Lions Agree to Terms with Curry, Now Waiting on Stafford
by Sean Yuille on Apr 22, 2009 6:23 PM EDT
in NFL Draft
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PrintTom Kowalski is reporting that the Lions have agreed to contract terms with Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry. A deal is in place, and now the Lions appear to be waiting for Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford's next move. Here is more from Kowalski:
The source said he believes that Stafford's agent, Tom Condon, will eventually agree to a deal with the Lions but probably won't do it until it gets closer to the Friday deadline. The price of the contract can only go up in the final hours so Condon will likely push the issue as far as he feels he has something to gain.
According to the story, the Lions aren't going to wait for Stafford beyond Friday. With a deal already in place for Curry, this gives Detroit an immense amount of leverage. That is undoubtedly part of the reason why the Lions wanted to get a deal done with Curry so quickly. This puts the pressure on Stafford and also gives the Lions a backup plan if things don't progress with the Georgia QB.
Note that I said Aaron Curry is the Lions' backup plan in that last sentence. That obviously hasn't been reported, but by reading between the lines, it is pretty obvious who plan A and plan B are in this situation.
Earlier today it was reported by Dave Birkett that Tom Lewand met with Lions owner William Clay Ford to get a deal with Stafford approved. NFLDraftBible.com also reported that Ford signed off on a deal worth $40 million in guaranteed money, but we all know how little credibility that site has left. The Lions, as expected, denied both reports, saying they are "absolutely untrue."
Kowalski basically debunked both stories as well, reporting that two sources said Lewand did not meet with Ford today. To add on to that, ESPN's Rachel Nichols reported on SportsCenter that Martin Mayhew said negotiations with Stafford are "going well." Nichols actually talked to Mayhew, and the Lions' GM made sure to point out that Stafford is not the Lions' only target at this point. Even so, unless Mayhew is completely lying right now, it is evident that a deal has not been finalized just yet.
This situation could be viewed in two different ways. The first is that the Lions want both Curry and Stafford to agree to a deal and then will make their final decision after the contracts are already worked out. The other view is that Stafford is the Lions' top target, which is why they are waiting for him to agree to terms and are simply using Curry for negotiating purposes and as a backup plan. It certainly seems like the latter scenario is the accurate one, as all signs point to Stafford.
Obviously things could change if a contract isn't agreed to, but I would be surprised if it got to that point. I guess we will find out just how bad Stafford wants to be the top pick and just how bad the Lions want Stafford. If the money becomes an issue for either side, then Aaron Curry has a good chance of being the top pick. As stated already, though, I would be surprised if the Lions and Stafford let that happen. I guess we will find out for sure in the next 48 hours or so.
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Here's my thing -
From what I’ve heard, Schwartz wants Stafford (which, admittedly doesn’t make much sense) and Mayhew wants Curry.
Today I read that they both said they will not make a decision unless both are on board… So where does that leave us? Not sure, but what it does tell me is that at the very least we have a shrewd GM. That’s one hole the Lions may not have to fill in the near term, at least.
That seems to be the rumor
It doesn’t make sense. You would think Schwartz would be more of a defensive guy and build the team from the lines out, but who knows.
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I hope they don't get off on the wrong foot...
Makes no sense Schwartz would want a QB first after being under Fisher that long, or maybe Mcnair showed Schwartz the value of a franchise QB????
Me too
Sometimes I feel guilty spending time on the web when I should be spending more time looking for a job.
I used to do that
Then they blocked my internet access to only work related things.
The banking industry is bunk anyways.
Drafting a quarterback first overall is like watching your mother-in-law drive over the edge of a cliff in your new Mercedes.
-Brian Billick
I'll keep looking
I can’t recall, but it was recently that I heard that. I believe it was on the NFL network.
Good question
I haven’t heard anything about Jason Smith, but maybe he is someone they could settle on.
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This is a great move by Mayhew
When was the last time you heard that option B was set to go before option A. Put’s all the pressure on Stafford’s side. In the end Stafford will probably sign the contract, but props to Mayhew…
What if...
we take Curry? How far does Stafford slip,and how much money does he lose? He would be stupid not to yake an offer
True
But I could see Condon holding out for more money. It’s probably a matter of a few million dollars but that has been known to cause issues before.
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Yeah but you give a mouse a cookie it's gonna ask for some milk...
That’s why I hope Mayhew sticks to his guns…
That...
and I could see Condon forcing the Lions at the clock to make the decision. It goes both ways. How bad do the Lions want Stafford and how much are they bluffing that they don’t want him?
Am I making sense?
I am saying....
