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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

By now it is pretty common place for "leaks" to occur in the NFL when it comes to a player's pending contracts and roster move. The most recent example being the news of former Baltimore Ravens defensive lineman, Haloti Ngata's trade to the Detroit Lions hitting Twitter before head coach Jim Caldwell was officially informed.

According to President Tom Lewan, the team was still in the process of informing the teams front office personnel when news of the trade began trending on social media.  

Lewan told The Detroit Times: "We hadn't even told Jim yet, and we're on the phone to Bill Ford Jr, letting him know the trade was finalized. And it pops up on Twitter as we're telling the owner we had finalized the deal"

The funniest part of the whole story is the fact that Caldwell's players, friends and family probably knew about the Lions newest defensive weapon before he did. Just another reminder that no information is safe from the ever growing reach of online sports media amd journalists.

Ngata was brought to the Lions to fill the vacancy left by Ndamukong Suh's departure to play for the Miami Dolphins. Ngata is a proven playmaker with the ability to change the course of a game. He is a quaterbacks worst nightmare. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens with the 12th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. He played nine seasons in Baltimore including the 2012 Super Bowl XLVII winning season.

In his career, Ngata has racked up 445 tackles, 25.5 quarterback sacks, fiinterceptions, six forced fumbles, and five trips to the Pro Bowl.

2014 was a year of surprises for the Baltimore Ravens. Nobody could have predicted Justin Forsett to rush for over 1000 yards, good enough for 5th around the league, nor the blockbuster trade that sent pro bowl defensive tackle Haloti Ngata to the Detroit Lions. Nevertheless, John Harbaugh and quarterback Joe Flacco managed to take their team to the playoffs and should find themselves back again if they can secure some key pieces through the draft, maintain their defensive scheme, and replicate their offensive efficiency.

So far the team has only welcomed two new free agents: Matt Schaub will serve as Flacco's backup after a year in Oakland while safety Kendrick Lewis will provide some much needed consistency in the secondary. With Ngata being the biggest name to leave Baltimore, linebacker Pernell McPhee will also leave a big hole in the vicious front seven that provided the 3rd best run defense in the league Offensively, Joe Flacco loses his deep threat target in Torrey Smith who had an underwhelming 2014 but still accounted for 11 touchdown catches.

In the upcoming draft, Baltimore will have a pick in the first six rounds including a pair in the fourth. With their playoff run, their first round selection will later at No. 26, which will be the 6th time in 8 years the team picks at 25 or later. They've also used 6 of those 8 picks on defensive players. Without further ado, let's take a look at how the draft might play out for them.

Round 1, Devin Funchess, WR/TE, Michigan

Raven's owner Steve Bisciotti publicly stated that he thought the team did not need a wide receiver but rather a tight end (having lost Owen Daniels to Denver) but Funchess is a guy who has the size and speed to play both positions making him an intriguing pick here. Any tape of him will immediately highlight the smoothness in his routes and soft hands. His skill set could extremely useful for Joe Flacco's efficient passing style and would remove some weight from Steve Smith's aging shoulders.

Round 2, Benardrick McKinney, LB, Mississippi State

A subpar combine performance has McKinney falling in mock drafts but the Ravens would be lucky for him to fall here. An imposing force at 6'4", he could be a versatile tool in Baltimore's aggressive defensive scheme. A pure run stopper with excellent downhill pursuit and strong point of attack, McKinney would work to replace McPhee who presents a fairly similar athletic comparison. Combined with Courtney Upshaw and last years first round choice CJ Mosley, the line backing core would be young and fierce.

Round 3, Duke Johnson, RB, Miami

While Forsett was doing his thing on the field, the other Ravens backs were doing their thing off the field. The Ray Rice fiasco was followed up by disappointing stories from Lorenzo Taliaferro and Bernard Pierce, two young and talented backs who might have done great things in Baltimore with their acts together. With Pierce now in Jacksonville and Taliaferro's future in question, the Ravens would be smart to take one of the many skilled ball carriers in this running back heavy class. It will be interesting to see how Forsett will encore his incredible season but having Johnson will help regardless. A small but explosive back, Johnson compares well to Forsett with a bit more balance and elusiveness.

4th round (2 picks), Christian Covington, DT, Rice + Tyler Lockett, WR,

Kansas State Timmy Jernigan proved to be an excellent choice in last years draft as a big bodied gap plugger with gap presence but the loss of Ngata will make pass rushing a priority. Although an injury history clouds a bit of predictability, Covington is a long linemen shows exceptional quickness out of stance. Lockett addresses some receiver issues but could also replace Jacoby Jones as a special teamer returning kicks and punts as Jones makes his way to San Diego. Agility and quickness allowed Lockett set school records in receptions, yards, and touchdowns and could end up in the fourth round due to the deep talent at the wide receiver position.

5th round, Charles Gaines, CB, Louisville

As a converted receiver, Gaines' displays exceptional route recognition and defensive instincts that results in pro level patience. Quick recovery speed along with solid back pedal footwork and acceleration would make a solid addition to cornerback depth anchored by LaDarius Webb and hopefully a healthy Jimmy Smith.

6th round, Mycole Pruitt, TE, Southern Illinois

With their last selection look for the Ravens to secure a tight end. Funchess provides versatility while Pruitt brings a more stereotypical skill set to the position. A low motor compromises good ball skills and solid blocking technique but was still able to manage an extremely successful career. With the right coaching, Pruitt could be a late round contributor with consistent effort.

Chicago Bears:

Expected to make the switch to a 3-4 defensive scheme, this team is further riddled with holes, as if it weren't already. Free agents Jarvis Jenkins, Ray McDonald, and Mason Foster should do fine in part-time roles while Pernell McPhee looks primed for the starting gig, but beyond that this defense is filled with a bunch of misfits. Nose tackle, inside linebacker, and cornerback are all primary holes on defense, while a speed receiver and right tackle are needed on offense. This is a deep receiver class, so they can wait on one of those, but it gets tricky after that. Linebacker and corner can be filled in the second round, but there is not much in the third or later, while they cannot wait until Day 3 for a tackle. To make matters worse, it is almost certain that they will not get a starting-quality nose if they pass on Danny Shelton in the first and do not trade up back into the first for either Jordan Phillips or Eddie Goldman. There are not enough picks for them to fill all of their needs, but that has to be expected when you make a scheme change like this. One thing is for sure though, nose tackle is their best bet in the first round.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Danny Shelton - NT   Washington

2.) Trae Waynes - CB   Michigan St.

