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If this were a story about any number of players the Jacksonville Jaguars signed over the years, this would be a similar piece to write. Instead, you have to look at the candidates the team has to offer when the topic of “Best Free Agent Signing of All Time” is brought about.

In the 21 seasons the franchise has been in existence, there really are only a handful to consider.

Some would argue the team did its best with picks like Sen’Derrick Marks, the free agent from Tennessee who was signed two seasons ago, late in free agency. Marks has done nothing but become the leader of the team’s defense and a dominate pass rusher up the middle from the defensive tackle position.

Others have said that Julius Thomas, the tight end the Jaguars nabbed on the first day of free agency this season is the team’s best signing ever. I would agree that Thomas will have an impact on the team and help Blake Bortles in his ascension toward stardom in the NFL. He will also influence the young nucleus of wide receivers the team has on the roster in Allen Robinson, Marquise Lee, Allen Hurns and now Rashad Greene.

But Thomas hasn’t been on the field yet, so his efforts need to be saved for another year and another discussion.

When I asked fans and friends who they put at the top of their list, I got many of the same answers, which led to great debate and some newfound knowledge as to what fans think – especially the ones who have been season ticket holders since Day 1. Names like Leon Searcy, Joel Smeenge, Carnell Lake and Paul Posluszny have been thrown around on social media sites, fan pages and the like. They are all solid picks, but when it comes right down to it, there is only one real choice – actually two – to make this a legitimate story about the best free agent signings in the Jaguars history.

Were there really any other choices besides Jimmy Smith and Keenan McCardell?

Smith and McCardell or “Thunder and Lightning” as they were referred to here in Jacksonville in the glory years of the franchise (1995-2000) were as dominant a duo on the outside as there was in the NFL. With Mark Brunell’s arm and legs moving the ball down the field and Fred Taylor running to daylight out of the backfield, Jacksonville’s offense was downright scary.

I’m sure the franchise of today would love to bottle up some of the magic that foursome created in time.

Smith was a street free agent who became the greatest receiver in the history of the franchise when he was signed by the team after starting his career in Dallas. When he retired he finished his career seventh in NFL history with 862 catches and 11th in league history with 12,287 yards. He had 67 career touchdown catches with the Jaguars. Smith had been voted to the Pro Bowl five straight times from 1997 to 2001. He is also the Jacksonville Jaguars all-time leading receiver, having led the team in receiving every season from 1996-2005. He also set team records with 116 receptions and 1,636 yards in 1999, both career highs. His career high in touchdowns was eight, achieved in 1998, 2000 and 2001.

McCardell traveled the path of the player who defied odds of being a late round Draft pick to become the second best receiver in team history.

He was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the 12th round of the 1991 NFL Draft, and he was also a member of the Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, San Diego Chargers and Houston Texans. A two-time Pro Bowl selection, McCardell won two Super Bowl rings, with the Redskins in 1991 and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2002.

McCardell’s speed was deceptive and he proved to be the short and intermediate threat in the offense while Smith became the home run hitter. During his first season with the team he made 85 catches for 1,129 yards and three touchdowns, and earned himself a trip to his first ever Pro Bowl.

It’s hard to believe with all of the players Jacksonville has drafted in the first round over the years (R. Jay Soward, Matt Jones, Reggie Williams, Justin Blackmon) none have panned out in the NFL and free agency has not been kind as well (Jerry Porter, Laurent Robinson).

Smith and McCardell’s numbers remain at the top of Jacksonville’s all-time receiving list and will be hard pressed to be topped any time soon.

One of the beautiful things about dynasty leagues is that there is never truly an offseason. The work is never-ending, with one season swiftly rolling into the next.

Regardless of how the 2014 season went, there is work to do. Are you rebuilding, stockpiling draft picks and young talent? Are you already a powerhouse, possibly looking to sell high on a player to replenish your depth? Or maybe you feel like you’re just a couple vital moves -- trading a draft pick or young player away for a win-now piece -- away from having a championship-caliber squad.

No matter where you are, in a dynasty league, there is no time to stand still.

In most leagues, trading is open for a majority of the year, including the spring and summer months, when a player's value can be volatile.

Mark Ingram, Justin Forsett, Jonathan Stewart, C.J. Anderson, Steve Smith, Golden Tate and Brandon LaFell all had productive -- if not outstanding -- seasons in 2014, and all of them could have been had for very little at this time a year ago.

Here are five guys who, for various reasons, are being undervalued in dynasty formats. Some of them are talented players in new locations. Others are established players who are performing a little better than what is being perceived. Either way, here are some players to consider pursuing as we start preparing for 2015.

Keenan Allen, WR, San Diego Chargers

A year ago, Allen, 23, was a top-shelf dynasty commodity. A second-year receiver coming off a 1,046-yard, eight-touchdown rookie campaign was gold, going in the second or third round in dynasty startups.

Well, in terms of fantasy production, Allen took a step back in 2014. Before missing Week 16 with an injury, he was on pace for 88 grabs and 895 yards on 8.6 targets per game. Not bad for a second-year player, but not what owners were expecting.

As a second-year wideout, Allen was targeted 16 more times than he was as a rookie,and he actually caught six more balls in 2014. The volume and opportunity were still there.

What was the biggest difference in his two campaigns? Touchdowns and a lack of big plays.

His yards-per-catch numbers dropped from 14.7 to 10.2. That led his yards per game to dip from 69.7 to a lowly 55.9. After finding the end zone eight times as a rookie, he only scored four times a year ago.

Touchdowns can vary for even the best receivers and red-zone targets. Calvin Johnson, possibly a computer-created red-zone weapon, has touchdown totals of 16, five, 12 and eight over the past four seasons. The variance isn't due to injury, either, as Megatron only missed five games in that four-year stretch.

All in all, this is an opportunity to buy low on Allen, a young receiver who is getting targeted heavily in a solid offense. He's even more valuable in points per reception leagues. Plus, Antonio Gates has to slow down at some point (right?), so Allen will have a chance to become the top option for Philip Rivers.

C.J Spiller, RB, New Orleans Saints

Spiller has a black eye in fantasy, having burned many owners over the years. When looking for an opportunity to buy low on talented players, that's the kind of guy that's worth gambling on.

He has two things working for him that should make him attractive: he's extremely talented and his value is pretty darn depleted.