I could see Condon waiting to see if the Lions really draft Curry if the Lions don’t back off the financial demands. BAsically jsut playing chicken with the Lions to see if they are bluffing.
Yeah I could see that
Like I said in the post, we’ll find out how bad the Lions and Stafford really want each other.
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Teams would DEFINITELY
trade up for Stafford, if they’ll do it for Freeman and Sanchez. On the right team, Stafford could have a great year. He wants to start immediately from what I’ve heard, and it may look more appealing to him.
Could this be?..
Political cover by the Lions. Are they being cognizant of the fact that most of the world other than Lions Fans want the Lions to draft Stafford. This way, they put the ball in Stafford’s court, and Stafford is then to blame if a deal doesn’t get done. This is just a theory, but hopefully Stafford and Condon stay greedy.
by damnitdamnitdamnit on Apr 22, 2009 6:40 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
I honestly can't
say that I believe Stafford is the choice. Basically telling Curry that he is the back up is not the message that you should be giving your #1 pick if Stafford doesn’t sign. Odd tactic if nothing else.
My guess is they lowballed Stafford and said take it or leave it for political cover as mentioned above, figuring that if he takes it good, if not, better.
Good point
But I’m guessing Curry was told they will make their final decision after all negotiations are done, though he probably realizes he’s not the top target. I’m sure he wouldn’t care if he ends up being the pick.
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Yeah, I don't think he will drop
Like Nate said, teams are reportedly thinking of moving up to get Sanchez and Freeman. If the Lions passed on Stafford, you can bet he wouldn’t last long.
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Stafford won't last long if the lions pass on him...
The Sea hawks could take him or get a great offer for him…
Yeah Bulger
He’s young, just been beat up. There have been reports of them possibly taking a QB, and if Stafford is available I think that chance increases exponentially due to the fact that Bulger still has market value.
Yeah....
that is what I thought. They could totally be in play for Stafford. If the Seahawks are in play, why not the Rams? Spags may be a D-Coordinator, but he knows the value of a god QB.
Oh for sure
Although I think with the departure of Pace, they need their comfort LT. I’d say Smith fits the Pace mold better than Monroe (although, being a VA man, I like Monroe better).
well...
I like what Mayhew is doing, putting on the pressure on Stafford. He clearly does want to come here and we clearly want him so lets get a deal done. I would be content with either Stafford or Curry.
I would imagine
Seattle would take Sanchez before Stafford.. He’s more of a quick-release, west coast guy.
I also think Carolina is a dark horse in the QB derby… they need an upgrade to Delhomme and could get Peppers out to move up and get a QB.
I like Smith
Less than Stafford… the TE to LT shift worked well for Jason Peters, but I’m just not convinced Smith isn’t being overhyped.
He might
Be overrated a little, a little bit of a workout warrior. But he’s a hard worker and he always wants to be the best. This is encouraging because you know he won’t waste his talent because he’s lazy (like Shaun Rodgers)
Cheer up
Smith is not worthy of the #1 pick…..
by FreeBradshaw on Apr 22, 2009 6:50 PM EDT up reply actions
He may be close
but he is not Joe Thomas or Orlando Pace type good. Not even Jake Long good.
He’ll be a very good NFL starter, something that you can get potentially later in the draft.
by FreeBradshaw on Apr 22, 2009 6:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, agreed
I just don’t trust a guy to be considered as “elite” at his position if he was converted not too long ago… If I’m not mistaken, no more than 2 years ago.
I disagree
The reason I disagree with you is look at the Bills/Eagles trade for LT Jason Peters. He was a converted TE to RT and in his 3rd season he was made a LT. The two seasons he played that posisition he made the probowl.
by Usmarine0341 on Apr 22, 2009 7:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh definitely.
I just don’t think we have the coaching staff to coach him up to his potential. Who’s our OL coach anyhow?
It's not the same Lions staff
I’m not sure who the O-Line coach is but we know we won’t have Rod Marinelli telling him to worry less about working out and more about planting trees in the community
Smith could
easily become Long, Pace or even Thomas the guy has a great work ethic, is probably as good pass blocker as any of them and just needs to work on improving run blocking…
Exactly
His greatest attribute is his work ethic. He will never settle with being less-than-elite as long as he’s on that field. He studied game tape of Eugene Monroe without persuasion from coaches how do you say no to that determination? It’s clear he’s not in the NFL for the money
It might be because
Monroe is more NFL ready, they need a replacement now. They don’t have Orlando Pace anymore and if the dude can’t step in now and play like an NFL caliber LT, they’re in trouble. Smith should be able to do this, but Monroe certainly will
Monroe
Would be a great fit here too… Pure LT, a little weak on the run blocking but a solid, solid pass blocker. Only knock is his durability.
