The NFL is in a sticky wicket. It’s the most popular league in the United States by a wide margin, and with popularity, comes a closer examination than any other sport. Then you throw in former players, young in their early 40’s going the suicidal route – possibly due to head injuries sustained while playing the game – lawsuits everywhere (over 500 former players are involved with numerous class action suits suing the league for various post-career problems), and you’re left with a sport teetering on the edge of potential – and hear me out here – extinction.

Football is fun to watch. It’s exciting, it’s violent, it’s an amazing experience live, and almost as good in HD at your local sports bar or on your couch. People love to gamble on it, build fantasy football teams through it, and use it to bond with friends and loved ones. It’s a passion passed on from generation to generation – a game evolving as the equipment and rules have.

Take Thanksgiving as a prime example; Aside from the floats, turkey (or steak), and family, what is the common denominator that most people take part in – watching football. ESPN spends more time talking about the buildup to the NFL Draft than they do the NHL Playoffs. Granted they own the rights (along with NFL Network) to coverage of the draft, but that’s not the point.

Think about a Sunday in the fall without football – or for that matter, a weekend in the fall where no football is played at any level. Picture a world where the game has been deemed too violent, banned from being played like a controversial book is burned. Picture the end of pigskin.

Picture yourself at high school – no Friday night game. Now you’re in college – no Saturday game. Now it’s Sunday – picture being at a sports bar showing nothing but bowling, baseball, and golf.

***

The NFL has been around since 1920 (3 years after the NHL got it’s waterlegs) and it’s the most attended domestic sports league on Earth when it comes to butts in the seat per game.  It’s one of the few things in life promised every year. With the exception of lockouts you will get a season. It’s almost a guarantee. But at its core, the NFL is a business. And at its core plenty of businesses fail, even after surviving for over 100 years: The NFL is 8 years away from that banner season.

But when you think about dynasties, nothing lasts forever. Before people understood just how dangerous the sport was medically it was played far more ruthlessly than it is today. But those same guys who gave their blood, sweat, and tears to get the game to where it is today are suffering the physical consequences later in their lives.

Some struggle to get out of bed. Some can barely stand. Some are simply broken souls. Does this sound like a system that works? A sport designed for the longhaul?

Is the NFL writing its death-certificate courteous of its style of play – which attracted most of the guys now suing it, who are trying to break it for perceived broken promises and lies about doing whatever it took to make the game as safe as possible?

Has the NFL with-held information over the years about the dangers of concussions? That seems to be the argument these former players suing them are now making. And when one scavenger sees a carcass, a whole lot of ‘em follow, which is why you’re seeing former players pouncing on these class action law-suits.

Do these players just want money? Or do they want to break the sport that broke them?

It’s such a complicated, sad situation: this tussle between what makes the NFL great and what makes the sport so wrong. Because let’s face it – if concussions and horrific head injuries lead to what we’ve been seeing — guys like Junior Seau taking their life at the age of 43 (this hasn’t been confirmed as his brain will be examined), then how do you let this game go on in its present form? How do you let kids play a game that harbors within it the power to ruin one’s life?

***

I’ve never found myself saying this before, but football is too powerful for its own good. It’s gotten too big, that it’s out of control. Its greatest strength (violence) appears to be it’s greatest detriment (horrifying head injuries). The players are stronger than before and the way we’re cutting out rules to keep these hulking 4.3 running monsters from killing each other continues to grow.

Talk has grown louder about eliminating one of the games most exciting and dangerous plays – the kickoff. Afterall, it’s hard to think of a more battle-like play than running 40 yards down the field at full speed to tackle a guy using his speed to go towards you.

But let’s say the NFL eliminates the kickoff, and starts each post-scoring possession at the 20. What’s next? Eliminating down the middle crossing patterns because two guys can violently collide while going after the same football? We see quarterbacks getting blind-sided all the time. How can we fix that? By forcing a QB to stay in a goalie-like crease where he can’t be touched for at least 7 Mississippi?

Roger Goodell is trying to make football safer – or at least advance the perception that it’s safer, but if you rip the guts out of what makes the sport so popular, you’re left with just skin and bones – and a game that quite frankly could wilt away.

You can suspend guys, fine them heavily, you can send warnings, and preach about it all you want, but at the end of the day these are violent-minded guys playing a barbaric sport that demands of them Gladiator like toughness. They’re paid to act, not to think.

Their natural instinct is to kill the other guy (not literally I’d hope).

But if that instinct is leading to these horrible traumatic injuries, which lead to CTE, which in turn lead to an uncomfortable number of players taking their own lives shortly after exiting the game, then how do you fix a wildly successful, albeit broken model?

Sure you can get concussions playing lacrosse or hockey but football is the biggest sport around, and when you’re the biggest, you’re always under the brightest lights.

If I was a parent I wouldn’t let my kid play organized football. Period.

There is way too much risk. But I love watching it on TV. I love going to games. I love cheering my team out the tunnel, and taunting the other team after a big hit. So do a lot of people.

I love writing about it, analyzing it, and talking about it. Articles like this may seem to go against that, but I really do love football.

I just don’t love its future the way things are going. In fact, in a sport where betting is a part of the fabric, I’d put healthy odds that the game we know today, could very much be gone in the near future.

Unless of course, the NFL knows something that we don’t: Which is how to make the game safe, while maintaining its integrity. Right now unfortunately, those things sound way too contradictory.

