I have been into this for a very long time. There are so many clues that stil exist that are screaming at us to take notice.

This video is well put together and it shares many of these "screaming clues" that most people never even knew existed. It's about 30 minutes long.... but I promise you it will make you take notice. Our history books do not tell our true history. Watch this when you're quarantining yourself over the next few weeks... it's fascinating. If nothing else, it'll help you kill some of that time... and you'll learn some very cool things that have somehow not been taught to us in school.


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Man... that’s like being there. Cool watch.

NASA's Curiosity Mars Rover Snaps Its Highest-Resolution Panorama Yet

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NASA's Curiosity rover has captured its highest-resolution panorama yet of the Martian surface. Composed of more than 1,000 images taken during the 2019 Thanksgiving holiday and carefully assembled over the ensuing months, the composite contains 1.8 billion pixels of Martian landscape. The rover's Mast Camera, or Mastcam, used its telephoto lens to produce the panorama; meanwhile, it relied on its medium-angle lens to produce a lower-resolution, nearly 650-million-pixel panorama that includes the rover's deck and robotic arm.

Both panoramas showcase "Glen Torridon," a region on the side of Mount Sharp that Curiosity is exploring. They were taken between Nov. 24 and Dec. 1, when the mission team was out for the Thanksgiving holiday. Sitting still with few tasks to do while awaiting the team to return and provide its next commands, the rover had a rare chance to image its surroundings from the same vantage point several days in a row. (Look closer: A special tool allows viewers to zoom into this panorama.)

It required more than 6 1/2 hours over the four days for Curiosity to capture the individual shots. Mastcam operators programmed the complex task list, which included pointing the rover's mast and making sure the images were in focus. To ensure consistent lighting, they confined imaging to between noon and 2 p.m. local Mars time each day.

"While many on our team were at home enjoying turkey, Curiosity produced this feast for the eyes," said Ashwin Vasavada, Curiosity's project scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which leads the Curiosity rover mission. "This is the first time during the mission we've dedicated our operations to a stereo 360-degree panorama."

In 2013, Curiosity produced a 1.3-billion-pixel panorama using both Mastcam cameras; its black-and-white Navigation Cameras, or Navcams, provided images of the rover itself. Imaging specialists carefully assemble Mars panoramas by creating mosaics composed of individual pictures and blending their edges to create a seamless look.

Malin Space Science Systems in San Diego built and operates Curiosity's Mastcam. JPL, a division of Caltech in Pasadena, manages the project for NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington and built the Navigation Cameras and the rover.

The Los Angeles Rams are going to err on the side of safety this offseason. Amid growing concerns over the coronavirus outbreak, the Rams have decided to cancel all pre-draft visits with prospects. They also won’t attend any college workouts with prospects.

It’s a precautionary measure that many teams have taken in an attempt to prevent the spread of the virus further. It’s also a change that will impact the Rams’ offseason approach, making it difficult to evaluate players off the field.

Each year, teams are allowed to host 30 prospects before the draft. It’s an indication of which players teams are interested in drafting, with a few smokescreens likely thrown in the mix, too. It’s a time for teams to get to know prospects better, showing them the facilities and allowing them to meet coaches and front office members.

This is an approach being taken by a lot of teams amid the outbreak. The NBA and NHL have suspended their seasons, as well, and the NCAA tournament has been canceled.

The NFL still plans to start the new league year on March 18, with free agency officially beginning at 4 p.m. that day.

Welp. It was fun while it lasted.
---------------------------------------------------------------

The XFL announced Thursday it will not proceed with the remainder of its first regular season since the league was rebooted because of the coronavirus outbreak.

"Currently, the XFL will not be playing its regular-season games," the league said in a statement. "However, all players will be paid their base pay and benefits for 2020 regular season. All XFL ticket holders will be issued refunds or credit towards future games. The XFL is committed to playing a full season in 2021 and future years."

"The XFL is committed to playing a full season in 2021 and future years," Luck added.

The move comes as numerous leagues across the country have put play on hold in order to limit the spread of COVID-19. The NBA and NHL suspended games indefinitely, while MLB pushed back the start of its regular season by at least two weeks.

The NCAA also canceled its winter and spring championships, which include the men's and women's basketball tournaments.

In addition to the steps taken by sports officials, state and local governments have issued moratoriums on large gatherings of people. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, for example, banned any event with more than 250 people in Pierce, King and Snohomish counties, a move that impacted the Seattle Dragons.

Per CNN, there are at least 124,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus worldwide, and more than 4,600 have died.

A suspension or cancellation of the XFL season felt inevitable given how everything has unfolded so far.

The league has completed five weeks in its return campaign and was originally set to hold its championship April 26.

The NFL's regular season doesn't kick off until September, and training camps will open in July. As a result, the XFL might be able to push back its season and wrap things up before experiencing any significant overlap with the NFL.

However, that could be less than ideal for any players who hoped to parlay their XFL success into a possible shot in the NFL. The longer the XFL drags on, the more time NFL teams will have to fill their roster spots.

View: https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2880607-xfl-suspends-2020-inaugural-season-amid-coronavirus-concerns

Buyer beware: 10 NFL free agents who might be overpriced in 2020

NFL free agency is never as simple for teams as adding a final missing piece or two.

Without fail, the spending sprees in March produce hyperbole about how the big-name additions can swing teams' fortunes. Yet in many cases, one offseason's big splash can become next year's dead weight (see: the Jacksonville Jaguars locking in quarterback Nick Foles to a four-year, $88 million pact last March). And though salary cap concerns can be somewhat of a bogeyman given the various avenues that front offices have for maneuvering, as well as the potential flexibility afforded by the collective bargaining agreement currently being weighed by players, the wrong long-term deal still can severely hinder a franchise for quite a while.

Of course, some free agents give off more troublesome warning signs than others do. As we await teams' franchise tag designations, here's our look at 10 potential free agents who could be overpriced in the coming weeks.

Arik Armstead, DE, San Francisco 49ers: Unlike several other free agent defensive ends, Armstead isn't an all-or-nothing pass rusher. At 6-7 and 290 pounds, the No. 17 overall pick in 2015 has been stout against the run and capable of pushing the pocket even when he doesn't reach the quarterback. But the deal Armstead signs this offseason seems bound to be tied to 2019's 10 sacks, which were more than double his total for the previous four years and might have been inflated by offenses focusing on new arrivals Nick Bosa and Dee Ford. If Armstead doesn't receive the franchise tag from the 49ers and ends up signing a contract somewhere in the neighborhood of what Trey Flowers received from the Detroit Lions last year (five years, $90 million with $50 million guaranteed), it would be an exorbitant price for a defensive end who might struggle to consistently tally double-digit sacks again.

Shaquil Barrett, OLB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: By any measure, Barrett's emergence from free agency afterthought last spring to NFL sack leader with 19 1/2 was one of last season's most surprising developments. Yet Barrett's breakout in his first full year as a starter wasn't merely a stroke of luck, as his 51 pressures, per Pro Football Reference, ranked fourth among all defenders and reflected a penchant for beating opposing offensive linemen. Still, the 27-year-old has to prove his performance won't taper off now that he's a known entity who will be studied and planned for like any top pass rusher. Barrett and coach Bruce Arians have struck an optimistic tone about reaching an agreement, but the Buccaneers also have to invest elsewhere on defense.

