The No. 4 defensive end is an afterthought on many NFL teams.
The Buffalo Bills showed Sunday how important they think that roster spot is when they invested their third-round pick on Virginia Tech defensive end Chris Ellis.
Osi Umenyiora did it. So did DeMarcus Ware. Now Leodis McKelvin has a chance to follow in the footsteps of other former defensive stars from Troy (Ala.) University to make it big in the NFL.
Michigan State receiver Devin Thomas and Florida defensive end Derrick Harvey are two names for Buffalo Bills fans to watch in what could be a wild NFL draft day at One Bills Drive.
1. Miami Dolphins-Jake Long OT Michigan
Miami has already agreed on a huge contract with Jake Long to make him the highest paid OL in the league. While Long projected by some scouts as a RT in the league, Miami intends to make him a LT, and for good reason. Long is the most complete OT in this draft, and should improve his quickness against speed rushers. This was the smartest and best pick the Miami Dolphins could have made.
2. St. Louis Rams-Chris Long DE Virginia
After taking Adam Carriker in last year's first round, St. Louis cannot resist the temptation in taking another high motor DL. Carriker has bulked up to around 319, so he is probably set at DT, which makes the need for Dorsey here a little smaller. Long is a great prospect who can play the run well and rushes the passer. Teamed with Carriker, this could make for a fearsome DL. Sprinkle in Leonard Little flying off the edge from the other side, and Scott Linehan may save his job yet.
3. Atlanta Falcons-Glenn Dorsey DT LSU
Atlanta gets its wish and has one of the two lineman fall to them in Glenn Dorsey. Atlanta struggled last year against the run, and Dorsey's style of play will fit in well with what new HC Mike Smith asks of his defensive line. He should help to keep blockers away from sack artist John Abraham, and help second year pro and last year's first Round pick DE Jamaal Anderson to grow some more after a disappointing rookie season. Dorsey will be asked to use his penetration ability to disrupt opposing teams' running games, and to bring pressure up the middle.
4. Oakland Raiders-Darren McFadden RB Arkansas
I know the pick doesn’t make any logical sense, but then again most of what the Raiders do doesn’t make sense (my apologies to Raiders Nation). McFadden is the biggest playmaker in this draf,t and goes to an offense with no playmakers. They do have an issue at RB with newly extended Justin Fargas, Dominic Rhodes, LaMont Jordan, and last year's 4th Round pick Micheal Bush, but none of those guys have the ability of Darren McFadden. McFadden can also split out wide and play a little WR if need be. Al Davis will lobby hard for this pick, and while Lane Kiffin may not like it, I think this is where they end up going.
5. Kansas City Chiefs-Brandon Albert OT Virginia
While I don’t know that I like the move of Albert to the outside, Kansas City really needs help on the OL. Many people think that with the loss of Jared Allen, they will go with Vernon Gholston here, but I'm not so convinced. Albert is probably the second best OL in the draft, and with his versatility, the Chiefs will be ok if he doesn’t work out at OT; however, you don’t take OG’s this high.
6. New York Jets –Vernon Gholston DE/LB Ohio State
The Jets are happy that one of their two guys fell to them in Vernon Gholston. They love Gholston’s speed off the edge, and the athletic ability he brings to them as a stand up LB. While there is a lot of boom-bust risk here in this pick, the Jets are willing to risk it. Gholston will fit right in to replace Hobson, who left the Jets for the Patriots this off-season.
7. New England Patriots-Sedrick Ellis DT USC
New England needs to get a little younger along the DL, and Ellis makes the perfect sense as a 3-4 DE. While he may have timed slow at the combine, he plays much quicker. Ellis is a beast when being blocked one on one, and he has an arsenal of moves which allow him to get past offensive linemen. He’ll have the chance here to learn from three of the best in the business in Richard Seymour, Ty Warren, and Vince Wilfork on how to refine his game and become the best he can be.
8. Baltimore Ravens-Matt Ryan QB Boston College
The shocker of the draft! Well…ok…not really. Baltimore takes the guy they are praying falls to them in Matt Ryan. They need a replacement for Steve McNair, and anybody who thinks Kyle Boller or Troy Smith is going to do the job even remotely well is crazy. Ryan will bring his gunslinger mentality to Baltimore to work with TE Todd Heap and develop a good connection with him. Combine that with the solid running of Willis McGahee behind him, and you've got yourself a solid system to slide into.
9. Cincinnati Bengals-Keith Rivers LB USC
With the retirement of David Pollack, Keith Rivers makes perfect sense here. He has the versatility to play inside or out. Rivers brings a very athletic intense style of play, and should fit in nicely. Best of all, he is not a character risk whatsoever, and should start from Day 1.
10. New Orleans Saints-Leodis McKelvin CB Troy
The sleeper prospect out of Troy made big waves at the Senior Bowl this season, and is a duel threat with his punt return ability. While the Saints already have McKenzie and Gay at CB, they can slowly bring McKelvin along, and allow him to learn slowly while utilizing his punt return ability.
11. Buffalo Bills-Dominique Rodgers-Croamartie CB Tennessee State
This pick makes too much sense for the Bills. They have an obvious need at CB, and DRC is the ideal pick to fill that. He has the size and speed to match up with any WR in the league, and if his skill level translates like it did at the FCS level, you have a shut down corner on your hands. Buffalo will need to bring him along as slowly as they can though, as he will be making a big jump for FCS to the NFL and may take some time, but if the Senior Bowl is any indication, the kid will adjust quickly.
12. Denver Broncos-Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt
With Denver’s Zone Blocking Scheme, they have to take both athletic and intelligent linemen. So that’s why Vanderbilt’s Chris Williams makes perfect sense here. He nearly aced the Wonderlic test, and can really move for an OT. Under the Shannahan system, he should be able to really flourish, and continue the Denver trend of blocking for 1000 yard rushers.
13. Carolina Panthers-Rashad Mendenhall RB Illinois
With the release of DeSean Foster this past offseason, Carolina made one thing absolutely clear: it's time for DeAngelo Williams to get the starting spotlight. However, there is concern over whether Williams can become a full time RB in this league, and by taking Mendenhall, Carolina puts those fears to bed. While they could also be intrigued by DE Derrick Harvey here, I think they try and shore their running game first.
14. Chicago Bears-Ryan Clady OT Boise State
I think Chicago was really hoping Mendenhall would fall to them, but since he didn’t, they’ll do the next best thing to improve their running game and take Clady. Clady is a big OT, who is athletic and really excels at sealing off the edge for his back to spring free to the outside. Cedric Benson was a big time disappointment this past season, and hopefully some improved blocking will help him regain form.
15. Detroit Lions-Jeff Otah OT Pittsburgh
Detroit is tempted to go with Jonathan Stewart here, but his injury concerns make them shy away. Instead, they choose another OT, this time out of Pittsburgh. Otah should help to keep Kitna upright this season, and give him time to find Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson down the field. Also, Otah provides them with a young tackle to groom to protect future QB Drew Stanton’s blind side.
16. Arizona Cardinals-Mike Jenkins CB South Florida
With the move of Antrel Rolle to FS, the Cardinals need to bring in a CB to replace him. Mike Jenkins is a playmaker on the corner, who has good size and speed, and is not afraid to be physical. While he does have some character concerns, which will have scared some teams away, Jenkins has shown to be a hard worker at South Florida, and a top skilled CB.
