Bly's Draft Blog

Big Board 2007

2007-02-26T20:22:00.000-08:00

Calvin Johnson is the real deal

(1) Calvin Johnson, WR. Georgia Tech
Is there any doubt? I don't remember the last 6'5"+ 240lb receiver that ran 4.35 seconds in the 40 yards dash. Lets not forget that Calvin came up big in the biggest games. He is an excellent blocker with no ego issues. Larry Fitzgerald meets Randy Moss meets weight room. There are no question marks. Impact from day one is expected.

(2) Adrian Peterson, RB. Oklahoma
I know; the man is fragile like Javon Kearse. But, there is no doubt about Adrian Peterson's physical abilities and on field performances. Peterson has plus straight line speed with a powerful 6'2" 220lb frame to boot. He flourished throughout his career at Oklahoma, often touching the ball thirty or more times per game. There are a few miles on the tires, but those tires are BF Goodrich Drag Radials.

(3) Gaines Adams, DE. Clemson
Simply put, Gaines Adams is a playmaker. He is electrifying on the edge. What he lacks in brute strength, he makes up for with speed, athleticism, and a knack for being in the right place at the right time. Adams is the pure pass rusher that is simply a terror from the moment he straps on the helmet. So, he can't pass the Wonderlic. Who cares?

You can't discount Brady Quinn as still being the #1 pick

(4) Brady Quinn, QB. Notre Dame
If you want a prototypical quarterback, look no further than Brady Quinn: rocket arm, tall, strong, technically sound, and effectively nimble. Quinn has had experience in a pro-style offense and used to being in the spotlight. He had a bad game against the #3 pass defense in the country on the biggest stage, but that doesn't completely tarnish his body of work.

(5) Alan Branch, DT. Michigan
This is hard for a Spartan to rank a Wolverine so highly if Branch were not such a beast in the middle. He engulfs would be blockers at the point of attack, using every bit of leverage possible with his 6'6" 330lb frame. He is simply a massive defensive tackle that can effectively free up the linebackers and make plays when plays are needed.

(6) Jamarcus Russell, QB. LSU
I find it difficult to put anyone who is raw in his skills within the top five of a draft class that is filled with front line names and talents. Russell had a monster season. He completed over two-thirds of his passes and sported a 28:8 touchdown-to-interception ratio in the toughest defensive conference in the league. Nevertheless, he is raw and needs development.

(7) Joe Thomas, OT. Wisconsin
I have taken the franchise tackle train off a cliff in recent years. I was high on Robert Gallery and D'Brickashaw Ferguson. Both have underacheieved. I am curtailing my enthusiasm on Thomas, a former defensive end turned potential franchise left tackle. Like Russell, Thomas has ability, athleticism, and accolades coming out of his ears. An athletic skill set on a 6'8" frame is mighty enticing to anyone.

If it is possible to have a sleeper at #8, Brown is the guy

(8) Levi Brown, OT. Penn State
Levi reminds me of his unrelated namesake brother Jammal Brown. It may be ugly and not technically sound, but the the blockee ends up on his rear sooner than later. Lacking the mean streak of Jammal, Levi is a more consistent player who is there down in and down out. He, along with his balanced blocking abilities, are largely underrated.

(9) Patrick Willis, MLB. Ole Miss
A top inside linebacking prospect does not come across often. Willis is speedy, quick, instinctive, and terribly reliable. He is too easily manhandled by massive blockers, but his range makes him perfect for the 4-3 system. He has the MLB skill set with the MLB mentality. I am very high on Patrick Willis as he is a prototype MLB.

(10) LaRon Landry, S. LSU
Enforcer-type 6'2" 200lb safeties with range strike a certain chord with me. Landry is an experienced leader on one of the best pass defenses in the nation in years past. He has a knack for the ball, and finds himself in the middle of the action often. Landry is just a rock solid safety prospect that is polished enough to play from the the first day of training camp.

(11) Dwayne Jarrett, WR. USC
Jarrett is big, strong, physical receiver with excellent hands and playmaking ability stuffed into a body that lacks true break away speed. Sound like a recently drafted USC wideout? Forget about the comparisons. Jarrett is more Keyshawn Johnson than "Bust" Mike Williams. Ego may be an issue, but two or more touchdowns in the biggest games of the year makes you forget easily.

(12) Jamaal Anderson, DE. Alabama
Anderson is yet another raw athlete with all the tools to become a truly dominant player. He has the size at 6'6" 285lbs, and he has the athleticism to boot. He is an almost unstoppable force on the field. He plays to the whistle every down. Regardless, he is raw and short on experience. Although, 13.5 sacks in the SEC this year really boosts the resume.

(13) Darrelle Revis, CB. Pittsburgh
Check your cover corners at the door. Darrelle Revis is big, physical, and dominating at the line of scrimmage. What he lacks in pure speed, he makes up for with excellent technique, killer instincts, and unbridled desire. At 6'0" 200lbs, Revis is ideally sized and polished enough to make an immediate impact.

Michael Griffin is playmaking safety pedigree

(14) Michael Griffin, S. Texas
One only needs to remember the famous Vince Young Rose Bowl of a year ago to remember the playmaking abilities of Michael Griffin. Fast, fluid, and athletic, Griffin came make plays on the ball few safeties in the NFL are able to. The man can cover. That is good enough for me.

(15) Marshawn Lynch, RB. California
Don't fall asleep on Pac 10 running backs. Maurice Drew stormed on to the scene last year, and Lynch could realistically outshine the entire draft class in the right system with the right opportunities. He is slow out of the pads, but his on-field acceleration and burst is pallatible. His 5'11" 220lb frame makes him an every down back pedigree.

(16) Jarvis Moss, DE. Florida
Moss is an outstanding athlete. He is a lanky 6'6" 250lbs that seems to cover half of the field with his length. He can make plays in every direction at every point on the field. His explosiveness is second to none among defensive tackle prospects. He is a proven talent that gets to the ball.

(17) Reggie Nelson, S. Florida
What Reggie Nelson lacks in Division I experience, he makes up for with playamking ability as a balanced safety that can support the run and cover the pass. A JuCo transfer that came to play for Urban Meyer at Florida, Nelson is as complete a player -in terms of skills- as there is among all players in the draft class. 6 INT's don't lie.

A 20-year-old with four years of Division-I experience,
Amobi Okoye is perhaps this year's most intriguing propect

(18) Amobi Okoye, DT. Louisville
No surpsise, Okoye is a Nigerian native that is a nightmare up the middle on defense. He can clog the middle on rushing downs and shed blocks on passing downs. He has four years of experience, yet is only 20-years-old as a result of his Nigerian exchange. The guy flat out gets into the backfield and makes plays at defensive tackle. That is indeed rare.

(19) Adam Carriker, DE. Nebraska
At 6'6" 300lbs, Carriker is perfect for the 3-4 system. He possess size and strength. He punishes blockers and wraps up his tackles well. Perhaps the worst athlete on the Big Board 2007, Carriker is just a production machine. 33 TFL in the past two seasons is really impressive.

(20) Lawrence Timmons, OLB. Florida State
Add Lawrence Timmons to the list of raw, freakish athletes on the Big Board 2007. At 6'3" 240lbs, Timmons does not lose a step, clocking in at 4.6s in the 40 yard dash. He is a rangy linebacker that excels in coverage and can absolutely lay the lumber when he connects on a hit. He is a slighty bigger, slighty slower, considerably more raw version of Ernie Sims. Timmons probably has a higher ceiling simply as a result of his size.

Welcome Back

2007-02-25T18:07:00.000-08:00

Gladness is at an all-time high: Bly's Draft Blog is back
It has been almost a year since the last update. Unfortunately, neither the final grades for all 32 NFL teams nor the expected January launch date happened for the blog. Life has picked up for me. Business is about to boom. Bambi had an unfortunate run in with my car. Nevertheless, here we are. Two months of coverage will ensue. Daily updates will occur. Your draft desires will be satisfied.

For the purpose of allowing me to maintain any semblance of sanity, I will not be going quite as over the top with my linking of data this year. This may force you to stay in touch with the site on a more regular basis, but I think this may be good for everyone. Expect an articles section, a team-by-team analysis section, and a player profile section as well. Expect these sections to be complete and thorough, although more independent of one another in comparison to last year.

The Draft is coming, and Bly's Draft Blog will get you ready

Starting tomorrow, there will be a player profile for each day until the draft. Articles should come at least every other day with content entering the team-by-team section on schedule for draft day as well. Keep watch. Tell a friend. Tell 25 friends. If anyone wants to get NFL draft ready or just into the head of Mark Bly, read up. There will be much information to be had.

You will certainly hear more about Gaines Adams and
the other studs of this draft class before April 28th.
I have some very strong opinions about this draft class. I have not jumped the Brady Quinn ship. In fact, I am firm in my belief that he will still be the #1 overall pick when April 28th rolls around. I feel Gaines Adams is the best defensive player on the board this year. I see more star potential in him than any defensive end since Julius Peppers. Clearly, as if there would be any question, the #1 player on my board is Calvin Johnson. Don't cry if I make the argument that he is a better option than Joe Thomas if the Lions keep the #2 pick.

Soak it all in. Form your own opinions. Foster two months of excitement. Then, join me for the official 2007 Bly's Draft Blog Party. Well, it's back. Let's do this...

New Orleans Saints Grade

2006-05-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

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New Orleans Saints (C-)
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(2) Reggie Bush, RB. USC
(43) Roman Harper, S. Alabama
(108) Jahri Evans, OG. Bloomsburg
(135) Rob Ninkovich, DE. Purdue
(171) Mike Hass, WR. Oregon State
(174) Josh Lay, CB. Pittsburgh
(210) Zach Strief, OT. Northwestern
(252) Marques Colston, WR. Hofstra
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No one legitimately expected Reggie Bush to fall to #2

(2) Reggie Bush, RB. USC

(43) Roman Harper, S. Alabama

(108) Jahri Evans, OG. Bloomsburg

(135) Rob Ninkovich, DE. Purdue

Biletnikoff winner Mike Hass projects poorly to the NFL

(171) Mike Hass, WR. Oregon State

(174) Josh Lay, CB. Pittsburgh

Zach Strief is a very solid offensive lineman

(210) Zach Strief, OT. Northwestern

(252) Marques Colston, WR. Hofstra

Atlanta Falcons Grade

2006-05-04T08:57:00.000-07:00

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Atlanta Falcons (B)
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(37) Jimmy Williams, CB. Virginia Tech
(79) Jerious Norwood, RB. Mississippi State
(139) Quinn Ojinnaha, OG. Syracuse
(184) Adam Jennings, WR. Fresno State
(123) DJ Shockley, QB. Georgia
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The Falcons couldn't ask for more than Jimmy Williams

(37) Jimmy Williams, DB. Virginia Tech

Norwood fits the scheme better than Duckett or Dunn

(79) Jerious Norwood, RB. Mississippi State

(139) Quinn Ojinnaha, OG. Syracuse

Adam Jennings is a dangerous return man

(184) Adam Jennings, WR. Fresno State

With so much interest in Matt Schaub, progression
from Shockley might finally open the door for a trade

(223) DJ Shockley, QB. Georgia

Carolina Panthers Grade

2006-05-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

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Carolina Panthers (B+)
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(27) Deangelo Williams, RB. Memphis
(58) Richard Marshall, CB. Fresno State
(88) James Anderson, OLB. Virginia Tech
(89) Rashad Butler, OT. Miami
(121) Nate Salley, S. Ohio State
(155) Jeff King, TE. Virginia Tech
(234) Will Montgomery, C. Virginia Tech
(237) Stanley McClover, DE. Auburn
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Dengelo Williams was the next best back to Reggie Bush

(28) Denagelo Williams, RB. Memphis

(58) Richard Marshall, CB. Fresno State

(88) James Anderson, OLB. Virginia Tech

Rashad Butler is a physical brand of blocker

(89) Rashad Butler, OT. Miami

(121) Nate Salley, S. Ohio State

(155) Jeff King, TE. Virginia Tech

(234) Will Mongomery, C. Virginia Tech

Stanley McClover was a bargain at #237

(237) Stanley McClover, DE. Auburn

Tamba Bay Bucaneers Grade

2006-05-04T07:57:00.000-07:00

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Tamba Bay Bucaneers (B)
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(23) Davin Joseph, OG. Oklahoma
(59) Jeremy Trueblood, OT. Boston College
(90) Maurice Stovall, WR. Notre Dame
(122) Alan Zemaitis, CB. Penn State
(156) Julian Jenkins, DE. Stanford
(194) Brad Gradkowski, QB. Toledo
(202) TJ Williams, TE. NC State
(235) Justin Phinisee, CB. Oregon
(241) Charles Bennett, DE. Clemson
(244) Tim Massaquoi, TE. Michigan
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Davin Joseph is a superior athlete on the O-Line

(23) Davin Joseph, OG. Oklahoma

(59) Jeremy Trueblood, OT. Boston College

Maurice Stovall was a steal late into Day One

(90) Maurice Stovall, WR. Notre Dame

Alan Zemaits is built for the Tampa 2 defense

(122) Alan Zemaitis, CB. Penn State

(156) Julian Jenkins, DE. Standford

(194) Brad Gradkowski, QB. Toledo

Having looked for a red zone threat for years,
the Bucs probably missed again in TJ Williams

(202) TJ Williams, TE. NC State

(235) Justin Phinisee, CB. Oregon

(241) Charles Bennet, DE. Clemson

(244) Tim Massaquoi, TE. Michigan

Philadelphia Eagles Grade

2006-05-02T05:02:00.000-07:00

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Philadelphia Eagles (A)
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(14) Brodrick Bunkley, DT. Florida State
(39) Winston Justice, OT. USC
(71) Chris Gocong, DE. California Polytechnic
(99) Max Jean-Gilles, OG. Georgia
(109) Jason Avant, WR. Michigan
(147) Jeremy Bloom, WR. Colorado
(168) Omar Gaither, OLB. Tennessee
(204) LaJuan Ramsey, DT. USC
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THe Philadelphia Eagles would have loved a chance at Ernie Sims in the first round. Having missed on him, Brodrick Bunkley had to be the next best thing in their minds. Darwin Walker and Hollis Thomas both underachieved at defensive tackle after losing Corey Simon. Bunkley gives the Eagles an impact player inside. Should Bunkley have not been available, Winston Justice was an option for the Eagles. They had to be pinching themselves when Justice managed to fall all the way into the second round when they were able to make a trade up for him. Considered by many to be a top ten prospect based on his athleticism, Justice's character concerns had to be a major issue with many teams. Regardless, he was a steal. Chris Gocong is an explosive pass rusher and Max Jean-Gilles is a day one talent that somehow managed to slip to the fourth round. Jason Avant gives Donovan McNabb a sure-handed target and Jeremy Bloom is a home-run threat both in the return game and the passing game. Omar Gaither is a steal at outside linebacker and LaJuan Ramsey is a pass-rushing specialist up the middle that can supply the Eagles a lot of depth. Both days of the draft were given top marks in my book.

Brodrick Bunkley is a classic one-gap DT

(14) Brodrick Bunkley, DT. Florida State
Having lost a Pro Bowler in Corey Simon, the Eagles may have drafted one in brodrick Bunkley. At 6'3"/306, Bunkley has a cut physique, something rare in defensive tackle prospects. Bunkley's 4.94 speed is excellent, suggesting that he can continue his excellence as a pass rusher into the NFL. Bunkley is extremely strong and can plug the middle very well. He plays with good leverage to find his way into the offensive backfield often. No one can deny that Bunkley has all the measureables to be great. Needing defensive tackle help first and foremost, Bunkley not only fills a giant need, but he presented excellent value at #14.

Winston Justice was one of the steals of the draft

(39) Winston Justice, OT. USC
The Eagles never could have imagined Winston Justice slip to them in the second round. Should Bunkley have been off the board, Justice would have likely been the Eagles pick in the first round. Justice is a physical freak at 6'6"/319. He has a 39" vertical and can run the 40-yard dash in under five seconds. He is a great blocker that protected the blind side of Matt Leinart at USC. He has the footwork and requisite athleticism to play left tackle while also possessing the size and strength to play on the right side. With Tra Thomas securing the left tackle spot on the Eagles' line, Justice would be the perfect candidate to step in at right tackle. Slightly inexperienced and a bit raw, Justice has some technique flaws. Nevertheless, he is an elite prospect that will give the Eagles just what they desire along the offensive front.

(71) Chris Gocong, DE. California Polytechnic
One of the top sleeper prospects in the draft, Chris Gocong is a productive college player who simply dominated the Division-II level. Having attended California Polytechnic for engineering, Gocong developed into an NFL-caliber athlete during his time at the university. He has a knack for getting into the backfield and will relentlessly pursue the quarterback. Having has experience at defensive tackle, Gocong knows how to use leverage to his advantage to fully utilize his power and strength. Gocong twice won the Buck Buchannon award given to the top defender in Division-II. While he lacks experience against elite competition, Gocong dominated the combine and has the mental makeup to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to have success in the NFL.

Jean-Gilles unexpectedly made it to day two

(99) Max Jean-Gilles, OG. Georgia
One of the top offensive guard prospects in the draft, it was very surprising to see Max Jean-Gilles last until day two. The Eagles were surprised by this as well, judging by them moving up in the round to grab him. At 6'4"/355, Jean-Gilles is a massive specimen that is virtually immoveable in the running game. He is extremely strong and can manhandle opponents at the point of attack. However, Jean Gilles also has very good feet, allowing him to have the quickness to be an excellent pass blocker as well. Tough and durable, Jean-Gilles was another excellent value pick for a team that needs help along the offensive front. Jean-Gilles will likely have a starting spot at right guard on opening day. To grab a player of his caliber in round four is truly spectacular for the Eagles.

(109) Jason Avant, WR. Michigan
Needing to grab a receiver to bolster the lackluster corp in Philly, Jason Avant is a very solid selection for day two. Avant is rather slow, clocking in at only 4.62, but he has very good hands and had a productive career in the Big Ten. At 6'1"/209, he has good size. He could excell in the NFL as a possession receiver. He is very polished as a route-runner and has the ability to go up and get the ball in the red zone. Donovan McNabb has a knack for making receivers look much better than they might otherwise, and Jason Avant is certainly a leading cadidate for this type of treatment. He is simply a football player that gets the job done. Needing someone sure-handed in the receiving game, the Eagles made another great selection here.

Jeremy Bloom is an explosive return man

(147) Jeremy Bloom, WR. Colorado
While Jeremy Bloom is certainly a better downhill skier than he is a football player, Bloom is an excellent prospect as a return man. One only has to look at Tim Dwight, currently of the New England Patriots, to see someone whose game is very similar to Bloom's. Bloom has explosive speed and can take the ball the distance each and every time it falls into his hands. Very undersized at 5'9"/173, Bloom uses all-world agility, acceleration, and speed to make up for his diminutive build. Likely projecting only as a #4 or #5 option offensively, Bloom will make his biggest splash on special teams. But, Bloom can certainly change ames in this aspect of the game. With Reno Mahe currently scheudled to be the top return man for the Eagles, it is needless to say that Jeremy Bloom will supply the Eagles with an upgrade at the position.

(168) Omar Gaither, OLB. Tennessee
Having had time to step in when Kevin Simon was repeatedly down with injury, Omar Gaither proved himself to be a productive player in his own right. At 6'1"/234, Gaither has good size to play either of the outside linebacker spots. He is very quick and instinctive, always getting a good jump on the play. While he may lack the bulk to play the strong side and the speed (4.78) to play the weakside, Gaither is at the very least an excellent player to supply depth to a linebacking corp that needs it. Given the right development, it is very possible that Gaither could be a starter by the end of the year. A special teams' ace, Gaither will be able to help the Eagles in every aspect of the game.

(204) LaJuan Ramsey, DT. USC
At 6'3"/294, LaJaun Ramsey is a bit under-bulked for an every down defensive tackle. However, Ramsey has incredible athleticism for his size. He is an explosive pass rusher that can get to the quarterback. He is very quick off the pine and knows how to use his hands to get around offensive lineman. As a senior, he showed flashes of brilliance. With the proper development, Ramsey could be an every-down player in the NFL. In the meantime, Ramsey is an excellent option for the Eagles as a pass rushing specialist up the middle. A solid character guy, Ramsey will also help keep his USC counter-part, Winston Justice, in line during their time together. Even if the Eagles are unable to tap LaJuan's full potential, this pick will exhibit good value as Ramsey can work into the defensive line rotation. If Ramsey achieves his potential, this pick will be a massive steal. Don't forget that Ramsey had time to learn under Shaun Cody early in his career at USC.

Dallas Cowboys Forecast

2006-05-02T02:39:00.000-07:00

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Dallas Cowboys (C+)
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(18) Bobby Carpenter, Ohio State
(53) Anthony Fasano, TE. Notre Dame
(96) Jason Hatcher, DE. Grambling State
(125) Skyler Green, WR. LSU
(138) Pat Watkins, S. Florida State
(182) Montavious Stanley, DT. Louisville
(211) Pat McQuistan, OT. Weber State
(224) EJ Whitley, OT. Texas Tech
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Bill Parcels had an excellent draft last year. Marcus Spears and Damarcus Ware both had very good rookie campaigns. In Bobby Carpenter, Parcels is polishing off a young and talented front seven that is built perfectly for the 3-4. Passing on the more glamorous pick, Manny Lawson, you just have a feeling that Percels got his guy in Bobby Carpenter. You really have to wonder what the Cowboys were thinking with the #53 pick in Anthony Fasano. Already possessing one of the best pass catching tight ends in the game in Jason Witten, it seems there is no need to grab another target in the passing game and no reason to grab a blocking tight end so early. Reaching in round three, the Cowboys went for a top sleeper candidate in Jason Hatcher at defensive end. Having found Demarcus Ware at Troy State, no one can argue with Parcels grabbing a small schooler there. Defense remained a priority on day two. The offensive line was neglected until the seventh round, which seemed a little late. Missing both on need and on value distinct spots, the Cowboys draft was average.