3.) Kevin White - WR   West Virginia

Detroit Lions:

The Lions have gaping holes at left guard and defensive tackle after losing their two previous incumbents and are still in need of an receiver, end, and corner. Defensive tackle is the biggest need, with guys like Tyrunn Walker and Caraun Reid set to split time if the position is not addressed by the season's start. Jordan Phillips and Eddie Goldman are first-round possibilities, but Grady Jarrett out of Clemson is a perfect fit for them, who they can pick up in the second, or third if they are lucky. Guard is not a position they should address in the first round, with talent like A.J. Cann in the second and Josue Matias in the third. Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate create one of the better pass-catching tandems in the league and with Eric Ebron expected to emerge as a top-tier tight end, depth is the only issue there. Ezekiel Ansah has shown plenty of promise and has had solid production, but opposite of him there is an uninspiring group of guys like Jason Jones and Devin Taylor. They will not trade up to get one of the highly coveted edge rushers, but if one falls to them, do not be surprised if they pick him up. Darius Slay had a breakout year while they resigned nickel corner Rashean Mathis, but they need another guy to play outside. Bill Bently and Don Carey have not shown the ability to do so adequately so it is one that must be addressed early one.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Shane Ray - DE   Missouri

2.) Jalen Collins - CB   LSU

3.) Marcus Peters - CB   Washington

Green Bay Packers:

Despite drafting Richard Rodgers in last year's draft, tight end is still a need, while they must shore up the middle of their defense. The better tight end prospects still project as Day 2 picks while they resigned B.J. Raji and Letroy Guinn, which may indicate that they will not address the position early in the draft. That leaves inside linebacker, and risers Eric Kendricks and Stephone Anthony seen as possible first-round picks. Teams ahead of them like the Cardinals and Colts have a need inside too, so they might pick up the two prospects, so one option for the Packers is to trade up, preferrably ahead of the Cardinals. If they do not trade up and both players are gone by 30, then either Bernardrick McKinney in the first or Denzel Perryman in the second will have to suffice.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Eric Kendricks - ILB   UCLA

2.) Stephone Anthony - ILB   Clemson

3.) Bernardrick McKinney - ILB   Mississippi St.

Minnesota Vikings:

The Vikings can become playoff contenders next year, especially if they are able to keep Adrian Peterson, but they still have their fair share of positional needs. At receiver they have speedster Mike Wallace and slot specialist Jarius Wright, but beyond they have Charles Johnson and Cordarrelle Patterson, neither of which have proven that they have what it takes to be full-time starters. The best fit at receiver would be a big-bodied possession receiver, with DeVante Parker, Jaelen Strong, and Dorial Green-Beckham being early draft options. Guard is also a need, but Joe Berger works as a makeshift starter, at least one better than what they have some of the other positions. Everson Griffen developed into a quality end last year, recording 12 sacks, but they need someone better than Brian Robison to play on the other side. Former third-round pick Scott Crichton though, deserves some time to develop, so they will likely not pick a defensive end until Day 3, unless a player of immense talent falls right into their laps. As for corner, Xavier Rhodes has developed into a great player along the perimeter while Captain Munnerlyn plays the slot well, but Josh Robinson has been exploited too often for them to pass on one early in the draft.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Trae Waynes - CB   Michigan St.

2.) DeVante Parker - WR   Louisville

3.) Marcus Peters - CB   Washington

As a self-proclaimed rabid NFL fan, I find the off-season to be the absolute worst seven months of the calendar year.  The NBA, MLB, and NHL simply cannot hold a candle to the pageantry provided by the National Football League.

While I'm loyal to all of my home-town professional Chicago sports franchises, (minus the White Sox) none of these organizations successfully stir up the passion, emotion, and dedication that the Bears seemingly stimulate.

As the soaring national television ratings, eye-popping apparel and ticket sales, and general overall NFL "fan-demonium" indicate, I'm not alone in my staunch support of this nation's most popular sport.

Although there are presently no games in which to indulge, no fantasy football rosters to manage, and no wagers to place each weekend, all NFL fans can indeed use this exciting free agency period to revel in the opportunity to speculate on his or her team's upcoming quest to capture 2016's illusive Lombardi trophy.

Breaking news of big-time trades, huge free agent signings, and mock drafts galore still dominate ESPN, social media platforms, and various other news outlets.  The impending blockbuster trade of Philadelphia Eagles star running back, Lesean McCoy, to the Buffalo Bills for linebacker Kiko Alonso, kicked off the 2015 offseason frenzy.

Not to be outdone, the Miami Dolphins made a splash of their own by reportedly reeling in ferocious defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh.  Seemingly the biggest fish in this free agent classes' pond, the former Detroit Lions pro bowler is set to sign a six-year, $114 million deal.

With $60 million of Suh's contract being guaranteed, the vicious pass rusher is set to surpass the Houston Texans franchise defensive end, JJ Watt, as the league's highest paid defensive player.

As the legitimate start of the 2015 NFL season commences today, many other coveted players will officially begin the next chapters of their careers in new cities.  With each strategic maneuver executed by NFL general managers and player personnel executives, new waves of optimism and sometimes skepticism sweep across their fan bases.

Every NFL organization is feverishly attempting to address its needs via free agency and the trade market before picking their latest crop of rookies when the league's annual draft takes place in Chicago April 30th-May 2nd.

32 franchises strategically attempt to navigate the league's stringent salary cap, while trying to adequately fill their rosters with the right mix of max-dollar super stars, savvy veterans, mid-level journeymen, and high upside rookies.  

