The 2014 MLS SuperDraft presented by adidas is one day away, and our draft experts – Simon Borg, Matthew Doyle and Nate Sulat – are ready to take their final stab at the Thursday's two-round extravaganza.
* GA = member of Generation adidas
First Round
<strong>Pick</strong> |
<strong>Team</strong> |
<strong>Simon Borg</strong> |
<strong>Matthew Doyle</strong> |
<strong>Nate Sulat</strong> |
<strong>1</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/dc_150.png" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/christian-dean" target="_blank">Christian Dean</a> (D)</strong><strong>California / GA</strong></div><div class="compHdr"><p style="text-align: left;">The acquisition of Jeff Parke still means that D.C. have three right-sided center backs (including Boswell and Attakora. They grab the left-footed Dean, who made it clear with his play during the Combine that he'll be a central defender in MLS.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-christian-dean-defender-cal" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/steve-birnbaum" target="_blank">Steve Birnbaum</a> (D)</strong><strong>California</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Wasn't great at the Combine, but few were. And now that D.C. have stocked up on central defenders, he doesn't fill a need, either. But he's still the most MLS-ready field player in this thing, and United need as many guys able to step on the field and give good minutes as possible.</p><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/07/mls-superdraft-steve-birnbaum-defender-california" target="_blank">WATCH: Highlights</a></strong> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/steve-birnbaum" target="_blank">Steve Birnbaum</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>California</strong><p class="rteleft">He’s the most MLS-ready field player available in the SuperDraft. Period. No chance D.C. will pass on him.</p><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/07/mls-superdraft-steve-birnbaum-defender-california" target="_blank">WATCH: Highlights</a></strong> |
<strong>2</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/philadelphia_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/steve-birnbaum" target="_blank">Steve Birnbaum</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>California</strong><p style="text-align: left;">Now with the unproven Ethan White and converted midfielder Amobi Okugo in central defense (pending the return or not of Carlos Valdés), the Union need a sure thing back there and they get it in Birnbaum.</p><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/07/mls-superdraft-steve-birnbaum-defender-california" target="_blank">WATCH: Highlights</a></strong> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/christian-dean" target="_blank">Christian Dean</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>California / GA</strong></div><p style="text-align: left;">Lots of smoke screens coming out of Philly, and the feeling is that they'll move this pick if the right offer comes. That said, Dean is a high-ceiling, athletic, left-footed defender, and those don't come around every year. Even though he struggled, he's the pick here.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-christian-dean-defender-cal" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr" style="text-align: center;"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/christian-dean" target="_blank">Christian Dean</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>California / GA</strong></div><div class="compHdr"><p>Didn’t have a great performance at the Combine, but he has the tools to become a star in MLS. Let’s just say for the moment that the Union are willing to wait on him to get there.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-christian-dean-defender-cal" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>3</strong> |
<img alt="" height="58" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/vancouver_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="40"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="http://www.mlssocer.com/players/andre-blake" target="_blank">Andre Blake</a> (GK)</strong><strong>Connecticut / GA</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">He backed up the hype at the Combine. The Whitecaps cannot bypass the best young 'keeper in the draft since Brad Guzan. Especially because current No. 1 David Ousted has yet to show he can be relied on to be a 34-game starter.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/10/mls-superdraft-andre-blake-goalkeeper-uconn" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="http://www.mlssocer.com/players/andre-blake" target="_blank">Andre Blake</a></strong> (GK)</strong><strong>Connecticut / GA</strong></div><p style="text-align: left;">Everybody in Vancouver's camp is keeping mum, so this is a pretty blind guess. It's a good guess, though, because Blake was outstanding at the Combine after an outstanding three-year college career. He's very, very close to being a sure bet.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/10/mls-superdraft-andre-blake-goalkeeper-uconn" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="http://www.mlssocer.com/players/andre-blake" target="_blank">Andre Blake</a></strong> (GK)</strong><strong>Connecticut / GA</strong></div><p class="rteleft">Yes, I still think that the Whitecaps are going to select the only unanimous-selection MLS caliber player available at a position where they have a massive need. Call me crazy.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/10/mls-superdraft-andre-blake-goalkeeper-uconn" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>4</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/newengland_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/patrick-mullins" target="_blank">Patrick Mullins</a> (F)</strong><strong>Maryland</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Once upon a time in 2002 the Revs struck it rich by drafting a striker made at the University of Maryland: Taylor Twellman. They hope lightning strikes twice with the NCAA top scorer.</p><p class="compHdr"><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/03/mls-superdraft-patrick-mullins-maryland" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a><br></p> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/patrick-mullins" target="_blank">Patrick Mullins</a></strong> (F)</strong><strong>Maryland</strong><p style="text-align: left;">Jay Heaps traded up for this pick, and murmurs around the Combine were that he did so to fill the Juan Agudelo-sized hole in his lineup. Mullins isn't as good at stringing together possession in the final third, but he's better than given credit for a and a true sniper in the box.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/03/mls-superdraft-patrick-mullins-maryland" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/patrick-mullins" target="_blank">Patrick Mullins</a></strong>(F)</strong><strong>Maryland</strong><p class="rteleft">Agudelo’s on his way out the door at New England, but Mullins is a pretty solid replacement to take over the goalscoring duties.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/03/mls-superdraft-patrick-mullins-maryland" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>5</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/dallas_150.png" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/pedro-ribeiro" target="_blank">Pedro Ribeiro</a> (M)</strong><strong>Coastal Carolina</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>They may only have one international slot remaining, but Oscar Pareja won't let that get in the way of drafting the Brazilian Ribeiro, who is a No. 10 in a center back's body.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/10/mls-superdraft-pedro-ribeiro-midfielder-coastal-carolina" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/schillo-tshuma" target="_blank">Schillo Tshuma</a> (F)</strong><strong>Maryland / GA</strong></div><p style="text-align: left;">Looked more comfortable as a second forward than out wide – he's simply not a good crosser of the ball. He is, however, better at thinking the game than most realize, and does a good job of getting into dangerous spots. Combined with his athleticism, that's a good package.