2011 NFL Draft

[tryfuhl]

Originally Posted by CultBrennan59

How would we feel about getting Phil Taylor, should I don't know, if we get a later first round pick somewhere from 18 on or using our second rounder on him?

I say this because he's said to be the best NT in the draft, but he supposedly has bone growth issues in his feet.

I haven't really watched him play but the foot issues scare me, especially in the first round

a lot of people are saying he's closer to 3rd round talent but the NT field isn't very deep

[KI Skins Fan]

I'm starting to think that we really are going to draft a QB in the first round. I'd like to toss out a couple of thoughts I have about that.

First of all, if the Skins are going to draft a QB in the first round, then there is no legitimate reason for them to trade down to try to gain more draft picks while hoping that their guy will be there later. That's because they are selecting the man who will be starting at the most important position on the field and they cannot risk not getting him. I do not buy the idea that the Skins may rate two or more QB's equally which, in their minds, might mitigate the risk of trading down. When picking the player they want to lead their team in the future, they must know which player they think would be the best fit. Also, I don't think that Skins management has the luxury of making a mistake. So, if they expect their player to be drafted higher than #10, then trading up makes a lot more sense than trading down. To me, that is simple logic.

Secondly, when picking a Franchise QB, I think the Skins need to see something in him that is exceptional above and beyond the expected QB skill set. To my way of thinking, that eliminates all but four of the QB prospects in this draft. The remaining QB's are Newton, Gabbert, Locker, and Mallet. Some people might add Colin K. to this list because of his tremendous athleticism but I think he is lacking in the standard QB skill set.

Cam Newton is a great athlete. To have his athletic gifts at his size is truly exceptional. He has a strong arm. Accuracy is an issue.

Jake Locker is also an exceptional athlete. I think he throws extremely well on the run. He needs to work on his skills in the pocket and his mechanics.

Blaine Gabbert has the arm and the ability to consistently make all of the throws he'll need to make with excellent accuracy and touch. He is a very good athlete with the ability to escape the pass rush and make plays. He has prototypical size for an NFL QB.

Ryan Mallett has an amazingly strong arm and he is an accurate passer. Unfortunately, he is also a statue. He'll need to depend on a quick release and a decent OL.

I like some of the other QB prospects but I just don't see anything exceptional about them that would put them in the same category as the ones I listed.