There is only one HOFer to have come out of the sixth round of the NFL draft. That's far less than even the seventh round. Let's just say that he heads this list. His name is Jack Christiansen from 1951. He played for the Detroit Lions for eight seasons and won three championships with them and earned five Pro-Bowl nods. Jack collected 46 INTs, three of them pick-sixes.

And here is the rest in descending order:

2. The incomparable Tom Brady.

Drafted by the New England Patriots in 2000, Brady got his chance when Drew Bledsoe was injured. He never looked back, continuing his history of hard work and success that will land him in the HOF as soon as he is eligible. Brady started his career with three Super Bowl wins, and seems to be ending it the same way. He has set a plethora of records and at 37 years young, he shows no sign of slowing down. Winning Super Bowl XLIX cements his legacy as G.O.A.T. QB.

3. Terrell Davis, Denver Broncos, 1995.

His career was relatively short, only seven years, but Davis packed a lot into it. He helped John Elway win a Super Bowl and earned three Pro-Bowl berths. From the sixth round, he became the third-best running back in yards-per-game and had the fourth-best single-season with 2,008 yards.

4. Jay Novacek floundered with the St. Loius Rams from 1985 to 1989.

But when he landed with the Dallas Cowboys in 1990 he took off. Jay makes this list because of 4630 yards and 30 TDs while making the Pro Bowl five consecutive season. He wears three Super Bowl rings.

5. Adalius Thomas, Baltimore Ravens in 2000.

Thomas finished his career as a linebacker with the Patriots, bringing his experience to a team desperate for leadership. But he made his name with the Ravens, earning his Super Bowl ring his rookie year. He accumulated seven INTs in his career and played in two Pro Bowls. Though tame by some standards, Thomas outplayed his humble, sixth-round beginnings.

6. Joe Klecko is Mr. Versatile.

Drafted by the New York Jets in 1977, Klecko was only the second player to be named to three Pro Bowls at three different positions. He was a part of the fearsome "New York Sack Exchange" and contributed 24 of them along with nine fumble recoveries. Despite numerous injuries, he enjoyed 10 seasons, mostly with the Jets.

7. Matt Hasselbeck is not recognized among the best QBs in the NFL.

Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1998, he never stood a chance behind Brett Favre. But once the Seattle Seahawks got ahold of him, he took them to the playoffs five years in a row from '03-'07, as well as a sixth time in 2010. He also was named to three Pro Bowls and threw 118 TD passes. While his playoff career was filled with disappointment and controversy, he set many team records for the Seahawks.

8. Matt Birk, Minnesota Vikings, 1998.

Birk is what you would call an anchor; that's what he did for the Vikings and Baltimore Ravens. He earned six Pro Bowl selections with the Vikings, and earned a Super Bowl title in his final season with the Ravens. He was named the Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2011.

9. Al Harris, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 1997.

Traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 1998, Harris had his best years with the Green Bay Packers from 2003 to 2009. There he grabbed 14 INTs and 87 passes defensed while going to two Pro Bowls.

10. The final spot could have gone several ways.

I chose Mike Anderson of the Denver Broncos. Drafted in 2000, his career was pretty short. But in his six seasons with the Broncos, he scored 37 rushing TDs and added five receiving TDs. In his rookie season, Anderson ran for almost 1500 yards in just 12 games as a starter, and recorded 15 TDs to be named NFL Rookie of the Year. Anderson will never get elected to the HOF, but he excelled if even for a short time at a punishing position.

Also considered were: Wilbert Montgomery, RB, Eagles, 1977; Cato June, LB, Colts, 2003; Marc Bulger, QB, Saints/Rams, 2000; Grady Jackson, Raiders, 1997; Antonio Brown, WR, Steelers, 2010. Even this late in the draft process, many great players lurk in the shadows. Like Brady, the next great thing could be found in the sixth round.

Wednesday afternoon, the Detroit Lions announced that they had released running back Reggie Bush. Bush, the former New Orleans Saint and Miami Dolphin, spent the past couple seasons in Detroit serving as a dynamic, do it all running back. His ability to both run and catch out of the backfield served the Lions well and added a nice balance to the lethal combination known as Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson.

Bush was once a college standout at the University of Southern California. He won the 2005 Heisman Trophy and was part of the 2004 USC Trojans national title team. His career would later take a downfall once it was discovered he was given illegal benefits at the college level. His actions caused USC to vacate their 2004 national title and Bush became the first Heisman Trophy winner ever to have to give back his award because of NCAA infractions.

Bush was the second pick in the 2006 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. Leading up to the 2006 draft, Bush was the undisputed number one overall prospect among a class of historically great college players.

The Houston Texans pulled one of the most shocking moves ever in NFL Draft history when the night before the 2006 NFL Draft Houston announced they were selecting North Carolina State defensive end Mario Williams, instead of Bush.

This opened up the opportunity for the New Orleans Saints, with the number two pick, to take Bush and change the future of their franchise. Bush was a star in New Orleans, but never really lived up to the expectations most had for him while he was at USC. Bush brought an excitement to New Orleans in a time they really needed it because of the tragedy that was Hurricane Katrina.

Bush helped lead New Orleans to the Super Bowl following the 2009 season. He served as that “do it all” running back that helped in the return game and a reliable receiver out of the backfield, while also providing his fair share of electric runs out of the backfield.

Bush then had a short stint with the Dolphins before moving on to the Detroit Lions. The Lions were hoping Bush would bring the city of Detroit that elusive Super Bowl just as he did for the New Orleans Saints. That was never the case obviously and instead, he has been released only to be wondered what comes next for the once explosive Reggie Bush.

Bush will be sought after by multiple teams now that he is a free agent and certainly can serve as a great piece to the puzzle for some team in the NFL. His experience, more than anything at this point in his career, will serve some team close to making the playoffs well in 2015.

I believe he is still a great asset to have because of that experience and game breaking ability at certain times. I feel a team like the Kansas City Chiefs would be a great place for Bush because of the Chiefs’ lack of offensive explosion at times.

Another place Bush would really be able to utilize his talents would be with the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles’ college like offense would be the perfect fit for Bush, but the issue is the Eagles already have Shady McCoy and Darren Sproles at the running back position.