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-schillo-tshuma-forward-maryland" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/andre-lewis" target="_blank">Andre Lewis</a> (MF)</strong><strong>Jamaica U-20s</strong><p class="rteleft">A tough, crafty central attacking midfielder, and Dallas are a team that has somewhat of a shortage of them. Probably not as fast as Schillo Tshuma, but also probably better on the ball. And it’s tough to ignore this kind of Combine.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-andre-lewis-midfielder-jamaica" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>6</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/philadelphia_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/steve-neumann" target="_blank">Steve Neumann</a> (M)</strong><strong>Georgetown</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>The No. 5 slot picks itself. Philly kid gets to join his hometown team. And he just so happens to be one of the most technically creative players in college.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/03/mls-superdraft-steve-neumann-midfielder-georgetown" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/steve-neumann" target="_blank">Steve Neumann</a></strong> (M/F)</strong><strong>Georgetown</strong><p style="text-align: left;">Wasn't great at the Combine, but he picked up one assist and could/should have had several others. Has a Graham Zusi-like ability to create instant separation on the ball, then the compsure to deliver the final pass. Carries himself like a pro already, and adds final third creativity to a team that needs it.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/03/mls-superdraft-steve-neumann-midfielder-georgetown" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/steve-neumann" target="_blank">Steve Neumann</a></strong> (M/F)</strong><strong>Georgetown</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>Likely going to get picked at No. 6 by some team or another. Union coach John Hackworth said Monday that Philly were open to shipping off the pick if they could get value for it, and plenty of teams would be willing to offer value for a playmaker like Neumann.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/03/mls-superdraft-steve-neumann-midfielder-georgetown" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>7</strong> |
<img alt="" height="58" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/vancouver_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="40"> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/eric-miller" target="_blank">Eric Miller</a> (D)</strong><strong>Creighton / GA</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Alongside Blake, the right back is the most MLS-ready of the GA prospects. And the Whitecaps got them both. He showed at the Combine he's also very capable at left back.</p> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/eric-miller" target="_blank">Eric Miller</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Creighton / GA</strong><p style="text-align: left;">The 'Caps are still without a natural right back on their roster, and while Miller is still learning the spot – he's not a great or natural defender – his upside is considerable and his smarts in possession will be a plus for a young team that needs to value the ball more than they did in 2013.</p> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/eric-miller" target="_blank">Eric Miller</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Creighton / GA</strong></div><p class="rteleft">Vancouver’s only other glaring roster hole is at right back now that Lee is gone, and Miller would be a great fit. The ‘Caps just have to hope that no team above think they also need a right back.</p> |
<strong>8</strong> |
<img alt="" height="62" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/seattle_150.png" width="62"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/tesho-akindele" target="_blank">Tesho Akindele</a> (M/F)</strong><strong>Colorado School of Mines</strong></div><p style="text-align: left;">With Brad Evans and Clint Dempsey likely gone for the better part of two months, the Sounders need forward and wing help. They take Akindele, who featured at their Combine and was the revelation of the MLS version in Florida.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-tesho-akindele-midfielder-colorado-school-mines" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/kyle-venter" target="_blank">Kyle Venter</a> (D)</strong><span style="font-weight: bold;">New Mexico</span></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>He was a four-year starter with the Lobos, and put that experience to good use with a solid and professional Combine performance. He's dominant in the air and smart enough positionally to handle quicker forwards on the turn. Good depth for a team that needs it.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/16/mls-superdraft-kyle-venter-defender-new-mexico" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="/players/schillo-tshuma" target="_blank">Schillo Tshuma</a> (F)</strong><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maryland / GA</span></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>There’s still a lot for Tshuma to learn, but he has the raw talent to figure it out, and the Sounders can afford to spend some time grooming him to fill whatever offensive need they think most pressing.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-schillo-tshuma-forward-maryland" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>9</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/sanjose_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/ryan-neil" target="_blank">Ryan Neil</a> (D)</strong><strong>California</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>After Miller, the best right back is Cal's Neil. And he's probably even a better attacking fullback than Miller. With Beitashour likely gone, they fill a hole with a player they know from his training stint with them during the summer.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/13/mls-superdraft-ryan-neil-midfielder-cal" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/pedro-ribeiro" target="_blank">Pedro Ribeiro</a></strong> (M)</strong><strong>Coastal Carolina</strong></div><p style="text-align: left;">Ribeiro, who said he was about 70 percent fit at the Combine, produced one of the event's standout performances on Day 3, including an brilliant individual goal. He's ready to contribute right away, and will be able to handle the league physically – crucial for a team with only two other central midfielders on the roster.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/10/mls-superdraft-pedro-ribeiro-midfielder-coastal-carolina" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/marlon-hairston" target="_blank">Marlon Hairston</a> (MF)</strong><strong>Louisville / GA</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>Still needs time to develop physically, but it’s much easier to get a player into the weight room than to teach the kind of soccer IQ that he brings to the table. Extremely athletic and crafty, the Quakes could use a player like that going box-to-box in the midfield.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-marlon-hairston-midfielder-louisville" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>10</strong> |