The former Clemson Tiger has always had mouth-watering ability to make plays when put in space. With the Buffalo Bills, he didn't get many chances to do that. Now, after an offseason move to New Orleans, Spiller will team up with, for the first time in his career, a good quarterback and an offensive guru. Sean Payton is a master at taking advantage of his players' abilities, and Drew Brees is the genius pulling the strings.

It seems like a decade ago, but it was just 2012 when Spiller teased the fantasy world with a monster season. He totaled 1,703 total yards and eight scores, seemingly on his way to becoming a fantasy star with his electric open-field ability and dual-threat skills. He was still decent in 2013 (1,102 total yards) but only reached the end zone twice.

There's no sugarcoating it: last season was a nightmare for Spiller. He didn't put up numbers early on, and then a broken collarbone shelved him for two months, effectively ending his season.

New Orleans appears to be in the midst of a change in offensive philosophy. Tight end Jimmy Graham is gone, as is wideout Kenny Stills and pass-catching back Pierre Thomas. The Saints spent a first-round pick on tackle Andrus Peat, who is rated as a superb run blocker, brought in center Max Unger (in the Graham deal) and gave running back Mark Ingram a new four-year deal.

I'm not sure how Spiller fits in with what the Saints will be doing on offense in 2015, mostly because I don't know what the Saints will be doing on offense in 2015. Aside from Ingram, Spiller will be competing for touches with Khiry Robinson, but there are rumors swirling about a possible trade of Robinson to Dallas.

At the minimum, we know that Peyton likes Spiller, as evidenced by the fact they signed him in free agency, and Spiller has talent. I trust Peyton, one of the league's best offensive minds, to be able to do what the Buffalo coaches never did consistently: get Spiller the ball in space and unleash that talent.

Even if you don’t believe in Spiller at all, he could provide value as someone you flip as soon as he has a string of good showings.

Vincent Jackson, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

It’s easy to become infatuated with youth in dynasty formats, but there’s certainly a place for productive veterans, even if their careers are winding down. Often times, players who fit that billing are some of the most undervalued assets in dynasty, with owners willing to ship out the old, boring player for a shiny new toy.

Jackson is no longer the guy you brag about owning, yet he still produced at a fairly high level a year ago. He racked up his fourth consecutive 1,000-yard season, even with the Buccaneers’ train-wreck quarterback. No. 1 draft pick Jameis Winston will probably struggle early, like most rookie quarterback, but I don't think he'll be worse than Josh McCown or Mike Glennon.

Rookie Mike Evans stole a lot of the headlines in Tampa Bay, but Jackson was still a big part of the Bucs' offense. Jackson was targeted at least nine times in 10 of his 16 games. He actually had two more receptions (70) than did Evans (68) for just 49 fewer yards (1,002 to 1,051).

The only thing holding Jackson back is touchdowns, where Evans held a commanding 12-2 edge. Like I said earlier, touchdowns can be random and fickle. Jackson has been a solid red-zone target throughout his career, getting at least seven scores in each of the previous three years. Some of his two-touchdown season can be attributed to plain old bad luck.

Jackson, 32, finished 2014 as the 33rd-best receiver, a low-end WR3, in points per reception leagues. Again, nothing sexy but still productive. He can be counted on for much of the same this season. In dynasty, the asking price can't be much, and he can provide a nice return, especially if last year's touchdown luck evens out.

Ryan Mathews, RB, Philadelphia Eagles

Much like Spiller, Mathews has been a perennial fantasy disappointment for most of his career, and as a result, his value is incredibly low for a 27-year-old running back who was a first-round pick in 2010.

Now in Philadelphia after leaving San Diego in free agency this offseason, Mathews -- owner of two 1,000-yard campaigns, most recently in 2013 -- is a backup to 2014 breakout stud DeMarco Murray.

There's no denying Murray's greatness last season, but he did carry the ball an astounding 392 times with 52 additional touches coming on receptions. Before last year, Murray was known as a fragile player, having never played a full 16-game season and missing 11 games over his first three years.

Mathews is a Murray injury away from being the lead dog in a run-heavy, high-scoring offense. Chip Kelly and the Eagles ranked third in points per game a year ago while totaling the seventh-most rushing attempts.

Jarvis Landry, WR, Miami Dolphins

The 2014 crop of rookie wide receivers was legendary. Landry was one of the most consistent producers of the group, and he's also one of the most underappreciated.

Landry, taken in the second round by the Dolphins, finished his rookie season at the No. 31 receiver in points per reception leagues. Working primarily out of the slot, he amassed 758 yards on a team-high 84 grabs, hauling in 75.7 percent of his targets and becoming a reliable intermediate target for quarterback Ryan Tannehill.  

Miami parted with Mike Wallace and Brian Hartline, their two outside receivers from last season. Kenny Stills, Jordan Cameron and draftee DeVante Parker join the fold, but both will be first-year players in offensive coordinator Bill Lazor's scheme. Landry and running back Lamar Miller are the only players on the roster who were targeted more than 37 times in a Miami uniform last year.

It's not a stretch to say that Landry is Tannehill's No. 1 option. Other than Allen, it'll probably cost more to get Landry than anyone else on this list, but he could be a reliable WR2 for the foreseeable future.

One of the beautiful things about dynasty leagues is that there is never truly an offseason. The work is never-ending, with one season swiftly rolling into the next.

Regardless of how the 2014 season went, there is work to do. Are you rebuilding, stockpiling draft picks and young talent? Are you already a powerhouse, possibly looking to sell high on a player to replenish your depth? Or maybe you feel like you’re just a couple vital moves -- trading a draft pick or young player away for a win-now piece -- away from having a championship-caliber squad.

No matter where you are, in a dynasty league, there is no time to stand still.

In most leagues, trading is open for a majority of the year, including the spring and summer months, when a player's value can be volatile.

Mark Ingram, Justin Forsett, Jonathan Stewart, C.J. Anderson, Steve Smith, Golden Tate and Brandon LaFell all had productive -- if not outstanding -- seasons in 2014, and all of them could have been had for very little at this time a year ago.

Here are five guys who, for various reasons, are being undervalued in dynasty formats. Some of them are talented players in new locations. Others are established players who are performing a little better than what is being perceived. Either way, here are some players to consider pursuing as we start preparing for 2015.

Keenan Allen, WR, San Diego Chargers

A year ago, Allen, 23, was a top-shelf dynasty commodity. A second-year receiver coming off a 1,046-yard, eight-touchdown rookie campaign was gold, going in the second or third round in dynasty startups.

