska: Some project Gregory to slide all the way out of the first round, but the Saints need another pass rusher and Gregory might not slide as far as some think.
14. Miami Dolphins- Todd Gurley, Running Back, Georgia: With his surgically repaired knee reportedly earning positive reviews from NFL doctors on April 17, Gurley is likely to get a late bump up draft boards. By already investigating a trade into the top 10 for a receiver, Miami appears committed to making a big splash on draft day, similar to the aggressive move made in free agency with the signing of Ndamukong Suh.
15. San Francisco 49ers- Marcus Peters, Cornerback, Washington: Patrick Willis and Chris Borland retiring has shifted the attention in San Francisco to inside linebacker but replacing starting cornerback Chris Culliver is also a concern. Peters comes with obvious character concerns after getting kicked off the team at Washington but the Oakland native would have local support here and plays with the physicality to handle playing in the rough and tumble NFC West.
16. Houston Texans- Nelson Agholor, Wide Receiver, USC: A lot of people are connecting Agholor to the Texans, and the buzz is similar to what it was for DeAndre Hopkins and Houston in 2015. Inside linebacker is a need, but that can be found later in the draft.
17. San Diego Chargers- Melvin Gordon, Running Back, Wisconsin: Gordon has been a popular choice for the Chargers, and he would immediately be considered by most the favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year. A right tackle like Ereck Flowers or T.J. Clemmings would be a good fit, as well. It would allow the Chargers to move D.J. Fluker to guard and give them a great pair to build around.
18. Kansas City Chiefs- Cameron Irving, Offensive Tackle/Center, Florida State: The Chiefs' offensive line needs help in a couple spots, and a player like Erving could be used at center or tackle. Wide receivers have been common picks for the Chiefs, but how often does Andy Reid target that position in the first round?
19. Cleveland Browns (via Buffalo Bills)- Arik Armstead, Defensive Tackle, Oregon: The Browns finished dead last in the NFL in run defense a year ago and have allowed over 2,000 rushing yards in 14 of the past 16 seasons -- a recipe for disaster in the black and blue AFC North. If standing pat, it is hard to imagine defensive-minded head coach Mike Pettine not pushing for help along the line of scrimmage and Armstead has the raw tools to develop.
20. Philadelphia Eagles- Breshad Perriman, Wide Receiver, UCF: This pick fills a need, with Jeremy Maclin gone to Kansas City and 2014 draftees Jordan Matthews and Josh Huff lacking the downfield skills of the Central Florida speedster.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Jake Fisher, Offensive Tackle, Oregon: This choice is being made solely based on something I heard late Wednesday night. The Bengals could also be targeting Texas A&M's Cedric Ogbuehi as well.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers- Byron Jones, Cornerback, Connecticut: The Steelers will have a new lieutenant running the defense after the franchise parted ways with the venerable Dick LeBeau, replacing him with linebackers coach Keith Butler. The pass rush was good as always but the secondary really looked like a mess at times and could certainly use an overhaul.
23. Detroit Lions- Malcolm Brown, Defensive Tackle, Texas: The loss of Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley in free agency makes defensive tackle an obvious area of concern for the Lions. Brown is a quick-twitch penetrating defensive tackle whose blue-collar work ethic might be especially appreciated in Detroit after Suh took the money and ran and Fairley failed to live up to expectations.
24. Arizona Cardinals- Shane Ray, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Missouri: A citation for marijuana possession this week and a less-than-spectacular Pro Day has Ray's stock slipping but for an Arizona squad looking for edge rushers, the reigning SEC sack king could fit perfectly. Ray has an electric first step to beat pass blockers off the edge and if inserted into a defense as talented as Arizona's, he could quickly prove a steal.
25. Carolina Panthers- DJ Humphries, Offensive Tackle, Florida: The Panthers' need at offensive tackle matches up nicely with one of the biggest strengths in this year's draft. It just makes it a little more fun that Humphries is from Charlotte.
26. Baltimore Ravens- Jaelen Strong, Wide Receiver, Arizona State: This was initially Wake Forest corner Kevin Johnson, but switched at the last minute to Strong. He's the new deep ball threat that Joe Flacco needs in Baltimore.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Kevin Johnson, Cornerback, Florida State: Cornerback is one of the few areas of concern on an otherwise stacked roster in Dallas. Johnson, a four-year starter, has terrific agility and speed but some question his ability to handle the physicality of the NFL at 6-feet and 188 pounds, which could allow him to drop into Dallas' lap.
