Why The Rams Should Cut Ties With Steven Jackson After The 2011 Season

By: Tyler Ward

This may sound crazy, but to me, it doesn't. Steven Jackson, undoubtedly the team's best player, has been their most consistent player since arriving in St. Louis in 2004. Although he has had his fair share of injuries over the past few seasons, he is still a top-ten running back in the NFL and the Rams are lucky to have him. Jackson, a first-round draft choice out of Oregon State in 2004, hasn't been apart of a playoff team since his rookie season and it doesn't look like he'll be going back any time soon.

The Rams haven't finished better 8-8 since that season when Jackson served as the team's back-up to Marshall Faulk. But since taking the reins in 2005, Jackson has become an NFL star and has developed into one of the best running backs in the league, surpassing the 1,000-yard plateau in every season since.

With the Rams struggling this season, there is no doubt that they will have a top-five draft selection in the 2012 draft and it will probably stay that way for a few more seasons.

So, it has become transparently and abundantly clear that the Jackson-Rams relationship needs to conclude quickly.

It may sound like something that shouldn't be done, as Jackson is practically their only building block to a better future instead of succumbing to years of mediocrity once again. As of right now, the Rams aren't going anywhere -- especially with one of the most unproven receiving corps in the league, along with a suspect offensive line that can't protect the broad side of a barn and a defense that has regressed over the season, especially when a 37-year old Al Harris has been their best cornerback for much of the season.

So to say the least, the Rams have copious amounts of problems and they will have a hard time addressing them all over the next couple of seasons, especially in the draft process.

From the Rams' prospective, why not trade Jackson to a team that is in desperate need of a running back, in hopes of landing a quality running back along with a few draft selections and possibly another player or two that fills some of their needs? There is bound to be at least one team out there that should want Jackson, who is on the verge of successfully completing his seventh-straight 1,000-yard season (currently just 34 yards shy of that mark).

St. Louis' front office should take advantage of the opportunity to deal Jackson because they aren't going to winning a Super Bowl anytime soon and it would be in Jackson's best interest to leave the only professional team he's ever known. I'd go as far to say that the Rams are by far the worst team in their division, especially with the 49ers appearing to be a juggernaut over the next few years, along with the Seahawks and Cardinals on the rise, while the Rams are progressively getting worse.

If the team can get an exceptional deal right now for Jackson, they need to take it because it will benefit the team in the future.

Jackson is just 28 years old and will turn 29 next July, so one can assume that he is still in the prime of his career and has a few more years left in the tank, so he could help a team succeed -- if he has quality pieces around him, of course.

If the Rams were to sever ties with Jackson, there should be quite a few teams interested, even though he will be making approximately $9.6 million in 2012 and will become an unrestricted free agent after the 2013 season. But when a team looks at his stat sheet, one can't help but want him on their team, if they are in need of a running back.

Around the NFL, there are many teams that are in need of a running back and one or some of those teams should take a peek at Jackson, including Washington, Indianapolis, Tampa Bay, Detroit, Cleveland, Cincinnati and Green Bay.

Washington Redskins: Although Jackson would likely see a steep decrease in his carries in Washington, he would still become a much better option than Tim Hightower, Roy Helu and Ryan Torain. As we have seen in the past with Mike Shanahan's offenses, he likes to use a multitude of running backs instead of just one player getting the high majority of carries.

But still, if the Redskins could somehow acquire Jackson, along with drafting a quarterback in the first round of next year's draft, they would definitely be on the right track to stardom once again. The Redskins practically have the worst owner in professional sports -- also known as Dan Snyder -- and that has not helped them become a winning team as of late.

But if any coach is going to turn around a franchise, it will be Shanahan who has won two Super Bowls over his coaching career. And if the Redskins want to win, they will eventually acquire a running back that is considered to be one of the top 15 players at that position. However, if the 'Skins were somehow able to acquire Jackson, they would likely have to give up multiple draft choices along with a player or two. But it would be worth it, as he would likely become the team's best running back since the days of John Riggins -- and if you consider that a stretch, we'll just go with Stephen Davis.

Indianapolis Colts: The Colts, who have been one of the league's worst running teams in the last five or six years, haven't been able to carry the ball since the Edgerrin James era. Joseph Addai has gotten the bulk of the carries since James' departure and he hasn't been spectacular to say the least.

However, the Colts aren't one of those teams that would go out and make a major trade or sign a marquee free agent -- their best acquisition in the last decade has perhaps been Adam Vinatieri, albeit one of the best kickers in NFL history. They particularly use the draft to build their team and even that has been shaky as of late -- Anthony Gonzalez, Tony Ugoh, Jerry Hughes, among others. So it is unclear as to who the Colts would give up to acquire Jackson, unless they can strike a deal with St. Louis for the No. 1 overall pick if the Colts do, in fact, end up with the league's worst record this season.

Of course, this is perhaps the unlikeliest scenario of them all, but you can never rule it out, as the Colts are almost in the rebuilding phase for the first time since Peyton Manning was selected with the No. 1 selection in 1998. But if the Colts could somehow land Jackson, they would not regret it as it would finally give them a formidable running attack for the first time since the mid-2000's.

Cleveland Browns: It appears clearer and clearer every day that the Browns are not likely to have Peyton Hillis as their starting running back in 2012. After missing multiple games this season because of questionable injuries and circumstances, Hillis is likely to find another home next year, whether it be through a trade or a release.

Montario Hardesty and Chris Ogbannaya are the other running backs on the roster and they certainly aren't starting material, especially with Hardesty's history of injuries. And although Ogbonnaya has been a surprise this season, he is not a week-to-week starting running back.

So that leaves the Browns with a giant question mark, as Hillis is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season and Mike Holmgren and Co. are probably not going to give him a contract extension. Jackson seems like an ideal fit for the Browns, but it is doubtful that he would go from one consistent losing team to another.

Also, the Browns really don't have the players to give up for Jackson, although they will have two first-round picks for the 2012 NFL Draft, along with multiple other selections from Atlanta because of the Julio Jones trade in last year's draft.

Cincinnati Bengals: A very likely scenario, Jackson would be a great fit in Cincinnati, especially with a young offense that consists of Andy Dalton, A.J. Green and Jermaine Gresham. These three players are likely to form a great offense over the next few seasons and a veteran like Steven Jackson could make them contenders in the AFC North that already features the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Prior to the start of this season, running back Cedric Benson signed a one-year, $5 million extension with Cincinnati and is set to become a free agent when the season concludes after the Super Bowl. That leaves a gigantic gap at the running back position with Bernard Scott becoming the only viable option if they do not retain Benson.

Like Cleveland, the Bengals also hold two first-round picks, so it is always likely that they take a running back with one of those selections. However, the team can pull off something like a sign-and-trade deal that would send Benson and one of the first-round selections to St. Louis for Jackson.

If the Bengals were to somehow land Jackson in a trade, it would immediately make them contenders in the AFC with one of the most potent offenses in the conference, maybe the entire league. Cincinnati already has one of the best offensive lines in the NFL and with Jackson in the backfield, it is plausible that he could cross the 1,300-yard plateau, along with 10+ touchdowns.

Detroit Lions: The Lions, one of the best up-and-coming teams in the NFL, are bound to make their first playoff appearance since 1999 when Charlie Batch, Johnnie Morton, Germane Crowell and Herman Moore were roaming the field.

With one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL, the Lions have been quite a surprise this season with quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Calvin Johnson. However, the running game has been somewhat of an issue this season, as second-round draft choice Mikel LeShoure suffered a season-ending injury before opening day -- and not to mention, Jahvid Best, who was expected to carry the bulk of the load, also suffered a season-ending injury after the Lions' loss to the 49ers on Oct. 16.

This left the Lions' front office scouring for a running back that could help for the rest of the season, which eventually led to the addition of Kevin Smith, who has been a nice surprise this season. Maurice Morris also helped with the load, but has showed that he is not a week-to-week starter in the NFL.

So with Best's future in Detroit doubtful, it just leaves LeShoure, Smith and Morris at the running back position and none of them seem to be starters for an entire season. So that's where Jackson comes in.

Jackson would be a great fit for the :Lions and would immediately form one of the best offensive attacks in the NFL, along with Stafford, Johnson and Brandon Pettigrew. If they were to acquire the former Oregon State star, the Lions would likely have to make a deal that would include Best, Corey Williams, and perhaps a draft pick or two. This would probably be the best option for Jackson and the Rams.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Although it seems like a doubtful scenario, it could still happen nonetheless. Personally, I believe that the Bucs need Jackson to help their running game because their current starter, LeGarrette Blount, is not an every-down back. Blount is a solid player and contributor, but he is not one of those players that should get every single snap -- and not to mention, the Buccaneers should enter their re-building phase next season, as they have been one of the most disappointing teams this season after going 10-6 last year, whilst being on the verge of making the playoffs.

Like the Rams, Tampa Bay has a myriad of needs that they need to fix and it will take time for them to fix them all before they can become a Super Bowl-contending team.

