Matt Williamson

  (12:53 PM)

Hey everyone. MW here filling in for Tag today. Let's get started.

Robert (Latrobe, PA)

How is David Patten any sort of upgrade over Jurevicius? Does he have a better history with injuries?

Matt Williamson

  (12:53 PM)

Nice. Maybe just a smidge healthier right now. Can't say that is an upgrade. Clev is making a lot of curious moves-putting it kindly.

Eric, Columbia South Carolina

Do you think the Broncos will be interested in the number one draft pick(from Detroit) striaght up for Cutler. Atleast then the broncos could get Stafford and detroit could get a great QB.

Matt Williamson

  (12:55 PM)

I would assume that Det would pull the trigger on that deal. Not sure if it is enough for Denver right now. It just depends on how many teams are actually bidding for his service. I would guess that TBay, Chi, Det, NYJ, etc would all be quite interested and in turn, that would drive up the price. However, it seems that the longer it goes, the less power Denver has in negociations as everyone thinks that they are trading Cutler no matter what. Interesting.

TK Scranton, Pa

30 year Broncos fan here. Do ya think Shanny is enjoying this disaster sitting on his couch with a tub of popcorn and a cold beer?

Matt Williamson

  (12:57 PM)

I would be if I were in his shoes. Programming note here-let's not make this an entirely Jay Cutler chat. Makes my head hurt a bit.

Mickey Wiers Joliet, IL

Matt...gimme some hope for my Bears. I'd love Oher at 18 but that's not likely. Is Britton a reach at 18? What will the Beloved Bears do at 18?

Matt Williamson

  (12:59 PM)

Yeah, they are in a tough spot and really haven't helped themselves all that much this off season. Britton is a bit of a reach, but just think if he would have returned to school. He very well could have been a top of round one player one year from now after his senior year. Plus, I think he can play either OT spot. Might have to pull the trigger there on Britton, which is somewhat unfortunate. WR is obviously a possibility as well.

john nj [via mobile]

what do u think dallas cowboys will do in the draft?do u think they will try to make some trades to get at least a first round draft pick?

Matt Williamson

  (1:01 PM)

That does seem like something they would tend to do. Can't see J Jones remaining quiet on DDay. Honestly, I don't see their needs as especially great. Another WR would be nice, no doubt, but I expect their O to go towards more of a run first attack and they have excellent TEs to catch the ball as well. If they stay put, I would bet that they go with a DB in round 2. Is it crazy to consider dealing one of their RBs (not Felix) on DDay? Not a huge market for RBs though.

David Ropp (Urbana,Ohio)

Do you think the Browns will trade Quinn or Anderson for another possible draft pick?

Matt Williamson

  (1:02 PM)

I do and they could be big players for Cutler as well-or at least act as a third party in which they send one of their QBs to Denver. Still, they actually are not hurting for draft picks now after dealing Winslow. But yes, this team needs rebuilt and it will have to come through the draft.

TC MO

Here's my Rams biased question: Would WR make the most sense with their 2nd pick after they take an OT with their first pick? If yes, which WR would be the best one available at that point in your opinion?

Matt Williamson

  (1:04 PM)

To be honest and I know that I am very much in the minority, but I would STRONGLY consider Crabtree with their first rounder. However, a WR like Britt would be great in round 2. Robiskie makes sense as well. WR is a huge need and maybe even a bigger one than OT. Greco might be okay at RT. Barron might be okay at LT. That doesn't inspire a lot of confidence-I know. But the WRs are a wreck.

ELO-ORLANDO

Hey Matt, any truth to the rumor that the Lions are taking Jason Smith at #1 THX

Matt Williamson

  (1:04 PM)

I am sure they are considering it, but I am starting to concede that Stafford is going to be the selection.

David Ropp (Urbana,Ohio)

Could you maybe shine some light on what the Browns are doing? Getting rid of Winslow, Jurevicious, and not going after any good free agents.

Matt Williamson

  (1:05 PM)

They might get rid of Edwards as well. I think they are doing everything possible to create as many needs as possible. Pass catchers used to actually be a strength-now they are a wreck. I think they honestly are trying to change the culture-and I get that. But wow, they look terrible on paper right now.