Bobby Carpenter is a prototypical OLB for the 3-4

(18) Bobby Carpenter, OLB. Ohio State
You have to believe Bobby Carpenter is a Bill Parcels' guy. At 6'3"/256, Carpenter has ideal size to play outside linebacker in the 3-4. His 4.66 speed suggests that he is an excellent athlete. Very versatile, Carpenter has shown the ability to be comfortable both in coverage and while rushing the quarterback. He can also play from either a three-point or a two-point stance. A tenacious and aggressive player, Carpenter is a football player through and through. Often in the shadow of AJ Hawk at Ohio State, Bobby Carpenter is an excellent prospect in his own right. Not the surest tackler in the draft, Carpenter certainly has room for improvement; but, his game is very polished and he can start opposite Demarcus Ware from day one. In Ware and Carpenter, Parcels has his Lawrence Taylor and Carl Banks.

Anthony Fasano is a very well-rounded tight end

(53) Anthony Fasano, TE. Notre Dame
Perhaps the most puzzling pick of day one, Anthony Fasano seems to no fill a need for the Cowboys while also presenting only very average value. With Jason Witten putting up Pro Bowl numbers every year, Anthony Fasano will seem to be out of the mix as a pass catching tight end. As a blocker, Fasano is excellent. It is very possible that Parcels is considering a two tight end set for the offense. Lacking a true slot receiver, Fasano and Witten could cumulatively take a lot of pressure off of Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn on the outside. At 6'4"/259, Fasano has a solid frame but lacks the ideal size of an NFL tight end. He lacks the measureables of an elite tight end, but -like Bobby Carpenter- is a football player every way you slice it. You can bet Bill Parcels was listening when Mary Bavaro references were attached to Anthony Fasano. Regardless, you have to question if this pick either fill a need or presented good value to the Cowboys.

(96) Jason Hatcher, DE. Grambling State
Having turned Demarcus Ware from a small school superstar into an NFL star, one can struggle to question the Jason hatcher pick by the Cowboys. You just have to wonder if he would have been available later into the draft. Hatcher has outstanding size at 6'6"/284. He has the ideal frame to play defensive end in the 3-4. An incredible athlete, Hatcher managed a 4.96 timing at the combine. He is an intense player who is relentless when rushing the passer. Averaging 20 tackles for loss and 10 sacks per season during his four year career at Grambling State, Hatcher was a dominant player at his level of play. He needs some serious development to clean up his footwork and better use his hands, but Jason Hatcher has the chance to be an excellent pro player. With Greg Ellis having a few more good seasons in him, Hatcher will have time to develop behind Ellis before taking over the starting role in the future.

(125) Skyler Green, WR. LSU
Cowboy fans had a feeling that a young, talented receiver would be brought in both to replace Terry Glenn in the future and to act as an insurance policy for the volatile Terrell Owens right now. Skler Green is a dynamic athlete. At 5'9"/192, Green lacks ideal height, but he has excellent acceleration and agility to accompany his above average, 4.44 speed. Green run very good routes and is virtually impossible to tackle one-on-one in the open field. Consequently, he is also an excellent return man, perhaps giving the Cowboys an immediate upgrade on special teams. Green may never be a starting receiver at the NFL level, but he has a chance to excel as a return man and contribute as an inside receiver that can stretch the field and present match-up problems by using his speed against safeties and slower nickel backs. Regardless, he gives the Cowboys an additional option both as a return man and as a receiver.

Pat Watkins at #138 was one of the best picks in the draft

(138) Pat Watkins, S. Florida State
Pat Watkins is my favorite players in the entire draft class. He has the potential to revolutionize the safety position even more than Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu has. At 6'5", Watkins has height unseen previously in the defensive backfield. Underbuilt at 211lbs, Watkins needs to hit the weights to become built to handle the NFL load week in and week out. However, Watkins has all the skills to be great. He can jump out of the building, allowing him to win virtually any and all jump ball situation down field. He is unafraid to support the run and is a very sure handed tackler. He has 4.42 speed, allowing him to roam the entire field from sideline-to-sideline. At 6'5", he can lack fluidity in man coverage, but Pat has the speed and quickness to recover very well. Needing a rangy safety to compliment and play alongside Roy Williams, Pat Watkins is an excellent choice. Pending the success of his preseason workout regimen, I would not at all be surprised if Pat Watkins cracked the starting lineup over Keith Davis at free safety.

Montavious Stanley in a run stuffing machine

(182) Montavious Stanley, DT. Louisville
Few players in the country were more disruptive than Montavious Stanley in the middle. At 6'2"/313, Stanley is short for the DT position, but he is a wide body that can get penetration and take on two blockers in the running game. Criticised for his inconsistency, you can bet that Parcels will be more than willing to let Montavious realize the type of work ethic that is required to make an NFL roster. Undersized for a defensive tackle -especially for the 34- Stanley has upside and run-stuffing abilities that project his potential as a starter somewhere down the line. With the proper motivation, he could be a serviceable pro in the NFL.

(211) Pat McQuistan, OT. Weber State
Much less heralded than his twin brother Paul, Pat McQuistan is a similar football player with project written all over him. At 6'5"/310, McQuistan is an excellent athlete with 5.00 speed. Along with his brother, he was dominant at the NFL level. He is a hard worker that has a nasty demeanor on the field. His footwork is very below average and his technique is -by all acounts- raw. However, with the proper technique and strength development, Pat McQuistan could be a very good right tackle or right guard in the NFL. In the meantime, McQuistan supplys depth to a Cowboys offensive front that probably needed addressing before the 7th round.

(224) EJ Whitley, OT. Texas Tech
Different from Pat McQuistan, EJ Whitley has the footwork to project to left tackle in the NFL. While it is very unlikely that he will become a starter one day, Whitley can supply good depth at the position as a good backup. At 6'5"/309, Whitley is good size to compliment his excellent footwork. Versatile, Whitley can play both tackle positions and even left guard. Having a lot of experience pass blocking at Texas Tech, Whitley needs work in the running game. With added size and strength, he can become an NFL caliber offensive lineman. Not very physical at the point of attack, Whitley will need to get tougher under Parcels. But, he certainly has the athleticism to play at the next level.

Washington Redskins Grade

2006-05-02T01:46:00.000-07:00

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Washington Redskins (D+)
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(35) Roger McIntosh, OLB. Miami
(153) Anthony Montgomery, DT. Minnesota
(173) Reed Doughty, S. Northern Colorado
(195) Kedric Golston, DT. Georgia
(230) Kili Lefotu, OG. Arizona
(250) Kevin Simon, ILB. Tennessee
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The Redskins had only one first day pick this year. Wanting to grab a linebacker before the top tier of talent was gone, the Redskins moved up to acquire Rocky McIntosh. The team desperately needed a linebacker, and so this move had to be made. However, the Redskins paid a mighty price for this move. They not only gave up a 6th round pick this year but also a 2nd rounder from next year. Consistent with recent history, the Redskins continue to dump future picks to move up. Yet again, they will be deficient of day one picks next year. Aside from linebacker, where they could use more than one talented player, the Redskins had needs in the secondary and along the offensive line. The team addressed both rather weakly, istead focusing efforts to value picks along the defensive front. Rokcy McInstosh was a very solid pick, but even his acquisition involved a steep price tag. All in all, the Redskins draft was below average.

The Redskins traded up to ensure they acquired Rocky

(35) Roger McIntosh, LB. Miami
Rocky McIntosh is a valuable asset to the Redskins because he can play all three linebacker positions. At 6'2"/237, he was good size to compliment his excellent athleticism. Rocky's 4.61 speed gives him sideline-to-sideline range. He is a good tackler that seems to always be around the ball. Rocky is a leader on the field. With the successes of Ray Lewis and Jonathan Vilma, Miami linebackers are seen as sure commodities. With only one first day pick, the Redskins could do nothing but invest in a sure thing. Wanting to utilize strong-side linebacker Marcus Washington as a pass rusher, where he is best, the Redskins may still be unable to do so since Rocky is very average in coverage. With only a second round selection, finding a sure commodity at linebacker with coverage skills is an almost impossible task. The team can not be scorned for this pick for being in such a helpless draft situation. Nevertheles, I am not even enamored for the Redskins with Rocky McIntosh.

(153) Anthony Montgomery, DT. Minnesota
At 6'5"/311, Anthony Mongomery has excellent size. He is a huge specimen with excellent potential. He is very athletic and can get to the quarterback on passing downs. He is a hard worker that has excellent upside. Because he has excellent physcial tools but is still very raw, Montgomery might be converted to offensive tackle before all is said and done. His 5.24 timed speed suggests that his pass rushing skills might be much less effective at the NFL level. For such a raw, developmental guy, Montgomery was draft very high. The Redskins must have seen some potentially great qualities in him to use a 5th rounder on him. As a guy without a defined position, you would expect Mongomery as more of a 7th rounder since he is such a question mark.

(173) Reed Doughty, S. Northern Colorado
Needing help at corner to bolster the secondary, the Redskins grabbed a safety with below average athletic ability. Redd Dougthy excelled at the Division I-AA level, but his skill set just does not seem to be one to translate to the NFL. At 6'0"/209, Doughty has only average size for a safety. His 4.73 speed is rather slow. He simply lacks the range to roam the field like safeties have been accustomed to in the NFL recently. Doughty is not much more than a reliable tackler. His maximum potential is very limited, likely to a backup role at the next level. A tough and physcial guy with good tackling abilities, Doughty could become a special teams ace with the right development. Regardless, this is an awkward pick.

Golston is a disruptive force as a pass rusher

(195) Kedric Golston, DT. Georgia
Georgia has a history of pumping out successful defensive tackles. Kedric Golston could be another member of that elite club. Logistically built on speed rushers up the middle, the Redskins defense could use a developmental guy like Golston. At 6'4"/300, Golston has good size. His 4.90 timed speed is excellent and suggests that his pass rushing moves will be effective at the next level. Needing to learn how to play with leverage, Golston lacks the ability to stop the run effectively, but he could project as an excellent situational pass rusher at the next level. He simply has the athleticism to present serious matchup problems along the oppossing interior line. An underachiever at Georgia, Joe Gibbs could whip Golston into shape and make him a legitimate NFL starter up the middle in a couple years.

(230) Kili Lefotu, OG. Arizona
Ray Brown is not young. At 43, the Redskins guard is in need of being replaced sooner than later. Kili Lefotu is a physcial player who could possibly step in as an eventual replacement to Brown. At 6'5"/315, Lefotu has good size, with a fram to add even more weight. Often dominating at the point of attack against the run, Lefotu fits the Redskins physical blocking scheme very well. His 5.50 timed speed is not very good, but you can't expect to be getting a superstar in the 7th round. Regardless, Lefotu is the type of solid college performer with reasonable physcial abilities and a big frame would could use his hard working mentality and crack a starting lineup one day. At the very least, Lefotu will supply depth and insurance should the ageless Ray Brown call it quits.

(250) Kevin Simon, ILB. Tennessee
Further giving the linebacking corp help, the Redskins took a risk on Kevin Simon. Simon has had major durability concerns at Tennessee. He has had two knee surgeries and an ankle surgery during the course of his career. Nevertheless, no one can deny what he does when he is actually on the field. Simon can fly all over the field. He has sideline-to-sideline range and is very comfortable in coverage. He is an explosive tackler who knows how to lay the lumber. Undersized at 5'10"/235, Simon will likely be moved to ouside linebacker in the NFL. If he can stay on the field, Simon has a cocky personality that refuses to lose. He projects very well to the NFL because of this. Needing much help at the linebacker position and having few picks to address this need in the form of legitimate prospects, the Redskins were in a position to take a calculated gamble with Simon at this point in the draft.

New York Giants Grade

2006-05-02T00:46:00.000-07:00

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New York Giants (B-)
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(32) Mathias Kiwanuka, DE. Boston College
(44) Sinorice Moss, WR. Miami
(96) Gerris Wilkinson, LB. Georgia Tech
(124) Barry Cofield, DT. Northwestern
(129) Guy Whimper, OT. East Carolina
(155) Charlie Peprah, S. Alabama
(232) Gerrick McPhearson, CB. Maryland
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The Giants allowed themselves to move down in the first round by acquiring Lavar Arrington through free agency. Expected to take a defensive back to improve their porous pass defense, the Giants instead opted for a future superstar at defensive dn in Mathias Kiwanuka. Sinorice Moss was an absolute steal in the middle of the second round. It was clear that the Giants were going to go get him one way or another. Gerris Wilkinson was an excellent pick at the end of the third. However, the Giants failed to improve their defensive backfield until the middle of the fifth round when they grabbed Charlie Peprah from Alabama. Management must have been very high on Kiwanuka to have taken him as early as they did, neglecting obvious team needs in the process. This is why the Giants' draft is not given a higher grade. Their second, third, and ftouh round picks were very good.

Kiwanuka is raw, but has time to develop behind Strahan

(32) Mathias Kiwanuka, DE. Boston College
The Giants have two pro bowlers at defensive end in Michael Strahan and Osi Umeniyora. Strahan is no spring chicken, while Umeniyora had his break-out season last year. Enter Mathias Kiwanuka: a natural pass rusher who is raw but shows flashes of absolute brilliance. Mathias Kiwanuka can not be more pleased with the situation he was drafted into. Being a couple years away from starting in the NFL, Kiwi will have time to develop behind one of the best defensive end tandems in the entire NFL. In the meantimme, he can work into the rotation on passing downs to occassionally spell the aging Michael Strahan. Once he is ready to start, Kiwanuka has Pro Bowl potential. His 6'6"/256 fram is ideal for the position, and his upside is off the charts.

Sinorice Moss was going to be a Giant one way or another

(44) Sinorice Moss, WR. Miami
It seemed apparent that one way or another the New York Giants would find a way to acquire Sinorice Moss. Moving up in the second round, the Giants were able to do just that. Moss is a very speedy (4.38) receiver with excellent agility and acceleration. At 5'8", he can stretch the field as well as anyone, even with the ability to go up and get the jump ball over bigger corners with his 42" vertical jump. With Amani Toomer aging and unable to stretch the field like he did in the past, Moss will allow the Giants to take pressure off of both Eli Manning and Tiki Barber. He will open up the middle of the field for Jeremy Shockey as well. He simply gives the Giants an added dimension on offense. He is also an excellent upgrade in the return game. Miss can go the distance each and every time the ball is in his hands.

Gerris Wilkinson is an excellent "depth now, starter
later" pick as he can play any of the linebacker positions

(96) Gerris Wilkinson, LB. Georgia Tech
Having learned their lesson last year, the Giants are boosting up their linebacking corp. Never again will the Giants be so vulnerable to injury at the position. Gerris Wilkinson is an excellent pick for this reason. At 6'3"/233, he has very good size with a frame to add even more weight. His 4.72 speed allows him to play the WILL, SAM, and MIKE positions on the field. He may even be able to compete for a starting job this season. Wilkinson is an excellent pick that supplies depth and competition at the position in the meantime and a potential starter in the future. He could have easily fallen off the board earlier, but the Giants were rewarded for their patience by getting excellent value here.

(124) Barry Cofield, DT. Northwestern
Considered by many to be a day one pick, the Giants did an excellent job of grabbing the brand of defensive tackle that is most needed for the defense. Anyone who watched Larry Johnson rattle off 167 yards on 31 carries against the Giants this season saw that the team is vulnerable to a dominant inside-the-tackles runner. Barry Cofield is a situational guy that can really stuff the run. Currently a bit slight of build at 6'4"/304, Barry Cofield is a proven run stuffer in the Big Ten: one of the premier tackle-to-tackle running conferences in America. He has a frame to add more weight and become a disruptive force on first down and short yardage situations in the NFL. He has a ton of experience and has proven to be very durable. A smart guy and good team leader, Tom Coughlin has to absolutely love getting this guy on the second day of the draft. I like this pick more than any other that the Giants made.

(129) Guy Whimper, OT. East Carolina
The Giants offensive line coach, Pat Flaherty, deserves a lot of credit. While working with sub-par personnel, Tiki Barber continues to have monster seasons while Eli Manning has been given ample time in the pocket. Guy Whimper is a purely developmental prospect at the moment, but he has left tackle potential in the NFL. At 6'5"/304, Whimper has pretty good size for the tackle position. He is an extremely good athlete. At the combine, he ran a 4.95 in the 40-yard dash, a true testament to his athleticism. His footwork is excellent and his technique is very raw. Pat Flaherty has a blank slate to work with in Guy Whimper, but there is no one doubting that Whimper has all the physical tools. Being able to grab a player like Whimper -whose stock was on the rise- at this point further makes a case for the Giants having one of the best mid-round drafts this year.

Charlie Peprah was the first DB chosen by the Giants

(155) Charlie Peprah, S. Alabama
Needing to bolster a porous pass defense, I was not surprised at all to see a defensive back taken with this pick. However, I was very surprised to see the Gaints wait until pick #155 to help out the secondary. To boot, I was expecting a cornerback first and foremost. Charlie Peprah is an undersized, athletic safety. At 5'11"/206, he is slightly undersized to play safety. However, his 4.68 speed is rather slow to be moved to corner. A classic tweener, Peprah seems to lack the athleticism to play on the outside and the size to play on the inside of the defensive backfield. Nevertheless, one can not ignore the production. Peprah was a four-year starter for one of the best defenses in the country at Alabama. He has shown to be unafraid of anyone, willing to sacrifice his body to make plays. As a Giant fan, monitoring Charlie Peprah's development as a defensive back will be truly interesting.

(232) Gerrick McPhearson, CB. Maryland
One of the biggest steals in the draft, Gerrick McPhearson has all the tools to potentially develop into a starting corner in the NFL. At 5'10"/196, he has solid size. His 4.42 speed is outstanding for a 7th round corner. He is an impressive leaper and excels in the weight room. He is physical both at the line of scrimmage and against the run. A workout warrior, McPhearson has all the measureables but is not a developed football player at the moment. He lacks footabll instincts and his technique is really lacking. Nevertheless, the measureables are all there. Having never garnered All-ACC honors as a football player, McPhearson was all-conference for indoor track. With the needs that the Giants had in their secondary, specifically at cornerback, it is very surprising to see them grab their first corner in round seven. At this point in the draft, this pick is great; but, for a team with such a below average secondary, the Giants draft plan seems flawed.

Green Bay Packers Grade

2006-05-01T04:00:00.000-07:00

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Green Bay Packers (B)
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(5) AJ Hawk, OLB. Ohio State
(47) Daryn Colledge, OT. Boise State
(52) Greg Jennings, WR. Western Michigan
(67) Abdul Hodge, LB. Iowa
(75) Jason Spitz, OG. Luoisville
(104) Cory Rodgers, WR. TCU
(115) Will Blackmon, CB. Boston College
(148) Ingle Martin, QB. Furman
(165) Tony Moll, OT. New Mexico
(183) Johnny Jolly, DT. Texas A&M
(185) Tyrone Culver, S. Fresno State
(253) Dave Tollefson, DE. Northwest Missouri State
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The Green Bay Packers have legitimate needs all over the field: most notably, on the defensive side of the ball. At linebacker, the team could legitimately use two starters at linebacker to play with Nick Barnett. AJ Hawk and Abdul Hodge are super picks in that department. In the secondary, the Packers could use a coverage corner. Will Blackmon has the potential to be special. Offensively, there are serious concerns up front. Two offensive lineman were drafted on day one, which should address significant needs. Trading away Javon Walker to Denver for a second round pick, the Packers tried to refil the receiving corp by grabbing Greg Jennings in the second round. Jennings is an explosive athlete with a gear that few players have. With twelve selections, the Packers had the luxury of reaching for certain players that they targetted and valued highly. There were very few poor picks that were made by the Packers. Overall, they filled many needs and supplied a ton of depth to the roster.

AJ Hawk has been penciled in a Packer for months

(5) AJ Hawk, OLB. Ohio State
AJ Hawk is an exceptional football player. He is very instinctive on the field. He uses his 4.48 speed to fly all over the field to make plays. He can cover virtually any tight end or running back in man coverage, and he can support the run effectively. He sheds blockers very well, allowing his to get through traffic to the ball carrier. He is the hands-down best linebacker prospect in the draft class. Needing sure-fire talent on defense, AJ Hawk is a perfect fit in Green Bay. He gievs the Packers an immediate impact player at a position where there exists the most glaring team need. Alongside Nick Barnett, AJ Hawk will give the Packers a tandem of linebackers with exceptional range.

Daryn Colledge is and excellent athlete and technician.
It is forseeable that he could be moved to left guard.

(47) Daryn Colledge, OT. Boise State
Easily the best technician in the draft this side of D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Daryn Colledge is an athletic, productive, experienced, versatile lineman that can step in very quickly for the Packers. Colledge entered college at 235lbs as a lowly recruited prospect from North Pole, Alaska. Having started all four years and having gained 65lbs while at Boise State, Colledge secured himself a spot in the second round. Colledge has exceptional footwork, making him one of the premier pass blockers in the draft class. While he needs to add strength and weight to become a more dominant run blocker, Colledge is an NFL-ready technician that can give the Packers a giant upgrade at left guard now while offering a long-term solution at left tackle all the same.

(52) Greg Jennings, WR. Western Michigan
Javon Walker is no longer a Packer. No one doubts his athletic ability. Many doubt his ability to gel with the Packers as a teammate. Greg Jennings gives the Packers an explosive receiving option to make up for the loss of Walker. At 5'11"/197, Jennings is undersized, but by no means under-talented. Jennings runs excellent routes and has phenominal hands. Even at his small size, he is not unafraid to go across the middle. He has tremendous ability in the open field. It will be interesting to see how his 4.48 translates to the NFL. It appears he plays much faster than his timed speed in pads. Greg Jennings was simply a production machine in the MAC and offers Brett Favre one more offensive weapon.

Abdul Hodge is a sure-fire talent at linebacker

(67) Abdul Hodge, LB. Iowa
This pick was brilliant. The Packers need two linebackers. Having traded Javon Walker and shuffled a few more picks, the Packers managed to acquire five picks within the top 75. Hodge was one of those pieces that needed to be acquired to better the team. He is a very solid player that brings a physical mentality to the Packers. Undersized at 6'0"/236, Abdul Hodge plays much bigger than he is on paper. He can absolutely lay the lumber. He is very strong and uses good technique to allow himself to utilize all the size and strength that he possesses. The main knock on Hodge is that he is poor in coverage. However, with natural coverage linebackers in AJ Hawk and Nick Barnett, Hodge is an excellent compliment to them. He can leave the field on passing downs for a defensive back. While on the field, he can be an enforcer in the middle. It would not be surprising to see him accumulate more tackles than AJ Hawk in his rookie season.

