Tonight started off on a predictable note, as the names of Sam Bradford, Ndamukong Suh, and Gerald McCoy were called (in that order). But soon after that, the Draft launched into exciting uncertainty towards the end of the top 10 selections, and continued until the very end of round one.
Of the many surprises, several stood out more than the rest.
- Ndamukong Suh drafted by Detroit Lions (NFL.com)
First, was the Jaguars selection of Tyson Alualu. Unless I am mistaken, nobody predicted that pick, and many people, including myself, thought he would not be in the first round at all. Perhaps, the Jaguars are looking to transition to a 34 front. I figured they would go for Earl Thomas, but those Jags seem to beat to their own drum.
Undoubtedly, the second biggest surprise was the dynamic drop-off of Mel Kiper’s favorite player, Jimmy Clausen. What was going on there? I’m sure Todd McShay is gloating to Kiper because McShay had been warning us that this could happen. Perhaps, McShay will get to be on set next year, instead of the too-talkative Steve Young.
By the way, did anyone else who was watching the draft on ESPN think that Young talked too much, and Kiper too little?
Third big surprise was the Eagles trade up to get Brandon Graham. I am a huge fan of Graham, and he absolutely deserves to go this high. But I didn’t think many teams felt the same way.
Fourth shocking event was the fact that Tim Tebow wound up getting a call from the Broncos at #25. When the cameras switched to the Tebow party, somehow I thought he was celebrating in a room not unlike a dentist’s office.
The fifth surprise for me was the absence of Taylor Mays. I guess all teams saw his lack of instincts and were afraid of taking him in the first round.
And the sixth thing that caught me off guard was how far Bryan Bulaga slipped. Him going to Green Bay makes a lot of sense. But thought he would be scooped up no later than #9.
The final surprise was how aggressive the Detroit Lions have become in the Draft. They came away with two impact players in Suh and Jahvid Best. If they had waited to see if Best was available at #34, I think they would have been disappointed.
Overall, I was very excited to watch the first round this year. The new format was an excellent decision because it not only gives the GM’s a breather, but it also makes watching the Draft more palatable for fans. I look forward to more trades tomorrow!