Burwell (Addison, PA)

Who wins the NFC North this year? The Bears have no offense, Vikings no QB, Packers are inexplicably switching to 3-4, and the less said about the Lions, the better.

Matt Williamson

  (1:07 PM)

I am with you. I know someone is soon going to ask me to make my divisional predictions and this one might be the toughest. Leaning towards Minny, but what if the Williams Wall is out the first four games? Yikes. I like GBay's O-hate the D...which leads me to my statement that Green Bay moving to a 3-4 is a terrible idea. Glad to get that off my chest. Tough call.

Adam Gjelhaug - River Falls, Wisconsin (UWRF)

Hey MW, I like Nicks at 22 for the Vikes. Do you agree or diasgree?

Matt Williamson

  (1:08 PM)

I don't have a problem with it. I see RT (& of course QB) as bigger needs, but I expect WRs to go hot and heavy in the 2nd half of round one.

David, Atlanta

I heard there was talks of Denver shopping Peyton Hillis and Ryan Torian. I don't understand why McDaniels would bring in all these castoffs and get rid of a very promising (not to mention versitile, which McDaniels should like)young players like Hillis. He cannot think Lamont Jordan could be a better goaline back Hillis.

Matt Williamson

  (1:10 PM)

That makes zero sense to me as well. How many RBs to do you need? Is he all of a sudden realizing that he has 76 RBs on the roster? Plus, what are you honestly going to get for Torrain or Hillis? If I were Houston's GM, I would be on the phone to Denver. Side note: Is McD going to switch the Denver rushing attack away from the zone scheme that they have run for so many years? If so-and it looks like he will-I think that is a tremendously mad idea as well. I just don't get what a few of these teams are doing.

Brent (Fort WAyne, IN)

What is the value for Braylon Edwards? I think that they could get a 2nd or a 3rd from either the Eagles or the Giants. With Mangenius stripping the team down to the bare essentials I could see both Edwards and Quinn gine before or on draft day.

Matt Williamson

  (1:11 PM)

Brent-I agree with you on all acounts, but they might also be calling you up in Fort Wayne to see if you can run routes and catch the football. O/U of Browns wins this year-Four and a half. Who is taking the over?

Andy (NYC)

Matt, are the Bills trying to get Scheffler from Denver?

Matt Williamson

  (1:12 PM)

Would be a great addition. The guy is tough to count on in terms of durability, but I thought a year ago that he was on the verge of establishing himself as a top flight pass catching TE. More questionable decisions out of Denver.

Matt Williamson

  (1:13 PM)

Is anyone else starting to think that some of these coaches struggle (putting it mildly) once they are out of the B Belichick umbrella? Yoy.

Dan Lansing MI

Is there any chance the bears may trade a 2nd round pick for either Boldin or Braylon Edwards or what ever it may take?

Matt Williamson

  (1:14 PM)

They are just such a conservative organization-so I doubt it. Would be more likely to see those guys heading to NYG or Philly. But-I wouldn't condemn it and they need a WR to threaten a D play after play. Would be very good for Hester and Olsen in particular. Bennett is a guy to keep an eye on in Chi-he has a chance. However, you want him as your #3 now.

Christian (Orlando)

how do you see the bucs fairing this year. with a completely new team, could they actually make the playoffs? also, what are the chances the bucs go get cutler, and what will it take?

Matt Williamson

  (1:16 PM)

Very mixed feelings on TBay. Pros: Impressive fire power, running attack and OL. Cons: New Head Coach, suspect defensive front, highly combustable pass catchers and obviously at QB. Cutler would be a great fit here, but can he keep K2 and AB in line? I would offer TBay's #1 at a minimum right now though to Denver.

John (Manalapan)

Would not Curry have a greater impact on the Rams than Crabtree?

Matt Williamson

  (1:17 PM)

Perhaps. Very good-and safe-prospect. But I also see MLB as the bigger need and yes, Curry could play MLB, but I think he is better suited on the outside. Personally-if healthy-I think Crabtree is the best player in this draft.

Anthony (NYC)

M-Dub which of the top 3 OT do you feel will have a huge impact J.Smith/E.Munroe/A.Smith? Of the three Munroe is very impressive, might compare to Clady.