(75) Jason Spitz, OG. Louisville
Marco Rivera and Mike Wahle were lost for last season. The loss was felt across the board. Daryn Colledge gave the Packers an elite left guard prospect in the second round, and Jason Spitz gives the Packers an elite right guard prospect in the third. Spitz is one of those players that does nothing excellently, but he does everything well. He is a no nonsense player that simply gets the job done. He had a productive career at Louisville where he simply dominated in the running game. A prototypical right guard, Spitz -along with Colledge- gives the Packers the caliber player required to replace the holes left behind by Wahle and Rivera.

Cory Rodgers is a dominant return man

(104) Cory Rodgers, WR. TCU
Continuing to try and surround Brett Favre with a better team, Cory Rodgers is a very valuable player. His speed is not elite (4.58), but he possesses excellent agility and quickness, making him an incredible return man. At 6'0"/190, he has excellent size for a kick returner. As an offensive player, Rodgers is a legitimate deep threat since he has a knack for using his athleticism to maximize the capacity of his undersized NFL frame. Likely a special teams contributer exclusively, Redgers is a proven return man that can give the Packers an advantage in the field position game.

(115) Will Blackmon, CB. Boston College
One of the premier sleeper prospects in the entire draft, Will Blackmon has the potential to develop into an absolute stud. At 6'0"/198, Blackmon has elite size. His 4.46 speed is not elite, but competently good, especially for a guy of his size. He is very smooth in man coverage, fitting the Packers' defensive scheme perfectly. Blackmon will come up and support the run while also possessing excellent hands to come down with the interception. Having been moved to wide receiver by Boston College last season, Blackmon will likely move back to defensive corner in the NFL. He is simply too athletic and too versatile to not like. He has the athleticism to develop into a star.

Ingle Martin is mobile and has a rocket arm

(148) Ingle Martin, QB. Furman
You really have to hate life if you are Aaron Rogers. Not only are you not going to be able to get playing time again this year with Prett Favre back in town, but the team is drafting a quarterback this year. Ingle Martin has an absolute cannon for an arm. His 6'2"/220 frame is not ideal, but competent. His 4.65 is very good and allows him to move around well both inside and outside of the pocket. A versatile player, Martin was also an All-American punter. He will put pressure on Rogers in the backup role, and will also supply depth in the special teams department. Most of all, the Packers have to love his big arm a la Brett Favre himself.

(165) Tony Moll, OT. New Mexico
This pick was a bit awkward. Having already draft two offensive lineman, the Packers continued the trend, but with a serious reach pick. Tony Moll was totally off the radar with many teams. At 6'4"/280, Moll is vastly undersized to play tackle in the NFL. It is possible the team considers him an option at left guard, but you have to believe that Moll is a couple years from even being close to cracking a starting lineup in the NFL. His 5.10 speed is very average and he managed but 18 bench reps at 225lbs. Nevertheless, he is the Packers guy here. They must really like him.

Johnny Jolly is an immovable object in the middle

(183) Johnny Jolly, DT. Texas A&M
Another player who does many things well but nothing elitely well, Johnny Jolly is a solid value pickup for the Packers. At 6'3"/317, Jolly has good size. He is very strong and powerful at the point of attack. He gets very good push up the middle. With some added strength and bulk, he could develop into an excellent situational run stuffer. At the very least, he can supply an option for the team in goalline and short yardage sets.

(185) Tyrone Culver, S. Fresno State
You are going to have to pull Tyrone Culver away from pulling teeth to get him to sign with the Packers. Culver is an excellent, underrated prospect with an NFL frame at 6'1"/195 and NFL speed at 4.56. He supports the run and is consistent in coverage. Nevertheless, Culver is very willing to pass up an opportunity to play in the NFL to go to dental school. Projecting only as a backup safety in the NFL, Culver sees his life as being better off as a Dentist than anything. Should the Packers pull Culver away from dental school, they may have found an excellent contributer on kick-off coverage and a solid depth option in the defensive backfield. With twelve picks, stabbing on a guy like Culver is acceptable.

(253) Dave Tollefson, DE. Northwest Missouri State
Dave Tollefson was an All-American at Northwest Missouri State. He had 16.5 sacks during his senior campaign. At 6'4"/255, he has very good size for an defensive end prospect. He is a very good pass rusher that tends to strguggle shedding blocks in the running game. Nevertheless, Tollefson could be a valuable commodity on an NFL team as a situational pass rusher. Looking for more help with their passing defense, Tollefson could become a piece of that puzzle. He could easily develop into a much better pass rusher than Aaron Kampmann. He simply can make plays in the defensive backfield.

Detroit Lions Grade

2006-05-01T03:46:00.000-07:00

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Detroit Lions (B+)
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(9) Ernie Sims, OLB. Florida State
(40) Daniel Bullocks, S. Nebraska
(74) Brian Calhoun, RB. Wisconsin
(141) Jonathan Scott, OT. Texas
(179) Alton McCann, CB. West Virginia
(217) Fred Matua, OG. USC
(247) Anthony Cannon, LB. Tulane
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Being a hard-nosed, defensive-minded coach, Rod Marinelli let Lions fans know his defensive philosophy through his first draft. First and foremost, speed is a priority. The Lions' second round pick, Daniel Bullocks, is evidence of this. His 4.39 speed is truly elite for a safety. Secondly, size is not a factor. Ninth overall pick, Ernie Sims exemplifies this with his 5'11"/231 frame. Lastly, you must be physical. Sims, Bullocks, McCann, and Cannon are all hard-hitting players who are unrelenting in their physical styles. Offensively, the Lions are set at the skill positions and needed only to add talent to the offensive line. Utilizing the depth that was present at the offensive line positions, the Lions were able to grab two seasoned veterans from major, winning programs in Jon Scott and Fred Matua. After a solid day one, the Lions hit a home run on day two.

(9) Ernie Sims, OLB. Florida State
It was no secret that the Lions coveted Michael Huff with this pick. Having missed out on the Texas safety, Ernie Sims was the next best thing. In the back of his mind, Rod Marinelli may have even wished Huff to be off the board so that he could grab his Derrick Brooks pedigree in Ernie Sims. Sims is a freakishly athletic linebacker with excellent range. His 5'11"/231 size is short by normal standards, but Sims plays much bigger than that. At Florida State, the offensive staff personally asked Sims to take it easy in practice because they were afraid that his viciously hard hits would injure their players. Sims uses his strength and agility to shed blockers better than any linebacker in the draft, allowing him to work through traffic and make plays against the run. In coverage, he can use his 4.50 speed to stick with most any tight end or running back stride-for-stride. Having the same profile as Derrick Brooks, you can bet that Rod Marinelli really wanted Ernie Sims for his defense.

Bullocks is both fast and physical

(40) Daniel Bullocks, S. Nebraska
Daniel Bullocks flew under the radar among a very talented group of defensive backs in this year's draft class. However, he is an excellent prospect in his own right. At 6'1"/212, Bullocks has ideal size for the safety position. He uses his 4.39 speed to fly all over the field to make plays on the ball. He is a physical player, unafraid to support the run. As a centerfielder, he has a knack for coming up with the interception. The major knock against Bullocks is his stiff hips which disallow him from guarding NFL receivers in man coverage. However, in the Cover 2 scheme, safeties are rarely in man coverage on receivers. Dropped back in zone, Bullocks plays as well as any safety in the draft, making him a perfect fit for the Lions and their scheme.

(74) Brian Calhoun, RB. Wisconsin
This pick has to have you scratching your head as a Lions fan. Having drafted Kevin Jones in the first round two years ago and having Shawn Bryson supplying depth as a third-down type back, you would not think of running back as a first-day need for the Lions. This pick is simply one of value. With Mike Martz making the offensive decisions in Detroit, it is very hard to not trust this selection. Last season, Kevin Jones showed durability issues, and Calhoun may be able to offer an impact from day one. A standout at Wisconsin, Calhoun averaged 27 carries per game and set the Wisconsin record for touchdowns in one season with 22. Lacking ideal size at 5'9"/201, Clahoun has all-world quickness and speed (4.38) and oustanding hands out of the backfield. You wonder if -just as Rod Marinelli may have wanted Michael Huff off the board so he could grab Ernie Sims- Mike Martz sees Marshall Faulk in Brian Calhoun enough to be glad that Marcus McNeil and Eric Winston were off the board, allowing him to grab the best player available. At the very least, Brian Calhoun will be an excellent third-down back for the Lions.

If whipped into shape by Rod Marinelli, Jon
Scott could become a force at left tackle

(141) Jonathan Scott, OT. Texas
Having passed completely on offensive line on day one, the Lions utilized the depth that was present in this year's draft class by grabbing an excellent value selection in Jonathan Scott. Scott is an excellent blocker with excellent size at 6'6"/316. He has very good footwork and competent speed (5.31) to get to the second level of attack. He is experienced, durable, and quite polished. Scott was among second-round considerations until the Texas Pro Day, where he only managed 17 strengh reps @ 225lbs. Much like LenDale White fell into Tennessee's laps in the second round, Jon Scott was gift-wrapped for the Lions in the fifth. Needing to be whipped into shape, there are few -if any- coaching staffs in the NFL capable of working more disciplinarian magic than the Lions' staff. If Rod Marinelli whips Jon Scott into shape, he can become a very good left tackle in the NFL. With left tackles so hard to find, grabbing one in the fifth round is a steal.

(179) Alton McCann, CB. West Virginia
Continuing with the physical defensive mindset, Rod Marinelli grabbed a prototypical Cover 2 corner in Alton McCann. The 5'11"/197 corner has excellent size and strength to get an effective jam at the line of scrimmage. A tough, physical player, McCann is willing to support the run and use his reliable tackling skills. McCann also possesses excellent instincts to get a jump on the ball and come up with the interception. Having been in the shadow of Adam 'Pac Man' Jones at west Virginia, McCann had a chance to prove himself as the #1 cornerback on the team this year, and he responded. Lacking elite speed (4.57) and footwork in man coverage, McCann's flaws will be ironed out in the Lions' scheme. McCann will compete for a job in the Lions nickel package this season and could have an impact on the kick-off team at the very least.

Fred Matua was an absolute steal in the 7th round

(217) Fred Matua, OG. USC
Sitting in front of the TV, looking back at the Lions picks to this point and the players left on the board, Fred Matua was the name that came to mind as the clear-cut option before the pick was turned in. I was not surprised at all to see his name called. This pick made so much sense that it made another piece in the perfect day two puzzle that the Lions constructed. Matua is undersized at 6'2"/306, but he is exceptionally mobile. He has extremely good footwork, but he is also very strong. Even at just 306lbs, he can dominate you at the point of attack in the running game. He has a nasty demeanor on the field. He left after his junior year due to his mother's diagnosis with breast cancer. His stock would have been better served with another year in school, but with a proper development at the NFL level, Matua projects as a starter at left guard in the NFL before it is all said and done.

(247) Anthony Cannon, LB. Tulane
At 5'11"/220, Anthony Cannon is an undersized inside linebacker. What he lacks in size he makes up for in speed. He was timed at 4.69 and has the coverage abilities to play safety. However, his tackling skills are sufficient enough for his to have made over 100 tackles and all-conference honors as a middle linebacker each of the past two years in Conference USA. If you put the pieces of the puzzle together, an undersized, fast, smooth, yet powerful linebacker just screams special teams ace. Cannon can have a legitimate impact in that facet of the game as well as supply depth as a linebacker with his Cover 2 skill set.

Minnesota Vikings Grade

2006-05-01T02:27:00.000-07:00

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Minnesota Vikings (B)
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(17) Chad Greenway, OLB. Iowa
(48) Cedric Griffin, CB. Texas
(51) Ryan Cook, C. New Mexico
(64) Tavaris Jackson, QB. Alabama State
(127) Ray Edwards, DE. Purdue
(149) Greg Blue, S. Georgia
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There were a few certainties for the Minnesota Vikings and their draft. It was well documented that the team would not make it out of day one without drafting a quarterback. Trading up into the late second round, the Vikings got Tarvaris Jackson from Alabama State. Having missed out on Jay Cutler in the first round, it was assumed that weakside linebacker was their primary need area. Chad greenway feels that need perfectly. He is a prototype for the position. Needing depth in the secondary and a potential starter at offensive guard, the Vikings acquired both before the end of the second round in Cedric Griffin and Ryan Cook. Having moved around on day one, the Vikings were short picks on the second day and were forced to take sure-fire commodities. In Ray Edwards and Greg Blue, the Vikings did exactly that.

(17) Chad Greenway, OLB. Iowa
Needing a WILL linebacker, the Vikings found an excellent value in Chad Greenway at #17. With Mike Tomlin bringing the Cover 2 from Tampa Bay to Minnesota, a rangy, athletic option at linebacker was needed. Chad Greenway fits this profile perfectly. A projected top ten pick after his senior season, Greenway slipped out of the mix of first round locks after a 4.75 timing in the 40-yard dash at the combine. With a 4.58 time at his Iowa pro day, Greenway found himself firmly back in the first round. Game film shows Greenway all over the field. He has sideline-to-sideline range and works excellent in coverage. At 6'3"/242, Greenway has NFL ready size to compliment his NFL-ready skill set. This is a perfect fit for Minnesota.

Cedric Griffin is the best true Cover 2
cornerback in the entire draft class

(48) Cedric Griffin, CB. Texas
With a shift in defensive scheme comes a shift in personnel. Cedric Griffin is the best true Cover 2 cornerback in the draft class. At 6'0"/199, he has excellent size to play aggressively at the line of scrimmage. He is very physical and displays a good burst off the line. He is smart, instinctive, and supports the run with atuhority. Projected as a safety in a more heavy man coverage scheme, Griffin is a prototypical Cover 2 corner because what he lacks in speed (4.55), he makes up for in physicality and instincts. A durable and productive player on the heralded Texas defense, Cedric Griffin will be able to contribute as a nickel back this year for the Vikings, grabbing a starting role over Antoine Winfield or Fred Smoot in a year or two.

(51) Ryan Cook, C. New Mexico
Offensive guard is a major concern for the Vikings. Steve Hutchinson is an excellent addition on the left side of the line. He will make Vikings' fans very happy as Chester Taylor is slated to have a huge year. On the right side, a massive road grader was needed and found in Ryan Cook. A center at New Mexico, Cook has the size at 6'7"/318 and athleticism to move seamlessly to guard. Cook has excellent feet, making him a very good pass blocker, but he is also extraordinarily strong and can dominate the running game. Cook has relatively poor speed at 5.50 and he struggles with playing too upright due to his towering height, but he will offer the Vikings a potential first-year starter at right guard this season. Having has much experience at center, he will also give them legitimate depth behind Matt Birk who was sorely missed due to injury last season.

Tarvaris Jackson reminds you of Daunte Culpepper

(64) Tarvaris Jackson, QB. Alabama State
Having lost Daunte Culpepper to Miami for a second round pick, the Vikings chose to trade up into the second round to grab an heir to the throne: Tarvaris Jackson. Having been clocked as the hardest-throwing passer at the combine, Jackson can simply make all the throws one needs to in the NFL. An excellent athlete, Jackson uses his 6'2"/226 size and 4.68 speed to make plays outside of the pocket. Having played at Alabama State, Jackson lacks experience against top competition and is still very raw as a result; however, he has all the skills to become a dominant player in the NFL. Perhaps a reach in the second round, the Viking must have simply seen potential greatness in Tarvaris Jackson the likes of which warranted moving up to acquire him.

(127) Ray Edwards, DE. Purdue
With only two day two picks, the Vikings had no room to gamble. Ray Edwards is an excellent pick for this reason. A proven player at Purdue, Edwards still has the upside to develop into a truly dominant defensive end at the NFL level. Edwards has excellent size at 6'5"/273 and very good mobility and speed (4.79). Edwards is an athletic pass rusher who also shows signs of power while stopping the run. After an impressive sophomore campaign, Edwards production slipped in 2005; but, one can not forget the potential that he has. At the same time, he has an opportunity to have an immediate impact as a situational pass rusher opposite Eramus James.

Greg Blue is an enforcer at safety

(149) Greg Blue, S. Georgia
There in no harder hitting safety in the 2006 draft class than Greg Blue. Blue can simply lay the lumber. His 6'2"/216 size is ideal to compliment his style. Blue's 4.71 speed at the combine leaft questions regarding his coverage abilities. However, at the Georgia pro day, Blue managed at 4.55 time, securing his image as a complete safety prospect. Originially considered a sure-fire day one pick, Blue slipped due to the early arrivals of underclassmen defensive backs. Blue's most major knock lies in the fact that he has picked off only two passes during his entire career. Nevertheless, as an in-the-box safety, Blue is a much better prospect than 3rd round pick, Eric Smith of Michigan State.

Chicago Bears Grade

2006-05-01T00:31:00.000-07:00

-------------------------------------------------------------------
Chicago Bears (C-)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
(42) Danieal Manning, DB. Albeliene Christian
(57) Devin Hester, CB. Miami
(73) Dusty Dvoracek, DT. Oklahoma
(120) Jamar Williams, OLB. Arizona State
(159) Mark Anderson, DE. Alabama
(195) JD Runnels, FB. Oklahoma
(200) Tyler Reed, OG. Penn State
-------------------------------------------------------------------

The Bears had one of the most glaring needs among all teams entering the draft: the passing game. Mushin Muhommad is an excellent target, but beyond him lies very few legitimate options. Desmond Clark is not an impact player by any means as a pass catcher at tight end, and the receiving corp rouded out by Bernard Berrian and Justin Gage leaves a lot to be desired. Devin Hester has the potential to develop into a receiver, since his corner skills were not even good enough to warrant starting status at Miami, and JD Runnels is an excellent receiver out of the backfield for a fullback. Nevertheless, the Bears managed to grab neither a true receiver nor a pass catching tight end. Management reminded Bears' fans where their bread is buttered: defense. Danieal Manning sured up a secondary with legitimate question marks and Dusty Dvoracek and Mark Williams offer the team dynamic defesnive lineman. Jamar Williams has the profile of Lance Briggs and could surprise as his eventual replacement as an ouside linebacker. Overall, the team filled every defensive need and then some while neglecting their most glaring need: the receiving game.

(42) Danieal Manning, DB. Albeliene Christian
Having sacrificed a third round pick to acquire Ricky Manning from Carolina, I expected the Bears to pass on a defensive back until the second day of the draft. However, Danieal Manning still makes sense here. He is a top-notch athlete with experience both at cornerback and safety. While Chris Harris and Mike Green both offer competent, but unglamorous, options at free safety, the Bears may have found their future franchise safety in Danieal Manning. Coming from a smaller school, Albeliene Christian, Danieal is likely at least one year from seeing consistent on-field time for the Bears. However, he could give them a major weapon if he picks up the defense and progresses anywhere near his All-Pro potential.

Devin Hester is a dynamic return man with potential
to provide a pass catching option on offense

(57) Devin Hester, CB. Miami
Devin Hester was the most dominant return man in the country since stepping foot on the Miami University campus. Rarely kicked to in college, Hester has the ability to take the football the distance each and every time he touches the ball. Having lost return man Jerry Azumeh, the Bears give themselves a dynamic return man in Hester. Unable to be more than a dime or nickel back in the secondary at the next level, Hester might be converted into receiver. If he develops well, he could legitimately address some of the Bears' needs in the passing game. Nevertheless, he is years away from being a reliable pass-catching target in the NFL. #57 seems a little high to draft a return man with not more than dime back and #3 receiver potential.

Dusty Dvoracek is disruptive inside on passing downs

(73) Dusty Dvoracek, DT. Oklahoma
Dusty Dvoracek is a tenacious pass rusher. He has excellent speed (5.03) for his 6'3"/306 frame. He is an intense athlete on the field who is aggressive and attacking at all times. A superior student, Dvoracek has managed honors-level marks at Oklahoma and scored highest (41) among all prospects in the Wonderlic at the Combine. Slightly undersized for an NFL defensive tackle, Dvoracek is a guy who can come into the mix immediately as a situational pass rusher up the middle to compliment Tommie Harris. The only question mark surrounding Dvoracek is his off-the-field issues with public intoxication and bar fighting. Dusty has been charged with repeat violations even after submitting himself to substance abuse and anger management programs.

(120) Jamar Williams, OLB. Arizona State
At 6'0"/236, Jamar Williams is undersized. His 4.62 speed is very good as he has been seen making plays all over the field at Arizona State. He fits the Bears scheme perfectly. He is an explosive hitter that can punish you if you chose to come his way. Most of all, Williams is a leader on and off the field. He was the heart and soul of the Sun Devils. With Lance Briggs looking like a guy who will be leaving Chicago next year, Williams offers the Bears a player with the exact same player profile would could develop into a starter after a year of training.

Mark Anderson is a freak athlete that is a steal at #159

(159) Mark Anderson, DE. Alabama
One of the best value picks of the second day, Mark Anderson will be a welcome addition tot he defensive line in Chicago. At 6'4"/254, Anderson dominated the combine in the timed and measured events. He placed either first or second in every event: 40-yard dash, 20-yard shuttle, three cone drill, vertical jump, and standing broad jump. However, Anderson was not just a workout warrior. He had a solid campaign at Alabama last season. While lacking the bulk and leverage to play well against the run, Anderson can have an immediate impact as a situational pass rusher. D'Brickashaw Ferguson said Mark Anderson was the toughest player to pass block in the entire country.

(195) JD Runnels, FB. Oklahoma
Offensively, the Bears are a power running team. This centers around a powerful fullback. JD Runnels brings the inside-the-tackles power blocking to the Bears. At 6'0"/237, Runnels is undersized by NFL fullback standards, but he plays much bigger than his size. His 4.65 speed allows him to get to the second level and around the end on sweep plays. However, most of all, Runnels is an excellent receiver out of the backfield. He offers the Bears a potential 3rd down back should he develop properly. With so much invested into the Bears running game via Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson it makes sense to have insurance at the fullback position which is so critical to the success of the Bears power running game.