But with Smith's upside
You can’t pass on that. We’re not going to be good immediately so might as well sacrifice the present for the better of the future. Sure Monroe may be better immediately, but do we really need a good LT now? I would rather have him be even better later
not by a long shot...
I was listening to NFL Sirius on the way home and a scout said NONE of the tackles in the draft are as good as Clady(last years pick.)
Clady is very good
I remember hoping he would drop last year. Imagine him instead of Cherilus.
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Or ...
Brandon ALbert or Jeff Otah, both better than Cherilus in my book.
by damnitdamnitdamnit on Apr 22, 2009 7:33 PM EDT up reply actions
True and true
There were a few OTs mentioned as first-rounders before the draft, and Cherilus was by far the least mentioned.
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As soon as they announced that
I about threw my remote… that was such a reach. Even Sam Baker was better than Gozder… hopefully he steps it up this year.
Gos will be fine.... We even traded down so when we took him it wouldn't
be as big of a reach, remember we could of drafted Albert at 15 last year…
If your #1 choice is Stafford
why the hell are you leaking that you signed Curry?
This is dumb and indecisiveness is never good.
Indecisveness?
Uh, it’s pretty obvious they’re doing this to leverage Stafford into accepting their deal. It’s very smart.
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good times
as rough of a season as the lions had last yr, this is a great time to be a lions fan,
it looks like we finally have a GM who knows what hes doin and a solid coach….
now its just a matter of time before the team is rebuilt
Mayhew
is starting to remind me (and I know it’s early so go easy) of Dumars a little. Seems like he knows how to play the games with the best of them.
Just dont
Sign the Michael Curry of a coach lol. He was a great defensive player hint hint but he cant coach worth a lick
by Liontotheextreme on Apr 22, 2009 7:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Give Curry Time.....
…..Hes coaching a bunch of cry babies……Next years team will be different.
by BennieBladesFan on Apr 22, 2009 7:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I can't deny that
They already gave up on the season when Billups was traded. Sucks seeing him play so well for Denver when the Pistons have no shot of beating Cleveland.
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Curry
Was put in a very difficult position. He was expecting the same old Pistons team, but then put in a different Element like AI and you lose all the previous cohesiveness. Put in a better coach and he could’ve made the AI experiment work
This is great
I hear you Nate, i think we all do and Detroit has been disappointing to say the least for a number of years. BUT you cant blame Mayhew… at least yet. He has done everything right so far and as far as we can take it on an 0-16 image we had last year. Im not saying he is the best by any means but you have to agree ANYTHING is better than Millen. I know he couldnt have got that much value for Roy Williams if he tried
by Liontotheextreme on Apr 22, 2009 7:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Curry going 8th!!!
I read this today and it was somewhat laughable…I guess everybody is entitled to their own opinions. My opinion is that we should pull the trigger on Curry right now. Draft for the future-Draft Curry…!!
http://www.rotoworld.com/content/features/column.aspx?sport=NFL&columnid=60&articleid=32563
Mayhew
has just shown some promise so far,love the Roy trade..Plenty of picks to play with, i just hope Coach was a good scout
It don't even matter
With all the picks Mayhew has been getting (keep em coming Cowgirls!) we’re bound to hit on one of th em lol
It's a Madhouse
I wake up up and everything has gone crazy. I’m officially happy with Mayhew and Schwartz. They’ve done an amazinf job so far, let’s hope it continues. I still think Stafford will be signed, I just think it might be for a little less than his agent had hoped for. I think being the No.1 pick means to much to him. If not, I say hooray anyway because than we get Curry, something of a win-win if you ask me.
2009 = The start of the Lions Golden Age (We hope).
THere's just one thing
The only reason I wouldn’t want to draft curry (and I know I’m going to get stabbed for this) is with the great, rangy OLB’s we have now, all our MLBs have to do is just protect the middle. He doesn’t have to roam around and make tackles, our OLBs can do that because they’re both great. Curry may be a waste of talent because he won’t have much of a responsibility.
I keep hearing that
And my response is, why wouldn’t you want a guy who can do his job and more?
Once again, Peterson very likely may not be here next year. He didn’t sign an extension with us and his contract is up after this year.
Usually
It’s a foregone conclusion when you get traded to resign with your new team… for whatever reason, he opted not to.
I haven’t heard of that before, I would want to see how he plays with us for half a season before we sign him to guaranteed money…
dosent peterson have 3 years left on his contract?
by CR on Apr 22, 2009 7:09 PM EDT up reply actions
I don't know about you
But I’d be 100% OK with signing a 5 time pro bowler to an extension off the bat.