Well, in terms of fantasy production, Allen took a step back in 2014. Before missing Week 16 with an injury, he was on pace for 88 grabs and 895 yards on 8.6 targets per game. Not bad for a second-year player, but not what owners were expecting.

As a second-year wideout, Allen was targeted 16 more times than he was as a rookie,and he actually caught six more balls in 2014. The volume and opportunity were still there.

What was the biggest difference in his two campaigns? Touchdowns and a lack of big plays.

His yards-per-catch numbers dropped from 14.7 to 10.2. That led his yards per game to dip from 69.7 to a lowly 55.9. After finding the end zone eight times as a rookie, he only scored four times a year ago.

Touchdowns can vary for even the best receivers and red-zone targets. Calvin Johnson, possibly a computer-created red-zone weapon, has touchdown totals of 16, five, 12 and eight over the past four seasons. The variance isn't due to injury, either, as Megatron only missed five games in that four-year stretch.

All in all, this is an opportunity to buy low on Allen, a young receiver who is getting targeted heavily in a solid offense. He's even more valuable in points per reception leagues. Plus, Antonio Gates has to slow down at some point (right?), so Allen will have a chance to become the top option for Philip Rivers.

C.J Spiller, RB, New Orleans Saints

Spiller has a black eye in fantasy, having burned many owners over the years. When looking for an opportunity to buy low on talented players, that's the kind of guy that's worth gambling on.

He has two things working for him that should make him attractive: he's extremely talented and his value is pretty darn depleted.

The former Clemson Tiger has always had mouth-watering ability to make plays when put in space. With the Buffalo Bills, he didn't get many chances to do that. Now, after an offseason move to New Orleans, Spiller will team up with, for the first time in his career, a good quarterback and an offensive guru. Sean Payton is a master at taking advantage of his players' abilities, and Drew Brees is the genius pulling the strings.

It seems like a decade ago, but it was just 2012 when Spiller teased the fantasy world with a monster season. He totaled 1,703 total yards and eight scores, seemingly on his way to becoming a fantasy star with his electric open-field ability and dual-threat skills. He was still decent in 2013 (1,102 total yards) but only reached the end zone twice.

There's no sugarcoating it: last season was a nightmare for Spiller. He didn't put up numbers early on, and then a broken collarbone shelved him for two months, effectively ending his season.

New Orleans appears to be in the midst of a change in offensive philosophy. Tight end Jimmy Graham is gone, as is wideout Kenny Stills and pass-catching back Pierre Thomas. The Saints spent a first-round pick on tackle Andrus Peat, who is rated as a superb run blocker, brought in center Max Unger (in the Graham deal) and gave running back Mark Ingram a new four-year deal.

I'm not sure how Spiller fits in with what the Saints will be doing on offense in 2015, mostly because I don't know what the Saints will be doing on offense in 2015. Aside from Ingram, Spiller will be competing for touches with Khiry Robinson, but there are rumors swirling about a possible trade of Robinson to Dallas.

At the minimum, we know that Peyton likes Spiller, as evidenced by the fact they signed him in free agency, and Spiller has talent. I trust Peyton, one of the league's best offensive minds, to be able to do what the Buffalo coaches never did consistently: get Spiller the ball in space and unleash that talent.

Even if you don’t believe in Spiller at all, he could provide value as someone you flip as soon as he has a string of good showings.

Vincent Jackson, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

It’s easy to become infatuated with youth in dynasty formats, but there’s certainly a place for productive veterans, even if their careers are winding down. Often times, players who fit that billing are some of the most undervalued assets in dynasty, with owners willing to ship out the old, boring player for a shiny new toy.

Jackson is no longer the guy you brag about owning, yet he still produced at a fairly high level a year ago. He racked up his fourth consecutive 1,000-yard season, even with the Buccaneers’ train-wreck quarterback. No. 1 draft pick Jameis Winston will probably struggle early, like most rookie quarterback, but I don't think he'll be worse than Josh McCown or Mike Glennon.

Rookie Mike Evans stole a lot of the headlines in Tampa Bay, but Jackson was still a big part of the Bucs' offense. Jackson was targeted at least nine times in 10 of his 16 games. He actually had two more receptions (70) than did Evans (68) for just 49 fewer yards (1,002 to 1,051).

The only thing holding Jackson back is touchdowns, where Evans held a commanding 12-2 edge. Like I said earlier, touchdowns can be random and fickle. Jackson has been a solid red-zone target throughout his career, getting at least seven scores in each of the previous three years. Some of his two-touchdown season can be attributed to plain old bad luck.

Jackson, 32, finished 2014 as the 33rd-best receiver, a low-end WR3, in points per reception leagues. Again, nothing sexy but still productive. He can be counted on for much of the same this season. In dynasty, the asking price can't be much, and he can provide a nice return, especially if last year's touchdown luck evens out.

Ryan Mathews, RB, Philadelphia Eagles

Much like Spiller, Mathews has been a perennial fantasy disappointment for most of his career, and as a result, his value is incredibly low for a 27-year-old running back who was a first-round pick in 2010.

Now in Philadelphia after leaving San Diego in free agency this offseason, Mathews -- owner of two 1,000-yard campaigns, most recently in 2013 -- is a backup to 2014 breakout stud DeMarco Murray.

There's no denying Murray's greatness last season, but he did carry the ball an astounding 392 times with 52 additional touches coming on receptions. Before last year, Murray was known as a fragile player, having never played a full 16-game season and missing 11 games over his first three years.

Mathews is a Murray injury away from being the lead dog in a run-heavy, high-scoring offense. Chip Kelly and the Eagles ranked third in points per game a year ago while totaling the seventh-most rushing attempts.

Jarvis Landry, WR, Miami Dolphins

The 2014 crop of rookie wide receivers was legendary. Landry was one of the most consistent producers of the group, and he's also one of the most underappreciated.

Landry, taken in the second round by the Dolphins, finished his rookie season at the No. 31 receiver in points per reception leagues. Working primarily out of the slot, he amassed 758 yards on a team-high 84 grabs, hauling in 75.7 percent of his targets and becoming a reliable intermediate target for quarterback Ryan Tannehill.  

Miami parted with Mike Wallace and Brian Hartline, their two outside receivers from last season. Kenny Stills, Jordan Cameron and draftee DeVante Parker join the fold, but both will be first-year players in offensive coordinator Bill Lazor's scheme. Landry and running back Lamar Miller are the only players on the roster who were targeted more than 37 times in a Miami uniform last year.

