Dan Graziano

  (12:00 PM)

I trust you all had a nice weekend. Fire away.

Jae (California)

As a Boys fan, why not draft more than 1 Olinemen Dan? why keep adding "projects" and players at skill positions when the team's biggest weakness is it's line by far?

Dan Graziano

  (12:01 PM)

Had the Cowboys picked a tackle or guard in the second or third round, it would have been hard to fault the pick. As you say, the need is that significant. But I can't say a team that spent its first-rounder on offensive line failed to do enough to address it. There are still right tackle possibilities on the market, and Frederick should make a big impact as the starter at center or one of the guard spots.

Sammy (MD)

What are the chances Thomas and Rambo both start game 1?

Dan Graziano

  (12:03 PM)

Probably pretty slim. Brandon Meriweather seems to be on track to be ready for Week 1, and I know the Redskins like him at the strong safety spot if he's healthy. If Philip Thomas or Bacarri Rambo plays well enough to start at free safety in Week 1, that's good value on a late-round pick.

Joe (Middletown,CT)

Dan hows it going? Giants fan here, I'm interested in your opinion on the giants drafting nassib in the fourth round? I like the pick because i think if eli has around 3-4 years left and nassib sits behind him and learns, the giants may have gotten a steal. Thanks Dan

Dan Graziano

  (12:04 PM)

Yeah. I mean, I'm sure they hope Eli has more than 3-4 years left, but if that's your worst-case scenario, then it's the right time to be thinking about a successor. I'm not a huge fan of Nassib, but QB is a matter of opinion, and if he's a guy the Giants like, then he made sense for them in the fourth, for sure. Maybe he's a trade chip down the road. Never know.

Gary (New York City)

Dan, just wondering if you have much information on where Justin Pugh might have been ranked on other team's draft boards? I ask because I would love to know if it would have been possible for the Giants have grabbed Desmond Trufant in round 1 and still gotten Justin Pugh in round 2...

Dan Graziano

  (12:05 PM)

My guess is that Pugh would have been the Bears' pick at 20, and if not then he likely would have been the Cowboys' pick at 31.

Joe [via mobile]

Are the eagles turning into a RB factory? Look at the past running backs the eagles have drafted or signed as an UDFA: Brian Westbrook, LeSean McCoy, Bryce Brown, Correll Buckhalter, Ryan Moats, Dion Lewis, Chris Polk, Miguel Mayonset

Dan Graziano

  (12:07 PM)

It's one of those positions at which you can't have too much depth, especially if you're stockpiling quality depth in the sixth, seventh round or with undrafteds. I think Kelly's going to want to lean on McCoy and Brown a lot this year, and that means he'll want them well backed up.

Ken (PA)

Dan, realistically, what are the odds that Vick is even on the Eagles roster come opening day? Not saying Barkley is going to be the savior, but Kelly does not require a "mobile QB" and why not see what you have in the younger guys, aka Fole and/or Barkley?

Dan Graziano

  (12:08 PM)

I think right now, Vick is the clear favorite to be the Week 1 starting QB. The most experience and highest ceiling of any QB they have on the roster. Could he perform badly enough in the preseason to lose that job? Yes. If he does, could he be released? Sure. But I wouldn't bet on that happening.

Gary (New York City)

Dan, in regards to the Damontre Moore pick in round 3, I at least feel good knowing this is a guy who was able to pile up sacks at the collegiate level. Not unlike Ansah, Mingo, or Dion Jordan who are all "projects" who could not even dominate in college and are now suddenly expected to dominate in the NFL.

Dan Graziano

  (12:08 PM)

In general, I'm with you on the value of college production as a predictor. Moore's issues are off-field, and if those are under control I believe he'll be productive for the Giants.

Dan (Miami)

Plz tell me Dallas isn't planning on musical charis with Parnell and Free again this year or that 1 of them is going to be entrusted to win the RT job? Winston and Clabo are oh-so more reliable than those jokers. Can't Dallas restructure 1 more contract to open up enough cash to sign one of those guys?

Dan Graziano

  (12:10 PM)

Sure. Until those guys sign elsewhere, they remain possibilities in Dallas. And after June 1, they get the $7 million savings on Free if they cut him. So maybe it's a matter of waiting just a few more weeks.

Scott (Giant's Country)

Can we get a reading on what type of access fans might be able to get at Giants camp this year since they're not up north again.