I like that way of thinking
Look at Leigh Bodden for proof of that.
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We give him a new contract and he disappoints
Now he’s gone.
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I never thought highly of Leigh Bodden
Calling him “underrated” was just a way of Lions fans justifying trading arguably the best defensive player on the team
I think Bodden
Like Sims, is better than he showed, and just played on a shit D.
He may not be Champ Bailey, but I’d rather have seen him and Buchanon than Buchanon and whoever.
Well
What if he doesn’t have to do his job and more? I understand Peterson will be gone, but with his contract, we can get a replacement of his caliber, or even better, and we’re back in the same pickle again.
not necessarily
it just gives us more options. If we have a MLB who’s not just a run-stuffer but can cover a wide area, that means more stuff we can do with Sims and Peterson. We can blitz any of our LB’s and still cover over the middle well
Plus Sims and Peterson won’t be here forever (if Sims proves to undersized outside of the Tampa 2 and with Peterson getting older). I like having a young elite LB who can do everything.
Plus
Think about it, Detroit (the city) LOVES this guy. He could be our Ray Lewis… the QB of the D, with the whole city behind him. Tell me that doesn’t make a player play better.
Note that I’m not comparing ability, just his presence here.
I'm not saying Curry won't be great
I think he’ll be AMAZING, I’ve always loved MLBs and I would be ecstatic for Curry, but with our OLBs already better than decent. Why not just plug in a Mckillop or Brinkley to just plug the middle? We don’t need much more than that.
There has been talk in forums if not the team
If we did go draft Curry, would he play middle or do we move sims to middle so curry can play outside
by Liontotheextreme on Apr 22, 2009 7:13 PM EDT up reply actions
That creates a hole
That might not be real easy to fill. Sims is considered one of the best Will’s in the game.
Just doesn’t look that way when you have no one else on the D who contributes.
Definitely the Middle
The FO already confirmed this. Ernie is too small to play the Mike, and Julian is an OLB all the way.
i hope so…i have watched him over run enough plays
by CR on Apr 22, 2009 7:17 PM EDT up reply actions
I'll quote PFW's draft guide
“Some of the best (OLB) today – Keith Bulluck, Chad Greenway and Ernie Sims – are so athletic that they get out of position overrunning plays and trying to do too much.”
…to compensate for his shitty D.
He tries to do too much
Because he has to do everything. He knows if he misses the tackle then, everybody else on the defense is gonna miss the tackle.
That Makes No Sense.....
……Hes a freak…….With those 3 LBS wed have the best LB coprs in the NFC…..FERA PEOPLE…..Thats what w eneed.
by BennieBladesFan on Apr 22, 2009 7:16 PM EDT up reply actions
This board is going NUTS
HAHA, well over the last 24 hours I’ve seen this one specially light up but news of the up coming draft means its crunch time. We have only 3 days till the draft and lets talk about 20, i mean we know that unless a miracle happens we are getting either Curry or Stafford, but what are we going to do on our 20
by Liontotheextreme on Apr 22, 2009 7:05 PM EDT reply actions
If we take Stafford
We take the best MLB available @ 20 and the best OL @ 33 (Mack, Unger, IMO)
With Curry, we take DT @ 20 and OL @ 33
If we take Stafford
We go the Atlanta route and grab Oher (if available) at #20. If not Beatty at #33
Get an interior O-Line
Why is everyone so obsessed that we HAVE to take a LT?
We have a HOLE at LG, and Backus is not a lock to be as good there.
Put a stud interior lineman next to him and watch him improve.
You must protect the blindside
There’s a reason it’s the most important position on the Offensive Line and why just being a LT makes you so much more valuable. If a Qb is expecting to get hit in his back every play, it makes him shaky and he’ll want to get rid of the ball quicker. It’s all mental. With Backus in a rookie Qb would get jumpy and let go of the ball waaayy too early. And what’s the point of trying to make Backus improve? It’s not like he’s young. I would rather grab a young Olineman and watch him improve
There will be more OTs
in the future… and since we’re obviously not taking one of the ‘elite’ guys this year, why go for a 2nd rate OT when you can get an elite IL
I would rather shore up
The most imporant aspect of football now rather than later. If our defense wasn’t so horrible I would grab Smith and then Unger or Mack and make that O-Line a strength. I can’t stress improving the trenches enough. When you break it down, football is just one big guy against another big guy. Let’s get our big guys
I'm crossing everything I have
That we get Smith or Monroe. I’m for getting the O-Line early. IF we draft Stafford that’s when I’m crossing my fingers for Oher
Because..