Bud Dupree, OLB, Pittsburgh Steelers: Beware the contract-year breakout player. Since arriving in the league as the No. 22 pick in 2015, Dupree has had the speed to whip past offensive tackles, but his production was lagging until 2019, when he recorded 11 1/2 sacks. But his pressure rate of 10.1%, per Pro Football Focus, put him 70th among edge rushers and was no better than that of his previous two years. Though the Steelers have stated their intent to retain Dupree, Pittsburgh shouldn't pay a premium in a long-term deal for what could end up being an aberration in sack production.

Dante Fowler Jr., OLB, Los Angeles Rams: Playing on a one-year deal worth $12 million after being traded to the Rams midway through the previous season, Fowler last year finally delivered some of what had been expected of him ever since he became the No. 3 pick in the 2015 draft. Consistency, however, still eludes him, as 7 1/2 of his 11 1/2 sacks in 2019 were made in three games. For a player who could command a long-term contract above the rate he was paid on his prove-it deal, Fowler isn't a reliable catalyst for a defense as he often simply finished plays initiated by defensive tackle Aaron Donald.

Derrick Henry, RB, Tennessee Titans: At 6-3 and 247 pounds, Henry has been a running back without comparison since his high school days. That uniqueness was reinforced by his role in the Titans' run to the AFC championship game this January, as his 446 rushing yards broke the NFL record for the most during a single playoff run (not including the Super Bowl). But amid several of his peers' recent deals that quickly proved to be problematic for teams, how much can any organization afford to pay a star running back in a league where frequent and efficient passing still creates the greatest offensive advantage? Henry is no doubt important to Tennessee's current offensive setup, but it's hard to calculate how valuable he would be on the market given that he's not a fit for every scheme. And more than most players on the market, the four-year veteran carries a substantial risk in any long-term deal given the workload he already has endured and would need to continue shouldering to be an elite back.

Austin Hooper, TE, Atlanta Falcons: Some of free agency's most puzzling deals can be traced back to reliable but unremarkable players reaping the rewards of a field short on true difference makers. That could be the case with Hooper, who might be poised to reset the tight end market despite falling short of George Kittle and Travis Kelce's class and benefitting from the attention opposing defenses gave to Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley. Hooper could still be an adequate option for a team with an established No. 1 target, but it's hard to reconcile giving more than $10 million per year to a pass catcher who has averaged just 43.8 yards per game and 10.1 yards per catch in the last three years.

Matthew Judon, OLB, Baltimore Ravens: Don't immediately peg Judon as the next Za'Darius Smith, the former Ravens pass rusher who raised eyebrows when he signed a four-year, $66 million with the Green Bay Packers but went on to rack up 13 1/2 sacks in a Pro Bowl campaign. Yes, Judon is only 27 and coming off a year in which he tallied 9 1/2 sacks, as well as 33 quarterback hits (ranking fourth among all defenders). All of his sacks, however, were secured on blitzes, according to ESPN, and he's not on the level of Smith and other highly paid pass rushers. Retaining him via the franchise tag makes sense, but Baltimore should be wary of giving him a long-term deal with approximately $16 million average annual value, which is the going rate for top players at his position.

Jordan Phillips, DT, Buffalo Bills: With many NFL quarterbacks operating in quick-trigger attacks, generating interior pressure has become a focal point for defenses looking to throw passers off their rhythm. But even after notching 9 1/2 sacks last year, the 6-6, 341-pound Phillips is a long way off from the Kansas City Chiefs' Chris Jones and other top defensive tackles, especially when it comes to creating disruption. Replicating and improving upon 2019's output will be a challenge unless the 27-year-old takes a significant step forward in utilizing his physical tools to become more consistent in his pass rush and more formidable against the run.

Ryan Tannehill, QB, Titans: For as much intrigue as the potential crop of quarterback free agents has created, there might not be a one-size-fits-all answer — and that's including Tom Brady. And while Jameis Winston and Teddy Bridgewater each carry questions on how they would fit in new surroundings, Tannehill is the veteran passer whose outlook might be the murkiest. Recreating the nearly ideal circumstances in which the veteran was able to revive his career likely will prove difficult, making any multi-year deal entailing significant guaranteed money a gamble. Ultimately, whatever team signs Tannehill will have to field an offense that can stay on schedule and heavily utilize play-action, which are crutches not typical for a player of someone at his expected pay level.

Leonard Williams, DE, New York Giants: When a player has already cycled through two teams during his rookie contract, finding a substantial market in free agency can be a challenge. That might not be the case for Williams, who still should have several bidders if the Giants decide not to keep the No. 6 overall pick in 2015 from hitting the open market after acquiring him in a midseason trade. Maybe Dave Gettleman decides to double-down on Williams via a long-term contract, but scrutiny would follow given that the five-year veteran recorded just a 1/2 sack and one tackle for loss in 2019. While sacks don't tell the full story for any defensive lineman, especially one in a 3-4 scheme, Williams has typically been strong against the run but middling at best as a pass rusher — hardly the description of a prized player in today's NFL.

Captain Tripps...err...the coronavirus has caused the NBA to suspend their season. What about the mass celebration of the NFL Draft host city? I think I even heard that March Madness will happen without fans in the stands?

Legal tampering period Monday, so basically we've got 4 days to go. As of Monday we'll have all kinds of information to work with finally thank fuck. So who are your target/s for our newest members in horns?

And yeah, I know the Rams are going to try to maximize potential for comp picks next year. So while that will limit things that's no fun so let's focus on who we like as options, the guys we hope the Rams are linked to come Monday at noon. My preferences...

1. ILB Kwiatkoski. Match made in heaven for us as he knows our defense, has played for our new DC, fills hard vs the run, and is ok vs the pass. There are some other options that I like too at ILB in this FA group but this is the guy I want to see us chasing. Should be cheaper than Littleton and a better fit, and takes the edge off the positional need in the draft.

2. C McGovern. This might not happen if the Rams plan on positioning for one of several Centers in the draft. But he's not a top player and shouldn't be in that top range in pay, and his signing would single handedly simmer things down on our interior OL. His limitations in the run game should be minimized with our projected OG starters next to him.

Notable positions where there will be really nice depth plus Rams' need are OG and FS. OG is going to have exceptional quality and a lot of options but the Rams probably are comfortable enough that they'll opt to address Center instead. FS looks exceptional as well, at least in projecting who will hit the market, and I don't like the FS options in this draft, but I don't think the need is sufficient to where the Rams will chase it.

5T is a need and there will be options to include fits like Wolfe but in prioritizing things it's hard to see the Rams pursuing that over C or ILB.

NFL draft's 'historic' wide receiver class could suppress free-agency market for pass catchers

In the past five years, an average of 12 wide receivers have been taken in the first three rounds of the NFL draft.

