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With the news of Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell being handed down a 3 game suspension we will now have a full out debate as to who should be the first pick off the board of your fantasy football drafts this year. We all knew Bell would be punished in some fashion for his marijuana-induced DUI that happened last preseason, and the chatter was at least 2 games and no more than 4. Looks like they settled on that middle number of 3. (*Side bar: LeGarrette Blount, now of the Patriots, who was with Bell during the incident received a 1-game suspension earlier in the offseason). Of course Bell is going to appeal the decision but at best I can't see more than 1 game, if any, getting knocked off his time. If Bell had been able to play a full 16 game slate in 2015 he'd be the unanimous selection as first overall pick in all formats, but missing near a quarter of a season will definitely dent his value, but how much? Does Bell even deserve the chance to be top dog in 2015 even missing time? If not then who is worthy of that first pick? I've got a list of guys who could realistically go in that top slot, broken down into 3 categories. 

1) The Candidates 
A list of 3 players who, in my opinion, will be the best options for those of you picking number one. Personally I would take these gentlemen as the top 3 overall with order being debatable.

2) The Wildcards 
Two more players who, given the right situations, could also be considered a top pick. Not as clear cut as the top 3, but I can see people making an argument for them and when the season is all played out if one of them finishes as a top point scorer it wouldn't be shocking.

3) The Fools Gold
The final two names of the top dog puzzle are what I am going to call fool’s gold. Guys who some people may want and some will take with the top pick, but who shouldn't be. Both of these guys will make solid round one selections but taking them first overall wouldn't be the smartest move so don't like the bright lights and glitz trick you into wasting your top pick on one of them. 

THE CANDIDATES 

• Jamaal Charles RB Kansas City Chiefs: The news of Bell’s suspension, which again we were all expecting, bumped one guy up to number one in my mind. Mr. Charles. Jamaal has been a consensus top 5 pick each of the past 2 years (would have been 3 but coming off a torn ACL in 2012 I definitely understand the apprehension there) and 2015 should be no different. Charles has been a model of consistency at the running back position. A position that has seen fewer and fewer lead backs and more committee backfields. While Knile Davis did prove himself last season in the time missed by Charles last year. Davis averaged 92 yards and a score in games he got more than 15 rush attempts last year. While Davis as a handcuff is imperative, (arguably the most necessary cuff this year) don’t be scared he is going to take away a significant touches from J-Chuck. Charles has been a top 10 back each of the last 3 seasons (no worse than 8^th) including being the best RB in 2013. He’s posted at least 1200 scrimmage yards and 6TDs in each year since 2012. Even with posting those numbers he still has never had a season with 300+ carries, which is impressive in itself he posts the numbers he does with fewer touches than a lot of lead backs. Now Kansas City is upgrading in spots that held them back last year, particularly the interior of the offensive line and wide receiver position. Last year a Chiefs WR did not catch a single TD. You almost have to try to not score a touchdown all season to pull off a stat that embarrassing. Kansas City touched on the wide outs by releasing the overrated Dwayne Bowe and bringing in Jeremey Maclin. Maclin is younger, and more versatile than Bowe in the passing game. Maclin also already spent time under Andy Reid, where Mac averaged 64-863-6, so jumping right into the system should not be a problem. The fact that defenses will actually have to scheme for a wide out this year will already open up more for Charles. Add in the two new guards, Ben Grubbs via trade with the Saints and Paul Fanaika in free agency, and Charles should see more holes up the gut as well as openings on the outside when Alex Smith hits him with those little swing passes that we’ve all watched in awe as Charles took it to the house. Jamaal needs to be a top 3 player off all boards and if you select 4^th or later and Jamaal is still setting around thank Jerry Rice, or Brett Favre, or LaDainian Tomlinson, or whoever because you were just given a gift from the fantasy gods.

• Eddie Lacy RB Green Bay Packers: Not sure how many people will have Lacy as a top 3 pick, but if they don’t then shame on them. Lacy plays on arguably the best offense in the NFL with arguably the best quarterback, and arguably the best wide receiving corps. When you know opposing defenses have to prepare for Aaron Rodgers throwing to Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb, and the emergence of Devante Adams, Lacy is going to see lots of open lanes. With so much firepower through the air you’d think that Lacy would be down in that mid-first round selection but he should NOT make it away from the top 3 picks! Lacy put up nearly identical rushing efforts his first two seasons, going for 1178 & 11 scores in 2013 and 1139 with 9TDs last year. Where Lacy took a step forward is pass-catching. He increased his receptions by 20% year one to two (35 to 42), while his yardage went up 66% (257 to 427) and touchdowns increased an incredible 400% (from none to 4). Last year Lacy was put on a carry-count it seemed early on getting 15+ carries just once in the first 10 games, but got 15+ in 5 of the final 6 games of the season. The coaches wanted Lacy fresh for the Packers playoff run and it makes sense in the real world, and in my opinion, is a HUGE asset for Lacy owners in the fantasy world. While Lacy may not be the guy to carry you to a victory single-handed in the first half of the season, having a main back ramping up and getting hot a when the fantasy playoffs are around the corner (as opposed to slowly beginning to break down like many other featured backs) is an advantage you can’t overlook. Of course we all want our top pick to post 20 points a week but we all know it’s rare to see that happen week in and week out. So why not rely on your other positions to score the first few weeks and sit back as the season winds down knowing you got a hard-running, fresh-legged freak toting the rock for your squad in November and December. Lacy also had the 2^nd most runs of 15+ yards by running backs last season (18), while gaining 33% of his total yards on such runs! Just like Marshawn Lynch it just goes to show how a bruising back can also show a burst of speed and get away from tacklers. Lacy needs to be off the board in the first 3 selections, if he isn’t someone made a bad bad decision and you could be the beneficiary!

• Le'Veon Bell RB Pittsburgh Steelers: Even with his suspension looming, Bell still needs to be off the board before pick number four. Top choice? Missing 3 games will be tough to swallow if you want to nab him with the first pick, but there can be benefits as well. First and foremost is the obvious health factor. Missing 3 games at the jump off the season means Bell will, just like a carry-counted Lacy, be able to run harder, faster, and more come the fantasy playoffs. Check. The second thing that factors in for Bell is the offense he plays on. I’m not saying the Steelers are on the Packers level offensively, but they are ahead of the Chiefs and most other teams that will be mentioned on this list. The Steelers finished 7^th among NFL teams last year in points scored (436) and 2^nd in yards (6577) in the team’s third year under OC Todd Haley. Haley likes to throw RB screens and that won’t change in 2015. Last year Bell had 105 targets. That was 2^nd on the team only behind Antonio Brown’s 181; and among all running backs Bell’s 105 was 2^nd behind just Matt Forte (more on him later) and his 130. In fact just 4 RBs in the league last year had more than 75 targets (Forte, Bell, Fred Jackson with 90, and Shane Vereen with 78) so Bell’s PPR value is also tops when it comes to backs. Side note: Speaking of receiving, Bell had the 3^rd fewest drops among RBs last year dropping just 4 passes of his 105 targets. Last season Bell was on the field for 943 snaps while scoring 287 fantasy points in standard leagues (370 in PPR leagues). If we do the math and break down his fantasy points per touch at .30 and work that into his 58 snaps per game and factor in he’s going to play 13 games in 2015, assuming he’s at least on the same pace as last year, that means Bell would end the year with 226 fantasy points (293 PPR). Those numbers still would have landed Bell as the 7^th best back last year (5^th PPR), not shabby for a 1^st round pick who is slated to miss almost a quarter of the year. Bell’s missing time will scare a few people away from using their top pick on him, and again I can blame those who have the top pick, even pick two, but Bell SHOULD NOT slip out of the top 3; even with his missing time he should still finish as a RB1 and likely be a top 5 back come years end.

THE WILDCARDS

• Adrian Peterson RB Minnesota Vikings ... For now: Papa Peterson (you see what I did there?) is a true wildcard when it comes to a first round selection. Outside of his rookie season he has been a consensus first round pick every year. Even after tearing his ACL at the end of 2012, coming into 2013 he still got first round consideration and was drafted there by more people than less. Now Peterson is in a unique situation, having missed virtually all of 2014 due to a suspension for his be(s)witching (ahh another one) behavior. Not only did AP miss a full season but he will be 30 coming into 2015. Not only will he be 30 coming off a missed season but he and the Vikings are looking to be in a stalemate as far as playing. Peterson wants to move on, and that’s clear. Minnesota doesn’t want him to go anywhere, and that’s just as clear. Now is Minnesota gets a nice package for a 30-year old back they’d be smart to take the deal. There has been talk linking Peterson to Dallas and to Arizona and both those teams, if they do land AP, would put him in the top overall pick selection. Again with everything factoring in against him I’d still fell more comfortable with one of the 3 previous mentioned gentlemen, but Peterson fans couldn’t be knocked for taking their boy off the board first if he does move on. The Cowboys had the best offensive line in the league last year (2^nd best in run blocking) that helped DeMarco Murray become the NFL’s rushing champion in 2014 with over 1800 yards (no other back eclipsed 1400). The Cardinals ranked 24^th among teams at the end of 2014 according to profootballfocus.com, but that was a vast improvement from their dead last finish in 2013. Obviously Dallas has a better line to offer over the Cards, however the Vikings ranked just 3 spots ahead of Arizona but Minnesota dropped from 6^th in 2013 to 21^st. Dallas and Arizona’s o-lines are both trending in the right direction with Minnesota’s is going the opposite way. Dallas and Arizona both have established veteran quarterbacks, more talented skilled positions to put around Peterson, and their defenses are both ahead of the Vikings (although Minnesota is building a formidable defense under Mike Zimmer). If we just take the numbers AP has posted over his career they are impressive to say the least. Even in his 2 “down” years in 2011 (lost 4 games to injury) and 2013 (missed 2 games) he managed to finish 8^th and 6^th among RBs when the years were all said and done. Peterson has a head for the end zone too, never having less than 10TDs on the ground so air scores (average 1 per year) are bonus material. While his age, missing time, and still being on the Vikings scare me now, his value will rise if he does move on from Minnesota. Getting traded to either Dallas or Arizona skyrockets AP’s value with all the pluses he will see on the field. His age and missing time won’t change (and that still factors in), but he will be out for blood and to prove he still has it and if anyone can put on a show after missing a year and hitting that “Running Back Over-the-Hill” mark, it’s Peterson. Should he stay with the Vikings I like him end round 1, beginning of round 2 would be a gift. Going to the Cowboys or Cardinals puts him in the top slot conversation but would definitely make him a top 5 selection. 

