Ken Haddad's Blog

With the first pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions select...

#1
QB, Georgia, Matthew Stafford

I was just as skeptical as the next Lions fan when the first mock drafts came out, and Matthew Stafford was at the top of the draft board. Another Joseph Harrington, oh God. But people I'm here to tell you, this time is different. Matt Stafford is the real deal, and it would be a mistake not to take him. The Lions need a franchise QB, it's one of the most essential things in a good team. Dante Cullpepper, as good as he might be, if good at all, is not the full-time, long term starter. Stafford has great footwork, a strong arm and good accuracy. And most of all, he has a good attitude, he wants to be here. You might say, Aaron Curry is a beast, which he is, but they're are a plenty of linebackers in this draft that can make a difference. Stafford is the answer.

#20
LB, NIU, Larry English

The Lions defense is gonna be better than last year (that's not saying much). They have added Julian Peterson, and a somewhat experienced secondary with players like Phillip Buchanon , Anthony Henry (via trade with Dallas) Chris Carr, and Erik King. Still having Ernie Sims, and don't forget Cliff Avril and Grady Jackson. The perfect addition to this defense would be a versatile linebacker, one that can play Outside linebacker, or can even play DL. Larry English can get to the quarterback, and that's something we lack big time. This is will also enable the Lions to play a 3-4, or a 4-3, however they chose. Larry English provides options, and he can play with the big boys. (For reference, if Rey Maualuga was available, I would take him, but all signs point to him not being available. Also, some experts have Larry English going as high as #11.)

#33
OT, CONN, William Beatty

They draft Matt Stafford, now they need to protect him. William Beatty will provide a beefed up offensive line, along with last year's first round pick Gosder Cherilus, Domonic Riola, and possibly George Foster, if he steps up his game.

The draft is April 25th.