2012 NFL Draft: 65 Players Enter Early

I don’t see why any player who is eligible for the draft and expects to get an NFL contract would stay in school no matter how much eligibility he has left.

Get paid a bunch of money, or get exploited and play for free while risking an injury?? Doesn’t seem like much of a choice to me. I say get that money while you can. Injuries aside, football careers are short. I wouldn’t want to waste a year of it when I could be getting paid. Playing for free in college is a waste of time, IMO.

(Unless of course they play for Georgia. lol)

The 2012 Draft …..a crap shoot at this point?? Definitely.
I think the only sure bet is Luck going to Indy. After that it’s anybody’s guess. So with that stated, anybody wanna guess where our Lions will pick with the 23rd pick?? To expand a bit from what Chris White, SB Nation Detroit posted today.
I thought a few names may really get things going.
So far I’ve seen-
Janoris Jenkins CB-N Alabama While I’ve seen this prediction on multiple mocks, I don’t believe Jenkins is first round material. No doubt an “elite athlete”, unfortunately lacks bulk at 176 lbs. which at the NFL level could be an issue. I hope whatever off-field issues he had when at Florida (caused his dismissal) are over.

Jonathan Martin OT-Stanford (Courtesy of SB Nation, Ryan Van Bibber “Jeff Backus, 34, is a free agent. Detroit could stand to upgrade their offensive line as it is, and drafting Martin strengthens the outside, helping put Matthew Stafford one step closer to elite status.”)
I can’t disagree with this assessment, there is a true need at this position. Unless of course Backus gets re-signed due to the draft going in a differing direction. I’ve seen many mocks where Martin gets picked much earlier than 23rd. A true draft wrinkle with the O-line need…..who will be around at 23rd?

Cordy Glenn OT/G-Georgia (Courtesy of Bleacher Report, Matt Miller " Some may say a cornerback or even a running back would be the better pick. I disagree. The Detroit Lions need to build their offensive line. Jeff Backus is near retirement, and the team has no one to replace him at left tackle. Glenn has played both tackle and guard at Georgia, and while a bit heavy for the left side, he has the footwork and athleticism to make the transition to the NFL as a tackle. Worst-case scenario, the Lions have an All-Pro-quality guard in Glenn. Best case, he becomes a fixture at left tackle.")

Zach Brown OLB-North Carolina Of course it would not be a mock draft post without Mel Kiper chiming in. Mel believes Brown to be a “good fit” and “makes sense” should a top O-lineman not be around at 23rd.
I like Brown, he’s got good speed (posting 40 yard times from 4.4 to 4.59 on a bad day) not too shabby for 6’2" and 230lbs. I would enjoy watching some solid shut down of many running games with an addition like this.

Peter Konz C-Wisconsin Dominic Raiola is a warrior and has survived the Millen years….10 years with the Lions….rough years. He’s due 4 million next year to boot. Dom, God Bless for your service but I don’t see an eleventh season in Detroit for you. Here’s another point of discussion. Which need on the O line is greater? Raiola after 10 years or Backus as a free agent?

Alfonzo Dennard CB-Nebraska 5’10" doesn’t mean a thing when you have the leaping ability Dennard has. Many believe Dennard will go to Cinci but I like Dennard for his speed and agressive nature as a shut down CB.

Dre Kirkpatrick CB-Alabama 6’2", 192lbs. Now I know his recent episode with the “Hippie Lettuce” may for some, stir up Ricky Williams nightmares but I am optimistic that this kid will grow up and realize that if he wants a true NFL career he’ll make the right choices. If Dre’s Mom, (who supported his decision to go pro after his Junior year) has anything to do with this mess…Dre will clean up his act. In spite of this slip up this kid is a premier CB. The Lions can take this leap of faith now, Kirkpatrick may be around at 23rd.

Well that’s my short list. I’m sure yours will differ….if I had the chance to call Schwartz at the draft table I go offensive line as top priority and then D secondary. Stafford is a horse and he needs a solid stable in front of him. He’s had too many injuries because he’s made due with what’s been there. If the Lions wish to take the next step in the post season get Stafford some better pass protection. But of course we have to wait and see what cards will be left when the 23rd pick is up.