The Buccaneers have a multitude of young players that includes quarterback Josh Freeman, tight end Kellen Winslow and wide receiver Mike Williams, but those three players -- along with Blount -- aren't going to win games by themselves. The team needs help in many different areas and if they were to reach a deal with the Rams, they would likely have to give up Blount, multiple picks and possibly one of their young wide receivers and defensive lineman.

So in other words, it doesn't look too good for Jackson ending up in Florida.

Green Bay Packers: If Jackson somehow ended up in Green Bay, it'd be one of the most unfair turn of events in the NFL. The Packers are currently the best team in the NFL, albeit a mediocre running game, so adding one of the best running backs in the NFL would be amazing for the Packers, easily making them the best team in the league on paper.

With once-reliable running back Ryan Grant set to become an unrestricted free agent after the season expires, the Packers would only be able to list last year's playoff hero James Starks on the depth chart, along with rookies Alex Green and Brandon Saine. So it appears that there would be an opening at the running back position, unless the coaching staff thinks that Starks is an every-down back in the league.

Starks has been a viable option this season, but I don't believe he's a week-to-week starter and would be more suited as the team's third-down back and a receiver out of the backfield. With Grant possibly gone, the Packers should look at adding Jackson, as they have a number of assets to acquire the Pro Bowler.

And they should definitely go for it, as they would have the most potent offense in the NFL.

Other Trade Scenarios:

* St. Louis trades RB Steven Jackson to Carolina for RB DeAngelo Williams and a 2012 3rd-round selection

* St. Louis trades RB Steven Jackson and WR Danny Amendola to the New York Jets for RB Shonn Greene, a 2012 5th-round selection and a 2012 6th-round selection

* St. Louis trades RB Steven Jackson, WR Brandon Gibson and a 2012 5th-round selection to Miami for DE Phillip Merling and a 2012 2nd-round selection

* St. Louis trades RB Steven Jackson, CB Ronald Bartell and a 2012 5th-round selection to Arizona for RB Chris "Beanie" Wells, OT Levi Brown and a 2012 3rd-round selection

Colts Shock Titans, Win First Game Of The Season

By: Tyler Ward

Well, there will be no 0-16 team this season. The Colts, at home at Lucas Oil Stadium, shocked the Tennessee Titans (7-7) with their 27-13 win, which marks their first win of the 2011 campaign.

The last time the Colts won was Jan. 2, when they coincidentally beat the Titans in Indianapolis.

Since losing franchise quarterback Peyton Manning for the season after having neck surgery, the Colts talked former Titan Kerry Collins out of retirement, immediately listing him as the team's starting quarterback. However, Collins struggled and was benched just a few weeks into the season.

Indianapolis then handed the starting reins to Curtis Painter, a former Purdue quarterback, who had held Manning's clipboard since arriving in the NFL. He would openly struggle after head coach Jim Caldwell named him the starter and was benched after horrendous starts against New Orleans, Atlanta and Jacksonville. Painter was benched in favor of Dan Orlovsky  -- who was on the 2008 Lions 0-16 squad -- after their loss against the Carolina Panthers after throwing two key interceptions in the endzone.

Orlovsky, who had never won an NFL game, almost led the Colts to an amazing comeback against the Patriots two weeks ago after throwing for a career-high 353 yards. The Colts would lose the following week to the Ravens after Orlovsky was anything but spectacular.

However, entering Sunday, there was an aura in the air in Indianapolis and many fans felt that Sunday was their best opportunity to win a game this season. And they did, failing to become the second team in NFL history to go 0-16 in a season -- something current Colts linebacker Ernie Sims and Orlovsky were apart of.

The Colts jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first quarter on an Adam Vinatieri 47-yard field goal -- the first time they had led a game in the last nine weeks. The lead didn't last long, as Titans kicker Rob Bironas kicked two field goals in the second quarter to give the playoff-hopeful Titans a 6-3 lead at halftime.

Tennessee received the ball to start the second half with the Colts quickly forcing them to punt. Titans rookie Tommie Campbell got called on an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on the play, giving the Colts the ball at the Titans' 43-yard line.

The 0-13 Colts quickly drove down the field in seven plays, scoring on an 18-yard touchdown reception by Reggie Wayne. That gave the winless team a 10-6 advantage and they would not look back.

Matt Hasselbeck would get intercepted by Jacob Lacey a few minutes later, which was returned 32 yards for a touchdown, the second touchdown of Lacey's career. The Colts held a 17-6 lead and it looked like that they would win their first game in almost a year.

On the ensuing kickoff, Titans returner Marc Mariani tried to field the ball, only it didn't work out to his advantage -- the ball seemingly bounced off his foot and went out of bounds at the Titans' 1-yard line. The Colts forced another punt and running back Donald Brown broke off a 39-yard run that eventually set up a 40-yard field goal by Vinatieri, giving the Colts a 20-6 lead with less than thirteen minutes to play.

Later in the quarter, Hasselbeck was benched in favor of rookie Jake Locker, who saw a good amount of playing time against the Saints last week. Locker would drive the Titans down the field, throwing a 7-yard pass to Nate Washington, their only touchdown of the game with less than four minutes to go. They would only be down seven after the touchdown and it looked like the Titans could make a comeback.

However, on the Colts' following possession, Donald Brown would somehow break off an 80-yard touchdown run, when it seemed like he would suffer a multiple-yard loss. This gave the Colts a 27-13 lead that they would not relinquish and the game would finish with that same score.

Although throwing for just 82 yards in the win, Orlovsky led the Colts to their first win in fourteen games, dating back to last season. Brown, perhaps the game's hero, carried the ball 16 times for 161 yards and that key touchdown at the end of the game that put it away for the Colts.

However, the Titans have no one to blame, but themselves. They committed three costly turnovers in the game, including two interceptions by Hasselbeck -- one in the Colts' endzone by Pat Angerer -- and a fumble by tight end Jared Cook.

Former Seahawk Matt Hasselbeck completed 27-for-40 passes for 223 yards and those two costly interceptions. Chris Johnson acted like his 2011 self, running the ball 15 times for 55 yards. He also caught eight passes for 54 yards.

With the loss, it appears the Titans will not make the playoffs this season -- with the loss, the Steelers will officially make the playoffs, giving the AFC just one seed to fill.

If they had won their last three games, it would look like they would make a playoff appearance. But with their slip-up against Indianapolis, they will most likely be watching the 2011 playoffs from home, with the Houston Texans representing the AFC South in the playoffs.

Can The 2010 Tight End Class Become As Prominent As The 1983 Quarterback Class?

By: Tyler Ward

The 2010 NFL Draft class of tight ends could potentially be the best class of that position in NFL history. Even though they are just two years into their professional careers, they are already shaping up to be Pro Bowl caliber players.

Let's take a look at some of the prospects of the 2010 tight end class:

* 1st round, 21st overall: Jermaine Gresham, Cincinnati
* 2nd round, 42nd overall: Rob Gronkowski, New England
* 3rd round, 70th overall: Ed Dickson, Baltimore
* 3rd round, 93rd overall: Tony Moeaki, Kansas City
* 3rd round, 95th overall: Jimmy Graham, New Orleans
* 4th round, 113th overall: Aaron Hernandez, New England
* 4th round, 114th overall: Dennis Pitta, Baltimore
* Undrafted Free Agent: Jake Ballard, New York Giants

This class could go down as one of the best classes of any one skilled position in the league's history, much like the 1983 quarterback class.

That draft class, 28 years ago, is famed because there was so much hype surrounding these players before they were selected in the draft and most of the quarterbacks ended up having solid NFL careers. You may recognize two of the names in that draft class... No. 1 overall pick John Elway and future record-breaker Dan Marino, two of the most prolific players in NFL history. Elway went on to be one of the most clutch players of his time and won two Super Bowls with the Broncos in the late 1990's. Marino went on to become an elite quarterback for the Dolphins, although he never won a Super Bowl. He currently holds many all-time passing records, including the single-season passing yards mark, which is bound to be passed this season by Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady or Drew Brees... or all three.

The 1983 draft also featured Jim Kelly, who went on to play in four consecutive Super Bowls for the Buffalo Bills, but was never able to win the big game. Tony Eason led the Patriots to their first ever Super Bowl appearance, but was beaten by Walter Payton's Chicago Bears, 46-10.

Todd Blackledge and Ken O'Brien went on to have solid careers in the NFL, but were never able to live up to the expectations that surrounded them. Although they were extremely serviceable, they are considered busts, when comparing them to other quarterbacks in the class.

That's where last year's class of tight ends comes into play. These tight ends have great potential, even though they have been at the professional level for not even two seasons. They have already showed that they will be in the NFL for a long time, as most of them are key components on their respective teams. With the way some of them are playing right now, there is a very good possibility that we will never see a tight end draft class like this again.

Jermaine Gresham, who played collegiately at Oklahoma, was the first tight end off the board with the 21st overall selection by the Cincinnati Bengals. Although his stats aren't flashy, Gresham has proven to be one of rookie quarterback Andy Dalton's favorite targets this season. Forming a trio with Dalton and rookie receiver A.J. Green, Cincinnati could have one of the league's most potent passing attacks if they all develop correctly in the next couple of seasons.

