Louisiana Gridiron Football April Magazine

Apr 2018 Vol 4 Issue 4 $7.99

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CONTENTS

Skip Holtz

Head Coach Louisiana Tech

4.1.2018

Upcoming Issues April

NFL Draft

May

Look At Spring Football

June

Recapping the Draft and NFL Free Agency

July Tailgating Super Issue

August NFL Preseason Sept

College Preseason

Oct-Dec Season Updates Jan

All-Louisiana Team

Feb

Louisiana Players Entering The Draft

8 Mock Draft 9 Top 5 By Position 14 New Orleans Saints 14 Carolina Panthers 15 Atlanta Falcons 15 Tampa Bay Bucs 16 Dallas Cowboys 17 New York Giants 17 Washington Redskins 18 Philadelphia Eagles 18 Seattle Seahawks 19 Arizona Cardinals 19 San Francisco 49ers 20 Los Angles Rams 20 Green Bay Packers 21 Chicago Bears 21 Detroit Lions 22 Communication, Focus, and a Will to Win: J'Mar Smith 30 Minnesota Vikings 31 Buffalo Bills 31 Miami Dolphins 32 New England Patriots 33 New York Jets 33 Baltimore Ravens 34 Cincinnati Bengals 34 Cleveland Browns 35 Pittsburg Stealers 35 Houston Texans 36 Indianapolis Colts 37 Jacksonville Jaguars 37 Tennessee Titans 38 Denver Broncos 38 Kansas City Cheifs 39 Los Angles Chargers 39 Oakland Raiders 42 Diamond In The Rough: Kam Aucoin

March College Recruiting

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STAFF Andy Bryson- Owner/Publisher

Laura Norsworthy– Senior Editor

Kristen Bryson– Editor

Jason Saucier– Photographer

Richard Hebert– Dir. Of Ad Sales Pablo Mejia III– Advertising/Sales

and Business Development Kevin Empey --NFL Writer

Marquise Ricard— H/S Sales Josh Sibley— H/S Scout/ Writer

Traveon Anderson– H/S Scout/Writer www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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Dear Readers, This month we are taking a look at the upcoming draft and making predictions about who we think would be a good fit for all 32 NFL teams. The draft is rapidly approaching and we know that our readers are anxiously awaiting what players their favorite teams will pick up.

Keep in mind that a magazine subscription (print or digital) is a great gift for those football lovers in your life.

A single issue of the digital magazine will be $3.99 and a digital subscription will be $17.95. By purchasing a digital subscription you save $29.93 for the year! You can find the digital copy on our website under the new ‘digital magazine’ tab. You may be thinking that football season is about to end as college football season traditionally ends in December with Bowl games. However, football season never truly ends and we here at LGF love it!

Additionally if you ever wondered what it would take to advertise with us here at LGF either in the magazine or online please contact our knowledgeable sales crew at (225) 931-8711 or louisianagridironfootball@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

A. Bryson www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

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1.

16. Baltimore Ravens

Cleveland Browns

Minkah Fitzpatrick

Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M

2.

17. Los Angels Chargers

New Your Giants

Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn St

Da’Ron Payne, DT, Alabama

3.

18. Seattle Seahawks

New Your Jets

Marcus Davenport, DE, UTSA

Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA 4.

19. Dallas Cowboys

Cleveland Browns

Mike McGlinchey, OT, Notre Dame

DJ Moore, WR, Maryland 20. Detroit Lions

5.

Denver Broncos

Sony Michel, RB, Georgia

Quenton Nelson, OG, Notre Damn 21. Cincinnati Bengals 6.

Indianapolis Colts

Leighton Vander Esch, LB, Boise St

Bradley Chubb, DE, N.C. State 22. Buffalo Bills 7.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Arden Key, DE/OLB, LSU 8.

Vita Vea. DT, Washington

23. Los Angels Rams

Chicago Bears

Mike Hughes, CB, UCF

Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama

24. Carolina Panthers

9.

Ronnie Harrison, S, Alabama

San Francisco 49ers

Roquan Smith, LB, Georgia

25. Tennessee Titans

10. Oakland Raiders

Sam Hubbard, DE, Ohio St.

Tremaine Edmunds, OLB, Virginia Tech

26. Atlanta Falcons Isaiah Wynn, OL, Georgia

11. Miami Dolphins

27. New Orleans Saints

Sam Darnold, QB, USC

Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma 28. Pittsburgh Stealers

12. Buffalo Bills Orlando Brown, OT, Oklahoma

Derrius Guice, RB, LSU 29. Jacksonville Jaguars

13. Washington Redskins

Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville

Derwin James, S, Florida State

30. Minnesota Vikings Justin Reid, FS, Stanford

14. Green Bay Packers

31. New England Patriots

D.J. Chark, WR, LSU

Denzel Ward, CB, Ohio State

15. Arizona Cards.

32. Philadelphia Eagles

Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming

Donte Jackson, DB, LSU

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TOP 5 By Position By: Coach Andy Bryson

Quarterbacks 1.

Josh Rosen, UCLA

2.

Josh Allen, Wyoming

3.

Sam Darnold, USC

4.

Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma

5.

Lamar Jackson, Louisville

Josh Rosen is the most polished QB of the group and NFL ready.

Josh Allen has a strong arm and all the intangibles.

Josh Allen

I think the sleeper in this draft is Danny Etling of LSU. He will be drafted late. I have heard rumors from scouts that say New England is looking at him.

Baker Mayfield

Running Backs 1.

Saquon Barkley, Penn State

2.

Derrius Guice, LSU

3.

Ronald Jones II, USC

4.

Royce Freeman, Oregon

5.

Nick Chubb , Georgia

Derrius Guice’s stock has fallen since the lack of production his Junior year after a lot of pre-season hype.

Look for Darrel Williams to rise in the draft after a stellar senior bowl appearance.

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Wide Receiver 1.

Calvin Ridley, Alabama

2.

DJ Moore, Maryland

3.

Christian Kirk, Texas A&M

4.

Courtland Sutton, SMU

5.

DJ Chark, LSU

Tight Ends

DJ Chark is a riser on several big boards right now after his 4.32 forty yard dash at the combine.

He had a great week at the senior bowl and has steadily impressed scouts.

1.

Dallas Goedert, South Dakota State

2.

Hayden Hurst, South Carolina

3.

Mark Andrews, Oklahoma

4.

Mike Gesicki, Penn State

5.

Troy Fumagalli, Wisconsin

Dallas Goedert is a very talented pass catching tight end with the ability to work all three levels of the field. His ball focus and ability to make the spectacular catch will excite the fans.

On the Up: Look for WR Shedrick Davis from Louisiana College to get a Free Agent deal this season and possibly make a NFL squad.

Offensive Tackles

Offensive Guards/Centers

1.

Orlando Brown, Oklahoma

1.

Quenton Nelson, Notre Dame

2.

Mike McGlinchey, Notre Dame

2.

James Daniels, Iowa

3.

Connor Williams, Texas

3.

Will Hernandez, UTEP

4.

Chukwuma Okorafor, Western Michigan

4.

Isaiah Wynn, Georgia

5.

Billy Price, Ohio State

5.

Martinas Rankin, Mississippi State

LSU has had its issues on offense, but you can't blame the play of Clapp, who starred at multiple positions before leaving a season early to play in the NFL. He started all 13 games at center in 2017, garnering first-team All-SEC notice. Clapp helped Leonard Fournette and Derrius Guice run all over defenses as a first-team allconference left guard in 11 games as a sophomore. The New Orleans native and four-star recruit started all 12 games (11 at right guard, one at left guard) for the Tigers as a redshirt freshman, receiving Freshman AllAmerican accolades from multiple outlets.

McGlinchey should become an early starter at either tackle position .

The first cousin of NFL quarterback Matt Ryan grew up living and breathing football in a family that loved the game. His hard work and passion paid off when garnering first-team all-state recognition in Pennsylvania, top 10 rankings in national offensive tackle recruiting circles, and a scholarship offer from Notre Dame. McGlinchey played in every game as a redshirt freshman, starting the team's Music City Bowl win over LSU at right tackle.

.

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Defensive Ends 1.

Bradley Chubb, N.C. State

2.

Marcus Davenport, UTSA

3.

Sam Hubbard, Ohio State

4.

Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, Oklahoma

5.

Arden Key, LSU

Once rated as a top 5 draft prospect, Arden Key has fallen on many teams draft boards after a less than spectacular Junior year.