Matt Williamson

  (1:20 PM)

Actually, I think J Smith is the most like Clady. Quite an athlete. Not as strong as Clady-esp in his lower body. He is going to be very much of a work in progress though as a run blocker. I like Monroe the best. Very athletic. Polished as both a run and pass blocker. Would expect him to have more of an immediate impact than Smith-but his ceiling isn't quite as high. As for A Smith-if put at OG or RT, I think he can be a real mauler. Guy you run behind. Still, his workouts and off season behavior would scare me a ton. I would take Oher over A Smith and I think Oher is actually undervalued right now. He is still a heck of a prospect.

J.B. (Dunmore, PA)

C'mon, Matt. The Vikes QB woes are over. They took some Sage advice and upgraded the position, right?

Matt Williamson

  (1:20 PM)

Right. Just yet another band aid on a gaping wound. His turnovers will drive Vikes fans insane.

Dave (Toronto)

Who do the Raiders take at #7? Do you think Raji will fall to them and if so, do they take him to finally address the Run D?

Matt Williamson

  (1:22 PM)

OT and esp WR are their biggest needs, but if they went with Raji I would not have a prob with that at all. I doubt he is still there though. One stud DT. He is goign to go quick. In fact, if Det picked him, I would understand that move. Al Davis loves speed and very well could pass on Crabtree. That would be a huge mistake to me....but the Raiders excel at making major personnel mistakes.

Eric (Houston)

Do you see the Texans making the playoffs this season, despite their tough divison? Also, what should they be looking to do in the draft? Thanks

Matt Williamson

  (1:24 PM)

I really like where Hous sits right now. Schaub MUST stay healthy and that is a major worry. I don't dislike Olovsky, but I certainly do not love him as a number two behind a fragile QB. However, I like where they sit on DDay. I don't see a massive need, but a situational edge rusher like Maybin would be nice. Move A Smith inside on throwing downs. An OLB like Cushing should be attractive. Chris Wells is another possibility that I like for them.

devin howell michigan

matt where duse parcy harvin go to in the draff

Matt Williamson

  (1:24 PM)

Not sure where exactly-maybe Jax-but I bet he goes higher than most people realize. The guy's stock is really climbing. Can be a difference maker.

Bryan (Dayton)

I have seen several drafts that have the Bengals taking A. Smith in the first round. Is that just going to be another bad influence in the locker room if they do or can he turn it around and protect Palmers back

Matt Williamson

  (1:25 PM)

I could certainly see that! But, like I said, I want him on the right side. Assuming they part ways with Levi Jones, then LT is more of a need that RT. Oher? Trade up a few if Monroe slips? OC is also a major need for them and going that direction in round 2 makes sense.

J.B. (Dunmore, PA)

If Harvin's stock is rising does that mean teams don't pay all that much attention to the Wunderlich testing? Didn't Harvin score in the single digits on that?

Matt Williamson

  (1:26 PM)

It wasn't good, but I don't think it was that low. Depends on the position a player plays in that regard and there have been plenty of WRs with low test scores who have gone on to do very well in the NFL.

Matt Williamson

  (1:27 PM)

....but it is a concern and I would want to spend plenty of time with him before giving him millions.

John (Boston)

Does Malcolm Jenkins = Ty Law, a big less than blazing corner who thrives in BB's scheme? How much would the Patriots have to give up to move up and get him? Thanks

Matt Williamson

  (1:28 PM)

Some similiarities for sure. Law is more physical and a better tackler. I don't have a problem any more with NEng's secondary. If I were to move up for the Pats, it would be for a different maker at LB. Mauluga?

Avant (ATLANTA)

Matt- Do you see the Falcons having a moajor letdown? They overachieved last year, plus they lost some key cogs on D- and did not replace them. Will the draft be enough?

Matt Williamson

  (1:28 PM)

I see problems there. Agreed. Big M Ryan believer though and you have to think that he will be even better in year two. Still-that D just isn't very good at any level. Draft won't be enough.

Ryan (Denver)

if denver really deals cutler, they can't really think Chris Simms is the answer can they?