Photo: Getty

Round 2

33. St. Louis: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

34. Indianapolis: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

35. Baltimore (MIN): Mychal Kendricks, ILB, California

36. Denver (TB): Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan St.

37. Cleveland: Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

38. Jacksonville: Cordy Glenn, OT/OG, Georgia

39. St. Louis (WAS): Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

40. Carolina: Courtney Upshaw, DE, Alabama

41. Buffalo: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

42. Miami: Chris Givens, WR, Wake Forest

43. Seattle: Devon Still, DT, Penn State

44. Kansas City: Amini Silatou, OG, Midwestern State

45. St. Louis (DAL): Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

46. Philadelphia: Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah State

47. New York Jets: Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

48. New England (OAK): Josh Robinson, CB, UCF

49. San Diego: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

50. Chicago: Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana

51. Philadelphia (ARI): Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia

The Eagles dealt Asante Samuel for a VHS copy of Gremlins 2 just before the draft; they get an upgrade at slot to fill his spot. Boykin is a prototypical nickel corner with tons of experience at the position.

52. Tennessee: Andre Branch, DE, Clemson

53. Cincinnati: Juron Criner, WR, Arizona

54. Detroit: Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma

55. Atlanta: Peter Konz, OL, Wisconsin

56. Pittsburgh: Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

Dennard has a lot of talent and can serve as a backup safety and slot corner while he matures his game.

57. Denver: Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona State

58. Houston: Bobby Massie, OT, Mississippi

59. New Orleans: Forfeit

60. Green Bay: Lamar Miller, HB, Miami

61. Baltimore: Isiah Pead, HB, Cincinnati

62. San Francisco:  Casey Heyward, CB, Vanderbilt

63. New England: Brandon Brooks, OG, Miami (OH)

64. New York Giants: Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska

Round 3

65. Indianapolis: George Iloka, FS, Boise State

66. St. Louis: Zach Brown, OLB, UNC

67. Minnesota: James Brown, OG, Troy

68. Cleveland: Orson Charles, TE, Georgia

69. Tampa Bay: Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

70. Washington: Ben Jones, OL, Georgia

71. Jacksonville: LaMichael James, HB, Oregon

72. Buffalo: Ladrius Green, TE, Louisiana-Lafayette

73. Miami: Michael Egnew, TE, Missouri

74. Miami (CHI/CAR): Mitchell Schwartz, OT, California

75. Kansas City: James-Michael Johnson, ILB, Nevada

76. Seattle: Keenan Robinson, ILB, Texas

77. Houston (PHI): Brandon Taylor, SS, LSU

78. New York Jets: Kelechi Osemele, OT/OG, Iowa St.

79. Oakland: Forfeited (2010 Supplemental Draft-Terrell Pryor)

80. San Diego: Jeff Allen, OT, Illinois

81. Chicago: Markelle Martin, FS, Oklahoma State

82. Arizona: Zebrie Sanders, OT, FSU

83. Dallas: Jared Crick, DE/DT, Nebraska

84. Tennessee: Ron Brooks, CB, LSU

85. Cincinnati: Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall

86. Atlanta: Donald Stephenson, OT, Oklahoma

87. Detroit: Brandon Washington, OG, Miami

88. Pittsburgh: Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian State

89. Denver: Michael Brewster, OL, Ohio State

90. Philadelphia (HOU): Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan State

91. New Orleans: Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia

92. Green Bay: Dwight Bentley, CB, Louisiana-Lafayette

93. Baltimore: Greg Childs, WR, Arkansas

94. San Francisco: Trent Robinson, FS, Michigan State

95. Cincinnati (NE): Antonio Allen, SS, South Carolina

96. New York Giants: Ryan Broyles, WR, Oklahoma

97. Oakland (compensatory): Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia

Photo: Getty

Join us tonight on the site or on CoverItLive.com for our running commentary, thoughts, insight, and analysis on the 2012 NFL Draft. It’s sure to be a good time, and an interesting collection of characters that we’ll be breaking down. The fun starts at 7.

The NFL Draft is one giant crap shoot, but it’s also quite the circus. So we brought in our NFL Draft ringmaster, Mike Kaye to shed some light on 8 key NFL Draft questions. What did our NFL Draft expert have to say?

Here’s what we discussed:

1. Will Luck live up to the hype? 0:24
2. Luck or RG3? 0:54
3. Most underrated player in the draft? 1:56
4. Most overrated player in the draft? 2:58
5. Tannehill or Weeden? 3:47
6. Small school player poised to make a big time NFL impact? 4:36
7. Low character, high talent guy who can be a star? 5:38
8. Late round steal? 6:50

The 2012 NFL Draft is a few days away. With speculation at an all-time high, Juiced Sports looks into the Juiced Crystal Ball for answers.

1. Let’s start with an easy one: Every team that has a 1st, 2nd and 3rd round pick will draft at least one wide receiver at some point in the three-day period. This isn’t the most stellar group of WRs ever, but it is one of the deepest. You can get a quality guy all the way up until, at least, the fifth round.

2. Quintin Coples is a going to be the biggest slider of the first round. Stephon Gilmore will be the fastest riser on Thursday. Not due to talent, but due to work ethic.

3. Minnesota will pass on Matt Kalil (either because they trade down or decide to draft Morris Claiborne, CB from LSU. Not a huge fan of that potential move because as  I’ve stated before, I think Kalil is the best prospect at his position since Jonathan Ogden.

4. The Defensive Rookie of the Year will not be a first round pick in 2012. Depending on where they go, I would say Harrison Smith (safety) of Notre Dame or Ronell Lewis (pass rusher) of Oklahoma, could fit the bill.