However, every scout I have spo-

DT BJ Hill of North Carolina State sacks QB Kyle Lauletta from Richmond (FCS) at the Reese's Senior Bowl.

Defensive Tackles 1.

Maurice Hurst, Michigan

2.

Vita Vea, Washington

3.

Taven Bryan, Florida

4.

Da'Ron Payne, Alabama

5.

Derrick Nnadi, Florida State

Christian Lacouture is a hardhat defensive tackle who gives an honest effort each snap, and is talented as a run stopper or pass rusher. LaCouture has the size to compete for a backup role as a 3-4 defensive end in the NFL. Should be a premier Free Agent signing.

4744 Jamestown Ave, Ste 103 Baton Rouge, La 70808

(225) 328-0584 www.Jabez-bodyworks.com

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Outside Linebackers

Inside Linebackers

1. Tremaine Edmunds, Virginia Tech 2. Harold Landry, Boston College 3. Uchenna Nwosu, USC 4. Malik Jefferson, Texas 5. Kemoko Turay, Rutgers Texas' landing of Jefferson was seen as a turning point for the program, as he was the High School Butkus Award winner as the nation's top linebacker, as well as a Parade AllAmerican and top-20 overall recruit from Mesquite.

LB Leighton Vander Esch of Boise State at the University of Louisiana

Cornerbacks

1. Roquan Smith, Georgia 2. Leighton Vander Esch, Boise State 3. Rashaan Evans, Alabama 4. Micah Kiser, Virginia 5. Josey Jewell, Iowa One of the top high school recruits in the country, Smith stayed in his home state of Georgia to play football after being named the Class AA Defensive Player of the Year. Smith played in all 13 games, starting 10, and leading the Bulldogs with 95 tackles as a Senior.

Safeties

1. Denzel Ward, Ohio State 2. Mike Hughes, UCF 3. Josh Jackson, Iowa 4. Isaiah Oliver, Colorado 5. Jaire Alexander, Louisville

1. Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama 2. Derwin James, Florida State 3. Ronnie Harrison, Alabama 4. Marcus Allen, Penn State 5. Justin Reid, Stanford

Jackson has translated his exceptional speed into a successful collegiate career in track and football. Jackson's play on the football field is what really intrigues scouts. He played in all 12 games, starting once, as a true freshman. Jackson started 11 of 12 games in 2016, intercepting two passes, breaking up six others, and being credited with 39 tackles.

SEC coaches voted him second-team all-conference in 2017, as he started 12 of 13 games played.

It's easy to notice Reid on the field before being aware that his brother is former LSU All-American and NFL Pro Bowl safety Eric Reid, as his physical nature and athleticism pop out immediately. The all-state pick and four-star prospect from Louisiana played in 12 games as freshman, making 23 tackles, intercepting a pass, and breaking up one other as a reserve. Reid contributed in 13 games as a sophomore, starting 10 and earning honorable mention AllPac-12 honors

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Personal Tax Returns Business Tax Returns Notary Tax Strategies Business Planning Business Formation Bookkeeping

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By Traveon Anderson Alvin Kamara Offensive Rookie of The Year

The New Orleans Saints

Marshon Lattimore Defensive Rookie of The Year

2017 record: 11-5 Top needs: OL, QB, WR, TE

Top Prospects at position of need: OL: Braden Smith, Auburn; QB: Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma; WR: D.J. Moore, Maryland; TE: Mike Gesicki, Penn State Potential Louisiana player prospects: OL: Will Clap, LSU and Frank Sutton, Jr., Monroe; QB: Danny Etling, LSU; WR: Kent Shelby, McNeese St; TE: Foster Moreau, LSU Analysis: The New Orleans Saints are coming off a stellar season, even though they fell short to the Vikings in the playoffs. Offensively the Saints were juggernauts, and they used both Kamara and Ingram to their fullest potential. Michael Thomas showed that he was the number one target for Brees, however the Saints still need to find another wide receiver to compliment him. Tight End is also a position of need, seeing as though they are still trying to fill the gap that Jimmy Graham left. Defensively, the Saints need to bolster their defensive line by adding a premiere pass rusher, as well as adding more athletic linebackers to their already dominant core.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2010 Al Woods, LSU

2017 New Orleans Saints Draft Rd

Pk

1 2 3 6

Player

Position

College

11

Marshon Lattimore

CB

Ohio State

32

Ryan Ramczyk

OT

Wisconsin

42

Marcus Williams

FS

Utah

67

Alvin Kamara

RB

Tennessee

76

Alex Anzalone

OLB

Florida

103

Trey Hendrickson

DE

Florida Atlantic

196

Al-Quadin Muhammad

DE

Miami

Christian McCaffrey 1st Round Pick 2017

By Traveon Anderson

Carolina Panthers

2017 record: 11-5 Top needs: OL, DL, WR, S Top Prospects at position of need: OL: Austin Corbett, Nevada; DL: Taven Bryan, Florida; WR: Michael Gallup, Colorado State; SS: Armani Watts, Texas A&M Potential Louisiana player prospects: OL: Maea Teuhema, LSU; DL: Aaron Tiller, Southern; WR: DJ Chark, LSU, SS: Tracy Walker, Louisiana-Lafayette Analysis: The Carolina Panthers have the intangibles needed to be a great team, and their 2017 season showed this. Although the Panthers were able to achieve an 11 win season, they still show a need for a legitimate wide receiver. Devin Funchess, showed promise but his inconsistencies stop him from being a legitimate deep threat. Defensively, the Panthers need to improve their overall DB Core. They need to acquire a young player to learn under an aging Julius Peppers.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2016 Vernon Butler, La Tech; 2014 Trai Turner, LSU

2017 Carolina Panthers Draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

1

8

Christian McCaffrey

WR/RB

Stanford

40

Curtis Samuel

WR/RB

Ohio State

64

Taylor Moton

OT

Western Michigan

3

77

Daeshon Hall

DE

Texas A&M

5

152

Corn Elder

CB

Miami

6

192

Alexander Armah

FB/DE

West Georgia

7

233

Harrison Butker

K

Georgia Tech

2

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College

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By Traveon Anderson Takkarist McKinley 1st Round Pick 2017

Atlanta Falcons 2017 record: 10-6 ( Top needs: DL, WR, TE

Top Prospects at position of need: DL: Tim Settle, Virginia Tech and Chad Thomas, Miami (Fla.); WR: James Washington, Oklahoma State; TE: Troy Fumagalli, Wisconsin Potential Louisiana player prospects: DL: Ade Aruna, Tulane; WR: Kent Shelby, McNeese St, DJ Chark, LSU, and Shedrick Davis, Louisiana College ; TE: Foster Moreau, LSU Analysis: The Atlanta Falcons remained talented during the 2017 season even after a questionable, Super Bowl loss to the Patriots in 2016. The biggest concern the Falcons have in the offseason is at the wide receiver position. Even though they have a veteran wide receiver in Julio Jones, the departure of Taylor Gabriel leaves an opening at the position. They also need to replace Levine Toilolo, a tight end. Defensively, the Falcons should look to bolster their defensive line, with the addition of new defensive tackles and defensive ends.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2017 Duke Riley, LSU; 2016 Deion Jones, LSU

2017 Atlanta Falcons Draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

1

26

Takkarist McKinley

DE

UCLA

3

75

Duke Riley

LB

LSU

4

136

Sean Harlow

G

Oregon State

5

149

Damontae Kazee

S

San Diego State

5

156

Brian Hill

RB

Wyoming

5

174

Eric Saubert

TE

Drake

By Traveon Anderson Kendell Beckwith 3rd Round Pick 2017

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2017 record: 5-11 Top needs: Defensive Linemen, Cornerback, Running back, Safety Top Prospects at position of need: DL: Maurice Hurst, Michigan and Bradley Chubb, NC State; CB: Mike Hughes, Central Florida; RB: Sony Michel, Georgia; S: Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama Potential Louisiana player prospects: DL: Ade Aruna, Tulane; CB: Parry Nickerson, Tulane; RB: Martez Carter, Grambling; S: Secdrick Cooper, La Tech Analysis: Tampa Bay saw the departure of their stellar running back Doug Martin, so this position becomes a must need for the Bucs. This should be their number one priority seeing as though Martin will be difficult to replace. Defensively, the Bucs should look to add more depth at cornerback, even with acquisition of Brent Grimes. The defensive lineman could also use a major overhaul.