Matt Williamson

  (1:29 PM)

Can't put all your eggs in that basket-no question about that. However, I liked that signing when they did it and it seemed to go under the radar a bit. Not anymore, but it wouldn't shock me if Simms developed into a servicable starter.

Mike (New Orleans)

Saints offseason grade so far?

Matt Williamson

  (1:31 PM)

I like what they have done. This is another team that could use some things (OLB, OC), but I don't think they are forced to go in a specific direction in round one. C Wells? Cushing makes a lot of sense also. The secondary isn't great, but it is improved. I honestly think the thing that NO needs to get better at is running the ball. Would really lighten the load on the D. Wear their opponent down some.

Hende (OH)

Browns may finish with a worse record than last year, but they can't play any worse than they did the last 4 games of the season. Absolutely hopeless and depressing.

Matt Williamson

  (1:31 PM)

That was an utter embarrasment.

T Ro - KC

Other then curry at the third pick...do you see any other big names on the chiefs draft board?

Matt Williamson

  (1:32 PM)

Wild Card: Crabtree. Monroe makes a lot of sense as well. Raji? Remember where Pioli came from. He got his QB. NEng has won with great DL play and more recently, stud WRs.

Bob (Detroit)

M-Dub, if the Lion's take Stafford what's the likelihood they could get Maualuga at 20 and E. Hood with the 33rd pick? If it unfolded that way wouldn't that be the start to a very strong draft for them?

Matt Williamson

  (1:33 PM)

Sure. No matter what, Det should have a very strong draft. They pick high! I bet Mauluga is gone by #20 though.

Colten (Sioux Falls, SD)

hey Matt, who do the Broncos take at #12...Mauluga....????

Matt Williamson

  (1:34 PM)

Wouldn't be a bad pick. I don't see anyone who presents great front seven value at that pick, but T Jackson could be the selection. An OLB like Brown would be nice, but I bet he is gone as well.

jake (san diego)

so wat do u think the chargers gonna do this year?

Matt Williamson

  (1:35 PM)

I think they will easily win their division. Could really use a RT on DDay. I can live with their ILBs now, but if Mauluga is there, he would tough to pass on. SS is another big need, but that will have to come later. A Smith? Oher?

Jay (Chicago, IL)

Could Michael Johnson possibly play OLB in a 4-3 defense?

Matt Williamson

  (1:36 PM)

I think that is asking a lot, but maybe in a 3-4. Remarkable athlete and it would lighten his physical load a bit away from the ball.

Max (Norfolk)

You're a GM and not drafting for need. Who do you choose between Maualuga and Cushing?

Matt Williamson

  (1:37 PM)

Maualuga. Differnce maker. Game changer. Will make more mistakes than Cushing, but has far more upside. I don't like Cushing as much as many. Is just a very average pass rusher. Don't love how he moves in reverse either. Somewhat shockingly, I am not sure that I want either player on the field on 3rd down.

Jeff, Mpls

Does Sproles become the starter at some point this year in SD?

Matt Williamson

  (1:37 PM)

I can't say that I have a lot of faith in LT anymore, but Sproles is not a starting RB. If it happens, LT is officially finished.

Brad(NM)

Will Maybin be around for Buffalo by chance?

Matt Williamson

  (1:38 PM)

I do think so. A LOT of risk with him though. One year wonder in college. What is his best playing weight? Best position? Hold the point? His get off is great and he closes real well, but I don't like his instincts or ability to play in space. Also-not all that fast.

JT ( Boston)

Do you see William Moore as a FS or SS?

Matt Williamson

  (1:39 PM)

More of a SS. Better near the LOS.

tom (sj,CA) [via mobile]

so matt, who do you see the broncos takin at 12? tyson?

Matt Williamson

  (1:39 PM)

I suppose. I do think that Jackson's stock is probably higher than many realize. So many teams now playing a 3-4.

dk (michigan)

i think j peterson at lb was good and the pick ups at corner were good 4 the lions after a strong defensive draft what would you rate their Dfense

Matt Williamson

  (1:40 PM)

Obviously it depends a TON on who they draft, but I agree with what you said. BUT-they are very weak up the middle right now at DT and MLB. DEs worry me as well. Big believer that DLinemen make or break a defense.