• Matt Forte RB Chicago Bears (PPR): Forte may be the one name on this list that other people talking about top picks will mention, but he at least needs a mention. First and foremost I can’t see taking Forte in standard scoring, he is only an option in the PPR format. He should still go round 1 in all scoring systems, but when receptions factor in then he needs to jump up the board. Forte is the one solid piece the Bears offense has. I know Alshon Jeffery has some experience and is now the man with Brandon Marshall suiting up the AFC New York squad, plus Martellus Bennett will see more looks at the tight end position with Marshall’s 106 targets gone. But Matt Forte has been the model of consistency and is going to see more looks in 2015. Forte has finished in the top 5 among RBs in targets every year but 2 since 2008, and the two years he missed the top 5 he finished top 10, the only back to accomplish that feat. He’s averaging 83 targets per year since he entered the NFL 7 years ago while catching 77% of passes thrown his way. Impressive isn’t it? Still not convinced? What if I told you Forte is the only back in the league to have 1400 or more scrimmage yards every year since 2008. THE ONLY BACK! Not Peterson, or Charles, or any other name you could even consider for a first round pick, let alone the top selection, has been that consistent over their entire careers. Forte is also the only back to have 900+ rush yards in each season since 2008 (Adrian Peterson and Frank Gore would have made the list had they not got suspended/injured). I know it would take a lot of balls to take Forte over the aforementioned contestants but he’s been around longer and done a lot with less than most. He may not have the upside or flash as the other guys listed but fantasy football is won with consistency and Forte gives you that more than anyone else. If you make him the top dog (in a PPR league) you will get some dumb stares from league mates, but you know you got yourself a solid and consistent first pick with the opportunity for more touches this year than any previous season. 

THE FOOLS GOLD

• DeMarco Murray RB Philadelphia Eagles: Murray is going to be the one guy that will be immensely over drafted this year. Not to say he doesn't deserve to go round 1, he definitely does but forget first overall, he shouldn't be a top 5 pick. Murray's 1845 yards last year were beyond impressive, and his season probably isn't fully appreciated like it should be. He posted 8 straight 100-yard games to kick off 2014 and finished with 12 games hitting the century mark or better, which is the second most games of 100+ yards in a season in NFL history. His 1845 rushing yards not only lead the league last year, but since 2000 there's only been 7 instances of a back finishing with more yards than Murray did in 2014. He also lead the league with 13 rushing TDs. Murray's 304 fantasy points via standard scoring were also tops in the league among RBs and the 4th most points scored by a back in the last 5 seasons. Sounds like Murray has an argument to be off the board first right? Hold your horses lets get into what holds him, or should hold him, from being drafted way too early. 2014 was the only season in his 4 year career that DeMarco made it through all 16 games. His injury history (ankle, foot, and knee) don't bode well for him making it through entire seasons regularly which has to be a concern for this year. Not only does he never play full slates, but he also had 393 carries last year. That's a huge number even for a younger back like Murray and it will take its toll on him this season. Over the last 10 seasons we've seen just 3 backs (Michael Turner in 2008, Larry Johnson in 2006, and Shaun Alexander in 2005) get more than 375 rushing attempts in a year. The following year none of those backs played a full season (Turner played the most games at 11), none got more than surpassed 900 yards, and only Turner was able to finish inside the top 24 among RBs the following season (barely ... he finished 23rd in 2009). Also with how impressive Murray was with 100-yard games, before last year he only had two instances in three seasons in which he had back-to-back 100-yard performance. What about the team around Murray? The Cowboys had the best offensive line in the NFL last year and they will at the top again in 2015. Statistically Murray's new team, the Eagles, finished 2nd behind Dallas in terms of O-line ranks at the end of 2014 and believe it or not Philadelphia's line was ranked 1st in run blocking (Dallas was 2nd). However the Birds got rid of one of there most reliable lineman in Todd Herremans, and are supposedly shopping their Pro Bowl guard Evan Mathis. That line will suffer a set back of some sort and in turn as will Murray. Not only will he be behind a line that will be a step behind his old run blockers, but the wide outs and quarterback positions are also a downgrade for DeMarco. Tony Romo may not be Tom Brady but he's a hell of a lot better than Sam Bradford, a guy who since being hurt week 7 of 2013, has played as many games as you or me. And forget about a Dez Bryant-type threat taking the top off defenses for Murray. The Eagles top outside option at WR as of today is Riley Cooper ... Pardon me while I laugh ... Ok that's better. When it's all said and done Chip Kelly is innovative and will rotate Ryan Mathews and Darren Sproles in to help keep Muarry fresh and defenses honest, and while Murray's North-South running style will fit better with Kelly's scheme than McCoy's East-West jump-cutting running. Kelly has proven he can bring in players and plug them into his system but will Murray produce top-tier RB numbers again it's so many factors going against him? I say no and to draft him anytime before late round one is, as Darth Helmet once said, ludicrous. 

• Marshawn Lynch RB Seattle Seahawks: BeastMode. Just one word and everyone in the football world knows who I mean and how exciting of a player he is to watch on the field. His off the field people skills may be equivalent to a shy 3rd grader who just moved to America and still doesn't speak English but thats nota factor to his fantasy football ranking and also a story for another time (like Super Bowl time since his audio gems will be replayed to death for the next how many years). So is Mr. Lynch worthy of the top slot in 2015? Much like Murray he has a lot of signs pointing towards no, with very few aiming towards taking him off the board first. Last season Lynch tied with Murray with 13 touchdowns on the ground, as well as finished as the top TD scorer (non-quarterback) with 17 total trips to pay dirt. Those 17 scores proved to be a career high. Not only did Lynch set career bests in rushing TDs, receiving TDs, and receiving yards he also averaged a personal high at just a shade under 17 (16.8) fantasy points per game. Since his first full season in Seattle in 2011 through 2014, Marshawn has never had less than 1200 rushing yards and no fewer than 11TDs. He's never finished worse than 5th among RBs in standard scoring in that time either. All positive, but now for the bad news the Seahawks got Jimmy Graham. Ok if your a Seattle fan that's not bad news at all, hell if you just love watching football that's great news to see a top TE in the league join one of the best teams. The NFL. If you're a fantasy player than Graham will definitely have somewhat of a negative effect on Lynch. Graham will no doubt take some defenders away from the middle of the field so I can't see Lynch's yardage getting lowered too much, maybe even see an increase from his 1306 yards in 2014, but he is going to suffer on the goal line and in the red zone. You don't acquire a Jimmy Graham level player to be used just as a decoy and when you get a weapon like that near the goal line he will be the first look more often than not. Even if Graham gets blanketed that opens up rushing lanes for Russell Wilson (the same Russell Wilson who rushed for 6 scores in 2014) to bootleg and find an easier-than-normal way into the end zone. The Hawks also had to give up a Pro Bowl caliber center in Max Unger in the Graham trade as well as their first round pick this season so that O-line could realistically see a slight downgrade, from the 19th best line last year (according to profootballfocus.com). Much like Matt Frote, Lynch is extremely consistent which is huge in this game. Unlike Forte, who's workload should increase this year, Lynch would see a decrease in touches if anything after getting 385 total touches (including playoffs) in 2014. Factor in the addition of Graham and emergence of Russell Wilson as an elite QB in the league and Lynch should still finish as a RB1 but if he finished outside the top 5 backs this year for the first time since 2010, I wouldn't be shocked. 

CONCLUSION

In the end any one of the previously mentioned names is a solid start to a potential championship winning team. Some of the players mentioned above certainly deserve, and will go at the top of many drafts this coming season. Some players mentioned shouldn't be taken with the top choice, but again some drafts will see them get selected first overall. Even with the pressure, or luxury (depending on your viewpoint) of the first selection in your draft you have to select the player you think can and will bring home the bacon come December. It's going to be someone on this list, but only one can finish the 2015 season as the Top Dog! 

Ryan Pace's first draft as the Chicago Bears' GM was solid and steady, if not spectacular.

The best player available philosophy tends to be employed by teams who have several holes in their roster. The thought process is that new GMs and head coaches of John Fox's ilk have one or two drafts left to rectify things before job security becomes a term that is brought into the lexicon.

We can't argue with Kevin White or Eddie Goldman with the first two picks but once you slip into the third and fourth round, things begin to get ambiguous. Less is known about the players selected in these rounds and question marks surround their ability. If they were really that good, would they have dropped so far? Is it because the value of the position(such as running back) has dropped in recent years? Is the player scheme specific? In Jeremy Langford's case, the answer might be that he fell into the Bears arms in the fourth round as expected and he will be a Bear for a long time to come.

Matt Forte's Replacement

The Chicago Bears are in the comfortable position of having a star running back to hinge their offence on. Matt Forte, undoubtedly, has been one of the most underrated running backs in the league for the better part of a decade. His decline isn't far away, at 29 years of age, and with his contract situation, he just might have one more contract elsewhere in him before hanging up his cleats.

Langford is a project that John Fox will try to turn into a starting running back in the NFL. He uses his hands well and has a lean, long frame that is similar in ways to Forte's. There were other players on the board when the Bears selected Langford such as Jay Ajayi and David Cobb but the Bears, Fox and Pace had an eye on Langford as a long term starter to fit into their long term plan.

When you look at Langford in the video above, you really do get a sense that he could be the next Matt Forte. What Langford lacks in elusiveness and technique, he more than makes up for in speed, acceleration and ball-handling. He is also versatile and has very good receiving skills having played their previously for MSU.

If Langford can improve his tackle breaking ability and willingness to punish defenders at the end of runs, he could become a lead back in the NFL and it was with that hope that the Bears selected him ahead of other players in the draft.

Langford might not feature a huge amount this upcoming year but he will get enough reps to learn and improve heading into the following season when he could project as a starter.

Matt Waldman's Ranking System

For anyone who wants to really understand how to grade a player, you should probably reading Matt Waldman's work. According to his Rookie Scouting Portfolio, the things he rates running backs on are power, balance, ball handling, speed, acceleration, vision, elusiveness, blocking, receiving, durability.

