Matt Williamson

  (11:56 AM)

MW here. Let's get this started a little bit early today. Tons to discuss.

Heywood

Hey Matt - I hope you caught that nice win by the Pens last night. I want to know if he sees a big drop off at offensive tackle after the "big 4." Curious to know if Bills will draft an OT with 11th pick or at 28 or even later.

Matt Williamson

  (11:57 AM)

Of course I saw it. #29 was a mad man. As for the Bills, I think they almost have to go OT at #11-assuming they stay put with their picks. I know none of the top four will be there at #28 and I expect Britton to be gone as well. Expect Oher at #11. That should make 4 OTs in the top 11.

bob...new jerseyy [via mobile]

who has best offense in nfc north.... if raji is there at nine and we take him would u like our switch to our new defense. would it help.

Matt Williamson

  (11:59 AM)

I hate the switch to the new D, but Raji would be a tremendous grab for GBay. I doubt he is still there. Might actually be the best player in this draft. One of the top four in my opinion without a doubt. Best O? I guess GBay. Like their passing attack. Want to see who is lining up at RT thought first before I say for sure. Minny's won't be great, but it should be improved.

Frank (Pittsburgh)

Matt, You're my draft guy --- looking forward to listening to you on 1250 on Saturday. How 'bout Marc-Andre last night, huh? I would like to see the Steelers trade down and draft Jarron Gilbert. How far could they move back and do you think it would be far enough that they could end up with two twos and two threes? What do you think of Gilbert? What do you think of Terrence Taylor later in the draft? Thanks.

Matt Williamson

  (12:03 PM)

Taylor is a plugger. NT who I bet gets overdrafted by a team in desperate need at that position as they transition to the 3-4. I really like what I have seen from Gilbert. The real wild card for the Steelers. Immense talent. Certainly some inconsistencies, but that isn't uncommon for a great DL who is far better than those trying to block him-think Haynesworth at Tennessee in college. More of a quick penetrator than PGH usually wants from that position, but I would really like to see what kind of player he could become if the Steelers eased him into it and coached him up slowly. Potential monster. MAF was on fire. Beware of the Pens.

Hoho Man (Sleepy Hollow Drive)

Do you go through post-draft depression on Monday?

Matt Williamson

  (12:05 PM)

In a way. Not a lot to look forward to. Actually, that week after the draft will be filled with a lot of radio hits and post draft analysis, but then it gets too quiet. Most people in this business like that-can't say that I do. I do watch a lot of tape then though and get a different perspective on current NFL players while writing NFL reports. Also like to get a leg up and get to then know the names for the 2010 draft-can never be too early for those things.

Benjamin (Plattsburgh)

Braylon Edwards was all hot and heavy now not a peep, do you think like I do that this means a trade has been made but will not be announced until draft day?

Matt Williamson

  (12:06 PM)

Not sure what to think of it, but it appeared as though the two sides were very close and were not haggling over very much in terms of compensation. Its gotta get done.

Benjamin (Plattsburgh)

Matt, im getting a dog in 2 weeks, staffordshire bull terrier..... my gf and I want to give him a name associated with the giants but not a current player and he has to be a great guy and a warrior so LT is out...... any suggestions?

Matt Williamson

  (12:07 PM)

Wow. This is a lot of pressure. Bavaro? Parcells?

Gary(Bixby,OK)

Matt, what do you think of Javon Ringer's chances to excel in the NFL?

Matt Williamson

  (12:08 PM)

Guys like him are tough. Can he play special teams? Was a stud RB at a big school, so of course, they never asked him to play on teams. How will he do? He has to be able to contribute in that phase, as he is not a true #1 NFL RB-maybe not even a #2. He specifically worries me because of all the carries he got last year. Isn't built to handle it and now has had physical issues just since last season.