This year, that number could double.

“I’ve got 27 wide receivers with top three-round grades in this draft,” NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah said last month. “This is a really phenomenal group of wideouts.”

The rise in NFL-ready wide receivers coincides with the changing face of football at all levels.

The evolution of spread offenses in college have created a deeper pool of wide receivers for NFL teams to choose from. The explosion of seven-on-seven leagues in youth and high school football have fueled the college game. And kids have gravitated towards the position as they’ve tried to emulate Odell Beckham’s one-handed catches and Julio Jones’ grace.

It’s a circle that’s taken years to complete.

“You’ve probably heard every GM and coach talk about this wide receiver class, it’s a good one,” New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas said at the combine last month. “Just watching them go across the stage, there’s a lot of talented players and we see how much the pass game affects the National Football League. So we do feel good about this group. … There are some really good wide receivers in this class.”

Jeremiah ranks four receivers among his top 14 players in the draft and has eight in his top 50 overall.

ESPN analyst Todd McShay said last week there’s a chance seven wide receivers could go in the first round, which would be the most since 2004.

McShay’s colleague, Mel Kiper Jr., said he expects 25 receivers to go in the first 3½ rounds.

“This is going to be maybe historic,” he said.

Oklahoma’s CeeDee Lamb and the Alabama duo of Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs are potential top-10 picks, and their ascension as players, combined with the exceptional depth of the class, have teams rethinking their free-agent plans.

Last year, teams splurged on complementary pass catchers like Golden Tate, Adam Humphries and John Brown, and traded for the likes of Beckham and Antonio Brown. This year, the wide receiver market seems tepid at best heading into the start of free agency next week.

Amari Cooper will get a massive deal from the Dallas Cowboys or someone else, and NFL teams including the Detroit Lions and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are poised to lock up rising stars like Kenny Golladay and Chris Godwin with big contracts this offseason.

But faced with the choice of giving a second-tier veteran like Robby Anderson or Emmanuel Sanders a deal worth eight figures annually or adding an emerging young talent on a cost-controlled contract, teams are wisely looking to April’s draft.

“That’s the great thing about this draft,” Arizona Cardinals GM Steve Keim said. “Not only is the wide receiver position extremely deep but they’re all different types.”

Whatever a team is looking for at the wide receiver position, it should be able to fill that need through the draft.

Ruggs is a jet-fueled vertical threat who dropped one pass at Alabama last season and excels on special teams. Jeudy is bendy and athletic, one of the best route runners to ever come out of college football. And Lamb is physical and versatile, the type of do-everything player teams covet in today’s game.

Beyond that group, LSU’s Justin Jefferson, Clemson’s Tee Higgins, Penn State’s K.J. Hamler, Baylor’s Denzel Mims, Colorado’s Laviska Shenault, TCU’s Jalen Reagor and Arizona State’s Brandon Aiyuk are potential top-50 picks at the outside or slot receiver positions.

Contenders looking to bolster their passing game should have no trouble finding a receiver capable of contributing as a rookie, and teams with young quarterbacks can target a pass catcher for them to grow with.

The Lions, with Golladay, Marvin Jones and slot receiver Danny Amendola under contract for one more season, have a more long-term need at the position, and are among the teams expected to pass on high-priced receivers in free agency.

One word of warning, though: As good as this receiver class is, there’s no chance all of them hit.

The last time a draft had six first-round receivers was 2015, when Cooper went fourth overall and has mostly lived up to his billing since.

The other receivers taken in Round 1: Kevin White, DeVante Parker, Nelson Agholor, Breshad Perriman and Phillip Dorsett.

White is out of the league, Parker signed an extension late last season and Agholor, Perriman and Dorsett are among the free agents who should be bracing for mostly cold shoulders this spring.

Bring Back the Damn 15-Minute NFL Overtime

The NFL's decision to tinker with overtime and make it a 10-minute period instead of 15 resulted in an increased likelihood of ties. And no one particularly likes ties -- even those who enjoy kissing their sister. A tie leaves no one satisfied and makes it almost impossible to decipher standings coming down the stretch.

So dear reader, it is with great delight that I tell you the Philadelphia Eagles proposed going back to the original 15-minute setup today as part of seven potential rule changes for next year. Owners approved the truncated session before the 2017 season.

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There has been only a slight uptick in ties since the change (three over two years as opposed to five over the previous five), but the panic of realizing it could happen sets in almost immediately. And a knotted score can ruin a season before it even gets going. For instance, the Detroit Lions never recovered from an opening week draw against Arizona last season. That and only that is the reason there was no winning at the end of the rainbow most weeks.

The Eagles will get to defend their amendment at the league meeting later this month, though any sane person should be on board immediately. Playing five extra minutes of football doesn't quite present the existential risk it once did when discussions are ongoing to play at least one extra regular season game.

Rams release PR/WR JoJo Natson
By MTPeterson Mar 10, 2020, 4:47pm CDT
https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2020/3/10/21173916/rams-jojo-natson-los-angeles

The Rams kick returner was not getting the job done in ‘19

The Rams have waived return specialist JoJo Natson, according to ESPN’s Field Yates.
This shouldn’t come as a huge surprise to fans, especially given his lackluster performance in 2019 and the fact he was set to become a restricted free agent this offseason.

The Rams have waived return specialist JoJo Natson, per source. He finished the season on IR after a December injury and was scheduled to become an RFA. If a team claims him, it could still tender Natson for the 2020 season.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 10, 2020

Click to expand...

Natson has handled return responsibilities with the Rams over the last two seasons. In ‘19, he took 19 punts and 13 kickoffs for 149 and 289 yards, respectively, with zero scores.

Here's the paywall link for the Athletic.com's redraft of 2017's class for those who subscribe. And guess who made it into the first round...

18. Tennessee Titans
The 2017 pick: Cornerback Adoree’ Jackson

The redraft pick: Wide receiver Cooper Kupp

Having passed on taking Davis at No. 5 this time in favor of White at cornerback, the Titans once again find themselves in need of pass-catching talent. The only returning receiver of note heading into 2017 was Rishard Matthews, and he would soon start to tail off. So the Titans will select Kupp, who has the most receiving touchdowns (21) of anyone in the 2017 draft class — despite the fact he missed half of 2018 with an injury. Cooper came back with a great 2019, catching 94 passes for 1,161 yards and 10 touchdowns. He and A.J. Brown, the Titans’ second-round pick last season, would have been a great tandem for years to come. — John Glennon

Not bad eh? That Cooper Kupp... He's a dog, bro.

The Cleveland Browns have just released ILB Christian Kirksey after two injury-filled years. Having said that he is only 28 years old and an excellent (albeit when healthy) inside linebacker. Also, he is well regarded as a team leader in the locker room and a very outstanding member of the community.
Do we kick the tires on a guy like this?

~ArkyRamsFan~

View: https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2879596-nfl-offensive-tackle-market-could-quietly-be-stronger-than-ever-this-offseason

NFL Offensive Tackle Market Could Quietly Be Stronger Than Ever This Offseason

The quarterback carousel is expected to spin so wildly this NFL offseason that it's pretty much all anyone's talking about.