28. Denver Broncos- TJ Clemmings, Offensive Tackle, Pittsburgh: Clemmings is the athletic natural right tackle Denver's offensive line needs under new head coach Gary Kubiak. Drafting Clemmings would allow Manny Ramirez to move back inside, fixing two spots on Denver's line.
29. Indianapolis Colts- Ereck Flowers, Offensive Tackle, Miami: Mauler and brawler who loves to fire out and hit people. Flowers is a work in progress as a pass blocker, but the Colts could start him inside at right guard from Day 1.
30. Green Bay Packers- Erik Kendricks, Inside Linebacker, UCLA: The Packers may have been a dropped onside kick from playing in the Super Bowl but allowing 157 rushing yards to Marshawn Lynch in the NFC Championship Game didn't help. It also wasn't a one-game issue, as the Packers finished the regular season ranked 23rd in the league in run defense and have since released inside linebackers A.J. Hawk and Brad Jones. Kendricks lacks the bulk of a traditional 3-4 inside linebacker but his instincts, speed and ball skills could be the quick fix GM Ted Thompson is looking for.
31. New Orleans Saints (via Seattle Seahawks)- Dorial Green-Beckham, Wide Receiver, Oklahoma: The Saints need another weapon since they traded away Jimmy Graham for this pick. Green-Beckham is arguably the draft's most purely talented player.
32. New England Patriots- Laken Tomlinson, Guard, Duke: The Patriots don't care about flash, and Tomlinson is one of the safest players in the draft. The Pats can certainly use some help on the offensive line.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs Semifinals Predictions
Here are my predictions for the Semifinals of the 2015 Stanley Cup playoffs.
Eastern Conference
(M1) New York Rangers vs (M2) Washington Capitals: This is a great divisional rivalry in which these two teams are meeting yet again in the playoffs for the fifth time in seven years. We know the star power on both teams with Alex Ovechkin and Henrik Lundqvist. Both of these teams are great from most standpoints. Brayden Holtby has improved big time for Washington, but he's no Lundqvist. Look for this series to go to distance and the Presidents Trophy winners to advance to the Conference Finals for the third time in four years.
Prediction: Rangers in seven games.
(A1) Montreal Canadiens vs (A2) Tampa Bay Lightning: We have another divisional rivalry that is happening to face each other in the playoffs for a second straight year. The Bolts swept the Habs in the regular season by going 5-0-0 against them. I think regular season starts are overrated. I really think this is Carey Price's series to lose. He's the leading candidate for the Hart and Vezina trophies and I believe he is capable of shutting down Steven Stamkos and the rest of Tampa's prolific offense. Many experts will pick Tampa Bay to win the series, but I'm rolling with Price and the Habs to advance to the Conference Finals for the second straight year.
Prediction: Canadiens in six games.
Western Conference
(C3) Chicago Blackhawks vs (WC1) Minnesota Wild: What a series we have here. For the third straight year, these division rivals will face off, but the second straight year in the semi-finals. There's a ton of star power with Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Zach Parise, and red-hot goalie Devan Dubnyk. This is a pretty even matchup this time, although the Hawks had goaltending issues last round. I see this going to distance, but because of the experience and the fact they find different ways to win games, the Hawks should be in their third consecutive Conference Finals.
Prediction: Blackhawks in seven games.
(P1) Anaheim Ducks vs (P3) Calgary Flames: This is a very intriguing series. Both teams know how to win from coming behind and that should be something to watch in this series. The Ducks have a lot of star power with Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. The Flames are a very young team that is on the rise led by Calder Trophy front-runner Johnny Goudreau. Expect a lot of scoring in this series. Both teams are dominant on home ice and this should go to distance. I see Anaheim moving on to the Conference Finals.
Prediction: Ducks in seven games.
Eastern Conference
(M1) New York Rangers vs (M2) Washington Capitals: This is a great divisional rivalry in which these two teams are meeting yet again in the playoffs for the fifth time in seven years. We know the star power on both teams with Alex Ovechkin and Henrik Lundqvist. Both of these teams are great from most standpoints. Brayden Holtby has improved big time for Washington, but he's no Lundqvist. Look for this series to go to distance and the Presidents Trophy winners to advance to the Conference Finals for the third time in four years.