The Bucs finished last in sacks during the 2017 season, so they should look to improve this statistic by adding a premiere pass rusher.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2015 Kwon Alexander, LSU; 2017 Kendall Beckwith, LSU

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2017 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

1

19

O.J. Howard

TE

Alabama

2

50

Justin Evans

S

Texas A&M

3

84

Chris Godwin

WR

Penn State

3

107

Kendell Beckwith

LB

LSU

5

162

Jeremy McNichols

RB

Boise State

7

223

Stevie Tu'ikolovatu

DT

USC

15

By Traveon Anderson

Xavier Woods 6th Round Pick 2017

Dallas Cowboys 2017 record: 9-7 Top needs: OL, DL, WR, LB Top Prospects at position of need: OL: Mike McGlinchey, Notre Dame; DL: Nathan Shepherd, Fort Hays State; WR: DaeSean Hamilton, Penn State; LB: Harold Landry, Boston College Potential Louisiana player prospects: OL: Will Clap, LSU; DL: Arden Key and Christian LaCouture, LSU; LB: Donnie Alexander, LSU Analysis: The Dallas Cowboys 2017 season did not mirror the potential that we saw in 2016. They struggled with numerous injuries to notable players, as well as off the field distractions. Offensively, they should look to add more depth to their wide receiver core, seeing as though Dez Bryant’s production saw a dramatic decrease. Along with the acquisition of new wide receivers, the Cowboys should look to add more quality guards and tackles to their offensive line. Defensively, the linebacker core struggles with depth, and with Sean Lee returning from injury, the overall health of the defense may be a concern.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2012 Morris Claiborne, LSU and Dak Prescott, Mississippi State

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2017 Dallas Cowboys draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

1

28

Taco Charlton

DE

Michigan

2

60

Chidobe Awuzie

CB

Colorado

3

92

Jourdan Lewis

CB

Michigan

4

133

Ryan Switzer

WR

North Carolina

6

191

Xavier Woods

S

La. Tech

6

216

Marquez White

CB

Florida State

7

228

Joey Ivie

DT

Florida

7

239

Noah Brown

WR

Ohio State

7

246

Jordan Carrell

DE

Colorado

16

By Traveon Anderson Evan Engram 1st Round Pick 2017

New York Giants 2017 record: 3-13 Top needs: QB, OL, RB, DL Top Prospects at position of need: QB: Josh Rosen, Wyoming; OL: Kolton Miller UCLA and Quenton Nelson, Notre Dame; RB: Saquon Barkley, Penn State; DL: Da'Ron Payne, Alabama and Bradley Chubb, NC State Potential Louisiana player prospects: QB: Devante Kincade, Grambling; OL: Will Clap, LSU; RB: Derrius Guice, LSU; DL: Arden Key, LSU Analysis: The New York Giants are coming off a disastrous 2017 season. This lackluster performance raised numerous question marks at some of their most notable positions.

Offensively, the Giants struggled to maintain a credible offensive line, and with Justin Pugh and D.J. Fluker becoming free agents, this should be their number one concern.

Along with a faltering line, the Giants showed great difficulty at the quarterback position. Eli Manning and Geno Smith struggled to get the offense at its peak. Eli’s days are numbered in New York, so finding his successor is off the utmost importance. Defensively, the line needs more depth, especially with the departure of Jason Pierre-Paul.

2017 New York Giants Draft Rd

Pk

Player

1

23

Evan Engram

TE

Ole Miss

2

55

Dalvin Tomlinson

DT

Alabama

3

87

Davis Webb

QB

California

4

140

Wayne Gallman

RB

Clemson

5

167

Avery Moss

DE

Youngstown State

200

Adam Bisnowaty

OT

Pittsburgh

6

Past Louisiana draftees: 2015 Landon Collins, Alabama; 2014 Odell Beckham, Jr.

Position

College

By Traveon Anderson

Washington Redskins Jonathan Allen 1st Round Pick 2017

2017 record: 7-9

Top needs: DL, QB, RB, LB Top Prospects at position of need: DL: Maurice Hurst, Michigan and Bradley Chubb, NC State; QB: Lamar Jackson, Louisville; RB: Nick Chubb, Georgia; LB: Rashaan Evans, Alabama Potential Louisiana player prospects: DL: Aaron Tiller Southern; QB: Danny Etling, LSU; RB: Darrel Williams, LSU; LB: Sione Teuhema, Southeastern

Analysis: The Washington Redskins determined that the quarterback position was mediocre at best, so they acquired Alex Smith to fill this role. Although Alex Smith is a legitimate first string quarterback, the Redskins should look to find his successor soon. Defense is the number one priority of the Redskins in the offseason. The cornerback positions is up for grabs, with the departure of Kendall Fuller. This need at cornerback should be taken into high consideration during this offseason. They also could benefit from the addition of a run stopper seeing as though their defensive line is somewhat weak.

2017 Washington Redskins Draft Rd

Pk

Player

1

17

Jonathan Allen

DE

Alabama

2

49

Ryan Anderson

LB

Alabama

3

81

Fabian Moreau

CB

UCLA

114

Samaje Perine

RB

Oklahoma

123

Montae Nicholson

S

Washington

154

Jeremy Sprinkle

TE

Arkansas

199

Chase Roullier

C

Wyoming

209

Robert Davis

WR

Georgia State

230

Josh Harvey-Clemons

S

Louisville

235

Joshua Holsey

CB

Auburn

4 5 6

7

Position

College

Past Louisiana draftees: 2015 Deshazor Everett, Texas A&M

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By Traveon Anderson Derek Barnett 1st Round Pick 2017

Philadelphia Eagles 2017 record: 13-3

Top needs: Linebacker, Wide Receiver, Running Back, Tight End Top Prospects at position of need: LB: Oren Burks, Vanderbilt and Uchenna Nwosu, USC; WR: Michael Gallup, Colorado State; TE: Tyler Conklin, Central Michigan Potential Louisiana player prospects: LB: Donnie Alexander, LSU; RB: Martez Carter, Grambling; TE: Foster Moreau; WR: Kent Shelby, McNeese, St.

2017 Philadelphia Eagles draft

Analysis: The Philadelphia Eagles made history during their 2017 season, by claiming a Super Bowl victory. Although they are the best team in the league, they do have some major holes to fill in the upcoming offseason. Defensively, linebackers such as Jordan Hicks struggled with injuries, so depth at his position is a must. The re-signing of Nigel Bradham, does give their linebacker core promise, but they should still look to improve this area. Offensively, the Eagles should look to replace tight end, Trey Burton, as well as add more depth to their overall wide receiver core.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2016 Jalen Mills, LSU; 2013 Bennie Logan, LSU

Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

1

14

Derek Barnett

DE

Tennessee

2

43

Sidney Jones

CB

Washington

3

99

Rasul Douglas

CB

West Virginia

4

118

Mack Hollins

WR

North Carolina

4

132

Donnel Pumphrey

RB

San Diego St

5

166

Shelton Gibson

WR

West Virginia

5

184

Nathan Gerry

LB

Nebraska

6

214

Elijah Qualls

DT

Washington

By Traveon Anderson

Seattle Seahawks 2017 record: 9-7 Top needs: Offensive Linemen, Cornerback, Tight End, Defensive Lineman Top Prospects at position of need: OL: Cole Madison, Washington State; DL: Derrick Nnadi, Florida State; TE: Dallas Goedert, South Dakota State; CB: Anthony Averett, Alabama Potential Louisiana player prospects: OL: Trenton Scott, Grambling; DL: Aaron Tiller, Southern; CB: Donte Jackson, LSU; TE: Foster Moreau, LSU Analysis: The Seattle Seahawks remained inconsistent during the 2017 season, and this inconsistency showed with their lack of an offensive line. Seattle’s poor line, should be a number one priority in the offseason. By improving this area, the Seahawks hope to get a consistent run game. This lack of credible line put more pressure on Russell Wilson, as well as their numerous running backs, to overcompensate for them. The Seahawks also lack depth at tight end, and with the departure of Jimmy Graham they should look to fill the void left by him. Defensively, the biggest concern arises at the cornerback position. Richard Sherman, was lost to free agency so filling his role may be hard to do.