17. Kansas City Chiefs-Derrick Harvey DE Florida
This year's big fall is, unfortunately, Derrick Harvey from Florida. Harvey is an extremely talented pass rusher, who worked this pre-draft season to get bigger and stronger. While he may lost a little speed, he is still lightning quick and gets to the passer. Kansas City takes him to replace Jared Allen at DE.
18. Houston Texans-Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon
Jonathan Stewart probably would of gone a little higher has it not been for his March surgery. However, Houston is glad he fell to them. Houston relied on UDFA RB Darius Walker towards the end of last year to carry the load. Stewart is a powerful runner with good speed, who should really help out the Texans.
19. Philadelphia Eagles-Devin Thomas WR Michigan State
The first WR off the board goes to the Eagles and Donovan McNabb. Thomas is a rare WR who has some incredible RAC ability. He also has great return ability and has good speed. The comments about him being a one year wonder, however, are overstated. Thomas was a beast at the JUCO level, and never got consistent time til this year at Michigan State.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Aqib Talib CB Kansas
With the loss of Brian Kelly, Tampa looks to playmaker Aqib Talib to replace him. Talib has good size and skill, but is still rough around the edges. He is very confident in himself, and will need to be taken down a peg or two by Jon Gruden. However, when on his game, Talib is a potential shut down corner with big play potential.
21. Washington Redskins-Phillip Merling DE Clemson
The Redskins DL is getting a little long in the tooth, and with Phillip Merling sitting there at 21, I don’t see how they can pass. Merling provides a good solid pass rush, along with the ability to make big plays in the backfield against the running game. Merling should be able to come in from Day 1 and contribute.
22. Dallas Cowboys-Limas Sweed WR Texas
Cowboys stay at home, and take a local kid to add to the arsenal. Sweed is maybe the most polished WR in this class, but he needs to make sure his wrist is fully healed for Dallas. With Terry Glenn and Terrell Owens getting older, they need another WR with Patrick Crayton to begin to develop.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers-Jerrod Mayo LB Tennessee
Pittsburgh needs to find a LB to add some energy to their team. Mayo is that guy, and he is all over teams' draft boards. Some say he is going too high here, others say too low. Either way, Mayo can play outside or inside, and can make plays sideline to sideline.
24. Tennessee Titans-DeSean Jackson WR Cal
Vince Young needs a dynamic playmaker on this offense, and here he is in DeSean Jackson. There is no doubt that Jackson can make plays, whether in the return game or the passing game. The question is, how much of a liability will his size be at the next level? Young should be able to use Jackson as a deep threat, and on trick plays.
25. Seattle Seahawks-Gosder Cherilus OT Boston College
Seattle needs to begin to retool their line, and they do so by taking the big OT who kept top prospect Matt Ryan upright all season. Cherilus excels at run blocking, and is quick enough to get to the 2nd level and really clear a path for new running back Julius Jones. If Cherilus could become a little more aggressive, Seattle could have a franchise tackle on their hands.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars-Kentwan Balmer DT North Carolina
Balmer was pretty much an enigma up until this year at North Carolina, where he really came into his own. He has good penetration skills, and can really hit a seam in the OL and break through. He is inconsistent, but with his size, strength, and athleticism he could develop into a very good DT prospect.
27. San Diego Chargers-Dan Connor LB Penn State
San Diego needs to find a tackling machine for the middle of their defense, and Dan Connor is the perfect fit. He has great size and pedigree for the position, and his technique is nearly flawless. Connor is also like a second coach on the field, and is not afraid to make the defensive calls or adjust the defense when needed.
28. Dallas Cowboys-Felix Jones RB Arkansas
With the loss of Julius Jones to Seattle in Free Agency, Dallas has a need to bring in another tailback to share the load with Marion Barber III. Felix Jones is the ideal back for that kind of situation because he runs hard, is strong, and is used to being in a split carries system. Jones has excellent speed from the tailback spot, and is a good receiving option.
29. San Francisco 49ers-James Hardy WR Indiana
San Francisco needs to find some kind of a consistent target for QB Alex Smith, and hopefully that's what James Hardy is. Hardy has great size at 6’5, and good hands. He is still raw, and will allow his routes to get a little sloppy if he’s not getting the ball. It does appear as though his past character problems are behind him, and that he has matured.
30. Green Bay Packers-Antoine Cason CB Arizona
Both Charles Woodson and Al Harris won't be around forever, so taking Cason here makes a lot of sense. Cason is an experienced CB at the collegiate level, and a playmaker also. He has good size, and decent speed for his position, along with good ball skills and leaping ability. He’ll probably need some time to make the adjustment, but should end up one day as a starting CB.
31. New York Giants-Reggie Smith CB/S Oklahoma
The reigning Super Bowl champs really don’t have a lot to improve on. But they could use a little more skill in their secondary. The reason the Reggie Smith pick here makes sense is due to his versatility and ability to play either the CB or the S position on the field. He will likely be a S at first, but I'm of the opinion that he could one day be a very good CB.
The Buffalo Bills will be using the extensive NFL draft weekend coverage to kick off an electronic advertising campaign aimed at increasing the team's season-ticket base. This time, however, the Bills won't be using team stars such as Lee Evans or Marshawn Lynch to sell packages.
Toronto sports fans may recognize him as the man bringing real, live NFL football to the Rogers Centre for the next five seasons. Team owner Ralph Wilson has long pegged him as a rising star in Buffalo Bills management.
The depth of talent at the tight end position in the NFL draft might just break down nicely for the Buffalo Bills this weekend. It’s not a great year for tight ends overall. However, there is a decent pool of pass-catching tight ends who will be available in the second, third and fourth rounds.
Fans who would like to see the Buffalo Bills adopt a strict “Best Player Available” approach in the upcoming 2008 NFL Draft this weekend are, once again, likely to be disappointed. It appears that Russ Brandon, Tom Modrak, and Head Coach Dick Jauron, along with Bills owner Ralph Wilson, Jr., will continue to take the same kind of “targeted” approach to this year’s draft as they did in the two most recent past drafts, under former GM Marv Levy.
In Levy’s two drafts, the Bills “targeted” specific players, who could fill specific needs for the team early on. In the 2006 draft, knowing that they needed to add both a strong safety and defensive tackle capable of playing in the Tampa 2 defense that Head Coach Jauron was installing, the Bills shocked many by taking safety Donte Whitner with the 8th pick in the first round and, then, trading back up into the bottom of the first round to take John McCargo. In 2007, the Bills passed on filling their obvious need for a middle linebacker with Paul Posluzny, to fill their equally dire need for a running back, by taking Marshawn Lynch with the 12th pick in the first round. When Posluzny was still on the board early in the second round, once again the Bills traded up and took him.
If you see a pattern in what the Bills did with the first two picks in those two drafts, well, you should. In both cases, the Bills identified positions of need, and then not only used the depth at those positions on their draft board, but anticipated the moves that other teams might make to get the best combination of players that they could at those positions.
While more than a few Bills fans, and some in the media, have argued that the Bills did not get the value that they could have gotten with the picks that they expended to select those four players—particularly when you factor in the draft picks that they had to give up to move up to select McCargo and Posluzny- many teams in the NFL, no doubt including the Bills’ front office, would argue that value is a relative thing in the draft: that players who fit a team’s system, especially those who not only fit the system, but fill an obvious need, have more value than equally or somewhat more talented players who do not fit the team’s system, or who play a position that is already a strength.