Prediction: Rangers in seven games.
(A1) Montreal Canadiens vs (A2) Tampa Bay Lightning: We have another divisional rivalry that is happening to face each other in the playoffs for a second straight year. The Bolts swept the Habs in the regular season by going 5-0-0 against them. I think regular season starts are overrated. I really think this is Carey Price's series to lose. He's the leading candidate for the Hart and Vezina trophies and I believe he is capable of shutting down Steven Stamkos and the rest of Tampa's prolific offense. Many experts will pick Tampa Bay to win the series, but I'm rolling with Price and the Habs to advance to the Conference Finals for the second straight year.
Prediction: Canadiens in six games.
Western Conference
(C3) Chicago Blackhawks vs (WC1) Minnesota Wild: What a series we have here. For the third straight year, these division rivals will face off, but the second straight year in the semi-finals. There's a ton of star power with Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Zach Parise, and red-hot goalie Devan Dubnyk. This is a pretty even matchup this time, although the Hawks had goaltending issues last round. I see this going to distance, but because of the experience and the fact they find different ways to win games, the Hawks should be in their third consecutive Conference Finals.
Prediction: Blackhawks in seven games.
(P1) Anaheim Ducks vs (P3) Calgary Flames: This is a very intriguing series. Both teams know how to win from coming behind and that should be something to watch in this series. The Ducks have a lot of star power with Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. The Flames are a very young team that is on the rise led by Calder Trophy front-runner Johnny Goudreau. Expect a lot of scoring in this series. Both teams are dominant on home ice and this should go to distance. I see Anaheim moving on to the Conference Finals.
Prediction: Ducks in seven games.
Friday, April 24, 2015
2015 NFL Mock Draft: 6th Edition
Here is my sixth edition of my 2015 NFL Mock Draft. With free agency really over now we can get a clear idea of what exactly every team needs.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston, Quarterback, Florida State: Winston checks all of the boxes as the Buccaneers’ franchise quarterback. He is a polished pocket passer with the charisma and leadership skills to help the Buccaneers get over the hump in the NFC South.
2. Tennessee Titans- Marcus Mariota, Quarterback, Oregon: As we get closer to the draft, the interest in Mariota seems to be intensifying. So many teams are sending so many people to interview and work out Mariota, there has to be a high level of interest there. Because of that, it’s becoming hard to see him get past the second pick in the draft. Whether it’s actually Tennessee making the pick is another story.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars- Dante Fowler Jr., Defensive End, Florida: The Jaguars would welcome a violent edge rusher with the grit, explosiveness and rush skill to dominate at the point of attack. Fowler would give Gus Bradley the disruptive playmaker the Jaguars need to bully opponents in the AFC.
4. Oakland Raiders- Amari Cooper, Wide Receiver, Alabama: Oakland needs at least one, more likely two, very good wide receivers. Cooper could be the type of player who helps quicken Derek Carr's development.
5. Washington Redskins- Leonard Williams, USC: The Titans end any discussion of Marcus Mariota landing in Washington, but no tears are shed in DC. The Redskins happily welcome the versatile defender to the nation's capital.
6. New York Jets- Bud Dupree, Outside Linebacker, Kentucky: Way too high for my tastes, but Dupree has the athletic traits that make sense in Todd Bowles' defense, and he has better size than Vic Beasley.
7. Chicago Bears- Kevin White, Wide Receiver, West Virginia: Chicago's transition to a 3-4 defense could use a nose tackle and an edge rusher, but White's traits and talent will be tough to pass on.
8. Atlanta Falcons- Vic Beasley, Outside Linebacker, Clemson: The Falcons need to find a pass rusher in the worst way and Beasley gives them legitimate burst off the corner.
9. New York Giants- Brandon Scherff, Offensive Tackle, Iowa: The Giants could really use an offensive lineman at this spot here. It is one of their bigger needs so I'm sure general manager Jerry Reese will likely use this pick on Scherff or perhaps another offensive lineman.
10. St. Louis Rams- Andrus Peat, Offensive Tackle, Stanford: Rams could go with Scherff or Peat here, but Peat gives them a fail-safe at left tackle in case Greg Robinson has to move inside or to the right side.
11. Minnesota Vikings- Trae Waynes, Cornerback, Michigan State: The Vikings continue to make strides, fulfilling the image of coach Mike Zimmer by becoming a very good defensive team. Waynes is an immediate starter and producer.
