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
36
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
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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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