Benjamin (Plattsburgh)

Vernon Gholston is a bust and ill tell you why.... examining him before the draft his athleticism looked stiff..... then I saw him with his shirt off..... hes TOO jacked..... his weight of 260 is not natural for him, his ideal playing weight is 240..... he has 20 pounds of extra muscle making him stiff.... and if he slims to 240 hell get engulfed..... hes a body builder not a football player..... bust

Matt Williamson

  (12:10 PM)

That is one thing you have to look at. Some of these guys do get too big. Still, it certainly didn't help Gholston's cause that he held out while trying to adjust to the NFL while trying to learn a new position. Rex Ryan might turn him into a player. Still, you bring up a good observation.

Benjamin (Plattsburgh)

Jason smith has dancers feet, watched highlights of him the other day and when hes trucking his feet move so fast its like hes riding a bike..... hes gonna be a STUD

Matt Williamson

  (12:11 PM)

Rare tools. No doubt. Still, he will have a transition period as he learns to play from a three point stance and I expect his run blocking to be very up and down for at least his rookie year.

Gary(Bixby,OK)

I think Alphonso Smith is Pacman Jones without all the baggage. If he were 6 foot, he would be a top 10 pick. What do you think?

Matt Williamson

  (12:14 PM)

I tend to agree. Big time playmaker. Not as good with the ball in his hands as Jones, but certainly well above average for a CB. He isn't a blazer either. Would worry about Smith playing a lot of man or being in a trail position. Keep his eyes looking at the action in front of him and let him react. Does that very well.

Marc (Malden, MA)

If the Redskins really want a QB (which I disagree with) and can't get Sanchez at #13, why not trade the pick for Brady Quinn?

Matt Williamson

  (12:16 PM)

That doesn't sound very far fetched. First I heard of it. Could then turn Campbell into a draft pick as well. Wash needs line help though-but not really that organization's MO. More into making the splash. I am up and down on Quinn, but he might fit Zorn's O better than Campbell.

Jake (Syracuse)

Matt, do you think Fiametta out of Syracuse is the 1st Fb taken in the draft?

Matt Williamson

  (12:17 PM)

I do. Able to do more than some of the pure blockers. Still, I think the 5th round would be generous.

Rolar (MTL)

Who's going to be this draft's sackmaster?

Matt Williamson

  (12:18 PM)

Overall, it isn't a great class for guys who accumulate sacks, but I have to give it to Orakpo. Has a lot of tools. Does take some plays off, but also has abused some big time talent and is very strong.

Benjamin (Plattsburgh)

possible draft shocker..... at 2 St. Louis takes Crabtree. Spagz knows the value of a true 1 WR due to the plax thing, and with crabtree doubled S-Jax has 7 man fronts and Avery has single coverage on long balls.... isnt that more valuable than a left tackle for that team right now?

Matt Williamson

  (12:18 PM)

Have said that for a while actually. I don't think Smith/Monroe should be a forgone conclusion. Their WRs are awful.

jon (lostinyomi)

what would it take to get a.bolden from arizona maybe pick 7 oakland?

Matt Williamson

  (12:20 PM)

Zona should not say no to that. How about Bush and #7 for Boldin and maybe a respectable draft pick? #7 is a lot to give up.

John (NYC)

For the dog guy, how bout Tark for Tarkenton?

Matt Williamson

  (12:20 PM)

Doesn't do much for me. I would bet we can do better.

Matt Williamson

  (12:21 PM)

Hey, what is the issue with this chat today? Hardly getting any questions. Is the link tough to find or is there some problem on our end?

Benjamin (Plattsburgh)

if the 05 draft was done over would Roddy White go ahead of Braylon Edwards?

Matt Williamson

  (12:22 PM)

Real close. I suppose I would still take Edwards. Better go-get-it skills. His drops are maddening-no doubt-but he can really be a force. That isn't taking anythign away from White though. Very close call.

Hende (OH)

Would the best case scenario for the Browns now be that Sanchez gets past Seattle, causing a bidding war for the 5 spot? Or is that still too early?