Dan Graziano

  (12:11 PM)

Haven't heard specifics on that. I know the Eagles say they'll have a few practices at the stadium and have fans in there for those. When the Giants had camp in East Rutherford two years ago, they set up bleachers in the parking lots near the practice fields for fans to watch. Obviously, it won't be the same as Albany.

Steve (Philly)

Do you think Nick Foles is on the Eagles roster in Week 1?

Dan Graziano

  (12:13 PM)

Yes.

Rob (Utah)

Given their circumstances, I realize that it was a great accomplishment for the Redskins just to keep most of their starters from last season. Do you think they have done enough to remain at the top of the division?

Dan Graziano

  (12:14 PM)

It's so tough to do predictions from this far out. They won the division on the last day. There's no reason to think Dallas and the Giants won't be tough again, and the Eagles are a total wild card. I'll say that the Redskins have reason to feel good about their chances to factor into the race again.

Chris (Rochester)

Dan, I hate to be this guy, but is it possible that Chip Kelly can see Tebow as a matchup nightmare and another chess piece that he can move all around the field? I don't want the Eagles to sign him, but Kelly does like these types of players.

Dan Graziano

  (12:15 PM)

Stop it. Just stop. Stop.

Alex (NOLA)

Dan, if Cruz doesn't sign a long term deal, do you think he tries his hardest to get a bigger contract next yr, or does he hold out or play lazily?

Dan Graziano

  (12:15 PM)

I think the former.

Colin (Pennsylvania)

You're probably getting a lot of these emails today, but what on earth was Dallas doing taking a guy that high who was no different than say a Barrett Jones of Alabama(who played in a much better conference btw). Wouldn't a guy like Cyprien made more sense at 31? And we haven't even mentioned the hosing Dallas got by only getting a 3rd rounder.

Dan Graziano

  (12:16 PM)

Obviously, they thought Frederick was better than Barrett Jones. Different teams value different players differently.

Andrew (Richmond)

Dan, in response to the skins question... they also have a ton more health this yeah... Davis back, garcon getting used to his toe thing, Orakpo, Carriker, Merriweather, london not as gimpy... Could be a good year if they all stay healthy.

Dan Graziano

  (12:17 PM)

Absolutely. No reason for Redskins fans not to be optimistic. Unless the QB has a setback.

Taylor (Connecticut)

Giants cannot be too worried about the Cruz situation since they didn't draft a wide receiver right?

Dan Graziano

  (12:20 PM)

Well, they took one in the second round last year, and I know they like him. And they added Louis Murphy in free agency and looked around on some others. I think they're trying to cover themselves in case, but I also think they believe it'll get done with Cruz.

Hank Hill (Arlington)

Dan, when the Cowboys traded down, I was thinking to myself god dang it just take the guy from Folorida. But when they drafted friedrich I just lost and yelled BAWH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Do you think it is time for Jerry to step down?

Dan Graziano

  (12:22 PM)

I don't understand "step down." He owns the team.

Joe (Delaware)

Andy Reid didn't draft well these past few years in Philly but the Eagles latest draft seemed like a home run should we expect this every year from Chip?

Dan Graziano

  (12:23 PM)

I'm certain some of the Reid drafts felt like home runs at the time. Let's see how things play out before anointing Chip.

Mike (NJ)

I'm only here because I'm bored at work. Your chats are terrible. Thanks for taking my comment.

Dan Graziano

  (12:23 PM)

Well, we're happy to have you.

Derrin (Plano, TX)

Was it a mistake for the Cowboys not to draft Matt Elam, or another safety early in the draft?

Dan Graziano

  (12:23 PM)

No, I really think they had to get an offensive lineman in the first round.

sam (new york)

Do you think Fletcher plays all 16 this year?

Dan Graziano

  (12:24 PM)

Safest bet in football, right there.

Tony (Richmond, CA)

Do you think we'll see an active NFL player come out of the closet any time soon now that Jason Collins has done so in basketball?

Dan Graziano

  (12:26 PM)

Probably. I just think we all need to back off. (And I do mean WE.) As much as the Collins announcement was an historic societal one, the decision to come out is an incredibly personal one, and I really think we need to let people (especially very public people) do it on their own timetables -- not because "it's time."

Bill (Virginia)

Dan, the Redskins seem to have gotten a lot of guys who can win turnover battles but also give up the homerun hit in this draft. Coupled with the current starters (Merriweather, Hall, Wilson), are the Redskins going to have the most feared AND laughable Defensive backfield in the league next year? Seems like they're the epitome of feast or famine.