"Tom did what at a college basketball game?"

"Bruce said what about Jameis?"

"Teddy is reportedly set to make what on the open market?"

Those are just select quotes from my cat, which is ridiculous because he's not even an NFL fan.

But while the football world is focused on where several key players at the game's most important position might land, a fascinating and deep market has emerged for those who protect said key players.

In fact, offensive tackle might be the game's second-most important position, which would explain why respected veterans so rarely hit free agency.

How many standout tackles have reached the open market in the last decade? Branden Albert in 2014, Andrew Whitworth in 2017, maybe Andre Smith in 2013, Nate Solder in 2018 and Trent Brown and Ja'Wuan James in 2019. Usually, it's one or two per year, at best, and we're rarely talking about difference-making tackles moving teams in March.

This offseason is shaping up very differently:

• The Philadelphia Eagles announced last week the team and veteran left tackle Jason Peters have "mutually agreed" that Peters will become a free agent.
• The Washington Redskins have granted disgruntled left tackle Trent Williams permission to peruse the trade market, according to ESPN's Dianna Russini.
• A Tennessee Titans source told ESPN's Matthew Berry at the combine that he expects the team to tag running back Derrick Henry. With quarterback Ryan Tannehill also on track to hit free agency, that likely leaves steady 25-year-old right tackle Jack Conklin available for poachers.
• Los Angeles Rams general manager Les Snead recently stated on the Rams Revealed podcast that his cap-strapped team is unlikely to use the franchise tag, which could mean that Whitworth will become available in free agency.

Those four vets have been to a combined 20 Pro Bowls and earned a combined five first-team All-Pro nods. Peters and Whitworth are 38, but both remained quality starters in 2019. Williams is coming off a lost season because of a holdout, but the 31-year-old was a Pro Bowler in each of his previous seven campaigns. Conklin is less decorated, but he was an All-Pro as a rookie a few years ago and was Pro Football Focus' sixth-highest-graded right tackle despite coming off a torn ACL.

But that's not all! This class is deep too:

• Reliable 10-year Green Bay Packers right tackle Bryan Bulaga is about to hit the market at age 30.
• Longtime New York Jets, Jacksonville Jaguars and Pittsburgh Steelers starter Kelvin Beachum is scheduled to become a free agent. He's also 30.
• Versatile 27-year-old Daryl Williams, who easily could have been a Pro Bowler in a dominant 2017 campaign but hasn't been as effective since, has an expiring contract for the Carolina Panthers.
• Another Eagle, the versatile Halapoulivaati Vaitai, is expected to land a starting job as a high-trajectory 26-year-old. NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reports that Big V could make between $8 million and $12 million per year on a new contract.
• With 2019 first-round pick Jonah Williams waiting in the wings, the Cincinnati Bengals are prepared to move on from veteran left tackle Cordy Glenn, according to Jenna Laine of ESPN.
• Stalwart Indianapolis Colts left tackle Anthony Castonzo's contract is also set to expire next week, although it doesn't appear the cap-rich Colts will let him play elsewhere.

There's little chance all 10 of those guys become available, but if even three or four were to reach that point, it'd be great news for teams that are either looking for a final puzzle piece or hoping to add experience in support of a young quarterback as they rebuild.

The Miami Dolphins, who, according to Spotrac, lead the NFL in projected salary-cap space, would probably love to give their new young quarterback (whoever that is) a protector like Conklin, who has a lot of productive years ahead of him.

Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns, who have the talent to compete right now but lack options at left tackle, have the money and the clout to take a late-career flier on Whitworth or Peters. Neither should be expected to last more than another year or two, but that's all Cleveland needs. Peters still earned the sixth-best PFF grade at his position in 2019, while Whitworth was a top-10 pass-blocker at the same outlet. The Browns could also try to trade for Williams, who likely has more tread on his tires than the other two vets.

Bulaga, Beachum and Glenn would be intriguing and proven consolation prizes for anybody in win-now mode. In addition to the Browns, you'd think the Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Chargers and Seattle Seahawks would be in that market.

Conklin, Williams and Vaitai are a lot younger, so their markets would probably be larger. In addition to the teams above, you'd think the Redskins, Jets and New York Giants would be interested.

The group might not be as star-studded as the QBs, but it's loaded with high-quality horses.

Don't be surprised if its movement has a massive impact on the 2020 NFL season.

Rams hire Justin Lovett as new head strength coach


Stu Jackson
STAFF WRITER



THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. – The Los Angeles Rams have hired Justin Lovett as their new head strength coach.
Lovett joins the Rams after three seasons as the director of football strength & conditioning for Purdue University. Prior to joining Purdue, he spent three seasons at Western Kentucky, helping the Hilltoppers to back-to-back Conference USA championships (2015 and 2016) and two straight bowl victories (2014 Popeyes Bahamas Bowl and 2015 Miami Beach Bowl). Western Kentucky also produced five NFL Draft picks during Lovett's tenure, highlighted by a school-record-tying three in 2016 which included current Rams tight end Tyler Higbee.
Before landing at Western Kentucky, Lovett spent two seasons working with the University of Georgia's football strength and conditioning staff. Current Rams running back Todd Gurley was among the 15 players drafted by NFL teams during Lovett's two seasons working with the Bulldogs.
Lovett first broke into the NFL as an intern with the Broncos in 2009, spending three seasons in Denver before returning to the college ranks.
Lovett is certified by the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (Strength and Conditioning Coach Certified), National Strength and Conditioning Association (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) and National Academy of Sports Medicine (Performance Enhancement Specialist and Corrective Exercise Specialist). He earned a bachelor's degree in exercise and sports science from Colorado State in 2003 and a master's degree in exercise science from California University of Pennsylvania in 2012.
Experience:
2003-04: Director of Sports Performance at Miramont Sports Center in Fort Collins, Colorado
2004-08: Aurora (Colo.) Grandview High School head strength and conditioning coach
2008-09: University of Texas at El Paso head soccer strength and conditioning coach, assisted with football and softball
2009-12: Denver Broncos intern (2009), assistant strength and conditioning coach (2010-2011)
2012-14: University of Georgia assistant football strength and conditioning coach
2014-16: Western Kentucky University head football strength and conditioning coach
2016-20: Purdue University director of football strength and conditioning

Man his play fell off a cliff.

Another legend passes.

I find players like this interesting. “Nobody knows that to do with them” or opinions vary significantly.

Where does this guy fit in the NFL?

I guess a Taysom Hill type? A 2nd seems rich for that.

Jalen Hurts has a strong message for teams entering NFL Draft

There are quite a few quarterbacks that have had their name mentioned as a first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, but Jalen Hurts isn’t one of them. With a little over a month until this year’s draft, Hurts has a strong message for teams that need a quarterback.

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Hurts began his collegiate career as the starting quarterback at Alabama as a freshman. Over the course of his first two seasons at Alabama, Hurts combined for 4,861 passing yards, 40 passing touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.