<img alt="" src="https://league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/league/montrealimapact_logo.png" style="width: 55px; height: 55px;"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/marlon-hairston" target="_blank">Marlon Hairston</a></strong> (M)</strong><strong>Louisville / GA</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>Two Mississippians in Montreal. That's not the title of a movie. It's Hairston joining Mapp on the Impact. Hairston had a mixed Combine but he has enough skill and athleticism for a future in MLS.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-marlon-hairston-midfielder-louisville" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/aj-cochran" target="_blank">A.J. Cochran</a> (D)</strong><strong>Wisconsin / GA</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>The Impact are still woefully short of forwards, but Frank Klopas' history says he'll look overseas to fill that hole. His history also says he's happy to draft a center back – especially one that's dominant in the air – in the middle of the first round.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/13/mls-superdraft-aj-cochran-defender-wisconsin" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/pedro-ribeiro" target="_blank">Pedro Ribeiro</a></strong> (MF)</strong><strong>Coastal Carolina</strong></div><p class="rteleft">You could still argue that the big Brazilian is the best creative midfielder available, but it’s likely that he’ll end up available at 10, and if that’s the case, Montreal could definitely use his services.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/10/mls-superdraft-pedro-ribeiro-midfielder-coastal-carolina" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>11</strong> |
<img alt="" height="64" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/colorado_150.png" width="64"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/aj-cochran" target="_blank">A.J. Cochran</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Wisconsin / GA</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Wasn't among the standout defenders at the Combine, but he is still the best of them all in the air. They add to their center back corps behind Drew Moor and Shane O'Neill, helping their future coach out with the budgetary flexibility that comes with his GA status.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/13/mls-superdraft-aj-cochran-defender-wisconsin" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/damion-lowe" target="_blank">Damion Lowe</a> (D)</strong><strong>Hartford / GA</strong><p style="text-align: left;">A big, strong, roster-exempt central defender for a team that's in the midst of something of a transition on the backline. He's probably not ready to play big minutes right away, but he has the physicality to compete with pro players.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-damion-lowe-defender-hartford" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/aj-cochran" target="_blank">A.J. Cochran</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Wisconsin / GA</strong></div><div class="compHdr"><p class="rteleft">There aren’t enough blow-your-mind quality defensive midfielders or target forwards available in this Draft for the Rapids to ignore a Generation adidas prospect at this pick. Cochran is still raw, but he has the physical tools to become a dominant center back.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/13/mls-superdraft-aj-cochran-defender-wisconsin" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>12</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/newengland_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/schillo-tshuma" target="_blank">Schillo Tshuma</a></strong></strong> (F)</strong><p><strong>Maryland</strong><strong>/ GA</strong></p></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Revs pair up Mullins with his Maryland partner in crime. Tshuma is talented, but inconsistent. And yet he could thrive in the Revs' quick combination attacking style.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-schillo-tshuma-forward-maryland" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/romena-bowie" target="_blank">Romena Bowie</a> (M)</strong><strong>VCU</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Heaps wants to get tougher in central midfield, so Bowie should have caught his eye. He put in a dogged, relentless two-way performance, closing down space quickly and always making the simple pass. MLS-ready physicality as well.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-romena-bowie-midfielder-virginia-commonwealth-university" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/romena-bowie" target="_blank">Romena Bowie</a></strong> (M)</strong><strong>VCU</strong></div><p class="rteleft">A defensive midfielder that can connect with any part of the field and who never gives away possession. And after showing well at the Combine, this is an irresistible pick at No. 12.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-romena-bowie-midfielder-virginia-commonwealth-university" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>13</strong> |
<img alt="" height="62" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/chicago_150.png" width="62"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/andre-lewis" target="_blank">Andre Lewis</a> (D)</strong><strong>Jamaica U-20s</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Now that their back line needs are addressed with the acquisition of Jhon Kennedy Hurtado and Patrick Ianni, they can concentrate on the attacking side of the ball. Lewis is still young, but his passing and dribbling skills at attacking mid could still prove a wildcard in 2014.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-andre-lewis-midfielder-jamaica" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/marco-franco" target="_blank">Marco Franco</a> (D)</strong><strong>UC Irvine</strong><p class="rteleft">Had a quiet, mistake-free Combine that solidifies his rep as this year's A.J. DeLaGarza. He doesn't make game-breaking plays, but he doesn't give them up, either. The Fire get depth and technique at both right back and central defense with this pick.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-marco-franco-defender-uc-irvine" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/kyle-venter" target="_blank">Kyle Venter</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>New Mexico</strong><p class="rteleft">Turns out that being healthy is good for your game. Now that his ankle's healed, Venter has looked great at the Combine, putting to bed most of the concerns about his mobility. Beyond that, though, Venter has drawn praise for helping organizing the defense, and Chicago could use some more savvy defenders to shore up the back.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/16/mls-superdraft-kyle-venter-defender-new-mexico" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>14</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/columbus_150.png" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/ben-sweat" target="_blank">Ben Sweat</a> (D)</strong><strong>South Florida</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">The Crew address a position of need with the best left back in a weak left back class. Sweat's size, speed, work rate and solid delivery give him a real shot at making an MLS career for himself.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/09/mls-superdraft-ben-sweat-defender-usf" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/andre-lewis" target="_blank">Andre Lewis</a></strong> (M)</strong><strong>Jamaica U-20s</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Probably at least a year away from being an MLS contributor, but he was the most skilled midfielder at the Combine and has a "Did you see that!"-level first touch. If the goal is to find other guys who can keep the ball on the ground and play with Federico Higuain, this is the pick.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-andre-lewis-midfielder-jamaica" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/thomas-mcnamara" target="_blank">Thomas McNamara</a> (MF)</strong><strong>Clemson</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>This may be a reach for McNamara, but he’s a clever, ruthless central attacking midfielder who can run guys down and connect passes well. He’ll be a handful for opposing defenses, and at a bare minimum will open up lots of real estate for his teammates.