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I'd like to thank everyone who participated (GMs and others), especially torridphenix and TrueBlue87, who assisted me in keeping the event running smoothly and on schedule. However, I'm thoroughly disappointed that a few MCM users decided to be less than professional in their comments. The annual seven round Live Draft is SB Nation's most prestigious event and it's an honor that our site earned the right to host it again. It's a shame that a few users were derelict in maintaining their decorum when people were arriving from other SB Nation sites. I can only hope that our visitors left with a favorable impression of MCM, the best SB Nation site out there. Therefore, I will apply again next year to host the Live Draft (much to the chagrin of some here).
Picks:
1.2 Marcus Mariota QB 6'4 222 Oregon RS Junior
- Despite seeking a trade out of the second overall selection, there were no offers worthy of moving out of the slot. We were content with taking Mariota if no trade materialized. The Titans clearly need a franchise QB after multiple rudderless seasons at the position. MM has the potential to be that guy. He's not the most ideal fit of what Ken Whisenhunt prefers in his quarterbacks but can be molded into one. Mariota has the arm strength to make most throws but needs to work on reading the entire field when things get clogged up as they surely will be in the NFL. He was a hair off on his throws at the Combine, throwing the ball when the receiver was into the route instead of throwing before they broke into the route. This gets either picked off or at best, incomplete in the pros.
2.33 Phillip Dorsett WR 5'10 185 Miami Senior
- Dorsett has had an impressive rise up the boards during the draft process. He had a great week at the Senior Bowl and was even better at the Combine. A speed demon that can blow the top off any defenses thrown his way. He possesses great body control and can make every catch at each level of the defense effortlessly. Dorsett has the potential of being a Desean Jackson without the attitude problems. Shined at Miami despite their struggles as a program.
3.66 Mario Edwards DL 6'3 279 Florida State Junior
- Edwards came in as the top ranked five star recruit in the 2012 class and will leave with a somewhat disappointing career given all the hype that comes with his lofty billing. Throughout his career, he battled weight issues that marred his stay in Tallahassee. He's scheme/position versatile as he has switched between end and tackle frequently. Edwards is both a Seminole and NFL legacy player as father Mario, Sr was a Nole and enjoyed a stay in the NFL with the Cowboys in the 90s. As for his on field talents, he has long arms and great hips to maintain leverage over blockers. He really needs to work on his counter moves as after his initial move is beaten, he's got nothing. Also the weight needs to be controlled. Projects to be a 3-4 end at the next level.
4.144 Tyrus Thompson OT 6'5 324 Oklahoma RS Senior
- Thompson is a good athlete with starting experience at both tackle spots. He has a good burst to get to the second level but needs to work on his hand usage. Improved a lot over his senior season but still is a raw prospect in the more technical aspects of blocking. Completely shut down Baylor's monstrous DE Shawn Oakman. Projects as a right tackle in the league (guess where the Titans have a hole on the OL).
5.138 Ellis McCarthy DT 6'5 338 UCLA Junior
- A big nose tackle type for the Titans' 3-4 scheme. I would have gone in another direction but my Assistant GM was insistent on getting McCarthy. He has medical red flags the size of the entire solar system. Both knees have been operated on.
5.149 Za'Darius Smith DE 6'4 274 Kentucky Senior
- Another pick to beef up the defensive line. Smith was a value pick here as he's been projected to go as high as the second round. He dominated the Shrine Game and participated at the Senior Bowl because of his Shrine performance.
6.177 Charles Gaines CB 5'10 180 Louisville RS Junior
- Gaines is a fluid athlete with good hips and it showed during the Combine. He really improved his stock in Indy during the drills, especially the backpedal and gauntlet. A converted receiver with good ball skills. An inconsistent 2014 junior season has a lot of people wondering what went on. Could challenge Coty Sensabaugh for a starting job right away.
6.191 Hayes Pullard ILB 6'0 236 USC RS Senior
- Pullard is a bit undersized for the inside linebacker position but he's the type of guy that just knows to play. He's a above average athlete that can cover backs and tight ends with some success. Might have a better shot to stick on the outside due to size but his instincts are pretty good to stay inside.