From this approach, it can be argued that the Bills not only got four quality players who fit their system, but also the best combination of players to fit the team’s needs at the time. Certainly, the team could have gotten other players, perhaps even some higher rated players, at other positions (or, debatably, additional draft picks had they approached things differently, and been willing to risk losing out on the players that they had targeted, or been willing to take players that they had rated significantly lower at the positions they addressed), but it is hard to argue that they did not get the best combination of players at the positions that the team felt that it needed to address at the top of those two drafts.
That being the case, it is very likely that the Bills will continue to take a similar approach to the 2008 draft.
Anyone who has been following the Bills this off-season knows that the Bills are in dire need of a big, sure-handed # 2 wide receiver, a receiving tight end, a bigger cornerback, and depth on the defensive and offensive line, as well as a blocking fullback and a young quarterback who can be brought along as a back-up to starting QB Trent Edwards.
While there are a number of big wide receivers at the top of this year’s draft class, there is no clear-cut, “can’t miss” choice worthy of being taken with the 11th pick in the draft. It is a deep group overall, but a number of the top receivers in the class are not big enough to fill the Bills’ need for a bigger WR, and there are a number of teams that will be picking later in the first round and early in the second round that are likely to be looking to select a wide receiver as well.
Similarly, the tight end class is also deep, but, again, it also lacks a clear-cut, “can’t miss” number one guy with the kind of freakish athleticism and production to stand out head and shoulders above the rest. That being the case, it is unlikely that a tight end will be drafted in the first round, even though there are perhaps as many as five or six tight ends in this draft that have the talent to have long NFL careers.
The cornerback class is also deep, and lacks a clear-cut number one choice, but there is considerable quality and athleticism at the top of this group, and some may argue that there is enough quality depth in the class that a cornerback who would be a fit in the Bills’ Tampa 2 zone defense will probably still be available early in the third round. The problem is that NFL teams always need cornerbacks, and that need is even more acute now that teams have begun to use more 3- and 4-wide receiver sets on offense. Quality cornerbacks are at a premium, as evidenced by the huge salaries commanded by Nate Clements and Asante Samuel in free agency. And, as a result, in recent drafts, once the cornerbacks start to go, there is usually a “run” on the position with quite a number coming off the board in rapid succession.
The same is true with defensive linemen and offensive tackles, although there are, as a rule, far fewer available in any draft class. While this year’s class is deeper at these positions than most, the top rated offensive tackle, Jake Long of Michigan, has already signed with Miami, and will be the # 1 pick in the 2008 draft. It is likely that all of the top rated defensive linemen will be taken before the Bills pick at # 11.
This being the case, given the way that the Bills have approached the draft the last two years, it is likely that they will once again go into the draft having “targeted” not only the positions that they want to fill with their early picks in the draft, but with the goal of getting the best combination of players to fill those needs that they can.
The problem that the Bills will face in trying to achieve this goal will be anticipating which positions there will be a “run” on, and trying to make sure that they can get one of the players that they have “targeted” at that position before there is a considerable drop-off in quality at the position on their draft board. Given the fact that there will be a number of teams looking to add players at the same positions that the Bills will be looking to fill, doing that will not be easy.
In all likelihood, despite their desperate need for a big # 2 wide receiver, the Bills will go into the draft “targeting” one of the top two cornerbacks on their draft board— possibly Leodis McKelvin of Troy or Dominique Rogers-Cromartie of Tenn. St. (although they may have Antoine Cason of Arizona or Aqib Talib of Kansas rated higher on their board than one or both of these two). If the cornerback that they have “targeted” is still available, or if the “run” on cornerbacks has already begun, it is likely that the Bills will take a cornerback with the 11th pick in the draft.
If a defensive lineman that is projected to go in the Top 10 picks in the draft somehow falls to the Bills, the team will have a choice to make: Buffalo could take the player with their pick, or trade the pick to a team with a mid-round pick, and add an additional second- or third-round pick. With the money that the team currently has tied up in its defensive line, a trade-down would be most likely.
If the cornerback that the Bills have “targeted” going into the draft is not available when the 11th pick rolls around, the team will probably look to trade-down if at all possible. Given the team’s recent draft history, they probably won’t want to trade-down too far and risk missing out on the top player remaining in the group of players that they have “targeted”, but they could be willing to move down 6-8 spots, if they can get a good enough pick to allow them to either trade back up into the bottom of the first round or fill two positions with quality players in the second round. (With Kansas City having the 5th and 17th picks in the first round and needing to add offensive and defensive linemen as well as, perhaps, a quarterback, the Chiefs could be an ideal partner in such a trade-down scenario.)
If the Bills do trade-down out of the 11th pick, there is a fairly good chance that they will use their first pick on a wide receiver, probably Michigan State’s Devin Thomas. But, unless a “run” on wide receivers has already begun, or they anticipate that it is about to begin, there is just as good a chance that the Bills, anticipating the inevitable “run” on cornerbacks, will use their first pick to select the top cornerback remaining on their draft board, figuring that, with the picks that they have received for trading out of the 11th pick, they will be able to trade back up into the bottom of the first round to grab a big wide receiver.
Doing that would fit the pattern that the team has followed in the last two drafts.
But, without an extra third round pick and with a desperate need for a tight end (and, perhaps, an additional pass rusher), the only way that the Bills will be able to trade back up into the bottom of the first round, and still fill their positions of need in this draft, would be if they add at least one additional second- or third-round draft pick, by trading down out of the 11th pick in the draft. The cost of trading back up into the first round without first acquiring additional picks in a trade-down might well prove to be prohibitive in terms of limiting what the Bills will be able to do to fill their other needs later in the draft.
The problem with trading down in a draft where there isn’t outstanding quality at the top of the draft class, but there is a lot of depth— as is the case this year— is finding a trade partner that is interested in trading up, and has the wherewithal, in terms of draft picks, to make a trade worthwhile. It is easy for fans to say that their team should make a trade down (or up) in the draft, but it is a lot easier said than it is for a team to actually pull it off. Particularly in a year like this one, where there are a lot of teams looking to trade-down at the top of the first round, and not a whole lot of teams interested in moving up.
If the Bills are not able to trade-down out of the 11th pick and the cornerback they have “targeted” is already gone, they are going to have to make some hard decisions. And, they are going to have to be correct in determining which position, cornerback or wide receiver, there will be a “run” on first in order to come out of the first day of the draft with the best combination of players at those two positions that they can possibly get. If they make the wrong choice, it could prove to be a costly mistake in terms of draft picks and the team’s ability to fill its other pressing needs in this draft. So, there is little room for error.
The safest thing for the Bills to do, if they cannot trade-down out of the 11th pick in the draft, would be to take the highest rated wide receiver on their draft board, regardless of how others view that pick in terms of value, and hope that they can still get a decent cornerback prospect in the second round. The Bills showed, when they picked Donte Whitner, that they are not afraid to take a player at a position of dire need a few picks higher than he is expected to go. But, it cost them dearly when they had to give up a valuable draft pick to move back up into the first round to insure that they got John McCargo before another team selected him, or they were stuck having to select a much lower rated defensive tackle.
But, “playing it safe” may not be the best way for the Bills to get the best combination of players to fill the team’s most desperate needs. And, the team’s last two drafts have shown that the team’s approach to the draft is not necessarily to get the best player available at their spot in the draft, but to get the best combination of players that they feel that they can with the picks that they have at the top of their draft.