12. Cleveland Browns- DeVante Parker, Wide Receiver, Louisville: Cleveland had significant needs at the receiver position in the wake of the season-long suspension of Josh Gordon, who wasn't even that great last year whene he played. The team brought in Dwyane Bowe and Brian Hartline but none of those guys look like the answer to the problem. Parker already is a really good route-runner, has excellent size and good hands.
13. New Orleans Saints- Randy Gregory, Defensive End, Nebraska: Some project Gregory to slide all the way out of the first round, but the Saints need another pass rusher and Gregory might not slide as far as some think.
14. Miami Dolphins- La'el Collins, Offensive Tackle, LSU: Dolphins are looking for better guard play to help establish a more physical presence up front. Collins is as physical as any lineman in this draft.
15. San Francisco 49ers- Arik Armstead, Defensive Tackle, Oregon: We know the 49ers need inside linebacker help, but this isn't the spot for that pick. Armstead is the future replacement for Justin Smith.
16. Houston Texans- Breshad Perriman, Wide Receiver, UCF: Perriman won't step in and replace Andre Johnson right away, but he has the type of ceiling, with his size and speed, that will get him drafted early on.
17. San Diego Chargers- DJ Humphries, Offensive Tackle, Florida: Todd Gurley or Melvin Gordon would be an easy fill-in here, but Humphries has the talent and toughness that San Diego covets up front.
18. Kansas City Chiefs- Malcolm Brown, Defensive Tackle, Texas: Brown should be a three-down player right away for the Chiefs. He would fit right in with Justin Houston and Dantri Poe.
19. Cleveland Browns (via Buffalo Bills)- Danny Shelton, Nose Tackle, Washington: Hard to believe that the "The Big Rumbler" drops this far on draft night, but the Browns and their fans would rejoice. Two first-round picks for the second year in a row for Cleveland.
20. Philadelphia Eagles- Landon Collins, Strong Safety, Alabama: Cornerback is a possibility here, but Collins fills a major need on this Eagle defense.u
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Shane Ray, Defensive End, Missouri: Concerns over the health of Ray's foot could cause him to slide a little bit in this draft. A chance to nab him would be hard for the Bengals, who need pass-rush help, to pass up.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers- Marcus Peters, Cornerback, Washington: During the pro day process, the Steelers have been associated with some of the better cornerbacks in the draft. It stands to reason they’re going to take one high. Peters has the ability to be the best one, as long as he doesn’t get into a disagreement with coaches.
23. Detroit Lions- Eddie Goldman, Defensive Tackle, Florida State: Although the Lions traded for Haloti Ngata and signed Tyrunn Walker, the depth there can be improved. Goldman could be brought along slowly, which might be best for him. He’s inconsistent, but incredibly disruptive when he’s on.
24. Arizona Cardinals- Kevin Johnson, Cornerback, Wake Forest: The Cardinals could use a running back or a pass rusher, but Johnson is an accomplished man defender and bolsters the Cards' secondary.
25. Carolina Panthers- Cedric Ogbuehi, Offensive Tackle, Texas A&M: Personnel men tell me Ogbuehi's ACL tear doesn't worry them and that he'll be a first-round pick. Carolina happens to need an athletic tackle.
26. Baltimore Ravens- Todd Gurley, Running Back, Georgia: Ozzie Newsome took Jamal Lewis with the fifth overall pick 15 years ago. Gurley or Gordon could once again tempt Newsome to look RB in Round 1.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Melvin Gordon, Running Back, Wisconsin: DeMarco Murray's production worked wonders for Tony Romo and the Dallas offense. Gordon allows Dallas to continue along that same path.
28. Denver Broncos- Jake Fisher, Offensive Tackle, Oregon: Fisher is a scheme fit for Gary Kubiak and offers a higher floor than the tackles who might be available here.
29. Indianapolis Colts- Ereck Flowers, Offensive Tackle, Miami: Mauler and brawler who loves to fire out and hit people. Flowers is a work in progress as a pass blocker, but the Colts could start him inside at right guard from Day 1.
30. Green Bay Packers- Jalen Collins, Cornerback, LSU: The Packers could use an ILB or DL, but this might be too early to address those spots, and Ted Thompson loves CBs with speed and length. Collins has both.
