Matt Williamson

  (11:56 AM)

Let's get this started a bit early today.

Jay, North Carolina

I see the Ravens, Falcons and Dolphins taking a big nosedive after last year's surprising results.

Matt Williamson

  (11:57 AM)

I agree with Miami and Atlanta for the most part, but I don't think Baltimore will be going away. Flacco (like Ryan) will be one more year more experienced and I think that the Ravens did a real good job of limiting their losses in free agency.

Kelly, Erie PA

I think the Giants who have one of the top 2 or 3 OLs, are seven deep on their DL, have talent in the backfield, secondary and LBs along with a great QB may have the most talented team in the NFL. If they stay healthy and get a WR to step or or trade for one, they will win it all this year. In fact if Plax played they may have repeated last year. They should be the odds-on favorite.

Matt Williamson

  (11:59 AM)

I have them ranked third overall right now behind PGH and NEng. I am also not ready to say that they have a "Great" QB, although I am a fan of Eli overall. That WR problem is very worrisome right now though. If/when they add Braylon, they will immediatly become vastly improved. With him, they are the clear cut best team in the NFC-not sure that I would move them from #3 though. PGH and NEng are very strong.

Rod, Pensacola FL

Matty Ice II, I haven't seen any comparisons of Mark Sanchez to Matt Leinart. What makes Sanchez a better pro QB prospect...or is he?

Matt Williamson

  (12:00 PM)

He has better physical tools and from what I understand, a far better work ethic to be great. Film rat. Big Sanchez guy here.

joe MA

Love the work Matt...DO you have a your won mock draft for us? if so where would it be, and why arent the Lions in Contract talks for their pick? thanks

Matt Williamson

  (12:03 PM)

I don't. Remember, I am on the NFL side and to be honest, the majority of my draft research is on my own. The draft is really McShay's bag-but I am pretty on top of it as well. But, since you asked, I really can't see Det going any other way than Stafford (even though I prefer Sanchez). I would expect STL to then grab Smith to play LT and really solidify their OL. Everyone seems to think that Curry is a lock to KC, but I just don't see it. I would bet on Monroe there and Raji as a long shot. I would also assume that Seattle has Curry as the #1 player overall on their board and would do jumping jacks if he was there. Clev should then be thrilled to get Crabtree. Still, the wild card in this mix is Sanchez, as Sea could go for him or even STL. If the Browns deal Quinn, maybe they grab him as well. Or someone could trade up. Just my two cents.

john (cincinnati)

matt, other than the bengals, what were the other 5 teams that did not get a scheduled thurs, sun or mon night game? i'm guessing the nfl doesn't leave teams off the night schedule that get good ratings. it is a subtle dig at the way the franchise is being run. your thoughts?

Matt Williamson

  (12:04 PM)

Not sure of the answer to that question and don't have the time right now to look it up, but maybe someone out there in SportsNation could do that research. I do think it says something about the state of the team though-not a big draw, not historically strong on the field.

Mike (Ottawa)

Hey Matt...if you're the Bears do you take the 6 or 7th best WR at 49 or do you take the #1 or 2 safety in the draft?

Matt Williamson

  (12:06 PM)

Would lean towards the safety and I don't think the middle of round two is a real good place to find a WR this year, as Robiskie, Nicks, Harvin, Britt, Crabtree, Macline and DHB all should be gone-then I see a drop off. But-it is a VERY deep WR draft, so you might get a very similiar guy in round three as you would in round two thi year at WR. S is a serious need and grabbing someone like Delmas would be a fine addition.

Eric (Omaha, NE)

Who will be this year's Miami Dophins? In 2007 Miami had a 1-15 record, last year they went 11-5. Who can do that this year? The worst 5 teams last year were obviously the Lions, Rams, Chiefs, Seattle, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. Out of the 5 who as the best chance to do what Miami did a year ago?

Matt Williamson

  (12:08 PM)

Obviously fulling what they (& ATL) did last year is something VERY hard to predict and I would be blown away if it happens again this year. But of that group, SEA is the one who is in the best shape to do that. They really got hit hard by injuries last year. I also expect Cincy to be better....but they still are the Bengals. KC could score a lot of points. STL and Clev look to be VERY far away and would be my early bet for the top two choices in the 2010 draft.