It's not a stretch to say that Landry is Tannehill's No. 1 option. Other than Allen, it'll probably cost more to get Landry than anyone else on this list, but he could be a reliable WR2 for the foreseeable future.

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 first round is officially over, and it is time to look at the best picks in round one. 

1. Washington Redskins: OL Brandon Scherff- Iowa

This was the best pick of the first round. No matter who the quarterback was for the Redskins they were always getting beat up. Leonard Williams was stil on the board at this time, but the Redskins looked past him and addressed arguably their biggest needed. This was a great pick for Washington. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers: OLB Bud Dupree- Kentucky

This talented young prospect fell right into the Steelers' lap. They could not pass up an opportunity to draft this player. Their pass rush was weak last year, and along with losing two players in their secondary they need to get to the quarterback quick. Bud Dupree was a great pick for Pittsburgh. He will be a beast. 

3. Tennessee Titans- QB Marcus Mariota- Oregon

After much speculation that they may have wanted to move this pick, they get their QB. Marcus Mariota is a terrific quarterback that will thrive in the NFL. He has all the abilities and all the potenital in the world to be a starter for a long time in Nashville. When you think you have a chance to get your franchise QB you take it, and the Titans did. 

4. San Diego Chargers- RB Melvin Gordon- Wisconsin

After losing Ryan Mathews this season is essential that the Chargers get a runningback, and they do so at pick 15 with Melvin Gordon. He is an all around great runningback that will add a whole different dimension to that offense. He is much more durable the Mathews was, so Chargers fans can expect to see him on the field a lot. 

5. New England Patriots- DT Malcom Brown- Texas

After Laken Tomlinson was drafted by Detroit many expected the Patriots to trade out of the first round. The Colts helped the Patriots stay in the first round by drafting WR Phillip Dorsett. Many thought that the Colts would draft Brown, and when they didn't the Patriots could not pass him up. With Brown and Easley, the Patriots can transition to a 4-3 defense and have quickly developed a very strong front seven. Experts thought that Brown would be long gone by the Patriots pick. So it is safe to say that at 32 the Patriots got great value in Malcom Brown. 

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 first round is officially over, and it is time to look at the best picks in round one. 

1. Washington Redskins: OL Brandon Scherff- Iowa

This was the best pick of the first round. No matter who the quarterback was for the Redskins they were always getting beat up. Leonard Williams was stil on the board at this time, but the Redskins looked past him and addressed arguably their biggest needed. This was a great pick for Washington. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers: OLB Bud Dupree- Kentucky

This talented young prospect fell right into the Steelers' lap. They could not pass up an opportunity to draft this player. Their pass rush was weak last year, and along with losing two players in their secondary they need to get to the quarterback quick. Bud Dupree was a great pick for Pittsburgh. He will be a beast. 

3. Tennessee Titans- QB Marcus Mariota- Oregon

After much speculation that they may have wanted to move this pick, they get their QB. Marcus Mariota is a terrific quarterback that will thrive in the NFL. He has all the abilities and all the potenital in the world to be a starter for a long time in Nashville. When you think you have a chance to get your franchise QB you take it, and the Titans did. 

4. San Diego Chargers- RB Melvin Gordon- Wisconsin

After losing Ryan Mathews this season is essential that the Chargers get a runningback, and they do so at pick 15 with Melvin Gordon. He is an all around great runningback that will add a whole different dimension to that offense. He is much more durable the Mathews was, so Chargers fans can expect to see him on the field a lot. 

5. New England Patriots- DT Malcom Brown- Texas

After Laken Tomlinson was drafted by Detroit many expected the Patriots to trade out of the first round. The Colts helped the Patriots stay in the first round by drafting WR Phillip Dorsett. Many thought that the Colts would draft Brown, and when they didn't the Patriots could not pass him up. With Brown and Easley, the Patriots can transition to a 4-3 defense and have quickly developed a very strong front seven. Experts thought that Brown would be long gone by the Patriots pick. So it is safe to say that at 32 the Patriots got great value in Malcom Brown. 

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 first round is officially over, and it is time to look at the best picks in round one. 

1. Washington Redskins: OL Brandon Scherff- Iowa

This was the best pick of the first round. No matter who the quarterback was for the Redskins they were always getting beat up. Leonard Williams was stil on the board at this time, but the Redskins looked past him and addressed arguably their biggest needed. This was a great pick for Washington. 

2. Pittsburgh Steelers: OLB Bud Dupree- Kentucky

This talented young prospect fell right into the Steelers' lap. They could not pass up an opportunity to draft this player. Their pass rush was weak last year, and along with losing two players in their secondary they need to get to the quarterback quick. Bud Dupree was a great pick for Pittsburgh. He will be a beast. 

3. Tennessee Titans- QB Marcus Mariota- Oregon

After much speculation that they may have wanted to move this pick, they get their QB. Marcus Mariota is a terrific quarterback that will thrive in the NFL. He has all the abilities and all the potenital in the world to be a starter for a long time in Nashville. When you think you have a chance to get your franchise QB you take it, and the Titans did. 

4. San Diego Chargers- RB Melvin Gordon- Wisconsin

After losing Ryan Mathews this season is essential that the Chargers get a runningback, and they do so at pick 15 with Melvin Gordon. He is an all around great runningback that will add a whole different dimension to that offense. He is much more durable the Mathews was, so Chargers fans can expect to see him on the field a lot. 

5. New England Patriots- DT Malcom Brown- Texas

After Laken Tomlinson was drafted by Detroit many expected the Patriots to trade out of the first round. The Colts helped the Patriots stay in the first round by drafting WR Phillip Dorsett. Many thought that the Colts would draft Brown, and when they didn't the Patriots could not pass him up. With Brown and Easley, the Patriots can transition to a 4-3 defense and have quickly developed a very strong front seven. Experts thought that Brown would be long gone by the Patriots pick. So it is safe to say that at 32 the Patriots got great value in Malcom Brown. 

Since Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota won the Heisman Trophy last winter, the rumors have circled that Philadelphia Eagles head coach Chip Kelly would, at all costs, acquire the man he once recruited to play quarterback at the University of Oregon.

And no matter how much Kelly publicly denies he would not trade up in this year's draft for Mariota, the rumors continue to fly. Even the most outragous ones.

Two pretty ridiculous trade rumors broke this week from two different sources. Each one laid out a scenario in which the Eagles would be invovled in a three-team trade in order to acquire the No. 2 overall pick and then select Mariota.