Physically, Gresham is an intriguing and amazing specimen who is practically a wide receiver trapped in a tight end's body. He's one of the biggest at his position with long arms and huge hands. He's too fast for linebackers to cover and too big for cornerbacks to defend, making him a solid prospect that is treacherous throughout games.

Gresham is also a very dangerous threat down field and is able to make terrific catches due to his long arms and great hands. Additionally, Gresham is a great run-blocker and has helped out running back Cedric Benson numerous times throughout the 2011 season.

Given time to develop, he should become a top-five tight end in the NFL if all of the pieces fall the right way. Currently, Gresham has played in eleven games this season, registering 43 receptions for 452 yards and five touchdowns. During his rookie campaign, the former Sooner caught 52 passes for 471 yards and four touchdowns.

Conceivably, Gresham has all of the right tools to become a great player and he will have many Hawaii visits in front of him.

Arizona's Rob Gronkowski was the next tight end chosen, as he was tabbed with the 42nd overall selection by the New England Patriots, who were trying to fill their biggest need. And they sure fixed their need and did it quickly with the selection of Gronkowski.

In 2011, the former Arizona Wildcat has become quarterback Tom Brady's favorite target as of late -- even more so than Wes Welker, who has practically been the main option over the last couple of seasons. Gronkowski has shown that he is one of the best at his position after setting the single-season record for touchdowns (15) by a tight end against the Redskins on Sunday -- and there is still three games to play. He also has the second-most touchdowns (25) through his first two seasons in NFL history -- only Randy Moss in 1998-99 has more (28) through his first two seasons.

Often, Gronkowski has drawn comparisons to Jason Witten, who is currently one of Tony Romo's main targets with the Dallas Cowboys. He has shown that he could perhaps be better than Witten, who has been one of the top tight ends since he was drafted by Jerry Jones and Co.

Gronkowski is perhaps the best tight end in the league when it comes to yards after the catch, as he always seems to get a good bulk of yards once he catches the ball, something most defenses dread.

Like Gresham, Gronkowski is a better-than-average run-blocker who consistently shows good balance and strength to absorb hits from defensive linemen and linebackers. He is one of the best blocking tight ends when the Patriots actually run the ball with BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead.

The future great also has some of the best hands in the NFL and that is scary when you are already in an offense that consists of Welker and Tom Brady as your quarterback. Gronkowski has feasibly been the best tight end in the NFL this season and it looks like he'll continue down that path for years to come with many Pro Bowls in his future.

Watch out opposing defenses, Gronkowski will be a force once he reaches his full potential. Through not even two seasons, he has registered 113 receptions for 1,634 yards and 25 touchdowns.

With the 70th overall pick, the Baltimore Ravens chose Ed Dickson, who played collegiately at Oregon and was widely considered to be the best tight end in college football in 2009. He is currently the starter on an offense that usually revolves around running back Ray Rice, but he is still able to contribute to a team that likes to use tight ends during games.

Although quarterback Joe Flacco is still developing, Dickson has become one of Baltimore's security blankets when it comes to the passing game. He usually thrives in short-yardage situations, as shown by his stats -- 48 receptions, 458 yards, three touchdowns.

Dickson is not an explosive runner by any means, but he is still able to outrun players in the second level. Dickson is also able to get off of the line quickly, which mainly helps in short-yardage situations. Although his stats aren't great, he has shown to be one of Flacco's most consistent targets even though he is just in his second year.

The ex-Oregon Duck also has great hands and is able to make tough catches, especially in traffic. With his size and athleticism, Dickson is also a red-zone threat, primarily due to his extraordinary leaping ability. His touchdowns don't show it, but he is a beast in the end-zone, as he is able to either catch touchdowns or draw interest from other defenders.

Dickson will be a solid tight end in the future, once he fully develops. He may not be a perennial Pro Bowl nominee, but he will still flourish in his own way and could become Flacco's main receiving target.

The second tight end chosen in the third round, Tony Moeaki, was picked by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 93rd overall selection. He is currently on injured reserve with a torn ACL, but should be able to return healthy by the start of the 2012 season.

Although he has a history of injuries that has stunted his development, Moeaki still has the potential and upside to become a solid tight end in the NFL if he could remain healthy. While at Iowa, he missed time almost every single year he attended -- dislocated elbow in 2007 (missed majority of season), broken wrist in 2008 (missed spring practice), broken foot, pulled hamstring and concussion in 2008 (missed significant time in regular season) and missed time in 2009 due to an ankle injury.

Despite the injury concerns, the Chiefs still believe that Moeaki can become a serviceable tight end for the Chiefs and I'm inclined to agree with them. He has great potential simply because of his size and build. He has the ability to use his size as a mechanism for blocking techniques. With that, he is a superb run-blocker that is able to hold blocks and get off the line quickly.

If he can remain healthy, he could become a great weapon in the Chiefs' offense.

Last season, the former Hawkeye caught 47 passes for 556 yards and three touchdowns and likely would have increased those numbers if he didn't tear his ACL prior to the start of the regular season.

Perhaps the most surprising player this season was chosen with the 95th overall selection last year -- and his name is Jimmy Graham, who chose to play football over basketball after he was told that he really didn't have a future in basketball or NBA.

A former basketball player who rarely did anything on the court, Graham only played one season of football at the University of Miami. But with his sensational leaping abilities in basketball, he became an intriguing NFL prospect and thus, was selected in the third round of last year's draft to the NFL's most explosive offense.

Standing at 6'7", Graham is able to tower over most, if not all, players on opposing defenses. He has exceptional strength and height, which makes him a down field threat in the Saints' offense. Graham is also perhaps the most dangerous tight end on goal-line and red-zone situations as quarterback Drew Brees just has to lob it up and Graham will come down with it practically every single time. He could eventually be known as the most dangerous tight end in the entire league.

Thought of as a reach in the third round, Graham has proved all of his doubters wrong, as he has become a fan favorite in New Orleans. He flourishes in Sean Payton's system and has proved that he is a humongous threat with 80 receptions for 1,101 yards and eight touchdowns. With the season he's having, Graham has become the first tight end in Saints history to reach the 1,000-yard plateau.

At the combine before the 2010 draft, Graham showed impeccable speed for a player for his size (4.56 in 40-yard dash) and astounding athleticism (10-foot broad jump and 38.5 vertical jump). With those components, Graham is virtually unstoppable, as he is faster than linebackers and taller than cornerbacks. Graham has struck fear in opposing defenders this season, as he is perhaps the biggest and most genuine threat in the vertical passing game.

This season, he has already shown that he is one of the best up-and-coming tight ends in the league and he hasn't even reached his full potential yet -- defenses should start quivering now.

With the 113th selection in the draft, the Patriots chose their second tight end of the draft, choosing former Florida Gator, Aaron Hernandez.

Hernandez is usually on the field for most snaps, as the Patriots primarily run a two-tight end set that features Hernandez and fellow 2010 draftee Rob Gronkowski. Although his stats pale in comparison to those of Gronkowski's, Hernandez is still a formidable tight end that is considered to be one of the top up-and-coming tight ends in the NFL.

He was one of the most successful players at Florida and was a key part on their two championship teams. He blossomed into Tim Tebow's favorite target and his stats at Gainesville were exceptional, as he graduated as one of the most decorative tight ends in the school's history. Former head coach Urban Meyer had some kind words for him, stating "Aaron was one of the very best at his position I have ever been around. He has all the tools to be successful at the next level."

Primarily known for his pass-catching abilities than his blocking techniques, Hernandez is one of the best pass-catching tight ends in the NFL. He knows how to get open and has great hands, which he uses excessively in the Patriots' offense.

Tom Brady likes to use the former Gator in red-zone situations, as evident by his stats. He has caught 59 passes for 607 yards and five touchdowns this season, while only playing in eleven games. Last season, he registered 45 receptions for 563 yards and six touchdowns, while starting in just seven games.

He also has good speed for a tight end (4.6 in the 40-yard dash) and is a considerable threat down field. With a two-tight end set the Patriots use, Hernandez will be able to get better and better.

The Ravens also chose their second tight end of the draft with the following selection, as they picked Brigham Young's Dennis Pitta with the 114th overall selection. His stats may not be as promising as the others in this class, but he still has the ability to become a solid tight end in the NFL.

The 6'5" Pitta is an extremely reliable receiving tight end, as he catches incredibly well and rarely drops passes. Pitta can also make spectacular catches, especially when it's over his shoulders. He is very acrobatic for a player of his stature, even though he lacks speed and explosiveness.

With Baltimore, he has been primarily used as a blocking tight end, usually lining up as a fullback or on the offensive line where tight ends normally are placed. His stats aren't great, as he has just 31 receptions for 318 yards and two touchdowns this season. However, Pitta definitely has the potential to become a top-15 tight end in the league.

The last player in this class wasn't even chosen in the first seven rounds and was forced to become an undrafted free agent. A former Ohio State Buckeye, Jake Ballard took over the starting reins after Kevin Boss tested the free agent market and left for the Oakland Raiders.

