By Rich Rooney

COMBINE

First we begin with the Draft Combine in Indianapolis, which is a six-day event where some 330 players are poked, prodded, questioned and tested. The field is broken into 9 groups and essentially each team interviews about 60 players. But they also informally and formally question many more at meals, in the halls and everywhere you can think.

This year the crop of Juniors is about 40, the highest total was in Wide Receivers (41) and the smallest was kickers (9) (CB-34, DE-31, OT-28, OG-19, OC-14, RB-27, LB-33, Safety- 26, QB-21 and DT-22). Most of the top athletes don't work out for fear of injury and a lot of people think the track at Indianapolis is slower than most college tracks. Most opt for the on campus pro day, but should they get injured between the two events there is little time to get worked out by the pros in between.

The wild cards in this year's draft are former Ohio State RB Maurice Clarett, USC WR Mike Williams. Both men lost out in the court case ruling of underclassmen and the draft. Also Florida State's QB Adrian McPherson who left his program early and went on to star in the Arena Football league. Miami RB Frank Gore, who as a freshman averaged over 9 yards a carry, went on to have two knee operations. WR Larry Brackens, a Randy Moss type who didn't play at the major college level, instead was both a WR and Safety at small Pearl City College, but is 6-4, 205 and can catch the ball and plays two positions well at the small school level.

Last year at the combine 65% of the players drafted went to the combine and 85% of the players that were selected went to the combine. Last year in the first three rounds only two players selected didn't go the combine, so you can see how important this event is.

DRAFT

Although there are 40 juniors that went to the combine, I can only count 34 juniors that are eligible for the draft. Some key juniors such as QB Matt Leinart decided to go back for their senior year so there's less underclass at the high end.

STRENGTHS
Cornerbacks are the strongest position in the draft. The four seniors (Rolle, Jackson, Rogers and Webster) are good but all timed at above the 4.5 level in the 40. The juniors (Jones, Miller and Browner) have better speed but none have the ideal size you look for. There's plenty of depth at this position and as many as 25 players could be taken through the middle rounds. Players to look for are McFadden, Green along with Darrant Williams. Sleepers in this area are Elimimian, Collins and Bartell of Howard.

Defensive line has been one of the strong areas for the last four years and this will again be the case. However, this year it looks like the strength are in the defensive tackles not the ends. Look for these guys to go early (DE Spears, Cody, James, Merriman, Roth and Pollack). The quality is at DE, but the depth is at DT. Look for USC's DT Patterson and Wisconsin Hawthorne and later in day one, for Castillo, Ellison and junior C.J. Mosley.

Running backs could be very interesting. I think for a change, Offense will play a larger role in the top of the draft. There hasn't been a running back taken higher than 10th since San Diego took Tomlinson 5th in 2001. That will most likely change this year, as Benson, Brown and Williams are all ranked 2,3 and 5 depending on the source. From here down the group has somewhat of a drop off in depth at this position. In the second round look for Morency, Fason and Marion Barber, who could be a diamond in the rough. Others could include Houston, Arrington and Shelton. Also don't forget the wild cards RB Maurice Clarett, Frank Gore and my personal favorite, the smallish RB Darren Sproles.

Wide receivers last year were a hot commodity and this year their not as hot, but a far way from a poor group. Braylon Edwards is a possible lottery pick and USC's Williams and OKie Mark Clayton is right there. Still all three aren't sure fire and come with there own questions. Edwards is still waiting for those big plays, Williams didn't play last year and Clayton is only 5' 9". This area has plenty of depth (UAB-White, junior Williamson, Reggie Brown) and the most intriguing ex-QB Matt Jones from Arkansas at 6' 6" and 242 lbs, also Vince Jackson and Fred Gibson.

Linebackers although there are some very athletic players and there will be some people taken early such as Derrick Johnson, junior Thurman and Burnett, there isn't a lot of size. Therefore some players will stick around longer than anticipated such as Lance Mitchell, Kirk Morrison and Ruud. Some such as Grigsby, Ezekial and Cooper could last into day two. Having some of these players stick around longer could mean possible steals at the lower rounds.

Offensive line looked at the beginning of the year as this would be the year of the offensive lineman, however nine of the top prospects decided to stay in school sharply limiting this area (Winston-Miami, Justice-USC, McNeil- Auburn, Whitworth-LSU, Ferguson-VA, Colledge-Boise St, Jean-Gilles- GA, Scott-TX, and Strief-Nwestern). It also didn't help that the linemen that went to the senior bowl didn't look that good. However the offensive guards look a lot stronger this year and some steals in the mid to later rounds could be had.