31. New Orleans Saints (via Seattle Seahawks)- Nelson Agholor, Wide Receiver, USC: Rumors are hot and heavy that Agholor will be gone by the 31st pick, but if he's still on the board here, the Saints get another much-needed toy for Drew Brees and the offense.
32. New England Patriots- Laken Tomlinson, Guard, Duke: The Patriots don't care about flash, and Tomlinson is one of the safest players in the draft. The Pats can certainly use some help on the offensive line.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston, Quarterback, Florida State: Winston checks all of the boxes as the Buccaneers’ franchise quarterback. He is a polished pocket passer with the charisma and leadership skills to help the Buccaneers get over the hump in the NFC South.
2. Tennessee Titans- Marcus Mariota, Quarterback, Oregon: As we get closer to the draft, the interest in Mariota seems to be intensifying. So many teams are sending so many people to interview and work out Mariota, there has to be a high level of interest there. Because of that, it’s becoming hard to see him get past the second pick in the draft. Whether it’s actually Tennessee making the pick is another story.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars- Dante Fowler Jr., Defensive End, Florida: The Jaguars would welcome a violent edge rusher with the grit, explosiveness and rush skill to dominate at the point of attack. Fowler would give Gus Bradley the disruptive playmaker the Jaguars need to bully opponents in the AFC.
4. Oakland Raiders- Amari Cooper, Wide Receiver, Alabama: Oakland needs at least one, more likely two, very good wide receivers. Cooper could be the type of player who helps quicken Derek Carr's development.
5. Washington Redskins- Leonard Williams, USC: The Titans end any discussion of Marcus Mariota landing in Washington, but no tears are shed in DC. The Redskins happily welcome the versatile defender to the nation's capital.
6. New York Jets- Bud Dupree, Outside Linebacker, Kentucky: Way too high for my tastes, but Dupree has the athletic traits that make sense in Todd Bowles' defense, and he has better size than Vic Beasley.
7. Chicago Bears- Kevin White, Wide Receiver, West Virginia: Chicago's transition to a 3-4 defense could use a nose tackle and an edge rusher, but White's traits and talent will be tough to pass on.
8. Atlanta Falcons- Vic Beasley, Outside Linebacker, Clemson: The Falcons need to find a pass rusher in the worst way and Beasley gives them legitimate burst off the corner.
9. New York Giants- Brandon Scherff, Offensive Tackle, Iowa: The Giants could really use an offensive lineman at this spot here. It is one of their bigger needs so I'm sure general manager Jerry Reese will likely use this pick on Scherff or perhaps another offensive lineman.
10. St. Louis Rams- Andrus Peat, Offensive Tackle, Stanford: Rams could go with Scherff or Peat here, but Peat gives them a fail-safe at left tackle in case Greg Robinson has to move inside or to the right side.
11. Minnesota Vikings- Trae Waynes, Cornerback, Michigan State: The Vikings continue to make strides, fulfilling the image of coach Mike Zimmer by becoming a very good defensive team. Waynes is an immediate starter and producer.
12. Cleveland Browns- DeVante Parker, Wide Receiver, Louisville: Cleveland had significant needs at the receiver position in the wake of the season-long suspension of Josh Gordon, who wasn't even that great last year whene he played. The team brought in Dwyane Bowe and Brian Hartline but none of those guys look like the answer to the problem. Parker already is a really good route-runner, has excellent size and good hands.
13. New Orleans Saints- Randy Gregory, Defensive End, Nebraska: Some project Gregory to slide all the way out of the first round, but the Saints need another pass rusher and Gregory might not slide as far as some think.
14. Miami Dolphins- La'el Collins, Offensive Tackle, LSU: Dolphins are looking for better guard play to help establish a more physical presence up front. Collins is as physical as any lineman in this draft.
15. San Francisco 49ers- Arik Armstead, Defensive Tackle, Oregon: We know the 49ers need inside linebacker help, but this isn't the spot for that pick. Armstead is the future replacement for Justin Smith.
16. Houston Texans- Breshad Perriman, Wide Receiver, UCF: Perriman won't step in and replace Andre Johnson right away, but he has the type of ceiling, with his size and speed, that will get him drafted early on.
17. San Diego Chargers- DJ Humphries, Offensive Tackle, Florida: Todd Gurley or Melvin Gordon would be an easy fill-in here, but Humphries has the talent and toughness that San Diego covets up front.