Dan Graziano

  (12:27 PM)

Yeah, I see where you're coming from. I guess the theory is that you can coach technique and disciplined coverage, but not the instincts required to make plays on the ball. So you get the guys with the instincts and you try and fix their deficiencies so they're not too costly.

Chris (Raleigh)

Given the Ertz and Barkley selections, it seems like Chip Kelly may want to go with a lot of 2+ TE sets and spread it out with a pro-style QB like the Patriots. Your thoughts?

Dan Graziano

  (12:28 PM)

I really do think what Kelly is trying to do is get to camp with as many different offensive options as possible, then see what works best with his personnel.

Gene (DC)

Draft is over. Most of the free agents are signed. What do you see as the biggest remaining hole on each roster?

Dan Graziano

  (12:29 PM)

Cowboys: Right tackle. Giants: Linebacker. Redskins: Safety. Eagles: Quarterback.

Pete (Pala)

Will the Redskins resign Orakpo in the next offseason or will they try to find his replacement in the draft?

Dan Graziano

  (12:29 PM)

I believe Orakpo gets an extension sometime this offseason.

Matt (Rhode Island Eagles)

Does Maclin stay with the Eagles or move on to another team after this season?

Dan Graziano

  (12:30 PM)

I think that depends on how he plays. They'll have the money and cap room to keep him if they want to. But I believe he needs to show health and productivity to an extent he has not over the past couple of seasons. Lots of talent there, but it's time for him to prove it.

Bob (bob worold)

Dan, the Eagles boast the best o-line on paper in the division true or false?

Dan Graziano

  (12:30 PM)

Yeah, if everyone's healthy, true.

Chris (Hoboken, NJ)

True or False - The Eagles are a top ten offense (pts and yards) this season.

Dan Graziano

  (12:31 PM)

I say false. Too many questions still at the most important position.

sam (new york)

True or False - dragons are awesome

Dan Graziano

  (12:32 PM)

I mean, I don't think it's that simple. I think the concept of dragons is an awesome one. But if one were to show up in your neighborhood, I don't think you'd think it was awesome.

Jason (Denver)

Thoughts on Terrence Williams? No. 3 this year and taking over for Austin in the next couple?

Dan Graziano

  (12:33 PM)

As I understand it, Williams is a vertical threat -- a big-play downfield guy who may be able to bump Austin inside when they go three-wide. We'll see if he can show enough ability to get behind the defense to make him usable as a rookie. But I don't think he projects as Miles Austin.

tim (toledo oh)

why did the cowboys take a center and not a guard? I thought that costa did a good job when he played and cook filled in well. was guard a more pressing need? or center?

Dan Graziano

  (12:34 PM)

See, this is one of the reasons I like the pick. Frederick can play center or guard, as can Costa. So you take a guy in Frederick who is now putting pressure on three players -- Costa, Livings and Bernadeau -- to beat him out. If he outplays any one of them in camp, he can take his position. Gives them options.

Carlo (Toronto)

Korheiser seems to be convinced that the NFL and Redskins have had talks and know RGIII will be ready week (ie. week 1 monday nighter). I know he's a skins homer, but he's getting me excited and thinking the same. Why would they schedule him in a monday nighter week 1?

Dan Graziano

  (12:36 PM)

I'm not above suspecting the NFL of sinister backroom dealing. I just don't know how anyone can legitimately know, in April, whether the guy's going to be ready to play in September. It's impossible to be sure.

Chris (Raleigh)

If the Eagles kick Herremans back inside and slide Johnson in at RT does that signal the end for Danny Watkins?

Dan Graziano

  (12:37 PM)

I would think so, yes.

Gary (New York City)

Dan, any chance Justin Pugh becomes the starter at RT this season as opposed to 2014? I mean David Diehl didn't play very well last season...

Dan Graziano

  (12:38 PM)

A chance, for sure. I think they see him in the mix. Everything I heard on Pugh pre-draft was that he projected as a guard in the NFL. But the Giants are saying they like him at tackle, so I guess he's in the mix with Diehl and Brewer. And as you point out, that's not an impenetrable wall.

Tyler (Blacksburg, VA)

Your favorite NFC East pick not in the first round is...

Dan Graziano

  (12:38 PM)

Matt Barkley. I always believed he'd be a good pro.

Justin (B-More)

You don't think the Skins will take a "wait and see" approach with Orakpo considering his injury history? The deal they give him will directly impact what they have to give Kerrigan in a few years, who I believe will get a bigger deal

Dan Graziano

  (12:39 PM)

No, I think they'll be able to get him at a discount for that very reason.