Jeff Backus is terrible, I don’t care if the rest of our line was from a pop warner team, Backus would still be the week link. My friends and I have a drinking game based on my TIVO and Backus’ incompetence.
by damnitdamnitdamnit on Apr 22, 2009 7:40 PM EDT up reply actions
There is a reason we gave him the nicname "Back us up" last season
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I don't like Beatty
All that much either. But you have to protect the blindside if you grab a QB, Unger and Mack, while they may help Backus out, won’t counter his mediocrity
Beatty......
……Is a beast…..would take him at 20
by BennieBladesFan on Apr 22, 2009 7:17 PM EDT up reply actions
He has a learning disability
But he’s stated in interviews that it doesn’t affect his ability to learn blocking schemes
I agree
But you know if the Lions are seriously interested, they’d be talking to coaches, friends and Oher himself ad nauseum to ensure the disability is nothing that affects his performance on the field. I’m not sure what his wonderlic is, but if it’s high, our fears are unfounded.
But
In the NFL if you are worried about strength that is one of the easiest thinks to fix. If he hits an NFL program he should see some great results.
Reading all the scouting reports
It appears all of his faults are atrributed to lack of strenght, Not enough push in the run game, gets pushed back, doesn’t anchor well etc.
As well as I
I like Mack and Unger and even Duke Robinson. But they don’t play the most important position on the OLine.
It's possible
While filling out some mocks of my own (every team not just the Lions) Oher kept falling to us on accident. It appears alot of teams in front of us have more needs than OT
I think that would be a great situation with J Laur a possibility to still be on the board at 33
by CR on Apr 22, 2009 7:32 PM EDT up reply actions
If they sign stafford...
They have to get a lineman for the left side with #20 or #33…. its a wasted pick otherwise.
by CLF on Apr 22, 2009 7:26 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Agreed
That’s why it’s good we have 3 high picks. If Stafford is drafted, one of the other two will be an OL for sure.
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If Maualuga is available at 20, I would take him and wait on an OL
If he’s not, get an OL and hope James Laurinaitis falls.
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MLB
Is pretty deep in the 3rd rd. With guys like Mckillop and Jasper Brinkley (a favorite of mine) being available. If we don’t draft MLB in #20 or #33 the options are still plentiful
Yeah more I read on Brinkley I like him too
His weight concerns me a little. But he is a true thumper…
Brinkley
You have to look for contributors deep in the draft, true, but I just find fault with filling a roster spot that is currently empty with a late round talent, especially at such a pivotal position.
agreed
But kid was great before he hurt his knee, it takes a year to come back from serious knees surgery he had… Could be a steal if we take him late and he is healthy…
True, true
I guess I just assume we could never find a gem late in the draft.
This is what years of draft conditioning will do to you..
You can learn wonders
From mocking sites (draftcountdown.com is my personal preference) I saw some film of Brinkley in the 2008 season and he wasn’t very impressive because of his knee injury. But after his great combine numbers its clear he is back to 100% and he was good before that injury of his. I just hope it isn’t lingering
Great pick
I did not want any offense in the first round but if we are going to get Stafford then I think we need to go OT to protect him. Oher would be a great pick.
I understand your point
but how can you say that an OT is not on offense. I want all defense but since Stafford probably be the pick we have to protect him. As you said this has been our weakness for a long time and we cant afford to have our new golden boy on his back all day.
His point
If I got it right, is that that’s such a position of need that it transcends the Offense/Defense argument.
I can see that
I just want to make sure that if in fact it is Stafford we have to protect him. Either with #20 or #33 we have to get something now.
Lions Will Trade.....
….out of 20 and pick up NE 3 2nd rounders……..Especially if Clay Matthews is there or another LB that Billicheck likes.
by BennieBladesFan on Apr 22, 2009 7:48 PM EDT up reply actions
That would be
A great move if Maualuga and Oher didn’t drop (assuming we need those positions) I’m also slowly falling in love with Vontae Davis (no homo) his athleticism has to outweigh possible attitude problems
I like Smith
As well, but in terms of talent, he’s not as good as Vontae Davis by any means. Davis is top 15 if cornerback was more of a need for teams and if he didnt clash with coaches and other players in his past.
Atmosphere
It certainly seems the Lions Brass has created the prefect storm in order for them to get the best possible deal…
And Hypothetically if we don’t take Stafford and he slips out of the top 4… does this create a situation where Sanchez or him fall to 13-19 or do they both go between 8-13?
I agree
I don’t expect any QBs to all when the drop off is so big after Stafford, Sanchez, and Freeman.