(200) Tyler Reed, OG. Penn State
The Bears finished their draft by adding depth to the offensive line. The line is getting older and certainly could use some depth. Addressing this need area in the 6th round, with the team's last pick, seems a bit late. However, Tyler Reed is a proven talent from a big conference that will give them some fallback options. He gives them a backup at both guard spots and possibly even right tackle. While it is likely he will develop into a starter, Reed is just a solid pick that can not be argued with at this point in the draft. Needing a sure thing for the offensive line, the Bears found that in Tyler Reed.

Draft Grades

2006-05-01T00:15:00.000-07:00

NFC North

NFC East

NFC South...Coming 5/5
Bucs, Panthers, Falcons, Saints

NFC West...Coming 5/5
Seahawks, Rams, Cardinals, 49ers

AFC North...Coming 5/6
Bengals, Steelers, Ravens, Browns

AFC East...Coming 5/6
Patriots, Dolphins, Bills, Jets

AFC South...Coming 5/7
Colts, Jaguars, Titans, Texans

AFC West...Coming 5/7
Broncos, Chiefs, Chargers, Raiders

TE Rankings

2006-04-26T13:26:00.000-07:00

(7) Vernon Davis, Maryland (6'4"/263, 4.38)
(30) Mercedes Lewis, UCLA (6'6"/261, 4.84)
(40) Leonard Pope, Georgia (6'8"/258, 4.62)
Joe Klopfenstein, Colorado (6'6"/255, 4.56)
Anthony Fasano, Notre Dame (6'4"/259, 4.71)
Dominique Byrd, USC (6'4"/255, 4.79)
David Thomas, Texas (6'3"/252, 4.67)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- QB / RB / WR / TE / OT / OG / C / DT / DE / OLB / ILB / CB / S --
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Elite Prospect
First-Rounder
Late 1/Early 2
Second-Rounder
Day One Prospect

OG Rankings

2006-04-26T13:20:00.000-07:00

(36) Davin Joseph, Oklahoma (6'3"/311, 5.09)
(46) Taitusi Lutui, USC (6'4"/334, 5.37)
(49) Max Jean-Giles, Georgia (6'4"/355, 5.47)
Charles Spencer, Pittsburgh (6'5"/352, 5.28)
Jason Spitz, Louisville (6'4"/313, 5.38)
Kevin Boothe, Cornell (6'5"/316, 5.41)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- QB / RB / WR / TE / OT / OG / C / DT / DE / OLB / ILB / CB / S --
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Elite Prospect
First-Rounder
Late 1/Early 2
Second-Rounder
Day One Prospect

Prospect Video

2006-04-24T03:01:00.000-07:00

QB:
Jay Cutler, Vanderbilt
Bio (1:48)
Press Conference (9:48)

Matt Leinart, USC
Bio (2:00)
Highlight (3:07)
Press Conference (2:46)

Reggie McNeal, Texas A&M
Highlight (4:23)

Marcus Vick, Virginia Tech
Press Conference (4:28)

Vince Young, Texas
Bio (3:13)
Highlight (3:59)
Press Conference (4:33)

RB:
Joseph Addai, LSU
Press Conference (1:44)

Reggie Bush, USC
Bio (3:20)
Highlight (3:43)
Press Conference (16:59)

Brian Calhoun, Wisconsin
Highlight (0:08)

Maurice Drew, UCLA
Press Conference (2:52)

Deangelo Williams, Memphis
Highlight (3:07)
Press Conference (9:19)

WR:
Santonio Holmes, Ohio State
Press Conference (7:44)

Chad Jackson, Florida
Highlight (2:00)

Greg Jennings, Western Michigan
Highlight (1:43)

Sinorice Moss, Miami
Press Conference (6:31)

Maurice Stovall, Notre Dame
Press Conference (4:24)

TE:
Vernon Davis, Maryland
Bio (1:32)
Highlight (0:57)

Mercedes Lewis, UCLA
Highlight (1:08)
Press Conference (3:56)

Leonard Pope, Georgia
Press Conference (5:10)

OG:
Max Jean-Giles, Georgia
Press Conference (8:19)

Taitusi Lutui, USC
Press Conference (3:36)

OT:
D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Virginia
Bio (1:35)
Press Conference (8:20)

Winston Justice, USC
Bio (1:09)

DT:
Haloti Ngata, Oregon
Bio (1:08)
Press Conference (4:52)

DE:
Chris Gocong, Cal Poly
Press Conference (8:27)

Tamba Hali, Penn State
Press Conference (5:36)

Manny Lawson, NC State
Press Conference (6:43)

Darryl Tapp, Virginia Tech
Press Conference (4:27)

Mario Williams, NC State
Bio (2:18)
Press Conference (6:40)

OLB:
AJ Hawk, Ohio State
Bio (1:25)

Ernie Sims, Florida State
Highlight (0:19)

CB:
Darnall Bing, USC
Press Conference (4:01)

Antonio Cromartie, Florida State
Highlight (0:14)

Cedric Griffin, Texas
Highlight (0:17)

Richard Marshall, Fresno State
Highlight (2:29)

Demario Minter, Georgia
Press Conference (4:07)

Jimmy Williams, Virginia Tech
Highlight (1:01)
Press Conference (5:17)

S:
Michael Huff, Texas
Bio (1:14)
Highlight (2:57)
Press Conference (6:00)

Ko Simpson, South Carolina
Press Conference (3:45)

Video: Jay Cutler (Combine PC)

2006-04-24T00:35:00.000-07:00

Video: Reggie McNeal (Highlight)

2006-04-23T18:00:00.002-07:00

Video: Ko Simpson (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T18:00:00.001-07:00

Video: Michael Huff (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

Video: Darnell Bing (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:59:00.001-07:00

Video: Jimmy Williams (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:59:00.000-07:00

Video: Haloti Ngata (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:58:00.002-07:00

Video: Mario Williams (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:58:00.001-07:00

Video: Sinorice Moss (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:58:00.000-07:00

Video: Maurice Stovall (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:57:00.001-07:00

Video: Mercedes Lewis (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:57:00.000-07:00

Video: Tamba Hali (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

Video: Leonard Pope (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:54:00.001-07:00

Video: Vince Young (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:54:00.000-07:00

Video: Santonio Holmes (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

Video: Marcus Vick (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:51:00.000-07:00

Video: Matt Leinart (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:50:00.000-07:00

Video: Deangelo Williams (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:34:00.000-07:00

Video: Joe Addai (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:33:00.001-07:00

Video: Maurice Drew (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:33:00.000-07:00

Video: Reggie Bush (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:32:00.001-07:00

Video: D'Brickashaw Ferguson (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:28:00.000-07:00

Video: Max Jean-Giles (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:27:00.001-07:00

Video: Taitusi Lutui (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:27:00.000-07:00

Video: Chris Gocong (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:26:00.001-07:00

Video: Darryl Tapp (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:26:00.000-07:00

Video: Demario Minter (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T17:25:00.000-07:00

Video: Manny Lawson (Combine PC)

2006-04-23T16:33:00.001-07:00

Video: Reggie Bush (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:29:00.000-07:00

Video: Vernon Davis (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:28:00.002-07:00

Video: Jay Cutler (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:28:00.001-07:00

Video: D'Brickashaw Ferguson (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:28:00.000-07:00

Video: Winston Justice (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:27:00.002-07:00

Video: AJ Hawk (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:27:00.001-07:00

Video: Matt Leinart (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:27:00.000-07:00

Video: Mario Williams (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:26:00.001-07:00

Video: Vince Young (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:26:00.000-07:00

Video: Haloti Ngata (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T06:25:00.000-07:00

Video: Michael Huff (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:21:00.000-07:00

Video: Vernon Davis (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:20:00.001-07:00

Video: Reggie Bush (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:20:00.000-07:00

Video: Vince Young (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:19:00.001-07:00

Video: Cedric Griffin (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:19:00.000-07:00

Video: Matt Leinart (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:17:00.001-07:00

Video: Chad Jackson (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:17:00.000-07:00

Video: Ernie Sims (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:16:00.000-07:00

Video: Antonio Cromartie (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:14:00.001-07:00

Video: Greg Jennings (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:14:00.000-07:00

Video: Richard Marshall (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

Video: Jimmy Williams (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:11:00.000-07:00

Video: Deangelo Williams (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

Video: Brian Calhoun (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:09:00.000-07:00

Video: Mercedes Lewis (Highlight)

2006-04-23T06:03:00.000-07:00

Video: Michael Huff (NFL Network)

2006-04-23T05:59:00.000-07:00

Last Minute Moves

2006-04-22T21:14:00.000-07:00

The Draft will be here in less than a week, and news is flying off the press. This past week, three moves have caused significant adjustments to the texture of the draft. In the final days upcoming, there will certainly be more moves of note. Further updates need to and will be made to the Mock Draft that was updated on 4/21.

The Draft is taking shape

The San Francisco 49ers made the biggest splash by trading the 37th and 68th overall picks for Denver's 22nd overall selection. By moving into the first round, the 49ers are telling their fans that they need impact players. While this is true, it is also true that the 49ers have many holes to fill. By sacrificing one first day pick, they may have cost themselves the opportunity to nab another player that could fill a hole on their roster. At the same time, the team can not be faulted. With a legitimate prospect likely making it to #22, the 49ers can get a player that can start and have an impact from week one. Look for the team to either target a prolific pass rusher like Manny Lawson and Kamerion Wimbley or a versatile defensive back like Jimmy Williams and Jason Allen. This selection will hinge on their first pick at #6. AJ Hawk would mean defensive back; Vernon Davis would mean pass rushing linebacker.

Mike Nolan has traded up to get a difference maker

The Denver Broncos, moving down, allow themselves to get better value while filling team need areas. Up front, the team needs a pass rusher, and with names like Tamba Hali and Mathias Kiwanuka slipping down draft boards recently, a move to #37 allows the Broncos to grab one of these two without reaching. At #68, the Broncos regain a third round selection, giving themselves a chance to grab a safety or a tight end with good value. Interestingly, the Broncos actually tried to move up the board as Plan A. The team offered the Green Bay Packers both of their first round picks (#15 and #22) for the Packers pick at #5. This would have given the Broncos a chance at tight end, Vernon Davis. However, the Packers refused this offer, and now the Broncos have taken a different angle. Nevertheless, don't rule out the Broncos trying to move the #15, #37, and #61 picks for the Packers #5. Vernon Davis is a guy that the Broncos really have their eye on.

Lavar Arrington is now a Giant

There is no doubt that Lavar Arrington can be a dominant football player. He has rare athleticism. He is one of the most dangerous pass rushers in the league from the outside linebacker spot in the 4-3. He is now a New York Giant. With the acquisition, the Giants can now focus their energies elsewhere in round one. Wide receiver Sinorice Moss is a legitimate option as he would supply the team with an explosive option to compliment both Plaxico Burress in the receiving game and Willie Ponder in the return game. Finding a cornerback before the depth is gone in round two is also a legitimate option. The Giants pass defense was simply horrible last year.

Ricky Manning sures up the Bears secondary

Figured to draft a defensive back in round one, the Bears have filled their need in the form of Ricky Manning. Manning is the perfect corner to offer insurance for the up and down Charles Tillman. Now, the Bears can address their most glaring need: the receiving game. It appears that Sinorice Moss is the most likely candidate as the Bears first round pick. Should he be off the board, a tight end like Leonard Pope or Mercedes Lewis would be an excellent Plan B.

The draft is taking its final steps to solidification. The 49ers, Broncos, Giants, and Bears all made the necessary adjustments to put themselves in a better positionfor the draft. Keep your eye out for a new mock draft. With each new mock comes more certainty. Lets see if any other team takes a chance

Beer Run

2006-04-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

Beer and the NFL are like peas and carrots

Football and beer are inseparable. In an effort to make the running backs in this year's draft class inseparable from memory, I have characterized each of the top seven prospects to a beer. Like an ice cold beer on the Fourth of July, Enjoy!

Maurice Drew - Michelob Ultra

At 5'6", Maurice Drew has been told many times that he is too small to play at the next level. He has quieted the doubters to the tune of becoming a top NFL prospect. In the NFL, Maurice Drew projects as a situational back, working well in select situations just as Michelob Ultra works well for those with select dietary needs. There is a time and a place for a light alternative, and both Drew and Michelob Ultra offer that. As a guy who has spent his entire life in southern California, you can bet Maurice Drew has seen a few Michelob Ultras drank in his day.

Brian Calhoun - Ice Man

There is nothing glamorous about Brian Calhoun's game. Averaging over 27 carries per game, he quietly amassed 1,646 yards this past season. What better beer to characterize a hard-nosed Badger running back than a Wisconsin-brewed malt liquor: Ice Man. After drinking a 40-ounce of Ice Man, you can bet that you are going to get to the promised land. Last season, no running back in the country got to the promised land more than Brian Calhoun, who scored 22 touchdowns. One way or another, Calhoun just gets the job done.

Joseph Addai - Heineken

Joseph Addai has the tools to be great. He has 4.40 timed speed; he is an outstanding receiver out of the backfield; he is a very good pass protector; he can run inside and outside the tackles. Like a Heineken, Addai has it all. Addai's most major knock is that he has only has one year of experience. In the same way, Heineken is a beer that most people know little about. The question remains whether Heineken would be just as interesting a beer if it was experienced regularly just as the jury is still out on Addai as an every-down back.

Laurence Maroney - Miller High Life

Laurence Maroney is highly regarded for having had a champagne career. He operated in the dominant Minnesota rushing system and had one of the best offensive lines in the country paving his way. In that way, he is like the Champagne of Beers: Miller High Life. On a hot summer day, a sizzling grill and a cold High Life make for a perfect combination. But, it always seems that with one flip of a burger, the beer is gone. In the same way, Maroney can be gone in the blink of an eye. He is a threat to score each and every time he touches the football.

LenDale White - Guinness

Perhaps the most obvious choice, nothing says 240-lb running back quite like a Guinness Stout. It is no secret that LenDale White is oversized and underworked. White was described by scouts as "portly" and "needing a bra" at the USC Pro Day. Nevertheless, no one can deny that LenDale brings excellent skills and oustanding production to the table. He averaged over 1,000 yards and 17 touchdowns duringh is three-year career at USC. In the same way, Guinness is one of the highest selling, most revered beers in the world.

Deangelo Williams - Pabst Blue Ribbon

Who is the NCAA record holder in all-purpose yards? It's Deangelo Williams. His 7,573 yards are 373 more than Ricky Williams' previous mark. Yet, among the Williamses, Ricky was a household name in 1998 and Deangelo is a relative unknown in 2006. Nothing says blue collar like an Arkansas boy breaking records playing football under the radar in Tennessee. In the same way, nothing says blue collar like Pabst Blue Ribbon. For the working man, Pabst fits the bill. It's good value, effective, and carries the right image. Projected to fall in the middle of round one, Deangelo Williams -too- is an excellent value.

Reggie Bush - Bud Light

No name carries more prestige in American College Football right now than Reggie Bush. Just as Budweiser is the King of Beers, Reggie is the King of College Football. He is an explosive, fast back that simply produces on the field. He can run both inside and outside, catch the ball out of the backfield, return kicks, and even be effective lining up in the slot. Bush is excellent in so many situations like a Budweiser is good at the game, in front of the tube, grilling on the back porch, or at the bar. The only question mark surrounding Reggie Bush is his size. At 5'11"/204, he is slightly undersized. For that reason, Reggie Bush is a Bud Light. Regardless, Reggie is the King.

Chow Down on the Titan's Dilemma

2006-04-17T00:43:00.000-07:00

No team has affected the action in the top ten of the draft more than the New Orleans Saints. Originally thought to be drafting a quarterback of the future in Matt Leinart, the Saints signed Drew Brees as a free agent. With that move, the Saints managed to take any and all bargaining power away from the Houston Texans. Eliminating any reasonable chance of Houston trading down, the Saints signing Brees locking Reggie Bush in at #1. On April 6th, the Saints made a deal with Atlanta to trade Mike Gandy, their thirteen year veteran left tackle, for Bryan Scott, a free safety. In doing so, the Saints broadcasted to the world just who they are targetting at #2: D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Virginia's elite offensive tackle prospect. The Titans are on the clock...

The Titans will go with either Young or Leinart at #3

Either Vince Young or Matt Leinart is expected to fall off the board at #3 to the Titans. Both signal callers offer compelling pluses and distinct minuses. Vince Young may have more potential than any quarterback in NFL Draft history. He has size, speed, and a rocket arm. Perhaps Pete Carroll said it best: "Vince Young is a special player." Compared to Michael Jordan, no scout doubts that Vince Young is unable to become of Jordan-esque caliber. On the other hand, Matt Leinart is as polished a collegiate quarterback to ever enter the draft. Having had four years of experience with a Pro-style offense at USC, Matt is simply ready to start in the NFL tomorrow. A two-time national champion, he is a proven winner. What Leinart lacks in upside and arm strength, he makes up for with top-of-the-world intangibles.

The majority opinion among draft gurus is that Matt Leinart will be the Titans selection. The common argument for this decision centers around the reunion of Matt with former offensive coordinator, Norm Chow. From 2002 to 2004, Matt Leinart had the privledge of being groomed by one of the premier offensive football minds in the world. Norm Chow is simply one of the most productive offensive coordinators in NCAA history. At Brigham Young, he coached six consecutive quarterbacks to become top three vote-getters for the Heisman trophy. At USC, Chow coached Matt Leinart into his third Heisman quarterback in 2004. Already being the most polished quarterback to come into the NFL in years, Leinart's transition to the next level would be made even easier being put into an offense that he is already familiar with. Yet, the biggest argument for drafting Matt Leinart is not Titan specific. Leinart wins games: period. Spanning almost three seasons, Leinart had won 34 consecutive games to the tune of two national titles. Winning is everything, and Matt Leinart has all the qualities of a natural-born champion.

A Leinart-Chow reunion in Tennessee seems perfect

Beyond Matt Leinart, Vince Young is the only reasonable candidate to be selected third overall to Tennessee. Young is a rare breed. No quarterback in draft history could draw striking comparison to the Longhorns' elite QB prospect. While Young may lack Michael Vick's speed, he has the lightening acceleration and freakish agility. Young has the size and arm strength of Drew Bledsoe, but Vince is hardly a statue in the pocket. Being a prospect incapable of comparison, Young has many teams uncomfortable with the idea of drafting someone so unfamiliar. Nevertheless, every scout with a pulse will claim that Vince Young has the capacity to become more valuable than any other player in the draft. One only has to recall the 41-38 thriller in the Rose Bowl this year to remember how dominating Vince Young can be. Amassing over 200 yards both through the air and on the ground, Young scored the last two touchdowns of the game, single-handedly dismantling the USC Dynasty. What Matt Leinart brings to the table as security, Vince Young brings in the form a significant risk-reward ratio.

So, whose name will be called by the Titans at #3? Will it be Norm Chow's USC Golden Boy in Matt Leinart? Or, will it be the rare athlete in Vince Young? Examining Norm Chow makes the picture seem much clearer. Chow gained a name for himself at BYU. His first of six consecutive Heisman-candidate quarterbacks was The Mormon Rifle, Gifford Nielsen. Nielson has examined Chow's history and noticed the variety of quarterbacks to have success under Chow: "Norm has the ability to take a look at what you've got and then say, 'Here's how I'm going to implement this offense around you.'" From Jim McMahon to Steve Young to Ty Detmer to Carson Palmer, Norm Chow has proven that his greatest ability as a coordinator is being able to manipulate an offense to accentuate the quarterback's strengths. Chow preaches this theme, "I've always thought that you have to fit your stuff more to the quarterback than the quarterback has to fit you." No matter the breed, every quarterback will have optimum success under Norm Chow. He is simply that good as a coordinator.

Former BYU Heisman candidate and current sportscaster,
Gifford Neilsen has noticed Norm Chow's versatility

Recall that every scout in America is willing to admit Vince Young has a higher ceiling than any other quarterback in the draft. Recall that Norm Chow is better than anyone alive at manipulating his system to bring out the best in a quarterback. The biggest question mark surrounding Vince Young is the difficulty he presents to offensive coordinators that will have to develop a unique scheme to allow him to be successful. Norm Chow eliminates this uncertainty. Under the supervision of Chow, Vince Young will have a higher probability of achieving Jordan-esque superstar status than under anyone else. While the common opinion is that the Chow-Leinart reunion would be perfect, it is in fact the Chow-Young marriage that is ideal. Everytime Norm Chow drops a tape of Vince Young's film into the VCR, you can bet that he is salivating at the opportunity to develop a scheme that will allow Young to use his incredible talents effectively in the NFL. Titan's GM, Floyd Reese, loves Vince Young's upside. Most of all, he loves the fact that his offensive coordinator allows him to draft either Leinart or Young without nervousness.

Vince Young makes sense from every angle

Steve McNair wants to play out his last years in Tennessee without significant pressure on his job from one of this year's elite quarterback prospects. Vince Young is at least one year away from starting in the NFL. McNair and Young already have an established relationship, as McNair has been mentoring Young for a few years. Norm Chow is licking his chops at the chance to develop an offense for Vince Young. Floyd Reese is enamored with Young's upside. All parties this side of Billy Volek would be happy with the drafting of Vince Young. Vince Young will be a Titan on draft day. Write it down.

About the Author

2006-04-16T17:21:00.000-07:00

Mark Bly

My name is Mark Bly. I am a 24-year-old sports fan hailing from Fort Wayne, Indiana. Among all events in the world of sports each year, the NFL Draft is my favorite. The economist in me enjoys the powers at work which dictate where players will fall. Anyone who knows me is aware that I am all about value. Enjoy.

More Than Brains in the Ivy League

2006-04-16T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Ivy League has been the Mecca of scholarly knowledge in America for almost four hundred years. From Bill Gates to Bill Nye, the Ivy Leagues have seen some of America's finest and brightest grace their halls. Less noticed is the athletic tradition in the conference. The annual contest in football between Harvard and Yale is referred to simply as, "The Game." Lesser noticed still are the athletes themselves as professional sports prospects. Kevin Boothe is an exception. Since his freshman year, he has been followed by NFL scouts. Currently, he is one of the top offensive line prospects in the draft class. His 6'5"/316 size is excellent, and his athleticism gives scouts the impression he can play either of the guard or tackle positions in the NFL. During his career at Cornell, Boothe was a dominating force. He has a hard-working mentality and finishes every play. Having had time to pick Kevin's mind, below is an exclusive interview with The Big Red's pigskin standout.