Pete (Pala)

Wouldn't it be just as intrigiun if Cousins has to start that Monday night game.

Dan Graziano

  (12:39 PM)

I agree. And Chip Kelly's first game is a story, and Vick might be starting it. Plenty to sell that game whether Griffin plays in it or not.

G-Money (Chicago, IL)

Greetings Dan - With Frederick now in the fold, what's your prediction on who will be the starting five on the Cowboys' O-line in September?

Dan Graziano

  (12:40 PM)

Smith, Livings, Frederick, Costa and a right tackle not yet on the team.

Bert (St. Paul, MN)

What is your take on Joseph Randle backing up DeMarco Murray?

Dan Graziano

  (12:40 PM)

I like the Randle pick. I think they needed to find someone who'd shown durability in college, and he has.

Tim (Connecticut)

Dan on a normal week during the offseason, how many days are you in Bristol and how many in NJ?

Dan Graziano

  (12:41 PM)

Zero and seven.

Eric (Maryland)

I am one of the only who applaud MLB and the O's for standing up to the NFL juggernaut?

Dan Graziano

  (12:41 PM)

No, I did the same. How often does baseball get the chance to win that battle? Good for them.

fred (pool)

I have the opinion that the Eagles will start out fast, but by their bye week will be out of steam due to the high paced action. Your thoughts on this?

Dan Graziano

  (12:42 PM)

I don't know. I just think so much depends on the QB, and they don't have a trustworthy one. I think you'll see ups and downs.

Steve (Arkansas)

What do you think the next step is for Anthony Spencer?? Trade him or long term deal?

Dan Graziano

  (12:42 PM)

I don't think they can trade him. I think he ends up there long-term.

Dan Graziano

  (12:42 PM)

They seem to be kind of all-in on Spencer.

Pat (St. Louis) [via mobile]

Except Randle has a thumb issue that will limit him in OTA's. But that's what I love about you Dan.....your attention to detail.

Dan Graziano

  (12:43 PM)

He didn't miss a single game in college.

Pete (Pala)

I don't think RGIII will be back untill after their bye week. It the safest way to go and they can show case cousins as well

Dan Graziano

  (12:43 PM)

I don't think they'll hold back Griffin to showcase Cousins.

gratcliffe (Lake Forest, CA)

Any insight about Dallas signing E.Winston? Looks like it should be something that happens soon.

Dan Graziano

  (12:44 PM)

I thought I heard they liked Tyson Clabo better.

Sean (VA)

Thoughts on Romo having more say in the gameplan?

Dan Graziano

  (12:44 PM)

Makes sense to me. They're certainly invested heavily enough in him. He seems to want the responsibility. His teammates listen to him. Why not?

Jae (California)

why do "bloggers" keep saying Frederick would have been there at 47? Top rated Center in the draft, was I the only one who watched OLinemen fly off the board at the top of the 1st?

Dan Graziano

  (12:45 PM)

There was nothing going on Thursday night to make anyone feel comfortable about waiting a round for the offensive lineman they liked.

G-Money (Chicago, IL)

I thought the knock on Costa was that he's too smallish at center, which is why we needed bigger guards (Livings and Bernardeau) beside him. If that's the case, why would he be any better as a guard?

Dan Graziano

  (12:46 PM)

I think the knock on Costa is that he can't stay healthy. He played well last year when he actually played.

bryan (philadelphia pa)

with drafting barkely does his success or failure in the nfl ultimately decide chip kellys future?

Dan Graziano

  (12:46 PM)

Not necessarily. Had he picked him in the first round, you could make that case. But not the fourth.

Scott (Giant's Country)

Who's going to be at the top of the meaningless week 0 power rankings from the East? Just read the tea leaves of the hype/bloggers/teams, not neccessarily who the ebst team actually will be at that point. I'm asking for insight into your world, not the NFCE reality which are very far apart sometimes if i say so myself.

Dan Graziano

  (12:47 PM)

Well, the Redskins are the defending division champs and the highest-ranked NFC East team in the power rankings that came out today. I don't see why that would change between now and September.

Dan Graziano

  (12:48 PM)

Unless Griffin has a major setback, that is.

Matt (DC)

Very little Skins questions not Griffin related. What are your thoughts on the RB situation in WAS? Are Royster and Helu not long for the job? They did draft two other guys.

Dan Graziano

  (12:49 PM)

Royster and Helu have to stay healthy or they will lose their jobs. Morris' ascendance from sixth-round pick to starter last summer was a clear message, and obviously adding two backs on Saturday was another.