CC (Atlanta)

Carolina will take the biggest fall. Same QB, probably no Peppers. I can see them falling apart big time. Much moreso than Atlanta.

Matt Williamson

  (12:09 PM)

I agree that Car could be in for a rude awakening-actually said that last week on this chat. Still only have 1 big time pass catcher. Obviously a great running game-which I really respect-but I don't trust their QB. Delhomme fell apart as the season went along-not to mention that playoff game...wow. I also really do not like their DL-even with Peppers and they don't have a 1st round pick, although that could change if Peppers leaves town.

The Wolf (Cleveland)

Would you trade Braylon for the rumored 2nd, 5th, and another WR, if you were running the Browns?

Matt Williamson

  (12:10 PM)

Seems about right. Would be shocked if this deal doesn't happen before DDay. If I were in charge of NYG, I would offer a 1st and 5th-put them over the top.

patrick (STL)

matt- to follow up on your thoughts concerning sanchez. I feel he would be the perfect franchise QB for the Rams.. (know i'm in the minority here in st. lou) gil brandt says never pass up a franchise qb- do u feel he is a franchise QB to build around and does his limited experience as a true starter (1 year) give you any hesitations?? thanks Matt

Matt Williamson

  (12:12 PM)

I agree. I think he would do more for the franchise (long term) than a franchise LT...and I don't see the OTs in this draft as Boselli/Pace/Ogden/Jones type of guys either. But-you gotta sit Sanchez for at least the majority of his rookie year. Let him learn. Take some of the pressure off.

The Wolf (Cleveland)

If NYG offers a 1st and 5th, do they still offer another WR?

Matt Williamson

  (12:12 PM)

That seems steep, but if that was the only way I could get it done, I might just go for it. Maybe a first and WR?

The Wolf (Cleveland)

What are your thoughts on the newest rumor that the Browns are sitting on a 1st round pick offer for Brady Quinn?

Matt Williamson

  (12:14 PM)

Heard that and I am glad you brought it up. My immediate thought was "What team?" Denver was my first thought and I suppose that would make some sense for their later first rounder. Maybe TBay or the Jets. Still, Quinn was a late first himself and I wouldn't say that he has really done anything drastic to improve his stock. Would you rather have Quinn or Freeman?

Matty Ice (The Burg, PA)

Matty, The steelers do it again, they get Harrison at a good price. Draft wise Do you see them going O lineman or best avialable player?

Matt Williamson

  (12:15 PM)

Best available from the DL, OL, WR and CB crop. One of the WRs that I mentioned a few questions ago might be too hard to pass on, but this is also a deep WR and CB draft-and those guys would not be starters. So, I see OL being the pick and someone like Mack or Wood would be ideal. Actually, Britton would be ideal, but I think that would involve a trade up, which could be too pricey.

The Wolf (Cleveland)

I'd take Quinn over Freeman any day! Quinn is a film junky so at least I already know he studies hard and is a student of the game.

Matt Williamson

  (12:17 PM)

That is true-I don't question his committment...not that I question Freeman's either. Freeman is obviously far more physically talented. I suppose that I would lean towards Quinn as well-but it also depends on what O I am running. Quinn's accuracy really has been a problem-and that goes all the way back to ND. Plus, he was extremely reluctant to let the deep ball go last year.

Robert (Latrobe, PA)

Matt, what do you think of the Packers' switch to the 3-4? In all seriousness, do you think a good value at tackle will be available for the Steelers at 32, or will there be a run like last year?

Matt Williamson

  (12:18 PM)

I mentioned Britton, but I expect a run and for him to be gone. Oh yeah, that Packers' switch. Not much of a fan of that move here in case you haven't heard.

Jason (Woodstock VA)

Why the Dolphins? Because of the schedule?

