Time to Build an Offensive Line

[Ruhskins]

Originally Posted by GTripp0012

I don't actually think Okung will be gone when we pick. I think Detroit and Tampa Bay will have serious internal discussions about taking him, and I think Detroit is more likely to take him, but ultimately, won't be able to pass on Suh or McCoy.

Tripp, Levi as a RT...upgrade from Heyer or about the same?

[GTripp0012]

Originally Posted by Ruhskins

Tripp, Levi as a RT...upgrade from Heyer or about the same?

Against 2009 Heyer, he's a run blocking downgrade and a pass blocking upgrade, which I'd call a slight net gain.

But against 2010 Heyer, there's no easy answer. He's probably a downgrade, especially as a full-time option, but I can't say for sure, because if Heyer has maxed out his ability to block opposing pass rushers at the age of 26, then his run blocking (best on the team, based on the current roster) probably isn't dominant enough to justify a roster spot much longer.

At the point which Levi Jones can no longer handle left tackle, which might have been two years ago, he no longer has value as an NFL player.

[The Goat]

Originally Posted by GTripp0012

Against 2009 Heyer, he's a run blocking downgrade and a pass blocking upgrade, which I'd call a slight net gain.

But against 2010 Heyer, there's no easy answer. He's probably a downgrade, especially as a full-time option, but I can't say for sure, because if Heyer has maxed out his ability to block opposing pass rushers at the age of 26, then his run blocking (best on the team, based on the current roster) probably isn't dominant enough to justify a roster spot much longer.

At the point which Levi Jones can no longer handle left tackle, which might have been two years ago, he no longer has value as an NFL player.

Not sure how confident we can be in this assumption going forward (though you would know better based on the details of zone-blocking vs Zorn-blocking). Heyer seemed to struggle mightily when forced to block into the 2nd level...struggle to find his target, quickly get to him and then break down to block w/ proper form.

[GTripp0012]

Originally Posted by The Goat

Not sure how confident we can be in this assumption going forward (though you would know better based on the details of zone-blocking vs Zorn-blocking). Heyer seemed to struggle mightily when forced to block into the 2nd level...struggle to find his target, quickly get to him and then break down to block w/ proper form.

Indeed you are correct, but not quite as hilariously as in past years.

His screen blocking is still fun to watch, at least in the abstract, not concerned with outcome of play sense.

[30gut]

Originally Posted by GTripp0012

Against 2009 Heyer, he's a run blocking downgrade and a pass blocking upgrade, which I'd call a slight net gain.

But against 2010 Heyer, there's no easy answer. He's probably a downgrade, especially as a full-time option, but I can't say for sure, because if Heyer has maxed out his ability to block opposing pass rushers at the age of 26, then his run blocking (best on the team, based on the current roster) probably isn't dominant enough to justify a roster spot much longer.

At the point which Levi Jones can no longer handle left tackle, which might have been two years ago, he no longer has value as an NFL player.

Some other factors to remember/consider are that Heyer was hurt for most of the year and he's entering his athletic prime at 27 and could actually be improving.
Its not a big stretch to think that Heyer 2010 will be the best Heyer thus far.

[GTripp0012]

Originally Posted by 30gut

Some other factors to remember/consider are that Heyer was hurt for most of the year and he's entering his athletic prime at 27 and could actually be improving.
Its not a big stretch to think that Heyer 2010 will be the best Heyer thus far.

I would say that this is the expectation.

[Trample the Elderly]

Originally Posted by 30gut

Some other factors to remember/consider are that Heyer was hurt for most of the year and he's entering his athletic prime at 27 and could actually be improving.
Its not a big stretch to think that Heyer 2010 will be the best Heyer thus far.

Dude that's rich. I'll eat my words if you're right.

[Pocket$ $traight]

Originally Posted by 30gut

Some other factors to remember/consider are that Heyer was hurt for most of the year and he's entering his athletic prime at 27 and could actually be improving.
Its not a big stretch to think that Heyer 2010 will be the best Heyer thus far.

Well if he gets worse he will be lucky to be playing in the CFL.

[tryfuhl]

Originally Posted by 30gut

Some other factors to remember/consider are that Heyer was hurt for most of the year and he's entering his athletic prime at 27 and could actually be improving.
Its not a big stretch to think that Heyer 2010 will be the best Heyer thus far.

Well I'd sure hope he doesn't regress. Definitely hoping that he shows strong promise.

[Dirtbag59]

Originally Posted by GTripp0012

I don't actually think Okung will be gone when we pick. I think Detroit and Tampa Bay will have serious internal discussions about taking him, and I think Detroit is more likely to take him, but ultimately, won't be able to pass on Suh or McCoy.

Don't forget that Anthony Davis will be there as well. That guy goes from being my least favorite to now one of my favorites. Of course Bradford should easily be the guy if he's there.

[tootergray34]

clausen > bradford

[BigHairedAristocrat]

Originally Posted by tootergray34

clausen > bradford

cocaine's a helluva drug.

[The Goat]

Okung > Bradford/Clausen

[Dirtbag59]

Originally Posted by The Goat

Okung > Bradford/Clausen

2010 Okung >>>>>>>> 2010 Bradford

2012 Bradford >>>>>>>>>>> 2012 Okung

[GTripp0012]

Originally Posted by Dirtbag359

2010 Okung >>>>>>>> 2010 Bradford

2012 Bradford >>>>>>>>>>> 2012 Okung

Certainly, it's hyperbole in one spot on the other. If Bradford really is as good as his strongest supporters advertised, he'd have some value right off the bat.

Agreed that his improvement curve will be a lot steeper than Okung's, as most QBs are compared to OTs, but QBs who are below replacement in their first two seasons tend not to improve to a point that would justify....that many 'greater than' signs?

My point is this: if we're not comfortable playing Bradford or Clausen right away, we're never actually going to be comfortable playing them. They might take some lumps early, but if they can't outplay Stafford and Sanchez from last year, they don't deserve to be high picks.