5. There will be at least three trades within the first 12 picks (not counting the Skins-Rams deal for RG3). My guess is that the Rams, Browns, and Panthers will be involved.

6. After his recent assault arrest, Alfonzo Dennard of Nebraska, will get the LaGarrett Blount treatment and go undrafted. A short time ago, Dennard was considered a Top 25 pick. You throw bows, that’s how it goes. Not to mention, his obvious lack of speed. He’ll make a roster as a fourth safety, not as cornerback, like he played in college.

7. Oakland and new GM, Reggie Mackenzie, will deal with what they’ve been dealt. Mackenzie will trade back, at least twice, to acquire more youth. Mackenzie has made a lot of good decisions, considering Oakland’s cap issues and lack of draft picks.

8. Justin Blackmon will fall to the Jaguars and they’ll pass him up and trade back to draft Michael Floyd. There is simply not enough separation between the two players. Floyd is bigger but has character and injury issues. The Jags definitely want out of their current pick, which is by far the least enviable pick in the draft when you have as many needs as they do.

9. The Buffalo Bills will trade up to grab USC offensive tackle, Matt Kalil, if he falls past the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at pick five. I think Minnesota would be wrong to pass on him but the Bills would reap the benefits.

10. One team will double dip on Miami Hurricanes (my guess: the New York Giants with Lamar Miller and Tommy Streeter). Miller would replace Brandon Jacobs, and while they have two completely different styles, Miller can move the chains and adds a play-making ability to the position. Streeter would replace Mario Manningham in the long run.

11. Mike Adam’s love for weed will not push the Ohio State offensive tackle out of the first two rounds. North Alabama cornerback, Janoris Jenkins’ similarities to Antonio Cromartie in the parenting department, will knock him out of the first round. Jenkins is a Top 10 talent but his off-the-field issues have to scare both teams and scouts. If you’re a team that digs giving out cash advances, be my guest.

12. Whoever gets drafted by the Minnesota Vikings will be renting. The Vikes are not long for Minnesota. The whole situation is deplorable. Vikings’ owner, Zigi Wulf, wants to stay, but the state government isn’t budging. They don’t realize what losing a professional football team does to your city and/or state. Maybe they should ask Baltimore, Cleveland and Houston how that goes.

13. Kansas City will take a quarterback in the first two rounds. Matt Cassel is a good player, but he isn’t a “franchise guy.” He’s the starter this season, but after that, anything goes.

14. Players with return ability will be over-drafted. FIU’s T.Y. Hilton and Florida’s Chris Rainey will be taken in the late-2nd/early 3rd round despite having 4th or 5th round ability at their “primary” positions. This is understandable considering the lack of quality special teams in the league at this time.

15. This is a big year for rotational defensive linemen. While the defensive end class isn’t stellar, plenty will be taken early by teams with an already full stable at the position. Best “rotational” defensive end in this draft is Virginia’s Cam Johnson.

16. With teams passing more than 50% a game, the need for quality cover guys is on the rise. The third round will see a large run on nickel and spot-starting corners. Best of the bunch: Dwight Bentley of Louisiana-Lafayette. Don’t let the small school fool you; this kid can play.

17. Alas, Vontaze Burfict of Arizona State, will be drafted…in the Canadian Football League. As many pundits have said, he’s not a very good player. His Combine and both Pro Days were considerably disastrous. The once-1^st round pick is now likely a camp body. It’s probably 50-50 on if he will make an opening day roster.

18. The Tyson Alualu (high draft pick you’ve never heard of) Award will go to Amini Silatolu of Midwestern State. The mammoth offensive guard (6-4, 311) will be taken early in the 2^nd day of the draft.

19. There will be at least three veteran player trades during draft weekend. The likely suspects are Denver running back Knowshon Moreno, Philadelphia cornerback Asante Samuel, and pretty much anyone on the Raiders.

20. While many fans love short-passers Russell Wilson of Wisconsin and Kellen Moore of Boise State, neither will be drafted before the 3^rd round. Most people say they won’t get drafted because of there size, but if you watch them carefully, they both have major flaws that were protected by their offensive schemes. Wilson is likely a career back-up and spot starter. Moore is going to be wishing that NFL Europe still existed.

With the draft just a week away, draft boards are likely set in stone. After numerous mock drafts, we at Juiced Sports give you one last look at what can happen next week. As always, a few surprises are promised in this three round mock.

Disclaimer: Remember these picks are not who I would take at each position, but who I think the teams will select with the scenarios given. With so many picks, I will not be conducting trades in order to maintain accuracy.

Round 1

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

2. Washington Redskins (STL): Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

3. Minnesota Vikings: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

4. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, HB, Alabama

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

6. St. Louis Rams (WAS): Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi St.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma St.