He then breaks them down in star calibre, starter calibre, committee calibre, reserve calibre, free agent calibre and deficient.

Langford graded in committee calibre for all but ball-handling (starter), speed (star), acceleration (starter), durability (star) and elusiveness (reserve).

His elusiveness is a problem and it is something that he didn't need to rely on based on his speed and ability to make it to the edge at college level. There are certainly enough tools there to work this player into a starter when Forte leaves Chicago, even it is as the number one guy in a three running back committee or as the one in a one-two punch.

Matt Forte does everything well and he does everything well consistently. Langford will be looking or the same consistency while helping out on special teams early in his career. This might be the different between Langford, Carey and veteran Jacquizz Rodgers when it is time to decide on roster spots and depth chart moves.

Ryan Pace's first draft as the Chicago Bears' GM was solid and steady, if not spectacular.

The best player available philosophy tends to be employed by teams who have several holes in their roster. The thought process is that new GMs and head coaches of John Fox's ilk have one or two drafts left to rectify things before job security becomes a term that is brought into the lexicon.

We can't argue with Kevin White or Eddie Goldman with the first two picks but once you slip into the third and fourth round, things begin to get ambiguous. Less is known about the players selected in these rounds and question marks surround their ability. If they were really that good, would they have dropped so far? Is it because the value of the position(such as running back) has dropped in recent years? Is the player scheme specific? In Jeremy Langford's case, the answer might be that he fell into the Bears arms in the fourth round as expected and he will be a Bear for a long time to come.

Matt Forte's Replacement

The Chicago Bears are in the comfortable position of having a star running back to hinge their offence on. Matt Forte, undoubtedly, has been one of the most underrated running backs in the league for the better part of a decade. His decline isn't far away, at 29 years of age, and with his contract situation, he just might have one more contract elsewhere in him before hanging up his cleats.

Langford is a project that John Fox will try to turn into a starting running back in the NFL. He uses his hands well and has a lean, long frame that is similar in ways to Forte's. There were other players on the board when the Bears selected Langford such as Jay Ajayi and David Cobb but the Bears, Fox and Pace had an eye on Langford as a long term starter to fit into their long term plan.

When you look at Langford in the video above, you really do get a sense that he could be the next Matt Forte. What Langford lacks in elusiveness and technique, he more than makes up for in speed, acceleration and ball-handling. He is also versatile and has very good receiving skills having played their previously for MSU.

If Langford can improve his tackle breaking ability and willingness to punish defenders at the end of runs, he could become a lead back in the NFL and it was with that hope that the Bears selected him ahead of other players in the draft.

Langford might not feature a huge amount this upcoming year but he will get enough reps to learn and improve heading into the following season when he could project as a starter.

Matt Waldman's Ranking System

For anyone who wants to really understand how to grade a player, you should probably reading Matt Waldman's work. According to his Rookie Scouting Portfolio, the things he rates running backs on are power, balance, ball handling, speed, acceleration, vision, elusiveness, blocking, receiving, durability.

He then breaks them down in star calibre, starter calibre, committee calibre, reserve calibre, free agent calibre and deficient.

Langford graded in committee calibre for all but ball-handling (starter), speed (star), acceleration (starter), durability (star) and elusiveness (reserve).

His elusiveness is a problem and it is something that he didn't need to rely on based on his speed and ability to make it to the edge at college level. There are certainly enough tools there to work this player into a starter when Forte leaves Chicago, even it is as the number one guy in a three running back committee or as the one in a one-two punch.

Matt Forte does everything well and he does everything well consistently. Langford will be looking or the same consistency while helping out on special teams early in his career. This might be the different between Langford, Carey and veteran Jacquizz Rodgers when it is time to decide on roster spots and depth chart moves.

The NFL draft has seen its fair share of shocking moments. Moments of frustration with the fans, like when Denver selected Tim Tebow, or when Minnesota selected Christian Ponder. Every team has made a questionable draft pick in recent history, and surprises come out of those picks. Tom Brady being one example, no one expected Tom Brady to be where he is today during his draft. Tom Brady was drafted by the Patriots in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL draft. Brady was the seventh quarterback to be picked and more importantly the only quarterback still playing NFL Football. What made this draft so interesting were the various trade rumors leading up to the draft. Philadelphia was supposed to trade quarterback Sam Bradford to Tennessee for the second pick to draft quarterback Marcus Mariota. You kind of expected for a few trades to take place so teams could get the players they really wanted. But, those things didn’t happen. No trades in the 1^st round were jaw-dropping bomb shells; in fact, it was kind of boring. With that being said, let’s look at some shocking picks made in this year’s draft.  

1. The Rams shocked twitter by selecting Todd Gurley, there was an instant discontent of Ram fans, wondering why they didn’t choose to strengthen the offensive line. Besides, St Louis already has Zac Stacy and Tre Mason. Sure, Gurley has potential to be an elite back in the NFL. But, the Rams offensive line is arguably the reason that former quarterback Sam Bradford has the injury issues that have cause him to miss a ton of games.

2. The Chicago Bears made a surprising pick in the draft. They chose to ignore the defense woes that caused Chicago to be one of the worst defenses in the NFL. They draft Kevin White, a very talented wide receiver. Chicago most likely felt that the play-making position needed some additions with the subtraction of Brandon Marshall. Let’s hope White and quarterback jay Cutler can connect and give Chicago some much needed offensive sparks.

3. The Denver Bronco’s selected Shane Ray. It’s just too ironic that a player who receiver a citation for marijuana possession, goes to a team, in a city, where marijuana is legal. Never mind the offensive line, or protecting your aging superstar quarterback, but drafting your own defensive Ricky Williams is what makes Denver one of those teams that will not win a Super Bowl.

4. The New Orleans Saints made a head-scratcher by selecting linebacker Stephone Anthony from Clemson rather than addressing the need to replace Jimmy Graham’s production. Trading Graham was a huge decision by the Saints, not addressing the role Graham left is irresponsible.

5. The Cleveland Browns took a center in the first round. Without Josh Gordon the Browns desperately need some help in the passing game. I’m not against Cleveland addressing the offensive line, but center Cameron Erving would have been available in the second round.  

6. The Miami Dolphins are showing improvement in the league lately. They’ve had some good picks in the draft. Currently, Miami has holes at linebacker, guard and safety. Strangely, the Dolphins drafted a Jordan Phillips defensive tackle that wasn’t a need, especially after spending $114 million in free agency on Pro Bowl defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh.

7. The Seattle Seahawks picked Frank Clark a defensive end out of Michigan. Frank Clark is a talented player who many experts thought might go undrafted after being kicked off the team in November over a domestic-violence charge in an incident with his girlfriend. The Seahawks have made some shocking picks in recent years, but this is the biggest head-scratcher of them all. Clearly, Seattle hasn’t seen the NBA domestic abuse PSA’s.

8. The New York Giants selected Ereck Flowers, an offensive lineman from Miami. Why? The 9^th pick was a perfect opportunity to roll the dice on a top talent like running back who could have helped quarterback Eli Manning just as much as Flowers.

9. The Oakland Raiders needed a pass-rusher, so they drafted Mario Edwards Jr. with the 35th overall pick. Oakland drafted a guy with a total of eight sacks in three years at Florida State over Mississippi State's Preston Smith, who had nine last year alone.  

10. The St. Louis Rams need a quarterback badly. So, the Rams selected Oregon State's Sean Mannion, who was a turnover machine in college. According to NFL.com, he had 30 fumbles and 54 interceptions in college. He also threw 83 touchdowns, but 37 of those were during his junior year. He’ll be in great company with Nick Foles, Case Keenum and Austin Davis already on the roster.

The NFC North spent the 2015 NFL Draft getting stronger, at least until this latest crop of college prospects takes the field to prove they’re ready to play on the professional stage. With that said, it’s time for an initial grade on each team’s efforts.

Chicago Bears

Round 1, Pick 7 – Kevin White, WR, West Virginia

Round 2, Pick 39 – Eddie Goldman, DT, Florida State

Round 3, Pick 71 – Hroniss Grasu, C, Oregon

Round 4, Pick 106 – Jeremy Langford, RB, Michigan State

Round 5, Pick 142 – Adrian Amos, FS, Penn State

Round 6, Pick 183 – Tayo Fabuluje, OT, TCU

Overall Analysis:

The Bears got older and the talent gap between them and the rest of the division widened during their threeseasons under the Phil Emery regime. Ryan Pace has done a great job in free agency of building roster depth without breaking the bank. The one disappointment for the Bears in this draft is they only had six picks to begin the task of laying a talent foundation the team can rebuild on.

White gives the Bears another tall, physically strong receiver who also has the outside speed they’ve been lacking for a long time. He ran a 4.35 at the combine. Grasu will challenge free agent signee Will Montgomery this summer for the starting job at center. Fabuluje is a project whose value will be determined if he can keep his weight under control. Goldman is a potential rookie starter and Amos provides needed depth at safety.

Best Pick: Eddie Goldman

In many scouting reports Goldman graded as a first round talent. He has the size and strength to anchor the middle of Vic Fangio’s defense both as a run stuffer and a push-the-pocket pass rusher.

Worst Pick: Jeromy Langford

With the Bears coming off two of the worst defensive seasons in franchise history and only six picks in this draft running back was one position they could have passed on. Obviously this new regime doesn’t think highly of Ka’Deem Carey, last year’s fourth round running back selection.

Grade: B

Detroit Lions

Round 1, Pick 28 – Laken Tomlinson, OG, Duke

Round 2, Pick 54 – Ameer Abdullah, RB, Nebraska

Round 3, Pick 80 (From Vikings through Chiefs) – Alex Carter, CB, Stanford

Round 4, Pick 113 (From Eagles through 49ers and Bills) – Gabe Wright, DT, Auburn

Round 5, Pick 168 (From Buccaneers through Patriots) – Michael Burton, FB, Rutgers

Round 6, Pick 200 – Quandre Diggs, CB, Texas

Round 7, Pick 240 – Corey Robinson, OT, South Carolina

Overall Analysis:

It appears Jim Caldwell is serious about reigning in Matt Stafford’s arm and re-emphasizing the run game. The Lions may have reached for Tomlinson but he’s a potential road-grader who fits that running philosophy. Abdullah is small but was one of the top running backs in the Big 10 for Nebraska.