Not many people expected Ballard to play this well prior to the 2011 season, but he has become one of Eli Manning's primary targets over the course of the season.

With his 6'5" stature, Ballard has developed into a valuable starting tight end. He has great size, while weighing in at 250 pounds, which makes him a solid run-blocker for the Giants, as well. Ballard is also a good pass-catcher and has been a threat in the vertical game for a majority of the season. He has also become one of Manning's favorite down field receivers, as he has registered a good amount of receptions that totaled over twenty yards.

It looks as though Ballard will retain the starting role and become the next Kevin Boss for the Giants, maybe even better. He turned out to be quite a steal for New York, as he has caught 37 passes for 589 yards and four touchdowns this season. His 15.9 yards per catch rank among the top for starting tight ends in the NFL.

This class has also featured role players such as Seattle's Anthony McCoy, St. Louis' Michael Hoomanawanui, Green Bay's Andrew Quarless, Indianapolis' Brody Eldridge, Atlanta's Michael Palmer, New York Jets' Jeff Cumberland, and Arizona's Jim Dray.

Clearly, this class of tight ends has great upside and could possibly become one of the most elite classes in NFL history. All the players listed above have played significantly through their first two seasons and most will likely keep it that way for many more seasons.

Fifteen years from now, we will look back on this class and be amazed at how great it was. Jimmy Graham and Rob Gronkowski are already top-five tight ends, while Jermaine Gresham, Ed Dickson, Tony Moeaki, Jake Ballard and Aaron Hernandez are already knocking on the door of the top-ten tight ends list.

This class will be just as famed as the 1983 quarterback class: Write it down.

Report: Dolphins Sever Ties With Head Coach Tony Sparano

By: Tyler Ward

In a not-so surprising move Monday, reports have surfaced that the Miami Dolphins have fired head coach Tony Sparano. This is the second firing of the day, as the Chiefs let go Todd Haley earlier this morning.

Over the weekend, reports said that the Dolphins intended on cutting ties with Sparano at the end of the season. But with their loss to the lowly Eagles on Sunday, the Dolphins' front office apparently didn't want to wait that long, firing him on Monday afternoon.

Defensive Backs coach Todd Bowles has been named the team's interim head coach for their remaining three games against Buffalo, New England, and the New York Jets.

Sparano was hired by the Dolphins in January 2008 and immediately had success after the Dolphins were 1-15 the previous season. In his first year with the Dolphins, he led the team to an 11-5 record, one of the biggest surprises in the league.

However, Sparano has been considered to be one of the most inconsistent head coaches in the NFL.

The Dolphins finished 7-9 in 2009 -- Chad Henne's first season as the team's starting quarterback. Henne started thirteen games that season and had been drafted by the Dolphins in the second round (57th overall) in the 2008 NFL Draft.

He was pegged by the Dolphins to be the team's franchise quarterback, but he has been far from that. Henne has struggled since his arrival in Miami, but Sparano never gave up on him, as it could have led to his demise. Henne's inconsistency caused the Dolphins to struggle offensively, as they weren't scoring enough points and the defense was giving up too many points.

The former Wolverine finished his sophomore campaign with a 60.8 completion percentage, throwing for 2,878 yards, twelve touchdowns and fourteen interceptions.

Miami finished 7-9 yet again the following season, with the Henne Experiment still going on with Sparano at the helm.

Henne seemed to regress in 2010, throwing for 3,301 yards and fourteen touchdowns, along with nineteen interceptions.

Sparano still thought that he their next franchise quarterback and stuck with him through training camp and listed him as the team's starting quarterback for the 2011 season. Henne started off the season slow and the Dolphins started off 0-3.

During the Dolphins' loss to the Chargers in Week 4, Henne left the game with a shoulder injury and was eventually placed on injured reserve after having shoulder surgery. The Dolphins were then forced to start Matt Moore, who played with the Panthers the previous season.

Moore led the Dolphins to three more defeats, as the 'Fins started off the 2011 campaign with an 0-7 record. After their seventh loss, it was predicted that Sparano would be let go sometime in the near future, as his job was definitely in jeopardy. His job remained safe over the following few weeks, as his team somehow rallied off three straight wins against Kansas City, Washington and Buffalo.

Although the three wins were questionable, Sparano still remained safe. Miami would then go on to lose a close game against Dallas on Thanksgiving Day and the rumors were back on. The Dolphins blew out Oakland last weekend and at one point in the game, were up 34-0. However, it wasn't good enough for the Dolphins' brass, as rumors surfaced yet again that there was no way Sparano would be back for the 2012 season -- it just depended on when he would be let go.

After their 26-10 loss to Andy Reid's Eagles, he was fired after leading the Dolphins to a 4-9 record in 2011.

Miami could potentially become a hot spot this offseason for head coaches, especially if the Dolphins get a high selection in the draft and select a quarterback such as Baylor's Robert Griffin III, USC's Matt Barkley, or Oklahoma's Landry Jones. Henne's career in South Beach seems to be done and it is time for the Dolphins to move on after the former Michigan star led them to a 13-18 record over his time with the 'Fins.

Rumors have linked former coaches such as Jon Gruden and Bill Cowher to Miami, but nothing has happened thus far and it really doesn't look like it. There are also other coaches that have been rumored to be on the hot seat throughout the season such as Philly's Andy Reid, Indianapolis' Jim Caldwell, Tampa Bay's Raheem Morris, Dallas' Jason Garrett and New York's Tom Coughlin. Dallas' defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has also been thought to be a head coach next season if he decides to leave Texas. Jack Del Rio and Todd Haley are also available after being fired this season.

The Dolphins are likely to pursue a big name after the season is over and we'll see what happens in the near future.

Kansas City Chiefs Part Ways With Head Coach Todd Haley

By: Tyler Ward

It was announced Monday that the Chiefs have relieved head coach Todd Haley of his duties with three games left in the 2011 season. Haley led the Chiefs to a division title last season, but it wasn't enough to retain his job after a rather disappointing season thus far, mainly due to season-ending injuries to quarterback Matt Cassel, running back Jamaal Charles, tight end Tony Moeaki and safety Eric Berry.

Following the Chiefs' 37-10 loss to the New York Jets, the Chiefs dropped to a 5-8 record behind back-up quarterback Tyler Palko, who has progressively gotten worse and worse since Cassel was placed on injured reserve. In their 27-point loss, the Chiefs committed 11 penalties for 128 yards, including a 15-yard penalty on Haley for unsportsmanlike conduct.

With his departure, Haley becomes just the second Chiefs head coach to lose his job during the season (Paul Wiggins in 1977 was the other one). He is also the second head coach to be fired this season, as the Jaguars fired Jack Del Rio last month.

Romeo Crennel, once the Browns' head coach, has been named the interim leading man with Haley's departure. He will coach the Chiefs for their remaining three games of the season when they take on the undefeated Packers at home and then play the Raiders at home and go to Denver to face Tim Tebow and Co. for their last game of the regular season. Judging by the schedule, it looks like the Chiefs could finish with a 5-11 record.

Haley's job has been in question since training camp and he seemed to save it when the Chiefs won four in a row after dropping their first three games of the season. The Chiefs then lost games to the Dolphins and Raiders and Cassel went down with a season-ending injury and it has been downhill since then.

Since Palko took over the starting reins in Week 11, they have lost three of four, including a near-upset of the Pittsburgh Steelers three weeks ago. The Chiefs have also scored just two touchdowns since Palko took over as the team's starting quarterback.

Haley ultimately decided to work on conditioning during training camp, in hopes of cutting down the number of injuries. But somehow, it increased with losses to linebacker Brandon Siler in training camp and Moeaki in the Chiefs' preseason finale.

Eric Berry went down with a torn ACL in Week 1 against the Bills and the following week, Pro Bowler Jamaal Charles went down with a torn ligament in his left knee against Detroit. The losses piled up due to injuries and Haley's job was in question yet again.

And that led to his release on Monday.

Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said in a statement, "This was a difficult decision but one that we feel is best for the future of the Chiefs. Although there have been bright spots at different points this season, we have not made meaningful progress."

"We felt that it was necessary to make a change," Hunt said. "We appreciate Todd's contributions during his time with the club, and we wish him well in the future."

There is also a good chance that Haley's departure has to do with his friction with general manager Scott Pioli. It was no secret that the two did not like each other and one was eventually going to be fired and it turned out to be Haley, who really had no chance at coming back when the team lost Cassel.

Pioli has stated that he wants his team to be consistent and the Chiefs have been anything, but that this season. They started off the season by losing their first three games and then won their next four games. They would then proceed to lose four-in-a-row, followed by a win and another loss, thus leading to their 5-8 record.

"We believe change is important at this time," Pioli said on Monday, following the news of Haley's firing.

Haley leaves the Chiefs, the first NFL team he has ever coached, with a 19-27 record. The Chiefs are currently in turmoil, as they have regressed all season and it doesn't look like they have improved whatsoever.