Pete (Pala)

Who will be the surprise player an NFC East team drafted this year. Of course last year was alfred morris.

Dan Graziano

  (12:49 PM)

Joseph Randle?

Ryan (PA)

Albeit a long shot but if Vick cuts back on the turnovers this team is talented enough to compete for the division, correct?

Dan Graziano

  (12:50 PM)

Obviously. This division only requires 9 or 10 wins to win it these days. No one's far away.

Pappy (PA)

What are your thoughts on the Redskins O-line? They did a good job by keeping the starting 5 intact. Last year they added depth & youth with Compton, Gettis, LeRibeus. I keep hearing Skins fans complain that they should have drafted a lineman or two. Thoughts?

Dan Graziano

  (12:51 PM)

I think a big part of the success of last year's line (and team) was that they started the same five in 16 of their 17 games. Familiarity is a big part of offensive line success. I also think a mobile QB can make a substandard line look better than it might otherwise look. If Cousins has to play behind the same line for an extended period of time, it's possible it would show more cracks.

Alex (New York)

Please tell us if you think Sabino can make GMen..he looks better on film than the LBs drafted!

Dan Graziano

  (12:52 PM)

Yes, certainly, there is opportunity at that position. I don't know much about the player, but there's no reason to think he doesn't have a shot.

Joeytexas) [via mobile]

Joseph randle surprise player? Wouldnt that mean murray gets demoted?

Dan Graziano

  (12:52 PM)

Well, or hurt.

Craig (NY)

Now that David Wilson will have a bigger role on Offense do you think the Giants will use someone like Da'Rel Scott to return kickoffs

Dan Graziano

  (12:54 PM)

It's a good question. Hard to find anyone on the roster who can have the same impact on kickoffs as Wilson had. (Maybe Murphy?) But yeah, if they're using him more on offense they could look to back him off there. The way I see it, he's young and can handle it. But at this point, I don't think they've decided what to do on that.

Ray (Rochester, NY)

I've been a Cowboys fan since I was 7 and I am 52 now. Doesn't this seniority earn me at least one questioned answered?

Dan Graziano

  (12:54 PM)

Sure. Ask one.

Martin (NY)

Have you seen enough of David Wilson and Rueben Randle to believe that they're ready to be major contributors this year?

Dan Graziano

  (12:55 PM)

No, I don't think anyone has. But that's not to say they can't. And just because they're not major contributors Week 1 doesn't mean they won't be in Week 10. The Giants believe in development, and different players take different amounts of time.

Scott (Giant's Country)

So wilson is a smaller back than the last few years, do we see a resurgence of FB play from the Gmen to open up holes for the kid, or do we keep him wide like the former barber who shall not be named

Dan Graziano

  (12:56 PM)

Hynoski was a great blocking fullback last year.

Ray Finkle (Miami)

First time, long time. (thats a lie) Which team in the NFC East has the best equipped and starter caliber Back Up QB in your opinion?

Dan Graziano

  (12:57 PM)

I think the Cowboys.

Daniel (Columbia, MD)

What position(s) hold Washington back from being a Super Bowl contender versus an NFC East contender?

Dan Graziano

  (12:57 PM)

The secondary. CB and safety. Too susceptible to the big play.

Jaren (Arizona) [via mobile]

Do you think Trent Cole can make the transition to LB if need be?

Dan Graziano

  (12:58 PM)

Yeah, I kind of see Cole as a guy who's going to surprise people this year.

gratcliffe (Lake Forest, CA)

What's your take on JJ's comments that he's following the blueprint the Pats laid out - empahsis on explosive offense, less concern with defense. Thanks for taking my question, Dan.

Dan Graziano

  (12:59 PM)

The Cowboys think their defense will improve if its health does. Lee, Carter, Ratliff, Church... they believe they have the personnel but lost too many key players to injury last year.

Scott (Giant's Country)

I know all about Hynoski, it was a leading question to get an opinion about how the Giants will use him. More two back sets with two WRs and a Te, or leave a single back and spread out the defense...come on Dan i know my stuff most days

Dan Graziano

  (1:00 PM)

Tough for them to go two-wide if they want Cruz on the field and don't trust him on the outside. If you're looking to put your best personnel on the field, you probably have to go three-wide with Cruz in the slot.

Frank (Scranton, PA)

Can I say goodbye?

Dan Graziano

  (1:00 PM)

Good bye, Frank. Thanks for all of the questions, folks. Catch you here next week.