On defense they began to address the rebuild of the defensive line with the selection of Wright in the fourth round and also did a good job adding depth to their secondary with Alex Carter and Quandre Diggs.

Best Pick: Gabe Wright

NFL.com had Wright projected as a late second, early third round talent that the Lions picked up in the fourth. The question is whether he can step in as a starter Week One.

Worst Pick: Laken Tomlinson

Tomlinson is a big addition to help build a ground game but if general manager Martin Mayhew was going to reach for a player in the first round it would have made more sense for him to select defensive lineman Malcom Brown out of Texas.

Grade: C

Green Bay Packers

Round 1, Pick 30 – Damarious Randall, FS, Arizona State

Round 2, Pick 62 – Quinten Rollins, CB, Miami (OH)

Round 3, Pick 94 – Ty Montgomery, WR, Stanford

Round 4, Pick 129 – Jake Ryan, OLB, Michigan

Round 5, Pick 147 (From Patriots through Browns) – Brett Hundley, QB, UCLA

Round 6, Pick 206 – Aaron Ripkowski, FB, Oklahoma

Round 6, Pick 210 (Compensatory Pick) – Christian Ringo, DE, Louisiana-Lafayette

Round 6, Pick 213 (Compensatory Pick) – Kennard Backman, TE, UAB

Overall Analysis:

No team in the NFL makes better use of the draft to stock their roster with talent.  Considering the Packers came with minutes of going to the Super Bowl last year, they could concentrate more on filling needs than the rest of the division.

They did a great job adding to their secondary depth in the first two rounds. Mike Mayock of NFL.com raved about Randall’s coverage skills. He has potential to be a first-year starter. Rollins only played one year of college football and showed natural coverage skills.

Best Pick: Ty Montgomery

The Packers added another target to Aaron Rodgers’ stable of receivers. He’s also a talented return man who has potential to provide immediate impact on special teams.

Worst Pick:

Considering what the Packers’ objectives were going into the draft it’s tough to argue with their selections. The only criticism that can be made is they only used one pick, and a fourth round one at that, to address the linebacker position.

Grade: B

Minnesota Vikings

Round 1, Pick 11 – Trae Waynes, CB, Michigan State

Round 2, Pick 45 – Eric Kendricks, ILB, UCLA

Round 3, Pick 88 (From Lions) – Danielle Hunter, DE, LSU

Round 4, Pick 110 – T.J. Clemmings, OT, Pittsburgh

Round 5, Pick 143 (From Lions through Broncos and Bears) – MyCole Pruitt, TE, Southern Illinois

Round 5, Pick 146 (From Falcons) – Stefan Diggs, WR, Maryland

Round 6, Pick 185 (From Falcons) – Tyrus Thompson, OT, Oklahoma

Round 6, Pick 193 (From Chiefs) – B.J. Dubose, DE, Louisville

Round 7, Pick 228 – Austin Shephard, OT, Alabama

Round 7, Pick 232 (From 49ers through Dolphins) – Edmond Robinson, OLB, Newberry

Overall Analysis:

As usual, Rick Spielman went into draft weekend prepared. The Vikings addressed all their position needs with only one real reach among their selected players.

Trae Waynes was one of the top rated players on the board at No. 11 and he’s potentially a perfect fit teamed with Xavier Rhodes in a division filled with some of the best receivers in the game. Kendricks is undersized at linebacker but he’s a ball-hawk. He started and led the team in tackles his past three seasons at UCLA

On offense Minnesota loaded up on tackles plus grabbed a receiver graded higher than his draft slot in Diggs and a tight end who can also play fullback in Pruitt.

Best Pick: T.J. Clemmings

Clemmings was ranked as the twentieth best prospect on National Football Post’s Big Board but tumbled into the fourth round on concerns about a stress fracture in his foot. He’s capable of starting as a rookie at guard while being ready to shift to tackle if needed.

Worst Pick: Danielle Hunter

The Vikings are betting a third round pick on potential. Physically Hunter has the strength to dominate but his football instincts are questionable, he only managed 1.5 sacks in 2014.

Grade: A

As the Chicago Bears enter another season, a wave of hope surrounded the fans of Chicago. Football analysts and media personnel discussed and dissected who would go number one. Would it be Danny Shelton, Amari Cooper or Vic Beasley? Now that the draft is over and the questions have been answered, here are the draft grades for the Chicago Bears.

Round 1/7^th overall: WR Kevin White – West Virginia

With the trade of Brandon Marshall to the New York Jets, Kevin White became the obvious choice and the best fit for the Bears offense. White has tremendous speed clocking a 4.35 at the Combine. Mike Mayock described White this way, “with the ball in his hands, this kid is exciting. He’s a natural ball catcher.” With the way QB Jay Cutler throws the ball, White will use his skills to reach up and secure the ball for the catch. White also has the ability to keep his eye on the ball coming behind him with freakish accuracy.

Cutler will have incredible targets in Alshon Jeffrey and Kevin White while using Eddie Royal in the slot. A great solid pick for the first-round. Grade A+

Round 2/38^th overall: DT Eddie Goldman – Florida State

This was a must-have pick in the right direction in regards to shoring up the defensive line. Since the Bears passed up on NT Danny Shelton, Goldman was the next best thing. At 6’4”, 336 lbs he will fit well in Vic Fangio’s 3-4 scheme. His long arms will help him stand in the A-gap and 2-gap. A real student of the game and a great run stuffer. It is questionable if he can play in sub-packages, but with training he should be able to nail it. Grade: A

Round 3/71^st overall: C Hroniss Grasu – Oregon State

OG Kyle :ong is probably more excited than anyone. Long has his best buddy on the team. With Roberto Garza gone, the Bears signed former center Will Montgomery from the Denver Broncos to a one-year deal. So it made sense to pick Grasu to be the big solid player for the Bears. An extremely efficient player in his position, he is hungry to learn and play in the NFL. Grasu played all four years for the Ducks and will be a starter in no time. He has the ability to make blocks in the open field and just opens up holes for running backs. With Long matched side-by-side, the Long-Grasu combination is going to be the talk of Chicago fans everywhere. Grade: A-

Round 4/106^th overall: RB Jeremy Langford – Michigan State

With so many defensive needs, it was a little surprising that the Bears chose a running back in the 4^th round.  However, Jeremy Langford may be the surprise pick, not as a replacement for current RB Matt Forte’, but a much need big back for the run game. Langford rushed for 2,944 yards, 40 touchdowns, and 568 carries in the past two years for Michigan State. I would not be surprised if he is used in the return game or as a 3^rd down back. Grade: B+

Round 5/142^nd overall: FS Adrain Amos – Penn State

A three-year starter, Adrian Amos recorded 149 tackles, 19 pass breakups and seven interceptions while appearing in 49 games with 39 starts. Amos played corner most of his career then moved over to the safety position. A very versatile player, Amos loves covering the slot, tight-ends and outside receivers. Amos consistently reads his keys correctly wherever he is placed. With Chris Conte out, Amos appears to be a fresh and strong defensive back. A real steal for the Bears here, with solid value. Grade: A-

Round 6/183^rd overall: OT Tayo Fabuluje – TCU

This is a surprise and questionable pick. He is an enormous tackle standing at 6’-6”, 353 lbs, can be a strong anchor but has some character issues such as weight and motivation. Sloppy with his hands and needs a lot of work with his feet.Penn State OT Mike Hull was still available and a better fit for the Bears. Hull has break down action and can attack with quick precision. However, the Bears saw something in Fabuluje at his pro day. If he values the opportunity to play in the NFL, he will control his weight, train harder than he ever has and be willing to learn and adhere to whatever the coaching staff demands. Depending how well he does this summer in OTAs, he can be an immediate backup. Grade: C+

Overall, GM Ryan Pace and head Coach John Fox addressed the needs in both offense and defense. Not picking a quarterback in this draft, indicates that the Bears continue to stand behind QB Jay Cutler for this season.

One thing is for certain, the Chicago Bears will be a different team going into 2015 and the NFC North will have a real competition

As the Chicago Bears enter another season, a wave of hope surrounded the fans of Chicago. Football analysts and media personnel discussed and dissected who would go number one. Would it be Danny Shelton, Amari Cooper or Vic Beasley? Now that the draft is over and the questions have been answered, here are the draft grades for the Chicago Bears.

Round 1/7^th overall: WR Kevin White – West Virginia

With the trade of Brandon Marshall to the New York Jets, Kevin White became the obvious choice and the best fit for the Bears offense. White has tremendous speed clocking a 4.35 at the Combine. Mike Mayock described White this way, “with the ball in his hands, this kid is exciting. He’s a natural ball catcher.” With the way QB Jay Cutler throws the ball, White will use his skills to reach up and secure the ball for the catch. White also has the ability to keep his eye on the ball coming behind him with freakish accuracy.