Bush will find a home in 2015 and will help someone with his unique style of play. It has been a rollercoaster ride of a career in the NFL for Bush and Wednesday, that rollercoaster took a major downslide.

There is, tragically, quite a long history of "we sohuld have taken...." for the Washington Redskins. At first, they hit gold.

Superstar, hall of fame, championship quarterback Sammy Baugh was the Skins first round pick in 1937. Baugh remains the only rookie quarterback in NFL history, to lead his team to a title in his first season. 

Fast forward 20 years to 1957, they could have made a trade with the Packers for their  #4 overall pick and had their choice of Hall of Famers: Quarterback Len Dawson or HB Jim Brown. The Packers had already picked, taking hall of fame HB Paul Horning #1, so at the right price, the Redskins could have moved up.

In 1961, they had the #2 and #3 picks overall. They took QB Norm Snead who had a respectable career but missed out on TE Mike Ditka who, had he been a Redskin, may have moved into a coaching position. But then Gibbs may not have been coach and they wouldn't have won three Super Bowls.

They could have struck a blow to their biggest rival, though. With their second pick the Redskins chose DT Joe Rutgens, but DT Bob Lilly was right there. Had they taken Lilly, the Cowboys would not have selected him and who knows how that could have affected the Doomsday Defense?

1962 they had the first pick and chose Ernie Davis (who?) but should have taken WR Lance Allworth, future hall of famer.

1963 TE Richter was their first rounder but they could have traded it for two second rounders perhaps, and picked up a better tight end in John Mackey, taken in round two by Baltimore and used the other pick to add depth.

1964 was a year they got it right. They took consecutive future hall of famers with their first and second round pick:  WR Charley Taylor & DB Paul Krause.

A second rounder, their first pick in the 1965 draft, would have been better used on WR Fred Biletnekoff, who was chosen in the third round by the Detroit Lions.

Imagine the offense the Redskins would have had entering the Super Bowl era: QB Len Dawson, HB Jim Brown & TE Mike Ditka would have certainly become a vicious trifecta. Toss in what could have been a 1960's "Posse" of wideouts Lance Allworth, Charley Taylor and Fred Biletnikoff. Perhaps Vince Lombardi comes to the Redskins earlier than 1970 and the Skins appearance in Sjuper Bowl VII ends up not being their first.

Sporting a championship caliber squad headed into the 1970's, the Skins would not have had such a need to trade away early round picks for players, as head coach George Allen did. Case in point: the Redskins did not have a pick higher than round 4 from 1973 to 1979.

That's not the world we live in. That harkens back to a long ago time when just about everything was different in the National Football League. However, it shows just how close we were to a Redskins dynasty in the 60's - 70's, had they made their picks right.

In 1980, head coach Jack Pardee had taken wide receiver Art Monk in the first round. No regrets there.

1981 brought Joe Gibbs to town and he soon became known for trading away the first round pick to add later round picks, allowing the team to add depth where needed. This was a brilliant strategic move by a brilliant coach.

In 1983 the Redskins took cornerback Darrell Green in the first round, no regrets. Gibbs did not use a first round pick again until 1991 when he took DT Bobby Wilson. Wilson fared decently and since he was a mid first rounder at #17, wouldn't qualify for "bust status".

The 1990's were not good years for Redskins Nation. A lot of people point to Joe Gibbs' decision to trade up in the 1992 draft to snag wide receiver Desmond Howard, as a colossal bust. Howard actually enjoyed a long career that spanned all the way until 2002. The Redskins were reigning Super Bowl champs in 1992 so this was more of a "candy pick", frosting on a championship cake.

The biggest bust in Redskins history is 1994's number three overall pick, quarterback Heath Shuler. Shuler was an objectively terrible NFL quarterback. Lawrence Taylor, doing commentary for a TNT network broadcast of a Redskins vs. Eagle game, said, "If I was out there on defense and looked across the line and saw Shuler, I would have no doubt we would win. He doesn't inspire a lick of fear in me, and likely no opponent either."

The Shuler pick was monumentally bad because the very next pick, number four overall, was defensive end Willie McGinest. This is significant because the next year the Redskins could have traded down from number four overall, taking Tampa Bay's two first rounders, which the Bucs used to draft two hall of fame defenders: DT Warren Sapp and LB Derrick Brooks.

Headed into the 1995 season, the Skins would have had the makings of a great defense. Quarterback Gus Frerotte, taken in the seventh round in 1994, was an ideal quarterback for this developing scenario. Frerotte was a good "game manager" and with a strong defense, he would have brought more wins to the nation's capital.

Power back Stephen Davis, drafted in 1996 would have given the Skins added clock management ability, further taking pressure off of Frerotte. Consider this, in 1996 the Redskins started 7-1 with Frerotte at quarterback. They collapsed to a 9-7 finish, mostly due to their lack of defense. Now imagine a defense that still had cornerback Darrell Green, plus McGinest & Sapp on the line, with Brooks roaming the middle of the defense.

Then in 1999 the Redskins added cornerback Champ Bailey to complement Green. They also added tackle Jon Jansen who, despite injuries, was a mainstay of the offensive line for years.

In 2000, they had the number 2 and number 3 overall picks for the second time in franchise history. They took tackle Chris Samuels and linebacker Lavar Arrington. Remember how the Redskins could have been an offensive juggernaut in the late 60's - early 70's? Look at this defensive lineup: CB's Darrell Green & Champ Bailey. LB's Lavar Arrington & Derrick Brooks, defensive linemen Willie McGinest & Warren Sapp.

Mix in some 'actual history' and say that in 2001 Dan Snyder still hires Marty Schottenheimer. Marty would have the toold in place to run his "Marty Ball" offense, he'd just need to hire a competent defensive coordinastor. We'd be looking at a Redskins vs. Patriots Super Bowl in 2001.

Obviously the Redskins should have / could have drafted QB Tom Brady prior to the sixth round in 2000, but so could thirty other teams. They could have made up for it, though, had they drafted quarterback Drew Brees to give incumbent starter Gus Frerotte, some competition. (Obviously Brees would have won that one) Which means....