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Yeah
No way we grab a QB later unless Sanchez drops further than freeman, and I don’t think I want Sanchez.
Sanchez will be...
GONE, out of here lol, no way does he get past the 49ers at 10, no way. First you have Us, Seattle, all the way down to 49ers at 10, they’ll jump on sanchez quicker than an airplane
by Liontotheextreme on Apr 22, 2009 7:15 PM EDT up reply actions
Don't forget Denver
They worked him out yesterday I think. Sanchez will probably be gone before the Broncos’ first pick, but if he isn’t I think Denver might take him.
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I think he will
I have Raji to Denver… heard today that Jacksonville isn’t very high on him, and he fits better as a 3-4 DT.
Sanchez.....
…..will be the better pro in my mind…..SO ID RATHER HAVE HIM!!!
by BennieBladesFan on Apr 22, 2009 7:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Doesn't fit our scheme
We need a QB with a big arm to fit Linehan’s vertical passing scheme. Daunte is actually a great fit.
USC
Uses more of a system, west coast offense. UGA uses a pro style. They’re both pro style O’s but USC also plays in one of the weakest divisions in the NCAA Div-I
i'm confused
isnt the west coast offense one of the most popular offenses in the NFL. How can it not be a “pro style offense?”
As I said
The west coast is a pro-style offense. It, however, is a system offense, meaning players need specific measurables and abilities to fit into it. Georgia plays a more open playbook against better competition, so Stafford gets the nod, most of the time.
I'm not convinced
That San Fran is going to go QB. They like Shaun Hill, and want to give their #1 overall one more year. There’s a wellspring of their type of QBs next year. Gotta think long term.
I cant even keep up with this post
I have no idea what anyone is even posting now this is great. Look what you created Sean. Nice job.
It's a monster, lol
Even I am more addicted to it than I used to be, and it’s my site. Haha
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Sean
P.S. there’s over 200 comments in the past 20 min, this is the biggest chat I’ve ever seen here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If this is big, wait until the draft
I’m going to have to create so many overflow threads. It’s gonna be nuts.
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And I can't wait to see what it's like this season
Game days will be lively, that’s for sure.
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I have such a hard time
even watching the debates between him and McShay… I used to like McShay, then I realized they’re just playing off each other for ratings. He’s better than Kiper, but that’s not saying much. It’s like two feuding brothers.
Remember
Spay or neuter your NFL draft analysts!
by ATL Lion on Apr 22, 2009 7:42 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Stupid ?
But since everyone seems to be on this thread I figure you guys will know.
Does the draft start at 4pm ET? If it does, is it my bad memory or does the draft usually start much earlier?
Yes
It’s moving towards primetime. Last year it was 3 as compared to the normal noon start time. NFL’s goal is to move it to primetime eventually. Probably in a few years the first-round will be on Friday night.
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thatd be great
im an orthodox jew who cant use electricity on saturdays (its the sabbath) and every damn year i get so anxious waiting for the sabbath to end so I can see who the next great Lions hope is. If they move it to friday night, ill just get the paper the next day
"Sometimes Joe (morgan) doesn't like facts to get in the way of his opinions."- billy beane
"That was a great pick...if this was 2002" Me, to guy who selected Barry Zito in a fantasy draft
www.27ClubPeak.blogspot.com
by harendaman365 on Apr 23, 2009 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions
yes 4 PM
I am guessing they moved it later in the day to get it more in prime time. They are trying to make the NFL draft as big as anything else on TV. That is my guess, strictly ratings.
That is correct
Like I said, it is inevitable that the draft will be primetime. More of a matter of how long until it happens rather than if it will.
Pride of Detroit, SB Nation's Lions Blog
Yeah the coverage this year has been amazing
It seems that no matter what station you listen to it is about the draft. I can’t believe how big this draft has gotten. It’s great and it will be a huge money maker for the networks. My guess is within 2 or 3 years its going to ABC
ESPN wouldn't do that
They’re moving the BCS to ESPN, so they would definitely want to keep the draft.
Pride of Detroit, SB Nation's Lions Blog
Dont you think they might get more veiwers
if they were not on ESPN. They should buy the exclusive rights to the draft and show it on their affiliate ABC. I don’t know ratings that much but I wonder if they can draw in the average fan on a major network at least for a little while. the NFL is getting so big and popular it is amazing
I don't know if it would be that big of a difference
If MNF were still on ABC it would be a possibility, but the NFL has no ties to ABC anymore.
Pride of Detroit, SB Nation's Lions Blog
I dont know
If you live in or around Detroit, but it’s insane here… Valenti and Foster were begging listeners to talk about the Wings, hahaha.