Besides his passing numbers, Hurts also added 1,809 rushing yards and 21 rushing touchdowns in his first two years in college. However, in his junior season, he would be benched in favor of sophomore, Tua Tagovailoa. Of course, Tagovailoa is also set to enterthe 2020 NFL Draft with Hurts.

Even though he remained at Alabama for the rest of the season, Hurts decided to enter his name into the transfer portal in 2019. Not long after, the former Crimson Tide would play his senior season at Oklahoma.

In his lone season at Oklahoma, Hurts put together the best year of his collegiate career, throwing for 3,851 yards, 32 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He also gashed opposing defenses for 1,298 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns on the ground.

But as a mobile quarterback, Hurts appears to be the next prospect that teams are wary of selecting at quarterback. Despite teams asking him to possibly switch positions, Hurts has continued to work tirelessly to become a better quarterback. While he isn’t considered to be a first-round pick, Hurts is prepared to prove his critics wrong in the near future.

It’s one of those nights...

I dunno... looks real.

Three teams that could trade for Brandin Cooks

The Los Angeles Rams‘ front office tied its own hands with the salary cap by agreeing to massive contracts with Jared Goff, Todd Gurley, Aaron Donald and Brandin Cooks. With the team needing to extend Jalen Ramsey after the 2020 season, it is time to clear up some salary-cap space.

Out of the four players listed the most expendable is Brandin Cooks. Cooks is still an elite wide receiver and could be the best receiver on a title-contending team. He did not play much in 2019 because he was banged up, but he is talented.

The Rams have weapons around Cooks that could replace the hole that he would leave behind and the team would save money in the long run. Even though the Rams have a potential out in Cooks’ contract after this season, it would still carry a $13 million dead cap hit.

It is important to keep in mind that if the Rams trade Cooks they actually will not save any salary cap space this season because of his dead cap. However, they would save in the long run.

The ideal trade partner for Cooks is someone who needs a wide receiver and has a short-term, high salary contract to send in return.

1. Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills have just that. The Bills shocked the world and won 10 games last season and are an elite wide receiver away from having an even more well-rounded offense. The team succeeded mostly on the ground, even via Josh Allen, so adding that number one target is imperative.

The Bills have a large one-year contract to send in return in Trent Murphy. Murphy has a $9.775 million cap hit this season and will be an unrestricted free agent after the year.

Murphy would knock out two birds with one stone. Not only would the Rams be freeing up salary-cap space in the long-term but they would get a short-term edge-rusher to replace Dante Fowler Jr.

2. Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals have the first overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and are more than likely going to take Joe Burrow, who just put together one of the most impressive seasons in NCAA history with the LSU Tigers.

The Bengals are in no place to contend for the playoffs right away, even with Burrow, but that should not stop the team from making additions if possible. With the luxury of Burrow on a rookie contract, the Bengals could absolutely afford to take on a big contract like Cooks, which also gives Burrow an actual number one target.

So what contract do the Bengals have to send in return? That of Andy Dalton.

Yes, it would be strange to see Dalton traded to Los Angeles but he obviously would not be the starting quarterback and would serve as a veteran “just in case” backup for Jared Goff for one season. He is one the last year of his contract and will carry no dead cap to the Bengals.

The great part about this potential trade is that it could net the Rams a draft pick as well. Even though the Bengals are doing the Rams a favor in freeing up money, Cooks is still a valuable asset and could probably render a third-round pick out of the Bengals.

The Rams would get a veteran quarterback for one season, a third-round pick and a lot of freed up salary. Meanwhile, the Bengals would get a weapon for the rookie quarterback to throw to.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars

Wouldn’t it be ironic if the Jacksonville Jaguars ended up being the team that helps the Rams clear up salary cap space that the team needs to extend the player they added from Jacksonville during the season in Jalen Ramsey?

The Jaguars do not have a pressing need at the wide receiver position but have a mix of good guys, none of which are capable of being the top receiver on a contending team. Cooks, meanwhile, is that good and could get the Rams a great asset out of the trade as well.

In this situation, I could see the Los Angeles Rams sending a late-round pick the Jaguars’ way as the Rams would be getting defensive end, Calais Campbell. Campbell is in the last year of his contract, is set to make $17.5 million and has a minimal $2.5 million dead cap hit.

The Jaguars not only get a draft pick out of Campbell but get a multi-year asset to build the team around. Meanwhile, the Rams would get an elite rental option that would be reminiscent of when Ndamukong Suhplayed in LA.

Campbell is a five-time Pro Bowler and one-time All-Pro and would be absolutely lethal on the Rams’ defensive line alongside Aaron Donald. Campbell had a slow season this year in terms of sacks but still was named a Pro Bowler and earned double-digit sacks in each of the previous two years.

Campbell is extremely talented and getting to play alongside Aaron Donald will provide him more favorable matchups and bring out the best in his play. This would be the best one-year rental talent-wise that the Rams could receive.

At the end of the day, though, the Rams would be happy to get Cooks’ contract off the books, especially if it could be reworked in a way to not cost the team money with dead cap for the season. Either way, in the long run, Cooks might be better off elsewhere.

Not the same level of what happened to Blockbuster. But, amazing how some big these things rage in, then get replaced.

The pay for TV industry is going to get interesting. I am in the camp that believes some day the NFL could be PPV.


DirecTV's days are numbered

Start saying goodbye to DirecTV.

It may not be today or tomorrow, but it could be soon. DirecTV-owner AT&T this week admitted that it is no longer actively marketing the service, which has seen subscribers fall to 16 million from 20 million when the company purchased it for $49 billion in 2015.

AT&T will continue selling DirecTV in "more rural or less dense suburban areas," John Stankey, the president of AT&T said at an investor conference. "But in terms of our marketing muscle and our momentum in the market, it will be about software-driven pay-TV packages."

Namely, the new AT&T TV, which opened nationally this week to poor reviews. "I'd recommend taking a pass," Edward C. Baig said in his USA TODAY review, due to high pricing, the need for equipment rental and a two-year contract. Plus add some key programming that is missing, like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu and the NFL games that sports fans crave on DirecTV.

DirecTV was initially launched in 1994 as a way for rural customers to get TV entertainment in areas not covered by cable but over the years also expanded to urban centers.

The pitch: By installing a small satellite dish on the roof or outside the home, customers could get more channels and a clearer signal, with a heavy emphasis on sports. Most notably, "NFL Sunday Ticket," offering "every live game" across the country in one place. The downside: two-year contracts and equipment rental.

Phillip Swann, who blogs as the "TV Answer Man" and has covered the DirecTV woes extensively, was stunned at the new AT&T offering.

"This is everything people disliked about TV over the last 10 years," he says. "Two-year contracts, escalating prices and equipment to rent. If this was 10 years ago, maybe AT&T TV would have a shot. But not now."

The ease of streaming alternatives, of smart TVs that connect to the Internet to bring in apps like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime, or cheap streaming players like the Roku and Amazon Fire TV Stick, which sell for around $25, make the need for equipment rental a thing of the past.