Cassel hasn't seemed like the quarterback they were hoping for, while three offensive lineman are not likely to come back to Kansas City next season. Charles is still recovering from injury and may not put up the same numbers next season, as he did in 2010. Their receiving corps is good on paper, but unproven -- Bowe is the leading receiver and has been the most consistent player on the team. Breaston hasn't lived up to expectations and really isn't a No. 2 option, while Jonathan Baldwin is a rookie and hasn't put up gaudy numbers that Chiefs expected.

Haley was thought to be an offensive genius, but the Chiefs have struggled this season on that side of the ball -- they average 293.8 yards per game, which currently ranks 28th in the NFL. Their aerial attack also ranks 30th out of 32 teams and likely could be at the bottom at the end of the season if Palko remains their quarterback.

Haley was the offensive coordinator for the Cardinals when they reached the Super Bowl in 2008 and also had previous stints in Dallas, Chicago, and New York.

He is still likely to become a head coach elsewhere, as there could potentially be more teams letting go of their head coaches at season's end.

New Form Of Drafting: Can Basketball Players Continually Make It As Tight Ends?

By: Tyler Ward

As of late, there has been a "new" form of recruiting in the NFL. And it consists of teams grabbing up and drafting former college basketball players and placing them as tight ends on NFL squads.

Currently, three of the best tight ends in the NFL were once college basketball players -- San Diego's Antonio Gates, Atlanta's Tony Gonzalez and New Orleans' Jimmy Graham.

Gates, a former basketball standout at Kent State, went undrafted in 2003 and was eventually picked up by the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent. He somehow latched onto the Chargers and never let go. He debuted with San Diego that very year, starting eleven games and catching 24 passes for 389 yards and two touchdowns in his inaugural season.

Over the next four seasons, Gates eclipsed the 900-yard season mark in each of those campaigns. Combined, Gates registered 316 receptions for 3,973 yards and 41 touchdowns in that span. Included in that magnificent stretch was a 13-touchdown season in 2004, which was the highest season touchdown total, along with Vernon Davis in 2009, for a tight end until New England's Rob Gronkowski broke the record against Washington on Sunday.

In 2008, Gates tallied just 60 receptions for 704 yards and eight touchdowns, the lowest totals across the board since coming into the NFL. However, the following season, Gates caught 79 passes for 1,157 yards (a career-high) and eight touchdowns. In 2010, the former basketball player had his third career ten-touchdown season as he caught 50 receptions for 782 yards and ten touchdowns.

Although he has played a lesser role in San Diego's offense this season, he has still caught 53 passes for 601 yards and six touchdowns. He also missed a couple of games earlier in the season due to injury.

Since Gates was picked up by San Diego, they have consistently had one of the league's top offenses. Pairing up with Philip Rivers made Gates an easy target for the young quarterback and has perhaps helped him succeed since arriving in California in 2004.

Although injuries have recently sidelined him somewhat, Gates has still been one of the most dangerous tight ends in NFL history.

Gates' career stats are also better than any tight end that is currently in the Pro Football Hall of Fame -- yes, even better than John Mackey, Mike Ditka, Ozzie Newsome and Kellen Winslow. These stats currently rank second all-time only to the next man, who also once played basketball.

Tony Gonzalez, perhaps the player that started this phenomenon, was a first-round pick (13th overall) by Kansas City Chiefs in 1997. Playing collegiately at California, Gonzalez was never thought to become the player that he currently is.

While at California, Gonzalez played both football and basketball and was eventually forced to choose between the two. With his basketball career questionable, Gonzalez ultimately decided to choose football and he forfeited his final year of eligibility to go pro in football.

And apparently, he made the right decision.

A bonafide future Hall-of-Famer, Gonzalez is the all-time leader in receptions (1,142), receiving yards (13,275) and touchdowns (95) for a tight end, which clearly makes him the best tight end in NFL history. He has also made the Pro Bowl an astounding eleven times, currently the most for any tight end in the league's existence.

Over his first two seasons, Gonzalez started 16 total games, while catching 92 passes for 989 yards and four touchdowns. During his third year in the NFL, the former California standout would flourish.

He started 15 games for the Chiefs in 1999 and registered 76 receptions for 849 yards and eleven touchdowns, successfully earning his first or many Pro Bowl appearances. From 2000-06, Gonzalez had a remarkable stretch, as he accumulated 553 receptions for 6,872 yards and 46 touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl berths in each of those seasons.

Included in that stretch was a 102-reception campaign in 2004, a single-season record for catches among tight ends. The record still stands and it will be a tough record to break.

From 2007-08, Gonzalez had perhaps two of the best seasons of his career, as he caught 99 and 96 passes, respectively. He posted back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons (1,172 and 1,058) and totaled 15 touchdowns over those two campaigns.

The Chiefs sent Gonzalez to Atlanta prior to the 2009 season and he has still been able to put up good numbers. He has caught at least 70 passes in those three seasons and has also registered at least 650 yards and six touchdowns.

Gonzalez is arguably the best tight end in NFL history and it may not have gone that way if he chose basketball over football while attending California. But he made the right decision and chose the pigskin and has been the best tight end over the last decade. He is likely to go down in the history books as one of the best at his respective position.

The newest member to join this group, Jimmy Graham, played collegiately at the University of Miami and only played one year of football before being picked in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft. While playing basketball, he was not tabbed as a player that would have an NBA future, so he decided to go the football route.

Although he had rarely played football, he was immediately noted as one of the top tight end prospects in the 2010 draft. And once the draft rolled around, Graham was selected with the 95th overall pick by the New Orleans Saints.

He started five games for the Saints as a rookie last season and accumulated 31 receptions for 356 yards and five touchdowns.

Entering the 2011 season, Graham was expected to be the starter and become one of Drew Brees' favorite targets. And he has become that.

Now twelve games through the season, Graham has looked like Brees' main target, as he has caught 80 passes for 1,101 yards and eight touchdowns. He is currently leading the Saints in all three categories, as he has developed into one of the best up-and-coming tight ends in the NFL.

With his 1,000-yard season, he has become the first Saints tight end ever to reach that plateau and it looks like he could go over that mark over and over again.

Standing at 6'7", Graham is a freakish athlete that also has a great pair of hands, as he is one of the best receiving tight ends in the game right now. He also has extraordinary leaping abilities, which makes him a great vertical threat, especially with his stature. Graham is also one of the scariest players on short-yard and goal-line situations, as he practically towers over every opposing linebacker and cornerback.

Clearly, Graham will flourish in the next few seasons, as he hasn't even reached his full potential. He also has Drew Brees as his quarterback, who is one of the best at his position with majority thanks going to Sean Payton, the team's head coach and offensive mastermind. With the stats he's providing, it also looks like he'll surpass Antonio Gates as the league's best tight end and Tony Gonzalez before him.

So, all of this brings me to the point I've been trying to make: Basketball players seem to make exceptional tight ends in the NFL. Basketball players are already very athletic -- and they also seem to have a great height and weight advantage over most defensive players. They are also much faster than linebackers, so they are able to run directly past them and into the third level of defenses. And when they get to that third level, they are able to reach over most cornerbacks and safeties.

When you look at it, these basketball-turned-football athletes are virtually unstoppable most of the time.

As of right now, it seems like a great idea to use a mid-to-late round selection on a former basketball player in hopes that they turn into the next Antonio Gates or Tony Gonzalez or Jimmy Graham. These players have paved the way for future athletes that have never thought of playing professional football

The height and freaky athleticism that these players possess makes them diamonds in the rough, and it seems like they will succeed, if they are given the chance to perform. Once you look at the statistics, these basketball-turned-football athletes are three-for-three when it comes to success. No players that have been continually used or placed in a starting role have been mediocre -- they've been spectacular.

So, it appears to be worth it to use a mid-round selection on a developmental player that could potentially make it as a tight end in the NFL. In the future, you will see more teams go this route in hopes of finding the next diamond in the rough.

Former Chargers Linebacker Lew Bush Dead At 42; Member Of 1994 "Cursed" Team

By: Tyler Ward

Another member of the 1994 San Diego Chargers has died today as former linebacker Lew Bush suffered a heart attack and has perished at age 42. He had his birthday just six days ago, dying way too prematurely.

This team has been known to be "cursed" as Bush is the seventh player from the 1994 squad to die way too young.

Other deaths include:

* DE Shawn Lee (Heart Attack, Age 44; 2011)
* DE Chris Mims (Enlarged Heart, Age 38; 2008)
* OL Curtis Whitley (Drug Overdose, Age 39; 2008)
* LB Doug Miller (Struck by Lightning, Age 28; 1998)
* RB Rodney Culver (Plane Crash, Age 26; 1996)
* LB David Griggs (Car Accident, Age 28; 1995)

...And now Bush. It's so sad that so many good people have died in different ways, all of them so tragic.

The 1994 Chargers team made it to the Super Bowl, becoming the one and only Chargers team to make an appearance in the NFL's biggest game of the season. San Diego would go on to lose to San Francisco, 49-26, as quarterback Steve Young collected Super Bowl MVP honors.