Matt Williamson

  (12:22 PM)

No, that could be about right-esp if Denver loves Sanchez. Still, Clev needs Crabtree.

Marc (Malden, MA)

Do you see Seattle drafting Sanchez at #4? If so, do you see teams trading up to #3? If not, is Seattle hoping someone makes them a big offer to trade down?

Matt Williamson

  (12:25 PM)

Of course it could happen, but to me, I have to think that the #1 guy on Seattle's board is Curry. So-if they assume that Stafford goes 1 and Smith goes 2, they also know that KC wants to move back. If they convince the NFL that they really want Sanchez, then whoever really wants him might have to move to #3. Thus, it helps Seattle land Curry, who replaces Peterson.

Derek (Washingon DC)

Matt, do you see the Eagles taking Moreno or trading up to get him?

Matt Williamson

  (12:26 PM)

Not trading up. Trading up for an early RB this year makes very little sense. Could be their pick and he would fit in very well, but I might rather have Pettigrew or a WR in that spot. Wouldn't argue with Moreno though, but you can get RBs later.

Boobie (Buffalo)

What you think the Bills are going to do with their 2 first round picks? Any chance of a trade taking place to move up or down?

Matt Williamson

  (12:27 PM)

They need to land one of the top 4 OTs with that first pick. Oher should be that guy. Then, I would really look for the best available pass rusher, Pettigrew or an interior OLineman like Mack. They were sorta stuck before with #11 in terms of filling their needs. Now, they certainly have more options to acquire value...but at the cost of losing a potential franchise LT.

Paul (Albany, OR)

Matt, I do understand the Rams receivers are questionale, but Bulger has prove that completing passes while on his back is difficult. Build this team from the trenches - like the Steelers you admire. Get linemen who can open holes and protect. That will get the offense going.

Matt Williamson

  (12:29 PM)

I am a huge believer in that strategy and certainly would not have any problem with Smith/Monroe at #2. No doubt. Also would not be critical if they took Sanchez. Needless to say, STL need a ton still and like I have said, I see them and the Browns as the worst two teams in the league today. But, their WRs are awful. As is their MLB situation. Their OL is simply below average-not awful.

Gerson (Salt Lake City)

The Oakland Raider are they really thinking of drafting Jeremy Maclin over Michael Crabtree?

Matt Williamson

  (12:30 PM)

Don't know that for a fact and while I think Maclin is a potential game changer, Crabtree would be the better selection. Still, apparently Al Davis needs 40 times to verify his selection. Isn't going to get it with Crabtree.

Jake (Syracuse)

Any chance the Jets trade for or sign a veteran QB before the season starts? I hope so.

Matt Williamson

  (12:30 PM)

You had better hope so-but I don't see a suitable vet. Can they get up to get Sanchez? I would say that is unilikely. Maybe Freeman. I bet QB ends up being next year's project though for NYJ.

Mike (MN)

Matt, love your stuff. Don't the Vikings have to take an OT? None of the available WR's that'll be available do that much for me and I still say we need to provide more protection for most valuable asset: AP

Matt Williamson

  (12:31 PM)

I agree. Britton should be the pick. No guarentee that he is there, but he would sure help at RT. Can live with Nicks as well, but would prefer Britton if both are there. OTs are going to be real tough to grab this year-as usual.

Josh (Mi)

If the LB's are gone at#20, would the lions consider Chris Wells?

Matt Williamson

  (12:33 PM)

They shouldn't. Have a compitent RB in Smith and Morris is fine as a #2. Detroit needs SO much. RB shouldn't even be a thought. Last phase of a rebuilding project. They have so many needs that someone will be there at #20 who can help. Like P Jerry or Britton or even Laurinitis, who I don't love, but would fill a need. Could still use a CB like Butler or even a WR like Nicks or Heyward Bey. SO many directions for Det to consider.

tom nj [via mobile]

How about Tiki or Carson for that dog?