....in 2002 the Redskins would not have even considered drafting QB Patrick Ramsey with the #32 overall pick. They could have taken wide receiver Deion Branch, whom the Patriots took at the end of the second round. Branch, as you may remember, played out of his mind in Super Bowl XXXVIII, catching 10 passes for 143 yard and a touchdown. Had the Redskins picked him, would New England have out scored the Panthers? Perhaps...

....because the Redskins actually let running back Stephen Davis test free agency, and he signed with the Panthers. His running in the 2003 season was a large factor in Carolina's surrising Super Bowl run. However, with an already championship level team, would Davis have left at all?

Darrell Green retired in 2002 but the 2003 draft held a plethora of talented defensive backs, many of whom are still playing today. Okay, enough fantasy. Let's get down to it.

The BIGGEST draft day regret for the Washington Redskins?

NOT drafting quarterback Aaron Rodgers in 2005. In reality, the Redskins did pick a quarterback in the first round, Jason Campbell. Also in reality, they picked him right after Green Bay took Rodgers #24 overall. The Skins could have had him, easily. The Redskins had two first round picks in 2005 and could have used that number 9 overall, to pick Aaron Rodgers.

In 2005, Joe Gibbs was in the second season of his second run with the Redskins. Imagine Joe Gibbs with his first legitimate, star quarterback since Joe Theismann.

One can dream, right?

Only one more day until the NFL season officially comes to an end. No matter who wins tomorrow's Super Bowl there is a good chance these two teams can meet again in next year’s Super Bowl. There are twelve teams that make the playoffs every year. Not every team makes it back to the playoffs every year. As I wrote earlier about the 5 teams that missed the playoffs this year but can make it to the playoffs next year (click here to read that article). Here are 5 teams that made the playoffs this year but could have a hard time getting back to the playoffs next year.

Carolina Panthers

The Panthers barely made it into the playoffs this year with a (7-8-1) record. At one point this year they looked to be fighting for a top 10 draft pick in the upcoming draft. By week 13 they were (3-8-1), but then went on a 4 game winning streak to make it into the playoffs. Carolina could have a tough time getting back to the playoffs since they have the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons in their division. The Saints finished (7-9) on the year and the Falcons finished (6-10). The Saints finished 31st and the Falcons finished 32nd in total defense. If they can improve their defense they could both be a good team, as they both finished in the top 10 in total offense.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals made the playoffs this year even though they were the 22nd worst defense in the NFL. For the Bengals to stay in the playoffs they will need quarterback Andy Dalton to play better. Before the season started Andy Dalton signed a 6 year $115 million and so far he hasn’t lived up to the contract. Dalton had 7 games this year where he threw for under 200 yards, one of those games he only threw for 86 yards.

Detroit Lions

The Lions don’t have good luck at making the playoffs. Since 2000 the Lions have only made the playoffs twice, one was this year and the other was in 2011. Defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley are both going to be free agents. Losing Suh could hurt the Lions defense that finished number 1 in rush defense.

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers defense is getting older. The Steelers might have to restructure player salaries to help bring in other players. The Steelers also lost their long time defensive coach Dick LeBeau. Losing there long time coach could be a sign of changes coming to the team.

Dallas Cowboys

Many did not expect the Cowboys to make the playoffs this year. The Cowboys have two key free agents coming up; wide receiver Dez Bryant and running back Demarco Murray. Owner Jerry Jones has said no matter what he will use the franchise tag on Dez, so he’s not going anywhere, but there is a decent chance the Cowboys lose Murray though. Many didn’t expect the Cowboys to have a good defense, but they played over there head. Their defense could come back down to earth next year.

It’s not uncommon for a team to barely miss the playoffs and then in the next season making it to the playoffs. This year the Detroit Lions, Arizona Cardinals, Dallas Cowboys, Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens all made the playoffs this year and missed the playoffs last year. In 2012 the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints, and San Diego Chargers all missed the playoffs, but made the playoffs in 2013. So missing the playoffs and then making the playoffs the next year is rather common. There are 5 teams that didn’t make the playoffs this year that have a good shot at making it to the playoffs next year.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles just missed the playoffs this year. At one point this year the Eagles were considered the frontrunners to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. Then on Thanksgiving the Eagles beat the Dallas Cowboys to move to (9-3) on the season. Many thought they were well on their way to clinching the NFC East, but they dropped 3 games in a row. They won their last game of the season to finish (10-6), but still missed the playoffs. If the Eagles can play how they played the beginning of the season they have a good chance of making it to the playoffs next year.

New Orleans Saints

The Saints never seemed to get on a steady roll. Their defense finished 31st in total defense. The defense gave up an average of 26.5 points a game. Their offense tried to keep them in the game as they were the number 1 offense in football. The injuries piled up for the Saints on offense. Star running back Mark Ingram and tight end Jimmy Graham all missed time, along with up and coming wide receiver Brandin Cooks who was lost for the season after week 10. If the Saints can improve their defense this time could make it back to the playoffs.

Houston Texans

The Texans main problem was they were lacking the star quarterback. The Texans had 4 different quarterbacks take a snap for them this year; Ryan Fitzpatrick, Case Keenum, Ryan Mallett and Tom Savage. If the Texans can get a reliable quarterback to go with running back Arian Foster and wide receivers Andre Johnson and DeAndre Hopkins the team could go a long way. On defense they will get back injured first round pick Jadeveon Clowney to go along with JJ Watt on the defensive line next year.

Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs have a good defense as they finished 7th on the year. The offense held them back this year. Quarterback Alex Smith threw 18 touchdowns on the season; none of those touchdowns went to a wide receiver. For the Chiefs to make the playoffs Smith needs to get the wide receivers more involved.

San Francisco 49ers

Many thought the 49ers would make it back to the playoffs again this year as they went to 3 straight NFC Championship games. The relationship with the niners and former head coach Jim Harbaugh went south before the season started. Quarterback Colin Kaepernick didn’t play as well as he has in the past. For the 49ers to make it back to the playoffs Kaepernick must get back to the player he was when he led the 49ers to the NFC Championship games. Also a new coach could help improve the play of the team.