Cutler will have incredible targets in Alshon Jeffrey and Kevin White while using Eddie Royal in the slot. A great solid pick for the first-round. Grade A+

Round 2/38^th overall: DT Eddie Goldman – Florida State

This was a must-have pick in the right direction in regards to shoring up the defensive line. Since the Bears passed up on NT Danny Shelton, Goldman was the next best thing. At 6’4”, 336 lbs he will fit well in Vic Fangio’s 3-4 scheme. His long arms will help him stand in the A-gap and 2-gap. A real student of the game and a great run stuffer. It is questionable if he can play in sub-packages, but with training he should be able to nail it. Grade: A

Round 3/71^st overall: C Hroniss Grasu – Oregon State

OG Kyle :ong is probably more excited than anyone. Long has his best buddy on the team. With Roberto Garza gone, the Bears signed former center Will Montgomery from the Denver Broncos to a one-year deal. So it made sense to pick Grasu to be the big solid player for the Bears. An extremely efficient player in his position, he is hungry to learn and play in the NFL. Grasu played all four years for the Ducks and will be a starter in no time. He has the ability to make blocks in the open field and just opens up holes for running backs. With Long matched side-by-side, the Long-Grasu combination is going to be the talk of Chicago fans everywhere. Grade: A-

Round 4/106^th overall: RB Jeremy Langford – Michigan State

With so many defensive needs, it was a little surprising that the Bears chose a running back in the 4^th round.  However, Jeremy Langford may be the surprise pick, not as a replacement for current RB Matt Forte’, but a much need big back for the run game. Langford rushed for 2,944 yards, 40 touchdowns, and 568 carries in the past two years for Michigan State. I would not be surprised if he is used in the return game or as a 3^rd down back. Grade: B+

Round 5/142^nd overall: FS Adrain Amos – Penn State

A three-year starter, Adrian Amos recorded 149 tackles, 19 pass breakups and seven interceptions while appearing in 49 games with 39 starts. Amos played corner most of his career then moved over to the safety position. A very versatile player, Amos loves covering the slot, tight-ends and outside receivers. Amos consistently reads his keys correctly wherever he is placed. With Chris Conte out, Amos appears to be a fresh and strong defensive back. A real steal for the Bears here, with solid value. Grade: A-

Round 6/183^rd overall: OT Tayo Fabuluje – TCU

This is a surprise and questionable pick. He is an enormous tackle standing at 6’-6”, 353 lbs, can be a strong anchor but has some character issues such as weight and motivation. Sloppy with his hands and needs a lot of work with his feet.Penn State OT Mike Hull was still available and a better fit for the Bears. Hull has break down action and can attack with quick precision. However, the Bears saw something in Fabuluje at his pro day. If he values the opportunity to play in the NFL, he will control his weight, train harder than he ever has and be willing to learn and adhere to whatever the coaching staff demands. Depending how well he does this summer in OTAs, he can be an immediate backup. Grade: C+

Overall, GM Ryan Pace and head Coach John Fox addressed the needs in both offense and defense. Not picking a quarterback in this draft, indicates that the Bears continue to stand behind QB Jay Cutler for this season.

One thing is for certain, the Chicago Bears will be a different team going into 2015 and the NFC North will have a real competition

Quick recap of the 1st Round with an emphasis on the impact these players will have on Fantasy Football. As always, the landing spot for these rookies is just as significant as their talent/ability. We’ll wait until the Draft is complete to publish our initial rookie rankings. Until then, get to know this year’s 1st round picks. 

Quarterbacks: 

Jameis Winston, 1st Overall, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 

Despite some serious off the field concerns and maturity issues, the Buccaneers selected the former Florida State QB with the 1st overall selection in the 2015 NFL Draft. 

Fantasy Impact: With two super-star wide receivers already on the roster in Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans, Winston won’t have to worry about the lack of weapons. Pegged as the most “Pro-Ready” QB prospect in this year’s draft, it would be a major shock if Winston isn’t starting under-center in Week 1. 

Marcus Mariota, 2nd Overall, Tennessee Titans

So much speculation and rumor based reporting heading into the draft led everyone to believe the Titans were willing to trade away the Number 2 pick to either the Chicago Bears or Philadelphia Eagles. But the Tennessee’s asking price for the 2nd second proved to be to expensive. The result? The Titans take the former Oregon QB and reigning Heisman Trophy Winner.

Fantasy Impact: Coach Ken Whisenhunt has proven to get the most out of his QBs and admitted in the off-season he would cater his offense to suit Mariota’s strengths. That being said, we’d be lying if we didn’t LOVE the idea of Mariota re-joining his former Ducks Coach from a purely selfish Fantasy Football standpoint. With Kendall Wright and Justin Hunter beginning to emerge as solid receivers, Mariota has a good supporting cast of playmakers that he can grow with at the start of his career. Will Mariota beat out the incumbent starter, Zach Mettenberger? Our guess would be a resounding YES!!!!

Running Backs:

Todd Gurley, 10th Overall, St. Louis Rams:

A clear decision to take best player available, the Rams selected former Georgia rusher, Todd Gurley who many consider the second coming of Adrian Peterson with the 10th overall pick. If it wasn’t for a torn ACL last November, Gurley may have very well been a Top 5 pick.

Fantasy Impact: At 6’1, 227 pounds, Gurley has the size of a bruising and punishing rusher but the sblazing peed and shiftiness of a smaller scat back. Plain and simple he’s the total package. The major question of course is the status of his surgically repaired knee. If everything checks out without any set backs over the summer, Gurley will be the starter in Week 1 and certainly has the potential to be a Top 12 RB right out of the gate. Tre Mason will take a back-seat to Gurley and Zac Stacy has already asked to be traded.

Melvin Gordon, 15th Overall, San Diego Chargers:

The Chargers swapped picks with the 49ers and moved up the board to nab the former Wisconsin rusher with the 15th overall pick. Teams were shying away from selecting running backs in the 1st round in the last few years, but Gordon was the 2nd RB taken in the Top 15 picks (Todd Gurley 10th overall).

Fantasy Impact: With the departure of Ryan Mathews, the Chargers needed a new work-horse RB. Danny Woodhead is coming off an ACL tear and once healthy will likely just take on a 3rd down role. Gordon didn’t display his receiving skills a lot during his College career but he sure as hell proved he can tote the rock. Gordon finished on top of all NCAA D1 RBs with an eye popping 2,587 yards.

Wide Receivers:

Amari Cooper, 4th Overall, Oakland Raiders

There were some draft pundits who ranked Kevin White (7th overall Bears) ahead of Amari Cooper, but with the 4th overall pick, the Raiders selected the Alabama standout. Thanks to his precise route running and body control, Cooper is the most “Pro-Ready” receiver in this year’s class and has drawn comparison to Reggie Wayne and former Raiders WR Tim Brown. 

Fantasy Impact: It seems the Raiders found their franchise QB last year with Derek Carr and now pair him up with their franchise WR. Cooper will have an instant impact in the Raiders passing attack which has lacked a few playmakers in recent years. Typically we would be bummed when one of our favorite rookie prospects ends up on a team like the Raiders, but Cooper (like a Sammy Watkins in 2014) should have no problem emerging as a solid WR3 in  Fantasy despite playing for a bad team. 

Kevin White, 7th Overall, Chicago Bears 

After a terrific showing at the NFL Combine and breakout season at West Virginia last year, White’s draft stock skyrocketed. In an effort to fill the void left by Brandon Marshall, the Bears invested their 7th overall selection in the 6’3 wide-out. 

Fantasy Impact: Given his size, strength, and speed, White has drawn comparisons to Terrell Owens. He’s blazing fast (4.35 40 yard dash), 36.5 inch vertical leap, and a solid muscular build (210 pounds) but his route running is a bit unpolished. He’ll join the Bears as the team’s Number 2 wideout behind Alshon Jeffery. Unfortunately a lot of White’s initial success is tied to Jay Cutler, which we aren’t  necessarily thrilled about, but there are much worse QB situations around the league that White could have landed in. 

DeVante Parker, 14th Overall, Miami Dolphins

The glaring need for a true Number 1 wide receiver led the Dolphins to select DeVante Parker with their 1st round pick (14th overall). A big bodied (6’3, 211 pounds) receiver, Parker displayed tremendous toughness at Louisville and consistently showed excellent body control and concentration. Seems Parker always won the “jump ball” over defenders, thanks to strong hands, superior leaping ability, and long frame. Drops won’t be an issue for Ryan Tannehill’s new target

Fantasy Impact: The Dolphins are making serious noise this off-season by bringing in some serious weapons for Ryan Tannehill. Tight End Jordan Cameron and receivers Kenny Stills and Greg Jennings were solid acquisitions. Now add in Parker along with second year PPR stud in the making, Jarvis Landry, and Miami has one of those offenses that may take that next step into the upper echelon in 2015. Parker may not win the starting job right away (seasoned veterans typically get the edge in camp), but likely will emerge as the starter by year’s end. 

Nelson Agholor, 20th Overall, Philadelphia Eagles

Dubbed the second best route runner behind Amari Cooper, the Eagles drafted Nelson Agholor out of USC with the 20th overall pick. Capable of playing in the slot and the outside, Agholor can also contribute on Special Teams as a return man. 

Fantasy Impact; The Eagles lost their leading receiver, Jeremy Maclin, in the off-season and you know dam well Chip Kelly wasn’t going to rely on Riley Cooper to start opposite of Jordan Matthews. So what do the Eagles do? Draft a Jeremy Maclin like clone with the former USC Trojan. Forget about all the trade talk non-sense with Marcus Mariota, the Eagles still have a solid offense even with Sam Bradford at the helm and Agholor will surely benefit from Chip Kelley’s receiver friendly offense. 

Breshad Perriman, 26th Overall, Baltimore Ravens

After missing the NFL Combine due to an injury, UCF’s Breshad Perriman set the NFL world abuzz after an insane 4.24 40 yard dash at his Pro Day. Combine the 40 time with his size (6’2) and a great 2014 season (1st team All-American Athletic Conference), Perriman is the type of receiver prospect NFL GM’s drool over. With an aging Steve Smith and void left by Torrey Smith, the Ravens drafted Perriman with the 26th overall pick.

Fantasy Impact: A bit raw in terms of running routes and a bit maddening with some of his dropped passes, Perriman’s potential outweighs his shortcomings. Great blend of size and speed, the Ravens needed a deep threat to take advantage of Joe Flacco’s big arm. Get ready to watch a lot of deep routes, long bombs, and Perriman blowing past defenders with ease. 

Phillip Dorsett, 29th Overall, Indianapolis Colts

Despite a boat load of talented receivers (TY Hilton, Andre Johnson, Donte Moncfief) the Colts stuck to their guns in the 1st Round and took best player available on their board regardless of positional need. The result? Indy drafts former Miami Hurricane wide receiver Philip Dorsett with the 29th overall pick.

Fantasy Impact: You’ll be hard pressed to find a team with more weapons on Offense than the Colts. They are LOADED!!!! With Hilton entering the final year of his rookie contract, a lot of analysts immediately pegged Dorsett has Hilton’s replacement. After all, the two are very similar in size and ability. Like Hilton, Dorsett is a speedster (4.33 yard dash) and great downfield threat, but at just 5’10, 185 pounds, he’s not a big red-zone target.

Quick recap of the 1st Round with an emphasis on the impact these players will have on Fantasy Football. As always, the landing spot for these rookies is just as significant as their talent/ability. We’ll wait until the Draft is complete to publish our initial rookie rankings. Until then, get to know this year’s 1st round picks. 