Derek (Green Bay)

Who is out there for the Packers to take in the first two to help out on the D-Line?

Matt Williamson

  (1:41 PM)

Tyson Jackson fits real well there as well. An OLB conversion like Brown makes sense as well. NT like Brace in round 2? Did I mention that GBay made a huge mistake going to a 3-4?

John (North Carolina)

What about Moore's junior season when he put up huge numbers ball hawking as the deep safety?

Matt Williamson

  (1:42 PM)

I know and don't disagree with you, but I quesion his COD and pure speed/range for that role in the NFL. I still don't think he is completely healthy though and should only improve physically.

dade (los angeles)

what are the giants going to do in the draft? will they pick a wr or trade for a vet and go for depth at other positions. hixon is not a #1

Matt Williamson

  (1:44 PM)

Hixon is not a #1. Burress is though and if, by chance, he is there, NYG will be more than fine. But yes, WR is a massive need and I would be very active to trade for Boldin or Edwards. Otherwise, they might get a WR like Britt in round one, but that is asking a lot of a late first round WR to be a #1 type guy right off the bat. Adding another pass catching TE makes sense as well to lighten the overall WR load. NYG's D is going to keep them in every game however. One more LB would be nice. Laurinitis?

Robert (Latrobe, PA)

Would getting Tyson Jackson, Ron Brace, and a decent ILB in the 3rd round make the Packers' transition to the 3-4 at least not a complete disaster?

Matt Williamson

  (1:45 PM)

Would be a heck of a start. Still don't like the pass rushing OLBs. Kampman can rush the passer-no doubt-but can he cover a TE? Poppinga? Come on.

Trent, SD

Do you think the chargers regret letting Michael Turner leave?

Matt Williamson

  (1:45 PM)

He wasn't cheap! But sure-they would love to have him. No question. Can't keep them all.

Justin (Jax, FL)

What do think of this trade: Browns trade Quinn and Rodgers and there first 2nd rd pick for Denver's Cutler, 12th overall pick.

Matt Williamson

  (1:46 PM)

Not on a bad track there, but I am guessing that you are a Clev fan. Cutler has WAY more value than Quinn and just a year ago, Rogers only was worth a 2nd rounder (approximatly). Quinn and Rogers straight up for Cutler?

Mike(hoboken,NJ)

Matt, I'm seeing on some boards that Maclin is falling to the Jets at 17. What do the think are the odds of this happening?

Matt Williamson

  (1:47 PM)

Very slim. Would be shocked if he got past Oak and then Jax. SF or even Buff could grab him.

Pat Oshkosh

This problem you have with Packer 3-4 just is not healthy.

Matt Williamson

  (1:47 PM)

Bothers me to no end.

Matt Williamson

  (1:48 PM)

Asking Jenkins to play a 3-4 DE and Kampman to play 3-4 OLB is criminal.

Matt (Palatka,Fl)

How can everyone be in love with Jason Smith from Baylor? From what I read he played in a 2 point stance and missed the Texas game. Which means he missed his biggest test versus Brian Orakpo. I would prefer Eugene Monroe.

Matt Williamson

  (1:49 PM)

I am with you. Monroe is far more of a finished product. I know that Smith did a lot of reps at the Combine, but that is an overrated test of strength and he doesn't play strong-esp in his lower body.

Bullpen Cart Bob (Pgh)

With not too many roster spots open, will the Steelers try to trade away picks to move up?

Matt Williamson

  (1:50 PM)

Could happen. Happend to get Holmes after their last SBowl victory. But, I somewhat disagree concerning roster spots. I see them still needing a young DE to groom, another CB and WR and at least two more bodies at OL with one of them preferably quite talented.

calloway (belleville, il)

what do you think the falcons should do with the 24th pick? draft def or trade down? thanks.

Matt Williamson

  (1:51 PM)

Hard to predct a trade down, but as a rule of thumb for them, they have to attack their D. Actually, I am not all that worried at LB. They do need to find a NT type guy, another pass rusher, a starting safety and one more CB to compete for playing time. Of course, throwing in another OLB wouldn't be terrible either. Long laundry list.