If the Bills are going to take that approach to this year’s draft— and there is no reason to believe that they will not— they are going to have to be very nimble and flexible, and make the right decisions during the first day of the draft. If they can do that, the Bills will have a very interesting and productive day. What they do may not satisfy those who think that the team should adopt a “best player available” strategy in the draft, but the team should be able to come up with a good combination of players to address the team’s most dire needs.
The question is whether, with only 10 minutes between picks to make decisions, the Bills’ new front office structure will allow the team to make decisions quickly, when it is essential for it to be most flexible and nimble on draft day. With the Bills needing to score big in this draft if the team is to seriously contend for a playoff berth this coming season, it is a test that Ralph Wilson and the rest of the team’s draft strategists must pass with flying colors.
The last two years, the Bills have shown that they could be flexible and respond to opportunities by trading up in the draft. This year, however, with the chance that there could be an early run on both of the positions that the Bills are looking to address at the top of their draft, they may have to prove that they can be even more nimble in reading the direction that the draft is going and responding, to come away with the best combination of players that they possibly can at those positions.
Click Here To Get Your Copy!
Welcome to the 2008 edition of the FREE BillsZone Draft guide!
This year's Draft Guide includes over 90 pages, 200 + player profiles, and over 150 color photos. Also included are position by position breakdowns of the Buffalo Bills roster and an examination of all their draft needs.
Stay right here on draft day for all your Buffalo Bills and NFL draft coverage! Just click on the cover for your free download today!
The start of the 2008 NFL draft could resemble the 2006 NFL draft for the Buffalo Bills.
Two years ago, the Bills picked safety Donte Whitner a tad higher than many draftniks had him rated— at eighth overall. This year the Bills may make a similar move in selecting Devin Thomas, the wide receiver from Michigan State. Thomas is rated by many as the best receiver in the draft but most experts don’t put him among the top 12 players overall.
Buffalo News NFL writers Mark Gaughan and Allen Wilson previewed the April 26-27 NFL draft by breaking it down position by position, starting April 13.
Included in their coverage was a story, Bills plan on playing a board game, about what the decision makers on the Buffalo Bills had to say about the draft.
With the NFL draft less than a week away, I was contemplating what would make this draft "successful" for the Buffalo Bills. The past two have been pretty great, actually.
Names like Donte Whitner, Ko Simpson, John McCargo, Kyle Williams, have all been contributers. Trent Edwards, Marshawn Lynch, and Paul Posluszny could be franchise players. (And all from one draft!) Even Keith Ellison, Ashton Youboty, Brad Butler, Dwayne Wright, John Wendling, and Derek Schouman have already seen some success at the NFL level.
The Bills appear headed for the best cornerback available in the April 26 NFL draft. It worked well in 1999 with Antoine Winfield and 2001 with Nate Clements, not so well in 1990 with James Williams. Only one, Williams, was drafted as high as 16th in the first round. This time Buffalo’s pick is No. 11. The brain trust better have the most solid of convictions this time.
Round 4:
1. Miami - S Craig Steltz
Alex-Steltz is an underrated safety ,who has only been a starter for one year. Tough as nails, this Ultimate Fighter wannabe might surprise, if Parcells can bring it all out of him.
Matt-Steltz had a huge year for LSU this year, making plays in the defensive backfield. He has a nose for the ball, and can deliver a hit where necessary.
2. STL - OT - Kirk Barton
Matt-The Rams need to add some depth to the OT position; with Pace getting older, and with his injury history, maybe it's time to groom a youngster to take over for him.
Alex-The Rams have had many O line problems in the last few years, and need to improve their depth. Barton is a hard working blue collar kind of guy that can help sub in a pinch if they should have more injuries this year.
3. NYJ - CB Orlando Scandrick
Alex-The Jets will love this speedy CB, who is also a special teams ace, and has a propensity for blocking kicks.
Matt-Given how badly the Jets need help in secondary, Scandrick brings nice size and speed to the Jets. He'll need some time for seasoning, but he can contribute immediately as a Special Teamer.
4. Atlanta - OT Barry Richardson
Matt-The hulking OT out of Clemson comes off the board here. He was once thought of as a potential first round pick by some, and had a disappointing senior year. If he can turn his game around, he'll make a great bookend paired with OT Jake Long.
Alex-Once considered a high prospect, Richardson's stock dove when he posted slow 40s. But he is huge, athletic, and if he locks on to you, you will not be getting through. Has a huge upside if a coach can bring the best out in him.
5. Oakland-OC Steve Justice
Alex-Jake Grove has regressed, and lost his starting job to Jeremy Newberry last year, despite Newberry returning from a serious injury and being 32 years old. The Raiders need to reinvent their O line, or will never achieve much. Grabbing the top Center in an otherwise weak Center draft is a start.
Matt-Oakland needs to find a way to remake their OL, and why not find a new OC to work with new QB Jamarcus Russell, so they can grow together. Justice is by far the best OC in this class.
6. KC - CB DeJuan Tribble
Matt-Kansas City needs some help on pass defense, and Tribble is a ball hawking CB. He'll need some time to adjust to the pro game, and he is a little small, but he could be a nice pickup.
Alex-KC has a large need at CB, withTy Law gone and Patrick Surtain nearing the end of his career. Though they need O line help also, Tribble is a great man to man corner, who can help KC and boost their secondary. They would be crazy to let him slip through their fingers, and should be happy Tribble even fell this far.
7. Baltimore-LB Phillip Wheeler
Alex-Ray Lewis is 32, and has talked about leaving the Ravens. He will probably be looking for a huge payday before retirement, and the Ravens need to start considering a replacement. Wheeler is a bit undersized, but plays great, and is well rounded. He should fit in well in Baltimore.
Matt-Phillip Wheeler is the ideal fit for this Baltimore defense, as he is an aggressive, attacking LB, who plays with a ton of instinct. He stood out on a very bad GT defense. He can play the run and blitz from the inside position.
8. San Francisco-OT Tony Hills
Matt-San Fran could use a new RT to accommodate the move of Joe Staley to LT. Hills is a quick OT, who can handle the speed rusher off the edge. He'll need to bulk up a little more and add some strength, but he can hold his own.
Alex-Jonas Jennings has rarely been through a full season without an injury, and, at worst ,Hills will be a solid depth player. Hills can also play guard, which is definitely a plus.
9. Denver Broncos-DT Marcus Harrison
Matt-Denver needs a big body for the middle. Harrison can collapse the pocket with his strength.
Alex-Based on talent alone, Harrison would likely have come out in the 2nd or 3rd round. But because of character concerns, he falls this low. Sam Adams is done in Denver, and they need someone who can step in fast. Character concerns aside, Harrison can occupy multiple blockers, and the Broncos at this point need his services.
10. Carolina Panthers-S Marcus Griffin
Matt-Griffin is a hard hitting safety from what has become safety U recently. Griffin is a good enough athlete to play both safety spots, and will come up in run support.
Alex-Possesses the intangibles needed to be a productive safety, and is a smart tackler.
11. Chicago Bears- OT John Greco
Matt-Chicago could use a hulking OT to add to their line, and that's what Greco brings. Versatile player who can play tackle and guard.
Alex-After grabbing a Guard, the Bears continue to bolster their line with a massive Tackle in Brandon Keith, who can probably also play guard, and is great against the run.
Coin Flip determined the pick to be John Greco.