8. Miami Dolphins: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

9. Carolina Panthers: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

10. Buffalo Bills: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

11. Kansas City Chiefs: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

12. Seattle Seahawks: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

13. Arizona Cardinals: Reily Reiff, OT/OG, Iowa

14. Dallas Cowboys: Quintin Coples, DE/DT, UNC

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College

16. New York Jets: Courtney Upshaw, OLB/DE, Alabama

17. Cincinnati  Bengals (OAK): David DeCastro, OG, Stanford

18. San Diego Chargers: Nick Perry, OLB/DE, USC

19. Chicago Bears: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

20. Tennessee Titans: Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Mark Barron, SS, Alabama

22. Cleveland Browns (ATL): Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

23. Detroit Lions: Cordy Glenn, OT/OG, Georgia

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

25. Denver Broncos: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

26. Houston Texans: Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

27. New England Patriots (NO): Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

28. Green Bay Packers: Jerel Worthy, DE/DT, Michigan St.

29. Baltimore Ravens: Andre Branch, OLB/DE, Clemson

30. San Francisco 49ers: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

31. New England Patriots: Dont’a Hightower, ILB, Alabama

32. New York Giants: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

Round 2

33. St. Louis: Bobby Massie, OT, Mississippi

34. Indianapolis: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

35. Minnesota: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

36. Tampa Bay: Lamar Miller, HB, Miami

37. Cleveland: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

38. Jacksonville: Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall

39. St. Louis (WAS): Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska

40. Carolina: Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah State

41. Buffalo: Zebrie Sanders, OT, Florida State

42. Miami: Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma St.

43. Seattle: Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin

44. Kansas City: Peter Konz, OL, Wisconsin

45. Dallas: Doug Martin, HB, Boise State

46. Philadelphia: Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut

47. New York Jets: Harrison Smith, SS, Notre Dame

48. New England (OAK): Devon Still, DE/DT, Penn State

49. San Diego: Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

50. Chicago: Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson

51. Philadelphia (ARI): Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia

52. Tennessee: Josh Robinson, CB, Central Florida

53. Cincinnati: Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

54. Detroit: Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma

55. Atlanta: Zach Brown, OLB, UNC

56. Pittsburgh: David Wilson, HB, Virginia Tech

57. Denver: Jared Crick, DT/DE, Nebraska

58. Houston: Mychal Kendricks, ILB, California

59. New Orleans: Forfeit

60. Green Bay: Chris Polk, HB, Washington

61. Baltimore: Kelechi Osemele, OG, Iowa St.

62. San Francisco:  Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

63. New England: Ronnell Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma

64. New York Giants: Bernard Pierce, HB, Temple

Round 3

65. Indianapolis: Bruce Irvin, OLB, West Virginia

66. St. Louis: Ben Jones, OL, Georgia

67. Minnesota:Mitchell Schwartz, OT, California

68. Cleveland:Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan St.

69. Tampa Bay: Sean Spence, OLB, Miami

70. Washington: Billy Winn, DE, Boise St.

71. Jacksonville: Orsen Charles, TE, Georgia

72. Buffalo: Juron Criner, WR, Arizona

73. Miami: Shea McClellin, DE/OLB, Boise St.

74. Miami (CHI/CAR): Josh Kaddu, OLB, Oregon

75. Kansas City: Alameda Ta’amu, NT, Washington

76. Seattle: Mike Martin, DT, Michigan

77. Houston (PHI): Markelle Martin, FS, Oklahoma St.

78. New York Jets: Greg Childs, WR, Arkansas

79. Oakland: Forfeited (2010 Supplemental Draft-Terrell Pryor)

80. San Diego: LaMichael James, HB, Oregon

81. Chicago: Dwight Bentley, CB, Louisiana-Lafayette

82. Arizona: James-Michael Johnson, ILB, Nevada

83. Dallas: Brandon Washington, OG, Miami

84. Tennessee: Demario Davis, OLB, Arkansas St.

85. Cincinnati: Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia

86. Atlanta: Ladarius Green, TE, Louisiana-Lafayette

87. Detroit: Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia

88. Pittsburgh: Josh Chapman, DE/DT, Alabama

89. Denver: George Iloka, FS, Boise St.

90. Philadelphia (HOU):  Chris Rainy, HB/KR, Florida

91. New Orleans: Ron Brooks, CB, LSU

92. Green Bay: Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona St.

93. Baltimore: Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana

94. San Francisco: Michael Egnew, TE, Missouri

95. New England: Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt

96. New York Giants: Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin

97. Oakland (compensatory): Keenan Robinson, OLB, Texas

The Raiders spend their first pick on a talented linebacker, Robinson, who could start right away on the outside.

MITCH BLATT

Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco has been receiving his fair share of mockery for saying, “I don’t think I’m top five, I think I’m the best,” but you have to have confidence in yourself in order to turn yourself into eventually being one of the top five quarterbacks. You have to have confidence to at least play as well as you can and make the playoffs.

Flacco said,

I assume everybody thinks they’re a top-five quarterback. I mean, I think I’m the best. I don’t think I’m top five, I think I’m the best. I don’t think I’d be very successful at my job if I didn’t feel that way.

It’s a view that is held by more than a few athletes, even if few of them publicly say so.

When I interviewed Desmond Clark in 2006, he said,

I said if the top tight end was catching 80 passes, that’s where I felt I should be at. I don’t feel any different today. I feel like wherever the top tight end is at, I should be able to put up those type of numbers.

Indeed, it would be surprising if one of the best athletes in the world competing at the most competitive level of their profession didn’t think and express their confidence in their abilities.

But when the claims and the reality are so far apart, as in Flacco’s case, and when the agent is even trying to get his client top five money (if only as a negotiating tactic), a quarterback can expect a little bit of good natured ribbing for publicly expressing belief in such a delusional fantasy.

Free Agency is in its third stage, making the market a little less intense. With all the moves and makeovers around the league, team needs changes and so do draft picks. Juiced Sports takes a look at current needs and talent for April’s draft. With Pro Days nearly done, we have good understanding of where most guys will go, but surprises could be just around the corner.