Ethan Pocic 2nd Round Pick 2017 2017 Seattle Seahawks Draft Rd 2

3

4 6

7

Past Louisiana draftees: 2017 Ethan Pocic

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Pk

Player

Position

College

35

Malik McDowell

DT

Michigan State

58

Ethan Pocic

C

LSU

90

Shaquill Griffin

CB

Central Florida

95

Delano Hill

S

Michigan

102

Nazair Jones

DT

North Carolina

106

Amara Darboh

WR

Michigan

111

Tedric Thompson

S

Colorado

187

Mike Tyson

S

Cincinnati

210

Justin Senior

OT

Mississippi State

226

David Moore

WR

East Central

249

Chris Carson

RB

Oklahoma State

18

By Traveon Anderson Chad Williams 3rd Round Pick 2017

Arizona Cardinals 2017 record: 8-8 Top needs: Offensive Linemen, Quarterback, Wide receiver and Defensive Backs Top Prospects at position of need: OL: Austin Corbett, Nevada; CB: M.J. Stewart, North Carolina; QB: Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma; WR: Dante Pettis, Washington Potential Louisiana player prospects: OL: Trenton Scott, Grambling; CB: Tracy Walker, Lafayette; QB: Devante Kincade, Grambling; WR: Kent Shelby, McNeese St.

2017 Arizona Cardinals Draft

Analysis: The Arizona Cardinals are in somewhat of a rebuilding stage after their Rd 2017 season. The acquisition of Sam Bradford in the offseason fills their need at 1 quarterback, but they should still look to increase their overall depth at the positon.

2 Along with acquiring another quarterback, they should look to optimize their offen3 sive by adding a new dominant wide receiver to their lineup. Larry Fitzgerald’s star 4 studded career is coming to end, and replacing the talent that he brought to team is a must. Defensively, the Cardinals should look to replace Tyrann Mathieu, which they 5 lost during the free agency period.

5 6

Past Louisiana draftees: ‘13 Tyrann Mathieu, Kevin Minter, LSU; ‘11 Patrick Peterson

Pk

Player

Position

College

13

Haason Reddick

LB

Temple

36

Budda Baker

S

Washington

98

Chad Williams

WR

Grambling St

120

Dorian Johnson

OG

Pittsburgh

157

Will Holden

OT

Vanderbilt

179

T.J. Logan

RB

North Carolina

208

Johnathan Ford

S

Auburn

By Traveon Anderson

San Francisco 49ers 2017 record: 6-10 Trent Taylor 5th Round Pick 2017

Top needs: OG, CB, WR, DL Top Prospects at position of need: OG: Isaiah Wynn, Georgia; CB: Denzel Ward, Ohio State; WR: Calvin Ridley, Alabama; DL: Marcus Davenport, Texas (San Antonio) Potential Louisiana player prospects: OG: Trenton Scott, Grambling; CB: Donte Jackson, LSU; WR: DJ Chark, LSU; DL: Ade Aruna, Tulane Analysis: The San Francisco 49ers struggled during the 2017 season, but Jimmy Garoppolo gave them needed production towards the latter half of the season.

Garoppolo proved his legitimacy as a center piece of the 49ers offensive, and they should look to build around him in the offseason. Offensively, they need to add depth to their wide receiver core, as well as a find a consistent stellar receiver. Offensive Guard is also a position of need seeing as their pass protection is lack-luster. Defensively, the 49ers struggled to agitate opposing quarterbacks which led to them finishing 26th in the league in sacks. Richard Sherman’s departure also left a gap at cornerback, which they should look to fill.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2016 QB Jeff Driskel, La Tech; CB Rashard Robinson, LSU; 2013: S Eric Reid, LSU

2017 San Francisco 49ers Draft Rd 1 3 4 5 6 7

Pk

Player

Position

College

3

Solomon Thomas

Defensive end

Stanford

31

Reuben Foster

Linebacker

Alabama

66

Ahkello Witherspoon

Cornerback

Colorado

104

C. J. Beathard

Quarterback

Iowa

121

Joe Williams

Running back

Utah

146

George Kittle

Tight end

Iowa

177

Trent Taylor

Wide receiver

La Tech

198

D.J. Jones

Defensive tackle

Ole Miss

202

Pita Taumoepenu

Defensive end

Utah

229

Adrian Colbert

Cornerback

Miami (FL)

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19

Gerald Everett 1st Round Pick 2017

By Traveon Anderson

Los Angeles Rams 2017 record: 11-5

Top needs: Offensive Linemen, Defensive Lineman, Wide Receiver, Linebacker Top Prospects at position of need: OL: Wyatt Teller, Virginia Tech; DL: Deadrin Senat, South Florida; WR: DaeSean Hamilton, Penn State; LB: Darius Leonard, South Carolina State Potential Louisiana player prospects: OL: Toby Weathersby, LSU; DL: Ade Aruna, Tulane; LB: Donnie Alexander, LSU; WR: Kent Shelby, McNeese St.

Analysis: The Los Angeles Rams are coming off of a wonderful 2017 season, which raised questions on how the team could actually get better. They made a deep playoff run, behind a star studded offense and defense. Offensively the Rams should acquire more interior lineman to solidify their offensive line. Wide Receiver is also a positions of need now, seeing as though Sammy Watkins is no longer on the team. Defensively, the Rams could use more edge rushers, as well as a new linebacker to fill the role that Alec Ogletree left.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2017 Tanzel Smart, Tulane

2017 Los Angeles Rams draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

2

44

Gerald Everett

TE

South Alabama

3

69

Cooper Kupp

WR

Eastern Washington

3

91

John Johnson

S

Boston College

4

117

Josh Reynolds

WR

Texas A&M

4

125

Samson Ebukam

LB

Eastern Washington

6

189

Tanzel Smart

DT

Tulane

6

206

Sam Rogers

FB

Virginia Tech

7

234

Ejuan Price

DE

Pittsburgh

By Traveon Anderson Green Bay Packers 2017 record: 7-9

Top needs: Defensive Linemen, Defensive backs, Wide Receivers, Linebacker Top Prospects at position of need: DL: Maurice Hurst, Michigan and Bradley Chubb, NC State; DB: Carlton Davis, Auburn; WR: Christian Kirk, Texas A&M; LB: Josey Jewell, Iowa

Malachi Dupre 7th Round Pick 2017 2017 Green Bay Packers Draft Rd

Potential Louisiana player prospects: DL: Greg Gilmore, LSU; DB: Donte Jackson, LSU; WR: Shedrick Davis, Louisiana College; LB: Donnie Alexander, LSU

Analysis: The words injury and Packers became synonymous during the 2017 season.

An early injury suffered by Aaron Rodgers, caused the offensive to sputter, and it never picked up. Rodgers should be healthy for the 2018 season, and the Packers should look to equip him with new and young weapons at the wide receiver position. Jordy Nelson leaving leaves a role to fill at wide receiver with his departure to Oakland, and Randall Cobb is aging and his production shows it. Defensively, the Packers need a complete overhaul as positions such as cornerback and safety. Green Bay could also look to improve their defensive line with the acquisition of an efficient edge rusher.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2017 Malachi Dupri, LSU

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3 4 5 6

7

Pk

Player

Position

College

33

Kevin King

CB

Washington

61

Josh Jones

S

NC State

93

Montravius Adams

DT

Auburn

108

Vince Biegel

OLB

Wisconsin

134

Jamaal Williams

RB

BYU

175

DeAngelo Yancey

WR

Purdue

182

Aaron Jones

RB

UTEP

212

Kofi Amichia

G

South Florida

238

Devante Mays

RB

Utah State

247

Malachi Dupre

WR

LSU

20

By Traveon Anderson

Mitchell Trubisky1st Round Pick 2017

Chicago Bears 2017 record: 5-11 Top needs: Offensive Linemen, Cornerback, Edge Rusher and Defensive linemen Top Prospects at position of need: OL: Orlando Brown, Oklahoma; CB: Josh Jackson, Iowa; Edge: Sam Hubbard, Ohio State; DL: Vita Vea, Washington Potential Louisiana player prospects: DL: Aaron Tiller, Southern; OL: Frank Sutton, Monroe; CB: Parry Nickerson, Tulane; Arden Key, LSU Analysis: The Chicago Bears are looking to improve their defense at notable positions during the offseason. Prince Amukamara and Kyle Fuller showed their dominance last season, however the Bears still lack a legitimate third cornerback.

Rd Along with the acquisition of another cornerback, the Bears should look to en1 hance their pass rush ability by adding a premiere edge rusher to their lineup.

2 Linebacker is somewhat of a concern as well, and they should look to compliment Leonard Floyd. Offensively, their depth at wide receiver does raise a few 4 red flags, and their need to replace Josh Sitton is a top priority.