Quarterbacks: 

Jameis Winston, 1st Overall, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 

Despite some serious off the field concerns and maturity issues, the Buccaneers selected the former Florida State QB with the 1st overall selection in the 2015 NFL Draft. 

Fantasy Impact: With two super-star wide receivers already on the roster in Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans, Winston won’t have to worry about the lack of weapons. Pegged as the most “Pro-Ready” QB prospect in this year’s draft, it would be a major shock if Winston isn’t starting under-center in Week 1. 

Marcus Mariota, 2nd Overall, Tennessee Titans

So much speculation and rumor based reporting heading into the draft led everyone to believe the Titans were willing to trade away the Number 2 pick to either the Chicago Bears or Philadelphia Eagles. But the Tennessee’s asking price for the 2nd second proved to be to expensive. The result? The Titans take the former Oregon QB and reigning Heisman Trophy Winner.

Fantasy Impact: Coach Ken Whisenhunt has proven to get the most out of his QBs and admitted in the off-season he would cater his offense to suit Mariota’s strengths. That being said, we’d be lying if we didn’t LOVE the idea of Mariota re-joining his former Ducks Coach from a purely selfish Fantasy Football standpoint. With Kendall Wright and Justin Hunter beginning to emerge as solid receivers, Mariota has a good supporting cast of playmakers that he can grow with at the start of his career. Will Mariota beat out the incumbent starter, Zach Mettenberger? Our guess would be a resounding YES!!!!

Running Backs:

Todd Gurley, 10th Overall, St. Louis Rams:

A clear decision to take best player available, the Rams selected former Georgia rusher, Todd Gurley who many consider the second coming of Adrian Peterson with the 10th overall pick. If it wasn’t for a torn ACL last November, Gurley may have very well been a Top 5 pick.

Fantasy Impact: At 6’1, 227 pounds, Gurley has the size of a bruising and punishing rusher but the sblazing peed and shiftiness of a smaller scat back. Plain and simple he’s the total package. The major question of course is the status of his surgically repaired knee. If everything checks out without any set backs over the summer, Gurley will be the starter in Week 1 and certainly has the potential to be a Top 12 RB right out of the gate. Tre Mason will take a back-seat to Gurley and Zac Stacy has already asked to be traded.

Melvin Gordon, 15th Overall, San Diego Chargers:

The Chargers swapped picks with the 49ers and moved up the board to nab the former Wisconsin rusher with the 15th overall pick. Teams were shying away from selecting running backs in the 1st round in the last few years, but Gordon was the 2nd RB taken in the Top 15 picks (Todd Gurley 10th overall).

Fantasy Impact: With the departure of Ryan Mathews, the Chargers needed a new work-horse RB. Danny Woodhead is coming off an ACL tear and once healthy will likely just take on a 3rd down role. Gordon didn’t display his receiving skills a lot during his College career but he sure as hell proved he can tote the rock. Gordon finished on top of all NCAA D1 RBs with an eye popping 2,587 yards.

Wide Receivers:

Amari Cooper, 4th Overall, Oakland Raiders

There were some draft pundits who ranked Kevin White (7th overall Bears) ahead of Amari Cooper, but with the 4th overall pick, the Raiders selected the Alabama standout. Thanks to his precise route running and body control, Cooper is the most “Pro-Ready” receiver in this year’s class and has drawn comparison to Reggie Wayne and former Raiders WR Tim Brown. 

Fantasy Impact: It seems the Raiders found their franchise QB last year with Derek Carr and now pair him up with their franchise WR. Cooper will have an instant impact in the Raiders passing attack which has lacked a few playmakers in recent years. Typically we would be bummed when one of our favorite rookie prospects ends up on a team like the Raiders, but Cooper (like a Sammy Watkins in 2014) should have no problem emerging as a solid WR3 in  Fantasy despite playing for a bad team. 

Kevin White, 7th Overall, Chicago Bears 

After a terrific showing at the NFL Combine and breakout season at West Virginia last year, White’s draft stock skyrocketed. In an effort to fill the void left by Brandon Marshall, the Bears invested their 7th overall selection in the 6’3 wide-out. 

Fantasy Impact: Given his size, strength, and speed, White has drawn comparisons to Terrell Owens. He’s blazing fast (4.35 40 yard dash), 36.5 inch vertical leap, and a solid muscular build (210 pounds) but his route running is a bit unpolished. He’ll join the Bears as the team’s Number 2 wideout behind Alshon Jeffery. Unfortunately a lot of White’s initial success is tied to Jay Cutler, which we aren’t  necessarily thrilled about, but there are much worse QB situations around the league that White could have landed in. 

DeVante Parker, 14th Overall, Miami Dolphins

The glaring need for a true Number 1 wide receiver led the Dolphins to select DeVante Parker with their 1st round pick (14th overall). A big bodied (6’3, 211 pounds) receiver, Parker displayed tremendous toughness at Louisville and consistently showed excellent body control and concentration. Seems Parker always won the “jump ball” over defenders, thanks to strong hands, superior leaping ability, and long frame. Drops won’t be an issue for Ryan Tannehill’s new target

Fantasy Impact: The Dolphins are making serious noise this off-season by bringing in some serious weapons for Ryan Tannehill. Tight End Jordan Cameron and receivers Kenny Stills and Greg Jennings were solid acquisitions. Now add in Parker along with second year PPR stud in the making, Jarvis Landry, and Miami has one of those offenses that may take that next step into the upper echelon in 2015. Parker may not win the starting job right away (seasoned veterans typically get the edge in camp), but likely will emerge as the starter by year’s end. 

Nelson Agholor, 20th Overall, Philadelphia Eagles

Dubbed the second best route runner behind Amari Cooper, the Eagles drafted Nelson Agholor out of USC with the 20th overall pick. Capable of playing in the slot and the outside, Agholor can also contribute on Special Teams as a return man. 

Fantasy Impact; The Eagles lost their leading receiver, Jeremy Maclin, in the off-season and you know dam well Chip Kelly wasn’t going to rely on Riley Cooper to start opposite of Jordan Matthews. So what do the Eagles do? Draft a Jeremy Maclin like clone with the former USC Trojan. Forget about all the trade talk non-sense with Marcus Mariota, the Eagles still have a solid offense even with Sam Bradford at the helm and Agholor will surely benefit from Chip Kelley’s receiver friendly offense. 

Breshad Perriman, 26th Overall, Baltimore Ravens

After missing the NFL Combine due to an injury, UCF’s Breshad Perriman set the NFL world abuzz after an insane 4.24 40 yard dash at his Pro Day. Combine the 40 time with his size (6’2) and a great 2014 season (1st team All-American Athletic Conference), Perriman is the type of receiver prospect NFL GM’s drool over. With an aging Steve Smith and void left by Torrey Smith, the Ravens drafted Perriman with the 26th overall pick.

Fantasy Impact: A bit raw in terms of running routes and a bit maddening with some of his dropped passes, Perriman’s potential outweighs his shortcomings. Great blend of size and speed, the Ravens needed a deep threat to take advantage of Joe Flacco’s big arm. Get ready to watch a lot of deep routes, long bombs, and Perriman blowing past defenders with ease. 

Phillip Dorsett, 29th Overall, Indianapolis Colts

Despite a boat load of talented receivers (TY Hilton, Andre Johnson, Donte Moncfief) the Colts stuck to their guns in the 1st Round and took best player available on their board regardless of positional need. The result? Indy drafts former Miami Hurricane wide receiver Philip Dorsett with the 29th overall pick.

Fantasy Impact: You’ll be hard pressed to find a team with more weapons on Offense than the Colts. They are LOADED!!!! With Hilton entering the final year of his rookie contract, a lot of analysts immediately pegged Dorsett has Hilton’s replacement. After all, the two are very similar in size and ability. Like Hilton, Dorsett is a speedster (4.33 yard dash) and great downfield threat, but at just 5’10, 185 pounds, he’s not a big red-zone target.

Quick recap of the 1st Round with an emphasis on the impact these players will have on Fantasy Football. As always, the landing spot for these rookies is just as significant as their talent/ability. We’ll wait until the Draft is complete to publish our initial rookie rankings. Until then, get to know this year’s 1st round picks. 

Quarterbacks: 

Jameis Winston, 1st Overall, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 

Despite some serious off the field concerns and maturity issues, the Buccaneers selected the former Florida State QB with the 1st overall selection in the 2015 NFL Draft. 

Fantasy Impact: With two super-star wide receivers already on the roster in Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans, Winston won’t have to worry about the lack of weapons. Pegged as the most “Pro-Ready” QB prospect in this year’s draft, it would be a major shock if Winston isn’t starting under-center in Week 1. 

Marcus Mariota, 2nd Overall, Tennessee Titans

So much speculation and rumor based reporting heading into the draft led everyone to believe the Titans were willing to trade away the Number 2 pick to either the Chicago Bears or Philadelphia Eagles. But the Tennessee’s asking price for the 2nd second proved to be to expensive. The result? The Titans take the former Oregon QB and reigning Heisman Trophy Winner.

Fantasy Impact: Coach Ken Whisenhunt has proven to get the most out of his QBs and admitted in the off-season he would cater his offense to suit Mariota’s strengths. That being said, we’d be lying if we didn’t LOVE the idea of Mariota re-joining his former Ducks Coach from a purely selfish Fantasy Football standpoint. With Kendall Wright and Justin Hunter beginning to emerge as solid receivers, Mariota has a good supporting cast of playmakers that he can grow with at the start of his career. Will Mariota beat out the incumbent starter, Zach Mettenberger? Our guess would be a resounding YES!!!!

Running Backs:

Todd Gurley, 10th Overall, St. Louis Rams:

A clear decision to take best player available, the Rams selected former Georgia rusher, Todd Gurley who many consider the second coming of Adrian Peterson with the 10th overall pick. If it wasn’t for a torn ACL last November, Gurley may have very well been a Top 5 pick.

Fantasy Impact: At 6’1, 227 pounds, Gurley has the size of a bruising and punishing rusher but the sblazing peed and shiftiness of a smaller scat back. Plain and simple he’s the total package. The major question of course is the status of his surgically repaired knee. If everything checks out without any set backs over the summer, Gurley will be the starter in Week 1 and certainly has the potential to be a Top 12 RB right out of the gate. Tre Mason will take a back-seat to Gurley and Zac Stacy has already asked to be traded.