Round 1

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

It has been said for months that Luck is the pick. The media wants to get viewers, so some of their pundits say there is a change of RG3 coming to Indy. I don’t buy it, especially after the Colts traded for Drew Stanton, who plays a similar style to that of Luck. You don’t sign a backup that is significantly different than your starter (except if you’re the Dolphins), because it changes the scheme.

2. Washington Redskins (STL): Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

RG3 has gotten rave reviews from virtually every football analyst in the country and for good reason. The Skins are weighing their entire future on the Heisman trophy and shouldn’t be disappointed. The only reason he slips to two is because he comes from a spread offense and Andrew Luck is about as pro ready as they come. The Skins will spend the rest of the draft surrounding RG3 with weapons.

3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

Vikings GM Rick Spielman has made it known that he doesn’t think he needs to draft an offensive tackle early, but Kalil isn’t just an offensive tackle, he’s more than that. Kalil is the best offensive tackle prospect in the last five years. The big man from USC is extremely athletic and can serve as Christian Ponder’s (or whoever is quarterback’s) blindside defender for the next decade.

4. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, HB, Alabama

Trent Richardson is a true all-purpose back who has tons of potential and the talent to be taken high. The running back position is not the important position it once was, but Richardson can do it all and provide a weapon for Colt McCoy that the Browns offense surely lacks.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

Eric Wright may have been a great signing to eventually replace Ronde Barber; the only problem is Aqib Talib may go to jail or be suspended, so the team needs a lot of help at corner. Claiborne is the best of the bunch and could go as early as third overall but the Bucs get good value and a great player at five.

6. St. Louis  Rams (WAS): Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma St.

The Rams have needed a top flight wide receiver since Torry Holt left town, now they get the best possible option with Justin Blackmon. He has the size and strength to overpower defenders and be a redzone threat. Blackmon is a significant upgrade over any pass catcher the Rams currently have.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

The Jags need a consistent pass rusher and Aaron Kampman has failed to be that guy. Ingram isn’t the biggest guy around but he has motor for days. He can play both sides of the line and finally give Jacksonville a legit threat when it comes to the pass rush.

8. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A &M

Miami has failed to get Peyton Manning, Matt Flynn, and trade up for RG3, so Tannehill may be their only hope at this point. Tannehill was coached by Miami offensive coordinator, Mike Sherman, at Texas A & M. If anyone knows what Tannehill can do, it’s the Dolphins. If Tannehill is pasted on by Miami, other teams may be scared off and he could drop into the late teens and possibly out of the first.

9. Carolina Panthers: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi St.

A lot of draftniks think Carolina would go with the local guy, Quinton Coples, but Cox has more defined talents and skill set. Luckily for Cox, he fits what the Panthers need: a hardnosed, violent defensive tackle. Cox could do wonders for the Carolina defense that has had tons of issues sustaining leads.

10. Buffalo Bills: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

The Bills ranked 29^th in passing defense in 2011 and Leodis McKelvin has proved to be mediocre as a starter. Kirkpatrick did have a bit of character concern early in the draft process, but he still has the skill to be a top ten pick.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

The Chiefs converted to a 3-4 defense a few seasons ago but still lack a promising option at nose tackle. One of the major keys to a 3-4 defense is the nose tackle, so it’s about time the team made it more of a priority. The Chiefs lack options, so taking Poe is likely their best bet.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College

Seattle seems content on letting long-time starter, David Hawthrone, walk in free agency. With a spot open, the Seahawks get the best linebacker in the draft. The common misconception is that Kuechly can only play middle, but his weight gain and speed at the Combine has a lot of draftniks thinking he can set the edge as a SAM linebacker as well.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

Since Anquan Boldin left Arizona, there has been a huge void opposite Larry Fitzgerald. With a competition at quarterback and an uneasy offensive line, the Cardinals can give their most important player (whether it’s Kolb or Skelton) a significant upgrade at number two wide receiver.

14. Dallas Cowboys: Quinton Coples, DE/DT, UNC

Coples, while a top ten talent, falls because of lack of need and questions about what position fits the former Tar Heel best. Coples could serves as a rare 3-4 defensive end with more than capable pass rushing skills.

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

Brockers is a bit of one-year wonder but his potential is through the roof. The Eagles only have three defensive tackles on their roster with any experience and one of them, Antonio Dixon, is coming off an injury. Starters, Mike Patterson and Cullen Jenkins, are in their early 30’s so it may be good to add youth at the position.

16. New York Jets: David DeCastro, OG, Stanford

One of the Jets biggest issues last season was their inability to run the play after years of depending on the run. DeCastro is an extremely safe and strong prospect that can give the Gang Green offensive line a little more push.

17. Cincinnati  Bengals (OAK): Mark Barron, SS, Alabama

As mentioned in former posts, Chris Crocker needs to be replaced after his horrible performance down the stretch last season. Barron is by far the best safety in this class and would make for a significant upgrade over Crocker.

18. San Diego Chargers: Riley Reiff, OT/OG, Iowa

The Chargers lost longtime left guard, Kris Dielman, to retirement earlier this season and need to sure up that spot. Reiff played left tackle in college, but the draft process has shown him to be more of a guard at the pro level. Reiff could certainly be a key piece for the Charger offensive line.

19. Chicago Bears: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

The Bears go local with Mercilus, who can be a great option to bookend Julius Peppers. The Bears tried to get Mario Williams in Chicago, but failed. This move gives the Bears youth and talent as a fallback plan. Not too shabby.