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/06/mls-superdraft-thomas-mcnamara-midfielder-clemson" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>15</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/toronto_150.png" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/damion-lowe" target="_blank">Damion Lowe</a> (D)</strong><strong>Hartford / GA</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">The new GM is budget conscious and so he takes the last GA player. Under veteran defenders like Caldwell and coach Nelsen, Lowe will have the right people to mold him. Also pads a thin center back corps in Toronto.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-damion-lowe-defender-hartford" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a><br> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/marlon-hairston" target="_blank">Marlon Hairston</a> (M)</strong><strong>Louisville / GA</strong><p style="text-align: left;">His future is as a Paulo Nagamura-type box-to-box midfielder and, like Lewis, he's at least a year away from doing it at the MLS level. But his physical gifts, good on-the-ball skill and knack for picking up the second ball make him worth spending a pick on.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-marlon-hairston-midfielder-louisville" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/damion-lowe" target="_blank">Damion Lowe</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Hartford / GA</strong><p class="rteleft">It's possible that there are better center backs available for TFC to pick at this spot, but it's certain that none of them will be as cap-friendly as the Generation adidas prospect out of Hartford. The overhaul continues with a big, strong, young center back with loads of potential.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-damion-lowe-defender-hartford" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>16</strong> |
<img alt="" height="62" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/houston_150.png" width="62"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/wojciech-wojcik" target="_blank">Wojciech Wojcik</a> (F)</strong><strong>Bradley</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">A quiet time in Florida, but make no mistake about it: His style as a strong, aggressive target man fits the Dynamo like a glove. It's a plus that he's left-footed. He'll be an upgrade over Cam Weaver off the bench.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-wojcik-wojciech-forward-bradley" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/kevin-cope" target="_blank">Kevin Cope</a> (D)</strong><strong>Michigan State</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Houston's needs haven't changed in the past week. Cope is a rock-solid, cerebral central defender who knows how to position himself so that he doesn't get beat for pace even when matched up vs. elite athletes. Simple, steady distribution as well.</p> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/kevin-cope" target="_blank">Kevin Cope</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Michigan State</strong></div><p class="rteleft">Houston still need a tough, physical center back, and for that category Cope is easily the best that’s going to be on the board. He’s so tough, guys.</p> |
<strong>17</strong> |
<img alt="" src="https://league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/new-portland-logo.png" style="width: 55px; height: 55px;"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/reinaldo-brenes" target="_blank">Reinaldo Brenes</a> (F)</strong><strong>Akron</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>You know how Ben Zemanski is the do-it-all man for the Timbers in midfield and at times even on the back line? Well Brenes is that guy for the attack. And he knows the Timbers system from his time with the club's U-23s.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-reinaldo-brenes-forward-akron" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/thomas-mcnamara" target="_blank">Thomas McNamara</a> (M)</strong><strong>Clemson</strong></div><p class="rteleft">Has a glorious mullet, which somehow fits perfectly with the whole "Porterpelota" thing. He's also got a ton of skill, and better athleticism than people think, as well as the tactical savvy to play out wide in a 4-3-3.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/06/mls-superdraft-thomas-mcnamara-midfielder-clemson" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/marco-franco" target="_blank">Marco Franco</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>UC Irvine</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>Not changing my pick here, because I just think it makes too much sense for the Timbers to take Franco at No. 17. He’s just a really good, solid right back who can give you a little something going forward, too.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-marco-franco-defender-uc-irvine" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>18</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/saltlake_150.png" width="55"> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/alex-sweetin" target="_blank">Alex Sweetin</a> (M)</strong><strong>St. Louis</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">RSL goes with best player available. Sweetin missed the Combine, but the St. Louis native is one of the best creative minds in the college game. His top-class technique and passing will fit right in with the RSL way. He'll excel in one of the tucked in midfield spots in the diamond.</p><p class="compHdr">.</p> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/jj-koval" target="_blank">J.J. Koval</a> (M)</strong><strong>Stanford</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Is this Beckerman's heir apparent? Koval put in a steady and assured performance in Florida, and could go as high as No. 5 if rumors are to be believed. This seems like a better spot for a guy who organizes his team and commands the midfield.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdrat-jj-koval-midfielder-stanford" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/jj-koval" target="_blank">J.J. Koval</a></strong> (M)</strong><strong>Stanford</strong><p class="rteleft">Now that the Combine is over, Koval finds himself at the top of a solid but unspectacular d-mid board. It's deserved, to be fair, because Koval is a smart player who doesn't make mistakes and who organizes well. And learning the position from a guy like Beckerman can't hurt your long-term prospects, either.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdrat-jj-koval-midfielder-stanford" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>19</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/newengland_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/jj-koval" target="_blank">J.J. Koval</a> (M)</strong><strong>Stanford</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>The Revs take the best box-to-box midfielder in the draft as cover for Scott Caldwell and Andy Dorman. He's also versatile and hard-working enough to fill in other spots if necessary.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdrat-jj-koval-midfielder-stanford" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/ben-sweat" target="_blank">Ben Sweat</a> (D)</strong><strong>South Florida</strong><p style="text-align: left;">Struggled to get forward, which is not unexpected given the choppy nature of the Combine – there weren't a lot of chances to get into it on the overlap. He'll have more and better opportunities for that in New England, as he learns the subtler points of left back under Chris Tierney.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/09/mls-superdraft-ben-sweat-defender-usf" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/ben-sweat" target="_blank">Ben Sweat</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>South Florida</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>Long run, the rangy Sweat is probably a better option than Chris Tierney for New England, and after taking two studs in their first two picks to help themselves going forward, it’s time to take the best value off the board at a position where value comes at a premium.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/09/mls-superdraft-ben-sweat-defender-usf" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