5

Past Louisiana draftees: 2014 Ego Ferguson , LSU

2017 Chicago Bears Draft Pk

Player

Position

College

2

Mitchell Trubisky

QB

North Carolina

45

Adam Shaheen

TE

Ashland

112

Eddie Jackson

S

Alabama

119

Tarik Cohen

RB

North Carolina A&T

147

Jordan Morgan

G

Kutztown

By Traveon Anderson

Detroit Lions

Jarrad Davis1st Round Pick 2017

2017 record: 9-7 Top needs: Offensive Linemen, Defensive Line and Running Back Top Prospects at position of need: OL: Will Hernandez, UTEP; DL: Tyquan Lewis, Ohio State and Andrew Brown, Virginia; RB: Royce Freeman, Oregon Potential Louisiana player prospects: OL: Will Clap, LSU; DL: Ade Aruna, Tulane; RB: Derrius Guice, LSU

Analysis: The Detroit Lions are starting brand new this season with the naming of their new HC Matt Patricia. This was one of their biggest concerns, but with this gap filled more time can be focused on revamping the offense and defense.

Offensively, the Lions ranked last in rushing yards during their 2017 season and this was due to the fact that running back play was mediocre at best. This lack of rushing yards can also stem from their lack of an offensive line, which is an area that needs their utmost attention. Defensively, the Lions need more interior help, even with the resigning of Ezekiel Ansah.

Past Louisiana draftees: 2012 Dwight Bentley, Louisiana Lafayette

2017 Detroit Lions Draft Rd

Pk

1

21

Jarrad Davis

LB

Florida

2

53

Teez Tabor

CB

Florida

3

96

Kenny Golladay

WR

Northern Illinois

124

Jalen Reeves-Maybin

LB

Tennessee

127

Michael Roberts

TE

Toledo

165

Jamal Agnew

CB

San Diego

205

Jeremiah Ledbetter

DE

Arkansas

215

Brad Kaaya

QB

Miami

250

Pat O'Connor

DE

Eastern Michigan

4 5 6 7

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Player

Position

College

21

Communication, Focus, and a Will to Win:

J'Mar Smith J’Mar Smith is the starting quarterback for the LA Tech Bulldogs. Last season as a RS sophomore he completed 56% of his passes and threw for almost 3,000 yards, with 16 touchdowns. While adding another 371 yards on the ground and six rushing TDs as well. J’Mar is a proven leader and it showed this season during La Tech’s bowl game appearance against SMU. La Tech went on to beat SMU in a lopsided affair 51-10, with J’Mar throwing for 3 TDs and 216 yards.

When did you start playing football?

I think I was in the fifth grade; I’ve been playing sports all my life. Started when I was about four years old. Baseball of course, because that’s usually what everybody starts with at first. My dad, he played football so it kind-off branched off on me a little bit. The weird thing is people don’t know I played defense when I first started, and just up and played quarterback my ninth grade year when the head coach saw me throwing the ball around and he told me to come try out for quarterback. That was the last time I saw the defense.

What is your main reason for playing football?

It’s an intense and exciting game. There is nothing like going to an away venue and just playing on the road and playing against an opponent that you’re capable of beating. Seeing the sad faces in the crowd when you win. The tight and intense moments that come down to the two minute warning in the fourth quarter or the two minute warning at half time.

Being in close games, being able to communicate with your teammates, and playing for something bigger than yourself.

How do you think your season went this year?

There were a lot of ups and downs, but I think those tough moments

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build character. As a team we went through a lot, we’ve fought through a lot of adversity, and we’ve gone through a lot of struggles. We had a couple of close games this season, but we’ve learned from them and we understand what we have to do this off -season just to push ourselves just to say we won’t settle for a one point game or those losses we went through. We have to finish every drive we start, and have to be there for each other in those tight moments.

What style of play best describes you?

I’m just an open person, a humble kid, from Meridian, MS. Just trying to go out there and do the best I can. Just try to do my job and do what I’m coached to do, and just try to lead, to communicate with people and just to say I’m there for you whenever you need somebody. If somebody is having a bad day just to be there for them, and bring a positive energy to anyone or a team. I just try to be there for people, basically.

What is one area of the game you think you excel at?

I think communicating, and I think trying to make a bad situation into a good situation whenever we are in one. I know sometimes I try to calm myself down whenever there’s a bad situation going on or we’re in a bad spot. I just try to go out there and focus on what

was taught, what my drills that we do in the off-season, and during practice that week. Just go out there and take it out on the field. You won’t mess up if you just give it everything you got.

You have to go out there and play ball and have fun at the moment.

What was one thing you worked on during the season?

There were definitely things throughout the week, I know me and Coach Rattay did a lot of stuff, from film room from just the pass game, and then looking at it on Sunday. Then, during the week we’d figure out what I need to work on, and it was many things like ball placement, a base when I’m throwing, timing, understanding a defense a little more, making the right calls, not making too many checks, getting out of a bad situation to a safe situation, and just different stuff like that during the week.

Throughout the season that me and Coach Rattay worked on to I

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critiquing myself, while making new goals for this next season and go into the off-season with a new mindset.

Do things seem to be slowing down for you since you’ve been in the offense for a while?

I would say it has slowed down a little bit, just because I’ve looked at the offense for almost four years now. So I kind of know the play calls, and know what I have to do, and just doing my job, basically.

That’s the thing I’m trying to get better at, knowing my job to the fullest, knowing the offense to the fullest, and when I know those to the fullest I think I can go out there more comfortable, and more prepared, and go out there to play to the highest level.

What’s your favorite offense to run?

Air raid type offense, the offense that we really run. We have a lot of options, we have a lot of people on our offense that can make plays and I really enjoy that. Coming out to practice you just look around before you take a snap and you just look at the receivers that we have, the tight ends that we have, the running backs that we have, and the skilled linemen that we have. Just go out there and to know that you have many options to throw the ball to or hand the ball off to.

Tell me a little bit about your 51-10 Bowl win against SMU

We had a game plan, just knowing that we were battling against their offense. They had a top 10 offense, so we knew that when we improve my game just a step further to what I’m trying to accom- didn’t score they probably had a high chance of scoring based on plish. the stats and everything. But I had a lot of confidence in my teammates, and our defense. They did a heck of a job. To have all the Speaking of which, what are some of your biggest accomplishturnovers, and all the stops, and then, our offense, we moved the ments? ball. We got our opportunity, we had our shots whenever we were The Offensive MVP award I got for the bowl game was one of the called on, and we just attacked them the best way we could. The biggest, biggest in college that I have so far. That’s a big thing for score proved itself, it was a great game and a great day. me, Offensive MVP. I’ve been on championship teams, for baseball, but that’s one of the biggest ones I have right now. But I’m working, and pushing myself to be acknowledged more.

Did you set any goals this previous season, and did you meet all of them?

I didn’t meet the ones that I wanted to, but those are just personal goals. I really haven’t talked about it to anybody. But I haven’t reached all of them that I wanted to reach; I reached some of them. But, I have a lot to prove, I have a lot to do with myself. Just go out there, and make sure I know what I have to do, to do those goals that I have set for myself.

Now that the season is over do you go back to your goals list and look at what you didn’t accomplish and do you set this as a priority for next season, or are you setting new goals?

The goals I had for last year are in the past, I can’t do anything about that. I can look and reflect on them. But, now it’s just forgetting about last season, but look at the stuff I did wrong and

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By Traveon Anderson

Minnesota Vikings 2017 record: 13-3 (

Top needs: Offensive Linemen, Cornerback, Tight End Top Prospects at position of need: OL: Isaiah Wynn, Georgia and Martinas Rankin, Mississippi State; CB: Denzel Ward, Ohio State; TE: Dallas Goedert, South Dakota State Potential Louisiana player prospects: OL: Trenton Scott, Grambling and Frank Sutton, Jr., Monroe; CB: Donte Jackson, LSU; TE: Foster Moreau

Analysis: The Minnesota Vikings proved that they were a legitimate team during the 2017 season. They made a deep playoff run, led by Case Keenum, however they decided to invest in Kirk Cousins as their quarterback of the future.

Offensively, the line needs to be improved greatly with addition of new guards and tackles. TE is also a concern, and they could use another premiere playmaker to line up next to Kyle Rudolph. Defensively, the acquisition of a new cornerback is a must with Terrance Newman aging and testing the free agent market.