Let's lay out both scenarios:

     Scenario No. 1 accoding to NBC Sports

     Teams invovled: Eagles, Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns

          Browns receive quarterback Sam Bradford and 2016 first-round pick from Philadelphia

          Titans receive both the No. 12 and No. 19 overall picks from Browns and No. 20 overall pick from Eagles

          Eagles receive No. 2 overall pick from Titans

     Scenario No. 2 according to Rant Sports

     Teams invovled: Eagles, Tennessee Titans and San Diego Chargers

          Chargers receive Bradford and No. 20 overall pick from Eagles and Titans' second-round pick

          Titans receive quarterback Philip Rivers from Chargers and Eagles' third-round pick

          Eagles receive No. 2 overall pick from Titans

It is extremely difficult to tell which scenario, if either, is more likely to happen, but if one connects the dots, there could certainly be some truth to these rumors.

It doesn't make much for the Chargers to keep Rivers on their roster for the 2015 season unless the franchise has a change in heart and doesn't move to Los Angeles. Rivers will walk at the end of the 2015 season, and since the Chargers are not a Super Bowl contender at this very moment, it makes sense to rebuild with a younger quarterback. Whether San Diego GM Tom Telesco prefers to rebuild with Bradford or Mariota is anyone's guess.

The fact Cleveland has been mentioned with these trade rumors also makes a lot of sense. Rams quarterback Jeff Fisher said after the team traded Braford to the Eagles that St. Louis received a late first-round pick offer for Bradford, but prefered to go with Philadelphia's offer because Fisher liked Nick Foles. It is still somewhat of a mystery who that team was that offered its first round pick for Bradford, but many believe it was Cleveland. The Browns are a franchise in dire need of a franchise quarterback and could use their first round picks as a means to trade for one.

Of course, that is also depend on Cleveland not wanting Mariota over Bradford. Theoretically, if Cleveland wants Mariota, they could offer Tennessee both its first round picks in exchange for the No. 2 pick.

Both scenarios would also work for the Eagles and Titans. Philadelphia wouldn't have to mortage the future in order for Kelly to get his guy, and the Titans would either get a plethora of first-round picks or Rivers, a perfect fit for head coach Ken Whisenhunt's offense.

But what do you think? Leave a comment below, send Dave a tweet @dmholcomb or drop a comment on the Facebook page, Dave's Football News.

Football Nation proudly presents episode 100 of "Monday Morning Huddle" with host Dave Holcomb. For the special celebration, MMH has two great guest stars in FN Contributor and Mock Draft expert Brendan Cassidy and NFL Writer and former Criminal Defense Lawyer Julie DiCaro.

In the show's first segment, Holcomb asks the most pressing NFL Draft questions to Cassidy, including where quarterback Marcus Mariota will land, what impact the rookie wide receivers will have on the league this season and on whether the draft will finally see a running back selected in the first round again. All that and more in our NFL Draft preview with Cassidy.

Next, the show welcomes a very important guest in DiCaro, who wrote a great piece called Five Things the Chicago Bears need to know about domestic violence after the Bears signed defensive end Ray McDonald this offseason. DiCaro explains what compelled her to write the article and then answers Holcomb's questions on domestic violence in the NFL.

Finally, this 100th episode concludes with the 'Fourth and Long' segment where Holcomb shares his thoughts on the Philadelphia offseason, Philip Rivers trade rumors and the possibility of Adrian Peterson landing in Dallas.

This Week's Recommended Work
- Five Things the Chicago Bears need to know about domestic violence by Julie DiCaro
- Mock Draft Volume 4.0: Peterson and Rivers On the Move by Brendan Cassidy
- NFL Draft: Trade Rumors Still Land Mariota to Philadelphia Eagles by Dave Holcomb
- NFL Draft: Trade Winds Circle San Diego Chargers Quarterback Philip Rivers by Dave Holcomb
- 2015 NFL Draft: Pittsburgh Steelers Seven Round Mock by Dave Holcomb

This Week's Music
Album: Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
Artist: AC/DC
Songs: Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, Big Balls, Problem Child

Theme Song: Monday Morning by Fleetwood Mac

Dave Holcomb’s Contact Information
Twitter: @dmholcomb
E-mail: holcombmdavid@gmail.com
Facebook: Dave's Football News

The Seattle Seahawks will not have a draft pick the first day of the draft...yet.  Don't worry they still have 11 picks in the 2015 NFL Draft.  And we all know that the Seahawks excel in finding the diamonds in the rough.  And oh by they way, did you hear?  They acquired tight end Jimmy Graham in free agency?  But they also lost left guard James Carpenter and center Max Unger. 

So the Seahawks will enter the draft with some needs.  They need to address a need for left guard, a center, maybe another running back, a wide receiver and maybe even a quarterback? 

Here are some possibilities for the team that excels in draft strategy:

Round 2: Pick 63

Ali Marpet, Guard 6'4", 307 lbs, Arm Length 33 3/8, Hands 10"

The offensive line is the main concern for the Seahawks this season.  He is a good fit for the blocking scheme the Seahawks utilize.  

Round 3: Pick 95

Grady Jarrett, Defensive Tackle, 6'1", 304 lbs, Arm Length 32 3/8", Hands 10"

Okay so I know I stressed the offensive side of the ball, but the Seahawks need a back-up for Brandon Mebane and his hamstring issues.

The NFL scouting reports: " Jarrett is a perfect shade-nose fit for teams looking for a disruptive force in a one gap penetrating front."

Round 4: Pick 112

Reese Dismukes, Center, 6'3", 296 lbs, Arm Length 32 1/4", Hands 8 7/8"

Marpet is listed as a center but look for the Seahawks to move him to left guard.  This is the pick they got from the New Orleans Saints for Max Unger.  It is only reasonable that they get his replacement here. 

Dismukes shined in the Senior Bowl.  He demonstrated good awareness in pass protection.  And with newly acquired weapon of Graham that is a good thing.

Round 4: Pick 130

Stefon, Diggs, Wide Receiver, 6'0", 195 lbs, Arm Length 31 1/4", Hands 10"

Does not excel in long speed.  But would make a good slot receiver.  Makes things happen when he gets the ball. 

Round 4: Pick 134

Jordan Hicks, OLB, 6'1", 236 lbs, Arm Length 32", Hands 10"

NFL draft profile states, "Hicks is an improving player who will live in the film room and might end up overdrafted on the upside potential." 