We, here at Sports Guys Universe, extend our condolences to the Bush family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them, as we know they are grieving at this time, along with the other players' families that have had their family members perish prematurely.

Rest in Peace.

                     1994 Chargers Team Photo

Chicago Bears: Mike Martz Out Of A Job After The Season?

By: Tyler Ward

Rumors have been floating around that current Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz will be terminated after the season is over with.

Martz, known as the creator for the Ram's "Greatest Show on Turf" had been doing an alright job for the Bears until franchise quarterback Jay Cutler went down with a season-ending injury.

Martz's philosophy mainly has to do with the aerial attack and nothing else. He really does not believe in running the football since his Rams days with Marshall Faulk and protecting the quarterback has never really been a necessity.

Cutler was the most-sacked quarterback last season by far and was among the league leaders before he went down with an injury.

With the Bears' recent two-game losing streak, Martz's job has recently been jeopardized and Martz addressed those rumors today to reporters, saying, "I’m bothered by that. Obviously, I plan on being back here and want to be here and I am just going to assume it’s all going to work out so that’s unfortunate. That is the only thing I can tell you. It’s just like college jobs and those things, we’re focused on this job and what we’re doing."

The Chicago Tribune's Brad Briggs stated in an article today that it could just have something to do with Martz's agent trying to get Martz a job next year and is just trying to cause a stir within the organization. He will likely be looking for work next season anyway, so it appears his agent is just trying to get him in headlines, in hopes that he could receive a better deal worth more money next season.

According to reports, Martz met with Bears head coach Lovie Smith to discuss what was going on.

"I wanted to find about it. I am embarrassed by it and I hope that, anyway, let’s just move on. It’s not good," Martz said. "And it’s not how I think and live my life. Just disappointed."

Smith replied to the reports, saying that they were false and Martz's job is not in jeopardy. However, Smith did not specifically say that Martz will come back to the Bears next season, while just calling the report "made up."

But for now, Martz is the Bears' offensive coordinator and it is still unclear as to whether the Bears will retain him after the regular season is over. His contract will expire when the Bears end their 2011 season.

Martz got his professional start in 1992, as the Los Angeles Rams' quarterbacks coach. He was then moved to the team's wide receivers coach in 1995 and then became the Redskins' quarterbacks coach in 1997. He was hired by the Rams once again in 1999 as the offensive coordinator and then became the team's head coach prior to the 2000 season and held the position until the end of the 2005 season.

As the Rams' head coach, Martz had a record of 53-32, including a Super Bowl appearance in 2001, losing to the Patriots -- Tom Brady's first Super Bowl title. The Rams would make it to the postseason on three other occasions before Martz was let go five games into the 2005 regular season.

After being relieved of his duties by the Rams, Martz was hired as the Lions' offensive coordinator in 2006 and was there for two years. He then became the 49ers' offensive coordinator in 2008 and did not coach at all in 2009.

The Bears hired Martz as their offensive coordinator on Feb. 1, 2010 and has been there since. During his first season with the Bears, the Bears' offense was 28th in passing and 22nd in rushing.

As of right now, the Bears are currently 22nd in passing and 12th in rushing, thanks to running back Matt Forte who is a question mark for the rest of the regular season.

Even though the stats haven't been there as of late, Martz will still be a hot commodity if he does leave the Bears after the season is over. He would likely receive interest from teams such as the Colts, Dolphins, Jaguars, among others.

Redskins' Fred Davis, Trent Williams Suspended Four Games

By: Tyler Ward

Mike Shanahan and the Redskins announced yesterday that the team has suspended tight end Fred Davis and tackle Trent Williams four games for violating the league's substance-abuse policy.

The league said yesterday that the two players will be suspended without pay and will be able to return to the team's active roster on Jan. 2, the day after the Redskins' final regular season game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

This is not the first time that Davis and Williams have failed drug tests, as multiple reports have stated that both players have failed more than one drug test for the NFL.

On Wednesday, both players apologized to their teammates at a team meeting. Both players will miss the final four games of the regular season and it will hurt the Redskins, as both players have played vital roles for the Redskins, albeit their 4-8 record.

Davis is the team's leader in receptions and has arguably been the most consistent receiver for Rex Grossman and John Beck. Williams, the fourth overall pick a little over a year ago, is also perhaps the team's best offensive lineman, and also one of the most expensive players on the roster.

Williams signed a six-year, $60 million deal after he was selected in the first round of last year's draft. After the season is over, he will have four years remaining on his current deal, while Davis' contract will be up and will have to test the free agency waters.

Although being one of the league's best up-and-coming tight ends, Davis' stock will certainly take a hit and it is unlikely that he will receive a deal like Vernon Davis and Antonio Gates have signed in recent years.

The former USC Trojan has caught 59 passes for 796 yards and three touchdowns this season.

But there is no doubt that Davis will likely receive a relatively small deal in free agency next season.

Head coach Mike Shanahan said of Davis, "Any contract that anybody would sign somebody to, knowing that with one failed test they could be gone just like that. They're going to protect themselves in the contract, and it'll be based on performance and based on going down the straight and narrow."

And Shanahan is right. There is no reason why a team would give a player a hefty contract when there is always the possibility of them being suspended by the NFL for making dumb and/or irrational decisions.

Shanahan has said that Sean Locklear and rookie Willie Allen have split snaps at right tackle and it is not known who will get the majority of the snaps when the Redskins play the New England Patriots on Sunday.

The Redskins have already lost Chris Cooley for the season due to injury, so they will be forced to start Logan Paulsen, who was the team's third-string tight end at the beginning of the season. Another former Trojan, Dominique Byrd, will be Paulsen's back-up. Byrd was re-signed Wednesday after being released by the team on Nov. 8.

Clearly, the team is disappointed at the circumstances and Williams will be even more disappointed once he realizes how much it'll hurt his pocket-book for missing the team's final four games.

Williams has a base salary of $7.852 million this season, which means he will lose $1.847 million for missing the final four games. And not to mention, Williams could also lose a majority of his $3 million signing bonus and under the new Collective Bargaining Agreement, he could have a nice chunk cut out of his 2011 $7.5 million roster bonus.

Williams could forfeit twenty-five percent of the $300,000 signing bonus for this season, along with twenty-five percent of the $1.5 million roster bonus.

At the end of the day, Williams would lose a minimum of $1.847 million and a maximum of $2.347 million after it's all said and done with. That would be able to buy Williams a lot of fancy cars and new toys, but he won't get those now because of the mystery drug he failed for.

With two of their best offensive players gone because of the suspension, the Redskins' offense is likely to falter in the Redskins' final four games. The Redskins might be lucky to win one of the final games and could very well end the season with another disappointing campaign and a 4-12 record.

But hey, if it does happen, they'll get a high draft pick and could possibly draft a quarterback, which they are in dire need for -- such as Baylor's Robert Griffin III, Oklahoma's Landry Jones or USC's Matt Barkley. We'll find out what happens in the next few weeks with one of the NFL's most disappointing franchises over the last decade.

Dec. 7, 2011: T-Ward's NFL Mock Draft Edition

By: Tyler Ward

This is perhaps my favorite thing to do during the season. I love making mock drafts and seeing how it ends up when the annual NFL Draft rolls around in April.

I've been right on many occassions, but I've also been horribly wrong, too (I picked JaMarcus Russell to go in the third round in 2007, but instead went first overall). But hey, it happens.

So, with that being said, here's my first mock draft:

*The draft order is after the results of Week 13. This mock draft is also first round only.

1. Indianapolis Colts: QB Andrew Luck, Stanford

Luck is the No. 1 prospect in the nation and is the best prospect overall since you guessed it... Peyton Manning, who was drafted by the Colts in 1998.

He is also perhaps the most NFL-ready player in the entire draft and whoever picks first, has to pick Luck or they're the dumbest franchise in the entire NFL.

However, if they do draft Luck, the main question that remains if what to do with Luck? Peyton Manning is still on the roster and he still has a few years left in the tank. So it could turn out to be a Brett Favre-Aaron Rodgers scenario, as Luck sits on the bench for a few seasons, learning from Manning for a season or two.

2. Minnesota Vikings: CB Morris Claiborne, LSU

I realize that this is somewhat of a reach and Matt Kalil or Justin Blackmon could go here, but of the secondary, receiving corps and offensive line, the secondary has been the worst part of the team.

The Vikings have continually gotten lit up this season and Claiborne is considered to be one of the best cornerbacks to come out of college in the last couple of seasons. The Vikings need help if they want to win games because they give up way too many passing yards and fall behind way too early in games because of that problem.

Claiborne is the best cornerback in the draft and they have to select him if he's available.

3. St. Louis Rams: OT Matt Kalil, USC

The Rams' offensive line has been atrocious and they have shown that this season, giving up the most sacks in the entire NFL.

If they want quarterback Sam Bradford to not end up like former No. 1 pick David Carr, they need to bolster the offensive line so Bradford can succeed in the NFL.

Bradford will not be able to succeed if the Rams continue down the path they're currently on. The former Sooner has no time in the pocket whatsoever to get rid of the ball and instead, ends up on his back looking up at the ceiling or sky.