Second Round
<strong>Pick</strong> |
<strong>Team</strong> |
<strong>Simon Borg</strong> |
<strong>Matthew Doyle</strong> |
<strong>Nate Sulat</strong> |
<strong>20</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/chivas_150.png" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/marco-franco" target="_blank">Marco Franco</a> (D)</strong><strong>UC Irvine</strong></div><div class="compHdr"><p style="text-align: left;">Looks like Chivas USA's luck might be starting to turn when they find Franco here. The right back will contribute in the build-up play that Wilmer Cabrera prefers and he's better at it than Carlos Borja. The fact that he's a local kid is a plus.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-marco-franco-defender-uc-irvine" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/victor-chavez" target="_blank">Victor Chavez</a> (F)</strong><strong>UCLA</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Had an understated but productive Combine, tallying twice while playing mostly as a second forward. Nothing he does jumps out at you, but he's a good, versatile attacker – something the Goats could use.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/12/mls-superdraft-victor-chavez-forward-ucla" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/robbie-derschang" target="_blank">Robbie Derschang</a> (D/M)</strong><strong>Akron</strong><p class="rteleft">Chivas are probably going to be so mad that Ben Sweat went one pick before, but they should be OK settling with Derschang, who is an out-and-out attacking left back who could, depending on how things go, eventually become a left winger. The Goats could use that kind of talent and versatility on the wings.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-robbie-derschang-defmid-akron" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>21</strong> |
<img alt="" height="62" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/seattle_150.png" width="62"> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/richie-marquez" target="_blank">Richie Marquez</a> (D)</strong><strong>Redlands</strong><p style="text-align: left;">With an older center back corps, the Sounders start building for the future. Small school, but big potential upside. Clocked well in physical tests and he's comfortable with the ball at his feet.</p> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/jared-watts" target="_blank">Jared Watts</a> (M)</strong><strong>Wake Forest</strong></div><p style="text-align: left;">If he falls to Seattle here, they should be very, very happy. He should be ready to contribute MLS minutes right away, and is a natural backup for Osvaldo Alonso – something they don't have on the roster at the moment.</p> |
<div class="compHdr" style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/jared-watts" target="_blank">Jared Watts</a> (M)</strong><strong>Wake Forest</strong></div><p>The Sounders will eventually need someone to back-up or replace Alonso, and it just kind of depends on how soon they think that needs to happen. If they don’t decide it’s priority A-1, then they can be very happy taking Watts here. D-mid with good feet, good bite, and great intangibles.</p> |
<strong>22</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/newyork_150.png" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/mark-sherrod" target="_blank">Mark Sherrod</a> (F)</strong><strong>Memphis</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">The Red Bulls need to have a different look every now and then, especially up top where they're lightweight. So they take the other skillful target forward after Wojcik who gives them an aerial threat behind Tim Cahill.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/06/mls-superdraft-mark-sherrod-forward-memphis" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/nick-hagglund" target="_blank">Nick Hagglund</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Xavier</strong></div><p style="text-align: left;">Don't rule out the Red Bulls packaging this pick with ... well, something else in order to move up and try to grab Franco. If that can't happen, though, they'll go with the best central defender on the board here.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-nick-hagglund-defender-louisville" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/grant-van-de-casteele" target="_blank">Grant Van de Casteele</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Notre Dame</strong></div><p class="rteleft">Depends on what kind of CB the Red Bulls are looking for, but a guy like Van de Casteele gives you a little more leeway to play out of the back, and still has proven that he can cope with the physicality of skillful, tough forwards. If he’s still available, he’s a Red Bull.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/03/mls-superdraft-grant-van-de-casteele-defender-nd" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>23</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/losangeles_150.png" style="text-align: -webkit-center;" width="55"> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/daniel-lovitz" target="_blank">Daniel Lovitz</a> (M)</strong><strong>Elon</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">A meniscus kept him out of the Combine, but he's rated as the best left winger among college players. He doesn't have the pace of Gyasi Zardes, but he serves a great ball wide left and loves to go at defenders.</p><p class="compHdr"><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/09/mls-superdraft-daniel-lovitz-midfielder-elon" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a><br></p> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/ryan-neil" target="_blank">Ryan Neil</a></strong> (M)</strong><strong>California</strong><p style="text-align: left;">Constantly got past his defender wide right in the midfield, taking north-south touches and stretching the field both vertically and horizontally. He's a pure wide player, in other words, and since the Galaxy just traded away one of those, it stands to reason they could use a replacement.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/13/mls-superdraft-ryan-neil-midfielder-cal" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/ryan-neil" target="_blank">Ryan Neil</a></strong> (M)</strong><strong>California</strong><p class="rteleft">Picking Ryan Neil makes all the sense in the world for LA now that Sean Franklin’s gone. He’s a midfield-defense tweener – though he looked spectacular in midfield this weekend – and is as close to a like-for-like switch as you’ll get.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/13/mls-superdraft-ryan-neil-midfielder-cal" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>24</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/toronto_150.png" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/mamadou-diouf" target="_blank">Mamadou Diouf</a> (F)</strong><strong>Connecticut</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>With Bright Dike and Jermain Defoe potentially both heading to Brazil for the World Cup, the club would do well to have another forward on hand. Diouf is at his best in and around the box but he can also help out wide. And he has the physical and mental framework to contribute minutes right away.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/10/mls-superdraft-mamadou-diouf-forward-uconn" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/tesho-akindele" target="_blank">Tesho Akindele</a></strong> (F)</strong><strong>Colorado School of Mines</strong></div><p style="text-align: left;">Wasn't a game-breaking revelation, but he has MLS tools in his athleticism and first touch, and he goes north-south whenever possible. In a team likely to do their dirtiest work in transition, that could be valuable – even if it takes him a year to get up to MLS speed.