20. Tennessee Titans: Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall

The Titans need to be able to get pressure on the quarterback and that is Vinny Curry’s specialty. Originally projected as second round pick, Curry has raised his stock in recent weeks and looks to a wildcard in the twenties. With a few options already off the board, the Titans are forced to bite on Curry a little early (yes, I realize there is a pun there).

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

Like Curry, Gilmore has raised his value from a second round pick to a solid first rounder. Gilmore has size and long arms that allow him to cover bigger wide receivers. Nate Clements can serve as a stop gap before Gilmore is ready for a full-time gig next to Leon Hall (who is coming off a pretty serious Achilles tendon injury).

22. Cleveland Browns (ATL): Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Even with Trent Richardson, the Browns still need major playmakers. Kendall Wright is nothing but a playmaker with big play ability and the potential to be a star. Wright can start across from Greg Little or play in the slot.

23. Detroit Lions: Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

Martin falls into the twenties due to a lackluster performance at the Combine and his Pro Day. A lot of critics think he is overrated and was helped by playing next to DeCastro and blocking for Luck. Still, the Lions need an upgrade at either tackle spot and Martin can fill one of those roles.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dont’a Hightower, ILB, Alabama

James Farrior is done as a Steeler, so Pittsburgh needs another man in the middle. Hightower is a pure 3-4 inside linebacker and has great leadership skills. He may be safest pick for the black and yellow.

25. Denver Broncos: Kendall Reyes, DT, UConn

Broderick Bunkley played very well for Denver last season, but has now taken his talents to Bourbon Street. The Broncos need a steady replacement and Reyes can provide relief. Reyes comes from a weak conference, but has talent for days.

26. Houston Texans: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

Hill blew up the Combine and now has a good shot of going in the first round. Houston needs an insurance policy for Andre Johnson and Hill can play on the opposite side or take over for Johnson when he’s out with injury.

27. New England Patriots (NO): Courtney Upshaw, OLB/DE, Alabama

The Patriots struggled to rush the passer last season and lost their best two rushers this offseason (Mark Anderson to Bills, Andre Carter to injury). Upshaw has no set position in the pros but has proven (especially in the BCS Championship game) that he can get after the quarterback.

28. Green Bay Packers: Lamar Miller, HB, Miami

Ryan Grant is a free agent and James Starks is better served as change-of-pace back. Miller is a burner, who comes from a long line of Miami running backs. He can add a little burst to the Green Bay running game.

29. Baltimore Ravens: Jerel Worthy, DE/DT, Michigan St.

The Ravens lost starter Cory Redding to the Colts, so Jerel Worthy can replace him. Worthy is a massive man that can eat up blockers and can be extremely valuable against the run.

30. San Francisco 49ers: Cordy Glenn, OG/OT, Georgia

Starting guard, Adam Snyder, signed with the Cardinals in free agency, so the 49ers need to replace him. Glenn is a versatile lineman with athleticism and power to best some of the league’s best defensive heavyweight.

31. New England Patriots: Devon Still, DE/DT, Penn St.

Bill Belichik loves to build his offensive and defensive lines. Pick 31 is a luxury for the Pats and allows them to take the best player available. Still can play any spot on the defensive line and he’ll likely be asked to do that in Belichik’s defense.

32. New York Giants: Mychal Kendricks, ILB, California

The Giants have few needs as the Super Bowl champs, but one area they can definitely improve upon is linebacker. Kendricks is a tackling machine out of Cal with great instincts and slim build. He may take a year to develop but the Giants feel they are good enough that they can wait.

Round 2

33. St. Louis: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

The Rams signed Cortland Finnegan but they need an upgrade on the other side. Jenkins should be a starter right away.

34. Indianapolis: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

The best way to make Luck feel comfortable is to give him a familiar option. Fleener had a fantastic Pro Day and deserves to go here.

35. Minnesota: Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

Michael Jenkins isn’t going to cut it for Christian Ponder. Randle has a rare combination of size and speed that could be valuable to the Vikes in the redzone.

36. Tampa Bay: Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska

The Bucs really struggled at linebacker last season and are due for a serious upgrade. David would fit right in at weakside linebacker for Tampa Bay.

37. Cleveland: Zach Brown, OLB, UNC

The Browns have an opening at weakside linebacker and Brown is a top talent at outside linebacker. His competitiveness and toughness have been questioned, but Brown’s talent is unquestionable.

38. Jacksonville: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

The Jags need to do something about their glaring weakness at right tackle. Adams is a borderline first round pick that provides great value at 38.

39. St. Louis (WAS): Bobby Massie, OT, Mississippi

The Rams still need a starting tackle. Massie is used to dealing with the top talent of the SEC and that experience will be invaluable as a he makes the jump to the pros.

40. Carolina: Alshon Jefferey, WR, South Carolina

Carolina wide receiver, David Gettis, is more fit for the slot and Jefferey’s presence on the outside can get him there.

41. Buffalo: Zebrie Sanders, OT, FSU

Buffalo is in need of a replacement for Demetrius Bell, who is circling around in free agency. Sanders has the ability to play both tackle spots.

42. Miami: Andre Branch, DE, Clemson

No matter what scheme the Fins use, Branch can fit in and play right away. He has unparalleled versatility as a pass rusher.

43. Seattle: Nick Perry, DE, USC

Perry has gone up and down on draft boards but Pete Carrol recruited Perry in college and can now bring him to the pros.

