Jameis Winston is going to the Bucs. Winston has an exceptional understanding of defenses, strong arm, and has won big in college. As for rape allegations, shoplifting, boorishness, and rumors of gambling issues - it's the NFL (see the expose' "Pros and Cons").
The posturing continues regarding the Mariota comings and goings. Tennessee apparently wants three number ones. Mariota is the consolation prize that the Eagles, Jets, and possibly Rams want. He makes touchdowns and controls interceptions, although fumbling has been an issue for him. With a few hours left before the draft, I'll predict that Tennessee moves the pick.
Character issues bit the Browns last year, and rumor of a Manziel renaissance seem at odds with their efforts to move up for the Oregon signal-caller. Then there's the drug test problems for Randy Gregory and Shane Ray, and who knows what with La'el Collins and his relationship to a murdered 29 year-old expectant mother. Before we get sanctimonious, two words, Aaron Hernandez.
The subplots of Mariota and the dumb as dirt guys who fail KNOWN drug tests will keep the non-Patriots parts of the draft interesting. That, plus the strategies chosen by AFC East rivals. Could the Jets take Todd Gurley at six? Will the Dolphins go after receivers to help Ryan Tannehill? Will Rex Ryan take a flyer (a foothold?) on the marijuana crowd?
As for the Patriots, anything is possible. I just finished Michael Holley's "War Room", which focused on the behind the scenes actions of the Pats, Pioli and the Chiefs, and Tom Dimitroff's Falcons. I expect the Patriots to either trade down (wouldn't another 2, 3, 4, and 7 be swell) or take the best player available. The problem with drafting receivers is they don't always meet (don't usually meet) Tom Brady's expectations. No trust, no throws.
The Globe reviews the advantages (extra year of team control) of the first round, ultimately meaning seven years of team control (including franchise tags) and potentially major savings as a result. That has to appeal to the green eyeshades in the Kraft counting house.
By the way, "War Room" totally reviews the Laurence Maroney and Chad Jackson fiasco and Belichick's overruling the scouts who questioned the work ethic of both. Why an elite athlete whose future depends on his work would be a dog totally baffles me. But we see it all the time.
Jon Gruden has a fascinating piece on ESPN about the risk choices in the first round, and there's a great chance the Patriots could get one of these question marks. After the Hernandez experience, I'd expect Collins to be off the board, but you never know.
Well, at least they'll have more fans in the seats in Chicago than at Camden Yards.
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