Safeties are usually not a strong lot and this year isn't any different. However the strong safeties are unusually strong and some talent could be had in the middle and later rounds. You'll notice I didn't mention Quarterbacks and Tight ends, there isn't much talent here at the top end and specifically the QB crop could make some teams that will reach because of need. This is always a bad choice.

By Rich Rooney

Last year was the best draft to go after a top quarterback. When you look at the draft picks we gave up this year, this is one of the least talented drafts in the last five years, (according to the experts that track the draft from year to year). Also this year's draft is aligned with our (NY Giants) needs (1) Cornerbacks, (2) Defensive linemen, (3) Running backs and (4) Wide receivers.

The way I would approach this draft, with only four picks (43, 74, 110 and 186) 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 6th, I would go with best player available. When your 1st pick is number 43 it's very difficult to project who you would pick, and who will be left. I have always been amazed at prognosticators, on who they would take and when they would take them.

I know one of our key needs is running back, however after the top five are gone you are not forced to take a running back on the second pick (43) and could wait to get a quality player at this position later.

On the Second Pick I would go with CB Fabian Washington, RB Marion Barber, WR Roddy White and CB Eric Green in this order depending on availability. Washington will probably be gone at this time, but either Barber, White or Green should be available. Green could be something special if he's available.

Again on the Third Pick (74) I would go with best player available and hopefully the NY Giants will look to their value board and pick the top name. To make it interesting, I would go with the running back, but as I said before, looking at the 74th pick in round three is pretty tough, but here goes: I would pick RB's Eric Shelton, Ciatrick Fason or Vernand Morency. My favorite in this group is Shelton because of his weight and strength and can really move the pile. I think Fason might still be around and this is what probably will be available.

The Fourth Pick (110) again is best player available, as the NY Giants need athletic football players. I would take some chances here and go for DL C.J. Mosley, RB's Frank Gore or Maurice Clarett and DL Atiyyah Ellison. In all probability, Ellison and Clarett will be gone. Frank Gore is a real chance, but before two knee injuries he was a franchise back and Mosley has lots of potential.

The last one, Sixth Pick (186) I would go out on a limb and pick someone who could really make a difference that isn't a safe pick. For example RB Darren Sproles, he has all the tools, but is only 5'5" and might be there. Also LB Channing Crowder, who has it all, but is a sophomore with maturity problems, but is oh so talented and was injured and might be there. As a back up plan I would also look at some solid pick like local Northeastern LB Liam Ezekial and LB Ron Cooper from Montana.

Well that's my Draft outlook and I only hope that we get some athletic Football Players, with the emphasis on Football Players.

Disclaimer: All the items mentioned above are my personal opinion and don't reflect on the NYFGFCNE. Should you have any questions or complaints please contact me at rooneyx@earthlink.net or (978) 851-0090.

By Rich Rooney

This year's Draft Day Extravaganza will be done somewhat differently, because we (NY Giants) do not have a 1st round selection and our 2nd round doesn't come until the 43rd pick. We have decided to downsize the event.

This upcoming Draft Day will be at my home (16 Easement Road, Tewksbury, MA. 01876) on Saturday, April 23rd and will start when coverage begins at 12 Noon. I will supply both bottled water and soda, however I won't be supplying alcoholic beverages, but you are free to bring your own (BYOB).

The asking price is $15.00 per person. We will supply deli platters and chili and should people request, we will also send out for pizza. Any money left over will be divided equally among the respondents (participants). Please call (978) 851-0090 for reservations, which should be made prior to 4/20/05. If you have any special needs please let me know when you call. Directions will be given to those who respond. Thanks!

Fan Club founder Ron Anderson is doing much better and has been moved to:
HEALTHSOUTH Rehabilitation Hospital
2 Rehab Way
Woburn, MA 01801

The family has respectfully requested no phone calls or visitors at this time. However if you would like to send cards, letters or warm wishes this is encouraged. As his condition changes we will keep you informed.