18. Kansas City Chiefs- Malcolm Brown, Defensive Tackle, Texas: Brown should be a three-down player right away for the Chiefs. He would fit right in with Justin Houston and Dantri Poe.
19. Cleveland Browns (via Buffalo Bills)- Danny Shelton, Nose Tackle, Washington: Hard to believe that the "The Big Rumbler" drops this far on draft night, but the Browns and their fans would rejoice. Two first-round picks for the second year in a row for Cleveland.
20. Philadelphia Eagles- Landon Collins, Strong Safety, Alabama: Cornerback is a possibility here, but Collins fills a major need on this Eagle defense.u
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Shane Ray, Defensive End, Missouri: Concerns over the health of Ray's foot could cause him to slide a little bit in this draft. A chance to nab him would be hard for the Bengals, who need pass-rush help, to pass up.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers- Marcus Peters, Cornerback, Washington: During the pro day process, the Steelers have been associated with some of the better cornerbacks in the draft. It stands to reason they’re going to take one high. Peters has the ability to be the best one, as long as he doesn’t get into a disagreement with coaches.
23. Detroit Lions- Eddie Goldman, Defensive Tackle, Florida State: Although the Lions traded for Haloti Ngata and signed Tyrunn Walker, the depth there can be improved. Goldman could be brought along slowly, which might be best for him. He’s inconsistent, but incredibly disruptive when he’s on.
24. Arizona Cardinals- Kevin Johnson, Cornerback, Wake Forest: The Cardinals could use a running back or a pass rusher, but Johnson is an accomplished man defender and bolsters the Cards' secondary.
25. Carolina Panthers- Cedric Ogbuehi, Offensive Tackle, Texas A&M: Personnel men tell me Ogbuehi's ACL tear doesn't worry them and that he'll be a first-round pick. Carolina happens to need an athletic tackle.
26. Baltimore Ravens- Todd Gurley, Running Back, Georgia: Ozzie Newsome took Jamal Lewis with the fifth overall pick 15 years ago. Gurley or Gordon could once again tempt Newsome to look RB in Round 1.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Melvin Gordon, Running Back, Wisconsin: DeMarco Murray's production worked wonders for Tony Romo and the Dallas offense. Gordon allows Dallas to continue along that same path.
28. Denver Broncos- Jake Fisher, Offensive Tackle, Oregon: Fisher is a scheme fit for Gary Kubiak and offers a higher floor than the tackles who might be available here.
29. Indianapolis Colts- Ereck Flowers, Offensive Tackle, Miami: Mauler and brawler who loves to fire out and hit people. Flowers is a work in progress as a pass blocker, but the Colts could start him inside at right guard from Day 1.
30. Green Bay Packers- Jalen Collins, Cornerback, LSU: The Packers could use an ILB or DL, but this might be too early to address those spots, and Ted Thompson loves CBs with speed and length. Collins has both.
31. New Orleans Saints (via Seattle Seahawks)- Nelson Agholor, Wide Receiver, USC: Rumors are hot and heavy that Agholor will be gone by the 31st pick, but if he's still on the board here, the Saints get another much-needed toy for Drew Brees and the offense.
32. New England Patriots- Laken Tomlinson, Guard, Duke: The Patriots don't care about flash, and Tomlinson is one of the safest players in the draft. The Pats can certainly use some help on the offensive line.
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Candidates to replace Scott Brooks as Thunder head coach
Earlier today, the Oklahoma City Thunder fired head coach Scott Brooks today. Here are some candidates to replace Brooks.
1. Kevin Ollie, Head Coach, Connecticut
2. Billy Donovan, Head Coach, Florida
3. Mike D'Antoni, Former Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Lakers Head Coach
4. Tom Thibodeau, Head Coach, Chicago Bulls
5. Mike Malone, Former Sacramento Kings Head Coach
1. Kevin Ollie, Head Coach, Connecticut
2. Billy Donovan, Head Coach, Florida
3. Mike D'Antoni, Former Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Lakers Head Coach
4. Tom Thibodeau, Head Coach, Chicago Bulls
5. Mike Malone, Former Sacramento Kings Head Coach
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Candidates to replace Todd McLellan as Sharks head coach
Earlier today, it was announced that the San Jose Sharks had parted ways with head coach Todd McLellan after a disappointing season. Here are some candidates to replace McLellan as Sharks head coach.