44. Kansas City: Brandon Thompson, DE/DT, Clemson

Glenn Dorsey has never fit the 3-4 defense, so he may be on his way out sooner than later. Thompson can compete with him for a starting gig.

45. Dallas: Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin

The Cowboys signed a pair of guard this offseason, but both seem to be short term fixes. Zeitler can sit for a season or two and then take over.

46. Philadelphia: Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah State

Demeco Ryans solves Philadelphia’s problems at middle linebacker, but they still need someone on the strong side. Wagner is a pure SAM linebacker and can give the Eagles a competent player to set the edge.

47. New York Jets: Alameda Ta’amu, NT, Washington

Nose tackle is definitely a need for Rex Ryan and Co. Ta’amu is the second best of the bunch and can give the Jets a much needed cog in their front.

48. New England (OAK): Chandler Jones, OLB/DE, Syracuse

The more pass rushers, the better for New England. Jones is dominant pass rusher with a very high motor and great hips.

49. San Diego: Ronnell Lewis, OLB/DE, Oklahoma

San Diego needs to get some pressure on opposing offenses. While Jarrett Johnson could be productive in the short term, Lewis can provide depth and eventually move into the starting lineup.

50. Chicago: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

Now that Mike Martz is out of town, the tight end becomes a necessity again in Chicago. Once considered the best at his position in the draft, Allen falls to a spot where he is badly needed.

51. Philadelphia (ARI): Josh Robinson, CB, UCF

Asante Samuel is as good as gone and the Eagles could use depth at the position. Robinson is lights out fast and take hang with the speediest of  wideouts.

52. Tennessee: Bruce Irvin, DE/OLB, West Virginia

Adding to their acquisition of Curry is another defensive end. Irvin can stand up or put his hand down but either way he’ll get to the quarterback.

53. Cincinnati: Peter Konz, OL, Wisconsin

The Bengals need to improve their play at center and Konz is the perfect fit. Wisconsin manufactures offensive lineman and Konz is another Badger who plays his position at a high level.

54. Detroit: Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

The Lions need depth at cornerback and Hosley can play nickel or base in Jim Schwartz’s defense.

55. Atlanta: Orson Charles, TE, Georgia

Tony Gonzales can’t play forever, so the Falcons go local and draft Charles who is a great prospect.

56. Pittsburgh: David Wilson, HB, Virginia Tech

Rashad Mendenhall has major injury concerns, so the Steelers need to make sure they are covered at running back. Wilson is fast and at the very least, can provide a change-of-pace in Pittsburgh.

57. Denver: Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan St.

Peyton Manning needs an understudy and John Elway needs a contingency plan, especially with Peyton’s health. Cousins isn’t ready to start right away, so learning from Manning would be a plus.

58. Houston: Mitchell Schwartz, OT, California

Eric Winston was shown the door earlier this offseason, so the Texans bring in Schwartz to compete for the right tackle spot.

59. New Orleans: Forfeit

New Orleans has forfeited this pick due to punishments given by the NFL.

60. Green Bay: Jared Crick, DE/DT, Nebraska

The Packers really missed Cullen Jenkins last season and Crick can provide the same burst and pass rush skills to the Green Bay defense.

61. Baltimore: Chris Givens, WR, Wake Forest

Lee Evans was a trade bust, so the Ravens draft Givens who has similar size and speed to Evans to fit their offense.

62. San Francisco:  George Iloka, FS, Boise St

The 49ers don’t have a ton of holes and adding to their safety unit could be a luxury at this point but Iloka has tons of value here.

63. New England: Kelechi Osemele, OG, Iowa St.

The Pats continue to build their line with Osemele who could compete for a starting job with the aging Brian Waters.

64. New York Giants: Doug Martin, HB, Boise St

Brandon Jacobs is headed to San Francisco, so the Giants need a new number two running back. Martin is fast and can catch the football, something the Giants covet as a complimentary back.

Round 3

65. Indianapolis: Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia

With the secondary rebuilding, Boykin is a good cover corner and can play the slot for the young Colts.

66. St. Louis: Chris Polk, HB, Washington

Stephen Jackson has struggled with injuries the past few seasons and while Cadillac Williams may return, it’s good to have a young back in the mix.

67. Minnesota: Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma

Minnesota struggled to cover pretty much everyone last year, which sustaining a lead nearly impossible in 2011.

68. Cleveland: Ladarius Green, TE, Louisiana-Lafayette

Evan Moore and Alex Smith are nice players, but they aren’t starters. Green can come in and play right away.

69. Tampa Bay: LaMichael James, HB, Oregon

Tampa missed out on Trent Richardson, but James could be the Swiss Army knife that the Bucs need.

70. Washington: Antonio Allen, SS, South Carolina

Laron Landry has taken his ridiculous muscles to the Jets, it’s time to find his replacement.

71. Jacksonville: Bernard Pierce, HB, Temple

Pierce absolutely tore up his Pro Day, and the Jags would be better served to have a competent back up to give MJD some time to rest every now and then.

72. Buffalo: Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian State

Buffalo lacks a legit redzone wide receiver, that’s why they go for the 6-4 Quick.

73. Miami: Greg Childs, WR, Arkansas

With Brandon Marshall in Chicago, the Dolphins need to upgrade the wide receiver squad.

74. Miami (CHI/CAR): Brandon Mosley, OT, Auburn

The Dolphins struggled on the right side in 2011 after Vernon Carey was moved to guard.

75. Kansas City: Marvin Jones, WR, California

The Chiefs have a good three-headed monster at wide receiver, but need to be prepared if one goes down.