By Rich Rooney

(04/02/05) According to NFLPA.Org the NY Giants have re-signed LB Nick Greisen to a 2-year $656K S Jack Brewer is the only remaining unsigned restricted free agent, and DT Kenderick Allen is the only exclusive rights free agent still left unsigned. RB Ron Dayne signs a 1-year deal with Denver. No numbers were given, but it is suggested, it's a veteran minimum, as the Broncos have plenty of talent at that position. OT Matt Martin is scheduled to visit the NY Giants. Martin wasn't tendered by the Tennessee Titans and therefore is available. Martin didn't play last year due to a shoulder injury.

(04/01/05) It is being reported in The Daily News and the Journal News that SS Shaun Williams has restructured his contract. The terms of the new deal were not reported, but sources say that the deal was reduced from $3 million to $750K for the 2005-2006 season. Some sources say the deal has truncated the agreement by 2-years and that 2006-2007 was left untouched, however others are saying that both the 2005 and 2006 season are heavy laden with performance incentives. Stay tuned; I would be interested to find out if his $900K roster bonus was left untouched? DT Chris Hovan signs with Tampa Bay.

(03/31/05) According to Newsday, TE Jeremy Shockey has not attended any off-season workouts beginning 21 March 2005. According to NY Giant sources, Shockey is working hard from his Florida home.

(03/30/05) According to ESPN.Com and the Washington Post the NY Giants have been meeting with LT Bob Whitfield and his agent. It is being reported that the NY Giants are close to signing Whitfield, stay tuned!

(03/25/05) Safety Gibril Wilson has passed his physical. Last year Wilson suffered a season ending injury to his neck. The NY Giants announce the signing of FB Jim Finn. The deal is for 5-years and no numbers were released.

(03/24/05) The NY Giants announced they have waived OG/OT Barry Stokes, who signed a 5-year $6 million contract last year. Stokes didn't play this year due to a back injury. It isn't believed that the NY Giants received any cap savings because of the acceleration of his signing bonus. According to NFLPA.org, OG Rich Seubert, who hasn't played since October 2003, has accepted a pay cut; his 2005 salary was reduced from $1.250 million to $650K and his 2006 salary was reduced from $1.750 million to $1 million. His current 2007 remains in the $2.250 million range.

(03/20/05) ESPN.Com is reporting the NY Giants resign unrestricted free agent QB Jesse Palmer to a 2-year $1.5 million contract and no signing bonus was given. The NFL announced earlier today that the NY Giants will receive "no" compensatory picks for the 2005 NFL Draft, which means the Giants have received more quality of free agents than they lost in the opinion of the NFL Management council.

(03/17/05) According to ESPN.Com the NY Giants have signed WR Plaxico Burress (Pittsburgh Steelers), this contract is reportedly for 6-years, $25 million The initial signing bonus is said to be in the $5 million range, then a $3.25 million option bonus is due in spring of 2006. Also the salaries for 2005 and 2006 are said to be guaranteed. The NY Giants also announce the re-signing of RB Mike Cloud.

(03/15/05) The NY Giants announced that DT Norman Hand was cut. The Giants mentioned in the announcement that they were concerned with Hand's durability. Hand, 32 years old ended the last two years on IR, last year with a pulled groin. This move saves the NY Giants about $730K under the cap for this coming year. According to Newsday, the Giants are said to be pursuing LT Bob Whitfield. Also the Trenton Times is reporting that Baltimore Ravens WR Kevin Johnson turned down an invitation from the Giants for a visit.

(03/12/05) The NY Giants officially sign unrestricted free agent DT Kendrick Clancy (Pittsburgh Steelers) to a reported 1- year, $540K contract that according to reports included a $25K signing bonus. You'll remember Kendrick was one of those DL's that was signed late in the season when IR became loaded with Giant DL's. It was reported that Kendrick was told he would have a chance to start if he proves himself. Also in a related report, the NY Giants announced that DE Keith Washington was cut. Washington was 32 years old and finished the season on IR (with a torn ACL) this move will save approximately $650K under the cap.

Yes, it's time for another installment of Giant Trivia by Rich Rooney!

The theme for this one, don't be surprised; is the Draft.

1. What is considered to be the Giants best draft since the George Young era?

2. Which year was CB Mark Haynes drafted, where did he go and what did we receive in return?

3. What was the last draft to have 12 choices in it?

4. When did the draft have 8 choices?

5. When did the draft start with 7 choices?

6. What draft did we trade picks for WR Brian Alford?

7. In What draft did we pick up K Matt Stover, what pick was he?

8. What is considered the worst draft since the George Young era?

   Trivia answers

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   GIANT Views - volume 15, issue 03

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