I don't doubt it
I don’t listen to their show because I despise Valenti, but from what I hear they focus on the Lions more than any other Detroit team.
Pride of Detroit, SB Nation's Lions Blog
You too?
Yeah, HATE Valenti, although today, ironically, I sent in my opinion on our 1st and 2nd rounders and they recommended me for GM :)
The Wings can have the rest of the spring.
Let the Lions have their weekend. Besides what’s to talk about? The Columbus series? Seriously?
Hopefully they sweep them so there's no game on Saturday
I would like to not have multiple TVs running.
Pride of Detroit, SB Nation's Lions Blog
by Sean Yuille on Apr 22, 2009 11:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I get to watch
none of the above. I have a presentation on Tuesday for a class. No time for the Lion’s SuperBowl or the Wings this weekend. Bums me out.
I got two finals on Monday but will still be watching every second of the draft. It’s not something that you need to full pay attention to except for bout every 12 minutes, its the perfect thing to study to.
by Curse of Bobby Layne 50 Years Strong on Apr 23, 2009 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions
Hopefully
The 1st round will be shorter than last year’s.
I’ve made it a ritual to watch the draft for the last 5 years or so… It’s bigger than the SB most of the time… minus the last two SB’s which were amazing
This is our Super Bowl
Last year’s first-round was only 3 and a half hours since they shortened the allotted time for first-round picks. I remember 2007, though. That was the longest first-round in history. I live-blogged the entire first day of the draft, too. It went from like 12 to 11 or something ridiculous like that.
Pride of Detroit, SB Nation's Lions Blog
That's the one
Longest 1st round ever.. I never blogged or anything, just got jacked up and watched it, and I was laughing so hard at Berman and Co. get so irritated with each other by the end of it.
I've decided....
That I will be happy whether we draft Curry OR Stafford. Both have tremendous promise and both would fit our growing team very well. This is a total win-win situation.
Also, I think Mayhew is playing this brilliantly. I think they could go with either player as well, and signing Curry before Stafford allows them leverage in getting a better deal. They really can’t lose with this tactic.
I go back and forth
But ultimately, I totally agree. No matter the outcome I will welcome our #1 with open arms (just maybe not QUITE as open…). If anything, this has been a lesson in actually believing in your FO.
Kudos, Mr. Mayhew. Please hand me my Kool-Aid.
To me
I won’t be thoroughly dissapointed with any player chosen with the #1 (unless Crabtree’s name comes up) I’m not saying every player is a sure thing, but with every positiion being a need, it’d be very hard for the Lions to commit a stupid pick here.
I cant believe I am going to say this but...
I think the Lions have done something right, Mayhew!! What he has done under the pressure of Detroit has really been impressive. No one wanted him as the GM and all he does is continue to impress. I know every one of his moves have been judged and looked at and I think he has done a very good job. So as it stands on this day, April 22, I actually approve of the direction this team is going under Meyhew. Man, it feels wierd to say the Lions got something right!!
agreed
Alot of turnarounds from horrible teams lately (ATL, Miami) but this might be the biggest one of all, Parcells has some competion
Well..
I’m optimistic, but you might want to pull back on the reins a bit. 95% of what we see is dependant on this draft.
Mayhew might be a shrewd negotiator, but our scouting department, (IMO) is still suspect.
On Yahoo's front NFL page
It has a link to a article about our #1 that has the title of “Wise Guys”.
When was the last time you saw the words “Detroit Lions” and “Wise” put together?
I go
to my church’s Wednesday night thing and when I get home I find this post with 300 comments already. I read what I could but I’ve got to move on.
Also
He uses the same name system as Joey Harrington
Real names:
John Joseph Harrington
John Matthew Stafford
Yes and his secret man lover is Mel KIper
by Curse of Bobby Layne 50 Years Strong on Apr 22, 2009 10:35 PM EDT up reply actions
secret?
"Sometimes Joe (morgan) doesn't like facts to get in the way of his opinions."- billy beane
"That was a great pick...if this was 2002" Me, to guy who selected Barry Zito in a fantasy draft
www.27ClubPeak.blogspot.com
by harendaman365 on Apr 23, 2009 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions
Why is that bad karma?
Sounds like providence to me. The last Lions championship came from that school…
Isn’t the curse suppose to be over this year, as he said they wouldn’t win for the next 50 years.
by Curse of Bobby Layne 50 Years Strong on Apr 22, 2009 10:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, I know
I just don’t trust that Bobby didn’t send John to come ruin our party for another few years…. ;)
All of this is very tounge-in-cheek, though, I don’t believe in superstitions. Just weird facts.