76. Seattle: Michael Egnew, TE, Missouri

Zach Miller was a free agency bust and John Carlson left for Minnesota. Egnew can be a great second option at tight end.

77. Houston (PHI): Billy Winn, DE/DT, Boise State

Antonio Smith is getting up there in age and Winn can sit behind him and provide depth until Smith moves on.

78. New York Jets: Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin

With only Santonio Holmes and a bunch of scrubs out wide, the Jets need another pass catcher.

79. Oakland: Forfeited (2010 Supplemental Draft-Terrell Pryor)

The Raiders used this pick to draft Terrell Pryor in the 2010 Supplemental Draft.

80. San Diego: Juron Criner, WR, Arizona

Vincent Brown and Malcolm Floyd are set to start, but someone needs to take Brown’s former job in the slot.

81. Chicago: Ben Jones, OL, Georgia

Robert Garza has been up and down at center the past few years, so this move gives him a backup and possible replacement.

82. Arizona: Matt McCants, OT, AUB

Arizona may have resigned Levi Brown but they still need a right tackle.

83. Dallas: Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

The Dallas Cowboys need to get better in the secondary and while Brandon Carr will help, this move solidifies the unit.

84. Tennessee: Dwight Bentley, CB, Louisiana-Lafayette

Cortland Finnegan is gone, so the Titans need to replenish their depth.

85. Cincinnati: Dwight Jones, WR, UNC

Jones can replace Andre Caldwell in the slot for the Bengals.

86. Atlanta: James-Michael Johnson, ILB, Nevada

Johnson would give the Falcons a fallback plan if Akeem Dent struggles in the middle.

87. Detroit: Michael Brewster, OL, Ohio State

Dominic Raola has been consistent for the past decade but could use a young backup.

88. Pittsburgh: Rishard Matthews, WR, Nevada

Either way, the Steelers are likely to lose one of their major wide-outs next offseason.

89. Denver: Trent Robinson, FS, Michigan State

Brian Dawkins is likely to retire, so adding depth is important for the safety spot.

90. Philadelphia (HOU): Tony Bergstrom, OT, Utah

Jason Peters is likely out for the season, so the Eagles need to replenish their depth.

91. New Orleans: Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona St.

Drew Brees may holdout with the Franchise Tag, so the Saints need to be prepared.

92. Green Bay: Philip Blake, OL, Baylor

Jeff Saturday was a nice signing but he isn’t going to play forever.

93. Baltimore: Shea McClellin, OLB/DE, Boise State

Jarret Johnson signed with the Chargers, so McClellin would be his replacement on the strong side.

94. San Francisco: Ronnie Hillman, HB, San Diego State

I have a feeling the Brandon Jacobs experiment will fail quite early in the season.

95. New England: Robert Turbin, HB, Utah State

The Patriots love adding running back depth in the middle of the draft.

96. New York Giants: Sean Spence, OLB, Miami

As previously mentioned, the Giants could afford to update their linebacker situation.

97. Oakland (compensatory): Josh Kaddu, OLB, Oregon

After being cutting Kamerion Wimbley, the Raiders need a replacement to set the edge.

Photo: Getty Images

Tim Tebow is a polarizing figure: Some love him, some hate him, but unless you live under a rock, you probably know who he is. Today, Tebow was officially introduced as a New York Jet, standing in front of approximately 150+ media outlets as the new backup QB of Gang Green (I certainly don’t remember Ex-Jet Drew Stanton getting a nationally televised Press Conference… I kid, I kid).

Tebow was asked repetitive questions about his relationship with Mark Sanchez and whether the two could co-exist, what his role would be, questions about the trade and how it went down, and of course questions about New York’s ‘fractured’ locker-room.

As usual, Tebow said what you’d expect: “I think I’m improving every day” “class, integrity” “I’ve always enjoyed pressure. I play better when I have more on the line.” “You have a responsibility to be a good role model, to set a good example,” “making a difference,” “I’m just gonna be myself” etc.

Tebow wished Denver nothing but the best and did it with a smile, and about his teammates, “we went through a lot together.”

How this New York experiment works will ultimately be the true testament to this deal, but with billboards already up, and controversy already spewing, Tebow’s arrival in the Big Apple has made waves. And o yeah, his religion. That garnered it’s own questions. (Just your typical ‘football’ press conference).

What do you think: Was the NY media fair on Tebow today? Are questions about religion out of line at a press conference? How will Tebow fare in New York?

The wait is over! And for the Saints, the punishment fits the crime. After a bounty scandal investigation uncovered lying and cheating over a 3 year period in New Orleans, Roger Goodell hit the Saints hard today for going against everything he wants the league to be. Citing safety as his chief concern, with the simple goal of extinguishing bounty programs not just from the NFL, but from football altogether, the Commish docked the Saints 2 2nd round draft picks, in addition to suspending coach Sean Payton for the season, along with Gregg Williams indefinitely. Joe Levitt was also suspended 6 games and GM Mickey Loomis was suspended for 8. Players suspensions and fines are still to come.

It’s a rough day for the Saints, but if you review the statement that the NFL released today, I find it hard to feel sorry for them. In addition to cheating, the Saints lied, and then covered up their lies, trying to keep their “ducks in a row,” as was cited in the report.

Read the report here: http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d827c15b2/article/nfl-announces-manageme…

What do you think? Where do the Saints go from here? What kind of season do you expect New Orleans to have, now?