It’s been a little over a week now and I am finally ready to talk about my beloved Packers, after their collapse to Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship game. There are some glaring free agent needs that were put on display became in that game.

The Packers need a nose tackle first and foremost. Teams for most of the season were able to run past the first level on the Packers at will. It took moving OLB Clay Matthews inside to bring speed up the middle to get to the running back, because ILB A.J. Hawk was getting exposed regularly. I think they could also use defensive end because they need push opposite DE Mike Daniels. The third area of need would be ILB. The defense needs Matthews’ on the outside to get the quarterback, not helping in the inside. So a surer tackler in the middle is a necessity. I think they need could use upgrades at TE and CB, but they are not an immediate need.

The Packers looking to be around $23 million under the salary cap, and could save an additional $7 million dollars with releasing ILB A.J. Hawk and Brad Jones. The Packers are notoriously known for not being active in free agency settling on resigning their homegrown talent. The offense is set (with the probable resigning) of Randall Cobb, it’s now time for the Packers to splurge somewhat to improve that defense so we don’t see another repeat of the NFC Championship where Marshawn Lynch torched them for over 150 yards on the ground. Here are three players that could be major difference makers and go a long way in turning this defense dominant.

Jared Odrick (Miami Dolphins)

6’5 314  DT/NT

The Pack have lacked a young proven run stopper who is nimble enough and strong enough to get a major push on the offensive line. Enter Jared Odrick. Jared Odrick had a terrific 2014 campaign, as he got to the quarterback frequently and also was sound against the run until a late-season injury limited him a bit. Odrick, who won't be 28 until December, and can fit into any scheme being it a 3-4 or 4-3 which will help him immensely on the open market.

Jabaal Sheard (Cleveland Browns)

6’3 274 DE/OLB

Sheard’s size and speed allows him to be versatile in a 3-4 defense as OLB or DE, which he did when he was with the Browns. Sheard is adequate pass-rusher who is very forceful in run support, Jabaal Sheard played well last year until a foot injury hindered him in late November and December. Sheard should be better next year once his foot is repaired. He'll be just 26 in May.

Rolando McClain (Dallas Cowboys)

6’4 259 ILB

With the Cowboys likely to have to franchise Dez Bryant, and have to overpay if they want keep Demarco Murray. McClain being a unrestricted free agent gives the Packers the chance to lock up this guy. McClain is the only proven three down ILB that is a free agent in my opinion, who is a surer tackler and not a liability in coverage. He is everything the Packers need in a dominant ILB. He is must need in helping improve the Packers run-defense, which has been dreadful the past couple of years.

Other Potential Free Agent Signings:

• Charles Clay, TE (Miami Dolphins)
• Owen Daniels, TE (Baltimore Ravens)
• Jarvis Jenkins, DE (Washington Redskins)
• Nick Fairley, DT (Detroit Lions)
• Kenrick Ellis, DT (New York Jets)
• David Harris, ILB (New York Jets)
• Byron Maxwell, CB (Seattle Seahawks)

There is a saying amongst NFL fans and experts that you can't really judge a draft until three years down the line.  This is because the NFL has such a shorter season compared to the NBA or NHL, it takes three years of starting every game in the NFL just to achieve the same amount of play time in half a season for the NBA.

It also doesn't help that the NFL has no affiliate or development league beyond the practice squad of each team.  So getting a clear picture of how a draft pans out is always a degree in patience.  All of the post-draft grading articles are rubbish because the players are being graded on how they performed in college and college doesn't really translate to the NFL.

The Arizona Cardinals had seven picks in the 2012 Draft.  It was an offense heavy draft for them as they took three offensive linemen, a quarterback and a wide receiver.  The only two defensive players they selected were both cornerbacks.

Round 1 / Pick 13 - Michael Floyd, WR Notre Dame

With their first pick of the draft the Cardinals go against the grain and select wide receiver Michael Floyd out of Notre Dame.  Many had expected the team to go for offensive line help in the form of tackle Riely Reiff (selected by the Detroit Lions) or guard David CeCastro (selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers).  Instead they opted to go with a wide receiver to complement star wide out Larry Fitzgerald.

At the time of the selection, Ken Whisenhunt was still the head coach and his philosophy was make rookies earn their roles on the starting roster.  For this reason, Floyd didn't see a whole lot of action in his rookie year hauling in just 45 receptions for 562 yards and two touchdowns in three starts.

In his second sason, Floyd had a breakout year, catching 61 balls for 1,041 yards and five touchdownsn and helping the Cardinals achieve their first winnong season since 2009.

The 2014 season was Floyd's third with Arizona and it was a huge disappointment.  Many expected Floyd to improve on his 2013 season but instead he had 47 receptions for 841 yards and six touchdowns.  Some may point to the quarterback situation as to why Floyd underperformed (Carson Palmer and Drew Stanton were both lost to injury before the end of the year), but when you're made the #1 receiver in camp getting the ball shouldn't be an issue.

Overall: I feel the Cardinals made the right choice with Floyd.  While his numbers have dropped, he's still young and can improve.  They could have taken one of the offensive linemen mentioned earlier but considering they fell to the later rounds, it would have been a reach to take them at 13.  Taking Levi Brown over Adrian Peterson in 2007 still weighed heavily on the organisation at the time. Grade: B-

Round 2 / Pick 51 - **Traded to Philadelphia Eagles in 2011 as part of Kevin Kolb deal**

The Cardinals traded their 2012 second round pick and cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie to the Philadelphia Eagles for quarterbac Kevin Kolb in 2011.  It was one of the worst trades of all time as Kolb only played 15 gaes out of a possible 32 dure to various injuries.  Kolb left for Buffalo after the 2012 season and then retired.

Round 3 / Pick 80 - Jamell Fleming, CB Oklahoma

With their second pick of the draft, the Cardinals selected a cornerback from Oklahoma.  Jamell Fleming was taken with the 80th overall pick and what a huge bust he turned out to be.  After impressing in preseason and camp, Fleming earned some playing time as a rookie before dropping off the face of the earth. 