Round 5: Pick 167

Chris Conley, Wide Receiver, 6'2", 213 lbs, Arm Length 33 3/4", Hands 9 7/8"

Comes from a run heavy college offense.  At the Combine he blazed the 40 yard dash in 4.35 seconds.  When he did get the ball he demonstrated productivity after the catch.  

Round 5: Pick 170

Justin Cox, Cornerback, 6'1", 191 lbs, Arm Length 31 1/4", Hands 9"

Gone is Byron Maxwell.  Not so good was Tharold Simon.  An NFC East Scout reports, "We have him as a draft reject based on character and his overall tape."  

Can you describe a more cookie cutter Seahawks late round draft pick than that?

Round 6: Pick 181

Tyler Varga, Running Back, 5'11", 222 lbs, Arm Length 30 3/8", Hands 10 5/8"

Varga is a tweener.  Will be caught between fullback and running back.  But is adept at catching the ball out of the backfield and is an instinctive runner.  Willl also serve team well on special teams. 

Round 6: Pick 209

Nick Boyle, Tight End, 6'4", 268 lbs, Arm Length 33 3/8", Hands 10 3/8"

He needs work as a receiving threat.  Shows promise as a blocking tight end.  Working behind Graham will make him better.

Round 6: Pick 214

Connor Halliday, Quarterback, 6'3", 196 lbs, Arm Length 31 1/4", Hands 8 3/8"

He is coming off  a season ending broken leg.  In 2014, before the leg injury, he completed 67.3 percent of his passes for 32 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in nine games.

He does however come from the spread system, so may need some time to adjust. 

Round 7: Pick 248

Nick Seither, Defensive End/OLB, 6'3", 255 lbs 

Predicting what the Seahawks or anyone will do is, let's face it a crap shot.  Mainly because we all expect Chip Kelly to do something crazy beautiful.  We want the San Diego Chargers and Tennessee Titans to do anything expectedly unexpected. 

It's draft day and it's on!

Follow me on Twitter @neverenoughglt and FaceBook gladys louise tyler

Since Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota won the Heisman Trophy last winter, the rumors have circled that Philadelphia Eagles head coach Chip Kelly would, at all costs, acquire the man he once recruited to play quarterback at the University of Oregon.

And no matter how much Kelly publicly denies he would not trade up in this year's draft for Mariota, the rumors continue to fly. Even the most outragous ones.

Two pretty ridiculous trade rumors broke this week from two different sources. Each one laid out a scenario in which the Eagles would be invovled in a three-team trade in order to acquire the No. 2 overall pick and then select Mariota.

Let's lay out both scenarios:

     Scenario No. 1 accoding to NBC Sports

     Teams invovled: Eagles, Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns

          Browns receive quarterback Sam Bradford and 2016 first-round pick from Philadelphia

          Titans receive both the No. 12 and No. 19 overall picks from Browns and No. 20 overall pick from Eagles

          Eagles receive No. 2 overall pick from Titans

     Scenario No. 2 according to Rant Sports

     Teams invovled: Eagles, Tennessee Titans and San Diego Chargers

          Chargers receive Bradford and No. 20 overall pick from Eagles and Titans' second-round pick

          Titans receive quarterback Philip Rivers from Chargers and Eagles' third-round pick

          Eagles receive No. 2 overall pick from Titans

It is extremely difficult to tell which scenario, if either, is more likely to happen, but if one connects the dots, there could certainly be some truth to these rumors.

It doesn't make much for the Chargers to keep Rivers on their roster for the 2015 season unless the franchise has a change in heart and doesn't move to Los Angeles. Rivers will walk at the end of the 2015 season, and since the Chargers are not a Super Bowl contender at this very moment, it makes sense to rebuild with a younger quarterback. Whether San Diego GM Tom Telesco prefers to rebuild with Bradford or Mariota is anyone's guess.

The fact Cleveland has been mentioned with these trade rumors also makes a lot of sense. Rams quarterback Jeff Fisher said after the team traded Braford to the Eagles that St. Louis received a late first-round pick offer for Bradford, but prefered to go with Philadelphia's offer because Fisher liked Nick Foles. It is still somewhat of a mystery who that team was that offered its first round pick for Bradford, but many believe it was Cleveland. The Browns are a franchise in dire need of a franchise quarterback and could use their first round picks as a means to trade for one.

Of course, that is also depend on Cleveland not wanting Mariota over Bradford. Theoretically, if Cleveland wants Mariota, they could offer Tennessee both its first round picks in exchange for the No. 2 pick.

Both scenarios would also work for the Eagles and Titans. Philadelphia wouldn't have to mortage the future in order for Kelly to get his guy, and the Titans would either get a plethora of first-round picks or Rivers, a perfect fit for head coach Ken Whisenhunt's offense.

But what do you think? Leave a comment below, send Dave a tweet @dmholcomb or drop a comment on the Facebook page, Dave's Football News.

With the 2015 NFL Draft approaching, there are a few teams with very specific needs to fill that will require moving up the draft board. With that being said here are the five teams that will move up the draft board to grab a position of need.

Miami Dolphins– With the trade of Mike Wallace to the Minnesota Vikings, the Dolphins are void of a number one wide receiver. In order to fill that void, the Dolphins must trade up to put themselves in position to grab one of the two elite wide receivers prospects in this years class. They do not have the ammunition necessary to move high enough to grab Amari Cooper of Alabama, but they can move up to grab Kevin White of West Virginia. White offers the size and speed combination to be a dominant pass catcher for the Dolphins.

San Diego Chargers – The Chargers have a situation developing where Philip Rivers is starting to lose faith in the Chargers operation. Rivers does not support the franchises potential move to Los Angeles, and is going to play out the final season of his contract rather than sign a long-term extension. With Rivers unrest growing, the Chargers are left with very few options, which is why they will trade Rivers to the Tennessee Titans in order to be in position to select Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota. Mariota allows them to grab their next franchise quarterback, and gives them a fresh face of the franchise in their bid to move to Los Angeles.

Kansas City Chiefs – The Chiefs did not throw a single touchdown pass to a wide receiver last year. The most pressing need for Andy Reid’s offense is a big play receiver with the ability to get into the end zone. Devante Parker of Louisville possesses these traits, but the Chiefs will need to move up a handful of spots to ensure his services.

Indianapolis Colts – Andrew Luck is the face of the National Football League for the next decade. Under Luck’s watch the Colts have inched one step closer to super bowl berth each season, this year losing in the AFC Championship Game. In order for the Colts to take that next step, they need to give Luck a competent rushing game. They failed in their attempt to do that with the Trent Richardson trade, but that will not deter them from moving up in this years draft for a running back. The running back they will be targeting is Todd Gurley from the University of Georgia. With the combination of Gurley, and Frank Gore in the backfield Luck will finally have a ground game that defenses will be forced to respect. With the addition of Gurley, the Colts will instantly become favorites to represent the AFC in the super bowl.