Matt Williamson

  (12:19 PM)

To some degree. First off, I think Miami is just about as well coached as any team in the NFL, but I also think that their talent level still isn't all that strong overall. Edged out a lot of wins last year and hardly turned the ball over. Can that continue? No one will be fooled by the Wild Cat either.

Jason (Phoenix)

Everybody should be pumped up for the NHL playoffs it is the greatest time the upsets and the ups and downs with one goal or a almost goal. GO FLYERS!!!!!

Matt Williamson

  (12:20 PM)

Oh-I can't ignore this one. Wow-some nerve you have as I sit here in my Pens sweater doing this chat. Your thugs are doomed.

John (Indiana)

Is anyone with me that the Eagles made a bad decision in releasing Brian Dawkins

Matt Williamson

  (12:21 PM)

His play had declined a bit, especially his range. But yeah, his leadership and ability to QB the D will be missed. Complex D and you need someone like him on the back end. Now, that is in question.

jason thomas (houston, tx)

MATT, what do u think of paulus getting a try out with the packers after finishing his basketball career at duke? good move to get him?

Matt Williamson

  (12:22 PM)

How often do guys who are out of the game come back and have success at the NFL level? Ask Drew Henson how that works. But, I did watch Paulus as a QB in HS when I was doing recruiting-very impressive.....as a 17 year old. Don't get your hopes up.

James (Wichita,Ks)

On Quinn, you'd be hesitant to Let go of the deep ball with the receivers he was throwing to. Braylon couldn't catch a cold.

Matt Williamson

  (12:23 PM)

That wasn't it. Pretty decent protection and he was throwing to K2, Braylon and Stallworth. I agree about Edwards' drops and yes, Stallworth is a more or less a bust, but you gotta let it go sometimes. Lacked confidence.

Matty Ice (Burg, PA)

Go Pens !!!!!! Come on Matt, what do you think of PSU's triplets Williams, Butler and Norwood making an impact this year in the NFL?

Matt Williamson

  (12:25 PM)

Williams could surprise and end up having a better NFL career than he did at Happy Valley. Do it all type. Tough. Strong intangibles. Looks like a solid #2 WR to me. Norwood looks like a real solid college WR, but will have a tough time physically at the next level. I love Butler's jets, but I also worry if he is physical enough to get it done.

The Wolf (Cleveland)

I gotta respond to the Quinn comment...I think Romeo was the issue. He never let Quinn go deep and pull the trigger. Romeo's game plan was way too conservative when Quinn was starting.

Matt Williamson

  (12:27 PM)

Agreed-that should be noted. But, to me, I thought there were times when Quinn looked deep and just opted for the safer decision. I have no idea what the coaches were telling him of course-but it didn't make Quinn look good either. Don't get me wrong, I am not ready to discard Quinn either.

Chris(Ohio)

How good do you think James Laurinaitis will be in the NFL? Do you think he is a 3 down LB?

Matt Williamson

  (12:28 PM)

Obviously very productive, but I also think that his film isn't as impressive as his game stats. I worry if he is the thumper you want at MLB or if he is athletic enough for OLB in most schemes. Still, he sure looks like a starting LB (somewhere) in this league and will be around the football quite a bit. As for an everydown guy, that wouldn't be ideal. Depends who the other options at LB are on his new team.

Matt (Philly)

Dawkins' role switched from safety to extra linebacker/centerfielder, and he was never asked to cover after week 2. I loved him, but i'd rather him be somewhere else than benched midseason for the good of the team.

Matt Williamson

  (12:30 PM)

Excellent analysis. Jim Johnson is a superior DCoord and knew what Dawkins could and could not do. He started the season very poorly. I just worry about the leadership and intelligence/familiarity with the scheme.

Paul (Denver)

What do you think of Ramses Barden? Can he be a Justin Gage type of WR?

Matt Williamson

  (12:31 PM)

That is a good comparison. Don't expect ANYthing from Barden in year one. He was overwhelmed at the Senior Bowl-the next level will blow him away. Remember who he has played against in college. He also isn't real quick or explosve. Takes a long time to get to full speed. Could play bigger considering his demensions.