Kalil is the best offensive lineman in the draft and would immediately become a starter. With Kalil on the offensive line, along with former No. 2 pick Jason Smith, the Rams should become a lot better protecting the quarterback.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars: WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State

Let's face it: Quarterback Blaine Gabbert has not shown any signs of improvement and the Jaguars have the worst receiving corps in the NFL.

Mike Thomas, the team's No. 1 receiver, isn't going to cut it as the main option and Jason Hill, Cecil Shorts III and Jarrett Dillard aren't a good supporting cast. Gabbert needs help if he's going to succeed in the NFL.

It's also notable that quarterbacks that succeed have a great wide receiver - Peyton Manning (Harrison, Wayne), Tom Brady (Welker, Moss), Aaron Rodgers (Jennings), Matt Schaub (Andre Johnson), among others.

Blackmon is the best receiver in college football and the Jaguars' front office would be fools if they don't take Blackmon with this pick.

5. Washington Redskins: QB Matt Barkley, USC

The Redskins have been struggling all season long, mainly because of their problems at the quarterback position.

Rex Grossman has been downright awful and John Beck has simply not lived up to Mike Shanahan's expectations.

Teams cannot succeed in the NFL if they don't have a legitimate starting quarterback and that's a good reason as to why the Redskins have been so bad this season.

Barkley was on fire at the end of the NCAA regular season and his draft stock has climbed since then. He is the best option at this point and definitely fills a need for Dan Snyder's Redskins.

6. Philadelphia Eagles: WR Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina

It is very possible that DeSean Jackson leaves Philadelphia at the end of the season, as his contract runs up. If he does indeed leave Philly, the Eagles will definitely be in the market for a receiver by the time of the 2012 NFL Draft.

Jeffery, the second best receiving prospect in the draft, will fill a void for the Eagles if Jackson leaves or not.

He is considered to be NFL-ready and could start the season as the team's No. 2 receiver.

Head coach Andy Reid believes that DeSean Jackson is too injury prone to be a legitimate wide receiver in the NFL and the outspoken receiver's time in Philly seems to be done, although he has been one of the NFL's most electrifying players as of late.

The Eagles also need help at linebacker, but they will likely address that need in the following rounds.

7. Carolina Panthers: DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina

The Panthers have been horrific against the run this season and Coples is arguably the best defensive player in the entire draft.

The selection of Coples fills multiple needs for the Panthers, as they need a defensive end and a run-stopper. And Coples is both.

The Panthers are currently 27th against the run and Coples should help the team become better.

Although they are also bad against the pass, there are no cornerbacks that warrant that high of a draft pick. That's where Coples comes in to help against the run.

8. Miami Dolphins: QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor

With Andrew Luck and Matt Barkley off the board, the Dolphins have to settle for Griffin, who I believe will be a better NFL quarterback than Barkley, who I have going fifth overall to the Redskins.

Chad Henne, who is currently done for the season, has not been the franchise quarterback they were hoping for. And although Matt Moore has done a great job filling in for Henne, he is typically not an NFL starter on a week-to-week basis.

Griffin is a great overall prospect, as he has a great arm and is a very accurate passer. He can also run very well, especially if he is under pressure. He may not be like Michael Vick when it comes to running, but he gets the job done.

The Dolphins would be fools if they don't take Griffin with the eighth overall selection. He is too good of a prospect to pass up.

9. Cleveland Browns: RB Trent Richardson, Alabama

It gets clearer and clearer every week that the Browns are likely not to retain Peyton Hillis, who was a breakout story last season, rushing for over 1,000 yards.

But he has missed the majority of this season and hasn't seemed to be playing his hardest when he is on the field.

The Browns drafted Montario Hardesty last season, but he has been too injury prone in his first two seasons and it doesn't seem like he will be any team's featured back. Chris Ogbonnaya has been a good story this year, but there is no way he could be a starter for a full season.

Richardson is also a great pass-catcher and could help Colt McCoy develop into the player Mike Holmgren has been hoping for. The Alabama running back has definite playmaking abilities and the Browns currently lack that on offense.

Richardson is the best running back in the entire draft and the Browns need to get him if he's available.

10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama

Tampa Bay has been horrific on defense in general this season, especially against the pass. They currently rank tied for 26th against the pass and it isn't getting any better.

With Ronde Barber getting older and older and Aqib Talib being a question mark off the field, Kirkpatrick seems like an ideal fit at this pick.

Clearly, the Buccaneers are in dire need of a cornerback and Kirkpatrick would definitely fill that void. The Buccaneers could also go with Nebraska CB Alfonzo Dennard, but I think they will ultimately go with Kirkpatrick, especially since he seems to have better upside than Dennard.

11. Arizona Cardinals: OT Riley Reiff, Iowa

The Cardinals really have no choice at this point since all the top "can't miss prospects" are gone, but it never hurts when a team tries to address a need on the offensive line.

Reiff has had a stellar career at Iowa and is the second best offensive lineman in the draft, in my opinion.

Current Cardinals tackles Levi Brown and Brandon Keith have struggled all season long and currently, Reiff is better than both of them.

Reiff definitely has a Pro Bowl-caliber career in front of him so the Cardinals need to take him if available.

And hey, it doesn't hurt to protect a quarterback that you just paid $65 million to be your franchise's leader.

12. Seattle Seahawks: QB Landry Jones, Oklahoma

Of course, former USC head coach Pete Carroll would love to take Matt Barkley at this point, but he is long gone. That's where Jones comes in.

Jones has had a great career at Oklahoma and was one of the best quarterbacks throughout the entire NCAA regular season.

Tarvaris Jackson, the team's current starting quarterback, is perhaps the worst at his position in the entire league and if the Seahawks intend on winning anytime soon, they will replace him.

The Seahawks are currently in rebuilding mode and if they want to take a step in the right direction, they need to draft Landry Jones, who should immediately come in and be the team's starter.

13. Buffalo Bills: OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford

The Bills could go receiver here, but Stevie Johnson, David Nelson and Donald Jones seem to be cutting it. Michael Floyd seems to be a good option, but they have bigger needs than receiver.

They could also need help at cornerback but they used their second-round selection on Aaron Williams last season and it seems unfit that they use their first-round pick on a cornerback just a year later.

Buffalo needs help at tackle as Chad Rinehart and Demetrius Bell aren't that great of options at left tackle and with Martin on the board, the Bills need to take him.

Martin is a great option here and could become a Pro Bowl-type player. He is a monster against the run and with Fred Jackson at running back and set to return next season, the Bills could be one of the best running teams next season.

14. Kansas City Chiefs: ILB Luke Kuelchy, Boston College

In my opinion, Kuelchy is the best linebacker in the draft and the Chiefs really don't have that many drastic needs. They need help most at linebacker and Kuelchy is the best option.

The linebacker from Boston College registered over ten tackles in every game last season and he should continue that trend into the NFL.

Jovan Belcher is not a starter in the NFL and Derrick Johnson is getting older and worn out, so the Chiefs could benefit greatly by taking a linebacker in the first round.

With Tamba Hali and Justin Houston on the outside, Kuelchy should come in and help the defense next season and form a great trio for the Chiefs

15. San Diego Chargers: OG David DeCastro, Stanford

The Chargers need help on the offensive line badly. Outside of Marcus McNeill and Nick Hardwick, they have had one of the worst lines in the NFL.

With guard Louis Vasquez battling an injury all season long, it makes sense for the Chargers to draft another guard.

DeCastro is perhaps the top interior lineman prospect in the country and drafting DeCastro would help the Chargers in more ways than one.

General manager A.J. Smith has been known to ignore offensive line needs over the past few seasons, but with quarterback Philip Rivers struggling this season, he needs to fill that need.

16. New York Giants: ILB Manti Te'o, Notre Dame

New York currently has no middle linebacker after Jonathan Goff tore his ACL earlier in the season and is a free agent after the season is over. Mark Herzlich's durability could become a concern after he battled cancer a couple of years ago.

And Greg Jones and Jacquian Williams have struggled all season long and don't seem like long-term options at the middle linebacker spot.

So that's where Te'o comes in. Kuelchy makes the most sense, but he is off the board at this point. Te'o is the next available best option and the Giants shouldn't pass him up since he fills their biggest need.

Te'o could become a solid linebacker in the NFL and he also has the capabilities at becoming an All-Pro.

17. Tennessee Titans: OG Cordy Glenn, Georgia

Head coach Mike Munchak has noted all season long that the Titans need help at the offensive line and Glenn is the best lineman prospect at this point.

Running back Chris Johnson has struggled for the majority of the season and Munchak has primarily blamed that on the offensive line, who have been one of the worst in the NFL.

Leroy Harris hasn't been that great this season and neither has his back-up, Fernando Velasco.

Glenn has arguably been the best offensive guard in college football and if the Titans are desperate enough to revamp the offensive line as they say they are, they'll draft Glenn with the No. 17 selection.

18. Cleveland Browns (From Atlanta): WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

Cleveland have been bad all season long in the passing game and it doesn't help that they have one of the worst receiving corps in the NFL.