New England Patriots – While the Patriots are the favorite to trade out of the first round based on past history, this year they will shock analysts and move up significantly to land a player of top need. The Patriots will be looking to move up for cornerback Trae Waynes out of Michigan State University. Waynes is the top cornerback in this year’s draft, and fits perfectly into the Patriots single high safety press man scheme. Waynes brings the size and physicality to take over for the departed Darrelle Revis on the left side of the defense.

Each of these teams, move up the draft board and grab players that will help them immediately. The NFL Draft has always been very unpredictable and there is potential for many more trades to happen, but these five teams will move up to grab the player they want. 

Denver Broncos:

The Broncos lost two key cogs in Terrance Knighton and Rahim Moore and both spots are now evidently weaknesses. They picked up two decent rotational players, Vance Walker and Darian Stewart, but neither one looks to be capable of starting at the position full time. The safety class is weak, with no one capable of starting right away outside of Landon Collins, who plays a different position than Rahim Moore anyway, while the defensive tackle class is fairly deep. Danny Shelton, Malcom Brown, and Arik Armstead are all expected to be gone long before the Broncos are on the clock, but big nasties Jordan Phillips and Eddie Goldman could be available. Of the two, Goldman is the safer pick, but Phillips has more athleticism and potential. With that being said, there is speculation that P.J. Williams may be a fit at safety and he was already seen as a second-round/borderline first-round pick. If the Broncos can see that working, they may opt for the defensive back from Florida State as opposed to the tackle.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Jordan Phillips - NT   Oklahoma

2.) Eddie Goldman - DT   Florida State

3.) P.J. Williams - DB   Florida State

Kansas City Chiefs:

The Chiefs sported one of the worst offensive lines last season and vowed to make improvements in the offseason. While they do have other weaknesses, it looks to be in their best interest to deal with their line issues with at least two of their early day picks. Eric Fisher, their first-round pick from two years ago, improved in his sophomore season while it has been said that fourth-year tackle Donald Stephenson will start, so do not expect them to pick up a tackle before round four. Instead, expect them to find a guard to step in opposite of Ben Grubbs and a center to replace the jettisoned Rodney Hudson. Since Brandon Scherff and La'el Collins, the two first-round talents that are expected to move inside, are likely to be gone by the 18th pick and all centers projected to be Day 2 picks, look for them to select a wide receiver to start opposite of Jeremy Maclin. Jaelen Strong would make sense as reliable possession receiver, while Dorial Green-Beckham and Breshad Perriman are two develomental players they could pick, though it would be a reach for both as the Chiefs are picking near the center of the round.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Jaelen Strong - WR   Arizona State

2.) Dorial Green-Beckham - WR   Missouri

3.) Breshad Perriman - WR   Central Florida

Oakland Raiders:

Sitting in a pretty spot at number four, the Raiders will likely have their choice of anyone outside of the top two quarterbacks and the edge rusher the Jaguars decide to take off the board. If the Titans trade back and the Jaguars pass on Leonard Williams--considering they signed Jared Odrick to a starters-money contract and Sen'Derrick Marks is coming off of his best season, it is a given that Williams will fall past them--the Raiders could pick up the versatile lineman. The Raiders however, recently signed Dan Williams to a big contract, while Justin Ellis had an impressive rookie year, and Antonio Smith was not too bad himself. The decision will likely be between the top receiver prospects, Amari Cooper, Kevin White, and DeVante Parker. Of the receivers Parker is the least likely, with Cooper being the safest pick, and White possessing the best combination of size and speed. The Raiders' need at receiver is more immediate and should chose playmaking ability and developed reliability (Cooper) over playmaking ability and developing reliability (White).

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Amari Cooper - WR   Alabama

2.) Kevin White - WR   West Virginia

3.) DeVante Parker - WR   Louisville

San Diego Chargers:

The Chargers have a shaky offensive line, but the talent they possess on offense is enough to make up for it. What they cannot make up for is their talent-dearth defense. They have some promising players, like Jason Verrett, and one of the best safeties in Eric Weddle, but there is not much beyond them. Some people have them selecting a running back in the first round, and while I believe that it will not happen, it is not because of the downward trent of the feature back, it is more so due to the bigger needs at other positions and a deep class of runners. As of now the best plan for the Chargers looks to be picking up two defensive starters in the first two rounds and a promising running back in the third.

Top Three Prospects:

1.) Malcom Brown - DT   Texas

2.) Randy Gregory - OLB   Nebraska

3.) Bud Dupree - OLB   Kentucky

How do you rate failure and success?  Well when you are picked number two in the draft it is all about production and the money that is thrown at you.  Are you deserving?  Did you come as advertised? 

And to be fair it isn't all one franchise either.  Bad choices are replete throughout the NFL. 

So here are five of the worst number two picks in draft history.  Sure they are others, but these are egregious.

5. Robert Griffin III, Washington, 2012

Is it too early to throw in the towel on RGIII?  Well he was the second overall pick in the 2012 draft.  He signed a deal worth 21.1 million dollars over four seasons.  The deal included a signing bonus of 13.8 million.  To get Griffin Washington traded the number six pick in the 2012 draft, two future first-rounders and a second-rounder for the St. Louis Rams number two selection, aka Griffin III.

What has he done?

Sure in his first year he was pretty good.  He lead his team to the playoffs.  He won a couple rookie awards.  And he finished with a 102.4 passer rating, completing 20 touchdowns and five interceptions.

And then reality hit.  The next two seasons Griffin III was sat by two different coaches for inefficient play.  

In 2013 he passed for 16 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.  In 2014, when he played he passed for four touchdowns and five interceptions.

And did I mention he was sat by two different head coaches? 

It might be too early to call it on Griffin III.  But you think you are the only one who considers Griffin III a bust?  Rewind the Washington game versus the Rams.  Look who the Rams sent out as captains for the coin toss?  You think that wasn't a big FU to Washington?  Think again.

4. Robert Gallery, Oakland Raiders, 2004

Peter King of Sports Illustrated called Gallery, "the best lineman to come out of college in years."  Clearly he wasn't the only one who thought so, as the Oakland Raiders drafted him number two in the 2004 draft, behind quarterback Eli Manning and ahead of wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald.  