Kevin Boothe is a top sleeper prospect in the draft

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Q: What is your favorite aspect of the game of football?
A: Competing with my teammates to win.

Q: What facet of your game is most NFL-ready?
A: My mental side and my toughness.

Q: What scares you most about the NFL? Why?
A: I guess it would be not succeeding. I think that's a fear we all have
regardless of our profession. It's human nature.

Q: What excites you the most? Why?
A: The chance to win a Super Bowl; it has been a lifelong dream.

Q: When did you first realize you were going to be a draftable talent?
A: Probably after my first year starting at Cornell in 2002.

Q: What are you going to miss most about college?
A: Hanging out with teammates after games and in the summer.

Q: Growing up, what NFL player made you most want to become a professional player?
A: Jerry Rice

Q: Who was your favorite player in Tecmo Super Bowl?
A: Jerry Rice. Run all the way to the back of the endzone with Montana and let it fly.
---------------

Kevin is a very intriguing name to watch on draft day. While some teams undervalue his abilities since he has only played against relatively weak Ivy League competition, other teams are totally impressed with his size, athleticism, and toughness. In the mix with the top offensive lineman in the draft, Booth could fall off the board anywhere from the late 2nd round to the beginning of day two. My current projection has Boothe landing with the Bucs with the 90th overall pick in the third round, but keep an eye on the Jaguars, Lions, Packers, Redskins, and Saints as well.

Oakland Raiders Forecast

2006-04-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

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Oakland Raiders (4-12)
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(7) Vernon Davis, TE. Maryland
(38) Thomas Howard, OLB. UTEP
(69) Charles Spencer, OG. Pittsburgh
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The Raiders could have two draft picks per round and still be deficient on the field. The team has a bundle of needs that could be filled in a variety of ways on draft day. Most of the team needs lie on the defensive side of the ball. Up front, a big man in the middle is needed to fill the void of talent left behind by Ted Washington. With run-stuffing defensive tackles scarce in this draft class, the Raiders will have to find someone sooner than later to fill this need. On the edge, a pass rusher to compliment Derrick Burgess would be welcomed. In the secondary, a safety would round out the defensive backfield. In addition, the Raiders could stand to add a linebacker to play with Kirk Morrison and Danny Clark. Even they are a stretch as starters in the NFL. Offensively, the offensive line could use a true road-grader in the running game at right guard. Assuming Aaron Brooks is not the quarterback of the future for the franchise, finding a quality arm may be a priority.

Vernon Davis is the best athlete in the
draft. Al Davis simply can't pass on him.

(7) Vernon Davis, TE. Maryland
When has Al Davis ever filled a team need on draft day? He picks the best athlete available, period. Vernon Davis will be impossible to pass up on draft day for this reason. The only player to prevent this selection would be Vince Young. Davis is simply too talented. At 6'4"/263, Davis has good size. His 4.38 speed is unparalleled at the position. It is the fastest timing for a tight end in combine history. His 42" vertical allows him to go up and for the jump ball, and his 33 strength reps @ 225lbs make him stronger than most offensive lineman. He is the brand of athlete that Al Davis loves. Davis gives the Raiders a dangerous option in the passing game.

Thomas Howard is an amazing, Al-Davis type,
athlete that fills a huge need at linebacker

(38) Thomas Howard, OLB. UTEP
Thomas Howard is a safety with corner abilities trapped inside a linebacker's body. Needless to say, he is freakishly athletic. Having originally walked-on at UTEP as a safety, Howard gained twenty pounds during his freshman year and was abruptly moved to outside linebacker. Having had experience at safety, his coverage abilities are supurb. His 4.42 speed is capable of covering most number one's in the NFL. His 6'3"/239 size could be slightly improved upon, but Howard is by no means undersized. To boot, his pass rushing skills are excellent. Howard is still developing and may need time before he becomes a thirty down linebacker in the NFL, but he has the potential to redefine the position. Nevertheless, Al Davis loves players with speed and needs to draft at least two linebackers. Howard is a leading candidate to wear the silver and black.

(69) Charles Spencer, OG. Pittsburgh
With the pick at #36 not presenting good value to draft an offensive guard, the Raiders will surely address their need in the offensive front in the third round. Charles Spencer from Pittsburgh would be a very solid third round pick. Spencer is a converted defensive tackle who weghs in at 355 without losing his nimbleness or athleticism. He is an outstanding run blocker that has shown flashes of utter dominance. His 5.28 speed is incredibly impressive considering his size. He is a hard-working team leader that has the desire to be great. He has the athletic skill to develop into a top offensive guard in the NFL.

Al Davis loves pure athletes, and Vince Young
is as good as it gets in that department

(*) Vince Young, QB. Texas
Al Davis loves athletes: the more pure, the better. Recent first-round selections like Fabian Washington (CB, 2005), Phillip Buchannon (CB, 2002), Nnamdi Asomugha (CB, 2003), and Napolean Harris (MLB, 2002) suggest that Al Davis is willing to weigh athleticism over on-the-field production and intangibles. Aside from Reggie Bush, no football player in the draft is quite as outstanding as Vince Young. Vince Young can do things on the field that few people alive would dream of doing. He has size, speed, and a rocket for an arm. Put a quick release and lightning-fast decision-making skills on top of that, and you may just have the best quarterback prototype ever created. If Vince Young manages to slip out of the the top five, he will be staring Al Davis in the face at #7. I find it hard to believe that Haloti Ngata will be taken over Vince Young. Independent of having drafted Andrew Walter in the early third round last year, Vince Young may well be in the silver and black on draft day.

San Diego Chargers Forecast

2006-04-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

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San Diego Chargers (9-7)
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(19) Tye Hill, CB. Clemson
(50) Jon Scott, OT. Texas
(81) Demetrius Williams, WR. Oregon
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Among the disappointments in the NFL last season, the San Diego Chargers are near the top of the list. As dangerous as they were, you can be sure that all six AFC playoff teams were happy to see them on their couches in December. This upcoming season's success will hinge greatly on the productivity of Phillip Rivers at quarterback. We might see the reincarnation of QB Browns, Bernie Kosar, or perhaps we will get another dose of Ryan Leaf. The jury is still out. Wanting to surrounding Rivers with talent, the Chargers will likely grab him help both at receiver and offensive tackle on day one. Keeping Rivers protected will be a top priority since he lacks mobility. Defensively, the Chargers front seven has gone through a major upgrading process the past few years, and now the secondary possesses their glaring weaknesses. Marlon McCree is probably not the long-term solution at free safety.

(19) Tye Hill, CB. Clemson
Tye Hill is fast. His 4.30 timing was the fastest among all prospects at the combine. His 5'10" height is only average, leaving some scouts unwillingto place him among the top prospects. However, his height is passable by NFL standards. His coverage abilities, on the other hand, are very solid. He has fluid hips and has a knack for breaking up passes. He is a leaper that can go up and break away jump balls with receivers much taller than himself. Should he get fooled by a receiver, film study shows that he has a burst like no one in that draft in terms of closing speed. All signs point to Tye Hill being that elite cover corner capable of playing with any receiver in the league on an island. This is perfect for the Chargers, who need help in the secondary.

Jon Scott is an NFL-ready prospect that is
needed along the Charger offensive line

(50) Jon Scott, OT. Texas
With Roman Oben getting weeks older with each passing day, the Chargers need to find a young talent to groom into their left tackle of the future. Jonathan Scott is one of the more inconsistent players in the draft class. He can look very polished on one play, and on the next he will simply get lazy and make mistakes. Nevertheless, he has plus size at 6'6"/316 and great footwork to boot. He was an experienced and durable member of the Texas team that is reigning national champs. In time, he can refine his apathetic technique and become a left tackle in the NFL. Few players have the ability to do so. The Chargers are said to be very high on this guy, whose stock has been slipping due to his inconsistency.

Demetrius Williams is a dynamic receiving option

(81) Demetrius Williams, WR. Oregon
Charger fans should be worried about the future of their wide receivers. Keenan McCardell can only hold down the fort for so long. At 6'2"/197, Demetrius Williams plays faster than his 4.47 timed speed on the field. He is a tremendous leaper that adjusts well to the ball downfield. He is simply an incredible deep threat that is uncoverable in one-on-one situations. In the open field, he can make the most of the space that he is given, making him a weapon in the intermediate passing game as well. While Williams has to gain weight to be a 40-play NFL receiver, he would immediately give the Chargers a slot receiver that offers the offense another dynamic option in the passing game.

The Chargers simply lack a #1 receiver like Holmes

(*) Santonio Holmes, WR. Ohio State
If either Santonio Holmes or Chad Jackson make it to pick #19, you can bet the Chargers will put serious consideration into drafting a receiver. Santonio Holmes would likely present the biggest threat for such a selection. With Phillip Rivers starting week one of this season, the Chargers would prefer a receiver to contribute tomorrow. Chad Jackson simply lacks the necessary route-running skills to substantially contribute in the NFL this year. He is a bit of a project case that is probably one more off-season away from a starting lineup. Holmes is the type of receiver that is polished and explosive, giving the Chargers the #1 receiver they have not had in eons. History has told us that polished receivers with 4.34 speed fall much earlier than #19, so expect the Chargers to be stuck with defense on this selection.

Kansas City Chiefs Forecast

2006-04-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

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Kansas City Chiefs (10-6)
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(20) Antonio Cromartie, CB. Florida State
(54) Mark Anderson, DE. Alabama
(85) Claude Wroten, DT. LSU
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The Kansas City Chiefs have had an absolute juggernaut offense without a true number one receiver. As tempting as a guy like Santonio Holmes or Chad Jackson would be with their first overall pick, the Chiefs have far more holes on the defensive side of the ball that need filled. Most of all, they need playmakers that not only find the ball but also make the tackle. Up front, the Chiefs could use a playmaker both at defensive end and defensive tackle. A pass rusher to compliment the surprisingly productive rookie, Jared Allen, would make the holes in the Chiefs' secondary seem less prevalent. Adding a dynamic talent in the middle of the defense at tackle would also give the pass rush an added dimension. In the secondary, the Chiefs need to be able to cover two receivers. Sadly, Patrick Surtain can only cover one person at a time. Adding a legitimate cover corner would give the defensive coordinator the flexibility in play calling necessary for the defense to become more dynamic.

Antonio Cromartie is a playmaker with a
rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism

(20) Antonio Cromartie, CB. Florida State
The Kansas City Chiefs are in a position where they have to be willing to take calculated gambles when drafting their defensive players. If the Chiefs want to be a championship caliber team, they need to play catch-up with the league defensively and make quick work of it. Antonio Cromartie is the perfect player on which to take such a gamble. Cromartie is one of the most physically gifted athletes in the entire draft. His 6'2"/208 size is beyond ideal for a cornerback. When you combine that size with 4.29 speed (on grass), fluid hips to handle man coverage on an island, and excellent ball skills, Antonio Cromartie may well be the bronze-god mold of the perfect cornerback. Having torn his ACL, Cromartie did not have a chance to play this entire 2005 season. Needing to enter the draft to dispell financial concerns in his family, Cromartie has seen his stock rise from the fourth round to the middle of the first round. Anyone who runs a 4.29 forty and manages to look excellent in positional drills will put memory of an injury on the back burner. Cromartie is a big play waiting to happen; he simply lacks experience. However, he could end up being better than anyone in the entire draft class. His upside is incredible.

Mark Anderson is the athletic pass rusher that
would perfectly compliment rising star, Jared Allen

(54) Mark Anderson, DE. Alabama
Mark Anderson made himself millions at the combine. Everyone knew that he was an experienced and productive, slightly undersized (6'4"/254) defensive end for one of the best defenses in the country. No one knew that he was just as athletic as he is. At the combine Mark Anderson was either first or second among defensive ends in the forty, the vertical jump, the broad jump, the cone drill, the short shuttle, and the long shuttle. For those of you keeping score at home, that is every measured event at the combine. His 4.61 speed, 42" vertical, and 10'7" board jump suggest that is even more explosive now than he was during football season this fall. A smart, instinctive player, Mark Anderson is the playmaker KC needs to polish off their pass rush.

(85) Claude Wroten, DT. LSU
Keeping with the defensive theme, Calude Wroten would exhibit excellent value to the Chiefs with their third round pick. Claude Wroten is a better prospect than his line-mate Marcus Spears was last year. Spears went 20th overall to the Cowboys. Being arrested for possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute changed Wroten's draft stock considerably. Nevertheless, Wroten is an explosive pass rusher who can get to the quarterback seemingly at will. He is incredibly fast for a defensive tackle in pursuit. He has a nasty demeanor on the field and finishes every play. Needing sure-handed help on defense, Wroten would make sense for Kansas City. He offers them an explosive pass rusher that can dominate games from defensive tackle.

Tamba Hali has size and athleticism. He is
hard working and can rush the passer well.

(*) Tamba Hali, DE. Penn State
With their first round pick, the Kansas City Chiefs will have to decide where their values are. As defensive backs begin to fly off the board, the organization may become justly fearful that all the top prospects will be off the board by the second round. At the same time, the team's biggest need is up front on the defensive line. Tamba Hali is a proven commodity that simply gets to the quarterback. At 6'3"/275, he is excellent size to play defensive end in the 4-3. He is an intense competitor that is extremely versatile against the run and the pass. His stock has slipped due to his poor timed speed at 4.86; however, Hali is a dominant player on the field. At the Senior Bowl, he managed two sacks and defensive MVP honors. The Chiefs will have a tough decision in round one. Ultimately, the scarcity of top talent at corner should have them jumping on a defensive back before it is too late.

Denver Broncos Forecast

2006-04-15T10:39:00.000-07:00

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Denver Broncos (13-3)
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(15) Santonio Holmes, WR. Ohio State
(37) Mathias Kiwanuka, DE. Boston College
(61) Dominique Byrd, TE. USC
(68) Bernard Pollard, S. Purdue
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The Denver Broncos were surprising last year. In a division that was widely considered to become a battle between the Chiefs and the Chargers for dominance, Jake Plummer led a mistake-proof offense efficiently as the defense amassed impressive numbers, playing with the lead often. Most of the Broncos needs lie on the offensive side of the ball. Though showing no signs of slowing, Rod Smith is aging and Ashlie Lelie has lacked enough consistency to never be relied upon as a #1 option. With the loss of Jeb Putzier to the Texans, the Broncos would prefer to add a pass catching specialist at tight end. At running back, the Broncos have fancied trade offers for Tatum Bell. Clearly, they think he can not shoulder the load all by himself. Defensively, the team has needs up front and in the secondary. They would love to add a pass rusher on the edge; evidence of this was their extreme interest in John Abraham. In the secondary, a ball-hawking safety would give an added dimension to the defense.

Holmes is the #1 receiver Ashley Lelie hasn't been

(15) Santonio Holmes, WR. Ohio State
Ashley Lelie is not the long term solution at wide receiver for the Broncos. He simply has not been reliable enough to hinge the success of the passing game on his shoulders. Santonio Holmes is one of the most underrated players in the draft class. At 5'11"/185, he is indeed undersized. However, he has everything and more that you look for beyond size. His 4.32 speed is blazingly fast, giving him the chance to go the distance each and every time he touches the ball. He has proven that he is able to get separation downfield from anyone. He is physical and strong, something not expected from a receiver of his stature. Unwilling to give up on any play, he is an excellent blocker that is willing to sacrifice his body to give his running back room for the extra yard. He is a high class individual who has the selfless, humble make-up of a quiet superstar. Santonio Holmes is the #1 receiver that Denver has been looking for since drafting Lelie 19th overall in 2001.

Mathias Kiwanuka is a pass-rushing DE prototype

(43) Mathias Kiwanuka, OLB. Boston College
It is no secret that the Broncos pursued John Abraham this off-season. Finding a pass rusher would help their defensive line substantially. Mathias Kiwanuka has been slipping down draft boards since the end of the college season this fall. Originally considered a prospect capable of cracking the top ten, Kiwanuka is now lost in the shuffle among some dynamic defensive ends in this draft class. Nevertheless, Kiwanuka was a force at Boston College. He is a pure pass rusher that is just what the Broncos desire. His 6'6"/256 size is excellent. He is simply a physical specimen. A team leader on the field, he has all the intangibles to be great. His productive career will be something not easily forgotten by the Browns management since they are targetting a premier pass rusher.

Dominique Byrd offers the Broncos a pass catching
tight end better than cap-casualty, Jeb Putzier

(61) Dominique Byrd, TE. USC
It seems funny that a team would be missing the likes of Jeb Putzier enough to address his loss on day one. However, with the value that is scheduled to be present at tight end in the second round, the Broncos will not be able to help themselves. Dominique Byrd is one familiar with the spectacular. He makes one-handed catches look easy. He has shown that he can stretch the seam reliably with the body control to use his 6'4"/255 frame to go up and get the jump ball. While Byrd is only an average blocker at best with very average speed (4.79), he has the elite pass receiving skills to counter all negatives. Ultimately, all he does is execute in the passing game, and that is exactly what the Denver offense needs.

(68) Bernard Pollard, S. Purdue
The Broncos are looking to acquire an eventual replacement for the elder, John Lynch, in this draft. At 6'2"/224, has the ideal size to develop into a big-hitting safety. He is extremely effective against the run, much like Lynch. His 4.59 speed is by no means elite, but his big-hitting and tackling abilities help to cancel out this negative. He is very instinctive, making him very effective in center field. Most of all, Pollard has the ability to tackle a la John Lynch. With the right development, Pollard has the potential to be an absolute intimidator in the NFL.

Ko Simpson may be just too talented to pass up

(*) Ko Simpson, S. South Carolina
The Broncos are the most intriguing team in the draft. They have so many reasonable alternatives to take with their picks. Ko Simpson is a playmaker. He hawks the ball with his 4.45 speed and can lay the big hit at 6'1"/205. He offers an ideal long-term solution to John Lynch at safety. The team may value Simpson enough to delay grabbing help for their pass rush. Instead of Hali in round two, do not be surprised if the Broncos grab their franchise safety in the form of Ko Simpson.

New York Jets Forecast

2006-04-14T22:10:00.000-07:00

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New York Jets (4-12)
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(4) Matt Leinart, QB. USC
(29) Bobby Carpenter, OLB. Ohio State
(35) Joseph Addai, RB. Louisiana State
(71) Chris Chester, C. Oklahoma
(97) Andrew Whitworth, OT. LSU
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No team was more disappointing than the Jets last season. Speculated by some to win the AFC East, an injury to Chad Pennington and Curtis Martin later, the Jets are drafting fourth overall, boasting a 4-12 record. Having traded away New York's TO, John Abraham, for the 29th overall pick and having been given the 97th pick overall as a compensatory selection, the Jets have an opportunity to manage an amazing draft with five first-day selections. Team needs exist, offensively, on the line and under center. Finding a franchise quarterback is a priority. Getting help up front, both at tackle and center would help lessen the burden of losing both Jason Fabini and Kevin Mawae to free agency. Defensively, the Jets could stand help on the defensive line, in the linebacking corp, and the secondary. However, they are really only three or four NFL-caliber athletes away from a dominating squad on that side of the ball.

Jets' fans want nothing more than to bring
Hollywood, Matt Leinart, to New York City.

(4) Matt Leinart, QB. USC
With Chad Pennington's arm more fragile than mache paper and Patrick Ramsey nothing more than a glorified backup, the Jets would like to add a franchise arm that is as close to NFL-ready as possible. Enter Matt Leinart: the most successful quarterback in NCAA history. Leinart was Frostee Rucker losing contain on Vince Young away from being a three-time National Champion. He has four years of experience in a Pro-style offense, and has successes like no other player in the draft. His 6'5"/225 frame is as ideal as his winning mentality. In terms of measurables, Leinart has adequate arm strength to throw the deep out and excellent accuracy. He puts touch on all his passes and steps up to the plate on the biggest stages. He is polished enough to start in the NFL tomorrow. If Leinart is available at #4, the Jets will have their pick into the commish within minutes.

(29) Bobby Carpenter, OLB. Ohio State
Adjusting to the 3-4 defense will be a difficult transition for the Jets without drafting the proper personnel. Bobby Carpenter is a prototypical outside linebacker for the scheme. He has ideal size at 6'2"/256. He plays faster than his 4.66 time on the field, having displayed sideline-to-sideline range at Ohio State. Having had experience playing from a three-point stance, Carpenter is a perfect 3-4 linebacker prospect that can rush te passer. Lost in the shuffle, Carpenter will find himself not drafted until the latter areas of round one; but, one must not neglect the fact that Bobby Carpenter has a polished game and an NFL frame. He is ready to play sooner than later. This is exactly what the Jets need.

Addai is the hard-nosed warrior to be the successor
to Curtis Martin at tailback for the Jets

(35) Joseph Addai, RB. Louisiana State
Curtis Martin is aging. Derrick Blaylock is not a long-term option as a feature back. It seems strange to call a second rounder a diamond in the rough, but -if ever- Joe Addai is that guy. Addai has every skill you would ever ask out of a running back. He has elite 4.40 speed. He runs with balance and power both inside and outside the tackles. He is an excellent pass protector and catches the ball amazingly out of the backfield. Aside from having average size (5'11"/214), Addai's only other knock is that he lacks experience. Having been in the shadows of better backs and having been injured previously, Addai only has one year of starting experience. Nevertheless, he could be special.

Scouts are growing to love Chris Chester about
as much as Chris Chester loves ice cream

(71) Chris Chester, C. Oklahoma
The Jets need help on the offensive line. Having lost All-Pro Center, Kevin Mawae, to free agency, the Jets need to find a replacement in the draft. Chris Chester showed up on draft boards at the very bottom at the end of the college season. He was considered laregely a project case with no NFL-ready skill at the moment. However, Chester has since flown up the boards. It would not be unrealistic to see Chester taken in the top 40 on draft day. A converted tight end, he has only one year experience on the offensive line. Even after adding size, the 6'4"/303 Chester has maintained superior athleticism. His 4.88 speed is among the fastest times by any offensive lineman. During individual workouts with NFL teams, he has shown himself to be very coachable, making progress with every snap. The Jets may well value him enough to grab him in the second round.