Melvin Gordon, 15th Overall, San Diego Chargers:

The Chargers swapped picks with the 49ers and moved up the board to nab the former Wisconsin rusher with the 15th overall pick. Teams were shying away from selecting running backs in the 1st round in the last few years, but Gordon was the 2nd RB taken in the Top 15 picks (Todd Gurley 10th overall).

Fantasy Impact: With the departure of Ryan Mathews, the Chargers needed a new work-horse RB. Danny Woodhead is coming off an ACL tear and once healthy will likely just take on a 3rd down role. Gordon didn’t display his receiving skills a lot during his College career but he sure as hell proved he can tote the rock. Gordon finished on top of all NCAA D1 RBs with an eye popping 2,587 yards.

Wide Receivers:

Amari Cooper, 4th Overall, Oakland Raiders

There were some draft pundits who ranked Kevin White (7th overall Bears) ahead of Amari Cooper, but with the 4th overall pick, the Raiders selected the Alabama standout. Thanks to his precise route running and body control, Cooper is the most “Pro-Ready” receiver in this year’s class and has drawn comparison to Reggie Wayne and former Raiders WR Tim Brown. 

Fantasy Impact: It seems the Raiders found their franchise QB last year with Derek Carr and now pair him up with their franchise WR. Cooper will have an instant impact in the Raiders passing attack which has lacked a few playmakers in recent years. Typically we would be bummed when one of our favorite rookie prospects ends up on a team like the Raiders, but Cooper (like a Sammy Watkins in 2014) should have no problem emerging as a solid WR3 in  Fantasy despite playing for a bad team. 

Kevin White, 7th Overall, Chicago Bears 

After a terrific showing at the NFL Combine and breakout season at West Virginia last year, White’s draft stock skyrocketed. In an effort to fill the void left by Brandon Marshall, the Bears invested their 7th overall selection in the 6’3 wide-out. 

Fantasy Impact: Given his size, strength, and speed, White has drawn comparisons to Terrell Owens. He’s blazing fast (4.35 40 yard dash), 36.5 inch vertical leap, and a solid muscular build (210 pounds) but his route running is a bit unpolished. He’ll join the Bears as the team’s Number 2 wideout behind Alshon Jeffery. Unfortunately a lot of White’s initial success is tied to Jay Cutler, which we aren’t  necessarily thrilled about, but there are much worse QB situations around the league that White could have landed in. 

DeVante Parker, 14th Overall, Miami Dolphins

The glaring need for a true Number 1 wide receiver led the Dolphins to select DeVante Parker with their 1st round pick (14th overall). A big bodied (6’3, 211 pounds) receiver, Parker displayed tremendous toughness at Louisville and consistently showed excellent body control and concentration. Seems Parker always won the “jump ball” over defenders, thanks to strong hands, superior leaping ability, and long frame. Drops won’t be an issue for Ryan Tannehill’s new target

Fantasy Impact: The Dolphins are making serious noise this off-season by bringing in some serious weapons for Ryan Tannehill. Tight End Jordan Cameron and receivers Kenny Stills and Greg Jennings were solid acquisitions. Now add in Parker along with second year PPR stud in the making, Jarvis Landry, and Miami has one of those offenses that may take that next step into the upper echelon in 2015. Parker may not win the starting job right away (seasoned veterans typically get the edge in camp), but likely will emerge as the starter by year’s end. 

Nelson Agholor, 20th Overall, Philadelphia Eagles

Dubbed the second best route runner behind Amari Cooper, the Eagles drafted Nelson Agholor out of USC with the 20th overall pick. Capable of playing in the slot and the outside, Agholor can also contribute on Special Teams as a return man. 

Fantasy Impact; The Eagles lost their leading receiver, Jeremy Maclin, in the off-season and you know dam well Chip Kelly wasn’t going to rely on Riley Cooper to start opposite of Jordan Matthews. So what do the Eagles do? Draft a Jeremy Maclin like clone with the former USC Trojan. Forget about all the trade talk non-sense with Marcus Mariota, the Eagles still have a solid offense even with Sam Bradford at the helm and Agholor will surely benefit from Chip Kelley’s receiver friendly offense. 

Breshad Perriman, 26th Overall, Baltimore Ravens

After missing the NFL Combine due to an injury, UCF’s Breshad Perriman set the NFL world abuzz after an insane 4.24 40 yard dash at his Pro Day. Combine the 40 time with his size (6’2) and a great 2014 season (1st team All-American Athletic Conference), Perriman is the type of receiver prospect NFL GM’s drool over. With an aging Steve Smith and void left by Torrey Smith, the Ravens drafted Perriman with the 26th overall pick.

Fantasy Impact: A bit raw in terms of running routes and a bit maddening with some of his dropped passes, Perriman’s potential outweighs his shortcomings. Great blend of size and speed, the Ravens needed a deep threat to take advantage of Joe Flacco’s big arm. Get ready to watch a lot of deep routes, long bombs, and Perriman blowing past defenders with ease. 

Phillip Dorsett, 29th Overall, Indianapolis Colts

Despite a boat load of talented receivers (TY Hilton, Andre Johnson, Donte Moncfief) the Colts stuck to their guns in the 1st Round and took best player available on their board regardless of positional need. The result? Indy drafts former Miami Hurricane wide receiver Philip Dorsett with the 29th overall pick.

Fantasy Impact: You’ll be hard pressed to find a team with more weapons on Offense than the Colts. They are LOADED!!!! With Hilton entering the final year of his rookie contract, a lot of analysts immediately pegged Dorsett has Hilton’s replacement. After all, the two are very similar in size and ability. Like Hilton, Dorsett is a speedster (4.33 yard dash) and great downfield threat, but at just 5’10, 185 pounds, he’s not a big red-zone target.

The schedules are out and what a season this is going to be. As usual, the Packers have some major highlights to their schedule. They play in FIVE prime time games, all before week 13. This includes two Thursday night games, two Sunday night games, and one Monday night game.

The Packers made a special request to the league regarding their plans with Brett Favre, and boy were they granted! The Packers will host their first Thanksgiving Day game since 1923 against the Chicago Bears, where Brett Favre will have his number enshrined in the ring of fame at Lambeau Field. The scalpers are having a hay-day with this one, with most tickets currently listed for $1000-$2500 a seat!

There are a few oddities to the schedule. First, after opening on the road in Chicago, the Packers play four of their next five games at home and then have their bye week! We will see if this additional rest early in the season keeps them fresh, or if it just means that they are far too drained later in the year; I fear the latter may be true.

In weeks 10-13 the Packers play four straight against division rivals. This comes after back to back road games against the 2014 division winning Broncos and Panthers, and precedes one of the biggest games of the year against the Dallas Cowboys. That seven game stretch will be the proving ground for this team.

Finally, the Packers only play one division opponent in the final four weeks of the season. This means the division could be locked up much earlier than usual and the Packers could have their focus on getting that coveted top position in the NFC.

Now, let’s get to the predictions!

Week 1 at Chicago: The Packers open the season on the road against their long time rivals, the Chicago Bears. A lot is new in Chicago which means there will be some hurdles to get over, and the Packers will take full advantage. The Packers have lost their last three openers, but that streak ends this year. GB 31-20. 1-0

Week 2 vs Seattle: The home opener might be the most important game of the season and certainly one of the most watched. The key in this one way be the addition of Jimmy Graham, adding a huge red-zone threat. But in the confines of Lambeau, the Packers offense cannot be stopped. This game will deliver everything the fans could ask for; and will end will a Rodgers drive in the final two minutes, down six, to win it. GB 28-27. 2-0

Week 3 vs Kansas City: This game is being (incorrectly) hyped as the 50^th anniversary of the famed NFL-AFL matchup that Green Bay won 35-10. The point being, this was a couple of generations ago, and this game is not one you want to attend. It will have a very similar result, and Rodgers won’t be playing in the fourth quarter. GB  41-13. 3-0

Week 4 at San Francisco: The 49ers have had the Packers number the past few seasons, but that is all about to change. This is the only road game the Packers play in a six week stretch that includes four home games and their bye. They will be well rested and will be playing a team that looks vastly different from the ones that beat them in 2012 and 2013. The Packers keep rolling at the expense of a 49ers team that will likely be 1-3. GB 27-16. 4-0

Week 5 vs St. Louis: I like St. Louis this year and feel that they could continue their improvements; but this is in Green Bay and the Rams still have a long way to go to keep up with the elite in the conference. The Packers might run away with this one. GB 38-16. 5-0

Week 6 vs San Diego: Assuming that Philip Rivers is still the quarterback for the Chargers, this game will be one that the Packers should not overlook. The Chargers could be coming to town with a very good rookie running back leading their ground game, and one of the better passers in the league helping to keep up with the Packers. This game will come down to turnovers; and at home the Packers are almost perfect. I’ll give a close one to Green Bay: GB 27-24. 6-0

Week 8 at Denver: The NFL worked their magic on this one. Of course two of the best QBs in the league are going head to head. Of course both QBs have carried the torch for their respective teams since a magical 1998 Super Bowl match-up of their predecessors. And of course the NFL gave both teams a week seven bye to prepare for their biggest game of the year.

This game will give us a chance to see two teams that can put up the points in droves; but it won’t just be Rodgers vs Manning. Expect Lacy vs Anderson to be a great storyline too. Expect the early November Denver weather to be an issue. Expect the unexpected. There is no reason to believe that both of these teams can’t be 6-0 going in to this game. There is no reason to think this wouldn’t be a Super Bowl preview. Get ready for quite the game.