Matt Williamson

  (12:34 PM)

...or Feagles

Frank (Atlanta)

Hey matt, what do you think's gonna happen to pat white? You think he's got any chance staying at quarterback?

Matt Williamson

  (12:35 PM)

Maybe, but I am not a believer in him as a QB. Although he has done quite well in that regard since the season ended. But-he was throwing against air for the most part. When he gets to a camp, you know the Head Coach is going to say, "Hey Pat, lets see how you catch the football." Bound to happen.

Ryan, Statesville,NC [via mobile]

Hey Matt with boldin saying he would love to be in miam what are the chances the dolphins trade 1st and 3rd for him and draft a cb in the 2nd?

Matt Williamson

  (12:36 PM)

I would bet that Parcells and company are quite concerned with Boldin's durability, but he would be an ideal guy to move the chains as the go-to guy and open up room for Ginn deep. Use Bess/Camirillo in the slot. I like it. CB is still a huge need though. Miami made great strides from their awful one win season, but that roster is far from stacked.

jake (utah)

Matt what characteristics do you not like about Laurinitis as a player.

Matt Williamson

  (12:37 PM)

Playmaker. Tough. Wrap tackler. Still-I don't love him as a prospect. A little light and not quite stout enough for a traditional MLB and not quite athletic enough for outside. So-so against the pass in general. Very well explosive traits.

Chad (SLC, UT)

What position do you think the Cowboys will target in the 2nd round? Who do you think they pick?

Matt Williamson

  (12:38 PM)

I keep going back to DB for the Cowboys in round 2. Chung. Moore. A fair amount of quality CBs at that spot as well.

Benjamin (Plattsburgh)

FEAGLES!!!! now thats making the short list.... for years my gf and I have been calling him the MVP.... most valuable punter.....

Matt Williamson

  (12:38 PM)

Glad I could help.

B.J. Raji (Preparing)

Hey, why am I not being considered as Kansas City's selection at #3? Am I KC's true draft selection over Aaron Curry?

Matt Williamson

  (12:40 PM)

I would much rather take Raji at #3 for KC than Curry. I would pick Raji or Monroe. Not a knock on Curry, but if I am using #3 on a LB, he had better be the perfect fit for the 3-4 ala Merriman or Ware. I don't see LTs losing sleep at night before a game vs. Curry.

Missing Link (Parts Unknown)

Is Precious Paul Ellering Laurinitis' manager/agent?

Matt Williamson

  (12:40 PM)

That is fantastic

Jay Cutler (Lake Forest, IL)

Any chance Percy Harvin slips to the Bears in the 2nd because of his failed drug test? I need a playmaker!

Matt Williamson

  (12:41 PM)

Seems too far to slip. But if he gets out of round one, maybe Chi can be aggressive to go get him. Still, he is too similiar to Hester for my liking. Hate to say it, but I see safety as the wisest pick in the 2nd round and WR being next year's project.

Marc (Malden, MA)

What's your opinion on Malcolm Jenkins? The Pats generally don't like to trade up, but if he's there at 15/16, could you see that happening?

Matt Williamson

  (12:42 PM)

A lot to like about Jenkins for the Pats. Versatile. Potential at FS or CB. Would be a fine move.

John (CA)

How far is Andre Smith going to fall? Will he be around at #10 for the Niners? I think Singletary could shape him up.

Matt Williamson

  (12:42 PM)

Might not slip past Cincy. They could use him. I bet he isn't there for SF, but I also don't think SF would pass on him.

Greg (Crystal Lake, IL)

Any chance Bears fans stop hinging their hopes on inexperienced, unproven, albeit talented, playmakers any time soon?

Matt Williamson

  (12:43 PM)

Yeah, I hear ya there. Not sure what they expect from a mid 2nd round WR in the player's first year. Get that a lot.

chris (bmore)

if maluagua or however you say it is there for the ravens dont we have to take him as a successor to the throne for ray ray? Wouldnt he fit nicely into our scheme anyway?