Another thing to think about
If Stafford and Bobby Lane went to the same high school, and if Stafford is to be anywhere near Lane in effectiveness, I hope Stafford can drink a lot of beer. Cause he is going to have to be a beer drinking brawling dude to come close to Bobby Lane! Really disappointing to even think that the Lions could waste a draft pick on Offense in the first round…the best Lions teams have been good because of their defense…of course “their best” is certainly relative!!!
I like that article
But it doesn’t give much in the way of filler…He doesn’t back up his argument much.
With that said, I never though about the teams (Chicago, Tampa) who never get their QB. Chicago hits closer to home, being in our division, but once again, what does it matter if we get 35 points a game if we’re giving up 52?
Please Draft Curry..!
I’m just not sold on Stafford as a “franchise” QB. I’d draft Curry, save some $$ and go after Pat White in the 2nd or 3rd round. You can quote me today – Stafford will not be worth the value of a 1st round pick.
And Curry is not
worth the 1st overall pick either.
Pat White is a waste of time too.
by FreeBradshaw on Apr 22, 2009 10:18 PM EDT up reply actions
But Curry is the consensus "safest" pick
look at the Lions roster, my fellow skeptic dude. How many players are on it from the 02-06 drafts? (five drafts, over 30 picks) 2-Sims and Bullocks
I, as many other fans, want safe picks
just sayin’
Nice article, North
I have to say that I agree with most of it. I sometimes don’t care for the “history as an indicator” thing, because each player is an individual and there are just so many variables to a player succeeding or not. Sometimes it’s surroundings and really not much to do with the player at all. But the overall concept displayed here is pretty sound… in my humble opinion, anyway.
I agree Drew
That is my philosophy with people in general. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses in whatever they do, the key is to put people into situations where their strengths can be utilized and their weaknesses can be somewhat covered up. That doesn’t mean you don’t try and work on the person’s weaknesses either.
I think the best coaches in the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, [wherever] do that all the time. The worst coaches try to apply a system, irregardless of the players on hand and available.
You always hear about players who failed with other teams turning their careers around with another. I think most of the time it is because of finding the right situation, not because of some great personal improvement by the player.
Look at Dennis Rodman. The guy did not fit the mold of pretty well any NBA player. But with the Pistons he got to show exactly what he could do.
If they do draft Stafford, I hope the Lions coaches are good enough to smooth out the rough spots and use him in a way that he can succeed.
Yeah, it does come down to...
faith in the front office and coaching staff. Last year, we were overmatched in both departments. I think this could be the strongest staff in a long time. That being said, they haven’t proven anything on the field yet. It’s a reputation thing right now.
I think
Ray Lewis, Lawrence Taylor, and Mike Singletary might beg to differ.
If you think Curry is any of those three players...
I think you need to re-assess your expectations.
whats a fransice
when making idiotic points, please try to at least spell correctly
"Sometimes Joe (morgan) doesn't like facts to get in the way of his opinions."- billy beane
"That was a great pick...if this was 2002" Me, to guy who selected Barry Zito in a fantasy draft
www.27ClubPeak.blogspot.com
by harendaman365 on Apr 23, 2009 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions
I will be so sick if Detroit takes Stafford. Really, you have to be joking with me. Detroit gave up 31+ points 10 games last year. How does Stafford help that sitting on the bench? Detroit also needs a Left Tackle. All the good tackles will be gone by 20. If you take Stafford at 1 and a Tackle at 20 how does this help your defense? I drive to Detroit every year to see 1 or 2 games. If Detroit takes Stafford I will not support their team. Stafford has done NOTHING to deserve that kind of money. HE WILL BE A BUST! Draft Curry, keep your fans happy.
Detroit can't draft scared
I’m sure Mayhew did the work on Stafford, if he was scared of him not being the guy they would take someone else, money only stands in the way…
Mayhew wants Curry NOT Stafford.
Man I hope he makes the call!
The FO
has said they won’t draft anyone unless Mayhew and Schwartz are in agreement. At this point its all smoke and mirrors. They could secretly be taking Jason Smith for all we know.
Agreed
Mayhew might want Curry and Schwartz might want Stafford but I don’t think there at teeth and nails about it right now. Smith is something they both could agree on and not be sore over…
I was just making an example
I highly doubt smith is even part of the equation anymore, as Condon represents both Smith and Stafford… working against yourself is not good business, especially when your reputation is at stake.
In reality Smith is best option
Smith would be the best choice. With only 3-4 starting Left Tackles in this draft and that being Detroit #1 need, it would be the best pick. Then go Defense at 20 and 33.
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