In what might be the most exciting game of the season in the entire NFL, this one goes to OT. The coin flip determines the winner as either QB can drive for the touchdown. My heart says it is Green Bay. GB 37-31. 7-0

Week 9 at Carolina: This could be a very difficult game for the Packers, similar to their road loss at Buffalo last season. Carolina has a very strong defense and always finds a way to run the ball. They have a mobile QB, which is something the Packers have had trouble with in the past. And the Packers will be drained coming off of a heavyweight battle in Denver. This is the first of two back to back road trips on the season, and this one doesn’t end well. Car 23-17. 7-1

Week 10 vs Detroit: Following the road loss get ready for a smack down. The Packers play the Lions twice over the next four weeks, and Rodgers will take out his frustrations from week nine in this one. The Lions won’t have an answer. GB 38-20. 8-1

Week  11 at Minnesota: I have to assume that the Vikings will keep AP and continue to develop their young QB. Games in Minnesota are usually closer than they should be based solely on talent. The Packers still come away with the win if they can keep AP under 200 total yards. GB 31-24. 9-1

Week 12 vs Chicago: The game of the season; the decade; perhaps the greatest game ever. Yes, I am overhyping it, but this is expected to be the game that Brett Favre has his retirement ceremony and his name and number and revealed on the ring of fame. Let’s add to it that this pits two of the league’s oldest franchises. Oh and did I mention this is on Thanksgiving night? This is a recipe for a great game.

But then I am reminded of a few things. The Bears are still starting Jay Cutler, and this is a prime time game in Green Bay. Enough said. Sorry fans, Rodgers might not even finish this game. GB 44-23. 10-1

Week 13 at Detroit: The Lions have a chance at revenge after a three score loss only three weeks ago. At this point in the season though, they may already need to win out to have a real chance at the playoffs. The deck is stacked against the Lions. GB 24-20. 11-1

Week 14 vs Dallas: Let’s get ready to rumble! The Cowboys return to the scene of the crime where for Dez Bryant’s non-catch, the correct call was made, but perhaps the rule should read differently (note: the rule does read differently now and it STILL would not be a catch). Folks fail to remember that the Packers would have gotten the ball back with just under 4 minutes left in a game that they were hardly being stopped.

But enough about the past. The Packers and Cowboys will likely both have a lot to play for in this game; perhaps they will even be battling for the top seed in the NFC. These teams match up well, though the loss of Demarco Murray could be a nail in the coffin for the Cowboys. The Packers truly seem to be almost unbeatable at home recently and this will be just another passed test. GB 37-31 in OT. 12-1

Week 15 at Oakland: The Packers travel west for their final two road games, but get the benefit of playing a Raiders team that could be gunning for another very early pick. There shouldn’t be much interest in this one, although I also don’t see the Packers putting the pedal to the metal. GB 27-16. 13-1

Week 16 at Arizona: As with their last pair of back to back road games, the Packers face a team they will not match-up with very well at all. Arizona has a strong defense and can control the clock. The Packers will be doing a lot of traveling and it will wear on them. I expect another stumble just before the finish line. AZ 23-20 in OT. 13-2

Week 17 vs Minnesota: It always feels good to end the year at home. The Packers could be sitting at 13-2 at this point and might not even need a win to wrap up the top seed. If that is the case, this could actually be a very close game as I don’t see the starters playing at all. If however they need to get to 14-2 for the top seed, you can expect them to do just enough to get it done. I predict a close game either way but still think the Packers win their final home game to once again go undefeated at home. GB 20-16. 14-2

The schedules are out and what a season this is going to be. As usual, the Packers have some major highlights to their schedule. They play in FIVE prime time games, all before week 13. This includes two Thursday night games, two Sunday night games, and one Monday night game.

The Packers made a special request to the league regarding their plans with Brett Favre, and boy were they granted! The Packers will host their first Thanksgiving Day game since 1923 against the Chicago Bears, where Brett Favre will have his number enshrined in the ring of fame at Lambeau Field. The scalpers are having a hay-day with this one, with most tickets currently listed for $1000-$2500 a seat!

There are a few oddities to the schedule. First, after opening on the road in Chicago, the Packers play four of their next five games at home and then have their bye week! We will see if this additional rest early in the season keeps them fresh, or if it just means that they are far too drained later in the year; I fear the latter may be true.

In weeks 10-13 the Packers play four straight against division rivals. This comes after back to back road games against the 2014 division winning Broncos and Panthers, and precedes one of the biggest games of the year against the Dallas Cowboys. That seven game stretch will be the proving ground for this team.

Finally, the Packers only play one division opponent in the final four weeks of the season. This means the division could be locked up much earlier than usual and the Packers could have their focus on getting that coveted top position in the NFC.

Now, let’s get to the predictions!

Week 1 at Chicago: The Packers open the season on the road against their long time rivals, the Chicago Bears. A lot is new in Chicago which means there will be some hurdles to get over, and the Packers will take full advantage. The Packers have lost their last three openers, but that streak ends this year. GB 31-20. 1-0

Week 2 vs Seattle: The home opener might be the most important game of the season and certainly one of the most watched. The key in this one way be the addition of Jimmy Graham, adding a huge red-zone threat. But in the confines of Lambeau, the Packers offense cannot be stopped. This game will deliver everything the fans could ask for; and will end will a Rodgers drive in the final two minutes, down six, to win it. GB 28-27. 2-0

Week 3 vs Kansas City: This game is being (incorrectly) hyped as the 50^th anniversary of the famed NFL-AFL matchup that Green Bay won 35-10. The point being, this was a couple of generations ago, and this game is not one you want to attend. It will have a very similar result, and Rodgers won’t be playing in the fourth quarter. GB  41-13. 3-0

Week 4 at San Francisco: The 49ers have had the Packers number the past few seasons, but that is all about to change. This is the only road game the Packers play in a six week stretch that includes four home games and their bye. They will be well rested and will be playing a team that looks vastly different from the ones that beat them in 2012 and 2013. The Packers keep rolling at the expense of a 49ers team that will likely be 1-3. GB 27-16. 4-0

Week 5 vs St. Louis: I like St. Louis this year and feel that they could continue their improvements; but this is in Green Bay and the Rams still have a long way to go to keep up with the elite in the conference. The Packers might run away with this one. GB 38-16. 5-0

Week 6 vs San Diego: Assuming that Philip Rivers is still the quarterback for the Chargers, this game will be one that the Packers should not overlook. The Chargers could be coming to town with a very good rookie running back leading their ground game, and one of the better passers in the league helping to keep up with the Packers. This game will come down to turnovers; and at home the Packers are almost perfect. I’ll give a close one to Green Bay: GB 27-24. 6-0

Week 8 at Denver: The NFL worked their magic on this one. Of course two of the best QBs in the league are going head to head. Of course both QBs have carried the torch for their respective teams since a magical 1998 Super Bowl match-up of their predecessors. And of course the NFL gave both teams a week seven bye to prepare for their biggest game of the year.

This game will give us a chance to see two teams that can put up the points in droves; but it won’t just be Rodgers vs Manning. Expect Lacy vs Anderson to be a great storyline too. Expect the early November Denver weather to be an issue. Expect the unexpected. There is no reason to believe that both of these teams can’t be 6-0 going in to this game. There is no reason to think this wouldn’t be a Super Bowl preview. Get ready for quite the game.

In what might be the most exciting game of the season in the entire NFL, this one goes to OT. The coin flip determines the winner as either QB can drive for the touchdown. My heart says it is Green Bay. GB 37-31. 7-0

Week 9 at Carolina: This could be a very difficult game for the Packers, similar to their road loss at Buffalo last season. Carolina has a very strong defense and always finds a way to run the ball. They have a mobile QB, which is something the Packers have had trouble with in the past. And the Packers will be drained coming off of a heavyweight battle in Denver. This is the first of two back to back road trips on the season, and this one doesn’t end well. Car 23-17. 7-1

Week 10 vs Detroit: Following the road loss get ready for a smack down. The Packers play the Lions twice over the next four weeks, and Rodgers will take out his frustrations from week nine in this one. The Lions won’t have an answer. GB 38-20. 8-1

Week  11 at Minnesota: I have to assume that the Vikings will keep AP and continue to develop their young QB. Games in Minnesota are usually closer than they should be based solely on talent. The Packers still come away with the win if they can keep AP under 200 total yards. GB 31-24. 9-1

Week 12 vs Chicago: The game of the season; the decade; perhaps the greatest game ever. Yes, I am overhyping it, but this is expected to be the game that Brett Favre has his retirement ceremony and his name and number and revealed on the ring of fame. Let’s add to it that this pits two of the league’s oldest franchises. Oh and did I mention this is on Thanksgiving night? This is a recipe for a great game.

But then I am reminded of a few things. The Bears are still starting Jay Cutler, and this is a prime time game in Green Bay. Enough said. Sorry fans, Rodgers might not even finish this game. GB 44-23. 10-1

Week 13 at Detroit: The Lions have a chance at revenge after a three score loss only three weeks ago. At this point in the season though, they may already need to win out to have a real chance at the playoffs. The deck is stacked against the Lions. GB 24-20. 11-1

Week 14 vs Dallas: Let’s get ready to rumble! The Cowboys return to the scene of the crime where for Dez Bryant’s non-catch, the correct call was made, but perhaps the rule should read differently (note: the rule does read differently now and it STILL would not be a catch). Folks fail to remember that the Packers would have gotten the ball back with just under 4 minutes left in a game that they were hardly being stopped.

But enough about the past. The Packers and Cowboys will likely both have a lot to play for in this game; perhaps they will even be battling for the top seed in the NFC. These teams match up well, though the loss of Demarco Murray could be a nail in the coffin for the Cowboys. The Packers truly seem to be almost unbeatable at home recently and this will be just another passed test. GB 37-31 in OT. 12-1

Week 15 at Oakland: The Packers travel west for their final two road games, but get the benefit of playing a Raiders team that could be gunning for another very early pick. There shouldn’t be much interest in this one, although I also don’t see the Packers putting the pedal to the metal. GB 27-16. 13-1

Week 16 at Arizona: As with their last pair of back to back road games, the Packers face a team they will not match-up with very well at all. Arizona has a strong defense and can control the clock. The Packers will be doing a lot of traveling and it will wear on them. I expect another stumble just before the finish line. AZ 23-20 in OT. 13-2

Week 17 vs Minnesota: It always feels good to end the year at home. The Packers could be sitting at 13-2 at this point and might not even need a win to wrap up the top seed. If that is the case, this could actually be a very close game as I don’t see the starters playing at all. If however they need to get to 14-2 for the top seed, you can expect them to do just enough to get it done. I predict a close game either way but still think the Packers win their final home game to once again go undefeated at home. GB 20-16. 14-2