(97) Andrew Whitworth, OT. LSU
In consecutive seasons, the Jets have lost Kareem McKenzie and Jason Fabini. The state of the offensive tackles is destitute. Having had no chance at D'Brickashaw Ferguson and having been presented poor value in the early portions of the second and third rounds, the Jets simply have to address theis need before the first day of drafting has passed. Andrew Whitworth is a four year starter at LSU. At 6'7"/334, he possesses a large frame. He uses his size effectively with his superior strength to overwhelm opponents, particularly in the running game. He is a technically sound blocker that has the uncoachable, nasty demeanor that every coach desires from their offensive lineman. He projects as a starter at right tackle and a backup at left tackle in the NFL. This pick exhibits an excellent marriage of value and need.

The Jets might take Brick over Leinart

(*) D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT. Virginia
The Jets need help desperately along the offensive line. D'Brickashaw Ferguson is the brand of offensive tackle prospect that comes along but once every ten years. The last prospect to hold such a high grade was Orlando Pace in 1997. If the Saints take Mario Williams and the Titans grab a quarterback, look for the Jets to take D'Brickashaw Ferguson, even if Matt Leinart is on the board. The team feels they can get good value with another NFL-caliber arm in the middle portions of Day One. Should the first three picks end up falling: Reggie Bush, D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Matt Leinart, the Jets are said to be heading in the direction of Mario Williams over Young and Cutler. No DE prospect since Julius Peppers can boast the abilitiy Williams has.

Buffalo Bills Forecast

2006-04-14T21:17:00.000-07:00

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Buffalo Bills (5-11)
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(8) Haloti Ngata, DT. Oregon
(42) Richard Marshall, CB. Fresno State
(70) Ryan O'Callaghan, OT. California
(73) Jason Spitz, OG. Louisville
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The Buffalo Bills are going through an entire transformation on the defensive side of the ball. Dick Jauron has brought with him the Cover 2 scheme. The team's draft needs will reflect this adjustment. Needing help in the secondary, finding a dynamic safety will be a priority. The team would also love to have some depth behind Nate Clements and Terrence McGee at corner. Most of all, defensively, a pass-rushing defensive tackle is high on the team's list of priorities. The Cover 2 scheme is predicated on dropping seven and only rushing four on passing downs. A smallish, slithery pass rushing defensive tackle is not present on the team currently. This need will be addressed in the first two rounds for certain. Offensively, the team is very well rounded at the skill positions. Help is needed up front. Former headache Mike Williams is gone, but Jason Peters and Mike Gandy can not hold down the fort all alone. After all, Jason Peters is nothing more than an undrafted free agent tight end turned tackle. Needless to say, offensive line will be drafted early and often by the Bills.

Haloti Ngata is a rare defensive tackle prospect

(8) Haloti Ngata, DT. Oregon
Haloti Ngata can be a perrenial pro bowler in the NFL. At 6'4"/338, Ngata has ideal size to play the defensive tackle position. He can take on two blockers better than any defensive tackle prospect to enter the draft in recent memory. In addition, Ngata has the requisite athleticism to get to the quarterback as a pass rusher. His blend of size and speed is truly rare. An elite prospect, Ngata would be very tough to pass up for the Bills at #8. Ngata is simply a beast in the middle. Don't believe the rumors. This guy can play in the Cover 2.

(42) Richard Marshall, CB. Fresno State
Needing depth at the corner position, Richard Marshall is a brilliant solution. He has an average NFL frame at 5'11"/189 and has above average NFL speed at 4.40. Marshall is aggressive against the run and makes plays all over the field. He is built tough. Marshall's size is competent to get an effective jam at the line, and his instincts and ball skills make him perfect for dropping back in zone coverage. A durable and productive player, Marshall could step on the field tomorrow as a nickel back. He would upgrade an already dominant pass defense and give the franchise a viable option to replace Nate Clements or Terrance McGee in the starting lineup one day.

Ryan O'Callaghan is a prototypical right tackle
that can dominate defenders in the running game

(70) Ryan O'Callaghan, OT. California
The Bills need help on the offensive line. Having not been given the chance to grab D'Brickashaw Ferguson at #8 or Marcus McNeil at #42, grabbing a right tackle in the third round will be a priority. O'Callaghan, at 6'7"/344, has ideal size. He is very strong, dominating at the point of attack. He is simply an outstanding run blocker, making him draw the modifier "prototypical" often. He is a hard worker with top intangibles. Given his size, strength, and ability to grade a road for the running game, O'Callaghan is NFL-ready, capable of playing either right tackle or right guard (should he struggle with quicker defensive ends). Regardless, this is a dynamite value pickup for the Bills.

(73) Jason Spitz, OG. Louisville
Continuing to grab value for the offensive line, Jason Spitz would be an excellent selection for the Bills. The team needs more help up front than just a right or left tackle. A guy like Jason Spitz would be perfect for the Bills because he was a very productive college player that has a high floor. In other words, he is very unlikely to bust like former offensive line headache, Mike Williams. While not being an elite athlete, Jason Spitz is very strong at 6'4"/313. He is excellent as a run blocker, and he has proven to be very durable during his career at Louisville. Spitz would offer the Bills a player that could potentially start at right guard from day one. He is one of those late day-one picks that does everything well but nothing excellent. At the very least, he will supply depth to an offensive line that needs it.

Winston Justice is an impressive specimen that is athletic
enough to play left tackle and physical enough to play right

(*) Winston Justice, OT. USC
Winston Justice is a dominating force up front. After being stagnant for about two months, Justice's stock rose substantially after a dominating Pro Day. At 6'6"/320. Justice managed a vertical jump of 39". He benched 38 reps @ 225lbs and managed 5.04 in the 40-yard dash even after coming up lame and hobbling the last five yards on one leg. Simply put, Justice is a physical freak. He is an outstanding run blocker and an excellent pass blocker. He is mobile and has tons of upside. What he lacks in technique at the moment, he makes up for with Pro-Bowl potential. Justice's major knock is having been a part of a series of incidents off the field -involving an AirSoft gun among other things- that led to his suspension for the entire 2004 season. Nevertheless, he is an elite prospect. He is a legitimate option at #8.

Miami Dolphins Forecast

2006-04-14T20:36:00.000-07:00

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Miami Dolphins (9-7)
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(16) Chad Jackson, WR. Florida
(82) Pat Watkins, S. Florida State
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Regardless of how well the Dolphins draft, they are already a better team then they were at the end of last year. Their second round pick is gone, but in return they received one of the top five quarterbacks in the NFL: Daunte Culpepper. Considering John Abraham (amazing in his own right at DE) went for a first-rounder, the Dolphins got a steal. Offensively, the team would love to add a receiver to compliment the dynamic Chris Chambers. On the defensive side of the ball, the safety spot is the most glaring weakness. Travares Tillman and Deke Cooper are the slated starters. Needless to say, an upgrade would help a lot. The other need on the defense is at outside linebacker. Junior Seau is gone and his replacement, Sedrick Hodge, is nothing impressive. At the very least, some depth at the position would make a lot of sense.

Chad Jackson is the perfect playmaker to compliment
the abilities of Chris Chambers at recevier

(16) Chad Jackson, WR. Florida
Nick Saban had such an amazing time during his tenure with LSU that he is in love with the SEC and it's prospects. Chad Jackson, an SEC standout, would be a no-brainer for the Dolphins if he managed to fall past the Broncos and the Eagles. Jackson is slightly unpolished in his route-running, but he is a team leader that has all the measureables. His 6'1"/213 size is very good, and his 4.32 speed is truly elite. He has very reliable hands and has shown himself to be productive both in the vertical passing game and in the Urban Meyer horizontal passing game. Ultimately, Chad Jackson will have time to foster his skills behind Marty Booker and Chris Chambers, and when he cracks the starting lineup, the sky is the limit.

Pat Watkins looks like Phil Ivey. With the proper
development, he could become just as dominant as a safety

(82) Pat Watkins, S. Florida State
The Dolphins could stand an upgrade over Deke Cooper at safety. Pat Watkins is the future of safeties at 6'5"/211. He is an incredible athlete, clocking in at 4.42. He is a leader on the field who seems to find the ball with ease. He supports the run as effectively as he goes up to break up would be completions downfield. Watkins needs to add weight to become NFL-ready, but he has everything necessary to revolutionize the safety position. He has more upside than any safety prospect in draft history. Watkins might have been better served to stay for his senior season at Florida State, so he presents a project case to whomever drafts him. Nevertheless, he would be an ideal option to develop into a dominant future member of the Dolphins' secondary.

(*) Jason Allen, S. Tennessee
If Chad Jackson is off the board by pick sixteen, expect Saban to stay in the SEC, but fill his need at safety instead of wide receiver. Jason Allen is a very interesting prospect. He has only recently come back to near-full strength from hip surgery. Until a recent medical evaluation that said he possessed 100% mobility and 85% strength in his hip, teams were hesitant to invest more than a second round pick. Without the injury, Allen would be competing with Michael Huff for the #1 DB in the draft class. Saban will certainly remember how disruptive Allen was when he was at full strength. At 6'1"/209, Allen has good size. His 4.39 speed and fluid hips allow him to split out wide and cover virtually any receiver in the game. He is the type of playmaker that does not come around often.

New England Patriots Forecast

2006-04-14T19:50:00.000-07:00

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New England Patriots (10-6)
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(21) Deangelo Williams, RB. Memphis
(52) Ashton Youboty, CB. Ohio State
(75) Derek Hagan, WR. Arizona State
(86) Chris Gocong, OLB. California Polytechnic
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The Patriots are solidifying their place in history as the franchise that continues to win while making the rest of the league look stupid. Last year, the Patriots drafted Logan Mankins, offensive guard out of Fresno State, in the first round. Mankins carried an early third round grade, and since the Patriots feared they might miss him by their next pick at the end of round three, Mankins was their guy. He started all sixteen games, and played quite well. Like last year, the team has needs. It is assumed they will fill those needs by a variety of non-conventional picks. Offensively, the team needs wide receivers. With the loss of David Givens, Andre Davis, and Tim Dwight to free agency, there is nowhere for the team to turn. A running back to become the heir to Corey Dillon would make sense also. Defensively, the team needs to add a cornerback and a pass-rushing linebacker to fill in for the loss of Willie McGinest.

Deangelo Williams will make drafting anyone else tough

(21) Deangelo Williams, RB. Memphis
Corey Dillon is aging. He has proven that he is able to shoulder a full load as a feature back, but he has not proven that he can make it through a full season since becoming a Patriot. Deangelo Williams would be an amazing addition to the Patriots. He is simply an amazing running back. He is patient and instinctive as a runner. He has a quick burst to get through the hole, and can catch the ball out of the backfield. His size is unimpressive at 5'9"/207, but his production is tops among all backs in the draft class. Deangelo is also a natural born leader, which was clear and present during the entire week of practice at the senior bowl. At the end of the first day, having played only a few hours with teammates from all over the country he had never met before, Deangelo had already separated himself as a captain of the squad. He simply has a magnetic personality and an incredible work ethic.

Ashton Youboty fits the scheme and addresses a need

(52) Ashton Youboty, CB. Ohio State
Last year, Duane Starks was brought in to replace Ty Law in the Patriots' secondary. Needless to say, Starks was a flop in relation to what was lost in Ty Law. Ashton Youboty is perfect for the Patriot scheme. At six-feet tall, he has the size to establish good leverage in his press at the line. A legitimate candidate to fall in the first round, Youboty would be a steal for the Patriots at this point in the second round. Following in the tradition of great Ohio State corners like Shawn Springs, Antoine Winfield, and Nate Clements, Youboty should have an excellent professional career if history holds true. Having had trouble getting beat deep, the Patriots zone-heavy defensive scheme should allow Youboty the safety help deep to feel comfortable.

Having lost one former Notre Dame receiver, David
Givens, to free agency, Hagan gives the Pats another

(75) Derek Hagan, WR. Arizona State
Perhaps the most primary need area for the Patriots lies at receiver. At pick #21, the team has virtually no chance of landing either Santonio Holmes or Chad Jackson - whom they love. Derek Hagan may weel be the next best thing. His 6'2"/208 size is an excellent compliment to his 4.42 speed. He is an excellent route runner tha can make plays after the catch. One of the most productive receivers in Arizona State University history, Hagan would present the Patriots with the NFL-ready receiver that is needed this year. Hagan's polished game plays perfectly into the Patriots hand. To boot, Hagan has the week-by-week mentality that the Patriots love.

(86) Chris Gocong, OLB. California Polytechnic
The Patriots have found diamonds in the rough many times to get where they are today as a franchise. Chris Gocong may well be that guy this year. Having lost Willie McGinest to free agency, the Patriots could add some new blood on the outside of the linebacking corp. Chris Gocong is an ideal candidate since he possesses all of the pass rushing moves in the book. He is currently very raw and undersized at 6'2"/263, but he is an excellent athlete that is explosive off the line. With a little help from the Patriot coaching staff, I am sure that Gocong can be giving opposing teams nightmares in a couple years.

Having drafted Logan Mankins from Fresno State
last year, the Pats may go with Richard Marshall

(*) Richard Marshall, CB. Fresno State
It is no coincidence that Logan Mankins was chosen from the oodles of players with mid-round grades as the Patriots' first pick last year. Logan Mankins played at Fresno State under Pat Hill, Bill Belichick's old coaching buddy. Given a favorable report from Hill, Belichick would draft virtually anyone in the first round. Richard Marshall is that guy this year. Marshall holds an early second round grade; he will surely be gone by pick #52. He is leaving school one year early, but is still scheduled to graduate this spring. He has an average NFL frame at 5'11"/189 and has above average NFL speed at 4.40. Marshall is aggressive against the run and makes plays all over the field. He is a Patriot guy through and through. Nevertheless, Deangelo Williams will be a tough guy to pass up for Richard Marshall on draft day.

Cleveland Browns Forecast

2006-04-14T13:14:00.000-07:00

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Cleveland Browns (6-10)
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(12) Kamerion Wimbley, DE. Florida State
(43) Gabe Watson, DT. Michigan
(78) Rodrique Wright, DE. Texas
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The Browns will probably be drafting defense with every pick on day one not because Romeo Crennel is a defensive mind, but because the team needs youthful help up front. Free agency was great to the Browns. LeCharles Bentley and Kevein Schaffer gave the offensive line the help it needed, and Joe Jurevicious offers Charlie Frye another passing target. Willie McGinest and Ted Washington give the Browns legitmate veterans to sure up their front seven. However, the Browns defense is getting old and some youthful talent to spruce up the front seven of the 3-4 would make perfect sense. The team's two major areas of need are a pass rushing outside linebacker and a run-stuffing space-eater at defensive tackle. There two positions will likely be filled within the first two picks.

Kamerion Wimbley is very similar to former FSU
standout and Phil Savage draftee, Peter Boulware

(12) Kamerion Wimbley, DE. Florida State
Ideally, the Browns would like to acquire Haloti Ngata with their first-round pick. However, with him being taken by this point, Kamerion Wimbley is the next best thing. The Browns need a pass rush upgrade. One way or another, they will manage to find someone day one. Wimbley is the ideal option. At 6'4"/248, he has ideal size to play the pass-rushing OLB/DE hybrid position in the 3-4. Wimbley is an excellent natural athlete that is simpyla pass rushing machine. He has tons of upside, and the Browns are in love with his abilities. A high character guy, Wimbley is a Romeo Crennel guy.

Gabe Watson is the immovable object the
Browns would prefer to add to their defense

(43) Gabe Watson, DT. Michigan
Ted Washington is now a Brown. When he is gone, the middle of the Browns defense will be very thin. Their run defense will likely be exposed without an impact acquisition at defensive tackle. Gabe Watson can be a giant inside. He can take on two blockers, and still get penetration. He can dominate at the point of attack to where no one will get so much as a yard of rushing up the middle. He can take the inside run out of the game. Blink, and he will be getting floored by an undersized, talentless center single-handedly. Watson has the unique ability to look like a top five overall pick and an undraftable talent on consecutive plays. No one will be better at ironing out the inconsistencies in Gabe Watson's game than the disciplinarian, Romeo Crennel. Watson has the ideal size (6'4"/339) to play defensive tackle in the 3-4. He is impossible to pass up here.

(78) Rodrique Wright, DE. Texas
Further upgrading the defensive front, Rodrique Wright is the tal, athletic defensive tackle that could make the adjustment moving to end in the 3-4. Wright has impressive size at 6'5"/300. He is able to both rush the passer and stuff the run. A classic underachiever in college, Wright is questioned by doubters, but a coach like Romeo Crennel is exactly the disciplinarian who would be able to right the ship. Given team needs, a big, strong, experienced defensive tackle like Wright will be impossible to pass on in the third round. Rodrique Wright would finish off the Browns upgrades up front.

Haloti Ngata would be a dream to have at #12

(*) Haloti Ngata, DT. Oregon
With a year or two to groom behind Ted Washington, Haloti Ngata can be a pro bowler in the NFL. At 6'4"/338, Ngata has ideal size to play the nose tackle position in the 3-4. He can take on two blockers better than any defensive tackle prospect to enter the draft in recent memory. In addition, Ngata has the requisite athleticism to get to the quarterback as a pass rusher. His blend of size and speed is truly rare. An elite prospect, Ngata would have the Browns pinching themselves on draft day if he made it to #12. A legitimate option to be swiped up by the Bills at #8 and the Radiers at #7, Ngata is simply a beast in the middle. He is the ideal guy for the Browns to grab.

Pittsburgh Steeler Forecast

2006-04-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

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Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5)
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(32) LenDale White, RB. USC
(64) Darnell Bing, S. USC
(96) Parys Haralson, OLB. Tennessee
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For a team that is coming off a Super Bowl, the Steelers have a strangely large number of team needs to address in the draft. Having lost Plaxico Burress last year and Antwaan Randle El this year, the most pressing team need is at wide receiver. Finding an electrically fast receiver like Randle El or a tall, stretch-the-field, receiver like Burress would bring a dimension back to the offense that has been lost. Having lost Jerome Bettis and with Duce Staley unable to remain healthy, the Steelers would love to add a power option out of the backfield. Given the depth that is present at running back already, this is not a pressing need, but -if value surafces- the Steelers will not hesitate. Pittsburgh bread has been buttered by a power running for twenty years. Defensively, the team would love to add an additional pass rusher. Also, even after signing Ryan Clark to play safety instead of cap-caualty, Chris Hope, adding someone to challenge and possibly start over Clark would make the defense that much better.

LenDale White will not slip past the Steelers

(32) LenDale White, RB. USC
LenDale White may be fat and out of shape. At the moment, his hamstring may barely be attached at the hip. Regardless, the Steelers will find it impossible to let LenDale White slip past them on draft day. Having just lost Jerome Bettis, and having had a power option out of the backfield for seemingly ever, White would keep the tradition going. At 6'0"/238, LenDale has impressive size. Different from most big backs, White has amazing footwork a la Jerome Bettis. He is a north/south runner with good vision and excellent power. During his entire USC career, he was in the shadow of Reggie Bush, amassing 17 TDs and 1000 yards per season on average nonetheless. If he makes it to #32, the Steelers would hit a home run.

Darnell Bing could be paired up with his former
teammate, Troy Polamalu, in Pittsburgh

(64) Darnell Bing, S. USC
Needing a dynamic playmaker to play safety, the Steelers would be well served to grab Pat Watkins before he is off the board. Free agent acquisition, Ryan Clark, is a temporary solution to replace Chris Hope, but Darnell Bing is a long-term solution. Bing is an oversized safety at 6'2"/227 that could start before the end of the season. He can stop the run with the best of them. Bing's 4.59 speed leaves him looking uncomfortable in coverage often, but his hard hitting nature just screams, "Perfect fit" for the physical Steeler defense. Nevertheless, Bing has excellent ball skills and comes up with interceptions where few other players would.He is the ideal option to start opposite Tory Polamalu in the future.

(96) Parys Haralson, OLB. Tennessee
A true pass rusher can not be undervalued. Parys Haralson is just that. He is a gritty, tough, and productive. His 4.80 speed is nothing to be proud of, but his productivity on the field is. Quick and explosive, he knows just how to use leverage to make his presence known in the backfield on passing downs. His 6'1"/253 size makes him struggle at times with massive blockers in the running game. Shedding bocks is his biggest weakness. With time, size and strength will come, completing his game. In the meantime, Haralson can be a disruptive force as a true pass rushing OLB in the 3-4.

Sinorice Moss is so similar to Antwaan Randle El
in terms of measureables that he is the Steelers guy

(*) Sinorice Moss, WR. Miami
Undersized. Blazingly fast. Incredibly quick. Unhumanly agile. Good route-runner. Those words describe both Antwaan Randle El and Sinorice Moss. In terms of all the measureables, Moss and Randle El look exactly the same on paper. Given the recent successes of guys like Randle El, Sinorice's borther Santana Moss, and Steve Smith, the Steelers may be hard pressed to pass on someone with such dynamic abilities. LenDale White being available at #32 would change that thought process in an instant. Should White be taken by the Panthers, Broncos, Jaguars, or Patriots, Sinorice Moss will be the Steelers' guy. Having won the Super Bowl with a smallish receiving corp, the Steelers will certainly not be biased against the little guy. Moss would make Steeler fans miss Randle El a lot less than they do now.

Baltimore Ravens Forecast

2006-04-14T08:33:00.000-07:00

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Baltimore Ravens (6-10)
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(13) Brodrick Bunkley, DT. Florida State
(44) Daniel Bullocks, S. Nebraska
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The Ravens are a very interesting team in this year's draft. Above all, they would prefer to grab an elite quarterback like Matt Leinart or Vince Young. If the opportunity presents itself, expect them not to pass. However, the team also has legitimate needs on the defensive side of the ball. Will Demps has left as a free agent to the Giants, leaving Ed Reed without a counterpart at safety. Reed has the flexibility to play either the free or strong safety spots, so a safety of Ravens' proportions would fill a need. The secondary is also very thin at cornerback. Beyond Samari Rolle and Chris McAllister is Dale Carter, who is aging and looking forward to retirement and not a full-time role as a nickel back. Lastly, suring up the offensive line is a priority. If value presents itself day one, expect a right tackle to be selected.