Matt Williamson

  (12:44 PM)

He would be tremendous NEXT to Lewis right now. Big time take on guy who needs someone to take him under his wing. Perfect fit.

Sidney C (Pittsburgh)

Will Philly fans hate their pick as much as they hate me? (I own that town by the way)

Matt Williamson

  (12:45 PM)

87, You do own that town.

Paul (Albany, OR)

Over a half hour in and no mention of Green Bay and their switch to the 3-4. Wow am I disappointed.

Matt Williamson

  (12:45 PM)

Mentioned it right off the bat. I understated it a bit, but yeah, that is a flat out horrible decision.

greg (Crystal Lake)

Do you think the Eagles will take a CB because of the sheldon brown problem?

Matt Williamson

  (12:46 PM)

Probably, but not in the top two rounds. Hansen is a good player, but Reid certainly does value that position.

Bret Favre (Kiln, MS)

Dont you forget about me Matty Ice.....I may just have to come back again so you will talk about me.

Matt Williamson

  (12:46 PM)

I am done with you. Go to the Hall. Move on.

James (Boiler Room)

What's with all these guys chiming in from that lake where Jason chopped people?

Matt Williamson

  (12:47 PM)

Wanted to bring that up myself. Kill, kill, kill. Scarey.

Chad (Las Vegas)

Now that Millen is gone from Detroit who has the worst Front Office in the NFL?

Matt Williamson

  (12:48 PM)

It has to be Oakland, right? Until they step it up....which I am not betting on. Remember all the terrible free agent moves they made before last season? Wow

Paul (Albany, OR)

If the Rams go Crabtree in round 1, is 2nd round too early for Levitre or is a tackle still available early in round 2?

Matt Williamson

  (12:49 PM)

Too early for Levitre, and he projects inside. But, could take Loadholt or Beatty there. I don't like Beatty, but I would rather have Loadholt and Crabtree than Smith and say, Robiskie.

Chad (SLC, UT)

Is Jason Peters over-rated? I heard the stat that he gave up 11.5 sacks last year in 13 games. Doesn't sound like the best LT in the league to me.

Matt Williamson

  (12:50 PM)

He had a poor season. No question about that. Came in overweight and it showed. But, was terrific the season before and has very rare athletic abilities for the position. Remember, this is a guy who left Arkansas a few years ago as a 285 lbs TE. Still a work in progress. He and his new teammate, Shawn Andrews, used to mash people for the Razorbacks.

Anthony (NYC)

M-Dub if the Jets were to draft Pettigrew, wouldn't that be a waste? true Pettigrew is a complete TE but they drafted Keller last year.

Matt Williamson

  (12:51 PM)

They have zero behind Keller and Pettigrew is a VERY different player than Keller. Keller is more WR than TE. Pettigrew will not threaten a D nearly as much as Keller, but if they would make this choice, NYJ could then use a ton of 2 TE sets and increase their versatility in both the run and pass game. I like the pick.

Dickie Laroux (Ferg's Pad, CA)

Who grabs more sacks in 09: T Suggs or Bart Scott?

Matt Williamson

  (12:52 PM)

Suggs. Not even close. Tell Mazur I said Hello

Jeff, Mpls

Who scheduled both you and Kiper's chats at the same time today? That's prolly why lack of questions early, no disrespect intended.

Matt Williamson

  (12:53 PM)

Just found that out. Competing with Mel this time of year is just bad business. Overmatched....like the Flyers.

Chad (Las Vegas)

Mark my words. The Saints WILL NOT pick a RB at 14. If they stay there it has to be D. If they trade down maybe RB in rd 1 but not at 14!

Matt Williamson

  (12:54 PM)

Remember, they traded their 2nd round pick for Shockey, so if they go RB, they are ignoring their D until day two. Seems unlikely. Would look to trade back of course, but the two guys who would really interest me at #14 are Jenkins and P Jerry. Been saying this for a while, but you add an upfield presence like Jerry next to Ellis and all of a sudden the Saints' LBs and DBs are much happier and their job becomes much easier.