Ed (PA)

You're obviously very high on Sanchez. If you had the #1 pick would you take him over Stafford or do you just like Sanchez better than most, meaning you'd take him in the top 5-10 range?

Matt Williamson

  (12:31 PM)

I would take him #1

John (Indiana)

Dawkins had and still has a big reputation for hitting

Matt Williamson

  (12:31 PM)

That is something that he can surely do well

John (Indiana)

Matt, what do you think about T.J. Houshmandzadeh being a Seattle Seahawk

Matt Williamson

  (12:33 PM)

He isn't a true number one WR, but if Branch is healthy, I expect both to have fine seasons....well, that is if Hass stays healthy as well. All reports are good on his back, but I don't trust the QBs in Seattle right now. Long shot-Sea could nab Crabtree at #4 if Curry isn't there. Now that is some serious fire power.

John(Buffalo,NY)

Do you think Brian Cushing would be a good pick for the Buffalo Bills with the 11th overall pick?

Matt Williamson

  (12:34 PM)

No, I don't. I think Cushing is a solid all aorund football player, but I just don't see a spectacular guy. If I am taking that position that high, I want a star. He isn't an elite pass rusher, is good-but not great-as a coverage player, but he is very stout vs. the run. Buff should look DE before OLB on D.

Tomwit NJ [via mobile]

Hello Matt. Eli may not be great but he can have great days. SBowls have been won with QBs named Hostetler, Dilfer and Brad Johnson. Great D and a balanced attack. Pound the ground. Short high % passes. I think the Giants t6 address kicking and punting. Carney and Feagles played with YA Tittle.

Matt Williamson

  (12:35 PM)

Yeah, I know that and honestly, there are not a ton of QBs who I would pick before Eli. Just don't see a QB who can make his present group of pass catchers into a solid enough passing game to get where you are suggesting.

Ed (PA)

Besides Tyson J., who'll be gone, any other DEs the Steelers may be looking at to play the 5 technique? We hear so much about the OLBs in the 3-4, but really it's the D-line that makes that system go, right? (Which I believe is one more reason GB should NOT make the switch)

Matt Williamson

  (12:36 PM)

Exactly-about the DL and GBay of course. A Smith is as valuable as Harrison to that D-not exaggerating. The Steelers do need to groom a DE of the future and making that happen takes some time. J Gilbert is a name to know.

Matty Ice (Burg, PA)

Matty, I loved Pat White in college, strong passer and runner. Will he be more then a randle el type player in the pros?

Matt Williamson

  (12:37 PM)

Randle El can catch the football. Can White? We have no idea. I do think there will be some Wild Cat/Gimmick stuff with White right off the bat and honestly, I am very much rooting for the guy. But he doesn't look to be a good enough passer to me.

Darryl in ATL

Romeo is a defensive guy. I would wager he didn't even sit in on offensive game planning. Blaming him for Quinn's decision making is really kind of funny.

Matt Williamson

  (12:38 PM)

I don't he was being blamed for Quinn's decision making-that surely is mostly on Quinn. But if (& I don't know this) the coaching staff did instruct Quinn to really limit the chances he takes, that falls on the Head Guy right or wrong.

Matt (Philly)

Go ask Donovan McNabb how many division titles you can win with nobody playing wide receiver before you give Eli a pass on playing without Burress. Do the names Torrence Small, Charles Johnson, James Thrash, Todd Pinkston, Na Brown, and Freddie Mitchell sound better than the Giants' receivers?

Matt Williamson

  (12:39 PM)

I don't think we were talking about division titles. How many rings does Donovan have?

Tom (Boston)

Any update on the rumors of Raji's failed drug test?

Matt Williamson

  (12:40 PM)

The latest that I heard was that he did not fail. Can't be sure either way though. His buzz has seemed to die down, which is very shocking considering what that guy can do on the field and the lack of prospects at DT this year.

Anthony (NYC)

M-Dub looking at the talent level of this draft overall what type of grade would you give it? Also is it worth the hassle for teams to try and move up in this years draft?