Brodrick Bunkley would give the Ravens that
big body to fill the middle of their defense

(13) Brodrick Bunkley, DT. Florida State
For having such a dominating career, Ray Lewis has certainly not done it alone. This is almost heresy to say, but Ray Lewis and his successes hinged on having a big-bodied defensive tackle to take up space in the middle. This allowed him to roam free and exhibit his sideline-to-sideline range. Brodrick is just that guy. He is big and athletic. He can take on two blockers in the running game and get to the quarterback as a pass rusher. His 6'3"/306 size is an incredible compliment to his sub-5.0 speed. Someone with his rare blend of size, speed, and athleticism does not come around often. He is a dream defensive candidate for the Ravens, who love players of Bunkley's caliber.

(44) Daniel Bullocks, S. Nebraska
Needing to grab the best available defensive back in the second round, the Ravens would find a steal in Daniel Bullocks. Having lost Will Demps to free agency, safety is a more pressing need than corner, and Bullocks is just who Ravens' fans would love to have. Daniel Bullocks of Nebraska is a better prospect than his brother, Josh, was a year ago. Josh went in the early second round to the Saints and proceeded to start every game. Daniel has excellent size at 6'1"/212. His 4.38 speed is elite among safeties. He has excellent mobility and range. He is relatively poor in man coverage, making him an ideal candidate for a centerfielder. He is simply the fast, rangy style of defensive back that the Ravens would love in centerfield along side Ed Reed.

Winston Justice could play opposite Jon
Ogden now, replacing him in the future

Cinncinati Bengals Forecast

2006-04-14T06:07:00.000-07:00

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Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
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(24) Donte Whitner, S. Ohio State
(55) Joe Klopfenstein, TE. Colorado
(91) Victor Adeyanju, DE. Indiana
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The Cincinnati Bengals are in a position different from every other team in the NFL. They have said publicly that they are satisfied with their team's constitution following free agency. In other words, they are claiming to have essentially no team needs. Value will play a pivotal role in all of their draft choices. Given the depth chart, it appears the team is weakest at tight end. No pass catching option exists outside of the very average Matt Schobel. Expect a tight end to be drafted as a value pick on day one. An offensive tackle will probably be selected before the end of the draft, but expect two of the three picks day one to come on the defensive side of the ball. Both the secondary and the defensive line could use depth. Adding a pass-rushing specialist at DE or a run-stuffing specialist in the middle would give their defense an added dimension. In the secondary, finding depth behind Tory James and Dexter Jackson would be beneficial. Ultimately, however, the first round selection for the Bengals will likely be a pure value pick.

Having the luxury of grabbing a pure value pick,
Jason Allen offers flexibility to the defense

(24) Donte Whitner, S. Ohio State
A hip injury to a defensive back is equally troubling as a shoulder injury to a quarterback. Without fluid hips, defensive backs simply can not cover NFL receivers man-to-man. Needless to say, Jason Allen's dislocated hip injury left teams seriously considering his status. Prior to the injury, Allen was easily a first-round pick in this draft. A 6'1"/209 safety with leadership qualities and 4.39 speed can play anywhere and for anyone. Medical exams have said that Allen has regained 100% mobility and 85% strength in his hip to this point. This news has moved Jason Allen back into the first-round mix. A speedy ball-hawk in Allen would compliment the physical front seven of the Bengals. He could start opposite Madieu Williams at safety or supply depth to the cornerbacks.

Joe Klopfenstein has elite speed for a tight end

(55) Joe Klopfenstein, TE. Colorado
Matt Schobel is not the ideal pass-catching tight end. The Bengals could add a new dimension to their already potent passing attack by adding a pass catching specialist. Finding a guy like Joe Klopfenstein would be ideal. Among all the tight ends in the draft class, Joe Klopfenstein is the most underrated. Kloppy has the hands and size (6'6"/255) of a more elite prospect. His 4.56 speed is elite for a tight end, and his college career has shown him to be a very reliable target. Having missed out on the likes of Mathias Kiwanuka and Darryl Tapp for the defensive line, the Bengals will be better served taking a great value pick in Joe Klopfenstein than reaching for a defensive lineman. Ultimately, Klopfenstein would take pressure off of Palmer, giving him another viable option to Chad Johnson and TJ Houshmanzadeh in the passing game.

(91) Victor Adeyanju, DE. Indiana
Robert Geathers is the slated starter opposite Justin Smith at defensive end for the Bengals. Geathers is not he permanent solution. Victor Adeyanju may well be one day. Adeyanju has incredible acceleration and agility considering he is oversized at 6'4"/274. Amazingly, his frame can easily accomodate even more weight. His technique is raw, but -even so- he produced in the Big Ten. Adeyanju is a small project that will at the very least supply depth to a position that needs some. Should his upside be achieved, Adeyanju could be a dominating force on the field. He can overwhelm even the most massive offensive tackles.

Mercedes Lewis is a production machine on the field

(*) Mercedes Lewis, TE. UCLA
The first round pick for the Bengals will be one of pure value. Mercedes Lewis is an option because he is simply a monster in the passing game. His 6'6"/261 size is excellent. He has outstanding hands and is even an excellent blocker. He lacks elite speed (4.84), but he simply has all the pass catching skills of an elite tight end prospect. Originally though of as a first round pick, Lewis has slipped due solely to his poor timed speed. Trying to find value, Lewis would fit the bill. When you consider the team needs as well, Mercedes Lewis is an excellent fit for the Bengals.

San Francisco 49ers Forecast

2006-04-12T01:25:00.000-07:00

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San Francisco 49ers (4-12)
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(6) AJ Hawk, OLB. Ohio State
(22) Jimmy Wililams, DB. Virginia Tech
(84) David Thomas, TE. Texas
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As bad as the 49ers are and with how many needs the organization has, it is really unfortunate that the team is drafting 6th overall. They really deserve to be drafting earlier. Nevertheless, the team has four day one picks and plenty of an opponrtunity to make their franchise better. Defensively, the team needs linebackers first and foremost. Both of the slated starters, Corey Smith and Renauld Williams are not NFL caliber. The team also lacks skill in the defensive backfield. Whether by way of a safety or corner, the team could use some help. On the offensive side of the ball, the 49ers would prefer to surround Alex Smith with as much talent as possible. Finding talent at wide receiver and tight end is a priority. Both slots may be filled on day one.

After Reggie Bush, AJ Hawk is #2 on the 49ers' board

(6) AJ Hawk, OLB. Ohio State
After Reggie Bush, the 49ers would most like to have AJ Hawk. Hawk is an omnipresent force on the field. His 4.48 speed is excellent for an outside linebacker, and he has proven time and time again that his football IQ is off the charts. Needing linebackers, the 49ers would find an excellent fit in Hawk. He presents good value at the #6 slot, and fills a gigantic team need. Both good in coverage and against the run, Hawk would be an immediate upgrade to a team that needs as many upgrades as possible.

Looking for a top prospect who has slid to
#22, the 49ers will find him in Jimmy Williams

(22) Jimmy Williams, DB. Virginia Tech
Jimmy Williams is one cocky SOB. In high school, he had "Destined 2" tattooed on his right forearm and "Be Great" put on his left. When he returned for his senior season at Virginia Tech, he was quoted as saying that he came back to "be the number one player in college football, not just the number one defensive back." This caliber of ego is looked upon poorly by most teams. Nevertheless, you can not reject the fact that Williams has top-notch abilities. His 6'2"/213 size is tremendous. He has productive experience both at safety and corner. Wililams is a ferrocious hitter that approaches the running game like a safety, even from the corner position. His 4.47 speed is only average among corners, but that kind of speed is ideal for a hard-hitting safety. Jimmy Williams is a legitimate high first-round talent who has seen his stock slip due solely to his ego. Regardless, the ego has been there for years alongside all the production on the field. He simply gets it done. That is all that matters when the chips fall.

(84) David Thomas, TE. Texas
Newsflash: Alex Smith struggled last year. The 49ers are willing to do whatever it takes to surrond him with talent. David Thomas is an ideal candidate. Thomas is the type of player that does nothing elitely well, but does everything very well. His 4.67 speed is good for a tight end, and his skill set is NFL-ready. Lacking the ability to stretch the field, Thomas is an excellent short to intermediate option for the 49ers offense. Slipping to the third round, Thomas will be absolutely impossible to pass up. His route-running is NFL-ready and his hands are excellent. He is a red zone threat that can make plays, evident by his ten catch performance in this year's Rose Bowl. At 6'3"/252, he would give Alex Smith a very reasonable option in the passing game.

Vernon Davis would give the 49ers a dangerous
weapon in the passing game for Alex Smith

(*) Vernon Davis, TE. Maryland
Vernon Davis is a legitimate option in the first round. Drafting Davis, the franchise could focus primarily on defense since Davis would allow them from having to draft both a wide receiver and a tight end. He is simply talented enough to satisfy both needs. If AJ hawk is off the board at #6, Vernon Davis would make the most sense for the franchise. Ultimately, the team would most like to have Alex Smth comfortable in the offense. A guy like Vernon Davis would certainly accomplish this. Davis is the #3 guy on the 49ers board and would make a great fit if AJ Hawk manages to be taken in the top five.

Arizona Cardinals Forecast

2006-04-12T01:14:00.000-07:00

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Arizona Cardinals (5-11)
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(10) Winston Justice, OT. USC
(41) Daniel Bullocks, S. Nebraska
(72) Brodie Croyle, QB. Alabama
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The Arizona Cardinals have given their team an immediate boost in the form of Edgerrin James. Having been a running back away from a juggernaut offense the past two years, James certainly will fit that bill. Offensively, the team could use an elite tight end prospect like Vernon Davis very effectively in the passing game. Beyond Davis, the team needs to focus on the offensive line and a future quarterback to replace Kurt Warner. Defensively, the team needs a safety to play opposite Adrian Wilson and replace the aging Robert Griffith. Finding a centerfielder will be a top priority on draft day. An outside linebacker would make a lot of sense as Orlando Huff certainly does not strike fear into opposing offensive coordinators.

Winston Justice would help a horrific offensive line

(10) Winston Justice, OT. USC
The offensive line in Arizona is bad. Leonard Davis is an excellent offive lineman. He is dominant when linedup at either guard potisition of at right tackle. However, he does not possess the requisite athleticism to play left tackle, where he is currently. Bring in a guy with a 39" vertical at 319 pounds, and I think the Cardinals will have found their guy. Justice is a physical freak. He is an outstanding run blocker and an excellent pass blocker. He is mobile and has tons of upside. What he lacks in technique at the moment, he makes up for with Pro-Bowl potential. He is an elite prospect no matter which way you cut it. He would fill a giant need for the Cardinals.

(41) Daniel Bullocks, S. Nebraska
Needing to grab a playmaker to suit up opposite Adrian Wilson, the Falcons would find a steal in Danial Bullocks. With Robert Griffith looking forward to retirement, the Cardinals need to find a permanent solution at safet. Bullocks is just who Cardinals' fans would love to have. Daniel is a better prospect than his brother, Josh, was a year ago. Josh went in the early second round to the Saints and proceeded to start every game this past season. Daniel has excellent size at 6'1"/212. His 4.38 speed is elite among safeties. He has excellent mobility and range. He is relatively poor in man coverage, making him an ideal candidate for a centerfielder. He is simply the fast, rangy style of defensive back that the Cardinals adore.

Brodie Croyle has the tools to start in the NFL

(72) Brodie Croyle, QB. Alabama
Kurt Warner is simply not the long-term answer in Arizona. Having no backup optoin outside of John Navarre, the Cardinals lack the flexibility to help their defense with this pick. Quarterback needs to be addressed by the end of day one, and Brodie Croyle will be their guy. He would give the Cardinals just what they desire at the position. Croyle has a big arm to get the ball downfield. His 6'3"/205 frame is competent, but needs some added weight to be NFL-ready. Nevertheless, he moves well in the pocket and puts excellent touch on his passes. A leader on the field, Croyle simply is an excellent decision-maker and projects well to the NFL because of this.

(*) Jay Cutler, QB. Vanderbilt
Vernon Davis is the #1 guy on the Cardinals draft board. If he manages to slip to #10, he will be snatched up in a hurry. Should Davis land in San Francisco or Oakland, the Cardinals will likely take a quarterback with their first round pick. Jay Cutler would be a great option for the franchise. He has a rocket arm, capable of getting the ball downfield to Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. His footwork is raw, but with no rush of starting tomorrow, he would have time to iron out his flaws before stepping in for Warner when the time comes. At Vanderbilt, Cutler's wide receivers gave him tight windows to throw into. His offensive line forced him to throw under pressure. Through it all, Cutler was successful in the SEC: one of the best defense conferences in America. All signs point to him being great.

Saint Louis Rams Forecast

2006-04-12T01:07:00.000-07:00

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Saint Louis Rams (6-10)
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(11) Ernie Sims, OLB. Florida State
(46) Leonard Pope, TE. Georgia
(77) David Pittman, CB. Northwestern State
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The Rams need help on defense to become a complete team. This has been the case for many years now. The team has issues both along the defensive front and in the defensive backfield. The Rams have not had an elite cover corner since the early years with Adam Achuleta. Their roster is filled with average talent at the position, and a finding a premier coverage guy would offer the defense coordinator a lot of flexibility. Along the defensive front, a dynamic play at either defensive end or defensive tackle would make a ton of sense. Offensively, the team has very few needs. Finding a potential project case at quarterback in the late rounds might be worth the gamble in an effort to try to find a long-term option to replace Bulger. The team does lack a pass catching tight end. Brandon Manumaleuna is an excellent blocker, but lacks receiving skill.

Ernie Sims is an incredible athlete

(11) Ernie Sims, OLB. Florida State
Looking to improve the defense, Ernie Sims offer an upgrade both in the pass and rush defenses for the Rams. Undersized at 5'11"/231, Sims makes up for his lack of size with his big-hitting ability. He hits as hard as anyone his size in the game, period. At 4.50, Sims has the speed to survey the field sideline-to-sideline. He has tremendous instincts and has seen his draft stock do nothing but rise since the end of the football season last fall. A top notch athlete, Sims would be a fixture in the linebacking corp of the Rams for many years to come.

Leonard Pope is a lethal weapon in the passing game

(46) Leonard Pope, TE. Georgia
Brandon Manumaleuna is not the ideal pass-catching tight end. The Rams could add a new dimension to their already potent passing attack by adding a pass catching specialist. Finding a guy like Leonard Pope would be ideal. Pope has first-round talent, presenting excellent value while filling a team need all the same. Pope is oversized at 6'8"/258. He is also a tremendous jumper who can get a jump ball over any defensive player in the NFL. His 4.62 speed allows him to stretch the field, even in single-coverage on a safety. His route-running needs work, and his blockig is suspect; but, Pope would be a steal at this point. He would take pressure off of Bulger, and give the offense another potent option to Torry Holt and Issac Bruce in the passing game.

(77) David Pittman, CB. Northwestern State
The Rams would prefer to add an elite coverage cornerback to their defense in this draft. Having been given no good value in either round one or round two, the Rams must address this need before the end of day one. In a position to be willing to take a calculated gamble on a player, the Rams could potentially hit a home run with David Pittman. Hailging from Northwestern State, David Pittman has first-round abilities and is suffering from small school syndrome only. At 5'11"/182, Pittman could stand to bulk up to become NFL ready, but Pittman's skills are already there. His 4.42 speed is excellent, and he simply excels in coverage. His head coach, who also directed Bills' Pro Bowler Terrence McGee, has claimed Pittman to be the best cornerback he has ever seen.

Needing a cover guy in the secondary, Tye Hill
is as good as it gets in this draft class

(*) Tye Hill, CB. Clemson
Tye Hill is fast. His 4.30 timing was the fastest among all prospects at the combine. His 5'10" height is only average, leaving some scouts unwillingto place him among the top prospects. However, his height is passable by NFL standards. His coverage abilities, on the other hand, are very solid. He has fluid hips and has a knack for breaking up passes. He is a leaper that can go up and break away jump balls with receivers much taller than himself. Should he get fooled by a receiver, film study shows that he has a burst like no one in that draft in terms of closing speed. All signs point to Tye Hill being that elite cover corner capable of playing with any receiver in the league on an island.

Seattle Seahawks Forecast

2006-04-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

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Seattle Seahawks (13-3)
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(31) Tamba Hali, DE. Penn State
(63) Danieal Manning, DB. Albeliene Christian
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Seattle was a huge surprise last year. Having been labeled as an inconsistent team recently, no one expected them to either be the #1 seed in the playoffs or make the Super Bowl. Most of the team needs exist on the defensive side of the ball. Yes, the Seahawks did lead the NFL in sacks last year, but they still could use a pass rusher fro the edge. Bryce Fisher leaves a lot to be desired, and all signs are pointing to a pass rusher being the team's #1 selection. The secondary could also use added depth. Andre Dyson is no longer lined up at coenerback, and Ken Hamlin's health is a question mark. Finding a corner or a safety would make a lot of sense. Offensively, the loff of Steve Hutchinson will be felt. If value presents itself early, the Seahawks may go that route. Otherwise, expect a versatile interior lineman to be drafted on day two.

Tamba Hali is the pass rushing specialist that
the Seahawks are looking to acquire in the draft

(31) Tamba Hali, DE. Penn State
The Seahawks had the top pass rush in the league last year, and they would like to keep it that way. It was no secret that John Abraham was on their wish list this off-season. Unwilling to give upi their first-rounf pick, the Seahawks will be forced to find an upgrade for Bryce Fisher on the outside through the draft. Tamba Hali has seen his draft stock slide recently. His 4.86 timed speed has teams really worrying about his ability to rush the passer and pursue the ball carrier. It seems that some scouts have forgotten just how productive Hali was in college. He was purely dominant this past season for the Nitney Lions. The Seahawks would be more than willing to have a chance at Hali. He would be the ideal option for their line. His game is polished and he is simply a big (6'3"/275), fast end to help their defensive line.

(63) Danieal Manning, DB. Albeliene Christian
Needing depth at the very least in the defensive backfield, the Seahawks will find a gem of a talent in Danieal Manning. Suffering from small school syndrome, Manning has big-time abilities. His 5'11"/202 size is excellent. His 4.46 speed is very good, especially considering he has played the bulk of his time at safety. Manning also has fluid hips, giving him the ability to play man coverage and line up on the outside. This versatility makes him particularly desireable to a team like Seattle. Having sacrificed their third round pick to acquire Nate Burleson from the Vikings, the Hawks are short one first day pick. In Manning they can fill both depth needs in the secondary with one guy. A top sleeper candidate in the entire draft, Danieal Manning has the potential to be great.

Jennings is a cover guy that compliments Marcus Trufant well

(31) Kelly Jennings, CB. Miami
It is a well established fact that Miami University defenders have had success in the NFL. Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Jonathan Vilma are only a few of the names out there. Having a need in the secondary, the Giants will likely be better served grabbing their guy in round one before the top cover corners are off the board in round two. Kelly Jennings is incredibly athletic. His 4.39 speed is elite, and his 5'11" height is competently good. He is incredibly fluid in man coverage with a knack for landing the interception. Fearing value being gone in the next round and needing a defensive back, Kelly Jennings is a possible selection for the Seahawks.

New Orleans Saints Forecast

2006-04-11T22:51:00.000-07:00

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New Orleans Saints(3-13)
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(2) D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT. Virginia
(34) Nick Mangold, C. Ohio State
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The Saints are getting better and better by the second. Drew Brees offers the franchise an efficient, decision-maker at quarterback. Bryan Scott, acquired from Atlanta, gives them a viable option to bolster the secondary. Getting rid of Wayne Gandy tells the world that D'Brickashaw Ferguson will be the Saints' franchise left tackle come draft day. The loss of LeCharles Bentley also places need on the offensive front. Nick Mangold will be mighty tempting at #34. Defensively, the team needs linebackers above all. Scott Fujita and Colby Bockwoldt are simply not NFL-caliber startin offensive linebackers. On the defensive front, a tackle to play opposite the disappointing Johnathan Sullivan would give the Saints an upgrade over the likes of Brian Young and Willie Whitehead.

D'Brickashaw Ferguson opposite Jammal Brown is scary

(2) D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT. Virginia
Wayne Gandy beig traded away means that the Saints are looking for a left tackle. With the second pick in the draft, they will be getting the right price to draft the likes of D'Brickashaw Ferguson. Brick is the best tackle prospect since Orlando Pace. His footwork is immaculate. His technique elsewhere is superb. As a pass blocker, he is ready to take on the Dwight Freeney's and Jason Taylor's of the world tomorrow. Ferguson could stand to add some weight to his 6'6"/312 frame, but that will come with time. As he adds weight and strength, Brick will become progressively more dominant in the run game. With book ends of Jammal Brown and D'Brickashaw Ferguson, the Saints are letting their fans know that they are willing to fix their franchise from up front.

The loss of LeCharles Bentley will have the Saints
biting on Nick Mangold in the early second round

(34) Nick Mangold, C. Ohio State
LeCharles Bentley was lost to free agency, and his prensence will be missed in New Orleans even more than it will be welcomed in Cleveland. Bentley was a dominating, Pro-Bowl caliber force inside. Among the top center prospects in the draft, Nick Mangold is the only one with a first-round grade. Should Mangold slip past the Jets at 29 and the Steelers at 32, he would be a difficult player to pass up at #34, especially considering the Saints third round pick is in the hands of the Houston Texans. Drafting D'Brickashaw Ferguson with the #2 pick will take pressure off whomever is playing in the middle this year, so starting a rookie will be no concern. Grabbing two offensive lineman would leave some gaping holes on the other side of the ball, but Mangold is just too legitimate a center prospect to pass on here.