Indeed, AT&T has its sights set on the streaming market, pouring marketing muscle behind the new HBO Max service launching in May. It will sell for $14.99 monthly, and include originals and reruns of shows like "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory."

Swann believes that when the NFL deal expires in two years, AT&T will either sell DirecTV or shut it down. One ready buyer has already expressed interest, the Dish Network. Owner Charlie Ergen said a merger was "inevitable" on a recent earnings call.

Merging the two services won't stem the tide of cord-cutting, which has hurt satellite companies more severely than cable. All told, some 6 million customers ditched satellite and cable in 2019, according to Wall Street analyst firm MoffettNathanson.

Dish lost 100,000 subscribers in the most recent quarter, compared to 1.1 million from DirecTV. Dish currently has 9 million subscribers, plus 2.5 million to the streaming cable alternative service Sling TV. AT&T also has a streaming service, AT&T Now (formerly known as DirecTV Now), which has just under 1 million subscribers.

Swann believes that together, Dish and DirectTV, with over 25 million subscribers would still be a force that could continue for several more years.

Meanwhile, what are consumers to do?

DirecTV still stands. And if you have it now and are in a contract, it will cost you money to exit, so stay put.

If you're out of contract, live in a rural area and are considering satellite service, Dish is a cheaper alternative. It starts at $59.99 monthly for service on two TVs, compared to DirecTV starting at $49.99, but is missing ESPN and other sports channels, Discovery and cooking channels. To get those and NFL Sunday Ticket, you pay $66.99 monthly, but only for the first year. It bumps up to $122.99 monthly for the second year of the contract.

Dish Network's $59.99 package doesn't go up in second year and includes ESPN, Discovery and HGTV, missing on the entry-level DirecTV package.

If you can live without the sports packages, try an antenna. They've become way more powerful than they used to be, with built-in tuners. Mohu, which makes the popular Leaf antenna, says it picks up signals as far away as 50 miles from the broadcast towers.

You won't get the cable networks, but you will pick up the broadcast channels.

YouTube TV ($49.99), Hulu with Live TV ($55) and Sling TV ($30) are streaming cable alternatives that come with no equipment rental. But you'll need to live in an area with a good internet signal for them to work effectively.

Sports could be a big issue. YouTube TV recently said it would drop programming from the YES Network (which includes the New York Yankees) and Fox Sports regional channels but ended up cutting a deal for them to remain – almost.

YES Network is still dumped, but YouTube ended up holding onto 19 of the 21 regional networks. But missing in action will be such high profile teams as the L.A. Clippers, Kings and Angels.

Where can you still see them? Hulu with Live TV and, ironically, AT&T's streaming service AT&T Now, which carries the games while AT&T TV does not.

It jumped out at me...

The birth years of draft eligible players ranges from 1996-1999. There may be a few outside that range for various reasons, but that’s mostly the range.


Let’s use 1999, since that’s a nice marker around here...

NFL Draftee
1999 - Birth. Rams win SuperBowl. Clinton impeachment
2004 - Kindergarten. Meet the Fockers, Harry Potter era. Indian Ocean tsunami
2013 - Starts High School. Ray Rice incident. Guardians of the Galaxy, X-Men, Captain America
2015 - Learns to Drives a Car. Adele “Hello” is popular, Seattle’s goal line fail vs NE

Free Agency, Draft & UDFA’s ( list of UDFA’s to follow ; I have 3 making the roster )

With speculation of the Rams utilizing a Fullback, I have one listed with the RB’s as a UDFA



Cut:

S Eric Weddle

Edge Clay Matthews

DT Tanzell Smart

OG Jamil Demby



Restructure: Brandin Cooks ( 8-Mil savings )



Let Walk:

DE Michael Brockers

Edge Donte Fowler

LB Corey Littleton

ST Jojo Natson

OC/G Austin Blythe

S Marqui Christian

DL Morgan Fox



Resign:

OT Andrew Whitworth

QB Blake Bortles

LB Bryce Hagar

All ERFA

All Practice squad



Outside FA’s:



Edge Shaq Lawson - brings pass rush production and Run defense at lower price than Fowler

DL David Onyemata - Great penetrator who generated 3 Sacks & 11 QB hits playing on the inside. Will take over as the DE starter opposite Donald.

DL Vernon Butler - Another inside penetrator who will take playing time from SJD and Gaines on the Nose. Or, can be used pairing him and Donald as DT’s in an even front. Generated 6 sacks & 9 QB hits for the Panthers last season.

OL Andrus Peat - An inexpensive veteran for the interior O-line. Should sign in the 2 – 3 Mil range.



Trade:

OT Rob Havenstein to the Jaguars for 2020 4th rnd ( 5.4-Mil Cap savings )

TE Gerald Everett to the Bengals for 2020 4th Rnd ( 1.3-Mil Cap savings )



Draft:

Trade down with Texans:

Rams send 2nd Rnd #20 ; Texans send 2nd Rnd #25 & 4th Rnd #25

Trade Up with Colts:

Rams send 3rd Rnd #20 & 4th Rnd #34 (comp) : Colts send 3rd Rnd #11

Trade down with Packers:

Rams send 4th Rnd #25 (Texans) ; Packers send 4th Rnd #30 & 5th Rnd @29





Rnd 2 pick #31 Center Tyler Biadisz (Wisconsin)
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Cesar Ruiz would be my pick here but he is rising up draft boards and don’t think he will make it past pick #40. Biadisz drops a little based on his decline in play in 2019 after his Hip surgery the year before. And, is now recovering from Shoulder surgery. At this spot, he is the best Center available with combination of Power, Base & mobility. He fills the most glaring weakness of the O-line.

Rnd 3 pick #11 Edge – Khalid Kareem ( Notre Dame )
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I trade up for Kareem based on my opinion he has the best combination of Size, Stoutness to set the edge , quickness, and skills to rush the passer. The Youtube video was made by a Raven fan and is a good break down of his play.



Rnd 4 pick #1 OT Saahdiq Charles ( LSU )
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This pick is a bit of an assumption that he will slip 10-20 spots due to his shorter arm length. And, I am not drafting him as a Tackle but as a Guard. With his experience, he could fill in as a Swing Tackle in a pinch. What I see in Charles is another possible player like Roger Saffold ; LOT experience, a little shorter than average, shorter arms, moves to Guard and is solid. He runs well for his size and should be a fit for the Rams ZBS.



4th Rnd pick #10 ( From Jags ) WR Devin Duvernay

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Duvernay will become Brandin Cooks replacement. He has long speed, great hands ( 3 drops in 140 targets ), can break tackles…. Built like a RB, and has great production in the Screen game. What the Rams do offensively fits his game to the T. He hasn’t blocked much and will need to work on this.

4th Rnd pick #20 DL James Lynch ( Baylor )
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Lynch will be Brockers replacement as the 5-Tech on the Dline. He has the prototypical size for a 3-4 End, 6’4” – 295 lbs, he is stout against the Run and had above average Sack totals at Baylor, totaling 21 over his career.