Greg (Crystal Lake)

Do you think the Eagles will take Robert Ayers over Moreno bc Reid doesnt like to take RBs in the 1st

Matt Williamson

  (12:55 PM)

True about not liking to take RBs high and I agree with that approach. But not Ayers. Have to be an offensive player-weapon for McNabb.

J.B. (Dunmore, PA)

For the record I could have gone to the chat with Mel but I chose M-Dub for the entertainment value.

Matt Williamson

  (12:56 PM)

You're my man JB....good decision

Benjamin (Plattsburgh)

Michael Johnson..... hes falling..... what if the giants got him...... wow right?

Matt Williamson

  (12:56 PM)

Falling, His tape is poor. Screaming bust potential. But to NYG? I feel ya-and I love thier DL addiction-but they can't possibly. Can they? No, they can't? Can they?

Sean (Philly)

Sal Pal reported the Eagles are willing to trade up for Moreno...that is very un-Eagle like. RB in the first round, as well as talking about it...seems like a smoke screen to me.

Matt Williamson

  (12:57 PM)

REALLY seems like a smoke screen to me. I could take or leave Moreno. Wouldn't trade up that is for sure.

John (Boston)

For the dog guy, how about Carson for Harry Carson or maybe Burt?

Matt Williamson

  (12:58 PM)

Good suggestions

dallasboyz33 (ny)

if ur the dallascowboyz would u get mike vick

Matt Williamson

  (12:58 PM)

Isn't he in jail?

jake (utah)

Besides the obvious first round palyers who from ohio state do you project as the best player in the NFL.

Matt Williamson

  (12:59 PM)

Washington could be the best of all of them. All kinds of upside. All kinds of risk. Will be one of the most physically gifted CBs in the NFL the day he is drafted. But, Million Dollar Arm and a Ten Cent Head? Not sure if he is Nuke LaLuche (spelling) or not.

Charles (Orlando)

Tiki? But then you'd need an identical dog to confuse everyone.

Matt Williamson

  (12:59 PM)

Awesome

Stanish (Alaska)

Are you going to be on the radio up here? I don't have a TV

Matt Williamson

  (1:00 PM)

Can you find 1250 ESPN in Pittsburgh on the dial up in the Great White North? If so, you surely will be sick of me by the end of draft weekend.

Flyer Fans (Philly)

Why do we hate Donovan? Why are we so jealous of Sid?

Matt Williamson

  (1:00 PM)

Makes little sense to me. You guys are not big on Santa Claus either. Lighten up.

Sam: Waco, TX

Where do you see McGee going from A&M?

Matt Williamson

  (1:01 PM)

Really like him. How about to the Pats? Perfect fit in the 3rd round. I bet he goes to a smart team.

Steve (Rochester, NY)

Trigger....after Plaxico.

Matt Williamson

  (1:01 PM)

Now we are picking up the pace.

Anthony (NYC)

If Al Davis were to pick Heyward-Bey with the 7th pick, could Goodell make an inquiry about his mental health?

Matt Williamson

  (1:02 PM)

That might be the final evidence that the old man has lost it.....yet, would anyone be surprised?

Benjamin (Plattsburgh)

I cant get past that Jenkins is just manginis type of player...... you know what i mean?

Matt Williamson

  (1:03 PM)

I do and the Browns have an infinity for Ohio guys. Still-and I like Jenkins more than most do-trade down if that is your guy!

Jason (Moon twp)

How pumped are you that Sepulveda will be back and no more Mitch Berger? Any chance the D is better than last year?

Matt Williamson

  (1:05 PM)

Okay, this is getting a bit too homerish and my time is up. Berger was dreadful, but getting Sepulveda back isn't ALL that exilerhating. Adios folks. Fun chat. Started slow, but glad it picked up. Enjoy the holiday this weekend.