12. Detroit Lions-DE Jeremy Thompson
Matt-Detroit is horrible in the secondary, and while they picked up two new CB's, they have done nothing to improve the safety spot. Wolfe lays the lumber to WR's across the middle.
Alex-The Lions need a DE, and Thompson is a late emerging prospect that may get better with time.
Coin Flip determined Jeremy Thompson to be the Pick.
13. Cincinnati Bengals-WR Jerome Simpson
Matt-Cincinnati needs to find two DE in this draft, and with Harvey coming in Round 1 to provide the pass rush, they pick up Harrington here to be the non stop motor guy.
Alex-With Chad Johnson seemingly disenfranchised with the team, TJ WhoseYourMomma following in his footsteps, and Chris Henry being a constant distraction off the field, the Bengals need WRs to start molding. The Bengals pick WR Jerome Simpson. At just about 6'2" with freakishly long arms and large hands, Carson Palmer will likely not miss a step, and have another devastating weapon for many years to come.
Coin Flip determined Jerome Simpson to be the Pick.
14. NYJ - LB Vince Hall
Matt-The Jets get the hard hitting, smart LB from Va Tech. Hall is a downhill tackler, who can lock onto and occupy blockers. Hall is a natural playmaker.
Alex-With the Jets going defense 3 straight times in a row, this time they turn to their offense. They lost Justin McCareins, and although they have a lot of young guys at WR, that's probably a good indication that they are likely not settled at the position. They will love Dexter Jackson's speed and toughness, despite being a bit small. They may be getting their next Santana Moss.
Coin Flip determines this pick to be LB Vince Hall.
15. Buffalo - CB Antuan Molden
Matt-The second best small school CB in this class. Molden has great size at 6'2, and good speed for his size. Molden made plays in both the passing and running game at Eastern Kentucky, and his technique is impeccable. He has a fluid hip turn, and is a former track star. Molden's teammate got all the INT's, but that's because opposing teams dared not throw at Molden.
Alex-A sleeper at CB, the Bills finally get a CB with size that can play. In a cover 2 zone, he will likely excel with his speed and long arms. A definite good prospect that will likely be starting sooner rather than later.
16. Philly - S Tom Zbikowski
Matt-Jamie Silva is a hard hitting and even harder working Safety, who is not the most athletic player in the draft, but may be one of the hardest workers.
Alex-A tough safety who is a bit short, but also excellent at PR/KR, and should at the very least upgrade their backup safety position. With the Eagles only having 4 safeties on their roster, Zbikowski will have no problems making it with his toughness alone.
Coin Flip Detemined Tom Zbikowski to be the Pick.
17. Arizona - S DJ Wolfe
Alex-With very few safeties on the roster, Arizona needs to get some decent depth here. Wolfe is fast, athletic and excellent in STs - everything you could want in a backup safety.
Matt-Wolfe is a raw safety prospect who has the speed, and athletic ability, to develop into a decent player. He could contribute immediately on ST.
18. Minnesota - C John Sullivan
Matt-Minnesota is not a traditional team who uses a TE, but Tavares Jackson needs to the added weapons if he's ever going to become the QB they hoped he would be.
Alex-At 31 years old, Matt Birk is not going to last too much longer for the Vikings. It's time they brought in a replacement to start molding for the take over. John Sullivan has potential written all over him, if he can put it all together - he can certainly learn a lot from Birk.
Coin Flip Determined John Sullivan to be the pick
19. Houston - RB Matt Forte
Matt-Houston saw some promise out of young Darius Walker, but adding a guy like Forte would be a smart move. Forte has great leg drive, and never stops going. He's also good in the passing game.
Alex-Houston acquires a bigger RB in Forte to complement their current smaller lineup.
20. Denver - LB Geno Hayes
Matt-Hayes has good speed and good instinct, which helped him to excel on an average FSU defense. He breaks down plays very quickly and can fill the hole fast.
Alex-Athletic and versatile, the likely reason Hayes falls this low is because of his off the field issues. Skills would warrant him being taken higher.
21. TB - WR Adrian Arrington
Alex-The Buccaneers need the most help at the DL, where they lack the dominance that they once had. Maurice Murray can play both end and tackle, and may develop for them into a nice penetrating DT with time.
Matt-Jeff Garcia needs weapons, and Adrian Arrington emerged at the end of last season as one. If they can get Maurice Stovall, Micheal Clayton and Arrington to be a cohesive unit, they'd have a young dynamic trio of wideouts.
Coin Flip determines the pick to be Adrian Arrington.
22. Seattle - WR DJ Hall
Matt-While Hall put up a disappointing 40 time, his play has been anything but disappointing. At his size. Hall is a dynamic WR who has great leaping ability and can make the acrobatic catch.
Alex-With Deion Branch disappointing, and Engram at 35 yrs old, Seattle could use some upgrading at the WR position. Hall has some good ball skills, along with adequate speed that can make him productive.
23. Cleveland - CB Terrance Wheatley
Matt-Cleveland needs to find a guy to take the ball from Jamal Lewis in a year's time, and a smaller version of him might just be the trick. Mike Hart is all heart, as he absolutely refuses to go down, and doesn't let his size or lack of speed stop him either
Alex-With their first pick of the draft (finally), the Browns select a CB to replace the loss of Leigh Bodden in the Shaun Rogers trade deal. Wheatley is short, but has great speed and agility.
Coin Flip Determines Terrance Wheatley to be the pick.
24. Pittsburgh - WR Marcus Monk
Matt-Pittsburgh really struggled last year in the power running game, and Rice can bring the power with him, and should be a nice compliment to Willie Parker's elusiveness.
Alex-Ben Roethlisberger has gone on record requesting a taller prospect at WR (apparently missing Plaxico Burress). Marcus Monk is that big WR that has been held back due to miscellaneous injuries to his shoulder. If he can heal up completely, he will be an ideal target for Big Ben.
Coin Flip Determines Marcus Monk to be the pick.
25. Tennessee - CB Dwight Lowery
Matt-Lowery is an absolute INT machine, who led the nation this past year with 9. His combine numbers knocked him down a bit, but he could come in and replace Pac Man.
Alex-Though the Titans grabbed Alge Crumpler in the offseason, there's no telling how much he has left and Vince needs targets to throw to. At the very least, it doesn't hurt to grab a top pass catching TE in Martin Rucker, who will take over Crumpler's spot eventually, sooner if not later.
Coin Flip determined Dwight Lowery to be the pick.
26. SD - Forfeited (Paul Oliver in Supplemental Draft)
27. Jacksonville - DE/DT Kendall Langford
Matt-A big DE, who can slide inside and play a little DT too, will really help out the Jags DL woes. Langford can get to the QB despite his size, and has an NFL ready body.
Alex-Boosting that defense again will be a priority, and Langford is a perfect specimen to develop for the Jaguars.
28. Dallas - S Jamie Silva
Alex-Though Dallas grabbed Pat Watkins a few years back, and he has begun to contribute, they could use another safety to develop as they are not enamored with Roy Williams at the position.
Matt-Roy Williams is absolutely pitiful in coverage, and Silva is a guy who showed a nose for the ball last year. While he may not be as athletic as Williams, he can hit as hard, and he doesn't need to cheat to make tackles.
29. Indianapolis - WR Harry Douglas
Alex-A good route runner who could eventually become a weapon for Peyton.
Matt-Just what Peyton Manning needs, another deep threat. Here is the difference: Douglas is a burner, he can fly by defenses, and would really open up the underneath for Gonzalez and Wayne.