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-tesho-akindele-midfielder-colorado-school-mines" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/nick-hagglund" target="_blank">Nick Hagglund</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Xavier</strong><p class="rteleft">After loading up at seemingly every other spot on the field, Toronto should be spending their SuperDraft just loading up on defenders. Hagglund is a solid defender with great athleticism and a fantastic work ethic. He’ll fit in well with TFC 2.0 – which relaunch are we on? – and has a reasonable chance of contributing early on in his career.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-nick-hagglund-defender-louisville" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>25</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/philadelphia_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/john-berner" target="_blank">Jason Plumhoff</a> (M)</strong><strong>LaSalle</strong></div><p>The ex-Bayern Munich youth product was the A10 offensive player of the year to the tune of double-digit goals and a fair share of assists. And that's from playing wide. The Union need a player like him and they'll know him well from Reading, where he was one of the top players in the PDL.<br></p> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/george-fochive" target="_blank">George Fochive</a> (M)</strong><strong>Connecticut</strong><p style="text-align: left;">Can he connect passes at the MLS level? It's the only question for Fochive, who has pro athleticism, power and defensive instincts. But he can be sloppy on the ball, especially when he tries to do too much. Simplify, and he's a valuable get.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/10/mls-superdraft-george-fochive-midfielder-uconn" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/mark-sherrod" target="_blank">Mark Sherrod</a> (F)</strong><strong>Memphis</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>With Jack McInerney and Conor Casey on the roster, the Union are theoretically set at this position. But Casey can be injury prone and McInerney is not immune to slumps, so taking an honest, physical forward like Sherrod in the second round could be a really good move.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/06/mls-superdraft-mark-sherrod-forward-memphis" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>26</strong> |
<img alt="" src="https://league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/new-portland-logo.png" style="width: 55px; height: 55px;"> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/kyle-venter" target="_blank">Michael Kafari</a> (M)</strong><strong>New Mexico</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Timbers move to bolster the defensive midfield spot with a player who can cover ground, tackle hard and make the simple pass.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-michael-kafari-midfielder-new-mexico" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/mark-sherrod" target="_blank">Mark Sherrod</a></strong> (F)</strong><strong>Memphis</strong><p style="text-align: left;">Does the work of a center forward, banging inside the 18 and occupying defenders physically. Showed a good passing eye at the Combine, though, and has two summers of Timbers U-23 action under his belt. Makes sense for a team that has depth needs at target forward.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/06/mls-superdraft-mark-sherrod-forward-memphis" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/adnan-gabeljic" target="_blank">Adnan Gabeljic</a> (F)</strong><strong>St. Louis</strong></div><p class="rteleft">Gabeljic ticks off every box that Caleb Porter needs ticked when it comes to athleticism in a striker: He’s 6-foot-3, 200 pounds, and legitimately fast. He’ll need to hit the books to learn how to play Porterball, but with a second-round pick it’s worth a shot.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-adnan-gabeljic-forward-st-louis" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>27</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/philadelphia_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/john-berner" target="_blank">John Berner</a> (GK)</strong><strong>SIU Edwardsville</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>The Union GK corps is thin. They take the best American goalkeeper in the pool and one who has the potential to handle aerial balls better than starter Zac MacMath.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/13/mls-superdraft-john-berner-goalkeeper-siu-edwardsville" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/robbie-derschang" target="_blank">Robbie Derschang</a> (D)</strong><span style="font-weight: bold;">Akron</span></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>The Union are still in search of a natural left back, and while Derschang doesn't quite fit that bill, he is a natural left-footer who has been playing left back for the past two years. Still has lots to learn, but he's got a puncher's chance in the right system because he's got skill and tactical nous.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-robbie-derschang-defmid-akron" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/fifi-baiden" target="_blank">Kingsley "Fifi" Baiden</a> (M)</strong><strong>UC Santa Barbara</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>Baiden’s stock suffered because of a bad Combine, but that’s partly because he was playing out of position. Since Philly would need him as depth at defensive midfielder, though, and not right wing, this should be a pretty solid pick-up.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-fifi-baiden-midfielder-ucsb" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>28</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/sanjose_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/kyle-venter" target="_blank">Kyle Venter</a> (D)</strong><strong>New Mexico</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">With Clarence Goodson and Victor Bernardez likely departing for the World Cup this summer, it wouldn't hurt to have a mature, strong center back like Venter, who's also a threat in the air.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/16/mls-superdraft-kyle-venter-defender-new-mexico" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/grant-van-de-casteele" target="_blank">Grant Van de Casteele</a> (D)</strong><strong>Notre Dame</strong></div><p style="text-align: left;">Best talent left on the board here for the Quakes, who will be missing two central defensive rocks for a decent portion of the summer. Van de Casteele lacks the upside of some of the other names, but he's got a big body and doesn't play out of control.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/03/mls-superdraft-grant-van-de-casteele-defender-nd" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/michael-calderon" target="_blank">Michael Calderon</a> (M)</strong><strong>New Mexico</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>Calderon is another player whose stock dropped after a lackluster Combine, but at his best he sees the field superbly and can connect everything together. He’s not your No. 10, but he can be your No. 8 pretty effectively, and is definitely worth a shot in the second round.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-michael-calderon-forward-new-mexico" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>29</strong> |