Dalvin Cook 2nd Round Pick 2017

2017 Minnesota Vikings draft Rd

Pk

2

41

Dalvin Cook

RB

Florida State

3

70

Pat Elflein

C

Ohio State

109

Jaleel Johnson

DT

Iowa

120

Ben Gedeon

LB

Michigan

170

Rodney Adams

WR

USF

180

Danny Isidora

G

Miami

201

Bucky Hodges

TE

Virginia Tech

219

Stacy Coley

WR

Miami

220

Ifeadi Odenigbo

DE

Northwestern

232

Elijah Lee

LB

Kansas State

245

Jack Tocho

CB

N.C. State

4 5 6

7

Past Louisiana draftees: 2015 Danielle Hunter, LSU

www.LouisianaGridironFootball.com

Player name

Position

College

30

Tre'Davious White 1st Round Pick 2017

By: Josh Sibley

Buffalo Bills 2017 Record: 9-7 Top Needs: Quarterback, Offensive Lineman (OG), Linebacker (OLB) Top Prospect at Position of Need: QB: Sam Darnold USC, Josh Rosen UCLA; OG: Quenton Nelson ND, Billy Price OSU; LB: Roquan Smith UGA, Rashaan Evans, Alabama Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: Quarterback Tanner Lee Nebraska (New Orleans, LA), OG Will Clapp LSU, OLB Sione Teuhema SLU Analysis: Even with the signing of quarterback AJ McCarron, the Bills shouldn’t be deterred from picking a QB early. With the loss of C Eric Wood to retirement and Cordy Glenn to free agency the Bills will make offensive line a priority as well.

Past Louisiana Draftees: 2017 CB Tre’Davious White LSU

2017 Buffalo Bills draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

1

27

Tre'Davious White

CB

LSU

2

37

Zay Jones

WR

East Carolina

2

63

Dion Dawkins

G

Temple

5

163

Matt Milano

LB

Boston College

5

171

Nathan Peterman

QB

Pittsburgh

6

195

Tanner Vallejo

LB

Boise State

By: Josh Sibley

Miami Dolphins 2017 Record: 6-10 Top Needs: Linebacker (OLB), Tight End, Defensive Lineman (DT) Charles Harris 1st Round Pick 2017

Top Prospect at Position of Need: OLB: Tremaine Edmunds VT, Jerome Baker OSU; TE: Hayden Hurst S.Car, Mark Andrews OU; DT: Vita Vea UW, Da’Ron Payne Alabama

2017 Miami Dolphins Draft

Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: OLB Sione Teuhema SLU, DT Greg Gilmore LSU

Rd

Pk

1

22

Charles Harris

DE

Missouri

Analysis: With Raekwon McMillan making his debut after having surgery for an ACL tear, help at the OLB position is needed. The Dolphins took a chance with Julius Thomas in the 2017 season but recently released him so look for tight end to be a position of need as well. With the departure of Ndamukong Suh the Dolphins will most likely look to add depth at the defensive tackle position.

2

54

Raekwon McMillan

OLB

Ohio State

3

97

Cordrea Tankersley

CB

Clemson

5

164

Isaac Asiata

G

Utah

5

178

Davon Godchaux

DT

LSU

6

194

Vincent Taylor

DT

Oklahoma State

7

237

Isaiah Ford

WR

Virginia Tech

Past Louisiana Draftees: 2017 DT Davon Godchaux LSU

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Player

Position

College

31

By: Josh Sibley

Deatrich Wise Jr. 3rd Round Pick 2017

New England Patriots 2017 Record: 13-3

Top Needs: Quarterback, Defensive back (CB), Linebacker (Edge), Offensive Lineman (OT) Top Prospect at Position of Need: QB: Sam Darnold USC, Josh Rosen UCLA; CB: Denzel Ward OSU, Joshua Jackson Iowa; Edge: Marcus Davenport UTSA, Arden Key LSU; OT: Mike McGlinchey ND, Isiah Wynn UGA Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: Quarterback Tanner Lee Nebraska (New Orleans, LA), CB Donte Jackson, Edge Arden Key, OT Toby Weathersby LSU Analysis: Trading away both Jimmy Garoppolo and Jacoby Brissett last year, the Patriots should make finding a new quarterback that they can groom behind Tom Brady, a priority. With the loss of Malcolm Butler the Patriots will look to add more depth at the corner position, possibly a DB who can play both the Corner and Safety position, due to Coach Belichicks’ love of versatile defenders. Nate Solder signing with the Giants and Tom Brady’s age mean that better pass protection are a must. Look for the Patriots to add some depth at the offensive tackle position. Adding competition at outside linebacker is a possibility on defense.

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2017 New England Patriots draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

3

83

Derek Rivers

OLB

Youngstown St

3

85

Antonio Garcia

OT

Troy

4

131

Deatrich Wise Jr.

DE

Arkansas

6

211

Conor McDermott

OT

UCLA

32

Jamal Adams 1st Round Pick 2017

By: Josh Sibley

New York Jets 2017 Record: 5-11 Top Needs: Quarterback, Offensive Line (OT), Defensive Line (DT), Linebacker (Edge) 2017 New York Jets Draft Round

Top Prospect at Position of Need: QB: Sam Darnold USC, Josh Rosen UCLA, OT: Mike McGlinchey ND, Isiah Wynn UGA, DT: Vita Vea UW, Da’Ron Payne Alabama, Edge: Marcus Davenport UTSA, Arden Key LSU

Rd

Pk

1

6

Jamal Adams

S

LSU

Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: QB Tanner Lee Nebraska (New Orleans, LA), OT Toby Weathersby LSU, DT Greg Gilmore LSU, Edge Arden Key LSU

2

39

Marcus Maye

S

Florida

3

79

ArDarius Stewart

WR

Alabama

Analysis: The re-signing of Josh McCown and recent signing of Teddy Bridgewater might not be it for QB needs in 2018 for the Jets. Especially since their recent trade up to the number three overall spot with the Colts. Offensive tackle should be a position looked at closely, especially with the possibility of drafting a franchise QB. Pass rushers are what will make or break any defense and should always be addressed for added depth.

4

141

Chad Hansen

WR

California

150

Jordan Leggett

TE

Clemson

181

Dylan Donahue

DE

West Georgia

188

Elijah McGuire

RB

Louisiana–Lafayette

197

Jeremy Clark

CB

Michigan

204

Derrick Jones

CB

Ole Miss

5

6

Past Louisiana Draftees: 2017 S Jamal Adams LSU, RB Elijah McGuire ULL

Player

Position

College

Marlon Humphrey 1st Round Pick 2017

By: Josh Sibley

Baltimore Ravens 2017 Record: 9-7 Top Needs: Wide Receiver, Defensive Line (DE), Tight End

Top Prospect at Position of Need: WR: Calvin Ridley Alabama, Courtland Sutton SMU, DE: Bradley Chubb NC St., Sam Hubbard OSU, TE: Hayden Hurst S. Car, Mark Andrews OU

2017 Baltimore Ravens draft

Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: WR: DJ Chark LSU, DE: Ade Aruna Rd Tulane Analysis: Even after the recent signing of Michael Crabtree, the Ravens should still be looking to draft a wide receiver for quarterback Joe Flacco. A run stopping defensive end would go great in the Ravens 3-4 defensive scheme. They could also be looking to add a big play type tight end to the mix.

Pk

Player

Position

College

1

16

Marlon Humphrey

CB

Alabama

2

47

Tyus Bowser

OLB

Houston

3

74

Chris Wormley

DE

Michigan

3

78

Tim Williams

OLB

Alabama

4

122

Nico Siragusa

G

San Diego State

5

159

Jermaine Eluemunor

OT

Texas A&M

6

186

Chuck Clark

S

Virginia Tech

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By: Josh Sibley

Cincinatti Bengals

John Ross 1st Round Draft Pick 2017

2017 Record: 7-9

2017 Cincinnati Bengals Draft

Top Needs: Offensive Line (OG) (C), Linebacker (ILB), Defensive Back (S)

Top Prospect at Position of Need: OG: Quenton Nelson ND, Will Hernandez UTEP; C: Billy Price OSU, Isiah Wynn UGA; ILB: Roquan Smith UGA, Rashaan Evans Alabama; S: Minkah Fitzpatrick Alabama, Derwin James FSU Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: OG: Frank Sutton Jr. ULM; C: Will Clapp LSU; ILB: Kenny Young UCLA (New Orleans, LA); S: Justin Reid Stanford Univ. (Prairieville, LA)

Rd

Pk

1

9

John Ross

WR

Washington

2

48

Joe Mixon

RB

Oklahoma

3

73

Jordan Willis

DE

Kansas State

116

Carl Lawson

DE

Auburn

128

Josh Malone

WR

Tennessee

138

Ryan Glasgow

DT

Michigan

153

Jake Elliott

K

Memphis

176

J. J. Dielman

C

Utah

193

Jordan Evans

LB

Oklahoma

207

Brandon Wilson

CB

Houston

251

Mason Schreck

TE

Buffalo

4

Analysis: The trade for OG Cordy Glenn from the Bills looks good, but he could have health concerns further along into the season. The Bengals should look to shore up the interior of the offensive line. They need to get some speed back at linebacker and a hard hitting safety would fit nicely into their defense.