30. GB - TE Martin Rucker
Matt-Green Bay goes with the small school prospect from Northern Iowa. Rhinehart is one of the good old corn fed boys who you love to have working in the trenches for your OL.
Alex-With Donald Lee being the only currently viable option for them at TE, GB would love to give newbie QB Aaron Rodgers even more weapons with this nice pass catching TE.
Coin Flip determined Martin Rucker to be the pick.
31. NE - QB John David Booty
Matt-While Matt Cassel is serviceable, I don't think he is a realistic long term backup option to Brady. In Booty, New England has the opportunity to develop a backup who is better than Cassell, and if he develops well, he could be trade bait later on.
Alex-The Patriots grab a decent prospect in this QB that probably fell lower than his skills would deem worth. As a result, they have better depth and insurance if they should ever need it. With the Giants' blueprint plan last year, this year, everyone will likely be gunning after Brady.
32. NY Giants - WR William Franklin
Matt-Giants add some size to their CB ranks, as they bring in the 6'2 corner. Bowman has good size and jumping ability, but will need to be brought along slowly.
Alex-Amani Toomer's contribution to the team has dropped significantly, and the Giants need to give Eli something to work with. Franklin is fast, a great leaper, and has a great deal of potential if he can put it all together.
Coin Flip Determined William Franklin to be the pick
33. Buffalo - QB Josh Johnson (comp)
Matt-Trent Edwards had an up and down rookie campaign, and while many fans are clinging to the hope that he is the savior, some don't see it, and that includes me. While Edwards is a certain improvement over JP Losman, neither QB is capable of leading their team anywhere. By drafting Johnson, the Bills give themselves the option of sticking with Edwards for another year or two, while Johnson gets bigger and ready for the NFL game. If Johnson reaches his true potential, he could be an all-pro QB. He absolutely dominated the FCS level this year, and with ability to run and throw, he could be extremely dangerous.
Alex-Though he needs to get bigger, Brown is a pass rushing specialist whose talents would be put to good use in Buffalo's cover 2 attacking system. He needs to get stronger and better against the run, but this defense is geared to attack the QB, and this is what he does best.
Coin Flip determined Josh Johnson to be the pick.
34. Baltimore - DT/DE Marcus Dixon (comp)
Matt-The other end from Hampton gets to go here as another DE/DT prospect. Dixon has great size for the 3-4 scheme, and is very good against both the run and the pass.
Alex-The Ravens, as always, continue to ensure that they get good quality prospects for their front 4 on defense.
35. Philadelphia - TE Brad Cottam (comp)
Matt-People are still scratching their heads about the franchising of LJ Smith ,who has become more well known for his drops then his catches. Finley is a high ceiling TE prospect, who will need some time to develop into a regular contributor.
Alex-Though they resigned LJ Smith, he is often injured and likely has little left in him. McNabb will love Cottam's size, and having LJ this year gives Cottam time to develop.
Coin Flip Determined the pick to be Brad Cottam.
36. GB - OG Chad Rhinehart (comp)
Matt-Green Bay goes with the small school prospect from Northern Iowa. Rhinehart is one of the good old corn fed boys who you love to have working in the trenches for your OL.
Alex-With QB Aaron Rodgers set to take over the reins, protecting him with quality Guards is a high priority.
37. Tennessee - RB Steve Slaton (comp)
Matt-Its LenDale White's make or break year, and Slaton can come in and be an impact third down RB. While he may never be an every down back, he can be an electric player for Tennessee
Alex-The Titans aren't deep at RB, and Slate will provide 3rd down relief ,as well as return man skills to the team.
38. SD - RB - Ray Rice (comp)
Matt-Mike Goff is getting up there in age, and they could use a young infusion of talent. Brown is an athletic pulling OG, who can also maul people over.
Alex-With only 2 RBs on the roster after the loss of Michael Turner, and current backup Darren Sproles may not likely be able to handle the rigors of the position should LT go down, it makes sense to bring in a capable backup. Ray Rice is small also, but durable, tough and quick.
Coin Flip Determined the pick to be Ray Rice.
Round 5:
1. KC - OT King Dunlap
Alex-KC Finally addresses their O line, which is in dire need of talent. Dunlap has excellent physical attributes ,but has been an underachiever. If Herm Edwards can get the best out of him, the Chiefs could have themselves a steal!
Matt-Dunlap is a massive OT, who should help to keep would be defenders off Huard or Croyle. Dunlap has surprising athleticism for his size.
2. St. Louis - OG Mike McGlynn
Alex-With all of last year's O line troubles, the Rams would do best to get some good depth in there. McGlynn has all the potential to reach starter status if need be, and is versatile enough to play anywhere on the O line.
Matt-McGlynn can play any OL position, and he has the size and strength you look for in a utility OL.
3. Atlanta - WR Dexter Jackson
Alex-Joe Horn and Brian Finneran are getting older, and Atlanta needs to grab some replacements soon. Michael Jenkins and Roddy White have shown flashes, but they could use a speedy slot receiver, along with the ST intangibles that Jackson would bring.
Matt-Atlanta cut ties with long time return man Allen Rossum, and Jackson could be the perfect fit. He will need some time to come along as WR, but could immediately be a KR.
4. Denver - CB Trae Williams
Alex-Denver likes options in their secondary, and Williams is a great prospect to get this low..
Matt-Williams was overshadowed a lot by Mike Jenkins at USF, but he made plenty of his own plays and could be a good nickle corner.
5. KC - OG Kerry Brown
Alex-One of the most underrated guards that got snubbed and wasn't invited to the combine. May be more NFL ready than some think, and KC gets a steal here in their revamping of their O line.
Matt-Top FCS OG goes here to KC, who continue to revamp their line. Brown is a good pulling guard, who should help out whoever is carrying the ball for the Chiefs.
6. Carolina - FS Bobby Williams
Alex-Carolina needs help at free safety, and this small school sleeper is a ballhawk.
Matt-Another FCS prospect who has big time potential. Bobbie Williams comes from the same place Rashead Mathis went to school.
7. Chicago - DT Letroy Guion
Alex-Having gone offense through the first 4 rounds, it's time to turn to the defense, and get better depth behind the returning starters that suffered through injuries last year. Guion is a project with a lot of upside, who may do well learning behind Tommie Harris.
Matt-Guion is a fast, aggressive DT who is on his game when he is penetrating the pocket and making plays behind the line of scrimmage.
8. Jacksonville - RB Tashard Choice
Alex-Fred Taylor did great last year, but gets injured often, and is 32. Maurice Drew-Jones is great, but too small to carry the load on his own the entire season if Taylor goes down. It might be a good idea to pick up a better #3, and Tashard Choice could be an excellent pick, and is a great blocker.
Matt-Choice is a hard working, talented runner, with good vision, and a never say die attitude. He was the lone bright spot on an otherwise bad Georgia Tech offense this past season.
9. Detroit Lions - OG Donald Thomas
Alex-With the rash of sacks last year, it certainly wouldn't hurt them to pick up a promising guard, and there are still some good ones out there. Thomas is a decent prospect with athleticism, talent, and tools, and just needs to focus to bring it all together.
Matt-Thomas is a strong athletic guard from UConn, who will need to learn quickly for the Lions, who are desperate for OL help.
10. Cincinnati - TE Jermichael Finley
Alex-Though they have Ben Utecht, he hasn't exactly established himself as a premier TE, and the Bengals could have a decent prospect in Finley to give Carson Palmer more weapons to attack, and return to their high scoring days of 2006.