<img alt="" src="https://league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/league/montrealimapact_logo.png" style="width: 55px; height: 55px;"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/nick-hagglund" target="_blank">Nick Hagglund</a> (D)</strong><strong>Xavier</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>Another team that needs to develop new talent at center back and they go with Hagglund, who wins everything in the air. He needs to get better with his feet, but he'll pick up a few pointers from veteran Matteo Ferrari.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-nick-hagglund-defender-louisville" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/wojciech-wojcik" target="_blank">Wojciech Wojcik</a> (F)</strong><b>Bradley</b></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>One of my favorite players in the draft. He's a big, strong, preternaturally balanced center forward who brings down and controls anything/everything played to him, then connects passes in the final third. He will stick around in the league – and become a starter if he suddenly figures out how to finish.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-wojcik-wojciech-forward-bradley" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/wojciech-wojcik" target="_blank">Wojciech Wojcik</a></strong> (F)</strong><strong>Bradley</strong></div><p class="rteleft">I think a target forward makes sense for Montreal, and between Mackenzie Pridham and Wojcik, teams are always going to go for the 210-pound man-beast. Wojcik has everything you could want in a No. 9, and the only criticism you can really level at him is his pace. Maybe being stationary will help keep Marco Di Vaio onside, though.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-wojcik-wojciech-forward-bradley" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>30</strong> |
<img alt="" height="58" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/vancouver_150.png" width="40"> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/kristopher-tyrpak" target="_blank">Kristopher Tyrpak</a> (M/F)</strong><strong>Houston Baptist</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">A player after Carl Robinson's heart. Determined, feisty and more importantly left-footed. In addition to playing on the wing, he can also play up top and hassle defenders.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-kristopher-tyrpak-forward-houston-baptist" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/joe-sofia" target="_blank">Joe Sofia</a> (D)</strong><strong>UCLA</strong><p style="text-align: left;">He wasn't at the Combine, but he's generally regarded as a second-round talent who can contribute at central defense and as a stay-at-home right back. He won't solve any long-term problems for the 'Caps, but he's a smart, competitive and versatile defender who'll get a long look.</p> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/alex-sweetin" target="_blank">Alex Sweetin</a> (M)</strong><strong>St. Louis</strong></div><p class="rteleft">There aren’t going to be any creative midfielders at this pick that aren’t without their drawbacks, and Sweetin is no different – he’s a defensive liability – but he’s probably as close as you’ll get.</p> |
<strong>31</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/newengland_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/sunny-jane" target="_blank">Sunny Jane</a> (M)</strong><strong>Maryland</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">A diminutive, tricky, left-footed winger who can play on either flank and fits the technical, creative mold of Jay Heaps' midfielders.</p> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/luca-gimenez" target="_blank">Luca Gimenez</a> (M)</strong><strong>Wake Forest</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">New England's midfield was so productive last year that it's almost easy to forget that they're one injury away from a crisis. Gimenez fits in with the rest – small, technical, elusive, and wants to combine at pace. He'll keep the ball on the floor and will be fun to watch.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/14/mls-superdraft-luca-gimenez-midfielderforward-wake-forest" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/aj-corrado" target="_blank">A.J. Corrado</a> (M)</strong><strong>Indiana</strong></div><p class="rteleft">Corrado played out of position at the Combine, but that probably didn’t hurt as much as the fact that no one really knows what position he’s going to play. But he’s got a ton of technical ability, and he’s a proven set-up guy. Not a bad player to have on your bench to give you midfield depth.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-aj-corrado-midfielder-indiana" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>32</strong> |
<img alt="" height="62" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/houston_150.png" width="62"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/mackenzie-pridham" target="_blank">Mackenzie Pridham</a> (F)</strong><strong>Cal Poly</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Dominic Kinnear loves forwards who can press and Pridham does that and more. A goal scorer in college with a work rate that will fit right in with the rest of his Dynamo teammates.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-mackenzie-pridham-forward-cal-poly" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/kristopher-tyrpak" target="_blank">Kristopher Tyrpak</a></strong> (M)</strong><b>Houston Baptist</b><p style="text-align: left;">He's a known quantity for the Dynamo, with whom he trained over the summer. Best guess is that, once he's in camp, he begins the slow, Corey Ashe-like transition from winger to left back. No rush!</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-kristopher-tyrpak-forward-houston-baptist" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/kristopher-tyrpak" target="_blank">Kristopher Tyrpak</a></strong> (M)</strong><b>Houston Baptist</b><p class="rteleft">He's probably not cut out to be a striker, but he’s got what it takes to be a winger and the Dynamo probably know him best of any team in MLS.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-kristopher-tyrpak-forward-houston-baptist" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>33</strong> |
<img alt="" height="64" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/colorado_150.png" width="64"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/grant-van-de-casteele" target="_blank">Grant Van de Casteele</a></strong> (D)</strong><strong>Notre Dame</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">The last of the top young defenders available on the opening day of the SuperDraft. He reads the game so well that he seems to be everywhere when he's on the field.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/03/mls-superdraft-grant-van-de-casteele-defender-nd" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/joey-dillon" target="_blank">Joey Dillon</a> (M)</strong><strong>Georgetown</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Hurt himself badly at the Combine, looking a step-and-a-half slower than most of his competitors. Should that matter, given how good he was over his college career? Perhaps not this much – but if he does drop to this spot, the Rapids will happily grab him.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/09/mls-superdraft-joey-dillon-defendermidfielder-georgetown" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/joey-dillon" target="_blank">Joey Dillon</a></strong> (M)</strong><strong>Georgetown</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>May have been eclipsed by other defensive midfielders this weekend, but he’s got some quality to him and is very good at connecting the defense to the attack. It’s a consolation pick, but it definitely fills a need for the Rapids.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/09/mls-superdraft-joey-dillon-defendermidfielder-georgetown" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>34</strong> |
<img alt="" height="55" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/newyork_150.png" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/nicholas-walker" target="_blank">Nicholas Walker</a> (D)</strong><strong>Fairleigh Dickinson</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">The Red Bulls are looking for center back help and why not go with the athletic Trinidadian who plays in their backyard? He's unbeatable in the air and you can't beat him for pace. How many defenders on the RBNY squad can you say that about?<br><br></p> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/taylor-peay" target="_blank">Taylor Peay</a></strong>(D)</strong><strong>Washington</strong><p style="text-align: left;">Struggled with physical play at the Combine, so he'll fall a few spots lower here than he would have last week. New York will be glad for it, as Peay could potentially fill a need at right back, and has MLS-level size and athleticism plus a winning pedigree from Washington.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/06/mls-superdraft-taylor-peay-defender-washington" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/taylor-peay" target="_blank">Taylor Peay</a></strong>(D)</strong><strong>Washington</strong><p class="rteleft">Whether he makes it down this far is up for debate – he certainly didn’t help his stock at the Combine – but he’s a really athletic center back whose primary knock is his slight build. If he can fill out a little, he can be a solid professional defender.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/06/mls-superdraft-taylor-peay-defender-washington" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>35</strong> |