Arsen (Hudsonville, MI)

What do you think of this trade, Lions trading their 20th pick, 33rd overall, and Drew Stanton for Cutler?? Because I don't see what the Jets have to get Cutler.

Matt Williamson

  (1:52 PM)

Drew Stanton is worth nothing....but those two picks should certainly be enough in my mind. That 33rd is very valuable. I certainly think that is a better offer than the Jets #1 and Clemens. NYJ could sweeten it up with a guy like Bryan Thomas.

Ed( San Diego,CA)

Do you see the Chargers drafting a RB with one of the 4ths they picked up as compensetory picks? Someone like Andre Brown?

Matt Williamson

  (1:53 PM)

Would be a great fit for them. But they had better not wait too long to grab Brown. Hot right now.

Xander (Philly)

I know 11 is high for Pettigrew, but wouldnt he make the Bills a serious threat to any opposing defense?

Matt Williamson

  (1:54 PM)

Yeah, great fit as a goal line option, over the middle chain mover and particularly as a blocker-both for the run and pass. But yeah, 11 is very early for a TE who doesn't stretch the field. Yet, there are quite a few teams in the middle of round one who could pounce on Pettigrew like Philly.

Dan (NY)

Drew Stanton has no value, but Clemons does? Huh?

Matt Williamson

  (1:55 PM)

More than Stanton! Stanton couldn't get on the field amongst a terrible group of Det QBs. Not saying the guy might not be okay in time, but if I were Denver, I would want a better QB in return. That does go for Clemens as well, but I would still want Clemens over Stanton.

Jimbo, Brooklyn

Glaring NYJ needs: QB, WR, and DE? am I missing anything?

Matt Williamson

  (1:56 PM)

The Douglass signing helps at DE, but yeah, you are dead on. Those first two are doozies though. Might be time to grab a RB as well and the have nothing at TE outside of Keller. Need a blocker/backup there.

Matty Ice (The Burg, PA)

Arsen, wake up no one in ther right minds wants Drew Stanton he can not even beat out Culpepper.

Matt Williamson

  (1:57 PM)

Last week, we were talking about Cutler trades (of course) and someone suggested that TBay throw in the rights for Jake Plummer back to Denver. Yoy. Stanton isn't as bad as that, but you gotta give something up to get a guy like Cutler.

Trevor (Denver, Co)

Stanton & Clemons both have no value. Cutler is a pro bowler and holds a couple franchise reords. Matt what are the chances of gettin a franchise QB for Cutler? Maybe Romo?

Matt Williamson

  (1:58 PM)

No chance at all. There in lies the problem. Could maybe get Stafford or Sanchez, but not a proven franchise QB. MOST teams are not in the biz of moving their franchise QBs.

Matty Ice (The Burg, PA)

matt, the steelers have to get a good CB i do not trust William gay.

Matt Williamson

  (1:59 PM)

Could be their first rounder with a guy like A Smith or Butler. Return ability would be nice as well from that spot. However, I do like W Gay and their pass rush makes CBs lives much easier.

Anthony (NYC)

M-Dub how often does it happen that in an NFL draft that of the top 10 players to be chosen, there is not a RB being considered? As a matter of fact the first one is tought to be drafted around the 22nd selection.

Matt Williamson

  (2:00 PM)

RB just isn't much of a need right now in the league. I do think some are undervaluing Wells though. A team like Hous or Tenn or SD could pounce on him and be very happy about it.

Cole (Kansas City)

Why don't any of these QB deprived fans want their team to trade for Tyler Thigpen???

Matt Williamson

  (2:01 PM)

Honestly, you would think that you could do worse. Young with upside. Not sure KC is interested in moving him. The problem with him is that KC had to design that quirky pistol O to suit him and what team wants to rewrite their O just for someone the caliber of Thiggy?

Xander (Philly)

Tenn drafting a RB? They have a nice one/two punch already...

Matt Williamson

  (2:02 PM)

Obviously-I meant NOrl there. Sorry

Matt Williamson

  (2:02 PM)

Okay folks. That is a wrap for me. I will be on again tomorrow in my normal noon slot. Stop by.