Josh Cribbs is currently the team's No. 1 receiving option and as we've seen in the past, he's not a legitimate main option. The team also lists Mohamed Massaquoi, Jordan Norwood and Greg Little as the team's other receivers and that is clearly not going to help Colt McCoy become an elite NFL quarterback.

Cribbs isn't a legitimate receiver; he's more of a return man. Little perhaps has the best talent on the Browns entire squad, but he has a bad case of the drops, including a four-drop game a couple of games ago. Massaquoi has been injury-prone since arriving in the NFL and has failed to live up to expectations.

So if the Browns decide to go with Floyd, he would likely supplant all three receivers and become McCoy's main target.

19. Cincinnati Bengals: RB David Wilson, Virginia Tech

Yes, I expect the Bengals to surprisingly reach in the first round for a running back in David Wilson.

Wilson is a great prospect and I believe that he is a better fit than Lamar Miller and I think the Bengals would rather have Wilson, too.

The Bengals have one of the best run-blocking offensive lines in the entire league, but Cedric Benson will be a free agent after the season is over. That leaves Bernard Scott, who is not an every-down back.

Wilson had a spectacular 2011 campaign, carrying the ball 266 times for 1,627 yards and nine touchdowns. Outside of Trent Richardson and Montee Ball, he was the best running back in college football this season.

Wilson has been on a hot streak as of late for the Hokies and if he has a good bowl game, he could rise up into the first round.

20. New York Jets: OLB Courtney Upshaw, Alabama

With Rex Ryan at the helm, the Jets have been known for the stifling defense. Over the past few seasons, they have been at the top of the league, especially when it comes to blitzing and pressuring the opposing quarterback.

However, they haven't been doing that this season and could use a player like Upshaw who made a name for himself in Tuscaloosa for his amazing blitzing capabilities.

Linebacker Bryan Thomas, who was primarily used for rushing the quarterback, tore his achilles earlier in the season and it is not known if he will return to the Jets next season. So, to say the least, outside linebacker has become a great need for the Jets.

Also, Upshaw is used to Nick Saban's 3-4 defensive scheme, which Rex Ryan also runs in New York so Upshaw should be very familiar with the system.

21. Detroit Lions: CB Alfonzo Dennard, Nebraska

I have a feeling the Lions will do what the Giants did last year in the first round and that is picking the best player available, even though he doesn't fill a need (New York drafted Prince Amukamara last year).

The Lions are currently 11th against the pass, but that is mainly because of the safeties, not the cornerbacks. Eric Wright has been getting burned for most of the season and so has Chris Houston.

Detroit is somewhat in need of a cornerback, and Dennard should fill that need.

They could also use a linebacker at this point because Stephen Tulloch is only there on a one-year deal. The Lions also need a little bit of help on the offensive line since they are getting older, but I see them using this pick on a cornerback and Dennard is the best option at this point.

22. Chicago Bears: OT Mike Adams, Ohio State

Like usual, the Bears need help on the offensive line, even though they have done exponentially better this season thanks to Mike Tice, the team's offensive line coach.

The Bears really need a guard at this point instead of a tackle, but they will have to settle on Adams, one of the best tackles in the country.

If anything, the Bears coaching staff could help Adams switch to a guard and use him on the right side since Chris Spencer has arguably been the worst Bears lineman this season.

But right tackle Lance Louis hasn't been that great this season either, as I've watched a few games and seen defensive linemen blow right past Louis, knocking him down on the ground.

The Bears need to invest in an offensive lineman with the No. 22 overall pick and it really doesn't matter who it is because every starter is in jeopardy.

23. Cincinnati Bengals (From Oakland): CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama

Despite legal history, Jenkins is the best player available and it definitely fills a need for Cincinnati as Nate Clements is getting older. Clements will also be a free agent after the season.

Jenkins, a transfer from Florida, would fit in for the Bengals, considering their recent history with players with legal issues (i.e. Pacman Jones, Tank Johnson, etc.)

He is the best cornerback available and it would help the Bengals infinitely as they look to move forward with Andy Dalton and A.J. Green leading the offense.

24. Houston Texans: C Peter Konz, Wisconsin

With Chris Myers set to become a free agent in 2012, the Texans will have a need at center, especially with Mario Williams and Arian Foster set to become free agents.

Myers is likely to go elsewhere for a huge contract as he has arguably been the best center in the entire league this season.

During the college football season, Konz was the best center, while blocking for quarterback Russell Wilson and Heisman hopeful running back Montee Ball.

The Texans are practically set on defense if they re-sign Williams, so it would be the offense they need help with. Houston also needs a receiver, but with none really available at this point, the Texans look elsewhere. That's where the offensive line comes in and so does Konz.

25. Dallas Cowboys: ILB Zach Brown, North Carolina

Although they have other needs other than linebacker, Brown is the best player available at this point.

Bradie James is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2012 and Keith Brooking is getting older and older. So linebacker is a need for the Cowboys as they look to make their defense younger.

With a corps that already features Sean Lee, Anthony Spencer and DeMarcus Ware, Brown could become part of the best linebacking corps in the NFL.

Brown has been listed as a mid-first round prospect, so the Cowboys have to take him if he's available with the No. 25 selection.

26. Denver Broncos: ILB Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State

Even though the Broncos aren't in desperate need of an inside linebacker, they could still use an upgrade at the position.

Joe Mays and Wesley Woodyard aren't the main answers at middle linebacker, as both have flaws in their game. Both will become free agents at the end of the 2011 season anyway so they could use Burfict.

With Zach Brown off the board, Burfict is the next best player available - in the entire draft and also at the position.

The Broncos defense has been playing exceedingly well this season behind quarterback Tim Tebow on offense and Burfict should be able to form a great duo with last year's first-round pick, Von Miller.

27. Baltimore Ravens: ILB Dont'a Hightower, Alabama

Yes, this is the third straight selection in which a linebacker has been chosen.

With Ray Lewis getting older, the Ravens have been looking for his replacement and they will be able to find him in Hightower.

Hightower has been the anchor of Alabama's defense, the current No. 2 team in NCAA football.

The Ravens have traditionally prided themselves on defense with Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs being the main contributors on that side of the ball.

Hightower should be a great successor to Lewis, who is getting up there in age. And there is no doubt that Hightower should be able to fill Lewis' shoes.

28. San Francisco 49ers: CB Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech

The 49ers really have no desperate needs, with cornerback sticking out the most.

Carlos Rogers has been very good against the pass this season, but Tarell Brown hasn't played like Rogers. That is about the only flaw on the entire 49ers defense.

Hosley, the best cornerback available, could come in an fill in for Brown or become the team's nickelback.

Either way, Hosley should become a solid NFL prospect and the 49ers can't go wrong if they choose to select him.

29. New England Patriots (From New Orleans): DT Jerel Worthy, Michigan State

The Patriots have been horrendous on defense this season, particularly on the defensive line and in the secondary.

So with the selection they acquired from New Orleans, the Patriots will select Worthy, who is the best defensive lineman available.

The Patriots currently run a 4-3 defense and Worthy could fit in very well on the defensive line with Vince Wilfork. Kyle Love hasn't played very well at all this season and needs to be replaced, thus paving the way for Worthy.

The big-bodied Worthy would help the Patriots stop the run, which is something they haven't been doing well at all this season.

New England definitely needs help on defense in the draft and it all starts with Worthy.

30. New England Patriots: CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina

New England has been the worst team against the pass this season and with multiple cornerbacks already off the board, it's down to Gilmore, who has had a standout career at South Carolina.

Gilmore is at his best when in coverage and could become the shutdown corner that the Patriots need.

They currently have Devin McCourty at the cornerback position and that is practically all they have. The other cornerbacks on the roster really haven't showed up all season long.

The Patriots released Leigh Bodden earlier in the season, who was their starting cornerback, but had played poorly. Kyle Arrington has been great, but he is primarily a nickelback. Last year's pick Ras-I Dowling hasn't played as well as the Patriots had hoped, so that's where Gilmore comes in.

31. Pittsburgh Steelers: NT Dontari Poe, Memphis

The Steelers will eventually need to replace Casey Hampton, who is getting up there in age.

Poe, a prototypical nose tackle, could become the likely replacement to Hampton and could be his successor in the next season or two.

The Steelers are one of the better teams in the NFL when it comes to the draft and if they think Poe is as good as they think he is, they'll take him in the first round.

And if Poe is chosen in the first round, he'll become the first Memphis player drafted in the first round since running back DeAngelo Williams was chosen by the Panthers.

32. Green Bay Packers: DE/DT Devon Still, Penn State

Jairus Wynn and Mike Neal have failed to live up to expectations and that seems to be the only flaw on a defense that has been speectacular over the last few seasons (except this year).

Still has been great thus far for Penn State, who we all know is under investigation thanks to Jerry Sandusky. But I won't delve into that for the mock draft.

Still adds a big body to the defensive line, along with the ability to get to the quarterback. He could become an ideal fit for Dom Capers' defense if the Packers do in fact pick him at the end of the first round.