Some people speculated that Fleming had a run in with defensive coordinator Ray Horton about how much playing time he was getting.  Whaatever the reason, Fleming never saw the field again as a rookie.  In 2013, Fleming's second ear in the league, he somehow did enough to make the final 53-man roster before being cut after Week 1.

Since then, Fleming has held down a series of practice squad jobs for various teams including the Jacksonville Jaguars and Baltimore Ravens.  A hige disappointment.

Overall: Fleming was a solid player at college and was known for his tackling abiity.  Unfortunately that didn't translate to the NFL.  Grade: F

Round 4 / Pick 112 - Bobbie Massie, OT, Ole Miss

The 2012 NFL Draft wasn't very deep as far as the offensie line talent went.  As a Cardinals fan I remember how happy people were to finally get Bobby Massie in the fourth round.  He'd been projected to go in the second round but for some reason or other, had slid to the fourth round.  It was a huge steal for the Cardinals who had finally found a starting right tackle.

Due to an injury to starter Jeremy Bridges, Massie would see action as a rookie.  In his first few games for the Cardinals, he was dreadful.  But after looking at his stats on Pro Football Focus, Massie vowed to do better.  And he did.  In his second year, the Cardinals chose to bring aboard veteran Eric Winston who started at the right guard spot.  Winston wasn't all that impressive and wasn't brought back on board for the 2014 season.

So Massie was back in the starting roster for the 2014 season.  While he gave up seven sacks, he had a solid season overall and is of course still learning. 

Overall: Just based on the second half of his rookie year and the 2014 campaign, Massie has been a great pick up for the Cardinals.  The offensive line has been a nightmare for the team in recent years and it's now startung to take shape with additions like Jonathan Cooper and Jared Veldheer.  Grade: B

Round 5 / Pick 151 - Senio Kelemete, OG Washington

It's hard to judge this pick due to the fact Senio Kelemete only played one game or the Cardinals.  onsidering how bad the offensive line was at the time, I'm still surprised that he wasn't given more of a shot.  Kelemete was released and picked up by the New Orleans Saints.

Overall: There's not a whole lot to say about thos pick.  Senio Kelemete was a solid backup who was never really asked to go in and perform.  Grade: D

Round 6 / Pick 177 - Justin Bethel, CB Presbyterian

This was the first of two sixth round picks for the Cardinals.  This one was acquired from the Washington Redskins as part of the deal that had sent running back Tim Hightower to D.C.  It's a tradition for the Cardinals to draft at least one player from a small college.  It often shows how good their scouting department is especially when they find someone like Justin Bethel in the sixth round. 

In case you're not familiar with Bethel, he's just made his second straight Pro Bowl as the special teams specialist.  Bethel is a physical freak who excells at blocking field goals and punt attempts.  If the Cardinals succeed at blocing a kick, you can bet that Bethel

Overall: Perhaps the best pick of the Draft class.  The Cardinals got a Pro Bowl beast.   I for one hope Bethel is with the team for many more years.  Grade: A

Round 6 / Pick 185 - Ryan Lindley, QB San Diego State

With their second sixth round pick, the Cardinals selected quarterback Ryan Lindley from San Diego State.  At this point in the draft, you're basically just filling spots lower down on the depth chart.  Very rarely do sith round picks make any sort of contribution to the starting rosster.  Unfortunaately, this wasn't the case for Lindley.

Lindley saw action as a rookie in a move that still leaves fans sratching their heads.  Lindley played in six games in 2012, starting four.  He threw for 752 yards and seven interceptions.  He threw zero touchdowns.  It wasn't all Ryan's failt though, he was thrown to the wolves unready and unprepared.

Somehow Lindley managed to stick around in 2013, even with a new coaching regime in place.  He didn't play any games.  He was cut during training camp of the 2014 season but it wasn't the last we'd see of Lindley in Cardinas red.  When carson Palmer suffered a season-ending ACL tear in Week 10, the team wasted no time in bringing back Lindley who was ont the San Diego Chargers practice squad.

After Palmer's backup Drew Stanton went down with another knee injury, it was Lindley time again.  This time he was better prepared.  Excet he didn't plauy a whole lot better than he did in 2012.  He threw 542 yards and four interceptions.  The good news is, he finally popped his touchdown cherry.

Overall:Ryan Lindley was one of those players who had no potential, he wasn't the best player on the board when he was selected.  He was one of those guys who could have been picked up as an undrafted free agent.  He's managed to stick around for three years.  Lindley will go down as one of the worst quarterbacks ever to play for the Cardinals. Grade: F

Round 7 / Pick 221 - Nate Potter, OT Boise State

Nate Potter was the Cardinals' final selection in the 2012 draft.  He was the third lineman taken by the team as they attempted to rebuild their offensive line.  Potter saw action as arookie coming in for the final few games in relief of the disgraced D'Anthony Batiste.  He played quite well but when the new coachng regime started, Potter was reduced to a backup role as well as a positional change to offensive guard.

The 2013 campaign was his last in the NFL as he was released by the team and wasn't claimed bhy any other team for the 2014 season.

Overall: Considering he was a seventh round pick, Potter played a solid game of football as a rookie.  It's a little sad to me that he was never given a shot with another team affter being released.  Grade: C

VERDICT

The biggest bust in the draft was easily Jamell Fleming.  Not only has he been with several teams since leaving Arizona, but for a third round pick he's not been all that good.  It makes you wonder if Fleming was a reach.

Ryan Lindley could be considered a bust as well, but sixth round quarterbacks don't often end up having much of a career anyway.  He was given the starting job because of injury or poor play to other quarterbacks and he played the way you'd expect.

Michael Floyd, Bobbie Massie and Justin Bethel make the draft a solid one.  It's would have been interesting to see what they'd have done with the second round pick had hey not traded it the previous year.  The Eagles traded it to the Green Bay Packers on the day of the draft and the Packers selected Jerel Worthy.