Matt Williamson

  (12:41 PM)

D+. Maybe a C-. Really unimpressive to me honestly. Moving up could make sense if there is one specific guy that you covet and don't think the guy behind him at that position on your board is worth it. Raji is the perfect example.

Donovan McNabb (Philly)

Ring? I got pleanty of rings. I got gold ones, platinum ones, ones with diamonds. Oh you mean SB rings. I'll just shut up now.

Matt Williamson

  (12:42 PM)

Please do. Actually Donovan, I am a pretty big fan here. You can be my QB any day.

Jessie ( West Chester Pa. )

Hi Matt! What OT of quality do you think will still be on the board for the 21st pick in the draft?

Matt Williamson

  (12:42 PM)

That might be where Eben Britton ends up. OTs are at a premium and will surely go very quick.

Pete (NJ)

Dallas has some great talent in their backfield, with Barber, Felix, and Choice. You think Dallas runs more this yr? They should.

Matt Williamson

  (12:43 PM)

For sure and I think we see more two TE sets with Bennett involved more in year two as well. Would be smart. Their OL is massive and better coming forward than in pass pro as well.

Mike (California)

What is the chargers biggest need in the draft?

Matt Williamson

  (12:44 PM)

I see SS as their biggest need, but that isn't a round one move for them considering who is (or isn't) available. A RT is needed for sure and they need to start grooming DLinemen of the future. I wouldn't worry much about RB and certainly wouldn't draft one in round one.

Tre (Louisiana)

Both Sanchez and Stafford will have ONLY an O.K. season

Matt Williamson

  (12:45 PM)

I don't think either is really ready to be a starting QB right now. I bet both have worse-than-OK seasons....but I bet that Sanchez has a very good career.

James (Indy)

Matty!!! What do you make of the rumors about Denver coveting the Jags # 8 pick? Seems like that might just be too low to nab Sanchez.

Matt Williamson

  (12:46 PM)

Might be too low-agreed. But, if he falls, you do the deal. Don't pull the trigger on something like that unless your guy is there at the time. However, maybe Raji actually falls that far?

Matt (Philly)

Honestly, I think this season is crucial for Eli. He won the Super Bowl, which no one can ever take from him, but he still has thrown more INTs than games played, and outside of 2007, has lost in his first playoff game each year and played pretty bad in all three losses.

Matt Williamson

  (12:47 PM)

He surely has been up and down, but who do you like better? There surely are some guys-no question, but it isn't a very long list. Wouldn't say that this season is any more crucial for him than any other. They are all crucial.

Ed (PA)

But even with D+ - C talent in the pool you know teams like NewEng, Pitt, Indy etc. are going to find a few starters, while the Brownies of the world will be left out in the cold.....

Matt Williamson

  (12:49 PM)

I would say that your statement isn't all that far fetched. Those teams have a plan. Year after year, they know what qualities in a player they need to succeed. You can't just keep blowing things up year after year. It is hard enough to win in this league when you have a great plan, let alone when you are stuck with a roster full of players who fit a totally different scheme....like GBay and their switch to the 3-4, which of course, is my personal favorite example.

Chad (Las Vegas)

I should lay all my money on Pittsburg to win their division with that cupcake (by NFL standards) schedule they have, right?

Matt Williamson

  (12:50 PM)

Don't discount the Ravens. They played three VERY close games last year. But yes, I agree. Balt's schedule isn't much different, except they play Indy and NEng while PGH plays Miami and Tenn.

J.B. (Dunmore, PA)

Man I hate being late to this chat. Have we covered the big mistake being made by the Packers in switching to the 3-4 yet today?

Matt Williamson

  (12:50 PM)

It was addressed.Where ya been Bro?

Anthony (NYC)

M-Dub it's a good thing you brought up Raji, why hasn't there been more talk about teams moving up into the top 5 to possibly draft the big DT/NT, especially those with the 3-4 scheme?

Matt Williamson

  (12:51 PM)

He is one of a kind in this draft. Honestly-and it won't happen, as they surely will go QB which I understand-but if the Lions were to draft Raji first overall, I would have zero problems with that-assuming that they spent a lot of time with him and had no worries about his character. The guy is a great player and I can't say that about many in this draft.