(*) Demeco Ryans, OLB. Alabama
The Saints most glaring needs may well be on defense. AJ Hawk is the #1 defensive player on their draft board. If they are able to move from the #2 pick, to either #3 or #4, then Hawk will be their guy. If Demeco Ryans is available in the second round, he will be very tough to pass up. Ryans, being an SEC standout, is surely in the forefront of many a Saints fan. At 6'1"/236, he has the bulk to take an NFL-caliber beating. His 4.62 is not elite, but his on-field production is. He can hawk the ball and lay the lumber. A guy slipping purely due to his poor timed speed, Ryans make an excellent addition to a dysfuctional defense.

Atlanta Falcons Forecast

2006-04-11T22:42:00.000-07:00

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Atlanta Falcons (8-8)
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(47) Kelly Jennings, CB. Miami
(79) Maurice Drew, RB. UCLA
(93) Ray Edwards, DE. Purdue
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Having Pro Bowler Patrick Kerney on one side of the line and having traded away the #15 overall pick to acquire fellow Pro Bowler John Abraham, one might think it foolish for defensive end to be a day one need for the Falcons. Truth is, the best defenses in the league all have depth at the position, and the Falcons have none. A big, physical end wuold make sense for the Falcons. However, the primary need for the defense lies in the secondary. Whether corner or safety, finding the biggest difference-maker in the middle of round two will be necessary for the franchinse to have a successful draft. On the offensive side of the ball, the trade to acquire Wayne Gandy solved the hole at left tackle left by Kevin Shaffer for at least another year. The interior line could still use depth and a potential starter. Grabbing a guard or center is a legitimate option on day one. Lastly, with the loss of Warrick Dunn, finding a back to supplement TJ Duckett will have to happen before it is all said and done.

Kelly Jennings would be an ideal running mate
opposite Deangelo Hall in the defensive backfield

(47) Ashton Youboty, CB. Ohio State
The Falcons desire a better starter alongside Deangelo Hall. Hall is so good in coverage that this is not a gigantic issue, but if a guy like Kelly Jennings fell into the Falcons laps, they would never be able to pass on him. Jennings is a competently-sized corner at 5'11" with enormous upside. His 4.39 speed and fliud hips allow him to cover most #1's in the NFL. He needs to bulk up and get stronger, but there is certianly potential for Jennings and Hall choking off opponent's passing attacks single-handedly. This second round pick would present good value. Jennings is an elite coverage-style corner; there is no doubting that.

Maurice Drew would add depth at running back
and compliment power runner, TJ Duckett

(79) Maurice Drew, RB. UCLA
TJ Duckett can not carry the load all by himself. Sticking with the "Thunder and Lightening" scheme that has worked so well for the Falcons, Maurice Drew is the ideal option among day-one running backs. Drew is vastly undersized at 5'7"/207. He makes up for his lack of size with top-flight quickness and agility. His 4.39 speed suggests that will be able to break away from the pack in the NFL much as he did often at UCLA. He will not break many tackles, and he is lacking ability as a pass protector; but, in situational roles, Maurice Drew could make a dangerous running back. He also presents added value as a return man.

(93) Ray Edwards, DE. Purdue
Even with John Abraham and Patrick Kerney, Ray Edwards would be an excellent selection come draft day. The team needs depth to keep fresh legs on the field, and Edwards could offer that from day one. His 6'5"/273 frame is NFL ready. He is very athletic and can make plays in the backfield both as a pass rusher and against the run. Edwards was largely inconsistent during his college career at Purdue, but he showed flashes of brilliance. Should his upside come to fruition, the Falcons' will have the best trio of defensive ends in the NFL by a substantial margin. However, during the early years, Edwards will only be needed for 10-20 plays per game. He is the perfect guy for this kind of role.

Bullocks physical play has A-T-L written all over it

(*) Daniel Bullocks, S. Nebraska
Needing to grab the best available defensive back in the second round, the Falcons would find a steal in Danial Bullocks. Having traded away Bryan Scott to acquire Wayne Gandy, safety is a more pressing need than corner, and Bullocks is just who Falcons' fans would love to have. Daniel Bullocks of Nebraska is a better prospect than his brother, Josh, was a year ago. Josh went in the early second round to the Saints and proceeded to start every game. Daniel has excellent size at 6'1"/212. His 4.38 speed is elite among safeties. He has excellent mobility and range. He is relatively poor in man coverage, making him an ideal candidate for a centerfielder. He is simply the fast, rangy style of defensive back that the Falcons adore.

Carolina Panthers Forecast

2006-04-11T22:34:00.000-07:00

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Carolina Panthers (11-5)
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(27) Jason Allen, S. Tennessee
(58) Anthony Fasano, TE. Notre Dame
(88) Jerious Norwood, RB. Mississippi State
(89) Devin Hester, CB. Miami
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Carolina was so close to making another Super Bowl appearance. Ultimately, it was Mo Lewis, an aging, slow, strong-side linebacker who changed those plans. With the help of Michael Boulware over the top, Lewis was ableto out-physical Pro Bowl receiver, Steve Smith, into submission. Should the Panthers have had more weapons on the offensive side of the ball, this strategy could have been exposed. Adding a pass-catching tight end and a running back to replace Steven Davis is a legitimate need for the Panthers. More weapons means less pressure on Steve Smith, and this will translate into more points and more victories for the franchise. Defensively, Will Witherspoon was lost to free agency. It is absolutely urgent that a replacement plan is in effect. Thomas Davis, last year's first round draft pick, is versatile enough to play either safety or linebacker, giving the Panthers flexibility with their first pick.

Jason Allen would allow Thomas Davis to play Linebacker
and fill in for the loss of Will Witherspoon

(27) Jason Allen, S. Tennessee
A hip injury to a defensive back is equally troubling as a shoulder injury to a quarterback. Without fluid hips, defensive backs simply can not cover NFL receivers man-to-man. Needless to say, Jason Allen's dislocated hip injury left teams seriously considering his status. Prior to the injury, Allen was easily a first-round pick in this draft. A 6'1"/209 safety with leadership qualities and 4.39 speed can play anywhere and for anyone. Medical exams have said that Allen has regained 100% mobility and 85% strength in his hip to this point. This news has moved Jason Allen back into the first-round mix. A speedy ball-hawk in Allen would compliment the physical front seven of the Panthers. Thomas Davis could move to linebacker and fill the big void that Will Withespoon left behind.

Fasano's physical play is perfect for the Panthers

(47) Anthony Fasano, TE. Notre Dame
Passing on elite tight end prospect Mercedes Lewis in round one, the Panthers are better served with the value that will have surfaced in the second round. Anthony Fasano is an extremely consistent player from all facets of the game. He is an excellent weapon in the short and intermediate passing game. He excels as a blocker, giving maximum effort from snap to whistle. This past season, under the pro-style Charlie Weis offense, Fasano was extremely productive. While he has only average tight end speed at 4.71, Fasano has excellent hands to pull down anything within reach. As a big (6'4"/259), strong, high character, productive player, Fasano would be an ideal selection for the Panthers.

(88) Jerious Norwood, Mississippi State
Steven Davis will be missed. It is uncertain whether DeShawn Foster can carry the load all by himself, so bringing in some insurance to stack on top of Nick Goings would be a wise move for the Panthers. Jerious Norwood is a tall, physical running back that had success in the SEC. His 6'0"/210 size is thin at the moment, but upon adding 20 pounds, he will have the same measurements as Steven Davis. Different from Davis, Norwood has 4.40 speed. This allows Norwood to be a game-breaker in addition to a tough inside-the-tackles runner. Norwood also has excellent hands, and uses his size exceptionally well, even at 210. Outside of LenDale White, Jerious Norwood is the perfect second option to replace Steven Davis.

Hester gives the Panthers another dynamic playmaker

(89) Devin Hester, CB. Miami
Devin Hester is a playmaker. He is so dangerous in the return game that he was rarely ever kicked to in college. Hester's 4.38 speed is considered elite, but he plays even faster than his timed speed on the field. Hester has fluid hips and incredible closing speed in the secondary. He presents value to the defense as a dime back, minimizing the loss of Ricky Manning. On the offensive side of the ball, Hester can line up in the slot and take pressure off of Steve Smith since, like Smith, Hester is a threat to go the distance with every touch of the football. Most of all, Hester will offer the Panthers exceptiona special teams potential, giving them protection for Steve Smith.

LenDale White is the brand of power
runner that was lost in Stephen Davis

(*) LenDale White, RB. USC
The combination of Stephen Davis and DeShaun Foster has proven itself to be effective. This type of "Thunder and Lightening" running attack has also been successful in Atlanta with TJ Duckett and Warrick Dunn. LenDale White saw his stock slip substantially after a non-existent Pro Day workout. To this point, he has yet to run a 40 or do any positional drills in front of NFL scouts. If his current workout habits continue, he will need a bra come draft day. Nevertheless, his on the field production suggests that he can step out on to the field and produce. Having a guy like LenDale White available would make the Panthers first round deicision very difficult. A guy of LenDale's stature and athleticism has not come around since Jerome Bettis.

Tampa Bay Bucaneers Forecast

2006-04-11T22:23:00.000-07:00

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Tampa Bay Bucaneers (11-5)
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(23) Johnathan Joseph, CB. South Carolina
(59) Daryn Colledge, OT. Boise State
(90) Kevin Boothe, OG. Cornell
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The future looks bright in Tampa. Chris Sims showed signs of promise, and Cadillac Williams was brilliant in his rookie campaign. Anthony Davis and Kenyatta Walker have been disappointing as tackles on the offensive line. Upgrades are available early and often in this draft class. The Bucs are probably willing to give Michael Clyatonanother chance after a dismal sophomore campaign, but depth any excellent value at wideout may well be snatched up come draft day. Defensively, depth behind Ronde Barber and Brian Kelly is needed. A nickelback for the present and starter for the future is a day one need. Finding a corner perfect for the Tampa 2 will not be hard to find in this deep defensive back class.

Johnathan Joseph has the athleticism to play in any scheme

(23) Johnathan Joseph, CB. South Carolina
Beyond Ronde Barber and Brian Kelly, the Bucs cornerback depth is very thin. Operating out of a Cover 2 scheme that puts emphasis on a cornerback's ability to make instinctive plays on the ball, Johnathan Joseph would be an excellent option. Joseph is a player who has seen his draft stock soar since hie combine workout. Originally considered a second rounder, his 4.31 speed has placed him firmly in the first round mix. Yet, one must not forget that Joseph had a very productive career at South Carolina. He is a solid tackler and works very well in man coverage. He has the instincts to play in the Cover 2 and the ball skills to come up with the big interception. His excellent speed makes his a threat to take the ball the distance every time it is in his hands.

Daryn Colledge is the last of the left tackle prospects

(65) Daryn Colledge, OT. Boise State
The Bucs need help along the offensive front. They would prefer to add a left tackle prospect. With Ferguson and Justice off the board in round one, value will force them to wait until round two for their guy. Daryn Colledge would give the Bucs a franchise tackle prospect. Having been recruited out of North Pole, Alaska by Boise State to play Tight End, Colledge has since bulked up from 235 to 299 pounds and become a premier NFL prospect. His pass blocking skills are very elite. His run blocking skills need work, but added size and strength will correct that over time. A four-year starter at Boise State, Colledge is a proven winner who gets the job done. This is a match made in heaven.

(90) Kevin Boothe, OG. Cornell
One lineman in Daryn Colledge is not enough to fully rememdy the offensive line issues for the Bucs. Kevin Boothe is a largely unproven talent that possesses all the physical abilities and intangibles to become a dominant player at the NFL level. At 6'5"/316, he has ideal size to play either guard position. His excellent footwork allows him to play either tackle position like he did in college. While Boothe was facing relatively soft competition in the Ivy League, he could have easily taken plays off after finishing his blocking assignments. However, Boothe showed scouts that he was unwilling to settle for the status quo; he was always looking for that extra guy to lay out before the whistle blew. John Gruden loves that warrior mentality and would love to have a guy like Kevin Boothe offer depth to his sub-par offensive line.

Simply put, the Bucs neeed help up front

(*) Eric Winston, OT. Miami
It is amazing to think that Cadillac Williams ran so well behind an incompetent offensive line. Of all the needs the Bucs have, offensive line leads the charge significantly. Eric Winston is coming off of major knee surgery in 2004. Questions regarding his health have been answered slowly, but surely, and he now appears firmly in the first-round mix. Should he return to full form, he would be an absolute steal for the Bucs. Winston is big at 6'7"/310 and very fast (4.94). He is athletic and physical, able to block anyone and everyone both in traffic and in space. Eric Winston would present the perfect solution to the team's left tackle issue. He would increase the effectiveness of the running game and protect Chris Sims.

Philadelphia Eagles Forecast

2006-04-11T15:41:00.000-07:00

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Philadelphia Eagles (6-10)
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(14) Chad Greenway, OLB. Iowa
(45) John McCargo, DT. NC State
(76) Jeremy Trueblood, OT. Boston College
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The Eagles have a ton of needs to fill on draft day. At linebacker, Dhani Jones has been very disappointing on the strong side and Shawn Barber is just not a starter in the NFL on the weak side. Ideally, a premium coverage guy will surface as an excellent value to forced Shawn Barber to the sidelines. Up front, the defensive tackles have been disappointing. Finding a stud that is disruptive in the middle would make excellent sense for the Eagles. On the offensive side of the ball, it is no surprise that the team is weak at recevier. Reggie Brown did show promise last year and Donovan McNabb has proven that he can have success without a true #1, but finding a dynamic option would take pressure of both Donovan McNabb and Bryan Westbrook. Ultimately, the Eagles have a handful of holes, but a good draft could bring them back into the hunt in the NFC East.

Chad Greenway is the type of coverage backer
that the Egales have coveted for years

(14) Chad Greenway, OLB. Iowa
Shawn Barber just is not cutting it on the weak side for the Eagles. Chad Greenway is a prototypical WILL linebacker who would fit perfect alongside Jeremiah Trotter and Dhani Jones. Greenway is ideally sized at 6'3"/242 and has impressive strength. His 4.75 speed is sketchy, but he appears to fly all over the field on film, making Greenway an anomaly. Most of all, Greenway is superb in coverage. Having recevied his first 11-on-11 football action at Iowa, Greenway is still developing as a player. Considering he was considered on-par with AJ Hawk at the beginning of this football season, it is easy to see why teams can look right past the 4.75 speed figure.

(45) John McCargo, DT. NC State
Brodrick Bunkley is a force inside. On a very talented NC State defense, he often managed to outshine other professional prospects Manny Lawson and Mario Williams in terms of production. He has outstanding strength, shedding blockers to stop the run very effectively. Yet, on passing downs, he splits double-teams and gets into the offensive backfield very reliably. McCargo is simply a dynamic player on the interior line. During his college career, he had at least one tackle for loss in every game that he started. It is very possible that McCargo lands in the first round, ahead of his linemate Manny Lawson. It is equally possible that he makes it all the way to #45 and becomes the defensive tackle that Andy Reid desires.

Jeremy Trueblood is a prototypical right tackle

(76) Jeremy Trueblood, OT. Boston College
It would seem very strange for the Eagles to not grab a receiver by the end of day one, but with so many neeeds elsewhere and with Donovan McNabb having proved during his career that he can manange without top-notch receivers, grabbing a right tackle before the sure-fire players are gone makes more sense for the franchise. Jeremy Trueblood is a massive body on the field. At 6'8"/316, he possesses the strength and size to absolutely manhandle his opponents in the running game. A team leader who is both hard working and intelligent, Trueblood is the brand of the player that the Eagles would prefer in this draft. He is neither a threat to tam continuity nor is he a liability on the field.

Chad Jackson has TO potential and would upgrade
the Eagles' thin and weak receiving corp

(*) Chad Jackson, WR. Florida State
Losing Terrell Owens really hurt last season. During his short stint in Philadelphia, TO turned the Eagles into the beast of the NFC, taking them to a Super Bowl. Chad Jackson of Florida is of the Terrell Owens mold. His 6'1"/213 size is above average, and he has exceelent speed (4.32) and quickness. Different from TO, Chad Jackson is a leader with a positive influence in the locker room. Jackson runs well in the open field and has very reliable hands. His route-running and blocking need some help at the moment, but with a little development, Chad Jackson could be a dominant recevier in the NFL. Chad Jackson has TO potential, period.

Dallas Cowboys Forecast

2006-04-11T14:58:00.000-07:00

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Dallas Cowboys (9-7)
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(18) Manny Lawson, OLB. NC State
(49) Taitusi Lutui, OG. USC
(80) Roman Harper, S. Alabama
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Roy Williams is one of the best, young, talented players in the entire NFL. He can do it all from the safety position. Keith Davis, his runningmate in centerfield, is not a viable option for the Cowboys as a starter. Finding a safety in the early rounds in a necessity. In the linebacking corp, Al Singleton is not an ideal fit for the Bill Parcels defense. A physical linebacker to play opposite DeMarcus Ware would make a ton of sense. Finding a Parcels-type player in the early rounds would make a lot of sense. Offensively, even with the addition of Terrell Owens, the team needs insurance. Needless to say, TO is a time bomb waiting to happen. Terry Glenn is getting old, and a viable option as a #3 would round out the receiving corp and supply insurance in the case that Terrell Owens does not work out.

Manny Lawson is a freakish pass-rushing specialist

(18) Manny Lawson, OLB. Ohio State
Manny Lawson is the dream candidate to fill a role at OLB in the 3-4. With Al Singleton presenting a horrible fit and Bill Parcels prefering superior athletes on the edge of his defenses, Manny Lawson would give the Cowboys a second Lawrence Taylor-esque player opposite second-year defensive stud, Demarcus Ware. Having had experience lining up as a defensive end at NC State, Lawson is an excellent pass rusher. Lawson is a physical specimen. At 6'6", he has excellent size. His 7'2" wingspan and 42" vertical make him a force both as a pass rusher deflecting passes and as a coverage linebacker making plays on the ball. Lawson's 4.43 speed is beyond impressive and puts him in a class by himself among both OLB's and DE's. Lining up on the same defensive line as John McCargo (2nd round pick) and Mario Williams (Top 5 pick), Lawson earned Defensive Player of the Year honors at NC State the last two years. A player like Manny Lawson comes along once in a blue moon, and Bill Parcels knows this.

(49) Taitusi Lutui, OG. USC
Having lost Larry Allen to free agency, grabbing an offensive guard will be essential to the Cowboys' draft. While this need may well get pushed back to Day Two, Taitusi Lutui present good value as a guy who can do it all from the guard position. At 6'4"/334, Lutui is very large, but he possesses excellent footwork. He is very good in pass protection. As a run blocker, he is massive and strong, providing an incredible initial punch at the line. He has the ability to manhandle opponents. Amazingly, Lutui can play up to thirty pounds heavier than his training weight and still manage the same agility and speed numbers he does at 334. He is a freakish talent that projects very well tothe NFL because of this. Having had success at USC, Lutui is going to be seriously considered over every other draftable option for the Cowboys in round two.

Roman Harper is smashmouth against the run,
but rangy enough to roam sideline-to-sideline

(80) Roman Harper, S. Alabama
Needing a safety to better compliment Roy Williams, Roman Harper would fill a giant need for the Cowboys in round three. Harper would be also present excellent value. Harper was a very productive player on one of the best defensive units in the country this past season. He was a consistent player, week in and week out for Alabama. Harper is an instictive player that finds himself around the ball often. He is a tough-minded, physical tackler that is willing to stand in the way of anyone. His 6'0"/198 size is only average, but his 4.48 speed certainly looks good for a safety with his run-stopping abilites. If Harper can produce even close to what he did at Alabama in the NFL, the Cowboys will boast the best safety tandem in the NFL.

Donte Whitner is the perfect compliment to Roy Williams

(*) Donte Whitner, S. Ohio State
The Cowboys need a centerfielder. They need a safety that is rangy and explosive. Donte Whitner of Ohio State has soared up draft boards after breaking the 4.40 barrier at the combine. His 5'10"/204 size is not elite, but his skill set is. He is an instinctive, sure-handed tackler. He is an excellent pass rusher on the blitz. Whitner can make picks in traffic, and run with even the fastest receivers in man coverage. He can line up at cornerback, supplying incredible flexibility for his defensive coordinator. Whitner is an ideal fit to play along side Roy Williams in Big D.

Washington Redskins Forecast

2006-04-11T14:26:00.000-07:00

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Washington Redskins (10-6)
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(53) Cedric Griffin, CB. Texas
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The Redskins showed a ton of promise at the end of last year. Having added Antwaan Randle El to compliment Santana Moss, the team has polished off most of their needs on the offensive side of the ball. Defensively, there is a different story. Shawn Springs and Carlos Rogers make very solid options as starting cornerbacks, but the depth of talent is very thin behind those two starters. Having lost Antonio Pierce and LaVar Arrington to free agency, the team is paper thin at linebacker. They need to find a starting caliber player in the draft or be starting a veteran backup. Having only one pick on day one, the Redskins have to be very sure of whomever they choose to select. They need a proven, productive player from a power conference who can contribute in the NFL tomorrow.

Cornerback is a physical corner with free safety
potential that gives thethe Redskins immediate depth

(53) Cedric Griffin, CB. Texas
There exists no depth at the cornerback position for the Redskins. Shawn Springs and Carlos Rogers are fine as starters, but the talent level goes steeply downhill from there. A productive player like Cedric Griffin would be a great addition as a nickel back. At 6'0"/199, Griffin has excellent size and is very physical and aggressive. He plays faster than his 4.55 time and acts very instinctively on the field. In terms of a nickelback, he would be an excellent option that is polished and NFL ready. With only one pick day one, the Redskins have no time to mess around. They can take no risks with their pick, and Cedric Griffin is a legitimate option.

Abdul Hodge is the sure-fire talent the 'Skins need

(*) Abdul Hodge, LB. Iowa
LaMar Marshall and Marcus Washington are both legitimate linebacking options. However, with the loss of LaVar Arrington to free agency, the team still needs to find someone to fill the last spot in the linebacking corp. Abdul Hodge of Iowa is a strong, physical, productive option for the Redskins. Undersized at 6'0"/236, Hodge makes up for his lack of size in his big hitting ability. An instinctive player and team leader, Abdul Hodge is a sure-fire commodity. His ceiling may be lower than some, but his talent floor is very high. In Abdul Hodge, the Redskins know they have a player that can contribute from day one.