<img alt="" height="64" src="//league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/colorado_150.png" style="text-align: center;" width="64"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/jared-watts" target="_blank">Jared Watts</a> (M)</strong><strong>Wake Forest</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">The Rapids are light in the central midfield spot with only Nate Sturgis and Dillon Powers on the books. Watts could make a good fit long-term. He's content staying in front of the back four and starting the build-up, including via a deadly long ball.</p> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/fifi-baiden" target="_blank">Kingsley "Fifi" Baiden</a> (M)</strong><strong>UC Santa Barbara</strong></div><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">The Rapids take their second straight d-mid, which tells you everything you know about both the likelihood of Hendry Thomas re-signing as well as how much they'd like to keep Shane O'Neill on the backline. Baiden lacks discipline, but he closes down space relentlessly and moves the ball well.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-fifi-baiden-midfielder-ucsb" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/victor-chavez" target="_blank">Victor Chavez</a> (F)</strong><strong>UCLA</strong></div><p class="rteleft">Showcased why he’s so dangerous at the Combine – crafty runs off the ball to get on the end of service and enough technical ability to control and finish that service off. He’s not a huge guy, and he’s not really special in any other part of his game, but he scores goals and that’s what’s important.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/12/mls-superdraft-victor-chavez-forward-ucla" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>36</strong> |
<img alt="" src="https://league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/new-portland-logo.png" style="width: 55px; height: 55px;"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/michael-harris" target="_blank">Michael Harris</a> (D)</strong><strong>Washington</strong></div><p>The owner of the deadliest flip throw on this side of the world. And Caleb Porter is unafraid to try new things. Harris is also a very capable right back who offers the Timbers some fullback depth if he can stick.</p> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/reinaldo-brenes" target="_blank">Reinaldo Brenes</a> (F)</strong><strong>Akron</strong><p style="text-align: left;">He's a known quantity for Portland, since he played with their U-23s and was recruited to Akron by none other than Porter. Brenes is a versatile, smart forward who's able to understand the game at a high level and put himself into good spots. He is, however, at least a year away from getting a green card.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-reinaldo-brenes-forward-akron" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/eric-stevenson" target="_blank">Eric Stevenson</a> (M)</strong><strong>Akron</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>This might be a reach for Stevenson, who wasn’t even at the Combine this week, but Porter will know the Akron kid from their 2010 NCAA title glory days and will know that he wasn’t 100 percent this year. He brings a good level of technical ability to the table, and the transition to Portland’s system would be smoother than most rookies.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/09/mls-superdraft-eric-stevenson-midfielder-akron" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong>37</strong> |
<img alt="" src="https://league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/league/montrealimapact_logo.png" style="width: 55px; height: 55px;"> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/romena-bowie" target="_blank">Romena Bowie</a> (M)</strong><strong>VCU</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Technical center mid who is in perpetual motion. With Patrice Bernier up there in age, the Impact start grooming a potential successor to work alongside Hernán Bernardello.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-romena-bowie-midfielder-virginia-commonwealth-university" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/mamadou-doudou-diouf" target="_blank">Mamadou Diouf</a> (M/F)</strong><strong>Connecticut</strong><p class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;">Diouf has a pair of one-off skills that make him intriguing: A thunderous left foot, and an eye for the last pass. But he struggles to find the ball as a central midfielder, doesn't provide penetration from the wing, and doesn't battle or threaten enough in the box. Can Frank Klopas find a fit for him?</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/10/mls-superdraft-mamadou-diouf-forward-uconn" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/tesho-akindele" target="_blank">Tesho Akindele</a> (M/F)</strong><strong>Colorado School of Mines</strong><p class="rteleft">He's probably better than I’m giving him credit for, but when you’re a Canadian playing college ball for the Colorado School of Mines, there’s only so much teams will be willing to give up for you. Still, this could be a great pick-up for Montreal.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/15/mls-superdraft-tesho-akindele-midfielder-colorado-school-mines" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<strong>38</strong> |
<img alt="" src="https://league-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/mp6/sportingkc_logo.png" style="text-align: center;" width="55"> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/pete-caringi-iii" target="_blank">Pete Caringi</a> (F)</strong><strong>UMBC</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>He's a goalscorer with an edge and solid work rate. Makes good runs in behind and he's also good with his head. Can Peter Vermes transform him into the next Dom Dwyer?</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/16/mls-superdraft-pete-caringi-forward-umbc" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
<strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/victor-munoz" target="_blank">Victor Munoz</a> (M)</strong><strong>UCLA</strong><p style="text-align: left;">A product of the Real Madrid youth system, I kind of want Vermes to pick Munoz as a way of trolling La Masia-produced Uri Rosell. I just feel like this would make the locker room more fun for the entire Sporting team.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/13/mls-superdraft-victor-munoz-midfielder-ucla" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a> |
<div class="compHdr"><strong><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/players/enrique-cardenas" target="_blank">Enrique Cardenas</a> (M/F)</strong><strong>UC Irvine</strong></div><div class="compHdr" style="text-align: left;"><p>Cardenas will likely have to be a roleplayer for his first few years in MLS – he’s too small to just be handed the reins of the offense – but he’s ultra skilled, quick, and good on the dribble. He’s the kind of guy who could do very well in SKC’s high-press, high-tempo style.</p><a href="//www.mlssoccer.com/video/2014/01/06/mls-superdraft-enrique-cardenas-forward-uc-irvine" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Highlights</strong></a></div> |