4th Rnd pick CB Michael Ojemudia ( Iowa )
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Ojemudia provides the height, length, speed and play making ability to be the boundary corner opposite Ramsey. He has played different coverages at Iowa. He has the size and strength to make it difficult on receivers to get a clean bleak at the LOS. He also has good vision and anticipation when playing off or in Zone. And, my favorite attribute, arguably the best tackling CB in the Run game in this class.



5th Rnd pick #29 LB Davion Taylor ( Colorado )
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Taylor is this year’s Diamond in the rough for the Rams. Taylor has limited experience due to his family’s religious beliefs ; Davion was not allowed to play organized sports on Saturday. After 2 years of Juco, his mother gave him the blessing to transfer to Colorado and play Football on Saturday’s. In 2019, he posted 69 stops, 8.5 for loss, and 7 pass breaks up, which lead the team. He ran a 4.50 / 40 @ 228 lbs at the combine and performed well in the field drills. He will need time to develop but has traits that exceed what Littleton had when he came out of UofW.



6th Rnd pick #20 TE Dominick Wood-Anderson ( Tennessee )
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Wood-Anderson fills a role that I find lacking on the Rams roster ; a 2nd TE that is a proficient blocker. He did not time well in the 40, but he gets off the LOS and into route quicker than tested 40 time. He is a smooth strider. He was not featured as a receiver at Tennessee. I figure he will be used mostly as a blocking TE and what routes he runs will get him open by scheme, not by pure athletic ability. For example, Rams run a few different QB reverse Boot action, with 2 recivers and a TE all crossing in the same direction at 3 different levels. Usually 2 or 3 of the receivers and up open on each play. He drive blocks really well in addition to being able to pass protect.



7th Rnd pick #20 Safety La’Jarius Sneed
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Sneed is an exceptional athlete for the position. He brings previous experience playing corner to his ability to cover a lot of ground. He was explosive at the Combine ; 4.38/40, 41” vertical, 131” Broad jump @ 6’0” – 192 lbs. In 2019, he posted 43 solo tackles, 3 INt’s, 6 PBU’s. Once he gains some experience, it would allow the DC to run some Cover 1 with Sneed being the Sgl high Safety. For now, could by an Ace in return units, especially a gunner.



Roster:

Offense-

QB- Jared Goff, Blake Bortles

RB- Todd Gurley, Darrell Henderson, Malcolm Brown, FB -Zahneer Shuler (UDFA)

WR- Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp, Brandin Coooks, Josh Reynolds, Devin Duvernay, Nsimba Webster

TE- Tyler Higbee, Johnny Mundt, Dom Wood-Anderson

OL- Andrew Whitworth, Andrus Peat, Tyle Biadisz , Austin Corbett, Saahdiq Charles, David Edwards, Joseph Noteboom, Bobby Evans, Brian Allen



Defense-

DL- Aaron Donald, Greg Gaines, Joseph-Day, Vernon Butler, David Onyemata, James Lynch, Justin Lawler

OLB- Shaq Lawson, Obo Okoronkwo, Samson Ebukam, Khalid Kareem, Jachie Polite

ILB- Micah Kiser, Natrez Patrick, Travin Howard, Davion Taylor, Rashad Smith (UDFA)

CB- Jalen Ramsey, Troy Hill, Michael Ojemudia, David Long, Nickell Roby-Coleman, Darius Williams

Safety- John Johnson, Taylor Rapp, La’Jarius Sneed, Evan Foster (UDFA)

Week One starting quarterback turnover could top half the league in 2020

In Week One of the 2019 season, more than a third of the league had a different starting quarterback than it had a year earlier. But if one-third turnover among starting quarterbacks sounds high, it’s likely to be eclipsed in 2020.

This year, it’s possible that more than half of the league could have a different starting quarterback than it had a year ago.

The 11 teams that had a different starting quarterback in 2019 than they had in 2018 were the Cardinals (Sam Bradford to Kyler Murray), Ravens (Joe Flacco to Lamar Jackson), Bills (Nathan Petermanto Josh Allen), Browns (Tyrod Taylor to Baker Mayfield), Broncos (Case Keenum to Flacco), Colts (Andrew Luck to Jacoby Brissett), Jaguars (Blake Bortles to Nick Foles), Dolphins (Ryan Tannehill to Ryan Fitzpatrick), Eagles (Foles to Carson Wentz), Buccaneers (Fitzpatrick to Jameis Winston) and Washington (Alex Smith to Keenum). That sounds like a lot of turnover at the quarterback position, but it’s almost certain to be eclipsed by the amount of quarterback turnover we’ll see this year.

Some teams have already moved on from their 2019 Week One starting quarterbacks, many more could choose to move on if a better free agent or draft pick becomes available, and some could have no choice but to move on if their starter leaves in free agency. At least 14 teams fall into one of those categories: The Panthers, Bears, Bengals, Broncos, Colts, Jaguars, Chargers, Dolphins, Patriots, Giants, Raiders, Buccaneers, Titans and Washington.

But those are only the 14 teams where a change of starting quarterbacks would be unsurprising. That doesn’t account for possibilities like a starting quarterback getting injured in the preseason, or a retirement that comes out of left field, or a benching that no one is anticipating right now, or a team that isn’t expected to draft a first-round quarterback pulling a draft day surprise.

Add all the possibilities up, and the number of teams with a different starting quarterback to start this season than last season might hit 16 or more, and we may see more teams start the season with a new quarterback than with the same quarterback.

SATURDAY
Game: Seattle Dragons at Houston Roughnecks
Date: Saturday, March 7
Time: 2 p.m. ET
Location: TDECU Stadium (Houston, Texas)
TV: ABC

Game: New York Guardians at Dallas Renegades
Date: Saturday, March 7
Time: 5 p.m. ET
Location: Globe Life Park in Arlington (Arlington, Texas)
TV: Fox
Stream: fuboTV (try for free)

SUNDAY
Game: St. Louis BattleHawks at DC Defenders
Date: Sunday, March 8
Time: 3 p.m. ET
Location: Audi Field (Washington, D.C.)
TV: FS1
Stream: fuboTV (try for free)

Game: Tampa Bay Vipers at Los Angeles Wildcats
Date: Sunday, March 8
Time: 9 p.m. ET
Location: Dignity Health Sports Park (Carson, California)
TV: ESPN


East Division
West Division

It has been awhile since I last put out a mock. I've unfortunately been busy with real life and haven't had as much time to watch players this year. I have a lot of catching up to do. I'm hopeful I'll be able to do it.
Restructure
QB Jared Goff

Goff's contract is one that makes sense for a restructure because it has a large roster bonus and he isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

Re-sign
K Greg Zuerlein
OT Andrew Whitworth
DL Morgan Fox
QB Blake Bortles
All Practice Squad Players
All ERFAs

Yes, we're letting Littleton walk. I don't take pleasure in that, but we have to make hard decisions. Littleton's price tag is too high for me. He's a good but not elite ILB. Whitworth has announced that he wants to return. It makes logical sense to bring him back. It'll give Noteboom additional time to recover from his injury.