1. Jeff Blashill, Head Coach, Grand Rapid Griffins (AHL)
2. Dan Bylsma, Former Pittsburgh Penguins Head Coach
3. Randy Carlyle, Former Anaheim Ducks & Toronto Maple Leafs Head Coach
4. Marc Crawford, Former Los Angeles Kings & Dallas Stars Head Coach
5. Kevin Dineen, Assistant Coach, Chicago Blackhawks
6. Paul MacLean, Former Ottawa Senators Head Coach
7. Dale Hunter, Head Coach, London Knights (OHL)
8. John Hynes, Head Coach, Wilkes Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)
9. Adam Oates, Former Washington Capitals Head Coach
10. Mike Babcock, Head Coach, Detroit Red Wings
11. Larry Robinson, Assistant Coach, San Jose Sharks
1. Jeff Blashill, Head Coach, Grand Rapid Griffins (AHL)
2. Dan Bylsma, Former Pittsburgh Penguins Head Coach
3. Randy Carlyle, Former Anaheim Ducks & Toronto Maple Leafs Head Coach
4. Marc Crawford, Former Los Angeles Kings & Dallas Stars Head Coach
5. Kevin Dineen, Assistant Coach, Chicago Blackhawks
6. Paul MacLean, Former Ottawa Senators Head Coach
7. Dale Hunter, Head Coach, London Knights (OHL)
8. John Hynes, Head Coach, Wilkes Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)
9. Adam Oates, Former Washington Capitals Head Coach
10. Mike Babcock, Head Coach, Detroit Red Wings
11. Larry Robinson, Assistant Coach, San Jose Sharks
Friday, April 17, 2015
Candidates to replace Craig Berube as Flyers head coach
Earlier today, the Philadelphia Flyers had fired head coach Craig Berube after a disappointing season. Here are some candidates to replace Berube.
1. Mike Babcock, Head Coach, Detroit Red Wings
2. Todd McLellan, Head Coach, San Jose Sharks
3. Claude Julien, Head Coach, Boston Bruins
4. Dan Bylsma, Former Pittsburgh Penguins Head Coach
5. John Stevens, Assistant Coach, Los Angeles Kings
6. John Tortorella, Former Tampa Bay Lightning & New York Rangers Head Coach
7. Terry Murray, Head Coach, Lehigh Valley Phantoms (AHL)
8. Andy Murray, Head Coach, Western Michigan
9. Kevin Dineen, Assistant Coach, Chicago Blackhawks
10. Dallas Eakins, Former Edmonton Oilers Head Coach
11. Luke Richardson, Head Coach, Binghamton Senators (AHL)
12. Guy Boucher, Former Tampa Bay Lightning Head Coach
13. Pete DeBoer, Former New Jersey Devils Head Coach
14. Jeff Blashill, Head Coach, Grand Rapid Griffins (AHL)
15. Mike Stothers, Head Coach, Manchester Monarchs (AHL)
16. Paul MacLean, Former Toronto Maple Leafs Head Coach
17. Ron Wilson, Former San Jose Sharks & Toronto Maple Leafs Head Coach
1. Mike Babcock, Head Coach, Detroit Red Wings
2. Todd McLellan, Head Coach, San Jose Sharks
3. Claude Julien, Head Coach, Boston Bruins
4. Dan Bylsma, Former Pittsburgh Penguins Head Coach
5. John Stevens, Assistant Coach, Los Angeles Kings
6. John Tortorella, Former Tampa Bay Lightning & New York Rangers Head Coach
7. Terry Murray, Head Coach, Lehigh Valley Phantoms (AHL)
8. Andy Murray, Head Coach, Western Michigan
9. Kevin Dineen, Assistant Coach, Chicago Blackhawks
10. Dallas Eakins, Former Edmonton Oilers Head Coach
11. Luke Richardson, Head Coach, Binghamton Senators (AHL)
12. Guy Boucher, Former Tampa Bay Lightning Head Coach
13. Pete DeBoer, Former New Jersey Devils Head Coach
14. Jeff Blashill, Head Coach, Grand Rapid Griffins (AHL)
15. Mike Stothers, Head Coach, Manchester Monarchs (AHL)
16. Paul MacLean, Former Toronto Maple Leafs Head Coach
17. Ron Wilson, Former San Jose Sharks & Toronto Maple Leafs Head Coach
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