Matt-One of the rawest TE's in the class, Finley also has one of the highest ceilings too. If he can get some good coaching and put it all together, he could be a force in a few years.
11. New Orleans - C Mike Pollack
Alex-Jeff Faine has left them a big hole to fill, and Pollack is considered by many one of the best Centers of this draft.
Matt-Pollack is an athletic, strong C who can get out and to the second level if need be. He should help keep hands of Deuce and Reggie.
12. Buffalo Bills - WR Paul Hubbard
Alex-After being one of the worst teams in the league in the red zone, Buffalo needs size on the WR corps badly. Enter Paul Hubbard, who is 6'2" (like Devin Thomas, who could be their #2 WR). He can come in as the #3 (at times), #4, or #5, and make the vertical leap to catch the ball. Running a 40 in under 4.5 means a lot of nickel backs will have a hard time catching up to him. He also brings good intangibles, like decent blocking, and has soft reliable hands.
Matt-Hubbard went to Wisconsin with high hopes of following in the footsteps of other great Badger WR's (Lee Evans, and Chris Chambers); instead, he's had a career of constant injuries, and has been left waiting. Hubbard has great size, great speed, and soft hands. Heck, he even enjoys blocking. If this kid can stay healthy and play up to his measurables, then Buffalo may have the steal of the draft.
13. Denver - C Kory Lichtensteiger
Alex-With 3 Olineman over 30, and several attempting to return from injury (including their center), it might be a good idea for the Broncos to invest in their future.
Matt-Denver is still looking for that next Tom Nalen, will it be Lichtensteiger? I don't know, but his name sure is a lot harder to say.
14. Arizona - WR Eddie Royal
Alex-With Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin entrenched at #1 and #2, Arizona can pick up a short but speedy and strong slot receiver (supposedly has benched 390 lbs) to complement them, and forget who Bryant Johnson even was.
Matt-An experienced college player, Royal is smart and extremely strong. He could be ready to contribute sooner then some other prospects due to that.
15. Minny-TE Kellen Davis
Alex-Minnesota has John Kleinsasser, but behind him they have no one, and Kleinsasser has been inconsistent. Kellen Davis has the potential to be a great player, and can be yet another weapon in what looks to already be a powerful offense.
Matt-Davis has athletic ability out the wazoo, but has never been able to put it all together. He has been a classic underachiever.
16. Houston - CB Glenn Sharpe
Alex-With Dunta Robinson's recovery situation, it is unknown if he will be ready at the start of the season, much less for training camp. Houston needs someone who can step in, and Reeves is likely not up to it. Sharpe was an excellent prospect pre-injury, and he may return to his former self before people know it.
Matt-Houston needs to get more impact from their defense. Mario Williams finally turned a corner last year, after struggling to adjust his rookie season, now they need to capitalize on this new added pressure. Enter Glenn Sharpe.
17. Philadelphia - DE Darrell Robertson
Alex-The Eagles have been looking for a DE to be a terror for the longest time. Jevon Kearse was a big flop for them, as he was never the same post injury. Brown is a good pass rushing specialist, who might help them with a little development.
Matt-Philly has Chris Gocong as there DE/OLB, and with Cole being a good pass rusher on the other end, they take a big athletic DE to help complete the bookends in Darrell Robertson.
18. TB - QB Colt Brennan
Alex-With a million QBs on the roster, what's one more? Gruden has been hoarding veterans, but only because he knows he doesn't have a franchise quarterback to rely on. It's time to pick one to develop before the veterans all keel over. Brennan needs to mature, and behind so many veterans, he should have the opportunity to learn a lot.
Matt-Brennan is a QB who's been up and down a bunch of draft boards in recent months, but he falls here to Tampa, and though John Gruden doesn't like to play rookies, he can hope that Garcia tutors Brennan and refines his mechanics.
19. Washington - S Michael Grant
Alex-The Redskins have yet to fill in the loss of Sean Taylor. Grant is fast and athletic, and has a ton of potential that could be developed.
Matt-Grant is a fast athletic S who can fill the void left by Sean Taylor. It will be tough for him to step into this kind of a situation, but he has the skills to do so.
20. Cleveland - RB Anthony Alridge
Matt-Jason Rivers has good size and speed out of Hawaii. He'll need some time to adjust from Hawaii's wide open pass happy system to a pro system, but he could flourish.
Alex-With Braylon Edwards starting to step it up, and Donte Stallworth coming over, Cleveland will likely look for insurance on the running side. Jamal Lewis has done well for them, but he's approaching 30, and the backups leave a lot to be desired. Though a bit small, the Browns pick a change of pace back with speed that can spell Lewis and lessen the wear and tear on him - especially on 3rd downs. Aldridge is fast, elusive, and catches the ball well. He also has return capabilities.
Coin Flip determined the pick to be Anthony Aldridge
21. Pittsburgh - CB Jack Ikegwuonu
Alex-Pittsburgh is all set at CB, and just needs depth. With top caliber Ikegwuonu dropping this far because of injury and character concerns, the Steelers might actually get a steal grabbing a first day talent CB on the second day. They can afford to have him heal, and become a possibly top caliber starting CB midway or even next season. Their patience will likely pay off well for them.
Matt-Yes, Ikeg blew out his knee and is out for the 2008 season, and yes, he was arrested in 2006 for burglary charges, but when Ikeg is playing, he is one of the best in the country. He showed last year he had his head on straight, and if Pitt can wait on him, they could have one of the best CB's in this class.
22.Tennessee-WR Keenan Burton
Matt-Burton was a playmaker for the University of Kentucky this past season. He could work deep or over the middle, and really was a life raft for QB Andre Woodson. Hopefully he can do the same for QB Vince Young.
Alex-An outstanding leaper, Burton should be a viable playmaker for Young and help move the chains. Outside of outstanding speed, he has all the tools a WR needs to excel.
23. JAX - QB Dennis Dixon
Alex-Outside of Garrard, the Jaguars don't have any developmental prospects for the future. Bouman is over 30, and Cleo Lemon helped lead Miami to a 1-15 season. Dixon is a project at QB, who has a lot of nice intangibles, and the Jaguars can afford to wait and have him develop while Garrard commands the troops.
Matt-Dixon is a running QB, but unlike many other runners, he has a cannon for an arm. He can throw on the run and is a pass first QB.
24. JAX - TE Jacob Tamme
Alex-Joe Zelenka is 32 yrs old, and doesn't offer much in the TE position. He is mainly on the roster for his long snapping duties. Tamme, however, is a finesse pass catching TE who can also long snap. He can replace Zelenka, and also offer his services contributing at TE. The Jaguars are automatically upgraded by Tamme, who can do both well.
Matt-This will give Jacksonville the athletic pass catching TE they haven't had since Kyle Brady.
25. SD - OT/OG Mike Gibson
Matt-Gibson is an athletic OL, who has the versatility to play both the OG and OT position. With the Chargers OT's both struggling last year, he is a needed addition.
Alex-An excellent prospect who doesn't stand out at anything, which ends up underrating him, despite him doing it all adequately. A bit undersized, and with short arms, but is strong, tough and durable. SD will love having him as depth for the insurance he'll provide.
26. Indianapolis - CB Chevis Jackson
Alex-The Colts' secondary could make good use of the talents of Jackson, who, although a bit slow, excels in zone coverage schemes. Strong, tough, and with long arms, Jackson will have a good home in their defense.