The Wolf (Cleveland)

Being a Browns fan I have to agree with the Brownies comment. Championships are built and won via the draft. I just hope Mangini took a lot of notes from Belichick.

Matt Williamson

  (12:52 PM)

...like Romeo did?

Aaron (K.C.)

With the 22nd pick of the 2009 NFL draft the Minnesota Vikings select...?

Matt Williamson

  (12:52 PM)

Going to go with either Britton or Nicks. Both would be solid additions to that O and could help a fair amount.

J.B. (Dunmore, PA)

A man's gotta eat, M-Dub. Anyway, what's this stuff about Britt to the Vikings? I already have my Nicks jersey being made.

Matt Williamson

  (12:53 PM)

Could see that as well. His stock seems to be soaring. Personally, I prefer Nicks to Britt though.

Gary(Cleveland)

Where do you see Malcolm Jenkins falling in the 1st rd? At one point he was considered a top 10 pick?

Matt Williamson

  (12:55 PM)

Still brings an awful lot to the table and plenty of teams could use him. Just change your thinking for one minute and consider him just as a FS prospect. There isn't anyone close to him in this class at that position. SF makes a ton of sense. Jax wouldn't be terrible-more as a CB for them though. Hous and NOrls are prob his cieling. I really like Jenkins-but his success will have a lot to do as to what scheme he goes to. He isn't for everyone.

Aaron (K.C.)

You really think Nicks can contibute as a rookie?

Matt Williamson

  (12:55 PM)

I don't think WRs in general should be counted on to contribute right away. I do think Nicks is pretty polished though. Also-I don't remember ever saying that Nicks should be expected to contribute as a rook.

Bills Nation

TRUE OR FALSE: JASON PETERS WILL BE THE STARTING LT FOR THE BUFFALO BILLS THIS SEASON?

Matt Williamson

  (12:56 PM)

Going to go with False...but I see that as the wrong move for Buff. Philly should be beating down the Bills' door for Peters.

mike houston tx [via mobile]

what do u think about the texans and who do u think would be a good match up with slaton in the backfield

Matt Williamson

  (12:57 PM)

I would not go too crazy at RB for Houston, especially considering that scheme, the current passing attack and Alex Gibbs' track record with mid round picks. But how about a third rounder like Brown from NC ST or Jennings from Liberty.

Brandon Hartman (Illinois)

What do you think the chances of Chad Johnson goin to Philly

Matt Williamson

  (12:58 PM)

He seems more like a Raider to me. I heard that a rumor had Oak sending it's 2nd rounder and Bush to Cincy for 85. To me, that is a deal made in heaven....well, maybe not heaven, but you get my drift here.

CJ(Buffalo)

What can you tell me about Robert Ayers? Is he a good pass rusher?

Matt Williamson

  (1:00 PM)

He is. Has a lot of talent for sure. Bigger body than the other top 4-3 DE prospects. Can play the run. Was very impressive at the Senior Bowl. But, he is more or less just a one year wonder and while many people were very impressed with that one year (last year),, from what I remember, he still only had like 3 or 4 sacks for the Vols. That aint cuttin' it. He looks like a Wash Skin in round one to me.

Dan (MD)

Do you think Braylon Edwards will be in NY's Blue next season?

Matt Williamson

  (1:00 PM)

Yup

Mark (worcester MA)

what do you see NE doing with all those draft picks? do you see a trade or will they just draft players? and if so who do you like with there pick?

Matt Williamson

  (1:01 PM)

There will be some movement and history has shown that they love to put some in the bank for the following year as well. Wouldn't shock me one bit if they ended draft weekend with two first rounders in the 2010 draft. But, I love where NEng sits. Can let the draft come to them. I see needs for sure (ILB/OLB especially), but they can take a luxory item or two along the way...maybe a RB like Brown from nearby UCONN?

Matt Williamson

  (1:02 PM)

Okay everyone. I am out. We will do this again next week. Big Pens game tonight. Psyched. Adios.