5 6 7

Player

Position

College

Myles Garrett #1 overall Pick 2017 Draft

By: Josh Sibley

Cleveland Browns 2017 Record: 0-16 Top Needs: Quarterback, Running Back, Defensive Line (DT), Offensive Line (OT) Top Prospect at Position of Need: QB: Sam Darnold USC, Josh Rosen UCLA; Rd RB: Saquon Barkley Penn St., Sony Michel UGA; DT: Vita Vea UW, Da’Ron Payne Alabama; OT: Mike McGlinchey ND, Isiah Wynn UGA Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: QB: Tanner Lee Nebraska (New Orleans, LA); RB: Derrius Guice LSU; DT: Greg Gilmore LSU; OT: Toby Weathersby Analysis: The Browns have made it clear that Tyrod Taylor will be the starting QB in the 2018 season, but that doesn’t mean they won’t pick a quarterback with either the 1 or 4 overall picks in 2018. Cleveland has also added some other pieces to the secondary this off-season including a trade with Green Bay for safety Damarious Randall. This will likely continue with the draft and free agency. Joe Thomas retiring leaves a huge gap for the Browns to fill at the Tackle position, even after adding Chris Hubbard. st

th

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2017 Cleveland Browns Draft Pk

Player

Position

College

1

Myles Garrett

DE

Texas A&M

25

Jabrill Peppers

S

Michigan

29

David Njoku

TE

Miami

2

52

DeShone Kizer

QB

Notre Dame

3

65

Larry Ogunjobi

DT

Charlotte

4

126

Howard Wilson

CB

Houston

5

160

Roderick Johnson

OT

Florida State

6

185

Caleb Brantley

DT

Florida

224

Zane Gonzalez

K

Arizona State

252

Matt Dayes

RB

NC State

1

7

34

By: Josh Sibley T.J. Watt 1st Round Pick 2017

Pittsburgh Steelers 2017 Record: 13-3 Top Needs: Linebacker (ILB), Defensive Back (S), Linebacker (Edge) Top Prospect at Position of Need: ILB: Roquan Smith UGA, Rashaan Evans Alabama; OLB: Marcus Davenport UTSA, Arden Key LSU; S: Minkah Fitzpatrick Alabama, Derwin James FSU

2017 Pittsburgh Steelers Draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

1

30

T.J. Watt

LB

Wisconsin

2

62

JuJu Smith-Schuster

WR

USC

Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: ILB: Kenny Young UCLA (New Orleans, LA); Edge: Arden Key LSU; S: Justin Reid Stanford (Prairieville, LA)

3

94

Cameron Sutton

CB

Tennessee

3

105

James Conner

RB

Pittsburgh

Analysis: For the Steelers finding help at ILB and S are likely priorities this offseason. Especially after the traumatic spinal injury suffered to linebacker Ryan Shazier against the Bengals.

4

135

Joshua Dobbs

QB

Tennessee

5

173

Brian Allen

CB

Utah

6

213

Colin Holba

LS

Louisville

7

248

Keion Adams

LB

Western Michigan

Deshaun Watson 1st Round pick 2017

By: Josh Sibley

Houston Texans 2017 Record: 4-12 Top Needs: Offensive Line (OT, OG) Defensive Back (CB, S)

Top Prospect by Position: OT: Mike McGlinchey ND, Isiah Wynn UGA; OG: Quenton Nelson ND, Billy Price OSU; CB: Denzel Ward OSU, Joshua Jackson Iowa; S: Minkah Fitzpatrick Alabama, Derwin James FSU

2017 Houston Texans draft

Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: OT: Toby Weathersby LSU; OG: Frank Sutton Jr. ULM; CB: Donte Jackson LSU; S: Justin Reid Stanford Univ. (Prairieville, LA)

Rd

Pk

1

12

Deshaun Watson

QB

Clemson

2

57

Zach Cunningham

LB

Vanderbilt

Analysis: Unfortunately, the Texans do not pick until the 3 round this year. Their first and second round picks were sent to Cleveland last year via trades. So free agency is how they will be doing much of their team building this offseason. They have signed Senio Kelemete and Zach Fulton to strengthen the interior of the line, but will most likely look for help at tackle in the draft, as well as, help in the secondary.

3

89

D'Onta Foreman

RB

Texas

4

130

JuliĂŠn Davenport

OT

Bucknell

4

142

Carlos Watkins

DT

Clemson

5

169

Treston Decoud

CB

Oregon State

7

243

Kyle Fuller

C

Baylor

rd

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Player

Position

College

35

By: Josh Sibley

Indianapolis Colts 2017 Record: 4-12 Top Needs: Defensive Line (DE), Linebacker (ILB, OLB), Offensive Line (OG)

Top Prospect by Position: DE: Bradley Chubb NC St., Sam Hubbard OSU; ILB: Roquan Smith UGA, Rashaan Evans Alabama; OLB: Tremaine Edmunds VT, Jerome Baker OSU; OG: Quenton Nelson ND, Billy Price OSU Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: DE: Ade Aruna Tulane; ILB: Kenny Young UCLA (New Orleans, LA); OLB: Sione Teuhema SLU; OG: Frank Sutton Jr. ULM Analysis: With Indy transitioning from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense under first year head coach Frank Reich and new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus expect them to draft an edge rusher that can help with this transition. However, they lack talent at the inside linebacker position and will have to try to add depth there as well. Guard should be a consideration as well to bolster the interior of the line.

Malik Hooker 1st Round Pick 2017

2017 Indianapolis Colts Draft Rd

Pk

Player

1

15

Malik Hooker

FS

Ohio State

2

46

Quincy Wilson

CB

Florida

3

80

Tarell Basham

OLB

Ohio

4

137

Zach Banner

OT

USC

4

143

Marlon Mack

RB

South Florida

4

144

Grover Stewart

DT

Albany State

5

158

Nate Hairston

CB

Temple

5

161

Anthony Walker Jr.

ILB

Northwestern

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Position

College

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By: Josh Sibley Leonard Fournette 1st Round Draft Pick 2017

Jacksonville Jaguars 2017 Record: 10-6 Top Needs: Wide Receiver, Linebacker (ILB), Defensive Line (DE) 2017 Jacksonville Jaguars Draft

Top Prospect by Position: WR: Calvin Ridley Alabama, Courtland Sutton SMU; ILB: Roquan Smith UGA, Rashaan Evans Alabama; DE: Bradley Chubb NC St., Sam Hubbard OSU

Rd

Pk

Player

Position

1

4

Leonard Fournette

RB

LSU

Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: WR: D.J. Chark; ILB: Kenny Young UCLA (New Orleans, LA); DE: Ade Aruna Tulane

2

34

Cam Robinson

OT

Alabama

3

68

Dawuane Smoot

DE

Illinois

4

110

Dede Westbrook

WR

Oklahoma

5

148

Blair Brown

LB

Ohio

7

222

Jalen Myrick

CB

Minnesota

7

240

Marquez Williams

FB

Miami (FL)

Analysis: With Allen Robinson’s departure the Jaguars will be looking for a true number one receiver. Also, the retiring of Paul Posluszny puts the need for linebacker at a priority.

Past Louisiana Draftees 2017 RB Leonard Fournette LSU

College

Adoree' Jackson 1st Round Pick 2017

By: Josh Sibley

Tennessee Titans 2017 Record: 9-7

Top Needs: Wide Receiver, Linebacker (Edge), Defensive Line (DE) Top Prospect by Position: WR: Calvin Ridley Alabama, Courtland Sutton SMU; Edge: Marcus Davenport UTSA, Arden Key LSU; DE: Bradley Chubb NC St., Sam Hubbard OSU Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: WR: D.J. Chark LSU; Edge: Arden Key LSU; DE: Ade Aruna Tulane

Analysis: Tennessee used its first round pick last year on Corey Davis, but it could still use another big play threat to go along with him.

Finding a consistent edge rusher would work wonders in helping the Titans defense get to the next level, as well as looking for upgrades on the defensive line.