Matt-Jackson is an ideal Cover 2 CB due to his limited athleticism. He was a solid playmaker at LSU, and will not be bullied around by bigger WR's. Uses his size well, and can make plays for the ball.
27. GB - FB Peyton Hillis
Matt-Green Bay gets a better pass catching version of William Henderson here in Hillis. Hillis can catch the ball out of the back field or carry the ball. He is also a good blocker.
Alex-GB adds yet another weapon to Rodgers' new staff by grabbing the top FB that is also a great pass catcher. GB is doing their best for Rodgers to succeed in the vast shadow that he is under with Favre's retirement.
28. Dallas - OLB Shawn Crable
Alex-The Cowboys are ecstatic to pick a great pass rushing linebacker in Crable, who just ends up falling on their lap. Crable has the potential to start, but at worst will be an outstanding backup.
Matt-Crable gets a chance to learn from one of the scariest current 3-4 OLB's in DeMarcus Ware in Dallas. He should be able to use that knowledge and improve his game.
29. NE - DE/OLB - Angelo Craig
Alex-The Patriots live and die by their Lbs, and they have a group of aging LBs that need replacing. Craig is an excellent underrated developmental prospect who might surprise many.
Matt-Craig is another one of these DE/OLB Hybrid players who are extremely fast off the snap, and should help to aid New England's aging LB corp.
30. NYG - OT Brandon Keith
Alex-The Giants must protect Eli if their offense is to do anything. They have attempted to close the gaps left in their defense by free agency. Now they must attempt to better Eli's protection. Keith is an excellent, small school prospect that is likely to surprise many with the quickness of his 340 lb frame.
Matt-Big, athletic OT, Keith is a not so well known prospect who can handle both the bull rushers and the speed rushers.
31. SD - DE Titus Brown
Alex-The Chargers would like better depth behind Luis Castillo, as he has been hurt often. Brown is a pass rush specialist who will fill in the gap temporarily if someone should get injured.
Round 6:
1. Cowboys - QB Kevin O'Connell-
Alex-With Brad Johnson's 16 years in the league...how much longer will he be with the team? The Cowboys would do well to have a developmental prospect behind Romo if he should get hurt in the future. O'Connell shows all the signs of developing into a viable QB of the NFL in the future.
Matt-Dallas could use an athletic backup to Tony Romo. O'Connell is a project QB, who will need time, and could develop into a good overall QB.
2. St. Louis - TE Craig Stevens-
Alex-Randy McMichael's years will be catching up with him soon, and the Ram's current bunch of TEs haven't exactly been lighting it up. Stevens is a good all around TE that does everything adequately well. He's no Antonio Gates, but he'll block, catch and do all the intangibles that a TE is required to do.
Matt-A solid blocker and good pass catcher, Stevens is underrated. He is athletic for a his 6'5, 250 frame, and could be a good outlet for Marc Bulger.
3. Oakland - OT Pedro Sosa
Matt-The athletic OT from Rutgers goes here, he can help protect Jamarcus Russell and open up holes for Justin Fargas and Micheal Bush. Sosa can get to the next level and block if need be also.
Alex-The Raiders continue to try and improve their O line. After grabbing a Center previously, the Raiders need to continue working depth and development. They've addressed their defense and virtually every other position, but the O line must get better if they are to become a playoff bound team. Sosa has versatility and can play all positions though he may get moved to guard.
4. KC - C Cody Wallace
Alex-KC continues to overhaul their O line by getting a tough Center that is probably already good enough to start.
Matt-One tough kid who likes to punish his opponents. He works hard and has good technique while blocking.
5. NYJ - WR Josh Morgan
Matt-An underrated WR from Virginia Tech, Morgan has good size and speed and should fit in nicely behind Coles and Cotchery.
Alex-Laverneus Coles has been acting like he wants to leave the Jets, and they better start molding a replacement soon.
6. Atlanta - OG Robert Felton
Alex-Atlanta needs to continue rebuilding their O line. Classic, versatile O linemen that is strong and powerful. Needs to work on his stamina if he wants to start, but has all the ability.
Matt-Extremely strong OG, Felton has a good punch to him when hitting on coming D linemen. Atlanta needs all the help they can get on their OL though.
7. Baltimore - HB/FB Jacob Hester
Matt-Baltimore needs more help on offense, and Hester is an intriguing prospect. He was the leading rusher for LSU this season, but is better suited to be a FB in the pros. Could he be this year's Brian Leonard?
Alex-With McGahee doing most of the carries, Hester can be used to lead block for him or to spell him from time to time. McGahee's dancing in the backfield does not lend itself to picking up the small yardage, and Hester will do nicely in those situations.
8. SF - FB Owen Schmitt
Alex-Who is the 49ers current FB? Exactly. Gore could use someone to lead block for him and lessen the hard first hits he takes, and Schmitt is a 'in your face' blocking machine who will excel at making holes for Gore and backup Foster.
Matt-Gore takes a lot of hits, and if he could find a good lead blocker to clear some of that out, he could make his career go a little longer.
9. Chicago - CB Darnell Terrell
Matt-Chicago goes with the BPA here, and takes a somewhat project pick in Kory Sperry. Greg Olsen played well as a rookie, but they like to go to a two TE set, and Sperry is a good pass catching option.
Alex-Terrell is an excellent CB geared for the Cover 2 coverage scheme. The Bears get a steal here.
Coin Flip Determined Darnell Terrell to be the pick
10. Detroit - QB Sam Keller
Alex-The Lions have Drew Stanton returning from injury, but Kitna doesn't have much left in him, and Dan Orlovsky is a restricted free agent who may be gone next year. It doesn't hurt to grab a QB, have him sit on the practice squad and start learning the ropes (and mature) in case he's needed next year as the main backup.
Matt-Keller is a developmental pick to sit behind Kitna and Stanton. He'll need some time to learn the system and become accustomed to the speed.
11. Cincinnati - RB Mike Hart
Alex-A quick runner, decent blocker and soft hands for catching...a great 3rd down back to spell Rudi on occasion.
Matt-Mike Hart carried the Michigan team this past season, and Cincinnati must find a way to spell Rudi Johnson.
12. NO - CB Jonathan Zenon
Matt-New Orleans still needs CB help, they signed Gay and drafted Usama Young last season, but McKenzie is getting older, and Zenon is a good developmental prospect for the future.
Alex-they've gathered some good veterans over free agency, but drafting some young guys is now needed to develop for the future.
13. Buffalo - DE Tommy Blake
Matt-Tommy Blake has First Round talent, and is a DE who is absolutely dominant when he is on his game. The problem has been that Blake deals with anxiety disorder, which caused him to leave his team in Spring Practice this year, bloat up weight wise, and subsequently fall in the draft. However, he is now medicated and focused, and has brought his weight down. If this continues, the Bills could have the best pure DE in the draft.
Alex-An excellent prospect that has had trouble dealing with health and mental issues. Physically, he's gifted with speed - and actually began his career as a running back. A possible bipolar disorder has affected his weight and work ethic, and caused him to fall this low. If he can get that under control, he should be a great defensive end. But he carries a huge risk that is now at least somewhat mitigated by the round he has been picked up in.
14. St. Louis - S Jonathan Heffney
Matt-Dizon knows how to do only one thing, tackle. He does that well, he has great technique and takes good angles to counteract his lack of speed.
Alex-Heffn