Pancake Blocks Mock Draft: Pick No. 14
We've got a bit of surprise with the fourteenth pick - and I like it. The more I hear about this guy, the better chance it sounds like he could go before Chicago is even on the clock.
With the 14th pick, the Chicago Bears select - Branden Albert - G - University of Virginia
While various offensive skill position players may be tempting, interviews this off-season seem to indicate that Grossman/Orton will battle for the starting QB job and that Benson will be given one more chance to prove he can be productive. Therefore, Chicago management should choose to address their offensive line with their first pick.
Chicago’s blueprint for success relies on using their defense and special teams to set up the offense with short fields and running the ball effectively.
Rankings of 30th in rush yards per game and 32nd (last) in yards per carry attest to the fact that there were very few holes to run through. Also, Chicago allowed 43 sacks in 2007 (24th ranked). While QB and RB ineptness also contributed to the dismal rankings, the fact is that an offense can only be as effective as its O-line. Chicago needs an infusion of talent and youth up front. Albert should be an immediate starter at LG and may be groomed to switch to LT. He will help the Bears re-establish its black and blue, power football mentality and benefit whoever the starting QB and RB are.
2008 Pancake Blocks Mock Draft
1. Miami Dolphins (Scott L.) - Chris Long
2. St. Louis Rams (Evan Silva) - Glenn Dorsey
3. Atlanta Falcons (Troy Hill) - Matt Ryan
4. Oakland Raiders (Stephen G.) - Jake Long
5. Kansas City Chiefs (Jeremy S.) - Darren McFadden
6. New York Jets (John B.) - Vernon Gholston
7. New England Patriots (Gregg R.) - Sedrick Ellis
8. Baltimore Ravens (Ryan F.) - Leodis McKelvin
9. Cincinnati Bengals (Jacob C.) - Ryan Clady
10. New Orleans Saints (Scott K.) - Keith Rivers
11. Buffalo Bills (James N.) - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
12. Denver Broncos (Taylor C.) - Chris Williams
13. Carolina Panthers (Matthew W.) - Derrick Harvey
14. Chicago Bears (Zone) - Branden Albert
Comments
Great Pick. Bears will definitely improve their Line with either Albert or Otah.
Posted by: Ryan | April 11, 2008 12:21 PM
I was hoping he would fall, but it looks like the secret is out. Solid player on the field and all interviews point to him being a solid individual off it.
Posted by: Matt Grant | April 11, 2008 12:46 PM
Yup!! whats the use of a new qb or rb without a guard or tackle to protect them.
Chicago must admit they are in rebuild mode right now, not playoff contention.
Posted by: Anonymous | April 11, 2008 01:22 PM
I would take Otah over Albert, but at least you didn't waste the pick. The only argument you could have for taking Albert this early (and could potentially be a good one if things work out) is that in the second round then take a tackle like Sam Baker and then Albert is used as a guard. While I expect them to take a Tackle first round, I doubt they'll take OL in first 2 rounds, but I'd love to see it! If Rex or Orton gets more protection, and Benson (ugh), Peterson, Wolffe and possibly a rookie get more holes, the offense will at least be semi-competent and will at least be able to use Devin Hester's great field position for consistent field goals.
Posted by: Bill Murray | April 11, 2008 01:25 PM
Otah was my initially pick, but when I looked at the depth of the guards and tackles, with Albert on the board it made sense to me to pick the best guard available by far. A second or third round tackle would make sense for Chicago but who knows what they will do. Anyways, mocks are for fun. I like reading everyone's comments on all of the picks. Personally, I think Albert mat not be available at 14, but he was in this mock.
Posted by: Zane | April 11, 2008 01:47 PM