Looking back, I don't think it was a great idea to draft so many projects on the offensive line.  Yes, the offensive line was crap at the time but drafting Potter and Kelemete would have done a while lot to improve it.  Overall: C

The Detroit Lions have the look of a team ready to contend after having made the 2014 playoffs. They are at a major crossroads though with a number of starters set to test the open market. The Lions have to make some tough decisions. With Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley both unrestricted free agents it’s doubtful they will keep both. This is the most crucial decision to be made. Some believe that the Lions will do everything they can to sign Suh to a longterm deal. I disagree with that thought. It’s my belief the Lions should part ways the the often troubled defensive tackle and save the salary cap numbers he’ll command. He’s a boneheaded mistake away every year from being suspended.  With guaranteed money I believe he’ll feel above the law. I feel sorry for the team that locks Suh up to a longterm astronomical contract as I believe he has all the making of being the next Albert Haynesworth.

Step 1. Sign Nick Fairley.  
Part ways with Suh and lock up Fairley to a much less expensive contract. Coming off an injury year Fairley will command less in free agency.  Both players have baggage but Fairley is cheaper to gamble on.  Draft a DT in the first round as it’s a deep position to get a very good player picking at #23. Henry Melton might also be an option in free agency if the Lions elect to draft an OT in the first round.

Step 2. Pluck Orlando Franklin from the Broncos
The Lions need to improve their offensive line. They struggled with some injuries this year which hampered their running game and saw Matthew Stafford get roughed up more than you’d like to see. I believe the Lions should go after OT/OG Orlando Franklin from Denver. Denver transitioned him from tackle to guard this last season and at 27 yrs old he’s a prime candidate to shore up the offensive line. This allows the Lions to draft a DL in the first round.

Step 3. Sign DeMarco Murray
The Lions haven’t had an every down back who can run between the tackles, catch out of the backfield and pick up the pass rush. If Murray can’t work a deal with Dallas the Lions should snatch him up. Matt Stafford and Calvin Johnson might need to restructure their contracts. With Reggie Bush past his prime and injury prone and Bell not having the dynamic skill set of either, Murray could be the missing piece of the puzzle. Murray’s big play threat and ability to pick up the blitz should help keep Stafford on his feet and looking down field for Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate. He will open up the entire playbook for Stafford.

The Lions are ready to win now but they must not make the mistake of wrapping up too much long term money in troubled players. 

1.  Fortify the O-Line

“A quarterback who can never win big games” used to refer to Tony Romo, until the Dallas Cowboys’ front office committed to the run by investing in their big uglies.    The offensive line is the first and most critical element in the chain reaction of the play.  They make cable Rob Lowe look like DIRECTV Rob Lowe and they do it for the quarterback, the running backs,  everyone else on the field and on the sidelines.   That’s why Tony Romo, Demarco Murray, and Dez Bryant all showered their front five with Air Jordans, iMacs, and Louis Vutton luggage this season, while the Bengals’ just gets showered with compliments from Marvin Lewis in the post-game presser.

To be fair, the Bengals do have a solid offensive line.  According to Cold Hard Football Facts’ Offensive Hog Index, which rates team based on a combination of Yards per Attempt, Negative Pass Play Percentage, and Third Down Success rate, Cincinnati’s O-line was ranked 12^th this year.  Not that there’s anything wrong with that - unless you pair it with a QB who’s ranked 18^th in the Real Quarterback Rating.  The Bengals can succeed with a QB who is not in the Top 5, but then the offensive line needs to be absolutely elite.  Not just “trending-upward-great” – like “AJ-Green-buying-everyone-10,000-gallon-saltwater-fish-tanks” great.  You could have an all-star receiving corps of Jordy Nelson, Odell Beckham Jr, and Antonio Brown all downfield, flailing their arms towards the sky like they’re waving in 747s, but if your quarterback feels pressure - either real or perceived – the play will be for no-gain at best.  (Especially if your quarterback sometimes sees dead people, but that’s beside the point). 

We’ve got some good cornerstones out there on the O-line, but the real challenge is that maintaining the front five requires about eight.  The physicality and nature of the position lends itself to these guys missing more games than meals.  So, let’s resolve to throw money at Andrew Whitworth and Kevin Zeitler and then build from there to make these positions the priority that they should be for our team. 

2.  Make adjustments at halftime – because the other team will

Not sure why Old Spice didn’t hire the Bengals instead of Wes Welker, because if anyone truly embodies the spirit of taking a 40 minute shower and missing the second half of the game, it’s our coaching staff in the post-season. 

In our last four playoff appearances, Cincinnati has been outscored 57-6 and hasn’t scored a touchdown after halftime.  Against Indianapolis, we were down after the second quarter, but instead of halftime providing us with a much-needed jolt, we reverted to the same things that had proven not to work in the first half of the game.

Sometimes, I watch our games in awe and surprise of the sheer brilliance in coaching decisions – like in the game against Denver where we clinched the playoff berth in the first place.  Other times, I feel like I’m in Vegas with a drunk buddy at a blackjack table who keeps repeating bad behavior and insisting that their luck is going to change because they have “a system.”  I don’t want to be with my drunk buddy in Vegas.  I just want to know what buffalo wings taste like during the second week in January, while I’m still watching my team. 

3.  Stop serving as the NFL’s farm team for its coaching staff

Usually when teams change their offensive and defensive coordinators simultaneously, it’s due to a serious dumpster fire of a season, not because they were doing everything right.   It’s even rarer that teams can weather that level of organizational change and still make the playoffs.  Yet even having lost both Jay Gruden to Washington and Mike Zimmer to Minnesota, we returned to the post-season under a different staff.   Defensive backs coach, Vance Joseph, is the latest to be targeted by the Denver Broncos, but fortunately, it looks like that attempt is getting blocked like a Detroit Lions’ kicker.

I’m glad to see the Bengals’ front office show the NFL some inflated balls and protect the asset we have in Joseph.  For 2015, let’s resolve to stop throwing going away parties for key members of our coaching staff and instead, build the chemistry we need to take us into February of 2016.