2017 Tennessee Titans Draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

5

Corey Davis

WR

Western Michigan

18

Adoree' Jackson

CB

USC

72

Taywan Taylor

WR

Western Kentucky

100

Jonnu Smith

TE

FIU

5

155

Jayon Brown

ILB

UCLA

6

217

Corey Levin

OG

Chattanooga

227

Josh Carraway

OLB

TCU

236

Brad Seaton

OT

Villanova

241

Khalfani Muhammad

RB

California

1 3

7

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By: Josh Sibley

Denver Broncos

Garett Bolles 1st Round Pick 2017

2017 Record: 5-11

Top Needs: Defensive Back (CB, S), Linebacker (Edge), Offensive Line (OT) Top Prospect by Position: CB: Denzel Ward OSU, Joshua Jackson Iowa; S: Minkah Fitzpatrick Alabama, Derwin James FSU; Edge: Marcus Davenport UTSA, Arden Key LSU; OT: Mike McGlinchey ND, Isiah Wynn UGA Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: CB: Donte Jackson LSU; S: Justin Reid Stanford Univ. (Prairieville, LA); Edge: Arden Key LSU; OT Toby Weathersby LSU Analysis: Aqib Talib to the Rams makes it almost certain that the Broncos will try to fill an immediate need at the CB spot, while also adding depth with another DB possibly a safety. Shane Ray has lacked production and the edge rush linebacker spot might be a target the Broncos want to improve competition in. The right tackle position needs a new starter or at least someone to contend for the starting job.

Past Louisiana Draftees: 2017 WR Carlos Henderson La Tech

2017 Denver Broncos Draft Rd

Pk

1

20

Garett Bolles

OT

Utah

2

51

DeMarcus Walker

DE

Florida State

82

Carlos Henderson

WR

Louisiana Tech

101

Brendan Langley

CB

Lamar

145

Jake Butt

TE

Michigan

172

Isaiah McKenzie

WR

Georgia

6

203

De'Angelo Henderson

RB

Coastal Carolina

7

253

Chad Kelly

QB

Ole Miss

3 5

Player

Position

College

By: Josh Sibley

Kansas City Chiefs 2017 Record: 10-6 Top Needs: Defensive Back (CB), Offensive Line (OG), Defensive Line (NT), Linebacker (Edge)

Kareem Hunt 3rd Round Pick 2017

Top Prospect by Position: CB: Denzel Ward OSU, Joshua Jackson Iowa; OG: Quenton Nelson ND, Billy Price OSU; NT: Vita Vea UW, Da’Ron Payne Alabama; Edge: Marcus Davenport UTSA, Arden Key LSU Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: CB: Donte Jackson LSU; OG: Frank Sutton Jr. ULM; NT: Greg Gilmore LSU; Edge: Arden Key LSU

2017 Kansas City Chiefs Draft Rd

Pk

1

10

Patrick Mahomes II

QB

Texas Tech

2

59

Tanoh Kpassagnon

DE

Villanova

86

Kareem Hunt

RB

Toledo

139

Jehu Chesson

WR

Michigan

183

Ukeme Eligwe

LB

Georgia Southern

218

Leon McQuay III

S

USC

Analysis: The Chiefs do not have a first round pick this year, and have 3 had to shuffle the deck at CB. They should still be in the market for a 4 corner and could also look to upgrade the safety position. Tambi Hali was recently released and the Chiefs could turn their focus on finding an 5 edge rusher. They could use better depth along the offensive line.

6

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Player

Position

College

38

By: Josh Sibley

Los Angeles Chargers 2017 Record: 9-7 Top Needs: Offensive Line (OT), Linebacker (ILB), Defensive Lineman (DT) Top Prospect by Position: OT: Mike McGlinchey ND, Isiah Wynn UGA; ILB: Roquan Smith UGA, Rashaan Evans Alabama; DT: Vita Vea UW, Da’Ron Payne Alabama

Desmond King 5th Round Pick 2017

2017 Los Angeles Chargers Draft Rd

Pk

Player

Position

College

1

7

Mike Williams

WR

Clemson University

Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: OT: Toby Weathersby LSU; ILB Kenny Young UCLA (New Orleans, LA); DT Greg Gilmore LSU

2

38

Forrest Lamp

G

Western Kentucky

3

71

Dan Feeney

G

Indiana

Analysis: The Chargers should be looking for upgrades to current tackles Russell Okung and Joe Barksdale. Their outside edge rushers are great, but they need to become more physical on the inside at inside linebacker and also on the interior of the defensive line.

4

113

Rayshawn Jenkins

S

Miami

5

151

Desmond King

S

Iowa

6

190

Sam Tevi

OT

Utah

7

225

Isaac Rochell

DE

Notre Dame

By: Josh Sibley

Eddie Vanderdoes 3rd Round Pick 2017

Oakland Raiders 2017 Record: 6-10 Top Needs: Linebacker (ILB), Defensive Back (CB), Defensive Line (DT) Offensive Line (OT)

Top Prospect by Position: ILB: Roquan Smith UGA, Rashaan Evans Alabama; CB: Denzel Ward OSU, Joshua Jackson Iowa; DT: Vita Vea UW, Da’Ron Payne Alabama; OT: Mike McGlinchey ND, Isiah Wynn UGA

2017 Oakland Raiders Draft Rd

Pk

1

24

Gareon Conley

CB

Ohio State

Potential Louisiana Player Prospect: ILB: Kenny Young UCLA (New Orleans, LA); CB: Donte Jackson LSU; DT: Greg Gilmore LSU; OT: Toby Weathersby LSU

2

56

Obi Melifonwu

S

Connecticut

3

88

Eddie Vanderdoes

DT

UCLA

4

130

David Sharpe

OT

Florida

Analysis: The inside linebacker position needs to be seriously addressed. The Raiders do not currently have any corners that are causing turnovers, and will likely add more help at that position.

Donald Penn, the long-time Raider at left tackle, will be turning 35 this year and the team should be looking for an eventual replacement for him.

5

168

Marquel Lee

LB

Wake Forest

7

221

Shalom Luani

S

Washington State

7

231

Jylan Ware

OT

Alabama State

7

242

Elijah Hood

RB

North Carolina

7

244

Treyvon Hester

DT

Toledo

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Player

Position

College

39

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Diamond In The Rough: Kam Aucoin, Iota High Kam is a 6’3”, 200 pound Junior from Iota High School in Iota, Louisiana. He is a ball hawking Safety that can also be aggressive in the run game. As a junior he led his parish with 5 TFLs the most by any player from the DB position. He has an 18 ACT score and a 3.0 GPA. Kam has good size and speed, recording a 4.6 40 time. He has a high football IQ and it shows on film when he moves his defense into better position before the snap of the ball. He was recently named the third best defensive back in South West Louisiana by the Jennings Daily News.

So tell me about yourself Kam, when did you start playing football?

I started playing when I was in 7th grade at False River Academy. I didn’t really play much before then.

would say good things about me I think, I don’t really get in trouble in class, and I do my job while I’m in there.

Have you attended any camps yet?

Did you play any other sports growing up?

I haven’t been to any camps yet, no sir.

Yes sir, I played baseball and football

What would you like to major in in college?

Tell me, what do you love about football?

I’m undecided about that right now, but I’ve been looking at radiology, because it seems like a good job, and I’d be helping people out a lot.

I love being that guy, that’s running the show. I love making the play that puts us in a better position to win the game.

What have you learned from playing football, so far?

Are you looking forward to playing in the Louisiana Gridiron Football Bowl Game?

You should never be scared, and just go out there and have fun. It can take your mind off other stuff if you focus on foot- Yes sir, very much looking forward to it. ball and try to not focus on some of the outside stuff that What would your friends, teammates, coaches say about you? maybe going on around you.

That I work hard, that they believe in me. That I’m trustworthy What type of player do you see yourself as? and have a great work ethic. We’ve put in a lot of work together I like to think of myself as a leader, I try to lead by example. I and that they can put their faith in me. That when I say I’m gothink I’m the most vocal on the team about when it comes to ing to do something I do it. being a leader.

What do you think your strengths are?

My size and speed definitely. I’m about 6’2, 6’3 and about 190, 200lbs. I ran a 4.6 40 too so that’s pretty good.

And your weaknesses?

I would like to improve my skills at quarterback, I don’t think I’ve reached my full potential there and I’d like to keep improving.

What kind of student are you? What would your teachers say about you?

I do all my homework and I’m attentive in class, my teachers

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