Trades
Rams trade WR Josh Reynolds
Bills trade 2021 Round 5 Pick

In this mock, we keep Robert Woods, but we still have a lot of mouths to feed in the passing game. Reynolds is entering the final year of his deal, so we flip him to Buffalo for a future 5th (to compensate for the 5th we traded to Cleveland).

Rams trade CB Nickell Robey-Coleman and Round 7 Pick #20
Bengals trade Round 6 Pick #1

The Bengals' slot CB, Darqueze Dennard, is a FA. NRC is still a quality slot CB who fits Cincy's scheme. With Ramsey, Hill, Long, and Darious Williams, we have enough depth and talent at CB to trade NRC and save a few bucks on his salary.

Rams trade Round 3 Pick #20
Ravens trade Round 3 Pick #28 and Round 4 Pick #33

Ravens trade up for a player. They have multiple fourth round picks, so this isn't a huge loss for them.

Rams trade Round 4 Pick #34 and Round 6 Pick #20
49ers trade Round 5 Pick #10 and Round 5 Pick #30

49ers trade up for a player.

Rams trade Round 6 Pick #1
Saints trade Round 6 Pick #24 and 2021 Round 6 Pick

We trade down again.

Free Agency

Stephen Weatherly OLB

Weatherly has been stuck behind Everson Griffen and Danielle Hunter in Minnesota, but I think he's an underrated player. At 6'5" 265, he seems big for a 3-4 OLB at first glance, but he's an athletic big man who played 3-4 OLB in college. Personally, I think he's an underrated player who could break out if given a larger role. He's a really good run defender on the edge who has the athleticism to drop into coverage when needed. His pass rush potential isn't entirely clear at this stage, but he has shown flashes when given PT in Minnesota. I think he has the potential to be a real bargain for us.


Avery Williamson ILB

Williamson is a potential cap casualty for the Jets. He's a well-rounded ILB who was expected to be a major player next to C.J. Mosley coming off his strong 2018 season. However, he tore his ACL during the preseason and missed the season. I think he's a guy who could prove to be a real bargain this off-season. If he returns to his 2018 form, he's a good starting ILB who can do a bit of everything. Because he's a cut, he won't cost us a comp pick.


Jordan Reed TE

Reed is another cut for us to sign. This is a bit of a luxury signing for us, but Reed produced extremely well under McVay. Of course, the contract would have to be one heavy on incentives based on games played because of Reed's injury issues. Still, he could do well on a "prove it" deal here.

NFL Draft
Round 2 Pick #20 - Robert Hunt OG Louisiana-Lafayette
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Analysis: Hunt is a mauling monster of a run blocker who put his guy on the ground with regularity. At 6'5" 325 with good athleticism and overwhelming power, Hunt has the potential to be a perfect replacement for Rodger Saffold. During his time at Louisiana, he started at RT and LG. He has the athleticism and length to stick at RT, but he would need a lot of technical refinement in pass protection there first. At OG, I think he has the potential to compete for a starting job as a rookie due to his size, power, and athleticism. He'll need to be more consistent with his pad level and precise with his hand placement, though.

Round 3 Pick #28 - Jonathan Greenard OLB Florida
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Analysis: I said awhile back that I expected Greenard's stock to take a hit at the Combine, and that seems to have happened. Greenard has had some durability struggles in college and didn't test extraordinarily well, but he's a heady pass rusher who does the little things well. He's also an extremely tough player who will play through injuries and give it his all on every snap. He has the potential to be a solid all around EDGE defender. As a pass rusher, his footwork stands out to me. He understands how to use stutters and false steps to get the OT out of position.

Round 4 Pick #20 - Evan Weaver ILB California
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Analysis: Weaver actually turned in a much better Combine than expected. I thought with a poor showing, he'd fall to the 5th or 6th round. Instead, he turned in a respectable Combine. He ran a 4.76 40 (better than the 4.8 40 expected of him) and performed well in the agility drills. Weaver has his limitations and will never be a good matchup for twitchy HBs and receivers in M2M coverage. But he has phenomenal instincts, can defeat blocks, and is a heady zone defender. Yes, Weaver has his athletic limitations, but he's also a tackling machine who will leave everything he has on the field.

Round 4 Pick #33 - James Lynch DL Baylor
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Analysis: It's possible that Lynch goes higher than this. He's a tough projection. He put up stellar production this year (19.5 TFLs and 13.5 sacks) as a 3-4 DE, but his traits aren't special. He has good burst and power for a 6'4" 290 pound DL, but he has very short arms and doesn't really have any dominant traits. He's a smart player who plays hard and executes his responsibilities well. I've seen him compared to Matt Ioannidis, another DL I liked who fell way further than he should have. Lynch is capable of spelling Donald or playing 5-Tech.

Round 5 Pick #7 - Nick Harris C Washington
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Analysis: Harris had a rough Senior Bowl week and is undersized at 6'1" 300, but the Senior Bowl wasn't really a place where he'd stand out. It doesn't play to his strengths. Harris is a great athlete with outstanding movement skills and really shines as a combo blocker. He's also very experienced and heady. He's an active and aggressive player who compensates for his lack of size with his aggression and core strength. Harris is likely to fall down the board due to his small stature and lack of positional flexibility, but he has the potential to be an effective starter in a ZBS like ours.

Round 5 Pick #30 - Broderick Washington DL Texas Tech
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Analysis: Washington is a lunch-pail defender who was well liked by Texas Tech's coaches and his teammates. He's not going to be a game-changing talent in the NFL, but he's a guy who can be an effective rotational player because he's capable of playing any position on an even front. He plays the game with effort and violence, uses his short and squatty build well to clog up gaps in the running game, and shows great awareness when it comes to finding the football. He's an effective run stopper who unfortunately doesn't appear to have a ton of pass rush potential.

Round 6 Pick #24 - Quintez Cephus WR Wisconsin
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Analysis: The Combine went very poorly for Cephus and likely dropped him from a 4th round pick to a 6th/7th round pick. It's hard to ignore his 4.7 40. That's brutal. But it's also hard to ignore the tape on Cephus. He's a quality route runner with outstanding hands who uses his strength and size to create separation at the catch point. He's also an excellent run blocker, which is important in our scheme. And while his 40 was quite bad, he doesn't play anywhere near that slow on tape.

Projected Starters
QB: Jared Goff
HB: Todd Gurley
WR: Brandin Cooks
WR: Robert Woods
WR: Cooper Kupp
TE: Tyler Higbee
LT: Andrew Whitworth
LG: Competition
C: Competition
RG: David Edwards
RT: Rob Havenstein

SDE: Sebastian Joseph-Day
NT: Greg Gaines
UT: Aaron Donald
OLB: Clay Matthews
ILB: Competition
ILB: Avery Williamson
OLB: Stephen Weatherly
LCB: Jalen Ramsey
RCB: Troy Hill
SLCB: David Long Jr.
FS: John Johnson III
SS: Taylor Rapp

K: Greg Zuerlein
P: Johnny Hekker
LS: Jake McQuaide