It is also fair to mention that free safety Sean Taylor went fifth in the same draft to Washington.

In his first year with the Raiders, played Gallery at right tackle.  He gave up three sacks.  In his second year he started every game and gave up 3.5 sacks.  The next season he was moved to left tackle.  That offensive line gave up nine sacks to one team.  During the 2006 season he played in 13 games and gave up 10.5 sacks. 

In 2011 he signed with the Seattle Seahawks for three years for 15 million.  The Seahawks released him after one season.

In 2012, he signed with the New England Patriots for one year.  In 2012 he announced his retirement. 

Gallery played for eight seasons in the NFL.  Whether his lack of productivity and early retirement were due to playing on a bad team, coaching changes, or position changes it doesn't change the fact, "the best lineman to come out of college in years" wasn't.

3. Johnny Lam Jones, New York Jets, 1980

What happens when you go for an athete and not a position player for the second pick?  You get just what you asked for.

Jones was drafted second in the 1980 draft.  Running back Billy Sims was the number one pick and offensive tackle Anthony Munoz was drafted third.  The next wide receiver picked in 1980 draft went at number 18, it was Art Monk. 

The Jets traded two first round draft picks to move up to the second position and draft Jones.  His contract of 2.1 million was the first NFL contract woth over a million dollars.

The problem was while Jones was a world class sprinter he wasn't a NFL wide receiver.  He could outrun the coverage, but he couldn't catch the ball.   In five years Jones managed 13 touchdowns on 138 receptions. 

2. Tony Mandarich, Green Bay Packers, 1989

Let's talk the 1989 draft: Troy Aikman was drafted first; Barry Sanders was drafted third; Derick Thomas was drafted fourth; and Deion Sanders was drafted fifth. Whew, that's pretty impressive.  And then there is Mandarich at number two.

Mandarich held out until the end of training camp.  The Packers eventuallly signed him to a four year 4.4 million dollar contract.  He was the first offensive lineman to make a million dollars a season. 

"You are not supposed to be as strong as I am.  You're not supposed to be as fast as I am.  You're not supposed to be as good as I am."---Tony Mandarich 1989

And he wasn't.  Mandarich stopped his collegiate steriod use when he entered the NFL.  He then developed an addiciton to pain killers.  He was so ineffective the Packers did not allow him on the field his final year in Green Bay. 

1. Ryan Leaf, San Diego Chargers, 1998

The Chargers traded their third overall pick, a future first round pick, a second round pick, and Eric Metcalf, a three time Pro-Bowler to the Arizona Cardinals for the second pick.  After the Indianapolis Colts picked quarterback Peyton Manning, the Chargers picked Leaf.  They signed him to a four-year contract worth 31.25 million dollars.  His signing bonus was 11.25 million dollars.  That was the highest amount given to a rookie at the time. 

Leaf's rookie seson was characterized by poor play on the field and bad behavior off the field.  Rodney Harrison, Chargers safety at the time is quoted as describing it as, "a nightmare you can't even imagene.  If I had to go through another year like that, I'd probably quit playing."

Leaf missed his second season due to a shoulder injury he sustained in the seasons first training camp workout. 

Leaf appeared in 25 NFL games starting in 21 of those games.  He completed 48.4% of his passes.  He threw 14 touchdowns and 36 interceptions. 

In his downward spiral of a career Leaf was signed and released by the Chargers, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Dallas Cowboys and the Seattle Seahawks before his eventual retirement. 

His career quarterback rating finalized out at 50.0%. 

In 2005, NBC Sports Michael Ventre called Leaf, "the biggest bust in the history of professional sports."

In 2010, the NFL Network named Leaf as the the number one NFL quarterback bust of al time.

In 2011, Deadspin ranked Leaf as the 6th worst NFL player of all time. 

And Rodney Harrison commented, "He took the money and ran."

Unfortunately for both him and his teams, never far enough.

Follow me on Twitter @neverenoughglt

The best and worst thing that could have happened to Marcus Mariota last weekend at the NFL Scouting Combine was someone said Jameis Winston had a weak throwing shoulder.

With all the negative publicity this season, the accusations of off field issues and the fact the Oregon Ducks beat the hell out of FSU in the semi-finals of the College Football Playoff championship, Winston went out and slung the football around Lucas Oil Stadium like it was sandlot football.

Nothing Mariota, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner did in his Saturday workout was bad, in fact it was highly impressive. The problem existed because Winston, sans a 40-yard sprint, was better than his competitor.

Mariota may have won the battle with scouts and team general managers over whether he was the top pro prospect many websites had him listed as, but for now, the FSU stud won the war. Is this a sign of things to come, a rivalry already started before each hears his name called by the NFL commissioner on Draft night?

I for one sure hope so.

Prior to his performance and workout in Indianapolis, Mariota told the Washington Post he believes he can be a top-flight passer on the next level. The story, written for the February 20^th edition of the washingtonpost.com, said Mariota met with reporters Thursday afternoon. The quarterback with whom Mariota apparently is vying to be the NFL draft’s top overall selection by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jameis Winston of Florida State, met with the media Friday.

Mariota had not yet met with the Buccaneers at the combine, yet. He said he had met with a Philadelphia Eagles assistant coach but not with the team’s head coach, Chip Kelly, who formerly coached Mariota at Oregon.

The Eagles and Cleveland Browns reportedly could be interested in trading up for Mariota. Kevin O’Connell oversaw Mariota’s pre-draft training until being hired last week as the Browns’ quarterbacks coach. Mariota also has spent some time training, he said, with San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers.

Mariota said he was doing his best not to concern himself with matters such as which team will select him or whether he will be the draft’s top choice.

But if he isn’t the one talking about it, we all know the media and the social media boards across the country are doing their share to make keep the topic alive and well. There are 66 days until the first night of the NFL Draft, if you were wondering.

Right now, Mariota is ranked as the third best prospect on the big board, according to CBSsports.com. And with his performance last weekend, which included a solid 40-yard dash time, which bested Winston’s – which wasn’t even close – the questions will persist if Mariota is a quarterback who can play in the pocket, line up behind center and command a huddle, which he has not had to do since his days in high school.

With the success he did enjoy at the Combine and given the fact he was able to close some of the gap between himself and Winston, any team who thinks Mariota may not be able to improve his game to get consideration for the top overall pick in April, might be making a huge mistake.

Mariota took a giant step forward in many scouts’ eyes. A step back is highly unlikely.